SSD Host Interface Selector for Internal External Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hard disk drives (HDDs) have high power consumption and low durability due to their mechanical components, limiting their effectiveness in modern electronic devices, while existing solid state drives (SSDs) lack flexibility in operating as both internal and external data storage devices.
Innovation Solution
A data storage device with a memory device, a connection detector, and a main controller that can switch between internal and external host interfaces, allowing it to operate as either an internal or external SSD by detecting connections and controlling the host interface selection, thereby providing flexible data storage solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If HDDs are used as data storage devices, then mass data storage capability is provided, but power consumption increases and durability decreases due to mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical HDD components with solid-state non-volatile memory devices, eliminating moving parts while maintaining mass data storage capability. This substitution directly addresses the contradiction by removing the source of high power consumption and low durability associated with mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental storage medium from mechanical to solid-state, transforming the physical parameters of the storage system. This parameter change enables the system to achieve both high capacity storage and improved power efficiency simultaneously.
2Quantity of substance
If HDDs are used as data storage devices, then mass data storage capability is provided, but durability decreases due to mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical components with solid-state memory devices, eliminating the mechanical wear and failure modes that limit HDD durability. This replacement maintains mass storage capability while significantly improving reliability.
3Reliability
If SSDs are used as data storage devices, then stability and durability are improved, but flexibility in operating as both internal and external devices is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling the SSD to operate in both internal and external modes through a host interface selector. This selector allows the same storage device to be dynamically configured for different host systems, providing the flexibility needed for universal deployment while maintaining the reliability benefits of solid-state technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfigurability through the host interface selector, allowing the SSD to switch between different operational modes. This dynamic capability enables the device to adapt to different host systems and configurations, resolving the contradiction between stability and versatility.
4Use of energy by moving object
If SSDs are used as data storage devices, then power consumption is reduced, but complexity of interface switching between internal and external modes is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a host interface selector as an intermediary component that manages the complexity of interface switching. This selector acts as a mediator between the SSD and different host systems, automatically configuring the appropriate interface mode and shielding the user from the underlying complexity while maintaining low power consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A data storage device is configured to operate as an internal device of a first host system or an external device of a second host system, depending on whether it is connected to the second host system. A connection detector detects connections between the data storage device and the second host system and facilitates communication between the data storage device and the second host system upon detecting such connections.