Storage Device Automatic Interface Switching Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage devices require manual switching of interfaces between SATA and USB connections, which is inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A storage device with automatic interface-switching function, utilizing a regulator and interface/converter controllers that activate or deactivate based on power signals from the connected interface, allowing seamless data transmission between SATA and USB interfaces without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual switching of the analog switch is required to couple different interfaces to the hard disk, then the device can support multiple interfaces (SATA and USB), but the ease of operation deteriorates because the user must manually switch the interface every time
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects which interface (SATA or USB) is connected and self-configures the signal path without user intervention. The automatic switching controller monitors interface connection status and autonomously controls the analog switch to couple the appropriate interface to the hard disk, eliminating manual switching operations while maintaining multi-interface support
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the connection status of different interfaces through detection circuits. Based on the detected interface type, the controller provides feedback signals to the analog switch control end, which then adjusts the coupling configuration accordingly, creating a closed-loop automatic interface switching system
2Adaptability or versatility
If a USB/SATA converting controller is added to enable USB interface conversion, then the adaptability improves by supporting both SATA and USB interfaces, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The analog switch and its control circuitry serve multiple functions: they route signals from either SATA or USB interfaces to the hard disk, and also enable the USB-to-SATA conversion capability. By making the switching mechanism multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining interface conversion capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the interface selection function and the interface conversion function into a single integrated control system. The automatic switching controller combines both the USB/SATA conversion logic and the analog switch control in one unit, eliminating the need for separate control circuits and reducing the overall complexity of the device architecture
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables automatic and convenient switching between interfaces, reducing the need for manual configuration and saving switch components, ensuring reliable data transmission across different interfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a first regulator comprising a first end coupled to the first pin of the first interface connector; a second end coupled to a first power; and a third end for outputting a second power when the first end of the first regulator receives the first voltage wherein the first regulator converts the first power into the second power
Implementation Method 2
wherein the second end of the first interface/second interface converting controller is high impedance when the power end of the first interface/second interface converting controller does not receives the second power
Data Source
AI summary
A storage device with automatic-switching function is disclosed. When the storage device is coupled to a USB interface, the power provided by the USB interface turns the USB/SATA converter on to convert data from the USB interface into SATA format and transmit to a hard disk. When the storage device is coupled to a SATA interface instead of the USB interface, the power provided by the USB interface does not turn the USB/SATA converter on to convert data. In this way, the data from the SATA interface directly transmit to the hard disk.