Switchable Storage Interface for Access in Low-Power States

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Solution Overview

Problem

Storage devices in computing devices become inaccessible when the device is not fully operating, such as in power-saving states, making it inconvenient for users to access data without powering on the device.

Innovation Solution

Implementing an external storage access mode where storage devices of a target computing device can be accessed by a host computing device without the target device fully operating, using a switchable interface to convert internal storage to external access via a compatible port, powered by the host device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If the computing device is in a power-saving state (not fully operating), then energy consumption is reduced, but storage devices become inaccessible

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoidstorage accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between different operational modes (fully operating vs. external storage access mode) based on user needs. The storage interface can be activated or deactivated depending on whether the host device needs to access storage or save power, allowing the system to adapt its state rather than remaining static.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The host computing device acts as an intermediary that provides power and access to the storage devices when the target device is in a power-saving state. The host device's processor and power supply enable the storage devices to function externally without requiring the target device to be fully operational.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the computing device is fully operating, then storage devices are accessible, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage accessibilityVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of requiring the entire target computing device to be fully operational (excessive action), the system enables only the necessary components (storage devices and interface) to function partially. This partial operation allows storage access while minimizing overall power consumption compared to full operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Adaptability or versatility

If a switchable interface is implemented for external storage access, then storage can be accessed in external mode, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage access flexibilityVSAvoidinterface complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The switchable interface is designed to serve multiple functions: it can operate in internal storage mode when the device is fully operational and in external storage access mode when the device is in a power-saving state. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate interfaces for different scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters (power state, interface activation) to switch between internal and external storage access modes. By modifying these parameters rather than adding complex hardware, the system achieves versatility with minimal increase in physical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12572274B2External storage access mode

Publication Date: 2026.03.10 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP

AI summary

A target computing device includes a storage device, a target port, and firmware. The target port is connectable to a host port of a host computing device. The firmware is to operate the target computing device in an external storage access mode in which the storage device is externally accessible without the target computing device fully operating. The host computing device accesses via the host port the storage device as an external storage device.