Telescoping Peripheral Device for ExpressCard and CompactFlash Compatibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The transition from CompactFlash memory cards to ExpressCard standard is hindered by size differences, making it difficult for users accustomed to the CompactFlash form factor to adopt the newer standard, as ExpressCards are significantly larger.
Innovation Solution
An expandable and collapsible peripheral device that conforms to the ExpressCard standard in an expanded state and approximates the CompactFlash form factor in a collapsed state, utilizing an outer sheath, actuator system, mechanical release, biasing mechanism, and locking mechanism to facilitate easy conversion between the two states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the peripheral device uses the ExpressCard standard, then compatibility with ExpressCard slots and faster transfer rates are achieved, but the device size becomes significantly larger than CompactFlash cards
Solution Approach 1:
The peripheral device employs a telescoping mechanism that allows the card to dynamically change its length between two states: a compact state (approximately 43mm x 36mm) that matches the CompactFlash form factor for portable device compatibility, and an extended state (75mm x 34mm) that conforms to the ExpressCard standard for PC compatibility. This dynamic size adjustment resolves the contradiction by allowing the same device to adapt to different size requirements in different usage contexts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the card body contains a telescoping section that can be extended or retracted. The connector housing is nested within the card body, and the contact blades are nested within the connector housing. This nesting allows the device to maintain a compact form factor when not in use while being capable of extending to the larger ExpressCard dimensions when needed, effectively resolving the size compatibility contradiction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the peripheral device is made larger to fit ExpressCard slots, then ExpressCard compatibility is achieved, but user comfort and familiarity with the CompactFlash form factor are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The peripheral device uses a telescoping mechanism that allows the card to dynamically adjust its length to match either the CompactFlash form factor (43mm x 36mm) for familiarity and comfort in portable devices, or the ExpressCard form factor (75mm x 34mm) for PC compatibility. This dynamic adaptation allows users to maintain comfort with the familiar CompactFlash size while still achieving ExpressCard slot compatibility when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal peripheral device that can function in both CompactFlash and ExpressCard contexts. By incorporating a telescoping mechanism and appropriate connectors, the single device can be used in portable devices (when retracted to CompactFlash size) and in PC ExpressCard slots (when extended), eliminating the need for users to choose between form factors and maintaining ease of operation across different device types.
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 users to maintain compatibility with the ExpressCard standard while retaining the size and feel of a CompactFlash card, allowing seamless integration with existing devices and accommodating both standards without additional electrical components.
Implementation Method 1
the biasing mechanism may comprise a pair of springs wrapped around telescoping rods. The springs are provided under compression and have a first end biased against the card and a second end biased against back end of sheath to bias those components away from each other
Data Source
AI summary
An expandable and collapsible peripheral device is disclosed, along with methods of manufacturing same. When in an expanded state, the peripheral device may have a length which conforms to the ExpressCard standard, and when in a collapsed state, the peripheral device may have a form factor approximating that of a CompactFlash card. Peripheral devices of the present invention may operate according to standards other than the ExpressCard standard, and may have sizes in the expanded and collapsed positions unrelated to ExpressCards and/or CompactFlash cards.