Thunderbolt Module Root Complex Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current Thunderbolt device modules lack scalability and flexibility due to the need for special components with non-transparent bridge (NTB) functions and additional DMA controllers, limiting their functionality and market presence.

Innovation Solution

A Thunderbolt device module integrating with an electronic device that includes a root complex, utilizing a non-PCIe interface protocol component to support PCIe communication, eliminating the need for special components and DMA controllers, and enabling scalability and flexibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If special components with NTB function and additional DMA controllers are used, then Thunderbolt device functionality is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveThunderbolt device functionalityVSAvoidcomponent complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the NTB function and DMA controller functionalities into the existing root complex component. The root complex is enhanced to include NTB capability that enables direct memory access between PCIe domains through the Thunderbolt interface, eliminating the need for separate DMA controllers. This merging reduces component count and system complexity while maintaining full Thunderbolt functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The root complex is designed to perform multiple functions: traditional PCIe root complex operations, NTB (non-transparent bridge) functionality for inter-domain communication, and DMA (direct memory access) operations. By making the root complex a multi-functional component, the patent eliminates the need for specialized separate components, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If special components with NTB function are used, then Thunderbolt device functionality is achieved, but ease of manufacture decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveThunderbolt device functionalityVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges NTB and DMA functionalities into the root complex, reducing the bill of materials and assembly steps. Fewer discrete components mean simpler manufacturing processes, fewer soldering operations, and reduced testing complexity, thereby improving ease of manufacture while maintaining Thunderbolt functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

By designing the root complex as a universal component that handles multiple protocols and functions (PCIe, NTB, DMA), the patent simplifies the manufacturing supply chain. Manufacturers can use standard root complex designs with enhanced capabilities rather than assembling specialized components, improving manufacturing efficiency and reducing costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If PCIe endpoint component is used without root complex, then device architecture is simplified, but scalability and flexibility are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvearchitecture simplicityVSAvoidscalability and flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a root complex that can operate in multiple modes and support various Thunderbolt configurations. The root complex provides universal functionality that enables the device to adapt to different system architectures, expansion requirements, and protocol versions, thereby achieving both simplicity and scalability simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The root complex is designed with dynamic capabilities that allow it to adapt its functionality based on system requirements. It can dynamically manage PCIe lanes, configure NTB connections, and handle DMA operations as needed, providing scalability and flexibility without requiring a complex fixed architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11768795B2Thunderbolt device module and electronic device having root complex and integrating with such thunderbolt device module

Publication Date: 2023.09.26 PROMISE TECHNOLOGY

AI summary

A thunderbolt device module is provided. The thunderbolt device module of the invention includes a first interface protocol component, a thunderbolt controller and a second interface protocol component. A root complex of an electronic device is via a bus, conforming to a PCIe interface protocol, directly or indirectly electrically coupled to the second interface protocol component. The first interface protocol component and the second interface protocol component both conform to a predetermined interface protocol. In particular, the predetermined interface protocol is not the PCIe interface protocol, but supports the PCIe interface protocol. The thunderbolt controller is electrically coupled to the first interface protocol component. The second interface protocol component is electrically coupled to the first interface protocol component. The communication between the second interface protocol component and the first interface protocol component conforms to the predetermined interface protocol.