Multi-use Adapter for Thunderbolt to SAS SATA Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing systems face challenges in connecting peripheral devices with SAS/SATA connectivity to Thunderbolt™ ports, and there is a need for a mechanism to incorporate solid state drives into traditional RAID arrays, as they are not easily compatible with existing hard disk encasements.
Innovation Solution
A multi-use adapter module with Thunderbolt™ connectivity and RAID storage modules that utilize solid state drives within traditional 3.5 inch hard drive cases, allowing for connection of SAS/SATA devices to Thunderbolt™ ports and integration of solid state drives into RAID arrays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If Thunderbolt™ connectivity is used to connect peripheral devices, then data transfer speed is improved, but compatibility with existing SAS/SATA devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adapter as an intermediary component that bridges Thunderbolt™ connectivity and existing SAS/SATA devices. The adapter includes a Thunderbolt™ interface for high-speed connection to the computing device and a SAS/SATA interface for compatibility with existing storage devices, thereby resolving the contradiction between speed and compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is designed with multi-functionality to support both Thunderbolt™ and SAS/SATA protocols simultaneously. This universal design allows a single device to interface with both modern high-speed connectors and legacy storage interfaces, enabling high-speed data transfer while maintaining broad compatibility.
2Reliability
If solid state drives are used to replace mechanical hard drives, then reliability is improved, but compatibility with traditional hard disk encasements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into separate functional components: the solid state drive (SSD) as a high-reliability storage unit and an adapter module that provides mechanical compatibility with traditional hard disk encasements. This segmentation allows SSDs to benefit from their reliability advantages while still fitting into existing hardware infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
An adapter module serves as an intermediary between the solid state drive and the traditional hard disk enclosure. The adapter provides the mechanical interface and structural support needed for SSDs to be housed in conventional encasements, thereby maintaining compatibility while enabling the reliability benefits of solid state technology.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple storage devices are connected through Thunderbolt™ ports, then data transfer capacity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed as a universal multi-functional component that handles multiple storage protocols (Thunderbolt™, SAS, SATA) through a single interface. This consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate connectors and controllers into one unified device, thereby increasing data transfer capacity while minimizing the complexity increase.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to multi-use adapters, specifically for adding functionality to a computing system via a Thunderbolt™ connector or other high speed connector. In addition, the present invention relates to RAID storage modules built upon the multi-use adapters of the present invention. Further, RAID storage systems consisting of multiple RAID storage modules are provided. Methods of making and using the same are further provided.