Accessory Device Configuration via Coupling Data Indexing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In combat or extreme environments, managing a large number of sensors, electronic devices, and communication systems is challenging due to the complexity and variability of devices connected to a central control unit, requiring improved configurability and flexibility in system design.
Innovation Solution
A communication system with an accessory device that includes a memory and interface, utilizing coupling data and index parameters to facilitate plug-and-play functionality, centralized management, and reduced need for connectors, allowing for flexible updates and reconfigurations without re-programming all devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of different accessory devices are connected to the central control unit, then the system functionality and versatility are improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of management increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal configuration approach where a single central control unit can manage multiple types of accessory devices through a common configuration protocol. The configuration data structure uses generic parameters (sampling rate, bit depth, channel count, buffer size) that can be applied across different device types, eliminating the need for device-specific configuration procedures while maintaining full functionality across diverse accessories.
Solution Approach 2:
The system manages complexity by parameterizing device configurations rather than hardcoding device-specific settings. By representing different accessory devices through varying combinations of standard parameters (sampling rate, bit depth, channels, buffer size), the system can adapt to new device types simply by updating parameter values in the configuration data, not by adding new configuration logic or code paths.
2Adaptability or versatility
If configuration parameters are stored in each accessory device, then device autonomy and flexibility are improved, but the need for updates and re-programming increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the configuration data from the accessory devices themselves and stores it centrally in the communication device. Instead of each device carrying its own configuration parameters in memory, the configuration is pulled from a centralized location (the communication device's memory or storage) during the connection and initialization phase. This eliminates the need to re-program accessory devices when configurations need to be updated.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs configuration retrieval and setup in advance during the device connection and initialization phase, before the accessory device begins its operational function. The communication device obtains the configuration data from its stored parameters, processes it, and configures the accessory device proactively, so that when the device is ready for use, it is already properly configured without requiring real-time adjustments or re-programming.
3Reliability
If static descriptor-based configuration is used, then device compatibility is improved, but the ability to support new features and updates is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static, hard-coded configuration descriptors to a dynamic configuration system. The configuration parameters are stored in a data structure that can be modified and updated without changing the underlying device firmware or code. When new features or requirements emerge, the configuration parameters (sampling rate, bit depth, buffer size, etc.) can be dynamically adjusted in the communication device's memory, and the system adapts automatically without requiring firmware updates or re-programming of the accessory devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
A communication device and an accessory device for a communication system is disclosed, the accessory device comprising a memory and an interface, wherein the memory comprises first coupling data comprising a first index parameter and a second index parameter, and wherein the accessory device is configured to output the first coupling data to a communication device via the interface.