Dual Storage AV Signal Buffering for HDD Lifespan Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional PVR systems and TVs with AV signal storage functions suffer from reduced HDD lifespan due to continuous operation, leading to signal loss and output delays during initial driving.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a dual storage unit system where AV signals are initially stored in a first unit (like flash memory) and then transferred to a second unit (like HDD) once it is driven, allowing seamless output from either unit based on its operational state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the HDD is kept always ON to provide time shift function, then the AV signal storage function is continuously available, but the life of the HDD is shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into two separate storage units: a first storage unit (e.g., buffer memory) and a second storage unit (e.g., HDD). The first storage unit handles immediate AV signal storage when the second storage unit is not driven, while the second storage unit provides long-term storage when available. This segmentation allows the system to maintain continuous operation without constantly driving the HDD, thereby extending its life while ensuring reliable AV signal storage functionality.
2Reliability
If the HDD is initially driven before receiving AV signal, then the AV signal can be stored without loss, but time is lost during initial driving operation
Solution Approach 1:
The first storage unit is prepared in advance to immediately receive and buffer incoming AV signals before the second storage unit (HDD) is driven. This preliminary action ensures that no AV signal is lost during the HDD's initial driving period, as the first storage unit is already ready to store data. The system proactively manages the HDD driving schedule to minimize idle time while ensuring continuous storage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The first storage unit acts as an intermediary between the AV signal input and the second storage unit (HDD). It temporarily holds AV signals during the HDD's initial driving operation, bridging the gap between signal arrival and HDD readiness. This intermediary buffer eliminates signal loss without requiring the HDD to be pre-driven, thus avoiding time loss.
3Speed
If the HDD rotation speed is increased to 5400-7200 RPM for continuous operation, then the AV signal processing speed is improved, but the life of the HDD is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of maintaining continuous high-speed rotation (5400-7200 RPM), the system uses periodic action by driving the HDD only when necessary for AV signal storage. The first storage unit handles storage during periods when the HDD is not driven or is spinning down, and the HDD is activated periodically when needed. This periodic operation reduces wear from continuous high-speed rotation while maintaining adequate AV signal processing capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are an AV signal storage method and apparatus and a television (TV) having an AV signal storage function. The method includes storing an AV signal in a first storage unit when the AV signal is received; storing the received AV signal in a second storage unit when the second storage unit is driven; and outputting AV signal stored in one of the first storage unit and the second storage unit when a request for the output of the AV signal is received.