Bi-directional Data Control State Machine for Collision-Free Software Upgrades

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Solution Overview

Problem

In wireless communications networks, system upgrades with software-defined radio (SDR) often result in service interruptions due to unsuccessful software downloads, leading to data collisions and lengthy downtimes, as traditional methods fail to manage bi-directional data transfers efficiently within the required time frame.

Innovation Solution

A method for controlling bi-directional data transfers in electronic circuits using a state machine that ensures only one data signal is active at a time, preventing data collisions by directing data transfers between components, allowing for seamless upgrades without interrupting service.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If data transfer speed is increased to meet timing requirements during system upgrades, then software download completion time is reduced, but data collision between hardware components occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesoftware download completion timeVSAvoiddata collision prevention
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control of bi-directional data signals through a state machine that adapts signal direction based on timing conditions. The system dynamically switches between master and slave roles for different hardware components (program memory switch and target processor) depending on which component activates its data signal first, allowing the data transfer protocol to adapt in real-time to prevent collisions while maintaining high speed transfers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional RF network equipment upgrades are performed, then system capability is improved, but service interruption occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem capabilityVSAvoidservice interruption time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent prepares both hardware components (program memory switch and target processor) in advance with identical bi-directional data signal capabilities and state machine logic. This preliminary configuration allows either component to successfully complete the software download without requiring service personnel on-site, enabling seamless upgrades that maintain continuous service operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If on-site upgrade with hardware replacement is performed, then data collision is resolved, but network downtime increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata collision resolutionVSAvoidnetwork downtime
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service capability within the electronic circuit by embedding state machine logic directly in the hardware components. The program memory switch and target processor autonomously detect signal activation timing and automatically adjust data signal direction without external intervention, eliminating the need for on-site service personnel and hardware replacement while preventing data collisions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS7430626B2Bi-directional data control state machine
Publication Date: 2008.09.30 OUTDOOR WIRELESS NETWORKS LLC
  • US7430626B2 patent drawing
  • US7430626B2 patent drawing
  • US7430626B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for controlling bi-directional data transfers in an electronic circuit is provided. The method involves when a first of at least two data signals is activated as an originating data signal prior to a second of the at least two data signals: allowing only a device associated with the first of the at least two data signals to be a signal source, and causing a device associated with the second of the at least two data signals to enter a receive state as a signal sink. The method further involves passing at least one bit of data from the signal source to the signal sink.