Operation Button Key Reassignment During BIOS Setup
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tablet PCs face challenges in easily changing function assignments of operation buttons during BIOS setup without requiring a restart of the device.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a processor, first storage for firmware and key code information, and a second storage for temporarily storing key code information, along with a keyboard controller that changes key codes based on rewritten information during firmware setup, allowing immediate reflection of function changes without restarting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If key code information is stored only in read-only firmware storage, then system stability is maintained, but operability is reduced because function changes require restart
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the storage system into two segments: read-only firmware storage (first storage) for stability and read-write temporary storage (second storage) for flexibility. The keyboard controller reads key code information from the second storage during BIOS setup, enabling immediate changes without restart while maintaining system stability through the segregated storage architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-loading key code information into the second storage (read-write storage) during system initialization. This allows the keyboard controller to access and modify key code assignments immediately during BIOS setup without requiring a restart, as the necessary data is already prepared in the temporary storage.
2Ease of operation
If key code changes are applied immediately during BIOS setup, then operability is improved, but system stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage function into read-only firmware storage for stability and read-write temporary storage for flexibility. By reading from the second storage during BIOS setup rather than modifying the first storage directly, the system achieves immediate key code changes while preserving system stability through the protective read-only barrier.
Solution Approach 2:
The second storage acts as an intermediary between the firmware and the keyboard controller. It allows the keyboard controller to access and modify key code information during BIOS setup without directly altering the read-only firmware, thus enabling immediate changes while maintaining system stability through this mediating layer.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple function assignments are supported for different modes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by creating two distinct storage areas with different access characteristics. The first storage holds the authoritative firmware while the second storage provides a workable copy for modifications. This segmentation enables multiple function assignments for different modes without increasing overall system complexity, as the dual-storage structure cleanly separates read-only and read-write operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The second storage serves multiple functions: it acts as a working copy of the firmware during normal operation, as a modifiable configuration space during BIOS setup, and as a buffer that protects the read-only firmware. This multi-functionality enables adaptability for different operation modes without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible and immediate assignment of functions to operation buttons during BIOS setup, improving user operability and reducing the need for physical button count.
Implementation Method 1
the touch-sensitive display may be treated with a hydrophobic material to prevent water damage to the internal components of the electronic device
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An electronic device of the present disclosure includes: a processor; a first storage that stores firmware to be executed by the processor when the electronic device is activated, and key code information that defines a function of an operation button; a second storage that reads the key code information from the first storage and temporarily stores the key code information in a rewritable manner; and a keyboard controller that assigns a key code to the operation button based on the key code information stored in the second storage. The processor determines whether or not the key code information stored in the second storage has been rewritten during setup of the firmware, and generates key code change information for changing a key code assigned to the operation button when the processor determines that the key code information has been rewritten. The keyboard controller changes a key code assigned to the operation button based on the key code change information during the setup of the firmware.