Boot Screen Content Rendering via Independent Graphics Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current boot-up sequences are limited to static images and lack configurability, as bitmaps are hard-coded in read-only memory, restricting dynamic content display during the boot-up period.

Innovation Solution

A system and method utilizing a graphics processor to independently process and output content, such as video, audio, or images, during the boot-up period, allowing for dynamic content display independent of the central processing unit and enabling user-profile driven content delivery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If bitmaps are hard-coded in read-only memory for BIOS boot screen display, then the system maintains simplicity and reliability, but the content display becomes static and non-configurable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontent configurabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the boot screen content into separate configurable elements (logos, text, images) that can be independently selected and arranged, while keeping the underlying BIOS system structure intact. This allows content customization without requiring changes to the core BIOS firmware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the hard-coded bitmap system and the desired dynamic content. This intermediary enables content configuration through external inputs (USB devices, network) without directly modifying the BIOS read-only memory structure, thus maintaining system simplicity while enabling adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If static bitmaps are used for boot screen display, then the system maintains simplicity, but the user experience becomes limited and non-interactive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser experienceVSAvoidcontent dynamism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the static bitmap display into a dynamic content delivery system that can present multiple content types (video, animated graphics, interactive elements) during the boot process. The system dynamically selects and renders content based on user profile and configuration without compromising boot functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameters of the boot screen from fixed bitmap properties to variable content attributes that can be modified based on user profile, device type, and configuration settings. This allows the same BIOS system to deliver personalized content experiences while maintaining operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If the boot-up process is interrupted for content processing, then dynamic content can be displayed, but the boot-up time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontent display capabilityVSAvoidboot-up time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs content processing actions in advance of the critical boot sequence. Content is pre-loaded into memory during earlier initialization phases, and the graphics processor is configured beforehand to render boot screen content independently of the main CPU boot process, eliminating delays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the graphics processor independently handles content rendering without requiring CPU intervention during the boot sequence. The system uses available hardware resources (dedicated graphics processing units, memory) to service its own content delivery needs without burdening the main processing unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8502827B1System, method, and computer program product for outputting content during a boot-up period
Publication Date: 2013.08.06 NVIDIA CORP
  • US8502827B1 patent drawing
  • US8502827B1 patent drawing
  • US8502827B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system, method, and computer program product are provided for outputting content during a boot-up period. In use, content is independently processed, utilizing a graphics processor. During a boot-up period, such content is outputted.