Boot Sequence Selection via Button Actuation Time

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing computer systems have a lengthy start-up process, which is perceived as annoying by users and often results in systems not being switched off promptly.

Innovation Solution

A method that utilizes a button actuation time to differentiate between a restricted and complete boot sequence, where a short button press initiates a quick boot and a longer press initiates a full boot sequence, allowing for efficient execution of system firmware and operating system loading.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a complete boot sequence is executed, then system initialization and verification are thorough, but startup time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem initialization completenessVSAvoidstartup time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The boot sequence is divided into two distinct segments: a complete boot sequence for thorough system initialization and verification, and a restricted boot sequence for rapid startup. The system firmware selectively executes one segment based on the detected button press duration, allowing users to choose between comprehensive initialization (long press) and quick startup (short press) without compromising system reliability when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Loss of time

If a restricted boot sequence is executed, then startup time is reduced, but system initialization completeness is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestartup timeVSAvoidsystem initialization completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the boot sequence execution based on real-time user input detection. By monitoring the duration of the control element press during startup, the system firmware adaptively selects between restricted and complete boot sequences. This dynamic approach allows the system to optimize startup time for everyday use while maintaining the capability to perform complete initialization when required by the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple boot sequence options are provided, then user flexibility increases, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveboot sequence selection flexibilityVSAvoidsystem firmware complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses a single parameter - the duration of the control element press - to differentiate between boot sequence options. This simple parameter-based approach provides users with flexible boot sequence selection (restricted or complete) while avoiding the need for complex interfaces, multiple buttons, or elaborate configuration menus. The firmware complexity remains minimal as it only needs to detect press duration and select the appropriate boot sequence based on this single variable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP2601576B1Evaluation of the duration of the pressing of the on-off switch in order to select a complete or abbreviated boot sequence of a PC
Publication Date: 2019.12.18 FUJITSU SIEMENS COMP GMBH
  • EP2601576B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2601576B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP2601576B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

An operating method for a computer system having system firmware and an operating element to switch on the computer system includes monitoring the operating element for an actuation, immediately after starting actuation of the operating element, performing a first part of a boot sequence, determining a time period for which the operating element is actuated, executing a remaining part of full boot sequence with the system firmware if the determined time period exceeds a predetermined time period, where the full boot sequence includes activation of a keyboard and mouse through the firmware, and executing a remaining part of limited boot sequence with the system firmware if the determined time period does not exceed the predetermined time period, wherein the limited boot sequence does not include at least one of activation of a keyboard and mouse through the firmware.