Electrically Configurable Option Board Interface Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems with option boards are constrained by fixed electrical interfaces, limiting flexibility and requiring redesigns whenever new option boards with different configurations are introduced, as they are tied to specific voltage levels, signaling formats, and software protocols.
Innovation Solution
An electrically configurable interface for hosts that can adapt to various option boards by receiving identification data, determining the interface configuration, and configuring the host interface circuitry to select active signal lines, define inputs and outputs, and choose protocols, allowing for compatibility and hot-swapping of option boards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed electrical interface is used for option boards, then the system has a simple and stable interface design, but the system lacks flexibility and requires redesign whenever new option boards are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The interface configuration is made dynamic through software-based setup procedures that automatically detect the option board type and configure appropriate interface parameters. The system transitions from static fixed interfaces to dynamic configurable interfaces that adapt to different board types without physical redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by allowing interface voltage levels, signaling formats, and protocol parameters to be modified through software configuration based on the detected option board type. This enables the same physical interface to support multiple electrical standards by changing operational parameters rather than hardware design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system is designed to accommodate multiple option board configurations, then flexibility is improved, but the interface design and component selection become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a single host interface that can accommodate multiple option board types through software configuration. The interface circuitry and connector remain universal, while software adapts the electrical characteristics to match different board requirements, eliminating the need for multiple specialized interface designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary setup procedure that mediates between the fixed host interface and variable option boards. This intermediary software layer detects the option board type and configures appropriate interface parameters, acting as a translator that enables compatibility without requiring changes to either the host interface or option board hardware.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed voltage levels and signaling formats are used, then the interface is simple to design, but the system cannot accommodate future developments in option boards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing an automated detection and configuration procedure that runs when an option board is first connected. This preliminary setup identifies the board type and pre-configures the interface parameters before normal operation begins, ensuring reliable communication from the start without requiring manual intervention or compromising system stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the automated detection mechanism that queries the option board to identify its type and required interface parameters. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically adjust interface configuration based on the actual option board connected, ensuring both adaptability to future developments and reliability through verified parameter matching.
Data Source
AI summary
A Main Logic Board having an electrically configurable option board interface (ECOBI) to facilitate connection of option boards into apparatus for providing optional functions. Once connected to the host, an Option board provides identification (ID) data to the main logic board host processor. The host processor determines the interface configuration necessary to enable communication between the host and the option board based on the option board ID, then configures electrically configurable interface circuitry for operational compatibility. The option board may provide an interface driver directly to the host for configuration of the interface. The interface may comprise a standard interface protocol such as PCI or USB that the host configures through the same connection to the option board.