Control Microcomputer Parallel Device Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital broadcast receiving apparatuses face increased hardware costs and limited start-up time reduction due to the need for two independent system controllers and sequential operation of the OS and partial service providing tasks.
Innovation Solution
A control apparatus with a control microcomputer, ROM storing control programs, and a boot loader that allows parallel execution of device control and OS loading using interrupt programs, eliminating the need for two system controllers and enabling concurrent device control during OS initialization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If two independent system controllers are used to execute digital broadcast processing and OS start-up in parallel, then the start-up time is shortened, but the hardware cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two independent system controllers into a single control microcomputer. The control microcomputer executes both the first control program (for digital broadcast processing) and the second control program (for OS start-up) sequentially, eliminating the need for duplicate hardware while maintaining the parallel processing capability through interrupt mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the boot loader program load the second control program into the control microcomputer during the start-up phase, before the full OS is executed. This allows the system to prepare necessary control routines in advance, enabling faster transition to full operational mode without requiring additional hardware.
2Reliability
If the OS is started prior to the partial service providing task, then the system operates reliably, but the start-up time cannot be effectively shortened due to sequential operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic task scheduling where the control microcomputer can switch between executing the first control program (digital broadcast processing) and the second control program (OS start-up) based on interrupt signals. This dynamic approach allows the system to maintain reliability through proper sequencing while achieving effective parallel processing to reduce start-up time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an interrupt program as an intermediary mechanism that coordinates between the first control program and the second control program. The interrupt program receives interrupt signals during OS loading and executes device activation routines, serving as a mediator that ensures reliable operation while enabling concurrent execution of critical tasks.
Data Source
AI summary
A control apparatus which is inexpensive and highly effective in shortening a start-up time, a method of controlling the control apparatus, and a digital broadcast receiving apparatus are provided. The control apparatus includes: a control microcomputer; at least one device; and a ROM which stores a simple control program, a main body program, and a boot loader. The simple control program includes an interrupt program having an interrupt for starting the at least one device so that the at least one device is activated, accepts an interrupt signal requesting for the interrupt from the at least one device during loading of the main body program, and performs the interrupt.