Controller Module Management for Third-Party Hardware Interworking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hardware management systems, such as those for robots, are limited by their manufacturers and require experienced personnel for task-specific functions, hindering the addition or deletion of function modules and thus delaying the popularization of various hardware types.
Innovation Solution
A management system that allows for the interworking of third-party products by enabling the addition and deletion of function modules on a controller, using a market server to register and provide function modules, and a manager to install or delete them, with features like tiled menu structures, API management, and module prioritization based on customer evaluations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hardware is limited to manufacturer-specific functions, then system stability is maintained, but adaptability and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments hardware functions into independent downloadable modules that can be selectively installed. Each function module is a separate executable unit that can be added or removed without affecting the core hardware system, enabling flexible adaptation while maintaining system stability through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed with universal capability to execute multiple different function modules from various manufacturers. The standardized interface allows the same hardware platform to perform diverse functions by loading appropriate modules, achieving multi-functionality without requiring hardware modifications.
2Ease of operation
If experienced personnel are required for hardware operation, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables end-users to independently select, download, and install function modules without requiring specialized knowledge. The automated module management system handles installation and configuration, allowing users to customize hardware functionality themselves while maintaining reliable operation through pre-validated modules.
3Productivity
If function modules are added or deleted manually, then system stability is maintained, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A market server acts as an intermediary between module developers and the hardware system. The server manages module distribution, version control, and installation coordination, enabling rapid function updates through automated downloads while maintaining system stability through centralized management and validation protocols.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturer-specific hardware is used, then reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements a universal execution environment that can load and run function modules from multiple manufacturers. Standardized communication interfaces and module formats enable third-party products to interwork reliably with the hardware platform without sacrificing the ability to perform diverse functions from different vendors.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a management system that includes a market server having a function module registered therein to assign a specific function to hardware and a manager configured to download the function module from the market server, wherein the manager installs or deletes the function module in or from the controller.