Two-Processor Display Control for Faster Communication Device Power-Up
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Solution Overview
Problem
Communication devices for first responders experience long power-up times due to the use of a single processor, leading to critical information being unavailable for an extended period, which is detrimental in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
Employing two processors with different power-up times, where a first processor provides initial radio functionality and a second processor handles extended functionality, with a handoff of display screen control from the first processor to the second processor after the second processor is fully powered up.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a single processor is used to control the communication device, then the device structure is simple, but the power-up time is long (30-40 seconds) causing critical information to be unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two independent processors: a first processor (e.g., DSP) dedicated to radio functionality and a second processor (e.g., application processor) dedicated to extended functionality and display control. This segmentation allows each processor to initialize independently, with the first processor becoming operational faster (reducing overall power-up time from 30-40 seconds to approximately 10-15 seconds) while the second processor handles the more complex display and application tasks.
2Productivity
If a single processor handles all functionality, then the device complexity is low, but the availability of critical information is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The first processor is designed to perform preliminary actions by initializing and becoming operational before the second processor. During this preliminary phase, the first processor can begin handling radio communications and basic functions, making critical information available faster while the second processor completes its longer initialization sequence for display and application functionality.
3Loss of time
If one processor provides all functions, then the system is simpler to manage, but the power-up time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic task allocation between two processors based on their initialization status and capability. The first processor dynamically handles time-critical radio functions immediately upon initialization, while the second processor dynamically takes over display and application tasks once initialized. This dynamic distribution reduces the time to operational readiness by allowing the system to become partially functional faster.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device comprises: a communication interface; a display screen; a first processor configured to power up according to a first power-up time, the first processor for implementing radio functionality associated with the communication interface; and a second processor configured to power up according to a second power-up time longer than the first power-up time, the second processor for implementing extended functionality as compared to the first processor. The first processor, after the first power-up time: controls the display screen to provide a first GUI displaying communication interface-related information and a power-up status of the second processor; and after the second power-up time, hand off control of the display screen to the second processor. The second processor, after being provided with control of the display screen: controls the display screen to provide a second GUI displaying the communication interface-related information and information associated with the extended functionality.