Firmware Sensor Layer for OS-Absent Boot Data Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computing devices cannot access or utilize sensor data during the boot process or in an operating system-absent environment, limiting their functionality and operational flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A firmware sensor layer is introduced that receives and abstracts sensor data from various sensors, providing it to usage modules independently of an operating system, allowing for sensor data utilization during boot processes or in OS-absent modes, enabling features like environmental factor-based decision-making and data security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If sensor data is accessed only through an operating system sensor layer, then sensor data can be accessed with a standardized interface, but sensor data cannot be accessed during boot process or in OS-absent environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sensor data access functionality into two distinct layers: a firmware sensor layer that operates independently during boot and OS-absent environments, and an operating system sensor layer that provides standardized access when the OS is running. This segmentation allows sensor data to be accessed in both OS-absent and OS-present environments without compromising the standardized interface benefit.
Solution Approach 2:
The firmware sensor layer acts as an intermediary between the hardware sensors and the rest of the system during boot and OS-absent environments. It provides the necessary abstraction and data collection functionality that would otherwise require the operating system, enabling sensor data access in environments where the OS is not yet running or is absent.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a firmware sensor layer is introduced to enable OS-absent sensor access, then sensor data becomes accessible during boot process, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The firmware sensor layer is designed to perform multiple functions: it collects sensor data during boot, provides data to boot-time modules, and handoff data to the operating system when it loads. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for different operational phases, thereby limiting the increase in system complexity while maximizing operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The firmware sensor layer performs preliminary sensor data collection and abstraction during the boot process, before the operating system is loaded. This preliminary action prepares sensor data in advance for modules that need it during boot, eliminating the need for complex runtime mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sensor data is made accessible during boot process, then operational flexibility is enhanced, but security risks increase due to potential unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality control by providing different levels of sensor data access to different modules based on their specific needs and trust levels. Critical security-sensitive modules receive restricted access or validated data, while other modules can access broader sensor information. This differentiated access control enhances security while maintaining operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The firmware sensor layer incorporates feedback mechanisms that validate sensor data before making it available to modules during boot. It monitors access requests, verifies module credentials, and controls data release based on security policies, thereby managing security risks while enabling enhanced operational flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
Computing devices, computer-readable storage media, and methods associated with providing an operating system (OS)-absent firmware sensor layer to support a boot process are disclosed. A computing device may include a processor and firmware to be operated on the processor. The firmware may include one or more modules and a sensor layer. The sensor layer may be configured to receive, in the OS-absent environment, sensor data produced by a plurality of sensors. The sensor layer may be further configured to selectively provide the sensor data to the one or more modules via an interface of the sensor layer that abstracts the plurality of sensors.