GPS Control Unit Using Mask ROM for Map Data Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional GPS systems require large-capacity flash memory to store map data, leading to increased costs due to the high memory requirements for storing and updating massive map data.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a mask read-only memory (ROM) to store map data, where the data is integrated onto a semiconductor chip with a microprocessor, allowing for reduced manufacturing costs and simplified updates by modifying the data mask, while program code can be stored in flash memory for efficient execution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If large-capacity flash memory is used to store map data, then the GPS system can store massive map data, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into two parts: mask ROM for storing map data and flash memory for storing program code. This segmentation allows map data to be stored in the lower-cost mask ROM while program code remains in flash memory, resolving the contradiction between storage capacity and manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs mask ROM, which is a lower-cost storage medium compared to flash memory, specifically for storing map data. This choice of cheaper storage technology reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining the required storage capacity for massive map data.
2Adaptability or versatility
If map data is stored in flash memory, then the system has flexible storage, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the storage requirements into two segments: map data stored in mask ROM and program code stored in flash memory. This segmentation maintains the adaptability needed for program code while reducing costs by storing map data in the more economical mask ROM.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different storage technologies to different types of data based on their specific requirements. Mask ROM is used for map data where cost is the primary concern, while flash memory is used for program code where flexibility and updatability are more important.
3Ease of manufacture
If mask ROM is used to store map data, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the program code storage needs to be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into mask ROM for map data and flash memory for program code. This segmentation reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining the necessary functionality by assigning each storage type to its most suitable data category.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to interface with both mask ROM and flash memory, making it multi-functional in terms of data access. This universal interface design allows the system to manage both storage types efficiently without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a global positioning system (GPS) and a method for implementing the system. The GPS includes a control unit, a GPS RF processing circuit and a storage unit. The control unit includes a microprocessor and a mask ROM storing reference information. The GPS RF processing circuit is coupled to the control unit for receiving an RF signal, transforming the RF signal into a base-band or an intermediate frequency signal and transmitting the base-band or the intermediate frequency signal to the control unit. The storage unit is coupled to the control unit to temporally store a program code. The microprocessor executes the program code and refers to the reference information to achieve global positioning.