Hardware Configuration Data Generation via Locating Circuitry

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing process of configuring hardware for a processing circuit's operating system is cumbersome and error-prone, requiring manual rewriting of configuration data for every hardware change, and is complicated by numerous configuration options, making it difficult and time-consuming.

Innovation Solution

A data processing apparatus and method that includes hardware locating circuitry to generate and provide specific hardware configuration data to the operating system, reducing the need for manual configuration and minimizing errors by dynamically compiling hardware information and parameters, with cache and management circuitry to efficiently manage hardware changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual configuration data rewriting is performed for every hardware change, then configuration accuracy can be maintained, but time consumption and complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidtime consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by having the firmware automatically generate hardware configuration data through hardware locating circuitry and compilation processes, eliminating the need for manual rewriting and reducing time consumption while maintaining accuracy through automated verification

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of configuration data rewriting with an automated electronic system that uses hardware locating circuitry, compilation circuitry, and providing circuitry to dynamically generate and update configuration data, significantly reducing time consumption

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If comprehensive hardware configuration options are provided, then system versatility is improved, but data length and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehardware configuration optionsVSAvoiddata length

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The configuration data is segmented into modular hardware configuration records, each representing a specific hardware component or option. This segmentation allows the system to provide comprehensive configuration options while keeping each individual data element manageable and the overall data structure organized

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes parameters by automatically generating configuration data based on detected hardware parameters and characteristics. This allows comprehensive hardware options to be supported while the data length is optimized by only including relevant configuration parameters for the specific hardware present

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If hardware configuration data is dynamically generated, then adaptability to hardware changes is improved, but debugging difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehardware change adaptabilityVSAvoiddebugging difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the firmware receives information about hardware changes and automatically adjusts configuration data accordingly. This feedback loop maintains adaptability while the automated nature of the process reduces debugging difficulty by eliminating manual errors and providing consistent, traceable configuration generation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple hardware configuration options are supported, then system versatility is improved, but manual configuration complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration optionsVSAvoidconfiguration process ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically generating appropriate hardware configuration data based on the detected hardware and its options, eliminating the need for manual configuration processes and making the system easy to manufacture and deploy regardless of hardware complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The firmware is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple hardware configuration options through a unified automated process. This multi-functionality allows the same firmware to adapt to various hardware configurations without requiring different manual configuration procedures, improving ease of manufacture

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10901938B2Dynamic configuration of hardware

Publication Date: 2021.01.26 ARM LTD

AI summary

A data processing apparatus is provided. The data processing apparatus includes hardware locating circuitry for locating hardware associated with processing circuitry, and for causing hardware configuration data relating to the hardware to be generated. Providing circuitry causes the hardware configuration data to be provided to an operating system executing on the processing circuitry to enable the operating system to utilise the hardware.