Hospital Device Hardware Key for Firmware Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hospital devices face challenges in maintaining firmware integrity and updating peripherals without a hospital network, leading to increased complexity and difficulty in replacing or adding peripherals, especially in older hospitals where network access is limited.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an electronic hardware key with data connection to the central control unit simplifies the installation and updating of data by storing configuration data and firmware, using non-volatile memory and various connection methods like USB or wireless communication, ensuring secure and authorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If firmware is stored in the control unit, then the device can operate with integrated control, but data is lost when the control unit is damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the data storage function from the control unit by introducing a separate electronic hardware key. The control unit retains control functions while the hardware key stores firmware and configuration data, so that damage to the control unit does not result in data loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic hardware key acts as an intermediary between the control unit and permanent data storage. It receives data from the control unit during operation and preserves it independently, mediating the conflict between integrated control and data safety.
2Ease of operation
If firmware is updated through hospital network, then remote updates are possible, but network infrastructure is required
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic hardware key serves as a portable intermediary for firmware distribution. Instead of requiring a hospital network, the firmware can be pre-loaded onto the hardware key and transferred directly to the control unit, eliminating network dependency while maintaining update capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the firmware update mechanism from the hospital network infrastructure and embeds it in the portable electronic hardware key. This allows firmware updates to occur through direct connection between the hardware key and control unit, independent of network availability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If firmware is updated through direct connection, then network is not needed, but specialized software and technicians are required
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic hardware key enables self-service firmware updates by storing update files that can be automatically transferred to the control unit. The system can perform updates autonomously without requiring specialized technician intervention or complex software, improving ease of operation while maintaining network independence.
4Adaptability or versatility
If peripherals are replaced or added, then device functionality is improved, but firmware must be updated to maintain faultless function
Solution Approach 1:
By separating configuration data storage from the control unit and placing it in the electronic hardware key, the system allows peripheral changes to be reflected through configuration file updates in the hardware key, rather than requiring complex firmware updates. This reduces the complexity associated with peripheral adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
The object of the invention is a hospital device for patient support comprising a central control unit with a connectable data hardware key containing the configuration connected to it. Furthermore, the hospital device for patient support includes peripherals such as sensors, drives, connectable accessories, compressors and control units. The configuration includes program instructions for performing required peripheral operations, software for the patient's communication interface for communication with the hospital device for patient support, information on the peripherals connected to the hospital device for patient support and other similar information.