IoT Microcontroller Cloud Service Switching via Configuration Memory
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IoT systems face difficulties in simplifying the process of changing the higher-level structure connection for devices with limited microcontroller capabilities, requiring significant firmware updates and complex configuration changes.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that enables a device with a microcontroller and limited memory to establish connections with different cloud services using configuration data stored in a non-volatile memory, allowing for flexible switching between cloud services without the need for firmware changes, using a communication interface and control unit to receive and act on control commands for changing cloud service connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If firmware update is used to change higher-level structure connection, then connection change is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the connection configuration from the firmware by introducing a standalone configuration memory module. This allows connection changes to be made through simple memory updates rather than complex firmware rewrites, reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic reconfigurability by allowing the higher-level structure connection to be changed at runtime through configuration memory updates. This eliminates the need for firmware updates to adapt connections, making the system more flexible without increasing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If firmware update is used to change higher-level structure connection, then connection change is achieved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the configuration storage into a dedicated non-volatile memory module, the patent enables rapid connection changes without requiring time-consuming firmware updates. The configuration memory can be rewritten independently and quickly, reducing the time loss associated with connection changes.
3Ease of operation
If configuration memory is used to store connection data, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the configuration memory universal by designing it to store multiple types of connection data for different higher-level structures. This multi-functional memory module simplifies operation by providing a single interface for all connection changes, while the underlying complexity is encapsulated within the memory structure itself.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
A micro-controlled device for use in the context of the internet of things is designed to terminate its present connection to a cloud service in response to a trigger signal determined externally and to establish a new connection to another cloud service.