Kernel Space Sensor Self-Test Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional self-test programs for sensors are separate from device drivers, leading to version mismatches, complexity in installation, and vulnerability to hacking, as they operate in user space and are not integrated with the operating system.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a self-test mechanism in the kernel space of a device's memory with a hook in the user space, allowing for a unified and secure self-test process that is integrated with the device driver, eliminating the need for separate software installation and protecting against unauthorized changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a self-test program is provided as a separate program in user space, then it can be independently developed and tested, but it may be lost or mismatched with the driver version, leading to incorrect test results

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindependent developmentVSAvoidversion matching

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The self-test mechanism is merged with the device driver by integrating it into the kernel space. The driver now contains both the sensor communication functionality and the self-test functionality as unified code, eliminating version mismatch issues while maintaining adaptability through modular driver design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of manufacture

If a self-test program is provided in user space, then it can be separately maintained, but it requires copying separate software into the operating system, increasing complexity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseparate maintenanceVSAvoidsoftware installation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The self-test functionality is combined with the device driver in the kernel space, eliminating the need for separate software installation and copying. The unified driver package simplifies deployment while maintaining code organization through modular structure within the driver

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If a self-test program runs in user space, then it is easier to access and modify, but it is vulnerable to hacking and provides unpredictable results

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveaccessibilityVSAvoidsecurity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A controlled interface mechanism is introduced between user space and the kernel space self-test functionality. Users can trigger and access self-test results through defined interfaces, maintaining ease of operation while the kernel space execution ensures security and reliability by preventing unauthorized modifications

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9720794B2Method and system providing a self-test on one or more sensors coupled to a device

Publication Date: 2017.08.01 INVENSENSE INC

AI summary

A method and system for providing a self-test configuration in a device is disclosed. The method and system comprise providing a self-test mechanism in a kernel space of a memory and enabling a hook in a user space of the memory, wherein the hook is in communication with the self-test mechanism. The method and system also include running the self-test driver and utilizing the results.