Memory Reset Control for Abnormal Startup State Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for initializing the startup internal memory in computer systems fail to ensure normal system startup when the power supply state is abnormal, particularly in multi-power supply integrated circuits, leading to potential system failures.
Innovation Solution
A control apparatus with a first control unit, a second control unit containing a memory for startup processing, a power supply unit, a determination unit to assess the normalcy of the startup state, and a power supply control unit that stops power to the memory from a backup supply if the startup state is abnormal, ensuring proper initialization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If voltage reduction in the startup internal memory unit is detected and electric charge is extracted for initialization, then the memory can be initialized, but this method cannot be applied when the battery power supply is normal and requires turning on peripheral power supply after initialization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting the startup state of the second control unit before power is fully supplied. The determination unit checks whether the startup internal memory is in a normal state before the system begins operation, allowing initialization to be performed proactively rather than reactively after power issues occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the startup state of the second control unit and using this information to control the power supply. The power supply control unit receives feedback from the determination unit about the memory state and adjusts power supply accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that ensures proper initialization.
2Reliability
If the startup internal memory unit is provided in a multi-power supply integrated circuit complying with specified power supply sequence, then the IC operates correctly, but it is necessary to turn on peripheral power supply after memory initialization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs memory initialization before the full power supply sequence begins. By detecting abnormal startup states and clearing the memory in advance, the system eliminates the need to wait for peripheral power supply to be turned on after initialization, thus reducing the overall power supply sequence time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic power supply control where the power supply state is adjusted based on the detected startup condition. Rather than following a fixed power supply sequence, the system dynamically modifies the initialization timing and power supply state according to the actual status of the second control unit, optimizing the startup process.
3Reliability
If hardware setting information in the startup internal memory is rewritten due to external factors, then the system may not correctly start, but conventional reset methods require turning off all peripheral power supply or discharging battery
Solution Approach 1:
The determination unit continuously monitors the startup state of the second control unit and provides feedback to the power supply control unit. This feedback mechanism enables the system to automatically detect when memory contents are abnormal and trigger appropriate reset actions without requiring manual intervention or complex external reset procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-diagnosis and self-initialization by automatically detecting abnormal startup states in the second control unit and clearing the memory accordingly. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external reset operations such as jumper pin manipulation or battery discharge, simplifying the reset process while ensuring system reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A control apparatus includes a first control unit, a second control unit including a memory for storing information for performing startup processing, and a power supply unit configured to supply electric power to the first control unit and the second control unit, and in a case where electric power is supplied from the power supply unit to the second control unit, whether a startup state of the second control unit is normal is determined. In a case where the startup state of the second control unit is determined to be normal, the power supply unit supplies electric power to the first control unit. In a case where the startup state of the second control unit is determined to be not normal, to power supply to the memory from a backup power supply for the memory is stopped so as to clear the memory of the second control unit.