Microcontroller User Module Parameterization via Spreadsheet Linking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Designing microcontrollers is cumbersome due to the need for manual entry of complex parameter settings in conventional tools, which is time-consuming and prone to errors, especially when transitioning between application changes and new requirements.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that links an external design tool directly to a microcontroller design application, allowing parameterization of user modules within the microcontroller design application, enabling automatic loading of parameterized data from the external tool into the microcontroller design application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual entry of parameter settings is used in conventional design tools, then the design process can be completed, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses spreadsheet applications to create copies of parameter data in a structured format, which can then be automatically transferred to the microcontroller design tool. This copying mechanism eliminates manual re-entry and reduces transcription errors while maintaining design flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces spreadsheet applications as an intermediary between the design requirements and the microcontroller design tool. This intermediary layer allows parameters to be organized, calculated, and validated before automatic transfer, improving both efficiency and accuracy without requiring direct manual entry into the design tool.
2Reliability
If manual entry of parameter settings is used, then the design tool can be used, but transcription errors may compromise microcontroller functionality
Solution Approach 1:
By copying parameters from spreadsheet applications where they can be organized and validated, the system ensures accurate transcription to the design tool. This copying process maintains data integrity and reduces transcription errors while keeping the operation simple and intuitive.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through spreadsheet applications that allow designers to review, validate, and verify parameter values before final transfer to the microcontroller design tool. This feedback loop ensures accuracy while maintaining ease of operation through familiar spreadsheet interfaces.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate applications are used for determining optimized parameters, then parameter optimization is achieved, but the process becomes cumbersome requiring access through operating system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of separate parameter optimization applications with the microcontroller design tool through integrated spreadsheet applications. This combination allows parameter optimization to be performed within a unified environment, eliminating the need to switch between multiple applications while maintaining full optimization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes spreadsheet applications multi-functional by enabling them to serve both as parameter optimization tools and as direct interfaces to the microcontroller design tool. This universal approach eliminates the need for separate specialized applications, reducing complexity while maintaining adaptability for different parameterization needs.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for parameterizing a user module. A first design application corresponding to a parameter of a user module is accessed, wherein the user module is a pre-configured electronic design to be implemented on a microcontroller. The parameter is adjusted within the first design application to derive parameterized data. In response to a command, the parameterized data is automatically loaded into a second design application.