Microprocessor Controlled Finite State Machine for Data Connector Flaw Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data connectors with hardwired finite state machines (FSMs) are prone to design flaws that cannot be corrected after fabrication, leading to unacceptable shipping of products with known issues.
Innovation Solution
A method where a microprocessor receives a pause signal from the FSM, applies configuration changes to the data connector during state transitions, and transmits a continue signal to allow software updates that can modify the FSM's functionality, enabling compensation for design flaws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hardwired finite state machine is used to manage data connector state transitions, then the state management follows the communication protocol precisely, but design flaws cannot be corrected after fabrication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static hardwired FSM into a dynamic system by introducing a microprocessor that executes software to control state transitions. This allows the FSM behavior to be modified through software updates rather than requiring hardware changes, enabling flaw corrections after fabrication while maintaining protocol compliance through proper software implementation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/hardwired FSM structure with a software-based state machine implemented on a microprocessor. This substitution allows the system to maintain the functional requirements of protocol compliance while gaining the flexibility to update and correct design flaws through software modifications without physical hardware changes.
2Reliability
If the FSM is hardwired into the processing unit, then the state transitions are reliably executed, but the designer cannot correct flaws after the processing unit is fabricated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfigurability by implementing the state machine as software on a microprocessor rather than fixed hardware. This allows the system to adapt its behavior through software updates while maintaining reliable state transition execution through structured software design and error handling mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables post-fabrication modification by changing the fundamental parameter of FSM implementation from fixed hardware logic to software code. This parameter change allows the system to maintain reliable operation while gaining the ability to modify behavior, correct flaws, and adapt to new requirements through software updates.
3Ease of repair
If a software application is used to control the FSM, then flaws can be corrected through updates, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a microprocessor that serves multiple functions: executing the state machine software, handling protocol compliance, managing error correction, and providing update capability. This universal component approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate hardwired FSM logic, update mechanisms, and error handling circuits into a single multi-functional unit, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements the state machine as software code that can be copied and updated without changing the underlying hardware. This copying approach allows flaw corrections to be deployed by simply updating the software image on the microprocessor, avoiding the complexity of hardware redesign and refabrication while maintaining reliable state transition execution.
Data Source
AI summary
A microprocessor within a processing unit is configured to manage to operation of a finite state machine (FSM) that, in turn, manages the operation of a data connector. The FSM may be a hardwired chip component that adheres to a communication protocol associated with the data connector. The microprocessor is configured to execute a software application in order to (i) apply configuration changes to the processing unit during state transitions initiated by the FSM and (ii) cause the FSM to initiate specific state transitions.