Overlay Code Execution for Set Top Box Adaptability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing set top box systems require replacement for functional upgrades, leading to wasted opportunities for implementing useful improvements between replacements, as they cannot perform new functions without altering the resident software.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for downloading overlay code from an external device into the set top box's memory, allowing temporary execution of new functions without modifying the resident software, using an external device coupled to the set top box through an interface, transferring an application code image, executing it, and removing it after the function is performed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the set top box is replaced to implement new functions, then the functional capabilities are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the software functionality into two parts: the permanent resident operating system stored in read-only memory, and temporary overlay code loaded into executable memory. This segmentation allows new functions to be added via overlay code without replacing the entire set top box, resolving the contradiction between functional capabilities and device replacement requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal overlay code execution mechanism that can run multiple different applications and functions on the existing set top box hardware. The executable memory area is designed to accommodate various overlay code images, making the system multi-functional without requiring physical replacement of the device
2Adaptability or versatility
If the resident software is modified to add new functions, then the adaptability is improved, but the system stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the stable resident operating system from temporary overlay code. The resident software remains unmodified in read-only memory, maintaining system stability, while new functions are implemented through overlay code loaded separately into executable memory, achieving adaptability without compromising reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary overlay code layer that sits between the user and the resident operating system. This overlay code provides new functionality while the resident software remains unchanged, acting as a mediator that enables adaptability without directly modifying or risking the stability of the core system
3Adaptability or versatility
If overlay code is temporarily stored in executable memory, then the adaptability is improved, but the memory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic loading and unloading of overlay code into executable memory. Code images are loaded temporarily when needed, executed, and then removed or overwritten. This periodic action allows the有限的 executable memory to support multiple different functions over time, achieving adaptability without permanently increasing memory requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the executable memory dynamic by allowing it to be overwritten with different overlay code images as needed. Rather than allocating fixed memory for each function, the system dynamically loads, executes, and replaces code images, enabling temporary function execution with efficient memory utilization
Data Source
AI summary
A communication system 10 including a host device 14 in communication with an external device 40 through a pair of interfaces 48/50. The external device has an application code image module 42 therein. The host device 14 includes an application execution area 66 and a resource application programming interface (API) 60. The host device 14 stores the application code image in the application execution area 66. The application code image controls a function in the host device 14 using the resource application interface. When the function is performed, the application code image may be removed from the host device 14.