Portable Data Reader OS Update via USB Mass Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable data readers require user intervention and connection to a host computer for updating configuration settings, updating an operating system image, and booting an alternate operating system, which is time-consuming and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using a USB mass storage device connected to a docking station to update configuration settings, operating system images, and boot alternate operating systems on portable data readers without the need for a host computer, allowing for automatic or unattended updates and minimal user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a host computer connection is required for updating configuration settings and operating system images, then the updates can be performed with proper error handling and validation, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires user intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the update process into two distinct phases: (1) a configuration phase where the portable data reader connects to a host computer to receive and validate update packages with proper error handling, and (2) an execution phase where the device performs automatic unattended updates using stored configuration data. This segmentation allows reliable configuration while enabling fast automatic execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by storing configuration data, update packages, and validation rules in the portable data reader's memory during an initial setup phase. This preliminary configuration enables subsequent automatic updates to proceed without real-time host computer intervention, reducing update time while maintaining reliability through pre-validated configurations.
2Productivity
If automatic unattended updates are implemented without host computer connection, then update time is reduced and user intervention is minimized, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The portable data reader is designed with multi-functionality to serve dual roles: (1) as a peripheral device that connects to host computers for initial configuration and update package reception, and (2) as an autonomous device capable of automatic unattended updates. This universality allows the device to maintain simplicity during configuration while achieving high productivity during automatic update execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service capabilities by enabling the portable data reader to automatically perform updates using pre-stored configuration data without requiring real-time host computer connection or user intervention. The device autonomously validates update packages against stored configuration rules and executes updates, reducing device complexity during operation while achieving high update speed.
3Productivity
If multiple portable data readers are updated simultaneously through a host computer, then centralized control is maintained, but the process requires significant user intervention and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a copying mechanism where a master configuration package containing update instructions and validation rules is created on a host computer and then copied to multiple portable data readers simultaneously. Each device receives and stores an identical configuration package, enabling parallel batch updates across multiple devices without requiring continuous host computer intervention or complex user coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary batch configuration by distributing master configuration packages to multiple portable data readers in advance. Each device independently stores and processes the configuration data, enabling simultaneous unattended updates across the entire fleet of devices. This preliminary action maintains centralized control through standardized configuration distribution while dramatically improving batch update capacity and operation simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for updating configuration settings, updating an OS image, and booting an alternate OS on a portable data reader including a reading engine for reading data from an object. Configuration settings of a portable data reader may be updated by detecting whether a storage device having a set of updated configuration settings stored thereon has been coupled to the portable data reader and, if so, updating one or more configuration settings on the portable data reader with one or more of the updated configuration settings from the storage device.