Programmable Optical Pointing Device with Read/Write Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing optical pointing devices face challenges in modifying control codes during the design stage due to the use of mask ROM, which requires re-production of the mask ROM each time the code is modified, leading to increased costs and uncertainty when verifying the code on a single chip.
Innovation Solution
A programmable optical pointing device is developed with an integrated chip comprising a photo sensor array and a control circuit, utilizing a read/write storage chip for storing and updating control codes, allowing for flexible modification and verification of control codes during the design stage, and switching to a mask ROM for production, ensuring compatibility and reduced costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If mask ROM is used to store control code on a single chip, then manufacturing cost is reduced and integration is achieved, but the control code cannot be modified after fabrication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the storage function into two separate components: a programmable memory unit for storing control codes and a microcontroller unit for executing them. This segmentation allows the control code to be modified independently of the microcontroller, resolving the contradiction between cost-effective single-chip integration and code modifiability. The programmable memory can be reprogrammed without changing the physical hardware structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic reprogramming capability through the programmable memory unit, which allows the control code to be updated and modified after the device is manufactured. This dynamic feature enables adaptation to different applications and requirements while maintaining the benefit of integrated design, effectively resolving the trade-off between manufacturing simplicity and operational flexibility.
2Device complexity
If mask ROM is used on a single chip, then device integration is achieved, but the control code must be re-produced by mask technology each time it is modified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a programmable memory unit that can be reprogrammed with new control codes without requiring physical reproduction of the mask ROM. This copying mechanism allows the control code to be updated by writing new data to the memory unit, eliminating the need for expensive and time-consuming mask technology re-production while maintaining high device integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The programmable memory unit acts as an intermediary between the microcontroller and the external programming interface. It provides a non-volatile storage medium that can be updated through standard programming operations, serving as a mediator that enables code modification without affecting the integrated microcontroller architecture or requiring complex mask re fabrication processes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If several chips are used to store control code, then code modification is easy during design stage, but production cost increases and verification uncertainty exists
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control code storage function with the microcontroller unit by integrating a programmable memory unit into the same chip package. This combination allows the benefits of separate chip design (code modifiability) to be achieved while avoiding the costs and uncertainties of multi-chip production. The integrated design enables single-chip manufacturing with the flexibility to program different control codes as needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A programmable optical pointing device. A read/write storage chip stores control code, and an integrated chip includes a photo sensor array and a control circuit. The control circuit reads the control code from the read/write storage chip and accordingly drives the photo sensor array to detect images on an operating surface.