Remote User Interface Content Files for Firmware-Free Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods of updating user interface content on devices, such as medical devices, involve delays and inconsistencies due to hard-coding, exhaustive testing, and device-specific software updates, leading to production and shipping delays and increased software size.
Innovation Solution
Devices utilize content files stored in a remote repository to update user interface content without re-coding software, allowing for quick and consistent updates across devices by downloading and applying new content files.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If firmware is hard-coded to display specific text in user interface, then device software can be simplified, but updating user interface content requires creating and installing new software versions which causes delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides user interface content into separate content files that are independent from the core firmware. These content files can be updated without modifying the firmware itself, allowing rapid updates without time-consuming software versioning and testing cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces content files as an intermediary layer between the firmware and the user interface display. The firmware remains stable while content files act as a mediator that can be easily replaced to update text strings and other UI content, eliminating the need for firmware reinstallation.
2Device complexity
If firmware is hard-coded with user interface content, then device complexity is reduced, but consistency across multiple device types and models becomes difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates universal content files that can be used across multiple device types and models. A single content file can be deployed to various devices simultaneously, ensuring consistent user interface content across the entire product line without requiring device-specific software versions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If new firmware versions are installed to update user interface content, then content can be changed, but device production and shipping is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent allows content files to be prepared and validated in advance before devices are shipped. Content files can be pre-tested and stored, enabling rapid deployment to devices without delaying production or shipping, as the content updates can be applied post-manufacturing.
4Reliability
If exhaustive testing is performed for each firmware version, then reliability is improved, but testing time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses content files as copyable units that can be validated once and then deployed to multiple devices. Instead of re-testing entire firmware versions for each content change, the same validated content file structure can be reused, significantly reducing testing time while maintaining reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Software of devices, such as constrained devices configured to implement specific functions, can use content files to determine text strings or other content values to present in association with user interface elements. Devices can receive relevant content files, such as new versions of previously-stored content files or new content files containing text in different languages, from a remote content file repository. The software of the devices can accordingly update content values presented in user interfaces based on newly received content files, without the software being re-coded.