ROM Configuration Management via Virtual Copy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Configuring environment variables (EVs) across multiple computers in a network is time-consuming due to unique ROM configuration settings required for each device, making system-wide changes difficult, especially in large networks with diverse hardware configurations.

Innovation Solution

A management device coupled with a ROM and non-volatile storage, capable of receiving and modifying configuration data abstractly, using configuration files specific to each host computer to implement system-wide changes without requiring individual access to each device, allowing remote configuration and management of multiple host computers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If individual configuration is performed for each unique ROM, then configuration accuracy is improved, but configuration time and operational complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual copy of the ROM configuration interface through software emulation. Instead of physically accessing each unique ROM, the system generates a virtual ROM image that replicates the configuration interface, allowing administrators to modify settings remotely without direct hardware access to each device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a configuration management software layer that acts as an intermediary between the administrator and the actual ROM hardware. This software layer abstracts the complex hardware differences and provides a unified interface for configuration, translating high-level commands into device-specific ROM operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If individual configuration is performed for each unique ROM, then configuration accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal configuration management system that can handle multiple different ROM types through a single software interface. The system identifies the specific ROM type and automatically applies the appropriate configuration parameters, eliminating the need for administrators to manually configure each unique ROM type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The configuration management software serves as an intermediary layer that abstracts the complexity of different ROM types. It provides a standardized interface for administrators while internally managing the hardware-specific details, thereby reducing operational complexity without sacrificing configuration accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If centralized management is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration easeVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system creates virtual copies of ROM configuration interfaces that can be managed remotely. These virtual images allow centralized configuration without requiring physical access to each device, simplifying the operational process while the underlying system architecture manages the complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The configuration management software acts as an intermediary that bridges centralized administration with distributed hardware. It provides user-friendly centralized control while internally managing the communication and configuration details with each individual device, thereby improving ease of operation without significantly increasing user-perceived complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS7447889B2Method and apparatus for configuring a computer system utilizing a read only memory storing an option file containing selectable configuration options and a script file
Publication Date: 2008.11.04 VALTRUS INNOVATIONS LTD
  • US7447889B2 patent drawing
  • US7447889B2 patent drawing
  • US7447889B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus for configuring a computer system is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a processor, a read only memory (ROM) coupled to the processor, and a management device coupled to the read only memory. During operation, the management device preferably receives at least some data from the ROM.