ROM-Based RF Command Handling Updates via Writable Non-Volatile Memory
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing analyte monitoring systems face challenges in efficiently updating ROM-based RF command handling software due to the lengthy and costly process of redesigning semiconductor devices, which is necessary for software revisions, and the inability to adapt to evolving applications and regulatory changes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allows for supplementing or revising RF command handling software in writable non-volatile memory, such as FRAM, during the board assembly phase, enabling flexible and cost-effective updates without requiring new device fabrication, by using a boundary scan interface or RF interface for indirect access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RF command handling software is stored in ROM, then device reliability and manufacturing cost are improved, but adaptability to regulatory changes and new applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the software storage into two segments: ROM for stable, time-critical RF command handling and writable non-volatile memory for configurable parameters and application-specific data. This segmentation allows the RF command handling to maintain reliability while other components can be adapted independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a writable copy of the RF command handling software in non-volatile memory that can be configured without changing the original ROM code. This allows regulatory adaptations and updates without requiring physical chip redesign, resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.
2Manufacturing precision
If software revisions require redesigning semiconductor devices, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but productivity and cost-effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the configurable portions of the software from the ROM and places them in writable non-volatile memory. This allows software revisions to be made by simply updating the writable memory rather than redesigning the semiconductor device, dramatically improving productivity while maintaining manufacturing precision for the critical RF command handling code.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares the device with writable non-volatile memory during manufacturing that can be programmed later without affecting the ROM. This preliminary setup enables efficient software updates and regulatory adaptations without requiring costly and time-consuming chip redesigns, thus improving productivity.
3Device complexity
If ROM-based RF command handling is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation and compliance with evolving regulations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces writable non-volatile memory as an intermediary between the ROM-based RF command handling and the need for regulatory compliance. This intermediary allows configuration and adaptation without complicating the core RF command architecture, maintaining low device complexity while enabling ease of operation regarding regulatory changes.
4Manufacturing precision
If existing devices are discarded for software updates, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but loss of substance and cost-effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent recovers the value of existing devices by allowing in-place software updates in the writable non-volatile memory. Instead of discarding devices when software needs updating, the system recovers and utilizes the existing hardware by simply rewriting the configurable portions of software, eliminating device waste and reducing costs.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods are provided that enable the revision of RF command handling software stored in ROM, and that enable to supplementation of RF command handling software stored in ROM. Examples of the systems, devices, and methods make use of a lookup data structure stored within writable non-volatile memory.