Sensor App Execution for Versatile Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sensors, particularly optical sensors, are limited in their application scope due to permanently installed models that cannot be easily updated or exchanged, restricting their use in multiple applications beyond their original intent.
Innovation Solution
A method allowing sensors to receive, store, and execute apps via a communication interface, enabling the use of multiple models for different measurement parameters and applications, with features like API access for parameter querying and return values, and virtual machine support for secure execution of apps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If models are permanently installed in sensor firmware, then sensor reliability is improved, but sensor adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement models from the sensor firmware by implementing them as separate, exchangeable app modules. These apps can be independently developed, stored, and executed, allowing the core sensor firmware to remain stable and reliable while the measurement models can be updated or exchanged to provide different applications without compromising system stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal app execution environment within the sensor that can run multiple different measurement models (apps) for various applications. The sensor hardware and core firmware serve multiple functions by supporting different apps, enabling the same physical sensor to perform diverse measurement tasks through software flexibility rather than hardware changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple models are integrated into sensor firmware, then sensor versatility is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts multiple measurement models from the core firmware and places them in separate executable app files. This extraction allows the firmware to maintain a simple, stable core structure while supporting multiple models through an external app execution mechanism. The complexity of multiple models is isolated in separate apps rather than embedded in the firmware itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary app execution environment that mediates between the simple core firmware and multiple measurement models. This intermediary layer provides the necessary complexity management by handling app loading, execution, and coordination, allowing the firmware to remain simple while supporting versatile functionality through the mediator mechanism.
3Measurement precision
If measurement models are updated via complex firmware updates, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-compiling and optimizing multiple measurement models as ready-to-execute apps before they are loaded onto the sensor. The apps are prepared in advance with all necessary processing logic, allowing rapid deployment and immediate use without requiring complex update procedures. This preliminary preparation enables easy swapping of measurement models while maintaining high precision through optimized pre-compiled code.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a method for expanding application possibilities of a sensor, comprising the steps of transmitting an app to the sensor via a communication interface of the sensor when the app is not yet on the sensor, wherein the firmware of the sensor is configured to receive and store apps; wherein the app comprises at least identification features, such as the name and version, one or more entry points, and a main logic; selecting the app via a communication interface of the sensor by means of a higher-level unit via the identification features of the app; executing the selected app, wherein the sensor calls the entry point; and returning at least one return value from the app to the sensor.