SoC Feature Enablement Through Subscription-Based Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The inalterability of SoC feature configurations using one-time programmable fuses limits user flexibility and adaptability, as end-users cannot change the enabled features once the SoC is booted.
Innovation Solution
A subscription-based system is introduced for SoC feature enablement, allowing users to dynamically enable or disable features through a remote configuration provider system via a data communication link, using feature subscription and enablement circuitry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If one-time programmable fuses are used to enable SoC features, then security and product differentiation are improved, but user flexibility and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by transitioning from static fuse-based feature configuration to dynamic subscription-based configuration. The system allows feature enablement states to change over time based on subscription status, enabling users to activate or deactivate features as needed while maintaining security through controlled access mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements Parameter changes by modifying the configuration state of SoC features from fixed (fuse-based) to variable (subscription-based). The feature enablement is controlled by changing parameters such as subscription status, time periods, and configuration flags, allowing flexible adaptation without altering the underlying hardware structure.
2Stability of the object's composition
If one-time programmable fuses are used to configure SoC features, then configuration inalterability is improved, but adaptability to different user needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces dynamic reconfigurability by allowing feature configurations to be modified through subscription management. The configuration can transition between enabled and disabled states based on subscription status, time periods, and user actions, providing adaptability while maintaining controlled stability through the subscription mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies Universality by creating a multi-functional configuration system that serves both security/stability functions and user adaptability functions. The subscription-based mechanism enables the same SoC to serve different user needs and usage scenarios over time, making the system universally applicable to various requirements without requiring multiple hardware variants.
3Adaptability or versatility
If subscription-based feature enablement is implemented, then user flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary subscription management system that mediates between the user and the SoC feature configuration. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of subscription processing, authentication, and configuration management, shielding users from underlying system complexity while providing flexible feature access.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms through subscription status monitoring and configuration state tracking. The subscription management system continuously monitors subscription status and automatically adjusts feature enablement states accordingly, providing responsive control without requiring complex user intervention or manual configuration management.
4Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic subscription-based configuration is used, then adaptability is improved, but configuration stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies Periodic action through time-based subscription management where feature configurations are enabled or disabled at specific time intervals. Subscriptions have defined start and end dates, creating periodic enablement cycles that provide predictable configuration changes while maintaining overall system stability through scheduled transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements controlled dynamics by allowing configuration changes only through authorized subscription transactions. While the configuration can change over time, these changes are governed by subscription terms, authentication mechanisms, and system policies, providing adaptability within a stable and controlled framework rather than uncontrolled variability.
Data Source
AI summary
Core logic features of a system-on-chip (SoC) may be selectively enabled based on a subscription. A subscription request may be provided and transmitted from the computing device containing the SoC to a remote SoC configuration provider system. A response to the subscription request may be received from the configuration provider system and used to provide SoC configuration information. Feature enablement circuitry in the SoC may provide feature enablement signals to SoC core logic based on the SoC configuration information.