Set-Top Box Nonvolatile Memory Wireless Data Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current set-top box systems face challenges in efficiently storing and transferring system-specific data, particularly when the device is damaged or needs replacement, as existing solutions require power to maintain data integrity and lack convenient methods for data retrieval during power outages or when the device is shipped for analysis.
Innovation Solution
A nonvolatile memory system coupled with a processor in the set-top box, utilizing an antenna system to wirelessly receive power and transmit data, allowing for data transfer to a new location without the need for continuous power, using technologies like NFC, RFID, or high-power Wi-Fi, enabling data retrieval even when the set-top box is not electrically connected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If power is provided continuously to maintain data in memory, then data integrity is preserved, but energy consumption increases and data cannot be retrieved during power outages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data storage function from the powered memory system and places it in a non-volatile memory medium that can be read wirelessly without power, separating the data retention function from the powered processing function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional powered memory read/write mechanism with a wireless electromagnetic field-based read mechanism, allowing data retrieval without electrical power to the memory device
2Ease of repair
If the set top box is replaced or damaged, then system updates or repairs can be performed, but data transfer time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by continuously updating the non-volatile memory with current system data while the set top box is operational, so that when replacement is needed, the data is already prepared and ready for immediate wireless transfer
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a wireless copy of the data from the set top box memory to an external system, eliminating the need for physical connection or manual data transfer during device replacement
3Ease of operation
If wireless data transfer is enabled without power to the memory, then data retrieval during power outages becomes possible, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the non-volatile memory storage function with wireless communication capability into a single integrated component, eliminating the need for separate powered memory and wireless interface systems
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution ensures that system-specific data can be quickly and easily transferred to a new set-top box, allowing for seamless user experience and enabling diagnostic analysis without power, providing significant convenience and efficiency in data management.
Implementation Method 1
The antenna system is of the type that can receive a signal wirelessly from an external source and generate electrical power based on the received signal
Implementation Method 2
The antenna system may be of any acceptable type of many known in the art, such as an NFC system or an RFID system. In some embodiments, it may include a high-power Wi-Fi system, a Bluetooth system or the like
Data Source
AI summary
A nonvolatile memory is coupled to a processor in a set top box. On the timing sequence set within the system, set top box data is transferred from the processor to the nonvolatile memory. Set top box system data includes user data and set top box specific data. The current data is maintained in the nonvolatile memory. The system data can be transferred to second memory by a wireless connection even when the set top box is not coupled to a power supply. The system data can then be provided from the second memory to any selected device, computer or location, such as another set top box, a diagnostic tool, a repair facility or other selected location.