Variable Memory Update Mechanism for Medical Ventilation Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical apparatuses often require hardware replacement for software updates and new functionalities, leading to costly and complex processes that render them obsolete quickly, necessitating frequent purchases of new equipment.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a device with a variable memory and input device connected to control units that evaluate codes, allowing for software and hardware updates without hardware replacement, enabling the temporary or permanent activation of new functions based on valid codes, and disabling them without proper authorization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software is stored in permanent memory with unalterable program instructions, then software reliability is improved, but software update capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the memory system into multiple segments: a permanent memory portion for storing critical, unalterable program instructions that ensure system stability, and a variable memory portion for storing updateable software components. This segmentation allows the system to maintain reliability from the permanent portion while gaining update capability through the variable portion, directly resolving the contradiction between software reliability and update capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If memory components are replaced for software updates, then software functionality is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the permanent memory and variable memory into a single integrated memory component that can be updated as a unified entity. The control unit manages both memory types through a single interface, and the testing means verify updates across the entire memory system. This merging eliminates the need for separate memory replacement procedures, reducing update complexity while maintaining enhanced software functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit serves as an intermediary between the input device, testing means, and memory components during the update process. It coordinates the reception of update codes, manages the writing process to variable memory, and works with testing means to verify updates. This intermediary role simplifies the overall update procedure by providing a centralized control mechanism, reducing the complexity that would otherwise arise from coordinating multiple separate components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hardware is replaced to enable upgraded functionality, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of hardware replacement with an electronic/software-based update mechanism. Instead of physically removing and installing new memory components, the system uses an input device to receive update codes, a control unit to manage the update process, and testing means to verify functionality. This substitution of mechanical replacement with electronic updating dramatically reduces apparatus downtime while maintaining the ability to upgrade functionality.
4Reliability
If code verification is implemented for function release, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service code verification where the testing means automatically compares received codes against stored reference values without requiring manual intervention. The control unit automatically activates or deactivates functions based on verification results, and the system self-manages the entire code validation process. This automation maintains high security through rigorous code verification while preserving ease of operation by eliminating manual verification steps.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a method and the device for updating a ventilation device that has a memory for an operating program. The memory is at least partially designed as a variable memory and is connected with an input device for a current operating program. The memory and the input device are connected to control devices, which have testing means for evaluating at least one code. At least one function of the apparatus is released only when the code agrees with a reference value.