Watch Non-Volatile Memory Access via Voltage Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for programming non-volatile memory in watches face challenges due to the miniaturization of components, particularly with transistor technology, where higher control voltages can degrade reliability, and existing solutions do not ensure secure and reliable access independent of transistor technology used.
Innovation Solution
A procedure that uses predefined instructions transmitted via modulation of the current supply voltage to access non-volatile memory through power supply terminals, ensuring the voltage remains below the maximum defined for the transistor technology, thereby maintaining reliability and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If higher control voltages are applied to access non-volatile memory, then memory access is authorized, but transistor reliability degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter dynamically during memory access. A voltage peak is applied temporarily and only when needed to authorize memory access, rather than maintaining high voltage continuously. This allows the system to achieve reliable memory access while preserving transistor reliability during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The high voltage is applied periodically and transiently only when memory access is required, rather than continuously. The voltage returns to normal levels after the access sequence, creating a periodic action that enables memory authorization without permanently degrading transistor reliability.
2Ease of operation
If voltage peak is applied to access non-volatile memory, then programming is enabled, but control circuit may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions to prepare for safe voltage peak application. The control circuit is designed with protection mechanisms that activate before damage can occur, and the voltage peak is applied only after proper authorization sequences are completed, ensuring the control circuit is ready to handle the transient high voltage without damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit incorporates protection mechanisms that cushion against the potential damage from voltage peaks. These protective measures are built in advance to prevent excessive voltage from damaging the control circuit during the programming operation.
3Ease of operation
If traditional programming method is used, then memory can be accessed, but access is not secure against parasitic signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms during the memory access sequence. The control circuit monitors the voltage levels and access conditions, providing feedback to ensure that only authorized access attempts are executed. This feedback loop prevents parasitic signals from triggering unauthorized memory access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary authorization sequences before allowing memory access. These preliminary actions verify that the access request is legitimate and authorized, creating a security barrier that prevents parasitic signals from directly accessing the memory.
4Volume of moving object
If miniaturization of components is pursued, then watch size is reduced, but control voltage tolerance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adapts the control voltage parameters to match the miniaturized transistor characteristics. By changing the voltage levels to be compatible with modern miniaturized transistors, the system achieves both small watch size and reliable operation without excessive voltage tolerance requirements.
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 approach ensures reliable and secure access to non-volatile memory without degrading the control circuit, allowing for proper programming of watch values, independent of the transistor technology used, and provides immunity against parasitic signals.
Implementation Method 1
an opening key being a predefined instruction transmitted by modulation of the current supply voltage
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3a~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a procedure for accessing a non-volatile memory for a watch, the watch including two supply terminals that can be accessed from the outside and that define a potential difference corresponding to a current supply voltage, and a non-volatile memory control circuit produced using technology supporting a predetermined maximum supply voltage, wherein the procedure comprises transmitting to the non-volatile memory control circuit, through a watch supply terminal: (a) an opening key for granting access to the non-volatile memory; (b) a command for accessing the non-volatile memory; the procedure being characterised in that the opening key is a predetermined command transmitted by modulating the current supply voltage so that the latter does not exceed the predetermined maximal supply voltage.