Wireless Module Configuration via Cloud Database
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless transmitter modules require large One Time Programmable (OTP) memories for storing regulatory constraints and module-specific configurations, leading to increased costs, reduced flexibility for in-field upgrades, and potential product recall issues.
Innovation Solution
The system configures wireless transmitter modules by storing parameters such as regulatory information and SKU details in a secure cloud-based external database, using a unique module identification to download and update configuration settings in real-time, thereby reducing the need for on-module OTP memory.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large OTP memory is embedded in the module during production, then regulatory constraints and module-specific configurations can be stored securely, but module cost increases and flexibility for in-field upgrades is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the configuration storage into two segments: a small local OTP memory in the module for essential identification data, and a larger external database for comprehensive configuration parameters. This segmentation allows the module to maintain security while enabling flexible updates through the external database, resolving the contradiction between secure storage and upgrade flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary configuration management system that acts as a bridge between the module and the external database. This intermediary handles the secure authentication and configuration download processes, allowing the module to access updated configurations without requiring large local storage, thus maintaining both security and flexibility.
2Ease of operation
If large OTP memory is embedded in the module during production, then all configuration parameters can be stored locally, but the size and cost of the module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the bulk of configuration data from the module's local memory and stores it in an external database. Only essential identification information remains in the small local OTP memory, while detailed configuration parameters are obtained on-demand from the external source. This extraction significantly reduces module size and cost while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimension local storage model to a multi-dimensional architecture combining minimal local storage with cloud-based external storage. This dimensional change allows the system to access vast configuration data without proportionally increasing physical module size, as the external database provides the additional storage dimension.
3Speed
If configuration parameters are stored in on-module memory, then quick access is possible, but updates require physical module replacement or reprogramming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring modules with minimal identification data during manufacturing, and pre-storing comprehensive configuration parameters in an external database. This preparation enables rapid on-demand configuration retrieval without requiring complex update procedures, maintaining fast access while simplifying updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical configuration update process (module replacement or reprogramming) with an electronic/digital process. Configuration updates are now performed by downloading data electronically from an external database, eliminating the need for physical intervention and significantly reducing update complexity while maintaining fast access speeds.
Data Source
AI summary
A component (e.g. a module configuration system) of a device may include an interface and processor circuitry. The processor circuitry may be configured to: determine identification information of a hardware device (e.g. module, microchip) connected to the component via the interface; obtain device information for the connected hardware device based on the determined identification information; and initialize the connected hardware device based on the obtained device information.