US 5,564,108 AGranted

Non-invasive software update apparatus

AssigneeOhmeda Inc.

InventorsScott W. Hunsaker, Stephan Kulik, III, Alan D. Martin, Craig A. Totel

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Abstract

This apparatus makes use of the existing data collection probe connector on the instrumentation as the port through which the software updates are loaded into the programmable memory devices that are used to store the operational software of the instrumentation. Circuitry is provided in the instrumentation to automatically differentiate between software update data being loaded into the instrumentation and the normal monitoring data that is received from the probe. This is accomplished by the use of probe defining circuitry that is able to differentiate between the standard probe used for data collection purposes and the software update probe that is provided to download software into the programmable memory devices.

Claims18

Dependent claims

Apparatus for automatically writing program instructions into a program memory, which is used to store program instructions that regulate operation of a processor, which is located in a processor controlled parameter measuring system, where said parameter measuring system is equipped with a port that receives a data collection probe used to collect sensor data to enable said processor to measure a parameter whose characteristics are monitored by said data collection probe connected to said port, comprising:

means, connected to said port, for automatically determining whether said data collection probe is connected to said port;
means, responsive to said determining means indicating that said data collection probe is connected to said port, for receiving data input to said port as sensor data for use by said processor to measure said parameter whose characteristics are monitored by said data collection probe:
means, responsive to said determining means indicating that said data collection probe is not connected to said port, for receiving data input to said port as program instructions for use by said system to regulate the operation of said processor;
and
means for storing said received program instructions in said program memory.

2 more elements

A method for automatically inputting software changes into a program memory, which is used to store program instructions that regulate operation of a processor, which is located in a processor controlled parameter measuring equipment, wherein said processor controlled equipment includes a port for connection to a data collection probe to collect sensor data to enable said processor to measure a parameter whose characteristics are monitored by said data collection probe connected to said port, comprising the steps of:

interconnecting said port to a source of data;
automatically determining whether said data collection probe is connected to said port;
receiving, in response to said step of determining indicating that said data collection probe is connected to said port, data input to said port as sensor data for use by said processor to measure said parameter whose characteristics are monitored by said data collection probe;
identifying, in response to said step of determining indicating that said data collection probe is not connected to said pod, a source of program instructions being connected to said port;
and
automatically storing said program instructions received at said port in said program memory.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Facts

Application: 08/439,718Filed 12 May 1995 · continuation
Priority: 31 Aug 1993
Granted: 8 Oct 1996
Term ends: Not estimatedThe source records don’t support an estimate.

Classification6 codes

A61B 5/14551
Using optical sensors, e.g. spectral photometrical oximeters: for measuring blood gases
G06F 8/65
Software deployment: updates
G06F 9/24
Microcontrol or microprogram arrangements: loading of the microprogram
A61B 2562/08
Details of sensors; Constructional details of sensor housings or probes; Accessories for sensors: sensors provided with means for identification,…