Systems and Architecture
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System Architecture and Partitioning

All systems start with an idea.  That idea may be well formed into its components, or conceptual with the basics on what the customer may want the system to do.  The job of systems architecture is to turn those constraints into a functional design.
 

System partitioning is done at a very high level to ensure that the system constraints can be met with a minimum of development time and cost. To execute this task the top level system specification is considered with attention to:

• Previously Developed Firmware

• Existing Product Family

• Processor Architecture Selection

• End Unit Pricing

• Market Features & Competition

The system is partitioned into functional blocks that include choice of integrated circuit components, hardware / software trade offs, power requirements, and multi-board hardware architecture. A formal document to detail the high level system partitions is written and submitted for approvals.
 

VisionMOS has years of experience in turning portable product concepts into actual products.  These may be for prototype, small scale products, or high volume production.  We concurrently work with our customers, and bring new solutions to make a project come together.

 

Product Requirements and Statement of Work

A requirements document is written to detail the functionality of the system. This specification document is used later in the process during validation to ensure that the product meets all initial design and market goals. The requirements document typically includes:

• All device input and output definitions

• User interface definitions, buttons, GUI, and remote controls

• Communication ports and standards

• Initial mechanical concepts for boards, interfaces and housing

• Power and battery management requirements

• Top level operational details

• User functions and menus

• Multimedia and CODEC processing

• Top level hardware block diagram

The device specification document is completed early in the process and submitted for approvals. The goal of this document is to provide the initial inputs into the detailed design process. Combined with the partitioning document, the complete set will serve as the kick off of hardware, software and industrial design phases.
 

The initial documentation is often the right way to get the project moving forward, and the basis for reporting, planning and deliveries.  VisionMOS has the ability to be part of a customer team, and we can achieve this through world-class documentation.

 

Product Differentiation

The VisionMOS team consists of a wide variety of skill sets with years of experience in development of portable electronic systems. During our many developments, it has been common to provide new directions and intellectual property to the designs to differentiate them within their market space. As desired, the VisionMOS team can consult on any given product to evaluate the possible means of differentiation. This differentiation could include:

• New form factors, ergonomics, physical size or shapes of the end product

• Added user controls, modes of operation, or remote control features

• Increased battery life

• Increased device performance, throughput or user observable quality differences

• Cost reductions, integration of key features, manufacturing streamline

Differentiation can take place at a number of levels within the product, but must be done early in the process to ensure maximum benefit. Recommendations to a new product are done via formal documentation, and may be incorporated in the system requirements specification if approved.