Method for upgrading firmware of electronic equipment without unpacking the packaging

Abstract

The present application relates to a method for upgrading the firmware of an electronic device without unpacking the package. The electronic device is sealed in a package and is in a powered-off state. The electronic device includes an RFID chip. The method includes: the electronic device receives a power-on instruction sent by an RFID reader through the RFID chip; the electronic device controls the power-on of the electronic device based on the power-on instruction; the electronic device receives the latest firmware file and performs a firmware upgrade. The method can realize the power-on and firmware upgrade of the electronic device without unpacking the package.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of energy storage power supply, and in particular to a method for upgrading the firmware of an electronic device without unpacking the package. Background Art

[0002] As the global demand for sustainable energy grows, and people's pursuit of portability and flexibility continues to increase, the demand for energy storage equipment has shown a significant growth trend. On the one hand, such equipment can effectively store electricity generated by renewable energy, providing reliable power support for outdoor activities, emergencies, and various scenarios in daily life that require portable power; on the other hand, with the development of smart home technology and the Internet of Things, more and more smart devices require a stable power supply, further promoting the expansion of the energy storage equipment market. Advances in energy storage technology not only help reduce carbon emissions, but also promote the modernization of energy systems, allowing people to manage and use power resources more flexibly.

[0003] However, there is a period of time between the production, transportation, warehousing, retail and the end-users of these energy storage products. During this period, there may be software updates to fix defects, improve performance or add functions, but because the products may be packaged and turned off during transportation and warehousing, it is impossible to connect to the Internet for software updates without unpacking. Summary of the invention

[0004] Based on this, it is necessary to provide a method for upgrading the firmware of an electronic device without unpacking the packaging in order to solve the above technical problems.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides a method for upgrading the firmware of an electronic device without unpacking the package, wherein the electronic device is sealed in a package and is in a powered-off state, and the electronic device includes an RFID chip, and the method includes:

[0006] The electronic device receives a power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader / writer through the RFID chip;

[0007] The electronic device controls the power-on of the electronic device based on the power-on instruction;

[0008] The electronic device receives the latest firmware file and performs firmware upgrade.

[0009] In the above-mentioned method for upgrading the firmware of an electronic device without unpacking the package, the electronic device is sealed in the package and is in a shutdown state. The electronic device includes an RFID chip. The electronic device can receive the power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader through the RFID chip, and control the electronic device to start up based on the power-on instruction; the electronic device can also receive the latest firmware file and perform firmware upgrade after starting up. According to this scheme, in this method, the power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader outside the package of the electronic device can be received by the RFID chip to control the power-on of the electronic device, so that the electronic device can receive the latest firmware upgrade file after starting up and perform firmware upgrade. In this way, for electronic devices without unpacking the package, it is possible to start up and perform firmware upgrade (software update). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application or the related technologies, the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the related technical descriptions are briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying creative work.

[0011] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system for starting up electronic equipment without unpacking the package Figure 1 ;

[0012] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a system for starting up electronic equipment without unpacking the package Figure 2 ;

[0013] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a system for starting up electronic equipment without unpacking the package Figure 3 ;

[0014] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a switch type RFID chip;

[0015] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a system for starting up electronic equipment without unpacking the package Figure 4 ;

[0016] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a key-operated power-on circuit 60 in an electronic device;

[0017] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of an auxiliary power activation circuit in the system;

[0018] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a system for starting up electronic equipment without unpacking the package Figure 5 ;

[0019] Fig. 9A schematic diagram of a system for starting up electronic equipment without unpacking the package Figure 6 ;

[0020] Fig.10 A schematic diagram of another auxiliary power activation circuit in the system;

[0021] Fig.11 A schematic diagram of a method for upgrading the firmware of an electronic device without unpacking the package Figure 1 ;

[0022] Fig.12 A schematic diagram of a method for upgrading the firmware of an electronic device without unpacking the package Figure 2 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] In order to make the purpose, technical solution and advantages of the present application more clearly understood, the present application is further described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present application and are not used to limit the present application.

[0024] Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a contactless automatic identification technology. In an RFID system, it is generally composed of a reader / writer, an antenna, and an electronic tag. The reader / writer converts the current signal into an electromagnetic wave signal through the antenna and communicates with the electronic tag wirelessly, including reading or rewriting the information in the electronic tag. Compared with traditional barcodes, RFID technology has the advantages of long reading distance, fast speed, non-visual recognition, and multi-tag reading.

[0025] Today, with the growing global demand for sustainable energy and people's pursuit of portability and flexibility, the demand for energy storage devices has shown a significant growth trend. These devices can not only effectively store electricity generated by renewable energy, provide reliable power support for outdoor activities, emergencies and daily life scenarios that require portable power, but also provide a stable power supply for more and more smart devices with the development of smart home technology and the Internet of Things, further promoting the expansion of the energy storage equipment market. Advances in energy storage technology not only help reduce carbon emissions, but also promote the modernization of energy systems, allowing people to manage and use power resources more flexibly.

[0026] These energy storage products will have a period of time from production to transportation, warehousing, retail and then to the hands of users. During this period, there may be software updates to fix defects, improve performance or add functions. However, the products are turned off during transportation and warehousing, and cannot be connected to the Internet for software updates. The existing solution is usually to open the package in the warehouse, turn on the button, connect Wi-Fi (wireless LAN) or Bluetooth to update the system, and then repackage. Although this method can achieve software updates, it consumes a lot of labor costs such as unpacking, operation, and sealing. In addition, there are some problems and limitations in the existing solutions: first, there are many operating steps, and the manpower and material costs are high; second, it will affect the packaging integrity of the product, and it needs to be repackaged. The disassembly and assembly process also increases the risk of product damage; third, software updates are time-consuming and labor-intensive, and cannot meet the needs of modern logistics for fast and efficient operations. Therefore, how to realize the operation of portable energy storage equipment and software updates without opening the package has become an urgent problem to be solved.

[0027] In order to power on an electronic device that is sealed in a package and in a shutdown state, an embodiment of the present application provides an electronic device power-on system that does not require unpacking of the package.

[0028] It should be noted that in the embodiments of the present application, the electronic device mentioned above may not only refer to an energy storage device, but may also refer to other devices. For example, the electronic device mentioned above may include but is not limited to:

[0029] 1. Communication and computing devices: smartphones, tablets, smart watches, laptops, wireless headphones;

[0030] 2. Audio equipment: Bluetooth headsets, portable speakers, true wireless earbuds;

[0031] 3. Entertainment equipment: portable game consoles, sports cameras, portable projectors;

[0032] 4. Health and fitness devices: health and fitness trackers, smart glasses;

[0033] 5. Auxiliary and navigation equipment: GPS navigation equipment, smart home controller;

[0034] 6. Lighting equipment: portable lighting equipment;

[0035] 7. Input devices: wireless keyboard, wireless mouse;

[0036] 8. Charging and power management equipment: portable power supply / mobile power supply, energy storage power supply;

[0037] 9. Smart home devices: smart remote control;

[0038] 10. Professional and special-purpose equipment: drones, e-book readers, digital cameras.

[0039] In the embodiments of the present application, for example, Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system for starting up electronic equipment without unpacking the package Figure 1 , the system includes: an RFID reader / writer 10, and an electronic device 20 sealed in a package and in a powered-off state, the electronic device including an RFID chip 21;

[0040] The RFID chip 21 is used to receive the RF electromagnetic wave signal sent by the RFID reader 10, send the RFID identification code to the RFID reader 10, and receive the power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader 10 based on the RFID identification code;

[0041] Among them, the power-on instruction is used to control the power-on of the electronic device.

[0042] The above-mentioned electronic device may include one of an energy storage power supply, a mobile terminal, a smart terminal, and a drone.

[0043] Figure 1 In the embodiment, the RFID reader 10 first sends an RF electromagnetic wave signal to the RFID chip 21. After the RFID chip 21 receives the RF electromagnetic wave signal sent by the RFID reader 10, the RFID chip 21 sends an RFID identification code to the RFID reader 10. The RFID identification code is used to uniquely identify the electronic device 20. After the RFID reader 10 receives the RFID identification code, it can determine whether the electronic device represented by the RFID identification code is a device to be turned on. After determining that the electronic device is a device to be turned on, it can send a power-on instruction to the RFID chip 21, so that after the RFID chip 21 receives the power-on instruction, the electronic device is controlled to turn on.

[0044] Among them, when the RFID reader sends an RF electromagnetic wave signal to the RFID chip in one or more electronic devices, the RFID chip will send back the RFID identification code to the RFID reader. This identification code is like the "identity card" of the electronic device. It is unique and can allow the RFID reader to accurately identify a specific electronic device. Through this identification code, the RFID reader can determine whether the electronic device is a device to be turned on. If it is determined to be a device to be turned on, the RFID reader will send a power-on instruction to the RFID chip of the electronic device, thereby controlling the electronic device to turn on.

[0045] The above-mentioned electronic device startup system without unpacking packaging includes an RFID reader / writer, and an electronic device sealed in a package and in a shutdown state, and the electronic device includes an RFID chip that can receive RF electromagnetic wave signals sent by the RFID reader / writer. After receiving the RF electromagnetic wave signals sent by the RFID reader / writer, the RFID chip can also send an RFID identification code to the RFID reader / writer, and receive a startup instruction sent by the RFID reader / writer based on the RFID identification code, and the startup instruction is used to control the startup of the electronic device. In this way, the startup of the electronic device sealed in the package and in a shutdown state can be controlled by the RFID reader / writer outside the electronic device packaging, and the startup of the electronic device can be achieved without unpacking the packaging.

[0046] In an embodiment of the present application, in order to turn on the electronic device, an RFID activation circuit is added inside the electronic device. The RFID activation circuit includes the above-mentioned RFID chip and an activation control circuit. The standby power consumption of the RFID activation circuit when not working is zero, and the energy of the battery in the electronic device will not be consumed. When the electronic device needs to be turned on, the RFID reader can supply energy to the RFID chip in a certain distance range without contact, and then the activation control circuit turns on the electronic device. After the electronic device is turned on, a series of operations can be performed, such as: status monitoring, remote control, fault diagnosis, firmware upgrade, etc. The RFID activation circuit uses an RFID chip, so even if the electronic device is wrapped in non-metallic, non-transparent materials such as paper, wood and plastic, it can also perform penetrating communication, thereby triggering the device in the package to turn on.

[0047] Using RFID activation circuit to trigger the electronic device to turn on can be achieved without opening the package. At the same time, since RFID has mature standard security protocols (such as ISO / IEC18000-6C protocol), it can effectively prevent false triggering.

[0048] Exemplary, combined Figure 1 ,like Figure 2 The figure shows a schematic diagram of a system for starting up electronic equipment without removing the packaging. Figure 2 ,like Figure 2 As shown, the electronic device includes: an RFID activation circuit 20 a , and the RFID activation circuit 20 a includes an activation control module 22 and an RFID chip 21 .

[0049] In the present application, for example, Figure 1 ,like Figure 3 The figure shows a schematic diagram of a system for starting up electronic equipment without removing the packaging. Figure 3The electronic device 20 further includes: a battery 23, an auxiliary power supply 24 and an activation control module 22, and the activation control module 22 is connected to the battery 23, the auxiliary power supply 24 and the RFID chip 21.

[0050] The RFID chip 21 is used to output an electrical signal when a power-on command is received; the activation control module 22 is used to connect the battery 23 and the auxiliary power supply 24 based on the electrical signal output by the RFID chip 21, and then activate the auxiliary power supply 24 to control the power-on of the electronic device 20.

[0051] The RFID chip 21 may include a switch type RFID chip or a power output type RFID chip.

[0052] The switch-type RFID chip mentioned above is a radio frequency identification chip with specific functions. This chip mainly plays a role similar to a switch. When interacting with the corresponding RFID reader, it can control the on and off of a certain circuit according to the specific signal received. For example, in some intelligent control systems, the switch-type RFID chip can realize the operation of turning on or off the power of the device by receiving the radio frequency signal. It has the characteristics of fast and accurate response, and can complete the switching action without direct physical contact.

[0053] For example, Figure 4 Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a switch type RFID chip. Figure 4 As shown, the switch type RFID chip includes an N-channel field effect transistor (N-Channel MOSFET) 41, which includes an open drain pin (OpenDrain) also called an open drain circuit, and the open drain pin can output two states: high impedance state and low level state.

[0054] Figure 4 When the input is a high-level signal, the output (i.e., the open-drain pin output) can be a low-level signal. When the input is a low-level signal, the output (i.e., the open-drain pin output) is in a high-impedance state and its level is uncertain. Figure 4 R42 and R43 are both resistors. When the switch-type RFID chip does not receive an activation signal or is in an inactive state, the drain of the N-channel MOSFET is in a high-resistance state, which is equivalent to an open circuit state, and no current flows; when the switch-type RFID chip receives a specific activation signal, the N-channel MOSFET is turned on, a low-resistance path is formed between the drain and the source, and the output end is pulled down to a low level.

[0055] In some embodiments, Figure 2As shown, the RFID activation circuit 20a includes the RFID chip 21 and the activation control module 22. According to the different types of the RFID chip 21, the circuits of the RFID activation circuit 20a are different, which are described below respectively.

[0056] In some embodiments, exemplary, combined Figure 2 and Figure 3 ,like Figure 5 The figure shows a schematic diagram of a system for starting up electronic equipment without removing the packaging. Figure 3 . Figure 5 The RFID chip 21 in the RFID activation circuit 20a may be a switch-type RFID chip 21a, the activation control module 22 may be a first activation control module 22a, the switch-type RFID chip 21a includes an open-drain pin OD, and the first activation control module 22a is connected to the open-drain pin OD.

[0057] The switch-type RFID chip 21 a is used to control the open-drain pin OD to output a low-level signal when receiving a power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader / writer 10 .

[0058] The first activation control module 22 a is used to connect the battery 23 and the auxiliary power supply 24 based on the low level signal output by the open-drain pin OD, thereby activating the auxiliary power supply 24 to control the electronic device 20 to start up.

[0059] In some embodiments, the battery 23 and the auxiliary power supply 24 may be components in a key-operated power-on circuit in an electronic device and may be reused in the embodiments of the present application.

[0060] For example, Figure 6 FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a key-operated power-on circuit 60 in an electronic device. Figure 6 As shown, the key-activated power-on circuit 60 includes: a battery 23 (Battery+), a key switch S1 and an auxiliary power source 24 .

[0061] The battery 23 can be formed by connecting multiple batteries in series, with a voltage of several tens of volts, which can be controlled to a lower voltage such as 5V / 3.3V by the single-chip microcomputer. Therefore, there is usually an auxiliary power supply 24 (step-down DCDC converter) to step down the battery voltage for use by the single-chip microcomputer.

[0062] The working principle of the key-operated power-on circuit 60 in the above-mentioned electronic device includes: when the electronic device needs to be powered on, the key switch S1 is manually pressed, and the auxiliary power supply 24 receives the enable signal after the resistor voltage is divided, starts to work, and converts the 5V / 3.3V voltage. After that, the single-chip microcomputer obtains the power to operate and controls the enable signal (Enable) of the auxiliary power supply 24. At this time, the key switch S1 is released, and the auxiliary power supply 24 can still work. When the electronic device is turned off, the single-chip microcomputer cancels the enable signal (Enable), the auxiliary power supply 24 stops working, and the entire system is powered off to save power consumption.

[0063] in, Figure 6 R61, R62 and R63 are resistors, C64 is a capacitor and D65 is a diode.

[0064] In some embodiments, in combination Figure 4 , 5 and 6, such as Figure 7 The figure shows a schematic diagram of an auxiliary power activation circuit in the system. The auxiliary power activation circuit includes: a switch type RFID chip 21a, a first activation control module 22a, a power supply 23 and an auxiliary power supply 24. The first activation control module 22a includes:

[0065] The energy storage unit 221 is connected to the auxiliary power supply 24 and is used to store the power when the electronic device 20 was last powered on;

[0066] The control unit 222 is connected to the energy storage unit 221 and is used to control the switch unit 223 to be turned on based on the low level signal output by the open-drain pin OD and the amount of electricity stored in the energy storage unit 221;

[0067] The switch unit 223 has a first end connected to the control unit 222 , a second end connected to the battery 23 , and a third end connected to the auxiliary power supply 24 , and is used to further conduct electricity between the battery 23 and the auxiliary power supply 24 when being turned on.

[0068] In some embodiments, the auxiliary power activation circuit further includes a key switch S1, a first end of the key switch S1 is connected to the battery 23, a second end is connected to the auxiliary power supply 24, and the key switch S1 is in a disconnected state to put the electronic device 20 in a shutdown state; the key switch S1 is also connected in parallel with the switch unit 223.

[0069] In some embodiments, Figure 7As shown in the figure, the above-mentioned switching unit may include: a PMOS; wherein, the gate (G) of the PMOS is connected to the output terminal of the control unit 222, the source (S) of the PMOS is connected to the battery 23, and the drain (D) of the PMOS is connected to the auxiliary power supply 24. The control unit 222 is configured to output a low-level signal at the output terminal to control the conduction of the switching unit based on the first low-level signal output by the open-drain pin OD and the power stored in the energy storage unit.

[0070] The above-mentioned Figure 7 The main function of the PMOS in the figure is to withstand the battery voltage with its source (S) and drain (D) terminals, and the gate (G) is used to control the turn-on. When the gate-source voltage (Vgs) is less than 0 and Vgs < Vth (threshold voltage), the S pole and the D pole are conducting; otherwise, the PMOS is cut off.

[0071] In some embodiments, as Figure 7 shown in the figure, a resistor Rgs is provided between the gate of the PMOS and the source of the PMOS. The function of the above-mentioned resistor Rgs is to make Vgs = 0 of the PMOS when the PMOS is not required to conduct, and the gate voltage (Vg) of the PMOS is equal to the battery voltage (Vbattery), without floating, ensuring that it does not conduct.

[0072] In some embodiments, Figure 7 The energy storage unit shown in the figure may include a farad capacitor C1. One end of the farad capacitor C1 is connected to the control unit 222 and the auxiliary power supply 24, and the other end of the farad capacitor C1 is grounded (GND).

[0073] In some embodiments, Figure 7 The energy storage unit shown in the figure may include a farad capacitor C1 and a diode D1.

[0074] The above-mentioned Figure 7 In the figure, the function of the farad capacitor C1 is to store electrical energy for the next activation and startup. The function of the diode D1 is to charge the farad capacitor C1 when the auxiliary power supply 24 is working, and to reverse cut off the current when the auxiliary power supply 24 is not working, preventing other circuits in the system from consuming the electrical energy of the farad capacitor C1.

[0075] Wherein, one end of the farad capacitor C1 is connected to the control unit 222 and the cathode of the diode D1, the other end of the farad capacitor C1 is grounded, and the anode of the diode D1 is connected to the auxiliary power supply 24.

[0076] In some embodiments, Figure 7 As shown, the control unit 222 includes: a PNP-type switching triode and an NPN-type switching triode.

[0077] Among them, the base (b) of the PNP type switching transistor is connected to the open-drain pin OD, the emitter (e) of the PNP type switching transistor is connected to the energy storage unit, the collector (c) of the PNP type switching transistor is connected to the base (b) of the NPN type switching transistor; the collector (c) of the NPN type switching transistor is connected to the switching unit, and the emitter (e) of the NPN type switching transistor is grounded.

[0078] Figure 7 In the PNP type switching transistor, if the voltage at the e end is high and the voltage at the b end is also high, then e and c are disconnected; if the voltage at the b end is low, then e and c are connected, thus realizing the function of a switch. In the NPN type switching transistor, if the voltage at the c end is high and the voltage at the b end is low, then c and e are disconnected; if the voltage at the b end is high, then c and e are connected, thus realizing the function of a switch.

[0079] In some embodiments, Figure 7 As shown, a resistor Rb2 is provided between the base of the PNP type switching transistor and the open drain pin. The resistor Rb2 is used to limit the current of the base of the PNP type switching transistor.

[0080] In some embodiments, Figure 7 As shown, a resistor Rb is provided between the collector of the PNP type switching transistor and the base of the NPN type switching transistor. The function of the above Rb is to limit the base current of the NPN type switching transistor.

[0081] In some embodiments, Figure 7 As shown, a resistor Rbe2 is provided between the base of the PNP switch transistor and the emitter of the PNP switch transistor. The function of the above Rbe2 is that when the PNP switch transistor is not required to be turned on, the base of the PNP switch transistor has a stable voltage and does not float, thereby ensuring that it is not turned on.

[0082] In some embodiments, Figure 7 As shown, a resistor Rbe is provided between the base of the NPN switch transistor and the emitter of the NPN switch transistor. The function of the resistor Rbe is to ensure that the base of the NPN switch transistor has a stable voltage and does not float when the NPN switch transistor is not required to be turned on.

[0083] Above Figure 7 In the embodiment, when the RFID reader / writer 10 does not control the switch type RFID chip 21a, the open drain pin OD of the switch type RFID chip 21a is in a high impedance state, the voltages of the b pole and the e pole of the PNP type switch transistor are close to the voltage of the farad capacitor C1, the PNP type switch transistor is not conducting, the b pole of the NPN type switch transistor is 0V, the NPN type switch transistor is also not conducting, and the gate-source voltage Vgs of the PMOS is 0V and is not conducting.

[0084] Above Figure 7 In the process, when the FID reader 10 controls the switch type RFID chip 21a to activate and start up, the open drain pin OD of the switch type RFID chip 21a outputs a low level signal, the voltage of the b pole of the PNP type switch transistor is reduced, so that the PNP type switch transistor is turned on, and the capacitor b pole of the NPN type switch transistor is a high level signal, the NPN type switch transistor is also turned on, and the gate voltage Vg of the PMOS is pulled to a low level signal, Vgs<0, the PMOS is turned on, and the auxiliary power supply 24 is activated.

[0085] Since a switchable RFID chip is provided in the auxiliary power activation circuit, and the chip can receive an external power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader, and output a low-level signal to the RFID activation circuit through the open-drain pin of the switchable RFID chip based on the power-on instruction, so that the RFID activation circuit can conduct the battery and the auxiliary power supply based on the low-level signal, and then activate the auxiliary power supply. Then, the auxiliary power supply can be activated contactlessly based on the auxiliary power activation circuit. Therefore, when the electronic device where the auxiliary power activation circuit is located does not need to be unpacked, the auxiliary power supply therein can also be activated, so as to facilitate the startup of the electronic device during transportation and warehousing, as well as software updates and other operations.

[0086] In some embodiments, in combination Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 ,like Figure 8 The figure shows a schematic diagram of a system for starting up electronic equipment without removing the packaging. Figure 5 In this system: the RFID chip 21 can be a switch-type RFID chip 21a, the switch-type RFID chip 21a includes an open-drain pin OD, the open-drain pin OD is connected between the battery 23 and the key switch S1, and the ground terminal (GND) of the switch-type RFID chip 21a is connected between the key switch S1 and the auxiliary power supply 24.

[0087] In the embodiment of the present application, when the battery voltage is less than the withstand voltage value of the open drain pin OD, the switch-type RFID chip can be directly connected in parallel to the key-on circuit to achieve the above Figure 8 When the battery voltage is greater than or equal to the withstand voltage of the open drain pin OD, an RFID activation circuit including a switch-type RFID chip and an activation control module can be set, and then connected to the key-activated circuit to achieve, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 as shown in .

[0088] For example, Figure 4 The open drain pin voltage of the switch type RFID chip shown above is usually around 5V. If the battery voltage is ≤5V, it is suitable for Figure 8If the battery voltage is 30V, the open drain pin of the switch type RFID chip cannot withstand the voltage of tens of volts at the key switch S1 position in the original key start circuit 60 of the electronic device, then it is suitable for Figure 7 to avoid damaging the device.

[0089] for Figures 1 to 3 The RFID chip in the RFID reader may be a power output type RFID chip, which is a special radio frequency identification chip that can output power. It usually integrates a power conversion module, which can convert the received radio frequency signal into a stable power output. This chip has important application value in some special scenarios. For example, in some environments where traditional power cannot be provided, or for some small low-power devices, the power output type RFID chip can be used as a convenient power supply method. It can continuously obtain energy through interaction with the reader and writer and output it to the device connected to it, providing guarantee for the normal operation of the device.

[0090] In some embodiments, exemplary, combined Figure 2 and Figure 3 ,like Fig. 9 The figure shows a schematic diagram of a system for starting up electronic equipment without removing the packaging. Figure 4 . The above Figure 2 The RFID chip 21 in the embodiment can be specifically Fig. 9 The power output type RFID chip 21b, the activation control module 22 in the RFID activation circuit 20a can be specifically Fig. 9 The output pin Vout of the power output type RFID chip 21b is connected to the second activation control module 22b, and the second activation control module 22b is connected to the battery 23 and the auxiliary power supply 24.

[0091] The power output type RFID chip 21b is used to convert the RF electric field energy into a high level signal and output it through the output pin Vout when receiving a power-on command sent by the RFID reader / writer 10.

[0092] The second activation control module 22 b is used to conduct the battery 23 and the auxiliary power supply 24 based on a high level signal, thereby activating the auxiliary power supply 24 .

[0093] In some embodiments, the battery 23 and the auxiliary power supply 24 may be components in a key-operated power-on circuit 60 in an electronic device, and may be reused in the embodiments of the present application.

[0094] In some embodiments, exemplary, combined Figure 3 and Fig. 9 ,like Fig.10FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of another auxiliary power activation circuit in the system. The auxiliary power activation circuit includes: a power output type RFID chip 21 b, a second activation control module 22 b, a battery 23 and an auxiliary power supply 24 .

[0095] Among them, the power output type RFID chip 21b is used to convert the RF electric field energy into a high-level signal and output it through the output pin Vout when receiving the power-on command sent by the RFID reader 10; the second activation control module 22b is used to connect the battery 23 and the auxiliary power supply 24 based on the high-level signal, and then activate the auxiliary power supply 24 to control the power-on of the electronic device 20.

[0096] In some embodiments, Fig.10 As shown, the second activation control module 22b includes: a signal conversion unit 224, connected to the output pin of the power output type RFID chip, used to convert a high-level signal into a low-level signal, and output it to the switch unit 225; the first end of the switch unit 225 is connected to the signal conversion unit, the second end is connected to the battery 23, and the third end is connected to the auxiliary power supply 24, which is used to be turned on under the control of the low-level signal, thereby turning on the battery 23 and the auxiliary power supply 24.

[0097] In some embodiments, Fig.10 As shown, the auxiliary power activation circuit also includes a key switch S1, a first end of the key switch S1 is connected to the battery 23, and a second end is connected to the auxiliary power supply 24. The key switch S1 is in the disconnected state to put the electronic device 20 in the shutdown state; the key switch S1 is also connected in parallel with the switch unit 225.

[0098] In some embodiments, Fig.10 As shown, the signal conversion unit 224 includes: an NPN type switch transistor; the base of the NPN type switch transistor is connected to the output pin, the collector of the NPN type switch transistor is connected to the switch unit, and the emitter of the NPN type switch transistor is grounded. For the NPN type transistor, when the voltage at the c end is high and the voltage at the b end is low, then c and e are disconnected; when the voltage at the b end is high, c and e are connected to realize the function of the switch.

[0099] In some embodiments, Fig.10 As shown, a resistor Rbe1 is also provided between the base of the NPN switching transistor and the emitter of the NPN switching transistor. The function of Rbe1 is to ensure that when the NPN switching transistor is not required to be turned on, the transistor base has a stable voltage and does not float, thereby ensuring that it is not turned on.

[0100] In some embodiments, Fig.10 As shown, a resistor Rb1 is further provided between the base of the NPN type switching transistor and the output pin Vout.

[0101] In some embodiments, Fig.10 As shown, the circuit also includes: a voltage stabilizing capacitor C2, one end of which is connected to the output pin Vout and the input end of the second activation control module 22b, and the other end of the voltage stabilizing capacitor C2 is grounded. The voltage stabilizing capacitor C2 can stabilize the output voltage of Vout of the power output type RFID chip 21b, and does not need to store a large amount of electricity for a long time like the farad capacitor C1.

[0102] In some embodiments, Fig.10 As shown, the switch unit 225 includes: a PMOS; a gate of the PMOS is connected to the output end of the signal conversion unit, a source of the PMOS is connected to the battery 23, and a drain of the PMOS is connected to the auxiliary power supply 24.

[0103] In some embodiments, a resistor Rgs1 is provided between the gate of the PMOS and the source of the PMOS. The function of Rgs1 is to make Vgs=0, Vg=Vbattery, and not float when the PMOS is not required to be turned on, so as to ensure that it is not turned on.

[0104] It should be noted that in Figure 7 The switch unit 223 and Fig.10 The switch unit 225 in FIG. 1 represents a switch unit in different circuits, which can be implemented by PMOS.

[0105] Fig.10 In the example, when the RFID reader 10 does not control the power output type RFID chip 21b, the output pin Vout of the power output type RFID chip 21b has no voltage, the b pole of the NPN type switch transistor is 0V, the NPN type switch transistor is not turned on, and the gate source voltage Vgs of the PMOS is 0V and is not turned on. When the RFID reader 10 controls the RFID chip to activate and start, the RFID chip Vout pin outputs voltage and current, the b pole of the NPN tube is high level, the NPN tube is turned on, the gate voltage Vg of the PMOS is pulled to a low level, Vgs<0, the PMOS is turned on, and the auxiliary power supply 24 is activated.

[0106] Above Fig.10 In the circuit, the power type RFID chip 21b collects electric field energy, and then outputs power from the output pin Vout to control the NPN type switch transistor, and then controls the PMOS to activate the auxiliary power supply 24. In the circuit implementation, there are fewer circuit components, low cost, no backup power is required, and it can still work after long-term storage, and the solution has high reliability.

[0107] Since a power output type RFID chip is provided in the auxiliary power activation circuit, and the chip can receive an external power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader, and based on the power-on instruction, convert the RF electric field energy into a high-level signal, and output it to the activation control module through the output pin, further, the activation control module can connect the battery and the auxiliary power supply based on the high-level signal, thereby activating the auxiliary power supply. Based on the auxiliary power activation circuit, the auxiliary power supply can be activated contactlessly. Therefore, in the case where the electronic device where the auxiliary power activation circuit is located does not need to be unpacked, the auxiliary power supply therein can also be activated, so as to facilitate the startup of the electronic device during transportation and storage, as well as software updates and other operations.

[0108] In order to implement software update (i.e., firmware upgrade) of an electronic device that is sealed in a package and in a powered-off state, an embodiment of the present application provides a firmware upgrade method for an electronic device without unpacking the package.

[0109] For example, Fig.11 FIG. 1 is a flowchart of a method for upgrading the firmware of an electronic device without unpacking the package. Figure 1 The method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0110] S1101. The electronic device receives a power-on instruction sent by an RFID reader through an RFID chip.

[0111] The electronic device is sealed in a package and is in a powered-off state. The electronic device has an RFID chip built in. The RFID chip can be a switch type RFID chip, or a power output type RFID chip.

[0112] In some embodiments, the electronic device receives a power-on instruction sent by an RFID reader / writer via an RFID chip, including: the electronic device receives an RF electromagnetic wave signal sent by the RFID reader / writer via the RFID chip, and sends an RFID identification code to the RFID reader / writer, and the electronic device receives a power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader / writer based on the RFID identification code via the RFID chip.

[0113] S1102: The electronic device controls the electronic device to start up based on the start-up instruction.

[0114] In the embodiment of the present application, the process of the electronic device controlling the power-on of the electronic device based on the power-on instruction can be based on setting any auxiliary power activation circuit or RFID activation circuit in the above embodiments in the electronic device, and implemented by the auxiliary power activation circuit or the RFID activation circuit. The specific implementation method can refer to the relevant description in the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0115] S1103: The electronic device receives the latest firmware file and performs a firmware upgrade.

[0116] The latest firmware file may be the latest version of the firmware file corresponding to the electronic device downloaded from the cloud. After the electronic device is turned on, a communication connection may be established with the control device via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and the electronic device may also establish a communication connection with the cloud. In this way, the electronic device may obtain the latest version of the firmware file corresponding to the electronic device stored in the cloud.

[0117] In the above-mentioned method for upgrading the firmware of an electronic device without unpacking the package, the electronic device is sealed in the package and is in a shutdown state. The electronic device includes an RFID chip. The electronic device can receive the power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader through the RFID chip, and control the electronic device to start up based on the power-on instruction; the electronic device can also receive the latest firmware file and perform firmware upgrade after starting up. According to this scheme, in this method, the power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader outside the package of the electronic device can be received by the RFID chip to control the power-on of the electronic device, so that the electronic device can receive the latest firmware upgrade file after starting up and perform firmware upgrade. In this way, for electronic devices without unpacking the package, it is possible to start up and perform firmware upgrade (software update).

[0118] In some embodiments, after the electronic device controls the electronic device to start up based on the power-on instruction, and before the electronic device receives the latest firmware file and performs a firmware upgrade, the method also includes: controlling the device to read version information of the current firmware file from the electronic device, and obtaining version information of the latest firmware file corresponding to the electronic device from the cloud; controlling the device to communicate with the electronic device and the cloud through wireless communication; controlling the device to compare the version information of the current firmware file with the version information of the latest firmware file; and when the current firmware file version is different from the latest firmware file version, downloading the latest firmware file corresponding to the electronic device from the cloud and sending it to the electronic device.

[0119] For example, Fig.12 FIG. 1 is a flowchart of a method for upgrading the firmware of an electronic device without unpacking the package. Figure 2 The method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0120] S1201. The electronic device receives a power-on instruction sent by an RFID reader through an RFID chip.

[0121] S1202: The electronic device controls the electronic device to start up based on the start-up instruction.

[0122] For the description of step S1201 and step S1202, reference may be made to the relevant description of step S1101 and step S1102 mentioned above, which will not be repeated here.

[0123] S1203: The electronic device establishes a wireless communication connection with the control device.

[0124] After the electronic device is turned on, a communication connection can be established with the control device via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

[0125] S1204: The control device reads version information of the current firmware file from the electronic device.

[0126] After establishing a wireless communication connection with the control device, the control device can read the version information of the current firmware file from the electronic device through the wireless communication connection.

[0127] S1205. The control device obtains version information of the latest firmware file corresponding to the electronic device from the cloud.

[0128] The above version information may be a version number.

[0129] S1206: The control device compares the version information of the current firmware file in the electronic device with the version information of the latest firmware file in the cloud.

[0130] The control device can determine whether the version information of the current firmware file is consistent with the version information of the latest firmware file in the cloud. If they are consistent, it means that the current electronic device has been upgraded to the latest firmware file. If they are inconsistent, it means that the current electronic device has not been upgraded to the latest firmware file and a firmware upgrade is required.

[0131] S1207: When the version information is different, the control device downloads the latest firmware file corresponding to the electronic device from the cloud.

[0132] When the version information is different, the control device learns that the electronic device needs to perform a firmware upgrade. At this time, the control device can download the latest firmware file corresponding to the electronic device from the cloud.

[0133] S1208. The control device sends the latest firmware file to the electronic device.

[0134] In some embodiments, the control device is an RFID reader / writer, that is, the functions performed by the above control device are integrated in the RFID reader / writer.

[0135] In some embodiments, the control device is a smart terminal.

[0136] In the above embodiments, firstly, by controlling the device to read the current firmware version information from the electronic device and compare it with the latest version information obtained from the cloud, it is possible to accurately determine whether the electronic device needs to perform a firmware upgrade, thereby avoiding unnecessary upgrade operations and improving the pertinence and efficiency of the upgrade. Secondly, when it is found that the current firmware version is different from the latest version, the control device automatically downloads the latest firmware file from the cloud and sends it to the electronic device, ensuring that the electronic device can obtain the latest functions and performance optimizations in a timely manner, improving the user experience and stability of the electronic device, and also providing a more intelligent and convenient solution for firmware upgrades of electronic devices in a packaging-free state.

[0137] In some embodiments, after the electronic device controls the electronic device to start up based on the power-on instruction, before the electronic device receives the latest firmware file and performs a firmware upgrade, the control device may also send a firmware download request message to the cloud, where the firmware download request message includes an identifier of the electronic device; the firmware download request message is used to request that the latest firmware file stored in the cloud server be sent to the electronic device. After receiving a response message to the firmware download request message, the control device may send a firmware upgrade instruction to the electronic device.

[0138] The control device communicates with the electronic device and the cloud via wireless communication.

[0139] The firmware download request message includes the identifier of the electronic device, so that the cloud can directly send the latest firmware file to the electronic device indicated by the identifier.

[0140] The firmware upgrade instruction is used to instruct the electronic device to perform a firmware upgrade based on the latest firmware file, and the response message is used to indicate that the electronic device has received the latest firmware file.

[0141] In the above embodiment, on the one hand, the control device sends a firmware download request message containing the electronic device identifier to the cloud, which can ensure that the cloud accurately pushes the latest firmware file of the specific electronic device, thereby improving the accuracy and pertinence of firmware acquisition. On the other hand, after receiving the response message, the control device sends a firmware upgrade instruction to the electronic device, so that the electronic device can know in time and start upgrading based on the latest firmware file, ensuring that the electronic device can always operate in the best state, and improving the performance and stability of the device. At the same time, the firmware upgrade process implemented in this way is more intelligent and efficient, reducing the tediousness of manual operations by users, and bringing better user experience to users.

[0142] In some embodiments, after the control device executes the above step S1206, the control device learns that the electronic device needs to perform a firmware upgrade when the version information is different, and at this time sends a firmware download request message to the cloud, the firmware download request message includes an identifier of the electronic device; the firmware download request message is used to request that the latest firmware file stored in the cloud server be sent to the electronic device. After receiving a response message to the firmware download request message, the control device can send a firmware upgrade instruction to the electronic device.

[0143] In the above embodiment, when the control device sends a firmware download request message containing an electronic device identifier to the cloud when the version information is different, it can clearly inform the cloud which electronic device needs to provide the latest firmware file, ensuring that the cloud accurately locates and quickly pushes the required firmware, greatly improving the accuracy and timeliness of firmware acquisition. After receiving the response message, a firmware upgrade instruction is sent to the electronic device, so that the electronic device can quickly enter the upgrade state, avoiding long waiting times and uncertainty. This process not only ensures that the electronic device can obtain the latest functions and performance optimizations in a timely manner, improves the stability and reliability of the device, but also makes the entire upgrade process more intelligent and efficient, reduces the need for user intervention, and brings users a more convenient user experience. It also provides a reliable and efficient solution for firmware upgrades of electronic devices in a packaging-free state.

[0144] It should be understood that, although the various steps in the flowcharts involved in the above-mentioned embodiments are displayed in sequence according to the indication of the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in sequence according to the order indicated by the arrows. Unless there is a clear explanation in this article, the execution of these steps does not have a strict order restriction, and these steps can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least a part of the steps in the flowcharts involved in the above-mentioned embodiments can include multiple steps or multiple stages, and these steps or stages are not necessarily executed at the same time, but can be executed at different times, and the execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily to be carried out in sequence, but can be executed in turn or alternately with other steps or at least a part of the steps or stages in other steps.

[0145] Based on the same inventive concept, the embodiment of the present application also provides a non-disassembly packaged electronic device firmware upgrade system for implementing the non-disassembly packaged electronic device firmware upgrade method mentioned above. The non-disassembly packaged electronic device firmware upgrade system includes: the components involved in the non-disassembly packaged electronic device startup system mentioned above, and the above control device.

[0146] Each module in the above system can be implemented in whole or in part by software, hardware, or a combination thereof. Each module can be embedded in or independent of a processor in a computer device in the form of hardware, or can be stored in a memory in a computer device in the form of software, so that the processor can call and execute operations corresponding to each module above.

[0147] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which a computer program is stored. When the computer program is executed by a processor, the above-mentioned method for upgrading the firmware of an electronic device without disassembly of packaging is implemented.

[0148] In one embodiment, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the above-mentioned method for upgrading firmware of an electronic device without removing the packaging.

[0149] Those skilled in the art can understand that all or part of the processes in the above-mentioned embodiment methods can be completed by instructing the relevant hardware through a computer program, and the computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. When the computer program is executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above-mentioned methods. Among them, any reference to the memory, database or other medium used in the embodiments provided in this application can include at least one of non-volatile and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetoresistive random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), phase change memory (PCM), graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. As an illustration and not limitation, RAM can be in various forms, such as static random access memory (SRAM) or dynamic random access memory (DRAM). The database involved in each embodiment provided in this application may include at least one of a relational database and a non-relational database. Non-relational databases may include distributed databases based on blockchains, etc., but are not limited to this. The processor involved in each embodiment provided in this application may be a general-purpose processor, a central processing unit, a graphics processor, a digital signal processor, a programmable logic device, a data processing logic device based on quantum computing, etc., but are not limited to this.

[0150] The technical features of the above embodiments may be combined arbitrarily. To make the description concise, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0151] The above-described embodiments only express several implementation methods of the present application, and the descriptions thereof are relatively specific and detailed, but they cannot be understood as limiting the scope of the present application. It should be pointed out that, for a person of ordinary skill in the art, several variations and improvements can be made without departing from the concept of the present application, and these all belong to the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present application shall be subject to the attached claims.

Claims

1. A method for upgrading the firmware of an electronic device without unpacking the package, characterized in that: The electronic device is sealed in a package and is in a powered-off state, the electronic device includes an RFID chip, and the method includes: The electronic device receives a power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader / writer through the RFID chip; The electronic device controls the power-on of the electronic device based on the power-on instruction; The electronic device receives the latest firmware file and performs firmware upgrade; The electronic device receives a power-on instruction sent by an RFID reader / writer through the RFID chip, including: The electronic device receives the RF electromagnetic wave signal sent by the RFID reader / writer through the RFID chip, and sends the RFID identification code to the RFID reader / writer, and when the RFID reader / writer determines that the electronic device is a device to be turned on according to the RFID identification code, the power-on instruction is sent to the RFID chip of the electronic device; The electronic device receives, through the RFID chip, a power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader based on the RFID identification code; The electronic device further comprises: a battery, an auxiliary power supply, and a key switch, wherein a first end of the key switch is connected to the battery, and a second end is connected to the auxiliary power supply, and the key switch is in an off state to turn off the electronic device; the RFID chip is a switch-type RFID chip, and the switch-type RFID chip comprises an open-drain pin; the switch-type RFID chip is used to control the open-drain pin to output a low-level signal when receiving the power-on instruction sent by the RFID reader; When the battery voltage of the battery is less than the withstand voltage value of the open-drain pin, the open-drain pin is connected between the battery and the key switch, and the ground terminal of the switch-type RFID chip is connected between the key switch and the auxiliary power supply; the switch-type RFID chip is used to conduct the battery and the auxiliary power supply based on the low-level signal output by the open-drain pin, thereby activating the auxiliary power supply to control the electronic device to start up; When the battery voltage is greater than or equal to the withstand voltage value of the open-drain pin, the electronic device further includes: an activation control module, the activation control module connecting the open-drain pin, the battery and the auxiliary power supply; the activation control module is used to connect the battery and the auxiliary power supply based on the low-level signal output by the open-drain pin, and then activate the auxiliary power supply to control the electronic device to start up; the activation control module includes: a switch unit, the switch unit is used to further connect the battery and the auxiliary power supply when it is turned on; the key switch is also connected in parallel with the switch unit.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that After the electronic device controls the electronic device to start up based on the startup instruction, and before the electronic device receives the latest firmware file and performs firmware upgrade, the method further includes: The control device reads the version information of the current firmware file from the electronic device, and obtains the version information of the latest firmware file corresponding to the electronic device from the cloud; the control device communicates with the electronic device and the cloud via wireless communication; The control device compares the version information of the current firmware file with the version information of the latest firmware file; when the version information is different, the latest firmware file corresponding to the electronic device is downloaded from the cloud and sent to the electronic device.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that After the electronic device controls the electronic device to start up based on the startup instruction, and before the electronic device receives the latest firmware file and performs firmware upgrade, the method further includes: The control device sends a firmware download request message to the cloud, wherein the firmware download request message includes an identifier of the electronic device; the firmware download request message is used to request that the latest firmware file stored in the cloud be sent to the electronic device, and the control device communicates with the electronic device and the cloud via wireless communication; After receiving a response message to the firmware download request message, the control device sends a firmware upgrade instruction to the electronic device, wherein the firmware upgrade instruction is used to instruct the electronic device to perform a firmware upgrade based on the latest firmware file, and the response message is used to indicate that the electronic device has received the latest firmware file.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: The control device is the RFID reader / writer or an intelligent terminal.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The activation control module comprises: An energy storage unit, connected to the auxiliary power supply, and used to store the power of the electronic device when it was last turned on; A control unit connected to the energy storage unit, and configured to control the switch unit to conduct based on the low level signal output by the open-drain pin and the amount of electricity stored in the energy storage unit; The switch unit has a first end connected to the control unit, a second end connected to the battery, and a third end connected to the auxiliary power supply, and is used to further connect the battery and the auxiliary power supply when turned on.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that The energy storage unit includes: a farad capacitor and a diode; One end of the farad capacitor is connected to the control unit and the cathode of the diode, the other end of the farad capacitor is grounded, and the anode of the diode is connected to the auxiliary power supply.

7. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that The control unit comprises: a PNP type switching transistor and an NPN type switching transistor; Among them, the base of the PNP type switching transistor is connected to the open-drain pin, the emitter of the PNP type switching transistor is connected to the energy storage unit, and the collector of the PNP type switching transistor is connected to the base of the NPN type switching transistor; the collector of the NPN type switching transistor is connected to the switching unit, and the emitter of the NPN type switching transistor is grounded.

8. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that The switch unit comprises: a PMOS; The gate of the PMOS is connected to the output terminal of the control unit, the source of the PMOS is connected to the battery, and the drain of the PMOS is connected to the auxiliary power supply.

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