A method for batch upgrading of STA devices in a station area, a central coordinator and a proxy coordinator

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of station area STA equipment batch upgrade method, central coordinator and proxy coordinator, it is related to power line carrier communication technical field, the station area STA equipment batch upgrade method is applicable to the central coordinator in target station area network, comprising: broadcast upgrade message to all proxy coordinators and all STA equipment in target station area, and the message receiving state of each first-level equipment is sequentially obtained, to execute local frame filling to corresponding first-level equipment;Local time slot allocation is carried out for each first-level equipment, so that each first-level proxy coordinator executes proxy collaborative frame filling to its next-level equipment in the time slot that it is allocated;When determining that all STA equipment in target station area network receive complete upgrade message, instruct each STA equipment to upgrade.The application can solve the technical problems that the deep equipment frame filling efficiency is low and channel conflict is easily caused by the existing CCO centralized frame filling mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of power line carrier communication technology, and in particular to a method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in a distribution area, a central coordinator, and a proxy coordinator. Background Technology

[0002] With the deepening of smart grid construction, the number of station (STA) devices (such as smart meters and data acquisition terminals) in distribution transformer areas is increasing rapidly, and their deployment environments are complex and diverse. To meet the needs of business function updates, security vulnerability patching, and performance optimization, it is necessary to perform batch upgrades on a large number of STA devices through over-the-air (OTA) firmware upgrade technology. Since distribution transformer networks are typically large in scale, deeply layered, and have inconsistent communication link quality, how to efficiently and reliably complete batch upgrades has become one of the key issues in ensuring the intelligent operation of the power grid.

[0003] In existing technologies, upgrades typically employ a centralized control method using a Central Coordinator (CCO). The specific process involves the CCO first broadcasting the complete upgrade message to all STAs across the network. After the broadcast, the CCO polls each STA sequentially to obtain its message reception bitmap to identify missing frames. Subsequently, the CCO unicasts missing frames for each STA one by one until all STAs have received the complete upgrade packet. However, this method has significant drawbacks: all frame replacement tasks are handled centrally by the CCO. For STAs at deeper hierarchies, their replacement frames require multiple relay forwardings, significantly increasing network load and upgrade time. Furthermore, the CCO's intensive unicast interactions with a large number of STAs can easily create a communication bottleneck near the CCO, leading to network congestion, unstable upgrade processes, and overall low efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in a distribution area, a central coordinator, and a proxy coordinator. It can solve the technical problems of excessive CCO burden, low frame interpolation efficiency of deep equipment, and easy channel conflict caused by the existing CCO centralized frame interpolation mode in a tree-structured hierarchical distribution area network.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a method for batch upgrading STA devices in a distribution area, applicable to a central coordinator in a target distribution area network; the target distribution area network is a tree-structured hierarchical network composed of a central coordinator, several proxy coordinators, and several STA devices; the target distribution area network has the central coordinator as the root node, the proxy coordinators as intermediate nodes at each layer, and the STA devices as leaf nodes at each layer; the number of layers in the target distribution area network is determined based on the number of communication hops; the method for batch upgrading STA devices in the distribution area includes: The upgrade message is broadcast to all proxy coordinators and all STA devices within the target area, and the message reception status of each primary device is obtained in sequence. Based on the message reception status, a local frame interpolation operation is performed on the corresponding primary device. The upgrade message includes several message frames. The primary device is a proxy coordinator or STA device that is directly connected to the central coordinator in the target area network. Based on the network topology data of the target distribution area network, local time slots are allocated to each primary device to obtain a local time slot allocation table. The local time slot allocation table is then sent to each primary agent coordinator so that each primary agent coordinator can perform agent coordination operations on its respective next-level device within its allocated time slots. The agent coordination operations include agent time slot allocation and agent frame interpolation operations. The next-level device is the next-level agent coordinator or the next-level STA device directly connected to the primary agent coordinator in the target distribution area network. When it is determined that all STA devices in the target area network have received the complete upgrade message, a global upgrade command is sent so that each STA device can upgrade according to the upgrade message.

[0006] This invention provides a hierarchical collaborative frame supplementation method in tree-structured network networks. It achieves initial coverage of the upgrade package through network-wide broadcasting, prioritizing the integrity of directly connected devices and creating conditions for subsequent hierarchical recursion. The CCO (Central Coordinator) allocates time slots to first-level PCOs (Proxy Coordinators) to avoid conflicts caused by multiple PCOs broadcasting simultaneously. It also authorizes PCOs to perform lower-level frame supplementation, decentralizing the task from the CCO to its local execution, reducing the core load. By confirming the message reception status of each DTA device, the upgrade process is ensured to be closed-loop, preventing omissions. Compared to existing technologies, this invention addresses the problems of excessive CCO load, low frame supplementation efficiency of deep devices, and easy channel conflicts caused by the existing centralized frame supplementation mode in tree-structured network areas. It provides a method that decentralizes frame supplementation tasks to local execution at each level of PCO and avoids conflicts through unified time slot scheduling.

[0007] In some preferred embodiments of the first aspect, the broadcasting of the upgrade message to all agent coordinators and all STA devices within the target area specifically includes: The pre-acquired upgrade message is divided into several message frames, and the divided upgrade message is broadcast to all agent coordinators and all STA devices in the target area according to the Carrier Sense Multiple Access protocol.

[0008] The embodiments of the present invention avoid channel collisions during the broadcast stage by using message fragmentation and carrier sensing, thereby improving the reliability of the initial distribution, optimizing the initial distribution process, reducing message loss due to collisions, and reducing the missing rate for subsequent frame supplementation.

[0009] In some preferred embodiments of the first aspect, the step of sequentially obtaining the message reception status of each primary device, and performing local frame interpolation operation on the corresponding primary device according to the message reception status, specifically includes: The message bitmap of the current primary device is read by polling, and the message bitmap is compared with the pre-stored global expectation bitmap to determine whether there are missing message frames in the current primary device; wherein, each bit in the message bitmap corresponds to the reception status of a message frame. If it is determined that the current primary device has a missing message frame, a frame replacement data packet is broadcast to all primary devices; wherein, the frame replacement data packet includes the missing message frame of the current primary device and a reply instruction; the reply instruction is used to request the current primary device to send an acknowledgment character to the central coordinator in unicast form; If an acknowledgment character is received from the current primary device, the process continues to read the message bitmap of the next primary device through polling until all primary devices have been polled. Otherwise, the supplementary frame data packet is rebroadcast to all primary devices.

[0010] This invention achieves accurate missing frame location through polling comparison; enables other devices at the same level to receive missing frames ("eavesdropping") through broadcast frame supplementation, achieving multiple benefits from a single transmission and improving channel utilization; ensures single-point reliability through designated ACK, and ensures final success through retransmission mechanism.

[0011] In some preferred embodiments of the first aspect, after broadcasting the interpolation data packet to all primary devices, the method further includes: If the current level device does not receive the supplementary frame data packet, it will self-check whether the message frame is missing based on the sequence number of the message frame in the supplementary frame data packet and its own message bitmap. If it is determined that the message frame is missing, then the message frame is received and its own message bitmap is updated.

[0012] This invention enables other devices at the same level to receive missing frames ("eavesdropping") by broadcasting frame interpolation, achieving multiple benefits from a single transmission and improving channel utilization.

[0013] In some preferred embodiments of the first aspect, the local time slot allocation table is sent to each primary agent coordinator, specifically as follows: Based on the network topology data and time division multiple access rules, the local time slot allocation table is embedded in the beacon frame so that it can be sent to each primary agent coordinator via the beacon frame.

[0014] This invention utilizes the periodic synchronization characteristics of beacon frames to ensure accurate transmission of time slot allocation information, ensuring that each PCO operates within a precise time window and avoiding conflicts. This guarantees the reliability of time slot scheduling and network-wide synchronization, serving as a core safeguard against congestion.

[0015] Among the preferred options in the first aspect are: The message bitmaps reported by all primary devices are summarized to determine the message reception status of all STA devices in the target area network. If any STA device is missing a message frame, a directional frame filling instruction is sent to enable the STA device with the missing message frame to complete the directional frame filling operation and upgrade the STA device.

[0016] This invention provides a comprehensive overview by summarizing the status of all devices and performs final, precise frame interpolation for the very few unsuccessful devices as a reliability fallback mechanism to ensure the integrity of the upgrade.

[0017] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention provide a method for batch upgrading STA devices in a target area network, applicable to any proxy coordinator in the target area network; the target area network is a tree-structured hierarchical network composed of a central coordinator, several proxy coordinators, and several STA devices; the target area network has the central coordinator as the root node, the proxy coordinators as intermediate nodes of each layer, and the STA devices as leaf nodes of each layer; the number of layers in the target area network is determined according to the communication hop count; the method for batch upgrading STA devices in the target area network includes: Upon receiving the first proxy time slot allocation table, the system determines its assigned time slot based on the first proxy time slot allocation table, thus obtaining the proxy time slot. If there is a directly connected next-level proxy coordinator, the system allocates proxy time slots for the next-level proxy coordinator based on the network topology data of the target area network and the proxy time slot, thus obtaining a second proxy time slot allocation table, and sends the second proxy time slot allocation table to the next-level proxy coordinator. The first proxy time slot allocation table is either a central time slot allocation table sent by the central proxy coordinator or a proxy time slot allocation table sent by the directly connected upper-level proxy coordinator. When the time corresponding to the proxy time slot is reached, the message reception status of each next-level device is obtained in sequence, and a proxy frame supplementation operation is performed on the corresponding next-level device according to the message reception status; wherein, the next-level device is the next-level proxy coordinator or the next-level STA device that is directly connected to the proxy coordinator in the target area network.

[0018] This invention, through its embodiment, recursively allocates time slots downwards using the PCO, progressively subdividing the CCO's time slot resources to achieve multi-level parallel scheduling. By utilizing the PCO to perform local frame interpolation within authorized time slots, similar to the CCO's behavior, the frame interpolation task is further decentralized, reducing the burden on higher levels. Simultaneously, local broadcasting benefits lower-level peers. This invention implements the core recursive logic of hierarchical collaboration, enabling distributed completion of upgrade tasks and significantly improving overall efficiency.

[0019] Thirdly, embodiments of the present invention provide a central coordinator, configured in a target area network; the target area network is a tree-structured hierarchical network composed of the central coordinator, several proxy coordinators, and several STA devices; the target area network has the central coordinator as the root node, the proxy coordinators as intermediate nodes at each layer, and the STA devices as leaf nodes at each layer; the number of layers in the target area network is determined based on the communication hop count; the central coordinator includes a local frame interpolation module, a proxy coordination module, and a device upgrade module, wherein... The local frame interpolation module is used to broadcast upgrade messages to all proxy coordinators and all STA devices in the target area, and sequentially obtain the message reception status of each primary device, so as to perform local frame interpolation operation on the corresponding primary device according to the message reception status; wherein, the upgrade message includes several message frames; the primary device is a proxy coordinator or STA device directly connected to the central coordinator in the target area network. The proxy coordination module is used to allocate local time slots for each primary device according to the network topology data of the target distribution area network, obtain a local time slot allocation table, and send the local time slot allocation table to each primary proxy coordinator, so that each primary proxy coordinator can perform proxy coordination operations for its respective next-level device within its allocated time slot; wherein, the proxy coordination operation includes proxy time slot allocation and proxy frame interpolation operation; the next-level device is the next-level proxy coordinator or the next-level STA device directly connected to the primary proxy coordinator in the target distribution area network; The device upgrade module is used to send a global upgrade command when it is determined that all STA devices in the target area network have received the complete upgrade message, so that each STA device can upgrade according to the upgrade message.

[0020] This invention utilizes a local frame interpolation module to broadcast upgrade packets across the entire network, achieving initial coverage and prioritizing the integrity of directly connected devices, thus creating conditions for subsequent hierarchical recursion. A proxy coordination module uses the CCO (Central Coordinator) to uniformly allocate time slots to the first-level PCOs (Proxy Coordinators), preventing conflicts caused by multiple PCOs broadcasting simultaneously. It also authorizes PCOs to perform lower-level frame interpolation, offloading tasks from the CCO to the local level and reducing the core load. Finally, a device upgrade module confirms the message reception status of each STA device, ensuring a closed-loop upgrade process and preventing omissions.

[0021] Fourthly, embodiments of the present invention provide a proxy coordinator, configured in a target area network; the target area network is a tree-structured hierarchical network composed of a central coordinator, several proxy coordinators, and several STA devices; the target area network has the central coordinator as the root node, the proxy coordinators as intermediate nodes of each layer, and the STA devices as leaf nodes of each layer; the number of layers in the target area network is determined according to the communication hop count; the proxy coordinator includes a proxy time slot allocation module and a proxy frame interpolation operation module, wherein, The proxy time slot allocation module is used to, upon receiving a first proxy time slot allocation table, determine its allocated time slot based on the first proxy time slot allocation table to obtain a proxy time slot; if there is a directly connected next-level proxy coordinator, it allocates proxy time slots for the next-level proxy coordinator based on the network topology data of the target area network and the proxy time slot, obtaining a second proxy time slot allocation table, and sends the second proxy time slot allocation table to the next-level proxy coordinator; wherein, the first proxy time slot allocation table is a central time slot allocation table sent by the central proxy coordinator or a proxy time slot allocation table sent by the directly connected upper-level proxy coordinator; The proxy frame interpolation module is used to sequentially obtain the message reception status of each next-level device when the time corresponding to the proxy time slot is reached, so as to perform proxy frame interpolation operation on the corresponding next-level device according to the message reception status; wherein, the next-level device is the next-level proxy coordinator or the next-level STA device directly connected to the proxy coordinator in the target area network.

[0022] This invention, through a proxy time slot allocation module, recursively allocates time slots downwards using the PCO, progressively subdividing the CCO's time slot resources to achieve multi-level parallel scheduling. Through a proxy frame interpolation module, the PCO performs local frame interpolation within authorized time slots, similar to the CCO's behavior, further decentralizing the frame interpolation task and reducing the burden on higher levels. Simultaneously, local broadcasting benefits lower-level peers. This invention implements the core recursive logic of hierarchical collaboration, enabling distributed completion of upgrade tasks and significantly improving overall efficiency.

[0023] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention. In order to better understand the technical means of the embodiments of the present invention and to implement them in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention are described below. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating a method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in a central coordinator, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a target area network topology as exemplified by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating a method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in a distribution area suitable for a coordinator, provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a batch upgrade process for STA equipment in a distribution area, as exemplified by the present invention. Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a central coordinator provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a proxy coordinator provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0026] Example 1: like Figure 1 The illustration shows a method for batch upgrading STA devices in a target area network, applicable to a central coordinator in the target area network. The target area network is a hierarchical tree network composed of a central coordinator, several proxy coordinators, and several STA devices. The target area network has the central coordinator as the root node, the proxy coordinators as intermediate nodes at each layer, and the STA devices as leaf nodes at each layer. The number of layers in the target area network is determined based on the communication hop count. The batch upgrading method for STA devices includes: S101, broadcast an upgrade message to all proxy coordinators and all STA devices in the target area, and sequentially obtain the message reception status of each primary device, so as to perform local frame supplementation operation on the corresponding primary device according to the message reception status; wherein, the upgrade message includes several message frames; the primary device is a proxy coordinator or STA device directly connected to the central coordinator in the target area network. To more clearly illustrate the network topology of the target transformer area network in the embodiments of the present invention, please refer to... Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a target area network topology as an example of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] It should be noted that STA classification is based on the number of hops in the network topology (i.e., the communication distance with the CCO). For example, a Level 1 STA refers to a device that communicates directly with the CCO. A Level 2 STA refers to a device that is relayed through a Level 1 PCO. The classification is based on the automatic identification of the hierarchy through network discovery protocols (such as beacon frame exchanges); the higher the number of hops, the deeper the hierarchy. As shown in Table 1, Table 1 is a schematic table of the hierarchy of the target area network.

[0028] Table 1. Schematic diagram of network hierarchy for target distribution areas In this embodiment, broadcasting the upgrade message to all agent coordinators and all STA devices within the target area specifically involves: dividing the pre-acquired upgrade message into several message frames, and broadcasting the segmented upgrade message to all agent coordinators and all STA devices within the target area according to the Carrier Sense Multiple Access protocol.

[0029] In one specific embodiment, broadcasting the upgrade message to all agent coordinators and all STA devices within the target area specifically involves: the Central Coordinator (CCO) initiating the upgrade process by broadcasting the complete upgrade message frame sequence to all STAs (including all PCOs and ordinary STAs) across the entire network via the power line channel. This upgrade message frame sequence includes key data such as a frame header, sequence number, firmware data block, checksum, and version information, aiming to achieve efficient transmission of the upgrade package. The goal of this stage is to disseminate the upgrade package data as widely as possible into the network without requiring a response, aiming to leverage the broadcast characteristic to achieve maximum data coverage and lay the foundation for subsequent collaborative frame supplementation. This stage utilizes the broadcast characteristic to achieve data coverage. From a computer data processing perspective, the CCO divides the upgrade package into multiple message frames, each containing a sequence number and a broadcast address. Collisions are avoided through the Carrier Sense Multiple Access (CSMA) protocol, achieving one-time network-wide distribution without requiring real-time STA responses.

[0030] In this embodiment, the step of sequentially acquiring the message reception status of each primary device and performing local frame completion operation on the corresponding primary device according to the message reception status specifically involves: polling and reading the message bitmap of the current primary device and comparing the message bitmap with a pre-stored global expectation bitmap to determine whether the current primary device has missing message frames; wherein each bit in the message bitmap corresponds to the reception status of a message frame; if it is determined that the current primary device has missing message frames, then a frame completion data packet is broadcast to all primary devices; wherein the frame completion data packet includes the missing message frame of the current primary device and a reply instruction; the reply instruction is used to request the current primary device to send an acknowledgment character to the central coordinator in unicast form; if the acknowledgment character of the current primary device is received, then the polling and reading of the message bitmap of the next primary device continues until all primary devices have been polled; otherwise, the frame completion data packet is rebroadcast to all primary devices.

[0031] In one specific embodiment, obtaining the message reception status of each primary device specifically involves the following: After completing the initial broadcast, the CCO does not immediately perform unicast polling on all STAs, but instead focuses first on its directly connected primary STAs. The CCO reads the message bitmap (a binary data structure where each bit represents the reception status of a message frame) of the first primary STA, compares the STA bitmap with the global expectation bitmap (a sequence of all 1s), and uses a bitwise XOR operation to identify the sequence number of the missing frame, thus accurately determining the missing message frame.

[0032] In this embodiment, after broadcasting the supplementary frame data packet to all primary devices, the method further includes: if a device other than the current primary device receives the supplementary frame data packet, it checks whether the message frame is missing based on the sequence number of the message frame in the supplementary frame data packet and its own message bitmap; if it is determined that the message frame is missing, it receives the message frame and updates its own message bitmap.

[0033] In one specific embodiment, based on the message reception status, a local frame completion operation is performed on the corresponding primary device. Specifically, the CCO initiates a local broadcast, which includes the data frames to be retransmitted and specifies that the primary STA should reply with an acknowledgment (ACK) via unicast. The ingenious aspect of this design is that all primary STAs that hear this local broadcast (regardless of whether they are specified) will receive the data and check if they also lack these frames, thus achieving "one broadcast, multiple benefits," significantly improving frame completion efficiency. The CCO repeats this step until all primary STAs have completed frame completion.

[0034] S102, based on the network topology data of the target distribution area network, local time slot allocation is performed for each primary device to obtain a local time slot allocation table, and the local time slot allocation table is sent to each primary agent coordinator so that each primary agent coordinator can perform agent coordination operations for its respective next-level device within its allocated time slot; wherein, the agent coordination operation includes agent time slot allocation and agent frame interpolation operation; the next-level device is the next-level agent coordinator or the next-level STA device directly connected to the primary agent coordinator in the target distribution area network; In this embodiment, the local time slot allocation table is sent to each primary agent coordinator. Specifically, the local time slot allocation table is embedded in the beacon frame according to the network topology data and time division multiple access rules, so as to send the local time slot allocation table to each primary agent coordinator through the beacon frame.

[0035] In one specific embodiment, to coordinate broadcast behaviors that may be initiated simultaneously by multiple PCOs in subsequent layers and avoid network congestion, the CCO plans (allocates and authorizes the use of) local broadcast time slots for all first-level PCOs through periodically sent beacon frames, explicitly allocating a time window for each PCO to initiate operations, thereby achieving ordered scheduling. The CCO embeds a time slot allocation table in the beacon frames based on network topology data (such as the number of PCOs) and Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) rules. The time slot length of each PCO is calculated based on the number of its subordinate STAs, ensuring conflict-free scheduling.

[0036] S103, when it is determined that all STA devices in the target area network have received the complete upgrade message, a global upgrade command is sent so that each STA device can upgrade according to the upgrade message.

[0037] In this embodiment, the method further includes: summarizing the packet bitmaps reported by all primary devices to determine the packet reception status of all STA devices in the target area network; if any STA device is missing a packet frame, a directional frame filling instruction is sent to enable the STA device with missing packet frames to complete the directional frame filling operation and upgrade the STA device.

[0038] In one specific embodiment, the process proceeds to the global aggregation and final frame interpolation stage. Once a PCO has completed frame interpolation for all its directly subordinate STAs (CCO, PCO, and STA form a tree-like hierarchical network, STAs are automatically assigned to the nearest PCO based on the beacon frame signal strength upon network entry. For example, STAs directly receiving CCO beacons are Level 1 devices, while those relayed through PCOs are Level 2 devices. The overall framework is as follows... Figure 1As shown, this illustrates the cascading relationship from the CCO to the final STA. The CCO summarizes and reports its local upgrade status (the aggregated bitmap) to the CCO. After collecting the aggregated information from all PCOs, the CCO has a grasp of the overall upgrade status. For the very few STAs that have not yet successfully upgraded, the CCO can initiate a final, precise directional frame interpolation command to ensure 100% completion of the upgrade task.

[0039] This invention provides a hierarchical collaborative frame supplementation method in tree-structured network networks. It achieves initial coverage of the upgrade package through network-wide broadcasting, prioritizing the integrity of directly connected devices and creating conditions for subsequent hierarchical recursion. The CCO (Central Coordinator) allocates time slots to first-level PCOs (Proxy Coordinators) to avoid conflicts caused by multiple PCOs broadcasting simultaneously. It also authorizes PCOs to perform lower-level frame supplementation, decentralizing the task from the CCO to its local execution, reducing the core load. By confirming the message reception status of each DTA device, the upgrade process is ensured to be closed-loop, preventing omissions. Compared to existing technologies, this invention addresses the problems of excessive CCO load, low frame supplementation efficiency of deep devices, and easy channel conflicts caused by the existing centralized frame supplementation mode in tree-structured network areas. It provides a method that decentralizes frame supplementation tasks to local execution at each level of PCO and avoids conflicts through unified time slot scheduling.

[0040] Example 2: like Figure 3 The illustration shows a method for batch upgrading STA devices in a target area network, applicable to any proxy coordinator in the target area network. The target area network is a hierarchical tree network composed of a central coordinator, several proxy coordinators, and several STA devices. The target area network has the central coordinator as the root node, the proxy coordinators as intermediate nodes at each layer, and the STA devices as leaf nodes at each layer. The number of layers in the target area network is determined based on the communication hop count. The method for batch upgrading STA devices includes: S201, when the first proxy time slot allocation table is received, the time slot allocated to itself is determined according to the first proxy time slot allocation table to obtain the proxy time slot; if there is a directly connected next-level proxy coordinator, the proxy time slot is allocated for the next-level proxy coordinator according to the network topology data of the target area network and the proxy time slot to obtain the second proxy time slot allocation table, and the second proxy time slot allocation table is sent to the next-level proxy coordinator; wherein, the first proxy time slot allocation table is a central time slot allocation table sent by the central proxy coordinator or a proxy time slot allocation table sent by the directly connected upper-level proxy coordinator; S202, when the time corresponding to the proxy time slot is reached, the message reception status of each next-level device is obtained in sequence, so as to perform proxy frame supplementation operation on the corresponding next-level device according to the message reception status; wherein, the next-level device is the next-level proxy coordinator or the next-level STA device directly connected to the proxy coordinator in the target area network.

[0041] In this embodiment, it also includes: summarizing the message bitmaps of all next-level devices and reporting the summarized message bitmaps to the directly connected next-level agent coordinator or central coordinator.

[0042] In one specific embodiment, the first-level PCO that obtains time slot authorization (in communication protocols, time slot allocation itself is a type of authorization mechanism) begins to act as the "coordinator" in its local network. It repeats behavior similar to that of the CCO: reading the packet bitmap of its first subordinate second-level STA, then initiating a local broadcast within the specified time slot (again specifying that the STA to reply with an ACK), and performing frame supplementation for its subordinate networks. This process is recursively executed by each level of PCO downwards (second-level, third-level... down to the last-level STA). The task of frame supplementation for upgrade packets is fully decentralized to the local level, completed by the nearest PCO, greatly reducing the burden on the CCO and the traffic pressure on the core network paths.

[0043] This invention, through its embodiment, recursively allocates time slots downwards using the PCO, progressively subdividing the CCO's time slot resources to achieve multi-level parallel scheduling. By utilizing the PCO to perform local frame interpolation within authorized time slots, similar to the CCO's behavior, the frame interpolation task is further decentralized, reducing the burden on higher levels. Simultaneously, local broadcasting benefits lower-level peers. This invention implements the core recursive logic of hierarchical collaboration, enabling distributed completion of upgrade tasks and significantly improving overall efficiency.

[0044] To better explain the working principle and implementation process of the above-mentioned batch upgrade method for STA equipment in the distribution area, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a batch upgrade process for STA equipment in a distribution area, as exemplified by the present invention.

[0045] Example 3: like Figure 5 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a central coordinator, which is set in a target area network. The target area network is a tree-structured hierarchical network composed of a central coordinator, several proxy coordinators, and several STA devices. The target area network has the central coordinator as the root node, the proxy coordinators as intermediate nodes of each layer, and the STA devices as leaf nodes of each layer. The number of layers in the target area network is determined according to the number of communication hops. The central coordinator includes a local frame interpolation module, a proxy coordination module, and a device upgrade module, wherein... The local frame interpolation module 301 is used to broadcast upgrade messages to all proxy coordinators and all STA devices in the target area, and sequentially obtain the message reception status of each primary device, so as to perform local frame interpolation operation on the corresponding primary device according to the message reception status; wherein, the upgrade message includes several message frames; the primary device is a proxy coordinator or STA device directly connected to the central coordinator in the target area network. The proxy coordination module 302 is used to allocate local time slots for each primary device according to the network topology data of the target distribution network, obtain a local time slot allocation table, and send the local time slot allocation table to each primary proxy coordinator, so that each primary proxy coordinator can perform proxy coordination operations for its respective next-level device within its allocated time slot; wherein, the proxy coordination operation includes proxy time slot allocation and proxy frame interpolation operation; the next-level device is the next-level proxy coordinator or the next-level STA device directly connected to the primary proxy coordinator in the target distribution network; The device upgrade module 303 is used to send a global upgrade command when it is determined that all STA devices in the target area network have received the complete upgrade message, so that each STA device can upgrade according to the upgrade message.

[0046] For a more detailed explanation of the working principle and procedures of this embodiment, please refer to the relevant description in Embodiment 1.

[0047] In this embodiment of the invention, the local frame supplementation module 301 broadcasts upgrade packets across the entire network to achieve initial coverage and prioritizes the integrity of directly connected devices, creating conditions for subsequent hierarchical recursion. The proxy coordination module 302 uses the CCO (Central Coordinator) to uniformly allocate time slots to the first-level PCO (Proxy Coordinator), avoiding conflicts caused by multiple PCOs broadcasting simultaneously, and simultaneously authorizing PCOs to perform lower-level frame supplementation, thus shifting the task from the CCO to the local level and reducing the core load. The device upgrade module 303 confirms the message reception status of each STA device, ensuring a closed-loop upgrade process and avoiding omissions.

[0048] Example 4: like Figure 6 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a proxy coordinator, which is set in a target area network. The target area network is a tree-structured hierarchical network composed of a central coordinator, several proxy coordinators, and several STA devices. The target area network has the central coordinator as the root node, the proxy coordinators as intermediate nodes of each layer, and the STA devices as leaf nodes of each layer. The number of layers in the target area network is determined according to the number of communication hops. The proxy coordinator includes a proxy time slot allocation module and a proxy frame interpolation operation module, wherein... The proxy time slot allocation module 401 is used to, when receiving the first proxy time slot allocation table, determine the time slot allocated to itself according to the first proxy time slot allocation table, and obtain the proxy time slot; if there is a directly connected next-level proxy coordinator, then according to the network topology data of the target area network and the proxy time slot, it allocates proxy time slots for the next-level proxy coordinator, obtains a second proxy time slot allocation table, and sends the second proxy time slot allocation table to the next-level proxy coordinator; wherein, the first proxy time slot allocation table is a central time slot allocation table sent by the central proxy coordinator or a proxy time slot allocation table sent by the directly connected upper-level proxy coordinator; The proxy frame interpolation operation module 402 is used to sequentially obtain the message reception status of each next-level device when the time corresponding to the proxy time slot is reached, so as to perform proxy frame interpolation operation on the corresponding next-level device according to the message reception status; wherein, the next-level device is the next-level proxy coordinator or the next-level STA device directly connected to the proxy coordinator in the target area network.

[0049] For a more detailed explanation of the working principle and procedures of this embodiment, please refer to the relevant description in Embodiment 2.

[0050] This invention, through a proxy time slot allocation module 401, recursively allocates time slots downwards using the PCO, progressively subdividing the CCO's time slot resources to achieve multi-level parallel scheduling. Through a proxy frame interpolation module 402, the PCO performs local frame interpolation within authorized time slots, similar to the CCO's behavior, further delegating the frame interpolation task downwards, reducing the burden on higher levels, and simultaneously utilizing local broadcasting to benefit lower-level peers. This invention implements the core recursive logic of hierarchical collaboration, enabling distributed completion of upgrade tasks and significantly improving overall efficiency.

[0051] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. The storage medium can be a magnetic disk, optical disk, read-only memory (ROM), or random access memory (RAM), etc.

[0052] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of the present invention. It should be understood that the above descriptions are merely specific embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. In particular, it should be noted that any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention for those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in a distribution area, characterized in that, Applicable to a central coordinator in a target area network; the target area network is a hierarchical tree network consisting of a central coordinator, several agent coordinators, and several STA devices. The target area network has the central coordinator as the root node, the proxy coordinator as the intermediate node of each layer, and the STA device as the leaf node of each layer. The number of layers in the target area network is determined based on the number of communication hops; The method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in the aforementioned area includes: The upgrade message is broadcast to all proxy coordinators and all STA devices within the target area, and the message reception status of each primary device is obtained in sequence. Based on the message reception status, a local frame interpolation operation is performed on the corresponding primary device. The upgrade message includes several message frames. The primary device is a proxy coordinator or STA device that is directly connected to the central coordinator in the target area network. Based on the network topology data of the target distribution area network, local time slots are allocated to each primary device to obtain a local time slot allocation table. The local time slot allocation table is then sent to each primary agent coordinator so that each primary agent coordinator can perform agent coordination operations on its respective next-level device within its allocated time slots. The agent coordination operations include agent time slot allocation and agent frame interpolation operations. The next-level device is the next-level agent coordinator or the next-level STA device directly connected to the primary agent coordinator in the target distribution area network. When it is determined that all STA devices in the target area network have received the complete upgrade message, a global upgrade command is sent so that each STA device can upgrade according to the upgrade message.

2. The method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in a distribution area as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The broadcast of the upgrade message to all agent coordinators and all STA devices within the target area specifically includes: The pre-acquired upgrade message is divided into several message frames, and the divided upgrade message is broadcast to all agent coordinators and all STA devices in the target area according to the Carrier Sense Multiple Access protocol.

3. The method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in a distribution area as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The step of sequentially acquiring the message reception status of each primary device, and performing local frame interpolation operation on the corresponding primary device based on the message reception status, specifically involves: The message bitmap of the current primary device is read by polling, and the message bitmap is compared with the pre-stored global expectation bitmap to determine whether there are missing message frames in the current primary device; wherein, each bit in the message bitmap corresponds to the reception status of a message frame. If it is determined that the current primary device has a missing message frame, a frame replacement data packet is broadcast to all primary devices; wherein, the frame replacement data packet includes the missing message frame of the current primary device and a reply instruction; the reply instruction is used to request the current primary device to send an acknowledgment character to the central coordinator in unicast form; If an acknowledgment character is received from the current primary device, the process continues to read the message bitmap of the next primary device through polling until all primary devices have been polled. Otherwise, the supplementary frame data packet is rebroadcast to all primary devices.

4. The method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in a distribution area as described in claim 3, characterized in that, After broadcasting the interpolation data packet to all Level 1 devices, the following is also included: If the current level device does not receive the supplementary frame data packet, it will self-check whether the message frame is missing based on the sequence number of the message frame in the supplementary frame data packet and its own message bitmap. If it is determined that the message frame is missing, then the message frame is received and its own message bitmap is updated.

5. The method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in a distribution area as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The local time slot allocation table is sent to each primary agent coordinator, specifically as follows: Based on the network topology data and time division multiple access rules, the local time slot allocation table is embedded in the beacon frame so that it can be sent to each primary agent coordinator via the beacon frame.

6. The method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in a distribution area as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The message bitmaps reported by all primary devices are summarized to determine the message reception status of all STA devices in the target area network. If any STA device is missing a message frame, a directional frame filling instruction is sent to enable the STA device with the missing message frame to complete the directional frame filling operation and upgrade the STA device.

7. A method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in a distribution area, characterized in that, Applicable to any agent coordinator in the target area network; the target area network is a tree-structured hierarchical network consisting of a central coordinator, several agent coordinators, and several STA devices; The target area network has the central coordinator as the root node, the proxy coordinator as the intermediate node of each layer, and the STA device as the leaf node of each layer. The number of layers in the target area network is determined based on the number of communication hops; The method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in the distribution area includes: Upon receiving the first proxy time slot allocation table, the system determines its assigned time slot based on the first proxy time slot allocation table, thus obtaining the proxy time slot. If there is a directly connected next-level proxy coordinator, the system allocates proxy time slots for the next-level proxy coordinator based on the network topology data of the target area network and the proxy time slot, thus obtaining a second proxy time slot allocation table, and sends the second proxy time slot allocation table to the next-level proxy coordinator. The first proxy time slot allocation table is either a central time slot allocation table sent by the central proxy coordinator or a proxy time slot allocation table sent by the directly connected upper-level proxy coordinator. When the time corresponding to the proxy time slot is reached, the message reception status of each next-level device is obtained in sequence, and a proxy frame supplementation operation is performed on the corresponding next-level device according to the message reception status; wherein, the next-level device is the next-level proxy coordinator or the next-level STA device that is directly connected to the proxy coordinator in the target area network.

8. The method for batch upgrading of STA equipment in a distribution area as described in claim 7, characterized in that, Also includes: It summarizes the message bitmaps of all the next-level devices and reports the summarized message bitmaps to the directly connected next-level agent coordinator or central coordinator.

9. A central coordinator, characterized in that, It is configured within the target area network; the target area network is a hierarchical tree network composed of a central coordinator, several proxy coordinators, and several STA devices; the target area network has the central coordinator as the root node, the proxy coordinators as intermediate nodes at each layer, and the STA devices as leaf nodes at each layer; the number of layers in the target area network is determined based on the communication hop count; the central coordinator includes a local frame interpolation module, a proxy coordination module, and a device upgrade module, wherein... The local frame interpolation module is used to broadcast upgrade messages to all proxy coordinators and all STA devices in the target area, and sequentially obtain the message reception status of each primary device, so as to perform local frame interpolation operation on the corresponding primary device according to the message reception status; wherein, the upgrade message includes several message frames; the primary device is a proxy coordinator or STA device directly connected to the central coordinator in the target area network. The proxy coordination module is used to allocate local time slots for each primary device according to the network topology data of the target distribution area network, obtain a local time slot allocation table, and send the local time slot allocation table to each primary proxy coordinator, so that each primary proxy coordinator can perform proxy coordination operations for its respective next-level device within its allocated time slot; wherein, the proxy coordination operation includes proxy time slot allocation and proxy frame interpolation operation; the next-level device is the next-level proxy coordinator or the next-level STA device directly connected to the primary proxy coordinator in the target distribution area network; The device upgrade module is used to send a global upgrade command when it is determined that all STA devices in the target area network have received the complete upgrade message, so that each STA device can upgrade according to the upgrade message.

10. A proxy coordinator, characterized in that, It is configured within the target area network; the target area network is a hierarchical tree network composed of a central coordinator, several proxy coordinators, and several STA devices; the target area network has the central coordinator as the root node, the proxy coordinators as intermediate nodes in each layer, and the STA devices as leaf nodes in each layer; the number of layers in the target area network is determined based on the communication hop count; the proxy coordinator includes a proxy time slot allocation module and a proxy frame interpolation operation module, wherein... The proxy time slot allocation module is used to, upon receiving a first proxy time slot allocation table, determine its allocated time slot based on the first proxy time slot allocation table to obtain a proxy time slot; if there is a directly connected next-level proxy coordinator, it allocates proxy time slots for the next-level proxy coordinator based on the network topology data of the target area network and the proxy time slot, obtaining a second proxy time slot allocation table, and sends the second proxy time slot allocation table to the next-level proxy coordinator; wherein, the first proxy time slot allocation table is a central time slot allocation table sent by the central proxy coordinator or a proxy time slot allocation table sent by the directly connected upper-level proxy coordinator; The proxy frame interpolation module is used to sequentially obtain the message reception status of each next-level device when the time corresponding to the proxy time slot is reached, so as to perform proxy frame interpolation operation on the corresponding next-level device according to the message reception status; wherein, the next-level device is the next-level proxy coordinator or the next-level STA device directly connected to the proxy coordinator in the target area network.

Images