How to update the firmware of an air conditioner, an air conditioner equipped with a firmware update method, and a program

Abstract

To provide an update method of the firmware of an air conditioner having such as a possibility that the air conditioner can be operated even if a failure caused by updated firmware occurs, and the air conditioner.SOLUTION: An air conditioner stores at least one piece of firmware, and is operated by first firmware out of at least one piece of the firmware. An update method includes: a step for acquiring second firmware being a version which is newer than the first firmware; a step for applying the second firmware to the air conditioner, restarting the air conditioner, and making the air conditioner operated by the second firmware; and a step for applying firmware which is stored by the air conditioner, and different from the second firmware, restarting the air conditioner, and making the air conditioner operated by the firmware which is different from the second firmware when an abnormality is detected by a watchdog timer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioner, and more particularly to a method for updating the firmware (FW) of an air conditioner, an air conditioner, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] An air conditioner can operate in a plurality of operating modes such as a heating mode and a cooling mode. By controlling the indoor temperature, the air conditioner can create a comfortable environment suitable for human activities. In winter or summer when the indoor temperature drops or rises significantly, not operating the air conditioner can even be harmful to the user's health. Especially in extremely cold or hot regions, the operation of the air conditioner contributes to the user's overcoming of harsh environments.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Currently, there are technologies for controlling an air conditioner via the Internet and updating the firmware of an air conditioner via the Internet. Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioning system in which a user can update a control program such as firmware at a time of their preference.

[0005] The firmware and other control programs of the air conditioning system described in Reference 1 are updated while the air conditioner is stopped. However, if, for example, the updated firmware is faulty, the air conditioner may not be able to operate properly. Conventional air conditioners have no way to deal with such situations, so they cannot be operated until the user calls a technician and the repairs are completed. This situation, for example, in high-temperature or low-temperature environments, could be harmful to the user's health.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner, an air conditioner, and a program that suppress situations in which the air conditioner does not operate properly due to the updated firmware. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the aforementioned problems, the present invention provides a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner and an air conditioner.

[0008] An air conditioner to which a firmware update method for an air conditioner according to one aspect of the present invention is applied stores at least one firmware and operates with a first firmware among the at least one firmware. The firmware update method for an air conditioner includes the steps of: obtaining a second firmware which is a newer version than the first firmware; applying the second firmware, restarting the air conditioner, and causing the air conditioner to operate with the second firmware; and, when an abnormality is detected by a watchdog timer (WDT), applying a different firmware stored by the air conditioner from the second firmware, restarting the air conditioner, and causing the air conditioner to operate with the different firmware from the second firmware.

[0009] Furthermore, another embodiment of the present invention includes a first storage unit and a first control unit. The first storage unit stores at least one firmware. The air conditioner operates with the first firmware among the at least one firmware. The first control unit is configured to acquire a second firmware which is a newer version than the first firmware, store the second firmware in the first storage unit, apply the second firmware, restart the air conditioner, operate the air conditioner with the second firmware, and when an abnormality is detected by the watchdog timer, apply a different firmware stored in the first storage unit, restart the air conditioner, and operate the air conditioner with the different firmware.

[0010] Furthermore, another embodiment of the present invention is a program that causes an air conditioner to execute a method for updating the firmware of the air conditioner. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] In the present invention, the method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner, the air conditioner itself, and the program make it possible to suppress situations in which the air conditioner does not operate properly due to the updated firmware. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] Block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the air conditioner in Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Flowchart of an example of a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner in Embodiment 1 [Figure 3] Flowchart of an example of step S110 in Embodiment 2 [Figure 4A] Block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the air conditioner in Embodiment 3. [Figure 4B] Block diagram showing another example of the schematic configuration of the air conditioner in Embodiment 3. [Figure 5]Flowchart of an example of a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner in Embodiment 4 [Figure 6] An example of a user interface displayed on a terminal device in Embodiment 4 [Figure 7] Flowchart of an example of a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner in Embodiment 5 [Figure 8] Flowchart of an example of a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner in Embodiment 6 [Figure 9] Sequence diagram of an example of a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner in Embodiment 7 [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] First, we will explain how to update the firmware of the air conditioner, as well as the various aspects of the air conditioner and the program.

[0014] An air conditioner to which the firmware update method for an air conditioner according to the first aspect of the present invention is applied stores at least one firmware and operates with the first firmware among the at least one firmware. The firmware update method for an air conditioner includes the steps of: obtaining a second firmware which is a newer version than the first firmware; applying the second firmware, restarting the air conditioner, and causing the air conditioner to operate with the second firmware; and when an abnormality is detected by the watchdog timer, applying a different firmware stored in the air conditioner than the second firmware, restarting the air conditioner, and causing the air conditioner to operate with the different firmware.

[0015] The firmware update method of the air conditioner according to the second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, the step of obtaining the second firmware may include: querying a server associated with the air conditioner to determine whether there is a firmware of a version newer than the first firmware; when receiving a response that there is a firmware of a new version, downloading the firmware of the new version from the server as the second firmware; and performing an error check on the downloaded second firmware.

[0016] The firmware update method of the air conditioner according to the third aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect or the second aspect, in the step of obtaining the second firmware, if it is determined that the current time is a predetermined period in a year, the second firmware may be obtained. Compared with the operation frequency of the air conditioner in a period other than the predetermined period in a year, the operation frequency of the air conditioner may be low in the predetermined period. That is, when the operation frequency of the air conditioner is low, the second firmware may be obtained.

[0017] The firmware update method of the air conditioner according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in the third aspect, the determination of whether the current time is a predetermined period may be made based on at least one of the current date, indoor temperature, indoor relative humidity, outdoor temperature, and solar radiation amount.

[0018] The firmware update method of the air conditioner according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to fourth aspects, the air conditioner may store two firmware. The firmware stored in the air conditioner and different from the second firmware may be the first firmware.

[0019] The sixth embodiment of the present invention provides a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner, in any one of the first to fourth embodiments, wherein the air conditioner may store three or more firmwares. The firmware stored by the air conditioner that is different from the second firmware may be the firmware with the newest version among the firmwares different from the second firmware.

[0020] A seventh embodiment of the present invention, a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner, may further include, in any one of the first to sixth embodiments, the step of deleting the second firmware when an abnormality is detected by a watchdog timer.

[0021] The eighth aspect of the method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner according to the present invention may further include, in any one of the first to seventh aspects, the step of deleting the oldest firmware among the firmwares different from the second firmware from the air conditioner if no abnormality is detected by the watchdog timer within a predetermined time.

[0022] A method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner according to the ninth aspect of the present invention may further include, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, a step of querying the terminal device associated with the air conditioner whether to update to the second firmware, before the step of operating the air conditioner with the second firmware. The step of operating the air conditioner with the second firmware may be performed when an update approval command is received from the terminal device.

[0023] An air conditioner according to a tenth aspect of the present invention includes a first storage unit and a first control unit. The first storage unit stores at least one firmware. The air conditioner operates with the first firmware among the at least one firmware. The first control unit is configured to obtain a second firmware which is a newer version than the first firmware, store the second firmware in the first storage unit, apply the second firmware, restart the air conditioner, operate the air conditioner with the second firmware, and when an abnormality is detected by the watchdog timer, apply a different firmware stored in the first storage unit, restart the air conditioner, and operate the air conditioner with the different firmware.

[0024] An eleventh embodiment of the present invention, in the tenth embodiment, may further include an air conditioning communication unit capable of communicating with a server associated with the air conditioning unit. The first control unit may be further configured to query the server via the air conditioning communication unit whether there is a newer version of the firmware than the first firmware when acquiring the second firmware, and when it receives a response via the air conditioning communication unit that there is a newer version of the firmware, it downloads the newer version of the firmware from the server as the second firmware and performs an error check on the downloaded second firmware.

[0025] In the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the air conditioner may be further configured in the tenth or eleventh aspect to acquire the second firmware if the first control unit determines that the current time is a predetermined period of the year when acquiring the second firmware. The operating frequency of the air conditioner during the predetermined period may be lower than the operating frequency of the air conditioner during other periods of the year.

[0026] In the 13th embodiment of the present invention, in the 12th embodiment, the determination of whether the present time is a predetermined time can be made based on at least one of the current date, indoor temperature, indoor relative humidity, outdoor temperature, and solar radiation.

[0027] In the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the tenth to thirteenth aspects of the air conditioner, the first storage unit may store two firmwares. The firmware stored in the first storage unit, which is different from the second firmware, may be the first firmware.

[0028] In the air conditioner of the 15th aspect of the present invention, in any one of the 10th to 13th aspects, the first storage unit may store three or more firmwares. The firmware stored in the first storage unit that is different from the second firmware may be the firmware with the newest version among the firmwares that are different from the second firmware.

[0029] In the sixteenth embodiment of the present invention, in any one of the tenth to fifteenth embodiments, the first control unit may be further configured to delete the second firmware when an abnormality is detected by the watchdog timer.

[0030] In the 17th embodiment of the present invention, in any one of the 10th to 16th embodiments, the first control unit may be further configured to delete the oldest firmware among the firmwares different from the second firmware when the watchdog timer has not detected an abnormality within a predetermined time.

[0031] An air conditioner according to the 18th embodiment of the present invention may further include an air conditioning communication unit capable of communicating with a terminal device associated with the air conditioner, in any one of the 10th to 17th embodiments. The first control unit may further be configured to query the terminal device via the air conditioning communication unit whether to update to the second firmware before operating the air conditioner with the second firmware, and to operate the air conditioner with the second firmware when it receives an update approval command from the terminal device via the air conditioning communication unit.

[0032] An air conditioner according to a 19th aspect of the present invention may further include a second storage unit and a second control unit in any one of the 10th to 18th aspects. The second control unit may be configured to acquire a second firmware via a communication unit and store it in the second storage unit, and to transmit the second firmware to the first control unit for storage of the second firmware in the first storage unit. The first storage unit and the first control unit may be independent of the second storage unit and the second control unit.

[0033] The program of the 20th aspect of the present invention causes the air conditioner to execute the firmware update method for the air conditioner according to any one of the first to ninth aspects.

[0034] 《Technical concept》 Before describing specific embodiments of the method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner, the air conditioner, and the program according to the present invention, the technical concepts described herein will first be explained using an example. In this example, the air conditioner includes a first storage unit and a first control unit operating with a first firmware. To update the firmware, the first control unit obtains a new second firmware and applies the second firmware. If an abnormality is detected by a watchdog timer within a predetermined period after application, the first control unit applies a different firmware from the second firmware. In this way, it is possible to suppress situations in which the air conditioner does not operate normally due to the updated firmware.

[0035] Embodiment 1 Hereinafter, Embodiment 1 of the method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner, the air conditioner, and the program according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate.

[0036] Embodiment 1, described below, illustrates an example of the present invention. The numerical values, shapes, configurations, steps, and order of steps shown in Embodiment 1 below are illustrative examples and do not limit the present invention. Among the components in Embodiment 1 below, components not described in the independent claim representing the highest-level concept will be described as optional components.

[0037] In Embodiment 1 described below, variations may be shown for certain elements, and for other elements, it is possible to combine any configuration as appropriate, and each combined configuration will produce its respective effect. In Embodiment 1, by combining the configurations of each variation, the effects of each variation will be achieved.

[0038] In the following detailed descriptions, terms such as “First,” “Second,” etc., are used for illustrative purposes only and should not be understood as expressing or implying relative importance or ranking of technical features. Features designated as “First” or “Second” express or imply that they include one or more such features.

[0039] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of an air conditioner in Embodiment 1. The air conditioner 20 performs a firmware update method and operates with firmware suitable for itself. The schematic of each component is described below.

[0040] <Air conditioner 20> The air conditioner 20 is a control space that targets the interior space of a room in a home or office for air conditioning control, and has an indoor unit installed on the wall or ceiling of the control space, and an outdoor unit installed outdoors, in a central air conditioning room other than the control space. The air conditioner 20 has, for example, a cooling function, a heating function, a dehumidifying function, and / or an air purifying function, and these functions and operating modes can be freely combined (for example, a cooling and dehumidifying function).

[0041] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the air conditioner 20 includes a first storage unit 21, a first control unit 22, and an air conditioning communication unit 23. The air conditioner 20 may further include at least one of various sensors 24 to perform its functions. The air conditioner 20 may also include a display for displaying visual information to the user.

[0042] The first storage unit 21 and the first control unit 22 are configured to operate in either cooling mode or heating mode. The firmware updated by the firmware update method for the air conditioner of this disclosure is a program for controlling the basic operation of the first storage unit 21 and the first control unit 22.

[0043] In one embodiment, the air conditioner 20 is a separate type having an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, the first control unit 22 is the control unit of the indoor unit, and the firmware to be updated in this disclosure is a program applied to the first control unit 22 of the indoor unit. In another embodiment, the air conditioner 20 is a separate type having an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, and the first control unit 22 includes the control unit of the indoor unit and the control unit of the outdoor unit. In this embodiment, the firmware to be updated in this disclosure includes a program applied to the control unit of the indoor unit and a program applied to the control unit of the control unit of the outdoor unit. In yet another embodiment, the air conditioner 20 is an integrated type, the first control unit 22 controls the entire air conditioner 20, and the firmware to be updated in this disclosure is a program applied to the first control unit 22 of the entire air conditioner 20.

[0044] <First storage section 21> The first storage unit 21 is a recording medium for recording various information and control programs, and may also be a memory that functions as a work area for the first control unit 22. The first storage unit 21 can be implemented as, for example, flash memory, RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), other storage devices, or a combination thereof as appropriate.

[0045] The first storage unit 21 stores at least one firmware for the first storage unit 21 and the first control unit 22. In one embodiment, the first storage unit 21 has two storage spaces for storing firmware, namely a first storage space 212 and a second storage space 213. The first storage space 212 and the second storage space 213 are sometimes referred to as the "A side" and the "B side" of the first storage unit 21. In other embodiments, the first storage unit 21 has three or more storage spaces for storing firmware, for example, a first storage space 212, a second storage space 213, and a third storage space 214.

[0046] The first to third memory spaces 212 to 214 are data-storage spaces within the first memory unit 21, logically or physically partitioned for memory management purposes. In one embodiment, the first memory unit 21 is a rewritable ROM, and the first to third memory spaces 212 to 214 are banks within the ROM. Each bank (first to third memory spaces 212 to 214) can store one firmware and has a capacity greater than or equal to the file size of one firmware.

[0047] In this disclosure, one of the at least one firmwares stored in the first storage unit 21 causes (or operates) the first storage unit 21 and the first control unit 22 when the air conditioner 20 is in operation. The storage space in which the firmware is stored is called the "operational storage space" or "operational plane".

[0048] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the first storage unit 21 has an indicator 211 for specifying the "operational memory space". For example, the first control unit 22 may specify the "operational memory space" by storing the names or identifiers of the first storage spaces 212 to the third storage spaces 214, which constitute the "operational memory space," in the indicator 211. The indicator 211 represents the firmware in operation and can be implemented, for example, with flags, parameters, registers, or data indicated by a specific memory address. When the air conditioner 20 is started, it reads the firmware in the "operational memory space" specified by the indicator 211 and operates using that firmware.

[0049] <First Control Unit 22> The first control unit 22 is a controller that is responsible for controlling at least some of the functions of the air conditioner 20. The first control unit 22 includes a general-purpose processor such as a CPU, MPU, MCU, FPGA, DSP, or ASIC that realizes predetermined functions by executing a program. The first control unit 22 can realize various controls in the air conditioner 20 by calling and executing a control program stored in the first storage unit 21. In addition, the first control unit 22 can cooperate with the first storage unit 21 to read and write data stored in the first storage unit 21. The first control unit 22 and the second control unit 26 are not limited to realizing predetermined functions through the cooperation of hardware and software, but may also be hardware circuits specifically designed to realize predetermined functions.

[0050] The first control unit 22 can communicate with the server 10 via the air conditioning communication unit 23. Similarly, the first control unit 22 can receive various commands and settings from the user (for example, a command to start the air conditioner 20, a temperature setting command, and an update approval command) from the terminal device 30 via the air conditioning communication unit 23. Based on these settings and detection values ​​received from various sensors 24 (for example, room temperature, user's location), the first control unit 22 controls each component of the air conditioner 20 to perform its cooling and heating functions. The first control unit 22 also updates the firmware of the air conditioner 20 based on the firmware update method for the air conditioner described later.

[0051] <Air Conditioning Communication Department 23> The air conditioning communication unit 23 can also communicate with the server 10 and the user's terminal device 30, and can, for example, send and receive internet packets. As described above, the first control unit 22 may cooperate with the server 10 and / or terminal device 30 via the air conditioning communication unit 23.

[0052] <Sensor 24> Sensor 24 is used to acquire various information from outside the air conditioner 20 in order to enable the air conditioner 20 to perform its functions. For example, sensor 24 may be an indoor temperature sensor that detects the temperature inside the room in which the air conditioner is installed, an outdoor temperature sensor that detects the temperature outside the room, or a motion sensor that detects the presence and location of a user in the room. The information detected by sensor 24 is input to and stored in the first storage unit 21, and later used by the first control unit 22 or transmitted to the terminal device 30 or server 10.

[0053] <Watchdog timer function> The air conditioner 20 has a watchdog timer function (sometimes abbreviated as "watchdog timer" in this disclosure) that monitors whether the first control unit 22 is operating normally. The watchdog timer detects an abnormality when the first control unit 22 malfunctions or enters an abnormal state, and notifies the first control unit 22 of the detected abnormality. The watchdog timer may also notify the first control unit 22 of additional information useful for debugging the problem that caused the abnormality (for example, the state of the first control unit 21 at the time of the abnormality, parameters related to the compressor, parameters related to the fan, detected values ​​of the sensor 24, etc.) along with the detection of the abnormality. The watchdog timer may store the detected abnormality and related information on a medium.

[0054] It is well known that the watchdog timer function can be implemented by software, hardware, firmware, or a combination thereof. For example, it can be implemented as a separate circuit or as a circuit incorporated into the first control unit 22. Therefore, although this disclosure does not describe in detail the means of implementing the watchdog timer function, any implementation means is within the scope of this disclosure.

[0055] <Terminal device 30> The terminal device 30 is a device related to the air conditioner 20. The terminal device 30 may be, for example, a controller for the air conditioner 20, or a controller that can simultaneously manage and control multiple types of home appliances. Alternatively, the terminal device 30 may be an information terminal that can communicate data with the air conditioner 20, such as a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet, wearable device, or computer with a dedicated related application 32 installed. The server 10 or the first control unit 22 can obtain settings or commands entered by the user via the terminal device 30. Generally, the terminal device 30 includes a display for displaying a graphical user interface (GUI). However, when interacting with the user via a voice user interface (VUI), the terminal device 30 may include a speaker and a microphone instead of, or in addition to, the display.

[0056] <Server 10> Server 10 is a server for providing firmware updates to at least one air conditioner 20, but may be used for other purposes. For example, Server 10 may be a management server for the air conditioner 20 manufacturer for managing at least one air conditioner 20 or for collecting data. Alternatively, Server 10 may be an application server. In Embodiment 1, Server 10 includes a server storage unit 12 and a server control unit 14. Server 10 may further include a server communication unit 16 for communicating with the air conditioner 20 or terminal device 30.

[0057] <Server storage unit 12> The server storage unit 12 is a recording medium that stores various information and control programs, and may also be memory that functions as a workspace for the server control unit 14. The server storage unit 12 can be implemented as, for example, flash memory, SSD (Solid State Device), hard disk, RAM, ROM, other storage devices, or a combination thereof as appropriate. The server storage unit 12 may be the memory inside the server 10, or it may be a storage device connected to the server 10 via wireless or wired communication.

[0058] The server storage unit 12 stores the firmware to be provided to the air conditioner 20. In one embodiment, multiple firmware versions corresponding to various air conditioner 20 models, part numbers, sales regions, etc., are pre-generated by the air conditioner 20 manufacturer or management company and stored in the server storage unit 12. The server storage unit 12 may store the latest version of the firmware as well as at least some of the previous versions of the firmware, and may also store the firmware release history. It may also store the version information of each firmware, the required memory size, identification number, and information such as the air conditioner 20 model, part number, and sales region corresponding to the firmware, and the server control unit 14 can cross-reference this information.

[0059] <Server Control Unit 14> The server control unit 14 of server 10 is a controller that oversees the overall control of server 10. The server control unit 14 includes a general-purpose processor such as a CPU, MPU, GPU, FPGA, DSP, or ASIC that implements predetermined functions by executing a program. The server control unit 14 can implement various controls on server 10 by calling and executing control programs stored in server memory 12. The server control unit 14 can also work in cooperation with server memory 12 to read and write data stored in server memory 12. The server control unit 14 is not limited to those that implement predetermined functions through the cooperation of hardware and software, but may also be a hardware circuit specifically designed to implement predetermined functions.

[0060] <Server Communication Unit 16> The server communication unit 16 can also communicate with the air conditioner 20 and the terminal device 30 by cooperating with the server control unit 14 to send and receive Internet packets. For example, the server 10 may receive commands from the terminal device 30 via the server communication unit 16, or send instructions to the air conditioner 20. The server communication unit 16 or the air conditioning communication unit 23 may communicate with the server 10, the air conditioner 20, and the terminal device 30 in accordance with standards such as Wi-Fi®, IEEE802.2, IEEE802.3, 3G, and LTE, and send and receive data. In addition to the Internet, communication may also be conducted via intranets, extranets, LANs, ISDN, VANs, CATV networks, virtual private networks, telephone networks, mobile communication networks, satellite communication networks, infrared, and Bluetooth®.

[0061] <How to update the firmware of your air conditioner> The air conditioner 20 uses the first storage unit 21 and the first control unit 22 to perform a firmware update method for the air conditioner. This update method makes it possible to suppress situations in which the air conditioner does not operate normally due to the updated firmware. Figure 2 is a flowchart of the firmware update method for the air conditioner in Embodiment 1, and the firmware update method for the air conditioner includes the following steps S110 to S140.

[0062] First, the first storage unit 21 stores at least one firmware. When the air conditioner 20 is in operation, the first control unit 21 operates with the first firmware among the at least one firmware. When it is necessary to update the first firmware, the first control unit 22 obtains a second firmware, which is a newer version than the first firmware (step S110). The obtained second firmware is stored in the first storage unit 21, for example, in the second storage space 213.

[0063] In one embodiment, the first control unit 22 obtains the second firmware from the server 10 via the air conditioning communication unit 23. However, other means of acquisition are possible. For example, the first control unit 22 may obtain the second firmware via Wi-Fi® or Bluetooth® with the terminal device 30. Also, if the air conditioner 20 has an interface that can read data from a specific storage medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) device, the first control unit 22 may obtain the second firmware from such an interface.

[0064] Next, the first control unit 22 applies the acquired second firmware, restarts the air conditioner 20, and operates the air conditioner 20 with the second firmware (step S120). The first control unit 22 rewrites the indicator 211 to designate the memory space where the second firmware is stored as the "operation memory space". This applies the second firmware to the air conditioner 20. For example, the first memory space 212, which stored the first firmware that was operating the first control unit 22 before the update, is rewritten as the "operation memory space" to the second memory space 213, which stores the newly acquired second firmware.

[0065] Generally, before performing step S120, it is necessary to temporarily suspend or completely stop the operation of the air conditioner 20, such as the cooling mode. The first control unit 22 applies the second firmware and then restarts the air conditioner 20. Upon restarting, the air conditioner 20 reads the second firmware and operates according to the second firmware. Since the air conditioner 20 cannot operate in cooling mode, etc., while step S120 is being performed, a message such as "The air conditioner is currently unavailable because it is undergoing a firmware update" may be displayed on the terminal device 30 to inform the user of this.

[0066] Within a predetermined period after the air conditioner 20 restarts and operates under the second firmware, the first control unit 22 determines whether an abnormality has been detected by the watchdog timer (step S130). The predetermined period may be, for example, 10 seconds, 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 1 day, or a longer period. If no abnormality is detected by the watchdog timer within the predetermined period (no in step S130 in Figure 2), the firmware update process is completed.

[0067] When the watchdog timer detects an abnormality ("Yes" in step S130 of Figure 2), the normal operation of the first control unit 22 is stopped, and the cooling mode, etc., becomes inoperable. Therefore, in order to recover from the suspension of operation, the first control unit 22 applies firmware that is stored in the first storage unit 21 of the air conditioner 20 and is different from the second firmware, restarts the air conditioner 20, and makes the air conditioner 20 operate with the firmware different from the second firmware (step S140). Since an abnormality occurred when applying the second firmware, the first control unit 22 attempts to recover the air conditioner 20 by applying firmware different from the second firmware. If no abnormality is detected after applying the different firmware and the air conditioner 20 can operate normally, the recovery of operation is considered successful. Note that if an abnormality occurs when applying the second firmware, it may be considered an "update failure".

[0068] Depending on the architecture of the first control unit 22 and the type of watchdog timer, it may be possible to detect only the occurrence of an anomaly, or it may be possible to detect the nature, severity, and frequency of the anomaly. For example, the first control unit 22 may determine the nature and severity of the anomaly based on additional information such as the state of the first control unit 21 at the time of the anomaly, parameters related to the compressor, parameters related to the fan, and detected values ​​from the sensor 24.

[0069] In one embodiment, the first memory unit 21 of the air conditioner 20 has two memory spaces. For example, the first memory space 212 and the second memory space 213 store the first firmware and the second firmware, respectively. Since there are only two memory spaces for firmware, in step S110, the memory space that is not the "operation memory space" becomes the space for storing the new firmware (second firmware) (hereinafter referred to as the "update memory space" or "update surface"). Unless an abnormality occurs, when updating the firmware, the second firmware is written alternately to the first firmware and the second firmware. When an abnormality is detected by the watchdog timer, in step S140, the aforementioned "firmware stored in the first memory unit 21 of the air conditioner 20 that is different from the second firmware" is the first firmware that was originally used. Therefore, in step S140, the first control unit 22 applies the first firmware to the air conditioner 20 and makes the air conditioner 20 operate with the first firmware.

[0070] In other embodiments, the first storage unit 21 of the air conditioner 20 has three or more storage spaces. For example, the first storage space 212 stores the first firmware, and the second storage space 213 stores the second firmware. The third storage space 214 does not have to store firmware, and may store firmware different from the first and second firmware. In step S110, the first control unit 22 stores the second firmware in a storage space other than the "operation storage space". For example, the second firmware may be stored in the storage space with the oldest write time of the data (firmware) in that storage space.

[0071] In an embodiment in which the first storage unit 21 stores three or more firmware versions, in step S140, the "firmware stored in the first storage unit 21 of the air conditioner 20 that is different from the second firmware" may be the firmware with the newest version among the firmware versions that are different from the second firmware. For example, the firmware versions stored in the first storage space 212, the second storage space 213, and the third storage space 214 are "1.0", "2.0", and "3.0", and the version of the second firmware is "3.0". In step S140, the first control unit 22 applies the firmware that is not version "3.0" and has the newest version, i.e., firmware with version "2.0", to the air conditioner 20.

[0072] Furthermore, in an embodiment in which the first storage unit 21 stores three or more firmware versions, when an abnormality is detected in order to restore operation of the air conditioner 20, the system may sequentially switch to (apply) older firmware versions. For example, if an abnormality is detected by the watchdog timer even after applying firmware version "2.0" and restarting, the first control unit 22 may further apply firmware version "1.0" and restart the air conditioner 20.

[0073] In one embodiment, when the watchdog timer detects an anomaly, the first control unit 22 feeds the anomaly back to the server 10 via the air conditioning communication unit 23. When an anomaly is detected, before or after step S140, the first control unit 22 may notify the server 10 of the occurrence of the anomaly and information related to the second firmware. Information related to the second firmware may include the version information of the second firmware, the identification information of the second firmware, and / or the identifier of the air conditioner 20. If the watchdog timer has saved or notified the first control unit 22 of other information related to the anomaly (e.g., error code, the state of the first control unit 22 at the time of the anomaly, compressor parameters, fan parameters, sensor 24 detection values, etc.), the first control unit 22 may notify the server 10 of this information. In addition, a message indicating that an anomaly has occurred and the firmware update has failed, or that the air conditioner 20 cannot be operated, may be notified to and displayed on the terminal device 30.

[0074] The firmware update process for the air conditioner 20 may be completed by executing step S140, or by executing step S140 and providing feedback of any abnormalities to the server 10 and / or terminal device 30.

[0075] In one embodiment, the air conditioner has a program used to perform the update method described above. This program causes the air conditioner to perform the firmware update method.

[0076] Conventionally, when an abnormality is detected by the watchdog timer, the only option is to shut off the power to the air conditioner 20, which remains inoperable. However, according to the air conditioner firmware update method, air conditioner, and program of this disclosure, even if an abnormality or failure occurs due to the updated second firmware, the air conditioner 20 can potentially operate because it can switch to the other firmware and restart. In other words, it is possible to suppress situations in which the air conditioner does not operate normally due to the updated firmware. Since this switching is a control that the air conditioner 20 performs automatically, the failure can be dealt with without any special action from the user or without calling a technician for repairs. Therefore, for example, even if the update of the second firmware fails when the outside temperature is above 32°C or below 10°C, the possibility of harm to the user's health can be reduced.

[0077] Embodiment 2 <Obtaining the second firmware> In Embodiment 2, the air conditioner 20 can acquire a second firmware from the server 10 associated with the air conditioner 20.

[0078] Figure 3 is a flowchart of an example of step S110 in Embodiment 2. In the example in Figure 3, step S110 for acquiring the second firmware includes the following steps S111 to S114.

[0079] First, the first control unit 22 of the air conditioner 20 queries the server 10 via the air conditioning communication unit 23 to see if there is a newer version of firmware than the first firmware (step S111). The first control unit 22 may query the server 10 periodically, for example, once a month.

[0080] In one embodiment, the first control unit 22 queries the server 10 with information about the first firmware (e.g., version information or other identification information). In another embodiment, the server storage unit 12 stores information about the first firmware applied to the air conditioner 20, and the first control unit 22 queries the server 10 with the identification information of the air conditioner 20.

[0081] When the server control unit 14 receives a query via the server communication unit 16, it determines whether there is a newer version of firmware than the first firmware by comparing it with the firmware information stored in the server storage unit 12. For example, the server storage unit 12 stores a list of firmware version information it possesses. The server control unit 14 obtains the version information of the first firmware from the query and compares this version information with the list to determine whether the first firmware is already the latest firmware or whether a newer version exists. The server control unit 14 responds with the determination result to the first control unit 22 of the air conditioner 20 via the server communication unit 16.

[0082] When the first control unit 22 receives a response from the server 10 indicating that a new version of the firmware is available, it downloads the new version of the firmware from the server 10 as the second firmware (step S112). As described above, if the first storage unit 21 has two storage spaces, the downloaded second firmware is stored in a storage space other than the "operational storage space". If the first storage unit 21 has three or more storage spaces, the downloaded second firmware may be stored in the storage space with the oldest write time of the data (firmware) in that storage space. The first control unit 22 may also determine if there is a storage space in the first storage unit 21 that does not have firmware recorded in it, and if there is, it may store the second firmware in that storage space.

[0083] If the download fails due to poor communication in the air conditioning communication unit 23 or the internet connection, you may retry the download multiple times. If it still fails, you may try downloading again the following day or later.

[0084] The first control unit 22 then performs an error check on the downloaded second firmware (step S113). In one embodiment, the first control unit 22 performs an error check on the identification information and cyclic redundancy check (CRC) of the downloaded second firmware. The identification information may further include, in addition to version information, the model ID (model identifier) ​​of the air conditioner 20, the model number of the air conditioner 20, and at least one of the memory size required for the firmware. Other error checking (EC) or error check and correct (ECC) techniques besides CRC can also be used in step S113.

[0085] Only firmware that has passed the error check is stored in the first storage unit 21 and applied to the air conditioner 20. If an error is detected during the error check, for example, if an undesirable version of firmware has been downloaded, or if the downloaded data is corrupted, the first storage unit 21 may redownload the second firmware. If an error is detected during the error check, the first control unit 22 may discard the downloaded data or notify the server 10 of the error.

[0086] If the answer in step S111 is "No", the first control unit 22 may query the server 10 again after a certain period of time, for example, it may query about a new version again after one month.

[0087] This completes the process of obtaining the second firmware from the server 10. By storing multiple firmware versions corresponding to various air conditioner 20 models, part numbers, and sales regions in the server 10, and having the air conditioner 20 download the second firmware immediately before updating, the server 10 can more easily prepare and update the firmware. In this way, the firmware provider can update the firmware stored in the server 10 based on feedback from the user, the air conditioner 20, or the terminal device 30, and can provide firmware flexibly.

[0088] Embodiment 3 <If the air conditioner 20 includes an independent module that performs internet-related control> In Embodiment 3, the air conditioner 20 further includes an independent module, and control related to the Internet can be integrated into this independent module.

[0089] Figure 4A is a block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of an air conditioner in Embodiment 3. The air conditioner 20 further includes a second storage unit 25 and a second control unit 26, the second storage unit 25 and the second control unit 26 being independent of the first storage unit 21 and the first control unit 22. In Embodiment 3, the first storage unit 21 and the first control unit 22 are configured to operate in cooling mode or heating mode. The second storage unit 25 and the second control unit 26 form an independent module and are configured to communicate with a server 10 for providing firmware updates and to obtain firmware updates.

[0090] The firmware updated by the firmware update method for the air conditioner described herein is a program for controlling the basic operation of the first storage unit 21 and the first control unit 22, but not a program for controlling the basic operation of the second storage unit 25 and the second control unit 26. In other words, the firmware referred to in this disclosure does not apply to the second storage unit 25 and the second control unit 26. Therefore, updating the firmware for the first storage unit 21 and the first control unit 22 does not affect the operation of the second storage unit 25 and the second control unit 26.

[0091] The second storage unit 25 is a recording medium for recording various information and control programs, and may also be a memory that functions as a work area for the second control unit 26. The second storage unit 25 may be implemented as, for example, flash memory, RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), other storage devices, or a combination thereof as appropriate.

[0092] The second control unit 26 is a controller that manages internet-related control in the air conditioner 20. The second control unit 26 includes a general-purpose processor such as a CPU, MPU, MCU, FPGA, DSP, or ASIC that realizes predetermined functions by executing a program. The second control unit 26 can realize internet-related control by calling and executing a control program stored in the second storage unit 25. In addition, the second control unit 26 can cooperate with the second storage unit 25 to read and write data stored in the second storage unit 25. The second control unit 26 is not limited to realizing predetermined functions through the cooperation of hardware and software, but may also be a hardware circuit specifically designed to realize predetermined functions.

[0093] It should be noted that the firmware subject to update in this disclosure is a program applied to the first control unit 22, and not a program for controlling the basic operation of the second storage unit 21 and the second control unit 26. In other words, the firmware referred to in this disclosure does not apply to the second storage unit 25 and the second control unit 26. Therefore, firmware updates for the first storage unit 21 and the first control unit 25 do not affect the operation of the second storage unit 25 and the second control unit 26.

[0094] In Embodiment 3, the first control unit 22 can communicate with the server 10 and / or terminal device 30 via the air conditioning communication unit 23, or via the air conditioning communication unit 23 and the second control unit 26. Therefore, the second control unit 22 may transfer data (commands and set values) received from the server 10 and / or terminal device 30 to the first control unit 22 via the air conditioning communication unit 23 and the internet. On the other hand, the second control unit 22 may receive data (detected values ​​and set values) related to the air conditioner 20 from the first control unit 22 and transfer such data to the server 10 and / or terminal device 30 via the internet.

[0095] In one embodiment, the second control unit 26 is configured to communicate with a server 10 for providing firmware updates and to obtain the firmware updates.

[0096] Specifically, the second control unit 26 downloads the second firmware from the server 10 via the internet and stores it in the second storage unit 25. After the download of the second firmware is complete, the second control unit 26 transfers the second firmware from the second storage unit 25 to the first control unit 22, and the first control unit 22 stores the transferred second firmware in one of the storage spaces of the first storage unit 21.

[0097] <Another example of the air conditioning communication unit 23> Figure 4B is a block diagram showing another example of the schematic configuration of the air conditioner in Embodiment 3. In the embodiment of Figure 4B, the air conditioning communication unit 23 includes a first communication unit 23a and a second communication unit 23b. On the other hand, the second communication unit 23b is included in an independent module and works in cooperation with the second control unit 26 to perform internet-related communications. The first communication unit 23a works in cooperation with the first control unit 22 to perform communications that are not related to the internet. For example, if the terminal device 30 is a controller (remote control) of the air conditioner 20, the first communication unit 32a can communicate with the terminal device 30 via infrared communication, Bluetooth®, wired communication, etc.

[0098] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4B, Internet communication between the air conditioner 20 and the server 10, and Internet communication between the air conditioner 20 and the terminal device 30 are performed by the second control unit 26 and the second communication unit 23b.

[0099] According to the firmware update method for an air conditioner, the air conditioner, and the program of Embodiment 3, internet-related controls can be consolidated into the independent module.

[0100] Embodiment 4 <Require user approval for updates> In Embodiment 4, even if a new version of the second firmware is obtained, the update is performed only after obtaining user approval for the update.

[0101] Figure 5 is a flowchart of an example of a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner in Embodiment 4. Before applying the second firmware (step S200), the first control unit 22 queries the air conditioner 20 and associated terminal device 30 via the air conditioning communication unit 23 whether to update to the second firmware (step S116).

[0102] When making an inquiry, the first control unit 22 may display a user interface requesting approval to the related application 32 of the terminal device 30. Figure 6 is an example of a user interface displayed on the terminal device 30 in Embodiment 4. On screen 40, the current version, the fact that a new firmware update is ready, and an "Agree" button 41 for obtaining user approval are displayed. When the user presses the "Agree" button 41, the terminal device 30 sends an update approval command to the air conditioner 20 indicating that the user approves the firmware update.

[0103] After the inquiry, the first control unit 22 determines whether it has received an update approval command from the terminal device 30 via the air conditioning communication unit 23 (step S117). When it receives an update approval command from the terminal device 30, the first control unit 22 executes step S120 to cause the air conditioner to operate with the second firmware.

[0104] On the other hand, if the answer in step S117 is "No", the first control unit 22 does not execute step S120. In Embodiment 4, the firmware is updated to the second firmware only after user approval is obtained. If the first control unit 22 has not received an update approval command within a predetermined period after making an inquiry, it may make another inquiry after some time has passed. For example, it may make another inquiry the next day to obtain user approval.

[0105] According to the firmware update method, air conditioner, and program of Embodiment 4, even if new firmware (second firmware) is obtained, the firmware is updated to the new firmware only after obtaining user approval for the update. Therefore, the user can understand what the update is doing, and the security of the update can be improved.

[0106] Embodiment 5 <Check the current date before updating> In Embodiment 5, the firmware update method for the air conditioner is performed only at a predetermined time of year. This time is when the air conditioner 20 is operated at a low frequency, that is, it is neither the hottest nor the coldest time of year.

[0107] Figure 7 is a flowchart of an example of a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner in Embodiment 5. Before acquiring the second firmware, the first control unit 22 determines whether it is currently a predetermined period of the year (step S105). The operating frequency of the air conditioner 20 is lower during the predetermined period compared to the operating frequency of the air conditioner 20 during other periods of the year. For example, the predetermined period may be spring, autumn, and winter in tropical regions, summer in polar regions, or spring and autumn in other regions. The predetermined period may also be defined as a period when the average (daily average temperature), minimum, or maximum value of the outside temperature is within a predetermined temperature range. For example, the predetermined period may be a period when the daily average temperature is 28°C or lower or 15°C or higher. Such a predetermined period is also called the "mid-temperature period" because the temperature is not extremely hot or cold.

[0108] In one embodiment, the determination of whether the present time is a predetermined time can be made based on at least one of the current date, indoor temperature, indoor relative humidity, outdoor temperature, and solar radiation. The first storage unit 21 may store information about a predetermined time corresponding to the location where the air conditioner 20 is installed, for example, a date range corresponding to the predetermined time, an indoor temperature threshold, an indoor relative humidity threshold, an outdoor temperature threshold, and / or a solar radiation threshold. The first control unit 22 may determine whether the present time is a predetermined time by obtaining at least one of the current date, indoor temperature, indoor relative humidity, outdoor temperature, and solar radiation from the sensor 24, the first storage unit 21, the server 10, the terminal device 30, or an external device, and comparing it with the corresponding threshold.

[0109] If the first control unit 22 determines that it is currently a predetermined time of year (if the answer is "yes" in step S105), it executes the steps from step S110 onward to obtain the second firmware from the server 10 and update to the second firmware. During the predetermined time as described above, the operating frequency of the air conditioner 20 is relatively low, so the temporary suspension or complete shutdown of operation due to the firmware update has a relatively low impact on the user, and even if operation becomes impossible due to a failed update, the impact on the user is relatively low.

[0110] If the first control unit 22 determines that the current time is not a predetermined time within the year (i.e., if the answer in step S105 is "No"), it will not execute the steps from step S110 onward. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the first control unit 22 will not acquire the second firmware and update to the second firmware until it determines that the current time is a predetermined time within the year.

[0111] In one embodiment, step S105 is performed at a different time in the method for updating the firmware of the air conditioner. For example, the first control unit 22 may perform step S105 between step S110 and step S120.

[0112] Furthermore, in the embodiment combining Embodiment 2 and Embodiment 5, if the answer is "No" in step S111 (Figure 3), the process may return to step S105 instead of step S111. In the embodiment combining Embodiment 4 and Embodiment 5, if the answer is "No" in step S117 (Figure 5), the process may return to step S105 instead of step S117.

[0113] According to the firmware update method, air conditioner, and program of Embodiment 5, the second firmware is acquired and updated only when the current operating frequency of the air conditioner 20 is relatively low. Therefore, even if an update causes a shutdown or update failure, the impact on the user can be reduced.

[0114] Embodiment 6 <Firmware Removal> In Embodiment 6, when certain conditions are met, the firmware stored in the first storage unit 21 can be deleted.

[0115] Figure 8 is a flowchart of an example of a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner in Embodiment 6. In one embodiment, when an abnormality is detected by the watchdog timer (if "yes" is answered in step S130), the second firmware is deleted from the first storage unit 21 of the air conditioner 20 (step S150). Since the abnormality is detected after the application of the second firmware, it is highly likely that the second firmware contains defects such as bugs. Therefore, this second firmware is unlikely to be useful for subsequent firmware updates. To prevent such a second firmware from being applied again, the first control unit 22 deletes the second firmware from the first storage unit 21.

[0116] In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, step S150 is performed after step S140, but it may also be performed before step S140.

[0117] Furthermore, if the watchdog timer does not detect an abnormality within a predetermined time (if the answer is "No" in step S130), the air conditioner 20 is considered capable of operating normally with the second firmware, and the second firmware is reserved. In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, at this time, in order to release the storage space of the first storage unit 21, the first control unit 22 deletes the firmware with the oldest version among the firmwares different from the second firmware from the first storage unit 21 of the air conditioner 20 (step S160).

[0118] For example, the firmware versions stored in the first memory space 212, the second memory space 213, and the third memory space 214 are "1.0", "2.0", and "3.0", respectively, and the version of the second firmware is "3.0". The first control unit 22 deletes the firmware that is not version "3.0" and has the oldest version, i.e., the firmware with version "1.0", from the first memory unit 21 and releases the first memory space 212.

[0119] According to the firmware update method, air conditioner, and program of Embodiment 6, the firmware causing the malfunction can be deleted. Therefore, the reapplication of inappropriate firmware can be avoided. In addition, since old firmware with low availability can be deleted, memory space can be freed up to store the next new firmware.

[0120] Embodiment 7 <General examples> In Embodiment 7, the first control unit 22 can comprehensively implement the combinations of Embodiments 1 to 6 described above.

[0121] Figure 9 is a sequence diagram of an example of a method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner in Embodiment 7. First, the first control unit 22 (1) determines whether it is currently a predetermined time (step S105 in Figure 7). When it determines that it is currently a predetermined time, the first control unit 22 (2) queries the server 10 for new firmware (step S111 in Figure 3). Upon receiving the query, the server control unit 14 compares it with the firmware information held in the server storage unit 12, and if new firmware exists, (3) responds to the air conditioner 20 that it exists. Next, the first control unit 22 (4) downloads the new firmware, the second firmware (step S112 in Figure 3), and (5) performs an error check on the second firmware (step S113 in Figure 3).

[0122] If the second firmware passes the error check, the first control unit 22 (6) asks the user whether to update via the terminal device 30 (step S116 in Figure 5). If the first control unit 22 (7) receives an update approval command from the terminal device 30 (if "yes" in step S117 in Figure 5), (8) applies the second firmware and restarts (step S120 in Figures 2, 5, 7, and 8). If the first control unit 22 (9) detects an abnormality using the watchdog timer (if "yes" in step S130 in Figures 2, 5, 7, and 8), (10) notifies the server 10 of the abnormality and (11) applies the first firmware and restarts in order to restore operation of the air conditioner 20 (step S140 in Figures 2, 5, 7, and 8). After that, the first control unit 22 (12) deletes the second firmware (step S150 in Figure 8).

[0123] If no abnormality is detected within a predetermined period after applying the second firmware (if the answer is "No" in step S130 in Figures 2, 5, 7, and 8), the first control unit 22 may delete the old first firmware and complete the update.

[0124] As shown on the right side of Figure 9, in this embodiment, the air conditioner 20 operates with the first firmware until the second firmware is applied. In other embodiments, the air conditioner 20 may terminate its operation with the first firmware earlier, for example, when the second firmware is downloaded, when the second firmware passes error checking, or when an update approval command is received. After the second firmware is applied and the air conditioner 20 restarts, the air conditioner 20 operates with the second firmware. The air conditioner 20 terminates its operation with the second firmware when an anomaly is detected by the watchdog timer. After the first firmware is applied and the air conditioner 20 restarts, the air conditioner 20 operates with the first firmware again to switch to the first firmware.

[0125] It should be noted that the execution order of each step shown in Figure 9 is merely one example, and other execution orders are possible.

[0126] The above are merely specific embodiments of the present invention, and the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. The present invention includes the contents described in the drawings and the specific embodiments described above, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Various embodiments or examples disclosed can be combined without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. Modifications that do not depart from the functional and structural principles of the present invention are within the scope of the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0127] 10 servers 12 Server Storage 14 Server Control Unit 16 Server Communication Unit 20 Air conditioners 21 1st memory section 211 Indicators 212 1st storage space 213 2nd storage space 214 Third storage space 22 First Control Unit 23. Air Conditioning and Communications Department 23a 1st Communication Department 23b 2nd Communication Department 24 sensors 25 2nd memory section 26 Second Control Unit 30 Terminal devices 32 Related Applications 40 screens 41 buttons

Claims

1. A method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner, wherein the air conditioner stores at least one firmware, and operates using a first firmware among the at least one firmware, The update method is: The steps include obtaining a second firmware, which is a newer version than the first firmware, from a server associated with the air conditioner, The steps include applying the second firmware, restarting the air conditioner, and allowing the air conditioner to operate with the second firmware, When an abnormality is detected by the watchdog timer, the air conditioner applies a firmware that is stored in the air conditioner and is different from the second firmware, restarts the air conditioner, and causes the air conditioner to operate with the firmware different from the second firmware. The steps include: feeding back information related to the detected anomaly to the server; Includes, The information related to the detected anomaly includes the version of the second firmware, How to update the firmware of your air conditioner.

2. The information related to the detected anomaly further includes at least one of the following: the state of the first control unit of the air conditioner at the time the anomaly occurred, parameters relating to the compressor of the air conditioner, parameters relating to the fan of the air conditioner, and the detected values ​​of the sensors of the air conditioner. A method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner according to claim 1.

3. The step of obtaining the firmware described above is: A step of querying the server to see if there is a firmware version newer than the first firmware, When a response is received indicating that a new version of the firmware is available, the step of downloading the new version of the firmware from the server as the second firmware, The second step involves performing an error check on the downloaded firmware, including, A method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner according to claim 1.

4. In the step of obtaining the second firmware, If it is determined that the present time is a predetermined period within the year, the second firmware is acquired. Compared to the frequency of operation of the air conditioner during periods other than the predetermined period within the year, the frequency of operation of the air conditioner during the predetermined period is lower. A method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The determination of whether the present time is a predetermined period is made based on at least one of the following: the current date, indoor temperature, indoor relative humidity, outdoor temperature, and solar radiation. A method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner according to claim 4.

6. The aforementioned air conditioner stores two firmware programs. The firmware stored in the air conditioner and which is different from the second firmware is the first firmware. A method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The aforementioned air conditioner stores three or more firmware versions. The firmware stored in the air conditioner that is different from the second firmware is the firmware with the most recent version among the firmwares that are different from the second firmware. A method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. When the watchdog timer detects an abnormality, the second firmware is deleted. Further including, A method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. If the watchdog timer does not detect an abnormality within a predetermined time, the step of deleting the oldest firmware among the firmwares different from the second firmware from the air conditioner. Further including, A method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. Before the step of operating the air conditioner with the second firmware, The steps include: prompting the terminal device associated with the air conditioner whether to update to the second firmware; It further includes, The step of operating the air conditioner with the second firmware is performed when an update approval command is received from the terminal device. A method for updating the firmware of an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. It is an air conditioner, A first storage unit that stores at least one firmware, wherein the air conditioner operates using the first firmware among the at least one firmware, the first storage unit and The first control unit, A second firmware, which is a newer version than the first firmware, is obtained from the server associated with the air conditioner, and the second firmware is stored in the first storage unit. Apply the second firmware, restart the air conditioner, and allow the air conditioner to operate with the second firmware. When the watchdog timer detects an anomaly, the first storage unit applies firmware that is stored in it and is different from the second firmware, restarts the air conditioner, operates the air conditioner with the firmware different from the second firmware, and feeds back information related to the detected anomaly to the server. The first control unit is configured as follows: Includes, The information related to the detected anomaly includes the version of the second firmware, Air conditioner.

12. The information related to the detected anomaly further includes at least one of the following: the state of the first control unit of the air conditioner at the time the anomaly occurred, parameters relating to the compressor of the air conditioner, parameters relating to the fan of the air conditioner, and the detected values ​​of the sensors of the air conditioner. The air conditioner according to claim 11.

13. When the first control unit acquires the second firmware, If it is determined that the present time is a predetermined period within the year, the second firmware is obtained. It is further structured in the following way: Compared to the frequency of operation of the air conditioner during periods other than the predetermined period within the year, the frequency of operation of the air conditioner during the predetermined period is lower. The air conditioner according to claim 11 or 12.

14. The determination of whether the present time is a predetermined period is made based on at least one of the following: the current date, indoor temperature, indoor relative humidity, outdoor temperature, and solar radiation. The air conditioner according to claim 13.

15. The first storage unit stores two firmwares, The firmware stored in the first storage unit and which is different from the second firmware is the first firmware. An air conditioner according to any one of claims 11 to 14.

16. The first memory unit mentioned above stores three or more firmwares, The firmware stored in the first storage unit and which is different from the second firmware is the firmware with the newest version among the firmwares that are different from the second firmware. An air conditioner according to any one of claims 11 to 14.

17. The first control unit is, When the watchdog timer detects an anomaly, the second firmware is deleted. It is further structured in the following way: An air conditioner according to any one of claims 11 to 16.

18. The first control unit is, If the watchdog timer does not detect an abnormality within a predetermined time, the firmware with the oldest version among the firmwares different from the second firmware is deleted from the first storage unit. It is further structured in the following way: An air conditioner according to any one of claims 11 to 17.

19. The air conditioner is, The system further includes an air conditioning communication unit capable of communicating with the aforementioned server, When the first control unit acquires the second firmware, The air conditioning communication unit queries the server to determine if there is a firmware version newer than the first firmware. When a response is received via the aforementioned air conditioning communication unit indicating that a new version of the firmware is available, the new version of the firmware is downloaded from the server as the second firmware. Perform an error check on the downloaded second firmware. It is further structured in the following way: An air conditioner according to any one of claims 11 to 18.

20. The aforementioned air conditioner is The system further includes an air conditioning communication unit capable of communicating with the aforementioned air conditioner and associated terminal devices, The first control unit is, Before operating the air conditioner with the second firmware, the air conditioning communication unit queries the terminal device whether to update to the second firmware. When an update approval command is received from the terminal device via the air conditioning communication unit, the air conditioner is instructed to operate with the second firmware. It is further structured in the following way: An air conditioner according to any one of claims 11 to 18.

21. The air conditioner further includes a second storage unit, a second control unit, and an air conditioning communication unit capable of communicating with the server, The second control unit is configured to acquire the second firmware via the air conditioning communication unit, store it in the second storage unit, and transmit the second firmware to the first control unit in order to store the second firmware in the first storage unit. The first storage unit and the first control unit are independent of the second storage unit and the second control unit. An air conditioner according to any one of claims 11 to 18.

22. A program that causes an air conditioner to perform the firmware update method for an air conditioner described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

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