Broadcast Firmware Update for Mobile Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for updating firmware in mobile terminals are inefficient, requiring significant resources and being ineffective for simultaneously updating multiple terminals of the same type, especially in a broadcast system context.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for updating firmware in mobile broadcast systems that allows for simultaneous updates of multiple terminals by broadcasting an update command with software version and manufacturer/model information, forcing subscription to the update service, and broadcasting the update file, utilizing a network apparatus with components like BSM, BSDA, NTC, and BSP-C to manage and execute the firmware update.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If individual firmware update methods are used for each terminal, then update reliability is maintained, but resource consumption increases and update efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual firmware update operations into a single broadcast update operation. The network apparatus sends one update command that is received by multiple terminals simultaneously, combining what would otherwise be separate update transactions into one efficient operation, thereby improving productivity while reducing resource consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The broadcast update mechanism serves multiple terminals with the same firmware update needs through a single universal command. This multi-functional approach allows the system to update any number of compatible terminals using the same update package, eliminating the need for individualized update processes and reducing overall resource expenditure.
2Speed
If broadcast update command is sent to all terminals, then update speed increases, but network overhead and false positive updates increase
Solution Approach 1:
The update command includes specific terminal identification parameters (manufacturer ID, model ID, firmware version) that enable terminals to locally determine whether they should apply the update. This localized filtering at the terminal side reduces unnecessary network traffic and overhead by preventing incompatible terminals from requesting or receiving update files they don't need.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary filtering by including version and device identification information in the broadcast command before actual file transfer. Terminals pre-check their compatibility against the update parameters, and only compatible terminals proceed to download the update file, thereby reducing unnecessary network overhead and avoiding false positive updates.
3Reliability
If forced subscription is implemented for update service, then update coverage improves, but user control and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Terminals automatically subscribe to the firmware update service through forced subscription without requiring manual user intervention. The system self-manages the subscription process, ensuring that all compatible terminals are enrolled to receive updates, thereby improving update coverage while the automation reduces the perceived complexity for users.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of updating software of terminals in a mobile broadcast system is provided. The method includes creating an update command for terminals of a particular model, the update command including update information; and broadcasting the created update command. The update information includes software version information and at least one of terminal manufacturer information and terminal model information. Further, the method may further include, before broadcasting the created update command, forcibly requiring terminals subscribe to an update service; and creating and broadcasting an update file for terminals of the particular model from among the forcibly subscribed terminals. The software of the terminals may be firmware.