Broadcast Remote Firmware Update for Utility Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network systems face inefficiencies in managing firmware updates across large numbers of devices, particularly in utility provider networks, where broadcasting updates to multiple devices individually can be time-consuming and power-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the retrieval of a firmware file from an upstream source, sending a broadcast remote firmware update (BRFU) setup message specifying a wake time and channel for downstream devices, and repeatedly broadcasting the firmware file through a hub or repeater to ensure efficient updates across multiple devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If firmware updates are sent individually to each downstream device, then each device receives the update reliably, but the process takes several hours or longer and consumes excessive power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual firmware update transmissions into a single broadcast message that is sent simultaneously to all downstream devices. The broadcast message includes a broadcast sequence number and firmware data that all devices can receive and process independently, achieving fast bulk updates while maintaining reliable delivery through individual device processing of the shared broadcast data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the firmware update process into two parts: a common broadcast portion containing the broadcast sequence number and firmware data that is sent once to all devices, and individual device processing portions where each device independently handles the received data. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both speed (through the single broadcast) and reliability (through individual processing).
2Loss of time
If firmware updates are broadcast to all downstream devices simultaneously, then update time is reduced significantly, but devices must wake from sleeping state consuming power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses preliminary action by having the upstream device send a broadcast setup message before the actual firmware broadcast. This setup message contains a wake time field that tells downstream devices when to wake from sleeping state. By preparing devices in advance with the wake time information, the system minimizes unnecessary wake-ups and power consumption while still achieving simultaneous updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through the broadcast sequence number mechanism. Devices wake at scheduled intervals to check for firmware updates by comparing the broadcast sequence number in received messages against stored values. This periodic checking approach allows devices to remain in low-power states between updates while still receiving firmware updates efficiently when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of broadcasting firmware updating messages in a communication system includes the steps of receiving a broadcast remote firmware update (BRFU) setup message from an upstream source, the BRFU setup message specifying a number of transmissions of a broadcast of a firmware file; broadcasting setup information from the BRFU setup message on a first channel to downstream devices, the setup information specifying at least one other channel to which each downstream device should listen to receive a copy of the firmware file; and repeatedly broadcasting the firmware file to the downstream devices in accordance with the BRFU setup message.