Container Communication Module for Automated Software Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Software updates for refrigerated container electronic controllers are logistically challenging due to the need for manual access and distribution across a global fleet, leading to delays and inefficiencies in updating software across a large number of containers.
Innovation Solution
A communication system integrated with the electronic controller, featuring a buffer memory for new software versions, enables automatic distribution through wireless interfaces, allowing one updated container to transmit the new software to others within range, using power line or short-range radio communication, thereby expediting the update process without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual access and distribution methods are used for software updates, then global fleet coverage is achieved, but update time extends from hours to years
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple communication methods (short-range wireless communication and power line communication) into a unified update distribution system. This allows the update mechanism to leverage both wireless speed and power line reliability, achieving rapid global fleet updates without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary update distribution network consisting of container-to-container communication channels. Instead of direct manual updates to each container, the system uses intermediate containers as relay points to propagate software updates across the global fleet, dramatically reducing update time.
2Ease of operation
If manual intervention is required for software distribution, then update reliability is maintained, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service update distribution system where containers automatically receive and propagate software updates without manual intervention. The system uses automated protocols to establish communication, verify updates, and distribute software across the fleet, eliminating the need for manual operations while maintaining reliability through built-in verification mechanisms.
3Extent of automation
If wireless communication is used for updates, then manual access is eliminated, but communication reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional communication system that can operate through multiple channels (wireless and power line). This universal approach ensures that if one communication method is unavailable or unreliable, the system can automatically switch to another method, maintaining both automation and reliability simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and method for safely distributing software for electronic controllers in the refrigeration container industry, and also communication systems primarily for electronic controllers related to refrigeration containers in which fast software distribution in container controllers is achieved by introducing a buffer memory in the communication system, which buffer memory includes a new container controller software version. The communication system distributes the new container controller software version by a communication device, to receiving communication systems where the new software version is placed in the buffer memory. As a result, it can be achieved that software distribution starts automatically as soon as only one communication system includes the new software version, this software version will in a very short period be spread into all container controllers, e.g., on board a ship or in a container yard.