Control Unit Programming via Internal Data Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for setting up and updating control units in modern means of transport are inefficient, requiring prolonged connections to external diagnostic devices, leading to production delays and increased costs due to the limitations of data transmission rates and the need for multiple mobile computers.
Innovation Solution
A method where a first control unit is temporarily reassigned to set up or update other control units, allowing it to take over the setup or updating process, reducing the need for external data sources and enabling the disconnection of communication links, thus accelerating the process and allowing external data sources to be used elsewhere.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If mobile computers are used to set up control units during production, then control units can be programmed and provided with data, but the connection must remain in place for the duration of setup and production is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-transferring all necessary programming data to the first control unit before production assembly. This allows the first control unit to subsequently set up second control units without requiring continuous external connection, thereby eliminating production disruptions while maintaining complete programming capability.
2Loss of time
If data transmission rates of communication bus are increased to reduce setup time, then more data can be uploaded in less time, but the communication bus is designed for regular operation data volumes not for initial setup
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data transfer process into two distinct phases: (1) bulk data transfer from external source to first control unit using high-speed direct connection, and (2) subsequent data distribution from first control unit to second control units via existing communication bus. This segmentation allows each phase to use the appropriate transmission method without requiring the communication bus to be redesigned for high-speed operation.
3Productivity
If more mobile computers are procured and used longer to set up products, then setup capacity increases, but procurement and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing the first control unit to serve dual purposes: (1) functioning as its intended control device for regular vehicle operation, and (2) serving as a portable programming station for setting up second control units. This eliminates the need for separate mobile computers dedicated solely to setup tasks, reducing both procurement and maintenance costs while maintaining setup capacity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for setting up and/or updating the programming of a second control unit of a transportation device includes operating a first control unit of the transportation device in a first functional scope for setting up and/or updating the programming of a second control unit of the transportation device, setting up or updating the programming of the second control unit by the first control unit, and setting up the first control unit for a second functional scope. A system by which the method of the invention may be implements is also described.