Centralized Controller Code Update System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Updating application code in complex distributed systems with multiple controllers is a challenging and time-consuming task, especially in scenarios like renewable energy farms where controllers are distributed over a wide area, often requiring physical access or manual network management.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for deploying application code change configurations that allow users to update library user blocks and associate them with corresponding instances across multiple controllers, enabling simultaneous updates and password-protected modifications through a centralized interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If personnel physically visit each controller location to update software, then updates can be performed on individual controllers, but the process becomes extremely time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual update operations into a single centralized update process. The configuration server consolidates update management for all controllers, allowing simultaneous distribution of code changes to multiple controllers through a unified interface, thereby reducing total update time while maintaining accuracy through centralized validation
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration server acts as an intermediary between the update source and multiple controllers. It receives code changes, validates them centrally, and distributes them to target controllers, eliminating the need for personnel to physically visit each controller while ensuring update accuracy through the intermediary's validation process
2Loss of time
If controllers are accessed via network for remote updates, then physical travel time is reduced, but tracking multiple code libraries and controllers becomes challenging and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration server provides universal functionality for managing all controller updates through a single interface. It can track and manage multiple code libraries, associate them with multiple controllers, and coordinate updates across the entire system, replacing the need for separate tracking processes for each controller or code library
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the configuration server continuously monitors controller status, code library associations, and update progress. This feedback enables automatic tracking and coordination of updates across multiple controllers and code libraries, reducing the complexity of remote update management
3Adaptability or versatility
If application code is updated individually on each controller, then each controller can be updated independently, but the overall process becomes extremely complex and difficult to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the update process into distinct manageable components: code library definition, controller association, and update distribution. The configuration server handles each segment separately through automated processes, reducing overall process complexity while maintaining flexibility through modular update management
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-defining code libraries and their associations with controllers before actual updates occur. This preliminary configuration enables automated update distribution without requiring complex real-time decision-making during the update process, simplifying overall management while preserving flexibility
Data Source
AI summary
Certain embodiments of the invention may include systems and methods for deploying application code change configurations for multiple target controllers. According to an example embodiment of the invention, a method is provided for updating configurations associated with one or more controllers. The method can include updating one or more library user blocks, associating corresponding user block instances with the one or more library user blocks, and modifying one or more application code configurations associated with the one or more controllers based at least in part on the association.