Dynamic Approval Timing for ECU Software Updates

The patent implements dynamic timing adjustment for the approval request process based on the type of non-volatile memory in the ECU. The control unit determines the memory type (one-sided or two-sided) and dynamically selects the appropriate timing: before installation for one-sided memory, or after installation but before activation for two-sided memory. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by optimizing update efficiency for each memory type without requiring completely separate update processes.

The patent changes the timing parameter of the approval request process based on the memory type parameter. By detecting whether the ECU has one-sided or two-sided non-volatile memory, the system adjusts the timing parameter accordingly, transforming a fixed timing approach into a variable timing approach that optimizes update efficiency for different hardware configurations.

The patent applies different approval request timings to different ECU types based on their memory characteristics. For one-sided memory ECUs, approval is requested before installation (higher safety requirement). For two-sided memory ECUs, approval is requested after installation but before activation (lower safety requirement, faster process). This local quality approach ensures each ECU type receives the appropriate timing treatment, optimizing both safety and speed for each specific case.

For one-sided memory ECUs, the patent performs the approval request action preliminarily (before installation) to ensure safety. For two-sided memory ECUs, the installation action is performed preliminarily (before approval request) to reduce overall update time. The patent strategically sequences actions based on memory type to balance safety requirements with time efficiency.

The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the ECU itself provides information about its memory type to the control unit. The control unit automatically determines the memory type and selects the appropriate approval request timing without requiring external configuration or complex decision-making. This self-service approach minimizes control complexity while achieving optimized update efficiency.

The patent uses feedback from the ECU regarding its memory type to automatically adjust the approval request timing. The control unit receives feedback about whether the ECU has one-sided or two-sided memory and uses this feedback to determine the appropriate timing strategy, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes update efficiency without requiring complex pre-programming.