Firmware Update Automation for Multi-Function Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual activation and installation of custom switches for business-dedicated functions in multi-function devices are error-prone and costly, as customized data must match specific product firmware versions, leading to potential activation issues.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus and method that automatically applies customized data to firmware during updates, eliminating the need for manual intervention by integrating an obtaining means for firmware data sets, an update means for performing firmware updates, and an applying means for setting values, ensuring correct combination and application of customized data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual activation and installation of custom switches is performed, then customized functions can be activated, but errors occur and reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the firmware version and applying the corresponding customized data without requiring manual intervention. The applying means automatically matches customized data to the correct firmware version, eliminating human error in the activation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the applying means) that mediates between the firmware update process and the customization settings. This intermediary automatically manages the matching and application of customized data, preventing direct user errors while maintaining proper function activation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If customized data is manually imported, then business-dedicated functions can be activated, but combination errors with firmware occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by detecting the current firmware version and using this information to automatically select and apply the correct customized data. This feedback loop ensures that only compatible customized data is applied, preventing version mismatch errors while maintaining full customization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-preparing multiple versions of customized data corresponding to different firmware versions. Before applying customization, the system preliminarily identifies the correct version match, ensuring compatibility is established before the actual activation occurs.
3Ease of operation
If custom switches are provided in product firmware, then business functions can be activated, but manual switching is troublesome and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates manual operation by implementing self-service automation. The applying means automatically detects which business-dedicated functions should be activated based on the firmware version and applies the appropriate customized data without requiring user interaction, thereby improving both ease of operation and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus which is provided with firmware, comprises: obtaining means for obtaining a data set of firmware; update means for performing firmware update using the data set of the firmware obtained by the obtaining means; and applying means for applying customized data indicating a setting value for a function of the firmware to the firmware provided in the information processing apparatus, wherein in a case where customized data is included in the data set of the firmware obtained by the obtaining means, the applying means applies the customized data.