Fleet Edge Configuration Templates for Uniform Vehicle Device Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems face cumbersome and time-consuming device configuration processes, particularly in fleets, due to the need for repeated configuration of multiple vehicles and challenges in making configuration changes during short connection windows, leading to potential errors and lack of uniformity.
Innovation Solution
A method involving an edge computing device that automatically configures itself and connected electronic devices using a template configuration file, obtained from a cloud server based on user selection, allowing for simultaneous configuration of multiple vehicles in a fleet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration is performed for each vehicle in a fleet, then device functionality is achieved, but configuration time and labor resources increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by creating master configuration templates that contain pre-defined device settings and parameters. These templates are prepared in advance and can be automatically distributed to multiple vehicles in a fleet, eliminating the need to manually configure each device individually while ensuring consistent functionality across all deployments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements copying by using master templates that can be replicated and applied across multiple vehicles. The configuration data is stored as reusable templates that can be copied to numerous devices simultaneously, dramatically reducing configuration time while maintaining reliability through consistent template application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If configuration changes are made during short connection windows, then device updates are achieved, but errors and inconsistencies increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses this contradiction by preparing all configuration changes in advance within master templates. Rather than making changes during brief connection windows, the complete configuration is pre-validat ed and stored as a template, ensuring that when deployed, the changes are consistent and error-free across all target devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where configuration templates can be tested and validated before full deployment. This allows verification of configuration correctness prior to distribution, preventing errors from propagating across the fleet and maintaining high reliability during adaptability changes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If devices use open architecture principles for customization, then customer-specific configurations are achieved, but pre-configuration in factory becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction through segmentation by separating configuration into modular templates that can be selectively applied. The master templates contain organized, segmentable configuration data that can be customized for different customers while maintaining a standardized structure, enabling both factory pre-configuration and post-deployment customization through template selection rather than manual device configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A device configuration method for a vehicle in a fleet of vehicles comprises obtaining a template configuration file assigned to an edge computing device based on a user selection, the template configuration file specific to the fleet of vehicles and comprising first configuration data indicative of a manner in which the edge computing device is to interface with electronic devices provided in the vehicle, and second configuration data indicative of a desired setting for configuration parameter(s) of at least one of the electronic devices, automatically self-configuring for operation based on the first configuration data, comprising identifying electronic device(s) based on the first configuration data, and connecting, based on the first configuration data, to the electronic device(s) for transmitting thereto and receiving therefrom data, and transmitting the second configuration data to at least some of the electronic devices to cause them to adjust the configuration parameter(s) to the desired setting.