Local Network Software Upgrade via Terminal Broadcasting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing software upgrade methods require internet connectivity and a functional upgrade server, limiting upgrades when a terminal is not connected to the Internet or lacks available upgrade services.
Innovation Solution
A method and terminal configuration that enables software upgrades within a local area network by broadcasting application software information, determining upgradeable software, sending upgrade requests, and downloading necessary data between terminals, allowing upgrades even without internet connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an upgrade server is set on the Internet for software upgrade, then software can be upgraded when connected to the Internet, but upgrade cannot be performed when the terminal is not connected to the Internet or when there is no related upgrade service available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a local area network as an intermediary between terminals and the Internet upgrade server. Terminals can first attempt to upgrade via the Internet upgrade server, and when that is unavailable, automatically switch to using other terminals in the local area network as upgrade sources. This intermediary local network layer resolves the contradiction by providing an alternative upgrade path that doesn't require direct Internet connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables terminals to serve dual purposes: they are both clients seeking upgrades and potential servers providing upgrades to others. When a terminal has upgraded software, it automatically broadcasts this information and can provide upgrade files to other terminals in the local area network. This self-service mechanism eliminates the absolute dependency on external Internet upgrade servers.
2Reliability
If software upgrade relies on Internet connection and upgrade server, then centralized upgrade management is achieved, but upgrade service is lost when Internet connection is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic upgrade system where the upgrade source is not fixed but can switch between Internet upgrade servers and local terminals. The system automatically detects Internet availability and dynamically selects the appropriate upgrade source. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by maintaining upgrade service continuity through automatic switching, eliminating the rigid dependency on Internet connection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If upgrade server is located on the Internet, then global upgrade service is provided, but local area network upgrade capability is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes terminals multi-functional by enabling them to operate both as upgrade clients and upgrade servers. A terminal can download upgrades from the Internet and simultaneously provide those upgrades to other terminals in the local area network. This universality resolves the contradiction by extending upgrade service scope from purely Internet-based to include both Internet and local area network capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a software upgrade method for a terminal. The method includes: receiving, by a second terminal, a first message broadcast by at least one first terminal, where the first message includes information of application software maintained by the first terminal; determining, by the second terminal according to the information of the application software maintained by the first terminal, whether there is upgradeable application software on the second terminal; when it is determined that there is upgradeable application software on the second terminal, sending an upgrade request to the first terminal; receiving, by the second terminal, an upgrade response that is returned by the first terminal according to the upgrade request, and downloading upgrade data of the upgradeable application software; and updating the application software according to the upgrade data of the upgradeable application software.