Network Management Computer Satellite Software Upgrade Targeting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current software update methods for mobile devices are inefficient, particularly for devices without cellular connections and those with multiple versions and types, as they often require manual upgrades, which are tedious and costly, and existing solutions like Vikse's are not adaptable for handling multiple software versions and types.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a Network Management Computer (NMC) to transmit software upgrades over satellite links, utilizing detachable device descriptors (DDDs) to identify compatible upgrades for specific mobile terminal components, allowing for efficient grouping and transmission of updates, and enabling updates based on component-specific DDDs, release manifests, and upgrade times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual software upgrades are used, then users can control their devices, but the process becomes tedious and expensive, and users avoid upgrades which multiplies software versions
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables devices to automatically identify their own upgrade needs and receive upgrades without manual user intervention. The device autonomously compares its current software version with available upgrades, selects appropriate upgrades based on its configuration, and installs them automatically, eliminating the tedious manual upgrade process while reducing software version proliferation
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where devices report their current software versions and configurations to the server, which then determines appropriate upgrades. This closed-loop feedback system ensures that only relevant upgrades are transmitted to devices, improving ease of operation while controlling version diversity
2Adaptability or versatility
If cellular network methodology is used for software distribution, then mass software distribution is enabled, but it is unsuitable for devices without cellular connections
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides universal software distribution capability that works across multiple network types including cellular networks, satellite networks, and direct peer-to-peer connections. The server can transmit software upgrades through any available communication channel, making the system adaptable to devices with or without cellular connections, thereby increasing device compatibility without increasing network dependency on a single infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The server acts as an intermediary that mediates between software providers and diverse device types. It receives software upgrades, determines their applicability to different device configurations, and transmits them through appropriate network channels, enabling universal access regardless of whether devices have cellular, satellite, or other communication capabilities
3Ease of manufacture
If all mobile platforms receive the same software update, then simplification is achieved, but devices with different configurations cannot receive appropriate upgrades
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements local quality by customizing software upgrades according to each device's specific configuration, including its upgradeable components, operating system version, and hardware capabilities. Instead of applying a uniform update to all devices, the server tailors each upgrade package to match the receiving device's local characteristics, ensuring compatibility and effectiveness while maintaining a simplified centralized management process
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the software upgrade process into distinct phases: device profile collection, upgrade eligibility determination, selective transmission, and installation. This segmentation allows the complex task of providing device-specific upgrades to be broken down into manageable steps, maintaining simplicity in the overall process while enabling sophisticated device-targeted delivery
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing software upgrade solutions are used, then basic upgrades are possible, but they cannot handle multiple versions and types of mobile devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamics by making the upgrade determination process adaptive and flexible. The server dynamically evaluates each device's configuration, current software version, and available upgrades in real-time, adjusting the upgrade path based on the specific device type, operating system version, and component configurations. This dynamic approach enables support for multiple versions and device types without requiring a complex predetermined upgrade matrix
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes parameter changes by monitoring and comparing multiple device parameters including hardware configuration, software version, and component capabilities. By changing the parameters used for upgrade eligibility determination based on the specific device being served, the system can handle multiple versions and types adaptively. The server adjusts upgrade criteria and transmission parameters dynamically based on the device's current state
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes a system and methods for upgrading software on a mobile terminal. The system includes a network management computer (NMC) adapted to receive a plurality of software upgrades and to transmit one of the plurality of software upgrades to one of a plurality of mobile terminals through a satellite link. The mobile terminal can include an upgradeable component, which in turn includes a detachable device descriptor (DDD) corresponding to operating characteristics of the upgradeable component. According to the present invention, the NMC is adapted to transmit the one of a plurality of software upgrades to the mobile terminal in response to the DDD of the upgradeable component. Methods employing similar features and advantages are also disclosed herein.