On-board Computer Wireless Software Version Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing on-board computer systems for agricultural machines require pre-stored software versions on the tractor computer to communicate effectively with implement computers, limiting their ability to function correctly if the necessary software is not present, and do not allow for seamless error-free communication and device setting.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a wireless communication system that connects the tractor and implement computers via a bus system, using a standardized protocol, and enabling automatic software version download from a central server to ensure compatibility and error-free communication, with manual security release for updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software versions are pre-stored in the tractor computer, then communication with implement computers can be established, but the system cannot adapt to new devices or software updates and may fail if required software is not present
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically checking software compatibility before communication is established. The tractor computer queries the central server to verify whether the required software versions are installed on both the tractor and implement computers, and only establishes communication if compatibility is confirmed. This prevents communication failures while maintaining adaptability to new devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the tractor computer continuously checks software versions and compatibility status with the central server before and during communication operations. If software versions are found to be incompatible, the system receives feedback from the server and takes corrective actions such as downloading updated software or preventing communication establishment, thereby ensuring reliable operation.
2Reliability
If a manual security release is required for software updates, then security is enhanced, but the update process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically handling most aspects of the software update process. The tractor computer autonomously queries the central server for required software versions, downloads updates, installs them, and verifies compatibility without requiring manual intervention. The manual security release is simplified to a single confirmation action, reducing complexity while maintaining security.
3Reliability
If software versions are automatically downloaded and installed, then compatibility is ensured, but the process requires additional resources and time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs compatibility checks and software version verification as preliminary actions before communication is established. By querying the central server in advance and downloading required software versions beforehand, the system ensures compatibility is maintained without requiring time-consuming updates during actual operation. This allows rapid establishment of communication between tractor and implement computers.
Data Source
AI summary
The system has tractor and working equipment processors (3, 4) with a memory that stores a program. The program determines required software version for optimal operation of a tractor (1) with a working equipment (2), and the processors. Compatibility information is determined over wireless data links (7, 10). The version is installed in an external server (8) by an automatic wireless download-, update- and/or installation process. The system is operated in a system-conditioned manner by the version. The processors are coupled with a bus system to exchange data sets e.g. control errors.