Power Supply Firmware Update Without Rebooting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for updating power firmware in power supplies require restarting and rebooting the system, which can disrupt the continuous operation of power supplies.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for updating power firmware without restarting or rebooting the system, by using a microcontroller in the power supply to allocate memory spaces for the current and new firmware programs, and switching between them while continuously supplying power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If power firmware is updated and then the system is restarted and rebooted, then the firmware update is completed, but the continuous power supply is interrupted and system operation is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the firmware storage into two separate spaces: a first space for the current firmware and a second space for the new firmware. This segmentation allows the system to update firmware by copying data to the second space while continuing to execute the first space, avoiding interruption of power supply during the update process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by copying the new firmware to the second space before switching. The microcontroller prepares the update by writing the new firmware image to the second space in advance, then only switches to it after verification, ensuring continuous operation is maintained.
2Reliability
If the system restarts and reboots after firmware update, then the updated firmware is executed, but system downtime increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic switching mechanism where the microcontroller can dynamically switch between the first and second firmware spaces based on update completion status. This dynamic approach allows the system to maintain operational flexibility and continuity during the firmware update process without requiring a complete system restart.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by maintaining power supply and system operation during the firmware update process. The microcontroller continues to execute the first firmware while copying and verifying the second firmware, eliminating the need for system restart and maintaining continuous productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If firmware update requires memory space allocation and switching, then update flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal memory management approach where the microcontroller's memory is divided into multiple spaces that can be flexibly assigned for different purposes. The same memory structure supports both current firmware execution and update storage, providing multi-functionality without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of updating power firmware is applied to update power firmware when a power supply is powered. The method is executed by a microcontroller of the power supply, and the method includes steps of: planning a memory space in the microcontroller as a first space and a second space, wherein the first space stores a first program currently executing the power supply required by the power supply, emptying the second space before the power firmware is updated, writing a second program stored in a management system into the second space, switching the second space to the first space to complete updating the power firmware after the second program is completely written into the second space, and continuously outputting working power.