Projector Firmware Update via Local Network Broadcasting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projector systems require manual firmware updates for each projector, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive, especially when projectors cannot be connected to an external network.
Innovation Solution
A projector system where multiple projectors are connected via a network, allowing for automated firmware updates through a communication protocol where a master projector broadcasts data to slave projectors, enabling them to determine if they have the latest firmware and update accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual firmware update operation is performed on each projector, then firmware can be updated, but it consumes a lot of manpower and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual firmware update operations into a single automated batch operation. The management server simultaneously manages firmware updates for multiple projectors, and projectors within the same group can share firmware files, combining what would otherwise be separate manual update tasks into one coordinated process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by having projectors proactively send their firmware version information to the management server before an update is needed. The management server pre-configures update groups and prepares firmware files in advance, so when an update is required, the process can begin immediately without manual intervention for each projector.
2Adaptability or versatility
If projectors are connected to external network for firmware update, then remote update is possible, but some projectors cannot be connected to external network and only can be connected to internal local area network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a management server as an intermediary between projectors and the firmware update process. This server can be located within the internal local area network, acting as a mediator that receives firmware files and distributes them to projectors without requiring direct external network connections. The server manages the entire update process, including sending notifications and coordinating file transfers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the network architecture into an internal local area network segment and an external network segment. Projectors remain within the internal network for security and stability, while the management server handles external network communications for firmware acquisition and distribution, separating concerns and enabling updates without requiring each projector to have external network access.
3Measurement precision
If each projector checks firmware version individually, then accurate version control is achieved, but it increases communication overhead and update complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines individual firmware version checking into a centralized process where the management server collects version information from multiple projectors simultaneously. Instead of each projector independently managing its update logic, the server consolidates version data and determines which projectors need updates, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining accurate version control.
Data Source
AI summary
A projector system, including a first projector and at least one second projector, is provided. The first projector broadcasts first data to each of the at least one second projector in response to a first input operation applied to a first input/output unit. A second processor of each of the at least one second projector broadcasts corresponding second data to other projectors among multiple projectors in response to receiving the first data. Each of the projectors determines whether there is an up-to-date firmware file according to the first data and the at least one second data to transmit the up-to-date firmware file to corresponding at least one other projector among the projectors. Each of the at least one other projector receives the up-to-date firmware file to perform a firmware update.