Remote Terminal Configuration Updates via Development Mode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for updating configuration files in electronic devices, such as payment terminals, are time-consuming and require physical media distribution, occupying processing resources and being inefficient.
Innovation Solution
Remote network-based updates are implemented, allowing configuration files to be transmitted and updated without full binary files, using a development mode that operates independently of the main production mode to test configurations without affecting device functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wired connection upload of new executable or binary file is used for updates, then configuration files can be updated, but update time becomes time-consuming and processing resources are occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the update process into two distinct modes: development mode for testing configuration changes and production mode for actual deployment. This allows configuration files to be updated and tested independently from the main executable, reducing the time required for updates and eliminating the need to upload complete binary files. The segmentation enables selective transmission of only configuration data rather than full executables.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the terminal device in development mode that can be used for testing configuration changes without affecting the production device. This virtual environment allows configuration updates to be tested and validated before deployment, enabling faster updates by avoiding the need to upload and install complete binary files to the actual device.
2Reliability
If physical storage media distribution is used for updates, then configuration files can be transmitted, but the process becomes difficult and slow in field deployment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical distribution method (physical storage media) with an electronic network-based system. The development mode environment can be accessed remotely through a network, allowing configuration files to be transmitted and updated electronically without requiring physical media distribution. This substitution eliminates the complexity and slowness of physical media handling in field deployments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary between the configuration source and the terminal device. The server manages the development mode environment and facilitates configuration file transmission, enabling remote updates without direct physical access to the terminal device. This intermediary system simplifies the update process and makes it scalable for field deployments.
3Reliability
If full binary files are transmitted for updates, then complete functionality is maintained, but processing and memory resources are occupied and update efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the configuration file updates from the main executable binary. By separating configuration management into a dedicated development mode environment, only the configuration files need to be transmitted and updated, not the entire binary. This extraction significantly reduces the amount of data transferred and the processing resources required, while maintaining device functionality through the virtualized configuration system.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for remote device updates includes receiving a selection of a terminal device having an existing operational configuration and capable of operating in a development mode and a production mode. The method further includes receiving a new operational configuration for the terminal device, causing the terminal device to enter development mode with the new operational configuration, receiving an indication that the new operational configuration should be deployed, and, in response to the indication, formatting the new operational configuration into one or more files usable by the terminal in production mode, and causing the one or more files to be transmitted to the terminal with an instruction for the terminal device to enter production mode operating according to the one or more files.