Scan Tool Software Update via Flash Memory Authorization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing software updating process for vehicle diagnostic tools is time-consuming, as users need to load and delete multiple versions of applications, consuming significant time and effort.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows loading the latest versions of applications onto a portable flash memory device, authorizing and restricting access to only authorized versions, enabling quick updates and immediate access to purchased applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If all available versions of applications are loaded onto the portable flash memory device, then the user has access to all diagnostic applications, but the update time and processing time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-loads all available versions of diagnostic applications onto the portable flash memory device during manufacturing or initial setup. This preliminary action ensures that when updates are needed, the scan tool can immediately access authorized versions without requiring time-consuming downloads or installations, thus resolving the contradiction between having all applications available and minimizing update time
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts and identifies only the authorized versions of applications from the complete set of available versions stored on the flash memory device. By separating authorized applications from unauthorized ones, the system allows rapid access to permitted diagnostic tools without needing to physically remove or delete files, thereby maintaining versatility while reducing update processing time
2Reliability
If the scan tool verifies and deletes unauthorized applications, then security and authorization are maintained, but the update process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Authorization verification is performed in advance by pre-storing authorization data and application version information on the portable flash memory device. When an update is initiated, the scan tool immediately compares the stored authorization data with the available applications, rapidly determining which versions are permitted without requiring time-consuming verification processes during the update itself
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates and stores copies of authorization data and application metadata on the portable flash memory device. These copies allow the scan tool to quickly verify authorization status by comparing against the stored copies rather than contacting external servers or performing complex verification algorithms, thereby maintaining security while significantly accelerating the update process
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus are provided that allow the user to quickly load new versions of applications on a scan tool. The latest versions of the applications that a scan tool can operate are loaded onto a memory device. The scan tool verifies which versions of the applications are authorized and allows the scan tool to only access information related to the authorized versions.