Software Update Device for Slow Charging Cable via CP Line
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional slow charging cables require disassembly and reassembly for software updates, risking damage to internal components and increasing manufacturing costs due to complex internal circuitry and wireless communication module installation.
Innovation Solution
A software update device that connects to the slow charging cable's outlet, using a Control Pilot monitoring unit to convert CP voltage for mode switching, enabling LIN communication for software updates without disassembly, and a control unit to transmit update files via LIN transceiver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If software update is performed through debugger or communication channel in conventional slow charging cable, then software can be updated, but the outer case must be broken or disassembled and reassembled making the process cumbersome and risking damage to internal components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical disassembly/reassembly process with an electrical signal-based update mechanism. The update device sends voltage signals through the existing CP line to trigger mode switching in the controller, enabling software updates without any physical disassembly of the outer case or internal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an update device as an intermediary that communicates with the controller through the existing CP line. This intermediary device sends mode switching voltages and software update data electrically, serving as a mediator that enables software updates without requiring direct physical access to the controller's internal components.
2Ease of operation
If wireless communication module is installed to enable wireless software update, then software can be updated wirelessly, but manufacturing cost is greatly increased and product size is limited due to complicated internal circuit structure and antenna installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing CP line multi-functional by using it for both its original control function and as a communication channel for software updates. The same physical infrastructure (CP line) serves dual purposes, eliminating the need for separate wireless communication hardware and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the existing communication infrastructure (CP line) as a copy of a communication channel rather than creating a new wireless communication system. By repurposing the established electrical connection for data transmission, the system achieves update functionality without duplicating hardware resources.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes a CP monitoring unit configured to monitor a CP voltage applied through a CP line from the controller of the slow charging cable when the slow charging cable is connected to an inlet, a mode switching request unit configured to request mode switching to the controller of the slow charging cable by converting the monitored CP voltage to a preset mode switching voltage; a communication switching unit configured to connect a LIN transceiver for LIN communication to the CP line when the controller of the slow charging cable is switched to a LIN communication mode for software update, and a control unit configured to control the LIN transceiver to transmit a pre-stored software update file to the controller of the slow charging cable, so that the controller's software can be updated without disassembling or damaging the controller of the slow charging cable.