Software Relay Buffering for Multi-Device Field Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
In conventional systems, communication bands of multiple links are occupied during software updates for multiple field devices, leading to restricted communication and increased downtime due to the need to transmit software individually to each device, affecting the entire system's communication loop and load.
Innovation Solution
A relay apparatus that receives software from a first link, stores it, and updates the software of multiple devices connected to a second link, reducing the need for individual transmissions and minimizing communication band occupation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software is transmitted individually to each field device, then each device can be updated, but communication bands of multiple links are occupied and communication is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual software transmission operations into a single bulk transmission operation. The relay apparatus receives software for multiple field devices simultaneously through the first link, stores it temporarily, and then distributes it to multiple devices through the second link. This combining approach reduces the total communication overhead and prevents repeated occupation of the first link's communication band.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay apparatus performs preliminary action by receiving and storing software for multiple field devices in advance before actual distribution. The software is temporarily held in the relay apparatus's storage unit, allowing the system to prepare update packages beforehand and distribute them efficiently without blocking the first link during the entire update process.
2Reliability
If software update is performed for each field device individually, then each device receives updates, but system downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous useful action by allowing the first link to remain available for normal communication operations while the relay apparatus handles software distribution through the second link. The bulk transmission and temporary storage mechanism ensures that software updates are distributed without interrupting or restricting communication on the first link, maintaining continuous system productivity.
3Productivity
If software is transmitted to multiple field devices simultaneously, then update efficiency improves, but communication band occupation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the software distribution process into two distinct phases: (1) bulk reception and storage phase through the first link, and (2) individual distribution phase through the second link. This segmentation allows the system to handle large volumes of software data efficiently during reception, then distribute them in a controlled manner without overwhelming either link simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
A relay apparatus includes a processor configured to communicate with a first device that is connected to a first link, communicate with a second device that is connected to a second link, receive, from the first device, software that is to be transmitted to the second device, and stores the received software in a memory, and update software of the second device by transmitting the software that is stored in the memory to the second device.