Subsea Modem Self-Reprogramming via Independent Microcontroller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Subsea power line communication modems face significant downtime and costs due to malfunctions, as existing technologies require external access for reprogramming, which is impractical and time-consuming, especially in subsea environments.
Innovation Solution
A modem with an independent microcontroller that monitors and automatically reprograms programmable components, such as a digital signal processor, to restore operational state without external access, using backup software versions or updates via power line connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external access is used for reprogramming the modem, then the programmable component can be reprogrammed, but the downtime increases significantly and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The modem performs self-reprogramming through an independent microcontroller that monitors the programmable component's health status and automatically reprograms it using backup software stored in internal memory, enabling the system to restore itself without external intervention and thereby minimizing downtime
Solution Approach 2:
Backup software versions are pre-stored in the modem's internal memory before deployment, allowing the system to immediately reprogram the programmable component when a malfunction is detected, without needing to wait for external software transmission
2Reliability
If external access is used for reprogramming, then the programmable component can be reprogrammed, but the complexity of the reprogramming process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The independent microcontroller autonomously monitors the programmable component's status, selects appropriate backup software from internal memory, and executes reprogramming without requiring external control or complex external access procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The independent microcontroller acts as an intermediary between the programmable component and the backup software in memory, managing the reprogramming process internally without requiring external systems to directly interface with the component
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for controlling an electronic device (1) comprising a programmable component and an independent microcontroller (10) and to such an electronic device (1), wherein, by said microcontroller (10), said component is monitored, a malfunction of said component is identified and said component is reprogrammed.