Telematics Control Unit Wireless Software Update via Differential Packages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for updating vehicle software require physical visits to dealerships, leading to significant costs and inefficiencies due to the need for manual installation and notification processes, with many owners failing to respond timely or at all, resulting in additional expenses.
Innovation Solution
A method for wireless remote updating of vehicle software using a centralized system that generates differential update packages, manages update scheduling, and utilizes telematics control units to download and apply updates over-the-air, allowing for automated validation and reporting of update status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software updates are provided through manufacturer's warranty or recall with notifications sent to vehicle owners requesting return to dealer, then software updates can be installed, but significant costs are incurred including dealer installation costs, notification costs, and additional expenses when owners fail to respond timely
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables vehicles to automatically receive and install software updates without requiring owner intervention or dealer assistance. The TCU autonomously downloads update packages via wireless communication and performs self-updating, eliminating the need for manual notification and physical visit processes that incur costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of physical dealer visits and manual software installation with a wireless electronic system. Update packages are transmitted over-the-air to the TCU, which then automatically installs updates, substituting the mechanical delivery and installation process with electronic communication and automated software execution.
2Reliability
If vehicle owners are required to return to dealer for software updating, then updates can be installed, but there are costs associated with sending notifications and additional expenses when owners fail to respond
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the TCU with update management capabilities and maintaining wireless communication channels. When updates are available, the system automatically initiates download and installation without requiring time-consuming notification cycles and owner response, thereby eliminating delays associated with manual update processes.
3Reliability
If manual notification and dealer installation processes are used, then software updates can be delivered, but dealer costs for software installation are significant and cannot be eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The TCU is designed with autonomous update management capabilities, including automatic download initiation, wireless communication for receiving update packages, and self-execution of installation processes. This self-service mechanism completely eliminates the need for dealer intervention in the update installation process, achieving full automation of what previously required manual dealer operations.
4Reliability
If physical visits to dealerships are required for software updates, then updates can be installed, but significant costs and inefficiencies result from manual installation processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical dealership visits with a wireless electronic update delivery system. The TCU communicates with remote servers via wireless networks to receive and install updates, eliminating the need for owners to physically travel to dealerships and undergo manual installation processes, thereby dramatically improving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for wireless remote updating of vehicle software of one or more target electronic control units (ECUs) in a target vehicle group comprises manager software on a server. The manager software selects the target vehicle group and generates a differential update package (DUP) comprising an update manager. Download manager software downloads the DUP to one or more target vehicles. The update manager in each vehicle updates the one or more target ECUs.