Terminal Device Firmware Update via Dual Processor Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick charging technologies are limited by firmware stored in terminal devices during manufacturing, restricting their utility and universality, as they cannot run charging processes with adapters controlled by updated firmware without returning to the factory for firmware upgrades.
Innovation Solution
A terminal device with two processors, where the first processor receives firmware updates through a communication interface when no firmware is stored, and the second processor acquires and transmits the firmware from a server, enabling control instructions to be read and applied for adaptive charging based on adapter types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If firmware is stored in the processor during manufacturing, then charging control functionality is provided, but the charging technology lacks utility and universality when adapters are updated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic firmware update mechanism where the terminal device can receive and execute firmware updates for adapters through communication interfaces. The system transitions from static factory-preloaded firmware to dynamic remote-updatable firmware, allowing the charging control functionality to adapt to updated adapters while maintaining reliable operation through controlled update processes and version management.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal device is equipped with self-service capabilities to automatically receive, validate, and install firmware updates for adapters without requiring factory intervention. The device can independently manage firmware versions, communicate with servers to obtain updates, and apply changes to maintain compatibility with updated adapters, thereby improving both adaptability and operational reliability.
2Device complexity
If firmware is fixed during manufacturing, then device complexity is reduced, but firmware updates require factory intervention increasing loss of time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communication interface and firmware update mechanism as an intermediary between the terminal device and external firmware sources. This intermediary enables automated firmware transmission and installation, eliminating the need for factory intervention while maintaining relatively simple device architecture. The update process occurs remotely through established communication channels, significantly reducing update time without substantially increasing device complexity.
3Reliability
If the communication interface is closed when firmware is stored, then security is improved, but firmware updates cannot be received
Solution Approach 1:
The communication interface implements dynamic state management, transitioning between closed and open states based on operational requirements. The interface remains closed during normal operation to secure firmware storage, but can be temporarily opened under controlled conditions to receive authenticated firmware updates. This dynamic approach maintains security while enabling necessary update functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor firmware status, adapter compatibility requirements, and update availability. Based on this feedback, the communication interface intelligently determines when to open for updates and when to remain closed for security. The feedback loop ensures that interface opening occurs only when necessary and secure, balancing security with update capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A terminal device and a charge control method are provided by the disclosure. The terminal device includes a first processor, which includes a first communication interface. The first processor receives a firmware transmitted by a second processor through the first communication interface when the first communication interface is open, and reads control instructions recorded in the firmware when the terminal device is coupled to an adapter, to control the adapter to charge the terminal device, wherein when the first processor stores no firmware, the first communication interface is open; a second processor acquires the firmware from a server, and when the first communication interface is open, transmits the firmware by the first communication interface. Therefore, the improved charge method based on the control of the terminal device is more practical and universal.