In-Vehicle Software Update Controller Using Parallel Data Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for updating software in vehicles are time-consuming and inefficient, leading to delayed Time-to-Market for new vehicles and increased after-sales service costs, while also consuming battery power and limiting the extensibility and functionality of in-vehicle infotainment systems.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for controlling in-vehicle electronic devices that involve receiving data packages for software updates, applying parallel or sequential update procedures based on the type of data, calculating update times, and distributing processing to reduce overall update time, while adhering to Open Mobile Alliance communication standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sequential update procedure is used for software updates, then update reliability is improved, but update time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The software update process is segmented into multiple independent data packages that can be updated in parallel. Each data package represents a separate module or component that can be processed independently, allowing simultaneous updates without compromising overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The update procedure dynamically adapts based on system state and data package characteristics. The controller selects between sequential and parallel update modes depending on factors such as data package size, system load, and criticality of the software module being updated.
2Productivity
If parallel update procedure is used for software updates, then update speed is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A centralized controller acts as an intermediary to manage parallel update operations. This controller coordinates multiple update processes, handles dependencies between data packages, and ensures system stability during parallel updates, thereby reducing the apparent complexity for individual update modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The update system uses template-based update packages that can be replicated and distributed in parallel. Each data package follows a standardized structure and format, allowing multiple identical or similar updates to be processed simultaneously without increasing system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If software updates are performed at sales agencies, then service coverage is improved, but after-sales service costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle's electronic control unit automatically performs software updates using built-in communication modules. The system can autonomously download, validate, and install update packages without requiring external technician intervention, thereby eliminating after-sales service costs while maintaining wide service coverage through over-the-air updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The update system is designed to be universally applicable across different vehicle models and regions. A single centralized server can distribute updates to multiple vehicles simultaneously, and the same infrastructure supports both automated self-service updates and traditional dealership updates, providing multi-functional service delivery.
4Loss of time
If update time is reduced by parallel processing, then Time-to-Market is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs updates in periodic batches rather than continuously. During parallel processing, multiple data packages are updated simultaneously in controlled time windows, allowing the system to balance processing throughput with power management requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The update system dynamically adjusts processing parameters such as parallelism degree, data package size, and processing priority based on available power resources. When power consumption constraints are detected, the system automatically reduces parallel processing intensity or schedules updates for periods when power availability is higher.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling software needed to drive an in-vehicle electronic device includes receiving a data package including a plurality of data needed to update software of a vehicle and applying either a parallel update procedure or a sequential update procedure according to inclusion or non-inclusion of primary data in the data package. The plurality of data includes at least one of primary data and secondary data. The primary data and secondary data are classified according to a data type or update target region.