Wireless Sensor Update via Remote Server Relay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for updating sensors in mobile units, such as aircraft, require physical interaction and grounding for software updates, limiting the ability to update sensors remotely and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a remote server and multiple wireless networks to transmit update signals from a base server to sensors within a mobile unit, allowing sensors to reconfigure their functionality wirelessly and automatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical connection via hard wire is used to update sensors, then software can be loaded into sensors, but physical interaction with the aircraft is required and updates can only be performed when the aircraft is grounded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical hard-wired connection system with a wireless communication system. The update module communicates with sensors through wireless signals (first wireless network) instead of physical hard-wired connections, eliminating the need for mechanical attachment and physical interaction with the aircraft during updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an update module as an intermediary device that receives update signals from a base server through a second wireless network and relays them to sensors via a first wireless network. This intermediary enables indirect updating without direct physical connection between the aircraft and the update source.
2Reliability
If physical replacement of sensors or memory is used, then software updates can be implemented, but physical interaction and grounding of the aircraft is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sensor replacement or memory swapping with a wireless software loading system. The update module loads new software into sensor memory through wireless communication, eliminating the need for physical disassembly, component removal, and reinstallation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system performs self-updating by receiving and installing software updates wirelessly through the update module. The sensors can be reconfigured and updated without external physical intervention, enabling the system to service itself.
3Productivity
If wireless remote updating is implemented, then sensors can be updated during aircraft operation without grounding, but a communication system between base server and aircraft is required
Solution Approach 1:
The update module serves multiple functions: it acts as a wireless receiver for update signals from the base server, functions as a router to distribute signals to multiple sensors, and provides a communication bridge between the second wireless network (base server) and first wireless network (sensors). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system is provided for updating a sensor disposed within a mobile unit. The method includes the steps of: a) providing a remote server and at least one sensor, which remote server and sensor are located in the mobile unit and are in communications with one another through a first wireless network, and wherein the sensor has a first functionality; b) receiving an update signal transmitted from a base server to the remote server over a second wireless network; c) transmitting the received update signal from the remote server to the sensor over the first wireless network; and d) reconfiguring the sensor from the first functionality to a second functionality based upon the transmitted update signal.