SYSTEM FOR FIELD UPGRADING OF FIRMWARE IN MULTIPLE UNITS

摘要

A system for upgrading firmware in multiple units or devices of a building control or automation system. A computer may have a tool that can reflash the firmware with an upgrade. The tool may reflash the firmware of multiple devices automatically without intervention of an operator. Devices having firmware that need an upgrade may be identified and classified as eligible for a firmware upgrade. Devices having firmware similar to firmware in other devices may be grouped with the latter devices for upgrading together, sequentially or in parallel, to simplify and expedite firmware upgrading of the devices. Firmware of devices in the field may be upgraded via a communication network or the like by the computer with the tool. The firmware upgrade, communications and/or associated activity associated with the upgrade may be proprietary and/or secured from public availability.

主权项

1. A field firmware upgrade mechanism comprising:
one or more building control system devices having firmware, connected to a communication network; a computer connected to the communication network; and a tool that reflashes to upgrade firmware, operated by the computer; and wherein: the tool discovers the one or more devices on the network eligible for an upgrade of firmware; the tool reflashes the firmware with an upgrade for the one or more eligible devices which are placed in a queue for sequential reflashing the firmware of the one or more eligible devices automatically without prompting for each device by an operator; and the upgrade of firmware is secure from public disclosure.