Over-The-Air Programmer (OTA)

Overview

The Over-The-Air Programmer (OTA) project enables wireless flashing of firmware onto an Arm-based STM32F401 microcontroller. This project leverages web connectivity, cloud storage, and microcontroller technology to facilitate convenient firmware updates. The system consists of several components:

1. Arm-based STM32F401 Microcontroller: This serves as the target device for firmware updates. The microcontroller includes a custom bootloader flashed onto the first 16 kB of Flash Memory, allowing for firmware updates over UART.

2. Website and Cloud Database (Firebase): A website interface is connected to a Firebase database, enabling users to upload and store firmware updates. The STM32F401 microcontroller fetches firmware updates from this cloud database.

3. NodeMCU (ESP8266) Board: This component connects to the internet and retrieves firmware updates from the website. It acts as an intermediary between the website and the STM32F401 microcontroller, transmitting firmware updates wirelessly.

4. Raspberry Pi 4 GUI Interface: The Raspberry Pi 4 serves as the user interface for the vehicle's infotainment system. It presents essential information such as time/date and provides functionality for checking and installing system updates.

Components and Communication

Communication Channels

• STM32F401 - NodeMCU Communication: The STM32F401 microcontroller communicates with the NodeMCU board over UART (Serial) communication. This allows the microcontroller to receive firmware updates wirelessly.

• Raspberry Pi 4 - STM32F401 Communication: The Raspberry Pi 4 communicates with the STM32F401 microcontroller via UART (Serial) communication. This communication channel facilitates the control of the infotainment system and the installation of firmware updates.

Key Features

• Wireless Firmware Updates: Users can upload firmware updates to the cloud database via the website interface. The NodeMCU board fetches these updates and transmits them wirelessly to the STM32F401 microcontroller for installation.

• Automatic System Updates: The Raspberry Pi 4 GUI interface includes a "Check for Updates" feature. When activated, the system automatically fetches the latest firmware updates from the cloud database and installs them onto the STM32F401 microcontroller.

• Enhanced Infotainment Features: After installing system updates, the infotainment system unlocks additional features, such as a parking mode. This mode includes functionalities such as a rear camera display and ultrasonic sensor warnings to assist users in parking and avoid accidents.

Setup and Configuration

To set up and deploy the Over-The-Air Programmer (OTA) system, follow these steps:

1. Hardware Setup:

   • Connect the NodeMCU board to the internet.
   • Connect the Raspberry Pi 4 to the STM32F401 microcontroller via UART communication.

2. Software Installation:

   • Install the necessary firmware on the STM32F401 microcontroller, including the custom bootloader.
   • Set up the Firebase database and configure the website interface for firmware uploads.

3. Run the System:

   • Ensure all components are powered on and properly connected.
   • Access the Raspberry Pi 4 GUI interface for user interaction.
   • Use the "Check for Updates" feature to fetch and install the latest firmware updates.

Flowchart

Acknowledgments Special thanks to the contributors and supporters of this project in IMT/WazeefaTech who have helped in its development and improvement.

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Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or suggestions. Happy flashing! 🚀🔧