Active-Active STEP Repositories for Network Topology Distribution

The patent merges the roles of active and standby repositories into multiple active-active repositories. Each repository simultaneously performs primary functions (receiving STEP documents from network devices) and backup functions (providing redundancy), eliminating the need for separate active-standby configurations. This is achieved by having each repository accept publications from network devices and replicate to other repositories, making the system more reliable without significantly increasing operational complexity.

The patent segments the single centralized repository function into multiple distributed repository instances. Instead of one active repository that all network devices must connect to, the system divides functionality across multiple repositories that can independently serve network devices. This segmentation ensures that if one repository is unavailable, network devices can still publish and subscribe through other repositories, improving reliability.

The patent implements self-service mechanisms where each active repository automatically performs replication and synchronization with other repositories without manual intervention. When a network device publishes a STEP document to one repository, that repository automatically replicates it to other active repositories. Similarly, repositories autonomously synchronize their states and handle failover scenarios, reducing the complexity of managing multiple connections while maintaining high reliability.

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where repositories monitor connectivity status and automatically adjust their behavior. If a repository detects that a network device or another repository is unavailable, it uses feedback from connectivity monitoring to route publications through alternative paths or wait for recovery, ensuring continuous information exchange without requiring complex manual configuration.