Automated Configuration File Management for Distributed Laptop Deployments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Deploying multiple services across multiple laptop computers is cumbersome due to the need for manual configuration of each device, which is time-consuming and lacks certainty of proper deployment, especially when the number of laptops exceeds a few, leading to unfeasible configuration file management.
Innovation Solution
A centralized entity generates an overall configuration file encompassing all services needed for platform deployment, using a combination of manual and automated actions, with override parameters and templating language to customize services for laptops, allowing automated distribution and rendering of subset configuration files for each laptop.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration is used for each laptop computer, then customization and control over service deployment is achieved, but the time and effort required increases significantly when the number of laptops exceeds a few
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses template configuration files that can be copied and distributed to multiple laptop computers. The centralized entity generates a master template that automatically replicates across all target devices, eliminating the need to manually create separate configuration files for each laptop while maintaining consistency and enabling centralized updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration system enables self-service through automated rendering where the centralized entity automatically processes template files and generates device-specific configuration files without requiring manual intervention for each laptop. The system self-manages the distribution and deployment process across multiple devices.
2Ease of operation
If manual configuration files are implemented for multiple services, then deployment control is achieved, but certainty of proper deployment cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized entity implements feedback mechanisms to verify proper deployment of services on laptop computers. The system can detect deployment status, validate configuration file rendering, and provide feedback loops to ensure services are properly instantiated, thereby increasing deployment certainty while maintaining control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary validation and testing of configuration templates before actual deployment to laptop computers. By pre-validating the template structure and service configurations in advance, the system ensures that deployment will be correct, thereby increasing reliability before the actual deployment occurs.
3Ease of manufacture
If configuration files are manually managed for three to four laptop computers, then the process is manageable, but the approach becomes onerous and unfeasible when the number increases to hundred or more
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized entity serves multiple functions simultaneously: it generates configuration templates, renders device-specific configuration files, manages distribution to multiple laptops, validates deployments, and handles updates. This multi-functional automated system replaces the need for separate manual operations for each configuration task across numerous devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual process of creating, distributing, and managing configuration files with an automated computational system. The centralized entity uses software-based template rendering and automated deployment mechanisms to substitute the manual mechanical operations that become unmanageable at scale.
4Extent of automation
If a centralized entity is used to coordinate services on a server, then service coordination is achieved, but the same level of automated coordination is not applied when deploying to distributed laptop computers
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the deployment architecture into a centralized coordination entity and distributed laptop clients. The centralized entity handles high-level service coordination and template management, while each laptop receives rendered configuration files that enable local service instantiation. This segmentation allows automated coordination to be distributed across the architecture rather than requiring centralized control of every individual device.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for automated and distributed configuration of platform deployments on remote computing devices, such as laptop computers. The platform deployments can include services that mirror that of a server-based platform deployment. A centralized entity be used to generate and/or edit a single configuration file that contains multiple subset configuration files, each corresponding to a service to be deployed to each of the remote computing devices. The configuration file can be customized for the remote computing devices. Additionally, interaction between services can be achieved by using a templating language that allows certain aspects of the configuration file to include references to values.