User-Specific Computer Configuration via Preloaded Installation Packages
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for user-specific computer configuration in large environments are inefficient, particularly when dealing with many computers or narrow network bandwidths, as they either require on-site manual installation, high network data transmission, or cause logistical issues with supplier preparation.
Innovation Solution
A method where installation packages and a configuration program are preloaded onto computers via high-data-rate connections, and user-specific configuration files are transmitted over the network to configure software products, optimizing data transmission and reducing on-site time expenditure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If installation packages are transmitted via network for each computer, then centralized control is achieved, but network bandwidth is excessively consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-transferring complete installation packages to portable data storage media at a preparation location before the computers are deployed to final locations. This allows the actual installation at remote sites to require minimal network bandwidth, as only small configuration data needs to be transmitted over the network rather than large installation packages.
2Ease of operation
If manual installation is performed on site, then flexibility is maintained, but time expenditure and personnel requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by designing an automatic installation system where the configuration program autonomously reads configuration data from portable storage media and performs software installation and configuration without requiring manual intervention. This eliminates the need for personnel to manually install software on each computer at remote locations, significantly reducing on-site time expenditure while maintaining the flexibility to service multiple computers.
3Loss of time
If supplier performs individual installation, then on-site outlay is minimized, but logistical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the installation process into two distinct phases: a preparation phase at the supplier's location where complete installation packages are transferred to portable storage media, and a deployment phase at remote locations where only lightweight configuration data is transmitted. This segmentation allows the supplier to prepare multiple computers in advance, reducing on-site outlay while the standardized preparation process manages logistical complexity through systematic organization of installation media.
Data Source
AI summary
Installation and configuration of user-specific software and a computer system is performed such that individual computers in a group is prepared by transmitting the installation packages for a predetermined set of software products and a configuration program to the individual computers. In response to a computer being started for the first time, the configuration program loads a user-specific configuration file from a database system. According to the information contained in the configuration file, software products are subsequently installed and configured on the computer on a user-specific basis using the installation packages.