Distributed Server Architecture for Peak Load Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing customer loyalty programs face challenges in handling high query volumes during peak times, leading to slowed processing and increased transaction times, and are not tailored to individual customer needs, interests, and habits.

Innovation Solution

A distributed computing system that diverts processing functions from a primary server to a secondary server when query volumes exceed capacity, improving processing performance by utilizing the additional server's capacity, and a system that generates and notifies customers of customized offers and rewards based on their purchase history and preferences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a single server handles all loyalty program queries, then the system structure remains simple, but processing performance slows down during peak query volumes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing performanceVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the server system into multiple independent servers (first server, second server, third server) that can independently process loyalty program queries. Each server has its own processor and memory, allowing the system to segment the processing load and handle peak volumes without performance degradation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple servers into a unified loyalty program processing system where servers can work together to handle queries. The system merges the capabilities of individual servers to provide a comprehensive solution that maintains both performance and manageable complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If standard loyalty program processing is used, then implementation is straightforward, but the system cannot provide personalized offers tailored to individual customer needs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepersonalization capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements local quality by providing customized loyalty program offerings tailored to specific customer segments. Different servers can handle different customer types or product categories, allowing personalized processing without requiring complete system redesign. Each customer receives targeted offers based on their specific needs and purchase history.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS10445760B2Distributed computing platform for improving processing performance
Publication Date: 2019.10.15 SAFEWAY INC(US)
  • US10445760B2 patent drawing
  • US10445760B2 patent drawing
  • US10445760B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer system for distributing one or more functions in response to a notification includes a first server connected to a point of sale device and a second server separate from and connected to the first server. Upon reception of a notification by the first server from the point of sale device, the first server diverts the purchase notification to the second server, and distributes one or more functions to the second server to prevent the first server from slowing down.