Dynamic Multicast Session Manager for Build-to-Order Software Downloads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network infrastructures in manufacturing environments face limitations in bandwidth, particularly when using point-to-point unicast methods for software downloads, and existing IP multicast tools lack the ability to automatically manage unique session parameters in build-to-order manufacturing processes where clients are not known ahead of time.
Innovation Solution
A dynamically managed multicast system that automatically creates and assigns clients to multiple multicast sessions with unique parameters, such as start time and client count, to optimize software downloads in high-mix, high-volume manufacturing environments, using a multicast session manager and infrastructure to support efficient IP multicasting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If point-to-point unicast is used for software downloads, then each client receives individual file copies, but bandwidth consumption increases and download speed decreases as more clients attach
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple unicast download streams into a single multicast stream. The file server sends one copy of the file to multiple clients simultaneously through IP multicast protocols, merging what would otherwise be separate bandwidth-consuming unicast connections into a single efficient transmission channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The multicast session manager provides universal management capabilities for multiple multicast sessions simultaneously. It can handle different file types, manage multiple client groups, and coordinate various download parameters through a single system that serves multiple functions, replacing the need for separate unicast management for each client.
2Productivity
If IP multicast is used for software downloads, then bandwidth usage is reduced and unlimited clients can download simultaneously, but existing tools require manual parameter setup and cannot adapt to build-to-order environments
Solution Approach 1:
The multicast session manager implements self-service by automatically resolving session parameters without manual intervention. When a client requests a download, the system autonomously determines the appropriate multicast session, retrieves necessary parameters, and configures the connection automatically, eliminating the need for operators to manually set up each session.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where the multicast session manager continuously monitors client requests, session status, and system conditions. Based on this feedback, it dynamically adjusts session parameters, manages client assignments, and optimizes download performance in real-time, adapting to changing conditions in build-to-order environments.
3Quantity of substance
If manual multicast session management is used, then large pre-scheduled downloads can be performed, but the system cannot handle environments where clients are not known in advance
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static pre-scheduled multicast sessions to dynamic on-demand sessions. The multicast session manager can create, modify, and terminate sessions dynamically based on real-time client requests. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to any client joining at any time, regardless of whether clients were known in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring multicast session templates and parameter sets that can be quickly instantiated when clients arrive. Rather than waiting for complete client lists, the system prepares session frameworks in advance that can be rapidly activated and customized based on actual client needs, enabling fast response to unknown clients.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are disclosed for dynamically managing multicast sessions for software downloads and, more particularly, for such software downloads used in build-to-order manufacturing information handling systems. Multiple multicast sessions are automatically managed simultaneously, where each session can have its own unique set of session parameters, in such a way as to support a high mix, high volume manufacturing build-to-order environment. Multicast session control parameters, such as start time and client count, are defined for each multicast session base upon download requests from the information handling systems as they reach the software installation phase.