Idle Computing Capacity Automation for Distributed Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face challenges in initiating and managing repetitive tasks across multiple computing devices over a prolonged period, as manually initiating these tasks can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially when devices are idle and underutilized.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a single board computing device (SBCD) and a device under test (DUT) connected via a chassis, where the SBCD receives input from the DUT's user interface, determines instructions based on a predefined workflow, and provides them to automate tasks, allowing for the utilization of idle computing capacity across distributed devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual initiation and management of repetitive tasks is used across multiple computing devices, then user control and device functionality are maintained, but operational efficiency and time consumption deteriorate due to cumbersome manual processes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring automation workflows and rules in advance. When devices enter idle states, pre-defined tasks are automatically triggered without requiring real-time user intervention, thereby improving operational efficiency and reducing time consumption for repetitive operations across multiple devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automation where computing devices automatically monitor their own idle states and execute predefined tasks independently. The automation manager on each device autonomously manages task execution, coordination, and result aggregation without continuous manual control, significantly reducing the time and effort required for managing repetitive tasks across the device fleet.
2Productivity
If computing devices remain idle and underutilized, then device availability and user accessibility are maintained, but resource utilization and computational efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts device functionality based on operational states. When devices are idle, they automatically transition to executing computational tasks; when user interaction is detected, they return to normal user-facing operations. This dynamic state management enables flexible resource utilization while preserving device availability and adaptability to different operational contexts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements multi-functionality by enabling computing devices to serve dual purposes: normal user operations and automated task execution. The same hardware resources (CPU, GPU, storage) are utilized for both user-facing applications and background computational tasks, maximizing resource utilization without compromising device availability for legitimate user needs.
3Speed
If automation workflows are implemented across distributed devices, then task execution speed and parallel processing capability are improved, but system complexity and coordination overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments automation workflows into discrete, modular tasks that can be independently executed on individual devices. Each device's automation manager handles local task coordination, while the central server manages high-level workflow orchestration. This segmentation reduces coordination overhead by distributing decision-making to the edge while maintaining parallel execution capabilities for improved computational speed.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for utilizing idle computing capacity. One example embodiment includes a system. The system includes a chassis configured to hold a device under test. The system also includes a computing device attached to the chassis. The computing device is configured to receive an input indicative of content being displayed on a user interface of the device under test. The computing device is also configured to determine, according to a predefined workflow, an instruction for the device under test based on the input. Additionally, the computing device is configured to provide the determined instruction to the device under test. The determined instruction is usable by the device under test to interact with a portion of the user interface in a specified way.