Mobile Device Configuration via Master and Device Files
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing configuration data for fleets of mobile computing devices is labor-intensive and requires substantial planning due to the need for updating multiple devices with various parameters, such as network settings and application parameters, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A method using a master configuration file and a device file, where parameter records map values to identifiers and device records map identifiers to device identifiers, allowing for efficient storage and configuration of multiple devices by selecting relevant parameter values from the master file based on device records.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional manual configuration methods are used for each mobile computing device, then configuration accuracy can be maintained, but the time and labor required increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining configuration templates with all necessary parameter settings before device deployment. These templates contain pre-configured values for multiple parameters that can be automatically applied to devices, eliminating the need for manual configuration of each device while maintaining consistency and accuracy across the fleet.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating master configuration templates that can be replicated and applied to multiple devices simultaneously. The template-based approach allows configuration data to be copied from a single source to numerous devices, ensuring uniformity and reducing the time required for configuration while maintaining precision through the use of standardized template structures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If individual configuration files are created for each device, then device-specific settings can be maintained, but the complexity of managing configuration files increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing configuration management into two distinct components: device-agnostic template definitions and device-specific instance assignments. This segmentation allows the system to maintain device-specific settings through template assignments while reducing overall complexity by separating the configuration specification from the device identification, enabling centralized management of configuration parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by creating a master template that serves multiple devices simultaneously. The template structure is designed to be universal and reusable across the entire device fleet, with parameters that can be applied to any device matching the template criteria. This eliminates the need for separate individual configuration files for each device while still maintaining device-specific settings through template assignment.
3Reliability
If comprehensive configuration parameters are stored for all devices, then complete device control is achieved, but the storage and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by storing configuration parameters only where needed through template assignments. Rather than duplicating complete configuration data for each device, the system stores parameters locally in the template definition and references them through device-template associations. This approach maintains complete device control through comprehensive parameter coverage while reducing overall data volume by eliminating redundant storage of identical configuration data across multiple devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of storing configuration data for mobile computing devices can comprise the steps of providing a master configuration file including one or more parameter records and providing a device file including one or more device records. Each parameter record can map a parameter value to a parameter identifier. Each device record can map a parameter identifier to a mobile computing device identifier.