Peer-to-Peer Software Distribution via Package Builder Kit
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for software distribution, especially in peer-to-peer networks, face challenges such as high costs and inefficiencies due to large file sizes, bandwidth restrictions, intermittent network access, and the loss of original software distribution kits on devices, making it difficult to redistribute software updates efficiently across mobile and embedded devices.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that enables a device to recreate the original software distribution kit using a package builder kit, allowing it to act as a peer-to-peer software distribution server, thereby redistributing software updates directly to neighboring devices without relying on a central server, and can recreate the kit on-the-fly to conserve resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software is distributed from a central server to a large number of clients, then software updates can be managed centrally, but download time and network costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized distribution model into peer-to-peer segments. Each device that receives software can become a distribution node, dividing the distribution load across multiple peers rather than relying on a single central server. This reduces the download burden on any single network connection while maintaining centralized control through the package builder kit.
Solution Approach 2:
The package builder kit acts as an intermediary that enables devices to create their own distribution kits. This intermediary mechanism allows devices to self-serve as distribution nodes, reducing direct dependency on the central server for every download while ensuring software integrity and version control.
2Ease of operation
If the original software distribution kit is retained on a device, then re-distribution can occur, but device storage space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The package builder kit is installed preliminarily during the initial software update. This preliminary action enables the device to reconstruct distribution kits on-demand from the installed software, eliminating the need to permanently store original distribution kits while maintaining re-distribution capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of storing the original distribution kit, the package builder kit creates copies of distribution kits on-demand from the installed software. This copying mechanism allows re-distribution without permanently consuming storage space for the original distribution files.
3Productivity
If the package builder kit is installed on each device, then devices can act as peer-to-peer distribution servers, but device resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The package builder kit implements partial action by only installing the essential components needed for distribution kit creation. Rather than installing complete distribution server software, it installs minimal necessary tools to build and share distribution kits, reducing resource consumption while maintaining productivity.
4Reliability
If software packages are large in size, then complete functionality is provided, but bandwidth requirements and download costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution kit is optimized for local quality by including only the specific software components and configuration files needed for each device type and update scenario. Rather than distributing complete software suites, the package builder kit creates targeted distribution packages with appropriate local quality for each receiving device.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for software and data distribution are described in which an original software and/or data package is provided to a first device. The first device installs the original software package, which includes installing a package builder kit. The package builder kit allows a software distribution kit to be built by the first device. The software distribution kit can be transmitted from the first device to a second device for installation on the second device. The package builder kit includes a copy of an original configuration file from the original software package, details as to the installed files, addresses of the installed files on the first device, details of the internal structure of the original software package, and provides an executable program to build the software distribution kit.