Logically Protected Region for Software Stack Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Service providers face significant challenges in efficiently and reliably upgrading software on a large number of self-service financial transaction devices (SSFTDs) due to network bandwidth limitations and the complexity of the installation process, which often involves human error.
Innovation Solution
A method for distributing software updates by building a reference software stack, using a logically protected region on the SSFTD's hard drive to store images, delta patch files, and installation instructions, allowing for automated and programmatically generated task sequences to handle updates independently without human intervention, and enabling updates to be propagated via network or local installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software upgrades are distributed over the network to all SSFTDs, then all devices can receive updates, but network bandwidth limitations make this impractical or economical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the software update distribution into segments: a reference SSFTD receives the full software stack, while other SSFTDs receive only differential updates. This segmentation allows the system to minimize network bandwidth consumption while maintaining update consistency across all devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference SSFTD is pre-configured with the complete software stack before other devices receive updates. This preliminary action creates a local source from which differential updates can be generated and distributed to other SSFTDs, reducing overall network bandwidth requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If a complex installation sequence is performed locally at each SSFTD, then software can be installed, but the process is error-prone and not reliably repeatable
Solution Approach 1:
The SSFTDs perform self-updating by automatically executing the differential update process and installation sequence without requiring human intervention. This self-service approach eliminates human error and ensures consistent, reliable updates across all devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference SSFTD's software stack serves as a template that is copied and differentially applied to other SSFTDs. This copying mechanism ensures that all devices receive the same update components in the same sequence, improving reliability and repeatability.
3Ease of operation
If human service operators are involved in locally managing the installation sequence, then installation can be performed, but errors are more likely to occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates the need for human service operators by enabling SSFTDs to autonomously receive differential updates and execute installation sequences. This automation removes human error from the process while maintaining ease of operation through automated workflows.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of human operators manually managing installations with an automated electronic system that distributes differential updates and executes installation sequences programmatically, thereby improving reliability.
4Stability of the object's composition
If all SSFTDs are upgraded within a short window of time, then consistent user experience is achieved, but the complexity of coordination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The differential update mechanism serves multiple functions: it reduces network bandwidth consumption, enables automated local installation, and coordinates upgrades across multiple devices simultaneously. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall upgrade coordination process while maintaining user experience consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference SSFTD is prepared in advance with the complete software stack, allowing differential updates to be generated and distributed to other devices within a short time window. This preliminary preparation reduces coordination complexity while achieving consistent user experience across all SSFTDs.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, and systems for software stack building using a logically protected region of a computer-readable medium are described. An image of a software stack may be stored in a computer-readable medium. A computer, coupled to the computer-readable medium, may build an executable software stack on the same computer-readable medium from the image. The image may be stored in a logically-protected region of the computer-readable medium. After the storing and prior to the building, data stored on the computer-readable medium outside of the logically-protected region may be erased.