Remote Device Call-In Scheduling for Bandwidth Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
In business systems, multiple remote devices often exceed the available bandwidth when attempting to connect to a host server simultaneously, leading to busy signals and connectivity issues, especially when conventional scheduling methods are used for data uploads and reporting.
Innovation Solution
Assigning specific call-in dates and times to each device based on its operational requirements, allowing for balanced communication load and using a hunt group to manage modem/communication pool, with optional retry mechanisms and additional bandwidth allocation as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple base devices are configured to contact a host server simultaneously, then data reporting and operational history upload can be performed, but the available bandwidth will be exceeded causing busy signals and connectivity issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the simultaneous connection requests from multiple base devices into distributed time slots. Each device is assigned a specific call-in date and time, dividing the concentrated traffic load into manageable segments across different time periods, thereby preventing bandwidth exhaustion while maintaining reliable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary scheduling of call-in times for each base device before the actual data transmission occurs. By pre-assigning specific dates and times for connections, the host server can prepare appropriate bandwidth allocation and modem resources in advance, ensuring reliable connections without overwhelming the system.
2Productivity
If devices are commanded to call in at specific intervals, then data can be uploaded regularly, but too many devices calling within the same time period will exceed bandwidth capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different call-in schedules to different base devices based on their individual needs and the host server's capacity. Rather than using a uniform scheduling approach, each device receives customized time slot assignments that optimize data upload frequency while respecting the local bandwidth constraints at different time periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic action by scheduling base devices to connect at regular, predetermined intervals rather than continuously or simultaneously. This periodic scheduling distributes the data upload load across different time periods, allowing the host server to manage bandwidth capacity effectively while maintaining consistent data collection from all devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the host system maintains multiple modems and phone lines, then more devices can connect simultaneously, but the cost and complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a flexible, software-based scheduling system that dynamically allocates modem and phone line resources to different base devices based on their assigned call-in times. Rather than maintaining a static, over-provisioned infrastructure to handle peak simultaneous connections, the system dynamically matches available resources with scheduled connection requests, achieving high concurrent connection capacity without proportionally increasing hardware complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods are provided in which remote installed devices may be assigned various call-in times to contact a host controller. The host may schedule remote devices sequentially across multiple modems. Additional modems may be added to the system as more bandwidth is desired or required. The system may include additional, unscheduled bandwidth to account for calls made by devices outside of the assigned call times.