Runtime Handover for Client Software Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing software update methodologies often disrupt user experience and require system downtime, as they lack seamless transition mechanisms from predecessor to successor versions of client software applications.
Innovation Solution
A method for client-side devices to execute a runtime handover from a predecessor to a successor version of a client software application, involving an update handshake and runtime validation, allowing transparent installation and validation without rebooting, ensuring smooth transition and data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional software update methodologies are used, then software can be updated to newer versions, but system downtime and user interruption occur
Solution Approach 1:
The successor version of the client software application is installed and prepared in advance while the predecessor version remains active and handles user requests. This preliminary installation allows the update to be ready before any switch occurs, eliminating downtime during the transition.
Solution Approach 2:
The software update process is segmented into distinct phases: installation of successor version, validation phase, and switching phase. During installation, the predecessor version continues to operate independently. Only after successful validation does the system switch to the successor version, ensuring no interruption in service.
2Reliability
If traditional software update methodologies are used, then software can be updated, but user experience is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
A validation mechanism acts as an intermediary between the predecessor and successor versions. The validation phase verifies that the successor version is properly installed and functional before allowing users to switch. This intermediary step ensures update success while maintaining seamless user experience, as users never encounter a non-functional state.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between predecessor and successor versions based on validation results. While the predecessor version handles user requests during installation, the system can transition to the successor version once validated. This dynamic behavior ensures continuous operation and uninterrupted user experience.
3Reliability
If runtime validation is implemented, then successful operation of successor version is ensured, but update process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Validation of the successor version is performed in advance during the validation phase, before any user-facing switch occurs. This preliminary validation ensures the successor version is fully functional and ready, reducing the need for complex post-switch validation and simplifying the overall update process.
4Loss of time
If seamless transition mechanism is implemented, then system downtime is eliminated, but data transfer and validation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The data transfer process is segmented into phases: data is transferred and prepared during the installation and validation phases while the predecessor version remains active. This segmentation allows comprehensive data migration without interrupting user operations, eliminating downtime while managing data transfer requirements systematically.
Data Source
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AI summary
In one embodiment, a predecessor version of a client software application may execute a runtime handover to a successor version of the client software application. A client side device may execute a predecessor version of a client software application while installing a successor version of the client software application. The client side device may execute an update handshake between the successor version and the predecessor version. The client side device may execute a runtime validation of the successor version.