Selective Configuration Data Distribution for Mobile Terminals

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current systems for distributing configuration data to wireless mobile terminals are limited in allowing customization or addition of new data, consume excessive bandwidth, and are not adaptable to new mobile applications or user terminals, leading to barriers in developing new products and features.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for distributing configuration data over a wireless satellite network that streamlines the process by allowing selective updating of configuration data, minimizing software requirements, and enabling distribution to specific mobile terminals based on application identification, with support for large data packages and third-party applications, optimizing bandwidth usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If configuration data is transmitted in bulk passages to all mobile terminals, then all terminals receive updates, but bandwidth consumption increases disproportionately

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration data deliveryVSAvoidbandwidth consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the configuration data transmission by dividing mobile terminals into different groups based on their application types and characteristics. Instead of transmitting bulk passages to all terminals, the system selectively transmits configuration data to specific groups or individual terminals that need updates, thereby reducing overall bandwidth consumption while ensuring reliable delivery to those who require it.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements partial action by transmitting configuration data only to the necessary subset of mobile terminals rather than all terminals. The network management computer determines which terminals require configuration updates based on their application identifiers and transmission histories, sending data only where needed rather than performing excessive full-fleet transmissions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

2Reliability

If configuration data distribution is based on customer or fleet membership, then existing systems work well, but adaptability to new mobile applications and third-party applications is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem stabilityVSAvoidapplication compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal configuration data distribution mechanism that works across multiple application types and third-party applications. The network management computer uses application identifiers to recognize and manage configuration data for different mobile applications regardless of their origin or type. This universal approach allows the system to maintain stable operations for existing applications while adapting to new applications and third-party integrations without requiring application-specific distribution logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If configuration data is transmitted to all mobile terminals, then updates are ensured, but bandwidth is consumed disproportionately especially in satellite communications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveupdate deliveryVSAvoidbandwidth usage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments mobile terminals into different groups based on their application identifiers and configuration needs. The network management computer transmits configuration data selectively to specific segments or groups rather than broadcasting to all terminals, significantly reducing the quantity of data transmitted over satellite communications while ensuring that each terminal receives the updates it requires.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs partial action by transmitting configuration data only to the necessary subset of mobile terminals rather than all terminals. The network management computer determines which terminals require configuration updates based on their application identifiers and transmission histories, sending data only where needed rather than performing excessive full-fleet transmissions, thereby optimizing satellite bandwidth usage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS8856288B2Method and apparatus for the distribution of configuration data
Publication Date: 2014.10.07 OMNITRACS LLC
  • US8856288B2 patent drawing
  • US8856288B2 patent drawing
  • US8856288B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of methods and apparatuses for distributing configuration data to one or more mobile terminals. An embodiment of one method of the invention includes receiving from the host application a request from a client to transmit a configuration data value to a mobile terminal. The configuration data value can include a designation of a new precedence level for a mobile terminal corresponding to a new operating characteristic of the mobile terminal. The method can include the step of transmitting from the NMC a configuration data value including the new precedence level to the mobile terminal. The mobile terminal can include a mobile application defining a previous precedence level such that the mobile terminal loads the configuration data in response to the new precedence level different from the previous precedence level.