Selective Data Distribution Using Unique Device Identifiers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Software updates in networked devices, such as subscriber television and computer systems, often lead to unforeseen issues and resource strain on service providers due to lack of representative testing and complex version tracking, necessitating a more controlled and flexible distribution method.
Innovation Solution
A method for selectively distributing data to network devices using unique device identifiers, where data is broadcast but only selectively installed based on matching keys, allowing for controlled rollout and user confirmation, and enabling partitioning of device populations for targeted updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If software updates are deployed to all STBs simultaneously, then the rollout speed is fast, but unforeseen problems occur and service providers experience resource strain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the STB population into different groups based on unique identifiers, allowing controlled distribution of software updates to specific subsets rather than all devices simultaneously. This enables gradual rollout and testing while maintaining overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary testing by distributing updates to selected STBs before mass deployment. Service providers can identify and resolve issues in a controlled subset of devices before wider distribution, preventing unforeseen problems from affecting the entire network.
2Reliability
If software updates are tested on a small trial batch of users, then problem detection is improved, but the sample size is insufficient for representative testing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic adjustment of the trial batch size by modifying the selection criteria based on unique identifiers. Service providers can progressively expand the test group from a small initial sample to a larger representative sample as confidence in the update increases, optimizing both problem detection and sample representativeness.
3Loss of information
If a complex database is maintained to track existing software versions, then version tracking is comprehensive, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables STBs to self-identify their software version status by comparing their unique identifiers with the distribution criteria. This eliminates the need for service providers to maintain complex centralized databases for tracking software versions, reducing system complexity while maintaining accurate version information.
Data Source
AI summary
A method selectively distributes data to a set of devices linked by a network, where each device has at least one unique identifier. The method comprises selecting devices to be members of the set, the set devices being selected to receive the data based on the at least one unique identifier, and distributing data to at least the selected devices, the data including at least one matching key for matching at least a portion of the unique identifier of selected devices. The unique identifier is a device hardware identifier, being a string of bits and the key correlates to at least a portion of the string of bits.