Snapshot Image Update Timing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional update methods for information processing apparatuses are inefficient as they require waiting for the snapshot image to be updated alongside firmware, leading to prolonged update times, especially when the firmware and snapshot image are not matched.
Innovation Solution
The update process is optimized by allowing the snapshot image to be updated independently of the firmware, with the option to select immediate or staggered updates based on user settings, using a hibernation invalidation flag and time-based usage counters to minimize update time and load on the apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the snapshot image is updated together with the firmware, then the system consistency is maintained, but the update time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the update process into separate stages: firmware update and snapshot image update. The firmware can be updated first and independently, while the snapshot image update is deferred to a later timing. This segmentation allows the system to maintain consistency (by eventually updating both) while reducing the immediate update time by not requiring both updates to complete simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs the firmware update as a preliminary action before updating the snapshot image. By updating the firmware first and setting a flag to indicate the need for snapshot image update, the system prepares for the subsequent snapshot image update at an optimal time, thereby separating the urgency of firmware updates from the less time-critical snapshot image updates.
2Reliability
If the snapshot image is updated immediately with firmware, then the system remains consistent, but the update load on the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic timing for snapshot image updates based on system conditions. Instead of a fixed immediate update schedule, the system dynamically determines the optimal timing for snapshot image updates by checking usage counters and system state. This dynamic approach reduces update load during high-activity periods while maintaining consistency by ensuring updates occur eventually.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically monitors its own state through usage counters and update flags to determine when snapshot image updates should occur. The apparatus self-manages the update scheduling by checking whether current usage conditions are suitable for updates, thereby reducing the need for complex external scheduling mechanisms and minimizing update load during critical operational periods.
3Loss of time
If the snapshot image update is deferred, then the update time is reduced, but the system may operate with mismatched firmware and snapshot image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism through update flags and usage counters that track the firmware version and snapshot image version. The system continuously monitors whether the snapshot image is outdated relative to the firmware and triggers a snapshot image update when appropriate conditions are met. This feedback loop ensures that while updates can be deferred for time efficiency, the system maintains awareness of version mismatches and corrects them when suitable.
Data Source
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AI summary
An information processing apparatus, an information processing apparatus update method, and a carrier means. The information processing apparatus (1) executes update of a snapshot image (203) that is a boot image used for hibernation, at a time different from firmware update timing.