Software Deployment Framework for Network Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for deploying and managing software components in extended data communications networks lack standardization, flexibility, and scalability, leading to challenges in software distribution, support, and user experience across diverse geographic regions and business units.
Innovation Solution
A standardized framework for deploying and managing software components in network devices, which assigns client types to define required software components and configurations, providing network support, hardware requisition, and individual device services, using XML files for granular and dynamic management, and supporting multiple languages and settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional systems are used for software deployment in extended data communications networks, then existing deployment processes can be maintained, but standardization, flexibility, and scalability are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network device population into different client types (portable, mobile, stationary) with distinct software component requirements. This segmentation enables standardized deployment processes tailored to each device category, resolving the contradiction by providing both standardization through type-based classification and adaptability through customized component sets for each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal deployment framework that handles multiple client types and geographic regions through a single standardized system. The framework uses common XML-based configuration files and standardized processes that can be applied across all device types and regions, achieving both standardization and versatility simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If software components are distributed to network devices across multiple geographic regions, then global network coverage is achieved, but varying regional requirements and lack of consistent support arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by configuring software components and settings specifically for each geographic region and client type. XML configuration files contain region-specific parameters (languages, time zones, regulatory settings) while maintaining a standardized deployment framework. This allows each region to have customized characteristics while being managed through consistent standardized processes.
3Quantity of substance
If a large number of network devices are installed across extended networks, then network coverage is expanded, but deployment and management burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring software component sets for each client type and geographic region before actual deployment. XML configuration files are prepared in advance with all necessary software components, settings, and regional parameters. This preliminary preparation enables rapid standardized deployment across large numbers of devices, increasing productivity while managing the quantity of devices efficiently.
4Reliability
If external partners are depended upon for software distribution, then software can be obtained, but network transparency is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling network operators to independently manage and distribute software components through the standardized framework. The system automatically determines which software components to deploy based on client type and regional configuration, eliminating dependence on external partners and maintaining network transparency while ensuring reliable software distribution.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for deploying and managing software components to a plurality of network devices of an extended data communications network. In one embodiment of the invention, a client type defining software components required for at least one network device of the plurality of network devices may be determined. At least one network device of the plurality of network devices corresponding to the client type may be determined. The software components may be provided to the at least one network device based in part on the client type. The software components may be installed on the at least one network device such that functional capabilities of the software components may be employed by the network device. In another embodiment, a record of the software components installed on the at least one network device on a hub server associated with the extended data communications network may be stored.