Software Provisioning via Version Association Files
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods lack an effective means for set-top boxes or client devices to selectively discover and download specific versions of software applications from an object carousel, leading to inefficient testing and deployment processes, and fail to provide targeted software distribution to specific consumer premises devices, resulting in inconvenient upgrades and potential deployment of defective software.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allow consumer premises equipment (CPE) to dynamically discover and download specific software components by accessing a version association file, enabling selective reconfiguration of devices with desired software configurations without rebooting, and allowing network operators to manage software distribution based on user subscription levels and device capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If software is broadcast continuously over the network, then all client devices can receive the software, but specific devices cannot selectively download particular versions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the software distribution process by introducing version association files that link specific software versions to specific client devices. This segmentation allows selective download of particular software versions by individual devices from the broadcast stream, resolving the contradiction between universal broadcast availability and selective device-specific download capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces version association files as an intermediary mechanism between the broadcast software and client devices. These files contain device identifiers and software version information, enabling devices to selectively identify and download appropriate software versions from the continuous broadcast stream without requiring complex centralized management.
2Reliability
If new software version is deployed broadly, then all devices receive updates, but defective software may be deployed to all devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by enabling selective software version distribution to specific devices before broad deployment. Test devices can receive and validate new software versions in advance through targeted download using version association files, allowing quality verification before universal rollout, thus preventing defective software from being deployed to all devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different software versions to be distributed to different devices based on their specific needs and testing requirements. This enables controlled rollout where only selected devices receive new versions for validation, while other devices continue running stable versions, balancing quality control with deployment efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If technician visits are used for software updates, then devices can be updated, but user convenience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling client devices to automatically discover, download, and install appropriate software versions independently. Devices use version association files to identify suitable software versions and perform self-updates without requiring technician intervention, dramatically improving user convenience and eliminating travel time associated with technician visits.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for provisioning or updating software over a network. In one embodiment, the network comprises a cable network, and each particular client device (e.g., set-top box) on the network is identified by an address or other unique descriptor. A version association file stored on a server or downloaded to the device maps particular application versions to one or more addresses corresponding to individual client devices. When the version association file is modified or created, the server transmits an upgrade message over the network (optionally along with the current version association file). Upon receiving an upgrade message, a set-top box accesses the version association file, and compares a designated application version to that of the application currently in use. If the designated version is not present on the set-top, the box will terminate any old version of the application currently running and download and install the designated version.