Software Replication via Peer-to-Peer Device Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current software download processes for communication devices are inefficient, particularly in enterprise networks where devices are geographically distributed, as they require individual downloads from a centralized location, which is time-consuming and resource-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A method where a first communication device determines if a second device needs a software upgrade and downloads it, with the second device then checking and downloading to a third device, allowing for efficient replication across multiple devices, and using a robot with a wireless interface and movement mechanism to facilitate proximity-based downloads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software is downloaded from a centralized location to each communication device individually, then software updates can be applied to all devices, but the process is time-consuming and resource-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the software update process into multiple parallel download paths. Instead of a single sequential download from a centralized server to each device, the system divides the update distribution into segments where multiple devices can simultaneously download from different sources (including each other), thereby reducing total update time while maintaining reliable completion across all devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces communication devices as intermediaries in the software distribution chain. Devices that have already received the software update act as mediators or servers for other devices needing updates. This peer-to-peer intermediary approach eliminates the bottleneck of a single centralized server and enables parallel downloads, significantly reducing the time required to update all devices while ensuring reliable delivery
2Ease of operation
If a single communication device is downloaded at a time, then the download process is simple to implement, but it requires additional communication devices and is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple download operations into a single coordinated process. Instead of sequentially downloading to one device at a time, the system combines multiple download operations where multiple communication devices simultaneously download software from different sources (including each other). This merging of parallel operations maintains operational simplicity while dramatically increasing overall download speed and productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes communication devices universal by enabling them to serve multiple functions: devices can both receive software updates and simultaneously act as servers to distribute updates to other devices. This multi-functionality allows any downloaded device to participate in the distribution process, eliminating the need for dedicated download servers and increasing overall system productivity without complicating operations
3Adaptability or versatility
If communication devices are geographically distributed in an enterprise network, then the network covers wide areas, but downloading from a centralized location becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamics to the software distribution system by enabling the download sources to change dynamically. Instead of a fixed centralized server, the system dynamically determines which device provides the software update based on proximity and availability. Geographically distributed devices can act as local sources for their nearby colleagues, dynamically adapting the download path to reduce distance and time while maintaining the ability to cover wide geographic areas through the distributed network
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of efficient software replication are provided. This is accomplished by a first communication device that determines if a second communication device needs to have a software upgrade. In response to determining that the second communication device needs to have the software upgrade, the software upgrade is downloaded onto the second communication device. In response to downloading the software upgrade onto the second communication device, the second communication device determines if a third communication device needs to have the software upgrade. In response to determining that the third communication device needs to have the software upgrade, the second communication device downloads the software upgrade to the third communication device. This process can be repeated for any number of communication devices or the process may be completed in different orders.