Virtual Disk File Application Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional application delivery models require separate installations of applications on each computing device, leading to complex management and the need for multiple administrators, while digital distribution systems like app stores face limitations due to specific file format requirements, making it difficult to manage and distribute applications that do not conform to these formats.
Innovation Solution
A method for packaging and distributing heterogeneous applications using virtual disk files, where an app agent on the computing device opens and stores these files, allowing for centralized distribution through app stores without the need to rewrite applications to conform to specific formats, using an app agent to mount and execute the applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If applications are distributed through traditional one-to-one installation model, then each computing device can run its applications, but the management complexity increases and multiple administrators are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple application copies into a single centralized distribution package that can be shared across multiple computing devices. Instead of maintaining separate installations on each device, the system consolidates applications into one distributable unit that can be mounted and executed across the network, reducing management complexity from multiple administrators to a single centralized management point.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution package is designed to be universal and format-agnostic, capable of being distributed to and executed on multiple different computing devices regardless of their specific configurations. The system enables a single application package to serve multiple devices simultaneously, eliminating the need for device-specific installation versions and simplifying cross-platform deployment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If app stores require specific file formats for application distribution, then centralized distribution is achieved, but applications that do not conform to the format cannot be distributed without rewriting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary conversion layer that translates various application formats into a universal distribution package format without requiring modifications to the original applications. This intermediary system handles the format conversion automatically, allowing legacy and modern applications to be distributed through the same app store infrastructure while maintaining their original formats and functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the packaging parameters and format specifications based on the source application type. Instead of requiring all applications to conform to a single rigid format, the system adapts its packaging approach to match the source application's format, then standardizes it for distribution. This parameter flexibility enables broad application compatibility while maintaining centralized distribution control.
3Productivity
If multiple administrators manage application installations on computing devices, then application deployment is possible, but the process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service automated deployment where the centralized distribution package automatically manages its own installation and distribution across computing devices without requiring manual administrator intervention. The app store infrastructure handles the provisioning, mounting, and updating of applications automatically, reducing the time-consuming manual processes that previously required multiple administrators to coordinate installations across the network.
Data Source
AI summary
Certain embodiments described herein are generally directed to executing applications on a computing device. In some embodiments, a method includes receiving, by an app store interface, a first distribution package from an app store, the first distribution package comprising a first virtual disk file comprising an application. The method further includes opening, by an application agent, the first virtual disk file based on a file type association (FTA) between the first virtual disk file and the application agent. The method further includes storing, by the application agent, the application in a second virtual disk file. The method also includes mounting the second virtual disk file at the computing device. The method also includes executing the application stored on the mounted second virtual disk file.