CN102224751A - System and method for dynamic automatic communication path selection, distributed device synchronization and task delegation - Google Patents

Abstract

Systems, software, and apparatuses that provide wired and wireless telecommunications under conditions where signal strength is poor or intermittent, the coordination and synchronization of data and workflows across various communication links under such conditions, especially intermittent or unreliable communications links, and the management of wireless mobile applications in such environments. The present invention technology herein relates to the fields of computer science, telecommunications, and data management.

Description

Be used for dynamic automated communications Path selection, distributed devices synchronously and the system and method for task delegation

The cross reference of related application

The application is in the partial continuous case of the co-pending u.s. patent application serial number 11/169,149 of submission on June 29th, 2005, and requires in the provisional application No.61/098 of submission on September 22nd, 2008,886 rights and interests.For all purposes, the full content with these each in first to file is incorporated herein by reference.

Technical field

The technology of this paper relates to system, software and the device that wire communication or radio communication are provided under the condition of or signal break bad in signal strength signal intensity.The non-limiting technology that exemplifies explanation of this paper provide under such condition between various communication links (be included in intermittently or insecure communication link between) to the coordination of data and workflow with synchronously and to the management of the wireless mobile application in this environment.More broadly, the technology of this paper also relates to the field of computer science, communication and data management.

Background technology

The radio communication general introduction

Radio communication (" wireless ") makes that two or more electronic installations can exchange message, and need not to have physical connection (that is, electric wire or cable) between these devices.Wireless can be fix or move/portable.In general, Gu Ding wireless permission is moved from the radio communication or a fixed location and of fixed location to another fixed location/radio communication between the portable unit.Move/between portable wireless permission one fixing (for example, central authorities) place and the movable fixture communicate by letter and/or two or more move/communication between the portable unit.The level of the connection between two places in the fixing wireless environment (for example, signal strength signal intensity and other relevant parameter) quite constant usually (supposition weather and other condition are constant), this is because any place can not moved.But, for example depend on the relative position of the position of wireless device, any mobile radio telecommunications transmitter and receiver and/or transceiver and such as any intermediate obstacles on trees, building, the mountain ridge, maybe can cause multipath to disturb or other interference or can change other object or the phenomenon of radio signal propagation, marked change can take place the level of the connection in the mobile wireless.

Only as some examples, mobile communications device (being also referred to as wireless device or mobile device in this article) comprises beep-pager, mobile phone and the composite set that comprises the function of mobile phone, beep-pager, PDA(Personal Digital Assistant).These devices can allow exchange of texts information (for example, utilizing beep-pager, cell phone or PDA) and switched voice and data (for example, utilizing cell phone and PDA).A lot of current wireless devices are integrated for such as phone data (for example, GPRS, EDGE etc.), WLAN (wireless local area network) (LAN) (for example, Wi-Fi) and the support of the multiple communication interface of short distance device interconnecting (for example, bluetooth).By selecting to have (a plurality of) communication path of (a plurality of) optimum Match between the requirement of sending and communication path characteristic and the feature, multiple communication interface can allow the use optimization with communication path, but this optimization may not be general, and perhaps the selection that limits in advance that provides of use device manufacturer is finished.Only support the device of single communication interface can not carry out this optimization usually.Wireless device also has been integrated useful feature recently, such as global positioning system (GPS) access, camera and scanner (comprising the scanner that can handle radio-frequency (RF) identification (RFID) and bar code) and magnetic or light data storage card.The device of these types makes that people can be on the road or can keep in touch each other during at a distance of the work of remote places a plurality of, and helps the collection of polytype data.In addition, since the integrated and integration that more and more enlarges of above-mentioned feature, the degree of the enriching phenomenal growth of the information that between people, exchanges in recent years.

Portable radio utilizes electromagnetic wave (as radio wave, but being not limited to radio wave) to communicate usually.Transmitter sends signal from radio communication access point (point-of-presence) to wireless device, and receiver is handled the signal that receives from a device at access point.Transceiver had both sent also and had received.In this case, access point comprises one or more transmitter, receiver and/or the transceiver that can communicate by letter with portable radio.For example, to be connected with WLAN in the cafe be the non-limiting example of access point to the communication tower in the cellular phone network.The central location of getting in touch with network with a plurality of access points can control device with the access point that is fit between communicate by letter.A plurality of access points sometimes leave at interval so that their overlay area overlaps, thereby allow continuous communication when device is mobile.As long as between access point and portable radio, set up connection, just can send and receive information according to the ability of device.But under many circumstances, this and constant contact access point are impossible, and this is owing to exist the not zone in the access point scope, and the variation or the other factors of ground, construction material can interference signals.As a result, beep-pager can not reach a few minutes or several hours in scope, and mobile calls can be cut off in conversation, and communication sequence and affairs have only partly been finished in data service, cause loss of data.Current practice has obtained multiple different business, and these business have the various characteristics that is used for wireless device is connected to other wireless device or non-moving device or internet.

Cellular communication

Cell phone provider provides data service and voice call business to their user usually.The example of these data services comprises circuit switched data (CSD), GPRS (GPRS) and various enhancing version thereof (such as enhanced data rates for gsm evolution (EDGE) or Enhanced General Packet Radio Service (EGPRS)) and such as " next generation " system of universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS).These systems work on radio link, to provide data to be connected between the device of being supported and internet or the system that provided by cellular services company, as short message service (SMS).The realization details of each in these business is all different, is transparent for most of users still.The most tangible difference is bandwidth or the data rate that each business provides.According to employed system, data rate is at present between 9.6K bps of CSD and UMTS 16M bps.For example, so-called 3G mobile communication standard allows to use speech business and data service simultaneously, and the data rate of down link is up to 14M bps, and the data rate of up link is up to 5.8M bps.Developing technology faster.In some cases, these business are directly used by the device (as PDA) beyond the cell phone, are perhaps used indirectly by the device as notebook as data communication equipment by cell phone or other device that uses adapter or use to couple together.

Various data protocols (generally including TCP/IP) on the data network of cellular data business support cellular provider, and often by the system of gateway support on the internet.Such connection can be slower than some wired connection technology, and can also be very expensive, and this is that other providers collect the charges based on the byte number of the data of transmission because some providers monthly collect constant expense.These professional coverages are sometimes more limited than the coverage of the voice telephone calls that is provided by same cellular services provider, but generally still can be in most of cities and available on the main route between the city.Owing to be used for the addressing scheme of TCP/IP and the normally used implementation method of mobile device (wherein, device all usually is assigned with the different network addresss at every turn when being connected to network, and in some cases in addition during connecting, also be assigned with the different network address (" dynamic IP ")), therefore because the unknown of the address of device also may frequently change, sometimes be difficult to utilize TCP/IP to be connected to mobile device from other device.In some cases, the service provider can provide the scheme that allows this connection, distributes the special-purpose and fixing network address (" static IP ") as passing through to device, and still such practice is uncommon, the expense that is usually directed to increase.Thereby the TCP/IP connection, because have only mobile device just to know its own current TCP/IP address and can be contained in this address packet in the TCP/IP data packet header as ICP/IP protocol is desired usually by the mobile device initiation.In addition, some focus providers use the technology that is called as network address translation (nat) to allow the whole devices in the focus to share single ip address.As common realization, NAT prevents that the device outside focus is connected to the device that uses this focus, unless the device in this focus is at first set up and being connected of the outer device of this focus, even like this, also can be restricted to certain protocol to the connection of the device in focus, as file transfer protocol (FTP) (FTP).In case created connection, then connect normally two-wayly, data are moved device and send and receive, and serviced apparatus sends and receives or sent and received by other mobile device.The restriction of these agreements and infrastructure can stop the TCP/IP push-model of mobile device to be connected, and reduces the responsiveness of system when server or other mobile device have the data that will send to mobile device on the whole.

Except that TCP/IP or replace TCP/IP, some mobile devices and other data protocol of the business support that is connected these mobile devices are such as short-message protocol (SMS) or multimedia messaging service, MMS (MMS).Compare with TCP/IP, these agreements have such as the advantage that can utilize push-model to send to mobile device, and have the shortcoming of, content constraints limited such as transmission delay, message size and expense height (for example, each message is several shares money).The transmission of data also is insecure usually, as utilizes SMS and its " the best trial " to transmit (in this " best trial " transmits, attempt transmitting, but do not guarantee to transmit successfully).

Point-to-point (Peer-to-Peer) communication

When the device of a non-server when the device of another non-server sends data, this exchange is called as " point-to-point " (P2P).Variety of protocols such as utilization such as TCP/IP, bluetooth, SMS, Ethernet and communication mechanism are realized this exchange; But for this purposes, some mechanism or agreement more have problem than other mechanism or agreement.For example, the employed dynamic address allocation of device of the mobile TCP/IP of a lot of supports all has different TCP/IP addresses at every turn when causing them to be connected to the internet, therefore and other device can't be learnt this address and can not initiate to support with these being connected of device of mobile TCP/IP, thereby stoped and utilize TCP/IP to carry out P2P to connect, unless telegon serves as to provide address information to one of them or two devices in these two system that can both be connected to.A kind of common methods that realizes this coordination is to use dynamic domain name system (dynamic-dns), wherein, one device is to its address of dns server registration, make other device can know the address of this device and initiate and the communicating by letter of this device, but because information cache and the quick variation of address sometimes (for can be in very short time very general from a focus moves to the mobile device of another focus), this solution is unreliable usually, and sometimes unavailable fully.In some agreements the intrinsic addressing problem, also exist the device that relates to P2P to find and the problem of device checking.In some cases, device can be required to obtain about the information of the existence of other device and with those other device and set up necessary any means or the information of communicating by letter.The unit that provides or obtain this information will be useful.

Some devices can support to utilize the connection of bluetooth or other short distance device to connect.Be subjected to shielding (promptly for the technology that connection is expanded to such as GPRS, such as the underground inside configuration in factory or building or the dark basement) and Wi-Fi is impracticable or do not cater to the need (as, fetch the connection mancarried device but the situation that will cause security consideration in a big way of Wi-Fi by vehicle-mounted chain, perhaps between device, need the point-to-point function of swap data and bluetooth to allow this exchanges data but prevent the situation of this exchanges data at the TCP/IP addressing restriction of the Wi-Fi of mobile device) the zone, bluetooth can be useful.Bluetooth also usually is used as the link such as devices such as dialing modem, Ethernet interface, token-ring adapters, and these device supports are used to be connected to the method for remote-control device.By serving as first link or other link in a plurality of possible communication paths, these links can be expanded the communications option of bluetooth-enabled device.

Can wirelessly connect on radio link by the short-range ad hoc network that is called as piconet and communicate by letter between the bluetooth-enabled device.In a kind of common realization, each device can be simultaneously with single piconet in nearly seven other devices communicate, one of them device serves as " main device ", and other device serves as " from device ".Each device also can belong to a plurality of piconets simultaneously.Piconet can dynamically be set up when the bluetooth-enabled device enters and leave the radio nearby sphere automatically.The type that depends on related device, the radio nearby sphere can change between hundreds of feet at one or two foot.Can also piconet be coupled together by the system of serving as the bridge between the piconet.This arrangement is called as " decentralized network (scatternet) ".

Utilize variety of protocol (in some devices, comprising TCP/IP), utilize anti-interference and can comprise data encryption and other device is carried out the method for password identification that blue-tooth device is with 721K bps ground rate transmissioning data.Be not that all blue-tooth devices are all supported identical agreement, a lot of devices are the special purpose devices such as earphone or bar code reader, and these install the scheme of using node or other outside to provide is not provided.Other blue-tooth device is intended to serve as network interface, and still, they support PDA, computer or other such device of bluetooth-enabled are connected to LAN or internet.Two or more PDA, laptop computer or other bluetooth-enabled device can also be according to point-to-point mode swap datas.One setter supports that definitely which agreement of bluetooth or other standard and function are by manufacturer's decision of this device, and can not change agreement and the function of being supported afterwards in some cases at least some devices.

Wi-Fi communication

Some wireless devices are supported the connection of WLAN, as using the LAN of Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi).Wi-Fi is a kind of wireless technology brand that is had by Wi-Fi Alliance, and Wi-Fi Alliance is intended to improve based on IEEE 802.11 standards the interoperability of wireless lan product.Wi-Fi Alliance is some independent and alliances of company independently, and these companies are agreed can co-operating product based on a series of public of IEEE 802.11 standard families.When in the scope that is in the wireless network access point (WAP) that is connected to network, can be connected to LAN such as the Wi-Fi device of laptop computer, cell phone or PDA.If this network is connected to the internet, then the Wi-Fi device can enter the Internet by gateway or other device of this network.Be called as " focus " by one or more interconnected zone that access point covered.By utilizing the access point that overlaps, focus can cover the little zone of arriving several sq. mi to single room greatly.Focus is available in many enterprises, family and communal facility (as the airport), and the Wi-Fi network of whole cities and towns, campus etc. has been realized covering in some areas.

In general, the connection of pattern that Wi-Fi also allows point-to-point (wireless ad-hoc network), this makes device to be connected to each other directly, although forbidden this function for reasons of safety and usually.For example, when two or more devices were shared the network connection between them but do not needed to visit external server or internet, the ad-hoc wireless network was favourable.

Wi-Fi can support up to several M bps or many M bps bandwidth, because most of commercial focuses are collected fixed royalties or utilization provides the free means that insert as the attraction client, therefore Wi-Fi is very cheap or free, and Wi-Fi has very little time-delay and has good reliability.In many cases or in most cases, coverage is restricted to very little zone, and leave this overlay area and then interrupt connecting, usually only warning or do not warn slightly.In addition, with regard to the TCP/IP on the cellular phone network, the addressing method that Wi-Fi Hotspot uses makes the device among the LAN that can not never be in focus be connected to mobile device, and must be initiated to connect by mobile device usually.When utilizing Wi-Fi when mobile device sends, this can be so that the transmission mode that server is initiated be unavailable, unless there is the another kind of method (as SMS) of getting in touch with this mobile device, this method is used to send or is used to ask mobile device to utilize Wi-Fi to initiate and being connected of server.The different communication path that the communication path that uses server to push away asks mobile device to utilize server to push away is called as " cooperate and push away " when initiating with being connected with of server.Any communication path that server can adopt server to push away is initiated cooperation and is pushed away exchange.

Many communication interfaces

Some devices can support to surpass a kind of communication interface.For example, some devices can be supported two or more interfaces simultaneously.Other device can be supported different interfaces in the different time.Such realization is decided by the design and the configuration of specific device usually.Can support the device of a plurality of communication interfaces by different way the use of these interfaces to be managed usually.In some exemplary realizations, device can utilize the configuration that has defined user preference to be provided with and be chosen in to use which (several) interface preset time automatically.In other device, by the user manually or by application software or make the selection of communication interface by Design of device or its operating system.As an example, prior art system such as apple iPhone (from the Apple Computer of California Cupertino) provides the realization of installing, and communication interface is kept the communication of some forms with transparent way for the application software of operation on device thereby these realizations can be automaticallyed switch.Other prior art system is not carried out transparent switching to communication path, and may lose and require application software to take some to move when connecting to switch communication interface using the communication interface using.These actions can change with the design or the configuration of mobile device, and can comprise following action or be familiar with known other action of technical staff that concrete device is realized: attempt rebuliding connection so that device finds to have the communication interface of available connection; From those still available communication interfaces, select new communication interface; And then rebulid server and connect.The device that losing of connecting detected detects to connect based on signal strength signal intensity, poll or other characteristic to the connection link of nearest access point usually to be lost; lose (to the fault between the connection of service provider's basis instrument, perhaps the service provider is to the fault between the connection of internet such as access point) and needn't detect the connection that in other section that connects, occurs.In most of devices, the loss except that dropout must not cause fault to be transferred to alternative interface.This can cause adverse influence to communicating by letter between mobile device and diverse device or the server.

Unless lose up to occurring can detected connection losing or such connection occurring, some can support the device of a plurality of communication interfaces to switch between a plurality of communication interfaces.Some such devices are not necessarily along with the change in availability of the connection of interface and dynamically switch between available interface.Even can causing becoming at more effective interface, this also continues the lower communication interface of service efficiency after available.This can cause higher cost, slower transfer of data, slower user's response and other result who does not expect.

When device when a communication interface changes to another communication interface, this change can be destructive for some application.This is the most obvious when being selected to carry out communication interface function that interface did not provide that fault shifts or characteristic in application-dependent.For example, interactive response (that is the time quantum between the result who takes to need the action of executive communication and see this action) is examples of these characteristics with the bandwidth of needs.Some application (such as, stream video or to the database access of view data) need response and bandwidth, and the two all works.Different communication interfaces can have different characteristics; For example, Wi-Fi can provide enough bandwidth, but EDGE can not.When a device is current when just receiving the stream video in Wi-Fi Hotspot, this device is moved out to the zone that does not have the Wi-Fi service from the overlay area of focus, then this device can switch to and use EDGE, but the stream Video Applications can not be come work with fidelity and feature same when using Wi-Fi when using EDGE.In another example, the batch (-type) task of the sub-email message of following live in most of the cases might not require very big bandwidth.The e-mail applications that batch (-type) connects is unlikely because this change of communication interface and being interrupted, and can carry out retry on the backstage and communicate by letter with the bigger or more email message of download.Bandwidth only is to cause some communication interface to be more suitable for than other communication interface or cause some to be applied in the numerous characteristics that the selection aspect to communication interface is restricted one usually.Expense, reliability, the outer support of band, transmission delay, geographical distribution and viability are the examples of some characteristics in these characteristics.Know that the ability of interface that the characteristic of available communication interface, available communication interface and feature and selection are suitable for the type of the data that will send or receive usually is useful for using all available communication interfaces most effectively.

Current wireless application usually uses the mode preferred than mobile subscriber difficulty and more time-consuming more, and can break down in unexpected mode when being performed in wireless application has the zone of intermittently connection.Device simultaneously or sequentially use the ability of a plurality of communication interfaces can reduce the influence of this problem in time, still, current device does not use a plurality of communication interfaces usually or does not use a plurality of communication interfaces effectively.

Wireless application

Because current restriction that wireless protocols applied and the support that lacks built-in, for wireless device provides reliably, the heavy burden of transfer of data may just drop on programmer's the body efficiently, they must predict with connect lose, various communication interface is about the efficient of the data type that will send or download the relevant problem that waits of chunk data.But often this is not made sufficient consideration, this part is because many programmers do not have experience and the urgent issue time limit relevant with numerous items for wireless application.Thereby, the programmer can create the wireless application of breaking down in unexpected mode when carrying out in having the zone that intermittently connects, cause excessive use to available bandwidth, use the expense of these application bigger than what expect, do not use available communication and memory function effectively, perhaps need the user to deal with long transfer of data.In some cases, these problems are serious in hindering device and the application that the mobile subscriber uses them fully.Device simultaneously or sequentially uses the ability of a plurality of communication interfaces can reduce the influence of this problem in mode reliably and easily in time.

Another problem of wireless application is that data in the memory that is kept at mobile device and the data that are kept in server or other device are carried out synchronously.Some application are to create under the situation that supposition keeps connecting at All Time or in most of time, and these use the needed data of visiting simply as required from server or other device.Because the mobile device of some classifications usually can not be connected with server or other device, so important use becomes unavailable in a lot of times.Other application is to create under such supposition: it is unavailable continually to communicate by letter, but the connection that exists usually makes enough that being applied in most of times can get in touch with server or other device of needs.Such application can be carried out buffer memory to data when it is used, be kept at the data of to need once more attempting in the memory of device for using connecting in disabled short time interval.Unavailable period of the connection of Yan Changing or the data of not reusing identical data use pattern can expose the shortcoming of this solution more.Utilizing the period buffer memory that connects may will be useful for reducing the influence of these communication disruption to the mobile subscriber in the better method of the data that need in the period that connects not have.

Relevant problem is under the situation that connects not warning ground appearing and subsiding the data cached of this machine to be upgraded.A kind of point-to-point connection or other of utilizing connects to come the method that the data of storing in the mobile device are carried out synchronously (no matter be between mobile device and the server or between two mobile devices) will help avoid the expired information of using.To data storages carry out synchronous a lot of methods relate to data block or the numerical value that calculates from data block (as verification and) compare and detect difference, then transmit and be found to be different any data so that these difference becomes consistent.Interruption to this process will cause must beginning this process once more when having rebulid connection.Depend on amount how to carry out this process and related data, such repeating transmitted can waste a large amount of bandwidth.When making their data keep synchronous when existing connection that a lot of devices and these devices need be between them intermittently, these problems are exaggerated.Existence is to some possible solutions of this problem, such as the product " Tubes " of the Bostonian Adesso in Massachusetts system house.Tubes is based on the service of network, and it keeps data set on multiple arrangement, makes the change of on arbitrary device data being made all can propagate into all other devices.Therefore because data are maintained on each device, no matter install and whether have connection and can use these data.If just lost connection before finishing synchronously, then software restarts this task automatically when connecting recovery.

Those skilled in the art also are familiar with the notion of mesh network networking.A kind of in two kinds of node connectivity scenarios adopted in the mesh network networking: mesh network topology or partial mesh net topology fully.In complete mesh network topology, each node is directly connected to each other node.In the partial mesh net topology, some nodes can be connected to all other nodes, but other nodes only are connected to those nodes that carry out most exchanges data with them.Connection can be wired or wireless.In brief, by transmitting data (" jumping ") from node-to-node up to arriving the destination node, mesh network sends data, voice and/or indication according to particular course between node, and allow disconnect or the path of blocking-up around the connection that continues and reconfiguring.In general, the difference of mesh network and other network is: part can all couple together each other via multi-hop.Mesh network is developed for Military Application at first, and owing to extra function and the challenge that they represented has been subjected to a large amount of concerns and test.For example, Wireless Mesh Networks (Advanced Texts in Communications and Networking) referring to people such as Wang (Wiley2009) (comprises its 7th chapter (" mobility management ")), incorporates it into this paper by reference.

The system that is used for the management of Distributed Application

Aforesaid a lot of problem is at the U.S. Patent application No.11/169 of the applicant's co-pending, common transfer, is resolved in 149, incorporates it into this paper by reference.With the non-limiting example is example, the technology that is provided on market by assignee Jumpstart provides the one group of useful technology that is used for managing distributed application, for example, be included between the device method of exchange " node ", order and other data, even the communication of this method between device is unreliable, intermittently and when having limited bandwidth or also can be provided between the user of different device and carry out mutual reliable method when one or more device has Limited resources.With the non-limiting example is example, and these nodes can comprise the data and/or the instruction of at least one action of their related processes of explanation or at least one aspect and make it possible to information that these nodes self are handled, sort, discern, transmitted and operate.By reference, incorporate the explanation at basic establishment, operation, storage, transmission, structure and the processing of node in the co-pending u.s. patent application serial number 11/169,149 into this paper.

Node can be the set of data with content of the configuration of qualification and variation, and node can be created by device, storage and transmitting between device.For example, by the data of device and the processing of program command are controlled, node can be controlled these devices.This technology can be configured to manage a plurality of data types, these data types include but not limited to text, image (single image or image sequence these two), signing messages, digital coding sound, from the data of input unit (for example, bar code, optical data, radio-frequency (RF) identification (RFID) and magnetic card scanner), from the magnetic material (for example, credit card or identity card) information of obtaining, the information that sends to printing device and with geographical position (for example, global positioning system (the GPS)) information relevant with other scheme.According to an exemplary realization of this technology, the node type that utilization limits realizes the management to the data type of this variation, but those skilled in the art will recognize that the node type of also utilizing common technology and knowledge qualification and having realized other.

As shown in Figure 1, a non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation comprises TMC device (1300a) (server), and this TMC device (1300a) is connected to portable radio (1110) by one or more wireless network (1200a, 1200b).Node manager (1570) is fetched node and order from the node memory (1540) of server, and dispatch manager (1560) sends to node and order the communication interface (2210,2220 or 2230) of this portable radio device on wireless network by the communication interface (not shown).These communication interfaces of the operating system management of wireless device, node is sent to the dispatch module (2310) of portable radio device, this dispatch module is handled these nodes and these nodes is sent to node memory module (2330) or display module (2320), and these nodes are stored or handle in node memory module (2330) or display module (2320).

Although these useful technology that provide to market before the Jumpstart also need to offer help to following situation: the wireless connections to a website are intermittently, and still for the user of very close this website, the local wireless visit is available.For example, the construction site can comprise one or more trailer (trailer), and wherein each trailer all has in trailer inner available Wi-Fi or other radio communication, but these Wi-Fi or other radio communication also extend to next-door neighbour's job site.Although (a plurality of) trailer and more nonvolatil place are (for example, central office) wireless connections between can be experienced intermittent connection, but local wireless communication can arrive great majority (if not all) job site, and the workpeople utilizes said apparatus and system to insert local radio communication.Under these circumstances, with service extension to these extra devices and extra function is provided will be valuable.

The non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation as herein described provides " node " that is used between the implement device, the system of the exchange of order and other data item, device, software and other scheme, these systems, device, a kind of more the communication between the network equipment of robust is unreliable when wireless network and other even software and other scheme provide, also can between the user who sets up first device that local wireless connects and second user who installs, carry out mutual reliable method intermittently and when having limited bandwidth or when one or more device has Limited resources.In some embodiments, the realization of the technology that this paper provided is to utilize the business prototype of trusteeship service (hosted service) provider to provide, in this business prototype, provide radio infrastructure, mobile device and various integrating server by the employed hub facility of user as required.Provide this technology to make the user can be absorbed in their business in this manner, rather than be absorbed in using and managing of infrastructure component.The characteristic of this framework makes can shared pellucidly common base setting under situation about not disturbing each other from a plurality of users of different companies.Alternatively, other model that utilizes those of ordinary skills to be familiar with is realized this technology, has infrastructure and provides those models to the visit of described basis instrument to their personnel such as single company wherein.

Exemplify in the non-limiting realization of explanation of the technology of this paper, system, software and device make it possible to use one or more to plant transmission technology (promptly between two or more devices, communication path) transmission of carrying out data item (once a kind ofly (for example, sequentially) or once multiplely (for example, band is interior to be transmitted and/or the outer transmission of band concurrently) and no matter whether transmission technology provides), have different capacity with availability change and each communication path that allows to be applied in each communication path, reliability, communicate under the environment of function and method of operation.In some embodiments, on available communication path, the data item that sends is coordinated, make the data item between the device relate to one or more available communication path synchronously, these communication paths or order or parallel, wherein one or more in the communication path intermittently interrupts, make the data item (for example, template, node or node stack) of at least one aspect help to realize native system under the situation that not have to lose or do not detect repetition, be transmitted.Utilize multiple transmission method to send data item wittingly by first device, so that the unexpected delays relevant with certain methods compensated, thereby reduce the transmission delay of user's perception as much as possible.Second device detects the data item that repeats owing to transmission manner, and removes redundant copy.

And rely on the second device poll, first device to differ widely with device and the system that initiates the data item transmission (" pull-mode ") between first device and second device in the prior art, the non-limiting realization that another of the techniques described herein exemplifies explanation provides and has been used to initiate the means of installing second transmission (" push-model ") of installing from first.Directly carry out the use of " push-model " according to the realization that exemplifies explanation of technology of the present invention, in this " push-model ", the same communication path that first device is initiated transmission and is used to initiate this transmission sends data item, perhaps carry out indirectly according to " cooperation push-model ", in this " cooperation push-model ", first device uses push-model to send the first of (a plurality of) data item, second device uses this first as the request to second device, request second device is initiated the pull-mode communication session transmits (a plurality of) data item with the same or different transmission technology of utilizing support to move the second portion of (a plurality of) data item second portion, but should lack support at the desired characteristic of the push-model of whole data item or collection of data items by the cooperation push-model, perhaps this cooperation push-model has such as big bandwidth, high reliability or other desired characteristic cheaply.In some exemplary realizations, first device uses the database of the function information of Given information relevant with the type of device of second device and coupling apparatus to determine that second installs and whether support push-model or whether have any restriction for this function.For example, when carrying out voice telephone calls or carrying out specific application, some type of device are not accepted push-model and are connected.Other type of device does not have these restrictions.Equally, the push-model characteristic of first communication path can be different with the push-model characteristic in second communication path.For example, SMS message can be sent after it is sent out several seconds or a few hours, perhaps under the situation of not notifying transmit leg, do not send, and TCP socket transmission meeting success or failure in the several seconds, and transmitting system almost is apprised of success or failure immediately.But when the communication path time spent that is fit to, the realization that exemplifies explanation of this paper technology can be used pull-mode, push-model, cooperation push-model or their combination in any.The realization that exemplifies explanation of this paper can cause alternative communication path available, and wherein each communication path all keeps its particular characteristics (for example, expense, bandwidth, push-model support, transmission delay, reliability, availability etc.).The technology that exemplifies explanation of this paper provides the means of managing the multiple communication technology, thereby comes alternatively, dynamically to optimize one or more communication aspects (such as expense, throughput, reliability, availability, transmission delay, interactive response or other) of this device by following means: once use one or more to plant communication technologys; Between the available communication technology, switch rightly; Use the diverse communication technology at each personal optimal those function; Utilize a plurality of communication path redundancies ground to send data item, wherein each communication path can use the different device communication technologys.Perhaps by for those skilled in the art significantly other method be optimized.For example, the function of these expansions allows device to switch to alternative communication path when using the communication loss of particular communication path, perhaps by using a plurality of communication paths to increase total throughput simultaneously.

In other the unrestricted realization that exemplifies explanation, pass through the communication path of setting up with the available communication technology that supported and be configured to specify the additional mechanism that is used for its management and use.For example, the data item that sends on communication path is encrypted, is compressed, perhaps by use verification and or other mechanism come the protected data item not altered and destroy.These additional optional mechanism are used to the some parts of communication path, but and be not used in other parts, also be not used in whole communication path from first device to second device.Use a plurality of this optional mechanism simultaneously, for example, when calculate verification and and when it is added into data item, with data item and verification and compression and transmission, wherein one of communication path section data item and verification and execution encryption and decryption to compression are revealed when the transmission of this section preventing.

Being transmitted by herein the data item that technology provided that exemplifies explanation is to utilize one or more to plant communication technologys (such as the radio telephone that uses GPRS/EDGE, EVDO, use wireless networking or other wireless and wired means of 802.11 (Wi-Fi)) by device to carry out.Exemplify in the unrestriced realization of explanation at some, these devices are such as the standard computer of server, desktop computer or laptop computer, such as the portable wireless device of cell phone, PDA, perhaps the combination in any of other such device, simulator or any amount these devices.

Utilize above-mentioned various communication means, the technology that exemplifies explanation of this paper provides additional ability and function, such as the data item exchange that allows point-to-point (P2P), being in or be not in server helps to delegate duties to second device from first device down, to the available task of multiple arrangement announcement, collect response, from those devices of making positive response, select one or more device to come allocating task, and assign the task to selected (a plurality of) device, along appointing the data item that chain propagation task is finished or task is cancelled, be in or be not under the intervention of server and between multiple arrangement, the catalogue data item carried out synchronously, and allow device to use data item, the security template of the elasticity standard of the restriction of collection of data items or communication means and allowance.Offered the ability of not using indirect client-server architecture to come the complex management node structure in the useful technology in market before Jumpstart, this ability has significantly been expanded the function and the applicability of the device that is used to manage task, information gathering and other task based on node.Other the nonrestrictive feature and advantage that exemplify explanation comprise:

Use a plurality of communication paths so that message is sent to second device from first device, can once use a communication path or once use surpass a communication path, and do not consider each communication path such as the different qualities of speed/bandwidth, reliability, expense, agreement, transmission medium or other characteristic how.A plurality of communication paths have increased the possibility that device can be communicated by letter with server or other device foundation when the communication path availability does not continue, these communication paths change with the place, perhaps utilize different modes that these communication paths can be used in different time or place.Specifically, it has solved by best available communication path and has moved structure based on node, and has expanded the ability that device is worked under various conditions of work.

Be used for determining adopting at given data item which method of a plurality of available communication paths at special time.Because each communication path has different functions, expense, the inherent limitations based on current setting position, security limitations and/or transfer rate and assurance and to the node that will transmit and the selection of catalogue, it is challenging therefore choosing for enough suitable efficiently paths the use on having the mancarried device of limited resources at given node set (having the priority that is associated, size, type etc.).

Use a plurality of communication paths to transmit a plurality of copies of one or more node structure substantially concurrently.Many communications have increased the chance of node structure fully, even if also using the node structure that receives in the destination effectively under the situation that allows in communication path, may to exist interruption, and do not needing to know the transmission lag that just transmission lag can be reduced to the fastest employed communication path under the fastest situation of which communication path this moment.But this has increased must eliminate copy that repeats and the complexity that reconfigures node structure at the receiving system place.

Use first communication path to come the first of transmission node structure, and use the second portion that transmits same node structure with first communication path to the different second communication path of small part, this part of transmission that makes device in the communication need not to transmit again this message just can be switched communication path, and on a plurality of communication paths concurrently the part of sending node structure to increase surperficial bandwidth (apparent bandwidth) and minimizing in needed total time of receiver place receiving node structure.No matter use how many different communication paths to come the sending node structure, receiver all has the part of the given node structure of identification, according to appropriate order to these parts reconfigure, the redundancy that may exist of processing node structure division receives function.Because require the part of dispensing device selection by the node structure of each communication path transmission, this has also increased complexity.

Optionally dynamically switching of communication path to increase use with respect to the use of preferred communication path more not to the preferred communication path.This switching makes device to carry out optimum use to available communication path when communication path becomes available or breaks down.The optimum use is meant that quickening transmission speed, minimizing expense, raising are to the response of device users, better fail safe or other factors.In addition, this claimed apparatus can be selected the part of the node structure that will be transmitted by each path.

Band outer (OOB) transmission, wherein, data item is by every now and then, send (for example, utilize MMS rather than utilize TCP/IP to send by Wi-Fi by GPRS, perhaps the poll in plan sent between the time) in order or by the mode beyond the preferred communication path.The OOB transmission makes to user's response raising, and makes it possible to transmit more timely the data of high priority.

Priority message is handled, and wherein, transmission method is partly determined by the characteristic of the part of the characteristic of the node structure that will send or this node structure.The node transmission priority be used for determining using a plurality of available communications path which, whether dynamically switch communication path, whether send data and allow what transmission mode to send the factor of data item with the other places.Make the transmitting stage priorization of the node structure expense that can enable reduce, improve response in the interactive task and the flexibility in the realization task whole or in part.

Detect and eliminate the node structure that repeats, no matter copy is to occur by accident or wittingly.The dynamic switching of communication path can cause the repetition of the part of node structure that receiver sees or node structure, and the method that this is handled is provided.These methods are also handled the possibility of the version of the renewal that will send identical node structure after having sent the previous version of node structure, and to these node structures according to random order or the possibility that arrives receiving system at any time handle.

" push-model " mode, in this model, transmitter is got in touch receiver and is initiated the transmission of message.This has realized a kind of " asynchronous " traffic model, compares with before periodic polling or " pull-mode " mode, should " asynchronous " traffic model can cause shorter communication delay and to the improved response of device users.When the data that will not send, to reduce that bandwidth uses also be possible by eliminating polling request, and utilize some communication paths can cause expense to reduce.

" cooperation push-model " mode, in this mode, transmitter contact receiver and sending comprises this receiver of request and initiates the message of pull-mode session with the order that transmits one or more node and/or node structure.The request of transmitter can occur on the different communication paths with the pull-mode session of receiver.The transmission of cooperation push-model allows the asynchronous transmission on the communication path of not supporting push-model, and the transmission of the pith of acclerating section dot structure effectively.The push-model request can be with outer the transmission, can send simultaneously guaranteeing to transmit on a plurality of communication paths, and can utilize the function of any other support to transmit one or more node and/or node structure.A challenge of the transmission of cooperation push-model pattern be sign node that will move and/or node structure so that receiver can ask the node and/or the node structure that will move.

" point-to-point " the node mode (P2P) that is used between two devices sending node and/or node structure, wherein any in these two devices can be initiated communication, and any or the two in these two devices can be to the other side's sending node and/or node structures.This function makes that device can interoperability, and does not need each device can access server, allows multiple arrangement to share the communication path resource of arbitrary specific device, thereby has improved whole connectivity and efficient in having the limited environment that communicates to connect.The challenge of P2P environment is round the unique identification of node, make and can upgrade and repay node structure along a plurality of communication paths and topology, the unique example that can not lose the recognition node structure with use it for node structure reconfigure and (a plurality of) of subsequent use install.

" announcement and acceptance " (A﹠amp; A) mechanism, this mechanism are used to discern is ready to accept one or more one or more user through the distribution of the task of identification, and then provides task to them.This function depends on broadcast capability, wherein node and/or node structure can be sent to multiple arrangement.Can utilize a plurality of different communication paths or communication path type to carry out such broadcasting, and can not support that the situation of one-to-many transfer function is following at communication path and simulate such broadcasting by carrying out independent transmission to each device.A﹠amp; A mechanism is proposing challenge aspect the following problem solving: to by the selection of the task of node and node structure representative and acceptance and subsequently to selection, priorization and the transmission in available communication path and reconfiguring and the operation report activity subsequently.

Be used under the situation of the help that has or do not have server, transmitting to second device task delegation method of representing of task by node or node structure from first device.By not needing server task to be transmitted realization transmission under the situation about coordinating, improved the efficient of under the situation that can not set up or keep server communication for one or two device (as when having communication path failures).Need be used for the method for the ownership of tracing task, even and need be used for when not relating to server the method that the also task between the restraint device transmits with final notice server or other device.No matter the device that has which kind of pattern in the task valid period is to the communication path that installs or install to server, and these methods all must work.Need be used for by first the device to node encode be sent to second the device addition method, thereby and need by second the device after receiving these nodes with their the decoding make they can effectively incorporate into second the device addition method.

Be used for the cancellation notice of task is given the task cancellation distribution method of proper device.The ground complexity that task delegation caused is finished in this method support owing to task delegation and under the situation that does not have the server intervention between the device.No matter the device that has which kind of pattern in the task valid period is to the communication path that installs or install to server, and these methods all must work, and these methods usually need to select cancellation information than other node transmission demand higher priority ground.

Be used to discern and solve the catalogue method for synchronous of the difference between first catalogue of installing and second catalogue of installing.When these devices during not with server communication, regardless of the order of the renewal that is applied in device, these methods must support to solve the difference between the catalogue of two or more devices.Even not relating to server and transmission is when carrying out, also must keep for the restriction that transmits catalogue data to the device of specific device or particular type between device.

Security model flexibly is provided, and this security model allows visit, use or the modification of data item, collection of data items, device or server are limited.These restrictions relate to the relaying that is carried out data item by first device with the communication path that arrives server or the 3rd device for second device that does not have this arrival server or the 3rd communication path that installs.

The system that is used for the exchange of " node ", order and other data item between the implement device, even when communicating by letter between the network equipment of wireless network and other more a plurality of robusts is insecure, intermittent and has limited bandwidth, perhaps when one or more device has Limited resources, this system also is provided between the user that can set up first device that local area radio connects and second user who installs and carries out mutual reliable method.

The method that is used for the exchange of " node ", order and other data item between the implement device, even when communicating by letter between the network equipment of wireless network and other more a plurality of robusts is insecure, intermittent and has limited bandwidth, perhaps when one or more device has Limited resources, this method also is provided between the user that can set up first device that local area radio connects and second user who installs carries out mutual reliable method.

Description of drawings

By with reference to following detailed description and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings to exemplary unrestriced illustrated embodiment, will be better and more completely understand these and other feature and advantage.In the accompanying drawings:

Fig. 1 shows the U.S. Patent application No.11/169 of the common transfer that is incorporated herein according to by reference mode, and the schematic diagram of the network of the technology described in 149, this network comprise that server unit, client terminal device and the network between them connect.

Fig. 2 shows device and comprises the network configuration of two server units, three mobile client end devices and the schematic diagram that the network between them connects.

Fig. 3 comprises a flow chart, and this flow chart shows the push-model of use without limitation that exemplifies explanation and sends data item and send order and communicate by letter to realize the cooperation push-model.

Fig. 4 shows the mutual of nonrestrictive device that exemplifies explanation in the cooperation push-model communication that utilizes SMS and server.

Fig. 5 comprises a flow chart, and this flow chart shows the non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation of the method that is used to select communication path.

Fig. 6 shows the nonrestrictive schematic representation of apparatus that exemplifies explanation according to the non-limiting technology that exemplifies explanation of this paper, and this device has by the available a plurality of communication paths of other devices a plurality of communication interfaces, various.

Fig. 7 comprises a flow chart, and this flow chart shows the non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation to the processing of the message that is used to transmit of protocol manager.

Fig. 8 comprises a flow chart, and this flow chart shows the non-limiting realization that exemplify explanation of protocol manager to the processing of the message that receiving.

Fig. 9 shows announcement and accepts (A﹠amp; A) the nonrestrictive message flow that exemplifies explanation of process and catalogue synchronizing process.

Figure 10 comprises a flow chart, and this flow chart shows and is used to carry out A﹠amp; A process and processing lack the non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation of the method for enough positive responses.

Figure 11 comprises a flow chart, and this flow chart shows and is used for collecting and handles A﹠amp; The non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation of the method for the response of A message.

Figure 12 comprises a flow chart, and this flow chart shows the non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation that is used for appointing to second device from first device method (method 1) of the task of distribution.

Figure 13 shows and utilizes method 1 or method 2 to carry out the non-limiting message flow that exemplifies explanation of task delegation.

Figure 14 comprises a flow chart, and this flow chart shows the non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation that is used for appointing to second device from first device method (method 2) of the task of distribution.

Figure 15 shows the non-limiting safety standard that exemplifies explanation.

Embodiment

Term definition

General introduction

But the current non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation provides to have important the communication system and the device of disabled function so far, and these functions include but not limited to:

The use of a plurality of communication paths, in order to transmit message to second device from first device, can once use a communication path or once use surpass a communication path, and do not consider each communication path such as the different qualities of speed/bandwidth, reliability, expense, agreement, transmission medium or other characteristic how.

Optionally dynamically switching of communication path is used for increasing with respect to the use of more preferred communication path the use to preferred communication path.

Band outer (OOB) transmission, wherein, data item is by every now and then, send (for example, utilize MMS rather than utilize TCP/IP to send by Wi-Fi by GPRS, perhaps the poll in plan sent between the time) in order or by the mode beyond the preferred communication path.

Priority message is handled, and wherein, transmission method is partly determined by the characteristic of the data item that will send.

Copy to message and data item detects and eliminates, no matter copy is to occur by accident or occur wittingly.

" push-model " mode, wherein, transmitter is got in touch receiver and is initiated the transmission of message.

" cooperation push-model " mode, wherein, transmitter contact receiver also sends the message that comprises the order of asking this receiver initiation pull-mode session.The pull-mode session of the request of transmitter and receiver can occur on the different communication paths.

" point-to-point " node mode (P2P), it is used for sending message between two devices, and wherein any in these two devices can be initiated communication, and any or the two in these two devices can send message to the other side.

" announcement and acceptance " (A﹠amp; A) mechanism, it is used to discern is ready to accept one or more one or more user through the distribution of the task of identification, and then provides task to them.

The task delegation method, it is used to be in or be not under the help of server from first device to the second device transmission task.

Task cancellation distribution method, it is used to notify the proper device task to be cancelled.

The catalogue method for synchronous, it is used to discern and solve the catalogue of first device and the difference between second catalogue of installing.

Security model flexibly is provided, and this visit to data item, collection of data items, device or server, use or modification limit.

Device as herein described comprises wireless device, non-wireless means, simulator, server (TPC) device and other device.The aspect of the technology of the explanation that exemplifies can be applicable to equally that experience is intermittent with being equal to and connect or all types of devices of other connection, such as the desktop computer that intermittently is connected to corporate lan and PDA, disabled mobile device of the wireless signal of its present position or the device that do not have the fixed-site of reliable availability of communications sometimes.In addition, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the device of any amount can communicate with one another according to the techniques described herein.

Utilize communication path between device, to transmit data item.Communication path comprises the random communication technique that device is supported, and communication path includes but not limited to: traditional honeycomb or other wireless telephone data are (for example, GPRS, EDGE, EVDO, SMS), local area wireless network (for example, Wireless Fidelity (for example, Wi-Fi, 802.11x) or bluetooth), cable data mechanism (for example, Ethernet, PSTN, the serial or parallel data cable, dialing modem, DSL etc.), perhaps these have from a device transmit to another device message or message section ability agreement or have the combination in any that transmits the communication technology of ability other of message or message section or other agreement from a device to another device.Communication path comprises the effectively realization of one or more kind communication technologys of transmission to message of carrying out to second device from first device or message section, and these communication technologys sequentially or are concurrently used.Communication path can be different aspect speed/bandwidth, agreement, reliability, availability, expense or other characteristic.The various realizations that exemplify the non-limiting realization of explanation can be according to data item type, data item size, data item priority, limit or promote use to particular communication path according to the permission of safety standard or restriction or based on be defined as suitable any other characteristic by those skilled in the art.Below show supplemental instruction to communication path and their purposes.

The non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation of the technology of this paper utilizes trustship service provider business prototype to provide, in this business prototype, provide radio infrastructure, mobile device and various integrating server as required by the hub facility that uses by the user.Provide this technology to make the user can be absorbed in their business in this manner, rather than be absorbed in the allotment and the management of infrastructure component.The character of this framework allows to share public infrastructure pellucidly from a plurality of users of different companies under non-interfering situation.Alternatively, realize this technology with traditional model, wherein, single company has infrastructure, and provides the right to use to described basis instrument to their employee and device.Other model that is fit to for those skilled in the art will be apparent.

The non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation of the technology of this paper makes no matter once (for example use a communication path, sequentially use a plurality of communication paths), once use to surpass that a communication path (for example, the parallel use) can both utilize a plurality of communication paths and the communication path that stops by non-server carries out the transmission of message or message section between multiple arrangement.In addition, the outer transmission technology of transmitting of transmission and/or band in the support of improved system provides band changes and each communication path has under the environment of different capacity, reliability, function and method of operation and communicates in the availability of each communication path with permission unpredictablely.On available communication path, coordinate sending data item, what make data item between the device relates to one or more sequentially available or available concurrently communication path (wherein this one or more communication path intermittently interrupts) synchronously, makes the needed data item at least one aspect that realizes native system and/or order on loss ground not or be not detected under the situation of repetition and be transmitted.Owing to utilize a plurality of communication paths to send, for the unexpected delays relevant with some communication paths compensated, influence for the information drop-out that reduces some communication paths, in order to reduce the transmission delay that the user perceives as much as possible, perhaps for any other purpose, first device can duplicate specific message wittingly.Second device detects the message or the data item of duplicating by transmission manner, and removes redundant copy.

As shown in Figure 2, server unit (the 2500a ﹠amp of the current non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation; 2500b) (for example, TPC device) and portable radio device (2110a, 2110b ﹠amp; 2110c) can be connected to each other in several ways.For example, server unit (2500b) can be connected to portable radio device (2110c) by single communication path (2600c) (as the EDGE communication path based on phone).Alternatively, server (TPC) device (2500a) is by a plurality of communication paths (2600a, 2600b ﹠amp such as EDGE (2600c), Wi-Fi (2600b) and SMS (2600a); 2600c) be connected to a plurality of portable radio devices (2110a, 2110b ﹠amp; 2110c).In addition, server (TPC) device (2500a) is connected to a plurality of portable radio devices (2110b ﹠amp by single communication path (2600b); 2110c).In addition, portable radio device (2110c) utilizes one or more communication path to be connected to a plurality of servers (TPC) device (2300a ﹠amp; 2300b).Exemplify in the non-limiting realization of explanation at another, first portable radio device (2110a) is utilizing one or more kinds point-to-point (P2P) technical battery to receive second portable radio device (2110b) of the P2P communication path (2600d) of the Wi-Fi in use such as bluetooth or the ad hoc networking model.Any can come the use in available communication path is limited based on security template, to be controlled at sending class data on each communication path.For example, the catalogue that sends dash number in the Wi-Fi connection of sharing is an acceptable, sends individual discernible employee's wage data but can not be accepted thereon.In this case, will stipulate that at the safety standard of a Wi-Fi communication path that installs this communication path has the lower security rank, and will stipulate that at the safety standard of dash number data and wage data they require low-security and high security respectively.The safety requirements of dash number data will be complementary with the level of security in Wi-Fi path; and can on this Wi-Fi path, send these data; but the wage data to the requirement of high security will no thoroughfare this Wi-Fi path sends this data, and will becoming can be with control these data before always to the wage system at the communication path that is subjected to appropriate protection (the short distance Bluetooth link that connects or encrypt such as wired ethernet).

Except supporting a plurality of communication paths, the non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation of the techniques described herein also provides and has been used for first device and initiates the means of installing the transmission (" push-model ") of second device from first.It will be understood by those skilled in the art that when first device is initiated transmission and utilized communication path to send one or more message, carry out the use of " push-model " that this paper limited and illustrated.When receiving, second device receives these transmission and uses their content, perhaps operates according to their (for example, " orders ") or their (for example, as at node or catalogues) are stored in order to follow-up use.Alternatively, these devices are with the work of " cooperation pushes away " pattern, in this pattern, first device uses push-model to send by second device and (for example uses, order or quote (a plurality of) data item of other data item) the first of (a plurality of) data item, transmit the request of the second portion of (a plurality of) data item as making second device initiate " pull-mode " communication to utilize identical or different communication paths to first device or the 3rd device.The selection of the communication path that will use is based on one or more characteristic of each communication path and the data item that will move makes on these communication paths, for example, selection can be supported to move the second portion of (a plurality of) data item but lack and support at needed characteristic of the push-model of whole collection of data items or communication path with other desired characteristics (such as big bandwidth, high reliability or low expense).But when the suitable communication mode time spent, the realization that exemplifies explanation of the technology of this paper can use simultaneously pull-mode, push-model, cooperation push-model or they combination in any or a plurality of pattern.

In some cases, first device need make the user of second device participate in into, to initiate the push-model transmission.For example, if second device has been set to sleep pattern, if perhaps second device is current is not positioned at the position that the push-model transmission technology can work, then by such as paging or SMS message (making second device call the push-model communication (so-called " pushing away registration (push registry) ") of this device), vibration, the mode of playing the suitable and available signal of speech message generation or that record or other or their combination or for those skilled in the art tangible other point out the user to install activation or reorientate second.

The realization that exemplifies explanation herein also provides the use to alternative communication path, and each communication path all has its oneself characteristic (for example, expense, bandwidth, push-model support, transmission delay, reliability, availability etc.).The technology that exemplifies explanation of this paper provides following means: by once using one or more communication path, suitably between a plurality of available communication paths, switch, use the diverse communication path of those the most suitable functions, utilize a plurality of communication path redundancies ground to send data item, perhaps pass through conspicuous alternate manner to those skilled in the art, thereby manage a plurality of communication paths alternatively, dynamically one or more communication aspects of optimization means is (such as expense, throughput, reliability, availability, transmission delay, interaction response or other).For example, the function of these expansions makes device switch to alternative communication path when using the communication that particular communication path carries out losing, and perhaps can increase total throughout by using a plurality of communication paths simultaneously.

Except the new method of operating in exemplary architecture, new access path and access path topology are also supported in this exemplary realization.Some examples of these new technologies hereinafter have been described.

Exemplify in the non-limiting realization of explanation at some, communication path is configured at its management and use and the regulation additional mechanism.For example, by use verification and or other mechanism, the data item that sends on communication path is encrypted, is compressed or protects it not altered or damage.These additional optional mechanism are used to the some parts of communication path and are not used in other parts or are used for the whole communication path that installs second device from first.Use a plurality of this optional mechanism simultaneously; For example, when calculating verification and it be added into data item, these data item and verification and then be compressed and send, wherein, one section of communication path to compressed data item and verification and execution encryption and decryption, occur revealing when preventing to send on this communication path section.In some exemplary realizations, safety standard is used to the use of (such as encrypting or altering inspection) of specified data protection mechanism.For example, when sending with high security, data are encrypted and by being checked at altering.When sending data, exempt these means to reduce computing cost with low-security.Encrypt by using, alter and check or other data guard method, can improve the effective and safe rank of communication path.For example, the Wi-Fi Hotspot of sharing be because data can be intercepted thereby be the communication path of low-security by other people, if but data encrypted forcefully, even then can on this path, send the data of the medium high security of needs.

Utilize various available communication paths, the technology that exemplifies explanation of this paper provides additional ability and function, such as realized point-to-point (P2P) message, out-of-band communication, be in or be not under the help of server unit from first device to second device delegate duties, to the available task of multiple arrangement announcement, collect response, from those devices that responded announcement, select one or more device to come allocating task, assign the task to selected device and be in or be not under the help of server (TPC) device the catalogue data item between installing is carried out synchronously.

The current non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation is to realize by the arbitrary data tranmission techniques that allows (communication path) transmission numerical data piece between device or the combination of technology.Some exemplary nonrestrictive examples comprise ICP/IP protocol on GPRS, EDGE, Wi-Fi or the Ethernet or the SMS on the phone data communication path or MMS and such as the point-to-point link of bluetooth or Wi-Fi " ad hoc " networking, but those skilled in the art can be very easy to find other technology that can substitute, and no matter the current existence of these technology still is being developed in the future.

The example safety standard

The also extendible flexibly safety function of exemplary realization support, this function relates to the use of " safety standard ".Safety standard is the orderly arrangement of byte, the some of them byte has specific or limited number range, these bytes are associated with entity such as data item, collection of data items, device or server, and are used to stipulate permission and/or restriction to visit, use or the modification of associated entity.

Safety standard is got up with entity associated in every way.For some entities such as some data item (for example, node), safety standard is embedded in the entity with the general aspect as these entities.For other entity such as communication path, user or device/server, location, safety standard and entity separation ground, and by title, ID or make that the safety standard that is applicable to entity can be positioned or discern other quote to be associated with entity.When safety standard was not embedded into entity, safety standard was stored in such as the position of catalogue, BLOB node, external data base, file or other position that those skilled in the art think fit.The method that is used for determining to be present at given entity the position of outside safety standard depends on selected memory location and storage means.For example, if be stored in the relevant database at safety standard such as the entity of user, device or communication path, then this safety standard is stored with entity ID, this entity ID conduct comprises the key of the record of this safety standard, and uses this entity ID to make it possible to fetch this safety standard.Those skilled in the art will know other storage and retrieval methods.

Safety standard is created in every way.In the time of in safety standard is embedded into such as the entity of node, safety standard is produced by the method that produces this entity (such as by from the standard among the FDL that creates node) as the part of node constructive process.In some exemplary realizations, according to the FDL standard or not according to the FDL standard, safety standard and entity are created discretely, and utilize independent step that safety standard is inserted in the entity.When safety standard is created discretely by the entity related with it, create the method for safety standard and can utilize the FDL standard, use can be according to such as other inputs of the widget (for example, button, textview field, check box, radio button, drop-down list, menu etc.) of user command row option, graphic user interface, to the description of the extended formatting (such as text, XML or SQL) of safety standard, by script or template or create the software application of safety standard with reference to arbitrarily or all combinations of existing safety standard or they.For example, be stored in to import based on user and create by graphic user interface such as the safety standard in the relevant database of MySQL, these user's inputs are used to produce order line and call the script of creating sql command according to the template of the sql command of storing to call, and this causes sql command to be used to make the MySQL database software to create the safety standard record in the MySQL database.

Exemplary safety standard comprises a plurality of key elements, these key elements comprise the level of security standard of ID (when safety standard is not embedded in the entity), the associated entity of associated entity, safety label that associated entity has and zero or more rules, these rule descriptions make second entity be allowed to have, use, revise, transmit or carry out at other action of associated entity and label or a plurality of label that must have by second entity.

Figure 15 shows an exemplary safety standard.The item that constitutes this exemplary safety standard comprise optional associated entity ID (15100), associated entity level of security (15200), associated entity label (15300) and have comprise zero or more a plurality of actions/rule to the optional part of the action/principle combinations (15400) of (15405/15410,15415/15420,15425/15430).

Associated entity ID (15100) is present in the safety standard of storing discretely with the entity that is associated, and is present in alternatively in the safety standard that is embedded in the entity that is associated.Associated entity ID (15100) is used to identify the entity that is associated with the particular instance of safety standard.Associated entity ID (15100) can comprise device or server ID, communication path indication, user name or login ID, node ID, catalogue ID or can be defined as other useful entity identifier by those skilled in the art.

No matter, by associated entity label (15300) or action/rule to the details of (15400) described safety standard how associated entity level of security (15200) has stipulated that all the universal safety that is used for safety standard is divided into groups classifies.Exemplify in the realization of explanation at some, associated entity level of security (15200) is a numerical value, the wherein bigger higher level of security of numerical value indication, the less lower level of security of numerical value indication.Exemplifying in the illustrative realization of other, associated entity level of security (15200) is such as one in one group of " height ", " medium " or " low " the fixing level of security designator, wherein suppose such hierarchical structure: some designators are specified higher level of security, and some other designator is specified lower level of security.Regardless of selected realization, when receiving entity has higher security level when other, have other safety standard of higher security level and be considered to and have than other safety standard compatibility of low level security, and when receiving entity has lower level of security, then not like this.These restrictions guarantee that data can be delivered to than the desired safer entity of the security regulations of data or transmit on safer communication path, but data can not be sent to and the desired unsafe entity or transmit on more unsafe communication path of comparing.At the data that will transmit, the safety standard of sending entity, receiving entity, employed communication path and the data that are being transmitted must be all compatible.

Associated entity label (15300) is used for the meticulousr secure access permission of secure access permission that standard is provided than associated entity level of security (15200) item.Associated entity label (15300) comprises zero or more a plurality of " labels ".Label is numeral, text or other data object of having specific meanings in the context of exemplary realization.In associated entity label (15300) item of safety standard, can comprise the label of any amount or any type.When with the action/rule of second safety standard described below to (15400) when combining, these labels are used for the specific collection that associated entity provides permission or restriction.

Safety standard can comprise zero or more a plurality of actions/rule to (15400).Rule in the safety standard of first entity (15410,15420 ﹠amp; 15430) be used to be defined in the associated entity label (15300) that must comprise or can not comprise in the safety standard of second entity, these labels are considered to and action (15405,15415 ﹠amps of the first entity compatibility to put rules into practice second entity; 15425).Action (15405,15415 ﹠amp; 15425) comprise numeral, text or other data object that in the context of the non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation, has specific meanings, and be used to the exercises that regulation can be taked, such as having specific data item, data item being sent to another device, carrying out catalogue on a group node, the updating device etc.Specific collection that can specified action is fixed with realization.Rule (15410,15420 ﹠amp; 15430) stipulated to making label or a plurality of label in compatible associated entity label (15300) item that must be comprised in or must can not be included in second entity of second entity and first entity.Rule is a Boolean expression, and these Boolean expressions are well known to a person skilled in the art that mode allows the combination or the lacking of label of label are set arbitrarily.For example, rule can stipulate that second entity must have " MAINTENANCE " and " MANAGER " label, but do not have " DIRECTOR " label, to be consistent for the purpose of carrying out related action, the action of this association may be the needed alarm of maintenance that transmits machine.Such rule will prevent to send this alarm to safeguarding to be responsible for, but will allow to send this alarm to another manager of maintenance department, and for example, this manager gives a workman to maintain this machine with creation task and with this Task Distribution.

Only when the associated entity lsafety level is compatible, just check the associated entity label (15300) of action/rule to (15400) and this rule evaluation of driving.They can not be used for overthrowing the restriction to compatibility by the level of security regulation of being given.They can be used to provide meticulousr compatibility management in the level of security relation of compatibility, for example, allow manager from the data of human resources system reception about the employee that they managed, but do not allow to handle the data of reception about the employee that they did not manage, perhaps allow the workman to cancel the task of distributing to this workman, and do not allow this workman to cancel other task.By right at the careful level distribution safe in utilization of different entities, label and action/rule, the data that can set up arbitrary patterns move and use, data movement method and data move or use restriction.

Exemplary communication method

The operation of the pull-mode of supporting except exemplary prior-art devices, exemplary means can also support push-model, cooperation push-model, the outer transmission of band and communication path to switch.

Point-to-point communication

As mentioned above, point-to-point (P2P) communication relates to the direct connection between two or more devices, realizes communication and need not server or other device.There are the multiple technologies of supporting this connection mode, such as the Wi-Fi in bluetooth and " adhoc " pattern.In some embodiments, P2P is used for allowing message transfer and message section between device under the situation of any connection that does not need server, as allows first device to send the data item of representing the working cell to second device.This has advantage in many aspects, gives the subordinate such as allowing to be responsible for the task of redistributing, and perhaps allows the workman that task is passed to the colleague.

Serve as " the data item buffer memory " of the mobile device that does not have this connection for having to the device in the available communication path of server unit, P2P communication has advantage equally; For example, first device with high speed access path (connecting as wired Ethernet) has been sent out data item, and these data item are for owing to not installing or other device is preserved to second of the connection of server such as the position of signal conductively-closed or all environmental factors.Second device or other device can rely on the P2P technical battery such as the Wi-Fi in bluetooth or " ad hoc " pattern to receive first device, data item is sent to second device etc.Must be sent to first device from the data item that second device or other device send to server unit.First device relies on another communication path or (as the method by hereinafter described) to be defined as other suitable connection data item is sent to server.

When utilizing P2P to initiate communication between device, these devices must have the method for discerning mutually and locating.In some exemplary realizations, this realizes by the information with the catalogue form distribution.ID, ad-hoc Wi-Fi network title and the address and the device checking material that comprise the known bluetooth device, and by server distribute and upgrade between the device that utilizes the P2P communication means, position, connect and verify useful out of Memory, and before these information are required, store by device.Alternatively, when first device identifies communication path (such as ad-hoc Wi-Fi network or blue-tooth device), the user of first device can obtain following prompting: license described communication path; Assignment of allocation is given the characteristic (weighted factor that for example, is used for the Dynamic Selection communication path) in these paths; Perhaps provide and use the needed checking material of described communication path (for example, user name, password or credit card number).The safety standard of communication path in most of the cases, is provided by server.Related with the user when having the safety standard of appropriate privilege when existing, the user can also provide safety standard information for communication path or other entity.

Push-model and cooperation push-model

Shown in the flow chart of Fig. 3, push-model both had been used to send data item and also had been used to send order, thereby realized the communication of cooperation push-model.Described example process relates to the exemplary means that can receive SMS message and can set up the Wi-Fi link when being arranged in Wi-Fi Hotspot and sends data item.This exemplary means or be not arranged in Wi-Fi Hotspot (transmit leg is not known the IP address of this device) in the time must sending data item perhaps exists fire compartment wall, router or other assembly of the connection that stops this device.

In one embodiment, first step to this device transmission data item is the characteristic (3010) of definite data item that will send.SMS has very limited bandwidth and message size restriction, and the transmission that this message size requirement for restriction is big with size is divided into a series of section, and sends each section with independent SMS message.Because SMS can relate to the expense that the quantity with the message that is sent changes, utilize the quantity of the data item of SMS transmission so all expect restriction under many circumstances.

If the data item that sends is small enough to be fit to single SMS message, perhaps because other former thereby definite SMS that should utilize sends data item (3020), one or more SMS message that then comprises these data item is configured (3030) and is sent to device (3040), and this process finishes.

If the data item that sends is confirmed as being unsuitable for utilizing SMS to send (3020), then use the cooperation push-model and do not use push-model, and structure communication request order (hereinafter described) also is placed on (3050) in the SMS message, then this SMS message is sent to device (3040), this finishes process.Under latter event, actual data item is sent out when installing in response to the communication request order and carrying out the pull-mode communication session.This is schematically shown (4100) in Fig. 4, wherein communication request message is sent to device (4110) from server.This device connects and responds (4120) by set up pull-mode on the suitable communication path such as Wi-Fi, and this communication path of server by utilizing sends data item (4130) in waiting to this device.It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that it only is exemplary using SMS to transmit the communication request order, can use any communication path of push-model that can supportive device to substitute.For example, MMS message, existing P 2P or Wi-Fi connect, the TCP/IP on any usable interface (for example, TCP grouping, the multicast that utilizes IPv6 or IPv4 method or the broadcast packe that connects by socket or by Wi-Fi, Bluetooth link to the wired ethernet interface, use other agreement of the dialing modem of SLIP, PPP or other agreement).

At any type of communication, how it gets in touch the information of second device to first device (being server, mobile device or other device) all must to have indication.In some illustrative embodiments, first device is configured with the data of needed address about second device, the communication path of being supported etc., can utilize catalogue or alternate manner with current address and other essential data item they to be carried out regular update by the user of this device or by server unit.In other exemplary realization, first device obtains needed information about second device from known service (such as LDAP (LDAP) or domain name system (DNS)), perhaps receives the needed information about second device of obtaining that responds by broadcast request and from second device or diverse device (as the device with ARP(Address Resolution Protocol)).In some exemplary realizations, import data item by the operator and manually provide address and other needed information to server, and in other exemplary realization, device utilizes such as dynamic-dns, catalogue method for updating or is defined as effective other method by those skilled in the art to come with the information of current address about them or other required information update service device automatically.Device can use a plurality of information sources to determine about the address of diverse device or the information of other needs, as the catalogue of utilizing DNS to determine that TCP/IP address and utilization are stored is determined the SMS addressing information.

The outer transmission of band (OOB)

The multiple communication path function provides extra chance for band outer (OOB) transmission, in the transmission, carries out the exchange of data item by the communication path beyond the preferred path or at the polling cycle of plan or the time beyond the customary contact outside band.In some embodiments, OOB is used to provide the transmission of high priority, such as the task coordinate between emergency alarm, software or data item update, the user or should not wait crucial At All Other Times item that device connects in its next poll time or near the user is at the professional available access point in preferred communication path the time.

In other embodiments, OOB is used to also realize that push-model transmits, and wherein server is initiated to the connection of client.Because the intrinsic design defect of communication path, not every communication path all allows to use push-model, and some communication paths in these communication paths are likely preferred or main path of using owing to their big bandwidth (for example, Wi-Fi, wired ethernet etc.).In this case, (for example, SMS or MMS) band other places sends the order that the direct push-model of request connects on the communication path that allows push-model.Receiving system is then initiated the pull-mode session with server, to transmit needed data item by aforesaid preferred connection.In some exemplary realizations, application software can ask the user by moving to focus, being connected to the wired ethernet port and waiting and make such possibility that is connected to become as early as possible.

Those skilled in the art are from being appreciated that above be useful by the OOB that non-limiting realization realized that exemplifies explanation following situation: the current connection limited in one's ability, device that device connects by the preferred communication path has exhausted this ability but the message of high priority must have been sent to this device from the current device that is not connected to this device.For example, if a device is limited to single bluetooth connection sometime, and this device is currently connected to server and exchanging messages, and the second server that then has at the high-priority message of this device can not be connected to this device to transmit this message by bluetooth.In this case, server can utilize SMS or MMS band other places to send message, thereby has avoided the restriction that bluetooth connects.

Some communication paths are because their design can not be carried out the push-model transmission with realizing the mode of these communication paths usually.For example, the internet uses ICP/IP protocol, and this requires jockey to specify the network address of the device that will connect.Server unit all has the fixed address of other device by learning or learn as the system of domain name system (DNS) usually, and this makes other device can be initiated to the connection of server.Non-server unit (comprising most of mobile devices) is not endowed fixed address usually, but (by the mode as DHCP (DHCP)) asks the temporary address as required when they are connected to network.As a result, can not be connected to these devices owing to do not know the address of these devices, but these devices can be connected to server unit or other device with known address.The communication path that any device can be connected to can carry out the push-model transmission, and as mentioned above, in push-model even can use the communication path of limited capability to ask another device to initiate the pull-mode session by more competent communication path itself that do not support push-model.

The communication path configuration

Use the device of P2P technology, specific commercial Wi-Fi Hotspot etc. can use communication path in order to make such as those, use the device of these communication paths must dispose arbitrary address, device ID, encryption key, authorization information or on the communication path between device the location, connect and set up needed other data of trusted communications.These configuration informations are included in the device by the manufacturer of device, user by device adds, and sends (for example, as configuration messages or catalogue data item) from server unit, become the normal aspect of employed particular communication technology, perhaps the combination in any of these modes.Come in the following manner configuration information is upgraded: the user by device carries out, sends, becomes the normal aspect of employed particular communication technology or the combination in any of these modes from server unit.For example, communicate by letter for bluetooth P2P, the foundation of micro bluetooth network has related to the exchange of information, thereby makes the device of participating in this piconet can calculate the pattern maintenance of radio frequency variation and getting in touch of they by member's use of this piconet.This information exchange is the normal part of Bluetooth technology agreement.In another example, the device that adds " ad hoc " Wi-Fi network needs network name data (for example, " SSID ") and visit information (for example, " WAP key ") to communicate with them with other member and the permission that can discern this network.These information must offer device by the mode beyond " adhoc " Wi-Fi network, such as sending configuration information with the message input device configuration or by server to device by the user.In as the non-P2P scene of using commercial Wi-Fi Hotspot, configuration information can comprise the sign and the checking of the number of the account value of landing and password value or other form, perhaps under the situation of SMS, can comprise the telephone number of the diverse device that will get in touch.

An exemplary non-limiting example of the network access information of collection and distribution such as Wi-Fi SSID and the method for relevant checking material is that this information stores is distributed to all devices that utilized the particular network visit to conduct interviews by permission in catalogue and with this catalogue.For example, mobile device can receive the catalogue of the link information of supporting wireless " focus ", this catalogue comprises the group of SSID and relevant access key (for example, WAP key, number of the account/password to), and session manager can use these to organize to utilize the particular communication technology to connect.The different communication technologys can have different catalogue (for example, the catalogue of every kind of technology) or single catalogue can comprise information at the multiple communication technology.In addition, depend on the access rights that will give specific user/device and be connected that different users can have different (a plurality of) catalogue of the device that offers them.In one implementation, these communication technology catalogues remain on public server (TPC) device, and are distributed to mobile device desirably.Use preceding distribution and buffer memory to make to these catalogues and can use their content in the open air the time when mobile device, and realized installing the seamless transitions between the communication path of being supported.Alternatively, when identifying particular communication technology when certain location is effective, device can be inquired about the catalogue of this communication technology to the public service apparatus.In response to this inquiry, server unit sends one or more data item that one or more catalogue or transmission comprise the part of one or more catalogue to request unit.

In the exemplary non-limiting example of alternative, the catalogue distribution mechanisms is used for distributing known devices ID, user ID and known devices and user's checking material.When a mobile device when identification point to point network or other do not rely on second mobile device on the network of connection of server unit, this mobile device can operative installations ID and the checking material between these two devices, to set up communication path.For example, if the device ID of the device of Fred is 1, needed checking string is " secret ", and then the device of Sue can receive and comprise the catalogue key element that identifies Fred (the device ID of Fred (for example, 1)) and the checking material (for example, " secret ") catalogue.Fred can receive a sign Sue (the device ID of Sue (for example, 2)) and needed checking material (for example, " secret of Sue ")) identical (perhaps different) catalogue.When the device on recognition network was device 2, the device of Fred can be searched user (Sue), and determined whether that message will send to the device of Sue.If, then the device of Fred (for example can utilize verifying data, " secret of Sue " and " secret ") between the device of the device of Fred and Sue, create communication path, so that two devices guarantee that all the other side is real and has the right to initiate this connection.In the execution mode of some alternatives, the selecteed key element of the catalogue of user, device and checking material is forwarded to specific device.Be distributed to the catalogue key element of device by restriction, the catalogue key element of being distributed is used as a kind of form of authorisation that first device is connected to second device.Attempt being connected under the situation of and catalogue key element jockey that all lack them owing to lack and verify that material fails at two devices.This technology is for being favourable such as those point-to-point connections of utilizing bluetooth and ad-hoc Wi-Fi to create.Safety standard can be further used for the type to data, specific data item or communication path (can be used to not rely on described verification method ground and send data between device) limits.For example, even after the device of Fred and Sue has exchanged secret mutually and has carried out identification, owing to lack the safety standard requirements of coupling between the device, perhaps since with device between the level of security that is associated of communication path, the device that the device of Sue still can be under an embargo to Fred sends the specific data (such as profit margin data or wage information) that have high level of security or be limited to specific recipient.

Except connecting configuration and access configuration, each communication path also dispose characteristic (such as speed, expense or reliability) that is used to specify each communication path or the function of supporting by each communication path (such as push-model or big message size) additional messages or setting, be used to determine under the various conditions of availability, data item priority or other factors, will use the preference setting of which communication path or disposed by other communication path that those skilled in the art see fit.

When operating, other device needs this current mailing address when mobile device is using instantaneous communication address (as utilizing Wi-Fi access point IP address allocated), makes these devices can utilize this current mailing address to get in touch first mobile device.In one embodiment, the catalogue of server (TPC) device mailing address of updating device when receiving the message of self-moving device.(a plurality of) key element of catalogue through upgrading is distributed to other device desirably.Alternatively, when mobile device is set up the connection of playing the communication technology of distributing the instantaneous communication address, this mobile device can update stored in self the catalogue key element in this device, and then with this catalogue key element and server unit (perhaps this mobile device communicating by letter any other device) synchronously.This makes two devices can utilize the point-to-point communication path to set up low bandwidth to connect, and exchange is used for the instantaneous communication address of the current high bandwidth network that they are currently connected to, and then sets up the communication path of high bandwidth between device.In another embodiment, when mobile device received the instantaneous communication address, its utilization came renewal center business such as the standard dynamic addressing agreement of DDNS.This has eliminated the needs that make catalogue key element and instantaneous communication address synchronization, but available communication path is restricted to the communication path that those utilize the dynamic address protocol analysis of standard.

Communication path switches

As mentioned above, all communication paths all stand to connect interruption or lose.Connect and lose a plurality of somes place that may occur on the path.Device can experience fault aspect its communication hardware, connecting may appear in the signal level aspect loses (as when leaving Wi-Fi Hotspot), the some parts possibility of the communications infrastructure is unavailable (for example, the service disconnection at sub-district provider place, the connection in the internet are interrupted, the SMS server of overload etc.) or may unavailable (for example, power failure, system maintenance, software error etc.) with the device server in communication.It is all unavailable that all communication paths that must not mean device are lost in connection on communication path.When device has for its available a plurality of communication paths and in them one or more because any former thereby when becoming unavailable, this device can select to switch to still available communication path.Device can also switch communication path under the situation that connection is not lost, thereby optimizes the use in available communication path, and improves the aspect such as speed, reliability or response, perhaps reduces the aspect such as expense or delay.But have only when on the basis of configurable or hard coded, periodically breaking down, when new communication path become the time spent, they combination in any or to be defined as by those skilled in the art be other suitable option, device their uses to available communication path of just can reappraising.

Some exemplary means are supported the automatic selection of communication paths, and wherein communication path switches and is to finish under the situation of the action that does not have customer-side, and in some implementations, are to finish under the situation that does not have the action aspect the application software.These exemplary means are designed so that the operating system selection communication path of device and the communication path that application software always is to use current selection, and change communication path according to the indication of device.In some exemplary realizations, such switching is transparent for user or application software, and can be detected by user or application software in other is realized.

In other exemplary means, the communication path of default use is determined by the operating system of device, but application software can replace this communication path, and uses alternative communication path by using by its manufacturer as the mechanism that an operating system part provides.

For example, in some embodiments, switching is shifted response as the fault that the connection in existing communication path is lost and is finished, and perhaps switching is to be confirmed as communication path than current use at alternative communication path more preferably any time of (path optimization) finishes.In some cases, communication path failures is not the factor owing to this machine of device, even automatic switching control equipment also can require application program to switch to different communication paths by force.For example, if using the Wi-Fi configuration of Wi-Fi communication path and focus fire compartment wall to be made, device causes blocking the variation of visit of the address of the server that this device is connected to, although this device can not use Wi-Fi to connect this fact of server that arrives it, but this device still detects the Wi-Fi signal and can send and receive the TCP/IP grouping, does not therefore automatically switch to alternative communication path.In this case, the application software of device can be by switching to the communication path that rebulids its server such as the alternative communication path of GPRS or EDGE by force.

In some embodiments, the method for switching communication path owing to communication path failures relates to a plurality of stages.At first, detect losing of connection.Secondly, select alternative communication path.The 3rd, on new communication path, connect.In execution mode more specifically, when using path optimization, device is carried out second step of this process: select communication path or a plurality of communication path, if and selected (a plurality of) path is different with current preferred (a plurality of) path, then device is initiated the communication path switching so that selected (a plurality of) path becomes current preferred (a plurality of) path.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that connecting the detection of losing is simple and clear for some communication paths, then very difficult to other communication paths.For example, no matter be to utilize Wi-Fi, bluetooth or some alternate manners to carry out, when using the Connection-oriented Protocol that divides into groups such as the TCP on the tcp/ip communication path, when being received by the destination system, grouping has the affirmation of returning, and after re-transmission repeatedly, fail to receive the confirmation just indication connection and lose.In this case, fault occurs in the inessential where of path, still exists and can detected connection lose.As for other agreement such as grouping of the UDP on the TCP/IP or SMS, affirmation is not the part of host-host protocol, if and problem do not install self at this, unless then the agreement of the application layer feedback that comprises some forms otherwise can not detect this problem detecting communication issue.For example, if UDP or SMS are used to send message from server to client, then client can be beamed back UDP or SMS message to server when receiving message, thereby acknowledge message arrives.If message is lost, then do not confirm grouping, and server can resend this message at the reasonable time definite by suitable mechanism (such as clock chip, cycle counter or programmable interrupting device) in the past in transmission.Confirm grouping if lost in transmission, then server is retransmitted this message once more, and client can receive extra copy once more and confirm reception.Carry out this process continuously, obtain receiving confirming as of this message and end up to receiving message and server, perhaps up to unsuccessful trial how till think that enough this connection is unavailable.Detect and ignore the message and the node of repetition by mode described below.When communication path is confirmed as when unavailable,, then carry out the fault transfer path and switch if suitable alternative communication path can be used.

Even when agreement comprises that feedback mechanism transmits successfully with indication or when fail, detect connection lose before still existence delay.Connect for TCP, detecting the connection of losing before, can need a few minutes, be confirmed as trial taking place repeatedly to retransmit before unavailable in this connection.At least in some cases, regardless of employed agreement, can losing and report to application program by the problem of operating system checkout gear hardware of device or signal.No matter be, perhaps, finally identify losing of connection by common some alternate manners carried out of those skilled in the art by the error reporting of hardware or device function software or by having passed through after receiving the confirmation for a long time and not.

When take place connecting when losing, device can keep and waits the data item that is sent out, up to connect recover till, perhaps device can switch to and have or may have internuncial another communication path.Device both can keep some data item with transmission after a while, also can have other data item of transmission on internuncial communication path.About whether the retention data item be based on the decision of carrying out transmission attempt after a while and still on alternative communication path, sending data item priority such as data item, alternative communication path expense, alternative communication path function or be defined as by those skilled in the art that suitable other factors makes.

In some exemplary realizations, under the situation of the availability that does not lose current communication path, but such as becoming the time spent when preferred communication path, perhaps when the characteristic (as priority) of the data item that will be sent out allowed to use the communication path that originally can not select to use, device also switched communication path on one's own initiative.For example, if device is coupled together by the communication path that uses GPRS, then because this communication path is most preferred available communication path when connecting, and the user moves to this device in the zone (as Wi-Fi Hotspot) that preferred communication path can use, therefore this device can be set up new connection and stop more not preferred path on preferred communication path, although this more not preferred path is still available.Doing like this is for the reduction expense, raising speed or reliability, or for any other reason.In another exemplary realization,, then improve the priority of those data item if data item has waited the long period (for example, by configuration being set definite period) in order to wait transmission.The new priority value of the data item in waiting can cause originally at this moment not can selecteed alternative communication path selected, and causes switching to this communication path so that the data item in waiting can be sent out.

Because do not accept any available communication path according to the configuration of device, the variation of the variation of the communication path configuration of the variation of the priority of the data item that will be sent out, device in being provided with, the safety standard that is associated with data item that this communication path maybe will send or cause before acceptable other variation that becomes of unacceptable communication path cause not using in the situation of any available communication path, device can use new acceptable communication path, and need not to switch from different communication paths.

No matter in fail-over mode still at path optimization, when determining to switch to which alternative communication path, relate to similar factor.Device can have the precedence scheme that is used to select alternative communication path that is built in wherein, perhaps device can utilize rule dynamically to select with balance various factors (such as, but not limited to the quantity and the type of expense, speed, reliability, user preference, the feature of being supported (as push-model) or the data item that will transmit), and perhaps device can ask the user to select.In some exemplary realizations, make decision by the operating system of device, perhaps in other exemplary realization, leave this decision for application software.In the operating system of device is made realization to the decision of communication path, still can force to use the particular communication path by being provided with of modifier, thus forbidding those preferred communication paths for operating system.

In a possible exemplary realization, composed to select the priority regulated value such as each communication path characteristic of expense, speed and reliability.Select the priority regulated value bigger at important factor, then less at more unessential factor, incoherent factor is endowed zero regulated value.By with the regulated value addition (wherein the regulated value of desirable characteristic be used as on the occasion of, and the regulated value of undesirable characteristic is used as negative value), calculate the selection priority score of each available communication path, and (a plurality of) communication path of selecting to have the highest selection priority score uses.By suitably selecting priority score regulated value (this will be familiar with by those of ordinary skills), controlled selected communication path so that the influence of any characteristic or feature becomes maximum or becomes minimum, but force to select this given communication path in the given communication path time spent, perhaps prevent to use given communication path, perhaps alternatively, prevent to use given communication path under the situation of alternative communication path having.In some exemplary realizations, carry out independent initial calculation and compare, and calculating those communication paths that desired function (as push-model) is not supported in eliminating before the selection priority score with the function of the needed communication path of transmission that will at once will carry out or characteristic function with available communication path.

The flowchart text of Fig. 5 be used to select one or more communication path for an example process of using.This process begins (5000) by the tabulation of setting up all current available communication paths.In some exemplary means, this tabulation comprises all communication paths of being supported by device, such as SMS, EDGE and Wi-Fi.In other exemplary means, whether can determine an interface just at detection signal, and remove those and use the current communication path (for example, if the phone data interface does not have signal, then SMS or EDGE communication path are all unavailable) that does not have the interface of received signal.In some exemplary means, can test communication path at connectivity, as sending ICMP " echo " grouping (" ping ") and wait response to known TCP/IP address by Wi-Fi.As previously mentioned, connection may reside on the part of communication path, and is not present in other parts, thereby has hindered the use of this communication path.For example, detect Wi-Fi signal and the response of " ping " that send to the service provider do not meant that and can arrive server or other device by Wi-Fi.When creating the tabulation of current available communication path, device has comprised that all can not be defined as disabled path for certain substantially.Therefore, device can be kept the tabulation that is defined as disabled communication path owing to do not receive the affirmation of the data item that sends before recently by device.This prevented according to signal existence, " ping " but return or other means seem the available preferred communication path that can not allow data item to transmit recently (wherein, " recently " is to be provided with definite or to be designed in period in the device or in the application software by configuration).Get rid of that but such communication path makes it possible to select originally can not select, more preferred potential more available communication path.

The communication path that does not have safety standard characteristic useful the needed data in transmission waits is considered to be not useable for selecting the purpose of communication path.When the purpose of Path selection is (for example will carry out the pull-mode session, for the data in waiting or message and polling server) time, the safety standard characteristic is not used in the eliminating communication path, although in some exemplary realizations, the safety standard characteristic is used to some communication paths than other communication path more preferably (for example are considered as, have than other path of low level security with those and to compare, have other path of higher security level and more preferentially selected).

If tabulation does not comprise available communication path (5010), then this process finishes (5020) with the result of " not having available path ".In this case, this device can not communicate in current time and place.Some exemplary means can be warned this situation to the user of device, make the user this device can be moved to the position that other communication path can be used.Exemplary means can also periodically repeat this selection course, till available communication path occurring.

If the tabulation in available communication path comprises at least one communication path, then the next procedure of selection course is all communication paths (5030) of removing the function of not supporting that all need from this tabulation.For example, the transmission of push-model if desired then removes any communication path of not supporting push-model from the tabulation in available communication path.In case finished eliminating, checked once more whether tabulation comprises at least one communication path (5040) to these communication paths.If not, then this process finishes (5020) with the result of " not having available path ".If the eliminating in the path that lacks needed function has been caused just in time comprising tabulation (normally one of the needed quantity of the communication path of needed quantity, but some exemplary means can once be used and surpass a communication path, thereby can need to select a plurality of communication paths), then this path list is returned and this process finishes.

If the tabulation of available communication path comprises than needed more path, then must from this tabulation, select preferred (a plurality of) path.In an illustrative embodiments, it is zero initial selected priority value that each path in the tabulation all has been endowed.Then,, be provided with at the determined amount of this characteristic, turn down the selection priority value (5070) in each path according to configuration at each the undesirable characteristic that is associated with each path.For example, if think that low bandwidth is undesirable, and the regulated value of this low bandwidth is three, and the selection priority value that will have all communication paths of low bandwidth characteristic in then will tabulating reduces three.Selecting priority value is signed number, and can be for negative.This reduction of selection priority is still accumulated, because if low bandwidth and unreliable the two all are considered to undesirable (regulated value is respectively three and five), (for example, selection priority value SMS) will be reduced eight then to have low bandwidth and insecure communication path.

Then, at desirable each characteristic that is associated with a path,, increase selection priority value (5080) according to being provided with at the determined regulated quantity of this characteristic by configuration.For example, if think that low expense is desirable, and the regulated value of low expense is six, has the selection priority value increase by six of all communication paths of low expense characteristic in then will tabulate.Select this increase of priority also to accumulate, because if the two all is considered to desirable (regulated value is respectively six and four) low expense and high bandwidth, (for example, selection priority value Wi-Fi) will increase by ten then to have the communication path of low expense and high bandwidth.

Just the selection priority of alternately discussing has been adjusted in some exemplary realizations has the single step of symbol regulated value to carry out as use, and this will be tangible for those skilled in the art.

Select priority to regulate in case finish, have (a plurality of) communication path selected (5090) of the highest selection priority value and be returned (5060), this process is finished.

The characteristic assignment of selecting being included in characteristic in the configuration, each communication means of given device support being carried out and increase or reduce the preferential selection that can be used under different situations at the priority of carrying out and be adjusted to needed any degree with communication path for the selected value of each characteristic.The example of typical situation is: the device that can support these three kinds of communication meanss of GPRS, Wi-Fi and bluetooth, this device is positioned at the public Wi-Fi Hotspot place of main cities, wherein the two is available for GPRS (TCP/IP and SMS agreement the two) and Wi-Fi, but bluetooth is unavailable.The user is configured to preferred high bandwidth (10 with the setting of this device, + 3), low transmission delay (1, + 5) and low expense (1, + 1), mean if communication path is a low bandwidth, then priority is reduced by 10, if but communication path has high bandwidth, then priority is increased by 3, and carry out similar adjusting with expense at transmission delay.GPRS-TCP/IP is set to have low bandwidth, low transmission delay and high cost.GPRS-SMS is set to have low bandwidth, high-transmission postpones and high cost.Wi-Fi is set to have high bandwidth, low transmission delay and low expense.Because bluetooth is unavailable, therefore do not relate to the setting of bluetooth.Two available communication paths all have identical safety standard characteristic, so the safety standard characteristic is not to select the relevant factor of one between these two.The current push-model that do not need of this device, therefore the support that lacks this function also is incoherent.Calculating causes the mark of following each method: GPRS-TCP/IP (6), GPRS-SMS (12) and Wi-Fi (+9).Select to use the Wi-Fi communication path.

In another possible exemplary realization, total preferential mark of communication path must surpass the numeral stipulate at the communication path that will use, and the priority of the data item that will send or go up certainly time that a connection passes by so far by with this gross score mutually in addition as another factor.In this way, if (for example have very large needs, the high-priority data item waits the renewal that maybe needs in the preset time section and carries out poll) and do not have better communication path to use, then select to use under normal circumstances because the too high and out of use communication path of expense.In some exemplary realizations, data item priority can change along with the type of data item.For example, the user can be composed with very high priority (as the emergency warning notice) for request responding, and for the request of the view data item of looking ahead or to checking whether given node set has the request of available renewal to be composed with lower priority.In an exemplary realization, priority value is associated with node type, and in another exemplary realization, priority is specified by sending software when submitting data item to transmission, perhaps this priority is recorded in (as the part of the node self-description data that comprises this priority) in the data item itself, perhaps handles by be defined as suitable alternate manner by those skilled in the art.

In the illustrative embodiments of alternative, selection to most preferred communication path or a plurality of paths is not to carry out like that as described above, but utilize more complicated method to carry out, for example, a kind of method that relates to artificial intelligence technology (searching system, inference method, neural net and the utilization of rule pattern recognition) about the historical data of communication path availability, user's selection or other data such as based target.Also can use the combination of these or other method.Such a kind of illustrative methods relates to use " preference function ".Realize " preference function " that this preference function calculates " preference value " of each the unsettled data item that sends on each available communication path.The nearest history of the propagation time delay of the size of the data item that this preference function uses and described available communication path function, will send, the priority of data item, available communication path, communication path expense are (in some cases, this expense can be at the position, constantly, data item size, the preset time total data or the other factors that send in the section) parameter, other parameter of perhaps using those skilled in the art to understand well.After the combination calculation preference value at each data item and communication path, any communication path that selection has above the preference value that calculates of defined threshold sends the data item that is associated.Owing to be used to calculate the parameter change of preference value, recomputate preference value.This method allows a combination any amount different factor, determining that communication path which is available or those paths are preferred for send specific data item at special time, thereby optimize such as expense, speed, propagation delay or other selected factor.This method allows to use than the more complicated preference function of above-mentioned simple weighting factor.Compare by preference value and other threshold value that will calculate, this method can be used for making other decision (as when being with the other places to send data), how to send data and be not only.

In case selected alternative communication path, then must on this communication path, set up communication.For some connectionless communication paths such as SMS, this just is used for new communication path transmission in the future simply, although in some cases, data item need be carried out reformatting with consistent with the format restriction of communication path.Send other communication path that the data picture connected in the past for relying on, switch communication path and require to set up new connection in the past in the transmission data item.In some devices, to handle this task by the operating system of this device to using the software transparent way.In other device is realized, require application software to handle this task.In arbitrary situation, application software all is required to finish the task of shaking hands, such as verification msg being provided or rebuliding session-context before the transmission of restore data item.

In some embodiments, being used to make the mechanism of application program switching communication path is to be determined by the design of exemplary means.Different device manufacturers use distinct methods at present, and other method also is possible in device in the future.In some exemplary means as blackberry, blueberry (Blackberry), application is stipulated the communication path that will use at given connection by the address (URL) that parameter is attached to the device that just is being connected to, and this transmission is sent to " opening (open) " method of connecting object.In order on such device, to switch communication path, use existing connection closed, and utilize and stipulated that the different parameters of alternative communication path opens new connection.In other exemplary means, different methods of attachment is used to each communication means that device is supported, and application software can use the needed method of existing communication path to close this connection, and uses the needed method of new communication path to open new connection on this communication path.In other exemplary means realized, the user of device controlled selection to communication path by physics control or operating system tool software, and application software must ask to change to different communication paths with user interactions.

On any suitable communication path, have loss function ground to send the ability of message and message section and make that device can be by making throughput become maximum and make operating lag become minimum in the available communication path in given arbitrarily selection of time the most fast sending the ability of during the message of segmentation, not interrupting switching communication path in this process ground, transfer to alternative communication path by fault when employed communication path is lost connectivity and improve reliability, by making expense become minimum at the suitable communication path of the type selecting of the data item that is sending, and select based on the function of communication path (when needing push-model and not all available communication path to support this method of operation) and use communication path to improve function by permission.

The multi-path data route

Utilize some exemplary means to realize, can once use to surpass a communication path.For example, device can send or receive SMS and simultaneously by Wi-Fi swap data item, perhaps utilize Bluetooth link to transmit data item and also also connect by wired ethernet port simultaneously.Be included in and lose the use of switching communication path when connecting, from available option, selecting more than the method etc. of suitable communication path all problems described at the use of single communication path and solution to be applied to a plurality of communication paths.But the use of multiple communication path has increased other function and the problem that must pay attention to.

Under the situation of a plurality of communication paths of Shi Yonging, increased the total bandwidth of device at the same time, wherein sent data item by all available communication paths.All data item that node memory storage on the receiving system intactly arrives are removed any copy and merging data item, simultaneously regardless of the communication path of these data item processes.Owing to when being received, do not having difference aspect node structure or the content, so it is all as broad as long which communication path to send given data item by, communication path can change in time and lose connection or acquisition connection, and message continues by maintenance connection and satisfied requirement to characteristic, priority requires or any other communication path of other factors described herein sends and reception.

Dispensing device can use a plurality of different steps to select to send those data item by each communication path.The example of possible step comprises: come next data item in the transmit queue by becoming first communication path that has the free time to accept data item; Data options characteristic and communication path characteristic (are for example mated, send big data item and send the small data item by the high-bandwidth communication path, perhaps do not send the data item that must send with push-model) by the communication path of not supporting push-model by the communication path of supporting push-model by the low bandwidth communication path; Send data item according to priority orders, wherein the data item of limit priority sends prior to the data item of lower priority; By the data item of a communication path transmission, and be that another communication path is reserved in the push-model exchange in response to the request transmission of pull-mode; Perhaps those skilled in the art are defined as the combination in any of suitable these or other step.Step is selected to be in order to make throughput become maximum, to improve the response to the user, make expense become minimum, make the flexibility of application developer become maximum, perhaps for the combination in any of these or other purpose.Which in some exemplary realizations, be used to determine to use communication path based on the method for above-mentioned priority control method.In case determined the numerical priority value of the communication means that each is available, then used mark to surpass those communication meanss of Configuration Values.Do not use those communication meanss that are lower than Configuration Values.Alternatively, unless need communicate and not have the method for balloon score more can be with (message is waiting and sending or arrived the predetermined poll time), otherwise do not use mark to be lower than those communication meanss of Configuration Values.In some exemplary realizations, the user must carry out clear and definite mandate to the communication means that uses mark to be lower than configured threshold.This provides and has changed the chance that another communication means can be used into, such as device is repositioned in the Wi-Fi Hotspot, this device is connected to wired Ethernet interface, perhaps passes through alternate manner.

If all available communication paths trend towards unreliable or added big delay once in a while before transmitting generation, then can send identical data item by surpassing a communication path, so that the chance that transmits becomes maximum, and make the time before transmitting generation become minimum.In this case, the copy transmission is possible; But above-mentioned duplicate detection and treatment step are handled this problem and eliminate copy before copy are stored.In some exemplary realizations, send the data item that the data item that repeats is limited to high priority in this manner, wherein application level protocol is handled the data item of losing or damaging in the manner described above.

Exemplary device

The exemplary nonrestrictive realization of the Department of Communication Force of the device of the communication system architecture compatibility of Fig. 6 illustration and exemplary architecture as shown in Figure 1, wherein first device (6000) is communicated by letter with one or more other device (6610,6620) by the particular instance (6710,6720) of communication path.Each this device all comprises one or more communication interface (6300a, 6300b), and these communication interfaces can be used at least a in one group of available communication technology.Exemplary means also comprises dispatch manager (6220), and this dispatch manager also comprises at least one protocol manager (6210a, 6210b), at least one session manager (6200) and node memory and buffer (6500).Protocol manager is set on the device, is changed the format and content of data item by the needs of the realization of the communication technology of communication interface (6300a, 6300b) use with basis.Install the application task (being called " node " here) of 6000 processing and utilizing computer program code means appointments, these application tasks are configured to send to receive and to handle at second device from first device.

Session manager

The activity of session manager assembly management protocol manager, and make about whether accept from other device connection, how the route data item decision and provide relevant function to device.

When the exemplary non-limiting realization support of device when using a plurality of communication path, provide the mechanism of from available communication path, selecting one or more communication path to use as the part of session manager.This is called as " selection algorithm " in this article.Each communication path has selected algorithm to be used with the characteristic of foundation at the preference of the use of one or more communication path, and has avoided using one or more other particular communication path.This selection algorithm can also use the characteristic (such as priority, size or wait the time that message waits transmission) of the message that will send to be used as selecting the factor in preferred communication path or a plurality of paths.For example, if the message size that sends very big (as video clipping) then preferably sends this message by the communication path (as Wi-Fi) with big bandwidth, and does not send this message by band-limited communication path (such as SMS or MMS).If a communication path can carry out unrestricted use with fixing expense, another communication path is then collected the charges at each transmission, then the expectation preferentially use constant expense the path, and only just use path when unavailable by each transmission charge in the path of constant expense, perhaps avoid using path fully, perhaps will be restricted to high-priority message by the use in the path of each transmission charge by each transmission charge.In another example, when the needs push-model transmits, must use the communication path of this pattern of support, and can not use the communication path of not supporting this pattern owing to implementation method.In some cases, it is favourable using a plurality of communication paths in the cooperation push-model, wherein, to select originally for transmission be relatively poor selection but support the available communication path of push-model to come to send the request message of the communication request order with cooperation push-model subfunction (as comprise) to receiving system.This request message prompting receiving system utilizes suitable communication path to initiate to be connected with the pull-mode of request unit, and request unit can send this message by this communication path.

When device have one or more message that will send but the communication path that is using because any former thereby when being not suitable for, this device can be stored (a plurality of) message, up to suitable communication path become available till.If one or more message has sufficiently high priority, and exist available but the current suitable communication path that is not used, in some illustrative embodiments, this device can be configured to switch communication path and transmission waits message or a plurality of message that waits.In some exemplary realizations, the user is moved to this device the position of supporting suitable communication path as early as possible by the suitable mode request such as SMS message or speech message, thereby can finish transmission.

In some exemplary realizations, there is the priority that is associated with some transmission, these priority are being included in the preference calculating when whether decision uses given communication path.For example, if not preferred communication path is unique available communication path, other available communication path does not have needed characteristic if perhaps not preferred communication path has for the favourable characteristic of specific transmission (as the support to push-model), and then high priority transfer can cause using this not preferred communication path.Use simultaneously in the device of multiple communication path supporting, can carry out such high priority transfer with the other places, the lower priority transmission then use preferred communication path or be delayed up to preferred communication path become available till.The transmission priority value is provided with foundation, imports foundation, sets up or be defined as suitable alternate manner according to those skilled in the art according to the design of transmitting step and set up according to the user when request is transmitted according to configuration.The transmission priority value is by realizing that by the mode such as functional parameter, the data structure of quoting or other normally used method the step of the request of transmitting and transmission associate.Be merged in priority value in the message that is sending, (for example by indirect mode by use, by high priority transfer being arranged in the high priority transfer formation, and lower priority transmission is arranged in the lower priority transmit queue) with priority value with these message relatings get up or by any other suitable mechanism, the transmission priority value is transmitted.

Exist other characteristic, these characteristics can make and given communication path can not be used for special-purpose.For example, utilize the Wi-Fi communication path, the device that couples together by the Wi-Fi service all is endowed the different network addresss at every turn usually when being connected to the Wi-Fi service, this makes and can not send data item to the device that Wi-Fi connects, till the device that Wi-Fi connects has been set up connection (pull-mode).Other device can not arrive the device that this Wi-Fi connects At All Other Times.But, utilizing some other communication path (such as SMS or MMS), device has fixing address, and any other device that can visit this address (push-model) can arrive this device.When characteristic that the action need that will carry out is supported by communication path, select some communication paths using, although other communication path is preferred for the transmission of the data item of bulk.

When having a plurality of available communication path, device can select one or more communication path to use, and when preferred path or a plurality of path become unavailable (switching is lost in the path) or At All Other Times, device can switch between these communication paths, thereby optimizes the different aspect such as speed, response, expense, availability or other (optimize and switch) of communication.Hereinafter will provide being used to detect the detailed description that some illustrative methods in preferred path etc. are lost, determined in the path.

Can be used in combination different communication paths, inexecutable specific operation when utilizing these communication paths separately to carry out.In a realization that exemplifies explanation, device had both had the Wi-Fi function and had also had the SMS function.The unconfined data that Wi-Fi connects the expense that has big bandwidth and fix transmit, but it is only worked in the regional area that is called as " focus " and only works with " pull-mode " (the mobile client end device must be initiated this connection).SMS connects and to have little bandwidth, and has the expense that is associated with each transmission, but the SMS connectivity has much broad service availability, and can work with " push-model " (in this pattern, server or client can be initiated communication).Need transmit under the situation of data item to client terminal device when client terminal device is not connected and will can will not normally initiate to connect at server unit, server unit can use SMS to send the message that comprises order to client with push-model, this causes client terminal device by Wi-Fi connection outside server is initiated band, and then outer connection of this band is used to connect the transmission data item by more cheap faster Wi-Fi.In some exemplary realizations, if device also is not in the Wi-Fi Hotspot, then the message that sends by the SMS communication path can cause the user to be requested this device is moved to the available position of Wi-Fi service.

Push-model also is used in some realizations that exemplify explanation to realize announcement and to accept (A﹠amp; A).A﹠amp; A is a kind of like this process, in this process, and the task that existence will be carried out and a plurality of users that can carry out this task, still which user or which user can, be ready and can carry out this task to be unknown definitely.This process relates to following steps: send notice message to one or more device, described one or more device with owing to place, work functions, (by name) or alternate manner one or more user of being selected as the possible candidate that is used to carry out this task is associated by name; Collect user's response; User's response is turned back to request server; And select those devices that respond for certain to carry out this task.This task executions can relate to other A﹠amp; The download of the data item that A is mutual, be associated with one or more task, to use or other process of the item of data in buffer in advance that Already in installs.

Exemplify in the realization of explanation at some, operate as normal relates to according to certain intervals or as long as the data item after needs requests is upgraded or as long as during needs transmission responsive node or when device detects the availability of communication path of particular type, by installing the poll services apparatus.For example, if every ten minutes once, as long as the data item that user input is used to transmit or have available Wi-Fi communication path.This in most of the cases is suitable, but exist also that server unit has the data item that will send to a device but this moment this device when not being connected to this server, when the device that perhaps exists second non-server has the data item that will send device to or other data (P2P).For example, before existing, sent to after the renewal of node of device version can with and when needing node after thereby device obtains renewal synchronously as early as possible (such as, when the catalogue data item is changed, perhaps has device that the task of being represented by a group node and this task must be transmitted to the workman when redistributing this task when the device of being responsible for).Under these situations, need to use push-model, but the connection of using this push-model to trigger pull-mode according to aforementioned manner may not be possible or not be optimum.For example,, can postpone for the response that triggers if when device can not use any that is configured to be used for a plurality of communication paths that pull-mode connects, up to this communication path become available till.When making the synchronous needs of this device urgent, if perhaps (for example can not work under the situation of the node of pull-mode after not upgrading, upgrade the pricing information on the order table, perhaps server address information changes), then send node after the needed renewal with push-model or cooperation push-model.Increase though send required expense of data item and time, can by except preference the communication path (for example, by SMS or MMS rather than by Wi-Fi or bluetooth) that is used for the communication path of such transmission carry out this transmission.

In some exemplary realizations, device is limited to each communication path by given type and carries out single connection, and the outer use of transmitting is used to realize the connection that adds or increases overall bandwidth to the band that utilizes different communication paths.Because some communication paths comprise the unacceptable delay in the transmission sometimes or become unreliable or intermittence, so expectation once sends given data item by a plurality of communication paths sometimes.This redundancy has increased the chance at the timely receiving data item in receiver place, but causes the transmission of repetition.Because node has unique node ID and version information, so receiver can be discerned these copies and abandon them, the perhaps expired node that is delayed in the identification transmission and it is abandoned.

If device will exchange messages or message section, then they must have the information supported about which communication path, that what reception standardize information will be provided, and in some exemplary realizations, device have such as checking proof, encryption key, poll timetable or obtain to communication path the right to use, send the needed out of Memory of data item to calculated recipient's route data item and with the form of needs.Device at first by their manufacturer, user etc. so that device can be connected with at least one server and dispose with the enough information of this server exchange data item and order.Alternatively, device is configured with additional initial configuration information.Device can obtain other communicate configuration information, and these communicate configuration information have been specified from (a plurality of) server of initial configuration and other device and installed the needed information of swap data item from other afterwards.Resulting additional information can comprise device ID, the device users name, the communication path that other device is supported, the data routing iinformation is (as the TCP/IP address, cell phone number or blue-tooth device information), authorization information (as Wi-Fi Hotspot login account and encrypted message), the server address of service is (such as SMS, DNS or Email), predetermined polling interval or time data, communication path preference configuration data, be used for regulating the data priority configuration data of the use of communication path based on the priority of the data that wait transmission, perhaps with the device between the relevant out of Memory of communication.

Protocol manager

In above transmission with receive in the explanation, with reference to the processing of example protocol manager of the current non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation.Protocol manager is used to the data item that will send is carried out modification specific to communication path, and cancels these modifications when receiving.Concerning some communication paths, modification is necessary, and this is the restriction of data item aspect data representation, message size or other characteristic that sends in order to overcome.

Fig. 7 is the flow chart that the processing that the data item that dispatch manager sent by protocol manager carries out is shown.The data block that dispatch manager will comprise the data that will be sent out passes to protocol manager (7000).Protocol manager is checked the communication path compatibility (0710) whether data byte is supported with protocol manager.

If then encode this data block to eliminate incompatibility incompatible (7020).Data are carried out Methods for Coding be well known to those skilled in the art, and can comprise following technology: such as the problem byte being carried out " escape (escaping) ", use the label byte to come the position of identified problems byte and replacing compatible byte and identified problems byte numerical value.

Can not carry out single transmission (7040) by the communication path that is associated with protocol manager if resulting data block is too big, then with this data block segmentation, even the protocol manager of having added the permission receiver side was reassembled into the section header data of original data block with a plurality of sections after, these sections also were not more than the maximum transfer unit size (7030) of this communication path.

When existing remaining section or data block to send (7060), send (7050), after this this process stops, and control turns back to dispatch manager.

Fig. 8 is the flow chart that illustrates by the processing that is used to the protocol manager that the data item of the session manager of receiver side is handled is carried out.Protocol manager has been provided message or the message section (8000) that receives by communication interface.If protocol manager has been provided one section (8010) in the message of large-size, then protocol manager is added into the message buffer with this section, and the section that receives before this section and the same message is associated (8020).

If there is complete message now, then owing to receive complete message or owing to receive all sections (8030) of big message, therefore (such as to the coding of problem data byte, compression, encryption etc.) revised in any transmission of being made by the protocol manager of transmitter side of protocol manager cancellation, and recovers original data block (8040).This data block is sent to dispatch manager carrying out further and the incoherent processing of communication path, and this process termination.

After receiving data item, check data item eliminating the node that repeats, and if find that data item is unique or to the renewal (as described herein) of existing node, then places these data item the node memory of device.This makes data item or to send by a plurality of communication paths simultaneously by any available communication path, and make it possible between the different communication path, switch as required, and do not need to make dispatch manager any assembly in addition to know (a plurality of) that just using or spendable communication path.This has simplified the realization of node memory and data item processing components.

Node memory and buffer

Refer again to the illustrated execution mode of Fig. 6, node memory (6500) is supported the data item that sends to this device, is waited the data item that sends from this device and wait from the storage and the visit of the order of this device transmission.Data item is stored with the form that is suitable for this device.Some data item comprise node.Node can be represented user data key element, user interface instruction (visual with mutual behavior) and executable business logic.In the non-limiting realization that preferably exemplifies explanation, node memory is considered as the character of node and stores relevantly, and encrypts, compresses or apply other protection.

In the non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation of an alternative, data item as ASCII string be stored in the similar flat file (flat file) of the form that transmits by communication network to data item (but do not need to carry out that segmentation, spcial character are handled, compression or encrypt and filter).Exemplify in the non-limiting realization of explanation at this, sequentially search for flat file with the location or replace specific fields in specific node or the node.In the non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation of alternative, node is stored in by in the node identifier indexed data storehouse.Preferably, the buffer memory of data item (no matter being the node or the data item of other type) is maintained in the local memory, to improve the performance of the operation that this module supports.

No matter storage format how, the node memory module provides the interface of storing, upgrading and visit from the data item of dispatch module and display module.Preferably, the operation supported of this interface comprises: the node of replacing storage with new node; Add or replace a group node; Deletion of node obtains specific node; Find father node, next node or the child node of given node; Obtain one or more field in the given node; And one or more field of revising given node.

Data item is waiting transmission or is being managed by later being stored in the node memory and by node memory of device reception.Node memory can make in various manners and store, safeguard, fetch, deletion and management node.Data item in the node memory is unique in this node memory, and does not accept the storage of copy of any repetition of data item.In some example system, the data item uniqueness be by as the node ID of the node that comprises each data item and these modes that the node version information compares determined.In such example system, have identical node ID but the higher node of node version value be considered to " node after the renewal " and substitute node ID with coupling but the node version value lower node.It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the alternate manner that to realize the comparison node uniqueness.

Waiting transmission, waiting device and handle, handled the back by device or during in the use that is stored for possible future, node also is kept in the node memory.Node memory is realized in many ways, " cookie " such as " flat file ", ISAM file, relationship type or other database, internal storage data structure, web browser, perhaps come memory node and allow to come as required to determine any alternate manner that to store which node and fetch specific node, but be not limited to this according to the method for content that allow to keep node and logical construction.As long as the node memory permission is carried out necessary storage to the node of being stored and fetched, can on different devices, realize node memory according to different modes.If utilize the sync database technology will install so configuration, then can between device, share node memory.

In data item because other data item before them is sent out (for example other data item has higher transmission priority or early enters formation), because the data item that available communication path is unsuitable for being delayed (for example, data item is very big and will send with low priority, and available communication path is slow and expensive), because do not have available communication path, because data item enters formation between the device polling interval or because other factors waits when transmitting, these data item are stored in the node memory.No matter will send the data item that waits transmission by which communication path, these wait data item and all are stored in the individual node memory.No matter data item by which communication path arrives, and the data item that is received by device all is stored in the individual node memory.Node memory can be incorporated the relevant additional data of data item that is comprised with them into, and additional data is not the part of the node self of storage.These data can comprise following information: will be sent to which device, the version of this data item, data item such as a specific data item and when enter node memory, given data item and when send to which device, attempt sending a data item but number of times or those skilled in the art of failure think for the work of system or to appropriate and suitable any other data of the monitoring of this systemic-function.

The mobile client end device can improve response to their user by the data item as much as possible that holding device resource in their node memory is allowed, in these node memories, the data item that is kept has in the possibility that is required in the future.This possibility is meant as the part of the application of current use, as the part of the application of frequently being used, (for example contains the needed data item of a plurality of application, server address, logo, address book information, parts list, price list, charge code listing etc.) or be marked as and under possible situation, kept, but be not limited to this.In the node memory of device, keep these data item to have reduced the quantity of the data item that necessary quilt sends in subsequent transmission, and increased device is carried out its needed function during not having available communication path possibility.But, the needs of these data item have been avoided on not optimum communication path, sending after a while by sending these data item to device in the communication path time spent optimum for the transmission of data item.The content of node manager by managing them such as known for those skilled in the art mechanism such as timeliness (aging), priorization, queuings.

Specific device may need specific data item, predicted these needs and this device and have available being suitable at present when sending the communication path of this specific data item before need manifesting at this, some exemplary realizations can send on one's own initiative and be predicted to be installing useful or being the needed data item of device.Alternatively, be expected at suitable communication path and need data item, device those data item of can " looking ahead " when unavailable.The example of predicting this needs is to send by the needed image of one or more node, sound or the list data item that limit given task.Another example of prediction data item demand is that server keeps will be at specific time or the task list that will carry out with specific interval.Another example of prediction data item demand is to obtain the data item that a plurality of required by task are wanted.This server can be predicted the task that plan will be carried out, and sends needed those data item of executing the task to predetermined device on one's own initiative.The resource limit of device can limit to handle how many data in this manner, but typical cache algorithm known in those skilled in the art is used to advantageously be the device management available resources.Exemplary algorithm comprises least recently used (LRU:Least Recently Used), the most normal use recently (MRU:Most recently Used), least often use (LFU:Least Frequently Used) or adaptability to replace buffer memory (ARC:Adaptive Replacement Cache) method.Optionally, can consider following factor at the caching method that exemplary realization is selected, such as: obtain again data item (for example, by the high-bandwidth communication path with limited availability send such as the big node of image or voice data and minor node such as short text string or order by the transmission of any communication path) expense or difficulty, quote the quantity or the other factors of other node of given node.When these processing can be raised the efficiency, the additional example of minimizing expense or other benefits comprises that data item or node to the frequent use of being listed by a plurality of group nodes upgrade, and perhaps form data item or node such as the catalogue that comprises server address, address book or other data.

For the problem of the repetition that solves the node that sends by a plurality of communication paths etc., node has the unique ID and the version information of the part of the structure that is defined as them separately.The node version information should not obscured with the FDL version information of the message format of exemplary realization.The node version information is specified the version of specific node, makes this node be identified as renewal to the node with same node point ID, node identical with the node with same node point ID or that had a same node point ID replaces.In some exemplary realizations, the node version information comprises numerical value or other suitable numerical value of timestamp, increase or minimizing, these content individualisms or get up with other information combination such as identifier server or manufacturer code.In some exemplary realizations, the node version information can comprise the combination of a plurality of fields of the independent field of intranodal or intranodal, such as being connected of the sequence number that combines with user or catalogue ID numerical value.When device received a node, this device can be searched for its node memory, whether had comprised the node with this node ID to determine it.If this device does not comprise the node with this node ID, then new node is not copy and is stored for use.If there has been the node with this node ID in the node memory, then the version information to node compares, and replaces another node to determine which node, and the older node of deletion and store newer node for use.If the two is all identical for node ID and version information, the node that node is identical and deletion repeats then.Be used to send the communication path of this node for the not influence of this process.The data that only need to be comprised in this node determine whether the uniqueness of node or node are replaced by redaction, and do not need this node is sent to the method for device.If a node sends by Wi-Fi, another copy of same node sends by SMS or by Bluetooth link simultaneously, and then node ID still exists with version information and is used to determine whether these nodes are to determine under copy or the situation that has identical node ID at these nodes which node replaces another node.Switching communication path does not interfere between device the mobile data item and detects the transmission that repeats.

Before the step that node is arranged in the node memory or as the part of this step and eliminate the node of repetition, this makes it possible to send given data item by a plurality of communication paths simultaneously, data item obtained (get) delay to the receiving system process thereby reduce, and need not the relevant any information of current delay that causes with various communication paths.When sending data item can with the communication path with the shortest transmission delay this data item is obtained to receiving system, and when arriving, be used as copy and be left in the basket by the data item that all other communication paths send.

Node memory also be used to preserve responsive node when these nodes are sent out till, the user data that provides in response to node processing has been provided responsive node.Node memory can be followed the trail of the time that these data item wait transmission, and is postponing to lack suitable communication path above warning user under the situation of specified threshold value.Then, the user can be by moving to device focus, changing configuration and be provided with to allow to use originally inappropriate communication path or to allow to connect and send data item with some alternate manners and directly arrange suitable communication path.Alternatively, when exceeding the transmission delay threshold value, this device can be taked other action, such as selecting communication path alternative, may be more expensive for one or more node.

Exemplary nodes expansion and interpolation

U.S. Patent application No.11/169 has described the details of the node of the current non-limiting device that exemplifies explanation in 149, but the node of the current non-limiting device that exemplifies explanation has other attribute and type as described below.

A non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation uses this function to limit new node type, perhaps expand the structure that exemplifies the node that realization limited of explanation before this by other, realize other purpose of the current non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation as required.For example, an example of the current non-limiting realization of illustrative can be created the node type that will send to a device, this node type causes this device to inquire its user under the situation of the normal flow of the application of not interrupting using, and creates the Section Point type that is used to return user's response.Via preferred communication path, via sending one or both nodes in the alternative communication path band, perhaps utilize the out-of-band communication path to send.A purposes of this function is to utilize a plurality of communication paths simultaneously to the announcement of multiple arrangement broadcasting task possibly, and returns the indication task and whether be accepted (A﹠amp; A) response, thus come user for one or more acceptance to arrange task and for those refusals or do not arrange task with the user of interior response according to the logic that limits by specific implementation in time period of appointment.Additional description to this aspect of the non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation hereinafter is provided.

Other exemplary nodes attribute

In the non-limiting realization that preferably exemplifies explanation, each node has all been stipulated the node version value.The first node that replaces Section Point in the node memory of device should have node ID identical with Section Point and the node version value bigger than the node version value of Section Point.Under two nodes all are present in situation in the device (as be created as the renewal of first node when Section Point and when having received the device of this first node before being sent to), keep that node with nodes higher version value by comparison node ID and node version value and deletion time node early, which node device can be determined to store and will delete which node.When existing above a node with given node ID, come sending node to reduce transmission delay and to surpass the situation that a copy is sent to this device as using a plurality of communication paths at the same time, need to determine which node is effective.

The non-limiting realization that preferably exemplifies explanation also comprises the node transmission priority value at each node.Node transmission priority value is used to regulate the transmission sequence of node, the higher node of transmission priority is sent by the node lower prior to transmission priority, help to determine which communication path be suitable for sending node or allow node at high-transmission priority use the node that low transmission priority is only arranged wait under the situation of transmission not can selected use communication path, allow simultaneously to send the node of high-transmission priority by a plurality of communication paths, or other purpose that sees fit for those skilled in the art.In some exemplary realizations, based on node type, some nodes are sent out prior to other node, as " deletion of node " node send before other node with guarantee node be inserted in the node memory before deletion of node.Doing the resource that has reduced on the device with limited storage capacity like this uses.In these are realized, sort to have replaced according to node type and sort based on the node transmission priority.

Some non-limiting realizations that exemplify explanation comprise the nodal cache priority value at each node.When determine keeping which node under the situation about all equating at all other factorses and get rid of which node, node memory can be considered the nodal cache priority value.The factor that nodal cache priority just will be considered when making these decisions.

Other exemplary nodes type

Some non-limiting realizations that exemplify explanation comprise " Distribution List (distritution list) node " node type, should " Distribution List node " node type comprise the tabulation of device or quoting and the tabulation of the contact method of each device or quoting one or more catalogue of the contact method that comprises each device for the device catalogue.Contact method not only comprises the communication path that each device is supported, also comprises any address that is associated, mandate, checking, encryption or use the needed out of Memory of communication path when this device of contact.Alternatively, the Distribution List node can comprise user-dependent information (for example, name, order of classes or grades at school, operation class (of an amplifying stage), person in charge's name etc.) and/or the information (for example, type of device, position etc.) about installing self about they listed devices.For the arbitrary process that must specify multiple arrangement and multiple contact method, the Distribution List node is useful, such as when appointing of task is restricted to specific device sets or to catalogue, carrying out when synchronous, be to utilize P2P technology (as the bluetooth under the disabled situation of server or " ad hoc " Wi-Fi) when carrying out especially when this.

Some exemplary non-limiting realizations provide realizing announcement and accepting the useful " A﹠amp of function; A " node, as described below.A﹠amp; The A node is created by the UI of server, perhaps utilizes the various software systems that are designed to allow except that the UI of server to create A﹠amp; The API of A node (API) is created.A﹠amp; The A node comprises at the FDL standard of task or quoting this standard, " candidate list " (form of Distribution List node) that comprises the device of the task that will be provided, appointment to the quantity of needed receiving device, to being used for making the appointment of the step of the device of selecting required quantity the device of positive response from those, to in the appointment of the quantity of the device of making positive response less than the following action that will take of situation of the quantity of needed receiving device, and optionally to the appointment of maximum time of waiting response.To A﹠amp; The processing of A node relates to: each device in " candidate list " sends notice message; , when their user shows announcement and collects the positive or negative response and response returned server, wait at device, become oversize if wait, then wait have alternatively overtime; Select the quantity of needed device of making positive response and generate node according to FDL, and with the data item queuing that obtains, perhaps realize the action of appointment under less than the situation of needed quantity in the quantity of the device of making positive response at the device of each selection.

Some non-limiting realizations that exemplify explanation comprise " catalogue synchronization node ", " catalogue synchronization node " is used for checking the content of the catalogue on first device and allowing to solve difference with respect to the content of the catalogue on second device, make two devices all have the catalogue that comprises same data item, wherein these data item are nearest available data item concerning wherein any installs.Some exemplary realizations allow Distribution List node and catalogue synchronization node are associated, to specify the copy that may have catalogue and need carry out synchronous multiple arrangement.These Distribution List nodes can allow first device to come the catalogue of one or more second device synchronously by point-to-point method.This does not have in the situation in the available communication path of server at second device is useful.

The exemplary nodes structure

Following table has been described the field of forming the structure of the node that is limited by exemplary, a non-limiting realization.Wherein, the comment of field and U.S. Patent application No.11/169, the comment to field in 149 (for the purpose of clear, the omitting the explanation to it) is identical.In following illustrative words, the interpolation or the expansion of 149 described structures or purposes have only been comprised to U.S. Patent application No.11/169 at each field.But, keep the title and the type of all fields at context.

The example message expansion

The non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation can be included in co-pending U.S. Patent application No.11/169, type of message and form of describing in 149 and the expansion that allows the realization of other following function and feature.

Configuration data

Utilize updating device that message (type 3) is set and send configuration data, this configuration data is represented communication path and address, checking, safety standard, priority, preference and other data that are associated with them and is used to control communication aspects or other data of other device behavior.Updating device is provided with message one group of preference on the device or configuration setting is upgraded.Each record of this type of message is included in U.S. Patent application No.11/169, the field of describing in 149, and these fields have following additional parameter and associated attributes:

Parameter (2 numerals)-updated parameters

The 06-communication path is selected preference (being appointed as the string that comprises the XML description of preference)

07-communication path characteristic

The 08-dynamic route is selected

The new value of numerical value (character string)-parameter.

The numerical value that is associated with parameter " 06 " comprises and comprises the character string of selecting the XML of preference to describe to the communication path that will be provided with or change.For example:

The numerical value that is associated with parameter " 07 " comprises and comprises the character string that the XML to the communication path characteristic that will be provided with or change describes.For example:

The numerical value that is associated with parameter " 08 " comprises a character string, and this character string comprises " 1 " or comprise " 0 " in the time will forbidding the dynamic route selection in the time will activating the dynamic route selection.

For updating device is provided with message, the definite device setting that is provided of dispatch module, and utilize new numerical value to revise given setting.

Communication request

Communication request message (type 9) is sent out the various communication relevant actions that should be taked by receiving system with request, such as cooperation push away, " beaming back " (ping), " keeping connecting " (maintenance activity) etc.Communication request message can comprise following information field.

The type of the request of request type (2 numerals)-just carrying out

The address of request unit address (character string)-request unit

Request ID (12 numerals)-according to requestor's correlation ID of the request of YYMMDDHHMMSS form.

The priority of Request Priority (3 numerals)-this request.Be equivalent to the node transmission priority.

The data of data that are associated (character string)-be associated with specific request type

In exemplary realization, request type field can comprise in following a plurality of numerical value:

The 01-cooperation pushes away

The 02-Ping request

The 03-Ping response

04 maintenance activity

Push away request at cooperation, the request unit address comprises request unit in the address that is used to send on the communication path of this request.Request ID is the time that sends this request.The serial data that is associated comprises address list, can utilize this address list to arrive the requestor.In some exemplary realizations, the serial data that is associated also comprises additional information about each communication path (such as address on this communication path of, requestor, the agreement that will use etc.).At the Ping request, the request unit address is the address of request unit on a communication path, and request utilizes this communication path to make.If possible, this request unit address also is address and the communication path that is used to send response message.Depend on the communication path setting and select preference, Request Priority can limit the use to some communication paths in some cases.The action of being asked is to send the Ping response message to this request unit.Except request type and request unit address, the Ping response message has the field value identical with the Ping request message, wherein, the request type of Ping response message is Ping response (" 03 "), and the request unit address of Ping response message is the address of responding device.

Send KeepAlive message to prevent communication path since idle close and notify other to install request unit still be connected.The request unit address is set to be used for other request type, and does not use other field.Except record to being used to follow the tracks of the reception of internuncial message, need be at other action of the reception of KeepAlive request message.

Task delegation

Task delegation (Class1 0) source body defines and the corresponding one group of material of individual task of encoding according to the mode that is independent of device, wherein the node that has carried out following mode at task is quoted: receiving system switching node link as required keeps with the arrangement of the specified identical task node of task delegation message and in proper order so that node is handled simultaneously.

In some exemplary realizations, the record format of task delegation message is optimized, to remove the arbitrary fields that is provided with by receiving system.Specifically, CompletionStatusFlag should be always 0 (not finishing), and response text should be always empty.Exemplify in the non-limiting realization of explanation at this, be not comprised in the message that sends by communication network to optimize available space such as the field of these fields.On the contrary, after device received message, as the part of the processing of task delegation message, these fields were inserted automatically.

Exemplary catalogue is synchronous

As shown in Figure 9, catalogue synchronous (9200) can relate to the updating message (9210﹠amp that sends to a plurality of client terminal devices from server; 9230), updating message (9220) that between first device and second device, sends and the updating message (9240) that sends to server from client terminal device.In shown exchange, server sends catalogue to first device and upgrades A (9220), and this first device is got in touch with second device.Server does not know that this P2P connects.Catalogue is upgraded A message and is comprised the distribution node of specifying first device and second device should receive this renewal.First device upgrades its catalogue, and other device in distribution node is tabulated (second device) transmission catalogue is upgraded A to guarantee these device maintenances (9220) synchronously.First device does not send the catalogue renewal to server, and this is to upgrade A because first device receives catalogue from this server, thereby the supposition server has had this catalogue renewal A.In some exemplary realizations, do not comprise server in the distribution node tabulation.

In addition, server also sends catalogue renewal A (9230) to second device.The renewal redundancy that sends to second device is handled according to the mode of other parts description in this article, and guarantees that a at least delay of upgrading with minimum arrives second device.

When second device receives catalogue renewal A (9220 or 9230), the data item that second device comprises in finding to upgrade is expired, and this may be owing to the recent change of the address of second device or owing to the availability of the communication path that has lost second device or owing to any other reason.Second device creaties directory and upgrades B and send it to first device (9240) and the server (9250).Then, server upgrades the distribution node that comprises among the B and upgrades B (9260) to the first device transmission catalogue according to catalogue.

Exemplary announcement and acceptance

A﹠amp; A comprises the multiple arrangement transmission task simultaneously announcement that is associated to user as the candidate that executes the task, and collect response from these devices, perhaps alternatively, collect response from the device of in time restriction, making response, thereby determine the task which user is ready and can accepts to announce.By task creation person or external system designate candidate user, and based on current location, operation class (of an amplifying stage), work plan, current task burden, experience level, task burden, task creation person's clearly tabulation in the recent period, perhaps these or differentiated candidate user by the combination in any that those skilled in the art are defined as other suitable standard.By visiting automatic system, selecting candidate user and determine which device be associated with those candidate user (" device of candidate user ") by the user of this task of establishment or by these combination such as the needed data source of node memory, database or user interface.It is selected and composed with this task that right quantity (founder by task determines) is made the user of positive response.Do not need push-model to allow to use announcement ﹠amp; Accept, but push-model can come this process by reducing to the required delay of all candidates transmission announcements.

As shown in figure 10, in some exemplary realizations, by starting A﹠amp alternately with the mutual of the user interface (UI) of server or by external program via defined application programming interfaces (API); The A process.Still be that API carries out all providing needed information (10000) alternately by UI no matter, this information comprises: distributing of task (for example, be provided as the FDL standard, to this standard quote or to being hard-coded into quoting of task in the system); To the description as the user of the candidate of carrying out this task, this description makes it possible to the device that the identification mission announcement is sent to, and makes that can create the distribution list node quotes these devices; The number of users that this required by task is wanted; Be used for from those make the user of positive response, selecting the user's of needed quantity method; Optionally wait maximum time of returning or the time that stops to wait of responding; And the action that will take under less than the situation of needed number of users in the number of users of making positive response.

The method that is used to specify as the candidate's that executes the task user can comprise: have employee list, the operation class (of an amplifying stage) of the check box that is used to select drop-down menu, have the form that will fill in of a plurality of fields of specific requirement of appointment such as position, workmanship, work shift, experience level etc. or these or well known to a person skilled in the art the combination in any of other method.Alternatively, the external system that comprises various databases, software systems and user interactions is used to create user list and provides at A﹠amp by API; The data of the association of using in the A process.In some exemplary realizations, external system can provide A﹠amp; The A process is automatically initiated and is finished and needed whole input as the part of a complete business method (as " order form-work order-accounts receivable " system).

Be used for need selecting a quantity user's method to be designated as a kind of the multiple automated process from those users that make positive response, such as " first response ", " being assigned with the task of minimum number ", " the most experienced ", " hithermost ", " task amount is minimum in the recent period " etc., or relate to tabulation with the positive response person person that is shown to the task creation and by the user's that will select of this people's input manual method.If the quantity of positive response equals to initiate A﹠amp; The number of users of the needs of appointment during the A process does not then need to make a choice, and the user who makes response is selected automatically.In some exemplary realizations, need to use above-mentioned manual methods that these users' selection is confirmed.

The action that will take under less than the situation of needed number of users in the number of users of making positive response is designated as following action or any other suitable action: cancellation A﹠amp; The A request; This Task Distribution is given (a plurality of) user who makes positive response; The user that makes positive response and other user of utilizing suitable system of selection (such as any of the method that is used for selecting candidate user) to select are distributed; Repeat this request.

Shown in the diagram among Figure 11, in case needed information is provided for server (11100), then notifying device (type 2) message is sent to all selecteed candidate user devices (11010), this notifying device information is to utilize the communication path of the priority that is suitable for this message to send.In preferred exemplary realization, this message has high priority, and is sent as soon as possible by one or more available communication path.Push-model is preferred to this message; But, when push-model is unavailable, alternatively use cooperation push-model even pull-mode.Server waits the response from the device of being notified, and the time restriction that perhaps waits appointment is gone over (11020).

The display manager of each receiving system responds this notifying device order by making message appear on the user interface of device, this user interface requests user's the input about the task of whether accepting to be announced.Display manager is collected user's response, and the corresponding to communication path of priority of the data item of utilizing and being returned and available communication path send it back server with this response.

When all notified devices have all been made response (11050), if perhaps the time restriction of appointment is gone over (11030) before all notified devices are made response, then whether the quantity of the positive response that receives of inspection is greater than the number of users (11080) of needs.If the quantity of positive response above the number of users that needs, then uses the selection algorithm of appointment need to select the user (11100) of quantity from the user of positive response.Equal needed number of users (11110) if make the number of users (11080) of positive response, then select to make the user (11120) of positive response.If the number of users of carrying out positive response, is then carried out the action (11090) of appointment less than needed number of users.As shown in figure 10, this can comprise cancellation A﹠amp; A process (10025), repeat request process make positive response (10030) with hope more user when asking once more although, select those their quantity of user who makes positive response less than the quantity of being asked (10035), notify third party (manager or be responsible for) or force to select other user (10040) by some suitable modes.Other exemplary realization can provide additional or different actions, and this will be tangible for those skilled in the art.If A﹠amp; The A process is not cancelled or repeats, and then selected user is endowed specified task (10015), and process is finished.

Referring again to Figure 11, if the system of selection of appointment is " first respondent " or only depend on the another kind of method (11060) that needs a quantity user that obtains, then the server user that only waits the quantity that needs makes till the positive response, and selects these users (11070).Otherwise, this server begins to wait, till all candidate user are made response (11050), up to the past till optional maximum waiting time, perhaps till having reached the time that to wait (11030), if the number of users of making positive response is greater than needed number of users (11080), then from the user of those positive responses, select (11100), equal in the number of users of making positive response to return the user (11120) who makes positive response under the situation of needed number of users (11110), perhaps take the action of appointment as mentioned above under the situation of not enough (11090) in the number of users of making positive response.

In case selected (a plurality of) user, then assigned the task to them.This can relate to the FDL that utilizes appointment and create the suitable data item for each user and be not buffered in advance under the situation in user's the device these data item queuings for transmission in these data item.Alternatively, send message, this message makes user's device request comprise the material of this task.

Return Fig. 9, A﹠amp; A message (9000) comprises from the notifying device message (9010) of server to the first device and the notifying device message (9020) of installing from server to the second.It will be understood by those skilled in the art that notifying device message to be sent to an any amount device, and relate to the representative that server, first device and the second the simplest situation of installing relate to all aspects of more a plurality of devices.First device and second device send the response (9030 and 9040) of the user of each device of expression at the input of notifying device message to server.In shown exchange, second device is made sure response.In some cases, first device is made negative response, does not perhaps respond notifying device message, does not perhaps make response in the period that allows, though perhaps make positive response not the system of selection of serviced device choose.Role assignment message as the node updates order sends to second device (9050), A﹠amp from server; The A exchange is finished.

A﹠amp; The A function be used to ask specific service action (" changing the filter on the pump No. 12 ", " cleaning No. six passageway ", " utilizing No. 34 machines to respond alarm "), some responsibilities the volunteer (" needing some to work overtime tonight ", " someone can work Saturday? "), information (" where who knows the MIG bonding machine? ", " test-do someone see this message? ") or other suitable purposes arbitrarily.

Example tasks is appointed

In some scenes, advantageously, allow to be in or be not under the intervention of server and transmit the task of distributing to another device.For example, in some exemplary realizations, all tasks of one group that is responsible for all can be distributed to this person in charge, and this person in charge becomes those subordinaties and gives them with these task delegations at one's leisure, perhaps have device as wired Ethernet and can serve as and be used to utilize the P2P communication path to transmit the local bunker of task, perhaps because any former thereby workman that can not finish the work can send task to the colleague that can finish this task to mobile device to the reliable communication path of server.

In some illustrative embodiments, task can need sequentially to distribute to a plurality of users or device.For example, can will give a workman such as the time tracking Task Distribution of filling in attendance card.In case this workman has finished this workman's task part by inserting the operating time, then this task is redistributed the person in charge to this workman to verify and to ratify.If existing problems then can be redistributed back this task this workman to correct.This pattern can be repeated repeatedly, has ratified this attendance card and attendance card is sent out back server with till finishing this task up to the person in charge.By using the task delegation of attendance card task, rather than this process is considered as one group of different task being coordinated by server (promptly, " workman fills in attendance card " task, " be responsible for approval " task, optional " workman corrects attendance card " task dispatching), the process that the attendance card data of approval are got access to server can not rely on to a great extent with getting in touch of server to be finished.When working team is in the zone that does not have suitable server communication function, at remote scene, in mine or those staff that work in the secure data facility, the task delegation ability of this device auto levelizer can be raised the efficiency and the reduction expense such as those.For example, be responsible for by the attendance card Task Distribution of a working group is given, till finishing of task can being sent it back server, only this person in charge need communicate with server alternately for this person in charge and these workmans.No matter setting up communication with server is to need to use special communication hardware (being connected such as satellite phone or hard-wired Ethernet) still need move to the position at facility place, do not need each workman to set up this connection separately, this has shortened finishes the time that these required by task are wanted, and can avoid the needs to other communication hardware.

The task of being suitable for appointing comprises " Distribution List node ", should " Distribution List node " comprise the needed information of the device that is connected to the task that can transmit, and comprises the user-dependent information with those devices alternatively, as mentioned above.

In some exemplary realizations, the node utilization of having formed a task quote or for first device unique node ID link each other.In order to transmit these nodes to second device, node is quoted must be at this task itself, rather than at the node of existence in first device.This is called as " node tree packing (Node Tree Packing) ".After transmission, (a plurality of) node that is transmitted must be quoted their node unique address or the node ID that is adjusted on second device.This is called as " node tree unpacks (Node Tree Unpacking) ".In order showing the node of task to be carried out this node tree packing so that receiving system can be carried out suitable node tree to unpack, to have transmitted the task of being appointed by task delegation message.

Figure 12 illustrates first example process (method 1) that delegates duties to second device from first device.The display manager of the user of first device and first device is mutual, with the allocating task of selecting to appoint (12000).In some exemplary realizations, the method for selection is the menu of the allocating task that will therefrom select.In other exemplary realization, present a task and till the task of location expectation, come the selection task by once, perhaps must come Processing tasks by named order or by some other means.

In case specified task, just quoted the Distribution List node of task and determine which other device (12005) this task delegation can be arrived.The Distribution List node comprises data and/or to the quoting of the catalogue that comprises data, these data pin have been specified device and communication path information to each device that can be delegated duties.These data are unique for specific task, perhaps can share between a plurality of tasks; For example, when one group of device comprises that those devices of being used by the subordinate who is responsible for and this person in charge appoint task to those subordinaties routinely.The device that can be delegated duties can offer the user (12010) of first device by the mode that is fit to.In some exemplary realizations, demonstration can be made up of communication path description and unit address.In other exemplary realization, demonstration can be made up of the address name that is associated with device.In other exemplary realization, shown and user-dependent other data, such as work shift, experience level, last known position, the communication path of being supported or out of Memory.In some exemplary realizations, this out of Memory can comprise to using the restriction of distributing information, as specifying specific device and one group of device that can use the particular task assignment information that comprises in the Distribution List node.For example, when first task delegation that installs the Distribution List node that will have a plurality of potential devices of having specified the task that will be assigned with installs to second, first device can change the content of this Distribution List node, makes the operable unique available distributing information of second device specify first device.This has limited second device to the appointing again of task, makes second device only this task can be appointed back again first to install, and does not appoint again but do not limit first device.By forbidding that second device uses any remaining distributing information but from the Distribution List node, do not remove this residue distributing information, first device has been guaranteed can be after finishing this task by the second device part, this task will be appointed again to first device, and guarantee when appointing this task again, the Distribution List nodal information will still be associated with this task and use for first device, and this is not subjected to specifying the restriction of second device to limit.

User's selective reception people of first device comes to its delegate duties (12015), and this task is packaged to transmit (12020).In some exemplary realizations, the task packing can be comprised the node tree packing for transmission.In some exemplary realizations, the Distribution List node is added into the task bag, and this is different from the current Distribution List node (for example, the person in charge may wish to limit or forbid appointing again of this task) that uses in the process of appointing.In different exemplary realizations, the task bag is encoded, compresses, encrypts, and perhaps it is carried out other processing.

Utilize the communication path information (12025) in the Distribution List node, task is sent to second device (12030), and second device is confirmed to accept this task (12037), and server is sent out delegate notification (12035).The notice that sends to server alternatively request server this task finish and this server notified task notify first device when finishing.In some exemplary realizations, when task was appointed second device from first device, first device was created lasting record as utilizing the BLOB node, and this record has write down the information that is enough to discern this task and second device.This is recorded in herein and is called as " appointing record ".No matter by server still by from the appointing of another device, appoint that to be recorded in when being assigned with each device propagation task cancellation information of task be useful.

When second device received task, this task was unpacked and is installed in second device and gone up (12040).In some exemplary realizations, this process can comprise: compression, encryption or other operation that cancellation is carried out this task by first device; Node is quoted the form of wanting for this required by task of processing from the relevant formal transformation of task (node tree unpacks); And this task chain received other these structures, system or the step that task list, task manager or second device are used for management role.

When the user of second device finished this task (12045) and notified this task of server to finish, if the task of having asked is finished notice (12050), then server notification first this task of device was finished (12055).The first device deletion is created when appointing this task appoints record (12060), and this process is finished.

As shown in figure 13, the message of the task delegation of first method (13100) is by forming from the initial Task Distribution (13110) of server to the first device.Then, to second device (13120), this appoints (13125) the second device affirmation to first device with task delegation, and first device this task delegation of announcement server (13130).When task is finished, the second device announcement server (13140), and server (if request server is notified) is notified first device (13150).

Second example process (method 2) that delegates duties to second device is installed in illustrating from first among Figure 14.The following initial step of second example process identical with first example process (14500): the display manager of the user of first device and first device is the allocating task to select to appoint alternately; The Distribution List node of quoting task is to determine to be appointed the device of this task; The device that user's selection will be appointed; And for transmission with the packing of this task.The task bag sends (14510) according to the mode identical with first method equally, and as in the method 1, is appointed people's device to confirm to accept this task (14535), and send the notice (14515) of appointing to server by the device of appointing the people.But, different with method 1 in method 2, do not send and appointed the people to finish the advise of same of the task of distributing to the device of appointing the people.On the contrary, appointing people's device is unsettled (14520) with the task record that distributes, and appoint people's device to send to comprise check point (checkpoint) message (14525) of a unique ID to quilt, after this, process is suspended, up to receive the check point message with this unique ID from server till (14530).Concept nature in the step of this time-out shown in being is suspended, rather than appoints the real time-out when handling on people's the device, appoints people's device to continue normally to handle other work.Safeguard the daily record of unsettled task at each device of having been appointed task.These daily records are distinguishing in logic, but be to be defined as suitable any way by those skilled in the art to realize, such as each daily record in independently sequential file or indexed file, all daily records in single sequential file or indexed file, each daily record in the independent table in system R, all daily records in the single table in relevant database, the daily record that in single catalogue or a plurality of catalogue, keeps, the daily record that in the BLOB node, keeps etc.

When second device receives task, confirm (14535) to the device of appointing the people, this task is unpacked and be installed in second device go up (14540).Also accept message (14545) to server transmission task with check point message (14550) with unique ID.When server receives this checkpoint message, server is given this check point forwards in the device (14555) of appointing the people, appoint people's device to be appointed people's device to be got in touch with notice with server, thereby server notified this task delegation, and appointed the daily record of appointing of people's device to be eliminated (be scavenged into the task of being appointed always and comprise the task of being appointed) (14560).As in the method 1, when task is finished, appointed people's device contact server to finish (14565), and this process is finished with Report Tasks.

As shown in figure 13, the message (13200) in the task delegation of second method is by forming from the initial Task Distribution (13210) of server to the first device.Then, first device is given second device (13220) with task delegation, receive second install accept this affirmation of appointing (13230) and this task delegation of announcement server (13240).Then, first device sends check point message (13250) to second device.Second device sends task delegation notice (13260) to first device, and should check some forwards and give server (132710).When server acceptance inspection point message, server installs (13280) with this check point forwards to first.When task is finished, the second device announcement server (13290), and this process is finished.

The method 1 of task delegation is useful when at least the first device and server communication, makes to guarantee that announcement server obtains task and appointed the notice of installing to second.At this is not in the genuine situation, as long as server is ready that installing the task of accepting first task of installing that is assigned to from second finishes, and then still can using method 1.This has solved the situation that second device is finished this task and finished to server transmission task before the first device announcement server is with task delegation to the second device.In the exemplary realization of alternative, second device is finished to the first device transmission task, and then first device is finished to server transmission task.To be significantly for those skilled in the art, can carry out at any amount of device in the task delegation chain via delivering in relays that the second this task of installing the chain of first device is finished.When with task delegation to second when device, each first device has been created when giving one second device with task delegation and has been appointed record, and finishes in task and to be returned and to delete this when upwards delivering in relays by chain and appoint record, and finishes this task handling.Appointing record that each first device can be verified finishes from the second device transmission task.

If task is cancelled at the server place, then this cancellation is sent to first and install or be assigned with the multiple arrangement of this task.If first device installs this task delegation to second, then first device uses the record of creating when task is appointed of appointing to install cancellation is transmitted to second when receiving the task cancellation.If second device has been given this task delegation the 3rd device, then second device uses its record of appointing that the task cancellation is transmitted to the 3rd device when receiving the task cancellation from first device.Those skilled in the art are clear, and this process can be at continuing to the appointing of any amount of the 4th device, the 5th device etc.Because each appoints device all to finish the cancellation of forwarding task, so each appoints device all to delete the record of appointing of this task.

If task is cancelled at its assigned device place, then send cancellation to server, server is transmitted to cancellation in first device that has been assigned with this task.First device is transmitted to second device with cancellation, and deletes its record of appointing for this task.If this task through repeatedly appointing again, then can repeat this repeating process at the 3rd device, the 4th device etc.In the realization of an alternative, the cancellation device sends to device to its allocating task with cancellation, that is, second device sends cancellation to first device, and the first device deletion it appoint record, and cancellation is transmitted to server.Can also realize this cancellation process (for example, install the 3rd device from the 4th, then to second device, be forwarded to first device subsequently, first device is transmitted to server with cancellation) at appointing of any amount.

Can need the cancellation task for many reasons, such as this task be another task duplicate that (this can take place when automatic equipment produces the reparation task owing to detected fault, and same fault causes a plurality of event of failures), the task of Chan Shenging (for example mistakenly, when assembly line is activated, the machine startup of particular order can seem the indicating device fault, and have virtually no mistake, all stable in case all machines bring into operation), perhaps when a task is comprised by another task (for example, the generation task is safeguarded so that machine is carried out, but the consequent malfunction of this machine causes another task to replace this task, makes maintenance task become unnecessary).

The method 2 of task delegation is useful under the situation that at least the first device is not communicating with server when appointing, as can the P2P link between use device appointing and two devices take place when all having been completely cut off the GPRS, the Wi-Fi that communicate with server and other method.When the check point message that is sent to second device by first device is sent to first device from server, be clear that, even first device also has no chance to send this notice, but second device is related with server, therefore server is notified this task delegation, be clear that also first device no longer needs to follow the tracks of the task of appointing, and can remove up to and comprise the journal entries of being associated of task with the checkpoint message that is received.

Thereby, according to above being appreciated that, the non-limiting realization that exemplifies explanation provides system, equipment and the software that is used to be implemented between the device exchange " node ", order and other data item, though with when wireless network and other more the communication between the network equipment of robust unreliable, intermittently and when having limited bandwidth or when one or more device has Limited resources, also can set up to provide between first user who installs that local area radio connects and second user who installs and carry out mutual reliable method.Utilize method as herein described, system and equipment, can realize communicating by letter more efficiently, resource allocation and task delegation.

Though described technology herein, the invention is not restricted to the disclosure in conjunction with the nonrestrictive execution mode that exemplifies explanation.The present invention is intended to be limited by claim, and no matter whether this paper has specifically carried out disclosing corresponding and equivalent scheme, and this aspect all is intended to cover all these corresponding and equivalent schemes.

Claims (49)

1. one kind is used for and moves or mancarried device (1110) communicates and lack continuity, change and/or can improve the method for the possibility of success communication with the place when different time or different place utilize different means to obtain in the communication path availability simultaneously, the method is characterized in that:

Enable pass is crossed first communication path (1200) and is communicated with mobile or mancarried device (1110);

Enable pass is crossed with described first communication path not coextensive at least in part second communication path (1200) and is moved or mancarried device (1110) communicates with described;

Transmit the signal of the first at least that represents a node structure by described first communication path (1200);

Transmit the signal of the second portion at least of the described node structure of representative by described second communication path (1200);

Wherein, the feature of this method also is: utilize described signal that sends by described first communication path (1200) and the described signal that sends by described second communication path (1200) to improve the possibility that successfully transmits described node structure, this comprises the redundant information that solves by described first communication path (1200) and described second communication path (1200) transmission.

2. method according to claim 1, the feature of this method also is: select between described first communication path (1200) and described second communication path (1200), at the different piece of same node structure, have precedence over more not preferred communication path provides the sight to preferred communication path (1200) to use (1200).

3. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, the feature of this method also is: dynamically switch between described first communication path (1200) and described second communication path (1200).

4. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, the feature of this method also is: once use in described first communication path (1200) and the described second communication path (1200).

5. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, the feature of this method also is: use described first communication path (1200) and described second communication path (1200) simultaneously at the identical or different part of described node structure.

6. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, wherein, the feature of this method also is: described first communication path (1200) has different characteristics with described second communication path (1200).

7. method according to claim 6, wherein, the feature of this method also is: described first communication path (1200) has different speed/bandwidth characteristics with described second communication path (1200).

8. method according to claim 6, wherein, the feature of this method also is: described first communication path (1200) has different reliabilities with described second communication path (1200).

9. method according to claim 6, wherein, the feature of this method also is: described first communication path (1200) has different costs of use with described second communication path (1200).

10. method according to claim 6, wherein, the feature of this method also is: described first communication path (1200) uses different communication protocol with described second communication path (1200).

11. method according to claim 6, wherein, the feature of this method also is: described first communication path (1200) uses different transmission mediums with described second communication path (1200).

12. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, the feature of this method also is: every now and then, utilize the outer transmission of band to send data item in order and/or by preferred communication path (1200) alternate manner in addition.

13. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, the feature of this method also is: provide priority message to handle, wherein transmission method is partly determined by the characteristic of the data item that will send.

14. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, the feature of this method also is: no matter still duplicate wittingly by accident, detect and cancel the node structure and the data item of repetition.

15. according to the described method of aforementioned arbitrary claim, the feature of this method also is: use the push-model mode, wherein, transmitter contact receiver is also initiated the transmission of node structure.

16. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, the feature of this method also is: use cooperation push-model mode, wherein, transmitter contact receiver and transmission comprise the node structure that the described receiver of request is initiated the order of pull-mode session.

17. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, the feature of this method also is: the pull-mode session of the request of described transmitter and described receiver occurs on the different communication path (1200).

18. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, the feature of this method also is: utilize point-to-point (P2P) node structure mode sending node structure between described device (1110) and another device (1110), wherein, the feature of this method also is: any in the described device can be initiated communication, and any or described device in the described device can both be to the other side's sending node structures.

19. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, the feature of this method also is: utilize announcement and accept (A﹠amp; A) mechanism is differentiated and is ready to accept one or more one or more user through the task of identification, provides these tasks to these users then.

20. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, the feature of this method also is: auxiliary down or not down auxiliary at server of server, utilize task delegation from first device (1110) to second device (1110) transmission task.

21. according to the described method of aforementioned each claim, the feature of this method also is: use security model flexibly, this security model allows visit, use or the modification of restriction to data item, collection of data items, device (1110) or server.

22. according to the described method of aforementioned arbitrary claim, the feature of this method also is: the catalogue and second of discerning and solve first device (1110) is installed the difference between the catalogue of (1110).

23. one kind is included in the moving or mancarried device (1110) of device that communication path (1200) availability lacks continuity, changes and/or can improve the possibility of success communication with the place when different time or different places utilize different means to obtain, this device (1110) is characterised in that:

First communication interface, its enable pass are crossed first communication path (1200) and are communicated; And

Second communication interface, its enable pass are crossed with described first communication path not coextensive at least in part second communication path (1200) and are communicated;

Wherein, the feature of described device (1110) also is:

Communication controler, it transmits the signal of the first at least that represents a node structure by described first communication path (1200), and this communication controler transmits the signal of the second portion at least of the described node structure of representative by described second communication path (1200); And

Processor, it utilizes described signal that sends by described first communication path (1200) and the described signal that sends by described second communication path (1200) to improve the possibility that successfully transmits described node structure, and this comprises the redundant information that solves by described first communication path (1200) and described second communication path (1200) transmission.

24. device according to claim 23 (1110), the feature of this device also is: be used for selecting between described first communication path (1200) and described second communication path (1200), at the different part of same node structure, have precedence over the unit that more preferred communication path provides the sight to preferred communication path (1200) to use (1200).

25. according to each described device (1110) in aforementioned claim 23 and 24, the feature of this device also is to be configured to the switch that dynamically switches between described first communication path (1200) and described second communication path (1200).

26. according to each described device (1110) in the aforementioned claim 23 to 25, wherein, the feature of described method also is: described first communication interface and described second communication interface are configured to once use in described first communication path (1200) and the described second communication path (1200).

27. according to each described device (1110) in the aforementioned claim 23 to 26, wherein, the feature of described method also is: described first communication interface and described second communication interface are configured to use described first communication path (1200) and described second communication path (1200) simultaneously at the identical or different part of described node structure.

28. according to each described device (1110) in the aforementioned claim 23 to 27, wherein, the feature of described method also is: described first communication path (1200) has different characteristics with described second communication path (1200).

29. device according to claim 28 (1110), wherein, the feature of described method also is: described first communication path (1200) has different speed/bandwidth characteristics with described second communication path (1200).

30. device according to claim 28 (1110), wherein, the feature of described method also is: described first communication path (1200) has different reliabilities with described second communication path (1200).

31. device according to claim 28 (1110), wherein, described first communication path (1200) has different costs of use with described second communication path (1200).

32. device according to claim 28 (1110), wherein, the feature of described device (1110) also is: described first communication path (1200) uses different communication protocol with described second communication path (1200).

33. device according to claim 28 (1110), wherein, the feature of described device (1110) also is: described first communication path (1200) uses different transmission mediums with described second communication path (1200).

34. according to each described device (1110) in the aforementioned claim 23 to 33, wherein, the feature of described device (1110) also is: described first communication interface and described second communication interface are configured to every now and then, use the outer transmission of band to send data item in order and/or by preferred communication path (1200) alternate manner in addition.

35. according to each described device (1110) in the aforementioned claim 23 to 34, the feature of described device (1110) also is node structure priorization device, and the transmission technology that this node structure priorization device is determined by the characteristic of partly utilizing the data item that will send provides priority message to handle.

36. according to each described device (1110) in the aforementioned claim 23 to 35, the feature of described device (1110) also is: no matter still duplicate described processor detects and cancellation repeats node structure and data item by accident wittingly.

37. according to each described device (1110) in the aforementioned claim 23 to 36, the feature of described device (1110) also is: described communication controler uses the push-model mode, wherein, the feature of described device (1110) also is: transmitter contact receiver is also initiated the transmission of node structure.

38. according to each described device (1110) in the aforementioned claim 23 to 37, wherein, the feature of described device (1110) also is: described communication controler uses cooperation push-model mode, wherein, transmitter contact receiver and transmission comprise the node structure that the described receiver of request is initiated the order of pull-mode session.

39. according to the described device of claim 38 (1110), wherein, the feature of described device (1110) also is: the session of the request of described transmitter and the pull-mode of described receiver occurs on the different communication path (1200).

40. according to each described device (1110) in the aforementioned claim 23 to 39, the feature of described device (1110) also is: described communication controler uses point-to-point (P2P) node structure mode sending node structure between described device (1110) and another device (1110), wherein, in the described device any can be initiated communication, and any can be to the other side's sending node structure in the described device.

41. according to each described device (1110) in the aforementioned claim 23 to 40, the feature of described device (1110) also is announcement and accepts (A﹠amp; A) mechanism, described announcement and acceptance (A﹠amp; A) mechanism is used to differentiate one or more user who is ready to accept one or more discerning of task, provides these tasks to these users then.

42. according to each described device (1110) in the aforementioned claim 23 to 41, the feature of described device (1110) also is the task delegation device, and described task delegation device is the down auxiliary of server or do not install (1110) to second device (1110) transmission task from first down the auxiliary of server.

43. according to each described device (1110) in the aforementioned claim 23 to 42, the feature of described device (1110) also is security model flexibly, and described security model allows visit, use or the modification of restriction to data item, collection of data items, device (1110) or server.

44. device according to claim 23 (1110), the feature of described device (1110) also is category server, and identification of this category server and the catalogue and second that solves first device (1110) are installed the difference between the catalogue of (1110).

45. the method that task choosing is provided the method is characterized in that:

Transmit Task Distribution from first device (1110) to second device (1110);

Notify described second device (1110) described Task Distribution to be cancelled; And

Identification and the catalogue and second that solves first device (1110) are installed the difference between the catalogue of (1110).

46. hand-held portable Message Processing/task delegation device (1110), this device (1110) is characterised in that:

Hand-held housing;

Be arranged on the display on the described housing;

Processor, it is set in the described housing and is coupled to described display; And

Radio communication device, it is set in the described housing and is coupled to described processor, and described radio communication device comprises and is used to utilize first wireless communication interface that first wireless protocols communicates by first radio path (1200) and second wireless communication interface that is used to utilize second wireless protocols that is different from described first wireless protocols to communicate by second radio path (1200);

Wherein, the feature of described device (1110) also is modal processor, this modal processor transmits the message that is associated with synchronization node via described radio communication device, described modal processor makes described radio communication device transmit nodal information redundant for the information that transmits by described second communication path (1200) by described first communication path (1200), thereby improve the possibility of successfully carrying out synchronization node communication, and make described display show task delegation or Message Processing information at least in part in response to described synchronization node.

47. according to the described device of claim 46 (1110), wherein, the feature of described device (1110) also is: described modal processor solves the redundant information that transmits by described first communication path (1200) and described second communication path (1200).

48. according to the described device of claim 46 (1110), wherein, the feature of described device (1110) also is: described first agreement comprises cellular radio, and described second agreement comprises bluetooth.

49. according to the described device of claim 46 (1110), wherein, the feature of described device (1110) also is: described first agreement comprises 802.11, and described second agreement comprises bluetooth.

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