--- begin forwarded text Resent-Date: Thu, 28 Aug 1997 09:06:38 -0400 X-Authentication-Warning: qnx.com: localhost [127.0.0.1] didn't use HELO protocol To: 0xdeadbeef@substance.abuse.blackdown.org Subject: Novadigm patents diff(1) and rdist(1). Date: Thu, 28 Aug 1997 09:02:11 -0400 From: glen mccready <glen@qnx.com> Resent-From: 0xdeadbeef@substance.abuse.blackdown.org X-Mailing-List: <0xdeadbeef@substance.abuse.blackdown.org> archive/latest/2159 X-Loop: 0xdeadbeef@substance.abuse.blackdown.org Precedence: list Resent-Sender: 0xdeadbeef-request@substance.abuse.blackdown.org Forwarded-by: Nev Dull <nev@bostic.com> Forwarded-by: Sean Eric Fagan <sef@Kithrup.COM> Novadigm sues Marimba and threatens W3C. http://www.novadigm.com/aB5.htm About The Patent Novadigm's Patent (Number 5,581,764) "Distributed Computer Network Including Hierarchical Resource Information Structure and Related Method of Distributing Resources" describes the processes needed to generate from a common reference model a unique content configuration for each target end user, and to "difference" the "desired state" configuration with the actual-state of the target, yielding highly granular and very specific updates to distributed content automatically. The patent covers two central areas: Desired state configuration-processes which incorporate essential elements of both "push" and "pull" distribution models. By generating from common reference model a unique user configuration which describes the specific software or content a target user should have, producers can automatically 'push' content to specific servers, desktops, or users; or groups of users. In addition, the 'pull' process provides a means for users to control when the flow of information takes place, what information is delivered, and where it is stored. Fractional Differencing-processes for comparing and contrasting the desired state configuration identifying what components a target should have with the resources it actually has, resulting in a concise and highly detailed difference configuration describing what components are needed-or should by removed-to ensure the targeted user is properly configured with a minimum of network traffic. --- end forwarded text ----------------- Robert Hettinga (rah@shipwright.com), Philodox e$, 44 Farquhar Street, Boston, MA 02131 USA "... however it may deserve respect for its usefulness and antiquity, [predicting the end of the world] has not been found agreeable to experience." -- Edward Gibbon, 'Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire' The e$ Home Page: http://www.shipwright.com/