Cutting Edge Technology
Architecture
The system has a four-tier architecture:
IRIS headquarters
Our central database, located in secure facilities with redundant power, connectivity
and 24-hour support teams, is responsible for storing the master data and providing
access to the Dashboard, via which hotel staff can maintain their iRiS system. It
is this layer which provides content translation, data analysis and disaster recovery
functions.
Back-office server
Each property is fitted with an Internet-connected server, which provides the content
delivery services for the property. Hotel staff do not have direct access to the
operating system on this equipment; instead, the server automatically synchronises
with iRiS’ master database in order to propagate changes, software updates and new
guest data. This ensures that in the event of hardware failure, the system simply
requires re-synchronisation in order to continue operation. The back-office server
also handles integration with PMS systems, BMS devices and other third-party services.
Since the platform supports integration via many
industry-standard technologies such as raw TCP, XML/SOAP over HTTP, serial and one-wire,
there is wide potential for connectivity with third-party providers. If an integration
module is not currently available for a given facility, iRiS’ development team can
provide one via a network-based software update.
Mesh network
A mesh network, formed with zero-configuration access points integrated into
iRiS Personal Valet TM cradles, provides an automatic, self-healing wireless network.
The cutting-edge mesh technology ensures that not only is the network extremely
simple to install, but it is resilient to interference and roaming, is low maintenance
and does not require intensive provisioning work.
HUI devices
Human User Interface devices on the IRIS system can take the form of custom-made
iRiS Personal Valet TM units with accompanying charging cradles for in-room guest use,
PDAs with live reporting functions for hotel staff, and touch-screen LCD monitors
in sizes between 15” and 48” for kitchen and housekeeping environments. The latter
can also be specified with IP rated housings to protect against damage in food preparation
areas.
HUI devices use a variety of transport methods, including raw TCP and XML/SOAP over
HTTP to retrieve data from the back-office server and present it to the user.