Carousel Origin Server Software Upgrade Bandwidth Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing carousel approach for software upgrades in video content networks is inefficient as it requires material to remain on the carousel for a long time to accommodate a small percentage of set-top boxes, occupying valuable space needed by a larger percentage of devices.
Innovation Solution
The method involves a carousel-based initial upgrade for a predetermined period, followed by de-allocation of in-band video bandwidth, allowing remaining set-top boxes to receive the software upgrade via individual sessions with an application server, optimizing bandwidth usage and reducing the time materials are needed on the carousel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the carousel retains software upgrade material for an extended period to accommodate a small percentage of set-top boxes, then the upgrade reliability for all devices is improved, but the bandwidth utilization and carousel space efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the software upgrade distribution into two distinct phases: an initial broadcast phase using the carousel for the majority of set-top boxes, and a subsequent individual session phase for remaining devices. This segmentation allows the carousel to be cleared after the initial upgrade wave, freeing bandwidth while ensuring all devices eventually receive updates through the second phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by performing the bulk software distribution to the majority of set-top boxes first through the carousel in an initial phase. This preliminary action completes the urgent upgrades for most devices, allowing the carousel to be de-allocated and bandwidth to be freed, while a secondary mechanism handles the remaining devices.
2Productivity
If the carousel material is removed after a predetermined period, then the bandwidth utilization is improved, but the risk of missing upgrades for some set-top boxes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary out-of-band communication channel (separate from the carousel) that enables individual session downloads for set-top boxes that miss the initial carousel broadcast. This intermediary mechanism ensures that even if the carousel material is removed after the predetermined period, all devices can still obtain the software upgrade through alternative means.
3Speed
If in-band video bandwidth is allocated for software upgrade broadcast, then the upgrade speed for majority of devices is improved, but the available video bandwidth for content delivery is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by allocating in-band video bandwidth for software upgrades only during a specific initial time period for the broadcast phase. After this predetermined period expires and the initial upgrade wave is complete, the bandwidth allocation is revoked and the bandwidth is returned to content delivery services, thus achieving both fast upgrades and bandwidth availability at different times.
Data Source
AI summary
At a carousel origin server, an indication is obtained that at least one of a plurality of consumer premises equipment connected to a video content network requires a software upgrade. Responsive to obtaining the indication, the carousel origin server loads onto a carousel at least one image required for the software upgrade. The at least one image required for the software upgrade is broadcast from the carousel to the at least one of the plurality of consumer premises equipment, for a predetermined period. Subsequent to the predetermined period, the at least one image required for the software upgrade is removed from the carousel.