Co-processor Control Program for Video-on-Demand Packet Partitioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing video-on-demand systems require specific set-top boxes with ATM interfaces and ATM switching networks, limiting connectivity to viewers with different types of interfaces or networks.
Innovation Solution
A control program for a co-processor that partitions video data packets with internet protocol headers into pieces, adding an additional header for transmission over a series of spaced-apart time intervals, allowing connectivity through any type of set-top box interface and internet router with an ATM interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If video data is transmitted using ATM interface format with spaced-apart time slots, then transmission timing precision is improved, but system adaptability deteriorates because only ATM-compatible set-top boxes can receive the signal
Solution Approach 1:
The video data stream is segmented into discrete packets with standardized headers. Each packet contains synchronization information and data payload separated into manageable units that can be transmitted in spaced-apart time slots while maintaining timing precision, yet the standardized format allows different interface types to process them appropriately
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission system uses a universal packet format with standardized headers that can be interpreted by multiple interface types. The same packet structure works across ATM, Ethernet, and other network interfaces, allowing the system to maintain precise timing control while being compatible with various set-top box interfaces through the router's ability to handle different protocols
2Device complexity
If a single supervisor processor manages all co-processors, then system complexity is reduced, but transmission control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The processing function is segmented between a supervisor processor that manages overall system coordination and co-processors that handle specific video stream transmissions. This segmentation allows the supervisor to maintain low complexity while co-processors provide precise control for their respective video data packets through dedicated transmission control lists
Solution Approach 2:
The supervisor processor acts as an intermediary that coordinates between multiple co-processors and the network. It prepares and distributes transmission control lists to co-processors, enabling precise control of video data transmission without requiring the supervisor to directly manage every transmission detail, thus balancing complexity and precision
Data Source
AI summary
A control program for a co-processor in a video-on-demand system directs the co-processor to perform the steps of: a) obtain a transmission control list, from an external source, which identifies a group of several video data packets and a respective subgroup of internet protocol headers for each video data packet in the group; b) partition into pieces, each video data packet and its respective subgroup of internet protocol headers as identified by the transmission control list; and, c) send the partitioned pieces, along with an additional header for each piece, to an output port during a series of spaced apart time intervals.