Content Distribution System Master-Slave Grouping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing content distribution systems face challenges in efficiently distributing content to display apparatuses across different networks, particularly when all apparatuses are not connected to the same network, and flexible content distribution is difficult, especially during off-hours or emergencies, as existing technologies require server-initiated content transfer instructions.
Innovation Solution
A content distribution system that includes a content distribution apparatus with a storage unit, connection information acquisition control unit, grouping control unit, group management control unit, and transmission unit to group display apparatuses by content and manage master and slave relationships, allowing for request-based content distribution from display apparatuses to the server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the server distributes content to multiple display apparatuses using traditional server-initiated transfer methods, then content distribution can be managed centrally, but network congestion occurs and distribution time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional content distribution model by allowing display apparatuses to actively request content from the server instead of the server pushing content to all apparatuses. This reversal enables demand-driven distribution where only apparatuses needing content initiate transfers, reducing unnecessary network traffic and acceleration distribution efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
Display apparatuses autonomously determine their own content needs and initiate requests to the server without requiring server-initiated instructions. This self-service mechanism allows each apparatus to independently manage its content updates, reducing the coordination overhead and network congestion associated with centralized push-based distribution
2Adaptability or versatility
If all display apparatuses are connected to the same network for centralized management, then server control is simplified, but flexible content distribution to apparatuses on different networks becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The server is designed to handle content requests from display apparatuses regardless of their network location. By implementing a universal request-response mechanism that works across different network configurations, the system achieves multi-functionality in terms of network adaptability without requiring apparatuses to be connected to the same network
Solution Approach 2:
The server acts as an intermediary that receives content requests from display apparatuses on various networks and fulfills them by transferring content from local storage. This mediator role allows the system to bridge different network configurations without requiring direct peer-to-peer connections or unified network infrastructure
3Ease of operation
If the server provides instructions for content transfer to clients, then centralized management is maintained, but content distribution cannot be performed at desired times such as off-hours or emergencies
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static, server-controlled distribution model to a dynamic, demand-driven model where content transfer timing is determined by actual client needs. Display apparatuses can request content at any time based on operational requirements, enabling flexible updates during off-hours or emergencies without requiring server-initiated instructions
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a content distribution system in which content is distributed from a content distribution apparatus to a plurality of display apparatuses, in which the content distribution apparatus stores the content, acquires information on a connection request source, as connection information on the display apparatus, when a connection request from each of the plurality of display apparatuses is present, groups display apparatuses to which the same content is to be distributed, into one group, among the plurality of display apparatuses, manages one display apparatus, which belongs to the group, as a master display apparatus, and the other display apparatuses as slave display apparatuses, and transmits the content and connection information on the slave display apparatus that belongs to the group, to the master display apparatus. The master display apparatus distributes the content to the slave display apparatus based on the connection information.