Converged Home Network Gateway for Unified Content Delivery
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital service delivery systems are fragmented, leading to economic inefficiencies and user frustration due to the need for separate equipment and services, limited interoperability, and restricted conditional access, making it difficult to access and manage diverse digital services in a unified and integrated manner.
Innovation Solution
A premises content distribution apparatus and method that enables unified access to multiple media-capable devices, featuring a first interface for receiving protected media content, a mass storage device for storing content, and a second interface for networking, with security layers for secure content transfer and rule management, allowing for remote configuration and management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate equipment and services are used for different digital services, then service diversity is provided, but economic efficiency deteriorates and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate services (cable TV, VOD, PVR, Internet, telephony) into a single integrated premises content distribution apparatus. This convergence allows all services to be delivered through one device with unified conditional access management, reducing the number of separate equipment pieces while maintaining full service diversity.
Solution Approach 2:
The premises content distribution apparatus is designed as a universal platform capable of providing multiple digital services simultaneously. It includes multiple tuners for different service types, integrated conditional access modules, and interfaces for various service deliveries (broadcast, VOD, PVR, Internet), making it adaptable to diverse service requirements while consolidating functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate equipment and services are used for different digital services, then service diversity is provided, but user frustration increases due to limited interoperability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple service environments into a single integrated apparatus where content and data can be accessed across different service types. The unified conditional access system and shared resource pool enable seamless interoperability between cable TV, VOD, PVR, Internet, and telephony services, allowing users to access content across devices without service-specific restrictions.
3Reliability
If conditional access is restricted to set-top box only, then security is maintained, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The conditional access system is designed as a universal platform that extends beyond traditional set-top box limitations. It provides content protection and authorization across multiple service types (broadcast, VOD, PVR, Internet) and multiple devices within the premises, maintaining security while enabling flexible access to content on various media-capable devices.
4Adaptability or versatility
If separate user interfaces are required for each service, then service specificity is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus provides a unified user interface that manages access to all services (cable TV, VOD, PVR, Internet, telephony) through a single consistent interaction model. This universal interface eliminates the need for users to learn and switch between multiple service-specific interfaces, simplifying operation while maintaining access to diverse service functionalities.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for centralized content, media and data delivery and access within a premises such as, e.g., a residence. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a remotely manageable premises device that acts as a centralized client networking platform, providing gateway services such as network management as well as traditional content and high-speed data delivery functions. The device also acts as the shared internet connection for all devices in the premises via a cable modem, sharing personal and DVR content such as video, music and photos (and any associated metadata) throughout the premises, and providing both a wired and wireless network in the home. Telephony services utilizing e.g., embedded multimedia terminal adapter (eMTA) and/or Wi-Fi architectures may also be provided via the device. The device can also provide a trusted domain for content or data, as well as allowing a subscriber total mobility in the home.