Distributed Data Segmentation for P2P Content Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current P2P file-sharing and media distribution systems place a heavy burden on upstream access networks due to one-to-one content delivery, leading to long connection times, especially when transferring large media files, as they require files to be uploaded from a source subscriber's computer and downloaded over the access network.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for allocating data storage across multiple devices in a cable system, segmenting content into smaller data elements, and using a controller to facilitate their distribution and retrieval, enabling swarming of data elements from multiple devices to a requesting device based on available storage capacity and contractual commitments, while associating metadata for playback and advertisement integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If one-to-one content delivery is used in P2P systems, then direct file transfer from source to destination is achieved, but upstream network burden increases and transfer time becomes very long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments large media files into smaller chunks and distributes them across multiple peer devices in the network. Instead of transferring one complete file from a single source, the system divides the content into segments that can be simultaneously transferred from multiple sources, dramatically reducing transfer time and network burden on individual upstream connections.
2Ease of operation
If files are transferred from source subscriber's computer over access network, then direct P2P transfer is achieved, but upstream access network burden is heavily loaded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple peer devices into a distributed content delivery network where each peer contributes storage and bandwidth resources. By combining the capabilities of multiple devices, the system creates a collective resource pool that can serve multiple requests simultaneously, reducing the burden on any single upstream connection and improving overall network efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables peers to serve content from their own stored segments to other peers in the network. Each device that has downloaded and cached content segments becomes a potential source for other users, creating a self-sustaining distributed network where participants both consume and provide resources, thereby reducing overall network traffic.
3Reliability
If entire file is transferred from one peer to another, then complete content delivery is achieved, but transfer duration becomes very long for large files
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides large media files into smaller segments that are distributed across multiple peers. Each peer stores and can transfer specific segments independently. This segmentation allows parallel transfer of multiple segments simultaneously from different sources to the destination, dramatically reducing overall transfer duration while maintaining complete content integrity through proper reassembly of all segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows destination peers to begin receiving and processing content segments before the entire file is completely transferred. By initiating playback or processing with partial content available from multiple sources, the system reduces effective wait time and makes the transfer process more efficient, even though complete file delivery is ultimately required.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system of allocating data for subsequent retrieval. The method and system optionally including allocating data to a plurality of devices for storage, associating the data with the device providing the storage thereof, and providing retrieval information to facilitate retrieval of the data as function of the devices associated with the storage thereof. The method and system may further include features for controlling information associated with the allocated and/or features for associated one or more pieces of metadata to control access to allocated data once retrieved.