Distributed Wireless Servers for Rapid Media Download
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for providing Internet access to users, especially in bandwidth-limited wireless networks, are inefficient in delivering large volumes of electronic media with acceptable throughput and quality due to increased bandwidth demands and dynamic communication channels.
Innovation Solution
A distributed mobile broadband network using short-range wireless access techniques positions wireless servers at edge locations to cache and rapidly download electronic media to near-stationary users, employing unlicensed frequency bands and high-speed WLAN standards like IEEE 802.11a, optimizing content distribution based on user interests and request patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If wireless networks use traditional cellular networks for media distribution, then coverage area is large, but data rate is slow and bandwidth usage is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the media distribution network into distributed wireless servers positioned at edge locations (gas stations, shopping malls, parking lots) rather than relying on a centralized cellular network. Each server independently serves local users, creating multiple localized broadband service areas that collectively provide high-speed access while maintaining broad coverage through strategic placement at user congregate points
2Productivity
If wireless networks increase bandwidth capacity, then media delivery speed improves, but spectrum efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by caching media content at distributed wireless servers before users request it. Content is pre-positioned at edge locations where users congregate, allowing rapid local delivery without requiring high bandwidth capacity over the wireless channel. This eliminates the need to continuously allocate expensive spectrum resources for media streaming, improving spectrum efficiency while maintaining high delivery speed through local cache access
3Reliability
If wireless networks use licensed frequency bands, then reliability is high, but cost and bandwidth availability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces unlicensed frequency bands (such as ISM bands) as an intermediary medium for media distribution, replacing the need for expensive licensed spectrum. These unlicensed bands provide abundant bandwidth capacity while maintaining acceptable reliability through the use of distributed servers positioned at reliable locations where users congregate. The intermediary unlicensed spectrum enables high bandwidth availability without the costly exclusivity of licensed bands
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for distributing electronic media to near stationary users, such as in-vehicle users or other mobile users, using short-range high speed wireless access techniques. A content provider stores electronic media at one or more wireless servers positioned at the edge of a network, such as the Internet. The wireless servers transfer the electronic media to one or more subscriber wireless devices using unlicensed frequency bands at relatively short ranges. The wireless servers are generally positioned at convenient locations where users tend to congregate. Media can be cached at desired wireless servers within the distributed mobile broadband network and downloaded to the subscriber wireless devices at the designated locations and subsequently played at the convenience of the user. The caching of content at distributed locations and the use of fast short-range wireless access techniques to near stationary users provide a distributed localized broadband wireless service area that enables the rapid download of large amounts of media content.