Dynamic Content Distribution Path Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current content distribution methods often rely on predetermined paths that may not be optimal, based on inaccurate assumptions and limited network views, leading to inefficient delivery of electronic content.

Innovation Solution

A content distribution platform (CDP) analysis module determines an optimal combination of CDP components for content distribution based on content item profiles, considering attributes like cost, popularity, file size, and geo-regional demand, and constraints such as bandwidth and latency, using various network tiers and communication links.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If predetermined content distribution paths are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but delivery efficiency and cost optimization deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedelivery efficiencyVSAvoiddistribution path complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic content distribution path selection by continuously monitoring network conditions (bandwidth, latency, cost) and adjusting distribution paths in real-time. The system transitions from static predetermined paths to dynamic paths that adapt to changing network conditions, thereby improving delivery efficiency without requiring complete system redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes distribution parameters such as path selection, caching locations, and transmission parameters based on monitored network conditions and content characteristics. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the system optimizes delivery efficiency while maintaining manageable complexity through automated parameter optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If limited network view assumptions are used, then system complexity is reduced, but path optimization capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork condition accuracyVSAvoidnetwork monitoring complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors actual network conditions (bandwidth availability, latency, packet loss) and uses this information to refine future distribution decisions. This feedback loop enables increasingly accurate network condition assessment without requiring complete network visibility at all times, balancing measurement precision with system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary network condition assessment and path optimization before actual content distribution occurs. By analyzing network conditions in advance and pre-configuring optimal paths, the system achieves accurate delivery optimization without requiring continuous complex monitoring during content transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If uniform content distribution methods are used, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but cost optimization and delivery performance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedelivery performanceVSAvoidimplementation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality optimization by tailoring distribution strategies to specific content characteristics, network conditions, and geographic locations. Different content types receive different distribution treatments based on their specific requirements, and local network conditions are accounted for in path selection, thereby improving delivery performance while maintaining implementation simplicity through automated localized optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system segments the content distribution process into manageable components (content classification, path selection, caching strategy, transmission optimization) that can be independently optimized. This segmentation allows complex optimization to be achieved through modular components, maintaining implementation simplicity while improving overall delivery performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2272301B1System and method for optimizing content distribution
Publication Date: 2020.03.11 LEVEL 3 COMMUNICATIONS LLC
  • EP2272301B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2272301B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2272301B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A system for distributing content includes a content distribution platform (CDP) analysis module configured to determine an optimal combination of one or more CDP components for distributing a specified content item based on at least one content item profile. A method of distributing content includes determining an optimal combination of one or more content distribution platform (CDP) components for distributing a specified content item based on at least one content profile.