Dynamic Media Routing Logic for Cost Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multimedia content providers face challenges in routing multimedia content efficiently across various networks due to differing billing systems and costs, which can result in higher expenses and potential disruptions in streaming services.
Innovation Solution
Implementing routing logic, such as a rules engine based on stored routing/billing criteria, at network devices to dynamically select the lowest-cost routing path, allowing for seamless switching between networks without interrupting playback, even when using legacy devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional routing methods are used, then network simplicity is maintained, but monetary cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic routing by continuously monitoring billing criteria from multiple media delivery networks and automatically switching between networks based on real-time cost information. The routing logic adapts to changing pricing conditions, transitioning from static to dynamic network selection to minimize bandwidth costs while maintaining service continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the routing parameter from conventional metrics (latency, bandwidth) to monetary cost parameters by incorporating billing criteria into the routing decision-making process. This parameter transformation enables cost-aware routing that selects networks based on their pricing structures rather than traditional performance metrics alone.
2Loss of energy
If dynamic routing between multiple networks is implemented, then monetary cost is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces routing logic as an intermediary component that sits between the content delivery system and the networks. This intermediary handles the complexity of monitoring multiple billing criteria, comparing network costs, and executing switches, thereby shielding the rest of the system from the complexity of multi-network management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring billing criteria from multiple networks and using this information to adjust routing decisions in real-time. The feedback loop ensures that routing logic adapts to changing cost conditions and maintains optimal cost-performance ratios.
3Loss of energy
If network switching occurs mid-stream, then cost optimization is achieved, but playback disruption may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by buffering media content before network switching occurs. The system pre-loads media segments into buffers at the destination device before executing a network switch, ensuring that playback can continue seamlessly without interruption. This advance preparation eliminates the disruption that would otherwise occur during mid-stream network transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements beforehand cushioning by maintaining media buffers that cushion against the potential disruptions of network switching. These buffers act as a buffer zone that absorbs the impact of routing changes, ensuring continuous playback even when network paths change mid-stream.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of routing media content based on monetary cost are disclosed. A particular method includes receiving, at a network device coupled to a plurality of media delivery networks, media content to be provided to a destination device. The method also includes selecting a first media delivery network of the plurality of media delivery networks for routing the media content based at least in part on a determination that a first monetary cost associated with routing the media content through the first media delivery network is less than a second monetary cost associated with routing the media content through a second media delivery network of the plurality of media delivery networks. The method further includes routing the media content from the network device to the first media delivery network.