Embedding Control Data in Multimedia Streams
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users often fail to provide necessary instructions to a server before streaming multimedia content, leading to interruptions and manual configuration requirements, which can disrupt the streaming process.
Innovation Solution
The system allows for the provision of control information to a server before or during streaming, using methods such as embedding control information in the stream or establishing a new connection, enabling the server to process streams according to the received instructions without interrupting the ongoing stream.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If control information is provided manually after streaming begins, then the server can be configured to process the stream properly, but the streaming process is interrupted and productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows control information to be provided in advance during connection establishment or in a file before streaming begins. This preliminary configuration ensures the server is properly configured to process the stream without interruption, eliminating the need for manual configuration during active streaming.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (separate control connection or embedded control data in the stream) that allows control information to be transmitted without disrupting the main streaming data flow. This intermediary channel enables configuration updates while maintaining streaming continuity.
2Productivity
If control information is embedded in the stream, then streaming continuity is maintained, but the stream structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data stream into distinct components, with control information embedded in specific portions of the stream rather than mixing it throughout. This segmentation allows the server to efficiently parse and extract control information without processing the entire stream structure, minimizing complexity while maintaining continuity.
3Productivity
If a new connection is established for control information, then control information can be provided without interrupting the stream, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the server capable of handling multiple types of data through a unified interface. The server can process both streaming data and control information through the same connection or protocol, eliminating the need for separate connection management logic and reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method may include receiving, at a mobile computing device comprising a processor, input identifying control information to be sent from the mobile computing device to a media server. The method may include determining, at the mobile computing device, whether the computing device is sending a media stream to the media server. In response to determining that the mobile computing device is sending a media stream to the media server, the control information may be sent from the mobile computing device to the media server without interrupting the media stream by embedding the control information in the media stream.