Forward Error Correction Sub-Streams for Capacity-Limited Video Streaming
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Solution Overview
Problem
In sports and entertainment venues, existing technologies face challenges in efficiently distributing event-specific streaming video content to multiple devices while minimizing bandwidth usage and optimizing error correction, as each device experiences different packet loss rates and link conditions, leading to inefficient use of wireless capacity and potential interference.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that dynamically adjust the amount of forward error correction (FEC) streams based on individual device needs, using a minimum number of FEC streams to ensure sufficient error correction, and optimize FEC distribution across access points to maximize bandwidth utilization and minimize interference, by advertising availability of video streams and FEC streams, determining the minimum necessary FEC for each device, and adjusting FEC amounts based on client statistics and signal strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If forward error correction streams are provided to all requesting devices, then reliability of video streaming is improved, but bandwidth usage increases and wireless capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different amounts of forward error correction to different devices based on their individual link conditions and packet loss rates. Each device receives a customized FEC stream tailored to its specific requirements rather than a uniform FEC level for all devices, thereby optimizing bandwidth usage while maintaining necessary reliability for each device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the amount of forward error correction provided to each device based on real-time feedback about packet loss rates and link conditions. The control logic continuously monitors device performance and modifies FEC stream allocation accordingly, transitioning from a static to a dynamic approach that adapts to changing network conditions.
2Reliability
If high amount of forward error correction is provided to all devices, then error protection is improved, but co-channel interference increases and system efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by tailoring the error protection level to each device's specific needs based on its link conditions. Devices with better link quality receive less FEC, reducing their contribution to co-channel interference, while devices with poorer link quality receive more FEC only where necessary. This localized approach minimizes overall system interference while maintaining adequate error protection.
3Device complexity
If uniform forward error correction is provided to all devices, then simplicity of implementation is maintained, but bandwidth efficiency is reduced due to over-provisioning
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by having devices report their link conditions and packet loss rates before the control logic determines the appropriate FEC stream allocation. This advance gathering of information allows the system to optimize FEC distribution without adding complex real-time decision-making, maintaining implementation simplicity while improving bandwidth efficiency.
4Quantity of substance
If minimum forward error correction is provided to each device, then bandwidth usage is optimized, but reliability may be insufficient for devices with poor link conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where devices report their packet loss rates and link conditions back to the control logic. This feedback loop allows the system to continuously monitor whether the minimum FEC provision is sufficient for each device and adjust allocations accordingly, ensuring that bandwidth is optimized while reliability requirements are met through data-driven decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
In an example embodiment, there is described herein a methodology were the Forward Error Correction (FEC) data for a data stream is distributed into a plurality of FEC sub-streams. Subscribers to the data stream indicate which of the plurality of FEC sub-streams should be provided to them. The distribution of FEC sub-streams are limited to subscribed FEC sub-streams. FEC sub-streams with no subscribers are not forwarded beyond a distribution point such as an access point (AP).