Gateway Content Segmentation for IP Device Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current content distribution systems lack a mechanism to efficiently deliver content to IP-enabled devices without a high-speed data connection, limiting access for non-data subscribers and restricting the mobility of content consumption.
Innovation Solution
The method involves processing content into segments, cryptographically protecting them, and providing a playlist for playback to IP-enabled devices through a content distribution network, utilizing existing network structures to minimize investment and enable content delivery to mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, even without high-speed data subscriptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If content is delivered to IP-enabled devices without high-speed data connection, then accessibility for non-data subscribers is improved, but delivery efficiency and speed deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a gateway device as an intermediary between the content distribution network and IP-enabled devices. The gateway receives content from the network, processes it into appropriate formats, and delivers it to IP devices without requiring high-speed data connections. This mediator enables non-data subscribers to access content while managing delivery through conventional network paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The content delivery process is segmented into distinct stages: content reception at the gateway, format processing and conversion, and distribution to IP-enabled devices. This segmentation allows each stage to be optimized independently, enabling broad accessibility while maintaining manageable delivery speeds through conventional network infrastructure.
2Ease of manufacture
If existing network structures are utilized, then investment cost is reduced, but delivery capability to mobile devices is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The gateway device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a content reception point from the existing distribution network and as a content processing and distribution hub for various IP-enabled mobile devices. This universal design allows the system to leverage existing network infrastructure while simultaneously providing modern mobile device compatibility without requiring separate dedicated infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The gateway acts as a bridge between legacy network infrastructure and modern IP-enabled devices. It translates and adapts content from traditional distribution formats to IP-compatible formats, enabling mobile device access while utilizing existing network structures and minimizing the need for new infrastructure investment.
3Reliability
If content is processed into segments and cryptographically protected, then security is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Content is divided into discrete segments or blocks that can be independently processed and protected. Each segment can be cryptographically protected individually, which simplifies the implementation of security measures compared to protecting entire content files. The gateway device manages this segmentation and protection process systematically.
Solution Approach 2:
Content segmentation and cryptographic protection are performed in advance at the gateway device before distribution to end devices. This preliminary processing ensures security is built into the content delivery process from the start, rather than requiring complex security measures at each receiving device. The heavy processing burden is placed at the centralized gateway where it can be managed more efficiently.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods for providing content to IP-enabled devices in a content distribution network. In one embodiment, a network architecture is disclosed which enables delivery of content to such IP-enabled devices without the use of a high-speed data connection This capability allow the managed network operator to provide content services to an IP-enabled device associated with a non-data subscriber. In one implementation, requests for content from user IP-enabled devices are received, authenticated, and content processed into a series of encrypted segments. Once the requesting user/device is authenticated, the segments are provided with a playlist. The rendering device is also provided access to a decryption key (e.g., via a URL to a managed key server). Variants providing (i) user access to the MSO distribution network via an indigenous modem or gateway; and (ii) user access to the MSO core via a gateway and a third party unmanaged network are described.