Index Tables for Heterogeneous STB Data Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Set top boxes (STBs) with varying hardware capabilities struggle to efficiently process and search large data sets, such as interactive program guide data, due to differences in processing power and memory, leading to responsiveness issues and limited functionality, especially when receiving and storing new data.
Innovation Solution
A method is implemented where a server processes data to create base data blocks and index tables, allowing STBs to receive compact, organized relational data with minimal processing overhead, enabling all STBs, including low-capability ones, to remain responsive and utilize the data without extensive processing, using a binary format and data structures like base data blocks, extension data blocks, index tables, and jump tables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If STBs process and search large data sets locally, then searching and processing functionality is available, but low-capability STBs cannot perform these operations and system responsiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary data structure (index table) between the raw data and the STB processing logic. The index table acts as a mediator that pre-organizes data relationships, allowing STBs to perform efficient searches without complex processing capabilities. This intermediary structure enables low-capability STBs to access and search data effectively while maintaining system responsiveness.
2Productivity
If servers process all data before transmission, then STBs receive organized data with minimal processing overhead, but data structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments data into distinct organizational layers: raw data, index tables, and base data blocks. Each segment serves a specific function - the index table handles relationships and searching, while base data blocks store actual content. This segmentation allows servers to pre-process data into manageable units that STBs can efficiently receive and utilize without overwhelming complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The server performs preliminary processing by creating index tables and organizing data into base data blocks before transmission to STBs. This pre-organization of data relationships and structures eliminates the need for complex runtime processing at the STB, improving data processing efficiency while keeping the transmitted data structure manageable through standardized formats.
3Stability of the object's composition
If heterogeneous STBs receive the same data format, then data consistency is maintained, but low-capability STBs struggle with processing and memory constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the index table structure adaptable to different STB capabilities while maintaining consistent data representation. The index table can be configured with different levels of detail and organization depending on the specific STB's processing and memory capabilities, allowing each STB to receive optimized data structures tailored to its local characteristics while preserving overall data consistency through standardized base data blocks.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes processing data associated with event and service information to create a base data block and an index table. The base data block has an array of objects, and each object in the array may have at least one attribute. The index table also has an array of objects, and each object in the index table relates to an object in the base data block. The method of processing data may be performed by a server located at a cable headend. In one embodiment, the present invention also comprises a storage medium having a representation of a data structure produced by the data processing. In one embodiment, a STB may receive and utilize the processed data.