Local Network Media Transfer via Peer Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing media file access systems often rely on remote servers, leading to inefficient media transfers over internet connections, which can be costly and bandwidth-intensive, and may fail due to server or peer device faults.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that enables media files to be transferred directly between devices on a local network when both devices are connected and have opted into a peer-to-peer sharing service, allowing for local network transfers without relying on remote servers, thereby reducing internet bandwidth usage and ensuring seamless streaming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If media files are transferred through remote servers, then media files can be accessed from any location, but transfer speed decreases and internet bandwidth is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary that coordinates peer-to-peer transfers. The server receives requests, identifies nearby devices with the requested media, and facilitates direct transfers between them, avoiding the need for media to traverse the entire internet path through the server.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a spatial dimension to media transfer by prioritizing local network transfers over remote internet transfers. Devices are first searched for in the local network environment, and only if not found does the system escalate to remote server access, creating a hierarchical transfer architecture.
2Reliability
If media files are transferred through remote servers, then centralized control is maintained, but system reliability decreases due to server or peer device faults
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements location-aware media transfer where the system adapts its behavior based on the spatial relationship between devices. When devices are locally co-located, the system uses direct peer-to-peer transfers with simplified paths. When devices are remote, it uses server-mediated transfers, optimizing reliability for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic transfer system that can switch between different transfer paths based on real-time conditions. The system monitors device availability, network connectivity, and media presence, dynamically selecting the most reliable transfer path without requiring complex pre-planning.
3Productivity
If peer-to-peer local network transfers are implemented, then transfer speed increases and bandwidth is conserved, but device complexity increases due to coordination requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables devices to autonomously advertise their media inventory and capabilities to the local network. When a transfer request occurs, the requesting device can independently identify nearby sources and initiate transfers without complex coordination, as each device maintains up-to-date information about what media it possesses.
Data Source
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AI summary
A server system stores media library associated with a user. The media library includes at least one media file. The server system determines whether the media file is stored on a second computing device that is able to send the media file to the first computing device across a local network connecting the first computing device and the second computing device. If the determination indicates that the media file is stored on a second computing device that is able to send the stored media file to the first computing device across a local network connecting the first computing device and the second computing device, the server system sends causes the second computing device to send the media file to the first computing device across the local network such that the first computing device is able to output the media file to the user.