Multimedia Bandwidth Adaptation Node for Dynamic Bit-Rate Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In IP networks, accurately measuring and predicting bandwidth for multimedia streams is difficult, leading to potential degradation in video quality due to insufficient bandwidth, as existing tools may not provide reliable or precise measurements.
Innovation Solution
Implementing multimedia bandwidth adaptation nodes (MBANs) that monitor conditions indicative of network bandwidth, such as packet drop rates and round trip delays, to dynamically adjust the transmit bit-rate of multimedia streams at intermediate points along the network path, ensuring reliable delivery by matching the bit-rate with available bandwidth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multimedia stream bit-rate is increased to improve video quality, then video quality is improved, but network bandwidth insufficiency causes packet drops and quality degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic bit-rate adjustment by monitoring network conditions (packet loss rate, round trip delay) and adapting the multimedia stream bit-rate in real-time. The system transitions from a static bit-rate approach to a dynamic one that responds to changing network conditions, resolving the contradiction between maintaining high video quality and ensuring reliable packet delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms by monitoring network path conditions (packet loss, delay) and using this information to adjust the bit-rate. The feedback loop continuously measures network performance and modifies the transmission parameters accordingly, allowing the system to adapt to bandwidth variations while maintaining video quality and delivery reliability.
2Measurement precision
If existing bandwidth measurement tools are used to monitor network capacity, then bandwidth measurement is attempted, but measurement precision and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement approach using probe packets sent through the network path to indirectly measure bandwidth capacity. Instead of relying on external bandwidth measurement tools that may not be available or accurate, the system uses embedded probe packets to measure actual network conditions (packet loss, delay) that reflect available bandwidth, providing more reliable and precise measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-measurement of bandwidth by having the multimedia stream itself carry measurement information through probe packets. The stream monitors its own transmission conditions and uses this self-generated data to assess network capacity, eliminating dependence on external measurement tools and improving both precision and reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If bit-rate adjustment is implemented at intermediate network nodes to adapt to bandwidth changes, then adaptability to network conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes intermediate network nodes multi-functional by combining their existing routing/switching functions with new bandwidth monitoring and bit-rate adjustment capabilities. The nodes serve both traditional packet forwarding and adaptive stream shaping functions, reducing the need for separate dedicated devices and minimizing the impact of added complexity through functional integration.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and methods are provided for shaping a transmit bit-rate of a multimedia stream to adapt to the bandwidth of network path on which the multimedia stream is sent between a source and destination. A condition indicative of a bandwidth of the network path is monitored, and at an intermediate point on the network path between the source and destination, the transmit bit-rate of the multimedia stream is adjusted to adapt to the condition indicative of the bandwidth of the path.