Media Content Transceiving via Segmented Representation Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for streaming high-resolution media content over IP networks, such as those using MPEG-2 TS, are inefficient due to fixed packet lengths and variable network bandwidth, leading to issues with quality of service (QoS) and stability in delivering content with varying bitrates and resolutions.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for streaming media content that configures content into multiple representations, divides them into segments and subsegments with time reference values, and adapts bitrates based on network conditions, allowing seamless playback by switching between representations using HTTP Adaptive Streaming and Program Clock Reference (PCR) information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If MPEG-2 TS with fixed length packets is used for transmission, then transmission stability is improved, but transmission efficiency for high-resolution content over IP network deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The media content is divided into multiple segments, and each segment is further divided into subsegments with specific time reference values. This segmentation allows the system to transmit different resolutions of the same content in organized units, improving transmission efficiency for high-resolution content while maintaining stability through structured packet organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation by configuring media content with multiple representations (different resolutions) and enabling the receiver to switch between them based on network conditions. The use of time reference values and segment-based structure allows dynamic selection of appropriate content resolution, optimizing transmission efficiency while maintaining reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple representations with different bitrates are transmitted, then adaptability to network conditions is improved, but complexity of bitstream switching deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitter pre-configures multiple representations of media content with different resolutions and divides them into segments with time reference values before transmission. This preliminary organization of content with metadata about time references and segment structures simplifies the receiver's switching complexity, as all necessary information is prepared in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces segment structures with time reference values as an intermediary layer between multiple representations and the final playback. This intermediary structure provides a standardized framework that simplifies the switching process, allowing the receiver to navigate between different resolutions using the pre-established segment and subsegment organization.
3Reliability
If bitstream switching is performed during playback, then quality of service is improved, but risk of playback interruption deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares multiple representations of media content in advance with properly aligned segment and subsegment structures containing time reference values. This beforehand preparation creates a cushion that allows smooth switching between resolutions during playback without interruptions, as all necessary content and synchronization information are ready before the switching point is reached.
Solution Approach 2:
The segment-based structure with time reference values ensures continuous playback during representation switching. By organizing content into time-synchronized segments and preparing subsequent segments in advance, the system maintains continuous useful action (playback) while switching between different bitrates, preventing interruptions.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for transceiving media content through the Internet. A media transmitting method according to one embodiment of the present invention transmits media content through the Internet, and comprises the steps of: configuring the media content with a plurality of representations; dividing each of the plurality of representations into a plurality of segments; dividing each of the plurality of segments into a plurality of sub-segments; generating a plurality of time reference values corresponding to each of the plurality of sub-segments; and transmitting any one of the representations, wherein the representation being transmitted comprises the plurality of time reference values. According to the one embodiment of the present invention, media content can be seamlessly played back due to switching a bit stream when the state of a network changes.