Media Multiplexer Proxy for Firewall Traversal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems lack an efficient method to distribute media streams from a single device to multiple receivers across different networks, especially when some receivers are behind firewalls, limiting the ability to provide simultaneous media access to various devices scattered across different locations.
Innovation Solution
A media multiplexer and media proxy system that allocates communication channels for each receiver, allowing a single media stream to be forwarded to multiple devices using a media proxy, which provides public network access ports and handles signaling protocols like SIP and SDP to manage media distribution efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single media stream is distributed to multiple receivers across different networks, then media accessibility is improved, but network complexity and firewall management become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a media server as an intermediary component that mediates between the media source and multiple receivers. The media server receives the media stream, manages multiple communication channels, and handles firewall protocols (H.235, ICE, STUN, TURN) to enable receivers behind firewalls to access the stream without requiring complex peer-to-peer network configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The media server performs multiple functions within a single system: it acts as a reception point for the media stream, a distribution hub for multiple receivers, a firewall traversal assistant, and a communication channel manager. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems into one universal platform.
2Productivity
If communication channels are allocated for each receiver, then simultaneous media access is improved, but system resource consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the media distribution system into distinct communication channels, with each channel dedicated to a specific receiver. The media server allocates separate channels that can be independently managed, allowing simultaneous media access while enabling selective resource allocation and optimization for each channel based on receiver needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If receivers behind firewalls are supported, then device compatibility is improved, but signaling protocol complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The media server acts as a mediator that handles all complex signaling protocols (H.235, ICE, STUN, TURN) between receivers behind firewalls and the media source. Receivers only need to communicate with the media server using simplified protocols, while the server manages the complex firewall traversal and protocol translation to external sources.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for communicating from one device to a plurality of receiving devices using a media multiplexer with a media proxy is described. A request for a call by the one device is received at the media multiplexer. Communication channels are allocated on the media proxy by the media multiplexer. A communication channel is allocated for each of the plurality of receiving devices. Media from the one device is received by the media multiplexer. The received media is sent to each of the plurality of receiving devices using the allocated communication channels.