Multimedia Network Streaming Data Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multimedia networks face limitations in connecting multiple multimedia instruments without user intervention, as they are designed for point-to-point communication, restricting the addition of new devices and future instruments.
Innovation Solution
A digital network architecture that enables multimedia instruments to connect and communicate through streaming data as broadcasters or receivers, allowing for automatic emission and selection of compatible data streams upon activation, facilitating plug-and-play functionality and modularization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If point-to-point communication is used in multimedia networks, then reliable data transmission between specific devices is ensured, but the ability to connect multiple multimedia instruments and extend the system is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The network communication is segmented into two independent parts: a unidirectional broadcast/multicast transmission path from transmitters to receivers, and a selective reception path where receivers independently choose compatible data streams. This segmentation allows reliable transmission from sources while enabling flexible system extension through multicast routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The network interface is designed with universal functionality to handle both unidirectional broadcast/multicast communication and selective data stream reception. This multi-functionality at the network interface level enables both reliable transmission and system extensibility without requiring separate dedicated paths.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a set-top box with multiple demodulators is used, then multiple television receivers can be connected, but the number of connectable devices is limited to only television receivers
Solution Approach 1:
The network interface is designed with universal functionality that works for any multimedia instrument regardless of its specific type. The interface handles broadcast/multicast transmission and selective reception in a unified manner, eliminating the need for type-specific demodulators and enabling connection of diverse devices like television receivers, DVD players, and future multimedia instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
Receivers autonomously select compatible data streams from the network without requiring centralized management or configuration. Each receiver independently evaluates available streams and chooses appropriate ones, eliminating the need for complex centralized demodulator configuration and enabling flexible device addition.
3Ease of operation
If broadcast/multicast streaming data is emitted into the network, then automatic data distribution to all connected devices is achieved, but network bandwidth consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The data distribution is segmented into a broadcast/multicast phase where transmitters emit data to all receivers, and a selective reception phase where receivers independently choose compatible streams. This segmentation enables automatic distribution while allowing receivers to ignore unwanted streams, reducing effective bandwidth consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The network operates with implicit feedback mechanisms where receivers signal their presence and capabilities to transmitters, and transmitters adjust their broadcast content based on receiver feedback. This feedback loop enables efficient bandwidth utilization by ensuring transmitters send data that actual receivers need.
Data Source
AI summary
A digital network for communication between a plurality of subscribers by means of streaming data comprises at least one subscriber that is a transmitter, and at least one subscriber that is a receiver. At least one transmitter is adapted to be activated, and then to feed streaming data in the form of broadcasts or multicasts into the network. Furthermore, at least one receiver is adapted to be activated, and then to select from the network streaming data that are compatible with its data formats, and to read the selected streaming data from the network.