Scalable Multiviewer System with Distributed Signal Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional multiviewer systems require high bandwidth for transmitting video signals to multiple locations due to signal replication, leading to inefficient data distribution.
Innovation Solution
A scalable multiviewer system with communication modules that selectively transmit input signals to specific data sinks based on programmable communication parameters, reducing network traffic by distributing only necessary signals and using a communication bus to adapt parameters without a central controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If video signals are replicated and transmitted to all viewing locations, then all locations can receive all signals, but the bandwidth required for transmission becomes rather high
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the signal distribution by dividing it into unicast streams (for local viewing) and multicast streams (for shared viewing). Each data sink receives only the specific signal streams it needs, rather than all signals being replicated to all locations. This segmentation reduces overall bandwidth consumption while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes transmission parameters by adjusting whether to use unicast or multicast for each signal stream based on viewing requirements. The communication modules can switch between different transmission modes (unicast/multicast) and adjust signal quality parameters, enabling efficient bandwidth utilization while adapting to different distribution scenarios.
2Ease of operation
If a central controller is used to manage signal distribution, then signal routing can be controlled, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each communication module in the system is equipped with its own processing module that can independently make routing decisions based on preset communication parameters. The modules self-configure and self-manage signal distribution without requiring a central controller, thereby maintaining operational control while reducing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic, distributed decision-making where each communication module can adapt its signal routing based on real-time conditions and preset parameters. This dynamic approach replaces static central control with flexible local intelligence, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining routing control capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communication modules are used to distribute signals, then distribution flexibility increases, but the coordination between modules becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Each communication module is designed as a universal, multi-functional unit that can both receive signals from data sources and distribute signals to data sinks, as well as communicate with other modules through standardized interfaces. This universality enables flexible distribution configurations without requiring complex specialized coordination between different module types.
Data Source
AI summary
A scalable multiviewer system including at least one communication circuit is described. The at least one communication circuit includes at least one input being associated with at least one data source. The at least one communication circuit further includes at least one output being associated with at least one data sink. The at least one communication circuit further includes at least one channel interface for an inter-circuit communication channel being configured to transfer data between the at least one communication circuit and at least one further communication circuit. The at least one communication circuit further includes a processing circuit being configured to receive an input signal from the at least one input. The processing circuit further is configured to selectively transmit the input signal to the at least one output or to the at least one channel interface based on at least one preset communication parameter. The at least one preset communication parameter is programmable via a communication bus of the multiviewer system. Further, a method for distributing data from at least one data source to several data sinks via a scalable multiviewer system is described.