Network Configuration Backup for Video Receivers

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing network architectures for video services receivers, such as set-top boxes, require manual reconfiguration and relinking of remote control devices when a new STB is introduced, which is time-consuming and complicated, especially in complex network setups with multiple STBs and remote control devices.

Innovation Solution

A method and device configuration that allows network configuration data to be backed up and stored on a controller device, enabling seamless transfer and download to a new STB, thereby automating the setup process and reducing user intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual reconfiguration and relinking is performed when a new STB is introduced, then the network configuration can be maintained, but the process is time-consuming and complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork configuration maintenanceVSAvoidconfiguration setup time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by having the remote control device automatically backup network configuration data to the cloud before any STB replacement occurs. When a new STB is introduced, the system already has the configuration data ready in the cloud, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration and significantly reducing setup time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses copying by creating a digital copy of the network configuration data and storing it in the cloud. This copy can be automatically retrieved and applied to the new STB, replacing the manual reconfiguration process and reducing both time and complexity of setup.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Reliability

If manual re-linking of remote control devices is required for new STB, then network connectivity is established, but the process is frustrating and difficult for users

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork connectivityVSAvoiduser configuration process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling the system to automatically backup configuration data to the cloud and retrieve it for new STBs without requiring user intervention. The remote control device and cloud system handle the configuration transfer autonomously, making the process simple and frustration-free for users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses copying by creating a digital copy of network configuration data and storing it in the cloud. When a new STB is introduced, the system automatically retrieves this copy and applies it, eliminating the need for manual re-linking operations and significantly improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple STBs and remote control devices are deployed, then network functionality is enhanced, but the complexity of network arrangement increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork functionalityVSAvoidnetwork arrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses copying by creating a digital copy of network configuration data and storing it in the cloud. This centralized copy serves all STBs and remote control devices in the network, simplifying the management of multiple devices while maintaining enhanced network functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces the cloud as an intermediary between the remote control device and multiple STBs. This intermediary stores and manages configuration data, reducing the complexity of network arrangements by centralizing configuration management rather than requiring direct peer-to-peer configuration across multiple devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP2577636B1Backup and restore of network configuration data using a remote controller device
Publication Date: 2020.11.25 DISH TECHNOLOGIES LLC
  • EP2577636B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2577636B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2577636B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Presented here is a method of operating video services receivers in a network that includes a controller device and at least one member device. Also presented is a controller device that facilitates the method. The method obtains network configuration data at a first video services receiver, where the network configuration data is utilized by the first video services receiver to support data communication with the controller device and the at least one member device. The method continues by establishing a data communication link between the first video services receiver and the controller device, and uploading the network configuration data from the first video services receiver to the controller device via the data communication link. The controller device can thereafter be used to download the network configuration data to a second video services receiver.