Peer-to-Peer Set Top Box Network for Content Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current video delivery systems restrict viewers from watching live TV shows from the start if they missed the beginning, require additional subscription fees, and incur high costs due to centralized storage and bandwidth demands for on-demand streaming, while also limiting recording capabilities and availability of content.
Innovation Solution
A localized peer-to-peer network of set-top boxes (STBs) that communicate and share content, allowing users to stream content from one STB to another, reducing the load on central servers and enhancing storage flexibility by creating a community for sharing recorded content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If centralized VOD servers are used to provide on-demand content, then content availability is improved, but storage costs and bandwidth costs increase prohibitively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized VOD storage function into distributed storage across multiple DVR devices in the network. Instead of one central server holding all content, each DVR stores portions of content locally, creating a distributed storage network that reduces the burden on any single device while maintaining content availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing DVR devices to automatically share their stored content with other network participants without requiring centralized server intervention. When content is requested, the system automatically locates and retrieves it from appropriate DVR devices in the network, reducing the need for expensive centralized infrastructure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If centralized VOD servers are used to provide on-demand content, then content availability is improved, but bandwidth costs increase prohibitively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by enabling content sharing within local peer-to-peer networks first before accessing centralized servers. DVR devices prioritize retrieving content from nearby network participants, reducing long-distance data transmission and associated bandwidth costs while maintaining content availability through local resources.
3Reliability
If traditional cable or satellite providers are used, then content delivery is reliable, but additional subscription fees are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of content storage, management, and sharing across multiple DVR devices in a cooperative network. By combining the resources of multiple households, the system creates a shared content library that provides reliable content delivery through distributed redundancy while eliminating the need for additional subscription fees to external providers.
4Adaptability or versatility
If DVR recording capabilities are increased to store more content, then content availability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing DVR devices that not only record and store content but also actively participate in content sharing and peer-to-peer network operations. Each DVR serves multiple functions: local content storage, content sharing with neighbors, and automatic content retrieval, thereby achieving enhanced recording capabilities without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A localized peer-to-peer (P2P) network of device for streaming content between users. Devices, such as set top boxes, in a network are configured to communicate with each other, and stream content physically located on each set top box to another set top box. Shows that the user has missed a portion of may be watched from the beginning by transferring such content from other devices within the network. Essentially, any one STB becomes part of a collective community of STBs which share and make each other's content available. The P2P STB network according to embodiments described herein also lessens the load on the centrally located video-on-demand servers by allowing users to watch content being delivered from a neighbor's DVR versus from the central source.