Proxy Bit Rate Coordination for Live Stream Bandwidth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adaptive streaming methods for live broadcasts face challenges in maintaining uninterrupted transmissions to multiple terminals, particularly in scenarios like hotels, where the number of end devices exceeds the available bandwidth, leading to fluctuations and interruptions in the live TV stream.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a control algorithm to coordinate the transmission of real-time segments by selecting a different bit rate for each terminal, reducing the total data stream on the primary connection and ensuring uninterrupted playback by prioritizing bit rates and using an intermediate cache effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple terminals request real-time segments at different bit rates simultaneously, then each terminal can receive its requested quality level, but the total data stream exceeds the available bandwidth on the primary connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple requests for real-time segments with different bit rates into a single coordinated transmission strategy. The control algorithm combines the bit rate requests from multiple terminals and selects a unified bit rate for downloading segments from the web server, thereby reducing redundant data transmission while ensuring all terminals receive appropriate quality levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The control algorithm dynamically changes the bit rate parameter based on the aggregate requests from multiple terminals. Instead of each terminal independently requesting its preferred bit rate, the system adjusts the actual transmission bit rate to optimize the total data stream volume while maintaining adaptability to terminal capabilities and network conditions.
2Manufacturing precision
If the proxy downloads real-time segments at the highest requested bit rate for each terminal, then each terminal receives optimal quality, but the primary connection bandwidth is exceeded causing interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by downloading real-time segments at a bit rate that is not necessarily the maximum requested by each terminal, but rather an optimized rate that satisfies all terminals collectively. The control algorithm determines a bit rate that is sufficient for all terminals rather than excessive for each individual terminal, preventing bandwidth overflow while maintaining acceptable quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The control algorithm acts as an intermediary between terminal bit rate requests and the actual segment download from the web server. It mediates the conflict between quality requirements and bandwidth constraints by translating multiple terminal requests into a single optimized download strategy that ensures reliable transmission.
3Ease of operation
If each terminal independently selects its bit rate without coordination, then terminals have full control over their playback quality, but uncoordinated requests cause excessive network load and transmission interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The control algorithm provides self-service functionality by automatically coordinating bit rate selections based on terminal requests and network conditions. Terminals express their quality preferences, and the system autonomously resolves the coordination problem by determining the optimal unified bit rate, eliminating the need for complex terminal-to-terminal negotiation while maintaining terminal autonomy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the control algorithm monitors terminal bit rate requests and network bandwidth availability, then adjusts the segment download strategy accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that terminal autonomy is preserved while network efficiency is optimized through coordinated transmission decisions.
4Reliability
If the proxy caches real-time segments at multiple bit rates for each terminal, then terminals can receive segments without interruption, but the cache memory requirements and network load increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by caching real-time segments at a single optimized bit rate rather than maintaining multiple bit rate versions. The control algorithm determines the appropriate bit rate for caching based on terminal requests and network conditions, storing segments locally at this quality level to enable uninterrupted playback while minimizing cache storage requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to methods for coordinating the transmission of real-time segments of broadcasts, in particular live streams, from the Internet to multiple terminal devices for shared use, wherein a web server is provided on which the real-time segments of the broadcasts are stored at different bit rates, wherein the terminal devices are connected to the web server via a proxy on which a control algorithm is implemented, wherein the real-time segments of the broadcast assigned to each terminal device are transmitted to it, wherein a first terminal device requests the real-time segments at a first bit rate and a second terminal device requests the real-time segments at a second bit rate, wherein the control algorithm assigns the broadcast at the first bit rate to the second terminal device and the real-time segments at the first bit rate are transmitted to the second terminal device.