Redundant Multicast Path Failover for Digital Video Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital channel distribution systems waste bandwidth by transmitting unwatched channels to node groups, and they struggle to provide effective path and content redundancy in dynamic environments like SDV delivery networks.
Innovation Solution
The system determines different network paths for delivering video programs and switches between them based on changes in delivery status, using redundant join types to ensure continuous service in case of failures, and utilizing multiple content sources to optimize bandwidth usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If digital channels are broadcast to all node groups, then all subscribers can receive channels, but bandwidth is wasted on unwatched channels
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments channel distribution by creating node groups and using multicast technology to deliver channels only to specific groups that have requested them, rather than broadcasting to all subscribers. This segmentation allows the system to maintain channel availability for requesting users while eliminating bandwidth waste on unwatched channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts channel distribution based on real-time subscription requests and node group compositions. Channels are distributed on-demand to specific node groups rather than statically to all subscribers, allowing the system to adapt bandwidth usage to actual viewing demands and eliminate waste.
2Device complexity
If a single network path is used for video delivery, then system complexity is reduced, but service reliability decreases when failures occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing multiple network paths for video delivery before failures occur. These redundant paths are prepared in advance so that when a failure is detected, the system can immediately switch to an alternative path without interruption, maintaining delivery continuity while managing complexity through automated path selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements beforehand cushioning by creating redundant network paths and standby content sources that serve as protective measures against potential failures. These backup resources are prepared in advance to cushion against disruptions, ensuring service reliability while the system manages complexity through intelligent path selection and failover mechanisms.
3Reliability
If redundant paths and sources are implemented, then service reliability improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback mechanisms to monitor the status of network paths and content sources in real-time. Based on this feedback, the system automatically selects optimal paths and switches to backup resources when failures are detected, maintaining service continuity while managing complexity through automated decision-making rather than manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by enabling automatic failover and path selection without human intervention. When failures occur, the system autonomously detects the issue, selects alternative paths from the redundant options, and maintains service continuity, thereby managing the complexity of multiple paths through automated self-management rather than manual control.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for delivering content is provided. In one example, responsive to a request by a client device identifying a video program, the system is configured to determine different first and second network paths for delivery of the video program from a content source; deliver the video program via the first network path to the client device; and responsive to a change in status of the video program being delivered via the first network path, deliver the video program via the second network path to the client device.