Satellite IRD Near Real-Time Remote Record Request Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing satellite broadcast networks lack the capability to download and verify remote record requests in near real-time, limiting subscribers' flexibility in recording programs at convenient times, especially for pay-per-view events or last-minute changes.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows subscribers to remotely request recordings through an interactive program guide via internet or wireless devices, with validation and insertion of requests into the satellite broadcast stream for immediate processing, and verification responses sent back to the subscriber via a communication channel, enabling near real-time recording control and conflict resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional satellite broadcast network architecture is used, then system stability and existing infrastructure compatibility are maintained, but the capability to download and verify remote record requests in near real-time is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the request processing function by introducing a dedicated remote record request processing module within the satellite broadcast center. This module handles validation, packet creation, and broadcast transmission separately from other system functions, enabling near real-time processing without overwhelming the entire system infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces MPT (Multi-Purpose Transport) packets as an intermediary mechanism to carry remote record requests from the satellite broadcast center to subscriber IRDs. These packets serve as a standardized vehicle for transmitting recording commands, enabling efficient communication without requiring direct complex connections between system components.
2Ease of operation
If remote record requests are processed in near real-time, then subscriber flexibility and service responsiveness are improved, but system reliability and request verification capability are challenged
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary validation of remote record requests at the satellite broadcast center before broadcasting them to subscriber IRDs. The processing module validates the request parameters, checks subscriber authorization, and ensures request integrity before inserting the request into MPT packets for transmission. This preliminary action ensures reliable verification while maintaining near real-time processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the subscriber's IRD receives the broadcast MPT packet, processes the remote record request locally, and sends a verification response back to the satellite broadcast center. This two-way communication confirms successful request execution or reports errors, enhancing system reliability while maintaining subscriber flexibility.
3Productivity
If traditional callback-based billing information transmission is used, then network infrastructure requirements are minimized, but service update speed and interactivity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the MPT packet structure multi-functional by using it for both software upgrades and remote record requests. This universal transport mechanism allows the system to deliver diverse types of data and commands through a single standardized channel, improving service update speed without requiring separate dedicated communication infrastructure for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
Near real time downloading and verifying of a subscriber's remote record request is provided to control a DVR using the existing satellite network. The insertion of the programming request into the continuous broadcast stream enables near real time processing of the request by a subscriber IRD to accommodate same day and even last minute remote programming requests. The use of a back channel to verify the request provides the subscriber with assurance that the request has been processed successfully and flexibility to change services on the fly.