Set-Top Box Software Delivery via Local Storage Pre-positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The initialization and upgrade processes of set-top terminals in cable television systems are time-consuming and resource-intensive, requiring significant technician time and potential service disruptions due to the need for downloading and installing software objects over a network, which will become more complex as services expand.
Innovation Solution
Pre-positioning software objects on local storage media or alternative networks, such as removable storage devices or local area networks, to reduce the reliance on network downloads, thereby shortening installation and upgrade times and minimizing service disruptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If software objects are downloaded over the cable network during initialization and upgrades, then the set-top terminal can be updated with new services and functionality, but the process becomes time-consuming and causes service disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning software objects on local storage media (such as removable storage devices or local area networks) before the initialization or upgrade process. This allows the set-top terminal to access software objects locally rather than downloading them over the cable network during the critical initialization or upgrade window, thereby reducing the time required and minimizing service disruptions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If software objects are downloaded over the cable network, then the set-top terminal can be upgraded, but network bandwidth is consumed and technician time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces technician time by pre-positioning software objects on local storage media before the technician arrives. This eliminates the need for the technician to wait during the download process, allowing them to complete initialization or upgrade tasks more quickly. The local storage approach enables parallel processing where multiple terminals can be serviced simultaneously without consuming network bandwidth during the technician's visit.
3Ease of operation
If the set-top terminal downloads software objects during initialization, then it can be provisioned with functionality, but the process is resource-intensive and slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the software object transfer process from the network dependency by using local storage media. This separates the software distribution function from the cable network, allowing initialization to proceed using local resources without consuming network bandwidth or causing network-related delays. The extraction principle enables the terminal to be provisioned independently of network conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A set top box is provided that includes an RF front-end for receiving programming content over a distribution communication network. A processor is operatively associated with the RF front-end and a storage device is operatively associated with the processor. An interface is provided for establishing communication with an external device. In response to a signal received from the distribution network over the RF front-front identifying at least one programming object to be downloaded thereto, the processor is configured to locate and receive the programming object from the external device through the interface.