Set-Top Box Remote Server Application Upgrade
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Solution Overview
Problem
The synchronization of software versions between a set-top box (STB) client application and a media server application on a computing device is often unsynchronized due to the need for user authorization for upgrades on the computing device, which may not be readily provided, leading to discrepancies in digital content presentation on a television.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that enables a client application on the STB to remotely initiate a software upgrade for the media server application on a computing device within the same network, using a discovery server and application server to manage software versions and facilitate automatic upgrades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automatic upgrade is implemented on STB client application, then software version synchronization is improved, but user authorization requirement for media server application upgrade causes version discrepancy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a session manager as an intermediary component that mediates between the STB client application and the media server application. The session manager receives upgrade authorization from the user via the STB's user interface and forwards it to initiate the server application upgrade, thereby bridging the authorization gap between automatic STB upgrades and manual server upgrades.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the STB client application continuously monitors the version status of the media server application and compares it with the latest available version. When a version discrepancy is detected, the system provides feedback to the user through the STB interface, prompting them to authorize the server upgrade to maintain synchronization.
2Ease of operation
If manual upgrade authorization is required on computing device, then upgrade control is improved, but upgrade timing synchronization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by having the STB client application continuously check for available upgrades and prepare upgrade packages in advance. When the user provides authorization through the STB interface, the pre-prepared upgrade can be immediately deployed to the media server, reducing the time delay between authorization and actual upgrade execution.
3Productivity
If STB client application is upgraded automatically, then software updates are improved, but device interoperability deteriorates due to version mismatch
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback monitoring where the STB client application periodically checks the media server application's version status. When a version mismatch is detected, the system provides feedback to the user through the STB interface, enabling them to authorize a server upgrade to restore interoperability and compatibility between devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A client application, executed on a set-top box with a local network, detects that a media server application, executed on a computing device within the local network, is eligible for a software upgrade. The set-top box provides, based on the detecting, an interactive prompt, on a separate television display, to request authorization for the software upgrade. The set-top box receives user input, via a remote control, authorizing the software upgrade and provides, to the media server application on the computing device, a signal for the media server application to initiate the software upgrade.