Server-Mediated Streaming Network for Synchronized Multi-Device Playback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack the capability to provide synchronized streaming of audiovisual content across multiple client devices, including mobile devices, while allowing for real-time user interactions and control sharing.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising at least one server in communication with a user profile database, capable of communicating with client devices over a network, providing synchronized media streaming, enabling user interactions, and allowing control sharing and modification during media playback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional streaming technologies are used, then media can be transmitted to client devices, but synchronized playback across multiple devices cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where client devices transmit synchronization status information back to the server. The server uses this feedback to adjust media delivery timing and ensure synchronized playback across multiple devices. This feedback loop enables the server to compensate for network variations and device processing differences, achieving reliable synchronization without requiring complex client-side coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The server acts as an intermediary that coordinates media delivery to multiple client devices. Rather than requiring direct peer-to-peer synchronization between devices, the server mediates the synchronization process by centralizing timing control and coordination. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall system architecture while enabling reliable synchronized playback across diverse devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If real-time user interactions are enabled during media streaming, then collaborative viewing is improved, but network bandwidth requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments user interactions into different types based on their data size and importance. Critical interaction data (such as playback control commands and synchronization signals) is prioritized and transmitted efficiently, while less critical data (such as optional chat messages or reaction indicators) is transmitted only when necessary. This segmentation allows real-time interaction capability without proportionally increasing overall network bandwidth requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes transmission parameters based on interaction type and network conditions. For example, the system adjusts message frequency, data precision, and transmission priority based on the current interaction context. This parameter adaptation enables rich user interaction capabilities while optimizing network bandwidth usage by avoiding unnecessary data transmission during low-bandwidth conditions.
3Ease of operation
If control sharing between users is implemented, then collaborative viewing flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service control sharing where users can automatically transfer playback control to others through simple actions like sending control links or accepting control requests. The system automatically manages the control transfer process, including state synchronization and permission management, without requiring complex manual configuration. This self-service approach enables flexible control sharing while keeping the underlying system complexity hidden from users.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a system provides substantially synchronized streaming. The system comprises at least one server, in communication with a user profile database, and operable to communicate, over a network, with client devices connected to the Internet; and provide a media stream to the client devices such that the media stream is displayed, in a substantially synchronized manner, on display screens of the client devices.