Fixed-Size Token Stream Control for Low-Resource Network Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stream control protocols are too resource-intensive for low-resource network devices, such as those with limited processing or buffering capabilities, making it difficult to implement media stream control in entertainment networks.
Innovation Solution
A token-based message format is used for data stream control, where each command is represented by a fixed-size and fixed-format token within a data packet, simplifying processing and reducing resource strain by eliminating the need for partial decoding and buffering management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional protocols (RTSP, DLNA) are used for media stream control, then comprehensive control functionality is achieved, but processing complexity and resource consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the control protocol from text-based variable-length strings to binary fixed-length tokens. Each command is represented by a fixed-size token (e.g., 4 bytes) with a predetermined format, eliminating the need for parsing variable-length text fields. This parameter change reduces processing complexity while maintaining control functionality, as fixed-length tokens can be processed more efficiently by low-resource devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, lightweight control messages that can be quickly generated and discarded. Instead of maintaining complex protocol states and managing lengthy text-based command structures, the system uses straightforward fixed-length tokens that require minimal processing and memory. These simple control objects are processed and discarded rapidly, reducing the computational burden on network devices with limited resources.
2Adaptability or versatility
If text-based protocols with variable-length strings are used, then flexible command representation is achieved, but buffering and memory management requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the command representation from variable-length text strings to fixed-length binary tokens. Each token has a predetermined size (e.g., 4 bytes) and format, which eliminates the need for dynamic memory allocation and buffering management. This parameter change allows low-resource devices to process commands with deterministic memory requirements, reducing buffering overhead while maintaining the ability to represent multiple command types through the fixed-format token structure.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If open connections to multiple devices are maintained, then continuous control capability is achieved, but connection management overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple, stateless control messages that do not require maintaining complex connection states. Each fixed-length token stands alone as a complete control instruction, eliminating the need for tracking connection states, session management, and coordinated multi-device protocols. This approach reduces connection management overhead while maintaining the ability to control multiple devices through straightforward token transmission.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for data stream control for network devices. Some embodiments of an apparatus include a receiver to receive a token for a command associated with a stream of data, where the command is one of multiple command types. The token has a fixed size and format, and the token is provided in a field of a data packet. The apparatus further includes a network unit to determine the type of command based on the token, to parse a set of fields in the data packet for command data, and implement the command.