Concept for Allocating Data Rates to Information Signal Providers in a Network

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent presents a novel system for dynamically distributing and trading data transmission rates among information signal providers (such as TV or content channels) in a network, particularly in digital broadcasting networks like DVB-H (Digital Video Broadcasting for Handheld devices). Instead of allocating fixed bandwidths, the invention establishes a trading platform (akin to a marketplace) where software agents, representing the various content providers, can buy or sell data rate units as needed according to real-time content requirements and current transmission costs. This fine-grained bandwidth allocation is managed via automated software components and a central broker, enabling efficient and cost-effective use of the available network capacity.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Dynamic allocation of streaming bandwidth in digital TV/radio networks (e.g., DVB-H, DVB-T).
• Optimizing transmission quality and cost for live event broadcasters (sports, concerts) based on scene complexity.
• Efficient content delivery for video-on-demand platforms or file download services during off-peak hours using low-cost excess capacity.
• Enabling service providers to buy guaranteed bandwidth in advance and top-up as needed for high-traffic events.
• Facilitating market-driven resource allocation in wireless or IP multicast networks.
• Supporting differentiated service levels for various content providers in shared network infrastructures.
• Reducing overall infrastructure waste by allowing real-time trading of unused bandwidth among providers.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Allows content providers to control and optimize their transmission costs relative to quality requirements in real time.
• Enables fine-tuned, highly granular allocation of network resources based on actual demand and content complexity.
• Reduces network resource wastage by enabling the sale or acquisition of unused or excess transmission capacity.
• Improves perceived service quality for end-users by adapting data rates to content needs (e.g., higher rates for action scenes).
• Introduces flexibility for network operators and providers to respond to unforeseen demand spikes (e.g., during live events).
• Supports both automated and manual adjustments of data rates, offering operational flexibility.
• Can lower entry barriers for smaller or temporary content providers by allowing them to acquire only the bandwidth they actually need.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

Distribution of data transfer rates in a network, especially in a DVB-H-network, via a trading system, similar to a market place, between information signal providers of the network. A trading platform comprising data transfer rate acquisition devices or software agents (200) and a data transfer rate allocation device or a data transfer rate intermediary (700) are used to control data transfer rates of the individual information signal providers (1000). Subscribers to the trading platform are the software agents or data transfer rate acquisition devices. These act on behalf of the information signal provider, taking on the trade with data transfer rates of the multiplexes, and thereby acquiring transmission capacities for the information signal services associated therewith.