Flow control method for quality streaming of audio/video/media over packet networks
US7274661B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 13, 2002 |
| Grant date | Sep 25, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 22, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N21/658
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for client-side detection of network congestion in a best-effort packet network comprising streaming media traffic is disclosed. Said method and apparatus provide for quality streaming media services in a congested network with constrained bandwidth over the last-mile link. A client media buffer detects at least one level of congestion and signals a server to enact at least one error mechanism. Preferred error mechanisms include packet retransmissions, stream prioritization, stream acceleration, changes in media compression rate, and changes in media resolution. Said method and apparatus allow distributed management of network congestion for networks comprising multiple clients and carrying significant streaming media traffic.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.