Apparatus and methods for utilizing variable rate program streams in a network
US8559465B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 9, 2011 |
| Grant date | Oct 15, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 15, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L2007/045
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Apparatus and methods for transparently using otherwise wasted bandwidth associated with variable-rate program streams to deliver additional content. In one embodiment, the network comprises a broadcast switched architecture (BSA), and the program streams are loaded up to a target rate using “null” packets and then delivered over the network infrastructure to a plurality of hub sites. The streams are then unloaded to reproduce the original variable streams, and the bandwidth vacated by removal of the null packets used as the transport mechanism for additional (e.g., non time-sensitive) content to be delivered to the subscribers. The process can also be substantially automated and anticipatory (through, e.g., transmission of null bit insertion data downstream). The invention can also advantageously be implemented with minimal modifications to existing infrastructure, and supports business and operational supervisory processes. Network server, QAM modulator, and CPE apparatus implementing the aforementioned methodologies are also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.