Methods and apparatus for revenue-optimized delivery of content in a network

摘要

Methods and apparatus for optimizing the distribution and delivery of multimedia or other content within a content-based network. In one embodiment, the network comprises a broadcast switched cable television network, which utilizes a Network optimization controller (NOC) that processes subscriber program viewing requests to identify options available to fulfill the request (including, e.g., the creation of one or more “microcasts” specifically targeting one or more users), and evaluate these options to determine one that optimizes network operation. The NOC performs these decisions by considering various parameters including network resource availability, type of CPE, subscriber's targeted advertisement profile, and business rules programmed by operator of the network.

主权项

1. A method of operating a content delivery network having a plurality of consumer premises equipment (CPE) associated therewith, said method comprising:
receiving a request for program delivery from one of said plurality of CPE; evaluating at least two possible delivery options for servicing said request,
said at least two possible delivery options comprising:
(i) creating a new program stream having content at least partly determined based on demographic, psychographic, or profile data associated with a user of said one of said plurality of CPE, and causing said one of said plurality of CPE to tune thereto; and(ii) causing said one of said plurality of CPE to tune to a pre-existing program stream having predetermined content not particularly selected for the user of said one of said plurality of CPE;said act of evaluating being performed based on:
at least one operational consideration of said network; anda historical pattern of bandwidth use of said one of said plurality of CPE; and based at least in part on said act of evaluating, performing one of said at least two possible delivery options in order to service said request.