Caching directives for a file delivery protocol

摘要

An extension to a file delivery protocol which permits the signaling of cache control information to a receiving device. Various embodiments of the present invention permit a server or other sending device to signal instructions regarding cache control to a receiving device using the file delivery protocol. This signaling may include information such as whether the receiving device should cache a file, how long the file should be cached for, and/or a cache priority assignment for the file. Various embodiments of the present invention may be particularly useful in the transmission of rich media content, where some content may be sent over RTP while other information is transmitted via the file delivery protocol.

主权项

1. A method, comprising:
preparing an extension mechanism in accordance with a file delivery protocol for at least one file, the extension mechanism including at least one instruction relating to the caching of the at least one file by a receiving device; and causing the extension mechanism to be transmitted including the at least one instruction to the receiving device using the file delivery protocol; wherein the at least one instruction comprises predefined and selectable cache control directives including a catche control directive that directs the receiving device not to cache the at least one file, a catche control directive that directs the receiving device to cache the at least one file for an indefinite period of time, and a cache control directive that directs the receiving device to cache the at least one file until an expected expiration time.