Methods and apparatus for predictive delivery of content over a network

摘要

Methods and apparatus for optimizing bandwidth utilization in a cable network. In one embodiment, the method comprises predicting which content will be requested by a set of users based upon the exhibited viewing habits of those users (and/or others). A server process gathers viewership data comprising a listing of programs requested by users at various times of the day. The server process aggregates the viewership data, identifies patterns within the aggregated data, and extrapolates a schedule of programs likely to be requested. In certain embodiments, the server process additionally gathers the capabilities of each cable device in an associated subnetwork. Based upon these capabilities, and based upon the total bandwidth predicted to remain available in the network over a target broadcast period, the server process may also select an optimal compression scheme and video quality level before broadcasting a certain program.

主权项

1. A network apparatus adapted to determine which of a plurality of content elements to distribute over a content delivery network at a given future time, said apparatus comprising:
a storage element; and a processor, said processor configured to execute at least one computer program thereon, said computer program comprising a plurality of instructions which are adapted to when executed:
collect viewership data from a plurality of devices;determine individual ones of said plurality of content elements that are predicted to be requested by said plurality of devices at said future time based at least in part upon said viewership data;at said future time, generate a multiplexed stream comprising said individual ones of said plurality of content elements predicted to be requested by said plurality of devices at said future time equal to an available bandwidth;receive a request for content from at least one of said plurality of devices;determine whether said requested content is within said multiplexed stream currently being delivered to said plurality of devices; andwhen said requested content is within said multiplexed stream currently being delivered to said plurality of devices, provide a requesting device information to tune thereto, otherwise, selectively switch said requested content into said multiplexed stream.