CN1393108A - Decreased idle time and constant bandwidth data-on-demand broadcast delivery matrices - Google Patents

Abstract

A method and system for a decreased idle time scheduling matrix (520) for a data file reduced into data blocks. A scheduling matrix is generated and idle time is filled with data blocks that appear later in the matrix, keeping with the original sequence of data blocks. This is then repeated (550), or equally a new decreased idle time scheduling matrix is created (560). Specially designed set-top boxes receive these data blocks.

Description

The data-on-demand broadcasting that reduces free time and constant bandwidth transmits matrix

Background technology of the present invention

Video request program (VOD) system is a type of data-on-demand (DOD) system.In the VOD system, video data file is offered one or more client computer by the network based requirement of server or server.Those skilled in the art fully understand these systems.

In the VOD of routine structure, server or server network and client communication also adopt the classification client-server model of standard.For example, client computer sends for the request of data file (for example video data file) and gives a server.Be the request of customer in response machine, this server sends this file of asking to this client computer.In the client-server model of standard, client computer can be satisfied by one or more server for the request of data file.This client computer can have the capacity of any data file that this machine of storage receives in nonvolatile memory, so that use these data files later on.The client-server model of standard requires two-way communication infrastructure.Current, two-way communication requires to set up new infrastructure, because existing cable provides unidirectional communication only.The example of two-way communication infrastructure is the optical fibre-coaxial cable (HFC) of mixing or all fiber basis facilities.The cost of changing existing cable is quite high, and the not most of users of the service that obtains can be affordable.

In addition, when ISP (for example wired company) attempted to provide VOD to serve to a large amount of client computer, the client-server model of this standard had many restrictions.A kind of restriction of the client-server model of this standard is that the ISP must realize a kind of structure, to monitor continuously and to satisfy each request from each client computer in this network; Therefore, the number of clients that can receive service depends on the capacity of a such structure.A kind of structure adopts massively parallel computer as home server, and it has the high-capacity and high-speed disk array.But, give about 1000 to 2000 client computer even the fastest existing home server transmits video data stream simultaneously only.Therefore, in order to serve more client computer, must increase the quantity of home server.Increasing home server requires more top service device is arranged so that keep control to home server.

The another kind restriction of the client-server model of standard is the bandwidth that each client computer requires it.Therefore, desired total bandwidth directly is proportional to the quantity of subscribing client computer.Cache in home server has been used to improve bandwidth constraints, but is to use cache not address this problem, because cache is also restricted.

At present, more can afford video-on-demand service in order to make the client, present service supplier increases the ratio of the client computer of each home server on the ability of home server.Typically, a home server can provide service to 1000 client computer, in fact will bear the service to 10,000 client computer.If most reservation client computer is book videos simultaneously not, this technology can be worked.But the foundation of this technology can cause fault because most client computer probably simultaneously (being night and weekend) to watch video, therefore, cause the home server overload that becomes.

Therefore, be desirable to provide a system, can in fact on any transmission medium, provide order program service needn't change existing infrastructure to a large amount of client computer.

General introduction of the present invention

In the embodiment of an example, at server end, a kind ofly be used to transmit data and give client computer: received data file so that provide the data-on-demand service method may further comprise the steps, fixed time at interval, resolving this data file according to this time interval is a plurality of data blocks, make that each data block is displayable during this time interval, determine to send the number of timeslots that this data file requires, give at least one first data block and optional one or more added block in these a plurality of data blocks of each time slot allocation, make during the when crack in office, the client computer of visiting this data file can obtain these a plurality of data blocks in order and send these a plurality of data blocks based on this allocation step.Among the embodiment, this analyzing step may further comprise the steps: determine the data block length of estimation, determine the length of gathering together (cluster) of the memory in channel server and resolve this data file based on the data block length of this estimation and the length of gathering together.In another embodiment, this determining step comprises the step of estimating resource allocation and bandwidth.

In the embodiment of an example, at client-side, a kind ofly be used to handle the data that receive from server: the selection information that (a) during first time slot, receives a data file so that provide the data-on-demand service method may further comprise the steps; (b) at least one data block of this data file of reception during second time slot; (c) during next time slot: receive not received as yet any data block, show the data block of this data file in order, and repeating step (c), be received and show up to all data blocks of this data file.Among the embodiment, be used to handle method from the data of server reception by carry out this in the set-top box of client-side.

In the embodiment of an example, data file is divided into a plurality of data blocks and produces a scheduling (scheduling) matrix based on these a plurality of data blocks.At server end, this dispatch matrix is provided for sending the order of transmission of these data blocks, makes client computer to visit these data blocks in order in the time at random.In the embodiment of an example, the method that is used to produce the dispatch matrix that is used for data file comprises step: (a) a plurality of data blocks [x] of received data file; (b) first variable [j] being set is zero; (c) second variable [i] being set is zero; (d) all clauses and subclauses of removing in a referential array; (e) at least one data block in the matrix position that is stored in [(i+j) mod x] row in the matrix is write a referential array, if this referential array does not also comprise this data block; (f) data block [i] is write the matrix position [(i+j) mod x, j] of this referential array and this matrix, if this referential array does not comprise this data block [i]; (g) second variable [i] increases progressively 1 and repeating step (e), equal this a plurality of data blocks [x] up to second variable [i]; (h) first variable [j] increases progressively 1 and repeating step (c), equal this a plurality of data blocks [x] up to first variable [j].In one embodiment, produce the dispatch matrix of each data file that is used for one group of data file, and, use convolution (convolution) method and produce the transmission matrix according to the dispatch matrix that is used to send this group data file.

A kind of data on demand system, comprise first group of channel server, be used to control this first group of channel server a central control server, be coupled to this first group of channel server first group of upconverter, be coupled to a combiner/amplifier of this first group of upconverter and be adapted to pass through the combiner/amplifier that transmission medium sends data.In the embodiment of an example, this data on demand system also comprises module, a switch matrix, second group of channel server and the second group of upconverter that is used to monitor a channel supervision of this system.This channel monitor module is reported to this central control server when the generation systems fault.This central control server is according to the report from this channel monitor module, send instruction to this switch matrix, so as with the channel server in second group of channel server replace first group in the channel server the failed channel server, and replace first group of fault upconverter in the upconverter with the upconverter in second group of upconverter.

A kind of data-on-demand service method that provides may further comprise the steps: the transmission matrix of calculated data file, send this data file according to this transmission matrix, and make a large amount of client computer can watch this data file as required.Among the embodiment, this data file comprises video file.

In another embodiment of the present invention, move on the data block by face under will transmitting in the matrix, can reduce the free time that in transmitting matrix, produces, be full and take whole bandwidth up to all time slots.In this mode, this transmission matrix is considered to keep the data flow on these initial matrix rank more.At any time the user can add this stream, as long as begin block when being received, just uses the data-on-demand service.

Because this matrix can be considered to a stream, the user can add (enter) this stream at any given time, as long as it begins to receive a begin block, to use this data-on-demand service, only need to wait for that it can be not longer than the predetermined time slot of initial transmission matrix.

Propose a kind of general STB in another embodiment of the present invention, it can receive and handle the multiple digital service such as VOD and digital broadcasting.This embodiment proposes a kind of general STB, and it has the structure of high flexible, can carry out complex process to the data that received.This structure comprises a data bus, be applicable to first communication equipment that is coupled to the digital broadcasting communication medium, generally comprise the CPU (CPU) of bidirectional coupled to memory of the lasting and transient state memory of this data/address bus and bidirectional coupled to this data/address bus.The CPU of this embodiment of the present invention realizes a kind of STB control and treatment, is used for control storage, digital decoder and demodulator.This STB control and treatment can be operated to handle numerical data, as the numerical data that receives at first communication equipment.This STB control and treatment should be able to receive the parallel flow of data block and such data block, and these data blocks derive from a dispatch matrix that reduces free time.

The accompanying drawing summary

Figure 1A explanation is the DOD system of an example according to an embodiment of the invention.

The DOD system of Figure 1B explanation example according to another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 2 illustrates the channel server of example according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 3 illustrates the set-top box of example according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 4 explanation is used to produce the process of the example of a dispatch matrix according to one embodiment of present invention.

Fig. 5 is the key diagram of an example of the dispatch matrix of one 6 data block file.

The key diagram of Fig. 6 illustrates the data block of the dispatch matrix among Fig. 6 and how up to move, be filled up to all idle time slots.

The key diagram of Fig. 7 illustrates the dispatch matrix of new minimizing free time.

Fig. 8 is the supplemental instruction figure of this minimizing free time embodiment.

Fig. 9 is a flow chart of realizing this minimizing free time embodiment.

The key diagram of Figure 10 is described a plurality of retransmitted data stream that produced by the initial schedule matrix.

Detailed description of the present invention

Figure 1A illustrates the DOD system 100 of an example according to an embodiment of the invention.In this embodiment, DOD system 100 provides the data file such as video file as required.But DOD system 100 is not limited to provide the video file of program request, also can provide other data file, for example game file as requested.DOD system 100 comprises a central control server 102, central memory 103, a plurality of channel server 104a-104n, a plurality of upconverter 106a-106n and a combiner/amplifier 108.Central control server 102 control channel servers 104.Central memory 103 is with the number format storing data files.In the embodiment of an example, be connected on this network and the computer that is authorized to (such as center Control Server 102) can be visited the data file that is stored in central memory 103 by standard network interface (for example Ethernet connection) by any.Each channel server 104 is assigned with a channel and is connected to upconverter 106.Channel server 104 provides from central memory 103 data retrieved files according to the instruction of central control server 102.The output of each channel server 104 is intermediate frequency (IF) signals of a kind of quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) modulation, has the frequency that is applicable to corresponding upconverter 106.The IF signal of these QAM modulation depends on accepted standard.Current is cable data system interface standard (DOCSIS) standard in U.S.'s accepted standard, and it requires the intermediate frequency of about 43.75MHz.Upconverter 106 will be transformed to radiofrequency signal (RF signal) from the intermediate-freuqncy signal that channel server 104 receives.The RF signal comprises frequency and bandwidth, and these RF signals depend on the channel and the accepted standard of expectation.For example, be used for the current standard of cable television channels 80 according to the U.S., the RF signal has the frequency of about 559.25MHz and the about bandwidth of 6MHz.The output of upconverter 106 is applied to combiner/amplifier 108.The RF signal of 108 amplifications of combiner/amplifier, adjusting and combined reception exports these signals to transmission medium 110 then.

In the embodiment of an example, central control server 102 comprises a graphical user interface (not shown), makes the ISP come data dispatching to transmit by drag and drop formula (drag-and-drop) operation.In addition, central control server 102 checkings and control channel server 104 are so that begin or stop according to transmitting matrix.In the embodiment of an example, central control server 102 automatically selects a channel and calculating to be used for sending at the channel of selecting the transmission matrix of data file.Central control server 102 provides that the off line to data fileinfo (for example duration, classification, rated value and/or concise and to the point narration) increases, deletion and upgrading.In addition, central control server 102 is controlled this central memory 103 by updated stored data file and database therein.

In the embodiment of an example, existing cable television system 120 can continue feed signal to combiner/amplifier 108 so that provide non-DOD to serve to client computer.Therefore, do not influence present cable TV service according to DOD of the present invention system 100.

Figure 1B explanation is according to the embodiment of another example of DOD of the present invention system 100.Except the unit shown in Figure 1A, this DOD system 100 comprises a switch matrix 112, channel monitor module 114, one group of backup channel server 116a-116b and one group of standby upconverter 118a-118b.In one embodiment, switch matrix 112 is in fact between upconverter 106 and combiner/amplifier 108.Switch matrix 112 is by central control server 102 controls.Channel monitor module 114 comprises the set-top box of a plurality of configurations, and it simulates potential client computer, is used to monitor the situation of DOD system 100.The result who monitors is sent to central control server 102 by channel monitor module 114.If it (is the channel server fault that the channel fault is arranged, upconverter fault or communication link fails), central control server 102 is by switch matrix 112 open failure parts and connect intact reserve parts 116 and/or 118 so that the service of restarting.

In the embodiment of an example, the data file of broadcasting from DOD system 100 is included in Motion Picture Experts Group (MPEG) file.Each mpeg file dynamically is divided into the data block and the sub-block of the specific part along the time shaft map to data file.Transmit matrix according to the three-dimensional that is provided by central control server 102, these data blocks and sub-block are sent out at predetermined time durations.For DOD system 100, it not is to have feedback channel optional that the DOD service is provided.But if feedback channel is available, this feedback channel can be used for other purpose, such as chargeing or Internet service being provided.

Fig. 2 illustrates the channel server 104 of example according to an embodiment of the invention.Channel server 104 comprises a controller server 202,204, QAM modulator of CPU (CPU) 206, a local memory 208 and a network interface 210.Controller server 202 is the whole operation of piece (further being divided into sub-piece and packet) control channel server 104 by order CPU204 dividing data file, select to be used for data block transmitted according to the transmission matrix that provides by central control server 102, the data that coding is selected, the data of compressed encoding, the data that transmit compression then are to QAM modulator 206.QAM modulator 206 receives by bus (being PCI, cpu local bus) or Ethernet and connects the data that send.In the embodiment of an example, QAM modulator 206 can comprise a descending QAM modulator, have a uplink orthogonal amplitude modulation(PAM)/Quadrature Phase Shift Keying (QAM/QPSK) pulse train demodulator and/or a up tuner of forward error correction decoder.The output of QAM modulator 206 is intermediate-freuqncy signals, can directly be applied to upconverter 106.

Network interface 210 is connected to channel server 104 other channel server 104 and is connected to central control server 102, so that carry out scheduling and control command from central control server 102, and give central control server 102 with status report and from central memory 103 received data files.According to before this data file of instruction process from controller server 202, can be stored in the local memory 208 of channel server 104 from any data file of central memory 103 retrievals.In the embodiment of an example, depend on bandwidth (for example 6,6.5 or 8MHz), QAM modulation (for example QAM64 or QAM256), and the compression standard/bit rate of DOD data flow (being MPEG-1 or MPEG-2) of cable channel, channel server 104 can send one or more DOD data flow.

Fig. 3 illustrates universal set-top box (STB) according to an embodiment of the invention (STB) 300.STB300 comprises a qam demodulator 302, CPU304, local memory 308, a buffer storage 310, have the decoder 312 of video and audio decoder ability, a fast data bus 322 of graphics overlay module 314, user interface 318, communication link 320 and these equipment as shown in the figure that are used to be coupled.The whole operation of the STB300 that CPU302 control is general, so as according to the request of client computer select data, the data that decompress decoding that data, decoding select, the data of (re-assemble) decoding of rearranging, storage decoding in local memory 308 or buffer storage 310 data, and the data that transmit storage to decoder 312.In the embodiment of an example, local memory 308 comprises non-volatile memory (for example hard disk drive), and buffer storage 310 comprises volatile memory.

In one embodiment, qam demodulator 302 comprises the transmitter and receiver module and with in the lower member one or more: secret encrypting-decrypting module, forward error correction decoder/encoder, control tuner, descending and upstream processor, CPU and memory interface circuit.Qam demodulator 302 receives these signals of intermediate-freuqncy signal, sampling and demodulation of modulation so that restore data.

In the embodiment of an example, when visit was licensed, decoder at least one data block of 312 decodings was so that this data block of conversion is for being presented at the image of output screen.Decoder 312 supports from the order of subscribing client computer, such as play, stop, time-out, stepping, playback, forward or the like.The data that decoder 312 provides decoding to output equipment 324 so that use by client computer.Output equipment 324 can be any suitable equipment, such as television set, computer, any suitable display monitor, VCR (video cassette recorder) or similar devices.

For example, graphics overlay module 314 improves the display graphics quality by alpha blended (alpha blending) or picture-in-picture performance are provided.In the embodiment of an example, during the pattern of playing games, graphics overlay module 314 can be used for figure to be quickened, for example, and when the ISP adopts system according to the invention that the recreation order program service is provided.

User interface 318 makes the user can control STB 300, and can be any suitable equipment, such as remote controller, keyboard, smart card or the like.Communication link 320 provides additional communicating to connect.This can be coupled to another computer, perhaps can be used for realizing two-way communication.Preferably a kind of " fast " data/address bus that can buy of data/address bus 322 is applicable to according to the real-time mode of requirement of the present invention and carries out data communication.Suitable examples is USB (USB), live wire (firewire) or the like.

In the embodiment of an example,, have only those DOD users can decode and enjoy the data-on-demand service with compatible STB 300 though data file is broadcast to all cable TV subscribers.In the embodiment of an example, the permission that obtains the order program data file is to obtain by the smart card system in user interface 318.Smart card can be to charge on local shop or the automatic vending machine by ISP's setting.In the embodiment of another example, unified Fare Collection System provides unrestricted access to all data files that can obtain to the user.

In a preferred embodiment, the mutual feature of order program data allows client computer whenever to select available data file.When client computer is pressed selection key and the time quantum between the data file broadcast start time of selection be called the response time.Because so that DOD to be provided service, this response time becomes short more to distribute many more resources (for example bandwidth, server capacity).In the embodiment of an example, can determine the response time according to the estimation of resource allocation and the service quality of expectation.When making up with the embodiment that places first data block in parallel flow, it only is the factor that begins to receive and handle the time of this first data block that the response time becomes.

In one embodiment, the quantity of the data block of each data file (NUM_OF_BLKS) can be calculated as follows:

Estimated_BLK_Size＝(DataFile?Size ^*TS)/DataFile_Length???(1)

BLK?SIZE＝(Estimated?BLK?Size+CLUSTER?SIZE-1Byte)/CLUSTER_SIZE??????????????????????????????????????????????????(2)

BLK_SIZE_BYTES＝BLK_SIZE ^*CLUSTER_SIZE????????????????????(3)

NUM_OF_BLKS＝DataFile_Size+BLK_SIZE_BYTES-1Byte)/BLK_SIZE_BYTES?????????????????????????????????????(4)

In (4), Estimated_BLK_Size is the block length of estimating (is unit with the byte) at equation (1); DataFile_Size is data file length (is unit in byte); TS represents the duration (is unit with the second) of time slot; DataFile_Length is the duration (is unit with the second) of data file; BLK Size is the quantity of gathering together that each data block needs; CLUSTER_SIZE is the length of gathering together (for example 64K byte) in the local memory 208 of each channel server 104; BLK_SIZE_BYTES is to be the block length of unit with the byte.In this embodiment, the quantity of piece (NUM_OF_BLKS) equals data file length (is unit with the byte) and adds with the byte to be that the data block length of unit deducts 1 byte and divided by being the data block length of unit with the byte.Equation (1) to (4) illustrates a certain embodiments.It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other method can be used for the quantity of the data block of calculated data file.For example, the dividing data file is that many data blocks mainly are the estimation block length and the functions of length of gathering together of the local memory 208 of channel server 104.Therefore, the present invention should in no way limit the certain embodiments for proposing above.

Fig. 4 explanation according to one embodiment of present invention, produce an instantiation procedure of the dispatch matrix that is used to send data file.In the embodiment of an example, this invention uses time division multiplexing (TDM) and frequency division multiplex (FDM) technology to transmit in server end compression and tentation data.In the embodiment of an example, for each data file produces a dispatch matrix.In one embodiment, each data file is divided into many data blocks, and produces this dispatch matrix based on these a plurality of data blocks.Typically, dispatch matrix is provided for sending the order of transmission of the data block of data file from server to client computer, like this, at random time by any client computer of wishing the visit data file addressable these data blocks in order.

In step 402, receive a plurality of data blocks (x) of a data file.The first variable j is set to zero (step 404).Remove a referential array (step 406).Referential array is followed the tracks of the data block that is used for the internal control purpose.Then, j and x compare (step 408).If j is less than x, second variable i is set to zero (step 412).Then, i and x compare (step 414).If i is less than x, the data block that is stored in [(i+j) mod (x)] row of dispatch matrix is written into this referential array (step 418).If referential array has had such data block, then do not write the copy of repetition.At first, because dispatch matrix does not have clauses and subclauses, this step can be skipped.Then, if it comprises data block i, check referential array (step 420).At first, because all clauses and subclauses in referential array have been eliminated in step 406, in this referential array, do not had whatever.If referential array does not comprise data block i, data block i adds matrix position and this referential array (step 422) of dispatch matrix it [(i+j) mod (x), j].After data block i was added into this dispatch matrix and this referential array, i increased progressively 1, made i=i+1 (step 424) to repeat up to i=x then in step 414 process.If referential array comprises data block i, i increases progressively 1, makes i=i+1 (step 424) to repeat up to i=x then in step 414 process.When i=x, j increases progressively 1, makes j=j+1 (step 416), and repeats up to j=x in this process of step 406.Finish whole process when j=x (step 410).

In the embodiment of an example, if a data file is divided into six data blocks (x=6), dispatch matrix and referential array are as follows:

Dispatch matrix (SM)

??TS0	TS1	TS2	TS3	TS4	TS5
						??[0，0]b1k0	[1，0]b1k1	[2，0]b1k2	[3，0]b1k3	[4，0]b1k4	[5，0]b1k5
??[0.1]	[1，1]b1k0	[2，1]	[3，1]	[4，1]	[5，1]
						??[0，2]	[1，2]	[2，2]b1k0	[3，2]b1k1	[4，2]	[5，2]

????[0，3]	??[1，3]	????[2，3]	[3，3]b1k0	??[4，3]	[5，3]b1k2
						????[0，4]	??[1，4]b1k3	????[2，4]	[3，4]	??[4，4]b1k0	[5，5]b1k1
????[0，5]	??[1，5]	????[2，5]	[3，5]b1k4	??[4，5]	[5，5]b1k0

Referential array (RA)

	Space0	space1	space2	space3	space4	space5
							?TS0	b1k0	b1k1	b1k2	b1k3	b1k4	b1k5
?TS1	b1k1	b1k0	b1k2	b1k3	b1k4	b1k5
							?TS2	b1k2	b1k0	b1k3	b1k1	b1k4	b1k5
?TS3	b1k3	b1k1	b1k0	b1k4	b1k5	b1k2
							?TS4	b1k4	b1k0	b1k5	b1k2	b1k1	b1k3
?TS5	b1k5	b1k2	b1k1	b1k0	b1k3	b1k4

The application's annex A is described in the process step by step of this instantiation procedure shown in Fig. 4, produces above-mentioned dispatch matrix and referential array in this instantiation procedure.In the embodiment of this example, based on top dispatch matrix, six data blocks of this data file send with following sequence:

TS0????＝>b1k0

TS1????＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k3

TS2????＝>b1k0，b1k2

TS3????＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k3，b1k4

TS4????＝>b1k0，b1k4

TS5????＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k2，b1k5

In the embodiment of another example, can utilize (look-ahead) process of going ahead of the rest to calculate and go ahead of the rest dispatch matrix so that before the access time of precognition, send the data block of the predetermined quantity of data file.For example, if predetermined first line time is the duration of a time slot, for any time slot more than or equal to timeslot number 4, the data block 4 (b1k4) of data file should subscribed client computer, received at TS3 or before TS3 by STB 300, but does not play b1k4 before TS4.Produce in advance that the process steps of dispatch matrix is substantially similar to the process steps of describing about Fig. 4 above-mentioned, except in this embodiment dispatch matrix in advance based on the time scheduling transmission sequence early in advance.Suppose that a data file is divided into six data blocks, the transmission sequence of an example is based on dispatch matrix in advance and have the first line time of the duration of two time slots, and this transmission sequence can be expressed as follows:

TS0＝>b1k0

TS1＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k3，b1k4

TS2＝>b1k0，b1k2

TS3＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k3，b1k4，b1k5

TS4＝>b1k0，b1k5

TS5＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k2

It is according to the dispatch matrix generation of each data file of this group data file that the three-dimensional that is used to send one group of data file transmits matrix.Transmit in the matrix in this three-dimensional, produce a third dimension, it comprises the ID of each data file that is used for this group data file.Calculate this three-dimensional and transmit matrix, so that the available bandwidth that effectively utilizes in each channel transmits a plurality of data flow.In the embodiment of an example, convolution method well known in the art is used to produce three-dimensional transmission matrix so that dispatch effective transmission of one group of data file.For example, convolution method can comprise following strategy: the data block total number that sends in the duration in (1) when crack (TS) in office should keep minimum possible quantity; (2) if can obtain the solution of a plurality of parts with respect to strategy (1), preferred solution is the data block that sends at any data block that sends with reference to the duration of time slot, in front the duration of time slot (with respect to this with reference to time slot) by addition and the data block that sends at the duration of next time slot (with respect to this with reference to time slot), thereby has the solution of minimal data piece sum.For example, suppose that an example system sends the data file M and the N of two weak points, here each data file is divided into six data blocks, and is as follows based on the transmission sequence of dispatch matrix:

TS0＝>b1k0

TS1＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k3，b1k4

TS2＝>b1k0，b1k2

TS3＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k3，b1k4

TS4＝>b1k0，b1k4

TS5＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k2，b1k5

Be applied in the convolution method of above-described example, the possible combination that transmits matrix is as follows:

Option 1: 0TS sends the total data block of video file N in skew

TS0＝>M0，N0????????????????????????????????2

TS1＝>M0，M1，M3，N0，N1，N3????????????????6

TS2＝>M0，M2，N0，N2????????????????????????4

TS3＝>M0，M1，M3，M4，N0，N1，N3，N4????????8

TS4＝>M0，M4，N0，N4????????????????????????4

TS5＝>M0，M1，M2，M5，N0，N1，N2，N5????????8

Option 2: 1TS sends the total data block of video file N in skew

TS0＝>M0，N0，N1，N3????????????????????????4

TS1＝>M0，M1，M3，N0，N2.???????????????????5

TS2＝>M0，M2，N0，N1，N3，N4????????????????6

TS3＝>M0，M1，M3，M4，N0，N4????????????????6

TS4＝>M0，M4，N0，N1，N2，N5????????????????6

TS5＝>M0，M1，M2.M5，N0?????????????????????5

Option 3: 2TS sends the total data block of video file N in skew

TS0＝>M0，N0，N2????????????????????????????3

TS1＝>M0，M1，M3，N0，N1，N3，N4????????????7

TS2＝>M0，M2，N0，N4????????????????????????4

TS3＝>M0，M1，M3，M4，N0，N1，N2，N5????????8

TS4＝>M0，M4，N0????????????????????????????3

TS5＝>M0，M1，M2，M5，N0，N1，N3????????????7

Option 4: 3TS sends the total data block of video file N in skew

TS0＝>M0，N0，N1，N3，N4????????????????????5

TS1＝>M0，M1，M3，N0，N4????????????????????5

TS2＝>M0，M2，N0，N1，N2，N5????????????????6

TS3＝>M0，M1，M3，M4，N0????????????????????5

TS4＝>M0，M4，N0，N1，N3????????????????????5

TS5＝>M0，M1，M2，M5，N0，N1，N2????????????6

Option 5: 4TS sends the total data block of video file N in skew

TS0＝>M0，N0，N4?????????????????????????????3

TS1＝>M0，M1，M3，N0，N1，N2，N5?????????????7

TS2＝>M0，M2，N0?????????????????????????????3

TS3＝>M0，MI，M3，M4，N0，N1，N3?????????????7

TS4＝>M0，M4，N0，N2?????????????????????????4

TS5＝>M0，M1，M2，M5，N0，N1，N3，N4?????????8

Optional 6: 5TS sends the total data block of video file N in skew

TS0＝>M0，N0，N1，N2，N5?????????????????????5

TS1＝>M0，M1，M3，N0?????????????????????????4

TS2＝>M0，M2，N0，N1，N3?????????????????????5

TS3＝>M0，M1，M3，M4，N0，N2?????????????????6

TS4＝>M0，M4.N0，N1，N3，N4??????????????????6

TS5＝>M0，M1，M2，M5，N0，N4?????????????????6

Application policy (1), option 2,4 and 6 have the highest quantity (i.e. 6 data blocks) of the minimal data piece that sends during the when crack in office.Application policy (2), transmission matrix best in the embodiment of this example is an option 4 because option 4 have any data block with reference to time slot add near the sum (i.e. 16 data blocks) of minimum of data block of time slot.Therefore, embodiment hereto, preferably, the transmission sequence of data file N should be offset three time slots.In the embodiment of an example, for each channel server 104 produces a three-dimensional matrix that transmits.

When sending the data block of each data file according to the transmission matrix, a large amount of reservation client computer can be visited this data file at random time, and the suitable data block of this data file is in time available to each reservation client computer.In the example that provides, suppose that the duration of a time slot equals 5 seconds in the above, DOD system 100 transmits matrix (being three time slots of transfer sequence of offset data file N) sends data file M and N in following mode data block according to this best:

Time 00:00:00=〉M0 N0 N1 N3 N4

Time 00:00:05=〉M0 M1 M3 N0 N4

Time 00:00:10=〉M0 M2 N0 N1 N2 N5

Time 00:00:15=〉M0 M1 M3 M4 N0

Time 00:00:20=〉M0 M4 N0 N1 N3

Time 00:00:25=〉M0 M1 M2 M5 N0 N2

Time 00:00:30=〉M0 N0 N1 N3 N4

Time 00:00:35=〉M0 M1 M3 N0 N4

Time 00:00:40=〉M0 M2 N0 N1 N2 N5

Time 00:00:45=〉M0 M1 M3 M4 N0

Time 00:00:50=〉M0 M4 N0 N1 N3

Time 00:00:55=〉M0 M1 M2 M5 N0 N2

If at time 00:00:00, a client computer A selects film M, and is as follows in the STB of client computer A 300 receptions, storage, broadcast and refusal data block:

Time 00:00:00=〉reception M0=broadcast M0, store M 0.

Time 00:00:05=〉reception M1, M3=broadcast M1, store M 0, M1, M3.

Time 00:00:10=〉reception M2=broadcast M2, store M 0, M1, M2, M3.

Time 00:00:15=〉reception M4=broadcast M3, store M 0, M1, M2, M3, M4.

Time 00:00:20=〉do not receive=broadcast M4, store M 0, M1, M2, M3, M4.

Time 00:00:25=〉reception M5=broadcast M5, store M 0, M1, M2, M3, M4, M5.

If at time 00:00:10, a client computer B selects film M, and is as follows in the STB of client computer B 300 receptions, storage, broadcast and refusal data block:

Time 00:00:10=〉reception M0, M2=broadcast M0, store M 0, M2.

Time 00:00:15=〉receive M1, M3, M4=broadcast M1, store M 0, M1, M2, M3, M4.

Time 00:00:20=〉do not receive=broadcast M2, store M 0, M1, M2, M3, M4.

Time 00:00:25=〉reception M5=broadcast M3, store M 0, M1, M2, M3, M4, M5.

Time 00:00:30=〉do not receive=broadcast M4, store M 0, M1, M2, M3, M4, M5.

Time 00:00:35=〉do not receive=broadcast M5, store M 0, M1, M2, M3, M4, M5.

If at time 00:00:15, a client computer C selects film N, and is as follows in the STB300 of client computer C reception, storage, broadcast and refusal data block:

Time 00:00:15=〉reception N0=play N0, store N0.

Time 00:00:20=〉reception N1 N3=play N1, store N0, N1, N3.

Time 00:00:25=〉reception N2=play N2, store N0, N1, N2, N3.

Time 00:00:30=〉reception N4=play N3, store N0, N1, N2, N3, N4.

Time 00:00:35=〉do not receive=play N4, store N0, N1, N2, N3, N4.

Time 00:00:40=〉reception N5=play N5, store N0, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5.

If at time 00:00:30, a client computer D also selects film N, and is as follows in the STB of client computer D 300 receptions, storage, broadcast and refusal data block:

Time 00:00:30=〉receive N0, N1, N3, N4=play N0, store N0, N1, N3, N4.

Time 00:00:35=〉do not receive=play N1, store N0, N1, N3, N4.

Time 00:00:40=〉reception N2, N5=play N2, store N0, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5.

Time 00:00:45=〉do not receive=play N3, store N0, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5.

Time 00:00:50=〉do not receive=play N4, store N0, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5.

Time 00:00:55=〉do not receive=play N5, store N0, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5.

Shown in top example, any combination of client computer can be selected independently and begins to play any data file that is provided by the service provider in the time at random." reception " of top indication makes us being misinterpreted as this system a little all the time in the Continuous Flow that receives by this time slot established data piece, but at any set point, the STB that is receiving may only require some data block, has received and stored the data block of other reception.This need be called as " reception " in the above, and what still possibility was more accurate is to be called as " not refusing ".Therefore, " receiving M4 " can be called " all refusing " except M4, and " not receiving " can be called " all refusals " better.

Be understandable that in the example from above that during certain time slot, available bandwidth fails to be fully utilized.Particularly during at least some time slots, there is " free time " of not transmitting.This free time is a kind of distinctive invalid use of available bandwidth.Let us is an example with option 4 recited above, wherein sends two data blocks during corresponding time slot.In other words, in having the time slot that is applicable to the bandwidth that sends six data blocks, between four data block transmission periods still there is the free time.Though this is not serious in option 4, when becoming, data file is called thousands of data blocks when big, and it becomes more fierce.Even adopt the best of breed agreement to be used for data splitting, the block space part of bigger sky may still be arranged.

Therefore the bandwidth that this empty block space equals not to be used is the bandwidth that is not fully utilized.An object of the present invention is to reduce free time as much as possible, therefore, one embodiment of the present of invention are to carry out another step after determining dispatch matrix, are called herein and reduce the free time dispatch matrix.

An example model that reduces the free time dispatch matrix can illustrate with reference to six above-mentioned block dispatching matrixes, but here repeated for convenience.For the sake of clarity, can utilize free time during bandwidth sends data block be expressed as "＜--〉:

TS0????＝>b1k0，<-->，<-->，<-->

TS1????＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k3，<-->

TS2????＝>b1k0，b1k2，<-->，<-->

TS3????＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k3，b1k4

TS4????＝>b1k0，b1k4，<-->，<-->

TS5????＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k2，b1k5

This illustrates with diagrammatic form in Fig. 5.During most time slot, dispatch matrix clearly has the not utilized bandwidth with the free time form.The present invention proposes to utilize the constant bandwidth from the time slot to the time slot to reduce this free time.Be used to realize that by constant bandwidth reducing the key in idle transmission time is a condition, the transfer sequence of these data blocks must be observed, and the accurate time slot of transmission block is incoherent, unless this data block must be received before the time that it must be visited or in this time.Therefore, according to the transfer sequence that proposes by dispatch matrix with do not consider, by in each time slot, sending the data block of constant number, the utilization of realization constant bandwidth by this dispatch matrix distributed time slot.

In the six block dispatching matrixes of Xiang Ximiaoshuing, there is relatively large free time in the above in TS0, TS1, TS2 and TS4.For example, suppose of the transmission of the constant bandwidth of this expectation corresponding to four data blocks of each time slot.Therefore, reduce this free time, be scheduled for during each time slot up to four data blocks and transmit by moving forward data block.For this reason, this process is to take off a data block in order, and it is moved to empty space.So example hereto, first b1k0 in TS1 is moved to TS0.Next piece b1k1 among the TS1 also by on move.Then because TS0 still has empty data block space, from the b1k3 of TS1 also by on move.The institute that has of TS0 has living space and is filled then, looks now similarly to be:

TS0???＝>b1k0，b1k0，b1k1，b1k3

The major part of TS1 and TS2 is empty now, so data block is up moved from TS3.In case finish this sequence, this matrix looks picture:

TS0???＝>b1k0，b1k0，b1k1，b1k3

TS1???＝>b1k0，b1k2，b1k0，b1k1

TS2???＝>b1k3，b1k4，b1k0，b1k4

TS3???＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k2，b1k5

TS4???＝>

TS5???＝>

This also expresses scheming in Fig. 6.Empty is filled by repeating this initiation sequence simply with incomplete time slot (as TS4 and TS5 in this example), still fills this free time simultaneously.Therefore the first six time slot will be rendered as:

TS0???＝>b1k0，b1k0，b1k1，b1k3

TS1???＝>b1k0，b1k2，b1k0，b1k1

TS2???＝>b1k3，b1k4，b1k0，b1k4

TS3???＝>b1k0，b1k1，b1k2，b1k5

TS4.??＝>b1k0，b1k0，b1k1，b1k3

TS5???＝>b1k0，b1k2，b1k0，b1k1

In this sequence, two following time slot TS6 have the data block identical with TS2 and TS3 with TS7.Therefore in fact produced new, short dispatch matrix by this process, only four time slots are long now.The chart of Fig. 7 is described by filling this new repetition matrix that free time produces.

As can be seen, as long as follow initial order, the user can receive this data file now in advance from the example that provides in the above, and is different with the timely transmission of initial dispatch matrix.As long as starting block b1k0 is received, a user even can enter the time slot in the middle of the system and just bring into use these data.

In this mode, time slot mainly becomes a kind of calculation assumption, because this data block becomes continuous stream, and can transfer in this system and begins to receive data any some user of this stream.As can see from Figure 8, this additional step is relative simple steps 510, carries out at 410 places, end of this process.

For simplicity, the explanation of Fig. 4 to Figure 10 relates to a situation, and selected here bandwidth is set to a constant, and equals integer number of data blocks.But this constant bandwidth does not need to equal integer number of data blocks.On the contrary, only require transfer sequence to observe sequence as forming among Fig. 8.Then, the data flow that is produced by the transfer sequence that forms among Fig. 8 offers subordinate's hardware device (for example network interface card or channel server), the broadcasting of this Equipment Control numerical data.This subordinate's hardware device will send data as much as possible in distributing to the bandwidth of this document, rather than the broadcasting integer number of data blocks.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that extraction rank (abstractionlevel), do not worry actual transfer of data at transfer sequence.On the contrary, this transmission matrix provides this sequence, the broadcasting of the bandwidth control data that this subordinate's hardware device utilization distributes.Therefore comprise that the bandwidth of a fraction of distribution of data block length can be utilized fully.In case utilized the bandwidth of this distribution, this subordinate equipment will suspend this specific data file of broadcasting, till bandwidth is available again.General operation

The ISP can dispatch and send a plurality of data files (for example video file) and give channel server before broadcasting.Central control server 102 calculates and sends the three-dimensional matrix (ID, time slot and data block order of transmission) that transmits and gives channel server 104.During broadcasting, channel server 104 transmits matrix with reference to this three-dimensional and sends suitable data block with suitable order.Each data file is divided into data block, so that a large amount of reservation client computer can begin to watch data file at random time continuously and in order independently.The data block length of data file depends on the bit rate of the data flow of duration of selected time slot and this data file.For example, in the mpeg data stream of constant bit rate, each data block has fixing length:

Block length (Mbytes)=bit rate (Mb/s) * TS (second)/8 (1)

In the embodiment of an example, data block length is adjusted to the next one of local memory 208 of channel server 104 than the memory of the high power length of gathering together.For example, if the data block length that calculates according to top equation (1) is the 720K byte, if then the length of gathering together of local memory 208 is 64K bytes, the data block length that obtains should be the 768K byte.In this embodiment, data block should further be divided into a plurality of sub-pieces, and each sub-piece has the length identical with this length of gathering together.In this example, this data block has the sub-piece of 12 64K bytes.

Sub-piece can further be decomposed into packet.Each packet comprises a packet header and grouped data.Grouped data length depends on that the CPU of each channel server transmits the maximum transfer unit (MTU) of the physical layer of data.In the preferred embodiment, the total length of packet header and grouped data should be less than this MTU.But in order to make the efficient maximum, grouped data length should be long as far as possible.

In the embodiment of an example, data in the packet header comprise any received data of STB 300 decoding that allows intended client, and determine whether this packet belongs to the information of selected data file (protocol characteristic mark for example, version, ID or packet type information).Packet header also may comprise out of Memory, such as skew (offset) and/or the coded message in piece/sub-piece/packet count, block length, Cyclic Redundancy Check and the sub-piece.

In case channel server 104 has been received packet, it just is sent to QAM modulator 206, and here, another title is added to this packet to produce intermediate frequency (IF) output signal of QAM modulation.Available bandwidth is depended in Maximum Bit Rate output for QAM modulator 206.For example, for the QAM modulator 206 with 6MHz bandwidth, maximum bit rate is 5.05 (bits/sym) * 6 (MHz)=30.3 megabit per seconds.

The intermediate-freuqncy signal of QAM modulation is sent to upconverter 106, so that be converted into the RF signal (for example being used for cable television channels 80,559.250MHz and 6MHz bandwidth) that is suitable for particular channel.For example, if cable network has high bandwidth (perhaps bit rate), each channel can be used for providing an above data flow, and each data flow takies a virtual subchannel.For example, three MPEG1 data flow can be fit to use the 6MHz channel of QAM modulation.The output of upconverter 106 is applied to combiner/amplifier 108, and it sends the signal of combination to transmission medium 110.

In the embodiment of an example, the total system bandwidth (BW) that is used for sending " N " data flow is BW=N * bw, and bw wherein is the bandwidth that each data flow requires.For example, three MPEG-1 data flow can be that a DOCSIS wire message way of 30.3 megabit per seconds sends by having system bandwidth simultaneously, because each MPEG-1 data flow takies the system bandwidth of 9 megabit per seconds.

Usually, bandwidth is occupied, and no matter in fact visit the quantity of the reservation client computer of this DOD service.Therefore, using DOD service, still occupied program request (on-demand) ability of bandwidth even without subscribing client computer to guarantee this system.

In a single day STB 300 connects, with regard to the program guide in the local memory 308 that receives and update stored in STB 300 continuously.In the embodiment of an example, STB 300 shows the data file information that is included in the up-to-date program guide on the video screen.Can comprise film ID, movie name, explanatory note (with multilingual), classification (for example action movie, film for children), classification (for example R level, PG13 level), wired company policy (for example length of price, free charge preview), scheduled period, film poster and movie preview such as the data file information of video file information.In the embodiment of an example, the transmission of data file information is by a dedicated channel, such as upgrading for firmware update, advertisement and/or the channel that keeps of emergency information.In the embodiment of another example, transmission information in the physical channel of sharing by other data flow.

Subscribe the data available lists of documents that client computer can watch category to arrange on video screen.When this client computer is selected one of them data available file, its hardware of STB 300 control be tuned to corresponding physical channel and/or virtual subchannel, to begin to receive the packet of this data file.STB 300 checks each header of the data packet, data in these packets of decoding and determine whether keep the packet that is received.If STB 300 determines a data grouping and should not keep, then abandons this packet.Otherwise this grouped data is stored in the local memory 308, is used for later retrieval or temporarily is stored in buffer storage 309 till it is sent to decoder 312.

For fear of read/write local memory 308 is to improve operational efficiency continually, in the embodiment of an example, as possible, STB 300 just uses " sliding window " expection technology-locking anticipatory data piece in storage buffer 310.If hit (hit) in the expection window takes place, data block directly is sent to decoder 312 from storage buffer 310.If expection does not occur, before data block is transferred into decoder 312 from storage buffer 310, read these data blocks to storage buffer 310 from local memory 308.

In the embodiment of an example, STB 300 by infrared ray (IR) remote controller button, infrared ray (IR) keyboard or comprise that the front panel button response of button subscribes the order of client computer so that time-outs, slow motion broadcast, playback, amplification and single step execution.In the embodiment of an example, during preset time, do not import any operation (program guide or selection classification or film for example roll) if subscribe client computer, then automatically play predetermined advertising programme.When the reservation client computer provides an operation (for example pressing a button on the remote controller), automatically stop the advertising programme of being scheduled to.In the embodiment of another example, STB 300 can automatically insert advertising programme during displaying video.ISP (for example wired company) can set up price strategy, and the regulation advertising programme should interrupt the frequent degree of in progress video.

If in header of the data packet, find the emergency information bit, the hardware that it was operated and controlled to any Data Receiving of STB 300 time-outs is tuned at the channel that keeps for received data file information, to obtain any emergency information and decoding, reach this information of demonstration on output screen.In the embodiment of an example, when STB 300 was the free time, it was tuned to the channel that keeps for received data file information, and was ready to receive any emergency information all the time and shows at once.

The embodiment of the example explanation examples more of the present invention of front, those skilled in the art can be expressly understood other embodiment, variation and modification from the embodiment of these examples.So the specific embodiment that the invention is not restricted to discuss in the above, but limit by claim.

Claims (35)

1, a kind of computer implemented generic broadcasted method, comprise the step of preparing to transmit matrix, this transmits the matrix. definition data transfer sequence, be applicable in nonspecific client computer mode to a plurality of client computer broadcasting demand data, therefore, the transmission bandwidth that the transmission requirement of described order program data file is an amount of, the quantity of it and described a plurality of client computer is irrelevant.

2, according to the computer implemented method of claim 1, wherein, produce the step that transmits matrix and may further comprise the steps:

Preparation is suitable for first dispatch matrix of the transmission of first data file, described first data file is represented by more than first data block, described first dispatch matrix provides first sequence, be used for sending in order in time slot described more than first data block, the mode that is adopted makes any client computer that receives the transmission of described first data file according to described first dispatch matrix can begin to visit described first data file in a time slot.

3, according to the computer implemented method of claim 2, wherein, described first dispatch matrix is the constant bandwidth dispatch matrix.

4,, wherein, be scheduled for during distributing bandwidth from the constant data volume of described more than first data block and transmit according to the computer implemented method of claim 3.

5, according to the computer implemented method of claim 4, wherein, the control of the transmission during distributing bandwidth is carried out by subordinate's hardware device.

6, according to the computer implemented method of claim 3, wherein, described first dispatch matrix is the dispatch matrix of a bandwidth varying.

7, a kind of computer implemented method is used to produce dispatch matrix constant bandwidth, that reduce free time, is applicable to the order program data that transmits nonspecific client format, said method comprising the steps of:

Generation is applicable to a dispatch matrix of the transmission of first data file, described first data file is represented by more than first data block, described first dispatch matrix is provided for sending in order first sequence of described more than first data block in time slot, the mode that is adopted makes any client computer that receives the transmission of described first data file according to described first dispatch matrix can begin to visit described first data file in a time slot;

Determine the constant transmission bandwidth of expectation, wherein, described constant bandwidth is used to sequence ground according to the described first dispatch matrix described data block that flows then.

8, the computer implemented method of a kind of control universal set-top box (STB) (STB) said method comprising the steps of:

Receive numerical data and the electronic program guides (EPG) that is illustrated in the character of the data that send in each channel of described a plurality of channel in a plurality of channels, wherein, first channel of described a plurality of channels comprises the order program data program that order program data is provided with nonspecific client format, the described EPG that represents described order program data program comprises first data file of being represented by more than first data block, described more than first data block is provided in time slot in order, and the mode that is adopted makes the user of described universal STB at any time to begin, described first data file of visit in a time slot;

The described user of described EPG data to described universal STB is provided;

Receive data processing instructions from the described user of the described universal STB that requires to visit described first data file; With

Realization is from the described user's of described universal STB described instruction.

9, computer implemented method according to Claim 8, wherein, realization comprises following substep from the described step of the described user's of described universal STB instruction:

Tuning described STB is to described first channel, so that selection is by the data of described user's request;

Handle described more than first data block that receives, described processing comprises at least one following processing:

The decode data block of described reception;

The data block of described reception decompresses;

When needing, the rearrange data block of described reception; With

In the local memory of data block store in described STB with described reception; And

The output equipment that provides described first data file to select to described user by described universal STB.

10, according to the computer implemented method of claim 9, wherein said output equipment is a television set.

11, according to the computer implemented method of claim 9, wherein said output equipment is a display monitor.

12, according to the computer implemented method of claim 9, wherein said output equipment is a video cassette recorder (VCR).

13, according to the computer implemented method of claim 9, wherein said output equipment is a computer system.

14, computer implemented method according to Claim 8, wherein, described more than first data block is that the mode with constant bandwidth is provided, and receives the data block of constant number during each time slot.

15, a kind of computer implemented conventional data broadcasting method may further comprise the steps:

Carry out following steps at the conventional data broadcast system:

Prepare the transmission matrix of definition of data transfer sequence, be applicable in nonspecific client computer mode to a plurality of client computer broadcasting demand data, therefore, the transmission bandwidth that the transmission requirement of described order program data file is an amount of, it has nothing to do with the quantity of described a plurality of client computer;

First channel server that is applicable to by the first channel transmission order program data is provided;

Before data broadcasting, preparation is used to transmit described first channel server of order program data information, described first channel server of described preparation comprises step: retrieve described transmission matrix in the memory of described first channel server and retrieval by the scheduling of described transmission matrix and the data block that is used for transmitting described memory to described first channel server;

Send electronic program guides (EPG), comprise the information of order program data comprising described first channel of indication; With

Send data from described first channel and described second channel; And

Carry out following steps in universal STB:

Receiving digital data is comprising data in described first channel and described EPG;

The user of described EPG data to described universal STB is provided;

Reception is from the described user's data processing instruction of described universal STB; With

Execution is from the described user's of described universal STB described instruction.

16, according to the computer implemented method of claim 15, wherein, produce the step that transmits matrix and may further comprise the steps:

Preparation is applicable to first dispatch matrix of the transmission of first data file, described first data file is represented by more than first data block, described first dispatch matrix is provided at first sequence that sends described more than first data block in the time slot in order, and the mode that is adopted makes any client computer that receives the transmission of described first data file according to described first dispatch matrix can begin to visit described first data file in a time slot.

17, according to the computer implemented method of claim 16, wherein, described first dispatch matrix is the constant bandwidth dispatch matrix.

18, according to the computer implemented method of claim 17, wherein, described more than first data block of constant number is scheduled for the transmission during each time slot.

19, according to the computer implemented method of claim 15, wherein, described first dispatch matrix is a bandwidth varying dispatch matrix.

20, a kind of data transmit matrix, comprising:

A data file that is divided into a plurality of data blocks;

Described a plurality of data block is arranged to the order of being determined by following steps:

A) dividing described data file is described a plurality of data block;

B) first variable being set is zero;

C) remove referential array;

D) sum of more described first variable and described a plurality of data blocks;

E) be zero if described first variable less than the sum of described a plurality of data blocks, then is provided with second variable;

F) sum of more described second variable and described a plurality of data blocks;

G) if described second variable less than the sum of described a plurality of data blocks, with be stored in dispatch matrix one row in one or more storage data blocks write described referential array, determine described row by [(i+j) mod (x)], wherein i is described second variable, j is described first variable, and x is described a plurality of data block;

H) if described referential array has had at least one data block of described storage data block, then do not write triplicate;

I) check whether described referential array comprises corresponding to described second variable;

J) if described referential array does not comprise the described data block corresponding to described second variable, then described data block is added to described referential array and described dispatch matrix, its position is the position that equals [(i+j) mod (x), j] in described matrix, and described second variable increment 1;

K) if described referential array comprises the described data block corresponding to described second variable, then described second variable increment 1;

L) repeating step g) to k), equal the sum of described data block up to described second variable;

M) described first variable increment 1;

N) repeating step c) to m), equal the sum of described data block up to described first variable; With

O) reconfiguring described dispatch matrix is a stream;

Wherein, described order reaches on a media and sends in recurrent signal, and this media has the bandwidth of distributing to described data file, and wherein said bandwidth is fully used by described recurrent signal.

21, transmit matrix according to the data of claim 20, wherein, the described step that reconfigures described dispatch matrix and be a stream comprises the size of the described bandwidth of determining to distribute to described data file.

22, transmit matrix according to the data of claim 21, wherein, the size of determining to distribute to the described bandwidth of described data file makes described minimization of band width.

23, transmit matrix according to the data of claim 21, wherein, the size of determining to distribute to the described bandwidth of described data file makes described bandwidth maximization.

24, a kind of data communication system has from transmitting a plurality of data transport stream that matrix obtains according to the data the claim 20, and wherein, described data file comprises a plurality of different data files.

25, a kind of computer implemented method of transmitting the order program data file may further comprise the steps:

Prepare one and transmit matrix, this transmits defined matrix retransmission data transfer sequence, is applicable on media and broadcasts with non-specific manner to a plurality of client computer;

Wherein, the described step of preparing described transmission matrix further comprises: data file is decomposed into data block with at least the first and described data block is arranged to a described retransmission data transfer sequence;

Wherein, when being received for described first, the user just can receive described retransmission data transfer sequence, and beginning is used described data file in continual mode;

Wherein, described retransmission data transfer sequence requires a predetermined bandwidth, in addition therein, is arranged the free time of non-minimum in the transmission of described retransmission data transfer sequence; With

Therefore, the transmission bandwidth that the transmission requirement of described data-on-demand file is an amount of, the quantity of it and described a plurality of client computer is irrelevant.

26, according to the computer implemented method that is used to transmit the order program data file of claim 25, wherein, described retransmission data transfer sequence converts the dispatch matrix of new minimizing free time to.

27, according to the computer implemented method that is used to transmit the order program data file of claim 25, wherein, described transfer of data sequence has constant bandwidth.

28, according to the computer implemented method that is used to transmit the order program data file of claim 27, wherein, the described data block of constant number is scheduled for the transmission during each time slot.

29, according to the computer implemented method that is used to transmit the order program data file of claim 27, wherein, described transfer of data sequence has bandwidth varying.

30, a kind of computer implemented conventional data broadcasting method may further comprise the steps:

Prepare to transmit matrix, this transmits the matrix. definition data transfer sequence, be applicable in nonspecific client computer mode to a plurality of client computer broadcasting demand data, therefore, the transmission bandwidth that the transmission requirement of described order program data file is an amount of, the quantity of it and described a plurality of client computer is irrelevant, and wherein, the use of described an amount of transmission bandwidth is optimized fully;

First channel server is provided, and it is applicable to by the first channel transmission order program data;

Before data broadcasting, prepare described first channel server and be used to transmit order program data information, described first channel server of described preparation comprises step: retrieve described transmission matrix in the memory of described first channel server and retrieval by the scheduling of described transmission matrix and the data block that is used for transmitting described memory to described first channel server;

Send electronic program guides (EPG), comprise the information of order program data comprising described first channel of indication; With

Send data from described first channel and described second channel;

And, in a universal set-top box (STB) (STB), carry out following steps:

Receiving digital data is comprising data in described first channel and described EPG;

The user of described EPG data to described universal STB is provided;

Reception is from the described user's data processing instruction of described universal STB; With

Execution is from the described user's of described universal STB described instruction.

31, according to the computer implemented method of claim 30, wherein, produce the step that transmits matrix and may further comprise the steps:

Preparation is applicable to first dispatch matrix of the transmission of first data file, described first data file is represented by more than first data block, described first dispatch matrix provides one first sequence, be used for sending in order in time slot described more than first data block, the mode that is adopted makes any client computer that receives the transmission of described first data file according to described first dispatch matrix can begin to visit described first data file in a time slot.

32, according to the computer implemented method of claim 31, wherein, described first dispatch matrix is the constant bandwidth dispatch matrix.

33, according to the computer implemented method of claim 32, wherein, described more than first data block of constant number is scheduled for the transmission during each time slot.

34, according to the computer implemented method of claim 30, wherein, described first dispatch matrix is a bandwidth varying dispatch matrix.

35, a kind of computer implemented method is used to the dispatch matrix that produces constant bandwidth, reduce free time, is applicable to nonspecific client format and transmits order program data, said method comprising the steps of:

Generation is applicable to first dispatch matrix of the transmission of first data file, described first data file is represented by more than first data block, described first dispatch matrix provides one first sequence, be used for sending in order in time slot described more than first data block, the mode that is adopted makes any client computer that receives the transmission of described first data file according to described first dispatch matrix can begin to visit described first data file in a time slot;

Determine the constant transmission bandwidth of an expectation, wherein, the data block that described constant bandwidth is the constant number that transmit, that be defined by each time slot defines; With

For next time slot, select a plurality of data blocks to be used for transmission in order, these data blocks equal the data block of the constant number that limited, in case whole first sequence of data block has been scheduled for transmission, be circulated back to the beginning of described first sequence of data block, wherein, the use of described constant bandwidth is fully optimized.

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