{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854296","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854296","title":"Distributed system architecture for control of a set top box","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2011-12-15T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04N","H04N"],"num_claims":13,"abstract":"A distributed system architecture is described for control of a Set Top Box (STB). The architecture employs server software implemented as JSON middleware, and provided on the STB 32 as a local server, as well as on a Tooling Device 34 and a Control Application 36. The distributed system facilitates communication with the STB over a data network such as the internet. A remote client device running a browser 30 can interact with the STB 32 to access STB functionality 32. "},"analysis":{"summary":"The Distributed System Architecture for Control of a Set Top Box patent describes a novel system for controlling a set-top box (STB) using a distributed architecture. The core innovation lies in employing server software implemented as JSON middleware, which resides both on the STB as a local server and on tooling devices and control applications. This distributed setup facilitates seamless communication with the STB over a data network like the internet, enabling remote client devices running a browser to interact with and access STB functionalities. The problem being solved is the limitations of traditional STB systems, which often suffer from slow performance, limited scalability, and cumbersome user interfaces. This technology addresses these issues by distributing the processing load and enabling remote control via various devices.\n\nThe key technical approach involves using JSON middleware to standardize communication between the STB and remote devices. This middleware acts as a lightweight data-interchange format, ensuring interoperability and efficient data transfer. The STB functions as a local server, hosting the server software and managing core functionalities, while remote devices provide the user interface and control mechanisms. This division of labor optimizes resource utilization and enhances responsiveness.\n\nThe business value of this innovation lies in its potential to improve user experience, reduce support costs, and enable new services and features. The distributed architecture allows for faster response times, improved scalability, and remote diagnostics and maintenance. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and reduced operational expenses. Furthermore, the technology can be integrated with other smart home devices and services, creating a more unified and connected home entertainment experience.\n\nThe market opportunity for this technology is significant, given the growing demand for connected home entertainment solutions. As the number of users accessing streaming services and interactive content continues to increase, the need for more efficient and responsive STB systems will become even more critical. This technology is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and capture a significant share of the market.","layman_explanation":"The Distributed System Architecture for Control of a Set Top Box addresses the problem of slow and unresponsive set-top boxes. Existing solutions often rely on centralized servers and limited processing power, resulting in laggy interfaces and a poor user experience. This patent describes a new approach that distributes the processing load across multiple devices, improving performance and responsiveness.\n\nInstead of having one central computer doing all the work, this system uses a 'team' of devices. The set-top box itself becomes a mini-server, and your phone or tablet acts as the remote control. They communicate using a special language called JSON, which is like a simple and efficient way for devices to talk to each other. Imagine it like ordering food at a restaurant. Instead of shouting your order across the room, you write it down on a small note (JSON) and hand it to the waiter (the system), who quickly delivers it to the chef (the set-top box).\n\nThis matters because it makes your TV experience much smoother and more enjoyable. You can control your TV from any device, and the system is much faster and more reliable. This also opens up new possibilities for interactive content and personalized experiences. For businesses, this means happier customers, reduced support costs, and new revenue opportunities. The market impact is potentially significant, as this technology can be applied to a wide range of devices and services beyond just set-top boxes. It provides a competitive advantage by offering a superior user experience and enabling new business models.\n\nLooking ahead, this technology could be integrated with other smart home devices and services, creating a more seamless and connected entertainment experience. As the demand for streaming services and interactive content continues to grow, this technology is well-positioned to become a standard feature in modern set-top boxes. For investors, this represents an opportunity to invest in a technology that is transforming the future of home entertainment.","technical_analysis":"The Distributed System Architecture for Control of a Set Top Box patent introduces a distributed system architecture that leverages JSON middleware to facilitate communication and control of a set-top box (STB). The technical architecture comprises several key components: the STB itself, tooling devices, control applications, and remote client devices. The STB functions as a local server, hosting the server software and managing core functionalities. The tooling devices provide tools for managing and configuring the STB, while the control applications offer a user interface for controlling the STB.\n\nThe implementation details involve the use of JSON middleware to standardize communication between the STB and remote devices. JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a lightweight data-interchange format that facilitates seamless communication between different devices and platforms. The middleware handles the serialization and deserialization of data, ensuring efficient and reliable data transfer. The algorithm specifics involve the use of HTTP requests to access STB functionalities via APIs exposed by the server software. Remote client devices send HTTP requests to the STB, which processes the requests and returns responses in JSON format. The middleware handles the conversion of data between different formats, ensuring interoperability.\n\nThe integration patterns involve the integration of the STB with other smart home devices and services. The distributed architecture allows for easy integration with other devices via APIs. The performance characteristics of the system are optimized by distributing the processing load across multiple devices. The STB handles core functionalities, while remote devices handle the user interface and control mechanisms. This division of labor optimizes resource utilization and enhances responsiveness. The code-level implications involve the use of JSON libraries and HTTP client libraries to implement the communication protocols. Developers need to be familiar with these libraries to develop remote control applications and integrate the STB with other devices. The use of JSON also introduces security considerations, requiring robust measures to protect against unauthorized access and control.","business_analysis":"The Distributed System Architecture for Control of a Set Top Box patent presents a significant business opportunity in the rapidly evolving home entertainment market. The market opportunity size is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for connected home entertainment solutions and the growing popularity of streaming services and interactive content. The competitive advantages of this technology include improved user experience, reduced support costs, and the ability to offer new services and features. Traditional STB systems often suffer from slow performance, limited scalability, and cumbersome user interfaces. This technology addresses these issues, providing a more responsive and user-friendly experience.\n\nThe revenue potential for this technology is significant. Service providers can leverage this technology to offer new services and features, such as remote diagnostics and maintenance, personalized content recommendations, and integrated smart home control. These services can generate new revenue streams and increase customer loyalty. The business models that can be supported by this technology include subscription-based services, pay-per-view content, and advertising revenue. Service providers can offer different tiers of service based on the features and functionalities offered.\n\nThe strategic positioning of this technology is strong, given its ability to address the key challenges facing the home entertainment market. The distributed architecture allows for a more scalable and resilient system, while the use of JSON middleware simplifies the development of remote control applications and facilitates integration with other smart home devices. The ROI projections for this technology are attractive, driven by the potential for increased revenue, reduced support costs, and improved customer satisfaction. The initial investment in implementing this technology may be significant, but the long-term benefits are substantial. The technology is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for connected home entertainment solutions and generate significant returns for investors.","faqs":null,"topics":["set top box control"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Distributed System Architecture for Set Top Box Control - Patent US-9854296","description":"Discover the innovative Distributed System Architecture for Control of a Set Top Box. Revolutionizing TV control with JSON middleware & remote access. Full patent analysis here.","keywords":["set top box control"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854296","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854296","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Distributed system architecture for control of a set top box\" (US-9854296). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854296","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854296","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854296","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-31T01:07:28.400Z"}