Optimizing object-based multimedia delivery across bandwidth constrained networks

In this study, we propose an object-based multimedia model for specifying quality of service (QoS) requirements, such as the maximum data-dropping rate or the maximum data-delay rate. We also present a resource allocation model, the net-profit model, in which the satisfaction of users' QoS requirements is measured by the net profit earned by the system. Based on the net-profit model, the system is rewarded if it can allocate enough resources to a multimedia delivery request and fulfill the QoS requirements specified by the user. At the same time, the system is penalized if it cannot allocate enough resources to a multimedia delivery request. The paper examines the problem of how to allocate a resource efficiently such that the QoS satisfaction is maximized, based on the net-profit model. We derive optimal scheduling schemes according to the QoS requirements specified by users. Partial data dropping can reduce the bandwidth consumption, while some important data for multimedia playback might be missed. Transmission delay allows transmitting more data with loose QoS requirements, but it might be unacceptable for real-time multimedia data. Thus, our scheduling policy is based on the hybrid scheme of the dropping and delaying policies.