Strategies for Configuring Media Processing Functionality Using a Hierarchical Ordering of Control Parameters

Abstract

Strategies for effectively discovering, selecting, configuring, and controlling components used in media processing applications are described. According to one exemplary implementation, the strategies described configure the components based on profile information, configuration information, and a hierarchical ordering of configuration parameters. The hierarchical ordering may combine different coding paradigms, where one or more high level nodes in the ordering may define configuration parameters which are common to multiple coding paradigms. In this ordering, selection of a configuration parameter may cascade down to affect lower-ranking dependent parameters in the hierarchical ordering. According to one advantage, the hierarchical ordering provides a more uniform, extensible, and problem-free approach to configuring components than unstructured approaches to configuration. Moreover, applications can utilize the hierarchical ordering at different levels of granularity.

Description

REFERENCE TO COPENDING APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 11 / 172,251 entitled “Strategies for Configuring Media Processing Functionality Using a Hierarchical Ordering of Control Parameters” filed on Jun. 30, 2005 which is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 676,722 (the '722 Application), entitled “Systems and Methods for Interfacing Media Components,” filed on Sep. 30, 2003, and naming Glenn F. Evans et al. as inventors. Both Applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.[0002]A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.BACKGROUND[0003]Media processing applications sometim...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a method for organizing and controlling media components in a consistent and efficient way. This approach reduces the burden of analyzing and configuring components, while also allowing for flexibility and customization in different applications. The method also provides a simplified user interface, making it easier for users to interact with the applications. Additionally, the approach allows for easy integration of new parameters without requiring significant modification of the organization of the ordering. Overall, the patent describes a versatile and efficient tool for managing media components in sustained and successful applications.

Problems solved by technology

The approach also reduces the potential that a user (or an automated mechanism) will select and configure a combination of components that will produce an inconsistent state.

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