Media Viewer Counting Using Bluetooth LE Distance and Direction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems cannot accurately determine the number of viewers of media content in real-time, especially during events like sporting events or gatherings, as they rely on static surveys or assumptions, failing to account for dynamic viewer changes.
Innovation Solution
Media devices utilize Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) technology to scan for nearby user devices, determining distance and direction to count viewers, and associate devices with user profiles, enabling automatic detection and tracking of viewer presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If survey-based methods are used to determine viewer numbers, then data collection is simple, but the data is static and not reflective of real-time viewer changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual survey-based mechanical data collection with automatic wireless signal detection systems. Media devices continuously scan for Bluetooth Low Energy signals from user devices, automatically determining viewer presence and count without manual intervention, thereby achieving real-time dynamic measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables media devices to self-monitor viewer presence by automatically scanning for nearby wireless devices and processing the detection data. The media device independently performs viewer counting without external survey administration, providing continuous real-time updates.
2Measurement precision
If automatic device scanning is implemented, then real-time viewer detection is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages existing multi-functional smart devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops) that users already carry, which possess wireless communication capabilities. These universal devices serve both their primary functions and act as detectable markers for viewer presence, eliminating the need for specialized tracking hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses copies of device identifiers (Bluetooth addresses, device IDs) that are already present in users' personal devices. Instead of requiring new physical tracking devices, the system detects and processes copies of identification data from existing devices, simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Extent of automation
If wireless scanning technology is used, then viewer detection becomes automated, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic scanning intervals rather than continuous scanning. The media device performs wireless device detection at scheduled intervals, allowing the system to balance automation requirements with energy conservation by turning the scanning function on and off periodically rather than maintaining constant operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for detecting a number of viewers of a media device are disclosed. The methods comprise generating for display on the media device a media asset, initiating a first scan while displaying the media asset for nearby user devices within a detectable range, determining a number of nearby user devices, determining a direction and distance from the media device to each of the user devices, and determining the number of viewers of the media device currently consuming the media asset, based on the distance and direction of the user devices.