Cell Phone to Set Top Box Video Streaming via Intermediary Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of convenient methods for delivering real-time video and audio content from a cell phone to friends and family without requiring the use of computers or video conferencing systems, especially using existing set top boxes and cell phones.
Innovation Solution
The method involves establishing a video and audio session between a cell phone and a set top box, allowing users to stream video and audio content in real time to a customer premise device, with the option for bidirectional audio and using IP signaling or video on demand sessions, and includes digital rights management for privacy control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If video and audio content is streamed from cell phone to set top box, then real-time sharing capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling existing set top boxes to perform multiple functions - not only traditional cable TV delivery but also receiving real-time video streams from mobile devices. The set top box becomes a multi-functional device that handles both conventional and innovative content delivery methods, eliminating the need for separate dedicated hardware for video sharing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a server component that mediates between the mobile device and the set top box. This server handles the complex tasks of receiving video data from the mobile device, processing it, and forwarding it to the appropriate set top box, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture and reducing direct device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If existing set top boxes are used for video streaming, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling existing set top boxes to perform multiple functions - not only traditional cable TV delivery but also receiving real-time video streams from mobile devices. The set top box becomes a multi-functional device that handles both conventional and innovative content delivery methods, eliminating the need for separate dedicated hardware for video sharing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the set top box adaptable to different content delivery modes. The system can dynamically switch between traditional cable TV reception and mobile device video streaming based on user needs and available content sources, providing operational flexibility without requiring multiple dedicated devices.
3Productivity
If real-time video streaming is implemented, then productivity is improved, but loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using demand-based video streaming where content is transmitted only when requested and needed. Rather than continuous broadcasting, the system establishes connections and streams video on-demand from mobile devices to set top boxes, reducing unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining high productivity when content delivery is required.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for allowing a telephone user to share captured audio and/or video with a set top box user are described. The methods and apparatus of the present invention can be implemented without the need for a called party to support video conferencing and/or have a computer system. In various embodiments a telephone call is used to first contact a party to who content from a telephone may be streamed, e.g., in real time. Assuming the contacted party is interested a video session is established with a STB or other device corresponding to the called party and video content delivered from the cell phone. Audio may also be streamed with the video and/or the initial telephone call is maintained while video content is delivered allowing for bi-direction communication via the calling party and called party's telephones.