Channel List Navigation for Previously Viewed Content
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote controls and video tuning devices limit users to navigate only a single previously viewed channel, lacking an efficient method to access multiple previously viewed channels.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that maintains a channel list in memory, allowing users to navigate through multiple previously viewed channels using a user interface with 'previous' and 'next' channel selection keys, enabling selection and tuning of channels within the list displayed on a graphical user interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single last channel selection key is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates because users can only navigate to one previously viewed channel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the channel navigation function by providing separate keys for different navigation directions (first direction key for backward navigation, second direction key for forward navigation) and a third key for returning to the currently viewed channel. This segmentation allows users to access multiple previously viewed channels in different directions without requiring a complex menu system, thereby improving ease of operation while keeping the device complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by maintaining a history of previously viewed channels in memory before the user needs to navigate. The system automatically stores channel information as users view different channels, so when navigation keys are pressed, the data is already prepared and ready for immediate retrieval. This eliminates the need for users to manually enter channel numbers or search through menus, improving ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If multiple navigation keys are added to enable forward and backward channel navigation, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing direction keys that serve multiple functions: they can navigate through previously viewed channels in different directions, and when combined with other keys (such as volume or channel keys), they can trigger additional functions like returning to the current channel or accessing channel information. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated keys for each function, improving ease of operation while limiting the increase in device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes receiving, at a computing device, input indicating a request to view a list. The list includes multiple elements, each of the elements corresponding to respective video content. The method also includes sending the list to a display device in response to the request, where the elements of the list are ordered based on a display order of the respective video content.