Client Device Communication Protocol for Broadcast Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional client devices in broadcast systems lack efficient communication capabilities between multiple devices, limiting user interaction and remote control functions, such as setting timers or sharing program information, which are inconvenient and often require direct user intervention.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for client devices to communicate with each other via defined protocols, allowing users to initiate communications for functions like setting timers, ordering programs, or sharing preferences, with permission-based operations and group messaging, using existing communication channels like coaxial cables, satellite connections, or internet networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional client devices are used in broadcast systems, then device simplicity and ease of manufacture are maintained, but communication capability between multiple devices is limited and user interaction is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communication protocol as an intermediary mechanism that enables client devices to exchange information without requiring complex direct connections. The protocol acts as a mediator between devices, providing standardized rules for communication while maintaining device simplicity. This resolves the contradiction by adding communication capability through a structured protocol layer rather than complicating the devices themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication protocol is designed to be universally applicable across different client devices in the broadcast system. By creating a universal communication standard, the system enables multiple devices to interact seamlessly without requiring device-specific communication capabilities. This universality improves user interaction convenience while avoiding the need for complex device-specific communication hardware.
2Productivity
If direct user intervention is required for each device operation, then device control precision is maintained, but user time and productivity are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables devices to perform preliminary actions by automatically executing operations based on pre-configured communication protocols and user preferences. Devices can initiate communications, set timers, and share information without requiring real-time user intervention for each operation. This preliminary action capability significantly improves productivity while reducing the time users spend manually controlling each device.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication protocol enables client devices to serve themselves by automatically performing operations such as setting timers, ordering programs, and sharing preferences without continuous user intervention. Devices can independently communicate with each other and execute functions based on their own configurations, thereby improving user efficiency and eliminating time-consuming manual control for routine operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If communication protocols are defined for client devices, then communication capability and versatility are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication protocol is segmented into standardized, modular components that can be independently implemented and configured. By dividing the communication protocol into discrete, manageable segments, the system maintains high adaptability and versatility while simplifying the manufacturing and configuration process. Each segment can be independently optimized and tested, making it easier to manufacture devices that comply with the protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes within the communication protocol to enable versatility without increasing device complexity. By allowing configuration of communication parameters (such as data formats, transmission protocols, and addressing schemes) rather than requiring hardware changes, the system achieves high adaptability while maintaining ease of manufacture. Devices can be manufactured with standard components and then configured for different communication scenarios through parameter adjustment.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods may provide for communication between a plurality of client devices of a broadcast system. The communication may be, for example, a recommendation of a program that is communicated from one subscriber to another subscriber or subscribers via their client devices. The communication also may be a comment regarding a program, for example, recently viewed at the client device of the one subscriber. In general, the communication may be a message from one subscriber to another subscriber or subscribers. Further, the communication may be configured to perform a function on one or more other client devices. Such a function may include, but is not limited to, setting a timer to record a program, ordering or purchasing a program or service, cancelling an ordered/purchased program or service, setting or altering user preferences, controlling access to channels, etc