Digital Video Recorder Automated Recording via Embedded Signal Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Digital video recorders (DVRs) are limited by electronic programming guides that can only provide scheduling information for programs up to a few weeks in advance, making it difficult for users to record programs not yet scheduled or outside the guide's date range, and require manual user input which can be cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
The system automates program recording by embedding scheduling information within the television signal's data stream, allowing the DVR to schedule recordings beyond the guide's limitations using embedded data or reference IDs, enabling users to record programs without relying on the guide or manual input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the electronic programming guide is used to schedule recordings, then the user can easily find and record programs within the guide's date range, but the user cannot record programs beyond the guide's limited date range (typically a couple of weeks)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the scheduling information delivery by separating the guide-provided information (for near-term programs) from embedded signaling information (for future programs). The DVR receives program identification data through multiple channels: traditional guide data for immediate scheduling and embedded signals in the broadcast stream for long-term program identification and automatic scheduling beyond the guide's date range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - embedded signaling information within the television signal itself - that acts as a mediator between the broadcast content and the DVR's scheduling system. This embedded data serves as a bridge that enables the DVR to automatically identify and schedule recordings for programs outside the traditional guide's date range without requiring manual user input.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the user manually schedules a recording by entering recording information, then the user can record programs not in the guide, but the process requires the user to execute multiple operations and have knowledge of the time period and channel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the DVR to automatically extract program identification information from embedded signals in the broadcast stream and autonomously create recording schedules. The system performs self-scheduling without requiring user intervention - the DVR monitors incoming signals, identifies program data embedded in the broadcast, and automatically programs recording tasks, thereby eliminating the need for users to manually input scheduling information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the DVR continuously monitors the broadcast stream for embedded signaling information, uses this information to automatically update its scheduling database, and adjusts recording schedules based on the received signals. This closed-loop feedback system enables automatic adaptation to new programs and schedule changes without user input.
3Device complexity
If the guide includes only scheduled programs, then the guide structure remains simple and manageable, but new programs not yet scheduled by the service provider cannot be recorded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by embedding program identification signaling information in advance within the broadcast stream itself. This allows the DVR to receive and store program identification data before the service provider officially schedules the program in the traditional guide. The embedded signals serve as advance notification, enabling the system to prepare for future recordings of new programs even before they appear in the conventional electronic programming guide.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system of providing access to television programs without requiring a user to operate an electronic programming guide or to independently determine information required to access the television program. Optionally, access to the television program may be facilitated by scheduling a recording of the televisions program or providing instructions to facilitate accessing an on-demand showing of the television program.