Dynamic Media Augmentation for Video Games
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing video games face challenges with embedded media content, such as music, which can become outdated and require costly manual updates due to licensing issues and storage constraints, limiting flexibility and performance.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for dynamically augmenting a computer program with media content by detecting the program's status and generating requests for media content, which are fulfilled by a server, allowing for real-time updates and licensing validation, enabling the output of media content via a user interface without the need for new executable versions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If media content is embedded into the game files, then the game can execute independently, but manual updates are required when content expires or becomes outdated, which is slow and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides media content into two parts: a lightweight client application that remains embedded in the game, and the actual media content (music, audio files) that is stored externally on a server. This segmentation allows the client to maintain independent execution while enabling rapid updates of media content without redistributing the entire game executable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary between the client application and the media content. The server stores the media content and provides it to the client upon request, eliminating the need for manual embedding of media files in the game executable and enabling dynamic updates without redistributing the game.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more content is included in the video game to prepare for future scenarios, then the game is more versatile, but the performance and size of the executable increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the media content from the game executable and stores it externally on a server. The client application only contains the necessary code to request and play media content, significantly reducing the executable size. Media content is downloaded only when needed, allowing the game to prepare for future scenarios without increasing the initial executable size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic content delivery model where media content is loaded on-demand based on the current game state and future scenario requirements. The client application can adaptively request different media content from the server, allowing versatility without requiring all possible content to be embedded in the executable.
3Reliability
If media content is embedded in the game, then the game is self-contained, but licensing compliance requires manual removal of content when licenses expire
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the client application automatically check license validity before requesting media content from the server. The server also validates licenses before providing content. This preliminary validation ensures licensing compliance is maintained automatically without requiring manual removal of content when licenses expire.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where the client application continuously monitors license status and communicates with the server to verify licensing compliance before accessing media content. The server provides feedback on license validity, enabling automatic compliance management without manual intervention to remove expired content.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method, apparatus, and computer program product for augmenting a computer program with media content. The method comprises: executing (200), by a client apparatus, a client application program; detecting (202) a status of the client application program; generating (204) a media content request based on the status of the client application program; obtaining (206), by the client apparatus, media content based the media content request; and causing the client apparatus to output (208) the media content via a user interface during executing the client application program.