Interactive TV Synchronization Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interactive television (ITV) systems lack efficient automation for synchronizing interactive content with primary video content, especially for real-time integration and last-minute changes, relying on manual efforts and pre-broadcast preparation.
Innovation Solution
A system that automates synchronization of ITV content with TV programming using a playlist-based automation system, allowing real-time insertion of triggers and display of user feedback, enabling remote control of content insertion and feedback loop integration through existing broadcast equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual efforts are used to introduce real-time content into the broadcast signal, then flexibility for last-minute changes is achieved, but automation and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coordination system that acts as an intermediary between the ITV system and the broadcast signal. This system automatically receives synchronization information from the broadcast, determines when interactive content should be inserted, and triggers content delivery without manual intervention, thus achieving automation while maintaining adaptability for real-time changes
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the broadcast signal provides synchronization information back to the ITV system. This feedback loop enables automatic adjustment of content insertion timing based on actual broadcast conditions, allowing real-time adaptation while maintaining high automation levels
2Manufacturing precision
If pre-broadcast preparation is used to synchronize interactive content, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but preparation time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-synchronizing content with the broadcast schedule and preparing content in advance. However, it also incorporates real-time triggering mechanisms that activate content at the precise moment during broadcast, eliminating the need for lengthy manual preparation while maintaining synchronization accuracy through automated timing coordination
3Adaptability or versatility
If real-time content introduction is implemented, then viewer engagement is improved, but system complexity and coordination difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex coordination task into distinct functional modules: a synchronization module that receives broadcast timing information, a content delivery module that provides interactive content, and a coordination module that matches the two. This segmentation reduces overall system complexity by making each component's function clear and independent, while enabling real-time integration
Data Source
AI summary
A synchronization system and method coordinates the provision of interactive content provided in a broadcast signal and independently of a broadcast signal.