Linear Video Creation from Branched Interactive Content

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing interactive videos require custom players or software, making them inaccessible to viewers without the necessary tools, and they often have noticeable disconnects in audio and video between segments due to separate video segments being jumped to upon selection.

Innovation Solution

A method and system to create a linear, non-interactive video from branching interactive video, allowing viewers without the necessary software to experience a portion of the interactive video by traversing select paths in a video tree and combining video segments seamlessly, with options for path selection based on viewer attributes or random choice.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate video segments are used for interactive video paths, then viewers can make choices and navigate through predefined paths, but noticeable disconnects occur in audio and video between consecutive segments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinteractive video path selectionVSAvoidaudio-video synchronization
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that captures and records the graphical user interface (GUI) layer displayed during interactive video playback. This recorded GUI layer serves as a mediator that bridges the disconnect between separate video segments, creating seamless transitions by incorporating the visual interface elements (such as choice options and navigation elements) into the final linear video output. This eliminates the need for actual interactive jumps while preserving the appearance of interactivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a copy of the interactive video playback experience by recording the GUI layer and combining it with the underlying video content. Instead of using separate video segments that cause disconnects, the system captures the entire interactive playback as a continuous recording, including all visual transitions and interface elements. This copied representation maintains audio-video synchronization while preserving the interactive experience visually.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If custom players or specialized software are required for interactive video, then enhanced interactivity and path selection capabilities are achieved, but viewers without the necessary software cannot access the content

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinteractive video capabilitiesVSAvoidviewer accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal linear video copy of the interactive content by recording the GUI layer during playback. This copied linear video can be played on any standard video player without requiring custom software or specialized players. The interactive elements are captured as visual overlays, making the content accessible to all viewers regardless of their software capabilities while preserving the interactive experience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms interactive video content into a universally compatible linear video format that can be played on any standard device. By recording the GUI layer and combining it with the video content to create a single linear video file, the system enables the same content to be viewed interactively on capable devices or passively on any standard player, achieving multi-functionality and broad accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple video paths are created for different viewer attributes, then personalized viewing experiences are provided, but the complexity of video tree traversal and path selection increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepersonalized video pathsVSAvoidvideo tree traversal system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements an automated system that performs video tree traversal and path selection without requiring manual intervention. The system automatically analyzes viewer attributes (such as demographics, location, or behavior data) and autonomously selects the appropriate path through the video tree. This self-service approach handles the complexity of path selection internally, presenting users with a simplified experience while still providing personalized content based on their attributes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that use viewer attributes and playback behavior to dynamically determine path selection. The system monitors viewer characteristics and uses this feedback information to automatically navigate the video tree and select appropriate paths. This feedback-driven approach manages the complexity of multiple paths by using automated decision-making based on real-time viewer data, reducing the need for manual path configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11501802B2Systems and methods for creating linear video from branched video
Publication Date: 2022.11.15 JBF INTERLUDE 2009
  • US11501802B2 patent drawing
  • US11501802B2 patent drawing
  • US11501802B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Computer-implemented methods and systems for creating non-interactive, linear video from video segments in a video tree. Selectably presentable video segments are stored in a memory, with each segment representing a predefined portion of one or more paths in a traversable video tree. A linear, non-interactive video is automatically created from the selectably presentable video segments by traversing at least a portion of a first path in the video tree and, upon completion, is provided to a viewer for playback.