Media Exchange Network for Third-Party Channel Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face limitations in accessing and managing media content due to restricted availability and limited programming options on traditional set-top-boxes and the internet, with pay-per-view services being time-limited and channel-limited.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for a media exchange network that allows users to request and transfer media from non-broadcast channel providers, using a processor to generate requests, provide payment/authorization, and present media in guides at multiple locations, enabling direct media transfer and consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users access media through traditional set-top-boxes, then media delivery is simplified, but media availability and programming options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a media exchange network as an intermediary layer between content sources and users. This network enables third-party media channel access without requiring users to directly manage complex storage and distribution systems. The media exchange network handles the complexity of media routing, authentication, and delivery, while providing simplified access points at user locations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pay-per-view programming is used, then programming variety is increased, but access time is limited to specified periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a request-based system where users can initiate media requests at any time. The media exchange network handles the timing and delivery scheduling automatically, allowing users to access programming options without being constrained by predetermined time slots. The system prepares and delivers media content on-demand rather than requiring users to order during limited windows.
3Adaptability or versatility
If media is stored at non-broadcast channel providers, then media variety is increased, but direct access requires complex authentication and transfer mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The media exchange network serves as an intermediary that simplifies access to stored media. It handles authentication, authorization, and media transfer automatically between the user's location and the non-broadcast channel provider's storage. Users simply make requests through the media guide interface without manually managing complex authentication protocols or transfer mechanisms.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple locations are supported for media consumption, then user flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the media distribution system into independent functional components: request generation at user locations, media exchange network processing, and content delivery from storage locations. Each location can independently generate requests and receive media without affecting other locations. The media exchange network manages the complexity of routing and coordination between multiple locations, allowing flexible access while maintaining manageable system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Certain aspects of the invention may be found in a method and system for providing media in a communication network and may comprise generating a request from a first location to receive media from a non-broadcast channel provider. Payment and/or authorization information may be provided to the non-broadcast channel provider and the media transferred from a storage location other than the non-broadcast channel provider to the first location. A representation of the received media may be presented in a media guide and/or a channel guide at the first location and the received media may be consumed at the first location. The method may further comprise the step of requesting that the received media be transferred from the storage location to a second location. An identifier of the second location may be transferred to the non-broadcast channel provider so that media may be transferred to the second location.