Mobile TV Guide Data Decoupling for Limited Screen Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile devices are not suitable for viewing interactive program guides (IPGs) due to limited screen size and computing resources, which restricts the amount of data that can be presented and complicates the display of complex data typical of IPGs.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a network component that receives IPG data from a server and a mobile client application that decouples program data from presentation logic, allowing the data to be displayed in a format suitable for mobile devices, including a mobile IPG database manager, web services interface, and transaction coordinator to ensure uninterrupted data availability and efficient query handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If IPG data is displayed on a mobile device using standard web browsers, then the device can access program guide information, but the limited screen size and computing resources prevent adequate presentation of complex IPG data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the IPG data presentation into modular components including program data, presentation logic, and user interface elements that can be independently managed and rendered. This allows the complex data to be broken down into manageable portions suitable for mobile device displays with limited screen real estate.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional approach by implementing a specialized mobile IPG client application that operates beyond standard web browser capabilities. This creates an additional layer of functionality tailored specifically for mobile devices, enabling comprehensive IPG data presentation despite physical screen limitations.
2Ease of operation
If standard web browsers are used on mobile devices to display IPG data, then basic access is possible, but the browsers cannot persist user data locally due to limited computing resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobile IPG database manager as an intermediary component that bridges the gap between limited mobile device storage capabilities and the need for persistent user data. This mediator handles data caching, local storage management, and synchronization with remote servers, enabling data persistence without overwhelming device resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local copies of IPG data and user preferences stored on the mobile device through the database manager. These local copies enable fast access and persistence of frequently used information while reducing the need for continuous network access and heavy processing of large data sets.
3Loss of information
If complex IPG data is presented on a mobile device, then comprehensive program information can be accessed, but the display becomes difficult to render with limited resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by optimizing different portions of the IPG data presentation for mobile devices. Critical program information is prioritized for display, while less essential data is available on-demand or in condensed formats. This allows complete information availability without requiring simultaneous display of all data elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic data loading and presentation where the IPG client application adapts its data retrieval and display based on current user interactions, device state, and network conditions. This dynamic approach allows comprehensive data access while managing processing complexity through lazy loading, incremental rendering, and intelligent data prioritization.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and methods for providing an interactive program guide (IPG) to a mobile device are disclosed. The system generally includes a network component which receives IPG data including program data, and a mobile device application component which receives program data from the network component and displays the program data on the mobile device. The methods may include providing a mobile IPG application to a mobile device, receiving IPG data including program data with a network component, transmitting the program data from the network component to the mobile device, and formatting the program data for the mobile device.