Multi-Camera Broadcast Management With Synchronized Broadcast Maps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional video broadcast systems are expensive and complex, making them unsuitable for amateur broadcasters, and lack tools for real-time control, editing, and management of multiple video streams from different camera angles.
Innovation Solution
A broadcast management system that allows users to create synchronized broadcasts from multiple video streams using consumer-grade cameras, utilizing a user-friendly interface for managing and streaming videos, and storing broadcast decisions in a broadcast map for later reproduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If professional broadcast systems are used to manage multiple video streams, then broadcast quality and control capability are improved, but system cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the professional broadcast director's room functionality through software. The system replicates the ability to manage multiple video streams, switch between cameras, and control broadcast timing without requiring physical broadcast equipment. The server software simulates the director's control panel and video switching capabilities, allowing amateur users to access professional-grade broadcast control through a computer interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical and hardware-based professional broadcast system with a software-based solution. Instead of using physical broadcast switches, monitors, and control panels, the system uses software running on standard computers to manage video streams. The broadcast decisions are recorded as data in a broadcast map file, eliminating the need for physical broadcast equipment while maintaining the same functional capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If professional broadcast systems are used to manage multiple video streams, then real-time control capability is improved, but operational cost increases due to trained personnel requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables amateur broadcasters to independently manage their own video streams without requiring professional broadcast operators. The system provides automated features such as automatic video synchronization, automated switching based on pre-programmed broadcast maps, and self-contained control interfaces that require no specialized training. Users can record their own broadcast decisions during events and replay them automatically, eliminating the need for hired professionals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows users to pre-program broadcast sequences and camera switching patterns before events occur. Broadcast maps are created in advance that specify which video streams should be active and when switches should occur. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for real-time manual control during events, allowing amateur users to manage broadcasts automatically without requiring trained operators to make split-second decisions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple video cameras are used to capture live events, then broadcast content quality and variety are improved, but video stream synchronization and management become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a central server as an intermediary that manages all video streams from multiple cameras. The server receives video feeds from various sources, synchronizes them to a common time reference, and coordinates the switching between different camera angles. This central mediation simplifies the complexity by providing a single point of control rather than requiring direct coordination between multiple cameras and switches, making it easier for amateur users to manage multi-camera broadcasts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal video stream management system that can handle multiple camera inputs, different video formats, and various broadcast scenarios through a single platform. The server software provides unified control for recording, switching, and synchronizing video streams from any number of cameras. The system adapts to different event types and camera configurations without requiring specialized equipment or procedures, simplifying the management of diverse video sources.
Data Source
AI summary
A broadcast management system creates, manages, and streams a broadcast of an event from videos captured from multiple cameras. A video capture system comprising multiple cameras captures videos of the event and transmits the videos to a broadcast management server. The broadcast management server generates a website or other graphical interface that simultaneously displays the captured videos in a time-synchronized manner. A broadcast manager user creates a broadcast by selecting which video to output to the broadcast at any given time. A broadcast map is stored for each broadcast that includes all of the broadcast decisions made by the broadcast manager user such that the broadcast can be recreated at a later time by applying the broadcast map to the raw videos. Using a viewer client, viewers can browse or search for broadcasts and select a broadcast for viewing.