Network-Attached Media Plug-In for Client Storage Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-in technologies for host applications are cumbersome for end users, requiring installation and storage space, and involve a steep learning curve due to the need for manual selection and installation of plug-ins.
Innovation Solution
A network-attached media plug-in system that interfaces with clients and servers, using a network processor to extract and dynamically modify media streams, eliminating the need for client-side installation and providing a transparent, upgradeable solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If plug-ins are installed on the end user's computer to extend host application functionalities, then the host application gains extended capabilities, but the end user's computer occupies additional storage space and requires manual installation and configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the plug-in functionality from the client-side environment and relocates it to the server-side network-attached device. Instead of installing media plug-ins on end-user computers, the system provides media processing capabilities through a network interface that connects to a server, eliminating the need for client-side installation while maintaining extended functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a network-attached media plug-in as an intermediary between the client and server. This intermediary handles media stream extraction and modification over the network, allowing clients to access extended functionality without directly installing or configuring plug-ins on their local systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If end users manually select and install appropriate plug-ins for specific host applications, then the desired functionality is achieved, but the process involves a steep learning curve and time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing the network-attached media plug-in to automatically detect and process media streams based on client requests. The server-side plug-in handles media extraction and modification without requiring end users to manually select, install, or configure plug-ins, making the system self-configuring and easy to use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-configuring the media plug-in functionality on the server-side before any client interaction. The network-attached device is ready to handle media processing requests immediately, eliminating the need for end users to perform setup or configuration actions.
3Productivity
If media processing is performed on the client side with installed plug-ins, then processing can be done locally, but the client requires additional software installation and storage resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts media processing functionality from the client system and relocates it to the server infrastructure. The network-attached media plug-in performs media stream extraction and modification on the server side, freeing up client storage space while maintaining full media processing capability through network access.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment is a method and apparatus to provide a network-attached media plug-in. A network interface interfaces with a client and a server. The network interface receives an input from the client requesting content from the server. The client has a network plug-in interface. A network processor extracts a media stream from the requested content. A multimedia processor dynamically modifies the media stream according to the input from the client.