Place-Shifting Device Tracking Remote Viewing Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for tracking user viewing habits of audio/video programs become less effective with the evolution of television viewing technology, particularly with video place-shifting devices that allow remote access to television content, complicating the retrieval of viewing information.
Innovation Solution
A media content system comprising a communication device, a media content receiver, and a communication node connected via a communication network, where the communication device generates and transfers data related to media content reception, including user-selected channels and viewing times, to the communication node, enabling insight into remote viewing habits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate communication device (Set Meter/People Meter) is installed directly connected to the television set to collect viewing information, then viewing data collection is effective, but the system complexity and installation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The place-shifting device automatically generates and transmits viewing information without requiring separate meters or manual tracking. The device self-monitors its own usage patterns and autonomously reports data to the server, eliminating the need for additional measurement equipment while maintaining accurate viewing data collection.
2Ease of operation
If video place-shifting devices are used to allow remote access to television content, then user accessibility is improved, but the ability to retrieve and track viewing information is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The place-shifting device continuously monitors and tracks its own usage patterns, then feeds this viewing information back to a server via network communication. This feedback mechanism ensures that viewing data is automatically captured and transmitted, preventing information loss while maintaining remote accessibility functionality.
3Measurement precision
If traditional Set Meter systems are used in households with place-shifting devices, then viewing data can be collected at the home location, but the system becomes incompatible with remote viewing scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The place-shifting device serves multiple functions: it acts as both a content delivery system for remote viewing and as a self-monitoring measurement device. By integrating viewing tracking capabilities directly into the place-shifting device, the system achieves universal functionality that works whether the user is viewing content locally or remotely, eliminating the need for separate measurement equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of providing data associated with reception of media content is presented. In the method, a communication device receives media content from a media content receiver via a communication network. The received media content is output to a user of the communication device. Data is then generated in the communication device which includes information identifying a channel selected by the user over which the media content receiver receives the media content. The data further includes information identifying a time period during which the communication device receives the media content. The data is transferred via the communication network to a communication node.