Program-Related Content Delivery via Separate Communication Services
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for delivering program-related content (PRC) in hybrid fiber coax (HFC) cable networks often disrupt video programming, rely on storage resources of video terminal devices, and consume limited video bandwidth, making it challenging to provide interactive features without additional infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that delivers PRC cues through an interactive multi-service distribution network using high-speed data services, allowing PRC to be received separately from video programming, without relying on video or storage resources, and utilizing distinct resources for upstream communication, enabling PRC delivery in various formats like text, audio, or multimedia over HFC networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If PRC is delivered through video programming delivery service, then interactive content can be provided to subscribers, but video bandwidth is consumed and video programming may be disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the content delivery by separating PRC delivery from video programming delivery. PRC cues are embedded in video transport streams while actual PRC content is delivered through separate communication services (e-mail, web browsing, instant messaging, text messaging), eliminating competition for video bandwidth resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces communication services as intermediary channels for PRC delivery. Instead of delivering PRC directly through video streams, the system uses e-mail servers, web servers, instant messaging servers, and text messaging servers as intermediaries to convey PRC content to subscribers through non-video pathways.
2Adaptability or versatility
If PRC is stored in video terminal device, then interactive features can be displayed, but storage resources of VTD are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables subscribers to access PRC content through external communication services that do not require local storage. Subscribers can receive and view PRC content via e-mail, web browsers, instant messaging clients, or text messaging on their existing devices without allocating dedicated storage space within the video terminal device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system leverages the multi-functionality of subscriber devices by using existing communication capabilities (e-mail clients, web browsers, instant messaging applications, text messaging) already present on subscriber devices to deliver PRC content, eliminating the need for specialized storage or playback hardware in the VTD.
3Extent of automation
If headend NDVR is used for PRC delivery, then centralized control is achieved, but additional headend resources are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces communication service servers (e-mail servers, web servers, instant messaging servers, text messaging servers) as intermediaries between the headend and subscribers for PRC delivery. This approach maintains centralized control through the video server that distributes PRC cues, while utilizing existing communication infrastructure rather than requiring additional headend storage or processing resources.
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment of the present invention, programming content and program-rated content (PRC) cues are delivered to a subscriber via an interactive multi-service distribution network. The PRC cues comprise interactive visual elements that may be used to create a PRC object that is selectable by a subscriber. Upon selection of a PRC object, the subscriber receives PRC through a communication service separate from the video programming delivery service, VOD service, PVR service, and NDVR service.