Random Program Selection via Automated Tuning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users face difficulty in selecting interesting programs from the vast array of available broadcast audio/visual programming, often settling for a limited list of favorites due to overwhelming options, and existing methods do not provide a convenient way to discover new content.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that allows users to select a random mode for presenting broadcast programming, using a user interface to enable random selection of programs, which can be influenced by user preferences and viewing history, and can exclude certain categories or themes, with options for input via remote control or on-screen menus.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If users manually browse through lists of programs to find interesting content, then they can select programs they are interested in, but they spend a lot of time searching and become overwhelmed by the vast variety of available programs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime spent searching for programsVSAvoidease of program selection
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically selects programs for the user without requiring manual browsing. The television receiver autonomously chooses and presents programs from the available broadcast content, eliminating the time-consuming manual search process while maintaining user satisfaction through automated program selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary automated selection mechanism between the user and the vast array of programs. Instead of direct user-to-program selection, the system acts as an intermediary that automatically selects and presents programs, reducing the cognitive load and time investment required from users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If users limit themselves to a small list of favorite programs, then they avoid being overwhelmed by options, but they miss out on discovering new and potentially interesting content

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of program selectionVSAvoidprogram variety and discovery
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts program selection based on user responses to presented content. Rather than a static list of favorites, the automated selection adapts in real-time by monitoring user engagement and adjusting subsequent program choices, thereby maintaining simplicity while expanding program variety and discovery opportunities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where user responses to presented programs are monitored and used to inform future automated selections. This feedback loop enables the system to maintain simplicity for the user while progressively improving program variety and relevance based on observed user preferences and engagement patterns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9113105B2Randomly selecting current programming
Publication Date: 2015.08.18 DISH TECHNOLOGIES LLC
  • US9113105B2 patent drawing
  • US9113105B2 patent drawing
  • US9113105B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for receiving and displaying broadcast audio and visual programming includes a television receiver and a display. The television receiver has a tuner for tuning to the channel to be displayed and is controlled by a processor with which the user communicates by way of a remote control unit. Operation of a random button on the remote control unit causes the processor to initiate a random mode selection whereby the television receiver randomly selects and displays one of the broadcast channels received.