Remote Content Recordation via Recording Document Parser
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face challenges in recording desired content using digital video recorders (DVRs) as they need direct interaction and cannot ensure that the recorded content corresponds to their intended selection, especially when accessing network clients remotely.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a content recordation technique using a recording document that describes the content, such as title, actors, and broadcast time, which is processed by a parser module to determine availability and initiate recording on a client or head end, allowing remote users to record content without direct interaction with the DVR.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a user directly interacts with the DVR to configure recording, then the user can control the recording function, but the user cannot remotely initiate recording when away from the DVR
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (such as a mobile phone or remote computing device) that acts as a mediator between the user and the DVR system. This intermediary device communicates with the DVR over a network, allowing users to initiate and control content recording remotely without being physically present at the DVR. The intermediary device receives user input, translates it into appropriate commands, and transmits them to the DVR, thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of remote operation and system complexity.
2Reliability
If the user specifies parameters to match content, then the DVR can locate potentially desirable content, but the user cannot be certain that the recorded content corresponds to the intended selection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system presents potentially matching content items to the user for confirmation before initiating recording. The user can review the identified content, verify it matches their intent, and confirm or modify the selection. This feedback loop ensures high reliability in content identification while maintaining manageable system complexity by involving the user in the verification process rather than requiring fully automated complex matching algorithms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the DVR stores content locally, then the user can access recorded content, but the user cannot seamlessly transition between different clients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal content access system where content can be stored in multiple locations (local DVR storage and remote network storage) and accessed from any client device in the network. The system provides multi-functionality by supporting both local and remote storage, and enabling access from various clients including set-top boxes, computers, and mobile devices. This universality allows seamless client transitions without requiring complex distributed storage infrastructure, as the system can operate with simple local storage enhanced by optional remote access capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
Content recordation techniques are described. In an implementation, a method includes querying electronic program guide (EPG) data to determine if a content item described in a recording document is available for recording. If the content item is available, a reference is added to a recording list for causing recordation of the content item.