Set Top Box Duplicate Episode Detection via Metadata Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Set top boxes with DVRs face rapid storage space consumption when users record multiple episodes of the same program, leading to reduced capacity for recording unique content.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for a set top box to detect and prevent recording of duplicate episodes by monitoring metadata and using a computer program to selectively fail recording of episodes already stored, viewed, or previously recorded but not viewed, allowing only unique episodes to be recorded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the DVR records multiple episodes of a television program, then the completeness of program collection is improved, but the storage space is quickly consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter of episode identification by using metadata comparison (episode numbers, titles, air dates) rather than simple file-based recording. This allows the DVR to recognize duplicate episodes through parameter matching and prevent redundant storage, thereby maintaining storage efficiency while collecting complete program episodes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual copy of episode information through metadata storage and comparison. Instead of physically storing duplicate episode files, the system uses metadata copies to identify and prevent duplicate recordings, reducing actual storage consumption while maintaining episode collection completeness.
2Quantity of substance
If the DVR records all scheduled episodes, then the completeness of content library is improved, but the usefulness is reduced due to duplicate content
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback through continuous metadata monitoring and comparison. Before recording an episode, the DVR checks metadata against previously recorded episodes, providing feedback that prevents duplicate recordings. This ensures the content library grows with unique episodes only, maintaining usefulness and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by checking metadata and comparing episode information before the actual recording occurs. This pre-recording verification prevents duplicate episodes from being stored in the first place, ensuring the content library remains efficient and useful without requiring post-processing or deletion operations.
3Ease of operation
If the DVR automatically buffers content, then the convenience for users is improved, but the storage space is consumed by potentially duplicate episodes
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service by automatically monitoring metadata, comparing episode information, and preventing duplicate recordings without user intervention. The DVR independently manages its content library, maintaining convenience for users while efficiently managing storage space through automated duplicate detection and prevention.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of recording content at a set top box is provided and includes receiving a request to record multiple episodes of a television program. When a copy of a particular episode that has been previously stored in the memory of the set top box is received, a set top box selectively fails to record that particular episode of the television program. Further, the method includes monitoring metadata within an electronic program guide received at the set top box. Using the metadata, a set top box can determine when the particular episode of the television program is to be received and recorded at the set top box.