Set Top Box Promotional Data Segmentation and Compilation
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Solution Overview
Problem
With increased storage capacity in set top boxes, it becomes difficult for viewers to discover and be interested in programs that have been inadvertently or unintentionally recorded, as the large number of stored programs makes it hard for content providers to promote lesser-known programs effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multimedia apparatus that receives primary and secondary program data, records both, and provides a user interface to access secondary data such as trailers, promotional material, and additional information, allowing users to make informed viewing decisions by displaying this information on a conventional television set.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If storage capacity is increased to store large numbers of programs, then the ability to store programming content is improved, but the difficulty of promoting programs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments program data into primary program data and separate secondary program data (promotional material). This segmentation allows the system to store large numbers of programs while organizing promotional content in a distinct, accessible manner that does not become lost among the bulk of program data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a software agent as an intermediary that automatically compiles promotional material from primary program data. This agent acts as a mediator between the stored programs and the user, creating targeted promotional content that highlights specific programs without requiring manual intervention or overwhelming users with all stored content.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of programs are stored, then the viewing options for users are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the software agent automatically compile and prepare promotional material for stored programs in advance. This pre-compilation of promotional content helps users make viewing decisions more easily by presenting curated information about programs before they need to make a selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The software agent performs self-service by automatically identifying, extracting, and compiling promotional material from the stored primary program data without requiring user intervention. This automation reduces the operational burden on users while maintaining comprehensive viewing options.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If promotional material is sent in advance to program guides, then the ability to promote programs is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling the set top box to perform multiple functions: storing primary program data, storing secondary program data, and automatically compiling promotional material. This consolidation of functions within a single device avoids the need for separate promotional material generation systems, thereby managing complexity while enhancing promotion capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A multimedia apparatus, such as a set top box for use with a television set, comprises a receiver for receiving program data from a communication channel and a processor which stores said program data with a file containing associated secondary program data, such as a promotional trailer. The processor compiles a menu of secondary program data files allowing a viewer to watch a trailer and decide whether to retrieve the full program or film. The secondary data may be broadcast in parallel with the program data. Alternatively, the processor may run an application for producing the secondary program data, e.g. using earmarked portions of the full program data.