Set-Top Box Folder and Bookmark Manager for Multi-User Content
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional set-top boxes lack flexibility in organizing and bookmarking multimedia content, leading to difficulties for users in managing and accessing their media libraries, especially in multi-user environments where content becomes intertwined, resulting in lost bookmarks and limited control over folder organization and bookmarking capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows users to create private folders and multiple bookmarks for organizing and accessing multimedia content, enabling users to customize folder names, control content organization, and manage bookmarks independently, using a service provider network with integrated folder/bookmark manager services that support user-defined folders and bookmarks across various media sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional set-top boxes are used for media content access, then basic content delivery is achieved, but users cannot organize and manage content effectively, leading to lost bookmarks and difficulty in tracking content
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments content management by creating user-specific folders and bookmarks, separating content organization into individual user spaces. Each user has their own folder structure and bookmark set, preventing interference between users and ensuring personal content management capabilities are preserved.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates virtual copies of bookmarking functionality for each user within the shared STB environment. Instead of a single shared bookmark system, each user receives a personalized bookmark copy that persists independently, eliminating bookmark loss due to user switching or content reorganization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple users share the same set-top box, then resource utilization is improved, but content organization becomes chaotic and users cannot maintain independent control over their content
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the STB content management space into separate user-specific folders and bookmark areas. Each user has their own organizational structure, allowing multiple users to share the same physical device while maintaining independent, non-interfering content organization systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the content management system are tailored to individual user needs. Each user experiences a customized folder structure and bookmark system adapted to their personal preferences and viewing habits, while the overall system maintains multi-user capability.
3Quantity of substance
If traditional folder structures are used in set-top boxes, then basic content storage is achieved, but users lack flexibility in customizing and accessing their content libraries
Solution Approach 1:
The folder structure transitions from a static, pre-defined system to a dynamic, user-configurable system. Users can create, rename, delete, and reorganize folders according to their needs, allowing the content management structure to adapt and evolve with changing user requirements while maintaining storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The folder system serves multiple functions: it provides content storage, enables user-specific organization, supports bookmarking, and allows customization. This multi-functional approach replaces traditional single-purpose folder structures with a versatile system that adapts to various user needs and content types.
Data Source
AI summary
An approach is provided for creating user-defined folders for organizing content accessible through a set-top box and for creating multiple bookmarks per set-top box program for use during programming playback.