Streaming Media Cell Division and Vantage Point Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) protocols do not allow for the simultaneous display of multiple media streams with different dimensions and vantage points on a client device, limiting user interaction and content presentation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating new attributes in informational tags within playlist files to enable the division of a client display into multiple cells with specific dimensions and the selection of multiple vantage points, allowing for the simultaneous playback of different media streams and vantage points based on user selection and available bandwidth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional HLS protocol is used, then media streams can be downloaded and played sequentially, but multiple media streams with different dimensions and vantage points cannot be displayed simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the display into multiple cells, each capable of displaying a different media stream simultaneously. The playlist file is segmented into multiple alternative streams, each with associated metadata defining cell dimensions and vantage points. This segmentation enables parallel presentation of multiple content views without requiring a completely new protocol architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional aspect to traditional linear sequential playback by adding spatial arrangement (cell positions and dimensions) and viewpoint (vantage point) dimensions. Media streams are no longer just played in sequence but are positioned in a two-dimensional grid with different viewing angles, transforming one-dimensional time-based playback into multi-dimensional simultaneous presentation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple alternative streams are provided at various data rates, then adaptive streaming is enabled, but the client cannot simultaneously display streams with different dimensions and vantage points
Solution Approach 1:
The playlist file structure is enhanced to serve multiple functions: it continues to provide adaptive streaming through alternative streams at various data rates while simultaneously defining cell dimensions, vantage points, and spatial relationships. This multi-functional playlist enables the client to both adapt bandwidth and select from multiple dimensional views without requiring separate configuration mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual copies of the media content organized into different cells with different dimensions and vantage points. Each cell contains a reference to media streams that represent a particular viewpoint or dimension, allowing the client to copy and display multiple versions of the same content simultaneously from different perspectives without requiring separate physical recordings.
3Ease of operation
If sequential media file playback is used, then simple playback is maintained, but user interaction and content presentation are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The playlist file contains pre-configured cell dimensions, vantage points, and media stream references that are prepared in advance. The client downloads and stores this metadata before actual playback, enabling rapid cell selection and view switching without requiring complex real-time computation or user guidance during the selection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the client reports available bandwidth and user preferences to the server, which then provides targeted recommendations for optimal cell and stream selections. This feedback loop enables intelligent auto-selection of content while maintaining user control when desired, improving both interaction ease and presentation efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A client receives a playlist file associated with streams of media, and reads the playlist file to retrieve coordinates of multiple cells or to retrieve multiple vantage points, where each of the multiple cells or vantage points comprises a different media stream. The client determines an available bandwidth for receiving media streams, and receives selection of one or more of the multiple cells or one or more of the multiple vantage points. The client requests, based on the selection and the determined available bandwidth, one or more media streams corresponding to the selected one or more cells or vantage points. The client plays back the one or more streams corresponding to the selected one or more cells or vantage points. The client may include a laptop, palmtop or tablet computer, a cellular telephone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a set top box (STB), or a television (TV).