Video Clip Delivery Using Hierarchical Temporal Resolution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for generating and distributing high-quality video clips, such as those from live sporting events, are inefficient due to the delays caused by MPEG compression and uploading processes, which hinder rapid distribution and engagement.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method that converts video feeds into a compressed format with a hierarchy of temporal resolution levels, allowing for quick uploading and playback, including the use of an electronic edit decision list to define editing operations, enabling fast and flexible video clip generation and distribution without relying on MPEG format files.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If MPEG compression is used to generate video clips, then video quality can be maintained, but the processing time and distribution delay increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevideo qualityVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The video data is segmented into discrete packets that can be independently processed and transmitted. This allows parallel processing of multiple video segments simultaneously, reducing overall processing time while maintaining quality through selective decompression of only necessary frames for editing operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Video data is pre-compressed into a format with hierarchical temporal resolution levels before editing occurs. This preliminary structuring enables rapid random access to specific time periods without requiring full decompression, allowing editors to quickly navigate and select clips while preserving original quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If MPEG files are uploaded to servers for distribution, then video clips can be made available, but the upload time and network bandwidth consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistribution capabilityVSAvoidupload time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The video stream is divided into smaller packets that can be uploaded and distributed independently. This segmentation enables parallel upload channels, reduces the impact of network failures, and allows receivers to process and display video segments as they arrive without waiting for complete file uploads

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system transmits video data at varying quality levels based on the specific needs of different segments and receiver capabilities. Full quality is transmitted only where necessary, while other areas use compressed representations, optimizing bandwidth usage while maintaining adequate quality for distribution purposes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple versions of video clips are generated for different devices, then compatibility is improved, but the processing complexity and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidprocessing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts video delivery based on receiver characteristics and network conditions. Rather than pre-generating all possible versions, the system adjusts compression levels, resolution, and frame rates in real-time based on feedback from the receiving device, reducing processing complexity while maintaining broad compatibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

A single universal video packet format is designed that can be efficiently decoded by multiple device types. This universal format incorporates hierarchical temporal resolution that naturally adapts to different playback requirements, eliminating the need for separate processing pipelines for different devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Productivity

If video feeds are made publicly available, then viewer engagement increases, but the risk of unauthorized redistribution and piracy increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveviewer engagementVSAvoidpiracy risk
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs dynamic parameter changes in video encoding, including variable bitrate, resolution adjustment, and frame rate modification based on authentication status. Authorized users receive high-quality streams with full features, while unauthorized access automatically receives degraded quality or blocked access, reducing piracy value without impacting legitimate viewership

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12028564B2Methods, systems, processors and computer code for providing video clips
Publication Date: 2024.07.02 BLACKBIRD PLC
  • US12028564B2 patent drawing
  • US12028564B2 patent drawing
  • US12028564B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer-implemented method/system of providing video clip playback, including: (i) receiving a video feed; (ii) converting the video feed into a compressed format structure; (iii) uploading the compressed format structure to a first server; (iv) receiving an electronic edit decision list defining how to manipulate the compressed format structure; (v) saving the electronic edit decision list to a server; (vi) receiving a request to provide to a user terminal a video clip playback corresponding to a video clip defined by the compressed format structure and the electronic edit decision list; (vii) sending to the user code executable to provide the video clip defined by the compressed format structure and the electronic edit decision list, and (viii) responding to requests from the code when executed, to provide content corresponding to the compressed format structure stored, in accordance with the electronic edit decision list, to provide the decision list video clip playback.