Virtual Channel Switching for Simpler Internet TV Content Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multimedia reproduction systems, such as Internet TV, require complex operations using multiple buttons to select digital content, making it difficult for users to easily switch between channels and enjoy content in a relaxed atmosphere.
Innovation Solution
A network-based multimedia reproduction system with virtual channels that uses a control unit to determine if a command is associated with virtual channel switching, checking a channel value in an application virtual channel table to execute the corresponding application and set operation parameters for retrieving and displaying digital content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional Internet TV applications are used to select digital content, then users can access diversified contents, but the operation becomes complex requiring multiple buttons and direct screen attention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies virtual channel numbers as a universal interface that works across multiple applications and content types. Instead of requiring different navigation methods for different content sources, the system provides a unified channel-based access method that can switch between various digital content applications, making the interface universally applicable while maintaining operation simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces virtual channel numbers as an intermediary layer between the user and the complex application interfaces. Rather than directly interacting with diverse application-specific controls, users interact with a standardized virtual channel interface that mediates the switching and selection processes, simplifying operations while maintaining access to diversified content
2Measurement precision
If Internet TV applications require direct screen attention for content selection, then precise content selection is achieved, but the relaxed viewing atmosphere is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the content selection process into distinct virtual channel entities, each representing a specific content source or type. This segmentation allows users to select entire content categories through simple channel number input rather than navigating through detailed content listings, maintaining selection accuracy while reducing the need for continuous screen attention
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary organization of digital content into virtual channel categories before user selection. By pre-structuring content into manageable channel groups with assigned numbers, the system enables users to make selections without needing to examine detailed content listings on screen, thus maintaining precision while preserving a relaxed viewing atmosphere
Data Source
AI summary
A method for virtual channel management is provided. The method includes the following steps. In response to a command, a control unit of a network-based multimedia reproduction system determines whether the command is associated with virtual channel switching. When the command is associated with virtual channel switching, the control unit checks whether a channel value corresponding to the command exists in an application virtual channel table. When the channel value exists in the application virtual channel table, the control unit determines an application corresponding to the channel number from the application virtual channel table, and executes the application. According to a first operation parameter set corresponding to the application, the control unit sets the executed application to retrieve digital contents through a network unit of the network-based multimedia reproduction system.