Virtual Channel Service for PVR Content Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face inconvenience in accessing and navigating recorded content on personal video recorders (PVRs) due to the need for multiple procedures and screen changes, especially when trying to play back recorded content while viewing a broadcasting channel.
Innovation Solution
A virtual channel service method and apparatus that maintains a list of recorded content and determines a playback order using a preset algorithm, allowing playback through a virtual channel and displaying recorded content in a sub-picture area while viewing a broadcasting channel, enhancing user access and satisfaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users navigate through recorded content list using remote controller, then users can select desired content, but users require multiple procedures and screen changes which reduces operation convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the content access process into two distinct modes: virtual channel mode for quick sequential access and list mode for detailed selection. This segmentation allows users to choose the appropriate access method based on their needs, resolving the contradiction between quick access and precise selection
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual channel acts as an intermediary layer between the user and the recorded content list. Instead of directly navigating the full list, users access content through the virtual channel interface which provides a simplified pathway to commonly accessed content, reducing navigation steps
2Adaptability or versatility
If users switch between broadcasting channel and recorded content, then users can change content sources, but users must perform multiple procedures including finishing playback and channel changing which reduces operational simplicity
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual channel serves multiple functions: it can display recorded content playback, allow channel switching, and provide access to the recorded content list. This multi-functionality consolidates several operations into a single interface, resolving the contradiction between versatility and operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares the virtual channel in advance as a ready-to-use interface for content access. When users want to switch to recorded content, the virtual channel is already positioned and configured, eliminating the need for multiple intermediate steps such as finishing playback first
3Quantity of substance
If PVR stores large amount of recorded content, then storage capacity is improved, but users find it inconvenient to search desired content among many recorded contents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the large recorded content library into virtual channels, which are further divided into groups and individual contents. This hierarchical segmentation makes the vast amount of content more manageable and easier to navigate by providing structured access paths
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual channel system provides self-service navigation features where the system automatically organizes and presents content in a structured manner. The grouping and ordering mechanisms work automatically to facilitate content discovery without requiring users to manually search through all contents
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus for providing a virtual channel service are disclosed. The method includes maintaining a contents list recorded in a personal video recorder and a virtual channel information, determining a playback order of recorded contents included in the list in accordance with a preset algorithm, and playing back in sequence the recorded contents through a predetermined virtual channel. As a result, a user may approach easily to the recorded contents.