Video On Demand Playback Authorization Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing content delivery systems, particularly in conditional access systems, face challenges in allowing users to access and control playback of stored programs before authorization is confirmed, as authorization can take time and may be denied, limiting user experience in PPV, VOD, and NVOD services.
Innovation Solution
The system provides a method where a stored program is made available for playback to the user before authorization is confirmed, allowing retrieval and playback initiation while simultaneously checking user authorization, enabling users to view or control playback even if authorization is pending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If authorization is checked before providing program playback, then system security and access control are improved, but user access time and playback initiation speed deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by initiating program retrieval and playback preparation before authorization is fully confirmed. The set-top box begins downloading or buffering the program content while the authorization check is still in progress, so that playback can start immediately once authorization is granted, eliminating the wait time between authorization confirmation and playback initiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the system provides a provisional playback state that bridges the gap between authorization request and authorization confirmation. This intermediary state allows the program to be prepared and staged for playback without fully committing resources or granting complete access until authorization is confirmed, thus maintaining security while reducing perceived wait time.
2Productivity
If program is provided before authorization confirmation, then user access speed and playback initiation are improved, but system security and authorization control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the playback state based on authorization progress. Initially, the program is provided in a provisional or restricted playback mode where the user can see or access the content, but full interactive control or recording capabilities are withheld until authorization is confirmed. This dynamic transition from provisional to full access maintains security while enabling fast playback initiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares and buffers the program content in advance before authorization is fully confirmed, creating a cushion of ready-to-play content. This beforehand preparation ensures that once authorization is granted, playback can start immediately without delay, while the system retains the ability to revoke or control access if authorization is denied, thus cushioning the security risk.
3Productivity
If single channel is shared for multiple users, then system resource efficiency is improved, but user playback control capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the playback control rights by dividing them into different levels or types. Basic playback control (play, pause, stop) is granted to all users sharing the channel, while advanced controls (rewind, fast-forward, recording) are segmented and provided only to authorized users. This segmentation allows efficient channel sharing while providing differentiated control capabilities based on authorization status.
Data Source
AI summary
According to the invention, a method for providing a stored program to a user for playback is disclosed. In one step, a program selection is received from the user. The stored program corresponding to the program selection is requested. The stored program is provided to the user whereby viewing may occur. It is determined if the user is authorized to view the stored program after the stored program is provided to the user whereby the user may view the stored program before authorization is determined.