Abstract: A distribution server (300) periodically distributes, during a live distribution of a content, MPDs of the contents to a client device (100). The distribution server (300) includes a metadata generating section (320) for generating an XML file containing URLs of media segments (MS) belonging to past Periods. The metadata generating section (320) also generates MPDs.

Abstract: A method, system and devices for delivering a switched digital video (SDV) channel to a network element, such as an end user set-top box, based on the decoding capabilities of the network element. The system determines whether to deliver the SDV channel in a first format, such as MPEG-4, or a second format, such as MPEG-2. When only network elements capable of decoding MPEG-4 content are tuned to the SDV channel, the system can realize bandwidth savings by delivering only the MPEG-4 version of the SDV channel. When legacy network elements capable of decoding only MPEG-2 content tune to a particular SDV channel, the system delivers only the MPEG-2 version of the SDV channel. The methods and devices can be used in headends, including those that deploy switched digital video, and other appropriate locations within the content distribution system, such as within the edge devices in the distribution hub.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a content synchronizing method includes: first transmitting when receiving an acquiring request for reference time to determine a timing to synchronize a plurality of pieces of content executed by a plurality of modules with each other from a first module out of the modules, the acquiring request for the reference time to a second module out of the modules; receiving source information indicating an acquisition source of the reference time from the second module; and acquiring reference time information indicating the reference time from the acquisition source indicated by the source information, wherein second transmitting to the first module, together with the reference time information, processing time information indicating processing time from receiving the acquiring request until transmitting the reference time information, the processing time information being used to calculate a time lag between time in the first module and the reference time.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed in which a buffer receives a first content stream carrying a content channel signal. The first content stream carries the content channel signal at a rate substantially greater than the streaming content playout rate, for initially loading the buffer. The buffer switches its reception of the content channel signal from the first content stream to a second content stream. The second content stream is at a rate substantially the same as the streaming content playout rate. Generally, this switch occurs when some predefined threshold of the content channel signal is buffered.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multicast-based content transmitting system and method, and a device and method for estimating high-speed movement. Included are: a content providing device for generating N×M multicast stream channels having different transmission start times and transmission rates, providing N×M multicast stream channel lists, and transmitting content through one channel of N×M multicast stream channels; and a user terminal for selecting one channel of the N×M multicast stream channel lists provided from the content providing device and receiving content through the selected multicast stream channel.

Abstract: A method of a broadcast receiving device to receive broadcast service includes: receiving a broadcast table; receiving service signaling data corresponding to a service object; determining a consumption model of the service object on the basis of the service signaling data; receiving a content item configuring the service object on the basis of the service signaling data when the consumption model is a predetermined consumption model; displaying a guide on content on the basis of the broadcast table or the service signaling data; identifying one of the received content item according to an additional information request on the content; and controlling the guide on the basis of the identified content item.

Abstract: An encoder resource receives segments of content on one or more data feeds. The encoder resource receives and/or produces encoder control information specifying multiple different bit rate data streams on which to encode the segments of content. As specified by the encoder control information, in accordance with encoding rules, the encoder resource adaptively encodes the segments of content into a varying number of different bit rate data streams. Clients in a network environment initiate retrieval of the varying number of different bit rate data streams to playback content.

Abstract: It is the object of the present invention to provide a stereoscopic video distribution system, a stereoscopic video distribution method, a stereoscopic video distribution apparatus, a stereoscopic video viewing system, a stereoscopic video viewing method, and a stereoscopic video viewing apparatus. In the stereoscopic video distribution system according to this invention, stereoscopic video signals provided by a plurality of video distribution source servers for distributing stereoscopic videos are once received by a transcoding server, so that the stereoscopic video signals can be reproduced by a BD player and a TV for stereoscopic viewing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the dynamic adjustments of video streams sent from a server to a client is provided. Using both short term and long term thinning mechanisms, the server reduces its data transfer rate when bandwidth is reduced and increases its data transfer rate when bandwidth is available. In the short term mechanism, the server will dynamically adjust the transmission rate of the video or the quality of the video based on parameters returned by the client. These parameters include currently-buffered data-size, buffered-data duration, and packet loss rate. In the long term mechanism, the server will adjust the current maximum quality level allowed depending upon the round trip times of data packets transmitted. This invention decreases client rebuffering and packet loss and increases the efficiency of available bandwidth.

Abstract: A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a set top box having a controller to monitor for a triggering event that is associated with viewing of media content, retrieve a screen saver from a remote server when the triggering event is detected, and apply the screen saver to a display device connected with the set top box. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: There is provided according to embodiments of the invention a method of changing channels in a hybrid multicast video distribution environment, which is carried out by receiving a plurality of multicast video streams concurrently in a server, buffering first segments of the video streams respectively, wherein the first segments comprise an independently decodable frame and zero or more predicted frames, encoding the first segments to form new segments having new frame quality parameters that are less than the frame quality parameters of the first segments, assembling the first segments and the new segments into respective channel packs of the video streams, and responsively to a request, identifying one of the video streams and transmitting at least a portion of the oldest stored channel pack of the one video stream from the server to a receiving device. Related apparatus and methods are also described.

Abstract: A P2P network has a content provider and a plurality of peers viewing the same video streaming channel. Each peer has a P2P live streaming system. In an exemplary system, a token manager module manages at least a token sent by the plurality of peer nodes, notifies a recording manager module to publish recorded media stream content, and to record media stream data. The recording manager module, according to the notification, manages a corresponding buffer for each peer node itself, records the media stream content into the corresponding buffer and publishes the recorded media stream content information to the P2P network. A P2P module handles the P2P messages and maintains the P2P network topology for the plurality of peer nodes.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for scheduling delivery of graphics and video to an on-screen display is described. The method comprises accessing a schedule comprising at least one video, at least one template, and layout information, wherein the at least one video and the at least one template are associated with each other and scheduled to run at least one start time. In one embodiment, the system is a video server that provides a combined output stream of both video and graphics to a set top box, TV, computer or other display device. In another embodiment of the invention, the video server creates a script that relates video, graphics, and layout information to each other as web components. The web components are provided from the video server to a set top box, and the set top box utilizes a web browser to assemble the web components together.

Abstract: A master scheduler system and method automatically operate and/or coordinate operation of a plurality of relatively independent systems, including manual systems, to function as an NVOD system to provide automating diverse operations for supporting and maintaining an NVOD system. The master scheduler system and method may also be applied to automate manual processes of analog-based and digital broadcast based service. The master scheduler receives, processes, and disseminates NVOD schedule-related information for end-to-end NVOD service; that is, sending video from a back-end which stores video data to a head-end for viewing by a user. The master scheduler also provides operations support for the NVOD system, such as maintaining the head-end configuration, allocating channels, performing asset management, performing content management, etc.

Abstract: A multimedia information receiving apparatus receives multimedia information which is transmitted by a broadcast system and receives multimedia information which is simultaneously transmitted by another transmission system such as IP communications, and generates one received information by selecting elements having a few errors from elements of demodulated broadcast system information and elements of demodulated other transmission system information and then arranging the selected elements.

Abstract: A streaming video server includes a virtual file system that stores playlist data corresponding to a plurality of video programs available from at least one video source and that stores variant playlist data corresponding to each of the plurality of video programs that indicates a single variant for streaming each of the plurality of video programs. The streaming video server receives a request for a selected one of the plurality of video programs from a client device. The selected one of the plurality of video programs is retrieved from the at least one video source in response to the request. A rate generator generates rate data based on the transmission feedback data. A plurality of encoded segments are generated from the selected one of the plurality of video programs, based on rate data.

Abstract: Embodiments generally disclosed herein include computer-implemented methods for delivery of video content across a network. Such methods comprise a content delivery manager capable of receiving a video stream from a content source for delivery to a end user of a content publisher. The content delivery manager is further capable of detecting a trigger signal within the video stream. For example, the trigger signal can indicate a temporal mark injected into the video stream by the content publisher. During general operation, the content delivery manager processes the trigger signal to determine whether to modify delivery of the video stream to the end user. According to another general embodiment, a computer-implemented method is provided for authorizing delivery of a video stream to an end user.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention include tools for extracting data of interest from the world wide web (WWW). The extraction is accomplished using descriptions of data of interest. The descriptions of data of interest can include computer programs comprising a sequence of instructions and extractor patterns. The extractor patterns can be developed interactively using a web browser integrated into the graphical development environment for creating the descriptions of data of interest. The instructions can be selected from a predetermined list of instructions designed for extracting information from the WWW. The descriptions of data of interest can be grouped into categories sharing common query elements.

Abstract: Techniques for delivering content, such as videos, over a network are described. A core server and an edge server are provided. The core server has local storage. The edge server has local storage. A set of video frames is partitioned into a first group and a second group. Video frames in the first group are encoded into a scalable encoded stream. The scalable encoded stream is sent to the local storage at the edge server. The second group of video frames is encoded into a set of supplemental encoded streams using the scalable encoded stream as a reference. The supplemental encoded streams are encoded such that the bit rate and/or resolution of any two supplemental encoded streams is different. The set of supplemental encoded streams is stored in the storage of the core server.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for selecting digital (network) interface technology for programming and data delivery over, e.g., a content-based network. In one embodiment, the network comprises an HFC cable or satellite network that includes a server process interfacing with a plurality of customer premises equipment (CPE), and/or associated client devices, each having different capabilities profiles. The server determines the one or more capabilities possessed by the CPE, and evaluates one or more program or content choices for possible delivery to that CPE based on its profile. The server generates a list of programs or content based on this evaluation, and transmits this list to the CPE, which displays the list for viewing by a user. The user is therefore offered a list of available content that is compatible with their specific configuration.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for supporting on-demand content services, using conventional non-IP based VOD servers are described. The methods and apparatus of the present invention, through the use of a protocol converter and/or a content redirector, can be used to enable a conventional VOD server to supply content to a customer premise equipment (CPE) device which supports IP based content delivery and/or RSTP control of content delivery. The protocol converter of the invention can be implemented as an RTSP-ISA PROXY. The RTSP Proxy converts messages between RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol) to the appropriate ISA protocol signal or another protocol format. The proxy module handles the conversion between these formats and converts a received signal, e.g. message, into the format required by the device which responds by implementing the operation requested by the signal.

Abstract: An advertising apparatus 10 including a generally flat base 12 and a broad face 14 which forms an acute angle 16 with the generally flat base 12. Further, the broad face 14 includes several display portions 20, 22, and 18 which, in one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, are programmable. In one non-limiting embodiment, the apparatus may include a selectively depressible alarm switch 100.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and system to provide the ability for a user to have improved OTA reception of TV signals. The system employs an antenna, a media receiver/player and/or display, and a datacenter. The antenna is placed with line of sight to broadcast towers and is provided with clean wiring from the antenna through the building to a the TV. A high performance TV tuner and a demodulator are included in the TV or STB. A datacenter located in relevant Television Market Area is incorporated to receive, process and make available correction packets over a network. Under typical circumstances, an OTV television signal as broadcast contains degradation in the form of a number of error packets in the broadcast stream by the time it is received by an antenna. The system employed detects and marks of error packets and replaces them with good packets delivered over a network.

Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for providing realistic broadcasting, the apparatus including a realistic broadcasting platform configured to divide received content into one or more modalities, curate the content with respect to each of the divided modalities, and generate a scenario based on the curated content and information about one or more realistically reproducing devices which are currently available; and an immersive media gateway configured to generate the information about one or more realistically reproducing devices, and provide a realistic broadcasting service to a user based on the curated content and the information about one or more realistically reproducing devices.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a media data control method and apparatus. The method includes: receiving a control request message sent by a terminal, where the control request message carries identification information of a substream and a uniform resource identifier URI of a media stream to which the substream belongs; obtaining the identification information of the substream and the URI of the media stream to which the substream belongs; determining, according to the identification information of the substream and the URI of the media stream to which the substream belongs, media data of the substream; and performing, based on the media data, a control operation requested by the terminal, for the substream. With the present invention, independent control can be implemented for data of different features under the same type in the case where the data of different features is transmitted through the same media stream.

Abstract: A network module receives network global positioning system (GPS) signals and that transmits a video signal to a remote device that includes time stamps that are based on the network GPS signals. The network module receives a device parameter from the remote device that indicates that local GPS signals are available to the remote device. The network module reduces a frequency of the time stamps when the device parameter indicates that local GPS signals are available to the remote device.

Abstract: A first media service is acquired in response to a scheduled acquisition command, where the acquiring operation is performed by a user receiver. The time the acquiring operation takes place depends on information in the command, which indicates when the acquiring operation is supposed to take place and when operation terminates. The receipt of a non-scheduled command by the user receiver causes the acquisition of a second media service, where upon the expiration of the non-scheduled command, the first media service is re-acquired. Upon the expiration of the scheduled command, a third media service is automatically acquired, where the third media service was previously selected by a user.

Abstract: A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a server having a controller to monitor spectral characteristics of a target channel, a first channel and a second channel, where the target channel is of a digital terrestrial television system, where the first channel is an upper adjacent channel to the target channel, and where the second channel is a lower adjacent channel to the target channel. The controller is adapted to generate an emission mask based on the monitored spectral characteristics and detect interference between the target channel and at least one of the first and second channels based at least in part on the emission mask. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: Different data communication architectures deliver a wide variety of content, including audio and video content, to consumers. The architectures employ channel bonding to deliver more bandwidth than any single communication channel can carry. In some implementations, the communication architectures distribute video programming in the form of MPEG2 TS packets, flagged by marker packets, in a round-robin manner across the communication channels. Channel bonding synchronization information may be present in packets defined above the data-link layer or added to fields within data-link layer frames.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for downloading terrestrial DMB data using a multi-download algorithm. The multi-download algorithm enables the terrestrial DMB receiving apparatus to download and store the data service data in advance from the ensemble consisting of the video service data, the audio service data, and the data service data while enjoying the video or audio service, so that the DMB subscriber can be quickly provided with the data service data whenever needed later.

Abstract: The content switching apparatus includes at least a position identifying unit (800) and a play control unit (700). In switching from a first content (broadcast program) to a second content (VOD content), the position identifying unit identifies the position of the image in the second content, the image being the same as the first image of the first content. The play control unit determines a play starting position in the second content based on the position identified by the position identifying unit. By determining the play starting position of the second content in this way, the image can be properly switched even in the case where the time length or the content configuration is different.

Abstract: A first media server delivers content for broadcast via a first media channel, and a second media server delivers media content for broadcast via a second media channel. The first media server operates in a synchronized mode, under control of the second media server during some periods of time, and during other periods of time operates in an independent mode. When operating in the synchronized mode, content delivered by the first and second media servers can be synchronized, so that the timing of spot blocks played on the two servers generally coincides. When the first server operates in the independent mode, the timing of spot blocks and other content broadcast on the first media channel are not synchronized under control of the second media server.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are disclosed for managing multimedia traffic across a common wireless communication network. Embodiments may include content devices, end point devices, a network node, and a wireless dongle. The network node and the wireless dongle may have application functions transmitting and receiving application data streams including a video application. The video application may include a conversion engine to compress, expand, or convert video data. Further, both the network node and the wireless dongle may transmit downstream video streams and receive upstream video streams. In addition, the network node may have a master controller function and a node management function, and a dongle management function each managing video traffic streams and application data streams. In addition, the dongle management function controls admission of a video traffic stream originating from the wireless dongle to the wireless communication network.

Abstract: A system identifies a playlist comprising at least one reference to content. The system provides a digital signature to the playlist. The digital signature links the playlist to a creator of the playlist. The system authenticates an application rendering the content using the digital signature. The system receives a command to render the playlist using the application.

Abstract: A system (1) includes a monitor (10) and a STB (20). The STB (20) notifies the monitor (10) of a request for reconnection with the monitor (10) with the use of a new channel in a case where it is determined that overflow has occurred. The monitor (10) determines whether or not underrun has occurred in a receive buffer in which video data supplied from the STB (20) is buffered.

Abstract: A system includes a network interface to receive video packet data encoding video data from a remote server. The system includes a hardware decoder operable to decode a first type of encoded video data but not operable to decode a second type of encoded video data. The system also includes a software decoder to decode the second type of encoded video data. The system also includes a controller to determine whether the received video packet data includes the second type of encoded video data and to route the video packet data to the software decoder when the video packet data includes the second type of encoded video data.

Abstract: A unified system of programming communication. The system encompasses the prior art (television, radio, broadcast hardcopy, computer communications, etc.) and new user specific mass media. Within the unified system, parallel processing computer systems, each having an input (e.g., 77) controlling a plurality of computers (e.g., 205), generate and output user information at receiver stations. Under broadcast control, local computers (73, 205), combine user information selectively into prior art communications to exhibit personalized mass media programming at video monitors (202), speakers (263), printers (221), etc. At intermediate transmission stations (e.g., cable television stations), signals in network broadcasts and from local inputs (74, 77, 97, 98) cause control processors (71) and computers (73) to selectively automate connection and operation of receivers (53), recorder/players (76), computers (73), generators (82), strippers (81), etc.

Abstract: Described are methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products for packaging media. In some embodiments, the technology relates to a computer-implemented method of packaging media files. A list of one or more media asset IDs is received by a media packaging server. A packaging template is received by the media packaging server. One or more media files based on a media asset ID in the list of the one or more media asset IDs and the packaging template are retrieved, by the media packaging server. Metadata associated with the media asset ID based on the packaging template is retrieved by the media packaging server. The one or more media files and the metadata are packaged by the media packaging server into a delivery package in a packaging format indicated by the packaging template.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for transmitting image data via a wireless channel, the method and apparatus involving dropping at least one pixel from every pixel block of the image data, so as to decrease a data rate of the image data, and transmitting the image data in which the at least one pixel is dropped. A method and apparatus for restoring image data via a wireless channel, the method and apparatus involving receiving the image data from which data values of at least one pixel is dropped, and restoring the dropped at least one pixel by referring to the data values of the at least one pixel.

Abstract: A content processing device is configured to selectively receive a media signal from a media signal provider. A distribution device is configured to selectively receive a media signal from the content processing device, and to selectively provide one or more command signals to the content processing device. A computer is configured to selectively receive the media signal from the distribution device, and to selectively provide commands to the distribution device. The distribution device is further configured to provide the received one or more commands to the content processing device via the one or more command signals.

Abstract: A method is provided in one example embodiment and includes establishing a connection between a first client and a messaging fabric of a conductor element associated with a video system; receiving a request to perform a companion service with a second client; authenticating the first client via a client directory based on an identifier associated with the first client; receiving a pair message from the first client for the second client; and verifying whether the two clients can be paired in order to perform the companion service. Companion service commands can be authorized/policy checked and resulting commands on the second client may appear as-if they had been triggered locally.

Abstract: It is the object of the present invention to provide a stereoscopic video distribution system, a stereoscopic video distribution method, a stereoscopic video distribution apparatus, a stereoscopic video viewing system, a stereoscopic video viewing method, and a stereoscopic video viewing apparatus. In the stereoscopic video distribution system according to this invention, stereoscopic video signals provided by a plurality of video distribution source servers for distributing stereoscopic videos are once received by a transcoding server, so that the stereoscopic video signals can be reproduced by a BD player and a TV for stereoscopic viewing.

Abstract: A request is received from a subscriber of a video content network offering a switched digital video service. The request is to establish a new switched digital video session within a service group of the video content network. The service group includes both preferred and standard subscribers and has a plurality of existing sessions. It is determined whether adequate bandwidth is available to establish the new switched digital video session without tearing down any of the existing sessions. Responsive to the determination indicating that adequate bandwidth is not available without tearing down any of the existing sessions, at least one of the existing sessions is torn down. In this step, those of the existing sessions corresponding to the preferred subscribers are exempted from teardown. The new switched digital video session is established in accordance with the request. A switched digital video control apparatus, a set-top terminal, and a system are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method includes a host device, an intermediate device and a user device. A network is in communication with the host device, the intermediate device and the user device. The host device communicates a first graphics command and a second graphics command to the intermediate device. The intermediate device composites the first graphics command and the second graphics command to form a composite graphics command and communicating the composite graphics command to the user device. The user device generates a screen display in response to the composite graphics command.

Abstract: A system and method for wirelessly transmitting audiovisual information. Training information may be stored in a memory. A plurality of packets may be generated, including the training information. The plurality of packets may also include audiovisual information. The plurality of packets may include first information identifying a first training pattern of a plurality of possible training patterns. The first training pattern may specify one or more locations of the training information in the plurality of packets. The first information may be usable by a receiver to determine the first training pattern of the plurality of possible training patterns. The plurality of packets may be transmitted in a wireless manner.

Abstract: An approach is provided for supporting messaging services via a set-top box. A set-top box establishes communications with a user device. The set-top box receives a message from the user device, and stores the message for inclusion in a messaging log. The set-top box presents content of the messaging log via a display coupled to the set-top box. According to one embodiment, the set-top box receives network address information of the user device, maps the network address information to location information, and retrieves information from a data repository based on the location information. In another embodiment, the user device acquires information about a program being experience by a user via the set-top box, and generates a message to provide presence status information to a social network service based on the program information.

Abstract: A dynamic service group discovery and mapping approach avoids manual assignment of stream channels for transporting video services to the client devices that provide the video services to an end user. Client devices, such as set-top boxes, receive video services such as video on demand (VOD), switched digital video (SDV), pay-per view (PPV) and other narrowcast types of video for selective transmission. Each client device scans for visible stream channels, and sends a report indicative of visible stream channels to a dynamic mapping server. The dynamic mapping server applies aggregation rules for determining, based on the reported stream channels, which client devices are in the same service group. By receiving reports from each client device, the dynamic mapping server identifies groupings of service groups by combining sets of client devices receiving common channels, and “builds” the service groups as additional reports indicate common stream channels visible to multiple set top boxes.

Abstract: In particular embodiments, one or more computer systems of a social-networking system receive a first video stream from a content source, receive social content from a social graph of the social-networking system, and generate an overlay area comprising at least a portion of the social content. The social graph includes a plurality of nodes and edges connecting the nodes, the nodes comprising user nodes that are each associated with a particular user of the social-networking system. The one or more computer systems of the social-networking system determine a placement for the overlay area within the first video stream, generate a modified video stream using at least the first video stream and the overlay area, and provide the modified video stream for display on a display device. The overlay area is placed within the modified video stream according to the determined placement.

Abstract: A method and a system for video collection management are provided. The method and the system can gather related videos in a network, classify the videos into multiple channels and recommend the channels to be viewed by the user. The method and the system can check the videos of the channels periodically to determine whether the videos are valid or invalid and search for other videos to replace the invalid videos. The method and the system also provide continuous, cross-apparatus and cross-channel video replay.

Abstract: The approach is for controlling a data rate of proxy server of a user device that includes a multimedia player, and a proxy server adapted to communicate with the multimedia player. The proxy server also communicates with a multimedia server. The approach includes receiving a request for a multimedia content from the multimedia player, requesting the multimedia content to the multimedia server, receiving a plurality of packets for the multimedia content from the multimedia server, estimating a data rate between the user device and the multimedia server, and sending a data stream for the multimedia content to the multimedia player based on the estimated data rate.