Allocating computer resources within a video distribution system
US7000243B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 31, 1998 |
| Grant date | Feb 14, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 31, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N21/4782
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method and system for video distribution among a plurality of users uses a host computing device that allocates tasks among a number of audiovisual serving devices. A user can select between traditional video program material, such as scheduled special events and on-demand feature length films, as well as Internet access, video games and computer applications. Assignable Computing Devices (ACDs), one type of audiovisual serving device within the system, are used for a number of functions including providing Internet access to users, controlling the menu-driven process of selecting program material and providing computer applications to users. Other types of audiovisial serving devices provide program material such as on-demand feature length films and video games. The user communicates with the ACDs through an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) while selecting program material to view through a series of menus, which may be customized according to the preferences of an individual user.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.