U.S. patent application number 12/870150 was filed with the patent office on 2010-12-23 for method of and apparatus for describing, promoting, publishing, aggregating, distributing and accessing live content information.
Invention is credited to Christopher C. Andrews.
Application Number | 20100325562 12/870150 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42646796 |
Filed Date | 2010-12-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100325562 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Andrews; Christopher C. |
December 23, 2010 |
METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR DESCRIBING, PROMOTING, PUBLISHING,
AGGREGATING, DISTRIBUTING AND ACCESSING LIVE CONTENT
INFORMATION
Abstract
A live content information system is used to register, promote
and distribute true live content, pseudo-live content and on-demand
content. The live content information system associates a
registration number with the content. The live content is
integrated into an overall presentation that includes auxiliary
content. Snapshots or a portion of the content is integrated into a
promotional viewer and distributed to advertise the content. The
live primary content and auxiliary content are integrated and
distributed within a live content viewer. The live primary content
and auxiliary content are distributed from the appropriate sources
to be displayed at the end user's computer system within the live
content viewer. The live content information system also allows a
producer of live content to be connected to one or more sponsors
who will pay money for sponsoring the distribution of live content.
The live content information system also allows live content to be
quickly and easily interchanged between a producer of the live
content and a partner such as a syndicator, distributor, affiliate
and sponsor.
Inventors: |
Andrews; Christopher C.;
(Los Altos, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MEYERTONS, HOOD, KIVLIN, KOWERT & GOETZEL, P.C.
P.O. BOX 398
AUSTIN
TX
78767-0398
US
|
Family ID: |
42646796 |
Appl. No.: |
12/870150 |
Filed: |
August 27, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09797080 |
Mar 1, 2001 |
7788686 |
|
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12870150 |
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60186111 |
Mar 1, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
715/756 ;
709/206; 709/231 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/02 20130101;
H04N 21/47 20130101; H04N 5/45 20130101; H04N 21/812 20130101; H04N
21/2665 20130101; H04N 7/17318 20130101; H04N 5/44591 20130101;
H04N 21/25891 20130101; H04N 21/2668 20130101; H04N 21/44012
20130101; H04N 21/8586 20130101; H04N 21/4314 20130101; H04N
21/26616 20130101; H04N 21/25875 20130101; H04N 21/4316 20130101;
H04N 21/4312 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
715/756 ;
709/206; 709/231 |
International
Class: |
G06F 3/00 20060101
G06F003/00; G06F 15/16 20060101 G06F015/16 |
Claims
1-104. (canceled)
105. A method, comprising: while a live content stream is being
broadcast via the Internet from a content source: receiving, at a
live content information system, a portion of live content from the
live content stream, wherein the received portion of the live
content is less than the entirety of the live content stream; and
distributing information to a plurality of web sites accessible via
the Internet, wherein the distributed information is usable to
display the received portion of live content at the web sites, and
wherein the distributed information is selectable to access, in
real time, the live content stream from the content source.
106. The method of claim 105, wherein said receiving a portion of
live content includes receiving a portion of live content that is
less than the entirety of the stream and is selected by a producer
of the live content.
107. The method of claim 105, wherein the live content stream
includes video data, and wherein said receiving a portion of live
content includes receiving a portion of video data that is less
than the entirety of the video data included in the live content
stream.
108. The method of claim 105, wherein the live content stream
includes video data having a first frame rate, and wherein said
receiving a portion of live content includes receiving a portion of
video data having a second frame rate that is lower than the first
frame rate.
109. The method of claim 105, wherein the live content stream
includes chat data, and wherein said receiving a portion of live
content includes receiving a portion of chat data that is less than
the entirety of the chat data included in the live content
stream.
110. The method of claim 105, further comprising: sending a
notification of availability of the live content stream via an
email message.
111. The method of claim 105, further comprising: sending a
notification of availability of the live content stream to one or
more telephones.
112. The method of claim 105, wherein said distributing information
includes distributing a computer program that is downloadable from
one or more of the plurality of web sites to display the received
portion of live content.
113. The method of claim 105, wherein the content source is a web
site.
114. The method of claim 105, wherein the live content stream
includes audio content and video content.
115. A computer system comprising: a processor; and memory storing
program instructions that are executable by the computer system,
using the processor, to cause the computer system to: receive,
while a live content stream is being broadcast via the Internet
from a content source, a portion of live content from the live
content stream, wherein the received portion is less than the
entirety of the live content stream; and distribute, while the live
content stream is being broadcast via the Internet from the content
source, information to a plurality of web sites accessible via the
Internet, wherein the distributed information is usable to display
the received content at the web sites, and wherein the distributed
information is selectable to access, in real time, the live content
stream from the content source.
116. The computer system of claim 115, wherein the program
instructions are further executable to cause the computer system to
send a notification of availability of the live content stream via
an email message.
117. The computer system of claim 115, wherein the program
instructions are further executable to cause the computer system to
send a notification of availability of the live content stream to
one or more telephones.
118. The computer system of claim 115, wherein the program
instructions are executable to cause the computer system to
distribute a computer program that is executable to display the
received portion of live content.
119. A method comprising: while a live content stream is being
broadcast, a computer system receiving a selection indicating a
portion of the live content stream, wherein the indicated portion
is less than the entirety of the live content stream; the computer
system transmitting the indicated portion to a live content
information system; and in response to receiving an indication that
the indicated portion has been selected at a client system, the
computer system causing the live content stream to be transmitted
to the client system.
120. The method of claim 119, wherein said causing the live content
stream to be transmitted to the client system includes causing the
live content stream to be transmitted from the computer system to a
system that is distinct from the live content information
system.
121. The method of claim 119, wherein said receiving a selection
indicating a portion of the live content stream includes receiving
a selection of video data from a producer of the live content.
122. The method of claim 119, wherein the live content stream
includes video data having a first frame rate, and wherein said
transmitting the indicated portion includes transmitting a portion
of the video data having a second frame rate that is lower than the
first frame rate.
123. The method of claim 119, wherein the live content stream
includes chat data, and wherein said transmitting the indicated
portion includes transmitting a portion of the chat data that is
less than the entirety of the chat data included in the live
content stream.
124. The method of claim 119, wherein the live content stream
includes audio data, and wherein said transmitting the indicated
portion includes transmitting a portion of the audio data that is
less than the entirety of the audio data included in the live
content stream.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e) of the co-pending U.S. provisional application Ser.
No. 60/186,111 filed on Mar. 1, 2000 and entitled "THE LIVE CONTENT
INFORMATION SYSTEM INCLUDING CONTENT DESCRIPTOR, CONTENT PUBLISHER,
CONTENT AGGREGATOR, CONTENT DISTRIBUTOR, AND CONTENT ACCESS
METHOD." The provisional application Ser. No. 60/186,111 filed on
Mar. 1, 2000 and entitled "THE LIVE CONTENT INFORMATION SYSTEM
INCLUDING CONTENT DESCRIPTOR, CONTENT PUBLISHER, CONTENT
AGGREGATOR, CONTENT DISTRIBUTOR, AND CONTENT ACCESS METHOD" is also
hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to the field of distributing
and promoting content such as audio, video and text information.
More particularly, the present invention relates to the field of
distributing and promoting live content such as audio, video and
text information, over the internet, television and radio.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The World Wide Web (also known and hereinafter referred to
as the "Internet") is a rapidly expanding network of computers
which provide users with numerous services and a wealth of
information. The internet is primarily a visually based system,
allowing a user to graphically interact with an image or series of
images on a display screen.
[0004] The internet was originally created as a non-commercial
venue to provide communication links between government
institutions as well as institutions of higher learning. Today, the
internet has evolved to become a universal network of computers
which include private industry as well as government institutions.
The internet has become widely accessible to many people from
computers located in many different places including homes and
offices. Users are able to locate updated information regarding the
weather, stock prices, news and many other topics. Further, users
are able to locate a wide variety of information regarding products
and services. Users are also able to buy products and services from
retailer-oriented internet sites which are then shipped or provided
to them after their order is placed. On auction-oriented internet
sites users are able to bid against other users for products or
services with the user making the highest bid within the specified
time period receiving the particular product or service. Users are
also able to communicate with other users over the internet through
e-mail, bulletin boards, message lists and chat sites.
[0005] The internet offers many advantages over other media. The
internet seamlessly links together and provides to users
information stored on geographically distant servers. Similarly,
the information on a server can be remotely updated from any
geographic point from which access to the internet can be
obtained.
[0006] When a user accesses information on a server over the
internet, the user interfaces with the server through a website.
Many websites offer hyperlinks to other websites, making the
internet user friendly and allowing users to efficiently jump
between websites and webpages. When accessing a website with a
hyperlink to another website, by selecting the hyperlink, the user
is enabled to link directly from the current website to the linked
website without entering an address of the linked website. In use,
a hyperlink is a visually discernible notation. The user activates
or selects the hyperlink by "clicking" on the hyperlink notation or
icon. This selection of the hyperlink is also referred to as a
point and click operation. The user's computer is programmed to
automatically access the website identified by the hyperlink as a
result of the user's point and click operation.
[0007] When accessing an internet site, a user instructs a computer
system, settop box or other internet access device to dial up the
server of the user's internet service provider. The internet access
device then controls the operation of a modem to establish the
connection with the internet service provider over the public
switched telephone network. Once a connection has been made between
the modem and the internet service provider, the user must then log
on to the service, usually by entering a username and a password.
When the user is logged on to the service, the user can then access
services and information provided by the service provider and also
information available through web pages at other addresses on the
internet. When accessing information available over the internet,
the user connects through their service provider to other servers
which are providing information. This information is usually
provided at internet sites and web pages. Each internet site and
web page has a particular address through which it can be accessed.
By entering this address, the user is instructing their internet
service provider to connect them to that address. As described
above, the user also instructs their internet service provider to
connect them to a specific address by selecting a hyperlink through
a point and click operation.
[0008] Content available over the internet has been limited by the
bandwidth and capabilities of the content provider's equipment, the
internet service provider's equipment and the end user's equipment,
as well as the bandwidth and capabilities of distribution systems
through which the end user accesses the content from the internet
service provider. As the bandwidth and capabilities of equipment
and the available distribution systems have improved, the types and
quality of content available over the internet has grown. Content
providers now provide streaming media to end users which is a rich
media including audio and video combined in a format which when
viewed, allows the user to watch video clips of news, music
performances, movies, etc.
[0009] Live content is content which changes as it is viewed, so
that at any particular moment in time it is different than if
viewed or heard prior to or after that moment. Part of the
attraction of live content is that one does not know what will
happen next, or one does know and is willing to wait and experience
the live content. The live content is used to entertain and inform
people and organized groups of people.
[0010] Typical live content includes audio and video available on
the internet, chat, cameras linked to the internet referred to as
webcams, statistical feeds of information known as tickers, and
live editorial or text.
[0011] There are several different ways and methods by which the
live content is transmitted to the end user, which control how the
end user is allowed to experience the content. A first method is a
true live transmission method which means that the end user is
experiencing the event on the internet at approximately the same
time the content is being produced, or with a very short delay of
seconds or minutes. This true live transmission method would be
most common in live events that are occurring at approximately the
same moment as the end user is experiencing that event, such as
live music concerts or live sporting events. A second method is a
pseudo live transmission method, which means that the content is
produced in advance and it is presented on the internet at a
scheduled time so as to create an impression of a live event. Most
television programs fit into this pseudo live category. A third
method is an on-demand transmission method which allows the end
user to experience the live content at a time of their choice. This
on-demand method can be used to access recorded or archived content
that was originally true live content or pseudo live content. This
on-demand method is quite common as a method to gain a larger
audience for the live content, because the end user can experience
the content at a time of their choice.
[0012] As the internet has grown, the demand for live content has
increased and the supply or production of live content has grown as
well. This has created an environment where the types of live
content are diverse in their characteristics, yet the
infrastructure is not in place to properly promote and distribute
the content to end users. One of the problems associated with
distributing live content arises because live content changes a lot
at the last minute, as well as changes by definition while it is
being experienced by an end user. This dynamic aspect of the live
content has made basic communication and promotion of the live
content difficult unless the live content is a major event that
breaks through on a public relations level so that everyone knows
when and where it occurs. Conventional search engines also do a
poor job of tracking and providing information about live content.
With most live content, the highest value is realized if the end
users all experience the live content at the designated time.
However, gaining an audience of an appropriate size at the
designated time on the internet is difficult.
[0013] There are also difficulties associated with the actual
production and distribution of live content. Live content is
expensive to produce and distribute to the end user. Because the
live content involves time-based elements it requires a combination
of speed and precision to produce and distribute. There are also
currently not industry accepted standards for generating revenue
from the live content. Accordingly, each time for example, that a
producer and sponsor agree on business terms for the production and
distribution of live content, there are still many new issues that
must be quickly worked out.
[0014] The experience of live content has been shown to have a high
value to the end user. Because of this end users have a high degree
of excitement about the live content and will generally buy more
goods associated with the live content and have a more memorable
experience. Yet, many end users still do not have access to the
proper system or services to experience the live content as it was
intended to be experienced.
[0015] The types of business relationships that occur relative to
standard internet content, such as advertising and sponsorships are
more difficult with live content. The initiation and maintenance of
these types of relationships are difficult with live content
because of the dynamic nature of the content, the speed at which a
dialogue needs to occur and the ad-hoc nature of many of the
business relationships that are entered into relative to live
content, because the true live content is for a specific event or
moment in time.
[0016] Since live content changes frequently, the addition of
contextual information that describes or promotes the content,
before, during and after the transmission of the live content is
often necessary. New publishing tools from self-publishing for the
amateur to high-end systems for professional webcasters and
technologies have given rise to a wide variety of presentation
methods for live content. Because few standard presentation methods
currently exist to combine live content, there is typically a high
degree of experimentation. Standards including XML, SMIL, RSS and
ICE have emerged to help with the integration and distribution of
content, yet most of these standards require a custom vocabulary
associated with a particular application. No such standard
currently exists which addresses the unique problems associated
with the integration and distribution of live content.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] A live content information system is used to register,
promote and distribute true live content, pseudo-live content and
on-demand content. The live content information system associates a
registration number with the content. The live content is
integrated into an overall presentation that includes auxiliary
content. Snapshots or a portion of the content is integrated into a
promotional viewer and distributed to advertise the content. The
live primary content and auxiliary content are integrated and
distributed within a live content viewer. The live primary content
and auxiliary content are distributed from the appropriate sources
to be displayed at the end user's computer system within the live
content viewer. The live content information system also allows a
producer of live content to be connected to one or more sponsors
who will pay money for sponsoring the distribution of live content.
The live content information system also allows live content to be
quickly and easily interchanged between a producer of the live
content and a partner such as a syndicator, distributor, affiliate
and sponsor.
[0018] A method of registering a piece of content with a content
information system comprises the steps of accessing the content
information system, entering characteristics of the piece of
content into the content information system and receiving a
registration number from the content information system, wherein
the registration number is permanently associated with the piece of
content and refers to a location and the characteristics of the
piece of content and further wherein the registration number is
used to reference and locate the piece of content. The method
further comprises the step of associating auxiliary content with
the piece of content. The method further comprises the step of
integrating the piece of content and the auxiliary content into an
integrated presentation to be displayed to end users. The method
further comprises the step of associating one or more sponsors with
the piece of content. The sponsor is associated with the piece of
content by registering the sponsor with the piece of content and
associating sponsor's information with the piece of content and the
auxiliary content into the integrated presentation. The sponsor's
information includes one or more of graphics, logo and e-commerce
offerings. The method further comprises the step of storing the
piece of content, the auxiliary content and the associating
sponsor's information within the integrated presentation. The
method further comprises the step of generating promotional content
to be used as promotional material of the piece of content. The
method further comprises the step of recording portions of the
piece of content to be used as promotional material of the piece of
content. The method further comprises the step of associating
promotional information with the portions of the piece of content.
The method further comprises the step of integrating the portions
of the piece of content and the promotional information into a
promotional presentation to be displayed. The method further
comprises the step of distributing the promotional presentation to
be displayed as advertising for the piece of content. The portions
of the piece of content are a selective one of snapshots from the
piece of content, promotional pictures, promotional graphics, text
information and entire piece of content. The method further
comprises the step of distributing the piece of content, the
auxiliary content and the associating sponsor's information within
the integrated presentation from one or more sources to be
displayed for end users. The method further comprises the step of
distributing notification of availability of the integrated
presentation. The notification is by one or more of e-mail, pager,
telephone, alert and message alert to users of a website. The piece
of content is one or more of audio, video, animation, interactive
game, text, still photos, time-release photos, statistics and chat.
The content information system is accessed over an internet
connection. The content information system is also accessed over a
wireless connection. The content information system is also
accessed over a cable connection. The content information system is
also accessed over a satellite connection.
[0019] A method of distributing content comprises the steps of
accessing a content information system, entering characteristics of
a piece of content into the content information system, receiving a
registration number from the content information system, wherein
the registration number is permanently associated with the piece of
content and refers to a location and the characteristics of the
piece of content and further wherein the registration number is
used to reference and locate the piece of content, associating
auxiliary content with the piece of content, integrating the piece
of content and the auxiliary content into an integrated
presentation and distributing the piece of content and the
auxiliary content within the integrated presentation from one or
more sources to be displayed for end users. The method further
comprises the step of storing the piece of content and the
auxiliary content within the integrated presentation. The method
further comprises the step of generating promotional content to be
used as promotional material of the piece of content. The method
further comprises the step of recording portions of the piece of
content to be used as promotional material of the piece of content.
The method further comprises the step of associating promotional
information with the portions of the piece of content. The method
further comprises the step of integrating the portions of the piece
of content and the promotional information into a promotional
presentation to be displayed. The method further comprises the step
of distributing the promotional presentation to be displayed as
advertising for the piece of content. The portions of the piece of
content are a selective one of snapshots from the piece of content,
promotional pictures, promotional graphics, text information and
entire piece of content. The method further comprising the step of
associating one or more sponsors with the piece of content. The
sponsor is associated with the piece of content by registering the
sponsor with the piece of content and associating sponsor's
information with the piece of content and the auxiliary content
into the integrated presentation. The method further comprises the
step of distributing notification of availability of the integrated
presentation. The notification is by one or more of e-mail, pager,
telephone, alert and message alert to users of a website. The piece
of content is one or more of audio, video, animation, interactive
game, text, still photos, time-release photos, statistics and chat.
The content information system is accessed over an interne
connection. The content information system is also accessed over a
wireless connection.
[0020] A method of promoting content comprises the steps of
accessing a content information system, entering characteristics of
a piece of content into the content information system, recording
portions of the piece of content to be used as promotional material
of the piece of content, associating promotional material with the
portions of the piece of content, integrating the portions of the
piece of content and the promotional information into a promotional
presentation to be displayed and distributing the promotional
presentation to be displayed as advertising for the piece of
content. The portions of the piece of content are a selective one
of snapshots from the piece of content, promotional pictures,
promotional graphics, text information and entire piece of content.
The piece of content is one or more of audio, video, animation,
interactive game, text, still photos, time-release photos,
statistics and chat. The content information system is accessed
over an internet connection. The content information system is
accessed over a wireless connection. The method further comprises
the step of receiving a registration number from the content
information system, wherein the registration number is permanently
associated with the piece of content and refers to a location and
the characteristics of the piece of content and further wherein the
registration number is used to reference and locate the piece of
content. The method further comprises the step of generating
promotional content to be used as promotional material of the piece
of content.
[0021] A content information system for registering and
distributing content comprises means for interfacing with the
content information system and means for registering coupled to the
means for interfacing for entering characteristics of a piece of
content and generating a registration number to be permanently
associated with the piece of content, wherein the registration
number is used to track a location and the characteristics of the
piece of content and further wherein the registration number is
used to reference and locate the piece of content. The content
information system further comprises a means for enhancing coupled
to the means for registering for associating auxiliary content with
the piece of content. The content information system further
comprises a means for integrating coupled to the means for
enhancing for integrating the piece of content and the auxiliary
content into an integrated presentation. The content information
system further comprises a means for storing coupled to the means
for integrating for storing the piece of content and the auxiliary
content within the integrated presentation. The piece of content
and the auxiliary content within the integrated presentation are
stored in relation to the registration number. The content
information system further comprises a means for distributing
coupled to the means for integrating for distributing the piece of
content and the auxiliary content within the integrated
presentation from one or more resources to be displayed for end
users. The content information system further comprises a means for
promoting coupled to the means for registering for generating
promotional content to be used as promotional material of the piece
of content. The content information system further comprises a
means for promoting coupled to the means for registering for
recording portions of the piece of content to be used as
promotional material of the piece of content. The means for
promoting further associates promotional material with the portions
of the piece of content. The means for promoting also integrates
the portions of the piece of content and the promotional
information into a promotional presentation. The means for
promoting further distributes the promotional presentation to be
displayed as advertising for the piece of content. The portions of
the piece of content are a selective one of snapshots from the
piece of content, promotional pictures, promotional graphics, text
information and entire piece of content. The means for distributing
further distributes notification of availability of the integrated
presentation. The notification is by one or more of e-mail, pager,
telephone, alert and message alert to users of a website. The piece
of content is one or more of audio, video, animation, interactive
game, text, still photos, time-release photos, statistics and chat.
The means for interfacing is accessed over an internet connection.
The means for interfacing is also accessed over a wireless
connection. The means for interfacing is also accessed over a cable
connection. The means for interfacing is also accessed over a
satellite connection.
[0022] A content information system for registering and
distributing content comprises an interface circuit configured to
allow access to the content information system and a registration
module coupled to the interface circuit and configured to enter
characteristics of a piece of content and generate a registration
number to be permanently associated with the piece of content,
wherein the registration number is used to track a location and the
characteristics of the piece of content and further wherein the
registration number is used to reference and locate the piece of
content. The content information system further comprises an
enhancement module coupled to the registration module to associate
auxiliary content with the piece of content. The content
information system further comprises an integration module coupled
to the enhancement module to integrate the piece of content and the
auxiliary content into an integrated presentation. The content
information system further comprises a storage module coupled to
the integration module to store the piece of content and the
auxiliary content within the integrated presentation. The piece of
content and the auxiliary content within the integrated
presentation are stored in relation to the registration number. The
content information system further comprises a distribution module
coupled to the integration module to distribute the piece of
content and the auxiliary content within the integrated
presentation from one or more sources to be displayed for end
users. The registration module records portions of the piece of
content to be used as promotional material of the piece of content.
The registration module further associates promotional material
with the portions of the piece of content. The registration module
also integrates the portions of the piece of content and the
promotional information into a promotional presentation. The
registration module further distributes the promotional
presentation to be displayed as advertising for the piece of
content. The portions of the piece of content are a selective one
of snapshots from the piece of content, promotional pictures,
promotional graphics, text information and entire piece of content.
The distribution module further distributes notification of
availability of the integrated presentation. The notification is by
one or more of e-mail, pager, telephone, alert and message alert to
users of a website. The piece of content is one or more of audio,
video, animation, interactive game, text, still photos,
time-release photos, statistics and chat. The interface circuit is
accessed over an internet connection. The content information
system is accessed over a wireless connection.
[0023] A network of devices for registering and distributing
content comprises a content information system including an
interface circuit configured to allow access to the content
information system and a registration module coupled to the
interface circuit and configured to enter characteristics of a
piece of content and generate a registration number to be
permanently associated with the piece of content, wherein the
registration number is used to track a location and the
characteristics of the piece of content and further wherein the
registration number is used to reference and locate the piece of
content, one or more involved entity computer systems through which
persons involved in the registration of the piece of content access
the registration module and one or more end user computer systems
through which end users access the piece of content. The content
information system further comprises an enhancement module coupled
to the registration module to associate auxiliary content with the
piece of content. The content information system further comprises
an integration module coupled to the enhancement module to
integrate the piece of content and the auxiliary content into an
integrated presentation. The content information system further
comprises a storage module coupled to the integration module to
store the piece of content and the auxiliary content within the
integrated presentation. The piece of content and the auxiliary
content within the integrated presentation are stored in relation
to the registration number. The content information system further
comprises a distribution module coupled to the integration module
to distribute the piece of content and the auxiliary content within
the integrated presentation from one or more sources to be
displayed for end users. The registration module records portions
of the piece of content to be used as promotional material of the
piece of content. The registration module further associates
promotional material with the portions of the piece of content. The
registration module also integrates the portions of the piece of
content and the promotional information into a promotional
presentation. The registration module further distributes the
promotional presentation to be displayed as advertising for the
piece of content. The portions of the piece of content are a
selective one of snapshots from the piece of content, promotional
pictures, promotional graphics, text information and entire piece
of content. The distribution module further distributes
notification of availability of the integrated presentation. The
notification is by one or more of e-mail, pager, telephone, alert
and message alert to users of a website. The piece of content is
one or more of audio, video, animation, interactive game, text,
still photos, time-release photos, statistics and chat. The
interface circuit is accessed over an internet connection. The
content information system is accessed over a wireless
connection.
[0024] A promotional viewer for viewing promotional material
associated with available content comprises a snapshot window which
includes portions of a piece of content, a promotional window which
includes promotional information to be associated with the portions
of the piece of content and an access window which includes access
information regarding how to access the piece of content. The
promotional viewer is distributed to be displayed as advertising
for the piece of content. The portions of the piece of content are
a selective one of snapshots from the piece of content, promotional
pictures, promotional graphics, text information and entire piece
of content. The access window includes a link to the piece of
content.
[0025] A content viewer for viewing a piece of content and
associated auxiliary content comprises a primary content window
within which the piece of content is displayed and one or more
associated auxiliary content windows within which the auxiliary
content associated with the piece of content is displayed. The
associated auxiliary content windows include an interactive window
within which interactive information is displayed. The associated
auxiliary content windows include a chat window within which chat
information is displayed. The associated auxiliary content windows
include an advertising window within which advertising information
is displayed. The associated auxiliary content windows include a
contextual message window within which information relating to the
piece of content is displayed. The associated auxiliary content
windows include a sponsor's window within which sponsor information
is displayed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a live content
information system according to the preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
[0027] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary computer
system used to access the live content information system of the
present invention.
[0028] FIG. 3 illustrates the preferred embodiment of a promotional
viewer.
[0029] FIG. 4 illustrates the preferred embodiment of a live
content viewer.
[0030] FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of the process used to
register live content and associate other auxiliary information
with the live content information system of the present
invention.
[0031] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of the process used to
promote live content registered with the live content information
system of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of the process used to
distribute live content registered with the live content
information system of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of processes that are
associated with a content information system.
[0034] FIG. 9 illustrates a number of different possibilities for
the distribution of an end-user product.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0035] The live content information system of the present invention
is a method for describing, combining, enhancing, monetizing,
promoting and distributing live content on the interne. The live
content information system involves an end-to-end process for
generating and distributing live content encompassing the entire
value chain of live content, including producers, distributors,
sponsors, syndicators, affiliates and end users. The use of the
live content information system in this process has benefits for
each of the groups within the live content value chain. This system
is an information system which provides benefits to companies
associated with the live content. As an information system it runs
independent of the actual transmission or streaming of the live
content, yet the live content information system links to and
tracks the live content transmission process. The live content
information system is used to give live content an independent
identity regardless of the source of the content, the website or
websites on which it is located and where it is distributed from.
The live content information system can also integrate with and
control the live content transmission process. Preferably, the live
content information system is internet based. However, the origin
or destination of the live content does not have to be on the
internet, but could be also radio and television. Further, the user
can access the content from any appropriately configured reception
device which includes at least a computer system, settop box,
internet access device, wireless device, handheld device,
telephone, television and radio.
[0036] The live content information system of the present invention
is used for describing, promoting, publishing, aggregating,
distributing and accessing live content information. The live
content information allows for an easy way to describe live
content, and utilize that description for the promotion and
distribution of that content. This includes taking snapshots of the
live content for promotional purposes. The live content information
system also reduces errors in items such as correctly identifying
the time and location for access of the live content, the
technology required to view the live content and being able to make
changes at the last-minute without risking a loss in end user
accesses of the live content. The live content information system
allows elements to be added to the content that increase the
usability and marketability of the content. This allows the live
content to be described in a way that can be useful in the
promotion and distribution of the live content. This description
can be stored and distributed to provide a means for creating a
network of live content using the live content information system
by organizing the information in the live content information
system and presenting it in a useful form, such as a guide.
[0037] The live content information system also allows live content
to be quickly and easily interchanged between the producer of the
live content and a partner such as a syndicator, distributor,
affiliate and sponsor. This method of interchange is preferably a
virtual method which accommodates speed and precision and takes
advantage of the internet's ability to link one party to the next
for the transfer of information. The live content information
system also allows a producer of live content to be connected to
one or more sponsors who will pay money for sponsoring the
distribution of the live content. This connection includes
providing a means of matching the sponsor and the producer,
integrating the producer's content and the sponsor's information
such as graphics, logo and e-commerce offerings for distribution
and distributing the sponsored content to end users over the
internet. If multiple sponsors are affiliated with the distribution
of the live content, the distribution and presentation of the live
content can be different for each sponsor.
[0038] The live content information system can also be used to
easily integrate a single live content source into an overall
presentation that includes other live content and non-live content
which adds information and value to the live content. The auxiliary
content integrated into the overall presentation enhances the
primary content and the end user's experience. The auxiliary
content may be synchronized elements such as text transcriptions of
a speech that is being heard, or commerce offerings timed to
coincide with a particular moment in time that an end user of the
content is most likely to buy a product. The live content and the
overall presentation or selective portions of the overall
presentation can also be exchanged between the internet and
non-internet sources such as television and radio. The live content
information system of the present invention preferably provides a
method of quickly promoting the content and drawing an audience of
end users for the live content.
[0039] The live content information system involves all the
organizations within the live content value chain, from creation
through distribution of the live content. In this process different
types of organizations are involved at each level including the
producer, the distributor, syndicator, affiliates, sponsor and end
user. The producer includes the person or organization who
generated the live content, as well as the owner of the content.
The producer and content owner can be the same person or
organization or in some circumstances they will be separate
entities. Preferably, within the live content information system of
the present invention, the producer controls the content and has
the rights, including legal rights, to distribute the content.
[0040] The distributor is the organization or entity which
distributes the live content to the end user. The distributor is
generally the website or the entity owning or controlling the
website that the end user clicked on to launch the live
content.
[0041] The syndicator is an organization or entity that generates
multiple distribution points for live content, either manually or
through a series of automated steps. Syndicators find and develop
business relationships with distributors.
[0042] An affiliate is a distributor who has an arrangement with
the producer that allows for a linkage of the live content in some
form. An affiliate is similar to a distributor, but an affiliate
may have an informal cross-promotional partnership with the
producer. This cross-promotional partnership is different from a
formal commercial relationship which generally exists between a
distributor and a producer.
[0043] A sponsor generally receives an integrated group of benefits
from the live content producer in return for paying money to
sponsor the live content. These benefits include inclusion within
the live content itself, graphics integrated around the live
content, linkage to the live content on the sponsor's website and
the opportunity to sell goods or services.
[0044] The end user is an individual who experiences the final live
content in any one or more forms including audio, video and chat.
For audio, the end user is the person who listens to the live
content. For video, the end user is the person who listens and
watches the live content. For chat, the end user is the person who
participates in the chat. An end user can experience the live
content in all these forms simultaneously, or individually.
[0045] A block diagram of a live content information system
according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention is
illustrated in FIG. 1. A live content information system 100
includes an interne server 102, an end user access system 104, an
involved entity access system 106, a distribution module 108 and a
storage module 110. The distribution module 108 and storage module
110 are used to store and distribute live content and integrated
portions of live content streams through the internet server 102.
The distribution module 108 is used to control and track the
distribution of live content streams. Involved entities can also
register with the distribution module 108 to specify that if
content of a specified type is available, the involved entity
automatically wants to syndicate, distribute or sponsor the
content, as appropriate. For example, a news site can register with
the live content information system to automatically receive any
news-related content specific to a certain geographic area. Then,
when a producer registers content that matches this criteria, the
distribution module 108 will automatically send the matching
content to the news site for further distribution.
[0046] The end user access system 104 is coupled to the internet
server 102 to control communications between the live content
information system 100 and end users accessing content and related
information through the live content information system 100. The
involved entity access system 106 is coupled to the internet server
102 to control communications between the live content information
system 100 and involved entities accessing the live content
information system 100. Involved entities preferably include
entities other than end users which are involved in the generation
or distribution of the content including producers, distributors,
syndicators, affiliates and sponsors.
[0047] The live content information system 100 also includes a
vocabulary module 126, a registration module 120, a tracking module
122, a management module 124, a content enhancement module 112, a
content integration module 114, a content exchange module 116 and a
sponsorship module 118, all coupled to the involved entity access
system 106. The vocabulary module 126 manages a vocabulary for
describing and communicating the characteristics of live content,
therefore allowing a common method of communication among all of
the parties accessing the live content information system 100. The
vocabulary includes terms for describing the type of content,
technical characteristics of the content, the start and stop time
of the content, the methods of accessing the content and the
location of the content. The type of content includes at least
video, audio, animation, interactive game, still photos, periodic
sequence or time-release of still photos, chat, webcam, text,
statistics and integrated, meaning a combination of types of
content. The technical characteristics of the content include the
technology needed to integrate, distribute and view the content and
other characteristics such as the frame rate for any video within
the content. The start and stop time of the content includes terms
regarding when the live content is available and when it will end.
The methods of accessing the live content specify that the content
is true live and available only at a specific time, pseudo live and
available only at scheduled times and on-demand and available at
the demand of an end user. The location of live content specifies
where the content is to be distributed from including an internet
locator value, a specified URL or a computer filename. This
location can be from the live content information system 100 itself
or any other appropriate location, including a website, URL or file
of any entity, including involved entities. The location of the
live content can include a file within a personal computer system
accessed by a peer-to-peer type network.
[0048] The registration module 120 controls the registration of
live content and the input of certain characteristics corresponding
to live content. Through the registration module 120, a producer
registers their live content and inputs the characteristics
corresponding to their live content. Once a producer registers
their live content with the registration module 120, the
registration module 120 will then issue a registration number
corresponding to the live content to the producer. This
registration number will then be permanently associated with the
live content and can be used to refer or locate the live content
for promotion and distribution of the live content. Each separate
piece of live content will preferably have its own corresponding
registration number. For example, preferably, the actual live
content itself, an associated promotional viewer and an associated
live content viewer will each have a separate corresponding
registration number. The registration module 120 manages the
ownership of the content, including the name and organization of
the ownership entity associated with the content. The registration
module 120 also manages and restricts the levels of access to
change content and/or information associated with the content. The
registration module 120 manages possible additions to the content,
such as enhanced content, items or information to be integrated
with the content, including sponsorship information and graphics.
Further, the registration module 120 manages promotional snapshots
associated with the available content including links from
websites, still images taken from the content stream and text
information, as will be discussed below.
[0049] The tracking module 122 tracks the live content that has
been registered by the registration module 120. Preferably, the
registration number is embedded in the content to aid in this
tracking process. Utilizing the tracking module 122 and the
registration number associated with the content, if the location of
the content or other basic information like the start time of the
display of the live content is changed, then that information can
be logged and communicated to other interested parties through the
tracking module 122. The tracking module 122 preferably regularly
checks for changes in the status of registered content and
communicates any changes to the content or information associated
with the content to the producer and other interested parties or
involved entities. Utilizing the registration number associated
with the content, the tracking module 122 also automatically
transfers distributors and syndicators to the correct live content
regardless if the location or characteristics of the registered
live content has changed.
[0050] The content enhancement module 112 allows for additional
information to be associated with the live content. This additional
information may help to give context to the live content, to market
the live content and to increase usage of the live content.
Utilizing the content enhancement module 112, a producer designs a
basic template for addition and inclusion of additional information
with the live content. This template or live content viewer
provides windows around the live content that other auxiliary
content, including live content, can be added to the live content.
Also, through this template or live content viewer, graphic
presentations surrounding the live content can also be integrated
with the distribution of the live content. The content enhancement
module 112 also allows a notification feature to be associated with
the content, which allows end users to notify others of the
availability of the live content. This notification can be by any
appropriate means, including e-mail, pager, telephone message,
alert or a message alert to users logged into a website or internet
service provider. If the notification is by e-mail, these others
receiving the e-mail notification can then opt in through a link
provided within the e-mail notification to then begin receiving the
live content. Also, utilizing the content enhancement module 112,
polls, surveys and other interactive activities can be added to the
distribution of the live content.
[0051] The content integration module 114 allows for the
integration of different content types from different producers.
For example, a video from one producer and a titling and text
enhancement from another producer can be integrated together by the
content integration module 114 to give context to the live content
as it is viewed by the end user. The content integration module 114
controls this integration from multiple producers. Utilizing the
content integration module 114, the multiple producers agree on
what is allowed to be added to the content and by whom. Through
this process, the basic framework for adding the content is
established.
[0052] The content exchange module 116 allows all parties and
involved entities involved with the live content, including
producers, distributors and sponsors, to access and utilize the
live content. The content owner defines rules for access and
distribution of the content by the other involved entities. This
access and utilization available through the content exchange
module 116 includes everything from generating full-sponsored and
delivered live content from the producer to the sponsor, to
generating special links and snapshots associated with the content
for promotional use only.
[0053] The sponsorship module 118 allows for sponsors who are
interested in being associated with live content to complete that
process. The sponsorship module 118 also allows producers of the
content to describe and advertise the possible sponsorship
scenarios available for specific live content, including defining
the categories of sponsorship available for the live content. The
sponsorship module 118 controls the registration of sponsors as
well as determining and specifying sponsorship parameters
associated with live content. The sponsorship module 118 also
provides information to sponsors about live content and matches
sponsors with producers of the live content. The sponsorship module
118 tracks the usage of the live content from sponsors and provides
any additional information to sponsors about the live content. As
described above, multiple sponsors can separately or in
combination, sponsor the distribution of the same live content. If
multiple sponsors are affiliated with the distribution of the live
content, the distribution and presentation of the live content can
be different for each sponsor.
[0054] The management module 124 allows all of the involved
entities utilizing the live content information system 100 to
receive information about their participation in the live content
information system 100. This information includes reports,
statistics and administrative information regarding the entity and
their participation in the distribution of live content utilizing
the live content information system 100. Utilizing the management
module 124, the involved entity can receive reports, statistics and
administrative information about the different streams of live
content that the entity has been involved with, as well as other
associated statistical information such as the amount of usage or
number of end users who accessed the live content.
[0055] The live content information system 100 is coupled to the
public switched telephone network 140 to allow communications
between both the internet server 102 and the end users' computer
systems 152 and 154 and the involved entities' computer systems 156
and 158. Using the computer systems 156 and 158, the involved
entities establish a connection with the involved entity access
system 106 to register live content and control relationships and
integration of other content associated with the live content.
Preferably, this connection is established between the involved
entities' computer systems 156 and 158 over the internet through
the public switched telephone network 140. Alternatively, this
connection is established by any appropriate connection including a
direct connection over the public switched telephone network 140,
or from a device other than a computer system, such as a settop
box, internet access device, wireless device, handheld device,
telephone, television or radio. Using the computer systems 152 and
154, end users can access live content that is distributed from the
distribution module 108, from the computer systems 156 and 158 of
the involved entities or from other computer systems coupled to the
public switched telephone network 140. Preferably, this connection
is established between the end users' computer systems 152 and 154
and the internet server 102 or the involved entities' computer
systems 156 and 158, as appropriate, over the internet through the
public switched telephone network 140. Alternatively, this
connection is established by any appropriate connection including a
direct connection over the public switched telephone network 140,
or from a device other than a computer system, such as a settop
box, internet access device, wireless device, handheld device,
telephone, television or radio.
[0056] A block diagram of the internal components of the computer
systems 152-158 used by end users and involved entities to access
the live content information system 100 of the present invention is
illustrated in FIG. 2. While the live content information system
100 can be accessed from any appropriately configured computer
system or internet access device, an exemplary computer system 250
for accessing the live content information system 100 is
illustrated in FIG. 2. The exemplary computer system 250 includes a
CPU 272, a main memory 256, a video memory 260, a mass storage
device 254 and a modem 252, all coupled together by a conventional
bi-directional system bus 258. The modem 252 is preferably coupled
to the public switched telephone network 140 for sending and
receiving communications. The mass storage device 254 may include
both fixed and removable media using any one or more of magnetic,
optical or magneto-optical storage technology or any other
available mass storage technology. The system bus 258 contains an
address bus for addressing any portion of the memory 254, 256 and
260. The system bus 258 also includes a data bus for transferring
data between and among the CPU 272, the main memory 256, the video
memory 260, the mass storage device 254 and the modem 252.
[0057] The computer system 250 is also coupled to a number of
peripheral input and output devices including the keyboard 268, the
mouse 270 and the associated display 266. The keyboard 268 is
coupled to the CPU 272 for allowing a user to input data and
control commands into the computer system 250. A conventional mouse
270 is coupled to the keyboard 268 or computer system 250 directly,
for manipulating graphic images on the display 266 as a cursor
control device in a conventional manner. The display 266 displays
video and graphical images generated by the computer system
250.
[0058] A port of the video memory 260 is coupled to a video
multiplex and shifter circuit 262, which in turn is coupled to a
video amplifier 264. The video amplifier 264 drives the display
266, when it is being used. The video multiplex and shifter
circuitry 262 and the video amplifier 264 convert pixel data stored
in the video memory 260 to raster signals suitable for use by the
display 266.
[0059] End users will view portions of the content in promotional
information within a promotional viewer while accessing or viewing
other information at other web sites. Alternatively, end users can
receive the promotional viewer downloaded to their computer for
viewing. End users will also view the entire content including the
primary content and associated auxiliary content through a live
content viewer when they select and access the live content.
[0060] The preferred embodiment of the promotional viewer 300 is
illustrated in FIG. 3. The promotional viewer 300 includes a
content snapshot window 302 in which a visual representation of the
content is displayed. This visual representation displayed within
the content snapshot window 302 can be still pictures taken from
the content, a promotional picture representative of the content,
text information included in or relative to the content or the
actual content itself. The promotional viewer 300 also includes a
descriptive text window 304 in which descriptive and promotional
information about the content is displayed. In this descriptive
text window 304, information about the content is displayed, as
well as scheduling, location and other information associated with
the content. The promotional viewer 300 also preferably includes a
link to the content 306, which if selected by the end user, will
allow the end user to access the content that is being advertised
within the promotional viewer 300.
[0061] Preferably, the promotional viewer 300 has its own separate
content registration number and is distributed by the live content
information system 100 to be shown on websites and television
programming affiliated with the live content information system 100
in order to promote and advertise the live content represented
within the promotional viewer 300. When included on websites, the
promotional viewer 300 is included where the websites typically
include other advertising material, such as banner advertisements,
logo placements and advertising graphics. In this manner, the
promotional viewer 300 is shown to the end user while the end user
is viewing and accessing other information at the website. When the
end user selects the link to the content 306 within the promotional
viewer 300, the user's browser is directed to the source of the
content and the end user is then able to view the content that was
represented within the promotional viewer. Through the promotional
viewer, there can also be an option to send a notification, such as
e-mail, pager or telephone message, to a prospective end user
notifying them of the availability of the content. Involved
entities also preferably have the capability to distribute this
notification.
[0062] The live content information system 100 includes promotional
material within the promotional viewer 300. This promotional
material is a partial amount of the content, which can be anything
from a very small amount of the actual live content to the full
live content. The live content information system 100 will
preferably generate this promotional material automatically from
the live content and include it within the content snapshot window
302 alongside the descriptive information within the descriptive
text window 304. The snapshot included within the content snapshot
window 302 can include any visual media such as video, a feed from
a webcam, still photos or text information. The snapshot can be a
pre-determined frame rate or subset of the actual complete images
from the live content. For example, the snapshot might be one
visual frame every minute for a video that has 30 frames per
second. Alternatively, the producer or other involved entity may
select certain specific live images to include within the content
snapshot window 302 in the promotional viewer 300. For content that
is text or copy, the content snapshot window 302 can include
anything from full scrolling text to only pre-selected pieces or
parts of the text. For audio content, the promotional viewer 300
can include the full audio content or selected parts or portions of
the audio content.
[0063] When an end user accesses the live content, the end user
preferably views the live content through a live content viewer
400, as illustrated in FIG. 4. The live content viewer 400 includes
a video content window 402 through which the video feed associated
with the primary live content is displayed. The live content viewer
400 also preferably includes other windows through which integrated
auxiliary content and information relative to the primary content
within the video content window 402 is displayed. It should also be
understood that when a user views content within the video content
window 402 there is also preferably an audio feed that is presented
to the end user. The audio feed includes audio information which
corresponds to the information being displayed within the video
content window 402.
[0064] The auxiliary windows within the exemplary live content
viewer 400 include an interactive window 404, a chat window 406, an
advertising window 408, a contextual message window 410 and a
sponsor's information window 412. Within the interactive window
404, interactive information such as votes, survey questions and
trivia questions is displayed for the end user. This information is
interactive because the user has the ability to respond to this
information as it is displayed. The user responds to the
information currently being displayed within the interactive window
404 by selecting the interactive window 404 and entering responsive
information as appropriate.
[0065] Within the chat window 406, a scrolling chat feed is
displayed which corresponds to the information being displayed
within the video content window 402. The end user can participate
in this chat conversation or can simply view the conversation that
others are having as it is displayed within the chat window
406.
[0066] Within the advertising window 408, advertising and
promotional material is displayed for the end user. This
advertising and promotional material displayed within the
advertising window 408 can be any appropriate type of advertising
and promotional material including information directly relevant to
the information being displayed within the video content window
402, information targeted towards the typical audience of the
information being displayed within the video content window 402 or
other information. If an end user is interested in ordering an item
or service or accessing advertised material displayed within the
advertising window 408, the end user can select the advertising
window and will be instructed as to how to order the advertised
goods or access the advertised material.
[0067] Within the contextual messages window 410, a producer or
other appropriate involved entity can display contextual
information to the end user. Preferably, the contextual information
is relative to the information being display within the video
content window 402 or other windows 404, 406 and 408 and is
utilized to enhance the end user's experience when accessing the
live content within the live content viewer 400. It should be
apparent to those skilled in the art that the live content viewer
400 can include other appropriate windows for displaying
appropriate information.
[0068] Within the sponsor's information window 412, information
from or about the sponsor of the live content is displayed. This
sponsor information can include advertisements from the sponsor,
the sponsor's logo, e-commerce offerings from the sponsor or
related entities or any other information to be displayed by the
sponsor.
[0069] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the
live content viewer 400 can include other arrangements or
combinations of auxiliary content than that shown in FIG. 4.
[0070] The live content information system 100 of the present
invention is used to add other relevant descriptive and contextual
auxiliary information relative to the live or primary content. This
other auxiliary information is added and displayed with the live
content within the live content viewer 400, as described above.
There is also other control and internal information associated
with the content and maintained by the live content information
system 100 that is used to store, distribute and promote the live
content. This other information includes the type of content
included such as whether the content includes audio, video, or
both, animation, still photos, time-release photos, feed from a
webcam, text, chat or a combination of these types of content. The
other information also includes the technical characteristics of
the content and information about the source of the content, such
as whether the content is to be distributed through the
distribution module 108 of the live content information system 100
or from the producer's server. The other information also includes
time characteristics associated with the content, such as when the
content is going to start and what is going to occur within the
content stream at what time.
[0071] The live content information system 100 is utilized to
combine and assemble the live content with various descriptive
auxiliary information and other auxiliary information into one
cohesive presentation for the end user. This combination of the
live content and other associated auxiliary information is
presented to the end user through the live content viewer 400. The
live content information system 100 then delivers this information
to a medium that can handle the assembled audio/visual content
included within the live content viewer 400. All of the information
included within the live content viewer 400 does not all
necessarily come from the live content information system 100 or
even a single source. These pieces of information to be included
within the live content viewer 400, including the primary content
and the auxiliary content, can originate and be distributed from
many different sources. The live content information system 100
then controls the distribution of the pieces of information to the
end user and the assembly of these pieces into the live content
viewer 400 so that they can be cohesively and appropriately
displayed to the end user, regardless of the source of the
information. Preferably, each of these pieces has an associated
content registration number that is used to track and control this
distribution. The live content viewer 400 and the included
information can be displayed and accessed at any appropriate
location and by an appropriate devices, including on web sites on
the internet, on a wireless device, on a handheld device, on a
telephone, displayed on television programming and provided through
radio programming. The live content viewer 400 and the included
information can be available at multiple locations and
simultaneously viewed by many end users through syndication or
other distribution methods.
[0072] A flowchart illustrating the process used to register live
content with the live content information system 100 of the present
invention and associate other auxiliary information and content
with live content is illustrated in FIG. 5. The process of FIG. 5
starts at the step 500. At the step 502, the live content
information system 100 is accessed by a producer or originator of
the content in order to register the content with the live content
information system 100. At the step 504, the producer or originator
of the live content enters characteristics of the live content
including the type of content, the technical characteristics
associated with the content, the start and stop time of the
content, the methods of accessing the content and the location of
the live content. At the step 506, the live content information
system 100 then generates a registration number to always be
associated with this particular live content.
[0073] At the step 508, it is then determined if additional
auxiliary information is to be associated with the live content to
be included within the live content viewer 400. If it is determined
at the step 508, that additional information is to be associated or
integrated with the live content, then at the step 510, the
additional information is associated or integrated with the live
content into the appropriate window or windows of the live content
viewer 400. Otherwise, if it is determined at the step 508 that
additional information is not to be associated or integrated with
the live content, or after the completion of the step 510, then it
is determined at the step 512, if a sponsor is desired for
distribution of the content. If it is determined at the step 512
that a sponsor is desired for distribution of the content, then the
sponsor is selected, registered and associated with the content, at
the step 514. At the step 516, the sponsor's information,
advertising and/or graphics are then associated with the content to
be displayed within the sponsor's information window 412 of the
live content viewer 400. Otherwise, if it is determined at the step
512, that a sponsor is not desired for distribution of the content
at the step 512, or after the completion of the step 516, then the
content and/or the source of information to be included within the
live content viewer 400 is stored corresponding to the registration
number associated with the content at the step 518. The
registration process of FIG. 5 then ends at the step 520.
[0074] A flowchart illustrating the process used to promote live
content registered with the live content information system 100 of
the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 6. The process of FIG.
6 starts at the step 600. At the step 602, snapshots corresponding
to the content are selected. These snapshots are selected for
inclusion and display within the content snapshot window 302 of the
promotional viewer 300. At the step 604, the selected snapshots,
corresponding descriptive text and link to the content are included
within the appropriate window of the promotional viewer 300. The
assembled promotional viewer and associated information is then
stored at the step 606. The assembled promotional viewer and
associated information is then distributed to appropriate internet
sites, television programmers and other sites where the promotional
viewer is to be displayed, at the step 608. The promotional process
of FIG. 6 then ends at the step 610.
[0075] A flowchart illustrating the process used to distribute live
content registered with the live content information system 100 of
the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 7. The process of FIG.
7 starts at the step 700. At the step 701, the content is made
accessible to end users. This includes displaying an access window,
link or advertisement to the end users through which the end users
can then access and select to receive the live content. At the step
702, it is determined if an end user has accessed or selected the
content. Once it is determined at the step 702 that an end user has
accessed or selected the content, then the template of the live
content viewer is transmitted to and loaded on the end user's
computer system 152 or 154, at the step 704. At the step 706, the
live content is then distributed to be displayed on the end user's
computer system 152 or 154 within the live content viewer 400. At
the step 708, the other associated information to be displayed with
the live content is then distributed to be displayed on the end
user's computer system 152 or 154 within the appropriate windows of
the live content viewer 400.
[0076] At the step 710, it is determined if an audio stream is be
part of the content or other associated information. If it is
determined at the step 710 that audio stream is to be part of the
content, then the audio information is distributed to be played by
the end user's computer system 152 or 154. Otherwise, if it is
determined at the step 710 that an audio stream is not be part of
the content or after the step 712 is completed, then it is
determined at the step 714 if the content is completed or if the
user has disabled or closed the live content viewer 400. Once it is
determined at the step 714 that the content is completed or that
the user has disabled or closed the live content viewer 400, then
the distribution process of FIG. 7 ends at the step 716.
[0077] In the manner described herein, the live content information
system 100 of the present invention is used to register, promote
and distribute true live content, pseudo-live content and on-demand
content. The live content information system 100 associates a
registration number with the live content. The live content is
integrated into an overall presentation that includes auxiliary
content which enhances the primary content and the end user's
experience. The content and the overall presentation or selective
portions of the presentation can be exchanged between the internet
and non-internet sources such as television and radio. The live
content information system of the present invention preferably
provides a method of quickly promoting the content and drawing an
audience of end users for the live content. This promotion method
includes providing snapshots or a portion of the content which is
integrated into a promotional viewer and distributed to advertise
the content. The live primary content and auxiliary content are
integrated and distributed within a live content viewer. The live
primary content and auxiliary content are distributed from the
appropriate sources to be displayed at the end user's computer
system or other reception device within the live content
viewer.
[0078] In one embodiment, content such as that described above
(e.g., content streams) can be received at a central location
(e.g., a website) from various content promoters/content sources.
The content can then be registered at the site by receiving certain
information from a user (e.g., the source location of the content,
start and stop time, technical characteristics, etc.). The website
can then be used to implement a guide to promote the distribution
of this content (e.g., over the Internet, wirelessly, etc.). In one
embodiment, the guide provides an indication of content that is
currently live (as opposed to content that was aired live at some
time in the past, for example). In one embodiment, currently live
content might be denoted on the guide with a blinking "L." In this
manner, a user visiting the site can easily identify currently live
content. In one embodiment, the guide would be updated as new
content is uploaded to/registered with the site.
[0079] The present invention has been described in terms of
specific embodiments incorporating details to facilitate the
understanding of principles of construction and operation of the
invention. Such reference herein to specific embodiments and
details thereof is not intended to limit the scope of the claims
appended hereto. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art
that modifications may be made in the embodiment chosen for
illustration without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. Specifically, it will be apparent to those skilled in
the art that while the preferred embodiment of the present
invention is accessible over the internet through the public
switched telephone network, the present invention could also be
accessible on any other appropriate communication structures,
including intranets, direct connections and the like. Further, it
will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that while the
preferred embodiment of the present is utilized to register,
promote and distribute live content, the present invention could
also be used to register, promote and distribute other appropriate
recorded and archival content.
Additional Embodiments of the Live Content Information System
Including Content Descriptor, Content Publisher, Content
Aggregator, Content Distributor, and Content Access Method
[0080] In some embodiments, this Content Information System (CIS)
is designed for use with live content, which means content that is
occurring at a particular moment in time, and is generally
associated with a live event that is happening. (See FIG. 8.) The
system has the following stages:
Add Descriptive Information
[0081] Certain descriptive information is added regarding the live
content, and this information describes the live content both for
the eventual end-user of the system as well as internal information
that the system will interpret. Included in this descriptive
information is:
The type of content (audio, video, still photos, text, etc.). The
technical characteristics of the content. Information which makes
the information more useful including the source of the content.
Time characteristics including what is going to occur and what has
occurred. Any associated information which will be published
alongside the actual content.
Select Snapshot of the Information
[0082] This step includes selection of a partial amount of the
content, which can be anything from a very small fraction of the
actual live content to the full live content. The system will
record the snapshot and include it alongside the Descriptive
Information. A snapshot can include:
For any visual media such as video or "webcams", the snapshot can
be a pre-determined "frame rate" or subset of the actual complete
images from the live content. For example, it might be one visual
frame every 1 minute for a video that has 30 frames per second, as
an example. Or, the operator of the Live CIS may select certain
live images to include in the Live CIS after viewing the images.
For text or copy, the snapshot may be anything from the full
scrolling text, to only pre-selected pieces or parts of the text.
For audio, this may be the full live audio content, or parts of the
audio content.
Combine Descriptive Information and Live Content Snapshot
[0083] At this point, various descriptive information and snapshots
can be combined by the Live CIS into one cohesive presentation for
the end-user of the Live CIS. Because each party involved in the
production of the Live CIS has followed the same rules regarding
the assembly of the parts of the Live CIS, these various
Descriptive Information and Live Content Snapshots are able to be
used by the same system. The next steps include:
Assembly by the Live CIS of the relevant parts for an end-user
product. Delivery of the end-user product to a medium that can
handle the audio/visual content of the end-user product of a Live
CIS. (See FIG. 9 for illustration of possibilities for the
distribution of the end-user product.) This includes delivery to
World Wide Web Sites and delivery to television programming for
inclusion on a television screen. This end-user product may be
available at hundreds or thousands of places, through syndication
or distribution methods. The Live CIS end-user product can either
take over part of the screen on which it resides, or all of the
screen. The end-user product is then resident on many Websites and
television programs which will distribute the end-user product to
end-users, who will watch the end-user product, and then interact
with it when they see or hear a type of Live Content which
interests them. These end-user products are then shared and swapped
among the producers of the Live CIS, because they have all followed
the same rules. This way, multiple parties can be involved in the
creation of one Live CIS, and multiple parties can work with each
other to use the Live CIS when they need it the most.
One Embodiment of a Livecast Tool
[0084] Imagine:
A simple tool that the guy in the trenches of a live event can use
to promote/communicate the event in real time (i.e. "this is going
on right now"). That tool combines some moving text, still photo,
and can have audio. Livecast then "distributes" that little event
promoter on hundreds of targeted sites, whatever is appropriate for
the moment (Example: The Temptations are chatting now, would be
different promotion than Bruce Springsteen is performing now). We
can increase an audience by X, and even if the target audience
doesn't click on the event promoter--there is still a little taste
of the real event and the branding the sponsor wants, with a
targeted audience. Imagine the Livecast logo as an @ sign but with
an L, and it blinks when something is "really live". Livecast.com
could consolidate all these little event promoters, then when you
look at livecast.com the ones with the blinking logos are "really
live". This same little promoter can be used to sell the products
as well. We now have the Livecast Promotion and Distribution
Network--the hub of the live event/broadcasting industry.
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