WO2001080039A2 - Systeme et procede d'edition individuelle de contenu en ligne via un reseau informatique - Google Patents

Systeme et procede d'edition individuelle de contenu en ligne via un reseau informatique Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2001080039A2
WO2001080039A2 PCT/CA2001/000538 CA0100538W WO0180039A2 WO 2001080039 A2 WO2001080039 A2 WO 2001080039A2 CA 0100538 W CA0100538 W CA 0100538W WO 0180039 A2 WO0180039 A2 WO 0180039A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
module
webcast
content
webcast content
users
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/CA2001/000538
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2001080039A8 (fr
Inventor
William Mutual
Original Assignee
William Mutual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by William Mutual filed Critical William Mutual
Priority to AU52079/01A priority Critical patent/AU5207901A/en
Publication of WO2001080039A2 publication Critical patent/WO2001080039A2/fr
Publication of WO2001080039A8 publication Critical patent/WO2001080039A8/fr

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G11—INFORMATION STORAGE
    • G11B—INFORMATION STORAGE BASED ON RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN RECORD CARRIER AND TRANSDUCER
    • G11B27/00—Editing; Indexing; Addressing; Timing or synchronising; Monitoring; Measuring tape travel
    • G11B27/02—Editing, e.g. varying the order of information signals recorded on, or reproduced from, record carriers
    • G11B27/031—Electronic editing of digitised analogue information signals, e.g. audio or video signals
    • G11B27/034—Electronic editing of digitised analogue information signals, e.g. audio or video signals on discs
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q30/00—Commerce
    • G06Q30/02—Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20—Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/27—Server based end-user applications
    • H04N21/274—Storing end-user multimedia data in response to end-user request, e.g. network recorder
    • H04N21/2743—Video hosting of uploaded data from client
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/60—Network structure or processes for video distribution between server and client or between remote clients; Control signalling between clients, server and network components; Transmission of management data between server and client, e.g. sending from server to client commands for recording incoming content stream; Communication details between server and client 
    • H04N21/61—Network physical structure; Signal processing
    • H04N21/6106—Network physical structure; Signal processing specially adapted to the downstream path of the transmission network
    • H04N21/6125—Network physical structure; Signal processing specially adapted to the downstream path of the transmission network involving transmission via Internet

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to communication networks, and specifically, to publishing, integrating, and streaming of media over a global computer network.
  • An analogous self-publishing process exists in a rudimentary way for audio-video content, for example, where a video of a wedding is copied and distributed not only to the bride and groom, but also to their proud parents, ashamed siblings, and even distant friends and relatives.
  • the present invention includes an apparatus, system, and method for self-publishing of audio or video content, and retrieval thereof over a computer network.
  • the invention takes advantage of increasing global access to the Internet. It offers solutions to a person who wishes to publish not just textual and static graphic material, but also streaming audio and video content over a computer network such as the Internet.
  • the webcast content previously uploaded may be retrieved for playback by file download (for later play) or by real time streaming, both of which can generally be described as downstreaming.
  • a system for self-publishing of streaming video and/or audio content (collectively known as “webcast content”) over a computer network includes:
  • At least one network server with digital data storage at least one network server with digital data storage
  • an upload control module that controls requests and permissions to upload webcast content based on identification of upload members and their membership status
  • an upload module that uploads members' selected webcast content from the remote computers to the network server, processes identification data relating to the webcast content into a database, qualifies and authenticates the files for acceptance or non-acceptance and, if the webcast content falls within the rules of the sender's current account status, passes the identification data and webcast content to the digital data storage;
  • a display module that lists the webcast content in the digital data storage for selection and playback; a downstream control module that controls requests and permissions to downstream selections of the webcast content, and
  • downstream module that downstreams selected webcast content from the digital data storage to remote computers.
  • a method for self-publishing of webcast content over a computer network includes a plurality of the following:
  • identification data relating to the webcast content into a database, and passing the identification data and webcast content to digital data storage;
  • the present invention optionally provides for a business method for generating income from the self-publishing of webcast content over the computer network including providing free memberships for limited webcast self-publishing services of a system and charging fees for enhanced webcast self-publishing services of the system.
  • Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary network system for implementing embodiments of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of a server computer system, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 3 is a logical block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 4 illustrates a logical flow diagram for uploading webcast content, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 5 is a logical block diagram of an encoding module or applet downloaded on a member's computer system for encoding the webcast content into a streaming media format and uploading, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 6 illustrates a logical block diagram of upload and downstreaming of webcast content, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 7 illustrates a logical block diagram of a downstreaming technique, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 8 illustrates a logical block diagram of various server components, providing a membership system and services organized via a website, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figures 9 through 12 are sample webpages illustrating and describing some self-publishing features enabled by the system.
  • Figure 13 is a chart showing a business system and method, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • a "computer system” is a product including circuitry capable of processing data.
  • the computer system may include, but is not limited to, general purpose computer systems (e.g., server, laptop, desktop, palmtop, personal electronic devices, etc.), personal computers (PCs), hard copy equipment (e.g., printer, plotter, fax machine, etc.), banking equipment (e.g., an automated teller machine), electronic devices (e.g., CD/DVD player, receiver/tuner, television, etc.), appliances, and the like.
  • “Media” or “media stream” is generally defined as a stream of digital bits that represent data, audio, video, facsimile, multimedia, and combinations thereof.
  • a “communication link” is generally defined as any medium over which information may be transferred such as, for example, electrical wire, optical fiber, cable, plain old telephone system (POTS) lines, wireless (e.g., satellite, radio frequency "RF”, infrared, etc.) and the like.
  • POTS plain old telephone system
  • a “module”, as described herein may be implemented in software and/or hardware.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network system 100 for implementing embodiments of the present invention.
  • the network system 100 includes one or more server computer systems 110,-1 10 s (where "S" is a positive whole number) coupled to a network cloud 120 via respective one or more communication links 115,-115 s .
  • the network cloud 120 includes a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), Internet, Intranet, or combinations thereof.
  • the one or more servers 110,-110 s may optionally be coupled directly to each other, as shown by dashed lines 135. Additionally, each server 110,-1 10 s may represent a cluster of servers coupled together via a separate network.
  • the network system 100 will be described with respect to a single server 110, representing one or more servers coupled via a network, that hosts one or more web sites (pages) for access by users of the plurality of computer systems 130,-130 N .
  • the server 110 provides for on-line publishing of media by a member from a remote computer system (e.g., computer systems 130,-130 N ), integrating of media services, and streaming of media to users of the plurality of computer systems 130,-130 N coupled to the network cloud 120.
  • the server 110 hosting the web sites integrates media publishing by encoding, notifying, distributing, and reporting, of media, and allowing searching, viewing, listening, etc. of the media.
  • the server 110 allows for a convenient and economical way Tor members to publish media content, and for users to globally access and/or receive via email the media content.
  • the server 110 generates revenues by fees for enhanced services including, among other things, password protection for control of the member's media content, an increase in the number of user who can watch or listen simultaneously, an increase in the amount of content published, viewer usage and tracking reports, the ability to charge viewers to watch or listen to media, advanced use of an audio and video database to track libraries of content, and the selling of advertising such as banner advertisements integrated into the member's content.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a server computer system 110, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the server computer system 1 10 includes a processor 210 that is coupled to a bus structure 215.
  • the processor 210 may include a microprocessor such as a PentiumTM microprocessor, microcontroller, digital signal processor, reduced instruction set computer, application specific integrated circuit, and any other of one or more devices that process data.
  • the server 110 may include more than one processor.
  • the processor 210 is coupled to a system memory 220 such as a random access memory, a non-volatile memory 245 such as an electrically erasable programmable read only memory and/or flash memory, and a mass storage device 240.
  • the mass storage device 240 includes (but is not limited to) a hard disk, floppy disk, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, tape, high density floppy, high capacity removable media, low capacity removable media, solid state memory device, etc., and combinations thereof.
  • the mass storage 240 is used to store media including video, audio, text, data, etc., account information, and the like.
  • the non-volatile memory 245 includes system firmware such as system BIOS for controlling, among other things, hardware devices in the server computer system 110.
  • the server 110 includes an operating system 225, one or more databases 230, and one or more modules 235 that may be loaded into system memory 220 from mass storage 240 at system startup.
  • the operating system 225 includes a set of one or more programs that control the computer system's operation and allocation of resources.
  • the operating system 225 includes any type of operating system including, but not limited or restricted to, disc operating system (DOS), WindowsTM, LinuxTM, etc.
  • the one or more modules 235 are application programs, drivers, subroutines, and combinations thereof, for, among other things, publishing, integrating, and streaming of media content over the network cloud 120, as will be described in more detail below.
  • one or more of the databases 230 may be accessed directly from mass storage 240 without loading into the system memory 220.
  • the server 110 further includes a communication interface device 250 such as a network card for communicating over the network cloud 120 ( Figure 1), a video controller 255 for driving a display 260, and an audio device 265 for driving speakers 270 and receiving a microphone input from a microphone 275.
  • the bus structure 215 includes one or more buses that couple together the devices in the server computer system 110.
  • each of the plurality of computer systems 130,-130 N ( Figure 1) may comprise a similar architecture as the server computer system 110.
  • the system would use server support for a website that is more extensive: a multiplicity of multimedia servers that support multiple streaming technologies, linked through direct high-speed connections (e.g., 45 Mbps "millions of bits per second" connections, 155 Mbps connections, or higher rate connections) to major Internet backbone providers such as Concentric, which, in turn, currently connect to over 80% of the downstream ISPs.
  • a network infrastructure of several dozen such servers in conjunction with smart server architecture would permit the website to control and provide high-quality streaming of thousands of live and on-demand audio and video programs and files over the Internet simultaneously to hundreds of thousands of users.
  • members may upload media content to the website for broadcast on demand to users over the Internet, using a 28.8 baud modem line or faster, a multimedia enabled computer system (e.g., with a 75 MHz PentiumTM processor or faster), Windows 95TM operating system, service provider connection to the Internet, 9 Mb of random access memory, 5 Mb of hard disk space for audio/video software, and 256 or higher color VGA or higher resolution display.
  • a multimedia enabled computer system e.g., with a 75 MHz PentiumTM processor or faster
  • Windows 95TM operating system service provider connection to the Internet
  • 9 Mb of random access memory e.g., with a 75 MHz PentiumTM processor or faster
  • service provider connection to the Internet e.g., 9 Mb of random access memory
  • 5 Mb of hard disk space for audio/video software e.g., 256 or higher color VGA or higher resolution display.
  • Figure 3 is a logical block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present invention.
  • a member encodes and/or optimizes video and/or audio. This may be achieved locally by a software module or applet (e.g., one of modules 235, Figure 2) downloaded on the member's computer system or remotely from the website.
  • the member is allowed to convert files from various media formats (e.g., AVI, WAV, etc.) to a streaming media format (e.g., QuickTime, Real, or Windows Media).
  • the member manages and requests uploading of content with permission, edits media titles and descriptions, create ideo albums and video greetings, and organizes other webcast content previously uploaded.
  • the member requests upload of content (e.g., video), as shown by arrow 312 from block 302 to block 303.
  • a media management module e.g., one of modules 235 in Figure 2) on the server computer system, as shown in Block 304, controls the uploading of webcast content from the member's computer system. (The media management module also controls the downstreaming, as explained later.)
  • the upload involves uploading a meta-file from the member's computer system to a database 330 on the server computer system, such as for example database 230 ( Figure 2), as shown by arrow 314.
  • the meta-file includes information about the webcast content such as subject matter, dates and locations, links to related files, member identification, copyright notices, and so on.
  • the meta-data contained in the meta-file, if any, of the webcast content gets parsed out of the local file and input into the appropriate field either as part of the encoding process or as part of the media management process.
  • the required parsing and conversion to streaming video format could be implemented in part by software on the member's computer system.
  • the meta-data can then be edited (if desired) by the member.
  • the meta-data when the file is uploaded to the server, the meta-data resides in a SQL database, disparate from the actual media file of webcast or webcastabie content. If the upload is done without such software on the member's computer, for example, when a member uploads direct from an Internet browser, then a Java module or applet residing on the server does the parsing out of the meta-data.
  • the meta-data thus can be split out or entered on the member's computer, or directly onto the server via a server run module or applet. In either case, the metadata ends at the server for storage as directed. Updates to the meta-data are made through a web page. None of the meta-data need be stored on the client computer.
  • the upload also involves uploading the webcast content (e.g., video, audio, etc.) to a media database 332 on the server computer system, as shown by arrow 316.
  • the media database 332 may be part of mass storage 240, or may be located on a separate, dedicated server in a cluster of servers.
  • the media management module in Block 304 performs filtering and verification. This involves verifying the member's account status, determining the media format of the webcast content (e.g., for compliance), determining the disk space quota of the member, verifying the streaming bit rate of the upload, among other t-hings. This verification process may be performed prior to or contemporaneous with the uploading of the meta-file, as shown by arrow 314.
  • a record is created in the database 330 identifying information about the member, the size of the file, etc., and a pointer is embedded in the record pointing to the media file uploaded into the Ad and Video server 332, as shown by arrow 318.
  • the media management module confirms the upload of the webcast content, as shown by arrow 320, allowing the member to playback the webcast content immediately, if desired.
  • Viewers can also access webcast content previously uploaded for download or streaming, as desired or as the case may be. Viewers may access the media delivery module by connecting to a web page or via an email link. This involves accessing the media management module via a media delivery module, as shown in block 305, which may be located on the same server as the media management module or on a separate server.
  • the media delivery module receives requests from and communicates with viewers, as shown by arrow 322, requests media files from the database 330 through the video management module, as shown by arrow 324, and receives media from the media server 332, as shown by arrow 326.
  • the media delivery module performs verification of access dynamically, determining whether the viewer has permission to view the material, the bandwidth allows for downloading or streaming of media, and the like.
  • the media delivery module may be broken up into two modules, namely, a download delivery module dedicated for downloading media files (e.g., in the case where the viewers bandwidth is not sufficient for streaming) and a streaming delivery module dedicated for delivery of streaming media content.
  • the modules may be located on the same server or on separate servers.
  • Figure 4 illustrates a logical flow diagram for uploading webcast content, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the member may perform any number of webcast content preparation prior to uploading to the server.
  • the member For a member to upload video/image to the media server 332 ( Figure 3), the member records original audio / video content, as shown in Block 401 using an analog camcorder 411, a PC or web camera 412, a DV camcorder 413, a digital MPEG1 video camera 414, a digital MPEG4 streaming camera 415, and a digital still camera 416, among others.
  • the analog camcorder 411, PC or web camera 412 or DV camcorder 413 the video is captured by respective devices 420, 421, and 422 (Block 402), on a computer system.
  • the member may optionally edit, add titles, insert special effects and voiceovers, among other things, as shown in Block 403, before uploading to the server.
  • the media is then encoded and optimized into a streaming media format, if applicable, using a downloaded module or applet from the server (Block 404).
  • the webcast content may be uploaded directly to the server, where the webcast content would be encoded and optimized into a streaming media format or otherwise by the media management module.
  • the uploaded and encoded webcast content is archived for subsequent downstreaming to members/viewers (e.g., by connecting to the web page, email, etc.), as shown in Block 406.
  • Figure 5 is a logical block diagram of an encoding module or applet downloaded on a member's computer system for encoding the webcast content into a streaming media format, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the member opens or otherwise selects the encoding module, and at block 502, selects the media to be converted.
  • the module browses for the file name (block 504), or, in the case of live video, the member selects the capture device and time of capture (block 505). The member may also select the resolution and bit rate of the media (block 506). The member then selects the conversion of the webcast content to the streaming media format (block 507).
  • the module can covert a video from a video media format such as .AVI or .WAV to a streaming media format such as QT, Real or Windows Media (.asf format). Consequently, the module creates the file profile, and converts the media into the streaming media format (block 508).
  • a video media format such as .AVI or .WAV
  • a streaming media format such as QT, Real or Windows Media (.asf format). Consequently, the module creates the file profile, and converts the media into the streaming media format (block 508).
  • the member if online, can provide account information (block 509).
  • the module then connects to the server, checks the member's credentials, and ensures storage capacity and bit rate matches member's level of service (block 509). Once verified, the member can request uploading of the media to the server (block 511), and module performs the uploading (block 512). Once completed, the module notifies the member that the media is uploaded, at block 513 (e.g., via email). The member may preview the converted media located on the server (block 514).
  • Figure 6 illustrates a logical block diagram of upload and downstreaming of webcast content, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • a member or user at a remote computer system 601 may view and/or listen to media files downloaded or streamed from the server.
  • the member can also provide account information and request upload of media content (block 602).
  • the server authenticates the member, and authenticates the webcast content through the member's log-in. Once authenticated, the member may access the member's account and upload media files.
  • the encoding module on the member's computer captures information regarding the content of the media file along with header information (e.g., meta-file), at block 603. The header information may be captured separately from the media file.
  • header information e.g., meta-file
  • the uploading process involves verifying that the member has sufficient storage space allocated for the media file, and that the bit rate is acceptable.
  • the media file is assigned a unique identifier and stored separately on a database.
  • the media storage may be on a remote server on another network.
  • an entry is written in the database linking the media file to the storage location.
  • the header information or meta-file is stored in a database where the member may edit the information (block 604).
  • a site administrator may view all media files uploaded to the server. Individual users may also view lists of media files from their account page (block 605).
  • three servers are involved in accessing and viewing media content.
  • a request to view the media is made from a main or web server 607.
  • the web server 607 interrogates a database server 608, which contains the link to the media file.
  • the link points to a media server 609 which includes the media file.
  • the user's account is interrogated to determine user access level and other relevant information (block 610).
  • the media file may be viewed by downloading or streaming. If the client computer system does not match the bit rate for a streaming file, the media file is downloaded (block 611).
  • the system thus provides for self-publishing of streaming video or audio content (also collectively referred to herein as "webcast content”) over a computer network.
  • the system would include: at least one network server including a data storage; a plurality of remote computer systems each having a display for displaying multimedia content; a communication link coupled between the network server and the remote computer systems; an upload control module administered by the server that controls requests and permissions to upload webcast content based on identification of upload members and their membership status; an upload module coupled to the upload control module tha -.
  • uploads a member's selected webcast content from a remote computer to the network server processes identification data relating to the webcast content into a database, qualifies and authenticates the files for acceptance or non-acceptance and, if the webcast content falls within the rules of the member's current account status, passes the identification data and webcast content to the data storage; a display module that lists the webcast content in the data storage for selection and playback; a downstream control module that controls requests and permissions to downstream selections of the webcast content, connected to the server; and a downstream module that downstreams selected webcast content from the data storage to the remote computer systems.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates a logical block diagram of a downstreaming technique, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • Downstreaming generally involves downloading or real-time streaming of media.
  • a member or user browses the website for downstreaming, as shown in block 701. If a request for downstreaming is made, a request is made to a server 702 to determine if the viewer meets the permission control to receive a media file.
  • the server 702 is dedicated for downstreaming, and is thus referred to as a downstreaming server. If allowed, the server and module running thereon, dynamically builds the appropriate link, which directs the viewer to be able to watch the video.
  • this link may or may not be an advertising based model. If advertisement revenue is a business concern, then the meta-data analysis defines the relational advertisement for each "free" video (blocks 703 and 704). If the video is a metered service, the advertisement attachment portion is bypassed and the status of the member's transmission ability (how much transmission capability remains available under the member's service arrangement) becomes the determining factor.
  • Further enhancements to the usefulness of this technique additionally includes: a) providing a meta-data analysis module for coordinating specific advertisements to attach to specifically related webcast content, and to users whose characteristics, as stated or as inferred from their downstreaming choices, match various advertising criteria; b) monitoring and managing data input to a system from the membership update module, enhanced services permissions module, password module, e-commerce module, downstream data monitor module, advertising module, and meta-data analysis module; c) monitoring downstream demand for various webcast content.
  • Downstreaming optimization is performed (block 705), which involves analyzing the requester's connection speed, and the appropriate streaming link is automatically created. If the requested video cannot be streamed to a particular viewer because the connection speed is inadequate, a downloadable file link is created instead. In either case, the media file is downloaded or streamed to the viewer (blocks 706, 707, and 708). Downstreaming logs are created and maintained in the database for standard log tracking for advertisement-based or fee- based transmission models (block 709).
  • the downstream optimization block 705 therefore also routs downstreams of the webcast content based on information about the location, availability, and capability of various servers in relation to the location of respective remote computers requesting downstreams of webcast content from the system; the capability and mode requests from the users remote computer are taken into account in determining whether real time streaming or file download is used.
  • FIG. 8 illustrates a logical block diagram of various server components, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the server includes an audio and video destination website (module 801), where consumers can register and submit audio and video files for Internet delivery, as well as search for, retrieve and play relevant audio and video online, displaying and implementing through hardware and software.
  • the website can thus coordinate and provide:
  • a web-based media publishing system with capability to:
  • e-commerce including advanced billing services (by number of views, amount of data, memberships, time increments);
  • search services including;
  • e-commerce partners e.g. Amazon, CDNow, and others
  • composition and sending of video Greeting Cards including those suitable for: i) personal events;
  • a website implementing this system and method would be divided and indexed into major categories of interest, so viewers can find the audio and video they want quickly. These areas of interest are organized into clubs. It is possible to have club membership in addition to membership at large or enhanced membership at large in the website services. Club members can interact and through such interaction build a sense of community by sharing their experiences and creative content. Particularly active members could be designated as club leaders. The website would support club members and leaders in organizing such activities as: online film festivals, contests, newsletters, interviews and event broadcasts.
  • the system and method thus provides for front-end management of the video by the member.
  • the video can be organized, edited and given access permissions that are chosen by the member while he is on-line with the system and method's website.
  • Other value- added features for the member's front end selection and use would be video albums, video greetings, and channels.
  • a member could create an album of pages using still images (e.g. jpg format) grabbed by the server's software from the member's streaming media file, for display along with editable information.
  • the member could send a video greeting by a email that links a greeting or greeting card with still image that features poetry, humorous sayings and their own personal message along with his streaming video.
  • the member could also create a "playlist" of his videos that he could then share with other users through a password and username.
  • computer network is the Internet and the system also comprises a website module 801 with a home page and links to multiple sub-webpages, that provides and coordinates the following:
  • a website interactivity block 802 that handles internet links for data communications between remote computers and the system's server or servers;
  • a membership block 803 that enables users of the remote computers to become members in the system by signing up, choosing passwords, and selecting or updating any enhanced services or permissions;
  • an instructions block 804 that interacts with users of the remote computers to list FAQs and answers, and give indexed and "smart" (related to webpages and functions immediately previously accessed by the user) help on how to become members, how to upgrade their membership services and permissions, and how to upload and downstream webcast content to and from the system;
  • an encoding, compression, and upload block 805 that converts video content from a member into streaming video format, compresses text, graphics, audio and video content, uploads the resulting data through the website to the system's server or servers, where the data is split into a member-controlled information block 806 about the webcast content and into a webcast content block 807 containing only the webcast content, the information being handled differently, as part of the meta-data, from the content data as described.
  • a downstreaming permissions block 809 by which the member who uploaded some webcast content can set restrictions on who is allowed to download or view by real-time streaming webcast content previously uploaded to the server by the member, the downstreaming restrictions being implemented by the system at the time of a request to downstream;
  • New members may thus create a new account by proceeding to an the membership block from the website's home page. They can also request to have minimal storage requirements and bit rate of their current account increased from an account page (See Figure 9 for a sample webpage.)
  • the encoding portion of block 805 converts media files to .asf format for uploading. This can be done by a utility on the system's server or on the remote computer. It is to be noted that other file types and formats, in addition to .asf format, can be uploaded. This format is suited for both methods of downstreaming (e.g., downloading and real-time streaming). It simplifies the administration of the uploaded content to have them all in the same format, suited for downstreaming.
  • the member controlled information block 806 allows members to add, change, and delete webcast content and information relating to webcast content that the members have uploaded, allowing them in conjunction with the anonymity filter block 808 and the downstreaming permissions block 809 to elect whether they want to keep their files private (or choose a limited and qualified viewership) or to assign them to a show-case category for public viewing.
  • the anonymity filter block 808 could thus be used to screen a member's identification from downstreams of that member's webcast content by other users of the system in accordance with permissions and restrictions selected by the member, and in accordance with any legal requirements regarding copyright terms for the webcast material.
  • an audio and video workshop block 810 module that provides interactive demonstrations, tutorials, tips, software downloads, and Internet links to related resources and services;
  • a shopping block 811 that enables a user to select and purchase webcast related hardware and software
  • a search block 812 that enables a user of the system to find member's webcast content and other webcast sites on the Internet
  • a special events and interests block 813 for linking members and users of the system with contests, audio and video streaming of high-profile events, simulcasts and tie with other audio and video broadcasts, and interactive chats with celebrity guests; and for organizing club memberships according to areas of declared interests and related webcast content that has been uploaded to the system.
  • Figure 9 is a sample webpage for "My Account” showing records and fields for a member's Personal Information (name, email address, postal code) which can be edited, Usage Statistics (number of videos, video storage used, video storage available, video storage limit, maximum bitrate), My Channels (Title, Date created, Connection Speed required) which can be added to , and My Videos (listings) which can also be added to.
  • Figure 10 is a sample webpage titled Showcase with Top Video Picks listings and summaries, as well as Live Events listings and summaries. Referring to Figure 11, a sample webpage provides some templates for use as Video Greetings.
  • a sample webpage provides instructions and forms for the user to email out an internet link by which the user's contacts can access the user's uploaded video.
  • the website of the system would also provide a revenue module 139 coordinated with the applicable system events and features, having the following business features:
  • a free webcast content block 141 that causes a proliferation of uploaded webcast content from members, leading to website browsing (block 138) for the webcast content, and that leads to later fees for enhanced services (block 132);
  • a website browsing block 138 that enables browsing by remote computer users of selections of webcast content previously uploaded by members and available for downstreaming, feeding users to a downstreaming data monitor block 137 and related fees;
  • an enhanced services block 132 that controls fees attached to various enhanced services such as higher storage or transmission rates;
  • a downstreaming subscriber sign-up block 136 to enable subscriptions for downloading and real time streaming (both are "downstreaming"), the subscriptions to bear commissions for the system, for the uploading member to whose webcast content the subscription is attached, or for both,
  • a downstreaming data monitor block 137 that tracks and logs number of views, amount of data, time increments, and member upload identity for webcast content that is downstreamed by a user of a remote computer, the downstreaming to bear commissions for the system, for the uploading member to whose webcast content the subscription is attached, or for both;
  • a meta-data analysis block 133 for coordinating specific ads to attach to specifically related webcast content, and to users whose characteristics, as stated or as inferred from their downstream choices, match various advertising criteria
  • an advertising block 134 that attaches paid advertisements to downstreaming webcast content in accordance with the choices of a member to the system and with the membership terms between the member and a business operating the system, and tracks the payment due from the advertisements
  • the present invention's content management and advertisement serving system are cued by demographics, dramatically increasing the chance that advertisements will be relevant to viewers
  • the advertisements may be video advertisements
  • the present invention provides that streaming video advertisements are "book-ended" before and after video content, giving them great stickiness
  • parsing of meta-data and database functionality would enable the present invention to provide a targeted advertisement campaign.
  • the system and method would provide a marker, preferably designed to enhance the website's look and convey its nature
  • the system and method also provide fee-based packages with a limited amount of storage space or transmission bits.
  • the website server would track and log the actual amount of audio/video storage and transmission that takes place When a member reaches his paid limit for a period, the website would either bill extra or decline further transmission, depending on the overall terms with the member.
  • the system and method also would use advanced search capabilities and editing of metadata.
  • the ability to extract and then edit meta-data allows for the relational advertising but also very granular search of subject matter, title, member's name, and other parameters, separate from the video content itself, that is, kept in database, in addition to the usual meta-data for web content that is stored within the relevant files.
  • the system and method also provides that when a user accesses the website and plays a video, a call goes to a membership database that identifies and records information as to which member's video is played, the time, date, the content description, a referral tag as to where the user was referred from, and user credential information such as name and password if required by the member's access permissions.
  • a call goes to a membership database that identifies and records information as to which member's video is played, the time, date, the content description, a referral tag as to where the user was referred from, and user credential information such as name and password if required by the member's access permissions.
  • the system and method contemplates that some members would wish to charge a fee for access to the video, and the required financial and charge information would be duly logged through Secure Socket Layer technology.
  • the system and method provides for the video to be played optimally on a 1 to 1 access basis, but in cases of high demand for a particular video such as a current events related video, the video would be dispersed to multiple available servers and the access requests forwarded to those servers in order to accommodate increased demand.
  • the business system and method also provides control over kilobit downstream rates and the data file types.
  • the identity of the member posting the video is withheld from the access to the content unless allowed by the member.
  • the business system and method thus provides an anonymous webcast system, in which the content is paramount and the publicity of the source details are discretionary for the member.
  • the system and method provides for controls to filter out videos not meeting set conditions. For example, videos that are too long for the member's rights can be turned down automatically before uploading, based on preliminary file size information, in order to save valuable server storage and monitoring time. It is best if a plurality of the remote computers have webcast hardware and software allowing for recording and playback of streaming audio and video content.
  • An important business enhancement for the system is having a licensing block 140 ( Figure 13) interacting with the system, in which data relating to licenses to use the system can be collected, stored and retrieved by a manager and by a licensee of the system.
  • the operation of the system includes a plurality of the following steps:
  • k providing an advertising module that attaches advertisements to downstreamed webcast content in accordance with the choices of a member to the system and with the membership terms between the member and a business operating the system;
  • a special events module for linking members and users of the system with contests, audio and video streaming of high-profile events, simulcasts and tie with other audio and video broadcasts, and interactive chats with celebrity guests; and a special interests module for organizing club memberships according to areas of interest and related webcast content that has been uploaded to the system;
  • the invention provides a way of conducting business including:
  • the business method can generate income from the self-publishing of webcast content over a computer network by further including: a) charging commissions to users for downstreaming webcast content tha was previously uploaded by members and others;
  • the invention includes a system and method of doing business online that earns revenue while fulfilling a consumer's wish to self-publish audio and video content on the Internet, via the integration of aspects of an audio and video publishing process, such as encoding, publishing, notification, distribution, reporting, searching, viewing and listening.
  • an audio and video publishing process such as encoding, publishing, notification, distribution, reporting, searching, viewing and listening.
  • consumers can publish their own audio and video content in a way that is easy, convenient and economical, and listeners and viewers from a tremendous variety of locations can access that material in a way that is easy, convenient, and economical.
  • the system and method provides for free trial memberships for lesser levels of service in the processes set out in Figures 3 and 4, and the generation of revenue by fees for enhanced services as set out in Figure 13 in one or more of the following areas: password protection for control of the member's audio and video material, an increase in the number of viewers who can watch or listen simultaneously, an increase in the amount of content published, viewer usage and tracking reports, the ability to charge viewers to watch or listen to media, advanced use of an audio and video database to track libraries of content, and the selling of advertising such as banner advertisements integrated into the member's content.
  • Gateway advertisements are audio or video clips that are inserted at the lead of selected programming, lasting from 15 to 30 seconds, that play prior to the audio or video content that has been selected by the member.
  • a guaranteed click-thru is a pop-down browser window that automatically launches at the beginning of the gateway advertisement displaying an advertiser's Web site or other targeted information. Gateway advertisements are also available without guaranteed click-thrus.
  • the business method also offers advertisers the ability to sponsor one or more of its programming channels or events.
  • a channel or event sponsorship can involve the rotating and permanent placement of buttons, logos, links, integrated gateway ads, multimedia banner advertisements and mention on the website's homepage or primary pages.
  • the website implementing this system can offer advertisers the ability to integrate high-quality streaming audio and video into their text and graphics banner ads. The multimedia portion of the banner plays when the user clicks on the banner.
  • the website would offer free audio/video self-publishing and viewing trials at minimum usage levels. Users who exceed these minimum levels can subscribe to enhanced services, which would allow extended, or multiple viewings, plus the following enhanced services as outlined above.
  • a typical member of the system's website might be the proud father of a new baby girl. His friends and family are located throughout the world, and he'd like to share a short video introduction of the newest member of the family over the Internet. At this point he has two options, either send the videotape to the website's physical media operation's center for encoding and uploading to the network, or he could encode and upload the video himself using a multimedia PC that allows connection to his VCR or video recorder.
  • the system and method provides for an easy-to-use interface with interactive instructions that enables even a novice member to upload a video file to the system's server. Once the video file is on the website's network, it will send the new Dad a link to his video.
  • members can choose to not have their video listed in the Website's search database, and only provide the link to a controlled group, such as family and friends.
  • Other features of the system can be shown to the member or prospective members by webpages such as shown in Figures 9 through 12.
  • Another member of the system website might be an aspiring bandleader who wants to use the most cost-effective way to gain the most exposure possible for his work. He would accomplish this by uploading a song to the Web site. Utilizing all the promotional powers of the Internet, he could very inexpensively promote the band's music and cultivate fans. As the music becomes more popular, he may want to upgrade his level of service to allow for more people to listen, receive statistics, and perhaps eventually charge a fee for listening to or downloading his material.
  • the central website in one embodiment thus allows a wide range of people and organizations, to reduce costs and improve customer service by outsourcing their online publishing services for audio and video.
  • the use of the website of this system and method provides scalability and reliability without attendant high capital and operating expenses of an in- house audio/video network publishing system. It allows a person or company access to advanced audio/video publication features that would be beyond the financial means of most individual users.
  • the system and business method and attendant methods are fully scalable. They can be implemented in websites offering a range of services from and to entry level users all the way up to commercial media companies.
  • the elements of the present invention are essentially the code segments to perform the necessary tasks.
  • the program or code segments can be stored in a processor readable medium or transmitted by a computer data signal embodied in a carrier wave over a transmission medium or communication link.
  • the "processor readable medium” may include any medium that can store or transfer information. Examples of the processor readable medium include an electronic circuit, a semiconductor memory device, a ROM, a flash memory, an erasable ROM (EROM), a floppy diskette, a CD-ROM, an optical disk, a hard disk, a fiber optic medium, a radio frequency (RF) link, etc.
  • the computer data signal may include any signal that can propagate over a transmission medium such as electronic network channels, optical fibers, air, electromagnetic, RF links, etc.
  • the code segments may be downloaded via computer networks such as the Internet, Intranet, etc.

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  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
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  • Accounting & Taxation (AREA)
  • Development Economics (AREA)
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  • Game Theory and Decision Science (AREA)
  • Entrepreneurship & Innovation (AREA)
  • Economics (AREA)
  • Marketing (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
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Abstract

L'invention concerne un système, un appareil et un procédé où les consommateurs peuvent avoir accès directement à un service d'édition en ligne fournissant un support continu comportant les contenus audio et vidéo, grâce à un site Internet sur un serveur. Le système intègre tous les aspects du processus d'édition de média : codage, édition, notification, distribution, rapport, recherche, visionnage, et audition de contenu de média via un réseau global. Le site Internet permet donc aux consommateurs d'éditer facilement, économiquement et simplement leurs propres contenus audio et vidéo et aussi aux auditeurs et téléspectateurs en une infinité de localisations différents d'avoir accès auxdits contenus. Le système et le procédé permettant une inscription avec une période d'essai et la génération de revenus grâce aux droits d'inscription versés pour les services améliorés mentionnés ci-après : protection par mot de passe pour contrôler les contenus audio et vidéo des membres, augmentation du nombre de téléspectateurs pouvant regarder ou écouter simultanément, augmentation de la quantité de contenus édités, utilisation de l'utilisateur et rapports de suivi, possibilité de faire payer les téléspectateurs pour regarder et écouter le média, utilisation avancée d'une base de données audio et vidéo afin d'établir un suivi des bibliothèques de contenus et vente de publicités, par exemple, de bannières intégrées au contenu média des membres.
PCT/CA2001/000538 2000-04-13 2001-04-12 Systeme et procede d'edition individuelle de contenu en ligne via un reseau informatique WO2001080039A2 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

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AU52079/01A AU5207901A (en) 2000-04-13 2001-04-12 System and method for self-publishing webcast content over computer network

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US54856600A 2000-04-13 2000-04-13
US09/548,566 2000-04-13
CA 2311057 CA2311057A1 (fr) 2000-04-13 2000-06-08 Systeme et methode de diffusion web personnelle sur un reseau d'ordinateurs

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WO2001080039A8 WO2001080039A8 (fr) 2002-05-23

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WO2007056378A3 (fr) * 2005-11-08 2007-11-08 Gather Inc Méthode et système informatique de publication de contenu dans un réseau informatique global
WO2007056378A2 (fr) * 2005-11-08 2007-05-18 Gather Inc. Méthode et système informatique de publication de contenu dans un réseau informatique global
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US8654255B2 (en) 2007-09-20 2014-02-18 Microsoft Corporation Advertisement insertion points detection for online video advertising
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EP2663084A1 (fr) * 2012-05-09 2013-11-13 Mark A. Harwell Enregistrement et publication de contenu sur des sites Internet de médias sociaux
US9967607B2 (en) 2012-05-09 2018-05-08 Youtoo Technologies, LLC Recording and publishing content on social media websites
US9083997B2 (en) 2012-05-09 2015-07-14 YooToo Technologies, LLC Recording and publishing content on social media websites
WO2013169978A1 (fr) * 2012-05-09 2013-11-14 Youtoo Technologies, LLC Enregistrement et publication de contenu sur les sites web de médias sociaux
WO2014172658A1 (fr) * 2013-04-19 2014-10-23 Aol Inc. Systèmes et procédés de gestion de biens numériques
EP3069310A4 (fr) * 2013-11-18 2017-08-09 Joseph Schuman Réseau de distribution multimédia, produits de programme associés, et leurs procédés d'utilisation
US10372882B2 (en) 2013-11-18 2019-08-06 Joseph Schuman Media distribution network, associated program products, and methods of using the same
US20190362053A1 (en) * 2013-11-18 2019-11-28 Joseph Schuman Media distribution network, associated program products, and methods of using the same
US20160306950A1 (en) * 2013-11-18 2016-10-20 Joseph Schuman Media distribution network, associated program products, and methods of using the same
WO2015074056A1 (fr) * 2013-11-18 2015-05-21 Joseph Schuman Réseau de distribution multimédia, produits de programme associés, et leurs procédés d'utilisation
CN110719498A (zh) * 2019-09-03 2020-01-21 华为技术有限公司 视频数据处理方法、装置及系统
WO2022183200A1 (fr) * 2021-02-25 2022-09-01 Bleachr Llc Procédé et système de visualisation interactive d'événements

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CA2311057A1 (fr) 2001-12-08
WO2001080039A8 (fr) 2002-05-23

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