Internet Protocol (IP) to Video-on-Demand (VOD) Gateway

Abstract

A media server is hosted in a service provider's network so that media content can be stored from or rendered to a private network such as a Digital Living Network Alliance network. Media content may be stored by accessing the media server or by downloading the media content to the media server. Support of set top boxes interacting with voice-on-demand (VOD) controllers and computers interacting with IP-based video content servers are integrated through the media server. Consequently, VOD assets can be played on IP-based devices and IP-based content can be played on set top boxes. A gateway function converts IP-based content to a VOD asset, and renders the VOD asset to a set top box while mapping digital rights management information for the VOD asset. Conversely, the gateway function may convert a VOD asset to IP-based content that can be played on an IP-based device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]Aspects relate to storing and rendering media content from a media server. More specifically, the media server may be located in a service provider's network and may implement protocols compliant with a Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA).BACKGROUND[0002]Consumers are acquiring, managing and using digital media on multiple consumer electronic devices. Network media sources include a service provider's legacy video plant, the Internet, retail rental locations (physical DVDs), and the home network. A home network typically has consumer electronics (CE) devices such as set top boxes, DVD players, personal computers (PCs), game consoles, portable media devices, and mobile phones. Standards are evolving for content delivery, in which content portability may be achieved and made interoperable through the use of compatible devices and other video internetworking technologies. For example, the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) is an international, cross-industry...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0005]The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. It is not intended to identify key or critical elements of the embodiments or to delineate the scope of the embodiments. The following summary merely presents some concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description provided below.

Problems solved by technology

Media content is often stored in the Internet and may not be protected by a high level of security.

However, many customers do not have a technical background and may find this responsibility difficult and burdensome.

This may increase the cost to the customer and may require supporting a variety of physical storage devices.

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