TV Content Segmentation, Categorization and Identification and Time-Aligned Applications

Abstract

A content segmentation, categorization and identification method on consumer devices (clients) is described. Methods for content tracking are illustrated that are suitable for large scale deployment and applications such as broadcast monitoring, novel content publishing and interaction. Time-aligned (synchronous) applications such as multi-language selection, customized advertisements, second screen services and content monitoring applications can be economically deployed at large scales. The client performs fingerprinting, scene change detection, audio turn detection, and logo detection on incoming video and gathers database search results, logos and text to identify and segment video streams into content, promos, and commercials. A learning engine is configured to learn rules for optimal identification and segmentation at each client for each channel and program. Content sensed at the client site is tracked with reduced computation and applications are executed with timing precision. A method and user interface for time-aligned publishing of content and subsequent usage and interaction on one or more displays is described.

Description

[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 327,350 entitled “TV Content Segmentation, Categorization and Identification and Time-Aligned Applications” filed Dec. 15, 2011, which in turn claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 423,205 entitled “TV Content Segmentation, Categorization and Identification and Time-Aligned Applications” filed on Dec. 15, 2010, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0002]U.S. application Ser. No. 12 / 141,337 filed on Jun. 18, 2009 entitled “Method and Apparatus for Multi-dimensional Content Search and Video Identification”, U.S. application Ser. No. 12 / 141,163 filed on Jun. 18, 2008 entitled “Methods and Apparatus for Providing a Scalable Identification of Digital Video Sequences”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 772,566 filed on May 3, 2010 entitled “Media Fingerprinting and Identification System”, U.S. application...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Traditional content identification applications such as audience measurement, broadcast monitoring, play out verification are currently limited to a lower scale of deployment for a limited number of clients.

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