In the ever-evolving landscape of media and advertising, the convergence of traditional broadcasting with interactive technologies has opened new avenues for audience engagement. One significant milestone in this domain is us patent 8246454b2, titled “System for Converting Television Commercials into Interactive Networked Video Games.” This patent delineates a method and system that revolutionize conventional television commercials by transforming them into interactive video game experiences, thereby enhancing viewer participation and creating novel advertising opportunities.
Background of Interactive Television Commercials
The journey of television advertising has witnessed a paradigm shift from passive content consumption to active viewer engagement. In the early days, commercials were straightforward, one-way communications aimed at promoting products or services. With the advent of digital technology and the internet, the concept of interactivity began to permeate the media industry. Advertisers started exploring ways to make commercials more engaging, leading to the development of interactive media that encourages audience participation. This evolution set the stage for innovations like the system proposed in US Patent 8246454B2.
Development of the Patent
The inception of this patent is attributed to inventors who recognized the potential of merging television advertising with interactive gaming. Their vision was to create a system where traditional commercials could be augmented with interactive elements, transforming passive viewers into active participants. The development process involved extensive research and collaboration, culminating in a patent application that was meticulously reviewed before being granted. This patent represents a significant leap in interactive advertising, offering a framework that integrates gaming mechanics into broadcast media.
Technical Specifications of the Patent
At its core, the patented system comprises a media player integrated with broadcast or streaming media sources. This media player is designed to detect the presence of interactive segments within a commercial. Upon identification, it presents the user with an enhanced, interactive mini-game that can be played individually or with other viewers. The system supports various content delivery models, including the insertion of interactive elements within consecutive frames of the television program or overlaying the commercial onto existing content. This flexibility ensures seamless integration with current broadcasting infrastructures.
Methodology of Converting Commercials into Video Games
The transformation process begins with the creation of an interactive segment accompanying the broadcast or streamed commercial. When the media player detects this segment, it prompts the viewer to engage with the content, transitioning the traditional commercial into an interactive gaming experience. This approach not only captures the viewer’s attention but also fosters a deeper connection with the advertised product or service. The system is designed to accommodate multiple users, enabling a shared experience that can enhance the social aspect of media consumption.
Interactive Segments in Broadcast Media
Interactive segments are specialized components embedded within commercials to facilitate viewer engagement. These segments can take various forms, such as quizzes, challenges, or mini-games, all designed to be contextually relevant to the advertised content. The inclusion of interactive segments transforms the viewing experience from passive observation to active participation, thereby increasing the likelihood of information retention and positive brand association.
Media Player’s Role in the System
The media player serves as the pivotal interface between the broadcast content and the viewer. Equipped with detection capabilities, it identifies interactive segments within commercials and seamlessly transitions the viewer into the interactive experience. Beyond detection, the media player manages user inputs, processes game mechanics, and ensures synchronization in multiplayer scenarios. Its integration is crucial for delivering a cohesive and engaging user experience.
Multiplayer Functionality in Interactive Commercials
A notable feature of the patented system is its support for multiplayer interactions. Viewers can engage in the interactive commercial simultaneously, either collaboratively or competitively. This functionality is facilitated through networked connections that synchronize the gaming experience across different devices and locations. Implementing multiplayer features necessitates considerations of latency, data synchronization, and user matchmaking to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Content Delivery Models
The patent outlines two primary models for delivering interactive content:
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Insertion Model: Interactive elements are embedded within consecutive frames of the television program, creating a seamless blend between the commercial and the program content.
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Overlay Model: The interactive commercial is superimposed onto the existing program frames, allowing viewers to engage with the game while still viewing the underlying content.
