OF A DESCRIPTOR FILE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to system (e.g., content management system, content delivery system) and method configured for receiving one or more source descriptor .files (e.g., MPD files, HLS m3u8 files, HTTP manifest files) along with associated adaptive bit rate segments. The system and method are also configured for receiving rules (e.g., content ratings, timing infonnation, user profiles, regional and demographic information) and then creating multiple descriptor files based on the received rales and the source descriptor file(s). The system and method are further configured for distributing the multiple descriptor files to one or more downstream systems (e.g., content delivery systems, users).

BACKG OUND

The following abbreviations herewith defined are referred to wi thin the following description about the prior art and the present invention.

DASH Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP

HLS HTTP Live Streaming

HTTP Hypertext Transfer Protocol

MPD Media Presentation Description

MPEG Moving Picture Experts Group

DASH is a multimedia adaptive bit rate streaming technology where a multimedia content file (e.g., video, television, radio...) is partitioned into segments and delivered to a client using HTTP. In particular, the multimedia content file is split into multiple segments and these segments are linked together by a MPD file which is sent to the client. The client uses the MPD file to request the segments of the multimedia content file. The MPD file contains information (timing, URL, media characteristics such as video resolution and bit rates) related to the one or more segments. Each segment can contain an type of media data, however the DASH specification provides specific guidance and formats for two types of containers namely the MPEG-4 fi le format or the MPEG-2 Transport Stream format. Furthermore, DASH is audio/video codec agnostic. Hence, one or more representations (i.e., different resolutions or bit rates) of the multimedia content fi le is typically available, and the selection of which multimedia content file's representation that is to be sent to the client can be made based on various factors such as the network conditions, the client's device capabilities, and the user preferences.

In the existing business process/technology, if a content management system (or content delivery system) wants to create multiple versions of the same multimedia content fl!e (e.g., adult Si non-adult versions, multiple language versions, subscription type version (standard vs. premium subscription)), then multiple content files with relevant audio/video tracks which are properly cut based on timings, need to be created. Since multiple content flies are created from one master multimedia content file, it can be complicated for the content management system (or content delivery system) to maintain and track these different versions of the master multimedia content file. Plus, the storage requirements for the content management system (or content delivery system) can increase based on the number of versions of the master multimedia content file which need to be stored, in addition, the content management system (or content delivery system) needs to spend the time to create the new versions of the master multimedia content file. Accordingly, there has been and is a need to address these shortcomings and other shortcomings associated with the current multimedia adaptive bit rate streaming technology. This need and other needs are addressed by the present invention.

SUMMARY

A system and method which addresses several needs associated with the current multimedia adaptive bit rate streaming technology have been described in the independent claims of the present application. Advantageous embodiments of the system and method have been described in the dependent claims of the present application.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a system configured to create multiple descriptor files. The system comprises a processor and a memory that stores processor-executable instructions therein where the processor interfaces with the memory and executes the processor-executable instructions to enable following operations: (1 ) receiving one or more source descriptor files and associated adaptive bit rate segments for one or more master content files; (2) receiving rales which provide details on bow the multiple descriptor files are to be created; (3) creating the multiple descriptor files based on the rules and the one and more source descriptor flies; and (4) distributing one or more of the multiple descriptor file to one or more downstream systems. The system has an advantage in that by creating multiple descriptor files it avoids having to create multiple versions of the one or more master content files which saves time and reduces maintenance and storage costs.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides method for creating multiple descriptor files. The method is implemented by a system and comprises the steps of; (1) ( 1 ) receiving one or more source descriptor files and associated adaptive bit rate segments for one or more master content files; (2) receiving roles which provide deiai ls on how the multiple descriptor flies are to be created; (3) creating the multiple descriptor files based on the roles and the one and more source descriptor files; and (4) distributing one or more of the multiple descriptor files to one or more downstream systems. The method lias an advantage in that by creating multiple descriptor files it avoids having to create multiple versions of the one or more master content files which saves time and reduces maintenance and storage costs.

Additional aspects of the invention will be set forth, in part, in the detailed description, figures and any claims which follow, and in part will he derived from the detailed description, or can be learned by practice of the invention. It is to be understood thai both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention as disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

FIGURE 1A is a diagram of an exemplary system (e.g., content management system, content delivery system) configured for creating multiple descriptor files in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE I B is a diagram of a» exemplary source descriptor file which is configured per the DASH standard and is known to those skillet! in the art as a media presentation description (MPD) tile;

FIGU RE 2 A is flowchart of an exem lary method which is i mplemented by the system shown in FIGURE 1 A for creating multiple descriptor files in accordance with an embodiment of the present, invention;

FIGURE 2B is a flowchart illustrating in greater detail the steps associated with the creating step of the method show in FIGURE 2A in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention ;

FIGURES 3.A-3D are several diagrams associated with an exemplary content management system which are used to explain a use case #1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURES 4A-4H are several diagrams associated with an exemplary content management system which are used to explain a use ease #2 in accordance with an embodiment of the present i nvention ;

FIGURE 5 is a diagram an exemplary content delivery system which is used to explain a use case #3 i accordance wi th an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIGU RES 6A-6B are diagrams of an exemplary content delivery system which is used to explain a use case #4 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIGU R E 1 A, there is shown a diagram of an exemplary system 100 configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the system 100 (e.g., content management system 100', content delivery system 100") includes an input interface 104, a processor 306, a memory 1.08, a database 1 1 1 , and an output interface 1 12. The system 100 may include many other components which are weil known in the art but for clarity those well known components are not described herein. In this example, the system's input interface 1 4 is configured to interface with one or more remote transcoders 1 14j, 1 1 a...1 14» and receive therefrom one or more source descriptor files 1 16, , I i6 ₂ ... l l6 _a (e.g., MPD files, HLS m3itS files, HTTP manifest files) and their associated adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 _{i ;} 1 .. .I I 8» (see step ij. As shown, the remote transcoders 1 14j _. , 1 14 ₂ ... 1 14„ respectively receive the master content files 12 ; , I 20;> . .. i2Q _a and produce the corresponding source descriptor files i I6 , 1 16 ₂ „J 16„ and their associated adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 _{ , i 18 ₃ , . , 1 18,,. An exemplary source descriptor file 1 16< which is configured per the DASH standard is described next with respect to FIGURE 1 B,

Referring to FIGURE 1 B, ther is a diagram of an exemplary source descriptor file 1 16j which is configured per the DASH standard and is known to those skilled in the art as a MPD file I 16j . The exemplary MPD file 1 163 is a layered structure which includes a media presentation 122 which has multiple periods 1 24s , 1 2 2, 124J . . J 24,J.

The periods 124], 124 ₂ , 124 ₃ Ϊ 24 _n are spliced together into specific time periods and contain information about arbitrary content (e.g., URL's to the adaptive bit rate segments J 1 8j, 1 1 82. .. 1 1 8 _JJ ). Each period 124 _\ (for example) has URL information 126 and one or more adaptation sets 1 28], 12S ₂ . - - 128 _n which indicate selection of components/tracks. Each adaptation set 1 1 28! (for example) includes one or more representations 33C , 13O2...130n each of which contains information about different bandwidths 1 32 · . 1322... 132« and associated formats 1 34]. 13 2.. . 134,·, for various segments 136^ 136 ₂ . , . 136 _H . Each representation 130s (for example) contains initialization segment information 138 and multiple media segments 140 _s , ! 40 ₂ , 1.40 ₃ ... i40 _n each of which contains timing information and a URL. As discussed in detail below, the system 1.00 is configured to exploit the layered structure of the MPD file 1 16 _t (or multiple MPD files 1 1 62.. . i 16 _n ) in a unique manner to obtain different MPD files 142 _$ , 142?. . . 142,, rather than have to create different media content files as was needed in the state-of-the-art whenever one wanted multiple versions of the same multimedia content file (e.g., adult & non-adult versions, multiple language versions, subscription type version (standard vs. premi u subscri ption)),

To accomplish this, the system's processor 1 06 interacts with the memory 108 which stores processor-executable instructions and executes the processor-executable instructions to enable the fol lowing operations: ( 1 ) receive the one or more source descriptor files 1 16j, 1 1 2...1 16,, and their associated adaptive bit rate segments 1 .18*, 1 18 ₂ .. . I 18 _n for one or more master content files 120 _{J }} 120 ₂ ... I20„(FJG. l A's step 1 ); (2) receive rules 144 which provide details on how the multiple descriptor files 142 _{l 3} 1422. . . 142,, are to be created (FIG. 1 A's step 2)(note: a operator 146 can provide the rules 144); (3) create the multiple descriptor files 142;, 142 ₂ ...142» based on the rules 1.44 and the one and more source descriptor files 1 16t, 1 !€¾...1 1 _{! (FIG. lA's step 3): and (4) distribute one or more of the multiple descriptor files 142j, i42 ₂ , , .142,, to one or more downstream systems .1481, 148 ₂ ... 148 _« (FJG. l A's step 4). A more detailed discussion about this process including several additional features related to creating the multiple descriptor files 142 _f , 142;?...142,, is provided below with respect to a method 200 shown in FIGURES 2A-2B and to exemplary use cases 1-4 shown in FIGURES 3-6. Referring to FIGURE , there is a flowchart of an exemplary method 200 whic is implemented by the system 100 for creating multiple descriptor files 142j„ 142?, .. 142 _n in accordance with an embodiment: of the present invention. At step 202, the system 100 recei es the one or more source descriptor files 1 16 _ts 1 1 ₂ ... 1 16„ and their associated adaptive bit rate segments 1 58*, ! I S?.. J .18 _R for one or more master content files i20j, 120 ₂ ... Ϊ 20„. For instance, the source descriptor fiie(s) 1 16 1 16 ₂ ...1 1.6,, may be configured as PD files, HLS m3ii8 flies, or HTTP manifest files depending on the particular streaming technology used by the transoders i. l4i, 1 J.42...1 K,. At step 204, the system 100 receives rules 144 which provide details on how the multiple descriptor flies 142: , .142 ₂ ... Ι42 _» are to be created. The operator 146 can provide the rules 144 which include a wide variety of information/criteria that dictates how to create the multiple descriptor files 142j , 142 ₂ ... 142 _a . For instance, the rules 144 can include information criteria related to content ratings., language information, timing information, metadata, user profiles, and regional and demographic information. At step 206, the system 100 creates the multiple descriptor files 142i, 142 ₂ , , . 142 _» based on the rales 144 and the one and more source descriptor files i 16 _tj 1 16 _? ,. - .116,, and associated adaptive bit rate segments 1 1 S ₅ , I I S;. , . 1 18» (see FIG, 2B for a more detailed discussion about different features of the creating step 206). At step 208, the system 1 0 distributes the one or more of tire multiple descriptor files 142 _s , 142 ₂ ...142,, to one or more downstream systems 148 ₅ , 148?... 148,,. if the system 100 does not send all of the of the multiple descriptor .files 142j, 1.4.2?. , , 142,, to each downstream systems 148t, 1 82. , .148η, then the system 100 would utilize a resolve mechanism 145 to determine which of the multiple descriptor files 142j, 142 ₂ . - . I42 _n to send to each downstream system 148 _{i s} 148 ₂ . · - 8 _» (see FIGS. 5- for more detailed discussion).

Referring to FIGURE 2B, there is a .flowchart illustrating in greater detail several exemplary steps associated with the creating ste 206 shown in FIGURE 2A in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As described above, the system 100 creates the multiple descriptor files 142j, 1 22... 142„ based on the rules 144 and the one and more source descriptor files 1.16 _{l s} 1 I.62... 1 16 _» and associated adaptive bit rate segments Π 81, Π 8 ₂ ... Π 8 ₀ . To accomplish this, the system 100 at step 210 manipulates one or more of the source descriptor files Π6 _{ί ;} U6 ₂ -- ·Π6 _» based on the ru!es 144 without transcoding the source descriptor files 1 161 , 1 I.62...116 _tt to an adaptive stream format and without generating new content files to create the multiple descriptor files 142i, 142 ₂ ...142,,. The system 100 can manipulate one or more of the source descriptor files 11.65 , 1 16 ₂ Ϊ 1€> _n in a wide-variety of ways to create the multiple descriptor files 142j , 142 ₂ ... 142„ several exemplary ways are as follows:

» The system 100 at step 210a can remove at least one period 124j _;

124?... L24„ including a video track and an audio track from one of the source descriptor flies 1 .16t, Π 62. .. Π6„ and recode the timing information within the one source descriptor file i l6 _t , 1 163. , .1 16 _» to create one of the multiple descriptor files 142 _J; 1422. 1 2» (see use cases 1 and 3).

* The system 100 at step 210b can remove an audio track from one of the source descriptor files 1 16 _t , 1 162...116» to create one of the multiple descriptor files 142i, 142 ₂ ... 142,, (see use cases 1 and 3).

* The system 1 0 at step 210c can add advertisements from one or more of the source descriptor files 1 16t, 1 162... 1 I6 _n to another one of the source descriptor files 1 I6j, 1 J 62...116 _» to create one of the multiple descriptor files 142 j , 142s · ·■ 1 2,, (see use cases 2 and 4).

• The system 100 at step 2 ί Oct can add one or more periods 124;, 124 ₂ ...124,, each including a video track and an audio track from one of source descriptor files 116], U 6 ₂ ...1 16 _» to one of the other source files 116|, H62.. J K½ to create one of the multiple descriptor files .142;, 142 ₂ ... 142,, (see use cases 2 and 4).

♦ The system 100 a step 21 Oe can add one or more audio tracks from one or more of the source descriptor files 1 16 _\ , 1 16 ₂ ...1 i6„ to one of the other source files 1 1 j _; 1 16?... ! 16 _a to create one of the multiple descriptor files 142{,. 142j, , , 142,, (see use cases 2 and 4).

Referring to FIGURES 3A-3D, there are several diagrams associated with an exemplary content management system 100' which are used to explain a use case #1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGURE 3A, the content management system 100' includes the input interface 104. the processor 106, the memory 108. the database 1 1 1., and the output interface 1 12. In this particular example, the system's input interface 104 is shown interfacing with one remote transcoder 1 14} and receiving therefrom one source descriptor file H6j (MPD file 1 16 _} ) and the associated adaptive bit rate segments 1 18s . The remote transcoder 1 14 _f receives the master content file 120j and produces the corresponding source descriptor file U6 _\ and the associated adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 ₅ , The basic steps associated with the use case #1 are as follows;

1. The MPEG-DASH transcoder 1 14 ₃ provides the MPD file 1 16 _t and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18j for the master content file 120j.

2. The MPEG-DASH transcode s I i4 _x output namely the MPD file 1 161 and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 1 \ are received by the content management system 100', Note; The MPD file 1 16| and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18j can be received from any other device as well instead of the MPEG-DASH transcoder I 14 _{ .

3. The user 14 creates rules 144 which provide details on how to create the multiple versions of MPD files 142], 342 ₃ ... 142„, The rules 144 can be and not limited to, based on timing information, metadata, user profiles, content ratings, regional and demographic information etc.

4. The processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., rules engine) uses the rules 144, the MPD file 116j and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 1.8 _S . to create the multiple versions of MPD files 142,, J42 ₂ ...142,,. -0~

An example is discussed next to help explain several ways that the processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., rules engine) can use the rules 144 and the MPD file 116j to create the multiple versions of MPD files 142 _i( 142 ₂ ...142„. In this example, FIGURE 3B illustrates a portion of the MPD file 1 16s (e.g., master MPD file 1 16· } which has a media presentation 122 with multiple periods 1.24i, 1.24a, 124 _. ,, 124* and the first period I24t includes adaptation sets 128 _t , I28 ₂ , 128 ₃ , 128 ₄ , FIGURE 3C illustrates a portion of the "version 1 " MPD file 142j which was created by the processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., rules engine) when using the rule 144 which, is set to remove the period 124 ₂ with time codes 100s to .1 9s from the MPD file 1 16 ₁ and to recode the time in the newly created "version 1 " MPD file !42 _t . The "version 1 " MPD file 142 _t includes a media presentation 122 with multiple periods 124}, 12 , 124.; where new time codes 100s and 200s are associated with periods .124? and 124 . FIGURE 3D illustrates a portion of the "version 2" MPD file 142∑ which was created by the processor 106-memory 1 8 (e.g., rules engine) when using the rule 144 which is set to remove audio track 3. The "version 2" MPD file 142 ₂ include a media presentation 122 with multiple periods 124*. 1 42, 124,, 124 ₄ and the first period 124 _} now includes adaptation sets 128 _is 28 ₂ , 1283, and no longer includes adaptation set 128 (note: the other periods J24 ₂ , 124 ₃ , 124 no longer include adaptation set 128 ).

1. The processor 106-memory 1.08 then distributes the different versions of MPD files 142 _t , 142 ₂ .. J42 _a to corresponding downstream systems 148i, .1 82...148,, (e.g., content delivery networks 1.48 ₁ , 14S ₂ ... I4S _n ) based on requirements.

Note 1: in FIG. 3A, versioned MPD files 142i, 1422... 142,, are presented as output of the processor 1 6-memory 108 (e.g., rule engine). In this case, the processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., rule engine) dynamically generates the versioned MPD files 142 _t , 142 ₂ ...342 on the fly and distributes them to the corresponding downstream systems 148}, 148 ₃ .. J48 _n . Alternatively, the processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., rule engine) can generate and store (cache) the versioned MPD files I42j, 142 ₂ ... 142„ _. in the database ί 1 1 and then at some later time distribute them to the corresponding downstream systems 148 ₅ , 148 ₂ ... i48«. Note 2: The exemplary system 100' may include many other well known components but for clarity those weli known components are not described herein while the components 104, 106, 108, 1 1 1 and 1 12 which are relevant to the invention have been described.

Note 3: The use case #1 included art example utilizing the DASH standard hot it shook! he appreciated that the present invention is not limited to the DASH standard but could utilize other adaptive streaming technologies such as HLS by Apple, Smooth Streaming by Microsoft, or HDS by Adobe.

Referring to FIGURES 4A-4E, there are several diagrams associated with an exemplary content management system 100' which are used to explain a use case #2 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGURES 4 A 1 and 4A2, the content management system 100' includes the input interface 104, the processor 106, the memory 1 8, the database i l l, and the output interface 1 12. in this particular example, the system's input interface 1 4 is shown interfacing with four remote transcoders l l4 _{i 5} 1 14?. I I -,. 1 14* and respectively receiving therefrom three source descriptor files .1 16j, 1 16 ₂ , I . I63, 1 16,3 (e.g., MPD files) and their associated adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 ₅ . U 8 ₂ . 18 _3> 1 18 ₄ . As shown, the remote transcoders 1 14} , 1 14a, I I. 3, 1 1 » respectively receive the master content files 120j, ί 20 , 2O3, 12O4 and produce the corresponding source descriptor files 1 16] , 1 16?. 1 I 6 ₃ , 1 16 ₄ and their associated adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 ₁ , 1182, 1 183, 1184. The basic steps associated with the use case #2 are as follows :

1. The MPEG-DASH transcoder .1.14} provides the MPD file 1 16] and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18} for the master content file 120 _t ,

2. The y PEG-DASH transcoders 1.14 _¾ output namely the MPD file 1.16 ₅ and the adaptive bit rate segments 1. I81 are received by the content management system 100'. Note; The MPD file 1 1 } and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18} can be received from any other device as well instead of the M PEG-DA SH transcoder 1 14).

3. The MPEG-DASH transcoder 1 14? provides the MPD file 1 16 ₂ and the adaptive bit rate segments 118 ₂ for the master content file 120j. -π -

4, Hie MPEG-DASH transcoder's 1 4 ₂ output namely the MPD file Π ₂ and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 1 S ₂ are received by the content management system 100'. Note; The MPD file 1 1 a and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 182 can be received from any other device as well instead of the MPEG-D ASH transcoder Π4 ₂ .

5, The MPEG-DASH transcoder 1 14} provides the MPD file 1. 16;, and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18¾ for the master content file 120¾.

6, The MPEG-DASH transcoder's tl4<t output namely the MPD file 1 16 _L ¾ and the adaptive bit rate segments 118 _,¾ are received by the content management system 100'. Note; The MPD file 1 ί 63 and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 1 83 can be received from an other device as well instead of the M PEG-DASH transcoder 1 14 ₃ .

7, The M PEG-DASH transcoder 1 14 ₄ provides the MPD file 1 16 and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 ₄ for the master content file I2G ₄ .

S. The MPEG-DASH transcoder's 1 14 output namely the MPD file 1 164 and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 184 are received by the content management system 100'. Note: The MPD file 1 164 and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 184 can be received from any other device as well instead of the MPEG-DASH transcoder 1 14 ₄ .

9. The user 146 creates rules 144 which provide details on how to create the multiple versions of MPD files 142 _}> 1422, , . 142 _n . The rules 144 can be and not limited to, based on timing information, metadata, user profiles, content ratings, regional and demographic information etc ,

10. The processor 106-memory 108 {e.g., rules engine) uses the rules 144, the MPD flies i I 1 , 1 162, Π 6s. 1 164 and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 1 St, 1 18 ₂ , 1 18 , 1 184 to create the multiple versions of MPD files 142j, 142 ₂ , .. 142 ₀ . An example is discussed next to help explain several ways that the processor 106-raemory 108 (e.g., _. rules engine) can use the rules 1 4 plus the master MPD file 1 16< (movie content) and the master MPD file 1162 (advertisement content) to create MPD ile J.42i. The final output MPD file 142) can be a combination of these two master MPD files .116 _t and I I 6? in a specific certain order. In this example, FIGURE 4B illustrates a portion of the MPD file 1 165 (e.g., master MPD file 1 116 _s ) which has a media presentation 122 with multiple periods 124j , 124?, 124j, 124 j and the first period 12 j includes adaptation sets 128 _u 128 _2> 128 ₃ . 128 . FIGURE 4C illustrates a portion of the MPD file 2 1 1 2 (e.g., master MPD file 2 5 162) which has an advertisement presentation 12:2 with multiple periods 124] and 124? and the first period I 24j includes adaptation sets 128 _t , 128 ₂ , 128 ₃ , 128 ₄ . FIGURE 4D illustrates a portion of the "version 1" MPD file 142i which was created by the processor 106-*nemory 108 (e.g., rules engine) when using the rule 144 which is set to add the advertisement presentation 122 of master MPD file 2 H 62 to master MPD file 1 1 16 _t and to recode the time in the newly created "version ^* MPD tile 1 2 j The "version " MPD file 142j includes a media presentation 122 with periods 124 _} and 124 ₂ (which contain the advertisement presentation 122 of master MPD file 2 1 16;·} and periods 124;?, 124 ₄ , 124;, and 124s (which contain the media presentation 122 of master MPD file 1 1 16 _t but with receded times). It should be noted that the advertisement presentation 122 of master MPD file 2 1 162 can be added at any place in the master MPD file 1 116 ₃ to create "version 1 "

An example is discussed next to help explain several ways that the processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., rules engine) can use the rules 144 plus the master MPD file 1.16j (movie content) and the master MPD file 1163 (advertisement content) to create MPD file 142 ₂ . The final output MPD file 142 ₂ can be a combination of these two master M PD files l ! 6 _t and 1 1 ; in a specific certain order. In this example, FIGURE 4B illustrates a portion of the MPD file 1 16* (e.g., master MPD file 1 1 16j _. ) which has a media presentation 122 with multiple periods 124 _ϊ? 1242, 124 ₃ , 1244 and the first period 124 _t includes adaptation sets 128 _}) 12S ₂ , 128¾ i28 . FIGURE 4E illustrates a portion of the PD file 3 1 i 3 (e.g., master MPD file 3 1 .1 3) which has art advertisement presentation 122 with multiple periods 124j and 124? and the first period 124 ₃ includes adaptation sets I 28i, I28 ₂ , 12S ₃ , 1 28 ₄ . FIGURE 4F illustrates a portion of the "version 2" MPD file 142 ₂ which was created by the processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., rules engine) when using the rule 144 which is set to add the advertisement presentation 122 of .master MPD file 3 1 1 6¾ to master MPD file 1 1 16s and to recode the time in the newl created "version 2" MPD file 142?. The "version 2" MPD file 142? includes a media presentation 122 with periods 1 24s and 1 24? (which contain the advertisement presentation 122 of master MPD file 3 1 16 ₃ ) and periods 124¾ 124 , 124s, and 1 24 _f , (which contain the media presentation 122 of master MPD file 1 1 but with recoded times), it should be noted that the advertisement presentation 122 of roaster MPD file 3 1 16¾ can be added at any place in the master MPD file 1 1 16; to create "version 2" MPD file I 42 ₂ .

Note; The same logic associated with examples A and B can be applied to combine multiple movie contents and not just one movie content and advertising content.

An example is discussed next to hel explain several ways that the processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., rules engine) can use the rules 144 plus the master MPD file I. I6 ₃ (movie content) and the master MPD file H6 ₄ (audio content) to create MPD file 142 ;. The final output MPD file 142 ; is a combination of these two master MPD files 1 16 ₅ and 1 16 ₄ . In this example, FIGURE 4B illustrates a portion of the MPD file 1 16j (e.g., master MPD file 1 i ! 6j) which has a media presentation 1 22 with multiple periods 124 _1; L24 ₂ , 124^, 124 ₄ and the first period 124} includes adaptation sets 128 _u 1.28?, 128 _? 128 ₄ . FIGURE 4G illustrates a portion of the MPD fi le 4 Ϊ 164 (e.g., master MPD file 4 1 16 ) which has a media presentation 122 with multiple periods 124i, 124?, 124 , 124 ₄ and the first period I 24 _t includes adaptation set 128} . FIGURE 4H illustrates a portion of the "version 3" MPD file 142 ₃ which was created by the processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., rules engine) when using the rule 144 which is set Co add the media presentation 122 of master MPD file 4 116 ₄ to master MPD file 1 l \6 _x . The "version 3" ΜΡΏ file 14¾ includes a media presentation 122 with multiple periods I24i, 12 ₂ , t24 _¾? 1244 and the first period 124j includes adaptation sets 128 _f , 128 ₂ , 128 _3> 128 ₄ . 128 ₅ (where adaptation set 128; includes the audio track from master MPD file 4 1 16— the other periods 124 ₂ , 124 ₃ , 124 ₄ would also have adaptation sets which include the audio track from master MPD file 4 1 1 4), i 1. The processor 106-memory 1.08 then distributes the different versions of MPD files 142 _t , 142 ₂ ,, .142 _a to corresponding downstream systems 148], H82, , . 148„ (e.g., content delivery networks !.48i ₅ 148 ₂ ...148 _» ) based on requirements.

Note 1 : In FIG. 4 A, versioned MPD files 142;. 142 ₂ , , .142j _} are presented as output of the processor 106-memory 1.08 (e.g., rule engine), in this case, the processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., rule engine) dynamically generates the versioned MPD files 142 _t , 142 ... I42 _u on the fly and distributes them to the corresponding downstream systems 148j, 148?. , . 148,,, Alternatively, the processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., rule engine) can generate and store (cache) the versioned MPD files I42 _tj 142 ₂ ... 142 _n in the database 1 1 1 and then at some later time distribute them to the corresponding downstream systems 14S ₅ , 14S ₂ ... 148 _n .

Note 2; The exemplary system 1 0' may include many other weli known components but for clarity those well known components are not described herein while the componen ts 104, 1 6, 108, 1. 1 1 and 1 1.2 which are relevant to the invention have been described.

Note 3: The use case #2 included an example utilizing the DASH standard but it should be appreciated that, the present invention is not. limited to the DASH standard but could utilize other adaptive streaming technologies such as HLS by Apple, Smooth Streaming by Microsoft, or HDS by Adobe. Referring to FIGURE 5, there is a diagram an exemplary content delivery system 100" which is used to explain a use case #3 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the content delivery system 100" includes the input interface 104, the processor 106, the memory 108, the database 1 3 T and the output interface 1 .1 . In this particular example, the system's input interface 104 is shown interfacing with one remote transcoder I Hi and receiving therefrom one source descriptor f le 1 6j (MPD file 1 16)) and the associated adaptive bit rate segments 1 1 St. The remote transcoder 1.14< receives the master content file 120 _f and produces the corresponding soarce descriptor file 1 16 _t and the associated adaptive hit rate segments 1 18 i . The basic steps associated with the use ease #3 are as follows:

1. The MPEG-DASH transcoder 114, provides the MPD file 16 _l and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 _} for the master content file 120j .

2. The MPEG-DASH transcoder's 1 14i output namely the MPD tile 1 16) and the adaptive bit rate segments M 8t are received by the content delivery system 100' ' , Note; The MPD file 1 1 ( i and the adaptive bit rate segments U8 _} can he received from any other device as well instead of the MPEG-DASH transcoder 114, .

3. The user 146 creates rules 144 which provide details on how to create the multipl versions of MPD files 142], 142 ₂ ... 142 _B . The rules 144 can be and not limited to, based on timing mformation, metadata, user profiles, content ratings, regional and demographic information etc.

4. The processor 106~memory 108 (e.g., rules engine) uses the Titles 144, the MPD file 1 1 } and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18* to create the multiple versions of MPD files 142 _f , 142 ₃ ... 142„. The examples described above with respect to FIGURES 3B-3D can also he performed by the content delivery system 100" in use case #3 as well.

5. The processor 1 6-memoty 108 then distributes the different versions of MPD files 1421, 142;?... 142 _n to corresponding downstream systems 148 , 148 ₂ ...148„ (β-g·, individual users 148), IAS?...148,,) based on requirements. For instance, when anyone of the individual users 148i, ! 482...148 _n sends a request for a particular content, the processor 106-memory 108 can utilize a resolving mechanism 145 along with different types of user information to determine the specific version of the MPD file i 2s, 142 ₂ . , J42 _f , which needs to be sent to that particular individual user 1483 .

The resolving mechanism 145 can utilize various implicit and explicit inputs coiiected from the device associated with the individual user 148 ₅ . For instance, these inputs can include user's location (implicit), the user's customer profile information (age, sex), the user's previous history and explicit information such as the user's preference, occupation, personal interest etc. For resolving to select the proper MPD file 14:2] , 142 ₂ , .. I42 _! , which includes certain segments or not, the resolving mechanism 145 can use rules which can he defined such as;

A. If country— ' China \ then the resolving mechanism 1.45 selects a MPD file 42 j, 422...142» which does not include time codes 00: 1 :30 to 00:2: 15 since the video associated with these time-codes contain dialogue which needs to be censored due to government regulations.

B. if age >- 18 and preference ~- 'No Violence', then the resolving mechanism 145 selects a MPD file 1 .21 , 142 ₂ ... 142 _» which does not include time codes 00:05:30 to 00:05:45 etc since t e video associated with these time-codes contains "violent" subject matter.

Note: These time codes and rule information can be coiiected in any content delivery system or in a steam server itself. The rules mentioned above may not be limited to those options and formats. In feet, the rules can be collected in Extensible Markup Language (XML) format or an proprietary format and various type of operators can provide rules to enrich the resolving mechanism 145, If desired, the content management system 100' may also utilize a resolving mechanism 1.45 to determine which MPD flle(s) 1425 , 1 2 ₂ ...142» to distribute to downstream systems 148] , 1482.■■ 148« (e.g., content delivery systems).

Note 1 : In FIG, 5, versioned MPD files 142j, 142 ₂ ...142» are presented as output of the processor .106-memory 108 (e.g., rule engine), in this case, the processor 106-inemory 108 (e.g., rule engine) dynamically generates the versioned MPD files 142] , 142 ₂ .. J42 _t! on the fly and distributes them to the corresponding downstream systems 148j ₅ 148 ₂ ...148». Alternatively, the processor 06-memory 1.08 (e.g., rule engine) can generate and store (cache) the versioned MPD files 142i, 142 ₂ ... 142« in the database i l l and then at some later time distribute them to the corresponding down stream systems M83 , 148j, , , 148„.

Note 2: The exemplary system Ϊ00" may include many other well known components but for clarity those well known components are not described herein while the components 104, 106, 108, 11 1 and 112 which are r levant to the invention have been described.

Note 3: The use case #3 included an example utilizing the DASH standard but it shouid be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to the DASH standard but could utilize other adaptive streaming technologies such as HLS by Apple, Smooth Streaming by Microsoft, or EDS by Adobe,

Referring to FIGURES 6A-6B, there are diagrams of an exemplary content delivery system 100" which is used to explain, a use case #3 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the exemplary content delivery system 100" includes the input interface 104, the processor 106, the memory 108, the database 1 1 1 , and the output interface 1 12, In this particular example, the system's input interface 104 is shown interfacing with four remote transcoders i l4j, 1 1 -2. 1 14,? 114 ₄ and respectively receiving therefrom three source descriptor files 1 16}, 1.162, 1 163, 1 164 (e.g., MPD files) and their associated adaptive bit rate segments 1 18j., 1 183. 1 18 ₃ , 1 18 ₄ , As shown, the remote transcoders 114j, ₂ , 1 14¾, 1144 respectively receive the master content files 120 ₅ , 120 ₂ , 120-, 120 ₄ and produce the corresponding source descriptor files 1.16] , I I 6 ₂ . 1.63, 1 1.6 ₄ and their associated adaptive bit rate segments 1.18 j , 1 18 ₂ , 1.183, 118 ₄ . The basic steps associated with the use case #4 are as follows;

1. The MPEG-DASH transcoder I 14i provides the MPD file 1 16 _t and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 _} tor the master content file 120j .

2. The MPEG-DASH transcoder ⁵ s i l4 _t output namely the MPD file 1 16} and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18t are received by the content management system 100'. Note: The MPD file 116} and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 j can be received from any other device as well instead of the MPEG-DASH transcoder U4 _{ .

3. The MPEG-DASH transcoder .1 14 ₃ provides the MPD file 1 162 and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 ₂ for the master content file 120 ₂ , 4, Hie MPEG-DASH transcoder's 1 14 ₂ output namely the MPD file 16 ₂ and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 ₂ are received by the content management system 100'. Note; The MPD file 1 16;? and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 ₂ can be received from any other device as well instead of the MPEG-D ASH transcoder 1 14 ₂ .

5, The MPEG-DASH transcoder 1 14 _:i provides the MPD file 1 16;, and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18¾ for the master content file 120¾.

6, The MPEG-DASH transcoder's 114$ output namely the MPD file 1 16 _L ¾ and the adaptive bit rate segments 118 _,¾ are received by the content management system 100'. Note; The MPD file 1 ί 63 and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 ₃ can be received from an other device as well instead of the M PEG-DASH transcoder 1 14 ₃ .

7, The M PEG-DASH transcoder i 14 ₄ provides the MPD file 11 4 and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 ₄ for the master content file 120 ₄ .

S. The MPEG-DASH transcoder's H4 output namely the MPD file 1 164 and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 1 ₄ are received by the content management system 100'. Note: The MPD file 1 .6 ₄ and the adaptive bit rate segments 1 18 ₄ can be received from any other device as well instead of the MPEG-DASH transcoder 1 14 ₄ .

9. The user 146 creates rules 144 which provide details on how to create the multiple versions of MPD files 142 _}> 1422, , . 142 _n . The rules 144 can be and not limited to, based on timing info.nnatson, metadata, user profiles, content ratings, regional and demographic information etc ,

10. The processor 106-memory 108 {e.g., rules engine) uses the rules 144, the MPD file 1 1 6) and the adaptive bit rate segments Π 81 to create the multiple versions of MPD files 142 _t , 142;. , .142, _v The examples described above with respect to FIGURES 4B-4H can a! so be performed by the content delivery system. 100" in use case #4 as well.

1 1. The processor 106-memory 108 then distributes the different versions of MPD files 142 _{t :} 142?.. , 142.. to corresponding downstream systems 148i, I 482...148 _n (e.g., individual users 148 j , 1482.. .148 _a ) based on requirements. For instance, when anyone of the individual users i48i. I 4S2, .. 14S _fl sends a request for a particular content, the processor 106-memory 108 can utilize a resolving mechanism 145 along wit different types of user information to determine the specific version of the MPD file 142K 1422. , , 142,, which needs to be sent to that particular individual user 148;.

The resolving mechanism 145 can utilize various implicit and explicit inputs collected from the device associated with the individual user 1.48}. For instance, these inputs can include user's location {.implicit), the user's customer profile information (age, sex), the user's previous history and explicit information such as the user's preference, occupation, personal interest etc. For resolvin to select the proper MPD file 542j, 142?... 142„ whic includes certain segments or not, the resolving mechanism 145 can use rules which can be defined such as:

A, if country = 'China', then the resolving mechanism 145 selects a MPD file 142;, 1422...142» which does not include time codes 00: 1 :30 to 00:2: 15 since die video associated with these time-codes contain dialogue which needs to be censored due to government regulations,

B. If age > ^:::: 18 and preference™ 'No Violence', then the resolving mechanism 145 selects a MPD file 142}, 142?... !42„ which does not include time codes 00:05:30 to 00:05:45 etc since the video associated with these time-codes contains "violent" subject matter.

Note: These time codes and rule information can be collected in any content delivery system or in a steam server itself. The rules mentioned above may not be limited to those options and formats. In fact, the rules can be collected in Extensible Markup Language (XML) format or any proprietary format and various types of operators can provide rules to enrich the resolving mechanism 145. If desired, the content management system 100' may also utilize a resolving mechanism 145 to determine which MPD fiSe(s 142j, 142Ξ... I42 _Tl to distribute to downstream systems 148}, 148 ₃ ... MS,, (e.g., content delivery systems).

Note 1 : In FIG. 6, versioned MPD files 142 j, 142 ₂ ... 142 _a are presented as output of the processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., rule engine). In this case, the processor 106-memory 108 (e.g., ride engine) dynamically generates the versioned M D files 142}, i42 ₂ .. J42 _M on the fly and distributes them to the corresponding downstream systems HE , 14S2...148„. Alternatively, the processor 106-m m ry 108 (e.g., rule engine) can generate and store (cache) the verstcmed MPD files 1 2;, i42 ₂ ...142,, in the database 1 11 and then at some later time distribute thera to the corresponding downstream systems 148j , MS?... 148,,.

Note 2: The exemplary system 100" may include many other well known components bat for clarity those wei! known components are not described herein while the components 104, 106, 108, 1 1 1 and 1 12 which are relevant to the invention have been described.

Mote 3: The use case #4 included an example utilizing the DASH standard bat it should he appreciated that the present invention is not limited to the DASH standard but could utilize other adaptive streaming technologies such as HLS by Apple, Smooth Streaming by Microsoft, or HDS by Adobe.

From the foregoing, one skil led in the art with the teaching herein wilt readily appreciate that the system iOO, 100' and 100" and method 200 are configured receiving one or more source descriptor fi les 1 16», 1 16?, , .1 16 _a (e.g., MPD files, HLS «i3uS files, HTTP manifest files) along with their associated adaptive bit rate segments 1.18 _{1 ?} I I82. . . 1 18„. The system 100, 100' and 100" and method 200 are also configured for receiving rules 144 (e.g., content ratings, timing information, user profiles, regional and demographic information) and then creating multiple descriptor files 1 j, 142 ...142,, based on the received rules 144 and the one or more source descriptor files 1 1 1 , 1 02.■ · 1. ,). The system 100. 100' and 100" and method 200 are further configured for distributing the multiple descriptor files 142 _t , 142 ₂ ... i42 _« to one or more downstream systems 148], 1 %.■ . 148 _Ώ (e.g., content delivery systems, users). This is all possible in part because with adaptive streaming technology, the content files ! 20t, 120 ₂ ...120„ are split into multiple segments which are linked together by their respective source descriptor files 1 16j, 1 1 2. . . 1 ! 6 _W . The system 100, 100' and 100' can take these descriptor files 1 16) , 116 ₂ ... 1 1.6» and dynamically generate based on certain rules 144 (to add/remove segments) multiple descriptor files 142$, 142s...142». For instance, since MPEG-DASH supports playing multiple tracks this means that the system 1.00, 100' and 100" can combine a video track from one set of segments in one source descriptor file 1 16; and audio tracks from another set of segments in another source descriptor file 1 16? to create descriptor file 142 _f . This is possible because per MPEG-DASH the segments are provided with HTTP URLs so the system 100, 100' and 100 ^' " can provide link contents from different sources and dynaraically generate versions of contents. This can be done during the content preparation using a content management sy stem or in content delivery network's cache servers.

The system 100, 100' and 100" is a marked-improvement over the prior art since it can a void having to create multiple versions of a content file by taking one content file and creating multiple versions of the descriptor file, hi this way, maintenance will be reduced and also the storage requirements will be reduced. The system 100, 100' and 100" can dynamically create multiple versions of descriptor files !42 _ts 142 ₂ ... 142 _n and all that is need is to maintain rules 144 which indicate when to include or exclude contents by time codes. Additionally the time to create new versions will be reduced significantly and the savings would be substantial when the content needs to be supported in multiple devices in multiple formats for adaptive steaming. The following are some additional advantages associated with the present invention:

* The segments from one source descriptor file 1 16s can be removed and/or added based on rules 144.

* The segments from multiple master files 1 16}, 1 16^ 1 1 <5 _ί5 can be combined together to create new version descriptor files 142; , 1 2 ₂ ...142„.

* The individual tracks from one source descriptor file 1 16 _t can be modified if needed: such as adding and/or removing particular audio tracks.

« The new versions of descriptor files 142}, 142 ₂ ...142,, can be created during distribution to the end users 148j , 148 ₂ ... 1 8 _n or during content preparation time by both. This provides flexibility for the operators to define various versions of descriptor files 1.42] , 1.42 ₂ ... 142„ at any time without adding content processing (transcoding, quality check etc) overhead and storage overhead.

* If the versions of descriptor files 142 _t , 142 ₂ ... 142,, are created in the content management system 100'. then various versions can be stored as rule information as opposed to individual media files for audit purposes.

* The multiple copies of same content file need not be stored for versio purpose and hence less storage will be needed and it will be easier to manage. • Multiple versions descriptor files 1.42K 142I. . J42« are created with single master source file 1 16 = (for example). So it reduces time and effort to create versions and simplifies business process.

• The versions of descriptor files I42 142?, , , 142., are created dynamically based on rules 144, So it is easier to create new versions of descriptor flies I 42 t, 1422...142„.

• The service can b personalized based on user information thus providing better user experience.

Although multiple embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated in the accompanying Drawings and described in the foregoing Detailed Description., it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disciosed embodiments, but instead is also capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the present invention thai as has been set forth and defined within the following claims.