A Novel System for Automatic Detection of TV Commercial Breaks

This paper explores the problem of automating the detection of commercial breaks in live broadcasts and video recordings, distinguishing them from regular channel content with a focus on the use of visual signals, commonly referred to as bumpers, to clearly distinguish commercial content from regular programming. Accurate measurement of commercial break duration is crucial for regulatory compliance, ensuring timely airing for advertisers, and maintaining verifiable records for broadcasters. Through an examination of regulatory frameworks in various countries, such as Spain, Uruguay, and the United States, this paper discusses how these regulations are applied and explores the potential for automated detection technologies to aid broadcasters and regulators in monitoring compliance. The paper describes the results of the implementation of a system for automatic TV advertising detection, including its design and performance analysis.