US20050157217A1 - Remote control for menu driven subscriber access to television programming - Google Patents

Remote control for menu driven subscriber access to television programming Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20050157217A1
US20050157217A1 US11/056,618 US5661805A US2005157217A1 US 20050157217 A1 US20050157217 A1 US 20050157217A1 US 5661805 A US5661805 A US 5661805A US 2005157217 A1 US2005157217 A1 US 2005157217A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
menu
program
subscriber
menus
top terminal
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US11/056,618
Inventor
John Hendricks
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Comcast IP Holdings I LLC
Original Assignee
Hendricks John S.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=25536845&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=US20050157217(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by Hendricks John S. filed Critical Hendricks John S.
Priority to US11/056,618 priority Critical patent/US20050157217A1/en
Publication of US20050157217A1 publication Critical patent/US20050157217A1/en
Assigned to COMCAST IP HOLDINGS I, LLC reassignment COMCAST IP HOLDINGS I, LLC ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: SEDNA PATENT SERVICES, LLC (F/K/A TVGATEWAY, LLC)
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47End-user applications
    • H04N21/478Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification, shopping application
    • H04N21/4786Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification, shopping application e-mailing
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/16Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H20/00Arrangements for broadcast or for distribution combined with broadcast
    • H04H20/02Arrangements for relaying broadcast information
    • H04H20/06Arrangements for relaying broadcast information among broadcast stations
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H20/00Arrangements for broadcast or for distribution combined with broadcast
    • H04H20/10Arrangements for replacing or switching information during the broadcast or the distribution
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H20/00Arrangements for broadcast or for distribution combined with broadcast
    • H04H20/42Arrangements for resource management
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H20/00Arrangements for broadcast or for distribution combined with broadcast
    • H04H20/65Arrangements characterised by transmission systems for broadcast
    • H04H20/76Wired systems
    • H04H20/77Wired systems using carrier waves
    • H04H20/78CATV [Community Antenna Television] systems
    • H04H20/79CATV [Community Antenna Television] systems using downlink of the CATV systems, e.g. audio broadcast via CATV network
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H20/00Arrangements for broadcast or for distribution combined with broadcast
    • H04H20/86Arrangements characterised by the broadcast information itself
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/02Arrangements for generating broadcast information; Arrangements for generating broadcast-related information with a direct linking to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time; Arrangements for simultaneous generation of broadcast information and broadcast-related information
    • H04H60/04Studio equipment; Interconnection of studios
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/09Arrangements for device control with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time; Arrangements for control of broadcast-related services
    • H04H60/13Arrangements for device control affected by the broadcast information
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/35Arrangements for identifying or recognising characteristics with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time, e.g. for identifying broadcast stations or for identifying users
    • H04H60/38Arrangements for identifying or recognising characteristics with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time, e.g. for identifying broadcast stations or for identifying users for identifying broadcast time or space
    • H04H60/39Arrangements for identifying or recognising characteristics with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time, e.g. for identifying broadcast stations or for identifying users for identifying broadcast time or space for identifying broadcast space-time
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/35Arrangements for identifying or recognising characteristics with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time, e.g. for identifying broadcast stations or for identifying users
    • H04H60/47Arrangements for identifying or recognising characteristics with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time, e.g. for identifying broadcast stations or for identifying users for recognising genres
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/68Systems specially adapted for using specific information, e.g. geographical or meteorological information
    • H04H60/72Systems specially adapted for using specific information, e.g. geographical or meteorological information using electronic programme guides [EPG]
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/21Server components or server architectures
    • H04N21/218Source of audio or video content, e.g. local disk arrays
    • H04N21/2181Source of audio or video content, e.g. local disk arrays comprising remotely distributed storage units, e.g. when movies are replicated over a plurality of video servers
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/21Server components or server architectures
    • H04N21/218Source of audio or video content, e.g. local disk arrays
    • H04N21/21815Source of audio or video content, e.g. local disk arrays comprising local storage units
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/21Server components or server architectures
    • H04N21/218Source of audio or video content, e.g. local disk arrays
    • H04N21/2187Live feed
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/21Server components or server architectures
    • H04N21/222Secondary servers, e.g. proxy server, cable television Head-end
    • H04N21/2221Secondary servers, e.g. proxy server, cable television Head-end being a cable television head-end
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/23Processing of content or additional data; Elementary server operations; Server middleware
    • H04N21/235Processing of additional data, e.g. scrambling of additional data or processing content descriptors
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/23Processing of content or additional data; Elementary server operations; Server middleware
    • H04N21/236Assembling of a multiplex stream, e.g. transport stream, by combining a video stream with other content or additional data, e.g. inserting a URL [Uniform Resource Locator] into a video stream, multiplexing software data into a video stream; Remultiplexing of multiplex streams; Insertion of stuffing bits into the multiplex stream, e.g. to obtain a constant bit-rate; Assembling of a packetised elementary stream
    • H04N21/23608Remultiplexing multiplex streams, e.g. involving modifying time stamps or remapping the packet identifiers
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/23Processing of content or additional data; Elementary server operations; Server middleware
    • H04N21/236Assembling of a multiplex stream, e.g. transport stream, by combining a video stream with other content or additional data, e.g. inserting a URL [Uniform Resource Locator] into a video stream, multiplexing software data into a video stream; Remultiplexing of multiplex streams; Insertion of stuffing bits into the multiplex stream, e.g. to obtain a constant bit-rate; Assembling of a packetised elementary stream
    • H04N21/2362Generation or processing of Service Information [SI]
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/23Processing of content or additional data; Elementary server operations; Server middleware
    • H04N21/238Interfacing the downstream path of the transmission network, e.g. adapting the transmission rate of a video stream to network bandwidth; Processing of multiplex streams
    • H04N21/2381Adapting the multiplex stream to a specific network, e.g. an Internet Protocol [IP] network
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/23Processing of content or additional data; Elementary server operations; Server middleware
    • H04N21/238Interfacing the downstream path of the transmission network, e.g. adapting the transmission rate of a video stream to network bandwidth; Processing of multiplex streams
    • H04N21/2389Multiplex stream processing, e.g. multiplex stream encrypting
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/25Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/251Learning process for intelligent management, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/252Processing of multiple end-users' preferences to derive collaborative data
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/25Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/254Management at additional data server, e.g. shopping server, rights management server
    • H04N21/2543Billing, e.g. for subscription services
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/25Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/258Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics, processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/25Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/258Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics, processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
    • H04N21/25866Management of end-user data
    • H04N21/25891Management of end-user data being end-user preferences
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/25Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/262Content or additional data distribution scheduling, e.g. sending additional data at off-peak times, updating software modules, calculating the carousel transmission frequency, delaying a video stream transmission, generating play-lists
    • H04N21/26208Content or additional data distribution scheduling, e.g. sending additional data at off-peak times, updating software modules, calculating the carousel transmission frequency, delaying a video stream transmission, generating play-lists the scheduling operation being performed under constraints
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/25Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/262Content or additional data distribution scheduling, e.g. sending additional data at off-peak times, updating software modules, calculating the carousel transmission frequency, delaying a video stream transmission, generating play-lists
    • H04N21/26283Content or additional data distribution scheduling, e.g. sending additional data at off-peak times, updating software modules, calculating the carousel transmission frequency, delaying a video stream transmission, generating play-lists for associating distribution time parameters to content, e.g. to generate electronic program guide data
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/25Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/266Channel or content management, e.g. generation and management of keys and entitlement messages in a conditional access system, merging a VOD unicast channel into a multicast channel
    • H04N21/2668Creating a channel for a dedicated end-user group, e.g. insertion of targeted commercials based on end-user profiles
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/418External card to be used in combination with the client device, e.g. for conditional access
    • H04N21/4181External card to be used in combination with the client device, e.g. for conditional access for conditional access
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/418External card to be used in combination with the client device, e.g. for conditional access
    • H04N21/4184External card to be used in combination with the client device, e.g. for conditional access providing storage capabilities, e.g. memory stick
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/422Input-only peripherals, i.e. input devices connected to specially adapted client devices, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
    • H04N21/42204User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/422Input-only peripherals, i.e. input devices connected to specially adapted client devices, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
    • H04N21/42204User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor
    • H04N21/42206User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor characterized by hardware details
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/426Internal components of the client ; Characteristics thereof
    • H04N21/42653Internal components of the client ; Characteristics thereof for processing graphics
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/431Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering
    • H04N21/4312Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering involving specific graphical features, e.g. screen layout, special fonts or colors, blinking icons, highlights or animations
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/431Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering
    • H04N21/4312Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering involving specific graphical features, e.g. screen layout, special fonts or colors, blinking icons, highlights or animations
    • H04N21/4314Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering involving specific graphical features, e.g. screen layout, special fonts or colors, blinking icons, highlights or animations for fitting data in a restricted space on the screen, e.g. EPG data in a rectangular grid
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/431Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering
    • H04N21/4312Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering involving specific graphical features, e.g. screen layout, special fonts or colors, blinking icons, highlights or animations
    • H04N21/4316Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering involving specific graphical features, e.g. screen layout, special fonts or colors, blinking icons, highlights or animations for displaying supplemental content in a region of the screen, e.g. an advertisement in a separate window
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/433Content storage operation, e.g. storage operation in response to a pause request, caching operations
    • H04N21/4331Caching operations, e.g. of an advertisement for later insertion during playback
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/434Disassembling of a multiplex stream, e.g. demultiplexing audio and video streams, extraction of additional data from a video stream; Remultiplexing of multiplex streams; Extraction or processing of SI; Disassembling of packetised elementary stream
    • H04N21/4344Remultiplexing of multiplex streams, e.g. by modifying time stamps or remapping the packet identifiers
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/434Disassembling of a multiplex stream, e.g. demultiplexing audio and video streams, extraction of additional data from a video stream; Remultiplexing of multiplex streams; Extraction or processing of SI; Disassembling of packetised elementary stream
    • H04N21/4345Extraction or processing of SI, e.g. extracting service information from an MPEG stream
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/435Processing of additional data, e.g. decrypting of additional data, reconstructing software from modules extracted from the transport stream
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/438Interfacing the downstream path of the transmission network originating from a server, e.g. retrieving MPEG packets from an IP network
    • H04N21/4385Multiplex stream processing, e.g. multiplex stream decrypting
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/442Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. detecting the failure of a recording device, monitoring the downstream bandwidth, the number of times a movie has been viewed, the storage space available from the internal hard disk
    • H04N21/44204Monitoring of content usage, e.g. the number of times a movie has been viewed, copied or the amount which has been watched
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/442Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. detecting the failure of a recording device, monitoring the downstream bandwidth, the number of times a movie has been viewed, the storage space available from the internal hard disk
    • H04N21/44213Monitoring of end-user related data
    • H04N21/44222Analytics of user selections, e.g. selection of programs or purchase activity
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/443OS processes, e.g. booting an STB, implementing a Java virtual machine in an STB or power management in an STB
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/45Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
    • H04N21/4508Management of client data or end-user data
    • H04N21/4532Management of client data or end-user data involving end-user characteristics, e.g. viewer profile, preferences
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/45Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
    • H04N21/454Content or additional data filtering, e.g. blocking advertisements
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/45Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
    • H04N21/462Content or additional data management, e.g. creating a master electronic program guide from data received from the Internet and a Head-end, controlling the complexity of a video stream by scaling the resolution or bit-rate based on the client capabilities
    • H04N21/4622Retrieving content or additional data from different sources, e.g. from a broadcast channel and the Internet
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/45Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
    • H04N21/466Learning process for intelligent management, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/4668Learning process for intelligent management, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies for recommending content, e.g. movies
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47End-user applications
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47End-user applications
    • H04N21/472End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47End-user applications
    • H04N21/472End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content
    • H04N21/47211End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content for requesting pay-per-view content
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47End-user applications
    • H04N21/472End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content
    • H04N21/47214End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content for content reservation or setting reminders; for requesting event notification, e.g. of sport results or stock market
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47End-user applications
    • H04N21/475End-user interface for inputting end-user data, e.g. personal identification number [PIN], preference data
    • H04N21/4755End-user interface for inputting end-user data, e.g. personal identification number [PIN], preference data for defining user preferences, e.g. favourite actors or genre
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47End-user applications
    • H04N21/478Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification, shopping application
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47End-user applications
    • H04N21/478Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification, shopping application
    • H04N21/4788Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification, shopping application communicating with other users, e.g. chatting
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47End-user applications
    • H04N21/482End-user interface for program selection
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47End-user applications
    • H04N21/482End-user interface for program selection
    • H04N21/4821End-user interface for program selection using a grid, e.g. sorted out by channel and broadcast time
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/60Network structure or processes for video distribution between server and client or between remote clients; Control signalling between clients, server and network components; Transmission of management data between server and client, e.g. sending from server to client commands for recording incoming content stream; Communication details between server and client 
    • H04N21/63Control signaling related to video distribution between client, server and network components; Network processes for video distribution between server and clients or between remote clients, e.g. transmitting basic layer and enhancement layers over different transmission paths, setting up a peer-to-peer communication via Internet between remote STB's; Communication protocols; Addressing
    • H04N21/643Communication protocols
    • H04N21/64307ATM
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/60Network structure or processes for video distribution between server and client or between remote clients; Control signalling between clients, server and network components; Transmission of management data between server and client, e.g. sending from server to client commands for recording incoming content stream; Communication details between server and client 
    • H04N21/65Transmission of management data between client and server
    • H04N21/654Transmission by server directed to the client
    • H04N21/6543Transmission by server directed to the client for forcing some client operations, e.g. recording
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/60Network structure or processes for video distribution between server and client or between remote clients; Control signalling between clients, server and network components; Transmission of management data between server and client, e.g. sending from server to client commands for recording incoming content stream; Communication details between server and client 
    • H04N21/65Transmission of management data between client and server
    • H04N21/654Transmission by server directed to the client
    • H04N21/6547Transmission by server directed to the client comprising parameters, e.g. for client setup
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/80Generation or processing of content or additional data by content creator independently of the distribution process; Content per se
    • H04N21/81Monomedia components thereof
    • H04N21/812Monomedia components thereof involving advertisement data
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/80Generation or processing of content or additional data by content creator independently of the distribution process; Content per se
    • H04N21/81Monomedia components thereof
    • H04N21/8146Monomedia components thereof involving graphical data, e.g. 3D object, 2D graphics
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/80Generation or processing of content or additional data by content creator independently of the distribution process; Content per se
    • H04N21/81Monomedia components thereof
    • H04N21/8166Monomedia components thereof involving executable data, e.g. software
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/80Generation or processing of content or additional data by content creator independently of the distribution process; Content per se
    • H04N21/81Monomedia components thereof
    • H04N21/8166Monomedia components thereof involving executable data, e.g. software
    • H04N21/8173End-user applications, e.g. Web browser, game
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/80Generation or processing of content or additional data by content creator independently of the distribution process; Content per se
    • H04N21/85Assembly of content; Generation of multimedia applications
    • H04N21/858Linking data to content, e.g. by linking an URL to a video object, by creating a hotspot
    • H04N21/8586Linking data to content, e.g. by linking an URL to a video object, by creating a hotspot by using a URL
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N5/00Details of television systems
    • H04N5/44Receiver circuitry for the reception of television signals according to analogue transmission standards
    • H04N5/445Receiver circuitry for the reception of television signals according to analogue transmission standards for displaying additional information
    • H04N5/44504Circuit details of the additional information generator, e.g. details of the character or graphics signal generator, overlay mixing circuits
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N5/00Details of television systems
    • H04N5/44Receiver circuitry for the reception of television signals according to analogue transmission standards
    • H04N5/60Receiver circuitry for the reception of television signals according to analogue transmission standards for the sound signals
    • H04N5/602Receiver circuitry for the reception of television signals according to analogue transmission standards for the sound signals for digital sound signals
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/08Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division
    • H04N7/087Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only
    • H04N7/088Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only the inserted signal being digital
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/08Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division
    • H04N7/087Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only
    • H04N7/088Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only the inserted signal being digital
    • H04N7/0882Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only the inserted signal being digital for the transmission of character code signals, e.g. for teletext
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/08Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division
    • H04N7/087Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only
    • H04N7/088Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only the inserted signal being digital
    • H04N7/0884Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only the inserted signal being digital for the transmission of additional display-information, e.g. menu for programme or channel selection
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/08Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division
    • H04N7/087Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only
    • H04N7/088Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only the inserted signal being digital
    • H04N7/0887Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only the inserted signal being digital for the transmission of programme or channel identifying signals
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/10Adaptations for transmission by electrical cable
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/10Adaptations for transmission by electrical cable
    • H04N7/102Circuits therefor, e.g. noise reducers, equalisers, amplifiers
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/16Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
    • H04N7/162Authorising the user terminal, e.g. by paying; Registering the use of a subscription channel, e.g. billing
    • H04N7/163Authorising the user terminal, e.g. by paying; Registering the use of a subscription channel, e.g. billing by receiver means only
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/16Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
    • H04N7/162Authorising the user terminal, e.g. by paying; Registering the use of a subscription channel, e.g. billing
    • H04N7/165Centralised control of user terminal ; Registering at central
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/16Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
    • H04N7/173Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems with two-way working, e.g. subscriber sending a programme selection signal
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/16Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
    • H04N7/173Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems with two-way working, e.g. subscriber sending a programme selection signal
    • H04N7/17309Transmission or handling of upstream communications
    • H04N7/17318Direct or substantially direct transmission and handling of requests
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/16Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
    • H04N7/173Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems with two-way working, e.g. subscriber sending a programme selection signal
    • H04N7/17309Transmission or handling of upstream communications
    • H04N7/17336Handling of requests in head-ends
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00Television systems
    • H04N7/16Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
    • H04N7/173Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems with two-way working, e.g. subscriber sending a programme selection signal
    • H04N7/17345Control of the passage of the selected programme
    • H04N7/17354Control of the passage of the selected programme in an intermediate station common to a plurality of user terminals
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H20/00Arrangements for broadcast or for distribution combined with broadcast
    • H04H20/02Arrangements for relaying broadcast information
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H20/00Arrangements for broadcast or for distribution combined with broadcast
    • H04H20/65Arrangements characterised by transmission systems for broadcast
    • H04H20/76Wired systems
    • H04H20/77Wired systems using carrier waves
    • H04H20/78CATV [Community Antenna Television] systems
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H20/00Arrangements for broadcast or for distribution combined with broadcast
    • H04H20/86Arrangements characterised by the broadcast information itself
    • H04H20/95Arrangements characterised by the broadcast information itself characterised by a specific format, e.g. MP3 (MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3)
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H2201/00Aspects of broadcast communication
    • H04H2201/70Aspects of broadcast communication characterised in that receivers can be addressed
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/09Arrangements for device control with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time; Arrangements for control of broadcast-related services
    • H04H60/14Arrangements for conditional access to broadcast information or to broadcast-related services
    • H04H60/21Billing for the use of broadcast information or broadcast-related information
    • H04H60/22Billing for the use of broadcast information or broadcast-related information per use
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/09Arrangements for device control with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time; Arrangements for control of broadcast-related services
    • H04H60/14Arrangements for conditional access to broadcast information or to broadcast-related services
    • H04H60/23Arrangements for conditional access to broadcast information or to broadcast-related services using cryptography, e.g. encryption, authentication, key distribution
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/61Arrangements for services using the result of monitoring, identification or recognition covered by groups H04H60/29-H04H60/54
    • H04H60/66Arrangements for services using the result of monitoring, identification or recognition covered by groups H04H60/29-H04H60/54 for using the result on distributors' side
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/68Systems specially adapted for using specific information, e.g. geographical or meteorological information
    • H04H60/73Systems specially adapted for using specific information, e.g. geographical or meteorological information using meta-information
    • H04H60/74Systems specially adapted for using specific information, e.g. geographical or meteorological information using meta-information using programme related information, e.g. title, composer or interpreter
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/76Arrangements characterised by transmission systems other than for broadcast, e.g. the Internet
    • H04H60/81Arrangements characterised by transmission systems other than for broadcast, e.g. the Internet characterised by the transmission system itself
    • H04H60/93Wired transmission systems
    • H04H60/94Telephonic networks
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/76Arrangements characterised by transmission systems other than for broadcast, e.g. the Internet
    • H04H60/81Arrangements characterised by transmission systems other than for broadcast, e.g. the Internet characterised by the transmission system itself
    • H04H60/93Wired transmission systems
    • H04H60/96CATV systems
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04HBROADCAST COMMUNICATION
    • H04H60/00Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
    • H04H60/76Arrangements characterised by transmission systems other than for broadcast, e.g. the Internet
    • H04H60/81Arrangements characterised by transmission systems other than for broadcast, e.g. the Internet characterised by the transmission system itself
    • H04H60/93Wired transmission systems
    • H04H60/96CATV systems
    • H04H60/97CATV systems using uplink of the CATV systems
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M1/00Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
    • H04M1/57Arrangements for indicating or recording the number of the calling subscriber at the called subscriber's set
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/426Internal components of the client ; Characteristics thereof
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N5/00Details of television systems
    • H04N5/44Receiver circuitry for the reception of television signals according to analogue transmission standards
    • H04N5/445Receiver circuitry for the reception of television signals according to analogue transmission standards for displaying additional information
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04NPICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N5/00Details of television systems
    • H04N5/44Receiver circuitry for the reception of television signals according to analogue transmission standards
    • H04N5/445Receiver circuitry for the reception of television signals according to analogue transmission standards for displaying additional information
    • H04N5/45Picture in picture, e.g. displaying simultaneously another television channel in a region of the screen

Definitions

  • the invention relates to television entertainment systems for providing television programming to consumer homes. More particularly, the invention relates to cable television packaging, delivery and presentation systems which provide consumers with many television programming options.
  • the TV industry has traditionally marketed and sold its programs to consumers in bulk, such as continuous feed broadcast and long-term subscriptions to movie channels.
  • the TV industry is unable to sell its programming in large quantities on a unit per unit basis, such as the ordering of one program. Consumers prefer a unit sales approach because it keeps costs down and allows the consumer to be more selective in their viewing.
  • What is needed is an economical system which can gather television programming in a variety of formats, package the programs, deliver the programs, and present the programs through a user friendly interface which allows the consumer to easily select from among the many program choices.
  • the system must be capable of handling hundreds of programs in different formats, be expandable for future types of programming, include a method for billing consumers, and be inexpensive.
  • the present invention is addressed to fulfill these needs.
  • the present invention is an expanded cable television program delivery system that dramatically increases programming capacity using compressed transmission of television program signals. Developments in digital bandwidth compression technology now allow much greater throughput of television program signals over existing or slightly modified transmission media.
  • the present invention is a program delivery system which provides subscribers with a user friendly interface to operate and exploit a six-fold or more increase in current program delivery capability.
  • Subscribers will be able to access the expanded program package and view selected programs through a menu-driver access scheme that allows each subscriber to select individual programs by sequencing a series of menus.
  • the menus are sequenced by the subscriber using simple alpha-numeric and iconic character access, allowing the subscriber to access desired programs by simply pressing a single button rather than recalling from memory and pressing the actual two or more digit numeric number assigned to a selection.
  • the subscriber can advance from one menu to the next. In this fashion, the subscriber can sequence the menus and select a program from any given menu.
  • the programs are grouped by category so that similar program offerings are found on the same menu.
  • the system uses a program delivery system in conjunction with a conventional cable television system.
  • the program delivery system contemplates (i) at least one operations center, where program packaging and control information are received and then assembled in the form of digital data, and (ii) a digital compression system, where the digital data is compressed, combined/multiplexed, encoded, and mapped into digital signals for satellite transmission (i.e., modulated, upconverted and amplified).
  • the program delivery system transports the digital signals to the concatenated cable television system where the signals are received at the cable headend. Within the cable headend, the received signals may be decoded, demultiplexed, managed by a local central distribution and switching mechanism and then transmitted to subscriber homes via the cable system.
  • the delivery system employs an in-home decompression capability employing a decompressor housed within a set-top terminal in each subscriber's home.
  • the decompressor remains transparent from the subscriber's point of view and allows any of the compressed signals to be demultiplexed and individually extracted from the composite data stream and then individually decompressed upon selection of a corresponding program by the subscriber.
  • video signals are converted into analog signals.
  • Control signals are extracted, decompressed and either executed immediately or place in local storage in a ROM.
  • the program control signals correspond to specific television programs with menu program options that each subscriber may access through a subscriber interface.
  • the subscriber interface is a combined alpha, numeric and iconic remote control device which provides direct or menu-driven program access.
  • An array of menu templates are generated by either a computer program within the set-top terminal or by the cable headend.
  • the menu templates are generated using the program control information signals received from the Operations Center.
  • a computer program within the set top terminal generates the on-screen menu displays and allocates a specific menu program option for each program signal.
  • a combined alpha and numeric remote control device provides the user interface to each program signal, allowing selection of a specific menu option which corresponds to a particular program signal.
  • the Operations Center performs two primary services, packaging television programs and generating the program control signal.
  • television programs are accumulated from various sources in both analog and digital form.
  • the programs are then packaged into groups and categories which allow for easy menu access to programs and provides optimal marketing of programs to subscribers.
  • the packaging process also accounts for any groupings by transponder which are necessary.
  • the program control information which, among other things, describes the packaging, is generated by a computer and delivered with the packaged programs to the head end and/or subscriber.
  • the system also accommodates local cable and television companies with programming time for local advertising and/or programming time availability.
  • the delivery system employs digital compression techniques to increase existing satellite transponder capacity by at least a 6:1 ratio, resulting in a six-fold increase in program delivery capability.
  • the input signals are compressed, combined and encoded prior to satellite transmission, and subsequently transponded to various receive sites.
  • compression algorithms that presently exist which can achieve the resultant increase in capacity and improved signal quality desired for the invention.
  • Network management, control and monitoring of all compressors and decompressors in the network is performed by a network controller at the cable headend, where program selection activity, and account and billing information is monitored.
  • the network controller monitors, among other things, automatic poll-back responses from the set-top terminals remotely located at each subscriber's home. The polling and automatic report-back cycle occurs frequently enough to allow the network controller to maintain accurate account and billing information as well as monitor authorized channel access.
  • information to be sent to the network controller will be stored in ROM within each subscriber's set-top terminal and retrieved only upon polling by the network controller.
  • Control information from the set top terminal will be sent to the network controller at the cable headend and not directly to the operations center.
  • the digital compression and delivery system of the preferred embodiment provides a one-way path from the Operations Center to the cable headend.
  • program monitoring and selection control will take place only at the cable headend by the local cable company and its decentralized network controllers (i.e., decentralized relative to the Operations Center which is central to the program delivery system).
  • the local cable company will in turn be in communication with the operations center or a regional control center which accumulates return data from the set-top terminal for statistical or billing purposes.
  • the operations center, and statistical and billing sites could be collocated.
  • any of the compressed signals may be demultiplexed or individually extracted from the data stream and passed from the cable headend over the cable system to the subscriber's set-top terminal.
  • the individual compressed signals are decompressed and either placed in local storage (from which the menu template may be created), executed immediately, or sent directly to the screen.
  • a combined alpha, numeric and iconic remote control device provides the subscriber interface to the system.
  • the subscriber may select desired programming through the system's menu-driven scheme or by directly accessing a specific channel by its actual number.
  • the menu-driven scheme provides the subscriber with one-step access to all major menus, ranging from hit movies to specialty programs. From any of the major menus, the subscriber can in turn access submenus and minor menus by alpha character access.
  • menu-driven, iconic or alpha-character access the subscriber can access desired programs by simply pressing a single button rather than recalling from memory and pressing the actual channel number to make a selection.
  • the subscriber can access regular broadcast and basic cable television stations by using either the numeric keys on the remote control and pressing the corresponding channel number, or one of the menu icon selection options.
  • HDTV High Definition Television
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic of the overall system design.
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic of the primary components of the invention.
  • FIG. 3 a is a diagram of the bandwidth allocation for a 750 mHz system.
  • FIG. 3 b is a diagram/chart of the compressed channel allocation for the system.
  • FIG. 3 c is a diagram showing how three cable television systems with different bandwidths may use the program delivery system of the present invention simultaneously.
  • FIG. 3 d is a diagram showing three different cable headend systems, each system receiving the entire satellite signal and stripping those parts of the signal which cannot be handled by the local cable system.
  • FIG. 3 e is a diagram showing dynamic change in bandwidth allocation from a typical week day prime time signal.
  • FIG. 4 a is a block diagram of the Operations Center and Master Control Site.
  • FIG. 4 b is a block diagram of the computer assisted packaging shown in FIG. 4 a.
  • FIG. 5 is a flow chart of the processing occurring at the Operations Center.
  • FIG. 6 is a chart of the program control information carried by the program control information signal.
  • FIG. 7 a is a block diagram of the internals of the set top terminal.
  • FIG. 7 b is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of the internals of the set top terminal.
  • FIG. 8 a is a perspective front view of a set top terminal.
  • FIG. 8 b is a perspective rear view of a set top terminal.
  • FIG. 9 a is a schematic of a basic decompression box and upgrade module, with the associated connections.
  • FIG. 9 b is a schematic of an alternative embodiment of a simple decompression unit and upgrade module, with associated connections.
  • FIG. 10 a is a drawing of storage for on-screen menu templates stored in graphics memory of the set top terminal.
  • FIG. 10 b is a drawing showing the hierarchical storage of graphics memory for the set top terminal.
  • FIG. 10 c is a drawing of a flow chart showing the steps required for the microprocessor to retrieve, combine and display a menu.
  • FIG. 10 d is a drawing of a flow chart showing the steps required for the microprocessor to sequence program menus.
  • FIG. 11 a is a schematic showing the two parts of a remote control unit.
  • FIG. 11 b is a drawing of the complete remote control derived from FIG. 11 a.
  • FIG. 12 a is a color photograph showing a perspective view of the preferred remote control unit of the present invention.
  • FIG. 12 b is another drawing of the preferred remote control unit shown in FIG. 12 a.
  • FIG. 13 is a flow chart of the progression of primary menus in the menu driven system of the set-top terminal.
  • FIG. 14 a is a drawing of the basic menus used in the present invention, including the ten major menus represented by icons.
  • FIG. 14 b is a drawing of the basic menus used in the present invention, in addition to FIG. 14 a.
  • FIGS. 15 a - 15 b are drawings of introductory menus.
  • FIGS. 16 a - 16 d are drawings of home menus.
  • FIG. 17 is a drawing of an alternative of a home menu.
  • FIGS. 18 a - 18 g are drawings of major menus.
  • FIGS. 19 a - 19 b are drawings of hit movie description menus.
  • FIGS. 20 a - 20 b are drawings of hit movie confirmation submenus.
  • FIGS. 21 a - 21 b are drawings of hit movie notification submenus.
  • FIG. 22 a is a drawing of a hit movie escape during program menu.
  • FIG. 22 b is a drawing of a hit movie during program hidden menu.
  • FIG. 22 c is a drawing of a hit movie re-entry submenu.
  • FIG. 23 is a drawing of a movie library major menu.
  • FIG. 24 is a drawing of a hit movie description menu.
  • FIG. 25 is a drawing of a movie library confirmation submenu.
  • FIGS. 26 a - 26 b are drawings of major menus.
  • FIGS. 27 a - 27 b are drawings of submenus for the major menus shown in FIGS. 26 a - 26 b.
  • FIGS. 28 a - 28 b
  • FIGS. 29 a - 29 c are drawings showing examples of submenus for the menus shown in FIGS. 27 a - 27 b.
  • FIG. 30 is a drawing of a specialty channel major menu.
  • FIGS. 31-34 are drawings of submenus related to FIG. 30 .
  • FIG. 35 is a drawing of a magazine channel major menu.
  • FIGS. 36-38 are drawings of submenus related to FIG. 35 .
  • FIG. 39 is a drawing of a documentary/news major menu.
  • FIGS. 40-42 are drawings of submenus related to FIG. 39 .
  • FIG. 43 is a drawing of an entertainment choice major menu.
  • FIG. 44 is a drawing of a submenu related to FIG. 43 .
  • FIG. 45 is a drawing of a children's programs major menu.
  • FIG. 46 is a drawing of a program description submenu related to FIG. 45 .
  • FIG. 47 is a drawing of a sports major menu.
  • FIGS. 48 , FIGS. 49 a - 49 d are drawings of submenus related to FIG. 47 .
  • FIGS. 50 a - 50 b are drawings of menus related to high definition television programming.
  • FIGS. 51 a - 51 f are drawings of menus related to program guide services.
  • FIGS. 51 g - 51 h are drawings of broadcast television menus.
  • FIGS. 51 i - 51 k are drawings of mood question menus.
  • FIGS. 52 a - 52 c are drawings of interactive television promotional menus, for Levels A.
  • FIGS. 52 d - 52 j are drawings of submenus for interactive television services, Level A.
  • FIGS. 53 a - 53 l are drawings of interactive services, Level B, particularly related to on-screen airline reservations.
  • FIGS. 54 a - 54 e are drawings of menus for digital audio services.
  • FIGS. 55 a - 55 g are drawings of the various overlaying screens necessary for creating a hit movie major menu.
  • FIGS. 56 a - 56 g are drawings of the various overlaying screens necessary for creating a hit movie description submenu.
  • FIGS. 57 a - 57 b are drawings showing use of split screen techniques.
  • FIGS. 58 a - 58 b and 59 a - 59 b are drawings of monthly account menus.
  • FIG. 60 is a drawing of the statistical and billing system used in the present invention.
  • FIGS. 61-98 are color photographs of many of the menus presented in the preceding Figures.
  • FIG. 99 is a color photograph showing an enlargement of the cursor movement buttons and the “go” button to activate each menu.
  • FIGS. 100-134 are color photographs of many of the menus presented in the preceding Figures.
  • FIG. 1 shows an overview of the cable television menu driven program delivery system 200 .
  • the Operations Center 202 is shown receiving external programming signals which correspond to particular programming categories that are available for a subscriber's viewing. These external signals may be in analog or digital form and may be received via landline, microwave transmission, or satellite. Some of these external signals may be transmitted from the program source to the Operations Center 202 in compressed digital format or other nonstandard digital formats. These external signals are received and packaged along with programming that is stored at the Operations Center 202 (not shown here).
  • Examples of external program sources 204 shown in FIG. 1 are: Sporting events, children's programs, documentaries, high definition TV sources, specialty channels, interactive services, weather, news, and other nonfiction or entertainment. Any source that can provide either audio or video or both may be utilized to provide programming to the Operations Center 202 .
  • the packaged television program signal is prepared for satellite transmission 206 and sent from the Operations Center 202 to the cable headend 208 via satellite transmission 206 .
  • the television program signal may need to be compressed, combined/multiplexed, encoded, mapped, modulated, upconverted and amplified.
  • This system which is intended to be compatible with existing C and Ku Band satellite transmission 206 technologies, accepts video, audio and data signals ranging in signal quality, and input from a number of sources.
  • the signal Upon receipt of the programming signal at the cable headend 208 , the signal is again treated if necessary and sent into a concatenated cable system to the subscriber's home.
  • the signal reaches the subscriber's home in a compressed format and must be decompressed prior to viewing. Included in the delivered program signal is information which enables equipment at the subscriber's home to display menus for choosing particular programs.
  • the television program signal may arrive at the subscriber's home via one or more coaxial cables, fiber cables, twisted pairs, cellular telephone connections, or personal communications network (PCN) hookups.
  • PCN personal communications network
  • This connection between the subscriber's home and the cable headend 208 allows for two-way communications. Utilizing this two-way communications, the cable headend 208 receives information about a subscriber's account, billing, and programs viewed. Also, the cable headend 208 is capable of sending computer data or computer software information to the subscriber's home.
  • an analog cable TV system 210 can continue to exist alongside and within the digitally compressed system of the present invention.
  • the digital transmissions do not effect the analog system.
  • the analog cable signal may be transmitted simultaneously on the same cable as the digital signal.
  • the cable headends may continue to supply subscribers with local channels in an analog signal format.
  • FIG. 2 shows a more detailed overview of the operation of the present invention.
  • the Operations Center 202 shown performs program packaging and delivery control.
  • the packaged program signal will be treated at a master control uplink site 211 prior to being transmitted to the satellite 206 .
  • Various satellite multi-accessing schemes and architectures can be used with the system, including both single channel per transponder time division multiplex (TDM) and multiple channel per transponder single channel per carrier (SCPC). Time division multiplexing is the more desirable scheme.
  • TDM single channel per transponder time division multiplex
  • SCPC multiple channel per transponder single channel per carrier
  • Time division multiplexing is the more desirable scheme.
  • the signal is transmitted from the satellite 206 to the cable headend 208 where a computer system including a digital switch treats the signal and delivers it through cables to a subscriber's home.
  • multiple Operations Center 202 and multiple uplink sites can be simultaneously utilized.
  • two cables 216 are used between the cable headend 208 and the subscriber's home.
  • analog signals, digitally compressed signals, other digital signals and up-stream/interactivity signals are sent and received over the two cables 216 .
  • the cable headend 208 receives the digitally compressed and multiplexed signal from the satellite 206 and processes the signal for further distribution to the subscriber homes.
  • the cable headend 208 performs two primary functions in the cable delivery system. It will act as a signal processor 212 and distribution center for routing the digitally compressed signals to subscribers and it will act as a network controller 214 receiving information from subscribers and passing the information on to the Operations Center 202 or other remote sites (such as regional, statistical and billing sites not shown).
  • the cable headend 208 of the preferred embodiment is equipped with two computer processors working in unison. Use of two processors performing different functions increases the speed and capability of the cable headend 208 without a significant increase in cost.
  • One processor handles the receiving and processing of the satellite 206 signal for distribution to subscribers.
  • the second processor acts as a network controller 214 and monitors activity of the subscriber's set top terminal 220 .
  • the cable headend 208 can be operated by one CPU or a series of CPU's which perform the signal processing and network control functions.
  • the signal processor 212 will treat the signal as necessary for use by the subscriber's set top terminal 220 .
  • the amount of processing that is necessary by the signal processor 212 is limited to demultiplexing and frequency allocation.
  • the signal processor 212 demultiplexes the signal, allocates frequencies and then re-multiplexes the signal using a different multiplexing scheme prior to the signal's distribution to the subscriber.
  • the signal processor 212 must be capable of compressing and adding additional signals to the satellite 206 signal.
  • the signal processor 212 would demultiplex the satellite 206 signal, compress the local programming, combine the compressed local program with the satellite 206 signal and then multiplex the signal prior to delivery to the subscriber terminals. Most of the activities necessary for incorporating local programming will be automatically performed by the signal processor 212 . In the preferred embodiment, the signal processor 212 incorporates all the necessary digital switching capability to serve numerous subscribers.
  • Signals received by the cable headend 208 must be decompressed before transmission from headend to subscriber location only when the compression algorithm used for the cable system differs from the one used for satellite transmission 206 . This difference may result from different bandwidth constraints between the cable transmission media and the satellite 206 transponder. Such a difference would necessitate the use of separate compression algorithms to maintain desired signal quality and throughput over both of the transmission mediums.
  • System control is performed by the network controller 214 .
  • the primary task of the network controller 214 at the cable headend 208 is to manage the configuration of the set top terminals, which includes receiving and processing signals from the set top terminal units.
  • the network controller 214 must also monitor selections at subscribers' homes, maintain accurate account and billing information, authorize subscriber channel access, and authorize particular set top terminals to operate in the system.
  • Information required to operate the network will be stored in memory (either in RAM, ROM, magnetic or optical Read/Write) at the cable headend 208 and also in memory (RAM and/or ROM) within each subscriber's set top terminal 220 .
  • Two-way communications between the network controller 214 and set top terminal 220 will occur over cable lines. Interactive television programming can be accommodated through the network controller 214 .
  • the network controller 214 will be able to access set top terminals via phone lines for trouble shooting, special features or sophisticated reprogramming.
  • the network controller 214 regularly polls each set top terminal 220 to acquire needed information to operate the system.
  • the network controller 214 sends signals to set top terminals to authorize their operation and to authorize access to specific channels. If a subscriber has failed to pay a recent bill, the network controller 214 can deauthorize the subscriber's set top terminal 220 .
  • the network controller 214 checks the subscriber's account for good standing and then authorizes the access by signaling the set top terminal 220 .
  • the network controller 214 To perform its functions, the network controller 214 must work closely with the signal processor 212 . In many instances the program control information signal received from the Operations Center 202 must be modified prior to being sent to the set top terminals. These modifications to the program control information are made by the network controller 214 working in conjunction with the signal processor 212 to send a set top terminal 220 control information stream (STTCIS). From the signal processor 212 , the network controller 214 receives the program control information signal which includes cable franchise specific information added by the Operations Center 202 . The network controller 214 modifies the program control information signal, if necessary, and communicates the new information to the signal processor 212 . The signal processor 212 then forwards the information to the set top terminal 220 in the form of the STTCIS. In most instances the network controller 214 will modify the program control information signal by adding additional information. In a simple embodiment the program control information signal can be passed through the cable headend 208 to the set top terminal 220 without any modifications.
  • STTCIS set top terminal 220 control information stream
  • the signal processor 212 will handle the addition of simple local availabilities (e.g. local advertisements) into the signal sent to the set top terminal 220
  • the network controller 214 will handle any of the more sophisticated local programming needs such as interactive programming and certain data services.
  • the network controller 214 will receive any electronic signals sent by the set top terminal 220 including those in response to interactive service requests and some data service requests.
  • the network controller 214 coordinates the necessary switching and access to allow the subscriber to enjoy these services.
  • the network controller 214 has the capability of performing “on the fly programming” changes, assisting in masking portions of subscriber's television screens (split screen video), assist in selecting different audio signals for the same video (foreign languages), assist in interactive features, create tiered programming, etc.
  • an operator using the network controller 214 can modify the program control information signal “on the fly” and change menus available to the subscriber. This accommodates short notice changes to program packaging that can not be provided to the Operations Center 202 in advance. In order to accommodate split screen techniques for promo and demo video (which will be described later), those undesired video portions of the screen must be masked.
  • the network controller 214 can send the necessary control information to inform the set top terminal 220 to mask portions of a specific channel's video. For example, a video channel with a split screen showing four separate videos would require a 3 ⁇ 4 mask to focus the viewer on the featured video clip.
  • Tiered programming allows different users to view different video even though they are “tuned” to the same channel.
  • the network controller 214 may know the demographics of its subscriber's through a database, by “learning” from prior subscriber choices, from an interactive selection, or from other means. Using the demographics information, the network controller 214 may target commercials to the correct audience by showing different commercials to subscriber's with different demographics. Even though subscriber's will believe they are “tuned” to one channel, they will be switched to a different channel for the tiered video. Alternatively, the subscriber's may be offered an option of several commercials from which to choose.
  • multiple audio channels for television programming may be provided.
  • the subscriber may be shown menus of programs available in his native language.
  • the function of choosing the correct audio to correspond to the selected language may be handled by either the set top terminal 220 or the network controller 214 depending upon the configuration.
  • Local programming in several languages or additional audio channels for a foreign language translation of a popular television program may be provided by the network controller 214 .
  • sign language may be similarly made available to certain set top terminals for the deaf.
  • a text overlay may be easily produced on the lower part of the screen for the deaf.
  • the network controller 214 can act as a central computer and provide intra-set top terminal interactive games, inter-set top terminal interactive games, computer bulletin board type services, message services (Electronic mail) etc. For example, a subscriber may play war games with six of his (anonymous) fellow subscribers each in their own home each operating a separate tank.
  • the network controller 214 gathers the players via set top terminal communications and acts as the referee.
  • a bulletin board or message system can be set up to discuss a particular program such as “Twin Peaks Whodunit” for enthusiasts.
  • the set top terminal 220 receives the signals from the cable headend 208 and manipulates them for the subscriber.
  • the set top terminal 220 is equipped with local computer memory and the capability of interpreting the digitally compressed signal to produce menus for the subscriber.
  • the set top terminal 220 is shown on top of the subscriber's television 222 , it may be placed anywhere in the subscriber's home that is accessible by the remote control.
  • the remote control communicates the subscriber's selections to the set top terminal 220 .
  • the subscriber's selections are generally based upon menus or other prompts displayed on the television screen. A typical menu is shown in FIG. 2 on the television screen.
  • One of the achievements of the present invention is effective utilization of digital compression technology by packaging television programs into categories that allow easy access to television programs by consumers.
  • the typical 50-channel capacity cable satellite receiving system can be increased to 300 channels.
  • one transponder is used for each satellite delivered channel.
  • the preferred embodiment uses 18 satellite transponders and compression ratios of 4/1 to 8/1 to achieve a capacity of 136 satellite delivered channels. More transponders or higher compression ratios can be used to deliver up to the channel capacity of any existing cable system.
  • Typical program packaging and delivery first involves the digitizing of the video signals. This is then followed by one of a variety of digital compression techniques that are available. Following compression the channels must be multiplexed and sent to the satellite 206 dish that will provide the uplink.
  • a variety of multiplexing schemes may be used in the system. In some situations, it may be advantageous to use different multiplexing schemes in different parts of the overall system. In other words, one multiplexing scheme may be used for satellite transmission 206 and a second remultiplexing scheme for the land transmission.
  • the signal Once the signal has arrived at the uplink or master control site, it must be modulated, upconverted, and amplified.
  • Various types of satellites and transponders capable of handling digital signals may be used in this cable television packaging and delivery system.
  • An example of a digital satellite that may be used is the AT&T Telstar 303 .
  • a television signal is first digitized.
  • the object of digitization is two-fold: First, in the case of an analog signal, like a television picture, digitization allows the signal to be converted from a wave-form into a digital binary format. Secondly, standard digital formats are designed to have the resulting pictures or video stills take up less space on their respective storage mediums. Essentially, standard digital formats define methods of compression.
  • a video screen is divided into picture elements known as pixels. Images define one pixel at a time are referred to as “bit-mapped” images. Most compression techniques take the bit-mapped images and convert them into a series of mathematical algorithms both to reduce storage space and to allow for the mathematical manipulation of images that is often not possible with analog formats. This is possible because many images have pixels that repeat themselves. For example, a photograph of a blue, cloudless sky will have a great number of “repeating” picture elements. This redundancy can be represented with great precision by mathematical formulas. Finally, once images have digitized, the standard digitized formats also include techniques required to re-render the images into their final form, either fully bit-mapped or into an analog wave-form.
  • Intraframe compression processes each frame in a television picture to contain fewer visual details and, therefore, the picture contains fewer digital bits. For example, information on blocks of pixels is sent rather than individual digitized pixels themselves. A six by six block of pixels contains thirty-six pixels. Each pixel can be defined by an eight-bit word. Therefore, a six by six block of pixels equals two hundred eighty-eight bits. If the information on the block rather than the individual pixels themselves, is transmitted, this reduces the amount of information transmitted. Blocks of various sizes may be used as is known by those skilled in the art.
  • Interframe compression transmits only changes between frames, thus omitting elements repeated in successive frames.
  • Motion prediction technology and motion detection technology are necessary to determine what portions of a changing picture may be compressed. Therefore, if a block does not vary between several frames, the block is transmitted once, and repeated at the receive site for successive frames.
  • Within-carrier compression allows the compression ratio to dynamically vary depending upon the amount of changes between frames. If a large number of changes occur between frames, the compression ratio drops from, for example, sixteen-to-one to eight-to-one. If action is intense, the compression ratio may dip to four to one.
  • Various compression methods are used for the above techniques.
  • vector quantization a block is compared to a library of standard blocks and a best fit comparison is made between the two.
  • the converse process is performed at the receive site to convert the sixteen bit codes into two hundred eighty-eight bit blocks for reproduction on a television receiver.
  • Other types of compression are known to those skilled in the art, including, for example, discrete cosine transform (“DCT”).
  • DCT discrete cosine transform
  • JPEG joint photographic experts group
  • MPEG2 motion picture engineering group specification
  • MPEG and MPEG2 for motion pictures are preferred in the present invention, any reliable digital format with compression may be used with the present invention.
  • FIG. 3 a shows effective allocation of 750 mHz of bandwidth for television programming.
  • bandwidth is allocated for both analog and digitally compressed signals.
  • the bandwidth is divided so that each category of program receives a portion of the bandwidth.
  • These categories correspond with major menus of the user interface software.
  • the representative categories shown in FIG. 3 a include: (1) high definition TV made possible through the use of compression technology, (2) A La Carte Channel category which provides specialty channels for subscription periods such as monthly, and (3) pay-per-view.
  • FIG. 3 b shows a chart of compressed channel allocation for a variety of programming categories that have been found to be desirable to subscribers.
  • the system is able to more conveniently display similar programming with on-screen television menus. For example, in the movie category, which has the greatest allocation of channels, the same movie may be shown continuously and simultaneously on different channels. Each channel starts the movie at a different time allowing the subscriber to choose a more suitable movie starting time.
  • the television programming and television program control information may-be divided into parts such as priority one, two, three.
  • the large bandwidth cable TV systems can accommodate all the parts of the television programming and all parts of the television programming control information.
  • Those cable TV systems with a more limited bandwidth are able to use the program delivery system 200 by only accepting the number of parts that the cable system can handle within its bandwidth.
  • three cable television systems with different bandwidths may use the program delivery system 200 simultaneously with each system accepting only those parts of the information sent which it is capable of handling.
  • Priority one television programming and menus 230 are accepted by all three systems.
  • Priority two television programming and menus 233 are not accepted by the cable television system whose capacity is the smallest or in this case 330 mHz (40 channels) system.
  • Priority two television programming and menus 233 are accepted and used by the two larger capacity cable television systems shown.
  • Priority three television programming and menus 236 are only used by the largest capacity television system which is capable of handling all three parts—Priority one, two and three programming and menu information.
  • the program delivery system 200 may be utilized simultaneously by a variety of concatenated cable systems with varying system capacities. By placing the heavily watched or more profitable programming and menus in the Priority one division, both users and owners of the cable TV systems will be accommodated as best as possible within the limited bandwidth.
  • FIG. 3 d shows three different cable headend 208 systems, each system receiving the entire satellite signal from the Operations Center 202 and stripping those parts of the signal which cannot be handled by the local cable system due to bandwidth limitations.
  • the three local cable television systems shown have bandwidth limitations which correspond with the bandwidth limitations depicted in the previous FIG. 3 c .
  • the Operations Center 202 is able to send one identical signal to the satellite 206 that is sent to all the cable headends.
  • Each cable headend 208 accepts the entire signal and customizes the signal for the local cable system by stripping those portions of the Operations Center 202 signal that are unable to be handled by the local cable system.
  • An alternate embodiment requires the Operations Center 202 to send different signals for reception by different capacity cable headends.
  • the cable headend 208 may strip the unnecessary signal from the Operations Center 202 .
  • a person skilled in the art will derive many methods from the three examples discussed below.
  • One simple method is for the cable headend 208 receiver to receive the entire signal and then manipulate the signal to strip away those unnecessary portions.
  • a second method is for the signal to be sent in three portions with each portion having a separate header. The cable headend 208 would then recognize the headers and only receive those signals in which the proper header is identified.
  • the Operations Center 202 must divide the signal into three parts and send a separate header lead before each signal for each part.
  • the third and preferred method is for a set of transponders to be assigned to one priority level and each cable headend 208 to receive signals from the transponders corresponding to the proper priority level. For example, if there are three priority levels and 18 transponders, transponders one through nine may be assigned to priority level one, transponders ten through fourteen priority level two, and transponders fifteen through eighteen assigned to priority level three. Thus, a cable headend 208 capable of operating at priority level two only would only receive signals from transponders one through nine, and ten through fourteen.
  • the Operations Center 202 of the preferred embodiment is also capable of dynamically changing the bandwidth allocation for a particular category of programming.
  • FIG. 3 e depicts this dynamic change in bandwidth allocation from a typical week day prime time 238 signal to a Saturday afternoon in October 240 (during the college football season).
  • FIG. 3 e highlights the fact that the bandwidth allocated to sports is limited to eight selections during week day prime time 238 but is increased to sixteen selections during a Saturday afternoon in October 240 .
  • This dynamic increase in bandwidth allocation allows the system to accommodate changes in programming occurring on an hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, seasonal and annual basis.
  • the Operations Center 202 can also dynamically change the menu capacities in order to accommodate the change in programming and bandwidth. For example, on a Saturday afternoon in October 240 , the major menu for sports may include a separate subcategory for college football. This subcategory would, in turn, have a separate submenu with a listing of four, six, eight, or more college football games available for viewing. In order to accommodate this dynamic menu change, the Operations Center 202 must add a submenu listing to the major sports menu, create a new or temporary submenu for college football, and allocate the necessary menu space on the college football submenu.
  • the packaged programs are then digitized, compressed, and combined with the program control information signal.
  • the breakdown into categories is insignificant and the signal is treated like any other digitally compressed signal.
  • FIG. 4 a shows the basic operations that must occur in order for the packaged signal to be sent to the satellite 206 .
  • External digital and analog signals must be received from television programming sources and converted to a standard digital format 242 , defined above for the computer assisted packaging equipment (CAP) 246 .
  • CAP computer assisted packaging equipment
  • stored programs 244 must be accessed using banks of looping tape machines or other video storage/retrieval devices, either analog or digital, and converted to a standard digital format 242 prior to use by the CAP 246 .
  • the programmer/packager utilizing the CAP 246 must input a variety of information in order to allow the CAP 246 to perform its function of generating program control information and packaging programs. Some of the information required by the CAP 246 are the date, time slots and program categories desired by the television programmer.
  • the CAP 246 system includes one or more CPUs and one or more programmer/packager consoles.
  • each packager console includes one or more CRT screens, a keyboard, a mouse (or cursor movement), and standard video editing equipment.
  • multiple packager consoles may be needed for the CAP 246 .
  • the first step in the operation of the CAP 246 is selecting the type of programming 248 which will be packaged.
  • the type of programming 248 which will be packaged.
  • static programming 250 there are 6 broad categories in which most television programming can be classified: static programming 250 , interactive services 252 , pay per view 254 , live sports specials 256 , mini pays 258 , and data services.
  • Static programs are programs which will show repetitively over a period of time such as a day or week. Static programs include movies showing repetitively on movie channels, children's programs, documentaries, news, entertainment.
  • Interactive services includes interactive programs using the Vertical Blanking Interval (VBI) or other data streams synchronized with the programming to communicate interactive features (such as those used in education), and games.
  • Pay per view are programs which are individually ordered by the subscriber. After ordering, the subscriber is authorized to access the program for a limited time, (e.g. three hours, two days, etc.). Live sports specials are live events usually related to sports which subscribers are unlikely to watch on taped delay.
  • VBI Vertical Blanking Interval
  • Pay per view are programs which are individually ordered by the subscriber. After ordering, the subscriber is authorized to access the program for a limited time, (e.g. three hours, two days, etc.).
  • Live sports specials are live events usually related to sports which subscribers are unlikely to watch on taped delay.
  • Mini pays are channels to which each set top box may subscribe.
  • the subscriptions for mini pays 258 may be daily, weekly, or monthly.
  • An example would be the Science Fiction channel.
  • Data services are services in which information is interactively presented to the subscriber using a modem or other high rate of speed data transfer. Some examples are Prodigy, services for airline reservations, and TV guide services (e.g. TV Guide X*PRESSTM, InSightTM, etc.). Data could also include classified or other forms of advertising.
  • the packager After selecting the type of programming, the packager must identify a pool of programs (within the category) to be packaged.
  • the next CAP 246 step varies for different program categories. For the category of live sports, additional program interstitial elements 262 may be added such as promos and other sports news before further processing.
  • For the live sports, static, interactive services 252 and pay per view 254 categories the following CAP 246 step is for one television program to be selected 264 . This is followed by each program individually being assigned dates to be played or a start date (for continuous play) and start times 266 . Many dates and start times may be assigned to any given program. The program information for these categories may then be processed for allocation of transponder space and setting of prices.
  • Mini pays and data services require less processing by the CAP 246 .
  • the CAP 246 may proceed to allocation of transponder space and pricing for the mini pays 258 .
  • Data services in the preferred embodiment generally do not require allocation of transponder space and generally do not require price setting.
  • the information for data services 260 may be directly processed for menu configuration. In alternate embodiments the data services 260 may be processed through these portions of the CAP 246 program.
  • the CAP 246 uses an interactive algorithm to allocate transponder space 268 and set prices 270 .
  • the factors weighed by the algorithm are: 1. buy rates of the program, 2. margin of profit on the program, 3. length of the program, 4. any contractual requirement which overrides other factors (such as requirement to run a specific football game live in its entirety).
  • the information on buy rates of the program may be obtained from the Central Statistical and Billing Site or a Regional Statistical and Billing Site as will be described later.
  • the CAP 246 must consider the priority levels of programming when allocating transponder space. Particularly, as in the preferred embodiment, transponders are assigned to three specific priority levels.
  • the CAP 246 proceeds to menu configuration 272 .
  • the positioning of programs within the menu configuration 272 can have an effect on subscriber buy rates for the program. Therefore, an algorithm accounting for either a manually assigned program importance, or a calculated weight of the program importance, is used to determine each programs position within the menu scheme. For instance, a popular program with a high profit margin may be assigned a high weight of importance and shown in a prominent place in the menu scheme. Alternatively, a high profit program with sagging sales may be manually assigned a prominent place in the program schedule to increase sales.
  • the CAP 246 displays draft menus or schedules (including priority levels) for programming.
  • the packager may now manipulate the menus and schedules and make changes as he feels necessary.
  • the packager may again display the menus or schedules and determine if any more changes are necessary.
  • the packager is satisfied with the menu configuration 272 and scheduling of television programs, he may then instruct the CAP 246 to complete the process.
  • the CAP 246 may begin the process of generating a program control information signal 274 .
  • the CAP 246 incorporates cable franchise configuration information 276 .
  • basic cable franchise configuration information 276 is stored at the Operations Center 202 .
  • the cable franchises upload changes to their specific franchise information from time to time to the Operations Center 202 for storage.
  • a separate CPU handles the management of the cable franchise information.
  • the CAP 246 From the stored cable franchise information, the CAP 246 generates a cable franchise control information signal which is unique to each franchise.
  • the CAP 246 uses the unique cable franchise control information signals 278 and the menu configuration 272 information to generate the program control information signal 274 .
  • the program control information that is unique to a particular cable franchise may be identified in various ways such as with a header. With the header identification, the cable headend 208 may extract the portions of the program control information signal which it needs. Now, the CAP 246 may complete its process by electronically packaging the programs into groupings 280 for the signal transmission and adding the program control information to the packaged programs 282 to form a single signal for transmission. Through manual entries by the packager or by comparing against a list of programs, the CAP 246 will determine whether the programs are arriving from external sources 204 or sources internal to the Operations Center 202 .
  • the Operations Center 202 or the uplink site compresses 284 , multiplexes 286 , amplifies 288 and modulates 290 the signal for satellite transmission 292 .
  • the CAP 246 will also allow entry of time slots for local avails where no national programming will occur.
  • FIG. 5 is a more detailed flow chart of some of the functions performed by the CAP 246 after an initial program schedule has been entered and menu configurations generated.
  • the flow chart 300 shows six basic functions that are performed by the CAP 246 : (1) editing program schedule for local availability 304 (only for non-standard services, i.e. those services that are not national cable services); (2) generating program control information signals 307 ; (3) processing external programs 310 ; (4) processing internal programs 320 ; (5) processing live feeds 330 ; and, (6) packaging of program information 340 .
  • the CAP 246 is capable of incorporating local programs and accommodating local availability for local television stations.
  • the CAP 246 may perform three tasks simultaneously, generating program information signals 307 , processing external programs 310 and processing internal programs 320 .
  • the CAP 246 automatically identifies external programs needed 312 and identifies which external feed to request the external program 314 .
  • the CAP 246 gathers and receives the external programming information and converts it to a standard digital format 316 for use.
  • the CAP 246 also identifies internal programs 322 , accesses the internal programs 324 , and converts them to a standard digital format if necessary 326 .
  • the CAP 246 identifies live signal feeds 333 that will be necessary to complete the packaged programming signal 336 .
  • the CAP 246 completes the packaging of the programs, combines the packaged program signal with the program control information signal, amplifies the signal and sends it out for further processing prior to uplink.
  • the Operations Center 202 and uplink or master control site are collocated.
  • the Operations Center 202 and uplink site may be located in different geographical places.
  • functions and equipment within the Operations Center 202 may be remotely located.
  • the program storage may be at a different site and the programs may be sent to the CAP 246 via landline.
  • one Operation Center be designated the Master Operations Center and all other Operations Centers be Slave Operations Centers.
  • the Master Operations Center performs the functions of managing and coordinating the Slave Operations Centers.
  • the Master Operations Center coordination function may involve synchronization of simultaneous transmissions from multiple Slave Operations Centers.
  • the Master Operations Center may include a system dock for synchronization.
  • An efficient method of dividing tasks among Operations Centers is to assign specific satellite transponders to each Operations Center 202 and to assign external program sources 204 to the nearest Operations Center. Of course this division of resources may not always be possible. Since programming will be grouped into priority levels with each priority level likely to be assigned specific satellite transponders, it is also possible to assign each Operations Center to a priority level. For example, in a three priority level system with two Slave Operations Centers and 18 transponders, the Master Operations Center may be assigned priority level 1 and assigned 9 transponders. Slave Operations Center A may be assigned priority level 2 and 5 transponders, while Slave Operations Center B is assigned priority level 3 and 4 transponders. In a multiple Operations Center configuration dynamic bandwidth allocation and dynamic menu capacity allocation become more complex and must be coordinated by the Master Operations Center.
  • a delivery system may have multiple satellite uplinks.
  • each Operations Center has one or more uplink sites.
  • Each Operations Center controls the functions of its assigned uplink sites and may assign one site as a master uplink site.
  • the program control information signal generated by the Operations Center provides data on the scheduling and description of programs to the network controller 214 or in an alternate configuration directly to the set top terminal 220 for display to the subscriber.
  • the program control information signal is stored and modified by the network controller 214 and sent to the set top terminal 220 in the form of a set top terminal control information stream (STTCIS).
  • STTCIS set top terminal control information stream
  • This configuration is required to accommodate differences in individual cable systems and possible differences in set top terminal devices.
  • the set top terminal 220 integrates either the program control signal or the set top terminal control information stream together with data stored in the memory of the set top terminal 220 , to generate on-screen displays for assisting the subscriber in choosing the programs he wishes to view.
  • program control information is being used to indicate control information coming from the cable headend 208 to the set top terminal 220 , whether it is sent directly from the Operations Center, processed by the Network controller 214 and then forwarded to the set top box (STTCIS), or transmitted over telephone lines.)
  • the types of information that can be sent via the program control signal include: number of program categories, names of program categories, what channels are assigned to a specific category (such as specialty channels), names of channels, names of programs on each channel, program start times, length of programs, description of programs, menu assignment for each program, pricing, whether there is a sample video clip for advertisement for the program, and any other program, menu or product information.
  • the goal of the menu driven program selection system is to allow the subscriber to choose a program by touring through a series of menus utilizing a remote control for cursor movement.
  • the final choice in the series of menus will identify one particular channel and one time for activation of that channel.
  • the set top terminal 220 can display the selected program on the television for the viewer.
  • a simple embodiment assigns an intelligent alpha-numeric code to each program. This alpha-numeric code identifies the category of the program, the menu in which the program should be displayed, its transmission time(s), and the position on the menu that the program should be displayed.
  • the program; control information is sent continuously from the Operations Center to the network controller 214 , and ultimately to the set top terminal 220 .
  • the program control information signal continuously in the format shown in FIG. 6 .
  • FIG. 6 shows the basic information that is needed by the set top terminal 220 .
  • the program descriptions shown are coded abbreviations. For example, C for comedy, N for news, S for sports, A for cartoons, and TX for text. If there is a textual description for a program, such as a movie, the description may be given following that program's coded description or may be communicated following the four hours' worth of programming information. As is shown in the coded listing, program descriptions for programs greater than a half hour in length need not be repeated (each half hour).
  • the video description code informs the set top terminal 220 of whether there is still or live video available to advertise the program.
  • a sporting program may be assigned a code of B35-010194-1600-3.25-Michigan St. vs. USC.
  • the letter B would assign the program to category B, sports.
  • the second alpha-numeric character number 3 would assign the program to the third menu of the sports category.
  • the third character of the code, number 5 assigns the program to the fifth program slot on the third menu.
  • the next six characters, Jan. 1, 1994, represent the date.
  • the following four characters, 1600 represent the start time which is followed by the length of the program and the program name. This entry represents a sports show, a college football game, which will be aired at 4:00 PM on New Years day 1994.
  • the program control information signal and STTCIS can be formatted in a variety of ways and the on-screen menus can be produced in many different ways. For instance, if the program control information signal carries no menu format information, the menu format for creating the menus can be fixed in ROM at the set-top terminal. This method allows the program control signal to carry less information but has the least flexibility since the menu formats can not be changed without physically swapping the ROM holding the menu format information.
  • the menu format information is stored at the set top terminal 220 in temporary memory either in a RAM or EPROM. This configuration provides the desired flexibility in the menu format while still limiting the amount of information needed to be communicated via the program control information signal. New menu format information would be sent via the program control information signal or the STTCIS to the set top terminals each time there was a change to a menu.
  • the menus remain fixed and only the text changes.
  • the program control information signal can be limited to primarily text and a text generator can be employed in the set top terminal 220 .
  • This simple embodiment keeps the cost of the set top terminal 220 low and limits the bandwidth necessary for the program control information.
  • Another simple embodiment uses a separate channel full-time (large bandwidth) just for the menu information.
  • live video signals may be used in windows of certain menus. These video signals can be sent via the program control information signal, STTCIS, or can be taken off channels being transmitted simultaneously with the menu display. If the video signal is taken off a channel, less information needs to be sent via the program control information signal.
  • this technique requires that separate decompression hardware be used for the program control information and the channel carrying the video. Separate decompressors for the video signals and program information signal allows for the greatest flexibility in the system and is therefore the preferred embodiment. A separate decompressor also assists in assuring that the switch from menus to television programming is smooth and without any significant time delay.
  • Live video for menus, promos or demos may be sent to the set top terminal 220 in several ways: a) on a dedicated channel, b) on a regular program channel and scaled to size, c) sent along with the program control information signal, etc.
  • a great deal of short promos or demo video are sent using a split screen technique on a dedicated channel.
  • any number of different video clips may be sent (e.g. 2,4,6,8).
  • the video must either be scaled and redirected to a video window on a menu screen or a masking methodology can be used.
  • Masking involves playing the entire channel of video (all 2,4,6, or 8 split screens) in background and masking the unwanted video clip portions of the split screen by playing the menu in foreground and overlaying the unwanted background video.
  • Masking is the least expensive method because it does not require any special hardware and it increases video throughput to the set top terminal 220 .
  • using the masking technique without any video redirecting causes each video clip to be located in a different position on the screen. It also requires the masking to be different for each video clip and makes consistent format difficult. Scaling and redirecting video is generally difficult, expensive and requires additional hardware.
  • the program control information signal may be divided into text and graphics, or video, text and graphics and then recombined at the set top terminal 220 using a text generator, graphics decompression, and video decompression as necessary.
  • FIG. 7 a shows a basic block diagram of a digital compression set top terminal 220 .
  • the set top terminal 220 is similar to other converter boxes currently available and can include a variety of error detection, decryption 600 and coding techniques such as anti-taping encoding.
  • the set-top terminal must also have a tuner 603 , digital demodulator 606 , and demultiplexers 609 , 616 as well as audio equipment 612 , 614 .
  • a remote control interface 626 for receiving and processing signals from remote control unit 900 .
  • a modem 627 is provided for allowing communication between a microprocessor 602 and the cable head end.
  • NTSC encoder 625 provides an NTSC video output to be output as a standard television signal.
  • the microprocessor 602 is capable of executing program instructions stored in memory. These instructions allow a user to access various menus by making selections on the remote control 900 . The various program instructions for accessing menus and performing other functions are described below.
  • the manner in which the video is decompressed and the menus are generated from the program control signal or STTCIS varies depending on the specific embodiment of the invention. However, at a minimum, one video decompressor capable of decompressing one video signal must be used. Basic menu format information may be stored in a graphics memory comprising ROM, non-volatile RAM, EPROM, and/or EEPROM 620 . Video decompressors 618 and 622 may be used if the video is compressed, and additional equipment to generate menus may be included. In one embodiment, a separate decompressor 622 is used to process the program control information signal and a video combiner 624 incorporates video and menu graphic information.
  • the program signal is sent with three primary parts, compressed video (or video location information), compressed graphics, and text.
  • compressed video or video location information
  • compressed graphics or text.
  • text After the program signal is demultiplexed into its component parts, a video decompressor, a graphic decompressor, a text generator and a combiner are used to assist in creating the menus.
  • FIG. 7 b shows a basic block diagram of an alternative digital compression set top terminal 220 .
  • the same components shown in FIG. 7 a are repeated in FIG. 7 b , and given the same reference number (e.g., tuner 603 , modem 617 , NTSC encoder 625 , etc.).
  • FIG. 7 b also shows the addition of a smart card interface 617 to allow additional features to be included on a smart card insertable into the smart card interface 617 .
  • Error correction circuitry 607 is also shown receiving the demodulated signal, prior to demultiplexing the signal.
  • Memory associated with the microprocessor 602 , the demultiplexer 609 , the decryptor 600 , and the video decompressor 618 is shown in FIG. 7 b.
  • Box 700 in FIG. 7 b shows the elements of an upgrade module which is described below with respect to FIGS. 9 a and 9 b .
  • the remaining circuitry in FIG. 7 b shows a basic decompression box 720 , also described below.
  • the circuitry in box 700 includes a video, graphics and text demultiplexer 616 , a text and graphics video plane combiner 624 , a graphic decompressor 622 and a graphics memory 620 .
  • Graphics in memory 620 is preferably run-length compressed, however other methods of compressing graphics may be used as is known by those skilled in the art.
  • the generated menus and video are combined in the combiner 624 and output to an anti-taping encoder 619 .
  • Any method of anti-tapping encoding known by those skilled in the art may be used with the present invention.
  • FIGS. 8 a and 8 b show front and back views respectively for the preferred embodiment of the set top terminal 220 .
  • the front panel of the set top terminal 220 as shown in FIG. 8 a includes an infrared sensor 630 and a series of LED displays 640 .
  • These LED displays 640 preferably indicate with an icon or a letter (e.g. A-K) the major menu currently selected by the set top terminal 220 . This visual display will remain lit while the subscriber is watching (or listening to) programming within a major menu.
  • the LEDs 640 of the preferred embodiment also show the channels selected directly by a user, or menu channel selections which range from 1 to 50.
  • LEDs 640 are preferably provided to indicate a decompression error, a processing error, or other error.
  • Text messages may alternatively be provided to more dearly indicate particular errors to servicemen or subscribers. These error indications aid in repairing or correcting any such errors in the set top terminal 220 or assist in programming the set top terminal 220 .
  • Further displays may include current channel, time, volume level, sleep time, parental lock (security), account balance, use of a hardware upgrade, second channel being recorded by VCR, use of the Level D music hardware upgrade in a separate room, and any other displays useful to a subscriber to indicate the current status of the set top terminal 220 .
  • the LED's 640 may also provide an indication of the digital audio channel currently tuned. With this display feature, subscribers may use the digital audio feature without activating the television screen.
  • the source of a signal and output selected e.g., a subscriber's separate audio system, a VCR, etc.
  • the set top terminal 220 may also use a CRT, LCD's, or other display technology.
  • a flapped opening 635 into a cavity that allows the insertion of a magnetic cartridge (or similar portable storage device, including optical disk, ROM, EPROM, etc.).
  • This cartridge opening 635 allows the set top terminal 220 to be upgraded or reprogrammed locally with the use of a magnetic tape cartridge.
  • Game cartridges may also be accepted through a similar flapped opening allowing the subscriber to play video games using the set top terminal 220 .
  • pushbutton controls 645 On the top or cover of the set top terminal 220 are located pushbutton controls 645 .
  • these pushbutton controls 645 duplicate the two-part alpha-iconic remote control that will be described later. Any function that can be performed on the remote may also be performed at the set top terminal 220 using the duplicative pushbutton controls 645 .
  • FIG. 8 b provides a rear view of one embodiment of the set top terminal 220 including the input/output equipment of the terminal.
  • a pair of output terminals 650 there are a pair of output terminals 650 , a pair of input terminals 652 , a pair of stereo/audio output terminals 654 , a satellite dish input port 656 , a telephone jack 658 and an RS422 port 660 .
  • an upgrade port 662 and a cover plate 664 held in place by a series of sheet metal screws.
  • the set top terminal 220 has two outputs 650 , one for a television and one for a VCR. Control signals may be transmitted through the VCR output to allow the VCR to be automatically controlled by the set top terminal 220 . Certain program may be selected by a subscriber from menus, and the VCR will be automatically activated to record the selected program.
  • the set top terminal 220 is equipped to handle one or two cable inputs by way of inputs 652 for incoming signals.
  • a phone jack 658 and RS242 or 422 port 660 are provided for maintenance, trouble shooting, reprogramming and additional customer features.
  • the telephone jack 658 may be used as the primary mode of communication between the cable headend 208 and the set top terminal 220 . This connection is possible through the local telephone companies, cellular telephone companies or personal communications networks (PCN).
  • PCN personal communications networks
  • the set top terminal 220 will include the appropriate hardware to allow connection to the satellite 206 reception equipment through port 656 .
  • the menu system within the set top terminal 220 will be programmed directly from the operations center. Additionally, an upstream communication mechanism must be in place at the subscriber's home (i.e. modem) to communicate information to the operations center.
  • an additional electronic card slot or expansion slot has been built into the preferred embodiment.
  • This expansion slot is covered by the metal plate cover 664 shown in FIG. 8 b . It is anticipated that additional memory or capabilities may be needed for certain customer features and also to update the system as the cable delivery system's capabilities increase.
  • the expansion slot provides an easy method to upgrade the terminal hardware.
  • the set top terminal 220 includes a hardware upgrade port 662 as shown in FIG. 8 b , in addition to the expansion slots behind plate 664 .
  • the hardware upgrade port 662 should accommodate at least a four-wire connection for: (1) error corrected, decrypted data output of the set top terminal 220 , (2) control interface, (3) decompressed video output of set top terminal 220 , and (4) video input port.
  • multiple wires are used to perform each of the four functions.
  • the four sets of wires are combined in a single cable with a single multipin connector.
  • Port 662 may also be used to attach various hardware upgrades below to a set top terminal 220 .
  • multipin connections may be used for the multiwire cable.
  • the multipin connection 662 may range from DB9 to DB25.
  • a SCSI, or small computer systems interface, port may also be provided.
  • four or more ports may be provided instead of the single port depicted.
  • the preferred embodiment has four hardware upgrades available for a set top terminal 220 : a Level B interactive unit, a Level C interactive unit with compact disc capability, a Level D digital radio tuner for separate room use, and a Level E information download unit.
  • Each of these upgrades is connected to the set top terminal 220 unit via the same upgrade port 662 described earlier. The same four wires in a single cable described earlier may be used.
  • the Level B interactive unit will allow the user access to online data base services for applications such as home shopping, airline reservations, news, financial services, classified advertising, home banking, and interactive teletext services. For example, with this upgrade, a user will be able to reserve plane tickets or buy consumer electronics.
  • the primary feature of this upgrade unit is that it allows actual transactions to occur requiring two way communications via modem with outside services. This added two way communications capability may be with the cable headend 208 . Additionally, this two way communications may occur over cellular or PCN.
  • the Level C interactive unit will employ a high volume local storage capacity, including compact disc or other random access digital data formats.
  • This unit will allow use of interactive multi-media applications. For example, computer games, multi-media educational software, encyclopedias, other reference volumes (e.g. Shakespeare library), etc.
  • many of these applications will interact with live programming providing additional information and interactivity to the basic program feed. For example, a viewer watching a show set in a foreign country may be able to retrieve additional information, maps, economic data, etc. about that country that are stored on the compact disc.
  • the upgrade hardware may closely monitor the television broadcast via additional data channels (e.g. vertical blanking interval, or other digital data encoded within live video) providing context sensitive interactivity.
  • the Level D hardware upgrade, digital radio tuner will allow the subscriber separate access to the digital radio channels while other programming (not necessarily radio) is being viewed on the television. Typically this upgrade would be used for digital radio usage in a separate room from that of the television.
  • the upgrade has a separate tuner, decompressor, and visual display.
  • a second remote control scaled down version is provided to access the audio system.
  • the Level E hardware upgrade allows the subscriber to download large volumes of information from the operations center or cable headend 208 .
  • the Level E hardware upgrade will enable subscribers to download data such as books to local storage.
  • the Level E hardware upgrade is additional local storage via hard disk, floppy, optical disk, magnetic cartridge etc.
  • a small portable reader called “EveryBookTM” is also provided with the upgrade to enable downloaded text to be read without the use of a TV.
  • the downloadable information may be text or video supplied by the operations center or cable headend 208 .
  • books may be downloaded and read anywhere with the portable reader.
  • video may be downloaded and stored in compressed form for later decompression. The video would be decompressed only at the time of viewing.
  • Important text that the public desires immediate access may made available through this system. Text such as the President's speech, a new law, or a recent abortion decision rendered by the Supreme Court may be made immediately available.
  • multiple hardware upgrade units may be connected, or “daisy-chained” together, to operate simultaneously.
  • FIG. 9 a shows sets of wires in a single cable connecting an upgrade module 700 and the simple decompression box 720 through a port similar to the hardware upgrade port 662 .
  • the simple decompression box 720 preferably is an industry standard decompression box capable of communicating with an upgrade module to enhance functionality.
  • a microprocessor in the simple decompression box 720 will be able to communicate with a microprocessor in an upgrade module 700 .
  • an upgrade module unit 700 may be connected providing the simple decompression box 720 with the full functionality of a set top terminal 220 .
  • Subscribers who have purchased simple decompression boxes 720 may be given all the functions of a set top terminal 220 inexpensively.
  • multipin connections may be used for a multiwire cable connecting decompression box 720 with the upgrade module 700 .
  • the multipin connection may range from DB9 to DB25.
  • a SCSI, or small computer systems interface, port may also be provided.
  • four or more ports may be provided instead of the single port depicted.
  • the digital data set of output wires of the simple decompression box 720 will preferably output error corrected and decrypted data to the upgrade set top terminal 700 .
  • the second set of wires, the interface connection allows the microprocessor in the upgrade module 700 to communicate to the microprocessor of the simple decompression box 720 . In this manner, the video circuitry of the upgrade module 700 and the simple decompression box 720 may be synchronized.
  • the third set of wires, the decompressed video output can provide the upgrade module 700 with a decompressed video signal to manipulate.
  • the fourth set of wires, video input set allows the simple decompression box 720 to accept a video signal that is a combined text, graphics, and video signal.
  • Upgrade module 700 preferably includes at least the following circuitry: a video, graphics and text demultiplexer; a text and graphics video plane combiner; a run-length graphics decompressor; and, a run-length compressed graphics memory (non- volatile RAM, ROM, EPROM, or EEPROM).
  • a video, graphics and text demultiplexer By means of communications through the multi wire connection between upgrade modules 700 and simple decompression box 720 , compressed video and control signals may be demultiplexed by the demultiplexer within upgrade module 700 .
  • the run-length graphics decompressor by communicating with the run-length compressed graphics RAM, permits decompression of the input compressed video signal.
  • the text and graphics video plane combiner in upgrade module 700 allows the demultiplexed and decompressed signal to be output, through simple decompression box 720 , to a subscriber's television with both video and overlay menus with text.
  • FIG. 9 a shows the CATV input 722 , the video input 724 , and the video and audio outputs 726 , 728 , as part of simple decompression box 720 .
  • Upgrade module 700 could simply be a cartridge insertable into simple decompression box 720 .
  • the CATV input 722 , the video input 724 and the video and audio outputs 726 , 728 may be included as part of upgrade module 700 .
  • the electronics of the set top terminal 220 must receive signals from the Cable headend 208 or Operations Center and separate the program control information from the packaged programs. After separation of the program control information, this signal may be used to generate program menus allowing the user to select specific television programs from within the packaged programs. After selection of a particular program, the set top terminal 220 will demultiplex and extract a single channel signal then decompress the appropriate channel signal to allow the user to watch his selected program. Although the set top terminal 220 can be equipped to decompress all the program signals, this adds unnecessary cost since the subscriber will view one channel at a time. Upon the occurrence of an error in this selection and decompression procedure, the set top terminal 220 LED display will warn the subscriber of an error.
  • the LED display can be customized by the user to display the time, the program channel, VCR activation or other pertinent information.
  • the set top terminals may be operated using the keyboards located on top of the set top terminal 220 box, it is expected that most subscribers will use the remote control.
  • the preferred embodiment decompresses one channel at a time for the viewer
  • users who desire to use the picture-on-picture capability of their televisions can be provided with an upgrade to the set top terminal 220 allowing two channels to be tuned and decompressed at any given time. Once two signals are available to the television the picture-on-picture capability may be utilized to its fullest potential. With the picture-on-picture capability available in the set top terminal 220 , a special television is not required for picture-on-picture functionality.
  • all of the customer features available on the set top terminal 220 will be controllable via on-screen menu displays. In this manner, the subscriber using a cursor may easily customize the programming of his set top terminal 220 .
  • the basic programming of each set top terminal 220 will be located on ROM within the set top terminal 220 . Random access memory, the magnetic cartridge capability, and the extension card slot will each allow upgrades and changes to be easily made to the set top terminal 220 .
  • the set top terminal 220 will include features that are now being adopted in the industry such as parental controls and locks, electronic diagnostics and error detection, mute, on-screen volume control, sleep timer, recall of last selection, etc. Each of these features has a corresponding menu that allows on-screen customizing and activation of the feature.
  • the set top terminal 220 also includes a sophisticated favorite channel list and favorite program list.
  • the set top terminals supports with its current internal programming
  • additional features may be added or existing features upgraded through remote reprogramming of the set top terminal 220 .
  • the cable head end Utilizing the resident operating system on the ROM, the cable head end is able to reprogram the random access memory of the set top terminal 220 . With this capability the cable head end can remotely upgrade software on the set top terminals.
  • the cable head end will reprogram the menu format from time to time based upon special events or programming needs, such as Olympic telecasts, presidential elections, etc. This reprogramming will occur by using the program control information channel and sending the appropriate signals over this channel.
  • one channel is dedicated for the special programming needs.
  • the cable head end will send an interruption sequence on the program control information channel that informs the set top terminal 220 that reprogramming information is to follow. Significant reprogramming of the set top terminals will occur infrequently. However, the changing of color or formats on menus occur more often. In alternative embodiments, color changes to menus may be accomplished via the program control information itself and does not require reprogramming from the cable head end.
  • the basic building blocks or templates of the on-screen menu displays will be stored on graphics memory consisting of no-volatile RAM, ROM, EPROM, or preferably, EEPROM, as shown as 620 in FIG. 10 .
  • graphics memory consisting of no-volatile RAM, ROM, EPROM, or preferably, EEPROM
  • the microprocessor 602 , graphics decompressor 622 , text generator 621 (if necessary), and video combiner 624 will build a menu screen.
  • the memory files of the graphics memory or EEPROM 620 are preferably categorized into three categories, background graphics 800 , logo graphics 820 , and menu and display graphics 850 .
  • a background graphics file 800 will store menu backgrounds such as: universal main menu backgrounds 804 , universal submenu backgrounds 808 , promo backgrounds 812 and custom menu formats 816 .
  • a logo graphics file 820 will store any necessary logos such as: Your Choice TV logos 824 , Network logo files 828 , cable system logo files 832 , studio logo files 836 , and graphic elements file 840 .
  • a menu display and cursor graphics file 850 will store menu display blocks 854 and cursor highlight overlays 858 as well as any other miscellaneous files needed to build the menus.
  • the menus can be changed by reprogramming the graphics memory 620 of the set top terminal 220 .
  • the network controller 214 or operations center instructs the EEPROM 620 to be erased and reprogrammed with new menu templates.
  • the network controller 214 or operations center instructs just the one location in memory to be erased and rewritten. Obviously, this menu reprogramming can be done locally (at the set top terminal 220 ) by a servicemen.
  • each memory subfile is further divided into various memory blocks.
  • the background graphics file 800 contains the universal main menu backgrounds 804 .
  • the universal main menu backgrounds memory 804 includes memory units UM 1 , UM 2 and UM 3 , as shown in FIG. 10 a .
  • the logo graphics file 820 and menu display and curser graphics file 850 further contain within those subfile individual memory blocks (for example, studio logo file 836 has memory block SL 1 ; menu display blocks 854 has memory menu display block MD 1 ).
  • FIG. 10 b shows the hierarchical storage of text transmitted from the cable head end as STTSCIS.
  • text may be continuously transmitted with the video signals to set top terminals 220 , text may also be transmitted intermittently.
  • the text is stored in the set top terminal.
  • the text is transmitted and stored in a compressed format using known techniques.
  • the text is preferably stored in graphic memory 620 within set top terminal 220 .
  • Information sent with the text will either direct the text to a particular portion of memory, or include information as to the priority of text.
  • the microprocessor 602 may then direct the text to the appropriate memory location for storage.
  • a long term storage 875 will be used. If the text will be used for a shorter period of time (for example, a month), the text will be directed to an intermediate storage area 877 . If the text is to be used almost immediately, or for a short period of time (for example, within a few days) the text is directed to a short term storage area 879 .
  • Microprocessor 602 locates the appropriate text required for a particular menu and retrieves it from the appropriate portion of memory 620 . The text is output from the graphics memory 620 to the text generator 621 . Text generated from the text generator 621 is thereafter directed to text/graphics combiner 624 .
  • FIG. 10 c shows the steps performed by the microprocessor 602 for creating a menu based upon a series of overlay screens. These instructions are stored in memory within the set top terminal 220 . Alternatively, these instructions or routines are transmitted from the operations center 202 to be stored in memory within the individual set top terminals 220 .
  • microprocessor 602 instructs tuner 603 to select a channel.
  • the channel is decompressed, and error corrected and decrypted, if necessary. If the video is to be reduced in size, so as to be placed within a video window 1556 , or is a split screen video window which must be enlarged, the video is scaled to the appropriate size. Additionally, the video may be required to be redirected to a portion of the television screen. This is done by creating a series of offsets for each pixel location of the video.
  • Graphics must also be used to create a menu in most instances. As is shown in block 882 , the microprocessor 602 must fetch a background file, fetch a logo file and fetch a menu display and cursor file in most instances. Each of these files must be decompressed. Following decompression, the file is sent to video combiner 886 .
  • microprocessor 602 must fetch text, as shown in block 884 . Depending upon the memory location of the text, microprocessor 602 will fetch the text for long-term, intermediate-term, or short-term storage, as described above. Based upon this memory retrieval, the text is generated and sent to video combiner 886 . Video combiner 886 combines the video (if any) with as many screens of a decompressed graphics as are necessary, and any text. The image or portions of the image are stored in combiner 886 until all overlays are received by combiner 886 . Thereafter, the entire image is sent, under direction of another routine, to be displayed on the television screen, as represented by display block 888 .
  • FIG. 10 d is a full chart of programming instructions performed by microprocessor 602 for sequencing menus.
  • start up routine 890 is performed. Any error checking is thereafter performed ( 891 ), and introductory menu subroutine 892 is performed. This subroutine displays the introductory menu and the microprocessor thereafter awaits for an input 893 .
  • routine block 898 a subscriber may select one of the major menus, thus starting the sequence of displays represented by routine block 898 .
  • a subscriber may go directly to a major menu by depressing a menu select button on remote 900 and the microprocessor will execute another the go to submenu subroutine 896 .
  • microprocessor 602 awaits for a selection by the subscriber, shown as block 899 . These blocks could be also represented as decision blocks.
  • microprocessor 602 After displaying the major menu, and receiving a selection by the user, a particular submenu for a subcategory is displayed, if such a menu exists. Again, microprocessor 602 waits for an input from the subscriber after executing a routine to display a program listing submenu. Thereafter, after receiving an input, microprocessor 602 performs the next routine for displaying a program description submenu. Thereafter, if a particular selection requires a confirmation menu, that subroutine is executed and the appropriate menu displayed. Thereafter, the selected video is decompressed, and displayed on the television screen. If there are any display overlay menus or hidden menus, the proper subroutine is executed by microprocessor 602 and these menus are displayed.
  • the subscriber may also depress another major menu button to move into a second column of process instructions (represented by major menu 2 , major menu 3 , etc. columns).
  • a subscriber may move from major menu to major menu.
  • a subscriber may depress a home menu button on remote 900 to return to the home menu at any time.
  • microprocessor 602 The various subroutines executed by microprocessor 602 allow a subscriber to navigate through the various menus of the present invention. A subscriber may sequence back through menus or return to the home menu with a one-touch return of the home menu button on remote 900 . All of these functions help to add to the system's user friendliness.
  • FIGS. 11 a and 11 b a two-section remote control is shown.
  • a standard television remote control 860 is augmented by adding a new section 862 that provides the additional digital menu access and ordering functions.
  • FIG. 11 a depicts the addition of menu access and cursor movement control to a Gerald RC 650 Remote Control.
  • the cursor movement and function buttons required for the set top terminal's operation may be added to any standard remote control format allowing the user to feel more at home with the new remote control.
  • FIG. 11 b shows the two-section remote control combined in a single unit 864 .
  • the remote control 864 has an ordering button 866 , four-way cursor movement, and a “go” button 868 , and menu access buttons 870 .
  • the remote operates using infrared with the signals being received by the infrared sensor on the front of the set top terminal 220 .
  • the remote may be built with only cursor movement and a go button.
  • the remote control may be provided with buttons that are programmable to perform specific functions for a series of entries.
  • An intelligent or smart remote would increase both the cost and capability of the set top terminal 220 system. Using this augmented remote control the subscriber can navigate the program menu system of the set top terminal 220 .
  • FIGS. 12 a and 12 b show an alternative and preferred embodiment of the remote control for use in the present invention.
  • the standard television receiver remote control switches or buttons 920 are again separated from the menu accessing ordering function buttons 950 .
  • the standard television receiver remote control buttons 920 include volume control, channel select, power and signal source buttons.
  • the menu buttons 950 include cursor movement and select, menu select, and pay television buttons.
  • the standard buttons 920 are separated from the menu access and ordering buttons 950 in the longitudinal direction of the remote, as opposed to the width-wise separation, shown in FIG. 11 a .
  • the color of the buttons or the surrounding background may differ between the standard television remote control buttons 920 and the menu buttons 950 to visually differentiate between these two groups of buttons.
  • the width and depth of the remote control unit 900 are considerably less than the length to allow the remote control unit 900 to fit easily within a user's palm.
  • the remote control unit 900 in preferably has the center of mass balanced substantially near the longitudinal middle. This allows a user's thumb to naturally be placed in substantially the middle portion of the remote control unit 900 , when it is picked up by a user.
  • the standard remote 920 and menu access 950 switches or buttons most frequently accessed and depressed by a user are placed within easy reach of the user's thumb.
  • Channel and volume increment and decrement buttons 910 are placed near this center of mass and longitudinal center line.
  • the channel buttons 910 are preferably beveled in opposing directions to allow a user to feel for and press a desired button without looking down at remote 900 .
  • the volume buttons 910 are preferably beveled in opposing directions for the same reason.
  • the channel buttons 910 could have a surface texture, different from those of the volume buttons 910 to allow even easier differentiation between channel and volume buttons 910 .
  • the volume buttons could have a rough surface texture, while the channel buttons could have a smooth surface texture.
  • cursor movement buttons 970 and “go” button 975 are also placed in the longitudinal center, within easy reach of a user's thumb.
  • the “go” button 975 selects an option corresponding to the placement of the cursor.
  • a joystick may be used with a selection on the stick, or a trackball, depressible for selecting a desired choice.
  • the cursor buttons 970 are placed ninety degrees apart, with the “go” button 975 placed within the center of the cursor movement buttons 970 , as shown in FIG. 12 b .
  • the cursor movement buttons 970 are preferably beveled inwardly toward the “go” button 975 .
  • the “go” button 975 is recessed below the level of the cursor movement buttons 970 so that it is not accidentally pressed while depressing the cursor movement buttons 970 .
  • they may also have a surface texture to allow a user to feel for and select the appropriate button without looking down at the remote 900 .
  • Directional arrows could be raised or recessed on the surface of the cursor movement buttons 970 for this purpose.
  • Menu select buttons 960 are placed near buttons 970 as shown in FIG. 12 b .
  • Menu select buttons 960 are preferably the largest buttons on remote 900 .
  • Menu select buttons 960 preferably have icons or other graphics imprinted on their top surface or adjacent to the corresponding button.
  • a button for the sports major menu may contain a baseball icon.
  • the icons represent the programming available on the particular major menu selected by the menu select buttons 960 .
  • the icons may also be raised above the level of the menu select buttons to provide a textured surface. This would allow a user to select an appropriate menu button 960 by feel, without looking at the remote control unit 900 .
  • the icons would require substantial differences in texture, while still providing a meaningful graphic related to the associated menu.
  • labels and icons are provided for the following major menus: movies, sports, children's programming, documentary/news, entertainment, magazines, programming guide, HDTV (high definition television), interactive TV, music, and an additional button for further programming.
  • Menu select buttons 960 may also be labeled A through J for the above programs, with the last button for all additional major menus labeled K-Z.
  • buttons for the remote 900 have been designed to allow a user to select an appropriate button without viewing the remote by using the layout of buttons shown in FIGS. 12 a and 12 b , in conjunction with textured or beveled buttons.
  • buttons With this “eye-off-of-the-remote” construction, most of the frequently used buttons may be located by the sense of touch alone. However, to aid selection of an appropriate button visually, certain buttons may have different colors.
  • the menu select buttons 960 may all be of a color different from the rest of the buttons on the remote 900 . Additionally, the colors should be selected to provide for easy location and identification by a user. For example, if the icons are printed in black ink, yellow menu select buttons 960 are preferred, because yellow would provide the greatest visual contrast with the black ink.
  • remote 900 is described with a variety of channel selection buttons, nearly all buttons from a standard remote control (section 920 buttons) could be eliminated.
  • the present invention would allow a subscriber to use a remote control containing only menu select buttons and/or cursor movement and select buttons.
  • the power button 924 and “go” button 975 preferably have a separate color from the other buttons on the remote 900 .
  • the power button 924 is preferably a separate color because this button is used infrequently.
  • the power button is placed out of a user's thumb's reach so it is not accidentally depressed.
  • the power button 924 should be distinguished from the other buttons because a television viewer must locate this button first before viewing any programming.
  • the “go” button 975 is used often because it provides the means for a user to select options, and thus should be easily distinguished from the other buttons.
  • Pay television buttons 980 may also be assigned a color different from the other buttons on the remote 900 . By making the pay television buttons 980 a different color, it would help a user to avoid selecting an undesired pay television program.
  • buttons are contemplated to include all manner of switches or touch sensitive circuitry to activate a particular function in the remote control unit 900 . Additionally, although the remote control unit 900 communicates with the set-top box by means of infrared transmission, other forms of communication are contemplated, including ultrasound, radio frequency and other electromagnetic frequency communication.
  • FIG. 13 shows the basic structure of the program menu system.
  • the first series of menus, Introductory menu 1000 , Home menu 1010 , Major Menus 1020 , and Submenus 1050 execute subscriber program selection inputs.
  • the During program menus 1200 provide a subscriber with additional features or options after a program has been selected and shown.
  • Hidden Menus 1380 There are two primary types of During program menus 1200 , Hidden Menus 1380 and Program-Overlay Menus. Both are described in the following text and figures.
  • the menu sequence and each menu structure has been particularly program designed using the “eye-off-the-remote” design concept. A subscriber can easily navigate through the menu system with the cursor movement and “go” buttons 970 , 975 . Since the subscriber never needs to take his eye off the television screen, the cable operator is likely to have the subscriber's complete attention.
  • the introductory menu screen 100 P automatically appears upon power-up and initialization of the set top terminal 220 .
  • the introductory menu screen 1000 welcomes the user to the cable system and provides important announcements or messages.
  • the introductory menu 1000 can be used to inform the subscriber if he has a personal or group message that has been sent to his set top terminal 220 by the cable headend. The subscriber may then access the personal or group message with an appropriate key entry while viewing the introductory menu 1000 . Since the introductory menu 1000 must be viewed by each subscriber, it also provides an opportunity for the cable provider to run advertisements.
  • the home menu 1010 is the basic menu that the subscriber will return to make his first level of viewing decisions. From the home menu 1010 , the subscriber is able to access all television programming options. Some programming options may be accessed through cursor movement on the screen, others directly by a button selection on the remote control 900 , or both, on-screen selection and remote control 900 direct access.
  • the subscriber will be forwarded to a major menu screen 1020 that correlates to his direct remote control 900 selection or selection from the home menu screen 1010 .
  • the selections on the home menu 1010 are for large categories of programming options and therefore the major menu 1020 allows the subscriber to further refine his search for the television program of his choice.
  • the subscriber will navigate through one or more submenu screens 1050 from which he will choose one particular program for viewing. For most programming selections the user will proceed from the home menu 1010 to a major menu 1020 and then to one or more submenus 1050 . However, for certain programming options or functions of the set top terminal 220 the user may skip one or more menus in the sequence. For example, in the preferred embodiment the subscriber may directly access a major menu 1020 by pressing a single icon button. In an alternative embodiment, the introductory menu 1000 will provide the user with the capability of directly accessing information on his cable television account without proceeding through a series of menus.
  • the series of menus shown in FIG. 13 is the normal or standard format for a variety of alternative embodiments to the present invention.
  • An introductory screen upon power up that contains important messages, followed by a home menu 1010 with major programming categories is the basis upon which many alternative embodiments of the menu driven selection process can be built.
  • Skipping a sequence or level of the menu structure is possible and perhaps desired in certain instances.
  • the specific functions of the Home menu 1010 and Introductory menu 1000 may be exchanged or shared in a number of ways.
  • a subscriber will access a television program through execution of a submenu 1050 .
  • the During program menus 1200 are enacted by the set top terminal 220 only after the subscriber has selected a television program. These menus provide the subscriber with additional functionality and/or additional information while he is viewing a selected program.
  • the During program menus 1200 sequence can be further subdivided into at least two types of menus, Hidden Menus 1380 and Program Overlay Menus 1390 .
  • the Hidden Menus 1380 are not shown to the subscriber but instead “reside” at the set top terminal 220 microprocessor.
  • the Hidden Menus 1380 do not effect the selected program audio.
  • the microprocessor awaits a button entry either from the remote 900 or set top terminal 220 buttons before executing or displaying any Hidden Menu options.
  • the Hidden Menus 1380 provide the subscriber with additional functions such as entering an interactive mode or escaping from a selected program.
  • Program Overlay Menus 1390 are similar to Hidden Menus 1380 in that they occur during a program. However, the Program Overlay Menus 1390 are overlayed onto portions of the television screen and not hidden. The Program Overlay Menus 1390 allow the subscriber to continue to watch the selected television program with audio but place additional information on portions of the television screen. Most overlays cover small portions of the screen allowing the subscriber to continue to comfortably view his program selection. Other Overlays which are by their nature more important than the program being viewed will overlay onto greater portions of the screen. In the preferred embodiment, some Program Overlay Menus 1390 reduce or scale down the entire programs video screen and redirect the video to a portion of the screen.
  • All menu entries may be made either from buttons available on the top cover of the set top terminal 220 or from the remote 900 .
  • FIG. 14 a shows the preferred embodiment for subscriber selection of television programming.
  • FIG. 14 b shows additional major menu 1020 categories, 1042 , 1044 , 1046 , 1048 , which may used with the invention.
  • the introductory menu 1000 followed by the home menu 1010 is the preferred sequence of on-screen displays.
  • the home menu 1010 provides a choice of ten major menus 1022 , 1024 , 1026 , 1028 , 1030 , 1032 , 1034 , 1036 , 1038 , 1040 .
  • the program proceeds to a major menu 1020 offering further viewer selections.
  • Each major menu 1020 is customized to target the expected viewership. Depending on the number of available program choices the major menus 1020 either breakdown the major category into sub-categories or provide the subscriber with access to further information on a particular program.
  • the major menu 1020 for children's programming provides a list of subcategories 1052 from which the subscriber selects.
  • a submenu 1054 , 1056 listing program choices within that sub-category is shown to the subscriber.
  • the subscriber is then provided with a second submenu 1058 describing the program that the subscriber has selected. From this menu, the subscriber may now confirm his program choice and receive a confirmation submenu 1060 from the set top terminal 220 software.
  • High Definition Television programming can also be accommodated through the menu system.
  • the set top terminal 220 has two way communication with the cable headend, interactive television programming is possible, with return signals generated by the set top terminal 220 .
  • the system can support “movies on demand” where a subscriber communicates through the set top terminal 220 with an automated facility to order movies stored at the facility.
  • FIGS. 15 a and 15 b show examples of introductory menu screens that are displayed on the subscriber's television.
  • FIG. 15 a the preferred embodiment, welcomes the subscriber to the cable system and offers the subscriber three options.
  • the subscriber may choose regular cable television (channels 2 through 39), programs on demand (e.g., movies), or instructions on the use of the remote control 900 .
  • Other basic program options are possible on the introductory menu screen 1000 .
  • a system “help” feature can be offered on the introductory menu 1000 .
  • FIG. 15 b shows an alternate embodiment for the introductory menu screen 1000 .
  • a small window 1002 that may be customized to the subscriber.
  • a subscriber will be given the option of showing the current time in this window.
  • a second customized window 1004 is available in which a subscriber may show the day and date.
  • These windows may be easily customized for subscribers to show military time, European date, phase of the moon, quote of the day, or other informational messages. These windows may be customized by subscribers using on-screen menu displays following the introductory menu 1000 .
  • the subscriber is given the capability of accessing base channels such as regular broadcast TV and standard cable channels directly from the introductory menu 1000 by entering the channel number.
  • the subscriber is also given the capability of directly accessing his account with the cable company.
  • the subscriber may directly access a major menu 1020 and bypass the home menu screen 1010 . If the subscriber is familiar with the programming choices available on the major menus 1020 , he may select an icon button 960 , or a lettered key (alpha key) from his remote control 900 and directly access the desired major menu 1020 . If any key entry other than those expected by the set top terminal 220 software program is made, the home menu 1010 is placed on the television screen. In addition, after a period of time if no selections are made from the introductory menu 1000 , the program may default to the home menu screen 1010 .
  • FIGS. 16 a , 16 b , 16 c , and 16 d are examples of home menus 1010 that may be used in the set top terminal 220 software.
  • FIGS. 16 a - 16 d all employ multiple window techniques to make the menu user friendly and offer a significant number of choices. It is preferred that a channel line up and the major menu 1020 categories both appear on the home menu 1010 .
  • FIG. 16 a the preferred home menu 1010 embodiment, displays both the standard channel line up and the programming on demand icons for selection by the subscriber.
  • FIG. 16 a also shows various levels of subscription programming, including a “Basic”cable package and a “Basic Plus” package. Each of the choices of subscription programming preferably is assigned a different color. This increases the user friendliness of the present invention.
  • the left half of the screen is used to list the channel number and network abbreviation of the most popularly watched networks.
  • the right half of the screen offers access to a variety of major menus 1020 listed by category names.
  • FIG. 16 b shows an embodiment in which only eight major menus 1020 are utilized.
  • the appropriate major menu 1020 is accessed.
  • the subscriber may employ an on-screen cursor to select any option shown in the menu. To move the cursor, the subscriber may use either the cursor movement keys on the remote control 900 or similar keys located at the top of the set top terminal 220 .
  • FIG. 16 c shows how additional major menus 1020 can be displayed on the home menu screen 1010 .
  • the subscriber may access a second screen of the home menu 1010 .
  • the subscriber would access those menus by highlighting and selecting the J through Z menu option(or press the J-Z on his remote 900 ).
  • the second or extended home menu screen 1010 would appear on a subscriber's television set. This menu would then list options J through Z separately by name.
  • the home menu 1010 may have many extended home menu screens. However, any more than a few extended home menu screens would confuse the average subscriber.
  • the home menu 1010 of FIG. 16 d adds an additional feature at the bottom of the television screen 1011 . This option allows a subscriber to see only those program selections that are available on broadcast television.
  • FIGS. 16 a - d are but a few of the numerous variations available for the home menu 1010 .
  • the home menu 1010 (or menu which would normally follow the introductory menu 1000 ) can be simply the standard cable channel line-up. Offering the standard cable line-up on a separate menu may make selection easier for viewers with small television screens.
  • FIGS. 18 a and 18 b are examples of major menus 1020 .
  • FIGS. 18 a and 18 b show a major menu 1040 whose category is hit movies.
  • the hit movie category is a list of recently released movies which have been found to be popular among movie goers. This movie list is changed once or twice a week to keep in line with new movie releases. Again, multi-window and customized window techniques are utilized to make the menu as user friendly as possible.
  • FIG. 18 a shows the preferred embodiment of the hit movies menu 1040 .
  • the hit movies menu icon along with the hit movies category letter A are displayed.
  • the current date and time are displayed at the top of the screen over a menu background.
  • Ten movie selections are displayed in the center of the screen 1009 , each in a box which may be highlighted when selected.
  • a logo window 1512 is available as well as two other option choices 1011 , Movie Library and Return to Cable TV.
  • the return to Cable TV option is changed to return to the Home menu 1010 (or return to other viewing choices).
  • the left upper window 1002 displays current time and the right upper window 1004 displays a message.
  • This menu provides a list of eight movie titles and their rating 1009 . If the subscriber desires further information on any particular movie he may select a movie using the cursor movement buttons and press the “go” button on the remote control 900 or set top terminal 220 box.
  • menus are consistent and follow a pattern.
  • a manner of making the menus is discussed below with respect to FIGS. 55 and 56 .
  • This consistency or pattern between the different menus provides a level of comfort to the subscriber when encountering new menus.
  • the upper sash 1502 and lower sash 1504 remain consistent throughout menus in the preferred embodiment.
  • the logos 1508 , icons 1510 and titles also remain consistent in the same locations.
  • the customized windows 1002 , 1004 in the upper corners remain constant from menu to menu.
  • the name of the menu and category are at the top and center of the menu screen 1039 .
  • the instructions are given across the center of the screen and choices in large legible type are provided.
  • the subscriber is given the option of returning to regular TV or returning to the home menu 1010 .
  • FIGS. 18 c - 18 g show alternative embodiments of major menus 1020 for the home menu shown in FIG. 16 a .
  • FIGS. 18 c - 18 g show various major menus directed to the type of subscription services available (basic service 1420 , basic plus 1422 , economy package 1424 , ala carte and premium channels 1426 ). These menus also provide promotional or advertising information, for example, the cost for the particular subscription service.
  • FIG. 18 g shows a major menu for the Learning Channel 1428 , one of the individual channels shown in the home menu of FIG. 16 a.
  • the basic subscription service could have a light pink color.
  • the color shading may increase correspondingly. Therefore, the premium subscription service (ala carte service) would have a dark red color, contrasting with the light pink color of the basic subscription service.
  • FIG. 18 b the movie titled Terminator Four is highlighted, signifying that the subscriber has chosen this program option from the hit movie major menu.
  • FIGS. 19 a and 19 b show submenus 1050 which would follow the selection of Terminator Four on the hit movie major menu.
  • the sash across the top of the screen 1502 remains constant from major menu 1020 to program description submenu 1050 .
  • the left upper window 1002 remains the same and shows the current time.
  • the upper right-hand corner 1004 carries a message stating the next start time for the movie selected.
  • Terminator Four is a two-hour length movie it can be shown continuously on eight different channels, with each showing delayed fifteen minutes after the previous showing. This allows the subscriber to begin viewing the movie within a fifteen minute time interval. Since the subscriber is not required to find the channel which has the correct start time, the subscriber is unaware that the movie is being shown on eight different channels. In fact, with the use of the submenus 1050 , a subscriber is able to nearly effortlessly choose the correct channel and correct activation time for viewing the desired movie. The channel selection is invisible to the subscriber.
  • the set top terminal 220 is able to automatically determine which channel will next begin to show the selected movie using any number of techniques.
  • the set top terminal 220 will have an internal clock representing the current time.
  • the set top terminal 220 could compare the current time with the start times for the movie on the various channels.
  • a signal could be sent with the movie on all channels. This signal will set, or reset, a counter to indicate that a particular channel will next begin the movie.
  • Those skilled in the art may recognize that other methods to determine the next available start time and channel for the selected movie are available.
  • FIGS. 19 a and 19 b movie description submenus 1120 retain the title in a window at the top center of the screen.
  • a multiple window technique is used in the middle of this menu to display a description of the movie and one or more video frames that assist the subscriber in selecting the movie.
  • This window of video 1556 that is provided by the menu may be a still picture, a short but repetitive video cut, or a portion of the movie that is currently showing on any one of the channels carrying the movie at the time of the submenu's 1050 display.
  • the submenu provides the cost of viewing the movie and the movie length in hours and minutes.
  • An additional strip window 1558 is provided, below the video and description windows, informing the subscriber of the movie's release date.
  • the subscriber is given at least three options. One, the ability to order the movie 1009 , two, to return to the hit movie menu 1011 , and three, to press “go” and return to regular TV 1011 . In the preferred embodiment, the subscriber is also given the option of previewing the movie.
  • FIGS. 19 a and 19 b show that the Order option has been selected by the subscriber 1009 .
  • FIGS. 20 a and 20 b show the next submenu 1125 in the hit movie menu sequence from the selection of Terminator Four.
  • This particular submenu 1125 shows confirmation of the subscriber's hit movie order of Terminator Four.
  • FIG. 20 a retains the sash across both the top 1502 and bottom 1504 of the screen.
  • the format of the FIG. 20 b menu 1125 maintains the current time in the left upper window 1002 , the title in the top center window, and the next start time in the upper right-hand window 1004 .
  • the center of the submenu screens 1125 is a video window 1556 which may be used for still or moving video.
  • the submenu provides the subscriber with two on-screen options. The subscriber may return to regular TV 1009 or may join the movie Terminator Four already in progress 1011 . In an alternative embodiment of this submenu 1125 , the user is given the ability to return directly to the home menu screen 1010 .
  • the set top terminal 220 will automatically bring the viewer to the correct channel carrying the movie Terminator Four.
  • FIGS. 21 a and 21 b are notification submenus informing the user that his program selection is about to begin (e.g., counting down until start time). Using this submenu, the set top terminal 220 warns the user prior to switching him away from the channel he is viewing to a prior selected program channel. This notification submenu is provided to the subscriber approximately one or more minutes before the set top terminal 220 changes the viewing channel.
  • Both notification submenu examples allow the subscriber to cancel his movie order.
  • the subscriber is notified in the center of the screen that he may cancel within the first five minutes.
  • the subscriber may press escape to cancel his order without charge.
  • the notification submenu of FIG. 21 b informs the user of the start time at the upper right portion of the screen.
  • the notification submenu of FIG. 21 b is a simple three-window menu.
  • a strip window at the top of the screen 1103 notifies the subscriber of the movie selected and the amount of time before the movie will begin.
  • the center window is a large video window 1556 for displaying a scene from the movie.
  • the submenu carries another strip menu 1105 which informs the user that he may escape from his program selection without charge.
  • the set top terminal 220 may allow a subscriber to view other programs prior to his movie start time.
  • the subscriber is amply notified of the start time of his program and effortlessly moved to the correct channel to view his selected program.
  • This notification-type submenu may be used to move a subscriber from his current channel to any preselected channel for viewing a program which has been ordered at an earlier time.
  • the amount of time provided by the notification submenu may be customized by the subscriber to a length of his preference.
  • the notification submenu also allows a subscriber to cancel or escape from his previously selected program choice and avoid any charges. If a subscriber cancels or escapes he is returned to the channel that he is currently watching.
  • the subscriber is given a During Program Menu, specifically an Overlay menu 1130 to inform him when his five minutes of movie escape time have expired. Once the time has expired the subscriber will be billed for the movie selection.
  • FIG. 22 b is an overlay menu 1133 warning the user that he is escaping a program after being charged for the order of that program.
  • the warning overlay menu 1133 of FIG. 22 b follows in sequence and is prompted by a hidden menu which constantly monitors for subscriber input during viewing of the program.
  • the hit movie hidden menu (not shown) specifically waits for certain key entries by the subscriber. In particular, the hit movie hidden menu awaits for a key stroke such as escape, cancel or an icon selection. If the escape button is depressed during the viewing of a hit movie the overlay menu of FIG. 22 a or FIG. 22 b will be shown.
  • a strip menu in the lower sash of FIG. 22 b allows the subscriber to resume full screen viewing of the hit movie.
  • FIG. 22 b is a representative example of an overlay menu 1133 . It has a dark lower background sash and a light colored informational sash. The upper portion of the screen continues to display the video of the program selected.
  • FIG. 22 c is a reentry to ordered selection submenu 1135 for the hit movie category. The reentry to ordered selection submenus appear whenever a subscriber selects a programming option (program, event, or subscription channel), that the subscriber has already ordered. This menu has a program title window with a text title entry, and a description of the order that has already been placed for the program (or channel). In the preferred embodiment, the submenus which allow reentry to ordered selection provide the subscriber with the added option of joining the program within any fifteen minute interval.
  • This special feature of the preferred embodiment allows a subscriber who has viewed one-half of a particular program to rejoin the program at the half-way point.
  • the program delivery system mimics a VCR tape recording of the program. For example, if a subscriber had rented a videotape of the movie Terminator 4 and had watched thirty minutes of the movie, he would have left his videotape in the thirty minute position.
  • a subscriber to the system who has watched thirty minutes of Terminator 4 may reenter the Terminator movie at the thirty-one to forty-five minute interval as shown in FIG. 22 c .
  • the nine-fifteen minute blocks of the menu display blocks are representative of the choices available for a two-hour hit movie. Other variations are possible depending on the length of the movie and the timing intervals desired.
  • FIG. 23 shows the major menu for the movie library category 1048 .
  • the movie library category provides subscriber access to a large number of movies. Using several transmission channels, each movie in the library is shown at least once during a one-month period.
  • a subscriber may access information on a particular movie and ascertain the various start times for that movie.
  • the subscriber will use the movie library in conjunction with his VCR or other video taping machinery. In that way, a subscriber may tape movies which are shown at inconvenient start times for later viewing.
  • a subscriber may have the terminal activate the television and the VCR and perform all the functions necessary to tape a movie.
  • the movie library major menu shown is an extended menu having many follow-on extensions to the major menu shown.
  • the extended menus continue to show lists of movies in alphabetical order.
  • the movie library is broken down into subcategories of various types of movies. For instance, movie categories such as murder-mystery, documentaries, westerns, and science fiction would appear on the movie library major menu. By selecting one of these movie library subcategories the subscriber would be moved onto a particular submenu for that movie library subcategory. Each submenu would list movie titles whose contents fall within the particular subcategory.
  • FIG. 24 shows a typical movie description submenu 1140 .
  • movie description submenu 1140 for the movie library is designed similarly to FIG. 19 b which is a movie description submenu for the hit movies category.
  • the primary difference between FIGS. 24 and 19 b is the display of the movie library title number in the upper right-hand corner of FIG. 24 .
  • FIG. 24 provides three options for the subscriber. The subscriber may order the movie described, return to the movie library major menu, or return to regular TV.
  • FIG. 25 shows a confirmation submenu 1142 for the movie library.
  • This menu screen confirms the movie selection, start date, start time and informs the subscriber that his VCR will be automatically turned on.
  • the user may return to the movie library major menu, return to regular TV or cancel his movie library order by pressing the escape button.
  • FIG. 25 shows that the subscriber has selected to return to regular TV.
  • the subscriber's VCR or other video taping equipment must be connected to the set top terminal 220 for the automatic taping feature to operate.
  • FIGS. 26 a , 27 a , 28 a and 29 a depict a typical menu sequence including a major menu 1028 , 1042 ( FIGS. 26 a and 26 b ), a subcategory submenu 1148 ( FIGS. 27 a and 27 b ), a program description submenu 1152 ( FIGS. 28 a and 28 b ), and a confirmation submenu 1154 ( FIGS. 29 a and 29 b ).
  • This simple progression of menus repeats itself through the menu tree of FIGS. 14 a and 4 b.
  • FIGS. 26 a , 27 a , 28 a , and 29 a are a series of menus which are categorized in the Documentary and News Major category.
  • FIGS. 26 b , 27 b , 28 b , and 29 b are a series of menus that relate to the Discovery® video selection services category.
  • FIG. 26 b is the Discovery video selection service major menu 1042 .
  • This major menu shows twelve different categories of services available to the subscriber.
  • the upper right-hand corner window of this major menu briefly describes the types of services which are available on this menu.
  • the set top terminal 220 moves the subscriber to a submenu describing programs that are available in the subcategory.
  • FIGS. 26 a and 26 b show that the subcategory Discovery channel choice has been selected by the subscriber from a major menu.
  • FIG. 27 a is a submenu for subcategory Discovery channel choice 1148 , and shows six programming choices available for this subcategory.
  • FIG. 27 b displays only four program choices. By choosing one of the programming choices on this Discovery channel choice submenu, the subscriber may obtain more information about the particular program. Again, the subscriber is able to return to the major menu or return to regular TV by selecting options in the lower part of his screen. In FIGS. 27 a and 27 b , the subscriber has highlighted and selected the program War Birds for further description.
  • FIGS. 28 a and 28 b are description submenus 1152 which describe an available program, War Birds. Since the preferred embodiments follow a pattern throughout the menus, FIGS. 28 a and 28 b are similar to FIGS. 24, 19 a and 19 b which describe other programming selections available on the system.
  • FIGS. 28 a and 28 b use the upper right-hand corner window 1004 to inform the subscriber of the next start time available for the particular program War Birds.
  • the programmer at his option may show an identical program on several channels in order to permit the subscriber greater flexibility in start times.
  • FIGS. 28 a and 28 b show the use of a strip menu across the lower half of the screen displaying a message and the price of the program. Similar to other submenus, the subscriber may order the program, return to the major menu, or return to regular TV simply by selecting the choices on the lower part of his screen.
  • FIGS. 28 a and 28 b depict the subscriber ordering the program War Birds.
  • FIGS. 29 a and 29 b are confirmation submenus 1154 similar to confirmation submenus in other major menu categories. It confirms the subscriber's order of the program War Birds.
  • the FIG. 29 a confirmation submenu retains the video window from the prior submenus and also displays the program running time.
  • the submenu of FIG. 29 b shows a strip window 1105 on the lower part of the screen displaying an “800” number and advertising the Discovery catalog. Similar windows may be used throughout submenus to assist in advertising for particular programs, channels, or groups of programs. Many variations of the confirmation submenu are possible.
  • This confirmation submenu allows the user to join the selected program already in progress or return to regular TV.
  • the subscriber may cancel his order of War Birds from this screen.
  • FIG. 29 c is an example of an overlay menu 1156 presented when a subscriber is exiting from a program selection in which he may rejoin at a later time.
  • This exiting ordered program overlay menu 1156 is appropriate whenever a subscriber may return to a program or channel without additional charges. Since many of the programs selections are authorized for viewing on a two-day, weekly, or monthly basis, the exiting ordered program overlay is useful in a number of situations.
  • This overlay menu follows a similar format as other overlay menus having a darker colored lower sash and lighter colored second sash with text information.
  • the sashes are overlayed on the program video currently being watched by the subscriber.
  • an exiting ordered program overlay menu 1156 may be provided for one-time viewing program selections which a view cannot return. These exiting ordered program overlay menus would thank the viewer for ordering the particular program or channel and entice the viewer to order a similar program from the same network. For example, an exiting program overlay menu for a live sports event such as boxing, would thank the viewer and remind him that the network carries regularly scheduled boxing events on a weekly basis.
  • FIGS. 30 through 34 relate to the ordering of specialty channels through the menu driven system.
  • FIG. 30 is a major menu 1044 that lists fifteen specialty channels that are available for subscription and viewing.
  • the lower half of the screen 1009 which is utilized to provide the various programming choices, is divided into three vertical sections allowing room for fifteen choices.
  • This major menu category is different from the others in that individual programs are not ordered but instead channels are subscribed to on a monthly or yearly basis. To use this submenu, a subscriber need only select and press “go” on the channel of his choice.
  • the channel description submenu 1160 of FIG. 31 replaces the major menu on the subscriber's television screen.
  • This description submenu 1160 has windows that are similar to other description submenus used throughout the menu driven system.
  • the upper right-hand corner 1004 is used to display the subscription cost for the channel.
  • the upper left-hand corner 1002 of this submenu is used to display the method in which the subscription price will be billed to the subscriber.
  • the current time has little bearing on the subscriber's decision to order the displayed channel and therefore is not shown on the television screen.
  • FIG. 31 shows that the subscriber has ordered the Science Fiction channel.
  • FIG. 32 shows a submenu 1164 which confirms the subscriber's order and thanks him for subscribing. If the subscriber is already paying for the selected channel, instead of FIG. 32 confirming his order, he is provided with the divided menu 1156 of FIG. 33 informing him that he is a current subscriber of the Science Fiction channel. In both the screen of FIG. 32 and the screen of FIG. 33 , the subscriber is allowed to join the channel in progress. After an ample period of time for the subscriber to read the screen menu, the menu is removed from the television screen and the subscriber has a complete view of the programming in progress. This is shown in FIG. 34 for the Science Fiction channel.
  • FIGS. 35-38 refer to the selection of a magazine channel.
  • FIGS. 35-37 show a series of menus for selecting and ordering one specific magazine channel, the sci-fiction channel.
  • FIG. 35 shows a major menu for magazine channels 1030 .
  • This major menu falls under the letter F, Major Menu, and has an icon showing three magazines.
  • the magazine channel major menu has a menu display block with 15 options, three columns, each with five selection options. Magazine channels are specialty channels targeted to a particular audience. In the preferred embodiment, each of the magazine channels has a monthly subscription.
  • FIG. 35 shows the sci-fiction magazine highlighted.
  • FIG. 36 is a channel description submenu 1170 for the science-fiction channel.
  • This menu has a network logo in the upper left hand part of the screen generated from the logo graphics file 820 .
  • the name of the channel is prominently displayed across the top.
  • the text for a channel or network name is stored in long-term text storage.
  • the text description of the channel on the right part of the screen may also be stored in long-term text storage.
  • a video window 1556 and a video description window are also shown.
  • This channel description submenu is similar to other program description menus and exemplary of the channel description submenus for any magazine channel.
  • the subscriber If the subscriber orders a science-fiction channel, he will receive the confirmation menu 1172 shown in FIG. 37 .
  • This is a representative confirmation menu for subscribing to any network channel.
  • a second sash of approximately equal width to the upper sash of the background menu is displayed in a color preferably different than that of the upper sash.
  • Within the confirmation sash a network logo and a standard text description thanking the subscriber are placed on the screen.
  • the subscriber may cancel his subscription to the channel by pressing cancel on his remote 900 or set top termination button 645 .
  • the area of the screen below the two sashes is filled with video from the channel being subscribed.
  • further text information is provided instead of a video display.
  • FIG. 38 shows a reentry to ordered subscription submenu, similar to submenu 1156 in FIG. 33 .
  • This particular reentry submenu (magazine channel reentry submenu 1173 ) is for the magazine channel Gourmet.
  • a light colored second sash is provided at the top of the screen with the network logo and text informing the subscriber that he has already ordered this particular channel.
  • the reentry submenus 1156 generally allow a subscriber to immediately join programming in process. The current program on the Gourmet channel is shown in most of the remaining portion of the screen.
  • a special title sash is included as an overlay in the lower portion of the screen. This sash identifies the current program being shown on the channel with a text description.
  • the set top terminal may derive this text description from either the STTCIS, the VBI, or other digital signals.
  • FIGS. 39-42 show a series of menus for selecting the documentary news program from the CBS library, called 60 Minutes. Although this is a regularly scheduled weekly program, it may be viewed by subscribers to the present invention at nonscheduled times.
  • FIG. 39 shows a major menu 1028 for documentary and news programs. This major menu has a specific icon and letter designation which are shown in the upper left hand corner. This major menu has 12 selection options 1009 in the menu display blocks. They comprise two rows, each with six options. In this particular menu, the upper left hand corner option is highlighted. In general, the upper left hand corner option is the default for the cursor highlight overlay 1526 .
  • FIG. 40 shows a subcategory submenu 1174 displaying five options.
  • This subcategory menu shows specific programs which are available.
  • the cursor highlight overlay is at the top of the screen in its default position. From this cursor position, the subscriber may order the program 60 Minutes.
  • FIG. 41 shows the next menu in the sequence for ordering the program 60 Minutes.
  • This program description submenu 1176 displays the network logo, program title, program description, video window, video description window, and the next program start time.
  • the next program start time is displayed beneath the current time.
  • the program title and program description text may be stored in the intermediary text storage 877 .
  • the video description window 1556 displays running time and price of program. If the subscriber orders the program from the program description menu, he is sequenced to a confirmation menu.
  • FIG. 42 is a confirmation submenu 1178 for the program 60 Minutes.
  • the program description menu and confirmation menu are nearly identical. The primary difference being the confirmation text description and ability to join the program in progress.
  • the confirmation text is customized for the particular subcategory CBS Library.
  • the confirmation text is a standard text being generated from long-term text storage. Confirmation submenus may be designed to show the user more video and less menu graphics and text.
  • FIG. 43 is a major menu 1026 for category E, Entertainment Choice.
  • the Entertainment Choice category shows the best entertainment programming available during a given week.
  • FIGS. 43 and 44 show the selection of a program in the Entertainment Choice category.
  • the Entertainment Choice major menu 1026 has a menu display block for five programs.
  • FIG. 44 shows a program description submenu 1182 for a selection on the Entertainment Choice major menu.
  • this program description submenu the next start is shown in the upper right hand corner.
  • the program title text is shown centered, along with program description text on the right half of the screen.
  • the video window and video description window are provided on the left half of the screen.
  • the price of the program is placed on the first line of text in the video description and the run time is shown on the second line of text in the video description window.
  • the program may be ordered by highlighting the menu display block beneath the program description text using cursor movement keys.
  • This submenu 1182 allows the subscriber, via a strip menu located in the lower sash, to return to the major menu, namely menu E 1026 .
  • FIGS. 45 and 46 relate to the category of Children's Programs.
  • FIG. 45 is the major menu 1024 for Children's Programs, displaying five program options in its menu display blocks.
  • FIG. 46 is a program description submenu displaying the program Beauty and the Beast. This program description submenu is similar to that shown in FIG. 44 .
  • a strip menu in the lower sash allows the subscriber to return to the major menu, in this case, menu C 1024 .
  • the subscriber may return to the home menu from any submenu screen. This return to home menu feature may also be embodied in a strip menu in the lower sash.
  • FIGS. 47, 48 , and 49 a - 49 d relate to menus available within the major category of Sports.
  • FIG. 47 is an example of a major menu screen 1022 for the Sports category. This window exemplifies the ability to mix pay-per-unit programs, free programs, and a subcategory selection, all within one major menu screen. This is also representative of the mixing of programming types and subcategories that may be conducted at any menu level (major menu or submenu). By highlighting one of the three menu blocks shown, the subscriber may obtain more information on each of the three different types of programming that are available.
  • FIG. 48 is a program description submenu 1222 for NFL Highlights, which a subscriber would receive if he made the NFL Highlights selection on the major menu 1022 of FIG. 47 .
  • FIG. 48 shows a program description submenu for a program which must be paid for once each week for viewing. Once the program has been ordered by that particular set top terminal, the terminal is authorized to allow subscriber viewing for the remainder of the football week.
  • FIGS. 49 a - 49 d illustrate the manner in which a category or subcategory of programs may be shown in a weekly schedule 1224 .
  • Seven of the menu display block options of FIG. 49 a are for daily live events.
  • the eighth menu selection block in the lower right hand corner of the menu display blocks allows the viewer to see what live programming is available during the month. In this manner, future television programs may be advertised.
  • FIG. 49 b shows a live programming event menu 1226 which is available only on a particular day. Since the text description of this menu may be updated at least once a day, circumstances which affect the live program may be described in the text. For example, in a single elimination tennis tournament, the star tennis players who have not been eliminated may be listed in the text. From this menu, the subscriber may return to the subcategory submenu, Sports Events, or return to the major menu letter B, Sports, or return to cable TV. In the preferred embodiment, the subscriber is given the ability to sequence back to his last menu screen and, in some instances, sequence back to subcategory menu screens.
  • FIG. 49 c and 49 d relate to programming on a particular day (Saturday).
  • the submenu of 49 c falls within a subcategory of a major menu and is therefore three menu sequences below the home menu.
  • This particular menu 1228 lists an odd number of programming options.
  • the menu display blocks allow 12 football games selections and one boxing event, which is a larger box across the lower part of the screen. By changing the menu display block sizes, the packager can focus the subscriber's attention on a particular program. Menus may show standard time, such as eastern time, or may show regional times to the subscriber.
  • FIG. 49 d is a program description submenu 1229 whose description text will generally remain constant for a period of one week.
  • the program title text “College Football” is frequently used and may be stored in long-term text storage.
  • FIGS. 50 a and 50 b relate to HDTV.
  • FIG. 50 a is an example of a menu 1032 advertising a new feature of the system. Promotional menus, such as FIG. 50 a , may be dispersed throughout the menu driven program selection system. This particular menu describes the HDTV feature and explains its unavailability until a future date.
  • FIG. 50 b shows the integration of HDTV services into the menu driven program delivery system. If the subscriber selects the major menu for HDTV, he will either receive a description of the service with a suggestion to order the system, or a text note that he is a current subscriber and a listing of the currently available program selections in HDTV 1232 . If the subscriber has not paid to join the particular service, HDTV, he may be allowed to join one of the programs in progress for a limited time as a demo to entice the subscriber to order.
  • This particular major menu shows an example of how a follow-on or second screen may exist for the same menu.
  • a second screen exists for the major menu HDTV 1032 .
  • the subscriber may access the second screen 1232 by selecting the last menu display block in the lower part of the screen “Other HDTV Selections”. Following this selection, the subscriber will be given a second screen of program selections.
  • any menu can have multiple screens with many program choices.
  • This type of screen pagination on one menu allows the packager to avoid categorizing program selections within that same menu.
  • the options available to the subscriber may be scrolled on one menu screen with the text within the menu display blocks changing as the subscriber scrolls up or scrolls down.
  • TV guide services listing programs available on network schedules
  • the major TV guide menu 1036 would offer submenus, such as network schedules for the next seven days, today's network schedules for the next six hours, and TV guide picks for the next seven days.
  • the subscriber may proceed to a submenu showing schedules of programs. If the subscriber chooses the network schedule submenu 1236 , he is offered a list of network schedules to choose from as shown in FIG. 51 b . If a subscriber were to choose, for instance, HBO, the submenu 1238 shown in FIG. 51 c would appear. This submenu allows a subscriber to choose the program date that interests him. Following selection of a date, the subscriber is shown a more specific submenu 1242 listing programs available on the particular date as shown in 51 d.
  • a program description submenu 1244 is placed on the television screen as shown in FIG. 51 e .
  • the viewer may choose to record the selected program on his VCR using the guide record feature.
  • the guide record submenu 1248 shown in FIG. 51 f provides the subscriber with further instructions.
  • control signals In order for the set top terminal 220 to perform the guide record functions and operate the VCR, control signals must be sent from the set top terminal 220 to the VCR via the video connection 650 or via a separate connection between the set top terminal 220 and the VCR.
  • the VCR must be capable of interpreting these control signals from the set top terminal 220 and performing the desired function (such as, activating the record feature).
  • the VCR control signals are sent with the video signal and output from the output 650 , as described above.
  • FIGS. 51 g and 51 h refer to the broadcast TV menu option available in FIG. 14 b .
  • FIG. 51 g is a major menu 1046 displaying subcategories of programs available on a group of channels called generically “broadcast TV.” For each subcategory there is a separate submenu listing programs that are available in the particular subcategory on a group of channels called broadcast TV.
  • the subscriber does not need a written guide of available television programming on the major networks.
  • the preferred embodiment categorizes television programs available on the major networks, a simple chronological listing of programs may also be used.
  • the set top terminal 220 will display a submenu of programs as shown in FIG. 51 h .
  • the favorite channel program menu 1256 of FIG. 51 h allows the subscriber to choose among eight programs in progress at 9:45 p.m. on a broadcast TV network.
  • the subscriber may also be allowed to choose among television programs which will be available for viewing in the next half hour or hour.
  • the set top terminal 220 will display a notification menu or window to the subscriber (similar to FIGS. 21 a and 21 b ) informing him of an eminent change of channels to a previously selected program.
  • the set top terminal 220 box can “learn” which channels are a subscriber's favorite channels.
  • a simple learning process would involve the set top terminal 220 determining which channels were the most often watched and assume those channels are the subscriber's favorite channels.
  • Favorite channels are preferably stored in memory in the set top terminal 220 .
  • FIG. 51 g the broadcast TV menu 1046 , has a separate category for often watched channels which allow the subscriber or the set top terminal 220 in a learning mode to choose eight additional channels for display.
  • the terminal can also determine the most often watched shows by the subscriber. After developing (or learning) a list of popular shows or querying the subscriber for a list of popular shows the terminal can display a submenu allowing the subscriber to choose one of his popular shows for viewing.
  • the terminal In order for the set top terminal 220 to develop submenus for subcategories in FIG. 51 g which relate to the content of the programs, the terminal must receive information on the content of the programs from the Operations Center 202 (via the cable headend 208 ). Normally the set top terminal 220 would receive this information in the form of the program control information signal (or STTCIS).
  • the program control information signal or STTCIS
  • a program viewing suggestion feature is available as an additional feature. This feature gives the indecisive viewer or lazy viewer suggestions as to which programs he should watch.
  • the set top terminal 220 uses a matching algorithm to accomplish the program viewing suggestion feature.
  • the terminal In order for the set top terminal 220 to make decisions on which programs the subscriber should watch, the terminal must create a personal profile for the particular viewer. From the data in the particular viewer's personal profile and the television program information available in the program control information signal, the set top terminal 220 is able to select a group of programs which the particular viewer is most likely to watch.
  • the set top terminal 220 builds a personal profile for each viewer and stores the information in a memory file by viewer name.
  • the viewer answers a series of questions presented on a series of menu screens.
  • These personal profile screens request the viewer to input information such as name, sex, age, place of birth, place of lower school education, employment type, level of education, amount of television program viewing per week, and the number of shows in particular categories that the viewer watches in a given week such as, sports, movies, documentaries, sitcoms, etc. Any demographic information which will assist the set top terminal 220 in suggesting television programs to the viewer may be used.
  • a personal profile in a particular set top terminal 220 ), it can be indefinitely stored in nonvolatile memory.
  • a selection at the home menu screen 1010 activates the program selection feature.
  • the set top terminal 220 will present the viewer with a series of brief questions to determine the viewer's mood at that particular time.
  • the first mood question screen 1260 may ask the viewer to select whether he desires a short (30 minute), medium (30-60 minute), or long (60 plus minute) program selection, as shown in FIG. 51 i .
  • the second mood question screen 1262 requests the viewer to select between a serious program, a thoughtful program, or a light program, as shown in FIG. 51 j .
  • the third mood question screen 1264 requests whether the user desires a passive program or an active program, as shown in FIG. 51 k .
  • the viewer makes his selection in each question menu utilizing the cursor movement keys and “go” button on his remote control 900 .
  • a variety of other mood questions are possible such as fatigue level of the viewer.
  • the set top terminal 220 finds the best programming matches for the viewer and displays an offering of several suggested programs to the viewer (three or more programs are preferred).
  • the matching algorithm compares the viewer profile data with information about the program derived from the program control information (or STTCIS) signal, such as show category, description type, length, etc.
  • the program control information or STTCIS
  • the personal profile information and mood questions suggested above the following types of outcomes are possible. If the set top terminal 220 is presented with a young lady viewer, educated in Boston who watches sitcoms on a regular basis, and desires a short, light, passive program, a match might be found with the 30-minute sitcom Cheers, the sitcom Designing Women and Murphy Brown. Taking another example, a middle-aged male viewer from the Boston area, wishing a longer length, light, passive program suggestion might be suggested the New England Patriots game, the Boston Red Sox game and a science fiction movie.
  • the set top terminal 220 can intelligently assist the specific viewer in selecting a television program. Instead of the set top terminal 220 requiring an input of personal profile information, the terminal may also “learn” a subscriber's viewing habits by maintaining historical data on the types of programs the viewer has most frequently watched. This information can then be fed to the matching algorithm which selects the suggested television programs.
  • the set top terminal 220 uses this methodology to suggest programs for two viewers.
  • the matching algorithm can find the best match for joint viewing. For example, the set top terminal 220 can suggest programs for a couple watching television simultaneously.
  • FIGS. 52 a , 52 b , and 52 c demonstrate the use of promotional menus to sell subscriptions to services in the system.
  • FIG. 52 a is a promotional menu 1304 for Level A interactive services.
  • Level A interactive services offers subscribers additional information about programs such as quizzes, geographical facts, etc. This information may be received by the set top terminal 220 in several data formats including VBI and in the program control information signal.
  • FIG. 52 b is a promotional menu 1306 for Level B interactive services which include a variety of on-line type services such as Prodigy, Yellow Pages, Airline Reservations, etc.
  • FIG. 52 c is a promotion menu 1308 for the Level C interactive services.
  • the Level C interactive services utilize local storage such as CD technology to offer an enormous range of multi-media experiences.
  • the Level C interactive services require a hardware upgrade as described earlier. Specially adopted CD-I and CD-ROM units are needed for this service.
  • FIGS. 52 d through 52 j show menus that are available using the interactive Level A services.
  • the system will display the interactive logo consisting of the letter “I” and two arrows with semicircular tails.
  • the set top terminal 220 will place the interactive logo on the television screen as an overlay menu 1310 .
  • the set top terminal 220 will detect that there is data or information available about a television program which can be displayed to a subscriber using the interactive service.
  • the set top terminal 220 senses that there is interactive information available, it will generate the interactive logo overlay menu and place it on the television screen.
  • the set top terminal 220 will detect that information on a television program is being sent in the vertical blanking interval (VBI) and generate an interactive logo overlay menu which will appear on the subscriber's television screen for approximately fifteen seconds during each ten minute interval of programming.
  • VBI vertical blanking interval
  • the subscriber may choose a variety of different types of textual interactivity with the current television program. Some examples are quizzes, fast facts, more info, where in the world, products, etc. At any time during the interactive submenus the user may return to the television program without interactive features.
  • This interactive submenu has an example of taking a complete television program video, scaling it down to a smaller size and directing the video into a video window of a submenu.
  • FIG. 52 f shows an interactive fast facts submenu 1314 .
  • this submenu textual information is given to the subscriber in the lower half of his screen. This textual information will change as additional data is received by the set top terminal 220 relating to this television program.
  • FIG. 52 g shows the use of the subcategory “more information” in the interactive service.
  • This submenu 1316 gives additional information related to the television program to the viewer in textual form in the lower half of the screen.
  • FIG. 52 h is an interactive submenu 1318 for the subcategory “quiz.”
  • the user is presented with questions and a series of possible answers. If the subscriber desires, he selects one of the answers to the quiz question. After his selection, the set top terminal 220 sequences to another menu. The set top terminal 220 sequences to the interactive quiz answers submenu which informs the subscriber whether he has chosen the correct answer or not.
  • FIG. 52 i shows a correctly answered quiz question 1320 and
  • FIG. 52 j shows an incorrectly answered quiz question 1324 .
  • the menu graphics for both of these menus 52 i and 52 j is the same. The only difference is in the text which can be generated by the text generator of the set top terminal 220 .
  • FIG. 53 a is an example of a submenu for Level B interactive services. From this menu screen 1330 , any of a number of on-line data services could be accessed. In FIG. 53 a , the airline reservations selection has been selected by the subscriber.
  • FIGS. 53 b through 531 provide an example of a sequence of menus that a subscriber may encounter with an on-line data service.
  • this example relates to airline information and reservations and the subscriber in this sequence is reserving and purchasing airline tickets.
  • FIG. 53 b is an example of the first submenu 1332 for a data service offering various options. In this case, the subscriber has the option of checking current reservations or making new reservations. In each of these submenus related to a data service, the subscriber is able to return to the home menu 1010 or regular cable TV and exit the data service.
  • FIG. 53 c requires the subscriber to enter information related to his airline reservation in this submenu 1334 , such as: domestic or international flight, year of flight reservation, month of flight reservation.
  • FIG. 53 d is another submenu in the airline information and reservation data service.
  • FIG. 53 d provides an example of how the subscriber may choose among many options on a single screen 1336 . In this manner, the preferred embodiment of the system can avoid the use of a separate keyboard for textual entry. Although a separate keyboard may be provided as an upgrade, it is an added expense which some subscribers may wish to avoid.
  • FIG. 53 d shows an “eye off the remote” approach to entering information.
  • FIG. 53 d allows the user to chose the State in which he will depart and the state in which he will arrive.
  • the airline information reservation submenu 1338 shown in FIG. 53 e allows a subscriber to choose the airports from which he will depart and arrive and also the approximate time period of his departure and his arrival.
  • FIG. 53 f an airline information and reservation submenu 1340 , allows a subscriber to view six available flights. A subscriber may select one of the flights to check on its availability.
  • FIG. 53 g an airline information and reservation submenu 1342 , allows a subscriber to enter the month, day and year for the availability date he desires. In this submenu, the subscriber is offered the option of correcting any errors in the entered information. This particular submenu is for a particular flight, including flight number.
  • FIG. 53 h an airline information and reservation submenu 1344 , allows a subscriber to view remaining seats available on a flight. From the menu, the subscriber may select his seat assignments.
  • This submenu is an example of how information may be graphically shown to a subscriber using a portion of the menu and different coloring schemes. In this menu, the lower half of the screen shows the passenger compartment of an airplane with all the seat locations graphically represented by square blocks. By coloring the available seat locations in blue and the unavailable seat locations in a different color, the menu can present a great deal of information in a limited amount of space. This graphic presentation of information for the interactive on-line data services is an important method of visually displaying large amounts of information to the subscriber.
  • FIG. 53 i an airline information and reservation submenu 1346 , allows the subscriber to choose a one-way or round-trip ticket and to confirm his reservations. If the subscriber desires to proceed, he may charge his airline ticket to his credit card by choosing the appropriate strip menu on the lower part of the screen.
  • FIG. 53 j an airline information and reservation submenu 1348 , is an example of how credit card purchases may be made using the interactive on-line data services.
  • the subscriber is charging a round-trip plane ticket on his credit card. The subscriber simply needs to enter his credit card number, expiration date, and credit card type to charge his airline ticket.
  • FIG. 53 k an airline information and reservation submenu 1350 , is an example of a menu which may be shown whenever an on-line data service is processing a request sent by the subscriber.
  • the on-line data service is processing the subscriber's credit card charge for his airline ticket.
  • FIG. 53 l an airline information and reservation submenu 1352 , confirms a subscriber's airline ticket purchase and passes on information on where the ticket may be picked up.
  • FIG. 54 a is a major menu 1038 displaying the digital/audio program choices which are available for subscribers who have paid the monthly fee.
  • the major menu shows the top five, top ten, and top forty songs available in six different categories of music. Below the chart, the system is able to provide a text message describing the particulars of the audio program selected.
  • the digital/audio feature of the invention allows a subscriber to listen to CD quality audio selections through his stereo. This can be accomplished by running cables directly from the set top terminal 220 to the subscriber's amplifier/stereo system. Alternatively, the user may listen to audio selections through his television system.
  • FIGS. 54 d and 54 e are the same major menu 1038 as FIG. 54 a but shows a different selection and a different program description in the lower text 1408 , 1412 . From any of the menu screens for the digital/audio feature, the subscriber may return to regular cable TV with the press of a single button.
  • FIGS. 54 b and 54 c are promotional menus 1400 , 1404 for the digital/audio feature. Using the same logos and menu format, the system can provide a text description enticing the subscriber to pay the monthly fee and join the service. In FIG. 54 b , the menu allows the user to test the system with a free demonstration. The menu in FIG. 54 c allows the subscriber to request additional promotional information about the system. Both FIGS. 54 b and 54 c are representative of promotional menus that may be used throughout the menued system.
  • FIGS. 55 a through 55 g and FIGS. 56 a through 56 g show how menus are generated by the set top terminal 220 .
  • FIGS. 55 a through 55 g display the building of a major menu screen for the category hit movies.
  • FIG. 55 a shows the background graphics for the hit movie major menu.
  • the background graphics 1500 comprise an upper sash 1502 across the top of the screen and a lower sash 1504 across the bottom of the screen.
  • the background graphics are generated from the background graphics file 800 in the memory files of the graphics memory (preferably EEPROM) 620 .
  • the hit movie major menu background graphics are located in the universal main menu backgrounds subfile 804 of the background graphics file 800 .
  • This universal major menu background graphic 1500 is consistently used in nearly all the major menus.
  • the logo graphics 1508 for this major menu consist of an icon window 1510 , a cable company logo 1512 in the lower left-hand portion of the screen, a channel company logo 1514 in the upper right-hand part of the screen and two “go” buttons 1516 .
  • the icon graphics 1510 are consistently shown in each of the major menus.
  • the cable company logo 1512 is consistently shown in the lower left-hand part of the screen in nearly every major menu.
  • These logo graphics 1508 are created from the logo graphics file 820 in the EEPROM 620 .
  • the cable company logo 1512 in the lower left-hand corner of the screen is located in The Your Choice TV logos 824 part of the logo graphics file.
  • the network logo 1514 in the upper right-hand corner of the screen is generated from the network logo file 828 of the logo graphics file 820 .
  • the “go” buttons 1516 are generated from the graphic elements file 840 of the logo graphics file 820 .
  • FIG. 55 c shows the addition of menu displays 1520 to the hit movie major menu.
  • FIG. 55 c shows a ten block main menu display 1520 and a strip menu 1522 in the lower part of the screen.
  • the ten display blocks 1520 of FIG. 55 c are generated from the menu display block's subfile 854 of the menu display and cursor graphics file 850 shown in FIG. 10 .
  • the strip menu 1522 located on the lower part of the screen is also generated from the menu display block's subfile 854 .
  • FIG. 55 d shows the addition of a cursor highlight overlay 1526 to the hit movie major menu.
  • the cursor highlight overlay 1526 is generated from the cursor highlight overlay's submenu 858 of the menu display and cursor graphics file 850 shown in FIG. 10 .
  • the cursor highlight overlay 1526 is shown by default to be in the upper left-hand menu display block of each major menu. This cursor highlight overlay 1526 can be moved on the screen by the subscriber using his cursor movement buttons 970 .
  • FIG. 55 e shows the text 1530 generated for the hit movies major menu.
  • the text 1530 is generated separately by a text generator in the set top terminal unit 220 .
  • Those portions of the text that generally remain the same for a period of weeks or months may be stored in EEPROM 620 or other local storage.
  • the text “HIT MOVIES from” 1531 will consistently appear on each hit movies' major menu.
  • This text may be stored on EEPROM 620 or other local storage.
  • text such as that which appears at the lower center part of the screen “PRESS HERE TO RETURN TO CABLE TV” 1532 appears many times throughout the menu sequence. This text may also be stored locally at the set top terminal 220 .
  • Text which changes on a regular basis, such as the movie titles (or other program selections), will be transmitted to the set top terminal 220 by either the operations center 202 or the network controller 214 of the cable headend 208 .
  • the cable headend 208 may change the program selections available on any major menu 1020 by modifying the program control information signal sent by the operations center 202 and transmitting the change via the STTCIS.
  • the text 1530 be generated separately from the graphics because the text can be stored locally in a more compact manner requiring less storage space.
  • it allows for easy communication of text changes from the operations center 202 or cable headend.
  • portions of the text may be incorporated into the graphics and stored in either the background graphics file 800 or the logo graphics file 820 .
  • FIG. 55 f shows the addition of day 1534 , date 1536 and time 1538 information to the hit movies major menu.
  • This information may be obtained in a variety of ways.
  • the day, date, and time information 1540 may be sent from the operations center 202 , the cable headend (signal processor or network controller 214 ), the uplink site, or generated by the set top terminal unit 220 internally.
  • Each manner of generating the day, date, and time information 1540 has advantages and disadvantages which may change given the particular embodiment and costs.
  • the day, date, and time 1540 are generated at a central location such as the operations center and are adjusted for regional changes in time at the cable headend.
  • FIG. 55 g shows the results of the information in FIGS. 55 a to 55 f being integrated in the combiner 624 and then displayed on the television screen 222 .
  • the subscriber in viewing the hit movie major menu 1040 is unaware of the fact that the menu comprises several distinct part.
  • FIGS. 56 a through 56 g show the creation and display of a program description submenu for a hit movie. Similar to the major menu, the submenu is created in parts and combined before being sent to the television screen.
  • FIG. 56 a shows the background graphics 1550 for the program description submenu.
  • the upper sash 1552 and lower sash 1554 of the background graphics 1550 are stored together in one location on the EEPROM 620 .
  • the video window and half-strip window 1558 are also co-located in storage on the EEPROM 620 .
  • the half-strip window 1558 beneath the video window serves 1556 as a means for describing the videos shown in the video window 1556 .
  • FIG. 56 b shows the additional logo graphics information 1508 needed to create the program description submenu.
  • the “go” logo 1516 can be stored once in memory 620 and directed to the correct portion of the screen in which it is needed for a particular memo. Similar to FIG. 55 b , the information needed to create the “your choice” logo 1512 and “go” buttons 1516 is stored in the logo graphics file 820 .
  • FIG. 56 c shows the addition of menu display information 1520 for the program description submenu. Similar to FIG. 55 c , the information needed for FIG. 56 c menu display blocks is stored in the menu display blocks' subfile 854 of the menu display and cursor graphics 850 . In this particular submenu, there are three menu display blocks of rectangular shape.
  • FIG. 56 d shows the addition of cursor highlight overlay information 1526 for the program description submenu. This information is obtained from the cursor highlight overlay submenu 858 . For most major menus 1020 and submenus 1050 , only one cursor highlight overlay 1526 will appear on the screen at a given time. More cursor highlight overlays 1526 will appear on a screen when the subscriber is presented with more than one question. The number of cursor highlight overlays 1526 will generally correspond with the number of questions being presented to the subscriber on the menu. The cursor highlight overlay 1526 is generally assigned a default position on each menu screen and is moved by the subscriber using either the remote control 900 or the buttons 645 located at the top of the-set top terminal 220 .
  • FIG. 56 e shows the text generation 1530 necessary for the program description submenu for a hit movie.
  • some of the text for the program description submenu is consistently on each program description submenu, such as “PRESS HERE TO RETURN TO CABLE TV.”
  • This-textual information may be stored locally as opposed to being derived from the STTCIS. Regardless of where the text information is stored, it must be processed through the text generator 621 before being sent to the combiner 624 .
  • FIG. 56 f shows the addition of video 1560 to the video window 1556 .
  • the video shown in the program description submenu is a still picture.
  • the still picture may be stored in a compressed format (such as JPEG) at the set top terminal 220 .
  • These video stills 1560 that are used on program description submenus as well as other menus, may be transmitted by the operations center 202 through the program control information signal from time to time.
  • the video window 1556 shows a moving video picture.
  • the moving video picture may be obtained directly from a current feed of the described movie.
  • the movie video 1560 shown may be taken directly off of a channel which is currently showing the movie Terminator.
  • the set top terminal 220 would decompress the channel with the movie Terminator and then manipulate the video signal to place it in the video window 1556 .
  • This manipulation of the video signal includes scaling down the size of the video screen and redirecting the video to a portion of the menu screen which is within the video window of the menu.
  • Another method of getting the moving video to the video window portion of the submenu is to obtain the video from a split screen channel.
  • This method involves the use of split screen video techniques to send multiple video dips on a single channel at a given time. For example, a channel may be divided into eight portions of screen space and one of the eight positions may carry the Terminator video dip.
  • the set top terminal 220 would decompress the channel and manipulate on the one-eighth portion of the screen desired in the video window of the submenu.
  • the set top terminal 220 would scale the one-eighth picture, if necessary, and redirect it to the correct position on the screen using known scaling and positioning techniques. Additional circuitry may be required in the set top terminal 220 to perform adequate scaling and repositioning.
  • FIG. 56 g shows the final product resulting from the combining of FIGS. 56 a through 56 f .
  • the combiner 624 integrates each of these portions of information into a single menu screen 1120 .
  • the combiner 624 which displays the menus on the television screen obtains information primarily from three locations, the graphics generator 622 , the text generator 621 , and the video decompressor 618 (with other video manipulation equipment, if necessary).
  • the graphics generator 622 primarily obtains information from the graphic memory unit 620 but may receive information in the STTCIS.
  • the text generator 621 primarily receives its information from a separate memory for text. However, in certain embodiments the text information may be stored in the graphics memory 620 or may be taken directly off the STTCIS.
  • the video signal which is sent to the combiner 624 may come directly from one or more video decompressors or ancillary video manipulation equipment.
  • FIG. 57 a shows the throughput of a single channel using a split screen video technique to divide the channel into four parts. In this manner, four different video dips may be simultaneously sent on a single channel.
  • Program description submenus can acquire one of the video dips shown on the split channel at any given time. Generally, this requires the set top terminal 220 to decompress the entire channel, acquire one-fourth of the video information, scale the video (if necessary), and redirect the video.
  • this split screen technique 1602 numerous video clips may be sent over a limited number of channels.
  • FIG. 57 b shows an embodiment 1604 in which forty eight different video clips are sent simultaneously on a single channel using split screen video techniques.
  • the video signal may need to be scaled upwardly to enlarge the picture for viewing in a video window or on a full screen.
  • masking and menu graphics are used to cover the portions of the channel video that are not needed.
  • This masking technique allows the split screen video to remain in the same portion of the screen that it is transmitted by the operations center. The masking then is adjusted to cover the undesired portions of the screen. These masks would be stored in the background graphics file 800 similarly to other background files for menus.
  • the advantage of the system is the cost savings in not needing to redirect video.
  • the disadvantage of the system is that the video window on a description submenu, for example, would not remain in the same location from menu to menu. This inconsistency in video window location detracts from the aesthetically pleasing aspects of the menu layouts.
  • each submenu would have approximately one-quarter screen of video and three-quarter screen of graphic and text information.
  • a submenu or promo menu for a basketball game would mask all but the upper right-hand corner of the screen.
  • other background graphics 1550 , logo graphics 1508 , menu display 1520 , cursor graphics 1526 , and text information 1530 would be overlayed over the three-quarter mask.
  • a submenu or promo menu for a hockey game would also have a three-quarter mask. This three-quarter mask would mask all but the lower right-hand corner of the screen. Again, the remaining menu graphics, logos and textual information would overlay the three-quarter mask.
  • four different three-quarter masks must be stored in the background graphics file 800 for use in the four possible video window positions.
  • the split screen video technique may also be used for promoting television programming. Since a great number of short video clips may be sent continuously (such as in FIG. 57 b ), full or partial screen promotionals (or informationals) may be provided to the subscriber. With this large quantity of promotional video, subscribers may be given the opportunity to “graze” through new movie or television programming selections. The subscriber would simply graze from promotional video to promotional video until he found the television program of his liking. Once he has found that program he may choose to order it.
  • FIGS. 58 a , 58 b and 59 a , 59 b relate to the monthly account review capabilities available to the subscriber.
  • the subscriber may choose to access the monthly account review capability from both the introductory menu 1000 and home menu 1010 .
  • the monthly account review screen shows alternative window types that are available to the set top terminal 220 .
  • the current time and date are both shown.
  • the upper right-hand corner provides the subscriber with instructions on how to use the monthly account review capability.
  • FIG. 58 b also shows that windows may be created in a variety of shapes. For instance, on the lower right-hand part of the screen 1612 two triangularly shaped windows with messages are shown. In addition, on the left lower part of the screen 1612 a window in the shape of a trapezoid is shown with a textual message inside.
  • the monthly account review provides a list of charges from the first day of the month to the date of viewing for each major menu. Charges are incurred on a pay-per-view basis and on a subscription basis (weekly, monthly, quarterly, etc.). At the lower part of the screen, the total of the charges incurred for the month is listed. The account status can also be calculated on a weekly, quarterly or semi-annual basis.
  • FIGS. 58 a and 58 b show in screens 1610 and 1612 , respectively, the subscriber selecting menu A for further information.
  • FIGS. 59 a and 59 b are submenus for the monthly account review and displays detailed billing information about selections made on menu A.
  • the date of each movie selection, title of the movie, and price for each movie is displayed ( 1614 , 1616 ). Also, any discounts which have been granted are displayed. The total charges on this menu and the day in which the menu will be changed are shown in the lower part of the screen. From this submenu, the subscriber may either return to regular TV or return to the major menu for the monthly account review. If the submenu information does not fit on a single screen, an extended submenu may be utilized with follow on extension screens. Alternatively, a scrolling feature may be used enabling the subscriber to scroll additional information onto the first submenu screen.
  • the account information necessary to create the monthly account review menus may be stored either in the memory of the set top terminal 220 or at a remote location that communicates with the set top terminal 220 .
  • the set top terminal 220 records a subscriber's selections locally and calculates the monthly account review based upon the subscriber's selections which require the payment of fees.
  • This monthly account information is stored locally and sent to the cable headend 208 at least once a month for back-up and billing purposes.
  • the subscriber's viewing selections and billing information may be continuously maintained at the cable headend 208 or a remote site connected via communication lines to the cable headend 208 .
  • the cable headend 208 or the remote site must regularly transmit the monthly account information to the set top terminal 220 .
  • Each embodiment has advantages and disadvantages. If the account information and processing is done locally at the set top terminal 220 , each set top terminal 220 must be provided with the memory and necessary processing capability to maintain the account. This greatly increases the cost of a set top terminal 220 . If the account information is maintained remotely, the remote site must remain in regular contact with the set top terminal 220 in order to provide the subscriber with billing information.
  • two or more set top terminals 220 may be placed on a single bill or two accounts may be created for one set top terminal 220 .
  • FIG. 60 shows an example of remote statistical and billing sites.
  • statistical and billing information from a community of set top terminals 1720 is communicated through cable headend 208 sites to regional statistical and billing sites 1730 (SBS).
  • a regional SBS may serve several cable headend 208 sites.
  • the regional SBS 1730 calculates billing and statistical information and passes necessary billing information back downstream through the network controller at the cable headend 208 to an appropriate single set top terminal 220 in a subscriber's home.
  • the regional SBS communicates the billing and statistical information received on program viewer choices to the central SBS 1740 .
  • the central SBS 1740 accumulates the data received from a number of regional statistical and billing sites and calculates national statistical and billing information.
  • the regional SBS 1730 prints and mails bills to subscribers.
  • the central SBS 1740 can calculate program ratings, shares and HUTS (homes using televisions) for the nation and by region. With interactive TV programs sophisticated statistical information may be gathered through the network controllers of the cable headends.
  • Remote billing sites may serve regions of the country by having each cable headend 208 in a region of the country connected to one regional billing site.
  • the information from the regional billing sites may then be communicated on a less frequent basis to the operations center or a central billing location.
  • This method of distributed processing of billing enables the central billing location to receive fewer communications and be more efficient.
  • the communication links between the cable headend's network controller 214 and regional sites will be of shorter distance than communication links to the operations center from the cable headends 208 . This should result in a cost savings to the system operator.
  • the regional statistical and billing may be eliminated and all communications from the cable headend 208 may proceed to the Central SBS 1740 .
  • the Central SBS 1740 can be collocated with the Operations Center 202 and all functions performed at one central location.
  • the network controller 214 can perform all the statistical and billing procedures.
  • FIGS. 61 through 89 are additional representative menus which include color indications.
  • FIGS. 90 through 98 demonstrate the generation of menu screens.
  • FIG. 99 is an example of a help menu which may be accessed from the introductory menu. In alternative embodiments, help or instruction menus may be accessed from any displayed menu.
  • FIG. 99 instructs the subscriber on the use of the subscriber interface (remote control unit 900 ). In particular, FIG. 99 instructs the subscriber on the use of arrow buttons for cursor movement.
  • FIG. 99 also shows how additional instructional information can be provided with follow-on menus by depressing “go” in the lower portion of the screen (highlighted in yellow).
  • FIG. 100 is an exemplary introductory menu with access to remote instructions.
  • FIGS. 101 through 131 are additional representative menus which include color indications.
  • FIGS. 132 through 134 demonstrate the generation of menu screens.

Abstract

An expanded television program delivery system is disclosed which allows viewers to select television and audio program choices from a series of menus. Menus are partially stored in a set-top terminal in each subscriber's home. The menus may be reprogrammed by signals sent from a headend or from a central operations center. The system allows for a great number of television signals to be transmitted by using digital compression techniques. An operations center with computer-assisted packaging allows various television, audio and data signals to be combined, compressed and multiplexed into signals transmitted on various channels to a cable headend which distributes the signals to individual set-top terminals. Various types of menus may be used and the menus may incorporate information included within the video/data signal received by the set-top terminal. A remote control unit with icon buttons allows a subscriber to select programs based upon a series of major menus, submenus, and during program menus. Various billing and statistics gathering methods for the program delivery system are also disclosed.

Description

    CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
  • This patent application is a Continuation of commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/991,074, filed Dec. 9, 1992, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.
  • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • The invention relates to television entertainment systems for providing television programming to consumer homes. More particularly, the invention relates to cable television packaging, delivery and presentation systems which provide consumers with many television programming options.
  • Advances in television entertainment have been primarily driven by breakthroughs in technology. In 1939, advances on Vladmir Zworykin's picture tube provided the stimulus for NBC to begin its first regular broadcasts. In 1975, advances in satellite technology provided consumers with increased programming to homes.
  • Many of these technology breakthroughs have produced inconvenient systems for consumers. One example is the ubiquitous three remote control home, having a separate and unique remote control for the TV, cable box and VCR. More recently, technology has provided cable users in certain parts of the country with 100 channels of programming. This increased program capacity is beyond the ability of many consumers to use effectively. No method of managing the program choices has been provided to consumers.
  • Consumers are demanding that future advances in television entertainment, particularly programs and program choices, be presented to the consumer in a user friendly manner. Consumer preferences, instead of technological breakthroughs, will drive the television entertainment market for at least the next 20 years. As computer vendors have experienced a switch from marketing new technology in computer hardware to marketing better useability, interfaces and service, the television entertainment industry will also experience a switch from new technology driving the market to consumer useability driving the market.
  • Consumers want products incorporating new technology that are useful, and will no longer purchase new technology for the sake of novelty or status. Technological advances in sophisticated hardware are beginning to surpass the capability of the average consumer to use the new technology. Careful engineering must be done to make entertainment products incorporating new technology useful and desired by consumers.
  • In order for new television entertainment products to be successful, the products must satisfy consumer demands. TV consumers wish to go from limited viewing choices to a variety of choices, from no control of programming to complete control. Consumers wish to advance from cumbersome and inconvenient television to easy and convenient television and keep costs down. Consumers do not wish to pay for one hundred channels when due to lack of programming information, they seldom, if ever, watch programming on many of these channels.
  • The concepts of interactive television, high definition television and 300 channel cable systems in consumer homes will not sell if they are not packaged, delivered and presented in a useable fashion to consumers. The problem is that TV programming is not being managed, packaged, delivered, and presented to consumers in a user friendly manner.
  • Consumers are already being bombarded with programming options, numerous “free” cable channels, subscription cable channels and pay-per-view choices. Any further increase in TV entertainment choices, without a user friendly presentation and approach, will likely bewilder viewers with a mind-numbing array of choices.
  • The TV industry has traditionally marketed and sold its programs to consumers in bulk, such as continuous feed broadcast and long-term subscriptions to movie channels. The TV industry is unable to sell its programming in large quantities on a unit per unit basis, such as the ordering of one program. Consumers prefer a unit sales approach because it keeps costs down and allows the consumer to be more selective in their viewing.
  • Additionally, viewership fragmentation, which has already begun, will increase. Programming not presented in a user friendly manner will suffer with a decrease in viewership and revenue.
  • What is needed is an economical system which can gather television programming in a variety of formats, package the programs, deliver the programs, and present the programs through a user friendly interface which allows the consumer to easily select from among the many program choices. The system must be capable of handling hundreds of programs in different formats, be expandable for future types of programming, include a method for billing consumers, and be inexpensive. The present invention is addressed to fulfill these needs.
  • SUMMARY OF INVENTION
  • The present invention is an expanded cable television program delivery system that dramatically increases programming capacity using compressed transmission of television program signals. Developments in digital bandwidth compression technology now allow much greater throughput of television program signals over existing or slightly modified transmission media. The present invention is a program delivery system which provides subscribers with a user friendly interface to operate and exploit a six-fold or more increase in current program delivery capability.
  • Subscribers will be able to access the expanded program package and view selected programs through a menu-driver access scheme that allows each subscriber to select individual programs by sequencing a series of menus. The menus are sequenced by the subscriber using simple alpha-numeric and iconic character access, allowing the subscriber to access desired programs by simply pressing a single button rather than recalling from memory and pressing the actual two or more digit numeric number assigned to a selection. Thus, with the press of single buttons, the subscriber can advance from one menu to the next. In this fashion, the subscriber can sequence the menus and select a program from any given menu. The programs are grouped by category so that similar program offerings are found on the same menu.
  • B. System Description
  • 1. Major System Components
  • In its most basic form, the system uses a program delivery system in conjunction with a conventional cable television system. The program delivery system contemplates (i) at least one operations center, where program packaging and control information are received and then assembled in the form of digital data, and (ii) a digital compression system, where the digital data is compressed, combined/multiplexed, encoded, and mapped into digital signals for satellite transmission (i.e., modulated, upconverted and amplified). The program delivery system transports the digital signals to the concatenated cable television system where the signals are received at the cable headend. Within the cable headend, the received signals may be decoded, demultiplexed, managed by a local central distribution and switching mechanism and then transmitted to subscriber homes via the cable system.
  • The delivery system employs an in-home decompression capability employing a decompressor housed within a set-top terminal in each subscriber's home. The decompressor remains transparent from the subscriber's point of view and allows any of the compressed signals to be demultiplexed and individually extracted from the composite data stream and then individually decompressed upon selection of a corresponding program by the subscriber. Within the set-top terminal, video signals are converted into analog signals. Control signals are extracted, decompressed and either executed immediately or place in local storage in a ROM. The program control signals correspond to specific television programs with menu program options that each subscriber may access through a subscriber interface. The subscriber interface is a combined alpha, numeric and iconic remote control device which provides direct or menu-driven program access.
  • An array of menu templates are generated by either a computer program within the set-top terminal or by the cable headend. The menu templates are generated using the program control information signals received from the Operations Center. A computer program within the set top terminal generates the on-screen menu displays and allocates a specific menu program option for each program signal. A combined alpha and numeric remote control device provides the user interface to each program signal, allowing selection of a specific menu option which corresponds to a particular program signal.
  • 2. Operations Center and Digital Compression System
  • The Operations Center performs two primary services, packaging television programs and generating the program control signal. At the Operations Center television programs are accumulated from various sources in both analog and digital form. The programs are then packaged into groups and categories which allow for easy menu access to programs and provides optimal marketing of programs to subscribers. The packaging process also accounts for any groupings by transponder which are necessary. After a packaging scheme is developed, the program control information which, among other things, describes the packaging, is generated by a computer and delivered with the packaged programs to the head end and/or subscriber. The system also accommodates local cable and television companies with programming time for local advertising and/or programming time availability.
  • The delivery system employs digital compression techniques to increase existing satellite transponder capacity by at least a 6:1 ratio, resulting in a six-fold increase in program delivery capability. The input signals are compressed, combined and encoded prior to satellite transmission, and subsequently transponded to various receive sites. There are a number of compression algorithms that presently exist which can achieve the resultant increase in capacity and improved signal quality desired for the invention.
  • 3. System Control
  • Network management, control and monitoring of all compressors and decompressors in the network, is performed by a network controller at the cable headend, where program selection activity, and account and billing information is monitored. In the preferred embodiment, the network controller monitors, among other things, automatic poll-back responses from the set-top terminals remotely located at each subscriber's home. The polling and automatic report-back cycle occurs frequently enough to allow the network controller to maintain accurate account and billing information as well as monitor authorized channel access. In the simplest embodiment, information to be sent to the network controller will be stored in ROM within each subscriber's set-top terminal and retrieved only upon polling by the network controller.
  • Control information from the set top terminal will be sent to the network controller at the cable headend and not directly to the operations center. The digital compression and delivery system of the preferred embodiment provides a one-way path from the Operations Center to the cable headend. Thus, program monitoring and selection control will take place only at the cable headend by the local cable company and its decentralized network controllers (i.e., decentralized relative to the Operations Center which is central to the program delivery system). The local cable company will in turn be in communication with the operations center or a regional control center which accumulates return data from the set-top terminal for statistical or billing purposes. Alternatively, the operations center, and statistical and billing sites could be collocated.
  • 4. Menu-Driven Program Selection
  • At a given receive site, any of the compressed signals may be demultiplexed or individually extracted from the data stream and passed from the cable headend over the cable system to the subscriber's set-top terminal. Within the set-top terminal, the individual compressed signals are decompressed and either placed in local storage (from which the menu template may be created), executed immediately, or sent directly to the screen. A combined alpha, numeric and iconic remote control device provides the subscriber interface to the system.
  • Through this interface, the subscriber may select desired programming through the system's menu-driven scheme or by directly accessing a specific channel by its actual number. The menu-driven scheme provides the subscriber with one-step access to all major menus, ranging from hit movies to specialty programs. From any of the major menus, the subscriber can in turn access submenus and minor menus by alpha character access. By using menu-driven, iconic or alpha-character access, the subscriber can access desired programs by simply pressing a single button rather than recalling from memory and pressing the actual channel number to make a selection. The subscriber can access regular broadcast and basic cable television stations by using either the numeric keys on the remote control and pressing the corresponding channel number, or one of the menu icon selection options.
  • It is an object of the invention to provide a user friendly interface for subscribers to access television programs.
  • It is an object of the invention to efficiently package and deliver television programs to subscriber homes.
  • It is an object of the invention to allow users to easily navigate through hundreds of programming choices using on-screen menus.
  • It is an object of this invention to allow subscribers to select a program from among hundreds of choices without a television viewing guide.
  • It is an object of this invention to efficiently utilize digital compression techniques to deliver hundreds of television program options to subscribers' homes.
  • It is an object of this invention to provide pay-per-view type program access in the same system as specialty channel and broadcast television access.
  • It is an object of this invention to allow users to subscribe on-screen to specialty channels.
  • It is an object of this invention to provide centralized national system of program packaging and delivery for cable television.
  • It is an object of this system to provide a centralized program packaging and delivery system with the capability for incorporating local availability of program and advertising time.
  • It is an object of this invention to monitor subscriber viewing choices for statistical purposes.
  • It is an object of this invention to provide on-screen billing information to subscribers.
  • It is an object of this invention to provide sophisticated on-screen television menus which can incorporate still video and moving video.
  • It is an object of this invention to provide a system capable of advertising products and services with on-screen television menus.
  • It is an object of this invention to provide a user friendly system capable of offering High Definition Television (HDTV) programs.
  • It is an object of this invention to provide a user friendly system capable of offering interactive television services.
  • It is an object of this invention to provide a user friendly cable system capable of supplying both television programming and digital audio programming.
  • It is an object of this invention to provide a system which offers HDTV, interactive services, and digital audio programming.
  • It is an object of its invention to provide a more compelling way for cable operators to promote not only their pay per view options, but also to promote their current offerings of cable service through menu and screen generation for local, customized programming of menu screens.
  • It is an object of this invention to allow subscribers to access digitally compressed audio channels with the same decompression system used for their television.
  • These and other objects and advantages of the invention will become obvious to those skilled in the art upon review of the following description, the attached drawings and appended claims.
  • DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a schematic of the overall system design.
  • FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a schematic of the primary components of the invention.
  • FIG. 3 a. FIG. 3 a is a diagram of the bandwidth allocation for a 750 mHz system.
  • FIG. 3 b. FIG. 3 b is a diagram/chart of the compressed channel allocation for the system.
  • FIG. 3 c. FIG. 3 c is a diagram showing how three cable television systems with different bandwidths may use the program delivery system of the present invention simultaneously.
  • FIG. 3 d. FIG. 3 d is a diagram showing three different cable headend systems, each system receiving the entire satellite signal and stripping those parts of the signal which cannot be handled by the local cable system.
  • FIG. 3 e. FIG. 3 e is a diagram showing dynamic change in bandwidth allocation from a typical week day prime time signal.
  • FIG. 4 a. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the Operations Center and Master Control Site.
  • FIG. 4 b. FIG. 4 b is a block diagram of the computer assisted packaging shown in FIG. 4 a.
  • FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a flow chart of the processing occurring at the Operations Center.
  • FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a chart of the program control information carried by the program control information signal.
  • FIG. 7 a. FIG. 7 a is a block diagram of the internals of the set top terminal.
  • FIG. 7 b. FIG. 7 b is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of the internals of the set top terminal.
  • FIG. 8 a. FIG. 8 a is a perspective front view of a set top terminal.
  • FIG. 8 b. FIG. 8 b is a perspective rear view of a set top terminal.
  • FIG. 9 a. FIG. 9 a is a schematic of a basic decompression box and upgrade module, with the associated connections.
  • FIG. 9 b. FIG. 9 b is a schematic of an alternative embodiment of a simple decompression unit and upgrade module, with associated connections.
  • FIG. 10 a. FIG. 10 a is a drawing of storage for on-screen menu templates stored in graphics memory of the set top terminal.
  • FIG. 10 b. FIG. 10 b is a drawing showing the hierarchical storage of graphics memory for the set top terminal.
  • FIG. 10 c. FIG. 10 c is a drawing of a flow chart showing the steps required for the microprocessor to retrieve, combine and display a menu.
  • FIG. 10 d. FIG. 10 d is a drawing of a flow chart showing the steps required for the microprocessor to sequence program menus.
  • FIG. 11 a. FIG. 11 a is a schematic showing the two parts of a remote control unit.
  • FIG. 11 b. FIG. 11 b is a drawing of the complete remote control derived from FIG. 11 a.
  • FIG. 12 a. FIG. 12 a is a color photograph showing a perspective view of the preferred remote control unit of the present invention.
  • FIG. 12 b. FIG. 12 b is another drawing of the preferred remote control unit shown in FIG. 12 a.
  • FIG. 13. FIG. 13 is a flow chart of the progression of primary menus in the menu driven system of the set-top terminal.
  • FIG. 14 a. FIG. 14 a is a drawing of the basic menus used in the present invention, including the ten major menus represented by icons.
  • FIG. 14 b. FIG. 14 b is a drawing of the basic menus used in the present invention, in addition to FIG. 14 a.
  • FIGS. 15 a-15 b. FIGS. 15 a-15 b are drawings of introductory menus.
  • FIGS. 16 a-16 d. FIGS. 16 a-16 d are drawings of home menus.
  • FIG. 17. FIG. 17 is a drawing of an alternative of a home menu.
  • FIGS. 18 a-18 g. FIGS. 18 a-18 g are drawings of major menus.
  • FIGS. 19 a-19 b. FIGS. 19 a-19 b are drawings of hit movie description menus.
  • FIGS. 20 a-20 b. FIGS. 20 a-20 b are drawings of hit movie confirmation submenus.
  • FIGS. 21 a-21 b. FIGS. 21 a-21 b are drawings of hit movie notification submenus.
  • FIG. 22 a. FIG. 22 a is a drawing of a hit movie escape during program menu.
  • FIG. 22 b. FIG. 22 b is a drawing of a hit movie during program hidden menu.
  • FIG. 22 c. FIG. 22 c is a drawing of a hit movie re-entry submenu.
  • FIG. 23. FIG. 23 is a drawing of a movie library major menu.
  • FIG. 24. FIG. 24 is a drawing of a hit movie description menu.
  • FIG. 25. FIG. 25 is a drawing of a movie library confirmation submenu.
  • FIGS. 26 a-26 b. FIGS. 26 a-26 b are drawings of major menus.
  • FIGS. 27 a-27 b. FIGS. 27 a-27 b are drawings of submenus for the major menus shown in FIGS. 26 a-26 b.
  • FIGS. 28 a-28 b,
  • FIGS. 29 a-29 c. FIGS. 29 a-28 b and FIGS. 29 a-29 c are drawings showing examples of submenus for the menus shown in FIGS. 27 a-27 b.
  • FIG. 30. FIG. 30 is a drawing of a specialty channel major menu.
  • FIGS. 31-34. FIGS. 31-34 are drawings of submenus related to FIG. 30.
  • FIG. 35. FIG. 35 is a drawing of a magazine channel major menu.
  • FIGS. 36-38. FIGS. 36-38 are drawings of submenus related to FIG. 35.
  • FIG. 39. FIG. 39 is a drawing of a documentary/news major menu.
  • FIGS. 40-42. FIGS. 40-42 are drawings of submenus related to FIG. 39.
  • FIG. 43. FIG. 43 is a drawing of an entertainment choice major menu.
  • FIG. 44. FIG. 44 is a drawing of a submenu related to FIG. 43.
  • FIG. 45. FIG. 45 is a drawing of a children's programs major menu.
  • FIG. 46. FIG. 46 is a drawing of a program description submenu related to FIG. 45.
  • FIG. 47. FIG. 47 is a drawing of a sports major menu.
  • FIGS. 48, FIGS. 49 a-49 d. FIGS. 48 and 49 a-49 d are drawings of submenus related to FIG. 47.
  • FIGS. 50 a-50 b. FIGS. 50 a-50 b are drawings of menus related to high definition television programming.
  • FIGS. 51 a-51 f. FIGS. 51 a-51 f are drawings of menus related to program guide services.
  • FIGS. 51 g-51 h. FIGS. 51 g-51 h are drawings of broadcast television menus.
  • FIGS. 51 i-51 k. FIGS. 51 i-51 k are drawings of mood question menus.
  • FIGS. 52 a-52 c. FIGS. 52 a-52 c are drawings of interactive television promotional menus, for Levels A.
  • FIGS. 52 d-52 j. FIGS. 52 d-52 j are drawings of submenus for interactive television services, Level A.
  • FIGS. 53 a-53 l. FIGS. 53 a-53 l are drawings of interactive services, Level B, particularly related to on-screen airline reservations.
  • FIGS. 54 a-54 e. FIGS. 54 a-54 e are drawings of menus for digital audio services.
  • FIGS. 55 a-55 g. FIGS. 55 a-55 g are drawings of the various overlaying screens necessary for creating a hit movie major menu.
  • FIGS. 56 a-56 g. FIGS. 56 a-56 g are drawings of the various overlaying screens necessary for creating a hit movie description submenu.
  • FIGS. 57 a-57 b. FIGS. 57 a-57 b are drawings showing use of split screen techniques.
  • FIGS. 58 a-58 b, FIGS. 59 a-59 b. FIGS. 58 a-58 b and 59 a-59 b are drawings of monthly account menus.
  • FIG. 60. FIG. 60 is a drawing of the statistical and billing system used in the present invention.
  • FIGS. 61-98. FIGS. 61-98 are color photographs of many of the menus presented in the preceding Figures.
  • FIG. 99. FIG. 99 is a color photograph showing an enlargement of the cursor movement buttons and the “go” button to activate each menu.
  • FIGS. 100-134. FIGS. 100-134 are color photographs of many of the menus presented in the preceding Figures.
  • DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
  • FIG. 1 shows an overview of the cable television menu driven program delivery system 200. The Operations Center 202 is shown receiving external programming signals which correspond to particular programming categories that are available for a subscriber's viewing. These external signals may be in analog or digital form and may be received via landline, microwave transmission, or satellite. Some of these external signals may be transmitted from the program source to the Operations Center 202 in compressed digital format or other nonstandard digital formats. These external signals are received and packaged along with programming that is stored at the Operations Center 202 (not shown here).
  • Examples of external program sources 204 shown in FIG. 1 are: Sporting events, children's programs, documentaries, high definition TV sources, specialty channels, interactive services, weather, news, and other nonfiction or entertainment. Any source that can provide either audio or video or both may be utilized to provide programming to the Operations Center 202.
  • After packaging, the packaged television program signal is prepared for satellite transmission 206 and sent from the Operations Center 202 to the cable headend 208 via satellite transmission 206. Depending on the specific embodiment, the television program signal may need to be compressed, combined/multiplexed, encoded, mapped, modulated, upconverted and amplified. This system, which is intended to be compatible with existing C and Ku Band satellite transmission 206 technologies, accepts video, audio and data signals ranging in signal quality, and input from a number of sources.
  • Upon receipt of the programming signal at the cable headend 208, the signal is again treated if necessary and sent into a concatenated cable system to the subscriber's home. The signal reaches the subscriber's home in a compressed format and must be decompressed prior to viewing. Included in the delivered program signal is information which enables equipment at the subscriber's home to display menus for choosing particular programs. Depending on the particular embodiment, the television program signal may arrive at the subscriber's home via one or more coaxial cables, fiber cables, twisted pairs, cellular telephone connections, or personal communications network (PCN) hookups.
  • This connection between the subscriber's home and the cable headend 208 allows for two-way communications. Utilizing this two-way communications, the cable headend 208 receives information about a subscriber's account, billing, and programs viewed. Also, the cable headend 208 is capable of sending computer data or computer software information to the subscriber's home.
  • As shown in FIG. 1, an analog cable TV system 210 can continue to exist alongside and within the digitally compressed system of the present invention. The digital transmissions do not effect the analog system. In fact, the analog cable signal may be transmitted simultaneously on the same cable as the digital signal. The cable headends may continue to supply subscribers with local channels in an analog signal format.
  • FIG. 2 shows a more detailed overview of the operation of the present invention. The Operations Center 202 shown performs program packaging and delivery control. In the preferred embodiment, the packaged program signal will be treated at a master control uplink site 211 prior to being transmitted to the satellite 206. Various satellite multi-accessing schemes and architectures can be used with the system, including both single channel per transponder time division multiplex (TDM) and multiple channel per transponder single channel per carrier (SCPC). Time division multiplexing is the more desirable scheme. The signal is transmitted from the satellite 206 to the cable headend 208 where a computer system including a digital switch treats the signal and delivers it through cables to a subscriber's home. In alternate embodiments, multiple Operations Center 202 and multiple uplink sites can be simultaneously utilized.
  • In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, two cables 216 are used between the cable headend 208 and the subscriber's home. In this particular embodiment, analog signals, digitally compressed signals, other digital signals and up-stream/interactivity signals are sent and received over the two cables 216.
  • The cable headend 208 receives the digitally compressed and multiplexed signal from the satellite 206 and processes the signal for further distribution to the subscriber homes. The cable headend 208 performs two primary functions in the cable delivery system. It will act as a signal processor 212 and distribution center for routing the digitally compressed signals to subscribers and it will act as a network controller 214 receiving information from subscribers and passing the information on to the Operations Center 202 or other remote sites (such as regional, statistical and billing sites not shown). In order to perform these two functions, the cable headend 208 of the preferred embodiment is equipped with two computer processors working in unison. Use of two processors performing different functions increases the speed and capability of the cable headend 208 without a significant increase in cost. One processor, the signal processor 212, handles the receiving and processing of the satellite 206 signal for distribution to subscribers. The second processor acts as a network controller 214 and monitors activity of the subscriber's set top terminal 220. The cable headend 208 can be operated by one CPU or a series of CPU's which perform the signal processing and network control functions.
  • The signal processor 212 will treat the signal as necessary for use by the subscriber's set top terminal 220. In the simplest embodiment, the amount of processing that is necessary by the signal processor 212 is limited to demultiplexing and frequency allocation. However, in alternative embodiments, the signal processor 212 demultiplexes the signal, allocates frequencies and then re-multiplexes the signal using a different multiplexing scheme prior to the signal's distribution to the subscriber. In addition, for embodiments in which the control of local availability time is desired at the cable headend 208, the signal processor 212 must be capable of compressing and adding additional signals to the satellite 206 signal. In order to incorporate local programming, the signal processor 212 would demultiplex the satellite 206 signal, compress the local programming, combine the compressed local program with the satellite 206 signal and then multiplex the signal prior to delivery to the subscriber terminals. Most of the activities necessary for incorporating local programming will be automatically performed by the signal processor 212. In the preferred embodiment, the signal processor 212 incorporates all the necessary digital switching capability to serve numerous subscribers.
  • Signals received by the cable headend 208 must be decompressed before transmission from headend to subscriber location only when the compression algorithm used for the cable system differs from the one used for satellite transmission 206. This difference may result from different bandwidth constraints between the cable transmission media and the satellite 206 transponder. Such a difference would necessitate the use of separate compression algorithms to maintain desired signal quality and throughput over both of the transmission mediums.
  • System control is performed by the network controller 214. The primary task of the network controller 214 at the cable headend 208 is to manage the configuration of the set top terminals, which includes receiving and processing signals from the set top terminal units. The network controller 214 must also monitor selections at subscribers' homes, maintain accurate account and billing information, authorize subscriber channel access, and authorize particular set top terminals to operate in the system. Information required to operate the network will be stored in memory (either in RAM, ROM, magnetic or optical Read/Write) at the cable headend 208 and also in memory (RAM and/or ROM) within each subscriber's set top terminal 220. Two-way communications between the network controller 214 and set top terminal 220 will occur over cable lines. Interactive television programming can be accommodated through the network controller 214. In addition, the network controller 214 will be able to access set top terminals via phone lines for trouble shooting, special features or sophisticated reprogramming.
  • The network controller 214 regularly polls each set top terminal 220 to acquire needed information to operate the system. The network controller 214 sends signals to set top terminals to authorize their operation and to authorize access to specific channels. If a subscriber has failed to pay a recent bill, the network controller 214 can deauthorize the subscriber's set top terminal 220. When a subscriber orders a program or channel the network controller 214 checks the subscriber's account for good standing and then authorizes the access by signaling the set top terminal 220.
  • To perform its functions, the network controller 214 must work closely with the signal processor 212. In many instances the program control information signal received from the Operations Center 202 must be modified prior to being sent to the set top terminals. These modifications to the program control information are made by the network controller 214 working in conjunction with the signal processor 212 to send a set top terminal 220 control information stream (STTCIS). From the signal processor 212, the network controller 214 receives the program control information signal which includes cable franchise specific information added by the Operations Center 202. The network controller 214 modifies the program control information signal, if necessary, and communicates the new information to the signal processor 212. The signal processor 212 then forwards the information to the set top terminal 220 in the form of the STTCIS. In most instances the network controller 214 will modify the program control information signal by adding additional information. In a simple embodiment the program control information signal can be passed through the cable headend 208 to the set top terminal 220 without any modifications.
  • Although the signal processor 212 will handle the addition of simple local availabilities (e.g. local advertisements) into the signal sent to the set top terminal 220, the network controller 214 will handle any of the more sophisticated local programming needs such as interactive programming and certain data services. The network controller 214 will receive any electronic signals sent by the set top terminal 220 including those in response to interactive service requests and some data service requests. The network controller 214 coordinates the necessary switching and access to allow the subscriber to enjoy these services.
  • The network controller 214 has the capability of performing “on the fly programming” changes, assisting in masking portions of subscriber's television screens (split screen video), assist in selecting different audio signals for the same video (foreign languages), assist in interactive features, create tiered programming, etc. For last minute changes to programming (such as for a local emergency or important regional events), an operator using the network controller 214 can modify the program control information signal “on the fly” and change menus available to the subscriber. This accommodates short notice changes to program packaging that can not be provided to the Operations Center 202 in advance. In order to accommodate split screen techniques for promo and demo video (which will be described later), those undesired video portions of the screen must be masked. The network controller 214 can send the necessary control information to inform the set top terminal 220 to mask portions of a specific channel's video. For example, a video channel with a split screen showing four separate videos would require a ¾ mask to focus the viewer on the featured video clip.
  • Tiered programming allows different users to view different video even though they are “tuned” to the same channel. For example, the network controller 214 may know the demographics of its subscriber's through a database, by “learning” from prior subscriber choices, from an interactive selection, or from other means. Using the demographics information, the network controller 214 may target commercials to the correct audience by showing different commercials to subscriber's with different demographics. Even though subscriber's will believe they are “tuned” to one channel, they will be switched to a different channel for the tiered video. Alternatively, the subscriber's may be offered an option of several commercials from which to choose.
  • To accommodate foreign speaking subscribers, multiple audio channels for television programming may be provided. The subscriber may be shown menus of programs available in his native language. The function of choosing the correct audio to correspond to the selected language may be handled by either the set top terminal 220 or the network controller 214 depending upon the configuration. Local programming in several languages or additional audio channels for a foreign language translation of a popular television program may be provided by the network controller 214. Using a picture-on-picture feature, sign language may be similarly made available to certain set top terminals for the deaf. Also, a text overlay may be easily produced on the lower part of the screen for the deaf.
  • In the more sophisticated and expensive embodiments, the network controller 214 can act as a central computer and provide intra-set top terminal interactive games, inter-set top terminal interactive games, computer bulletin board type services, message services (Electronic mail) etc. For example, a subscriber may play war games with six of his (anonymous) fellow subscribers each in their own home each operating a separate tank. The network controller 214 gathers the players via set top terminal communications and acts as the referee. A bulletin board or message system can be set up to discuss a particular program such as “Twin Peaks Whodunit” for enthusiasts. These interactive features are further described below with the interactive services level B menu and the set top terminal hardware upgrade level B interactive unit.
  • Also shown in FIG. 2 is the set top terminal 220 that receives the signals from the cable headend 208 and manipulates them for the subscriber. The set top terminal 220 is equipped with local computer memory and the capability of interpreting the digitally compressed signal to produce menus for the subscriber. Although the set top terminal 220 is shown on top of the subscriber's television 222, it may be placed anywhere in the subscriber's home that is accessible by the remote control. The remote control communicates the subscriber's selections to the set top terminal 220. The subscriber's selections are generally based upon menus or other prompts displayed on the television screen. A typical menu is shown in FIG. 2 on the television screen.
  • One of the achievements of the present invention is effective utilization of digital compression technology by packaging television programs into categories that allow easy access to television programs by consumers. With current digital compression techniques for video, the typical 50-channel capacity cable satellite receiving system can be increased to 300 channels. Presently, one transponder is used for each satellite delivered channel. The preferred embodiment uses 18 satellite transponders and compression ratios of 4/1 to 8/1 to achieve a capacity of 136 satellite delivered channels. More transponders or higher compression ratios can be used to deliver up to the channel capacity of any existing cable system.
  • Typical program packaging and delivery first involves the digitizing of the video signals. This is then followed by one of a variety of digital compression techniques that are available. Following compression the channels must be multiplexed and sent to the satellite 206 dish that will provide the uplink. A variety of multiplexing schemes may be used in the system. In some situations, it may be advantageous to use different multiplexing schemes in different parts of the overall system. In other words, one multiplexing scheme may be used for satellite transmission 206 and a second remultiplexing scheme for the land transmission.
  • Once the signal has arrived at the uplink or master control site, it must be modulated, upconverted, and amplified. Various types of satellites and transponders capable of handling digital signals may be used in this cable television packaging and delivery system. An example of a digital satellite that may be used is the AT&T Telstar 303.
  • In order to achieve the required throughput of video and audio information for the system, digital compression techniques for video are employed. A television signal is first digitized. The object of digitization is two-fold: First, in the case of an analog signal, like a television picture, digitization allows the signal to be converted from a wave-form into a digital binary format. Secondly, standard digital formats are designed to have the resulting pictures or video stills take up less space on their respective storage mediums. Essentially, standard digital formats define methods of compression.
  • A video screen is divided into picture elements known as pixels. Images define one pixel at a time are referred to as “bit-mapped” images. Most compression techniques take the bit-mapped images and convert them into a series of mathematical algorithms both to reduce storage space and to allow for the mathematical manipulation of images that is often not possible with analog formats. This is possible because many images have pixels that repeat themselves. For example, a photograph of a blue, cloudless sky will have a great number of “repeating” picture elements. This redundancy can be represented with great precision by mathematical formulas. Finally, once images have digitized, the standard digitized formats also include techniques required to re-render the images into their final form, either fully bit-mapped or into an analog wave-form. There are three basic digital compression techniques: within-frame (intraframe), frame-to-frame (interframe), and within-carrier. Intraframe compression processes each frame in a television picture to contain fewer visual details and, therefore, the picture contains fewer digital bits. For example, information on blocks of pixels is sent rather than individual digitized pixels themselves. A six by six block of pixels contains thirty-six pixels. Each pixel can be defined by an eight-bit word. Therefore, a six by six block of pixels equals two hundred eighty-eight bits. If the information on the block rather than the individual pixels themselves, is transmitted, this reduces the amount of information transmitted. Blocks of various sizes may be used as is known by those skilled in the art.
  • Interframe compression transmits only changes between frames, thus omitting elements repeated in successive frames. Motion prediction technology and motion detection technology are necessary to determine what portions of a changing picture may be compressed. Therefore, if a block does not vary between several frames, the block is transmitted once, and repeated at the receive site for successive frames.
  • Within-carrier compression allows the compression ratio to dynamically vary depending upon the amount of changes between frames. If a large number of changes occur between frames, the compression ratio drops from, for example, sixteen-to-one to eight-to-one. If action is intense, the compression ratio may dip to four to one.
  • Various compression methods are used for the above techniques. In vector quantization, a block is compared to a library of standard blocks and a best fit comparison is made between the two. Each block in the library has a corresponding sixteen bit code. Only this code is transmitted to represent the block, rather than the actual block of pixels itself. Therefore, a two hundred eighty-eight bit block of pixels is converted into a sixteen bit code resulting in a compression ratio of: 288 bits/16 bits=18. The converse process is performed at the receive site to convert the sixteen bit codes into two hundred eighty-eight bit blocks for reproduction on a television receiver. Other types of compression are known to those skilled in the art, including, for example, discrete cosine transform (“DCT”).
  • Several standard digital formats representing both digitizing standards and compression standards have been developed. For example, JPEG (joint photographic experts group) is a standard for single picture digitization. Motion picture digitization may be represented by standards such as MPEG or MPEG2 (motion picture engineering group specification). Other proprietary standards have been developed in addition to these. Although MPEG and MPEG2 for motion pictures are preferred in the present invention, any reliable digital format with compression may be used with the present invention.
  • Various hybrids of the above compression techniques have been developed by several companies including AT&T, Compression Labs, Inc., General Instrument, Scientific-Atlanta, Philips, and Zenith. As is known by those skilled in the art, any of the compression techniques developed by these companies, and other known techniques, may be used with the present invention.
  • FIG. 3 a shows effective allocation of 750 mHz of bandwidth for television programming. In FIG. 3 a bandwidth is allocated for both analog and digitally compressed signals. In the preferred embodiment, the bandwidth is divided so that each category of program receives a portion of the bandwidth. These categories correspond with major menus of the user interface software. The representative categories shown in FIG. 3 a include: (1) high definition TV made possible through the use of compression technology, (2) A La Carte Channel category which provides specialty channels for subscription periods such as monthly, and (3) pay-per-view.
  • FIG. 3 b shows a chart of compressed channel allocation for a variety of programming categories that have been found to be desirable to subscribers. By grouping similar shows or a series of shows into blocks of channels, the system is able to more conveniently display similar programming with on-screen television menus. For example, in the movie category, which has the greatest allocation of channels, the same movie may be shown continuously and simultaneously on different channels. Each channel starts the movie at a different time allowing the subscriber to choose a more suitable movie starting time.
  • In order to accommodate cable TV systems that have different bandwidths and channel capacities, the television programming and television program control information may-be divided into parts such as priority one, two, three. The large bandwidth cable TV systems can accommodate all the parts of the television programming and all parts of the television programming control information. Those cable TV systems with a more limited bandwidth are able to use the program delivery system 200 by only accepting the number of parts that the cable system can handle within its bandwidth.
  • For instance, as is shown in FIG. 3 c, three cable television systems with different bandwidths may use the program delivery system 200 simultaneously with each system accepting only those parts of the information sent which it is capable of handling. Priority one television programming and menus 230 are accepted by all three systems. Priority two television programming and menus 233 are not accepted by the cable television system whose capacity is the smallest or in this case 330 mHz (40 channels) system. Priority two television programming and menus 233 are accepted and used by the two larger capacity cable television systems shown. Priority three television programming and menus 236 are only used by the largest capacity television system which is capable of handling all three parts—Priority one, two and three programming and menu information.
  • With this division of television programming and menus, the program delivery system 200 may be utilized simultaneously by a variety of concatenated cable systems with varying system capacities. By placing the heavily watched or more profitable programming and menus in the Priority one division, both users and owners of the cable TV systems will be accommodated as best as possible within the limited bandwidth.
  • FIG. 3 d shows three different cable headend 208 systems, each system receiving the entire satellite signal from the Operations Center 202 and stripping those parts of the signal which cannot be handled by the local cable system due to bandwidth limitations. In this particular embodiment, the three local cable television systems shown have bandwidth limitations which correspond with the bandwidth limitations depicted in the previous FIG. 3 c. As the bandwidth decreases, the programming options available to the viewer in the exemplary on-screen menu decreases. Using this preferred embodiment, the Operations Center 202 is able to send one identical signal to the satellite 206 that is sent to all the cable headends. Each cable headend 208 accepts the entire signal and customizes the signal for the local cable system by stripping those portions of the Operations Center 202 signal that are unable to be handled by the local cable system. An alternate embodiment requires the Operations Center 202 to send different signals for reception by different capacity cable headends.
  • There are several ways in which the cable headend 208 may strip the unnecessary signal from the Operations Center 202. A person skilled in the art will derive many methods from the three examples discussed below. One simple method is for the cable headend 208 receiver to receive the entire signal and then manipulate the signal to strip away those unnecessary portions. A second method is for the signal to be sent in three portions with each portion having a separate header. The cable headend 208 would then recognize the headers and only receive those signals in which the proper header is identified. For the second method, the Operations Center 202 must divide the signal into three parts and send a separate header lead before each signal for each part.
  • The third and preferred method is for a set of transponders to be assigned to one priority level and each cable headend 208 to receive signals from the transponders corresponding to the proper priority level. For example, if there are three priority levels and 18 transponders, transponders one through nine may be assigned to priority level one, transponders ten through fourteen priority level two, and transponders fifteen through eighteen assigned to priority level three. Thus, a cable headend 208 capable of operating at priority level two only would only receive signals from transponders one through nine, and ten through fourteen.
  • In addition to dividing the television programming and menus into parts, the Operations Center 202 of the preferred embodiment is also capable of dynamically changing the bandwidth allocation for a particular category of programming. FIG. 3 e depicts this dynamic change in bandwidth allocation from a typical week day prime time 238 signal to a Saturday afternoon in October 240 (during the college football season). FIG. 3 e highlights the fact that the bandwidth allocated to sports is limited to eight selections during week day prime time 238 but is increased to sixteen selections during a Saturday afternoon in October 240. This dynamic increase in bandwidth allocation allows the system to accommodate changes in programming occurring on an hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, seasonal and annual basis.
  • In addition to dynamically allocating bandwidth for programming categories, the Operations Center 202 can also dynamically change the menu capacities in order to accommodate the change in programming and bandwidth. For example, on a Saturday afternoon in October 240, the major menu for sports may include a separate subcategory for college football. This subcategory would, in turn, have a separate submenu with a listing of four, six, eight, or more college football games available for viewing. In order to accommodate this dynamic menu change, the Operations Center 202 must add a submenu listing to the major sports menu, create a new or temporary submenu for college football, and allocate the necessary menu space on the college football submenu.
  • Once the television programs have been packaged and a program control information signal is generated to describe the various categories and programs available, the packaged programs are then digitized, compressed, and combined with the program control information signal. Upon the signal's departure from the Operations Center 202 the breakdown into categories is insignificant and the signal is treated like any other digitally compressed signal.
  • FIG. 4 a shows the basic operations that must occur in order for the packaged signal to be sent to the satellite 206. External digital and analog signals must be received from television programming sources and converted to a standard digital format 242, defined above for the computer assisted packaging equipment (CAP) 246. Also within the Operations Center 202, stored programs 244 must be accessed using banks of looping tape machines or other video storage/retrieval devices, either analog or digital, and converted to a standard digital format 242 prior to use by the CAP 246.
  • The programmer/packager utilizing the CAP 246 must input a variety of information in order to allow the CAP 246 to perform its function of generating program control information and packaging programs. Some of the information required by the CAP 246 are the date, time slots and program categories desired by the television programmer.
  • The CAP 246 system includes one or more CPUs and one or more programmer/packager consoles. In the preferred embodiment, each packager console includes one or more CRT screens, a keyboard, a mouse (or cursor movement), and standard video editing equipment. In large Operations Centers 202 s multiple packager consoles may be needed for the CAP 246.
  • As shown in FIG. 4 b, the first step in the operation of the CAP 246 is selecting the type of programming 248 which will be packaged. Basically there are 6 broad categories in which most television programming can be classified: static programming 250, interactive services 252, pay per view 254, live sports specials 256, mini pays 258, and data services. Static programs are programs which will show repetitively over a period of time such as a day or week. Static programs include movies showing repetitively on movie channels, children's programs, documentaries, news, entertainment.
  • Interactive services includes interactive programs using the Vertical Blanking Interval (VBI) or other data streams synchronized with the programming to communicate interactive features (such as those used in education), and games. Pay per view are programs which are individually ordered by the subscriber. After ordering, the subscriber is authorized to access the program for a limited time, (e.g. three hours, two days, etc.). Live sports specials are live events usually related to sports which subscribers are unlikely to watch on taped delay.
  • Mini pays are channels to which each set top box may subscribe. The subscriptions for mini pays 258 may be daily, weekly, or monthly. An example would be the Science Fiction channel. Data services are services in which information is interactively presented to the subscriber using a modem or other high rate of speed data transfer. Some examples are Prodigy, services for airline reservations, and TV guide services (e.g. TV Guide X*PRESS™, InSight™, etc.). Data could also include classified or other forms of advertising.
  • After selecting the type of programming, the packager must identify a pool of programs (within the category) to be packaged. The next CAP 246 step varies for different program categories. For the category of live sports, additional program interstitial elements 262 may be added such as promos and other sports news before further processing. For the live sports, static, interactive services 252 and pay per view 254 categories the following CAP 246 step is for one television program to be selected 264. This is followed by each program individually being assigned dates to be played or a start date (for continuous play) and start times 266. Many dates and start times may be assigned to any given program. The program information for these categories may then be processed for allocation of transponder space and setting of prices.
  • Mini pays and data services require less processing by the CAP 246. After identifying the mini pays 258, the CAP 246 may proceed to allocation of transponder space and pricing for the mini pays 258. Data services in the preferred embodiment generally do not require allocation of transponder space and generally do not require price setting. The information for data services 260 may be directly processed for menu configuration. In alternate embodiments the data services 260 may be processed through these portions of the CAP 246 program.
  • The CAP 246 then uses an interactive algorithm to allocate transponder space 268 and set prices 270. The factors weighed by the algorithm are: 1. buy rates of the program, 2. margin of profit on the program, 3. length of the program, 4. any contractual requirement which overrides other factors (such as requirement to run a specific football game live in its entirety). The information on buy rates of the program may be obtained from the Central Statistical and Billing Site or a Regional Statistical and Billing Site as will be described later. The CAP 246 must consider the priority levels of programming when allocating transponder space. Particularly, as in the preferred embodiment, transponders are assigned to three specific priority levels.
  • Following transponder allocation and price setting, the CAP 246 proceeds to menu configuration 272. The positioning of programs within the menu configuration 272 can have an effect on subscriber buy rates for the program. Therefore, an algorithm accounting for either a manually assigned program importance, or a calculated weight of the program importance, is used to determine each programs position within the menu scheme. For instance, a popular program with a high profit margin may be assigned a high weight of importance and shown in a prominent place in the menu scheme. Alternatively, a high profit program with sagging sales may be manually assigned a prominent place in the program schedule to increase sales.
  • After a series of entries by the programmer/packager at the Operations Center 202, the CAP 246 displays draft menus or schedules (including priority levels) for programming. The packager may now manipulate the menus and schedules and make changes as he feels necessary. After each change, the packager may again display the menus or schedules and determine if any more changes are necessary. When the packager is satisfied with the menu configuration 272 and scheduling of television programs, he may then instruct the CAP 246 to complete the process.
  • After menu configuration 272, the CAP 246 may begin the process of generating a program control information signal 274. In order to generate program control information signals which are specific to a particular cable headend 208 system, the CAP 246 incorporates cable franchise configuration information 276. In the preferred embodiment, basic cable franchise configuration information 276 is stored at the Operations Center 202. The cable franchises upload changes to their specific franchise information from time to time to the Operations Center 202 for storage. Preferably a separate CPU handles the management of the cable franchise information. From the stored cable franchise information, the CAP 246 generates a cable franchise control information signal which is unique to each franchise.
  • Using the unique cable franchise control information signals 278 and the menu configuration 272 information, the CAP 246 generates the program control information signal 274. The program control information that is unique to a particular cable franchise may be identified in various ways such as with a header. With the header identification, the cable headend 208 may extract the portions of the program control information signal which it needs. Now, the CAP 246 may complete its process by electronically packaging the programs into groupings 280 for the signal transmission and adding the program control information to the packaged programs 282 to form a single signal for transmission. Through manual entries by the packager or by comparing against a list of programs, the CAP 246 will determine whether the programs are arriving from external sources 204 or sources internal to the Operations Center 202.
  • Upon completion of the CAP's functions, the Operations Center 202 or the uplink site compresses 284, multiplexes 286, amplifies 288 and modulates 290 the signal for satellite transmission 292. In a basic embodiment, the CAP 246 will also allow entry of time slots for local avails where no national programming will occur.
  • FIG. 5 is a more detailed flow chart of some of the functions performed by the CAP 246 after an initial program schedule has been entered and menu configurations generated. The flow chart 300 shows six basic functions that are performed by the CAP 246: (1) editing program schedule for local availability 304 (only for non-standard services, i.e. those services that are not national cable services); (2) generating program control information signals 307; (3) processing external programs 310; (4) processing internal programs 320; (5) processing live feeds 330; and, (6) packaging of program information 340. In an alternate embodiment, the CAP 246 is capable of incorporating local programs and accommodating local availability for local television stations.
  • Following completion of the programming scheduling (accounting for local availability if necessary) and menu generation 304, the CAP 246 may perform three tasks simultaneously, generating program information signals 307, processing external programs 310 and processing internal programs 320.
  • The CAP 246 automatically identifies external programs needed 312 and identifies which external feed to request the external program 314. The CAP 246 gathers and receives the external programming information and converts it to a standard digital format 316 for use. The CAP 246 also identifies internal programs 322, accesses the internal programs 324, and converts them to a standard digital format if necessary 326. In addition, the CAP 246 identifies live signal feeds 333 that will be necessary to complete the packaged programming signal 336. In its final task, the CAP 246 completes the packaging of the programs, combines the packaged program signal with the program control information signal, amplifies the signal and sends it out for further processing prior to uplink.
  • In the preferred embodiment, the Operations Center 202 and uplink or master control site are collocated. However, the Operations Center 202 and uplink site may be located in different geographical places. Also, functions and equipment within the Operations Center 202 may be remotely located. For instance, the program storage may be at a different site and the programs may be sent to the CAP 246 via landline.
  • In alternate embodiments using multiple Operations Centers, it is preferred that one Operation Center be designated the Master Operations Center and all other Operations Centers be Slave Operations Centers. The Master Operations Center performs the functions of managing and coordinating the Slave Operations Centers. Depending on the method in which the Slave Operations Centers share functions, the Master Operations Center coordination function may involve synchronization of simultaneous transmissions from multiple Slave Operations Centers. To perform its functions, the Master Operations Center may include a system dock for synchronization.
  • An efficient method of dividing tasks among Operations Centers is to assign specific satellite transponders to each Operations Center 202 and to assign external program sources 204 to the nearest Operations Center. Of course this division of resources may not always be possible. Since programming will be grouped into priority levels with each priority level likely to be assigned specific satellite transponders, it is also possible to assign each Operations Center to a priority level. For example, in a three priority level system with two Slave Operations Centers and 18 transponders, the Master Operations Center may be assigned priority level 1 and assigned 9 transponders. Slave Operations Center A may be assigned priority level 2 and 5 transponders, while Slave Operations Center B is assigned priority level 3 and 4 transponders. In a multiple Operations Center configuration dynamic bandwidth allocation and dynamic menu capacity allocation become more complex and must be coordinated by the Master Operations Center.
  • Similar to multiple Operations Centers, a delivery system may have multiple satellite uplinks. Preferably each Operations Center has one or more uplink sites. Each Operations Center controls the functions of its assigned uplink sites and may assign one site as a master uplink site.
  • The program control information signal generated by the Operations Center provides data on the scheduling and description of programs to the network controller 214 or in an alternate configuration directly to the set top terminal 220 for display to the subscriber. In the preferred embodiment, the program control information signal is stored and modified by the network controller 214 and sent to the set top terminal 220 in the form of a set top terminal control information stream (STTCIS). This configuration is required to accommodate differences in individual cable systems and possible differences in set top terminal devices. The set top terminal 220 integrates either the program control signal or the set top terminal control information stream together with data stored in the memory of the set top terminal 220, to generate on-screen displays for assisting the subscriber in choosing the programs he wishes to view. (Throughout the description the term “program control information” is being used to indicate control information coming from the cable headend 208 to the set top terminal 220, whether it is sent directly from the Operations Center, processed by the Network controller 214 and then forwarded to the set top box (STTCIS), or transmitted over telephone lines.)
  • The types of information that can be sent via the program control signal include: number of program categories, names of program categories, what channels are assigned to a specific category (such as specialty channels), names of channels, names of programs on each channel, program start times, length of programs, description of programs, menu assignment for each program, pricing, whether there is a sample video clip for advertisement for the program, and any other program, menu or product information.
  • The goal of the menu driven program selection system is to allow the subscriber to choose a program by touring through a series of menus utilizing a remote control for cursor movement. The final choice in the series of menus will identify one particular channel and one time for activation of that channel. Armed with a channel and activation time the set top terminal 220 can display the selected program on the television for the viewer. To achieve this goal a simple embodiment assigns an intelligent alpha-numeric code to each program. This alpha-numeric code identifies the category of the program, the menu in which the program should be displayed, its transmission time(s), and the position on the menu that the program should be displayed.
  • In this simple embodiment, the program; control information, including these menu codes, is sent continuously from the Operations Center to the network controller 214, and ultimately to the set top terminal 220. For example, four hours worth of programming information can be sent via the program control information signal continuously in the format shown in FIG. 6.
  • FIG. 6 shows the basic information that is needed by the set top terminal 220. The program descriptions shown are coded abbreviations. For example, C for comedy, N for news, S for sports, A for cartoons, and TX for text. If there is a textual description for a program, such as a movie, the description may be given following that program's coded description or may be communicated following the four hours' worth of programming information. As is shown in the coded listing, program descriptions for programs greater than a half hour in length need not be repeated (each half hour). The video description code informs the set top terminal 220 of whether there is still or live video available to advertise the program.
  • For example, a sporting program may be assigned a code of B35-010194-1600-3.25-Michigan St. vs. USC. The letter B would assign the program to category B, sports. The second alpha-numeric character number 3 would assign the program to the third menu of the sports category. The third character of the code, number 5, assigns the program to the fifth program slot on the third menu. The next six characters, Jan. 1, 1994, represent the date. The following four characters, 1600 represent the start time which is followed by the length of the program and the program name. This entry represents a sports show, a college football game, which will be aired at 4:00 PM on New Years day 1994.
  • In the 12:30 Channel 1 entry of FIG. 6, two menu codes are shown. By allowing two menu codes, programs that may fit under two different category descriptions may be shown in both menus to the subscriber. With this minimal amount of information being communicated to the set top terminal 220 on a regular basis, the terminal is able to determine the proper menu location for each program and the proper time and channel to activate for the subscriber after his menu selection.
  • The program control information signal and STTCIS can be formatted in a variety of ways and the on-screen menus can be produced in many different ways. For instance, if the program control information signal carries no menu format information, the menu format for creating the menus can be fixed in ROM at the set-top terminal. This method allows the program control signal to carry less information but has the least flexibility since the menu formats can not be changed without physically swapping the ROM holding the menu format information. In the preferred embodiment, the menu format information is stored at the set top terminal 220 in temporary memory either in a RAM or EPROM. This configuration provides the desired flexibility in the menu format while still limiting the amount of information needed to be communicated via the program control information signal. New menu format information would be sent via the program control information signal or the STTCIS to the set top terminals each time there was a change to a menu.
  • In the simplest embodiment, the menus remain fixed and only the text changes. Thus, the program control information signal can be limited to primarily text and a text generator can be employed in the set top terminal 220. This simple embodiment keeps the cost of the set top terminal 220 low and limits the bandwidth necessary for the program control information. Another simple embodiment uses a separate channel full-time (large bandwidth) just for the menu information.
  • As will be described later, live video signals may be used in windows of certain menus. These video signals can be sent via the program control information signal, STTCIS, or can be taken off channels being transmitted simultaneously with the menu display. If the video signal is taken off a channel, less information needs to be sent via the program control information signal. However, this technique requires that separate decompression hardware be used for the program control information and the channel carrying the video. Separate decompressors for the video signals and program information signal allows for the greatest flexibility in the system and is therefore the preferred embodiment. A separate decompressor also assists in assuring that the switch from menus to television programming is smooth and without any significant time delay.
  • Live video for menus, promos or demos may be sent to the set top terminal 220 in several ways: a) on a dedicated channel, b) on a regular program channel and scaled to size, c) sent along with the program control information signal, etc. However, in the preferred embodiment, a great deal of short promos or demo video are sent using a split screen technique on a dedicated channel.
  • Using a split screen technique, any number of different video clips may be sent (e.g. 2,4,6,8). To show the video dip on a menu, the video must either be scaled and redirected to a video window on a menu screen or a masking methodology can be used. Masking involves playing the entire channel of video (all 2,4,6, or 8 split screens) in background and masking the unwanted video clip portions of the split screen by playing the menu in foreground and overlaying the unwanted background video. Masking is the least expensive method because it does not require any special hardware and it increases video throughput to the set top terminal 220. However, using the masking technique without any video redirecting causes each video clip to be located in a different position on the screen. It also requires the masking to be different for each video clip and makes consistent format difficult. Scaling and redirecting video is generally difficult, expensive and requires additional hardware.
  • In order to limit the amount of bandwidth needed to transmit the program control information signal, various compression techniques employed for non-video may be used such as block coding, contour coding, blob encoding, and run-length encoding. Further, the program control information signal may be divided into text and graphics, or video, text and graphics and then recombined at the set top terminal 220 using a text generator, graphics decompression, and video decompression as necessary.
  • FIG. 7 a shows a basic block diagram of a digital compression set top terminal 220. In some respects, the set top terminal 220 is similar to other converter boxes currently available and can include a variety of error detection, decryption 600 and coding techniques such as anti-taping encoding. The set-top terminal must also have a tuner 603, digital demodulator 606, and demultiplexers 609, 616 as well as audio equipment 612, 614. Also shown in FIG. 7 a is a remote control interface 626 for receiving and processing signals from remote control unit 900. A modem 627 is provided for allowing communication between a microprocessor 602 and the cable head end. NTSC encoder 625 provides an NTSC video output to be output as a standard television signal.
  • The microprocessor 602 is capable of executing program instructions stored in memory. These instructions allow a user to access various menus by making selections on the remote control 900. The various program instructions for accessing menus and performing other functions are described below.
  • The manner in which the video is decompressed and the menus are generated from the program control signal or STTCIS varies depending on the specific embodiment of the invention. However, at a minimum, one video decompressor capable of decompressing one video signal must be used. Basic menu format information may be stored in a graphics memory comprising ROM, non-volatile RAM, EPROM, and/or EEPROM 620. Video decompressors 618 and 622 may be used if the video is compressed, and additional equipment to generate menus may be included. In one embodiment, a separate decompressor 622 is used to process the program control information signal and a video combiner 624 incorporates video and menu graphic information. In the preferred embodiment, the program signal is sent with three primary parts, compressed video (or video location information), compressed graphics, and text. After the program signal is demultiplexed into its component parts, a video decompressor, a graphic decompressor, a text generator and a combiner are used to assist in creating the menus.
  • FIG. 7 b shows a basic block diagram of an alternative digital compression set top terminal 220. The same components shown in FIG. 7 a are repeated in FIG. 7 b, and given the same reference number (e.g., tuner 603, modem 617, NTSC encoder 625, etc.). FIG. 7 b also shows the addition of a smart card interface 617 to allow additional features to be included on a smart card insertable into the smart card interface 617. Error correction circuitry 607 is also shown receiving the demodulated signal, prior to demultiplexing the signal. Memory associated with the microprocessor 602, the demultiplexer 609, the decryptor 600, and the video decompressor 618 is shown in FIG. 7 b.
  • Box 700 in FIG. 7 b shows the elements of an upgrade module which is described below with respect to FIGS. 9 a and 9 b. The remaining circuitry in FIG. 7 b shows a basic decompression box 720, also described below.
  • The circuitry in box 700 includes a video, graphics and text demultiplexer 616, a text and graphics video plane combiner 624, a graphic decompressor 622 and a graphics memory 620. Graphics in memory 620 is preferably run-length compressed, however other methods of compressing graphics may be used as is known by those skilled in the art.
  • The generated menus and video are combined in the combiner 624 and output to an anti-taping encoder 619. Any method of anti-tapping encoding known by those skilled in the art may be used with the present invention.
  • FIGS. 8 a and 8 b show front and back views respectively for the preferred embodiment of the set top terminal 220. The front panel of the set top terminal 220 as shown in FIG. 8 a includes an infrared sensor 630 and a series of LED displays 640. These LED displays 640 preferably indicate with an icon or a letter (e.g. A-K) the major menu currently selected by the set top terminal 220. This visual display will remain lit while the subscriber is watching (or listening to) programming within a major menu. The LEDs 640 of the preferred embodiment also show the channels selected directly by a user, or menu channel selections which range from 1 to 50.
  • LEDs 640 are preferably provided to indicate a decompression error, a processing error, or other error. Text messages may alternatively be provided to more dearly indicate particular errors to servicemen or subscribers. These error indications aid in repairing or correcting any such errors in the set top terminal 220 or assist in programming the set top terminal 220. Further displays may include current channel, time, volume level, sleep time, parental lock (security), account balance, use of a hardware upgrade, second channel being recorded by VCR, use of the Level D music hardware upgrade in a separate room, and any other displays useful to a subscriber to indicate the current status of the set top terminal 220.
  • The LED's 640 may also provide an indication of the digital audio channel currently tuned. With this display feature, subscribers may use the digital audio feature without activating the television screen. The source of a signal and output selected (e.g., a subscriber's separate audio system, a VCR, etc.) may be displayed. Although LED's are preferred, the set top terminal 220 may also use a CRT, LCD's, or other display technology.
  • On the right front half of the set top terminal 220 there is a flapped opening 635 into a cavity that allows the insertion of a magnetic cartridge (or similar portable storage device, including optical disk, ROM, EPROM, etc.). This cartridge opening 635 allows the set top terminal 220 to be upgraded or reprogrammed locally with the use of a magnetic tape cartridge. Game cartridges may also be accepted through a similar flapped opening allowing the subscriber to play video games using the set top terminal 220.
  • On the top or cover of the set top terminal 220 are located pushbutton controls 645. In the preferred embodiment these pushbutton controls 645 duplicate the two-part alpha-iconic remote control that will be described later. Any function that can be performed on the remote may also be performed at the set top terminal 220 using the duplicative pushbutton controls 645.
  • FIG. 8 b provides a rear view of one embodiment of the set top terminal 220 including the input/output equipment of the terminal. Moving from left to right there are a pair of output terminals 650, a pair of input terminals 652, a pair of stereo/audio output terminals 654, a satellite dish input port 656, a telephone jack 658 and an RS422 port 660. Further to the right there is an upgrade port 662 and a cover plate 664 held in place by a series of sheet metal screws.
  • The set top terminal 220 has two outputs 650, one for a television and one for a VCR. Control signals may be transmitted through the VCR output to allow the VCR to be automatically controlled by the set top terminal 220. Certain program may be selected by a subscriber from menus, and the VCR will be automatically activated to record the selected program.
  • The set top terminal 220 is equipped to handle one or two cable inputs by way of inputs 652 for incoming signals. In addition, a phone jack 658 and RS242 or 422 port 660 are provided for maintenance, trouble shooting, reprogramming and additional customer features. In alternate embodiments, the telephone jack 658 may be used as the primary mode of communication between the cable headend 208 and the set top terminal 220. This connection is possible through the local telephone companies, cellular telephone companies or personal communications networks (PCN).
  • In an alternative configuration, in areas without cable services where subscribers use backyard satellite systems (TV RO) to receive packaged television services, the set top terminal 220 will include the appropriate hardware to allow connection to the satellite 206 reception equipment through port 656. In this configuration, the menu system within the set top terminal 220 will be programmed directly from the operations center. Additionally, an upstream communication mechanism must be in place at the subscriber's home (i.e. modem) to communicate information to the operations center.
  • In order to provide the greatest flexibility possible and prevent the set top terminal 220 from becoming outdated during the terminal's useful life, an additional electronic card slot or expansion slot has been built into the preferred embodiment. This expansion slot is covered by the metal plate cover 664 shown in FIG. 8 b. It is anticipated that additional memory or capabilities may be needed for certain customer features and also to update the system as the cable delivery system's capabilities increase. The expansion slot provides an easy method to upgrade the terminal hardware.
  • In the preferred embodiment, the set top terminal 220 includes a hardware upgrade port 662 as shown in FIG. 8 b, in addition to the expansion slots behind plate 664. The hardware upgrade port 662 should accommodate at least a four-wire connection for: (1) error corrected, decrypted data output of the set top terminal 220, (2) control interface, (3) decompressed video output of set top terminal 220, and (4) video input port. In the preferred embodiment multiple wires are used to perform each of the four functions. The four sets of wires are combined in a single cable with a single multipin connector. Port 662 may also be used to attach various hardware upgrades below to a set top terminal 220.
  • In the preferred embodiment, multipin connections may be used for the multiwire cable. The multipin connection 662 may range from DB9 to DB25. A SCSI, or small computer systems interface, port may also be provided. Alternatively, four or more ports may be provided instead of the single port depicted.
  • The preferred embodiment has four hardware upgrades available for a set top terminal 220: a Level B interactive unit, a Level C interactive unit with compact disc capability, a Level D digital radio tuner for separate room use, and a Level E information download unit. Each of these upgrades is connected to the set top terminal 220 unit via the same upgrade port 662 described earlier. The same four wires in a single cable described earlier may be used.
  • The Level B interactive unit will allow the user access to online data base services for applications such as home shopping, airline reservations, news, financial services, classified advertising, home banking, and interactive teletext services. For example, with this upgrade, a user will be able to reserve plane tickets or buy consumer electronics. The primary feature of this upgrade unit is that it allows actual transactions to occur requiring two way communications via modem with outside services. This added two way communications capability may be with the cable headend 208. Additionally, this two way communications may occur over cellular or PCN.
  • The Level C interactive unit will employ a high volume local storage capacity, including compact disc or other random access digital data formats. This unit will allow use of interactive multi-media applications. For example, computer games, multi-media educational software, encyclopedias, other reference volumes (e.g. Shakespeare library), etc. In the preferred embodiment, many of these applications will interact with live programming providing additional information and interactivity to the basic program feed. For example, a viewer watching a show set in a foreign country may be able to retrieve additional information, maps, economic data, etc. about that country that are stored on the compact disc. In the level C applications, the upgrade hardware may closely monitor the television broadcast via additional data channels (e.g. vertical blanking interval, or other digital data encoded within live video) providing context sensitive interactivity.
  • The Level D hardware upgrade, digital radio tuner, will allow the subscriber separate access to the digital radio channels while other programming (not necessarily radio) is being viewed on the television. Typically this upgrade would be used for digital radio usage in a separate room from that of the television. The upgrade has a separate tuner, decompressor, and visual display. In the preferred embodiment a second remote control (scaled down version) is provided to access the audio system.
  • The Level E hardware upgrade allows the subscriber to download large volumes of information from the operations center or cable headend 208. The Level E hardware upgrade will enable subscribers to download data such as books to local storage. Primarily the Level E hardware upgrade is additional local storage via hard disk, floppy, optical disk, magnetic cartridge etc. Preferably a small portable reader called “EveryBook™” is also provided with the upgrade to enable downloaded text to be read without the use of a TV.
  • The downloadable information may be text or video supplied by the operations center or cable headend 208. With this upgrade, books may be downloaded and read anywhere with the portable reader. Using this upgrade video may be downloaded and stored in compressed form for later decompression. The video would be decompressed only at the time of viewing. Important text that the public desires immediate access may made available through this system. Text such as the President's speech, a new law, or a recent abortion decision rendered by the Supreme Court may be made immediately available.
  • Using a more sophisticated port, especially the SCSI port, multiple hardware upgrade units may be connected, or “daisy-chained” together, to operate simultaneously.
  • FIG. 9 a shows sets of wires in a single cable connecting an upgrade module 700 and the simple decompression box 720 through a port similar to the hardware upgrade port 662. The simple decompression box 720 preferably is an industry standard decompression box capable of communicating with an upgrade module to enhance functionality. For example, a microprocessor in the simple decompression box 720 will be able to communicate with a microprocessor in an upgrade module 700.
  • Thus, as shown in FIG. 9 a, if this type of connection is built into a simple decompression box that does not have the full functionality of the set top terminal 220, an upgrade module unit 700 may be connected providing the simple decompression box 720 with the full functionality of a set top terminal 220. Subscribers who have purchased simple decompression boxes 720 may be given all the functions of a set top terminal 220 inexpensively.
  • In the preferred embodiment, multipin connections may be used for a multiwire cable connecting decompression box 720 with the upgrade module 700. The multipin connection may range from DB9 to DB25. A SCSI, or small computer systems interface, port may also be provided. Alternatively, four or more ports may be provided instead of the single port depicted.
  • The digital data set of output wires of the simple decompression box 720 will preferably output error corrected and decrypted data to the upgrade set top terminal 700. The second set of wires, the interface connection, allows the microprocessor in the upgrade module 700 to communicate to the microprocessor of the simple decompression box 720. In this manner, the video circuitry of the upgrade module 700 and the simple decompression box 720 may be synchronized. The third set of wires, the decompressed video output, can provide the upgrade module 700 with a decompressed video signal to manipulate. The fourth set of wires, video input set, allows the simple decompression box 720 to accept a video signal that is a combined text, graphics, and video signal.
  • Upgrade module 700 preferably includes at least the following circuitry: a video, graphics and text demultiplexer; a text and graphics video plane combiner; a run-length graphics decompressor; and, a run-length compressed graphics memory (non- volatile RAM, ROM, EPROM, or EEPROM). By means of communications through the multi wire connection between upgrade modules 700 and simple decompression box 720, compressed video and control signals may be demultiplexed by the demultiplexer within upgrade module 700. The run-length graphics decompressor, by communicating with the run-length compressed graphics RAM, permits decompression of the input compressed video signal. The text and graphics video plane combiner in upgrade module 700 allows the demultiplexed and decompressed signal to be output, through simple decompression box 720, to a subscriber's television with both video and overlay menus with text.
  • FIG. 9 a shows the CATV input 722, the video input 724, and the video and audio outputs 726, 728, as part of simple decompression box 720. This is the preferred embodiment because this will reduce the component cost of upgrade module 700. Upgrade module 700 could simply be a cartridge insertable into simple decompression box 720. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 9 b, the CATV input 722, the video input 724 and the video and audio outputs 726, 728 may be included as part of upgrade module 700.
  • The electronics of the set top terminal 220 must receive signals from the Cable headend 208 or Operations Center and separate the program control information from the packaged programs. After separation of the program control information, this signal may be used to generate program menus allowing the user to select specific television programs from within the packaged programs. After selection of a particular program, the set top terminal 220 will demultiplex and extract a single channel signal then decompress the appropriate channel signal to allow the user to watch his selected program. Although the set top terminal 220 can be equipped to decompress all the program signals, this adds unnecessary cost since the subscriber will view one channel at a time. Upon the occurrence of an error in this selection and decompression procedure, the set top terminal 220 LED display will warn the subscriber of an error.
  • During the normal functioning of the set top terminal 220 the LED display can be customized by the user to display the time, the program channel, VCR activation or other pertinent information. Although the set top terminals may be operated using the keyboards located on top of the set top terminal 220 box, it is expected that most subscribers will use the remote control.
  • Although the preferred embodiment decompresses one channel at a time for the viewer, users who desire to use the picture-on-picture capability of their televisions can be provided with an upgrade to the set top terminal 220 allowing two channels to be tuned and decompressed at any given time. Once two signals are available to the television the picture-on-picture capability may be utilized to its fullest potential. With the picture-on-picture capability available in the set top terminal 220, a special television is not required for picture-on-picture functionality.
  • In the preferred embodiment all of the customer features available on the set top terminal 220 will be controllable via on-screen menu displays. In this manner, the subscriber using a cursor may easily customize the programming of his set top terminal 220. The basic programming of each set top terminal 220 will be located on ROM within the set top terminal 220. Random access memory, the magnetic cartridge capability, and the extension card slot will each allow upgrades and changes to be easily made to the set top terminal 220.
  • In the preferred embodiment, the set top terminal 220 will include features that are now being adopted in the industry such as parental controls and locks, electronic diagnostics and error detection, mute, on-screen volume control, sleep timer, recall of last selection, etc. Each of these features has a corresponding menu that allows on-screen customizing and activation of the feature. The set top terminal 220 also includes a sophisticated favorite channel list and favorite program list.
  • In addition to all the features that the set top terminals supports with its current internal programming, additional features may be added or existing features upgraded through remote reprogramming of the set top terminal 220. Utilizing the resident operating system on the ROM, the cable head end is able to reprogram the random access memory of the set top terminal 220. With this capability the cable head end can remotely upgrade software on the set top terminals.
  • In the preferred embodiment, the cable head end will reprogram the menu format from time to time based upon special events or programming needs, such as Olympic telecasts, presidential elections, etc. This reprogramming will occur by using the program control information channel and sending the appropriate signals over this channel. In an alternative embodiment, one channel is dedicated for the special programming needs. When reprogramming is to occur, the cable head end will send an interruption sequence on the program control information channel that informs the set top terminal 220 that reprogramming information is to follow. Significant reprogramming of the set top terminals will occur infrequently. However, the changing of color or formats on menus occur more often. In alternative embodiments, color changes to menus may be accomplished via the program control information itself and does not require reprogramming from the cable head end.
  • In the preferred embodiment, the basic building blocks or templates of the on-screen menu displays will be stored on graphics memory consisting of no-volatile RAM, ROM, EPROM, or preferably, EEPROM, as shown as 620 in FIG. 10. With the information from this graphics memory 620, the microprocessor 602, graphics decompressor 622, text generator 621 (if necessary), and video combiner 624 will build a menu screen. The memory files of the graphics memory or EEPROM 620 are preferably categorized into three categories, background graphics 800, logo graphics 820, and menu and display graphics 850.
  • A background graphics file 800 will store menu backgrounds such as: universal main menu backgrounds 804, universal submenu backgrounds 808, promo backgrounds 812 and custom menu formats 816. A logo graphics file 820 will store any necessary logos such as: Your Choice TV logos 824, Network logo files 828, cable system logo files 832, studio logo files 836, and graphic elements file 840. A menu display and cursor graphics file 850 will store menu display blocks 854 and cursor highlight overlays 858 as well as any other miscellaneous files needed to build the menus.
  • Using this method of storing menus, the menus can be changed by reprogramming the graphics memory 620 of the set top terminal 220. To revise the entire design of displayed menus, the network controller 214 or operations center instructs the EEPROM 620 to be erased and reprogrammed with new menu templates. To change one menu format or logo, the network controller 214 or operations center instructs just the one location in memory to be erased and rewritten. Obviously, this menu reprogramming can be done locally (at the set top terminal 220) by a servicemen.
  • As shown in FIG. 10 a, each memory subfile is further divided into various memory blocks. For example, the background graphics file 800 contains the universal main menu backgrounds 804. The universal main menu backgrounds memory 804 includes memory units UM1, UM2 and UM3, as shown in FIG. 10 a. Similarly, the logo graphics file 820 and menu display and curser graphics file 850 further contain within those subfile individual memory blocks (for example, studio logo file 836 has memory block SL1; menu display blocks 854 has memory menu display block MD1).
  • FIG. 10 b shows the hierarchical storage of text transmitted from the cable head end as STTSCIS. Although text may be continuously transmitted with the video signals to set top terminals 220, text may also be transmitted intermittently. In such a case, the text is stored in the set top terminal. Preferably, the text is transmitted and stored in a compressed format using known techniques. Additionally, the text is preferably stored in graphic memory 620 within set top terminal 220.
  • Depending upon the use of the text, it will be stored in one of three portions of memory. Information sent with the text will either direct the text to a particular portion of memory, or include information as to the priority of text. The microprocessor 602 may then direct the text to the appropriate memory location for storage.
  • If the text is to be used frequently and over a long period of time, a long term storage 875 will be used. If the text will be used for a shorter period of time (for example, a month), the text will be directed to an intermediate storage area 877. If the text is to be used almost immediately, or for a short period of time (for example, within a few days) the text is directed to a short term storage area 879. Microprocessor 602 locates the appropriate text required for a particular menu and retrieves it from the appropriate portion of memory 620. The text is output from the graphics memory 620 to the text generator 621. Text generated from the text generator 621 is thereafter directed to text/graphics combiner 624.
  • FIG. 10 c shows the steps performed by the microprocessor 602 for creating a menu based upon a series of overlay screens. These instructions are stored in memory within the set top terminal 220. Alternatively, these instructions or routines are transmitted from the operations center 202 to be stored in memory within the individual set top terminals 220.
  • Initially, microprocessor 602 instructs tuner 603 to select a channel. The channel is decompressed, and error corrected and decrypted, if necessary. If the video is to be reduced in size, so as to be placed within a video window 1556, or is a split screen video window which must be enlarged, the video is scaled to the appropriate size. Additionally, the video may be required to be redirected to a portion of the television screen. This is done by creating a series of offsets for each pixel location of the video.
  • Graphics must also be used to create a menu in most instances. As is shown in block 882, the microprocessor 602 must fetch a background file, fetch a logo file and fetch a menu display and cursor file in most instances. Each of these files must be decompressed. Following decompression, the file is sent to video combiner 886.
  • Similarly, microprocessor 602 must fetch text, as shown in block 884. Depending upon the memory location of the text, microprocessor 602 will fetch the text for long-term, intermediate-term, or short-term storage, as described above. Based upon this memory retrieval, the text is generated and sent to video combiner 886. Video combiner 886 combines the video (if any) with as many screens of a decompressed graphics as are necessary, and any text. The image or portions of the image are stored in combiner 886 until all overlays are received by combiner 886. Thereafter, the entire image is sent, under direction of another routine, to be displayed on the television screen, as represented by display block 888.
  • FIG. 10 d is a full chart of programming instructions performed by microprocessor 602 for sequencing menus. Upon powerup of the set top terminal 220, start up routine 890 is performed. Any error checking is thereafter performed (891), and introductory menu subroutine 892 is performed. This subroutine displays the introductory menu and the microprocessor thereafter awaits for an input 893.
  • If the subscriber inputs a channel selection 894, video for the particular channel is decompressed 895. Otherwise, the microprocessor performs another routine 896 to display the home menu 897.
  • At the home menu portion of the sequence of routines, a subscriber may select one of the major menus, thus starting the sequence of displays represented by routine block 898. Alternatively, a subscriber may go directly to a major menu by depressing a menu select button on remote 900 and the microprocessor will execute another the go to submenu subroutine 896.
  • Once a subscriber has selected a major menu, the appropriate subroutines are executed by the microprocessor using a series of instructions shown in block 898. After each display, microprocessor 602 awaits for a selection by the subscriber, shown as block 899. These blocks could be also represented as decision blocks.
  • After displaying the major menu, and receiving a selection by the user, a particular submenu for a subcategory is displayed, if such a menu exists. Again, microprocessor 602 waits for an input from the subscriber after executing a routine to display a program listing submenu. Thereafter, after receiving an input, microprocessor 602 performs the next routine for displaying a program description submenu. Thereafter, if a particular selection requires a confirmation menu, that subroutine is executed and the appropriate menu displayed. Thereafter, the selected video is decompressed, and displayed on the television screen. If there are any display overlay menus or hidden menus, the proper subroutine is executed by microprocessor 602 and these menus are displayed.
  • At any time during the selection of menus in major menu block 898, the subscriber may also depress another major menu button to move into a second column of process instructions (represented by major menu 2, major menu 3, etc. columns). Thus, a subscriber may move from major menu to major menu. Additionally, a subscriber may depress a home menu button on remote 900 to return to the home menu at any time.
  • The various subroutines executed by microprocessor 602 allow a subscriber to navigate through the various menus of the present invention. A subscriber may sequence back through menus or return to the home menu with a one-touch return of the home menu button on remote 900. All of these functions help to add to the system's user friendliness.
  • As shown in FIGS. 11 a and 11 b, a two-section remote control is shown. To reduce costs and make the set top terminal 220 as user friendly as possible, a standard television remote control 860 is augmented by adding a new section 862 that provides the additional digital menu access and ordering functions. FIG. 11 a depicts the addition of menu access and cursor movement control to a Gerald RC 650 Remote Control. The cursor movement and function buttons required for the set top terminal's operation may be added to any standard remote control format allowing the user to feel more at home with the new remote control. FIG. 11 b shows the two-section remote control combined in a single unit 864.
  • The remote control 864 has an ordering button 866, four-way cursor movement, and a “go” button 868, and menu access buttons 870. The remote operates using infrared with the signals being received by the infrared sensor on the front of the set top terminal 220.
  • In the simplest embodiment the remote may be built with only cursor movement and a go button. In more sophisticated embodiments the remote control may be provided with buttons that are programmable to perform specific functions for a series of entries. An intelligent or smart remote would increase both the cost and capability of the set top terminal 220 system. Using this augmented remote control the subscriber can navigate the program menu system of the set top terminal 220.
  • FIGS. 12 a and 12 b show an alternative and preferred embodiment of the remote control for use in the present invention. The standard television receiver remote control switches or buttons 920 are again separated from the menu accessing ordering function buttons 950. The standard television receiver remote control buttons 920 include volume control, channel select, power and signal source buttons. The menu buttons 950 include cursor movement and select, menu select, and pay television buttons. However, the standard buttons 920 are separated from the menu access and ordering buttons 950 in the longitudinal direction of the remote, as opposed to the width-wise separation, shown in FIG. 11 a. Additionally, the color of the buttons or the surrounding background may differ between the standard television remote control buttons 920 and the menu buttons 950 to visually differentiate between these two groups of buttons.
  • The width and depth of the remote control unit 900 are considerably less than the length to allow the remote control unit 900 to fit easily within a user's palm. The remote control unit 900 in preferably has the center of mass balanced substantially near the longitudinal middle. This allows a user's thumb to naturally be placed in substantially the middle portion of the remote control unit 900, when it is picked up by a user.
  • Since the center of mass of the remote control unit 900 is placed substantially near the longitudinal middle of the remote 900, thereby having a user's thumb naturally fall in this same center region, the standard remote 920 and menu access 950 switches or buttons most frequently accessed and depressed by a user are placed within easy reach of the user's thumb. Channel and volume increment and decrement buttons 910 are placed near this center of mass and longitudinal center line. The channel buttons 910 are preferably beveled in opposing directions to allow a user to feel for and press a desired button without looking down at remote 900. Similarly, the volume buttons 910 are preferably beveled in opposing directions for the same reason.
  • Additionally, the channel buttons 910 could have a surface texture, different from those of the volume buttons 910 to allow even easier differentiation between channel and volume buttons 910. For example, the volume buttons could have a rough surface texture, while the channel buttons could have a smooth surface texture.
  • Also placed in the longitudinal center, within easy reach of a user's thumb, are cursor movement buttons 970 and “go” button 975. The “go” button 975 selects an option corresponding to the placement of the cursor. As opposed to buttons, a joystick may be used with a selection on the stick, or a trackball, depressible for selecting a desired choice. The cursor buttons 970 are placed ninety degrees apart, with the “go” button 975 placed within the center of the cursor movement buttons 970, as shown in FIG. 12 b. The cursor movement buttons 970 are preferably beveled inwardly toward the “go” button 975. The “go” button 975 is recessed below the level of the cursor movement buttons 970 so that it is not accidentally pressed while depressing the cursor movement buttons 970. In addition to the beveling on the cursor movement buttons 970, they may also have a surface texture to allow a user to feel for and select the appropriate button without looking down at the remote 900. Directional arrows could be raised or recessed on the surface of the cursor movement buttons 970 for this purpose.
  • Menu select buttons 960 are placed near buttons 970 as shown in FIG. 12 b. Menu select buttons 960 are preferably the largest buttons on remote 900. Menu select buttons 960 preferably have icons or other graphics imprinted on their top surface or adjacent to the corresponding button. For example, a button for the sports major menu may contain a baseball icon. The icons represent the programming available on the particular major menu selected by the menu select buttons 960. The icons may also be raised above the level of the menu select buttons to provide a textured surface. This would allow a user to select an appropriate menu button 960 by feel, without looking at the remote control unit 900. The icons would require substantial differences in texture, while still providing a meaningful graphic related to the associated menu.
  • As shown in FIGS. 12 a and 12 b, labels and icons are provided for the following major menus: movies, sports, children's programming, documentary/news, entertainment, magazines, programming guide, HDTV (high definition television), interactive TV, music, and an additional button for further programming. Menu select buttons 960 may also be labeled A through J for the above programs, with the last button for all additional major menus labeled K-Z.
  • The layout of the user select buttons for the remote 900 have been designed to allow a user to select an appropriate button without viewing the remote by using the layout of buttons shown in FIGS. 12 a and 12 b, in conjunction with textured or beveled buttons. With this “eye-off-of-the-remote” construction, most of the frequently used buttons may be located by the sense of touch alone. However, to aid selection of an appropriate button visually, certain buttons may have different colors. For example, the menu select buttons 960 may all be of a color different from the rest of the buttons on the remote 900. Additionally, the colors should be selected to provide for easy location and identification by a user. For example, if the icons are printed in black ink, yellow menu select buttons 960 are preferred, because yellow would provide the greatest visual contrast with the black ink.
  • Although remote 900 is described with a variety of channel selection buttons, nearly all buttons from a standard remote control (section 920 buttons) could be eliminated. The present invention would allow a subscriber to use a remote control containing only menu select buttons and/or cursor movement and select buttons.
  • The power button 924 and “go” button 975 preferably have a separate color from the other buttons on the remote 900. The power button 924 is preferably a separate color because this button is used infrequently. The power button is placed out of a user's thumb's reach so it is not accidentally depressed. The power button 924 should be distinguished from the other buttons because a television viewer must locate this button first before viewing any programming. Similarly, the “go” button 975 is used often because it provides the means for a user to select options, and thus should be easily distinguished from the other buttons.
  • Pay television buttons 980 may also be assigned a color different from the other buttons on the remote 900. By making the pay television buttons 980 a different color, it would help a user to avoid selecting an undesired pay television program.
  • As used herein, “button” is contemplated to include all manner of switches or touch sensitive circuitry to activate a particular function in the remote control unit 900. Additionally, although the remote control unit 900 communicates with the set-top box by means of infrared transmission, other forms of communication are contemplated, including ultrasound, radio frequency and other electromagnetic frequency communication.
  • FIG. 13 shows the basic structure of the program menu system. Although the term “menus” has been used above, the menus could also be seen as defining zones or categories of programming. The first series of menus, Introductory menu 1000, Home menu 1010, Major Menus 1020, and Submenus 1050 execute subscriber program selection inputs. The During program menus 1200 provide a subscriber with additional features or options after a program has been selected and shown. There are two primary types of During program menus 1200, Hidden Menus 1380 and Program-Overlay Menus. Both are described in the following text and figures. The menu sequence and each menu structure has been particularly program designed using the “eye-off-the-remote” design concept. A subscriber can easily navigate through the menu system with the cursor movement and “go” buttons 970, 975. Since the subscriber never needs to take his eye off the television screen, the cable operator is likely to have the subscriber's complete attention.
  • The introductory menu screen 100P automatically appears upon power-up and initialization of the set top terminal 220. The introductory menu screen 1000 welcomes the user to the cable system and provides important announcements or messages. In addition, the introductory menu 1000 can be used to inform the subscriber if he has a personal or group message that has been sent to his set top terminal 220 by the cable headend. The subscriber may then access the personal or group message with an appropriate key entry while viewing the introductory menu 1000. Since the introductory menu 1000 must be viewed by each subscriber, it also provides an opportunity for the cable provider to run advertisements.
  • Following the introductory menu screen 1000 the subscriber will normally be advanced to the home menu screen 1010. The home menu 1010 is the basic menu that the subscriber will return to make his first level of viewing decisions. From the home menu 1010, the subscriber is able to access all television programming options. Some programming options may be accessed through cursor movement on the screen, others directly by a button selection on the remote control 900, or both, on-screen selection and remote control 900 direct access.
  • In the normal progression through the menu screens, the subscriber will be forwarded to a major menu screen 1020 that correlates to his direct remote control 900 selection or selection from the home menu screen 1010. The selections on the home menu 1010 are for large categories of programming options and therefore the major menu 1020 allows the subscriber to further refine his search for the television program of his choice.
  • Following the major menu 1020 the subscriber will navigate through one or more submenu screens 1050 from which he will choose one particular program for viewing. For most programming selections the user will proceed from the home menu 1010 to a major menu 1020 and then to one or more submenus 1050. However, for certain programming options or functions of the set top terminal 220 the user may skip one or more menus in the sequence. For example, in the preferred embodiment the subscriber may directly access a major menu 1020 by pressing a single icon button. In an alternative embodiment, the introductory menu 1000 will provide the user with the capability of directly accessing information on his cable television account without proceeding through a series of menus.
  • The series of menus shown in FIG. 13 is the normal or standard format for a variety of alternative embodiments to the present invention. An introductory screen upon power up that contains important messages, followed by a home menu 1010 with major programming categories is the basis upon which many alternative embodiments of the menu driven selection process can be built.
  • Skipping a sequence or level of the menu structure is possible and perhaps desired in certain instances. In simple alternate embodiments it is possible to combine the home menu 1010 and introductory menu 1000 into one menu that performs both functions. It will be obvious to one skilled in the art that the specific functions of the Home menu 1010 and Introductory menu 1000 may be exchanged or shared in a number of ways. It is also possible to allow a user to skip directly from the introductory menu 1000 to a submenu 1050. This can be accomplished most easily with a separate direct access remote control 900 button. Generally, a subscriber will access a television program through execution of a submenu 1050.
  • The During program menus 1200 are enacted by the set top terminal 220 only after the subscriber has selected a television program. These menus provide the subscriber with additional functionality and/or additional information while he is viewing a selected program. The During program menus 1200 sequence can be further subdivided into at least two types of menus, Hidden Menus 1380 and Program Overlay Menus 1390.
  • To avoid disturbing a subscriber during viewing of a program, the Hidden Menus 1380 are not shown to the subscriber but instead “reside” at the set top terminal 220 microprocessor. The Hidden Menus 1380 do not effect the selected program audio. The microprocessor awaits a button entry either from the remote 900 or set top terminal 220 buttons before executing or displaying any Hidden Menu options. The Hidden Menus 1380 provide the subscriber with additional functions such as entering an interactive mode or escaping from a selected program.
  • Program Overlay Menus 1390 are similar to Hidden Menus 1380 in that they occur during a program. However, the Program Overlay Menus 1390 are overlayed onto portions of the television screen and not hidden. The Program Overlay Menus 1390 allow the subscriber to continue to watch the selected television program with audio but place additional information on portions of the television screen. Most overlays cover small portions of the screen allowing the subscriber to continue to comfortably view his program selection. Other Overlays which are by their nature more important than the program being viewed will overlay onto greater portions of the screen. In the preferred embodiment, some Program Overlay Menus 1390 reduce or scale down the entire programs video screen and redirect the video to a portion of the screen.
  • All menu entries may be made either from buttons available on the top cover of the set top terminal 220 or from the remote 900.
  • FIG. 14 a shows the preferred embodiment for subscriber selection of television programming. FIG. 14 b shows additional major menu 1020 categories, 1042, 1044, 1046, 1048, which may used with the invention. Again, the introductory menu 1000 followed by the home menu 1010 is the preferred sequence of on-screen displays. In the preferred embodiment shown in 14 a, the home menu 1010 provides a choice of ten major menus 1022, 1024, 1026, 1028, 1030, 1032, 1034, 1036, 1038, 1040. Upon selection of a major menu 1020 category from the home menu 1010, the program proceeds to a major menu 1020 offering further viewer selections. Each major menu 1020 is customized to target the expected viewership. Depending on the number of available program choices the major menus 1020 either breakdown the major category into sub-categories or provide the subscriber with access to further information on a particular program.
  • For example, the major menu 1020 for children's programming provides a list of subcategories 1052 from which the subscriber selects. Upon selection of a subcategory a submenu 1054, 1056 listing program choices within that sub-category is shown to the subscriber. Upon selection of a particular programming choice within the first submenu 1050, the subscriber is then provided with a second submenu 1058 describing the program that the subscriber has selected. From this menu, the subscriber may now confirm his program choice and receive a confirmation submenu 1060 from the set top terminal 220 software.
  • Since the system utilizes digital signals in compressed format, High Definition Television programming can also be accommodated through the menu system. In addition, since the set top terminal 220 has two way communication with the cable headend, interactive television programming is possible, with return signals generated by the set top terminal 220. Similarly, the system can support “movies on demand” where a subscriber communicates through the set top terminal 220 with an automated facility to order movies stored at the facility.
  • Using this on-screen menu approach to program selection, there is nearly an unlimited number of menus that can be shown to the subscriber. The memory capability of the set top terminal 220 and the quantity of information that is sent via the program control information signal are the only limits on the number of menus and amount of information that can be displayed to the subscriber. The approach of using a series of menus in a simple tree sequence is both easy for the subscriber to use and simply implemented by the set top terminal 220 and remote control device 900 with cursor movement. A user interface software programmer will find many obvious variations from the preferred embodiment shown.
  • FIGS. 15 a and 15 b show examples of introductory menu screens that are displayed on the subscriber's television. FIG. 15 a, the preferred embodiment, welcomes the subscriber to the cable system and offers the subscriber three options. The subscriber may choose regular cable television (channels 2 through 39), programs on demand (e.g., movies), or instructions on the use of the remote control 900. Other basic program options are possible on the introductory menu screen 1000. For example, instead of, or in addition to, the remote control 900 instructions, a system “help” feature can be offered on the introductory menu 1000.
  • FIG. 15 b shows an alternate embodiment for the introductory menu screen 1000. In the upper left-hand corner of the menu, there is a small window 1002 that may be customized to the subscriber. A subscriber will be given the option of showing the current time in this window. In the upper right-hand corner a second customized window 1004 is available in which a subscriber may show the day and date. These windows may be easily customized for subscribers to show military time, European date, phase of the moon, quote of the day, or other informational messages. These windows may be customized by subscribers using on-screen menu displays following the introductory menu 1000.
  • In the preferred embodiment, the subscriber is given the capability of accessing base channels such as regular broadcast TV and standard cable channels directly from the introductory menu 1000 by entering the channel number. The subscriber is also given the capability of directly accessing his account with the cable company. Further, in the preferred embodiment, the subscriber may directly access a major menu 1020 and bypass the home menu screen 1010. If the subscriber is familiar with the programming choices available on the major menus 1020, he may select an icon button 960, or a lettered key (alpha key) from his remote control 900 and directly access the desired major menu 1020. If any key entry other than those expected by the set top terminal 220 software program is made, the home menu 1010 is placed on the television screen. In addition, after a period of time if no selections are made from the introductory menu 1000, the program may default to the home menu screen 1010.
  • FIGS. 16 a, 16 b, 16 c, and 16 d are examples of home menus 1010 that may be used in the set top terminal 220 software. FIGS. 16 a-16 d all employ multiple window techniques to make the menu user friendly and offer a significant number of choices. It is preferred that a channel line up and the major menu 1020 categories both appear on the home menu 1010.
  • FIG. 16 a, the preferred home menu 1010 embodiment, displays both the standard channel line up and the programming on demand icons for selection by the subscriber. FIG. 16 a also shows various levels of subscription programming, including a “Basic”cable package and a “Basic Plus” package. Each of the choices of subscription programming preferably is assigned a different color. This increases the user friendliness of the present invention.
  • In FIGS. 16 b-16 d, the left half of the screen is used to list the channel number and network abbreviation of the most popularly watched networks. The right half of the screen offers access to a variety of major menus 1020 listed by category names.
  • FIG. 16 b shows an embodiment in which only eight major menus 1020 are utilized. By pressing the alpha-numeric or icon key 960 corresponding to the category of programs the subscriber desires, the appropriate major menu 1020 is accessed. In addition, the subscriber may employ an on-screen cursor to select any option shown in the menu. To move the cursor, the subscriber may use either the cursor movement keys on the remote control 900 or similar keys located at the top of the set top terminal 220.
  • FIG. 16 c shows how additional major menus 1020 can be displayed on the home menu screen 1010. When there is no longer room available for additional major menu 1020 choices on the home screen, the subscriber may access a second screen of the home menu 1010. For example, in FIG. 16 c, if additional major menus 1020 “T” through “Z” existed, the subscriber would access those menus by highlighting and selecting the J through Z menu option(or press the J-Z on his remote 900). After selecting J through Z, the second or extended home menu screen 1010 would appear on a subscriber's television set. This menu would then list options J through Z separately by name. Theoretically, the home menu 1010 may have many extended home menu screens. However, any more than a few extended home menu screens would confuse the average subscriber.
  • The home menu 1010 of FIG. 16 d adds an additional feature at the bottom of the television screen 1011. This option allows a subscriber to see only those program selections that are available on broadcast television. FIGS. 16 a-d are but a few of the numerous variations available for the home menu 1010.
  • Additionally, as shown in FIG. 17, in an alternate embodiment, the home menu 1010 (or menu which would normally follow the introductory menu 1000) can be simply the standard cable channel line-up. Offering the standard cable line-up on a separate menu may make selection easier for viewers with small television screens.
  • FIGS. 18 a and 18 b are examples of major menus 1020. In particular, FIGS. 18 a and 18 b show a major menu 1040 whose category is hit movies. The hit movie category is a list of recently released movies which have been found to be popular among movie goers. This movie list is changed once or twice a week to keep in line with new movie releases. Again, multi-window and customized window techniques are utilized to make the menu as user friendly as possible.
  • FIG. 18 a shows the preferred embodiment of the hit movies menu 1040. The hit movies menu icon along with the hit movies category letter A are displayed. The current date and time are displayed at the top of the screen over a menu background. Ten movie selections are displayed in the center of the screen 1009, each in a box which may be highlighted when selected. In the lower left part of the screen, a logo window 1512 is available as well as two other option choices 1011, Movie Library and Return to Cable TV. In an alternate embodiment, the return to Cable TV option is changed to return to the Home menu 1010 (or return to other viewing choices).
  • In FIG. 18 b, the left upper window 1002 displays current time and the right upper window 1004 displays a message. This menu provides a list of eight movie titles and their rating 1009. If the subscriber desires further information on any particular movie he may select a movie using the cursor movement buttons and press the “go” button on the remote control 900 or set top terminal 220 box.
  • It is important in creating user friendly-interfaces that the menus are consistent and follow a pattern. A manner of making the menus is discussed below with respect to FIGS. 55 and 56. This consistency or pattern between the different menus provides a level of comfort to the subscriber when encountering new menus. In the major menu 1020 example of FIG. 18 a, the upper sash 1502 and lower sash 1504 remain consistent throughout menus in the preferred embodiment. The logos 1508, icons 1510 and titles also remain consistent in the same locations.
  • In the major menu 1020 example of FIG. 18 b, the customized windows 1002, 1004 in the upper corners remain constant from menu to menu. Also, the name of the menu and category are at the top and center of the menu screen 1039. To make the menu aesthetically pleasing, the instructions are given across the center of the screen and choices in large legible type are provided. Additionally, at the bottom of most menu screens 1011, the subscriber is given the option of returning to regular TV or returning to the home menu 1010.
  • FIGS. 18 c-18 g show alternative embodiments of major menus 1020 for the home menu shown in FIG. 16 a. FIGS. 18 c-18 g show various major menus directed to the type of subscription services available (basic service 1420, basic plus 1422, economy package 1424, ala carte and premium channels 1426). These menus also provide promotional or advertising information, for example, the cost for the particular subscription service. FIG. 18 g shows a major menu for the Learning Channel 1428, one of the individual channels shown in the home menu of FIG. 16 a.
  • These menus may be grouped in similar colors or shades of colors. For example, the basic subscription service could have a light pink color. As the subscription services increase in terms of the number of channels available, the color shading may increase correspondingly. Therefore, the premium subscription service (ala carte service) would have a dark red color, contrasting with the light pink color of the basic subscription service.
  • In FIG. 18 b, the movie titled Terminator Four is highlighted, signifying that the subscriber has chosen this program option from the hit movie major menu. FIGS. 19 a and 19 b show submenus 1050 which would follow the selection of Terminator Four on the hit movie major menu. In FIG. 19 a, the sash across the top of the screen 1502 remains constant from major menu 1020 to program description submenu 1050. Again in FIG. 19 b, for the comfort of the subscriber, the left upper window 1002 remains the same and shows the current time. The upper right-hand corner 1004 carries a message stating the next start time for the movie selected.
  • In order to allow subscribers to view hit movies at their convenience, multiple start times for the same movie are provided. In order to provide the multiple start time service, the same movie must be shown on multiple channels at staggered start times. For example, if Terminator Four is a two-hour length movie it can be shown continuously on eight different channels, with each showing delayed fifteen minutes after the previous showing. This allows the subscriber to begin viewing the movie within a fifteen minute time interval. Since the subscriber is not required to find the channel which has the correct start time, the subscriber is unaware that the movie is being shown on eight different channels. In fact, with the use of the submenus 1050, a subscriber is able to nearly effortlessly choose the correct channel and correct activation time for viewing the desired movie. The channel selection is invisible to the subscriber.
  • The set top terminal 220 is able to automatically determine which channel will next begin to show the selected movie using any number of techniques. For example, the set top terminal 220 will have an internal clock representing the current time. The set top terminal 220 could compare the current time with the start times for the movie on the various channels. Alternatively, a signal could be sent with the movie on all channels. This signal will set, or reset, a counter to indicate that a particular channel will next begin the movie. Those skilled in the art may recognize that other methods to determine the next available start time and channel for the selected movie are available.
  • The FIGS. 19 a and 19 b movie description submenus 1120 retain the title in a window at the top center of the screen. A multiple window technique is used in the middle of this menu to display a description of the movie and one or more video frames that assist the subscriber in selecting the movie. This window of video 1556 that is provided by the menu may be a still picture, a short but repetitive video cut, or a portion of the movie that is currently showing on any one of the channels carrying the movie at the time of the submenu's 1050 display.
  • Just below the video window, the submenu provides the cost of viewing the movie and the movie length in hours and minutes. An additional strip window 1558 is provided, below the video and description windows, informing the subscriber of the movie's release date.
  • Moving towards the bottom of the menu, the subscriber is given at least three options. One, the ability to order the movie 1009, two, to return to the hit movie menu 1011, and three, to press “go” and return to regular TV 1011. In the preferred embodiment, the subscriber is also given the option of previewing the movie. FIGS. 19 a and 19 b show that the Order option has been selected by the subscriber 1009.
  • FIGS. 20 a and 20 b show the next submenu 1125 in the hit movie menu sequence from the selection of Terminator Four. This particular submenu 1125 shows confirmation of the subscriber's hit movie order of Terminator Four. FIG. 20 a retains the sash across both the top 1502 and bottom 1504 of the screen. The format of the FIG. 20 b menu 1125 maintains the current time in the left upper window 1002, the title in the top center window, and the next start time in the upper right-hand window 1004.
  • The center of the submenu screens 1125 is a video window 1556 which may be used for still or moving video. The submenu provides the subscriber with two on-screen options. The subscriber may return to regular TV 1009 or may join the movie Terminator Four already in progress 1011. In an alternative embodiment of this submenu 1125, the user is given the ability to return directly to the home menu screen 1010.
  • When the movie's start time is approaching, the set top terminal 220 will automatically bring the viewer to the correct channel carrying the movie Terminator Four.
  • FIGS. 21 a and 21 b are notification submenus informing the user that his program selection is about to begin (e.g., counting down until start time). Using this submenu, the set top terminal 220 warns the user prior to switching him away from the channel he is viewing to a prior selected program channel. This notification submenu is provided to the subscriber approximately one or more minutes before the set top terminal 220 changes the viewing channel.
  • Both notification submenu examples allow the subscriber to cancel his movie order. In FIG. 21 a, the subscriber is notified in the center of the screen that he may cancel within the first five minutes. In FIG. 21 b the subscriber may press escape to cancel his order without charge. The notification submenu of FIG. 21 b informs the user of the start time at the upper right portion of the screen.
  • The notification submenu of FIG. 21 b is a simple three-window menu. A strip window at the top of the screen 1103 notifies the subscriber of the movie selected and the amount of time before the movie will begin. The center window is a large video window 1556 for displaying a scene from the movie. At the bottom of the screen the submenu carries another strip menu 1105 which informs the user that he may escape from his program selection without charge.
  • Using a notification submenu 1127, the set top terminal 220 may allow a subscriber to view other programs prior to his movie start time. The subscriber is amply notified of the start time of his program and effortlessly moved to the correct channel to view his selected program. This notification-type submenu may be used to move a subscriber from his current channel to any preselected channel for viewing a program which has been ordered at an earlier time. In the preferred embodiment, the amount of time provided by the notification submenu may be customized by the subscriber to a length of his preference. The notification submenu also allows a subscriber to cancel or escape from his previously selected program choice and avoid any charges. If a subscriber cancels or escapes he is returned to the channel that he is currently watching.
  • As shown in FIG. 22 a, in the preferred embodiment, the subscriber is given a During Program Menu, specifically an Overlay menu 1130 to inform him when his five minutes of movie escape time have expired. Once the time has expired the subscriber will be billed for the movie selection.
  • FIG. 22 b is an overlay menu 1133 warning the user that he is escaping a program after being charged for the order of that program. The warning overlay menu 1133 of FIG. 22 b follows in sequence and is prompted by a hidden menu which constantly monitors for subscriber input during viewing of the program. The hit movie hidden menu (not shown) specifically waits for certain key entries by the subscriber. In particular, the hit movie hidden menu awaits for a key stroke such as escape, cancel or an icon selection. If the escape button is depressed during the viewing of a hit movie the overlay menu of FIG. 22 a or FIG. 22 b will be shown. A strip menu in the lower sash of FIG. 22 b allows the subscriber to resume full screen viewing of the hit movie.
  • FIG. 22 b is a representative example of an overlay menu 1133. It has a dark lower background sash and a light colored informational sash. The upper portion of the screen continues to display the video of the program selected. FIG. 22 c is a reentry to ordered selection submenu 1135 for the hit movie category. The reentry to ordered selection submenus appear whenever a subscriber selects a programming option (program, event, or subscription channel), that the subscriber has already ordered. This menu has a program title window with a text title entry, and a description of the order that has already been placed for the program (or channel). In the preferred embodiment, the submenus which allow reentry to ordered selection provide the subscriber with the added option of joining the program within any fifteen minute interval. This special feature of the preferred embodiment allows a subscriber who has viewed one-half of a particular program to rejoin the program at the half-way point. In this manner, the program delivery system mimics a VCR tape recording of the program. For example, if a subscriber had rented a videotape of the movie Terminator 4 and had watched thirty minutes of the movie, he would have left his videotape in the thirty minute position. With the menu of FIG. 22 c a subscriber to the system who has watched thirty minutes of Terminator 4 may reenter the Terminator movie at the thirty-one to forty-five minute interval as shown in FIG. 22 c. The nine-fifteen minute blocks of the menu display blocks are representative of the choices available for a two-hour hit movie. Other variations are possible depending on the length of the movie and the timing intervals desired.
  • FIG. 23 shows the major menu for the movie library category 1048. The movie library category provides subscriber access to a large number of movies. Using several transmission channels, each movie in the library is shown at least once during a one-month period. Using the movie library, a subscriber may access information on a particular movie and ascertain the various start times for that movie. In the preferred embodiment, the subscriber will use the movie library in conjunction with his VCR or other video taping machinery. In that way, a subscriber may tape movies which are shown at inconvenient start times for later viewing. By activating the proper features of the set top terminal 220, a subscriber may have the terminal activate the television and the VCR and perform all the functions necessary to tape a movie.
  • The movie library major menu shown is an extended menu having many follow-on extensions to the major menu shown. The extended menus continue to show lists of movies in alphabetical order. In an alternative embodiment, the movie library is broken down into subcategories of various types of movies. For instance, movie categories such as murder-mystery, documentaries, westerns, and science fiction would appear on the movie library major menu. By selecting one of these movie library subcategories the subscriber would be moved onto a particular submenu for that movie library subcategory. Each submenu would list movie titles whose contents fall within the particular subcategory.
  • Following a selection of a movie title, the subscriber is displayed a movie description submenu. FIG. 24 shows a typical movie description submenu 1140. In order to maintain a similar pattern throughout the menus, FIG. 24, movie description submenu 1140 for the movie library, is designed similarly to FIG. 19 b which is a movie description submenu for the hit movies category. The primary difference between FIGS. 24 and 19 b is the display of the movie library title number in the upper right-hand corner of FIG. 24. FIG. 24 provides three options for the subscriber. The subscriber may order the movie described, return to the movie library major menu, or return to regular TV.
  • FIG. 25 shows a confirmation submenu 1142 for the movie library. This menu screen confirms the movie selection, start date, start time and informs the subscriber that his VCR will be automatically turned on. During this submenu, the user may return to the movie library major menu, return to regular TV or cancel his movie library order by pressing the escape button. FIG. 25 shows that the subscriber has selected to return to regular TV. The subscriber's VCR or other video taping equipment must be connected to the set top terminal 220 for the automatic taping feature to operate.
  • The series of FIGS. 26 a, 27 a, 28 a and 29 a, and the series of FIGS. 26 b, 27 b, 28 b, and 29 b depict a typical menu sequence including a major menu 1028, 1042 (FIGS. 26 a and 26 b), a subcategory submenu 1148 (FIGS. 27 a and 27 b), a program description submenu 1152 (FIGS. 28 a and 28 b), and a confirmation submenu 1154 (FIGS. 29 a and 29 b). This simple progression of menus repeats itself through the menu tree of FIGS. 14 a and 4 b.
  • In the preferred embodiment, FIGS. 26 a, 27 a, 28 a, and 29 a are a series of menus which are categorized in the Documentary and News Major category. Whereas in the alternate embodiment, FIGS. 26 b, 27 b, 28 b, and 29 b are a series of menus that relate to the Discovery® video selection services category. FIG. 26 b is the Discovery video selection service major menu 1042. This major menu shows twelve different categories of services available to the subscriber. The upper right-hand corner window of this major menu briefly describes the types of services which are available on this menu. After selecting a subcategory from this major menu the set top terminal 220 moves the subscriber to a submenu describing programs that are available in the subcategory. FIGS. 26 a and 26 b show that the subcategory Discovery channel choice has been selected by the subscriber from a major menu.
  • FIG. 27 a is a submenu for subcategory Discovery channel choice 1148, and shows six programming choices available for this subcategory. In an alternate embodiment, FIG. 27 b displays only four program choices. By choosing one of the programming choices on this Discovery channel choice submenu, the subscriber may obtain more information about the particular program. Again, the subscriber is able to return to the major menu or return to regular TV by selecting options in the lower part of his screen. In FIGS. 27 a and 27 b, the subscriber has highlighted and selected the program War Birds for further description.
  • FIGS. 28 a and 28 b are description submenus 1152 which describe an available program, War Birds. Since the preferred embodiments follow a pattern throughout the menus, FIGS. 28 a and 28 b are similar to FIGS. 24, 19 a and 19 b which describe other programming selections available on the system. FIGS. 28 a and 28 b use the upper right-hand corner window 1004 to inform the subscriber of the next start time available for the particular program War Birds. In packaging the special selection of programs, the programmer at his option may show an identical program on several channels in order to permit the subscriber greater flexibility in start times. FIGS. 28 a and 28 b show the use of a strip menu across the lower half of the screen displaying a message and the price of the program. Similar to other submenus, the subscriber may order the program, return to the major menu, or return to regular TV simply by selecting the choices on the lower part of his screen. FIGS. 28 a and 28 b depict the subscriber ordering the program War Birds.
  • FIGS. 29 a and 29 b are confirmation submenus 1154 similar to confirmation submenus in other major menu categories. It confirms the subscriber's order of the program War Birds. The FIG. 29 a confirmation submenu retains the video window from the prior submenus and also displays the program running time. The submenu of FIG. 29 b shows a strip window 1105 on the lower part of the screen displaying an “800” number and advertising the Discovery catalog. Similar windows may be used throughout submenus to assist in advertising for particular programs, channels, or groups of programs. Many variations of the confirmation submenu are possible.
  • This confirmation submenu allows the user to join the selected program already in progress or return to regular TV. In addition, by depressing the escape button, the subscriber may cancel his order of War Birds from this screen.
  • FIG. 29 c is an example of an overlay menu 1156 presented when a subscriber is exiting from a program selection in which he may rejoin at a later time. This exiting ordered program overlay menu 1156 is appropriate whenever a subscriber may return to a program or channel without additional charges. Since many of the programs selections are authorized for viewing on a two-day, weekly, or monthly basis, the exiting ordered program overlay is useful in a number of situations.
  • This overlay menu follows a similar format as other overlay menus having a darker colored lower sash and lighter colored second sash with text information. The sashes are overlayed on the program video currently being watched by the subscriber.
  • Additionally, an exiting ordered program overlay menu 1156 may be provided for one-time viewing program selections which a view cannot return. These exiting ordered program overlay menus would thank the viewer for ordering the particular program or channel and entice the viewer to order a similar program from the same network. For example, an exiting program overlay menu for a live sports event such as boxing, would thank the viewer and remind him that the network carries regularly scheduled boxing events on a weekly basis.
  • FIGS. 30 through 34 relate to the ordering of specialty channels through the menu driven system. FIG. 30 is a major menu 1044 that lists fifteen specialty channels that are available for subscription and viewing. In this particular major menu 1044, the lower half of the screen 1009, which is utilized to provide the various programming choices, is divided into three vertical sections allowing room for fifteen choices. This major menu category is different from the others in that individual programs are not ordered but instead channels are subscribed to on a monthly or yearly basis. To use this submenu, a subscriber need only select and press “go” on the channel of his choice.
  • After the subscriber selects a channel, the channel description submenu 1160 of FIG. 31 replaces the major menu on the subscriber's television screen. This description submenu 1160 has windows that are similar to other description submenus used throughout the menu driven system. In this description submenu 1160, the upper right-hand corner 1004 is used to display the subscription cost for the channel. The upper left-hand corner 1002 of this submenu is used to display the method in which the subscription price will be billed to the subscriber. In this specific scenario, the current time has little bearing on the subscriber's decision to order the displayed channel and therefore is not shown on the television screen. FIG. 31 shows that the subscriber has ordered the Science Fiction channel.
  • FIG. 32 shows a submenu 1164 which confirms the subscriber's order and thanks him for subscribing. If the subscriber is already paying for the selected channel, instead of FIG. 32 confirming his order, he is provided with the divided menu 1156 of FIG. 33 informing him that he is a current subscriber of the Science Fiction channel. In both the screen of FIG. 32 and the screen of FIG. 33, the subscriber is allowed to join the channel in progress. After an ample period of time for the subscriber to read the screen menu, the menu is removed from the television screen and the subscriber has a complete view of the programming in progress. This is shown in FIG. 34 for the Science Fiction channel.
  • FIGS. 35-38 refer to the selection of a magazine channel. In particular, FIGS. 35-37 show a series of menus for selecting and ordering one specific magazine channel, the sci-fiction channel.
  • FIG. 35 shows a major menu for magazine channels 1030. This major menu falls under the letter F, Major Menu, and has an icon showing three magazines. The magazine channel major menu has a menu display block with 15 options, three columns, each with five selection options. Magazine channels are specialty channels targeted to a particular audience. In the preferred embodiment, each of the magazine channels has a monthly subscription. FIG. 35 shows the sci-fiction magazine highlighted.
  • FIG. 36 is a channel description submenu 1170 for the science-fiction channel. This menu has a network logo in the upper left hand part of the screen generated from the logo graphics file 820. The name of the channel is prominently displayed across the top. In the preferred embodiment, the text for a channel or network name is stored in long-term text storage. The text description of the channel on the right part of the screen may also be stored in long-term text storage. A video window 1556 and a video description window are also shown. This channel description submenu is similar to other program description menus and exemplary of the channel description submenus for any magazine channel.
  • If the subscriber orders a science-fiction channel, he will receive the confirmation menu 1172 shown in FIG. 37. This is a representative confirmation menu for subscribing to any network channel. A second sash of approximately equal width to the upper sash of the background menu is displayed in a color preferably different than that of the upper sash. Within the confirmation sash, a network logo and a standard text description thanking the subscriber are placed on the screen. At any time during this menu screen, the subscriber may cancel his subscription to the channel by pressing cancel on his remote 900 or set top termination button 645.
  • In the preferred embodiment shown, the area of the screen below the two sashes is filled with video from the channel being subscribed. In an alternative embodiment, further text information is provided instead of a video display.
  • FIG. 38 shows a reentry to ordered subscription submenu, similar to submenu 1156 in FIG. 33. This particular reentry submenu (magazine channel reentry submenu 1173) is for the magazine channel Gourmet. A light colored second sash is provided at the top of the screen with the network logo and text informing the subscriber that he has already ordered this particular channel. The reentry submenus 1156 generally allow a subscriber to immediately join programming in process. The current program on the Gourmet channel is shown in most of the remaining portion of the screen.
  • In this particular preferred embodiment shown, a special title sash is included as an overlay in the lower portion of the screen. This sash identifies the current program being shown on the channel with a text description. The set top terminal may derive this text description from either the STTCIS, the VBI, or other digital signals.
  • FIGS. 39-42 show a series of menus for selecting the documentary news program from the CBS library, called 60 Minutes. Although this is a regularly scheduled weekly program, it may be viewed by subscribers to the present invention at nonscheduled times. FIG. 39 shows a major menu 1028 for documentary and news programs. This major menu has a specific icon and letter designation which are shown in the upper left hand corner. This major menu has 12 selection options 1009 in the menu display blocks. They comprise two rows, each with six options. In this particular menu, the upper left hand corner option is highlighted. In general, the upper left hand corner option is the default for the cursor highlight overlay 1526.
  • FIG. 40 shows a subcategory submenu 1174 displaying five options. This subcategory menu shows specific programs which are available. The cursor highlight overlay is at the top of the screen in its default position. From this cursor position, the subscriber may order the program 60 Minutes.
  • FIG. 41 shows the next menu in the sequence for ordering the program 60 Minutes. This program description submenu 1176 displays the network logo, program title, program description, video window, video description window, and the next program start time. In the preferred embodiment, the next program start time is displayed beneath the current time. The program title and program description text may be stored in the intermediary text storage 877. In the preferred embodiment, the video description window 1556 displays running time and price of program. If the subscriber orders the program from the program description menu, he is sequenced to a confirmation menu.
  • FIG. 42 is a confirmation submenu 1178 for the program 60 Minutes. In this embodiment shown, the program description menu and confirmation menu are nearly identical. The primary difference being the confirmation text description and ability to join the program in progress. In the embodiment shown, the confirmation text is customized for the particular subcategory CBS Library. In alternate embodiments, the confirmation text is a standard text being generated from long-term text storage. Confirmation submenus may be designed to show the user more video and less menu graphics and text.
  • FIG. 43 is a major menu 1026 for category E, Entertainment Choice. The Entertainment Choice category shows the best entertainment programming available during a given week. FIGS. 43 and 44 show the selection of a program in the Entertainment Choice category. The Entertainment Choice major menu 1026 has a menu display block for five programs.
  • FIG. 44 shows a program description submenu 1182 for a selection on the Entertainment Choice major menu. In this program description submenu, the next start is shown in the upper right hand corner. The program title text is shown centered, along with program description text on the right half of the screen. The video window and video description window are provided on the left half of the screen. In the particular embodiment shown, the price of the program is placed on the first line of text in the video description and the run time is shown on the second line of text in the video description window. The program may be ordered by highlighting the menu display block beneath the program description text using cursor movement keys. This submenu 1182 allows the subscriber, via a strip menu located in the lower sash, to return to the major menu, namely menu E 1026.
  • FIGS. 45 and 46 relate to the category of Children's Programs. FIG. 45 is the major menu 1024 for Children's Programs, displaying five program options in its menu display blocks. FIG. 46 is a program description submenu displaying the program Beauty and the Beast. This program description submenu is similar to that shown in FIG. 44. Again, a strip menu in the lower sash allows the subscriber to return to the major menu, in this case, menu C 1024. In alternative embodiments, the subscriber may return to the home menu from any submenu screen. This return to home menu feature may also be embodied in a strip menu in the lower sash.
  • FIGS. 47, 48, and 49 a-49 d relate to menus available within the major category of Sports. FIG. 47 is an example of a major menu screen 1022 for the Sports category. This window exemplifies the ability to mix pay-per-unit programs, free programs, and a subcategory selection, all within one major menu screen. This is also representative of the mixing of programming types and subcategories that may be conducted at any menu level (major menu or submenu). By highlighting one of the three menu blocks shown, the subscriber may obtain more information on each of the three different types of programming that are available.
  • FIG. 48 is a program description submenu 1222 for NFL Highlights, which a subscriber would receive if he made the NFL Highlights selection on the major menu 1022 of FIG. 47. In particular, FIG. 48 shows a program description submenu for a program which must be paid for once each week for viewing. Once the program has been ordered by that particular set top terminal, the terminal is authorized to allow subscriber viewing for the remainder of the football week.
  • FIGS. 49 a-49 d illustrate the manner in which a category or subcategory of programs may be shown in a weekly schedule 1224. Seven of the menu display block options of FIG. 49 a are for daily live events. The eighth menu selection block in the lower right hand corner of the menu display blocks allows the viewer to see what live programming is available during the month. In this manner, future television programs may be advertised.
  • FIG. 49 b shows a live programming event menu 1226 which is available only on a particular day. Since the text description of this menu may be updated at least once a day, circumstances which affect the live program may be described in the text. For example, in a single elimination tennis tournament, the star tennis players who have not been eliminated may be listed in the text. From this menu, the subscriber may return to the subcategory submenu, Sports Events, or return to the major menu letter B, Sports, or return to cable TV. In the preferred embodiment, the subscriber is given the ability to sequence back to his last menu screen and, in some instances, sequence back to subcategory menu screens.
  • FIG. 49 c and 49 d relate to programming on a particular day (Saturday). The submenu of 49 c falls within a subcategory of a major menu and is therefore three menu sequences below the home menu. This particular menu 1228 lists an odd number of programming options. The menu display blocks allow 12 football games selections and one boxing event, which is a larger box across the lower part of the screen. By changing the menu display block sizes, the packager can focus the subscriber's attention on a particular program. Menus may show standard time, such as eastern time, or may show regional times to the subscriber.
  • FIG. 49 d is a program description submenu 1229 whose description text will generally remain constant for a period of one week. The program title text “College Football” is frequently used and may be stored in long-term text storage.
  • FIGS. 50 a and 50 b relate to HDTV. FIG. 50 a is an example of a menu 1032 advertising a new feature of the system. Promotional menus, such as FIG. 50 a, may be dispersed throughout the menu driven program selection system. This particular menu describes the HDTV feature and explains its unavailability until a future date. FIG. 50 b shows the integration of HDTV services into the menu driven program delivery system. If the subscriber selects the major menu for HDTV, he will either receive a description of the service with a suggestion to order the system, or a text note that he is a current subscriber and a listing of the currently available program selections in HDTV 1232. If the subscriber has not paid to join the particular service, HDTV, he may be allowed to join one of the programs in progress for a limited time as a demo to entice the subscriber to order.
  • If the subscriber has paid his HDTV fees, a subscriber proceeds as he would in any other major menu screen.
  • This particular major menu shows an example of how a follow-on or second screen may exist for the same menu. In this particular case, a second screen exists for the major menu HDTV 1032. The subscriber may access the second screen 1232 by selecting the last menu display block in the lower part of the screen “Other HDTV Selections”. Following this selection, the subscriber will be given a second screen of program selections. In this manner, any menu can have multiple screens with many program choices. This type of screen pagination on one menu allows the packager to avoid categorizing program selections within that same menu. In an alternative embodiment, the options available to the subscriber may be scrolled on one menu screen with the text within the menu display blocks changing as the subscriber scrolls up or scrolls down.
  • In the preferred embodiment, TV guide services, listing programs available on network schedules, will be available on a major menu, as shown in FIG. 51 a. In the preferred embodiment, the major TV guide menu 1036 would offer submenus, such as network schedules for the next seven days, today's network schedules for the next six hours, and TV guide picks for the next seven days. If the particular set top terminal 220 has been subscribed to the TV guide service, the subscriber may proceed to a submenu showing schedules of programs. If the subscriber chooses the network schedule submenu 1236, he is offered a list of network schedules to choose from as shown in FIG. 51 b. If a subscriber were to choose, for instance, HBO, the submenu 1238 shown in FIG. 51 c would appear. This submenu allows a subscriber to choose the program date that interests him. Following selection of a date, the subscriber is shown a more specific submenu 1242 listing programs available on the particular date as shown in 51 d.
  • Following a program choice, a program description submenu 1244 is placed on the television screen as shown in FIG. 51 e. In addition, from this program description submenu, the viewer may choose to record the selected program on his VCR using the guide record feature. If the guide record feature is chosen, the guide record submenu 1248 shown in FIG. 51 f provides the subscriber with further instructions. In order for the set top terminal 220 to perform the guide record functions and operate the VCR, control signals must be sent from the set top terminal 220 to the VCR via the video connection 650 or via a separate connection between the set top terminal 220 and the VCR. The VCR must be capable of interpreting these control signals from the set top terminal 220 and performing the desired function (such as, activating the record feature). In the preferred embodiment, the VCR control signals are sent with the video signal and output from the output 650, as described above.
  • FIGS. 51 g and 51 h refer to the broadcast TV menu option available in FIG. 14 b. FIG. 51 g is a major menu 1046 displaying subcategories of programs available on a group of channels called generically “broadcast TV.” For each subcategory there is a separate submenu listing programs that are available in the particular subcategory on a group of channels called broadcast TV.
  • By using the broadcast TV menu, the subscriber does not need a written guide of available television programming on the major networks. Although the preferred embodiment categorizes television programs available on the major networks, a simple chronological listing of programs may also be used.
  • Following a subcategory selection on the broadcast TV menu such as favorite channels, the set top terminal 220 will display a submenu of programs as shown in FIG. 51 h. The favorite channel program menu 1256 of FIG. 51 h allows the subscriber to choose among eight programs in progress at 9:45 p.m. on a broadcast TV network.
  • Using this methodology, the subscriber may also be allowed to choose among television programs which will be available for viewing in the next half hour or hour. When the time of the preselected program is approaching, the set top terminal 220 will display a notification menu or window to the subscriber (similar to FIGS. 21 a and 21 b) informing him of an eminent change of channels to a previously selected program.
  • In order for the set top terminal 220 to establish a favorite channel list, menus querying the subscriber and allowing the subscriber to input his selection of eight favorite channels must be displayed. Alternatively, the set top terminal 220 box can “learn” which channels are a subscriber's favorite channels. A simple learning process would involve the set top terminal 220 determining which channels were the most often watched and assume those channels are the subscriber's favorite channels. Favorite channels are preferably stored in memory in the set top terminal 220. FIG. 51 g, the broadcast TV menu 1046, has a separate category for often watched channels which allow the subscriber or the set top terminal 220 in a learning mode to choose eight additional channels for display.
  • In a manner similar to learning the most often watched channels of the subscriber, the terminal can also determine the most often watched shows by the subscriber. After developing (or learning) a list of popular shows or querying the subscriber for a list of popular shows the terminal can display a submenu allowing the subscriber to choose one of his popular shows for viewing.
  • In order for the set top terminal 220 to develop submenus for subcategories in FIG. 51 g which relate to the content of the programs, the terminal must receive information on the content of the programs from the Operations Center 202 (via the cable headend 208). Normally the set top terminal 220 would receive this information in the form of the program control information signal (or STTCIS).
  • Although various embodiments of menus for broadcast TV are possible, the goals of each are the same—to eliminate or augment printed guides to television programs.
  • In an alternative embodiment, a program viewing suggestion feature is available as an additional feature. This feature gives the indecisive viewer or lazy viewer suggestions as to which programs he should watch. The set top terminal 220 uses a matching algorithm to accomplish the program viewing suggestion feature.
  • In order for the set top terminal 220 to make decisions on which programs the subscriber should watch, the terminal must create a personal profile for the particular viewer. From the data in the particular viewer's personal profile and the television program information available in the program control information signal, the set top terminal 220 is able to select a group of programs which the particular viewer is most likely to watch.
  • In order for this feature to operate, the set top terminal 220 builds a personal profile for each viewer and stores the information in a memory file by viewer name. To build a personal profile, the viewer answers a series of questions presented on a series of menu screens. These personal profile screens request the viewer to input information such as name, sex, age, place of birth, place of lower school education, employment type, level of education, amount of television program viewing per week, and the number of shows in particular categories that the viewer watches in a given week such as, sports, movies, documentaries, sitcoms, etc. Any demographic information which will assist the set top terminal 220 in suggesting television programs to the viewer may be used.
  • Once a personal profile has been created (in a particular set top terminal 220), it can be indefinitely stored in nonvolatile memory. A selection at the home menu screen 1010 activates the program selection feature. Following activation of the feature, the set top terminal 220 will present the viewer with a series of brief questions to determine the viewer's mood at that particular time. For example, the first mood question screen 1260 may ask the viewer to select whether he desires a short (30 minute), medium (30-60 minute), or long (60 plus minute) program selection, as shown in FIG. 51 i. The second mood question screen 1262 requests the viewer to select between a serious program, a thoughtful program, or a light program, as shown in FIG. 51 j. And the third mood question screen 1264 requests whether the user desires a passive program or an active program, as shown in FIG. 51 k. The viewer makes his selection in each question menu utilizing the cursor movement keys and “go” button on his remote control 900. A variety of other mood questions are possible such as fatigue level of the viewer.
  • After the viewer has responded to the mood question menus which determine his mood, the set top terminal 220 finds the best programming matches for the viewer and displays an offering of several suggested programs to the viewer (three or more programs are preferred). The matching algorithm compares the viewer profile data with information about the program derived from the program control information (or STTCIS) signal, such as show category, description type, length, etc. Using the personal profile information and mood questions suggested above, the following types of outcomes are possible. If the set top terminal 220 is presented with a young lady viewer, educated in Boston who watches sitcoms on a regular basis, and desires a short, light, passive program, a match might be found with the 30-minute sitcom Cheers, the sitcom Designing Women and Murphy Brown. Taking another example, a middle-aged male viewer from the Boston area, wishing a longer length, light, passive program suggestion might be suggested the New England Patriots game, the Boston Red Sox game and a science fiction movie.
  • With this program selection feature, the set top terminal 220 can intelligently assist the specific viewer in selecting a television program. Instead of the set top terminal 220 requiring an input of personal profile information, the terminal may also “learn” a subscriber's viewing habits by maintaining historical data on the types of programs the viewer has most frequently watched. This information can then be fed to the matching algorithm which selects the suggested television programs.
  • Using this methodology, it is even possible for the set top terminal 220 to suggest programs for two viewers. By using two sets of viewer profile information, the matching algorithm can find the best match for joint viewing. For example, the set top terminal 220 can suggest programs for a couple watching television simultaneously.
  • FIGS. 52 a, 52 b, and 52 c demonstrate the use of promotional menus to sell subscriptions to services in the system. In particular, FIG. 52 a is a promotional menu 1304 for Level A interactive services. Level A interactive services offers subscribers additional information about programs such as quizzes, geographical facts, etc. This information may be received by the set top terminal 220 in several data formats including VBI and in the program control information signal. FIG. 52 b is a promotional menu 1306 for Level B interactive services which include a variety of on-line type services such as Prodigy, Yellow Pages, Airline Reservations, etc.
  • FIG. 52 c is a promotion menu 1308 for the Level C interactive services. The Level C interactive services utilize local storage such as CD technology to offer an enormous range of multi-media experiences. The Level C interactive services require a hardware upgrade as described earlier. Specially adopted CD-I and CD-ROM units are needed for this service.
  • FIGS. 52 d through 52 j show menus that are available using the interactive Level A services. When interactive Levels A services are available in a television program, the system will display the interactive logo consisting of the letter “I” and two arrows with semicircular tails. In the preferred embodiment the set top terminal 220 will place the interactive logo on the television screen as an overlay menu 1310. In the preferred embodiment, the set top terminal 220 will detect that there is data or information available about a television program which can be displayed to a subscriber using the interactive service. When the set top terminal 220 senses that there is interactive information available, it will generate the interactive logo overlay menu and place it on the television screen. For example, the set top terminal 220 will detect that information on a television program is being sent in the vertical blanking interval (VBI) and generate an interactive logo overlay menu which will appear on the subscriber's television screen for approximately fifteen seconds during each ten minute interval of programming.
  • When the subscriber sees the interactive logo on his television screen, he is made aware of the fact that interactive services are available in conjunction with his television program. If the subscriber presses his interactive remote control button, an additional overlay menu will be generated by the set top terminal 220 and placed on the screen. This menu 1310 is shown in FIG. 52 d being overlayed on an interactive television program. From this menu the subscriber may select interactive features or return to the television program without interactive features.
  • If the subscriber selects interactive features he will be presented with the interactive Level A submenu 1312 in FIG. 52 e. From this submenu the subscriber may choose a variety of different types of textual interactivity with the current television program. Some examples are quizzes, fast facts, more info, where in the world, products, etc. At any time during the interactive submenus the user may return to the television program without interactive features.
  • This interactive submenu has an example of taking a complete television program video, scaling it down to a smaller size and directing the video into a video window of a submenu.
  • FIG. 52 f shows an interactive fast facts submenu 1314. In this submenu textual information is given to the subscriber in the lower half of his screen. This textual information will change as additional data is received by the set top terminal 220 relating to this television program.
  • FIG. 52 g shows the use of the subcategory “more information” in the interactive service. This submenu 1316 gives additional information related to the television program to the viewer in textual form in the lower half of the screen. FIG. 52 h is an interactive submenu 1318 for the subcategory “quiz.” In this interactive subcategory, the user is presented with questions and a series of possible answers. If the subscriber desires, he selects one of the answers to the quiz question. After his selection, the set top terminal 220 sequences to another menu. The set top terminal 220 sequences to the interactive quiz answers submenu which informs the subscriber whether he has chosen the correct answer or not. FIG. 52 i shows a correctly answered quiz question 1320 and FIG. 52 j shows an incorrectly answered quiz question 1324. In the preferred embodiment, the menu graphics for both of these menus 52 i and 52 j is the same. The only difference is in the text which can be generated by the text generator of the set top terminal 220.
  • FIG. 53 a is an example of a submenu for Level B interactive services. From this menu screen 1330, any of a number of on-line data services could be accessed. In FIG. 53 a, the airline reservations selection has been selected by the subscriber.
  • FIGS. 53 b through 531 provide an example of a sequence of menus that a subscriber may encounter with an on-line data service. In particular, this example relates to airline information and reservations and the subscriber in this sequence is reserving and purchasing airline tickets. FIG. 53 b is an example of the first submenu 1332 for a data service offering various options. In this case, the subscriber has the option of checking current reservations or making new reservations. In each of these submenus related to a data service, the subscriber is able to return to the home menu 1010 or regular cable TV and exit the data service. FIG. 53 c requires the subscriber to enter information related to his airline reservation in this submenu 1334, such as: domestic or international flight, year of flight reservation, month of flight reservation.
  • FIG. 53 d is another submenu in the airline information and reservation data service. FIG. 53 d provides an example of how the subscriber may choose among many options on a single screen 1336. In this manner, the preferred embodiment of the system can avoid the use of a separate keyboard for textual entry. Although a separate keyboard may be provided as an upgrade, it is an added expense which some subscribers may wish to avoid. FIG. 53 d shows an “eye off the remote” approach to entering information. FIG. 53 d allows the user to chose the State in which he will depart and the state in which he will arrive. The airline information reservation submenu 1338 shown in FIG. 53 e allows a subscriber to choose the airports from which he will depart and arrive and also the approximate time period of his departure and his arrival. FIG. 53 f, an airline information and reservation submenu 1340, allows a subscriber to view six available flights. A subscriber may select one of the flights to check on its availability.
  • FIG. 53 g, an airline information and reservation submenu 1342, allows a subscriber to enter the month, day and year for the availability date he desires. In this submenu, the subscriber is offered the option of correcting any errors in the entered information. This particular submenu is for a particular flight, including flight number.
  • FIG. 53 h, an airline information and reservation submenu 1344, allows a subscriber to view remaining seats available on a flight. From the menu, the subscriber may select his seat assignments. This submenu is an example of how information may be graphically shown to a subscriber using a portion of the menu and different coloring schemes. In this menu, the lower half of the screen shows the passenger compartment of an airplane with all the seat locations graphically represented by square blocks. By coloring the available seat locations in blue and the unavailable seat locations in a different color, the menu can present a great deal of information in a limited amount of space. This graphic presentation of information for the interactive on-line data services is an important method of visually displaying large amounts of information to the subscriber.
  • FIG. 53 i, an airline information and reservation submenu 1346, allows the subscriber to choose a one-way or round-trip ticket and to confirm his reservations. If the subscriber desires to proceed, he may charge his airline ticket to his credit card by choosing the appropriate strip menu on the lower part of the screen.
  • FIG. 53 j, an airline information and reservation submenu 1348, is an example of how credit card purchases may be made using the interactive on-line data services. In this particular menu, the subscriber is charging a round-trip plane ticket on his credit card. The subscriber simply needs to enter his credit card number, expiration date, and credit card type to charge his airline ticket.
  • FIG. 53 k, an airline information and reservation submenu 1350, is an example of a menu which may be shown whenever an on-line data service is processing a request sent by the subscriber. In this particular menu, the on-line data service is processing the subscriber's credit card charge for his airline ticket.
  • FIG. 53 l, an airline information and reservation submenu 1352, confirms a subscriber's airline ticket purchase and passes on information on where the ticket may be picked up.
  • FIG. 54 a is a major menu 1038 displaying the digital/audio program choices which are available for subscribers who have paid the monthly fee. In a chart format, the major menu shows the top five, top ten, and top forty songs available in six different categories of music. Below the chart, the system is able to provide a text message describing the particulars of the audio program selected.
  • The digital/audio feature of the invention allows a subscriber to listen to CD quality audio selections through his stereo. This can be accomplished by running cables directly from the set top terminal 220 to the subscriber's amplifier/stereo system. Alternatively, the user may listen to audio selections through his television system.
  • FIGS. 54 d and 54 e are the same major menu 1038 as FIG. 54 a but shows a different selection and a different program description in the lower text 1408, 1412. From any of the menu screens for the digital/audio feature, the subscriber may return to regular cable TV with the press of a single button.
  • FIGS. 54 b and 54 c are promotional menus 1400, 1404 for the digital/audio feature. Using the same logos and menu format, the system can provide a text description enticing the subscriber to pay the monthly fee and join the service. In FIG. 54 b, the menu allows the user to test the system with a free demonstration. The menu in FIG. 54 c allows the subscriber to request additional promotional information about the system. Both FIGS. 54 b and 54 c are representative of promotional menus that may be used throughout the menued system.
  • FIGS. 55 a through 55 g and FIGS. 56 a through 56 g, show how menus are generated by the set top terminal 220. FIGS. 55 a through 55 g display the building of a major menu screen for the category hit movies. FIG. 55 a shows the background graphics for the hit movie major menu. The background graphics 1500 comprise an upper sash 1502 across the top of the screen and a lower sash 1504 across the bottom of the screen. The background graphics are generated from the background graphics file 800 in the memory files of the graphics memory (preferably EEPROM) 620. In particular, the hit movie major menu background graphics are located in the universal main menu backgrounds subfile 804 of the background graphics file 800. This universal major menu background graphic 1500 is consistently used in nearly all the major menus. FIG. 55 b shows the logo graphics for the hit movie major menu. The logo graphics 1508 for this major menu consist of an icon window 1510, a cable company logo 1512 in the lower left-hand portion of the screen, a channel company logo 1514 in the upper right-hand part of the screen and two “go” buttons 1516. The icon graphics 1510 are consistently shown in each of the major menus. The cable company logo 1512 is consistently shown in the lower left-hand part of the screen in nearly every major menu. These logo graphics 1508 are created from the logo graphics file 820 in the EEPROM 620. In particular, the cable company logo 1512 in the lower left-hand corner of the screen is located in The Your Choice TV logos 824 part of the logo graphics file. The network logo 1514 in the upper right-hand corner of the screen is generated from the network logo file 828 of the logo graphics file 820. The “go” buttons 1516 are generated from the graphic elements file 840 of the logo graphics file 820.
  • FIG. 55 c shows the addition of menu displays 1520 to the hit movie major menu. In particular, FIG. 55 c shows a ten block main menu display 1520 and a strip menu 1522 in the lower part of the screen. The ten display blocks 1520 of FIG. 55 c are generated from the menu display block's subfile 854 of the menu display and cursor graphics file 850 shown in FIG. 10. The strip menu 1522 located on the lower part of the screen is also generated from the menu display block's subfile 854.
  • FIG. 55 d shows the addition of a cursor highlight overlay 1526 to the hit movie major menu. The cursor highlight overlay 1526 is generated from the cursor highlight overlay's submenu 858 of the menu display and cursor graphics file 850 shown in FIG. 10. In the preferred embodiment, the cursor highlight overlay 1526 is shown by default to be in the upper left-hand menu display block of each major menu. This cursor highlight overlay 1526 can be moved on the screen by the subscriber using his cursor movement buttons 970.
  • FIG. 55 e shows the text 1530 generated for the hit movies major menu. In the preferred embodiment, the text 1530 is generated separately by a text generator in the set top terminal unit 220. Those portions of the text that generally remain the same for a period of weeks or months may be stored in EEPROM 620 or other local storage. For example, the text “HIT MOVIES from” 1531 will consistently appear on each hit movies' major menu. This text may be stored on EEPROM 620 or other local storage. Further, text such as that which appears at the lower center part of the screen “PRESS HERE TO RETURN TO CABLE TV” 1532 appears many times throughout the menu sequence. This text may also be stored locally at the set top terminal 220. Text which changes on a regular basis, such as the movie titles (or other program selections), will be transmitted to the set top terminal 220 by either the operations center 202 or the network controller 214 of the cable headend 208. In this manner, the cable headend 208 may change the program selections available on any major menu 1020 by modifying the program control information signal sent by the operations center 202 and transmitting the change via the STTCIS. It is preferred that the text 1530 be generated separately from the graphics because the text can be stored locally in a more compact manner requiring less storage space. In addition, it allows for easy communication of text changes from the operations center 202 or cable headend.
  • In alternative embodiments, portions of the text, particularly those portions which remain constant, may be incorporated into the graphics and stored in either the background graphics file 800 or the logo graphics file 820.
  • FIG. 55 f shows the addition of day 1534, date 1536 and time 1538 information to the hit movies major menu. This information may be obtained in a variety of ways. The day, date, and time information 1540 may be sent from the operations center 202, the cable headend (signal processor or network controller 214), the uplink site, or generated by the set top terminal unit 220 internally. Each manner of generating the day, date, and time information 1540 has advantages and disadvantages which may change given the particular embodiment and costs. In the preferred embodiment, the day, date, and time 1540 are generated at a central location such as the operations center and are adjusted for regional changes in time at the cable headend.
  • FIG. 55 g shows the results of the information in FIGS. 55 a to 55 f being integrated in the combiner 624 and then displayed on the television screen 222. The subscriber in viewing the hit movie major menu 1040 is unaware of the fact that the menu comprises several distinct part.
  • FIGS. 56 a through 56 g show the creation and display of a program description submenu for a hit movie. Similar to the major menu, the submenu is created in parts and combined before being sent to the television screen. FIG. 56 a shows the background graphics 1550 for the program description submenu. In the preferred embodiment, the upper sash 1552 and lower sash 1554 of the background graphics 1550 are stored together in one location on the EEPROM 620. The video window and half-strip window 1558 are also co-located in storage on the EEPROM 620. The half-strip window 1558 beneath the video window serves 1556 as a means for describing the videos shown in the video window 1556. Both sets of graphic information 1550, the sashes 1552, 1554 and video window 1556 with description 1558, are located in the universal submenu backgrounds subfile 808 of the background graphics file 800. Both sets of backgrounds appear in many menus and are used many times during a sequence of menus.
  • FIG. 56 b shows the additional logo graphics information 1508 needed to create the program description submenu. In the preferred embodiment, the “go” logo 1516 can be stored once in memory 620 and directed to the correct portion of the screen in which it is needed for a particular memo. Similar to FIG. 55 b, the information needed to create the “your choice” logo 1512 and “go” buttons 1516 is stored in the logo graphics file 820.
  • FIG. 56 c shows the addition of menu display information 1520 for the program description submenu. Similar to FIG. 55 c, the information needed for FIG. 56 c menu display blocks is stored in the menu display blocks' subfile 854 of the menu display and cursor graphics 850. In this particular submenu, there are three menu display blocks of rectangular shape.
  • FIG. 56 d shows the addition of cursor highlight overlay information 1526 for the program description submenu. This information is obtained from the cursor highlight overlay submenu 858. For most major menus 1020 and submenus 1050, only one cursor highlight overlay 1526 will appear on the screen at a given time. More cursor highlight overlays 1526 will appear on a screen when the subscriber is presented with more than one question. The number of cursor highlight overlays 1526 will generally correspond with the number of questions being presented to the subscriber on the menu. The cursor highlight overlay 1526 is generally assigned a default position on each menu screen and is moved by the subscriber using either the remote control 900 or the buttons 645 located at the top of the-set top terminal 220.
  • FIG. 56 e shows the text generation 1530 necessary for the program description submenu for a hit movie. As in FIG. 55 e, some of the text for the program description submenu is consistently on each program description submenu, such as “PRESS HERE TO RETURN TO CABLE TV.” This-textual information may be stored locally as opposed to being derived from the STTCIS. Regardless of where the text information is stored, it must be processed through the text generator 621 before being sent to the combiner 624.
  • FIG. 56 f shows the addition of video 1560 to the video window 1556. In an alternative embodiment, the video shown in the program description submenu is a still picture. The still picture may be stored in a compressed format (such as JPEG) at the set top terminal 220. These video stills 1560 that are used on program description submenus as well as other menus, may be transmitted by the operations center 202 through the program control information signal from time to time.
  • In the preferred embodiment, the video window 1556 shows a moving video picture. For the hit movies category, the moving video picture may be obtained directly from a current feed of the described movie. For example, the movie video 1560 shown may be taken directly off of a channel which is currently showing the movie Terminator. The set top terminal 220 would decompress the channel with the movie Terminator and then manipulate the video signal to place it in the video window 1556. This manipulation of the video signal includes scaling down the size of the video screen and redirecting the video to a portion of the menu screen which is within the video window of the menu.
  • Another method of getting the moving video to the video window portion of the submenu, is to obtain the video from a split screen channel. This method involves the use of split screen video techniques to send multiple video dips on a single channel at a given time. For example, a channel may be divided into eight portions of screen space and one of the eight positions may carry the Terminator video dip. The set top terminal 220 would decompress the channel and manipulate on the one-eighth portion of the screen desired in the video window of the submenu. The set top terminal 220 would scale the one-eighth picture, if necessary, and redirect it to the correct position on the screen using known scaling and positioning techniques. Additional circuitry may be required in the set top terminal 220 to perform adequate scaling and repositioning.
  • FIG. 56 g shows the final product resulting from the combining of FIGS. 56 a through 56 f. The combiner 624 integrates each of these portions of information into a single menu screen 1120.
  • The combiner 624 which displays the menus on the television screen obtains information primarily from three locations, the graphics generator 622, the text generator 621, and the video decompressor 618 (with other video manipulation equipment, if necessary). The graphics generator 622 primarily obtains information from the graphic memory unit 620 but may receive information in the STTCIS. The text generator 621 primarily receives its information from a separate memory for text. However, in certain embodiments the text information may be stored in the graphics memory 620 or may be taken directly off the STTCIS. The video signal which is sent to the combiner 624 may come directly from one or more video decompressors or ancillary video manipulation equipment.
  • One of the methods for video clips or promotional video to be sent to the set top terminal 220 is through the use of split screen video techniques. FIG. 57 a shows the throughput of a single channel using a split screen video technique to divide the channel into four parts. In this manner, four different video dips may be simultaneously sent on a single channel. Program description submenus can acquire one of the video dips shown on the split channel at any given time. Generally, this requires the set top terminal 220 to decompress the entire channel, acquire one-fourth of the video information, scale the video (if necessary), and redirect the video. Using this split screen technique 1602, numerous video clips may be sent over a limited number of channels.
  • FIG. 57 b shows an embodiment 1604 in which forty eight different video clips are sent simultaneously on a single channel using split screen video techniques. In this embodiment, the video signal may need to be scaled upwardly to enlarge the picture for viewing in a video window or on a full screen.
  • In an alternative embodiment, which avoids the need for redirecting video into the portion of the screen which houses the video window 1556, masking and menu graphics are used to cover the portions of the channel video that are not needed. This masking technique allows the split screen video to remain in the same portion of the screen that it is transmitted by the operations center. The masking then is adjusted to cover the undesired portions of the screen. These masks would be stored in the background graphics file 800 similarly to other background files for menus. The advantage of the system is the cost savings in not needing to redirect video. The disadvantage of the system is that the video window on a description submenu, for example, would not remain in the same location from menu to menu. This inconsistency in video window location detracts from the aesthetically pleasing aspects of the menu layouts.
  • If the masking technique were used in conjunction with the split screen video shown in FIG. 57 a, each submenu would have approximately one-quarter screen of video and three-quarter screen of graphic and text information. For example, a submenu or promo menu for a basketball game would mask all but the upper right-hand corner of the screen. Following masking, other background graphics 1550, logo graphics 1508, menu display 1520, cursor graphics 1526, and text information 1530 would be overlayed over the three-quarter mask. In a similar manner, a submenu or promo menu for a hockey game would also have a three-quarter mask. This three-quarter mask would mask all but the lower right-hand corner of the screen. Again, the remaining menu graphics, logos and textual information would overlay the three-quarter mask. As you can see from this example, four different three-quarter masks must be stored in the background graphics file 800 for use in the four possible video window positions.
  • The split screen video technique may also be used for promoting television programming. Since a great number of short video clips may be sent continuously (such as in FIG. 57 b), full or partial screen promotionals (or informationals) may be provided to the subscriber. With this large quantity of promotional video, subscribers may be given the opportunity to “graze” through new movie or television programming selections. The subscriber would simply graze from promotional video to promotional video until he found the television program of his liking. Once he has found that program he may choose to order it.
  • FIGS. 58 a, 58 b and 59 a, 59 b relate to the monthly account review capabilities available to the subscriber. In the preferred embodiment, the subscriber may choose to access the monthly account review capability from both the introductory menu 1000 and home menu 1010. The monthly account review screen shows alternative window types that are available to the set top terminal 220. For example, in the upper left-hand corner of the monthly account review, the current time and date are both shown. The upper right-hand corner provides the subscriber with instructions on how to use the monthly account review capability. FIG. 58 b also shows that windows may be created in a variety of shapes. For instance, on the lower right-hand part of the screen 1612 two triangularly shaped windows with messages are shown. In addition, on the left lower part of the screen 1612 a window in the shape of a trapezoid is shown with a textual message inside.
  • The monthly account review provides a list of charges from the first day of the month to the date of viewing for each major menu. Charges are incurred on a pay-per-view basis and on a subscription basis (weekly, monthly, quarterly, etc.). At the lower part of the screen, the total of the charges incurred for the month is listed. The account status can also be calculated on a weekly, quarterly or semi-annual basis.
  • If the user moves his cursor to highlight one of the eight menus listed and depresses the “go” button, he will obtain further billing information on the menu. FIGS. 58 a and 58 b show in screens 1610 and 1612, respectively, the subscriber selecting menu A for further information.
  • FIGS. 59 a and 59 b are submenus for the monthly account review and displays detailed billing information about selections made on menu A. The date of each movie selection, title of the movie, and price for each movie is displayed (1614, 1616). Also, any discounts which have been granted are displayed. The total charges on this menu and the day in which the menu will be changed are shown in the lower part of the screen. From this submenu, the subscriber may either return to regular TV or return to the major menu for the monthly account review. If the submenu information does not fit on a single screen, an extended submenu may be utilized with follow on extension screens. Alternatively, a scrolling feature may be used enabling the subscriber to scroll additional information onto the first submenu screen.
  • The account information necessary to create the monthly account review menus may be stored either in the memory of the set top terminal 220 or at a remote location that communicates with the set top terminal 220. In the simplest embodiment, the set top terminal 220 records a subscriber's selections locally and calculates the monthly account review based upon the subscriber's selections which require the payment of fees. This monthly account information is stored locally and sent to the cable headend 208 at least once a month for back-up and billing purposes.
  • Alternatively, the subscriber's viewing selections and billing information may be continuously maintained at the cable headend 208 or a remote site connected via communication lines to the cable headend 208. The cable headend 208 or the remote site must regularly transmit the monthly account information to the set top terminal 220. Each embodiment has advantages and disadvantages. If the account information and processing is done locally at the set top terminal 220, each set top terminal 220 must be provided with the memory and necessary processing capability to maintain the account. This greatly increases the cost of a set top terminal 220. If the account information is maintained remotely, the remote site must remain in regular contact with the set top terminal 220 in order to provide the subscriber with billing information.
  • To accommodate homes with multiple viewers two or more set top terminals 220 may be placed on a single bill or two accounts may be created for one set top terminal 220.
  • FIG. 60 shows an example of remote statistical and billing sites. In this arrangement, statistical and billing information from a community of set top terminals 1720 is communicated through cable headend 208 sites to regional statistical and billing sites 1730 (SBS). A regional SBS may serve several cable headend 208 sites. The regional SBS 1730 calculates billing and statistical information and passes necessary billing information back downstream through the network controller at the cable headend 208 to an appropriate single set top terminal 220 in a subscriber's home. In addition, the regional SBS communicates the billing and statistical information received on program viewer choices to the central SBS 1740.
  • The central SBS 1740 accumulates the data received from a number of regional statistical and billing sites and calculates national statistical and billing information. In the preferred embodiment the regional SBS 1730 prints and mails bills to subscribers. The central SBS 1740 can calculate program ratings, shares and HUTS (homes using televisions) for the nation and by region. With interactive TV programs sophisticated statistical information may be gathered through the network controllers of the cable headends.
  • This arrangement for billing and statistical information provides the operators of the system with the advantages of distributive processing. Remote billing sites may serve regions of the country by having each cable headend 208 in a region of the country connected to one regional billing site. The information from the regional billing sites may then be communicated on a less frequent basis to the operations center or a central billing location. This method of distributed processing of billing enables the central billing location to receive fewer communications and be more efficient. In addition, the communication links between the cable headend's network controller 214 and regional sites will be of shorter distance than communication links to the operations center from the cable headends 208. This should result in a cost savings to the system operator.
  • However, the regional statistical and billing may be eliminated and all communications from the cable headend 208 may proceed to the Central SBS 1740. In fact, the Central SBS 1740 can be collocated with the Operations Center 202 and all functions performed at one central location.
  • If the cable program packaging and delivery system 202 is established in just one locale, the network controller 214 can perform all the statistical and billing procedures.
  • FIGS. 61 through 89 are additional representative menus which include color indications.
  • FIGS. 90 through 98 demonstrate the generation of menu screens.
  • FIG. 99 is an example of a help menu which may be accessed from the introductory menu. In alternative embodiments, help or instruction menus may be accessed from any displayed menu. FIG. 99 instructs the subscriber on the use of the subscriber interface (remote control unit 900). In particular, FIG. 99 instructs the subscriber on the use of arrow buttons for cursor movement. FIG. 99 also shows how additional instructional information can be provided with follow-on menus by depressing “go” in the lower portion of the screen (highlighted in yellow).
  • FIG. 100 is an exemplary introductory menu with access to remote instructions.
  • FIGS. 101 through 131 are additional representative menus which include color indications.
  • FIGS. 132 through 134 demonstrate the generation of menu screens.

Claims (5)

1. A remote control unit adapted for use with a set-top terminal, the set-top terminal receiving a plurality of television signals and generating a plurality of menus associated with the television signals, each menu belonging to a hierarchy of menus including main menus and submenus, each menu corresponding to a single program or a group or related programs and having menu options that represent one of the programs or group of programs, the remote control unit comprising:
means within the remote control unit, for communicating with the set-top terminal to provide thereby communications adapted to allow selection of a desired program from the plurality of hierarchal menus; and
a plurality of switches, coupled to the means for communicating, comprising:
menu select switches for causing the communication of a signal adapted to directly selecting a desired menu from the plurality of hierarchal menus, each menu select switch corresponding to a particular menu and having an icon representing that particular menu, wherein a selected submenu is directly selected by depressing a menu select switch that corresponds to that selected submenu without first selecting one of the main menus; and
cursor movement switches for causing the communication of a signal adapted to moving a cursor through menu options presented on the plurality of menus;
whereby a user by touch may distinguish the cursor movement switches and menu select switches from the remainder of the plurality of switches without looking at the remote control unit.
2. The remote control unit of claim 1 wherein the plurality of switches includes two groups of switches, a standard group including volume control and channel select switches, and a special group including the cursor movement switches and the menu select switches, whereby the two groups of switches are physically separated from each other on the remote control unit proximate the center of mass of the remote control unit.
3. The remote control unit of claim 1 further comprising a joystick for cursor movement.
4. The remote control unit of claim 1 further comprising a ball for cursor movement.
5. The remote control unit of claim 1 further comprising a rolling-depressible button for cursor movement.
US11/056,618 1992-12-09 2005-02-11 Remote control for menu driven subscriber access to television programming Abandoned US20050157217A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US11/056,618 US20050157217A1 (en) 1992-12-09 2005-02-11 Remote control for menu driven subscriber access to television programming

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US99107492A 1992-12-09 1992-12-09
US11/056,618 US20050157217A1 (en) 1992-12-09 2005-02-11 Remote control for menu driven subscriber access to television programming

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US99107492A Continuation 1992-12-09 1992-12-09

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20050157217A1 true US20050157217A1 (en) 2005-07-21

Family

ID=25536845

Family Applications (20)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/160,191 Expired - Lifetime US5559549A (en) 1992-12-09 1993-12-02 Television program delivery system
US08/160,283 Expired - Lifetime US5682195A (en) 1992-12-09 1993-12-02 Digital cable headend for cable television delivery system
US08/160,193 Expired - Lifetime US5734853A (en) 1992-12-09 1993-12-02 Set top terminal for cable television delivery systems
US08/160,194 Expired - Lifetime US5990927A (en) 1992-12-09 1993-12-02 Advanced set top terminal for cable television delivery systems
US08/711,742 Expired - Lifetime US6052554A (en) 1992-12-09 1996-09-10 Television program delivery system
US08/928,630 Expired - Fee Related US6515680B1 (en) 1992-12-09 1997-09-12 Set top terminal for television delivery system
US09/158,549 Expired - Lifetime US7571457B1 (en) 1992-12-09 1998-09-22 Advanced set top terminal with electronic mailbox for cable television delivery systems
US09/162,768 Expired - Fee Related US7017178B1 (en) 1992-12-09 1998-09-30 Audio program reception terminal for television delivery system
US09/252,485 Expired - Lifetime US7260829B1 (en) 1992-12-09 1999-02-18 Terminal with multiple audio and video
US09/396,428 Expired - Lifetime US8276183B1 (en) 1992-12-09 1999-09-15 Television terminal data storage
US09/396,429 Expired - Lifetime US8347345B1 (en) 1992-12-09 1999-09-15 Television terminal modem
US09/722,744 Expired - Fee Related US6557173B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2000-11-28 Portable electronic book viewer
US09/722,742 Expired - Fee Related US7716349B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2000-11-28 Electronic book library/bookstore system
US09/964,891 Expired - Fee Related US7836481B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2001-09-28 Set top terminal for generating an interactive electronic program guide for use with television delivery system
US09/964,890 Expired - Fee Related US7363645B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2001-09-28 Interactive electronic program guide for use with television delivery system
US09/966,759 Expired - Fee Related US7487523B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2001-10-01 Tiered programming television delivery system
US09/966,594 Expired - Fee Related US7770196B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2001-10-01 Set top terminal for organizing program options available in television delivery system
US09/966,757 Expired - Fee Related US8060905B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2001-10-01 Television delivery system having interactive electronic program guide
US11/056,618 Abandoned US20050157217A1 (en) 1992-12-09 2005-02-11 Remote control for menu driven subscriber access to television programming
US12/131,551 Abandoned US20080235725A1 (en) 1992-12-09 2008-06-02 Electronic program guide with targeted advertising

Family Applications Before (18)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/160,191 Expired - Lifetime US5559549A (en) 1992-12-09 1993-12-02 Television program delivery system
US08/160,283 Expired - Lifetime US5682195A (en) 1992-12-09 1993-12-02 Digital cable headend for cable television delivery system
US08/160,193 Expired - Lifetime US5734853A (en) 1992-12-09 1993-12-02 Set top terminal for cable television delivery systems
US08/160,194 Expired - Lifetime US5990927A (en) 1992-12-09 1993-12-02 Advanced set top terminal for cable television delivery systems
US08/711,742 Expired - Lifetime US6052554A (en) 1992-12-09 1996-09-10 Television program delivery system
US08/928,630 Expired - Fee Related US6515680B1 (en) 1992-12-09 1997-09-12 Set top terminal for television delivery system
US09/158,549 Expired - Lifetime US7571457B1 (en) 1992-12-09 1998-09-22 Advanced set top terminal with electronic mailbox for cable television delivery systems
US09/162,768 Expired - Fee Related US7017178B1 (en) 1992-12-09 1998-09-30 Audio program reception terminal for television delivery system
US09/252,485 Expired - Lifetime US7260829B1 (en) 1992-12-09 1999-02-18 Terminal with multiple audio and video
US09/396,428 Expired - Lifetime US8276183B1 (en) 1992-12-09 1999-09-15 Television terminal data storage
US09/396,429 Expired - Lifetime US8347345B1 (en) 1992-12-09 1999-09-15 Television terminal modem
US09/722,744 Expired - Fee Related US6557173B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2000-11-28 Portable electronic book viewer
US09/722,742 Expired - Fee Related US7716349B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2000-11-28 Electronic book library/bookstore system
US09/964,891 Expired - Fee Related US7836481B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2001-09-28 Set top terminal for generating an interactive electronic program guide for use with television delivery system
US09/964,890 Expired - Fee Related US7363645B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2001-09-28 Interactive electronic program guide for use with television delivery system
US09/966,759 Expired - Fee Related US7487523B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2001-10-01 Tiered programming television delivery system
US09/966,594 Expired - Fee Related US7770196B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2001-10-01 Set top terminal for organizing program options available in television delivery system
US09/966,757 Expired - Fee Related US8060905B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2001-10-01 Television delivery system having interactive electronic program guide

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US12/131,551 Abandoned US20080235725A1 (en) 1992-12-09 2008-06-02 Electronic program guide with targeted advertising

Country Status (19)

Country Link
US (20) US5559549A (en)
EP (26) EP0674824B1 (en)
JP (11) JP3807679B2 (en)
KR (13) KR100348113B1 (en)
CN (21) CN1184812C (en)
AT (23) ATE240021T1 (en)
AU (11) AU5869894A (en)
BR (7) BR9307621A (en)
CA (20) CA2151461C (en)
CO (5) CO4180488A1 (en)
DE (23) DE69332962T3 (en)
ES (11) ES2154291T3 (en)
HK (13) HK1021604A1 (en)
IL (22) IL128390A (en)
MY (5) MY110026A (en)
NZ (6) NZ259147A (en)
RU (5) RU2138923C1 (en)
TW (6) TW447219B (en)
WO (7) WO1994014279A1 (en)

Cited By (99)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20010013126A1 (en) * 1995-04-06 2001-08-09 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive program guide systems and processes
US20020059581A1 (en) * 1994-09-14 2002-05-16 Time Warner Entertainment Company, L.P. Video-on-demand service with an interactive interface for facilitating viewer selection of video programs
US20020060750A1 (en) * 2000-03-29 2002-05-23 Istvan Anthony F. Single-button remote access to a synthetic channel page of specialized content
US20020133816A1 (en) * 1994-06-21 2002-09-19 Greene Steven Bradford System for collecting data concerning received transmitted material
US20020188960A1 (en) * 2001-06-12 2002-12-12 Rodriguez Arturo A. Multiple information levels in media services menus
US20030046695A1 (en) * 2001-08-29 2003-03-06 Digeo, Inc. System and method for enabling focused navigation using filtering and direct-tune buttons
US20030110495A1 (en) * 1993-09-09 2003-06-12 United Video Properties, Inc. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method
US20030128230A1 (en) * 1999-05-18 2003-07-10 Gateway, Inc. Method and system for creating a channel map
US20050198678A1 (en) * 2004-01-09 2005-09-08 Pioneer Corporation Control information file creating device, information display device, control information file creation method, and information distribution display system
US20060277316A1 (en) * 2005-05-12 2006-12-07 Yunchuan Wang Internet protocol television
US20060282852A1 (en) * 2005-03-28 2006-12-14 Purpura Richard F Interactive mosaic channel video stream with barker channel and guide
US20070055989A1 (en) * 2005-09-08 2007-03-08 The Directv Group, Inc. Mosaic channel video stream with interactive services
US20070124753A1 (en) * 2000-01-12 2007-05-31 Koichiro Yamaguchi Digital broadcast receiving device
US20070166004A1 (en) * 2006-01-10 2007-07-19 Io.Tek Co., Ltd Robot system using menu selection card having printed menu codes and pictorial symbols
US20070204298A1 (en) * 2006-02-17 2007-08-30 Shanks David E Dynamic viewership rating system
US20070214478A1 (en) * 2006-03-10 2007-09-13 Feldstein David E Dynamic determination of presentation of multiple video cells in an on-screen display
US20070220546A1 (en) * 2006-02-02 2007-09-20 Shanks David E Interactive mosaic channel video stream with additional programming sources
US20070220551A1 (en) * 2006-02-02 2007-09-20 Shanks David E Interactive mosaic channel video stream with nested menu features
WO2007123573A1 (en) * 2006-04-24 2007-11-01 Thomson Licensing Method and apparatus for providing an on-screen menu system
US20070273488A1 (en) * 2006-03-10 2007-11-29 Craig Le System for choosing predictions across multiple platforms
US20070288959A1 (en) * 2000-03-29 2007-12-13 Digeo, Inc. Single-button remote access to a synthetic channel page of specialized content
US20070294734A1 (en) * 2005-10-28 2007-12-20 Arsenault Robert G Infrastructure for interactive television applications
US20080060006A1 (en) * 2006-08-18 2008-03-06 The Directv Group, Inc Mosaic channel video stream with personalized interactive services
US20080060005A1 (en) * 2006-06-30 2008-03-06 Shanks David E User-selectable audio feed for video programming
US20080059995A1 (en) * 2006-08-23 2008-03-06 The Directv Group, Inc. Selective display of overlay video streams via interactive alert icons
US20080184296A1 (en) * 1994-05-20 2008-07-31 Jerry Alten Electronic television program guide schedule system and method
US20080189738A1 (en) * 2006-12-18 2008-08-07 Purpura Richard F Active channel for interactive television services
US7444347B1 (en) * 2007-11-16 2008-10-28 International Business Machines Corporation Systems, methods and computer products for compression of hierarchical identifiers
US20090073318A1 (en) * 2006-08-30 2009-03-19 The Directv Group, Inc. Mosaic channel video stream with interactive services
US20090125971A1 (en) * 2007-11-14 2009-05-14 At&T Knowledge Ventures, Lp Systems and Method of Controlling Access to Media Content
US20090133049A1 (en) * 2007-11-20 2009-05-21 General Instrument Corporation Method and Apparatus for Limiting Access to Programming in a Switched Digital Video System
US20090132527A1 (en) * 2007-11-20 2009-05-21 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Personalized video channels on social networks
US20090157917A1 (en) * 2007-12-14 2009-06-18 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Signal processing apparatus and control method thereof
US20090158365A1 (en) * 2007-12-18 2009-06-18 Broadcom Corporation Video processing system with user customized graphics for use with layered video coding and methods for use therewith
US20090254595A1 (en) * 2008-04-03 2009-10-08 Chia-Ching Tsai Data Storage Method and Related Device for an Electronic Device
US20100122162A1 (en) * 2007-02-16 2010-05-13 Satoshi Terada Content display device, television receiver, content display method, content display control program, and recording medium
US20100138873A1 (en) * 2005-10-07 2010-06-03 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Receiving device, server, television receiver, mobile terminal, system, receiving method, information processing program, and storage medium
US20100154005A1 (en) * 2007-02-23 2010-06-17 Baxter John W Channel searching by content type
US20100162321A1 (en) * 2008-12-19 2010-06-24 General Instrument Corporation Method and apparatus for establishing individualized subscription plans in a switched digital video system
US20100310237A1 (en) * 2009-06-09 2010-12-09 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and Method of Recording Programs of Favorite Channels
US7941818B2 (en) 1999-06-28 2011-05-10 Index Systems, Inc. System and method for utilizing EPG database for modifying advertisements
US20110138419A1 (en) * 1993-05-27 2011-06-09 Yuen Henry C Method and apparatus for displaying video clips
US7996864B2 (en) 1994-08-31 2011-08-09 Gemstar Development Corporation Method and apparatus for displaying television programs and related text
US20110261171A1 (en) * 2010-04-21 2011-10-27 Satoshi Otsuka Video processing apparatus
US20110296468A1 (en) * 2010-06-01 2011-12-01 Microsoft Corporation Augmenting television media
US20120072951A1 (en) * 2010-09-17 2012-03-22 Brian King Configuration apparatus and method of configuring one or more devices having hidden configuration settings
US20120089937A1 (en) * 2010-10-08 2012-04-12 Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. Remote controller with touch screen
US8181200B2 (en) 1995-10-02 2012-05-15 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Method and system for displaying advertising, video, and program schedule listing
US8272011B2 (en) 1996-12-19 2012-09-18 Index Systems, Inc. Method and system for displaying advertisements between schedule listings
US20120240149A1 (en) * 1997-01-07 2012-09-20 United Video Properties, Inc. System and method for distributing and broadcasting multimedia
US8321892B1 (en) * 2002-03-20 2012-11-27 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and apparatus for filtering data displayed in an electronic television program guide
US8336071B2 (en) 1996-12-19 2012-12-18 Gemstar Development Corporation System and method for modifying advertisement responsive to EPG information
US8359616B2 (en) 2009-09-30 2013-01-22 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for automatically generating advertisements using a media guidance application
US8407737B1 (en) 2007-07-11 2013-03-26 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for providing a scan transport bar
US20130082826A1 (en) * 2011-09-29 2013-04-04 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Method and system for interfacing with multiple devices
US20130125195A1 (en) * 2004-02-10 2013-05-16 Uei Cayman Inc. Interactive web-based codeset selection and development tool
US8613020B2 (en) 1998-04-30 2013-12-17 United Video Properties, Inc. Program guide system with flip and browse advertisements
US8612310B2 (en) 2005-12-29 2013-12-17 United Video Properties, Inc. Method and system for commerce in media program related merchandise
US8615782B2 (en) 1995-10-02 2013-12-24 Starsight Telecast, Inc. System and methods for linking television viewers with advertisers and broadcasters
US8646005B2 (en) 1996-05-03 2014-02-04 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Information system
US8793738B2 (en) 1994-05-04 2014-07-29 Starsight Telecast Incorporated Television system with downloadable features
US8799954B1 (en) 2006-07-31 2014-08-05 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for providing custom media content flipping
US8806536B2 (en) 1998-03-04 2014-08-12 United Video Properties, Inc. Program guide system with preference profiles
US8832742B2 (en) 2006-10-06 2014-09-09 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for acquiring, categorizing and delivering media in interactive media guidance applications
US8863170B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2014-10-14 United Video Properties, Inc. System and method for metadata-linked advertisements
US8904441B2 (en) 2003-11-06 2014-12-02 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for providing program suggestions in an interactive television program guide
US8918807B2 (en) 1997-07-21 2014-12-23 Gemstar Development Corporation System and method for modifying advertisement responsive to EPG information
US8931008B2 (en) 1999-06-29 2015-01-06 United Video Properties, Inc. Promotional philosophy for a video-on-demand-related interactive display within an interactive television application
US9015750B2 (en) 1998-05-15 2015-04-21 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive television program guide system for determining user values for demographic categories
US9021538B2 (en) 1998-07-14 2015-04-28 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-server based interactive guide with server recording
US9038103B2 (en) 2005-05-06 2015-05-19 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for content surfing
US9071872B2 (en) 2003-01-30 2015-06-30 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive television systems with digital video recording and adjustable reminders
US9075861B2 (en) 2006-03-06 2015-07-07 Veveo, Inc. Methods and systems for segmenting relative user preferences into fine-grain and coarse-grain collections
US9094728B1 (en) * 2001-07-31 2015-07-28 Keen Personal Media, Inc. Client terminal for providing channel subscription from a program guide
US9113207B2 (en) 1995-10-02 2015-08-18 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for contextually linking television program information
US9113107B2 (en) 2005-11-08 2015-08-18 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive advertising and program promotion in an interactive television system
US20150237398A1 (en) * 2014-02-18 2015-08-20 Kylintv, Inc. Internet protocol television
US9125169B2 (en) 2011-12-23 2015-09-01 Rovi Guides, Inc. Methods and systems for performing actions based on location-based rules
US20150262476A1 (en) * 2012-11-20 2015-09-17 Huawei Device Co., Ltd. Method for Processing Key Value Information of Remote Control, Control Device and Remote Control
US9147198B2 (en) 2013-01-10 2015-09-29 Rovi Technologies Corporation Systems and methods for providing an interface for data driven media placement
US9166714B2 (en) 2009-09-11 2015-10-20 Veveo, Inc. Method of and system for presenting enriched video viewing analytics
US9172987B2 (en) 1998-07-07 2015-10-27 Rovi Guides, Inc. Methods and systems for updating functionality of a set-top box using markup language
US9177081B2 (en) 2005-08-26 2015-11-03 Veveo, Inc. Method and system for processing ambiguous, multi-term search queries
US9294799B2 (en) 2000-10-11 2016-03-22 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for providing storage of data on servers in an on-demand media delivery system
US9319735B2 (en) 1995-06-07 2016-04-19 Rovi Guides, Inc. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method with data feed access
US9326025B2 (en) 2007-03-09 2016-04-26 Rovi Technologies Corporation Media content search results ranked by popularity
US9426509B2 (en) 1998-08-21 2016-08-23 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-server electronic program guide
USD771675S1 (en) * 2015-05-21 2016-11-15 Layer3 TV, Inc. Display screen or portion thereof with graphical user interface
USD778300S1 (en) * 2015-05-21 2017-02-07 Layer3 TV, Inc. Display screen or portion thereof with a graphical user interface shown thereon
US9591251B2 (en) 1997-10-06 2017-03-07 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive television program guide system with operator showcase
US9736524B2 (en) 2011-01-06 2017-08-15 Veveo, Inc. Methods of and systems for content search based on environment sampling
US9749693B2 (en) 2006-03-24 2017-08-29 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive media guidance application with intelligent navigation and display features
US9848276B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2017-12-19 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for auto-configuring a user equipment device with content consumption material
US9854293B2 (en) 2002-01-04 2017-12-26 Rovi Technologies Corporation Method and apparatus for selecting among multiple tuners
USD825532S1 (en) * 2016-06-15 2018-08-14 Comcast Cable Communications, Llc Remote control
US10063934B2 (en) 2008-11-25 2018-08-28 Rovi Technologies Corporation Reducing unicast session duration with restart TV
US10346853B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2019-07-09 Gametek Llc Computing environment transaction system to transact computing environment circumventions
US10375343B2 (en) * 2012-03-30 2019-08-06 Mimik Technology Inc. System and method for managing streaming services
US11259087B2 (en) 2012-10-03 2022-02-22 Mimik Technology Inc. System and method for managing streaming services

Families Citing this family (1818)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6292568B1 (en) 1966-12-16 2001-09-18 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Representing entitlements to service in a conditional access system
US6265187B1 (en) * 1989-02-14 2001-07-24 Incyte Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Recombinant endotoxin-neutralizing proteins
US5727060A (en) * 1989-10-30 1998-03-10 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Television schedule system
JP2822526B2 (en) * 1990-01-19 1998-11-11 ソニー株式会社 Personal information processing apparatus and personal information processing method
US7210159B2 (en) * 1994-02-18 2007-04-24 Starsight Telecast, Inc. System and method for transmitting and utilizing electronic programs guide information
US5883661A (en) * 1990-09-28 1999-03-16 Ictv, Inc. Output switching for load levelling across multiple service areas
WO1993005593A1 (en) * 1991-09-10 1993-03-18 Hybrid Networks, Inc. Remote link adapter for use in tv broadcast data transmission system
US5724091A (en) * 1991-11-25 1998-03-03 Actv, Inc. Compressed digital data interactive program system
US10361802B1 (en) 1999-02-01 2019-07-23 Blanding Hovenweep, Llc Adaptive pattern recognition based control system and method
US8352400B2 (en) 1991-12-23 2013-01-08 Hoffberg Steven M Adaptive pattern recognition based controller apparatus and method and human-factored interface therefore
US6400996B1 (en) 1999-02-01 2002-06-04 Steven M. Hoffberg Adaptive pattern recognition based control system and method
US5903454A (en) 1991-12-23 1999-05-11 Hoffberg; Linda Irene Human-factored interface corporating adaptive pattern recognition based controller apparatus
US6418424B1 (en) 1991-12-23 2002-07-09 Steven M. Hoffberg Ergonomic man-machine interface incorporating adaptive pattern recognition based control system
US6850252B1 (en) 1999-10-05 2005-02-01 Steven M. Hoffberg Intelligent electronic appliance system and method
USRE46310E1 (en) 1991-12-23 2017-02-14 Blanding Hovenweep, Llc Ergonomic man-machine interface incorporating adaptive pattern recognition based control system
USRE48056E1 (en) 1991-12-23 2020-06-16 Blanding Hovenweep, Llc Ergonomic man-machine interface incorporating adaptive pattern recognition based control system
USRE47908E1 (en) 1991-12-23 2020-03-17 Blanding Hovenweep, Llc Ergonomic man-machine interface incorporating adaptive pattern recognition based control system
USRE38600E1 (en) 1992-06-22 2004-09-28 Mankovitz Roy J Apparatus and methods for accessing information relating to radio television programs
US7849393B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2010-12-07 Discovery Communications, Inc. Electronic book connection to world watch live
US5659350A (en) 1992-12-09 1997-08-19 Discovery Communications, Inc. Operations center for a television program packaging and delivery system
US7168084B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2007-01-23 Sedna Patent Services, Llc Method and apparatus for targeting virtual objects
US8073695B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2011-12-06 Adrea, LLC Electronic book with voice emulation features
US9286294B2 (en) 1992-12-09 2016-03-15 Comcast Ip Holdings I, Llc Video and digital multimedia aggregator content suggestion engine
US7134131B1 (en) * 1992-12-09 2006-11-07 Sedna Patent Services, Llc Digital broadcast program billing
US6675386B1 (en) 1996-09-04 2004-01-06 Discovery Communications, Inc. Apparatus for video access and control over computer network, including image correction
JP3807679B2 (en) 1992-12-09 2006-08-09 セドナ・パテント・サービシズ・エルエルシー Digital cable headend for cable TV distribution system
US7835989B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2010-11-16 Discovery Communications, Inc. Electronic book alternative delivery systems
US7509270B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2009-03-24 Discovery Communications, Inc. Electronic Book having electronic commerce features
AU6352894A (en) 1993-03-05 1994-09-26 Roy J. Mankovitz Apparatus and method using compressed codes for television program record scheduling
US6323894B1 (en) 1993-03-12 2001-11-27 Telebuyer, Llc Commercial product routing system with video vending capability
US5495284A (en) 1993-03-12 1996-02-27 Katz; Ronald A. Scheduling and processing system for telephone video communication
US20030185356A1 (en) 1993-03-12 2003-10-02 Telebuyer, Llc Commercial product telephonic routing system with mobile wireless and video vending capability
US6119099A (en) * 1997-03-21 2000-09-12 Walker Asset Management Limited Partnership Method and system for processing supplementary product sales at a point-of-sale terminal
US6267670B1 (en) * 1997-03-21 2001-07-31 Walker Digital, Llc System and method for performing lottery ticket transactions utilizing point-of-sale terminals
EP0632397A3 (en) * 1993-07-02 1995-08-16 Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Book data service system with data delivery by broadcasting.
US5589892A (en) * 1993-09-09 1996-12-31 Knee; Robert A. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method with data feed access
US5585866A (en) * 1993-09-09 1996-12-17 Miller; Larry Electronic television program guide schedule system and method including virtual channels
US6275268B1 (en) 1993-09-09 2001-08-14 United Video Properties, Inc. Electronic television program guide with remote product ordering
US5822123A (en) * 1993-09-09 1998-10-13 Davis; Bruce Electronic television program guide schedule system and method with pop-up hints
US5648813A (en) * 1993-10-20 1997-07-15 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. Ltd. Graphical-interactive-screen display apparatus and peripheral units
US7861166B1 (en) 1993-12-02 2010-12-28 Discovery Patent Holding, Llc Resizing document pages to fit available hardware screens
US9053640B1 (en) 1993-12-02 2015-06-09 Adrea, LLC Interactive electronic book
US8095949B1 (en) 1993-12-02 2012-01-10 Adrea, LLC Electronic book with restricted access features
US7865567B1 (en) * 1993-12-02 2011-01-04 Discovery Patent Holdings, Llc Virtual on-demand electronic book
JP3319141B2 (en) * 1994-03-27 2002-08-26 ソニー株式会社 Image signal processing device
US5488412A (en) * 1994-03-31 1996-01-30 At&T Corp. Customer premises equipment receives high-speed downstream data over a cable television system and transmits lower speed upstream signaling on a separate channel
US7991347B1 (en) * 1994-04-07 2011-08-02 Data Innovation Llc System and method for accessing set of digital data at a remote site
JPH10501932A (en) 1994-04-08 1998-02-17 プレビュー インターナショナル, インコーポレイテッド Interactive scrolling program guide
EP0755607B1 (en) * 1994-04-13 2001-09-12 MANKOVITZ, Roy J. Apparatus for accessing broadcast information
US5459789A (en) * 1994-04-22 1995-10-17 Thomson Consumer Electronics Packet TV program component detector
CA2146472C (en) * 1994-04-22 2007-10-09 Kevin Elliott Bridgewater Packet video signal inverse transport processor with memory address circuitry
US5619501A (en) 1994-04-22 1997-04-08 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Conditional access filter as for a packet video signal inverse transport system
USRE44685E1 (en) 1994-04-28 2013-12-31 Opentv, Inc. Apparatus for transmitting and receiving executable applications as for a multimedia system, and method and system to order an item using a distributed computing system
US5559548A (en) * 1994-05-20 1996-09-24 Davis; Bruce System and method for generating an information display schedule for an electronic program guide
EP1443756A3 (en) * 1994-05-20 2004-11-10 United Video Properties Inc. Improved electronic television program schedule guide system and method
US6002444A (en) 1994-05-20 1999-12-14 United Video Properties, Inc. Video clip program guide
US5473609A (en) * 1994-05-26 1995-12-05 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Method and apparatus for processing a conditional access program guide as for a satellite TV service
US5694546A (en) 1994-05-31 1997-12-02 Reisman; Richard R. System for automatic unattended electronic information transport between a server and a client by a vendor provided transport software with a manifest list
JPH088860A (en) * 1994-06-24 1996-01-12 Sony Corp Information providing system
US5581706A (en) * 1994-06-30 1996-12-03 Rca Thomson Licensing Corporation Method forming an audio/video interactive data signal
US7181758B1 (en) 1994-07-25 2007-02-20 Data Innovation, L.L.C. Information distribution and processing system
DE69535295T2 (en) * 1994-07-26 2007-05-24 Sony Corp. INFORMATION PROVIDERS SYSTEM
DE59507511D1 (en) * 1994-07-27 2000-02-03 Grundig Ag Method for transmitting a television signal, an accompanying signal and a control signal for a large / small picture display
NL9401262A (en) 1994-08-01 1996-03-01 Sony Telecom Europ Nv Telecommunication system.
US5555441A (en) * 1994-08-02 1996-09-10 Interim Design Inc. Interactive audiovisual distribution system
US5641319A (en) * 1994-08-10 1997-06-24 Lodgenet Entertainment Corporation Entertainment system for providing interactive video game responses to the game interrogations to the video game engines without being processed by the host computer
DE4428606B4 (en) * 1994-08-12 2004-04-29 Deutsche Telekom Ag Method and arrangement for radio transmission of coded signals
KR100409187B1 (en) * 1994-08-16 2004-03-10 소니 가부시끼 가이샤 TV signal receiver and program switching device and method and remote controller
US20120167136A1 (en) * 1994-08-31 2012-06-28 Gemstar Development Corporation Method and apparatus for displaying television programs and related text
US20050204384A1 (en) * 1994-08-31 2005-09-15 Gemstar Development Corporation Method and apparatus for displaying television programs and related text
GB2328105B (en) * 1994-09-06 1999-03-31 Bylon Co Ltd Video distribution system
US5566353A (en) * 1994-09-06 1996-10-15 Bylon Company Limited Point of purchase video distribution system
US5515098A (en) * 1994-09-08 1996-05-07 Carles; John B. System and method for selectively distributing commercial messages over a communications network
BR9508902A (en) * 1994-09-08 1998-01-13 Virtex Communications Inc Method and apparatus for electronic distribution of digital multimedia information
JP3644455B2 (en) * 1994-09-29 2005-04-27 ソニー株式会社 Program information broadcasting system, program information display method and receiving apparatus
DE4434918C2 (en) * 1994-09-29 1996-12-05 Siemens Ag Circuit arrangement for controlling the transmission of information for interactive services
US5760838A (en) 1994-09-30 1998-06-02 Intel Corporation Method and system for configuring a display
US5541662A (en) * 1994-09-30 1996-07-30 Intel Corporation Content programmer control of video and data display using associated data
US7424731B1 (en) 1994-10-12 2008-09-09 Touchtunes Music Corporation Home digital audiovisual information recording and playback system
US7188352B2 (en) * 1995-07-11 2007-03-06 Touchtunes Music Corporation Intelligent digital audiovisual playback system
US5920842A (en) * 1994-10-12 1999-07-06 Pixel Instruments Signal synchronization
US8661477B2 (en) 1994-10-12 2014-02-25 Touchtunes Music Corporation System for distributing and selecting audio and video information and method implemented by said system
WO1996012255A1 (en) 1994-10-12 1996-04-25 Technical Maintenance Corporation Intelligent digital audiovisual playback system
AU4364296A (en) * 1994-10-24 1996-05-15 Intel Corporation Video indexing protocol
DE4437928C1 (en) * 1994-10-24 1995-10-26 Grundig Emv Device for realizing interactive television services
CA2158293A1 (en) * 1994-11-03 1996-05-04 Thomas Calvin Cannon Interactive television system
TW250616B (en) * 1994-11-07 1995-07-01 Discovery Communicat Inc Electronic book selection and delivery system
US6583825B1 (en) * 1994-11-07 2003-06-24 Index Systems, Inc. Method and apparatus for transmitting and downloading setup information
US20030213001A1 (en) 1994-11-07 2003-11-13 Index Systems, Inc. Method and apparatus for transmitting and downloading setup information
US5878222A (en) * 1994-11-14 1999-03-02 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for controlling video/audio and channel selection for a communication signal based on channel data indicative of channel contents of a signal
US5629733A (en) * 1994-11-29 1997-05-13 News America Publications, Inc. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method with display and search of program listings by title
US6460036B1 (en) 1994-11-29 2002-10-01 Pinpoint Incorporated System and method for providing customized electronic newspapers and target advertisements
US6571279B1 (en) * 1997-12-05 2003-05-27 Pinpoint Incorporated Location enhanced information delivery system
US5758257A (en) * 1994-11-29 1998-05-26 Herz; Frederick System and method for scheduling broadcast of and access to video programs and other data using customer profiles
JP2792454B2 (en) 1995-02-09 1998-09-03 日本電気株式会社 Video search system
US5572517A (en) * 1995-02-28 1996-11-05 General Instrument Corporation Configurable hybrid medium access control for cable metropolitan area networks
JP3564698B2 (en) * 1995-03-10 2004-09-15 ソニー株式会社 Parental control method and parental control device
JPH08314979A (en) * 1995-03-13 1996-11-29 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Method and device for displaying program information on display
CA2170429C (en) * 1995-03-28 2000-04-25 Stephen Gregory Eick Method and apparatus for finding and selecting a desired data item from a large schedule of data items using a tv set and a controller similar to a tv-remote-control
US6424717B1 (en) 1995-04-03 2002-07-23 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Encryption devices for use in a conditional access system
US6937729B2 (en) 1995-04-03 2005-08-30 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Representing entitlements to service in a conditional access system
US6246767B1 (en) 1995-04-03 2001-06-12 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Source authentication of download information in a conditional access system
US6252964B1 (en) 1995-04-03 2001-06-26 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Authorization of services in a conditional access system
US6560340B1 (en) 1995-04-03 2003-05-06 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Method and apparatus for geographically limiting service in a conditional access system
US6700958B2 (en) 1995-04-10 2004-03-02 Starguide Digital Networks, Inc. Method and apparatus for transmitting coded audio signals through a transmission channel with limited bandwidth
US8539528B2 (en) 1995-04-17 2013-09-17 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Multi-source switching in a television system
JP3536946B2 (en) * 1995-04-17 2004-06-14 ソニー株式会社 Electronic program guide receiving apparatus and method
JP3662295B2 (en) * 1995-04-17 2005-06-22 ソニー株式会社 Electronic program guide transmission apparatus and method, and electronic program guide reception apparatus and method
US5550576A (en) * 1995-04-17 1996-08-27 Starsight Telecast Incorporated Method and apparatus for merging television program schedule information received from multiple television schedule information sources
ATE448643T1 (en) * 1995-04-24 2009-11-15 United Video Properties Inc APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ELECTRONIC TELEVISION PROGRAM PLANNING WITH REMOTE ORDERING OF GOODS
AU727344B2 (en) * 1995-04-24 2000-12-14 Rovi Guides, Inc. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method with remote product ordering
US5818438A (en) 1995-04-25 1998-10-06 Bellsouth Corporation System and method for providing television services
US5666645A (en) * 1995-04-26 1997-09-09 News America Publications, Inc. Data management and distribution system and method for an electronic television program guide
US5689799A (en) * 1995-04-26 1997-11-18 Wink Communications, Inc. Method and apparatus for routing confidential information
US5682511A (en) * 1995-05-05 1997-10-28 Microsoft Corporation Graphical viewer interface for an interactive network system
US5861906A (en) * 1995-05-05 1999-01-19 Microsoft Corporation Interactive entertainment network system and method for customizing operation thereof according to viewer preferences
US5914712A (en) * 1995-05-08 1999-06-22 Video Jukebox Network, Inc. Interactive video system
GB2301269B (en) * 1995-05-08 2000-03-15 Video Jukebox Network Inc Interactive video system
DE19516933C2 (en) * 1995-05-09 1997-07-03 Inst Rundfunktechnik Gmbh Method for reproducing data signals in television or radio program channels
GB9526304D0 (en) * 1995-05-22 1996-02-21 British Sky Broadcasting Ltd Interactive services interface
DE19520601C1 (en) * 1995-06-06 1996-07-11 Grundig Emv Implementing interactive television
US5760821A (en) * 1995-06-07 1998-06-02 News America Publications, Inc. Electronic program guide schedule localization system and method
US5652613A (en) * 1995-06-07 1997-07-29 Lazarus; David Beryl Intelligent electronic program guide memory management system and method
BR9608610A (en) * 1995-06-07 2000-04-25 Starsight Telecast Inc Telivision system with prominent articles expanders
US7917922B1 (en) 1995-06-08 2011-03-29 Schwab Barry H Video input switching and signal processing apparatus
US5724492A (en) * 1995-06-08 1998-03-03 Microsoft Corporation Systems and method for displaying control objects including a plurality of panels
CA2179973C (en) * 1995-06-30 2002-03-05 Takayuki Nagashima Image transmission apparatus, image transmission system, and communication apparatus
CN1095276C (en) * 1995-07-03 2002-11-27 皇家菲利浦电子有限公司 Transmission of an electronic database of information
DE69607579T2 (en) * 1995-07-11 2000-10-19 Koninkl Philips Electronics Nv VIDEO ON REQUEST SYSTEM
FR2736785A1 (en) * 1995-07-11 1997-01-17 Television Francaise 1 Soc Television programme distribution method
JP3698273B2 (en) * 1995-07-20 2005-09-21 ソニー株式会社 Electronic program guide transmission apparatus and method, electronic program guide reception apparatus and method, and electronic program guide transmission / reception system and method
KR0170865B1 (en) * 1995-07-28 1999-03-20 김주용 Method and apparatus for testing a telephone of optic cable television system
DE69637452D1 (en) * 1995-07-31 2008-04-17 Toshiba Kawasaki Kk Interactive television system
WO1997006639A1 (en) * 1995-08-09 1997-02-20 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Process for selecting and requesting multimedia services
US5801753A (en) * 1995-08-11 1998-09-01 General Instrument Corporation Of Delaware Method and apparatus for providing an interactive guide to events available on an information network
US5758259A (en) * 1995-08-31 1998-05-26 Microsoft Corporation Automated selective programming guide
DE19532503C1 (en) * 1995-09-02 1996-12-05 Grundig Emv Digital radio signal receiving terminal
JPH0983465A (en) * 1995-09-07 1997-03-28 Ekushingu:Kk Program broadcast system
JPH0981473A (en) * 1995-09-18 1997-03-28 Nippon Telegr & Teleph Corp <Ntt> Spontaneous service providing method and system
US5682206A (en) * 1995-09-25 1997-10-28 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Consumer interface for programming device
US20020056136A1 (en) * 1995-09-29 2002-05-09 Wistendahl Douglass A. System for converting existing TV content to interactive TV programs operated with a standard remote control and TV set-top box
US6388714B1 (en) 1995-10-02 2002-05-14 Starsight Telecast Inc Interactive computer system for providing television schedule information
EP2282541A3 (en) * 1995-10-02 2012-10-03 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Systems and methods for providing television schedule information
FI99065C (en) * 1995-10-05 1997-09-25 Nokia Oy Ab Processing a program file in a digital broadcasting system
US6785905B1 (en) * 1995-10-24 2004-08-31 Sony Corporation Television transmitter, television transmitting method, television receiver and television receiving method
US6216264B1 (en) 1995-11-17 2001-04-10 Thomson Licensing S.A. Scheduler apparatus employing a gopher agent
DE69634642T2 (en) 1995-11-17 2006-03-02 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc., Indianapolis Method for locating a program by searching in a program guide for search criteria
US6157413A (en) * 1995-11-20 2000-12-05 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive special events video signal navigation system
US5886732A (en) * 1995-11-22 1999-03-23 Samsung Information Systems America Set-top electronics and network interface unit arrangement
DE69620439T2 (en) * 1995-11-22 2002-10-31 Samsung Electronics Co Ltd ARCHITECTURE OF A HOME MULTIMEDIA NETWORK
US5721583A (en) * 1995-11-27 1998-02-24 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Interactive television system for implementing electronic polling or providing user-requested services based on identification of users or of remote control apparatuses which are employed by respective users to communicate with the system
FR2741972B1 (en) * 1995-11-30 1998-01-02 Thomson Multimedia Sa DEVICE AND METHOD FOR LOADING A USER INTERFACE
JP3416007B2 (en) * 1995-12-06 2003-06-16 インターナショナル・ビジネス・マシーンズ・コーポレーション Apparatus and method for screening audiovisual material
EP1113602A3 (en) * 1995-12-08 2002-06-12 Deutsche Telekom AG Method and circuit for digital data broadcast transmission
US5835487A (en) * 1995-12-08 1998-11-10 Worldspace International Network, Inc. Satellite direct radio broadcast system
DE19547604A1 (en) * 1995-12-20 1997-06-26 Sel Alcatel Ag Set-top box
AU7631696A (en) * 1995-12-22 1997-07-17 British Sky Broadcasting Limited Improvements in receivers for television signals
GB9616406D0 (en) 1996-08-05 1996-09-25 British Sky Broadcasting Ltd Improvements in receivers for television signals
JP4079462B2 (en) * 1996-01-10 2008-04-23 ソニー株式会社 Program selection support device, program selection support method, broadcast reception device, broadcast reception method, broadcast transmission device, broadcast transmission method, broadcast transmission / reception device, and broadcast transmission / reception method
US20090012864A1 (en) * 2007-07-02 2009-01-08 Goldberg Sheldon F Compensation model for network services
US9530150B2 (en) 1996-01-19 2016-12-27 Adcension, Llc Compensation model for network services
US5823879A (en) * 1996-01-19 1998-10-20 Sheldon F. Goldberg Network gaming system
US6264560B1 (en) 1996-01-19 2001-07-24 Sheldon F. Goldberg Method and system for playing games on a network
US5915207A (en) 1996-01-22 1999-06-22 Hughes Electronics Corporation Mobile and wireless information dissemination architecture and protocols
US8140358B1 (en) 1996-01-29 2012-03-20 Progressive Casualty Insurance Company Vehicle monitoring system
US8090598B2 (en) 1996-01-29 2012-01-03 Progressive Casualty Insurance Company Monitoring system for determining and communicating a cost of insurance
JP3165635B2 (en) * 1996-02-07 2001-05-14 三洋電機株式会社 Multiplex broadcast receiver
JP3186565B2 (en) * 1996-02-07 2001-07-11 三洋電機株式会社 Data broadcasting system, receiving system in data broadcasting system, multiplex broadcasting system, and program broadcasting method for multiplex broadcasting system
US6314570B1 (en) * 1996-02-08 2001-11-06 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Data processing apparatus for facilitating data selection and data processing in at television environment with reusable menu structures
US5761606A (en) * 1996-02-08 1998-06-02 Wolzien; Thomas R. Media online services access via address embedded in video or audio program
US5635989A (en) * 1996-02-13 1997-06-03 Hughes Electronics Method and apparatus for sorting and searching a television program guide
US5751372A (en) * 1996-02-19 1998-05-12 Hughes Electronics Method and apparatus for navigating an on-screen program guide
WO1997030552A1 (en) * 1996-02-19 1997-08-21 He Holdings, Inc. Doing Business As Hughes Electronics Method and apparatus for sorting channel guides based on call sign
AU2191197A (en) * 1996-02-26 1997-09-10 E Guide, Inc. Cordless phone back link for interactive television system
WO1998038797A1 (en) * 1997-02-26 1998-09-03 He Holdings, Inc., Doing Business As Hughes Electronics Method and apparatus for generating television program guides utilizing icons
US5809471A (en) * 1996-03-07 1998-09-15 Ibm Corporation Retrieval of additional information not found in interactive TV or telephony signal by application using dynamically extracted vocabulary
US20020038383A1 (en) 1999-12-23 2002-03-28 Craig Ullman Enhanced video programming system and method for incorporating and displaying retrieved integrated internet information segments
US6513069B1 (en) 1996-03-08 2003-01-28 Actv, Inc. Enhanced video programming system and method for providing a distributed community network
US5753363A (en) * 1996-03-15 1998-05-19 Mobil Oil Corporation Metallized film structure
CA2678640C (en) 1996-03-15 2012-08-07 E Guide, Inc. Method and apparatus for displaying television programs and electronic program guide (epg)
JPH09261609A (en) * 1996-03-18 1997-10-03 Sharp Corp Transmitter, receiver and transmission/reception system for broadcasting program
US6025837A (en) 1996-03-29 2000-02-15 Micrsoft Corporation Electronic program guide with hyperlinks to target resources
US6240555B1 (en) * 1996-03-29 2001-05-29 Microsoft Corporation Interactive entertainment system for presenting supplemental interactive content together with continuous video programs
KR100463064B1 (en) * 1996-04-03 2005-09-16 어데토 아크세스 인코포레이티드 Bookmarking television program and channel selections
JPH09284668A (en) * 1996-04-11 1997-10-31 Hitachi Ltd Object oriented tv program selection or program reservation system
US7158188B1 (en) 1996-04-19 2007-01-02 Hitachi, Ltd. Broadcasting and communication receiver apparatus
JP3911047B2 (en) 1996-04-30 2007-05-09 ソニー株式会社 Recording reservation control system and recording reservation control method
DE19617508A1 (en) * 1996-05-02 1997-11-13 Grundig Emv Digital television signal receiving unit
US5815195A (en) * 1996-05-06 1998-09-29 Microsoft Corporation Subscriber information maintenance system and methods
US7266686B1 (en) 1996-05-09 2007-09-04 Two-Way Media Llc Multicasting method and apparatus
KR100251641B1 (en) * 1996-05-13 2000-04-15 김영환 Circuit for arranging channels
JP3793975B2 (en) * 1996-05-20 2006-07-05 ソニー株式会社 Registration method of customized menu in hierarchical menu and video equipment provided with customized menu
FR2749118A1 (en) * 1996-05-22 1997-11-28 Philips Electronics Nv METHOD FOR READING A SERVICE CARD
US5969748A (en) 1996-05-29 1999-10-19 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Television schedule system with access control
JP3276848B2 (en) * 1996-05-31 2002-04-22 三洋電機株式会社 Television receiver
JPH09322086A (en) * 1996-05-31 1997-12-12 Hitachi Ltd Program reservation system
US5801787A (en) 1996-06-14 1998-09-01 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Television schedule system and method of operation for multiple program occurrences
EP0845188A4 (en) * 1996-06-17 1999-08-25 Starsight Telecast Inc Television schedule system with enhanced features
JP3925742B2 (en) * 1996-06-24 2007-06-06 松下電器産業株式会社 Information provision system
US5708478A (en) * 1996-06-26 1998-01-13 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Computer system for enabling radio listeners/television watchers to obtain advertising information
JP3169832B2 (en) * 1996-06-27 2001-05-28 日本電気アイシーマイコンシステム株式会社 Data error correction method for frame-structured digital signal and apparatus used therefor
US5929850A (en) 1996-07-01 1999-07-27 Thomson Consumer Electronices, Inc. Interactive television system and method having on-demand web-like navigational capabilities for displaying requested hyperlinked web-like still images associated with television content
FR2750778B1 (en) * 1996-07-02 1998-11-06 Joseph Marchi PROGRAMMABLE WIRELESS REMOTE DEVICE WITH AN INTERNAL CLOCK
JP3131564B2 (en) * 1996-07-03 2001-02-05 松下電器産業株式会社 Broadcasting system, service providing device, and receiving terminal device
EP0913056B1 (en) * 1996-07-15 2001-12-12 CASAROTTO, G. &amp; C. S.R.L. A method for the automatic control of radio-television receivers
EP0823823A3 (en) 1996-08-07 2001-02-14 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Digital broadcasting system
FR2752350B1 (en) * 1996-08-09 2001-06-08 Thomson Multimedia Sa METHOD FOR EXTRACTING DATA IN A CYCLIC TRANSMISSION SYSTEM AND IMPLEMENTING DEVICE
FR2752351B1 (en) * 1996-08-09 2001-09-07 Thomson Multimedia Sa METHOD FOR INDEXING DATA IN A DIGITAL TELEVISION TRANSMISSION SYSTEM
US6118492A (en) * 1996-08-14 2000-09-12 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Guide system and method of operation
KR19980015956A (en) * 1996-08-24 1998-05-25 김광호 Apparatus and method for checking the frequency of use of electronic products
WO1998010589A1 (en) * 1996-09-03 1998-03-12 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Schedule system with enhanced recording capability
CA2265958C (en) * 1996-09-17 2006-07-18 Diva Systems Corporation Set top terminal for an interactive information distribution system
JP2004007647A (en) * 1996-09-18 2004-01-08 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Charged information providing system
US6289314B1 (en) * 1996-09-18 2001-09-11 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Pay information providing system for descrambling information from plural sources and rescrambling the information before sending to a terminal or terminals
JP3894342B2 (en) * 1996-09-18 2007-03-22 松下電器産業株式会社 Paid information provision system
FR2753868A1 (en) 1996-09-25 1998-03-27 Technical Maintenance Corp METHOD FOR SELECTING A RECORDING ON AN AUDIOVISUAL DIGITAL REPRODUCTION SYSTEM AND SYSTEM FOR IMPLEMENTING THE METHOD
US6052556A (en) * 1996-09-27 2000-04-18 Sharp Laboratories Of America Interactivity enhancement apparatus for consumer electronics products
CA2266598C (en) * 1996-09-30 2003-04-22 The Weather Channel, Inc. Multimedia information transmission and distribution system
US6125392A (en) * 1996-10-11 2000-09-26 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for high speed event log data compression within a non-volatile storage area
JP4032402B2 (en) * 1996-10-14 2008-01-16 ソニー株式会社 Information providing apparatus and method, display control apparatus and method, information providing system
US6311329B1 (en) 1996-10-14 2001-10-30 Sony Corporation Information providing apparatus and method, display controlling apparatus and method, information providing system, as well as transmission medium
US20030192051A1 (en) * 1996-10-15 2003-10-09 Index Systems, Inc. Interactive television system
US20030005463A1 (en) * 1999-09-30 2003-01-02 Douglas B Macrae Access to internet data through a television system
US5977962A (en) * 1996-10-18 1999-11-02 Cablesoft Corporation Television browsing system with transmitted and received keys and associated information
JPH10126750A (en) 1996-10-23 1998-05-15 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Program information broadcast system, broadcast equipment, and reception terminal equipment
US5948061A (en) 1996-10-29 1999-09-07 Double Click, Inc. Method of delivery, targeting, and measuring advertising over networks
US6331876B1 (en) * 1996-11-12 2001-12-18 U.S. Philips Corporation Method of updating software in a video receiver
US6758755B2 (en) 1996-11-14 2004-07-06 Arcade Planet, Inc. Prize redemption system for games executed over a wide area network
US5801747A (en) * 1996-11-15 1998-09-01 Hyundai Electronics America Method and apparatus for creating a television viewer profile
KR100426195B1 (en) * 1996-11-29 2004-06-23 엘지전자 주식회사 Complex medium processing system
JP4223578B2 (en) * 1996-11-29 2009-02-12 ソニー株式会社 Keyword generation method and apparatus
DE19650515C5 (en) * 1996-12-05 2009-06-10 Institut für Rundfunktechnik GmbH Method for decoding additional data
US5963843A (en) * 1996-12-09 1999-10-05 Adc Telecommunications, Inc. Amplifier switch controller and system
ES2333115T3 (en) * 1996-12-10 2010-02-17 United Video Properties, Inc. INTERNET TELEVISION PROGRAM GUIDE SYSTEM.
US20030066085A1 (en) * 1996-12-10 2003-04-03 United Video Properties, Inc., A Corporation Of Delaware Internet television program guide system
US6184877B1 (en) * 1996-12-11 2001-02-06 International Business Machines Corporation System and method for interactively accessing program information on a television
KR19980063435A (en) * 1996-12-11 1998-10-07 포만제프리엘 Method and system for interactively displaying and accessing program information on television
WO1998026608A1 (en) 1996-12-13 1998-06-18 Access Co., Ltd. Method and device for obtaining audience data on tv program
EP0849943A1 (en) * 1996-12-18 1998-06-24 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Interactive remote control for a receiver for digital television signals
US6177931B1 (en) * 1996-12-19 2001-01-23 Index Systems, Inc. Systems and methods for displaying and recording control interface with television programs, video, advertising information and program scheduling information
US5991799A (en) 1996-12-20 1999-11-23 Liberate Technologies Information retrieval system using an internet multiplexer to focus user selection
JP2002509665A (en) * 1996-12-25 2002-03-26 メヘメト・リファト・アラス Television broadcasting system and method
US6510557B1 (en) * 1997-01-03 2003-01-21 Texas Instruments Incorporated Apparatus for the integration of television signals and information from an information service provider
US6163316A (en) * 1997-01-03 2000-12-19 Texas Instruments Incorporated Electronic programming system and method
US6253375B1 (en) * 1997-01-13 2001-06-26 Diva Systems Corporation System for interactively distributing information services
KR100223644B1 (en) * 1997-01-14 1999-10-15 윤종용 Multi-system television receiver with personal computer monitor
US6675383B1 (en) 1997-01-22 2004-01-06 Nielsen Media Research, Inc. Source detection apparatus and method for audience measurement
US5905942A (en) 1997-02-18 1999-05-18 Lodgenet Entertainment Corporation Multiple dwelling unit interactive audio/video distribution system
AU6176398A (en) * 1997-02-19 1998-09-09 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. System and method for providing a full service television system
US5850218A (en) * 1997-02-19 1998-12-15 Time Warner Entertainment Company L.P. Inter-active program guide with default selection control
WO1998038831A1 (en) 1997-02-28 1998-09-03 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Television control interface with electronic guide
US6370571B1 (en) 1997-03-05 2002-04-09 At Home Corporation System and method for delivering high-performance online multimedia services
JP3823422B2 (en) * 1997-03-05 2006-09-20 ソニー株式会社 Program management apparatus and program management method
US7529856B2 (en) * 1997-03-05 2009-05-05 At Home Corporation Delivering multimedia services
JP3662384B2 (en) * 1997-03-09 2005-06-22 松下電器産業株式会社 Information providing method and information providing and receiving apparatus used therefor
US6064376A (en) * 1997-03-13 2000-05-16 United Video Properties, Inc. Adjustable program guide display system
GB9705719D0 (en) * 1997-03-20 1997-05-07 Two Way Tv Ltd Method and apparatus for transmitting data
US7351142B2 (en) * 1997-03-21 2008-04-01 Walker Digital, Llc Method and apparatus for facilitating play of fractional value lottery games
US7542919B1 (en) * 1997-03-21 2009-06-02 Walker Digital, Llc Method and apparatus for selecting a supplemental product to offer for sale during a transaction
US7184990B2 (en) * 1997-03-21 2007-02-27 Walker Digital, Llc Method and apparatus for selling an aging food product
EP1679894A3 (en) * 1997-03-21 2007-10-10 Nagra Thomson Licensing Broadcast and reception system, and conditional access system therefor
WO1998043425A1 (en) * 1997-03-21 1998-10-01 Canal+ Societe Anonyme Smartcard for use with a receiver of encrypted broadcast signals, and receiver
US7272569B1 (en) 1997-03-21 2007-09-18 Walker Digital, Llc Method and apparatus for controlling the performance of a supplementary process at a point-of-sale terminal
US6504580B1 (en) 1997-03-24 2003-01-07 Evolve Products, Inc. Non-Telephonic, non-remote controller, wireless information presentation device with advertising display
US20050097594A1 (en) * 1997-03-24 2005-05-05 O'donnell Frank Systems and methods for awarding affinity points based upon remote control usage
GB2325537B8 (en) * 1997-03-31 2000-01-31 Microsoft Corp Query-based electronic program guide
US6357045B1 (en) * 1997-03-31 2002-03-12 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Apparatus and method for generating a time-multiplexed channel surfing signal at television head-end sites
JPH10276160A (en) * 1997-03-31 1998-10-13 Sony Corp Program production transmission device
GB2340638B (en) * 1997-03-31 2000-08-09 Microsoft Corp Query-based electronic program guide
GB2323963B (en) * 1997-04-04 1999-05-12 Sony Corp Data transmission apparatus and data transmission method
DE69730622T2 (en) * 1997-04-14 2005-02-03 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc., Indianapolis SYSTEM FOR THE AUTOMATIC PRODUCTION OF A PROGRAM MANAGEMENT BY INFORMATION FROM VARIOUS SOURCES
EP0976243B1 (en) * 1997-04-16 2011-11-30 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Multiple database, user-choice-compiled program and event guide
US9113122B2 (en) * 1997-04-21 2015-08-18 Rovi Guides, Inc. Method and apparatus for time-shifting video and text in a text-enhanced television program
US6219537B1 (en) * 1997-04-29 2001-04-17 Vbi-2000, L.L.C. Apparatus and method for an enhanced PCS communication system
US6961556B2 (en) 1997-04-29 2005-11-01 Vbi-2000, Llc Apparatus and method for an enhanced PCS communication system
US8065701B2 (en) * 1997-04-30 2011-11-22 Sony Corporation Information broadcasting method, information broadcasting system, and receiving apparatus for transmitting data other than program through digital broadcasting
US6381748B1 (en) * 1997-05-02 2002-04-30 Gte Main Street Incorporated Apparatus and methods for network access using a set top box and television
KR100287021B1 (en) * 1997-05-12 2001-04-16 이정태 Device for selecting and driving program of computer and device for inputting selection signal of computer
US6326970B1 (en) 1997-05-16 2001-12-04 Liberate Technologies TV centric layout
US6061097A (en) * 1997-05-22 2000-05-09 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive television program guide with selectable non-program options
DE19722915A1 (en) * 1997-05-31 1998-12-03 Alsthom Cge Alcatel Digital decoder of a transmission system
SE509582C2 (en) * 1997-06-05 1999-02-08 Telia Ab Systems at telecommunication networks
DE19723815A1 (en) * 1997-06-06 1998-12-10 Philips Patentverwaltung System for menu-driven command entry
EP0986902B2 (en) * 1997-06-06 2006-05-17 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. System and method for changing program guide format
US6681393B1 (en) 1997-06-06 2004-01-20 Nds Limited Viewer interaction feedback method and system for use with an interactive telecommunication system
US6029194A (en) * 1997-06-10 2000-02-22 Tektronix, Inc. Audio/video media server for distributed editing over networks
AU8072798A (en) * 1997-06-16 1999-01-04 Doubleclick Inc. Method and apparatus for automatic placement of advertising
EP0892554A3 (en) * 1997-06-18 2000-03-01 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Program information retrieval apparatus, method and system for retrieving and displaying information of broadcast programs
US6081533A (en) * 1997-06-25 2000-06-27 Com21, Inc. Method and apparatus for an application interface module in a subscriber terminal unit
US6337715B1 (en) * 1997-07-04 2002-01-08 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Broadcasting reception apparatus and data broadcasting method
US20040253565A1 (en) * 1997-07-10 2004-12-16 Kyu Jin Park Caption type language learning system using caption type learning terminal and communication network
US6223292B1 (en) * 1997-07-15 2001-04-24 Microsoft Corporation Authorization systems, methods, and computer program products
EP2330815A3 (en) * 1997-07-21 2011-07-20 Gemstar Development Corporation Systems and methods for displaying and recording control interfaces
US7574727B2 (en) 1997-07-23 2009-08-11 Touchtunes Music Corporation Intelligent digital audiovisual playback system
BR9810966A (en) * 1997-08-01 2001-11-20 Scientific Atlanta Method and apparatus for limiting geographically service in a conditional access system
DE19733730A1 (en) * 1997-08-04 1999-02-11 Siemens Ag Programmable television signal receiver
WO1999009744A1 (en) * 1997-08-18 1999-02-25 Sony Electronics Inc. Interactive menu
US6529602B1 (en) * 1997-08-19 2003-03-04 Walker Digital, Llc Method and apparatus for the secure storage of audio signals
DE69841348D1 (en) * 1997-08-21 2010-01-14 Sony Corp Information transmission method and television receiver
US6266059B1 (en) 1997-08-27 2001-07-24 Microsoft Corporation User interface for switching between application modes
US6313851B1 (en) 1997-08-27 2001-11-06 Microsoft Corporation User friendly remote system interface
US6028604A (en) * 1997-08-27 2000-02-22 Microsoft Corporation User friendly remote system interface providing previews of applications
WO1999013641A1 (en) 1997-09-05 1999-03-18 Prevue International, Inc. Program guide application interface system
US5999795A (en) * 1997-09-10 1999-12-07 Starlink Inc. RF GPS long cable driver
WO1999014947A1 (en) 1997-09-18 1999-03-25 United Video Properties, Inc. Electronic-mail reminder for an internet television program guide
US7313810B1 (en) 1997-09-25 2007-12-25 The Weather Channel Multimedia information transmission and distribution system
US6600496B1 (en) 1997-09-26 2003-07-29 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Interactive graphical user interface for television set-top box
FR2769165B1 (en) 1997-09-26 2002-11-29 Technical Maintenance Corp WIRELESS SYSTEM WITH DIGITAL TRANSMISSION FOR SPEAKERS
US6016141A (en) 1997-10-06 2000-01-18 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive television program guide system with pay program package promotion
AU735093B2 (en) * 1997-10-06 2001-06-28 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive television program guide system with pay program package promotion
US6209130B1 (en) * 1997-10-10 2001-03-27 United Video Properties, Inc. System for collecting television program data
US6154633A (en) * 1997-10-22 2000-11-28 Motorola, Inc. Method and apparatus for upgrading features and functions of a set top box in the field
CA2251412A1 (en) * 1997-10-28 1999-04-28 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. A reproduction apparatus for reproducing digital data, a recording medium recording digital data, and a computer-readable recording medium recording a reproduction program
WO1999023820A1 (en) * 1997-11-03 1999-05-14 International Communications Products, Inc. Link adapter interface for upgrading existing satellite communication system for enhanced modulation and coding
UA57812C2 (en) * 1997-11-04 2003-07-15 Джорджія Тек Ресерч Корпорейшн System and method for transmitting digital video signals and data over a communication link
JP4196419B2 (en) * 1997-11-05 2008-12-17 ソニー株式会社 Data transmission / reception system, data reception apparatus, and data transmission / reception method
EP3073656A1 (en) * 1997-11-11 2016-09-28 SnapTrack, Inc. Transmitter and transmitting method, information editor and editing method, receiver and receiving method, information storage and storing method, and broadcasting system
US6016507A (en) * 1997-11-21 2000-01-18 International Business Machines Corporation Method and apparatus for deleting a portion of a video or audio file from data storage prior to completion of broadcast or presentation
JP3447207B2 (en) 1997-12-05 2003-09-16 松下電器産業株式会社 Program information creation transmission apparatus and method
JP3466071B2 (en) * 1997-12-05 2003-11-10 松下電器産業株式会社 Broadcast receiver
JP3558534B2 (en) * 1997-12-09 2004-08-25 松下電器産業株式会社 Control information creation device for broadcast system
US6374336B1 (en) 1997-12-24 2002-04-16 Avid Technology, Inc. Computer system and process for transferring multiple high bandwidth streams of data between multiple storage units and multiple applications in a scalable and reliable manner
US6415373B1 (en) 1997-12-24 2002-07-02 Avid Technology, Inc. Computer system and process for transferring multiple high bandwidth streams of data between multiple storage units and multiple applications in a scalable and reliable manner
JPH11196342A (en) * 1997-12-26 1999-07-21 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Sender and terminal
US6088387A (en) * 1997-12-31 2000-07-11 At&T Corp. Multi-channel parallel/serial concatenated convolutional codes and trellis coded modulation encoder/decoder
US6178446B1 (en) 1997-12-31 2001-01-23 At&T Corp Method and system for supporting interactive commercials displayed on a display device using a telephone network
US5970473A (en) * 1997-12-31 1999-10-19 At&T Corp. Video communication device providing in-home catalog services
US6229810B1 (en) 1997-12-31 2001-05-08 At&T Corp Network server platform for a hybrid fiber twisted pair local loop network service architecture
US6396531B1 (en) 1997-12-31 2002-05-28 At+T Corp. Set top integrated visionphone user interface having multiple menu hierarchies
US6385693B1 (en) 1997-12-31 2002-05-07 At&T Corp. Network server platform/facilities management platform caching server
US6020916A (en) * 1997-12-31 2000-02-01 At&T Corp Videophone multimedia interactive on-hold information menus
US6385305B1 (en) * 1997-12-31 2002-05-07 At& T Corp. Video phone multimedia announcement message toolkit
US6377664B2 (en) 1997-12-31 2002-04-23 At&T Corp. Video phone multimedia announcement answering machine
US6044403A (en) * 1997-12-31 2000-03-28 At&T Corp Network server platform for internet, JAVA server and video application server
US5949474A (en) * 1997-12-31 1999-09-07 At&T Corp Videophone blocker
US6222520B1 (en) 1997-12-31 2001-04-24 At&T Corp. Information display for a visual communication device
US6084583A (en) * 1997-12-31 2000-07-04 At&T Corp Advertising screen saver
US6144696A (en) 1997-12-31 2000-11-07 At&T Corp. Spread spectrum bit allocation algorithm
US6356569B1 (en) 1997-12-31 2002-03-12 At&T Corp Digital channelizer with arbitrary output sampling frequency
US6347075B1 (en) * 1997-12-31 2002-02-12 At&T Corp. Circuit to provide backup telephone service for a multiple service access system using a twisted pair
US6363079B1 (en) * 1997-12-31 2002-03-26 At&T Corp. Multifunction interface facility connecting wideband multiple access subscriber loops with various networks
US6292210B1 (en) * 1997-12-31 2001-09-18 At&T Corp. Integrated remote control and phone user interface
US6359881B1 (en) 1997-12-31 2002-03-19 At&T Corp. Hybrid fiber twisted pair local loop network service architecture
US7054313B1 (en) * 1997-12-31 2006-05-30 At&T Corp. Integrated services director (ISD) overall architecture
US6226362B1 (en) 1997-12-31 2001-05-01 At&T Corp Video phone interactive corporate menu answering machine announcement
US6052439A (en) * 1997-12-31 2000-04-18 At&T Corp Network server platform telephone directory white-yellow page services
US7184428B1 (en) * 1997-12-31 2007-02-27 At&T Corp. Facility management platform for a hybrid coaxial/twisted pair local loop network service architecture
US6667759B2 (en) 1997-12-31 2003-12-23 At&T Corp. Video phone form factor
US6545722B1 (en) 1998-01-09 2003-04-08 Douglas G. Brown Methods and systems for providing television related services via a networked personal computer
US5945993A (en) * 1998-01-30 1999-08-31 Hewlett-Packard Company Pictograph-based method and apparatus for controlling a plurality of lighting loads
US6452611B1 (en) * 1998-02-04 2002-09-17 Corporate Media Partners Method and system for providing dynamically changing programming categories
EP0935385A3 (en) 1998-02-04 2002-06-19 Hitachi, Ltd. Decoder device and receiver using the same
JP2002504787A (en) * 1998-02-20 2002-02-12 トムソン ライセンシング ソシエテ アノニム System for forming, segmenting and processing program guides
ES2532838T3 (en) * 1998-03-04 2015-04-01 United Video Properties, Inc. Program guide system with monitoring of the use of advertising and user activities
IL138067A0 (en) * 1998-03-04 2001-10-31 United Video Properties Inc Program guide system with targeted advertising
US7194757B1 (en) 1998-03-06 2007-03-20 Starguide Digital Network, Inc. Method and apparatus for push and pull distribution of multimedia
US6289346B1 (en) * 1998-03-12 2001-09-11 At&T Corp. Apparatus and method for a bookmarking system
JP3657424B2 (en) * 1998-03-20 2005-06-08 松下電器産業株式会社 Center device and terminal device for broadcasting program information
US6477707B1 (en) * 1998-03-24 2002-11-05 Fantastic Corporation Method and system for broadcast transmission of media objects
US8284774B2 (en) 1998-04-03 2012-10-09 Megawave Audio Llc Ethernet digital storage (EDS) card and satellite transmission system
US6189008B1 (en) * 1998-04-03 2001-02-13 Intertainer, Inc. Dynamic digital asset management
US6160797A (en) 1998-04-03 2000-12-12 Starguide Digital Networks, Inc. Satellite receiver/router, system, and method of use
JP4591483B2 (en) * 1998-04-09 2010-12-01 ソニー株式会社 Information replacing device and information replacing method
US6433835B1 (en) * 1998-04-17 2002-08-13 Encamera Sciences Corporation Expanded information capacity for existing communication transmission systems
US20030112370A1 (en) * 2001-12-18 2003-06-19 Chris Long Adaptive expanded information capacity for communications systems
US20030140351A1 (en) * 1998-04-17 2003-07-24 Hoarty W. Leo Cable television system compatible bandwidth upgrade using embedded digital channels
EP0954171A1 (en) * 1998-04-29 1999-11-03 CANAL+ Société Anonyme Receiver/decoder and method of processing video data
BR9910581A (en) * 1998-04-30 2001-01-09 United Video Properties Inc Program guide system with advertisements
US6067107A (en) * 1998-04-30 2000-05-23 Wink Communications, Inc. Response capacity management in interactive broadcast systems by periodic reconfiguration of response priorities
US6725461B1 (en) 1998-04-30 2004-04-20 Wink Communications, Inc. Reminder system for broadcast and non-broadcast events based on broadcast interactive applications
US6530082B1 (en) * 1998-04-30 2003-03-04 Wink Communications, Inc. Configurable monitoring of program viewership and usage of interactive applications
US20040194138A1 (en) * 1998-04-30 2004-09-30 Prevue Networks, Inc. Program guide system with targeted advertisements based on function buttons and non-programming options
WO1999057902A1 (en) * 1998-05-01 1999-11-11 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Method and apparatus for pay-per-view program guide
BR9909919A (en) * 1998-05-01 2004-06-29 Scientific Atlanta Method and apparatus for pay-per-view system
US6802077B1 (en) * 1998-05-01 2004-10-05 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Method for a pay-per-view referral
US20080034113A1 (en) * 1998-05-04 2008-02-07 Frank Montero Method of contextually determining missing components of an incomplete uniform resource locator
US6154206A (en) * 1998-05-06 2000-11-28 Sony Corporation Of Japan Method and apparatus for distributed conditional access control on a serial communication network
AU761964B2 (en) * 1998-05-11 2003-06-12 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Broadcasting transmitter and receiver
ES2296585T3 (en) * 1998-05-12 2008-05-01 Nielsen Media Research, Inc. AUDIENCE MEASUREMENT SYSTEM FOR DIGITAL TELEVISION.
US6040829A (en) 1998-05-13 2000-03-21 Croy; Clemens Personal navigator system
US6476825B1 (en) 1998-05-13 2002-11-05 Clemens Croy Hand-held video viewer and remote control device
US7117518B1 (en) * 1998-05-14 2006-10-03 Sony Corporation Information retrieval method and apparatus
US6005603A (en) * 1998-05-15 1999-12-21 International Business Machines Corporation Control of a system for processing a stream of information based on information content
EP1237372B2 (en) 1998-05-15 2008-01-30 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive television program guide system for determining user values for demographic categories
US6742183B1 (en) * 1998-05-15 2004-05-25 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for advertising television networks, channels, and programs
US6563515B1 (en) 1998-05-19 2003-05-13 United Video Properties, Inc. Program guide system with video window browsing
AU2015200159B2 (en) * 1998-05-19 2016-09-22 Rovi Guides, Inc. Program Guide System With Video-on-Demand Browsing
US7603684B1 (en) * 1998-05-19 2009-10-13 United Video Properties, Inc. Program guide system with video-on-demand browsing
US6100916A (en) * 1998-05-20 2000-08-08 Lucent Technologies Inc. System and method for subscriber controlled signal blocking
EP1082853A1 (en) * 1998-05-29 2001-03-14 Diva Systems Corporation Interactive information distribution system and method
US6427238B1 (en) * 1998-05-29 2002-07-30 Opentv, Inc. Module manager for interactive television system
GB0027260D0 (en) 2000-11-08 2000-12-27 Koninl Philips Electronics Nv An image control system
US6314573B1 (en) * 1998-05-29 2001-11-06 Diva Systems Corporation Method and apparatus for providing subscription-on-demand services for an interactive information distribution system
JP2955561B1 (en) 1998-05-29 1999-10-04 株式会社ディジタル・ビジョン・ラボラトリーズ Stream communication system and stream transfer control method
EP0963115A1 (en) 1998-06-05 1999-12-08 THOMSON multimedia Apparatus and method for selecting viewers' profile in interactive TV
US6115080A (en) * 1998-06-05 2000-09-05 Sarnoff Corporation Channel selection methodology in an ATSC/NTSC television receiver
EP0963119B1 (en) * 1998-06-05 2006-10-11 THOMSON multimedia Apparatus and method for selecting viewers' profile in interactive TV
US6959449B1 (en) * 1998-06-08 2005-10-25 Sony Corporation System and method for simultaneously accessing video data and internet page data
EP1403805A3 (en) * 1998-06-11 2004-05-26 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Virtual jukebox
US20050204388A1 (en) 1998-06-11 2005-09-15 Knudson Edward B. Series reminders and series recording from an interactive television program guide
US8352984B2 (en) 1998-06-12 2013-01-08 Thomson Licensing System and method for generating and managing user preference information for scheduled and stored television programs
US6614987B1 (en) * 1998-06-12 2003-09-02 Metabyte, Inc. Television program recording with user preference determination
US7146627B1 (en) 1998-06-12 2006-12-05 Metabyte Networks, Inc. Method and apparatus for delivery of targeted video programming
GB2338364B (en) * 1998-06-12 2003-03-05 British Sky Broadcasting Ltd Improvements in receivers for television signals
US6698020B1 (en) 1998-06-15 2004-02-24 Webtv Networks, Inc. Techniques for intelligent video ad insertion
US6536041B1 (en) 1998-06-16 2003-03-18 United Video Properties, Inc. Program guide system with real-time data sources
TW456148B (en) 1998-06-16 2001-09-21 United Video Properties Inc Interactive television program guide with simultaneous watch and record capabilities
EP1414246B1 (en) 1998-06-18 2007-02-28 Sony Corporation Electronic program guide multiplexed in an MPEG stream
KR100603677B1 (en) * 1998-06-19 2006-07-20 마츠시타 덴끼 산교 가부시키가이샤 Transmitting method, receiving method for broadcasting, and rreceiving device for broadcasting, receiving device and receiving method
CZ297684B6 (en) * 1998-06-23 2007-03-07 Swisscom Mobile Ag Representation device for displaying information and corresponding ordering method
JP2000092086A (en) * 1998-06-24 2000-03-31 Canon Inc Communication equipment, communication information recording method, response information reproducing/ communication information recording method and storage medium
CA2273762A1 (en) * 1998-06-26 1999-12-26 Sarnoff Corporation Information distribution system exhibiting demographic affinity
US9009773B1 (en) 1998-06-30 2015-04-14 Cox Communications, Inc. Method and apparatus for providing broadcast data services
US6268849B1 (en) * 1998-06-30 2001-07-31 United Video Properties, Inc. Internet television program guide system with embedded real-time data
FR2780833B1 (en) * 1998-07-01 2004-07-09 Sagem METHOD AND DEVICE FOR AUDIIMETRY ON TELEVISION DECODER
JP4069586B2 (en) * 1998-07-01 2008-04-02 株式会社日立製作所 Recording / viewing support method, video recording apparatus, and recording / viewing support apparatus
JP2000020779A (en) * 1998-07-03 2000-01-21 Yazaki Corp Vehicle operation information collecting device
TW416224B (en) * 1998-07-07 2000-12-21 United Video Properties Inc Interactive television program guide system with local advertisements
JP2995177B1 (en) 1998-07-10 1999-12-27 株式会社ディジタル・ビジョン・ラボラトリーズ Stream distribution system
US6229524B1 (en) * 1998-07-17 2001-05-08 International Business Machines Corporation User interface for interaction with video
TW420936B (en) 1998-07-17 2001-02-01 United Video Properties Inc Interactive television program guide system having multiple devices within a household
JP3925586B2 (en) 1998-07-17 2007-06-06 ソニー株式会社 Data receiving apparatus and method, and data transmission / reception system and method
EP1099340A1 (en) * 1998-07-17 2001-05-16 United Video Properties, Inc. Television system with aided user program searching
AR020608A1 (en) 1998-07-17 2002-05-22 United Video Properties Inc A METHOD AND A PROVISION TO SUPPLY A USER REMOTE ACCESS TO AN INTERACTIVE PROGRAMMING GUIDE BY A REMOTE ACCESS LINK
FR2781582B1 (en) 1998-07-21 2001-01-12 Technical Maintenance Corp SYSTEM FOR DOWNLOADING OBJECTS OR FILES FOR SOFTWARE UPDATE
FR2781580B1 (en) 1998-07-22 2000-09-22 Technical Maintenance Corp SOUND CONTROL CIRCUIT FOR INTELLIGENT DIGITAL AUDIOVISUAL REPRODUCTION SYSTEM
US8028318B2 (en) 1999-07-21 2011-09-27 Touchtunes Music Corporation Remote control unit for activating and deactivating means for payment and for displaying payment status
FR2781593B1 (en) 1998-07-22 2001-01-12 Technical Maintenance Corp REMOTE CONTROL FOR INTELLIGENT DIGITAL AUDIOVISUAL REPRODUCTION SYSTEM
FR2781591B1 (en) 1998-07-22 2000-09-22 Technical Maintenance Corp AUDIOVISUAL REPRODUCTION SYSTEM
US7091968B1 (en) * 1998-07-23 2006-08-15 Sedna Patent Services, Llc Method and apparatus for encoding a user interface
US6754905B2 (en) 1998-07-23 2004-06-22 Diva Systems Corporation Data structure and methods for providing an interactive program guide
BR9912386A (en) * 1998-07-23 2001-10-02 Diva Systems Corp System and process for generating and using an interactive user interface
US6415437B1 (en) * 1998-07-23 2002-07-02 Diva Systems Corporation Method and apparatus for combining video sequences with an interactive program guide
US9924234B2 (en) 1998-07-23 2018-03-20 Comcast Ip Holdings I, Llc Data structure and methods for providing an interactive program
BR9912385A (en) 1998-07-23 2002-01-15 Diva Systems Corp User interface generated on a head end, interactive program guide, and processes for generating and distributing a user interface, and interacting with an interactive program guide
AR019458A1 (en) * 1998-07-23 2002-02-20 United Video Properties Inc AN INTERACTIVE TELEVISION PROGRAMMING GUIDE PROVISION THAT SERVES AS AN ENTRY
US8189662B2 (en) 1999-07-27 2012-05-29 Microsoft Corporation Selection compression
MXPA01000893A (en) 1998-07-27 2002-06-04 Webtv Networks Inc Remote computer access.
US7360230B1 (en) 1998-07-27 2008-04-15 Microsoft Corporation Overlay management
US6505348B1 (en) * 1998-07-29 2003-01-07 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Multiple interactive electronic program guide system and methods
US7558472B2 (en) 2000-08-22 2009-07-07 Tivo Inc. Multimedia signal processing system
US6233389B1 (en) 1998-07-30 2001-05-15 Tivo, Inc. Multimedia time warping system
US20020045477A1 (en) 1999-08-03 2002-04-18 Dabrowski Stanley P. Method and apparatus for scrip distribution and management permitting redistribution of issued scrip
EP1142260A2 (en) 1998-08-03 2001-10-10 Doubleclick Inc. Network for distribution of re-targeted advertising
US6208341B1 (en) * 1998-08-05 2001-03-27 U. S. Philips Corporation GUI of remote control facilitates user-friendly editing of macros
US6310661B1 (en) * 1998-08-07 2001-10-30 Hughes Electronics Corporation Method of broadcasting controlling data streams and apparatus for receiving the same
US6430165B1 (en) 1998-08-07 2002-08-06 Hughes Electronics Corporation Method and apparatus for performing satellite selection in a broadcast communication system
US20100325668A1 (en) * 1998-08-11 2010-12-23 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Television schedule system
US7254823B2 (en) 1998-08-21 2007-08-07 United Video Properties, Inc. Apparatus and method for constrained selection of favorite channels
AU2005202893B2 (en) * 1998-08-21 2007-12-13 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-Server Electronic Program Guide
AU2012207036B2 (en) * 1998-08-21 2015-06-04 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-Server Electronic Program Guide
US6222530B1 (en) * 1998-08-21 2001-04-24 Corporate Media Partners System and method for a master scheduler
AU2013204463B2 (en) * 1998-08-21 2014-10-09 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-Server Electronic Program Guide
EP1345442A3 (en) * 1998-08-21 2010-03-31 United Video Properties, Inc. Client-server electronic program guide
TW463503B (en) 1998-08-26 2001-11-11 United Video Properties Inc Television chat system
TW447221B (en) 1998-08-26 2001-07-21 United Video Properties Inc Television message system
US6772436B1 (en) * 1998-09-01 2004-08-03 International Business Machines Corporation Interactive audio conferencing system
CA2342335A1 (en) * 1998-09-08 2000-03-16 Ganesh Basawapatna Enhanced security communications system
PT1003313E (en) * 1998-09-11 2005-04-29 Two Way Media Ltd SUPPLY OF INTERACTIVE APPLICATIONS
US6219358B1 (en) 1998-09-11 2001-04-17 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Adaptive rate control for insertion of data into arbitrary bit rate data streams
TW465235B (en) 1998-09-17 2001-11-21 United Video Properties Inc Electronic program guide with digital storage
US6446082B1 (en) * 1998-09-21 2002-09-03 Impress Corporation Method of receiving time-specified program contents
JP2000165845A (en) * 1998-09-21 2000-06-16 Impress:Kk Time designation program contents reception method, system and medium
DE19843270A1 (en) * 1998-09-21 2000-05-04 Manfred Kotulla System and application-independent multifunction access module for digital and analog data transfers of all kinds
US6934963B1 (en) * 1998-09-22 2005-08-23 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive television program guide with passive content
JP2000115098A (en) * 1998-10-05 2000-04-21 Victor Co Of Japan Ltd Program selection assisting device
US6405370B1 (en) 1998-10-09 2002-06-11 Adcom Information Services, Inc. Television audience monitoring system and method employing tuner interface of set-top converter box
US6567978B1 (en) * 1998-10-09 2003-05-20 Adcom Information Services, Inc. Television audience monitoring system and method employing display of cable converter box
AU6410699A (en) 1998-10-13 2000-05-01 Chris Cheah Method and system for controlled distribution of information over a network
US6484316B1 (en) 1998-10-14 2002-11-19 Adcom Information Services, Inc. Television audience monitoring system and apparatus and method of aligning a magnetic pick-up device
KR100301015B1 (en) * 1998-10-15 2001-09-06 윤종용 Indicator position control method
JP4142175B2 (en) 1998-10-20 2008-08-27 松下電器産業株式会社 Graphical user interface device
GB2343075B (en) * 1998-10-23 2003-02-12 Sony Uk Ltd Broadcast programme listings
JP2000137607A (en) 1998-10-29 2000-05-16 Sanyo Electric Co Ltd Digital television receiver
US6594825B1 (en) * 1998-10-30 2003-07-15 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for selecting a version of an entertainment program based on user preferences
US6157377A (en) * 1998-10-30 2000-12-05 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for purchasing upgraded media features for programming transmissions
US7313806B1 (en) 1998-10-30 2007-12-25 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for channel surfing through multiple sources based on user-definable preferences
US8850483B2 (en) * 1998-10-30 2014-09-30 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for purchasing upgraded media features for programming transmissions
US7694319B1 (en) 1998-11-02 2010-04-06 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive program guide with continuous data stream and client-server data supplementation
US7603685B2 (en) 1998-11-03 2009-10-13 United Video Properties, Inc. Program guide system with combination category search
US6233429B1 (en) * 1998-11-03 2001-05-15 Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. VSAT satellite telecommunications system
EP1001419B1 (en) 1998-11-09 2004-03-03 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Data conversion apparatus and method in copyright protecting system
WO2000030354A1 (en) * 1998-11-13 2000-05-25 Discovery Communications, Inc. Digital broadcast program ordering
AT412934B (en) * 1998-11-27 2005-08-25 Faller Josef CIRCUIT FOR TRANSFERRING DATA IN THE HOUSE
JP3389948B2 (en) * 1998-11-27 2003-03-24 日本電気株式会社 Display ad selection system
KR20010080633A (en) 1998-11-30 2001-08-22 추후제출 Smart agent based on habit, statistical inference and psycho-demographic profiling
US6859799B1 (en) 1998-11-30 2005-02-22 Gemstar Development Corporation Search engine for video and graphics
US6732367B1 (en) * 1998-11-30 2004-05-04 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive television program guide system with title and description blocking
US7051360B1 (en) * 1998-11-30 2006-05-23 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive television program guide with selectable languages
US6732370B1 (en) * 1998-11-30 2004-05-04 Diva Systems Corporation Service provider side interactive program guide encoder
TW499816B (en) * 1998-11-30 2002-08-21 United Video Properties Inc Interactive program guide system and method
US6526577B1 (en) 1998-12-01 2003-02-25 United Video Properties, Inc. Enhanced interactive program guide
WO2000033577A1 (en) * 1998-12-03 2000-06-08 Sony Electronics, Inc. A method and system for processing broadcast data
US6766526B1 (en) 1998-12-03 2004-07-20 United Video Properties, Inc. Smart channel entry system
US7328448B2 (en) * 2000-08-31 2008-02-05 Prime Research Alliance E, Inc. Advertisement distribution system for distributing targeted advertisements in television systems
US7240355B1 (en) * 1998-12-03 2007-07-03 Prime Research Alliance E., Inc. Subscriber characterization system with filters
US7185353B2 (en) 2000-08-31 2007-02-27 Prime Research Alliance E., Inc. System and method for delivering statistically scheduled advertisements
US6820277B1 (en) 1999-04-20 2004-11-16 Expanse Networks, Inc. Advertising management system for digital video streams
US20020083441A1 (en) 2000-08-31 2002-06-27 Flickinger Gregory C. Advertisement filtering and storage for targeted advertisement systems
US20020083439A1 (en) * 2000-08-31 2002-06-27 Eldering Charles A. System for rescheduling and inserting advertisements
US6865746B1 (en) 1998-12-03 2005-03-08 United Video Properties, Inc. Electronic program guide with related-program search feature
US7653923B2 (en) * 2000-02-18 2010-01-26 Prime Research Alliance E, Inc. Scheduling and presenting IPG ads in conjunction with programming ads in a television environment
US8151295B1 (en) 2000-08-31 2012-04-03 Prime Research Alliance E., Inc. Queue based advertisement scheduling and sales
US6457010B1 (en) 1998-12-03 2002-09-24 Expanse Networks, Inc. Client-server based subscriber characterization system
US7150030B1 (en) 1998-12-03 2006-12-12 Prime Research Alliance, Inc. Subscriber characterization system
US8180675B2 (en) * 2000-08-31 2012-05-15 Prime Research Alliance E., Inc. System and method for automatically managing avail inventory data and avail pricing
US6560578B2 (en) 1999-03-12 2003-05-06 Expanse Networks, Inc. Advertisement selection system supporting discretionary target market characteristics
US7068724B1 (en) * 1999-10-20 2006-06-27 Prime Research Alliance E., Inc. Method and apparatus for inserting digital media advertisements into statistical multiplexed streams
US7949565B1 (en) * 1998-12-03 2011-05-24 Prime Research Alliance E., Inc. Privacy-protected advertising system
US20020083445A1 (en) * 2000-08-31 2002-06-27 Flickinger Gregory C. Delivering targeted advertisements to the set-top-box
US7039932B2 (en) 2000-08-31 2006-05-02 Prime Research Alliance E., Inc. Queue-based head-end advertisement scheduling method and apparatus
US7228555B2 (en) * 2000-08-31 2007-06-05 Prime Research Alliance E., Inc. System and method for delivering targeted advertisements using multiple presentation streams
AU761730B2 (en) * 1998-12-03 2003-06-05 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Subscriber identification system
US20020144263A1 (en) * 2000-08-31 2002-10-03 Eldering Charles A. Grouping of advertisements on an advertising channel in a targeted advertisement system
CA2353646C (en) 1998-12-03 2004-04-06 Expanse Networks, Inc. Subscriber characterization and advertisement monitoring system
US6792197B1 (en) 1998-12-07 2004-09-14 Index Systems, Inc. System and method for generating video taping reminders
JP2002533028A (en) * 1998-12-15 2002-10-02 コーニンクレッカ フィリップス エレクトロニクス エヌ ヴィ Two-way communication system with users connected in groups
JP2002534013A (en) * 1998-12-21 2002-10-08 ソニー エレクトロニクス インク Electronic coupon providing apparatus and electronic coupon providing method
US20030131356A1 (en) * 1998-12-21 2003-07-10 Andrew M. Proehl Method and apparatus for notification on a broadcast device
JP2000187927A (en) * 1998-12-22 2000-07-04 Sony Corp Optical disk device
WO2000040012A1 (en) * 1998-12-23 2000-07-06 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Apparatus for receiving programs
DE69907026T2 (en) 1998-12-28 2003-10-16 Thomson Licensing Sa METHOD FOR SELECTING A PROGRAM DISPLAYED IN AN ADVERTISEMENT IN A SOFTWARE PROGRAM APPLICATION
US7779442B1 (en) 1999-01-12 2010-08-17 Sony Corporation Information distribution system
US7305695B1 (en) 1999-01-20 2007-12-04 Intel Corporation System for providing video on demand with pause feature
US7765568B1 (en) 1999-01-27 2010-07-27 The Directv Group, Inc. Graphical tuning bar
US8073955B1 (en) 1999-01-27 2011-12-06 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and apparatus for tuning used in a broadcast data system
WO2000045601A1 (en) * 1999-01-28 2000-08-03 Brown, Douglas, G. Methods and systems for providing information to set-top boxes having set-top box identifiers using frequency shift keying modulation
US6189148B1 (en) 1999-01-28 2001-02-13 Douglas G. Brown Methods and circuits using frequency shift keying modulation to transfer data over transmission lines simultaneous with television signals
US6675388B1 (en) 1999-01-29 2004-01-06 International Business Machines Corporation Data distribution system using coordinated analog and digital streams
US7904187B2 (en) 1999-02-01 2011-03-08 Hoffberg Steven M Internet appliance system and method
JP4228252B2 (en) * 1999-02-05 2009-02-25 ソニー株式会社 Data setting method, data transmission system, and receiving terminal device
FI106593B (en) * 1999-02-15 2001-02-28 Valtion Teknillinen IP multicast service without return connection
JP2002537732A (en) * 1999-02-17 2002-11-05 インデックス システムズ インコーポレイテッド System and method for coordinating television and / or electronic program guide functions such as advertising
US8726330B2 (en) 1999-02-22 2014-05-13 Touchtunes Music Corporation Intelligent digital audiovisual playback system
US6480819B1 (en) * 1999-02-25 2002-11-12 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Automatic search of audio channels by matching viewer-spoken words against closed-caption/audio content for interactive television
WO2000052934A1 (en) * 1999-03-02 2000-09-08 Comunic. T.V. Ltd. System and method for serving local and global media content
US6654897B1 (en) * 1999-03-05 2003-11-25 International Business Machines Corporation Dynamic wave-pipelined interface apparatus and methods therefor
US7051351B2 (en) 1999-03-08 2006-05-23 Microsoft Corporation System and method of inserting advertisements into an information retrieval system display
DE60001157D1 (en) * 1999-03-09 2003-02-13 Powertv Inc TV ADMINISTRATOR
US6918135B1 (en) 1999-03-10 2005-07-12 General Instrument Corporation Session oriented settop communication using dynamic, synchronized routing
WO2000054507A1 (en) * 1999-03-10 2000-09-14 Digital Electronic Cinema, Inc. System and method for standard and high definition video delivery
US6229895B1 (en) 1999-03-12 2001-05-08 Diva Systems Corp. Secure distribution of video on-demand
WO2000055962A2 (en) 1999-03-15 2000-09-21 Sony Electronics, Inc. Electronic media system, method and device
DE19912207A1 (en) * 1999-03-18 2000-09-21 Tcp Connect Ag Set-top device
US6278976B1 (en) * 1999-03-25 2001-08-21 Michael Charles Kochian System for the delivery of audio recordings
JP2000278665A (en) 1999-03-26 2000-10-06 Sony Corp Receiver, receiving method and providing medium
ES2301457T5 (en) 1999-03-29 2011-04-25 Hughes Electronics Corporation METHOD AND APPLIANCE FOR SHARING TELEPHONE PREFERENCES.
US7877290B1 (en) 1999-03-29 2011-01-25 The Directv Group, Inc. System and method for transmitting, receiving and displaying advertisements
US6289514B1 (en) * 1999-03-29 2001-09-11 Qcom Tv, Inc. System and method for the near-real time capture and reporting of large population consumer behaviors concerning television use
US7552458B1 (en) * 1999-03-29 2009-06-23 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and apparatus for transmission receipt and display of advertisements
US7665111B1 (en) 1999-10-20 2010-02-16 Tivo Inc. Data storage management and scheduling system
US8689265B2 (en) 1999-03-30 2014-04-01 Tivo Inc. Multimedia mobile personalization system
CN100505076C (en) 1999-03-30 2009-06-24 提维股份有限公司 Multimedia visual progress indication system
US7543325B2 (en) 1999-03-30 2009-06-02 Tivo Inc. System for remotely controlling client recording and storage behavior
WO2000058967A1 (en) 1999-03-30 2000-10-05 Tivo, Inc. Multimedia program bookmarking system
US6757906B1 (en) 1999-03-30 2004-06-29 Tivo, Inc. Television viewer interface system
US6847778B1 (en) 1999-03-30 2005-01-25 Tivo, Inc. Multimedia visual progress indication system
US20020118954A1 (en) 2001-12-07 2002-08-29 Barton James M. Data storage management and scheduling system
CN1265386C (en) 1999-03-30 2006-07-19 提维股份有限公司 System for automatic playback position correction after fast forward or reverse
FR2791847B1 (en) * 1999-04-02 2001-06-01 Mediametrie Cabsat METHOD FOR CODING / DECODING AN ANALOG TELEVISION SIGNAL BROADCASTED ON A CABLE NETWORK, TO ALLOW THE IDENTIFICATION OF THE CHANNEL BY THE RECEIVER, IN PARTICULAR FOR AUDIIMETRY PURPOSES
US6331859B1 (en) 1999-04-06 2001-12-18 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Video skimming system utilizing the vector rank filter
US6486892B1 (en) 1999-04-07 2002-11-26 Joseph L. Stern System and method for accessing, manipulating and viewing internet and non-internet related information and for controlling networked devices
JP3784201B2 (en) * 1999-04-09 2006-06-07 パイオニア株式会社 CATV viewing control system
US6588018B1 (en) * 1999-04-09 2003-07-01 Thomson Licensing Sa Method for automating updating of configuration/status information in master control switcher
JP2000295594A (en) 1999-04-09 2000-10-20 Pioneer Electronic Corp Viewing control system for catv
US6904610B1 (en) 1999-04-15 2005-06-07 Sedna Patent Services, Llc Server-centric customized interactive program guide in an interactive television environment
US6704359B1 (en) * 1999-04-15 2004-03-09 Diva Systems Corp. Efficient encoding algorithms for delivery of server-centric interactive program guide
US7127737B1 (en) * 2000-01-26 2006-10-24 Sedna Patent Services, Llc Bandwidth management techniques for delivery of interactive program guide
US6754271B1 (en) 1999-04-15 2004-06-22 Diva Systems Corporation Temporal slice persistence method and apparatus for delivery of interactive program guide
US7519982B1 (en) * 1999-04-15 2009-04-14 Comcast Ip Holdings I, Llc Efficient delivery of interactive program guide using demand-cast
US7096487B1 (en) 1999-10-27 2006-08-22 Sedna Patent Services, Llc Apparatus and method for combining realtime and non-realtime encoded content
DE60039861D1 (en) * 1999-04-20 2008-09-25 Samsung Electronics Co Ltd ADVERTISING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR DIGITAL VIDEO TONES
US7454361B1 (en) 1999-04-22 2008-11-18 Ceats, Inc. Individual seat selection ticketing and reservation system
US7861275B1 (en) 1999-04-23 2010-12-28 The Directv Group, Inc. Multicast data services and broadcast signal markup stream for interactive broadcast systems
US6430605B2 (en) * 1999-04-28 2002-08-06 World Theatre, Inc. System permitting retail stores to place advertisements on roadside electronic billboard displays that tie into point of purchase displays at stores
US6424998B2 (en) 1999-04-28 2002-07-23 World Theatre, Inc. System permitting the display of video or still image content on selected displays of an electronic display network according to customer dictates
US7088335B2 (en) * 1999-04-28 2006-08-08 Novus Partners Llc Methods and apparatus for ultra-violet stimulated displays
US6430603B2 (en) * 1999-04-28 2002-08-06 World Theatre, Inc. System for direct placement of commercial advertising, public service announcements and other content on electronic billboard displays
US7213061B1 (en) * 1999-04-29 2007-05-01 Amx Llc Internet control system and method
KR100630435B1 (en) * 1999-04-30 2006-09-29 톰슨 라이센싱 Method for transmitting monitored status information, and cable modem
EP1177686B1 (en) * 1999-04-30 2011-06-29 Thomson Licensing Advertisement selection based on user action in an electronic program guide
EP1177674A4 (en) 1999-05-10 2004-12-08 Samsung Electronics Co Ltd Advertisement subgroups for digital streams
CA2371458A1 (en) * 1999-05-13 2000-11-23 Index Systems, Inc. Download system for consumer electronic devices
US6792615B1 (en) * 1999-05-19 2004-09-14 New Horizons Telecasting, Inc. Encapsulated, streaming media automation and distribution system
US20010034705A1 (en) * 1999-05-19 2001-10-25 Rhoads Geoffrey B. Payment-based systems for internet music
US8874244B2 (en) * 1999-05-19 2014-10-28 Digimarc Corporation Methods and systems employing digital content
JP4598279B2 (en) * 1999-05-19 2010-12-15 ディジマーク コーポレイション Method and system for using digital watermarks in music and other media
US6418473B1 (en) * 1999-05-20 2002-07-09 Nortel Networks Limited Multimedia clent and server
US6717590B1 (en) * 1999-05-21 2004-04-06 Gateway, Inc. Verified scheduling of recurrent program recording operations
US6263503B1 (en) * 1999-05-26 2001-07-17 Neal Margulis Method for effectively implementing a wireless television system
US8266657B2 (en) * 2001-03-15 2012-09-11 Sling Media Inc. Method for effectively implementing a multi-room television system
FR2794601B1 (en) * 1999-06-02 2001-07-27 Dassault Automatismes COMMUNICATION DEVICE FOR COLLECTIVE INFORMATION RECEPTION, IN PARTICULAR OF DIGITAL TELEVISION IMAGES AND / OR MULTIMEDIA DATA
US6657646B2 (en) * 1999-06-08 2003-12-02 Amx Corporation System and method for multimedia display
US7540012B1 (en) * 1999-06-08 2009-05-26 International Business Machines Corporation Video on demand configuring, controlling and maintaining
US6469743B1 (en) 1999-06-09 2002-10-22 International Business Machines Corporation Programmable external graphics/video port for digital video decode system chip
JP4698102B2 (en) * 1999-06-09 2011-06-08 ディスカバリー・コミニュケーションズ・インコーポレーテッド Electronic book selection and delivery system with directed advertising
US6817028B1 (en) 1999-06-11 2004-11-09 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Reduced screen control system for interactive program guide
WO2000078041A1 (en) * 1999-06-11 2000-12-21 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Program information searching system for interactive program guide
US6832386B1 (en) * 1999-06-11 2004-12-14 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. System and method for allowing a user to quickly navigate within a program guide to an established reference point
US7150031B1 (en) * 2000-06-09 2006-12-12 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. System and method for reminders of upcoming rentable media offerings
US7992163B1 (en) 1999-06-11 2011-08-02 Jerding Dean F Video-on-demand navigational system
US6986156B1 (en) * 1999-06-11 2006-01-10 Scientific Atlanta, Inc Systems and methods for adaptive scheduling and dynamic bandwidth resource allocation management in a digital broadband delivery system
WO2000077974A1 (en) 1999-06-11 2000-12-21 Liberate Technologies Hierarchical open security information delegation and acquisition
US7010801B1 (en) 1999-06-11 2006-03-07 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Video on demand system with parameter-controlled bandwidth deallocation
US7222155B1 (en) 1999-06-15 2007-05-22 Wink Communications, Inc. Synchronous updating of dynamic interactive applications
GB9914766D0 (en) * 1999-06-25 1999-08-25 Pace Micro Tech Plc Control system for electrical apparatus
US8255956B2 (en) * 1999-06-28 2012-08-28 Cox Communications, Inc. System and method for delivery of short-time duration video segments
EP1197075A1 (en) 1999-06-28 2002-04-17 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive television program guide system and method with niche hubs
US6735487B1 (en) 1999-07-01 2004-05-11 Ods Properties, Inc. Interactive wagering system with promotions
WO2001003042A1 (en) * 1999-07-06 2001-01-11 Tel O Net, Llc. Method and apparatus for electronic commerce
JP4020562B2 (en) * 1999-07-07 2007-12-12 松下電器産業株式会社 Information management device and remote controller
US7257812B1 (en) 1999-12-16 2007-08-14 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Methods and apparatus for managing an application
US6762798B1 (en) 1999-07-13 2004-07-13 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Methods and apparatus for providing video control for television applications
WO2001004868A1 (en) * 1999-07-13 2001-01-18 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Methods and apparatus for creating a video window with parameters defining position and scaling factor
KR20010010109A (en) 1999-07-16 2001-02-05 구자홍 Broadcasting Service System Based On Mobile Network
FR2796482B1 (en) 1999-07-16 2002-09-06 Touchtunes Music Corp REMOTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR AT LEAST ONE AUDIOVISUAL INFORMATION REPRODUCING DEVICE
KR100322609B1 (en) * 1999-07-19 2002-03-18 구자홍 Digital Authoring System and Server System and Digital Authoring Method Using the same
US7464394B1 (en) * 1999-07-22 2008-12-09 Sedna Patent Services, Llc Music interface for media-rich interactive program guide
WO2001008410A1 (en) * 1999-07-27 2001-02-01 Morecom, Inc. Graphics transcoding scheme for efficient decoding on digital settop decoder
FR2797134B1 (en) * 1999-07-27 2004-05-28 Sagem METHOD FOR MANAGING A DISPLAY ON A SCREEN OF A TELEVISION, USE OF THIS METHOD, AND TELEVISION OPERATING ACCORDING TO THIS METHOD
US20020056088A1 (en) * 2000-04-07 2002-05-09 Silva Carlos A. Contextual programming
GB2352914A (en) 1999-08-03 2001-02-07 Sony Uk Ltd Data broadcast method
WO2001010115A1 (en) * 1999-08-03 2001-02-08 America Online, Inc. Varying electronic content based on local context
EP1076279A1 (en) 1999-08-13 2001-02-14 Hewlett-Packard Company Computer platforms and their methods of operation
KR20020022096A (en) * 1999-08-13 2002-03-23 나그라비젼 에스에이 Method and device for filtering information
WO2001013632A1 (en) * 1999-08-14 2001-02-22 Rotor Communications Corporation Internet-based program broadcast system
US6662365B1 (en) * 1999-08-17 2003-12-09 Gateway, Inc. Unified parental locks
EP1126707A4 (en) * 1999-08-19 2002-05-02 Sony Corp Transmission method and receiver
JP2003507972A (en) * 1999-08-25 2003-02-25 スポットウェア テクノロジーズ インコーポレイテッド System and method for scheduling an event for a television preview
EP1534004B1 (en) 1999-08-26 2016-05-25 Sony Europe Limited Television display device and method of operating a television system
US6647417B1 (en) 2000-02-10 2003-11-11 World Theatre, Inc. Music distribution systems
AU6942400A (en) * 1999-08-27 2001-03-26 Commerce Tv Corporation Video distribution system and method
US6952685B1 (en) 1999-08-27 2005-10-04 Ochoa Optics Llc Music distribution system and associated antipiracy protection
US7647618B1 (en) 1999-08-27 2010-01-12 Charles Eric Hunter Video distribution system
US7234155B1 (en) * 1999-08-27 2007-06-19 Kay Matthew W Automating commerce on a broadcast programming distribution network
US8090619B1 (en) 1999-08-27 2012-01-03 Ochoa Optics Llc Method and system for music distribution
US7370016B1 (en) 1999-08-27 2008-05-06 Ochoa Optics Llc Music distribution systems
US6944877B1 (en) * 1999-08-27 2005-09-13 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Closed loop addressable advertising system and method of operation
US20020056118A1 (en) * 1999-08-27 2002-05-09 Hunter Charles Eric Video and music distribution system
US6711552B1 (en) * 1999-08-27 2004-03-23 Matthew W. Kay Apparatus and method for saving commerce related information in a broadcast programming network
US20060212908A1 (en) * 1999-08-27 2006-09-21 Ochoa Optics Llc Video distribution system
US7209900B2 (en) 1999-08-27 2007-04-24 Charles Eric Hunter Music distribution systems
EP1230798A1 (en) * 1999-08-31 2002-08-14 Labeeb K. Ismail Method and apparatus for delivery of targeted video programming
EP1775949A3 (en) * 1999-08-31 2007-12-12 Metabyte Networks, Inc. Method and apparatus for delivery of targeted video programming
US7120926B1 (en) * 1999-09-02 2006-10-10 General Instrument Corporation Method and system of identifying software and firmware objects available for download over a network such as a cable television system
US8595308B1 (en) 1999-09-10 2013-11-26 Ianywhere Solutions, Inc. System, method, and computer program product for server side processing in a mobile device environment
US7392308B2 (en) * 1999-09-10 2008-06-24 Ianywhere Solutions, Inc. System, method, and computer program product for placement of channels on a mobile device
US20020052781A1 (en) * 1999-09-10 2002-05-02 Avantgo, Inc. Interactive advertisement mechanism on a mobile device
US20050060641A1 (en) * 1999-09-16 2005-03-17 Sezan Muhammed Ibrahim Audiovisual information management system with selective updating
CN100379273C (en) 1999-09-20 2008-04-02 提维股份有限公司 Closed caption tagging system
US9451310B2 (en) 1999-09-21 2016-09-20 Quantum Stream Inc. Content distribution system and method
US7831512B2 (en) 1999-09-21 2010-11-09 Quantumstream Systems, Inc. Content distribution system and method
CA2284438A1 (en) * 1999-09-22 2001-03-22 John Andrew Vasilakos Selection & adaptation system & method for the delivery of individualized television commercial(s) to an identified advanced television viewer
KR100350787B1 (en) * 1999-09-22 2002-08-28 엘지전자 주식회사 Multimedia browser based on user profile having ordering preference of searching item of multimedia data
GB9922665D0 (en) * 1999-09-25 1999-11-24 Hewlett Packard Co A method of enforcing trusted functionality in a full function platform
US7949722B1 (en) 1999-09-29 2011-05-24 Actv Inc. Enhanced video programming system and method utilizing user-profile information
US6784945B2 (en) 1999-10-01 2004-08-31 Microtune (Texas), L.P. System and method for providing fast acquire time tuning of multiple signals to present multiple simultaneous images
AU7863600A (en) * 1999-10-05 2001-05-10 Zapmedia, Inc. System and method for distributing media assets to user devices and managing user rights of the media assets
US8434113B1 (en) 1999-10-06 2013-04-30 Tvworks, Llc Electronic commerce using streaming media
US6948186B1 (en) * 1999-10-07 2005-09-20 General Instrument Corporation Multi-tasking message extractor
US6973662B1 (en) * 1999-10-13 2005-12-06 Starz Entertainment Group Llc Method for providing programming distribution
US6983480B1 (en) * 1999-10-13 2006-01-03 Starz Entertainment Group Llc Method for authorizing limited programming distribution
US9066113B1 (en) 1999-10-19 2015-06-23 International Business Machines Corporation Method for ensuring reliable playout in a DMD system
US20030182567A1 (en) 1999-10-20 2003-09-25 Tivo Inc. Client-side multimedia content targeting system
AU1576801A (en) 1999-10-27 2001-05-08 Diva Systems Corporation Picture-in-picture and multiple video streams using slice-based encoding
US20050177850A1 (en) * 1999-10-29 2005-08-11 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive television system with programming-related links
US6970641B1 (en) * 2000-09-15 2005-11-29 Opentv, Inc. Playback of interactive programs
WO2001033848A1 (en) * 1999-11-01 2001-05-10 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Method and apparatus for swapping the video contents of undesired commercial breaks or other video sequences
WO2001033752A1 (en) * 1999-11-03 2001-05-10 Measurecast, Inc. Direct tracking of viewers of selected content in audio and video programming provided over a computer network
US7134133B1 (en) * 1999-11-08 2006-11-07 Gateway Inc. Method, system, and software for creating and utilizing broadcast electronic program guide templates
US6876991B1 (en) 1999-11-08 2005-04-05 Collaborative Decision Platforms, Llc. System, method and computer program product for a collaborative decision platform
US7020845B1 (en) 1999-11-15 2006-03-28 Gottfurcht Elliot A Navigating internet content on a television using a simplified interface and a remote control
US6600497B1 (en) * 1999-11-15 2003-07-29 Elliot A. Gottfurcht Apparatus and method to navigate interactive television using unique inputs with a remote control
JP2003523560A (en) 1999-11-17 2003-08-05 ディスカバリー・コミニュケーションズ・インコーポレーテッド E-book with e-commerce function
AU1780801A (en) * 1999-11-17 2001-05-30 Tvn Entertainment Corporation Centralized cable access control system by satellite
AU769522B2 (en) * 1999-11-17 2004-01-29 Sony Corporation Method and apparatus for digital signal processing
EP1146736A4 (en) * 1999-11-17 2005-10-12 Sony Corp Method and apparatus for digital signal processing and method of providing extension function
US6993245B1 (en) * 1999-11-18 2006-01-31 Vulcan Patents Llc Iterative, maximally probable, batch-mode commercial detection for audiovisual content
EP1564995B1 (en) * 1999-11-23 2017-07-19 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive television targeted message system
JP4820516B2 (en) 1999-11-23 2011-11-24 ユナイテッド ビデオ プロパティーズ インク Interactive television system with targeted messages
EP1258137A2 (en) * 1999-11-29 2002-11-20 Future TV Technologies, Ltd. Apparatus and method for selective insertion and pricing of media data into a media data stream
JP3696014B2 (en) * 1999-12-02 2005-09-14 三洋電機株式会社 Digital tv broadcast receiver
US7062510B1 (en) * 1999-12-02 2006-06-13 Prime Research Alliance E., Inc. Consumer profiling and advertisement selection system
TW514884B (en) 1999-12-03 2002-12-21 Koninkl Philips Electronics Nv Allocating real time data on a disc like recording medium
US8051446B1 (en) 1999-12-06 2011-11-01 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Method of creating a semantic video summary using information from secondary sources
BR0016266A (en) * 1999-12-10 2002-08-13 United Video Properties Inc Features for use with advanced set-top box applications on interactive television systems
US7564873B1 (en) * 1999-12-10 2009-07-21 Cox Communications, Inc. Method and apparatus for providing in-band messaging within a video on demand environment
AU4711601A (en) * 1999-12-10 2001-07-03 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for coordinating interactive and passive advertisement and merchandising opportunities
US20060059525A1 (en) * 1999-12-13 2006-03-16 Jerding Dean F Media services window configuration system
WO2001043436A1 (en) * 1999-12-13 2001-06-14 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. System and method for staging a home communication terminal to set default system parameters
WO2001047250A2 (en) * 1999-12-14 2001-06-28 Motorola, Inc. Selection between an in-band and an out-of-band channel for downloading code to a set top box
DE60027052T2 (en) * 1999-12-14 2006-09-28 Motorola, Inc. METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SELECTING IN-BAND CHANNELS AND FOR IDENTIFICATION THROUGH CHANNELS
EP1109400A1 (en) * 1999-12-16 2001-06-20 CANAL+ Société Anonyme Transmission of a command to a receiver or to a decoder
IL150220A0 (en) * 1999-12-17 2002-12-01 World Theatre Inc Centralized telephone order and distribution system
US6850901B1 (en) 1999-12-17 2005-02-01 World Theatre, Inc. System and method permitting customers to order products from multiple participating merchants
DE19961726A1 (en) * 1999-12-21 2001-07-05 Xsys Interactive Res Gmbh Graphics output unit and graphics output system
US6442614B1 (en) * 1999-12-22 2002-08-27 At&T Corp. Method and apparatus for lost connectivity recovery
FR2803420A1 (en) 1999-12-30 2001-07-06 Thomson Multimedia Sa METHOD AND DEVICE FOR REPRESENTATION ON A DIGITAL TELEVISION SCREEN
US6754904B1 (en) 1999-12-30 2004-06-22 America Online, Inc. Informing network users of television programming viewed by other network users
FR2803421B1 (en) * 1999-12-30 2002-02-15 Thomson Multimedia Sa METHOD AND DEVICE FOR REPRESENTATION ON A DIGITAL TELEVISION SCREEN
JP2000216735A (en) * 2000-01-01 2000-08-04 Sony Corp Data reception processor, data reception processing method and broadcasting method
JP2000295585A (en) * 2000-01-01 2000-10-20 Sony Corp System and display method for electronic program guide
FR2803472B1 (en) * 2000-01-03 2003-05-16 Nptv COMPUTER METHOD FOR OPERATING AN INTERACTIVE DIGITAL TELEVISION TRANSMISSION
AU2774901A (en) * 2000-01-06 2001-07-16 L90, Inc. Method and apparatus for selecting and delivering internet based advertising
WO2001052542A1 (en) * 2000-01-11 2001-07-19 Viewplus, Inc. System and method for dynamically pricing pay-programming
US20020059637A1 (en) * 2000-01-14 2002-05-16 Rakib Selim Shlomo Home gateway for video and data distribution from various types of headend facilities and including digital video recording functions
US6678740B1 (en) * 2000-01-14 2004-01-13 Terayon Communication Systems, Inc. Process carried out by a gateway in a home network to receive video-on-demand and other requested programs and services
US20020100042A1 (en) * 2000-01-19 2002-07-25 Denis Khoo Method and system for providing intelligent advertisement placement in a motion picture
US20040193488A1 (en) * 2000-01-19 2004-09-30 Denis Khoo Method and system for advertising over a data network
US6434747B1 (en) * 2000-01-19 2002-08-13 Individual Network, Inc. Method and system for providing a customized media list
US8813123B2 (en) * 2000-01-19 2014-08-19 Interad Technologies, Llc Content with customized advertisement
US6735778B2 (en) * 2000-01-19 2004-05-11 Denis Khoo Method and system for providing home shopping programs
US20040107434A1 (en) * 2000-01-19 2004-06-03 Denis Khoo Customized media method and system
JP2001202371A (en) * 2000-01-19 2001-07-27 Sony Corp Data communication system and receiver to be used therefor
US6725258B1 (en) 2000-01-20 2004-04-20 Family Man, Inc. Removable storage medium with network enhancement and method of presenting same
FR2804275B1 (en) * 2000-01-25 2002-10-31 Sagem TELEVISION DECODER AND METHOD FOR DECODING SIGNALS OF A STREAM
EP1253782B1 (en) * 2000-01-26 2013-04-17 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Electronic program guide display controller
US6701528B1 (en) * 2000-01-26 2004-03-02 Hughes Electronics Corporation Virtual video on demand using multiple encrypted video segments
EP1250808A1 (en) * 2000-01-28 2002-10-23 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. System and method for reference point navigation within a program guide
US9252898B2 (en) 2000-01-28 2016-02-02 Zarbaña Digital Fund Llc Music distribution systems
PT1302072E (en) * 2000-02-01 2011-08-23 United Video Properties Inc Systems and methods for incorporating promotions within recorded programs
EP2244480A1 (en) * 2000-02-01 2010-10-27 United Video Properties, Inc. Methods and systems for forced advertising
US6757707B1 (en) * 2000-02-01 2004-06-29 America Online, Inc. Displayed complementary content sources in a web-based TV system
FR2805377B1 (en) 2000-02-23 2003-09-12 Touchtunes Music Corp EARLY ORDERING PROCESS FOR A SELECTION, DIGITAL SYSTEM AND JUKE-BOX FOR IMPLEMENTING THE METHOD
EP1130920A3 (en) * 2000-02-03 2002-10-30 Lucent Technologies Inc. Method, apparatus and system for motion picture signal distribution
US7051352B1 (en) 2000-02-04 2006-05-23 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Adaptive TV program recommender
US6519773B1 (en) 2000-02-08 2003-02-11 Sherjil Ahmed Method and apparatus for a digitized CATV network for bundled services
US6681396B1 (en) * 2000-02-11 2004-01-20 International Business Machines Corporation Automated detection/resumption of interrupted television programs
FR2805072B1 (en) 2000-02-16 2002-04-05 Touchtunes Music Corp METHOD FOR ADJUSTING THE SOUND VOLUME OF A DIGITAL SOUND RECORDING
FR2805060B1 (en) 2000-02-16 2005-04-08 Touchtunes Music Corp METHOD FOR RECEIVING FILES DURING DOWNLOAD
US6484148B1 (en) * 2000-02-19 2002-11-19 John E. Boyd Electronic advertising device and method of using the same
DE10007710A1 (en) * 2000-02-19 2001-08-23 Grundig Ag Device for receiving digital radio signals
US7661116B2 (en) * 2000-02-25 2010-02-09 Vulcan Patents Llc Auction for targeted content
US8910199B2 (en) 2000-02-25 2014-12-09 Interval Licensing Llc Targeted television content display
US6968565B1 (en) 2000-02-25 2005-11-22 Vulcan Patents Llc Detection of content display observers with prevention of unauthorized access to identification signal
US20020062481A1 (en) 2000-02-25 2002-05-23 Malcolm Slaney Method and system for selecting advertisements
US6574793B1 (en) * 2000-02-25 2003-06-03 Interval Research Corporation System and method for displaying advertisements
WO2001067736A2 (en) * 2000-03-02 2001-09-13 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Apparatus and method for providing a plurality of interactive program guide initial arrangements
DE10010907A1 (en) * 2000-03-06 2001-10-18 Artemedia Ag Selective shipment
US7320025B1 (en) 2002-03-18 2008-01-15 Music Choice Systems and methods for providing a broadcast entertainment service and an on-demand entertainment service
US7293279B1 (en) * 2000-03-09 2007-11-06 Sedna Patent Services, Llc Advanced set top terminal having a program pause feature with voice-to-text conversion
US6611881B1 (en) 2000-03-15 2003-08-26 Personal Data Network Corporation Method and system of providing credit card user with barcode purchase data and recommendation automatically on their personal computer
JP2001268544A (en) * 2000-03-15 2001-09-28 Sony Corp Digital signal receiver
US7167840B1 (en) 2000-03-15 2007-01-23 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and apparatus for distributing and selling electronic content
US8336069B1 (en) * 2000-03-16 2012-12-18 Jlb Ventures Llc Method and system for adaptive electronic programming guide
CN100401754C (en) * 2000-03-17 2008-07-09 皇家菲利浦电子有限公司 Method and apapratus for rating database objects
US7284064B1 (en) 2000-03-21 2007-10-16 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus to determine broadcast content and scheduling in a broadcast system
AU2001249313A1 (en) 2000-03-21 2001-10-03 Walker Digital, Llc Method and apparatus for selecting a supplemental product to offer for sale during a transaction
US7577978B1 (en) * 2000-03-22 2009-08-18 Wistendahl Douglass A System for converting TV content to interactive TV game program operated with a standard remote control and TV set-top box
US7167895B1 (en) 2000-03-22 2007-01-23 Intel Corporation Signaling method and apparatus to provide content on demand in a broadcast system
US6654835B1 (en) * 2000-03-23 2003-11-25 International Business Machines Corporation High bandwidth data transfer employing a multi-mode, shared line buffer
US7058179B1 (en) * 2000-03-29 2006-06-06 Sony Corporation Method and system for a secure high bandwidth bus in a transceiver device
US20020056083A1 (en) * 2000-03-29 2002-05-09 Istvan Anthony F. System and method for picture-in-browser scaling
US20010043285A1 (en) * 2000-03-31 2001-11-22 Hicks Thomas P. Video information insertion system
WO2001076249A1 (en) * 2000-03-31 2001-10-11 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive media system and method for presenting pause-time content
WO2001076239A2 (en) 2000-03-31 2001-10-11 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for reducing cut-offs in program recording
MX363752B (en) 2000-03-31 2019-04-02 Rovi Guides Inc Systems and methods for improved audience measuring.
EP1161084A3 (en) * 2000-03-31 2002-02-06 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Set top box output format selector and indicator
US20020007485A1 (en) * 2000-04-03 2002-01-17 Rodriguez Arturo A. Television service enhancements
US8516525B1 (en) 2000-06-09 2013-08-20 Dean F. Jerding Integrated searching system for interactive media guide
US7975277B1 (en) 2000-04-03 2011-07-05 Jerding Dean F System for providing alternative services
US7200857B1 (en) 2000-06-09 2007-04-03 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Synchronized video-on-demand supplemental commentary
NZ521636A (en) * 2000-04-05 2004-05-28 Ods Properties Inc Systems and methods for controlling television distribution bandwidth and for utilizing real-time statistical wagering data
US7890978B2 (en) 2000-04-06 2011-02-15 Opentv, Inc. Generic data processing engine
JP3810268B2 (en) * 2000-04-07 2006-08-16 シャープ株式会社 Audio visual system
CN1448021A (en) * 2000-04-10 2003-10-08 联合视频制品公司 Interactive media guide system with integrated program list
JP4433560B2 (en) * 2000-04-11 2010-03-17 ソニー株式会社 Terminal device and information processing method
US7013479B2 (en) * 2000-04-14 2006-03-14 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Broadcasting apparatus and method for pre-transmitting data carousel and receiving apparatus for receiving data carousel
US20040148625A1 (en) 2000-04-20 2004-07-29 Eldering Charles A Advertisement management system for digital video streams
US7607149B2 (en) * 2000-04-21 2009-10-20 Goldpocket Interactive, Inc. System and method for merging interactive television data with closed caption data
JP2001308857A (en) * 2000-04-24 2001-11-02 Mitsubishi Electric Corp System and method for distributing information and computer-readable recording medium with program for making computer execute the method recorded
US7360231B2 (en) * 2000-05-01 2008-04-15 The Directv Group, Inc. System for obtaining data regarding customer use of interactive television
US7526184B1 (en) 2000-04-28 2009-04-28 Keen Personal Media, Inc. Video recording system utilizing external video storage to record streaming video data via an isochronous interface
US20020188950A1 (en) * 2000-05-01 2002-12-12 Hughes Electronics Corporation Low speed data port for data transactions and information
US7024461B1 (en) * 2000-04-28 2006-04-04 Nortel Networks Limited Session initiation protocol enabled set-top device
AU2001259254A1 (en) * 2000-05-01 2001-11-12 Diva Systems Corporation Channel information window via server-centric interactive user interface
US20010039662A1 (en) * 2000-05-03 2001-11-08 Hughes Electronics Corporation Digital over-the-air communication system for use with digital terrestrial broadcasting system
US20010053700A1 (en) * 2000-05-03 2001-12-20 Hughes Electronics Corporation Communication system with secondary channel rebroadcasting within a local area network
US7302224B2 (en) * 2000-05-03 2007-11-27 The Directv Group, Inc. Communication system for rebroadcasting electronic content within local area network
US7055168B1 (en) 2000-05-03 2006-05-30 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Method for interpreting and executing user preferences of audiovisual information
US20010039663A1 (en) * 2000-05-03 2001-11-08 Hughes Electronics Corporation Portable device for use with digital over-the-air communication system for use with terrestrial broadcasting system
US20010039664A1 (en) * 2000-05-03 2001-11-08 Hughes Electronics Corporation Digital over-the-air communication system for use with analog terrestrial broadcasting system
US7877766B1 (en) * 2000-05-04 2011-01-25 Enreach Technology, Inc. Method and system of providing a non-skippable sub-advertisement stream
US7934232B1 (en) * 2000-05-04 2011-04-26 Jerding Dean F Navigation paradigm for access to television services
WO2001086937A2 (en) * 2000-05-08 2001-11-15 Worldgate Service, Inc. System and method for broadcasting information in a television distribution system
US6658231B2 (en) * 2000-05-09 2003-12-02 Sony Corporation Receiver for user-demand information and entertainment system using wide area digital broadcast
FR2808906B1 (en) 2000-05-10 2005-02-11 Touchtunes Music Corp DEVICE AND METHOD FOR REMOTELY MANAGING A NETWORK OF AUDIOVISUAL INFORMATION REPRODUCTION SYSTEMS
JP4352196B2 (en) * 2000-05-15 2009-10-28 日本電気株式会社 CM transmission / reception system and CM transmission / reception method using the same
KR100325023B1 (en) * 2000-05-18 2002-02-25 이 용 국 Apparatus and method for receiving a multi-channel signal
GB0012211D0 (en) * 2000-05-19 2000-07-12 Gemstar Dev Limited A targeted advertising system
US7181759B2 (en) * 2000-05-26 2007-02-20 Bigband Networks, Inc. System and method for providing interactivity for end-users over digital broadcast channels
US8028314B1 (en) 2000-05-26 2011-09-27 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Audiovisual information management system
US7415718B1 (en) * 2000-05-31 2008-08-19 Aol Llc Receiving and processing vertical blanking interval data
US7269837B1 (en) * 2000-05-31 2007-09-11 Your Choice Interactive, Inc. Interactive television advertising method
US20020053084A1 (en) * 2000-06-01 2002-05-02 Escobar George D. Customized electronic program guide
US7143429B2 (en) * 2000-06-02 2006-11-28 Sony Corporation Program information providing apparatus and method, program recording preset system and method, and program recording system and method
FR2809914B1 (en) * 2000-06-06 2003-01-24 Sagem TELEVISION DECODER WITH ASSISTANCE
US8082572B1 (en) 2000-06-08 2011-12-20 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and apparatus for transmitting, receiving, and utilizing audio/visual signals and other information
WO2001095055A2 (en) * 2000-06-08 2001-12-13 Digeo, Inc. Systems and methods for personalized access to internet-enabled television
US8069259B2 (en) 2000-06-09 2011-11-29 Rodriguez Arturo A Managing removal of media titles from a list
CA2349914C (en) * 2000-06-09 2013-07-30 Invidi Technologies Corp. Advertising delivery method
US20020026636A1 (en) * 2000-06-15 2002-02-28 Daniel Lecomte Video interfacing and distribution system and method for delivering video programs
US6769127B1 (en) 2000-06-16 2004-07-27 Minerva Networks, Inc. Method and system for delivering media services and application over networks
KR20020040778A (en) * 2000-06-19 2002-05-30 요트.게.아. 롤페즈 Application-specific point of deployment modules for use in digital cable compliant devices
FR2811175B1 (en) 2000-06-29 2002-12-27 Touchtunes Music Corp AUDIOVISUAL INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION METHOD AND AUDIOVISUAL INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
AU2001266981A1 (en) * 2000-06-22 2002-01-02 Encabler, Inc. Automatic content viewing recommendation from among multiple programming sources
US20040205812A1 (en) * 2000-06-22 2004-10-14 Candelore Brant L. Method and apparatus for routing program data in a program viewing unit
US7568207B1 (en) * 2000-06-23 2009-07-28 Braun Warren L Cable drop monitor with upstream signalling
FR2810832B1 (en) * 2000-06-27 2006-06-16 Interactif Delta Production INTERACTIVE DIGITAL TELEVISION NETWORK
US7647340B2 (en) 2000-06-28 2010-01-12 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Metadata in JPEG 2000 file format
WO2002001592A1 (en) * 2000-06-28 2002-01-03 Intertainer, Inc. Intelligent media targeting system and method
GB0015661D0 (en) * 2000-06-28 2000-08-16 Pace Micro Tech Plc Broadcast data receiver with dual tuning capability
FR2811114B1 (en) 2000-06-29 2002-12-27 Touchtunes Music Corp DEVICE AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATION BETWEEN A SYSTEM FOR REPRODUCING AUDIOVISUAL INFORMATION AND AN ELECTRONIC ENTERTAINMENT MACHINE
US7962370B2 (en) 2000-06-29 2011-06-14 Rodriguez Arturo A Methods in a media service system for transaction processing
US7886330B2 (en) * 2000-06-30 2011-02-08 Jlb Ventures Llc Enhanced home entertainment system with removable long-term storage
US8087051B2 (en) 2000-06-30 2011-12-27 Thomson Licensing Database management system and method for electronic program guide and television channel lineup organization
US7565680B1 (en) * 2000-06-30 2009-07-21 Comcast Ip Holdings I, Llc Advanced set top terminal having a video call feature
US8495679B2 (en) * 2000-06-30 2013-07-23 Thomson Licensing Method and apparatus for delivery of television programs and targeted de-coupled advertising
KR20020030809A (en) * 2000-07-10 2002-04-25 요트.게.아. 롤페즈 Device for and method of presenting program information
US6498937B1 (en) 2000-07-14 2002-12-24 Trw Inc. Asymmetric bandwidth wireless communication techniques
FR2812161A1 (en) * 2000-07-19 2002-01-25 Sagem Digital television favourites service list function having principal television services storage zone and user favourites selection list with associated access rights output.
US7457414B1 (en) 2000-07-21 2008-11-25 The Directv Group, Inc. Super encrypted storage and retrieval of media programs with smartcard generated keys
US8140859B1 (en) 2000-07-21 2012-03-20 The Directv Group, Inc. Secure storage and replay of media programs using a hard-paired receiver and storage device
US7203311B1 (en) 2000-07-21 2007-04-10 The Directv Group, Inc. Super encrypted storage and retrieval of media programs in a hard-paired receiver and storage device
CN1201579C (en) * 2000-07-27 2005-05-11 皇家菲利浦电子有限公司 Method and arrangement for providing access to a consumer device
US7937725B1 (en) * 2000-07-27 2011-05-03 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Three-way media recommendation method and system
NL1018679C2 (en) * 2000-08-03 2002-07-16 Nagravision Sa Digital television distribution system.
KR100386603B1 (en) * 2000-08-18 2003-06-02 엘지전자 주식회사 A digital tv with setting user circumstance function and of the same method
JP3744785B2 (en) * 2000-10-18 2006-02-15 シャープ株式会社 Composite reception delivery device
US6985963B1 (en) * 2000-08-23 2006-01-10 At Home Corporation Sharing IP network resources
US7509267B1 (en) 2000-08-29 2009-03-24 Paul M. Yarmolich Method for combining data signals and video signals for transmission to video display units
AU2001283384A1 (en) * 2000-08-31 2002-03-13 Intel Corporation Mapping enhancements to network identifiers
AU2001287029A1 (en) * 2000-09-01 2002-03-13 Mixed Signals Technologies, Inc. System and method for displaying closed captions in an interactive tv environment
US6941138B1 (en) 2000-09-05 2005-09-06 The Directv Group, Inc. Concurrent communications between a user terminal and multiple stratospheric transponder platforms
JP3730849B2 (en) * 2000-09-07 2006-01-05 日本電信電話株式会社 Video redistribution server
FR2813738B1 (en) * 2000-09-07 2003-06-06 Sagem DIGITAL TELEVISION DECODER WITH REMOVABLE HARD DISK AND METHOD FOR COMMISSIONING A REMOVABLE HARD DISK
AU2001286300A1 (en) * 2000-09-09 2002-03-22 High Gain Antenna Co., Ltd. Multilingual video-transmitting/receiving system
US20020032908A1 (en) * 2000-09-14 2002-03-14 General Instrument Corporation System and methods for automatically selecting, mapping and designating components for digital cable service distribution systems
US20030097657A1 (en) * 2000-09-14 2003-05-22 Yiming Zhou Method and system for delivery of targeted programming
US8205237B2 (en) 2000-09-14 2012-06-19 Cox Ingemar J Identifying works, using a sub-linear time search, such as an approximate nearest neighbor search, for initiating a work-based action, such as an action on the internet
US8020183B2 (en) 2000-09-14 2011-09-13 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Audiovisual management system
FR2814085B1 (en) 2000-09-15 2005-02-11 Touchtunes Music Corp ENTERTAINMENT METHOD BASED ON MULTIPLE CHOICE COMPETITION GAMES
JP2004509576A (en) * 2000-09-20 2004-03-25 コーニンクレッカ フィリップス エレクトロニクス エヌ ヴィ How to show the visual distribution of television program recommendation scores
US8302127B2 (en) 2000-09-25 2012-10-30 Thomson Licensing System and method for personalized TV
FI20002129A (en) * 2000-09-28 2002-03-29 Nokia Corp A method and arrangement for wirelessly sharing a local broadband data stream
US6944880B1 (en) 2000-09-29 2005-09-13 Digeo, Inc. Methods for audio capture and communication during television broadcasts
US7103906B1 (en) 2000-09-29 2006-09-05 International Business Machines Corporation User controlled multi-device media-on-demand system
US7865922B2 (en) * 2000-10-03 2011-01-04 Sony Corporation Low-power broadcast receiver
CA2860962C (en) 2000-10-11 2016-09-20 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for caching data in media-on-demand systems
US20020042914A1 (en) * 2000-10-11 2002-04-11 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for providing targeted advertisements based on current activity
EP2293564A1 (en) * 2000-10-11 2011-03-09 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for supplementing on-demand media
WO2002032130A1 (en) * 2000-10-12 2002-04-18 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Audio/video data recording/reproducing device and method, and audio/video data reproducing device and method
US20060253330A1 (en) * 2000-10-12 2006-11-09 Maggio Frank S Method and system for automatically substituting media content
US20020046402A1 (en) * 2000-10-16 2002-04-18 Olalekan Akinyanmi Application server delivery of information to customers from multiple sources
US7290274B1 (en) 2000-10-20 2007-10-30 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Context sensitive television menu
US7913286B2 (en) * 2000-10-20 2011-03-22 Ericsson Television, Inc. System and method for describing presentation and behavior information in an ITV application
US7054256B2 (en) 2000-10-20 2006-05-30 Ochoa Optics Llc High capacity digital data storage by transmission of radiant energy through arrays of small diameter holes
GB0026208D0 (en) 2000-10-26 2000-12-13 Koninkl Philips Electronics Nv A decoder supporting multiple inputs
WO2002037843A1 (en) * 2000-10-27 2002-05-10 Hitachi, Ltd. Data receiver and data receiving method
CA2427132A1 (en) * 2000-10-27 2002-05-02 General Instrument Corporation External modules with optional features for a dual-tuner set-top terminal and method of implementing same
AU2002225854A1 (en) * 2000-10-30 2002-05-15 Mvmax Llc Methods and apparatus for presenting interactive entertainment
FR2816158B1 (en) * 2000-10-30 2005-04-01 Sagem DIGITAL TELEVISION DECODER AND METHOD FOR EDITING A TELEVISION PROGRAM LIST USING SUCH A DECODER
WO2002037226A2 (en) * 2000-11-03 2002-05-10 Sightsound.Com System and method for automating a complex download process with territorial restrictions
US20020054206A1 (en) * 2000-11-06 2002-05-09 Allen Paul G. Systems and devices for audio and video capture and communication during television broadcasts
US6889384B1 (en) * 2000-11-08 2005-05-03 The Directv Group, Inc. Simplified interactive user interface for multi-video channel navigation
US7490343B1 (en) 2000-11-08 2009-02-10 Sedna Patent Services, Llc Method and apparatus for keeping track of program indexes in an interactive delivery system
EP1211900B1 (en) * 2000-11-08 2008-07-23 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Broadcast program transmission/reception system
US7340759B1 (en) 2000-11-10 2008-03-04 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Systems and methods for adaptive pricing in a digital broadband delivery system
EP1334617B1 (en) 2000-11-14 2015-04-01 Cisco Technology, Inc. Networked subscriber television distribution
US8127326B2 (en) 2000-11-14 2012-02-28 Claussen Paul J Proximity detection using wireless connectivity in a communications system
CA2326368A1 (en) * 2000-11-20 2002-05-20 Adexact Corporation Method and system for targeted content delivery, presentation, management, and reporting
US7275254B1 (en) 2000-11-21 2007-09-25 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for determining and displaying the service level of a digital television broadcast signal
AU2002230501A1 (en) * 2000-11-27 2002-06-03 Intellocity Usa, Inc. System and method for providing an omnimedia package
AU2002217973A1 (en) * 2000-11-28 2002-06-11 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive television application with research features
US7047273B2 (en) 2000-11-28 2006-05-16 Navic Systems, Inc. Load balancing in set top cable box environment
US7237250B2 (en) * 2000-11-28 2007-06-26 Navic Systems, Inc. Promotion server using video on demand channel
KR100436088B1 (en) * 2000-12-04 2004-06-14 주식회사 알티캐스트 Method and System for re-utilizing of contents data for digital broadcasting
US7721310B2 (en) 2000-12-05 2010-05-18 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Method and apparatus for selective updating of a user profile
US7017172B2 (en) 2000-12-06 2006-03-21 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Recommender system using “fuzzy-now” for real-time events
US6952580B2 (en) 2000-12-12 2005-10-04 The Directv Group, Inc. Multiple link internet protocol mobile communications system and method therefor
US7400857B2 (en) 2000-12-12 2008-07-15 The Directv Group, Inc. Communication system using multiple link terminals
US7181162B2 (en) 2000-12-12 2007-02-20 The Directv Group, Inc. Communication system using multiple link terminals
US7103317B2 (en) 2000-12-12 2006-09-05 The Directv Group, Inc. Communication system using multiple link terminals for aircraft
US20020083006A1 (en) * 2000-12-14 2002-06-27 Intertainer, Inc. Systems and methods for delivering media content
US7346698B2 (en) * 2000-12-20 2008-03-18 G. W. Hannaway & Associates Webcasting method and system for time-based synchronization of multiple, independent media streams
US20020114299A1 (en) * 2000-12-27 2002-08-22 Daozheng Lu Apparatus and method for measuring tuning of a digital broadcast receiver
US7331057B2 (en) 2000-12-28 2008-02-12 Prime Research Alliance E, Inc. Grouping advertisement subavails
GB0100076D0 (en) * 2001-01-03 2001-02-14 Pace Micro Tech Plc Information on demand
US6731312B2 (en) * 2001-01-08 2004-05-04 Apple Computer, Inc. Media player interface
ES2261527T3 (en) 2001-01-09 2006-11-16 Metabyte Networks, Inc. SYSTEM, PROCEDURE AND APPLICATION OF SOFTWARE FOR DIRECT ADVERTISING THROUGH A GROUP OF BEHAVIOR MODELS, AND PROGRAMMING PREFERENCES BASED ON BEHAVIOR MODEL GROUPS.
US7555615B2 (en) * 2001-01-10 2009-06-30 Tempur-Pedic Management, Inc. Product demonstration system and method for using same
US7809403B2 (en) * 2001-01-19 2010-10-05 The Directv Group, Inc. Stratospheric platforms communication system using adaptive antennas
US7187949B2 (en) 2001-01-19 2007-03-06 The Directv Group, Inc. Multiple basestation communication system having adaptive antennas
US8396513B2 (en) 2001-01-19 2013-03-12 The Directv Group, Inc. Communication system for mobile users using adaptive antenna
JP4765182B2 (en) * 2001-01-19 2011-09-07 ソニー株式会社 Interactive television communication method and interactive television communication client device
US8909739B2 (en) * 2001-01-29 2014-12-09 Universal Electronics Inc. System and method for upgrading the remote control functionality of a device
US7260785B2 (en) 2001-01-29 2007-08-21 International Business Machines Corporation Method and system for object retransmission without a continuous network connection in a digital media distribution system
DE10104441A1 (en) * 2001-02-01 2002-08-08 Grundig Ag Device for receiving digital radio signals
KR20020065250A (en) * 2001-02-06 2002-08-13 강용희 Processing Method for overlaying Contents on Moving Picture and Processing Method for Electronic Mail using the same and A computer-readable Storage Medium for executing the above Method
US20020152472A1 (en) * 2001-02-07 2002-10-17 Istvan Anthony F. Access device interface for user model-based interactive television
US20020184351A1 (en) * 2001-02-07 2002-12-05 Istvan Anthony F. Information access in user model-based interactive television
US20020152475A1 (en) * 2001-02-07 2002-10-17 Istvan Anthony F. User model for interactive television system
US20020152461A1 (en) * 2001-02-07 2002-10-17 Istvan Anthony F. Coordination of favorites among disparate devices in an interactive video casting system
WO2002065771A1 (en) * 2001-02-09 2002-08-22 Quadriga Technology Limited System for and method of distributing television, video and other signals
US20020112235A1 (en) * 2001-02-12 2002-08-15 Ballou Bernard L. Video distribution system
US8112311B2 (en) 2001-02-12 2012-02-07 Ochoa Optics Llc Systems and methods for distribution of entertainment and advertising content
US20020112243A1 (en) * 2001-02-12 2002-08-15 World Theatre Video distribution system
US7689598B2 (en) 2001-02-15 2010-03-30 International Business Machines Corporation Method and system for file system synchronization between a central site and a plurality of remote sites
US20030038796A1 (en) * 2001-02-15 2003-02-27 Van Beek Petrus J.L. Segmentation metadata for audio-visual content
KR20020068134A (en) 2001-02-20 2002-08-27 엘지전자주식회사 Method for displaying PIP of a digital TV
MX347698B (en) 2001-02-21 2017-05-09 United Video Properties Inc Systems and methods for interactive program guides with personal video recording features.
US20020120635A1 (en) * 2001-02-27 2002-08-29 Joao Raymond Anthony Apparatus and method for providing an electronic book
DE60234088D1 (en) * 2001-02-28 2009-12-03 Thomson Licensing METHOD FOR THE SEARCH IN ELECTRONIC PROGRAM MANAGEMENT
US20020120932A1 (en) * 2001-02-28 2002-08-29 Schwalb Eddie M. Omni menu for an audio/visual network
US20020129383A1 (en) * 2001-03-08 2002-09-12 Wasilewski Louise Mary Apparatus for a cosumer controlled selective recording device for interactive television
US7174373B1 (en) 2001-03-13 2007-02-06 Panamsat Corporation Self-contained demonstration node in a satellite based content delivery system
US7130908B1 (en) 2001-03-13 2006-10-31 Intelsat Ltd. Forward cache management between edge nodes in a satellite based content delivery system
US7154898B1 (en) 2001-03-13 2006-12-26 Intelsat, Ltd. Scalable edge node
US20020194587A1 (en) * 2001-03-13 2002-12-19 Lampton David P. Enhanced communication, monitoring and control system
US7237017B1 (en) 2001-03-13 2007-06-26 Panamsat Corporation Micronode in a satellite based content delivery system
EP1382199A4 (en) * 2001-03-22 2010-04-14 United Video Properties Inc Personal video recorder systems and methods
US20030061610A1 (en) * 2001-03-27 2003-03-27 Errico James H. Audiovisual management system
US20020142750A1 (en) * 2001-03-28 2002-10-03 Gill Earl F. Content for rental property
US20020144265A1 (en) * 2001-03-29 2002-10-03 Connelly Jay H. System and method for merging streaming and stored content information in an electronic program guide
US20020144279A1 (en) * 2001-03-30 2002-10-03 Guojun Zhou Method and apparatus for providing custom television channels to viewers
US20020144283A1 (en) * 2001-03-30 2002-10-03 Intertainer, Inc. Content distribution system
US20020143647A1 (en) * 2001-03-30 2002-10-03 Intertainer, Inc. Subscriber management system
US6925469B2 (en) * 2001-03-30 2005-08-02 Intertainer, Inc. Digital entertainment service platform
US20020144269A1 (en) * 2001-03-30 2002-10-03 Connelly Jay H. Apparatus and method for a dynamic electronic program guide enabling billing broadcast services per EPG line item
US20020143901A1 (en) * 2001-04-03 2002-10-03 Gtech Rhode Island Corporation Interactive media response processing system
US7660328B1 (en) 2001-04-03 2010-02-09 Bigband Networks Inc. Method and system for generating, transmitting and utilizing bit rate conversion information
JP3715624B2 (en) * 2001-04-05 2005-11-09 松下電器産業株式会社 Data broadcast program stream transmission apparatus, control method and program for data broadcast program stream transmission apparatus, and recording medium
US20020147985A1 (en) * 2001-04-05 2002-10-10 Koji Miyajima Video distribution system and video distribution method
US20020147986A1 (en) * 2001-04-06 2002-10-10 Comverse Network Systems, Ltd. Interactive response system for digital television
US20030145331A1 (en) * 2002-01-31 2003-07-31 Escobar George D. Modifying content retrieved from a set-top box
KR100374843B1 (en) * 2001-04-16 2003-03-04 엘지전자 주식회사 Pip processing apparatus and method in settop box
US7904814B2 (en) 2001-04-19 2011-03-08 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. System for presenting audio-video content
JP2003009115A (en) * 2001-04-19 2003-01-10 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Image distribution system
US20020157115A1 (en) * 2001-04-24 2002-10-24 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Wireless communication point of deployment module for use in digital cable compliant devices
EP1384126A2 (en) * 2001-04-24 2004-01-28 Hewlett-Packard Company An information security system
US8776153B2 (en) 2001-04-25 2014-07-08 At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp Method and system for transferring content to a networked unit
US20020161634A1 (en) * 2001-04-27 2002-10-31 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Electronic document with an automatically updated portion
US7725910B2 (en) * 2001-05-03 2010-05-25 Sony Corporation Interactive broadcast system and method with different content displayed to different viewers
US20020165770A1 (en) * 2001-05-04 2002-11-07 Individual Network, Inc. Method and system for providing content with an option
US7131134B2 (en) 2001-05-08 2006-10-31 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Evening planner
US7185352B2 (en) * 2001-05-11 2007-02-27 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for combining broadcast schedules and content on a digital broadcast-enabled client platform
JP2002341802A (en) * 2001-05-14 2002-11-29 Nippon Hoso Kyokai <Nhk> Server, user terminal, and message update system constituted of them
JP4176973B2 (en) * 2001-05-15 2008-11-05 アルパイン株式会社 Receiving machine
JP3837302B2 (en) * 2001-05-16 2006-10-25 三洋電機株式会社 Digital broadcast receiver
KR100411342B1 (en) 2001-05-22 2003-12-18 엘지전자 주식회사 Method for generating video text synthetic key frame
US8028249B2 (en) * 2001-05-23 2011-09-27 Eastman Kodak Company Method and system for browsing large digital multimedia object collections
US6937619B1 (en) 2001-05-29 2005-08-30 Bigband Networks, Inc. Method and system for comparison-based prioritized bit rate conversion
US7058087B1 (en) 2001-05-29 2006-06-06 Bigband Networks, Inc. Method and system for prioritized bit rate conversion
US20020184623A1 (en) * 2001-05-30 2002-12-05 Hodge Gregory A. Methods and apparatus for interactive television
US20020184634A1 (en) * 2001-05-31 2002-12-05 Cooper Robert M. Television rides
SE519518C2 (en) * 2001-06-01 2003-03-11 Kianoush Namvar Signal Decoding System
US7499077B2 (en) * 2001-06-04 2009-03-03 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Summarization of football video content
US20020194602A1 (en) * 2001-06-06 2002-12-19 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V Expert model recommendation method and system
US7139398B2 (en) 2001-06-06 2006-11-21 Sony Corporation Time division partial encryption
JP3883397B2 (en) 2001-06-08 2007-02-21 富士通株式会社 Method for providing complete package program with advertisement and method for using complete package program with advertisement
US7730509B2 (en) 2001-06-08 2010-06-01 Invidi Technologies Corporation Asset delivery reporting in a broadcast network
US20030046698A1 (en) * 2001-06-11 2003-03-06 Yakov Kamen Methods and apparatuses for conducting a TV EPG search in various search time periods
US20020188955A1 (en) * 2001-06-11 2002-12-12 Thompson Calvin Eugene Digital video recording and playback system for television
US6918132B2 (en) * 2001-06-14 2005-07-12 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Dynamic interface method and system for displaying reduced-scale broadcasts
US20020194603A1 (en) * 2001-06-15 2002-12-19 Jay H. Connelly Method and apparatus to distribute content using a multi-stage broadcast system
DE10128925A1 (en) * 2001-06-15 2002-12-19 Deutsche Telekom Ag Terminal and method for using various services offered over a telecommunications network
US7020893B2 (en) * 2001-06-15 2006-03-28 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for continuously and opportunistically driving an optimal broadcast schedule based on most recent client demand feedback from a distributed set of broadcast clients
US7055165B2 (en) * 2001-06-15 2006-05-30 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for periodically delivering an optimal batch broadcast schedule based on distributed client feedback
US20020194585A1 (en) * 2001-06-15 2002-12-19 Connelly Jay H. Methods and apparatus for providing ranking feedback for content in a broadcast system
US20030005451A1 (en) * 2001-06-15 2003-01-02 Connelly Jay H. Method and apparatus to distribute content descriptors in a content distribution broadcast system
US8910203B2 (en) * 2001-06-19 2014-12-09 Jlb Ventures Llc Method for displaying channel listings in an electronic program guide and an electronic program guide implementing the method
US8818871B2 (en) 2001-06-21 2014-08-26 Thomson Licensing Method and system for electronic purchases using an intelligent data carrier medium, electronic coupon system, and interactive TV infrastructure
US7328455B2 (en) 2001-06-28 2008-02-05 Intel Corporation Apparatus and method for enabling secure content decryption within a set-top box
US7088352B2 (en) 2002-06-19 2006-08-08 Novus Partners Llc Dynamic device and method for dispensing machines
US7015875B2 (en) 2001-06-29 2006-03-21 Novus Partners Llc Dynamic device for billboard advertising
EP1430429A4 (en) * 2001-06-29 2004-10-20 Novus Comm Technologies Inc Dynamic device and method for billboard advertising
US20030005466A1 (en) * 2001-06-29 2003-01-02 Hsinchao Liao Content personalization system for mobile users
US8006262B2 (en) 2001-06-29 2011-08-23 Rodriguez Arturo A Graphic user interfaces for purchasable and recordable media (PRM) downloads
US7526788B2 (en) 2001-06-29 2009-04-28 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Graphic user interface alternate download options for unavailable PRM content
US7098870B2 (en) 2001-06-29 2006-08-29 Novus Partners Llc Advertising method for dynamic billboards
US7512964B2 (en) 2001-06-29 2009-03-31 Cisco Technology System and method for archiving multiple downloaded recordable media content
US7496945B2 (en) 2001-06-29 2009-02-24 Cisco Technology, Inc. Interactive program guide for bidirectional services
US7098869B2 (en) 2001-06-29 2006-08-29 Novus Partners Llc Business method for billboard advertising
US7363569B2 (en) * 2001-06-29 2008-04-22 Intel Corporation Correcting for data losses with feedback and response
US20030121040A1 (en) * 2001-07-02 2003-06-26 Ferman A. Mufit Audiovisual management system
US7203620B2 (en) 2001-07-03 2007-04-10 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Summarization of video content
JP4730869B2 (en) * 2001-07-04 2011-07-20 シャープ株式会社 Television program information display device
DE10132276A1 (en) * 2001-07-04 2003-01-23 Siemens Ag System for switching, controlling, programming and operating communication devices
US7529485B2 (en) * 2001-07-05 2009-05-05 Enablence Usa Fttx Networks, Inc. Method and system for supporting multiple services with a subscriber optical interface located outside a subscriber's premises
JP2003037790A (en) * 2001-07-23 2003-02-07 Funai Electric Co Ltd Broadcast receiver
US7154916B2 (en) * 2001-07-26 2006-12-26 The Directv Group, Inc. Method for real-time insertion of auxiliary data packets into DSS bitstream in the presence of one or more service channels
DE10137858B4 (en) * 2001-07-31 2005-03-17 Loewe Opta Gmbh Method for updating and / or exchanging operating software or data in entertainment electronic communication and information devices
US8515773B2 (en) 2001-08-01 2013-08-20 Sony Corporation System and method for enabling distribution and brokering of content information
US7908628B2 (en) 2001-08-03 2011-03-15 Comcast Ip Holdings I, Llc Video and digital multimedia aggregator content coding and formatting
US7793326B2 (en) 2001-08-03 2010-09-07 Comcast Ip Holdings I, Llc Video and digital multimedia aggregator
JP4576075B2 (en) * 2001-08-03 2010-11-04 パナソニック株式会社 Program distribution system and program playback device
KR100442673B1 (en) * 2001-08-03 2004-08-02 주식회사 한단정보통신 System for receiving and transmitting a multi-channel signal, and method for controlling the same
JP2003061000A (en) * 2001-08-10 2003-02-28 Fujitsu Ltd Controller and program
DE10139669B4 (en) * 2001-08-11 2007-01-04 Rtl Interactive Gmbh Two-way television system
US6996564B2 (en) * 2001-08-13 2006-02-07 The Directv Group, Inc. Proactive internet searching tool
US20030030750A1 (en) * 2001-08-13 2003-02-13 Hoarty William Leo System and method for data distribution network
US20030038893A1 (en) * 2001-08-24 2003-02-27 Nokia Corporation Digital video receiver that generates background pictures and sounds for games
US20030046683A1 (en) * 2001-08-28 2003-03-06 Jutzi Curtis E. Server-side preference prediction based on customer billing information to generate a broadcast schedule
US7047456B2 (en) * 2001-08-28 2006-05-16 Intel Corporation Error correction for regional and dynamic factors in communications
US7594246B1 (en) 2001-08-29 2009-09-22 Vulcan Ventures, Inc. System and method for focused navigation within a user interface
US7650569B1 (en) * 2001-08-29 2010-01-19 Allen Paul G System and method for focused navigation within a user interface
US7735102B1 (en) 2001-08-29 2010-06-08 Billmaier James A System and method for focused navigation within a user interface
US7080394B2 (en) * 2001-08-29 2006-07-18 Digeo, Inc. System and method for capturing video frames for focused navigation within a user interface
US20030046694A1 (en) * 2001-08-29 2003-03-06 Digeo, Inc. System and method for displaying option representations with multiple levels of specificity
US20030046693A1 (en) * 2001-08-29 2003-03-06 Digeo, Inc. System and method for focused navigation within an interactive television user interface
US7107532B1 (en) * 2001-08-29 2006-09-12 Digeo, Inc. System and method for focused navigation within a user interface
US7055104B1 (en) * 2002-03-29 2006-05-30 Digeo, Inc. System and method for focused navigation using filters
DE10142699A1 (en) * 2001-08-31 2003-03-20 Grundig Ag headend
US7960005B2 (en) 2001-09-14 2011-06-14 Ochoa Optics Llc Broadcast distribution of content for storage on hardware protected optical storage media
US20030206710A1 (en) * 2001-09-14 2003-11-06 Ferman Ahmet Mufit Audiovisual management system
US8042132B2 (en) 2002-03-15 2011-10-18 Tvworks, Llc System and method for construction, delivery and display of iTV content
US8413205B2 (en) 2001-09-19 2013-04-02 Tvworks, Llc System and method for construction, delivery and display of iTV content
US11388451B2 (en) 2001-11-27 2022-07-12 Comcast Cable Communications Management, Llc Method and system for enabling data-rich interactive television using broadcast database
AU2002327677A1 (en) 2001-09-19 2003-04-01 Meta Tv, Inc. Interactive user interface for television applications
US7797552B2 (en) * 2001-09-21 2010-09-14 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and apparatus for controlling paired operation of a conditional access module and an integrated receiver and decoder
US7409562B2 (en) 2001-09-21 2008-08-05 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and apparatus for encrypting media programs for later purchase and viewing
US7231653B2 (en) 2001-09-24 2007-06-12 Intel Corporation Method for delivering transport stream data
US8943540B2 (en) 2001-09-28 2015-01-27 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus to provide a personalized channel
US20030066076A1 (en) * 2001-09-28 2003-04-03 Minahan Michael R. Method of distribution of digital media having durational limits for digital media usage
US7324947B2 (en) 2001-10-03 2008-01-29 Promptu Systems Corporation Global speech user interface
FR2830707B1 (en) * 2001-10-09 2004-02-06 Telediffusion De France Tdf LOCKING THE TRANSMISSION OF A NATIONAL TELEVISION SIGNAL IN A LOCAL STATION
US7233781B2 (en) 2001-10-10 2007-06-19 Ochoa Optics Llc System and method for emergency notification content delivery
US8079045B2 (en) * 2001-10-17 2011-12-13 Keen Personal Media, Inc. Personal video recorder and method for inserting a stored advertisement into a displayed broadcast stream
US7474698B2 (en) 2001-10-19 2009-01-06 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Identification of replay segments
WO2003036948A1 (en) * 2001-10-22 2003-05-01 Predictive Media Corporation Method and system for selective initial television channel display
US7085529B1 (en) 2001-10-24 2006-08-01 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and apparatus for determining a direct-to-home satellite receiver multi-switch type
US20030084440A1 (en) * 2001-10-26 2003-05-01 George Lownes Method of providing a code upgrade to a host device having a smart card interface
US20030081834A1 (en) * 2001-10-31 2003-05-01 Vasanth Philomin Intelligent TV room
US7739707B2 (en) * 2001-11-20 2010-06-15 Starz Entertainment, Llc Parental controls using view limits
US20030126595A1 (en) * 2001-11-20 2003-07-03 Svod Llc Systems and methods for providing marketing messages and incentives based on viewing limits and viewing limit levels
WO2003047257A1 (en) * 2001-11-26 2003-06-05 Nds Limited Online television messenger
DE60227693D1 (en) 2001-12-07 2008-08-28 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd MEDIA CONTENT DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM AND METHOD
US20030109249A1 (en) * 2001-12-07 2003-06-12 William Frantz System, method and apparatus to deliver guaranteed advertising
DE10160137B4 (en) * 2001-12-07 2005-03-03 Loewe Opta Gmbh Method for individual list compilation of Internet addresses
EP1318678A3 (en) * 2001-12-10 2009-08-05 Thomson Licensing Method for measuring audience information of interactive applications and associated devices
US20030219085A1 (en) * 2001-12-18 2003-11-27 Endres Thomas J. Self-initializing decision feedback equalizer with automatic gain control
US7180942B2 (en) 2001-12-18 2007-02-20 Dotcast, Inc. Joint adaptive optimization of soft decision device and feedback equalizer
AU2002359882A1 (en) * 2001-12-28 2003-07-24 Pegasus Development Corporation Wideband direct-to-home broadcasting satellite communications system and method
US7792978B2 (en) * 2001-12-28 2010-09-07 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method to remotely manage and audit set top box resources
US8051443B2 (en) 2002-01-02 2011-11-01 Sony Corporation Content replacement by PID mapping
US7765567B2 (en) 2002-01-02 2010-07-27 Sony Corporation Content replacement by PID mapping
US20030131349A1 (en) * 2002-01-04 2003-07-10 General Instrument Corporation Methods and systems for managing and collecting impulse pay-per-view data in smart card enabled television terminals
US20030131350A1 (en) 2002-01-08 2003-07-10 Peiffer John C. Method and apparatus for identifying a digital audio signal
US20030135857A1 (en) * 2002-01-11 2003-07-17 Ramesh Pendakur Content discovery in a digital broadcast data service
US20030135605A1 (en) * 2002-01-11 2003-07-17 Ramesh Pendakur User rating feedback loop to modify virtual channel content and/or schedules
JP3857143B2 (en) * 2002-01-15 2006-12-13 株式会社インフォシティ Content transmission processing method, content receiving apparatus, and broadcasting apparatus
US7120873B2 (en) * 2002-01-28 2006-10-10 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Summarization of sumo video content
US6947772B2 (en) 2002-01-31 2005-09-20 Qualcomm Incorporated System and method for providing messages on a wireless device connecting to an application server
US20030142129A1 (en) * 2002-01-31 2003-07-31 Kleven Michael L. Content processing and distribution systems and processes
US6981227B1 (en) * 2002-02-04 2005-12-27 Mircrosoft Corporation Systems and methods for a dimmable user interface
US7334251B2 (en) * 2002-02-11 2008-02-19 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Management of television advertising
US7228440B1 (en) * 2002-02-13 2007-06-05 Lsi Corporation Scan and boundary scan disable mechanism on secure device
US7571450B2 (en) * 2002-03-11 2009-08-04 Nxp B.V. System for and method of displaying information
US7177608B2 (en) * 2002-03-11 2007-02-13 Catch A Wave Technologies Personal spectrum recorder
US8099680B1 (en) 2002-03-12 2012-01-17 Arris Group, Inc. System and method of contextual pre-tuning
KR100441521B1 (en) * 2002-03-13 2004-07-23 삼성전자주식회사 Apparatus for receiving digital broadcating and method therein
US7703116B1 (en) 2003-07-11 2010-04-20 Tvworks, Llc System and method for construction, delivery and display of iTV applications that blend programming information of on-demand and broadcast service offerings
AU2002238920A1 (en) * 2002-03-15 2003-09-29 Fujitsu Limited Video information delivery apparatus and reception apparatus
US8707354B1 (en) 2002-06-12 2014-04-22 Tvworks, Llc Graphically rich, modular, promotional tile interface for interactive television
US8214741B2 (en) 2002-03-19 2012-07-03 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Synchronization of video and data
FR2837648B1 (en) * 2002-03-20 2004-07-23 France Telecom CONSTITUTION OF A PILOTAGE PROGRAM FOR EQUIPMENT RECEIVING RADIO AND TELEVISION TRANSMISSIONS
JP2003284041A (en) * 2002-03-20 2003-10-03 Ntt Data Corp Program delivering system, advertisement delivering apparatus, viewer terminal and advertisement delivering program, program reproducing program and method for delivering program
US20040098753A1 (en) * 2002-03-20 2004-05-20 Steven Reynolds Video combiner
MXPA04009064A (en) * 2002-03-21 2005-06-08 Thomson Licensing Sa Signal receiver for reveiveg simultaneously a plurality of broadcast signals.
KR100454959B1 (en) * 2002-04-30 2004-11-06 삼성전자주식회사 Settop box system capable of watching digital broadcasting and watching method thereof
JP2003304476A (en) * 2002-04-09 2003-10-24 Funai Electric Co Ltd Digital broadcast receiver
US7346552B1 (en) 2002-04-24 2008-03-18 Cauldron Solutions, Llc System and method for the enablement of electronic commerce in a content network
JP4711675B2 (en) * 2002-04-25 2011-06-29 トムソン ライセンシング Video resolution control for web browsers and video displays
US7584493B2 (en) * 2002-04-29 2009-09-01 The Boeing Company Receiver card technology for a broadcast subscription video service
US7155674B2 (en) * 2002-04-29 2006-12-26 Seachange International, Inc. Accessing television services
WO2003094134A2 (en) * 2002-05-01 2003-11-13 Index Systems, Inc. Method and system for facilitating advertising and t-commerce transactions in connection with content stored on a storage medium
US8443383B2 (en) 2002-05-03 2013-05-14 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Use of messages in program signal streams by set-top terminals
US7111314B2 (en) * 2002-05-03 2006-09-19 Time Warner Entertainment Company, L.P. Technique for delivering entertainment programming content including interactive features in a communications network
US7614066B2 (en) * 2002-05-03 2009-11-03 Time Warner Interactive Video Group Inc. Use of multiple embedded messages in program signal streams
US8312504B2 (en) 2002-05-03 2012-11-13 Time Warner Cable LLC Program storage, retrieval and management based on segmentation messages
US8392952B2 (en) 2002-05-03 2013-03-05 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Programming content processing and management system and method
US7908626B2 (en) * 2002-05-03 2011-03-15 Time Warner Interactive Video Group, Inc. Network based digital information and entertainment storage and delivery system
US7610606B2 (en) * 2002-05-03 2009-10-27 Time Warner Cable, Inc. Technique for effectively providing various entertainment services through a communications network
US7299182B2 (en) * 2002-05-09 2007-11-20 Thomson Licensing Text-to-speech (TTS) for hand-held devices
EP1361759A1 (en) * 2002-05-10 2003-11-12 Canal+ Technologies Société Anonyme System and method of providing media content
US7694326B2 (en) 2002-05-17 2010-04-06 Sony Corporation Signal processing system and method, signal processing apparatus and method, recording medium, and program
US7292547B1 (en) * 2002-05-22 2007-11-06 The Directv Group, Inc. Device and method for nodal multiple access into communications channels
US7181010B2 (en) * 2002-05-24 2007-02-20 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Apparatus for entitling remote client devices
US20050068952A1 (en) * 2002-05-24 2005-03-31 Deiss Michael S. Conditional access filter as for a packet video signal inverse transport system
GB0212143D0 (en) * 2002-05-27 2002-07-03 Sendo Int Ltd Processor Monitor
US7386048B2 (en) * 2002-05-28 2008-06-10 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Methods and systems for image intra-prediction mode organization
US20030226153A1 (en) * 2002-06-04 2003-12-04 Sony Corporation, A Japanese Corporation Method and apparatus for switching television channels
US20030233667A1 (en) * 2002-06-17 2003-12-18 Abs-Cbn Broadcasting Corporation Method and apparatus for implementing a scaled upgrading of an upgradeable set-top box
GB0214444D0 (en) * 2002-06-21 2002-07-31 Thirdspace Living Ltd User interface system
EP1376912A1 (en) * 2002-06-24 2004-01-02 Alcatel Method for providing multi-media data streams to subscribers of a data distribution network and data distribution network and distribution nodes therefor
US20040003404A1 (en) * 2002-06-27 2004-01-01 International Business Machines Corporation System and method for personal video recording system advertisements
US20040003405A1 (en) * 2002-06-27 2004-01-01 International Business Machines Corporation System and method for personal video recording system menu control
US7212730B2 (en) * 2002-06-27 2007-05-01 International Business Machines Corporation System and method for enhanced edit list for recording options
US20040003413A1 (en) * 2002-06-27 2004-01-01 International Business Machines Corporation System and method for priority sponsorship of multimedia content
US20040003397A1 (en) * 2002-06-27 2004-01-01 International Business Machines Corporation System and method for customized video commercial distribution
US20040002963A1 (en) * 2002-06-28 2004-01-01 Cynkin Laurence H. Resolving query terms based on time of submission
US8352983B1 (en) 2002-07-11 2013-01-08 Tvworks, Llc Programming contextual interactive user interface for television
US20040010798A1 (en) * 2002-07-11 2004-01-15 International Business Machines Corporation Apparatus and method for logging television viewing patterns for guardian review
US7151575B1 (en) * 2002-07-18 2006-12-19 Entropic Communications, Inc. Wireless extension for cable television signals
US6662518B1 (en) * 2002-07-24 2003-12-16 Arbor Contract Carpet, Inc. Floor covering transition device
US7657836B2 (en) 2002-07-25 2010-02-02 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Summarization of soccer video content
US7516470B2 (en) 2002-08-02 2009-04-07 Cisco Technology, Inc. Locally-updated interactive program guide
US11070890B2 (en) 2002-08-06 2021-07-20 Comcast Cable Communications Management, Llc User customization of user interfaces for interactive television
KR100958519B1 (en) 2002-08-14 2010-05-17 엘지전자 주식회사 Method for receive and transmission in mobile communications system
US8272020B2 (en) * 2002-08-17 2012-09-18 Disney Enterprises, Inc. System for the delivery and dynamic presentation of large media assets over bandwidth constrained networks
AU2003274917A1 (en) * 2002-08-21 2004-03-11 Disney Enterprises, Inc. Digital home movie library
US7736394B2 (en) * 2002-08-22 2010-06-15 Victhom Human Bionics Inc. Actuated prosthesis for amputees
GB2392262A (en) * 2002-08-23 2004-02-25 Hewlett Packard Co A method of controlling the processing of data
US7653928B2 (en) * 2002-08-30 2010-01-26 Sony Corporation Remote user interface for media player
US6996394B2 (en) 2002-08-30 2006-02-07 Qualcomm Incorporated Server processing in providing messages for a wireless device connecting to a server
US7039398B2 (en) 2002-08-30 2006-05-02 Qualcomm Incorporated Server processing of interactive screens for a wireless device
US20040045022A1 (en) * 2002-09-03 2004-03-04 Steven Riedl Digital message insertion technique for analog video services
US20040046780A1 (en) * 2002-09-05 2004-03-11 Imagictv Inc. Non-modal navigation of interactive multimedia content
JP3092688U (en) * 2002-09-10 2003-03-20 船井電機株式会社 TV receiver
US11029823B2 (en) 2002-09-16 2021-06-08 Touchtunes Music Corporation Jukebox with customizable avatar
US10373420B2 (en) 2002-09-16 2019-08-06 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital downloading jukebox with enhanced communication features
US8103589B2 (en) 2002-09-16 2012-01-24 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital downloading jukebox system with central and local music servers
US8584175B2 (en) 2002-09-16 2013-11-12 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital downloading jukebox system with user-tailored music management, communications, and other tools
US8151304B2 (en) 2002-09-16 2012-04-03 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital downloading jukebox system with user-tailored music management, communications, and other tools
US8332895B2 (en) 2002-09-16 2012-12-11 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital downloading jukebox system with user-tailored music management, communications, and other tools
US9646339B2 (en) 2002-09-16 2017-05-09 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital downloading jukebox system with central and local music servers
US7822687B2 (en) 2002-09-16 2010-10-26 Francois Brillon Jukebox with customizable avatar
US8220018B2 (en) 2002-09-19 2012-07-10 Tvworks, Llc System and method for preferred placement programming of iTV content
US20040060074A1 (en) * 2002-09-19 2004-03-25 Ganesh Basawapatna Video distribution system with increased centralized processing
JP2004118242A (en) * 2002-09-20 2004-04-15 Pioneer Electronic Corp Status announcement system, status announcement method, and program for status announcement
US20040064835A1 (en) * 2002-09-26 2004-04-01 International Business Machines Corporation System and method for content based on-demand video media overlay
US8601514B1 (en) 2002-09-27 2013-12-03 Arris Enterprises, Inc. PC media center and extension device for a home entertainment system
US7657907B2 (en) 2002-09-30 2010-02-02 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Automatic user profiling
US8141117B1 (en) * 2002-09-30 2012-03-20 Arris Group, Inc. PC media center and extension device for interfacing with a personal video recorder through a home network
US7690022B2 (en) * 2002-10-02 2010-03-30 Ganesh Basawapatna Video distribution system for digital and analog subscribers
US7908625B2 (en) 2002-10-02 2011-03-15 Robertson Neil C Networked multimedia system
US8046806B2 (en) 2002-10-04 2011-10-25 Wall William E Multiroom point of deployment module
US7545935B2 (en) 2002-10-04 2009-06-09 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Networked multimedia overlay system
US7360235B2 (en) 2002-10-04 2008-04-15 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Systems and methods for operating a peripheral record/playback device in a networked multimedia system
US20040073931A1 (en) * 2002-10-10 2004-04-15 Tempur World, Inc. Interactive bed display
BR0316013A (en) * 2002-11-08 2005-09-13 Koninkl Philips Electronics Nv Method for providing a content recommendation to a user, recommendation device for providing a content recommendation to a user, and private video recorder
US20040090291A1 (en) * 2002-11-13 2004-05-13 Rakib Selim Shlomo Method and apparatus for refurbishing analog set top box to provide digital set top box and optional DOCSIS cable modem capability
KR20040044236A (en) * 2002-11-20 2004-05-28 엘지전자 주식회사 program upgrade system and the method for television
SE0203493D0 (en) * 2002-11-26 2002-11-26 Kianoush Namvar Interactive Media Communication
US9027063B2 (en) * 2002-11-27 2015-05-05 Deluxe Digital Distribution Inc. Video-on-demand (VOD) management system and methods
DE10256216A1 (en) * 2002-12-02 2004-06-24 Fujitsu Siemens Computers Gmbh Computer system and method for transfer of image data to the computer screen, whereby the display unit has means, that fulfill the functions of a graphics card, for processing a digital image signal received from the computer
IL153244A0 (en) * 2002-12-03 2003-07-06 Method and apparatus for providing credits through digital television interactive applications
US20040117826A1 (en) * 2002-12-11 2004-06-17 Jeyhan Karaoguz Media exchange network with media guide interface
EP1576812A1 (en) 2002-12-16 2005-09-21 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Personal video recorder method and user interface
JP2004214748A (en) * 2002-12-27 2004-07-29 Alpine Electronics Inc Video reproducing apparatus and display control method
US7930716B2 (en) 2002-12-31 2011-04-19 Actv Inc. Techniques for reinsertion of local market advertising in digital video from a bypass source
US20040130581A1 (en) * 2003-01-03 2004-07-08 Microsoft Corporation Interaction model
US8683518B2 (en) * 2003-01-07 2014-03-25 Home Box Office, Inc. Integrated media viewing environment
US7779247B2 (en) 2003-01-09 2010-08-17 Jericho Systems Corporation Method and system for dynamically implementing an enterprise resource policy
US20040136690A1 (en) * 2003-01-09 2004-07-15 International Business Machines Corporation Controlling the recording of a media program
US7006945B2 (en) 2003-01-10 2006-02-28 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Processing of video content
US8094640B2 (en) 2003-01-15 2012-01-10 Robertson Neil C Full duplex wideband communications system for a local coaxial network
US7487532B2 (en) 2003-01-15 2009-02-03 Cisco Technology, Inc. Optimization of a full duplex wideband communications system
PL358355A1 (en) * 2003-01-20 2004-07-26 Advanced Digital Broadcast Polska Spółka z o.o. Method of automatic functional inspection of digital television decoder based on a checklist of selected programs
US20040150748A1 (en) * 2003-01-31 2004-08-05 Qwest Communications International Inc. Systems and methods for providing and displaying picture-in-picture signals
US8713617B2 (en) 2003-01-31 2014-04-29 Qwest Communications International Inc. Systems and methods for providing television signals using a network interface device
US7194249B2 (en) 2003-01-31 2007-03-20 Qwest Communications International Inc. Methods, systems and apparatus for providing urgent public information
US7921443B2 (en) 2003-01-31 2011-04-05 Qwest Communications International, Inc. Systems and methods for providing video and data services to a customer premises
US20040150749A1 (en) * 2003-01-31 2004-08-05 Qwest Communications International Inc. Systems and methods for displaying data over video
US20040150751A1 (en) * 2003-01-31 2004-08-05 Qwest Communications International Inc. Systems and methods for forming picture-in-picture signals
US10142023B2 (en) 2003-01-31 2018-11-27 Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc Antenna system and methods for wireless optical network termination
US8490129B2 (en) 2003-01-31 2013-07-16 Qwest Communications International Inc. Methods, systems and apparatus for selectively distributing urgent public information
WO2004075469A2 (en) * 2003-02-19 2004-09-02 Dotcast Inc. Joint, adaptive control of equalization, synchronization, and gain in a digital communications receiver
US20040181811A1 (en) * 2003-03-13 2004-09-16 Rakib Selim Shlomo Thin DOCSIS in-band management for interactive HFC service delivery
US11381875B2 (en) 2003-03-14 2022-07-05 Comcast Cable Communications Management, Llc Causing display of user-selectable content types
US10664138B2 (en) 2003-03-14 2020-05-26 Comcast Cable Communications, Llc Providing supplemental content for a second screen experience
US8578411B1 (en) * 2003-03-14 2013-11-05 Tvworks, Llc System and method for controlling iTV application behaviors through the use of application profile filters
US6915065B2 (en) * 2003-03-21 2005-07-05 American Video Electronics, Inc. Data processing system architecture
US7627552B2 (en) 2003-03-27 2009-12-01 Microsoft Corporation System and method for filtering and organizing items based on common elements
US7421438B2 (en) 2004-04-29 2008-09-02 Microsoft Corporation Metadata editing control
JP2004297544A (en) * 2003-03-27 2004-10-21 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Remote control apparatus
ATE471629T1 (en) * 2003-03-28 2010-07-15 Loewe Opta Gmbh OPERATING SYSTEM FOR A TELEVISION RECEIVER
US20040189879A1 (en) * 2003-03-31 2004-09-30 Sony Electronics Inc. Method and apparatus for switching television channels
EP1465047A1 (en) 2003-04-03 2004-10-06 Deutsche Thomson-Brandt Gmbh Method for presenting menu buttons
CA2463228C (en) 2003-04-04 2012-06-26 Evertz Microsystems Ltd. Apparatus, systems and methods for packet based transmission of multiple data signals
GB0307763D0 (en) 2003-04-04 2003-05-07 Zap Corp Uk The Ltd System and method of broadcasting advertisements
US6760538B1 (en) * 2003-04-21 2004-07-06 Pioneer Digital Technologies, Inc. Video recorder having user extended and automatically extended time slots
US20060051059A1 (en) * 2004-09-08 2006-03-09 Krakirian Haig H Video recorder having user extended and automatically extended time slots
US20040213557A1 (en) * 2003-04-23 2004-10-28 Pioneer Digital Technologies, Inc. Non-hierarchical interface screens for use in a video recorder
US7430187B2 (en) * 2003-05-15 2008-09-30 At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp Methods, systems, and computer program products for providing different quality of service/bandwidth allocation to different susbscribers for interactive gaming
US7684432B2 (en) * 2003-05-15 2010-03-23 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Methods of providing data services over data networks and related data networks, data service providers, routing gateways and computer program products
US7367039B2 (en) 2003-05-22 2008-04-29 The Directv Group, Inc. System and method for evaluating callback functionality in a satellite television network
US8072470B2 (en) 2003-05-29 2011-12-06 Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. System and method for providing a real-time three-dimensional interactive environment
TW570449U (en) * 2003-05-30 2004-01-01 Aviquest Technology Co Ltd Multi-media playing TV
US6724335B1 (en) * 2003-06-03 2004-04-20 Broadcom Corporation Systems and methods for digital upconversion for television signals
US7130846B2 (en) 2003-06-10 2006-10-31 Microsoft Corporation Intelligent default selection in an on-screen keyboard
US7792828B2 (en) 2003-06-25 2010-09-07 Jericho Systems Corporation Method and system for selecting content items to be presented to a viewer
KR100542580B1 (en) * 2003-06-26 2006-01-11 삼성전자주식회사 Resource reservation system and a resource reservation method using the same in the mobile/wireless environments
US20040267880A1 (en) * 2003-06-30 2004-12-30 Kestutis Patiejunas System and method for delivery of media content
US8635643B2 (en) 2003-06-30 2014-01-21 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for providing interactive media content over a network
US8438601B2 (en) 2003-07-02 2013-05-07 Rovi Solutions Corporation Resource management for a networked personal video recording system
US7454120B2 (en) 2003-07-02 2008-11-18 Macrovision Corporation Methods and apparatus for client aggregation of television programming in a networked personal video recording system
US7603022B2 (en) * 2003-07-02 2009-10-13 Macrovision Corporation Networked personal video recording system
US8416952B1 (en) 2003-07-11 2013-04-09 Tvworks, Llc Channel family surf control
JP2005038263A (en) * 2003-07-16 2005-02-10 Canon Inc Image processor, image processing method, recording medium, and program
WO2005011135A1 (en) * 2003-07-24 2005-02-03 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. An electronic system and a method of providing additional functionality features to an electronic system
KR100568230B1 (en) * 2003-07-30 2006-04-07 삼성전자주식회사 Device and method for providing advertisement in digital tv
US8112449B2 (en) 2003-08-01 2012-02-07 Qwest Communications International Inc. Systems and methods for implementing a content object access point
WO2005022909A1 (en) * 2003-08-25 2005-03-10 Gist Communications Europe Gmbh Electronic programme guide
US7673297B1 (en) * 2003-09-03 2010-03-02 The Directv Group, Inc. Automatic software update detection and flexible installer for set-top boxes
US9402045B2 (en) 2003-09-09 2016-07-26 Echostar Technologies L.L.C. Method and apparatus for displaying electronic program guide information
US20050068915A1 (en) * 2003-09-10 2005-03-31 Wi Networks Inc. Wireless infrastructure for broadcasting with return channel
US20050055720A1 (en) * 2003-09-10 2005-03-10 Wi Networks Inc. Receiver installation for multi channel broadcasting with return channel, and method of modifying the same
US8214256B2 (en) * 2003-09-15 2012-07-03 Time Warner Cable Inc. System and method for advertisement delivery within a video time shifting architecture
US20050060748A1 (en) * 2003-09-16 2005-03-17 Showtime Networks Inc. Programming service offer presentment and instant actvation system, method, and computer program product
US8819734B2 (en) 2003-09-16 2014-08-26 Tvworks, Llc Contextual navigational control for digital television
US20050064275A1 (en) * 2003-09-18 2005-03-24 3M Innovative Properties Company Fuel cell gas diffusion layer
US7133051B2 (en) * 2003-09-19 2006-11-07 Microsoft Corporation Full scale video with overlaid graphical user interface and scaled image
US20050068992A1 (en) * 2003-09-26 2005-03-31 Kaku Vicky B. Method and apparatus for high-speed data multiplexing
WO2005041109A2 (en) * 2003-10-17 2005-05-06 Nielsen Media Research, Inc. Methods and apparatus for identifiying audio/video content using temporal signal characteristics
US20050086692A1 (en) * 2003-10-17 2005-04-21 Mydtv, Inc. Searching for programs and updating viewer preferences with reference to program segment characteristics
US10127765B1 (en) 2003-10-20 2018-11-13 Tipping Point Group, Llc Gaming machine having secondary gaming controller with proxy configuration
US8721449B2 (en) 2003-10-20 2014-05-13 Tipping Point Group, Llc Method and system for paragame activity at electronic gaming machine
US9564004B2 (en) * 2003-10-20 2017-02-07 Igt Closed-loop system for providing additional event participation to electronic video game customers
US8512144B2 (en) 2003-10-20 2013-08-20 Tipping Point Group, Llc Method and apparatus for providing secondary gaming machine functionality
US9582963B2 (en) 2003-10-20 2017-02-28 Tipping Point Group, Llc Method and system for gaming machine accounting
US7335106B2 (en) 2003-10-20 2008-02-26 Las Vegas Gaming, Inc. Closed-loop system for displaying promotional events and granting awards for electronic video games
US8024335B2 (en) 2004-05-03 2011-09-20 Microsoft Corporation System and method for dynamically generating a selectable search extension
EP1528512A3 (en) * 2003-10-28 2006-02-15 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Graphic decoder, image reproduction apparatus and method for graphic display acceleration based on commands
US7310807B2 (en) * 2003-10-29 2007-12-18 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System and method for local video distribution
WO2005043911A1 (en) * 2003-11-04 2005-05-12 Electronics And Telecommunications Research Institute Apparatus and method for receiving data broadcasting service to support connection with mobile networks
KR100642129B1 (en) * 2003-11-05 2006-11-10 (주) 아이티비엠지 Method and apparatus for accessing and processing data for television contents, and the media and transmitting signal containing the method
US20070089143A1 (en) * 2003-11-10 2007-04-19 Lefevre Chad A Method and apparatus for providing dynamic display of content information associated with a device in a network
US20050147247A1 (en) * 2003-11-14 2005-07-07 Westberg Thomas E. Interactive television systems having POD modules and methods for use in the same
US7398478B2 (en) * 2003-11-14 2008-07-08 Microsoft Corporation Controlled non-proportional scaling display
US20050114879A1 (en) * 2003-11-20 2005-05-26 General Instrument Corporation Monitoring signal quality on a cable network
US20070141978A1 (en) * 2003-11-26 2007-06-21 Nippon Soda Co., Ltd Content transmission device
US20050204394A1 (en) * 2003-12-15 2005-09-15 Nguyen Liem Q. Movie distribution system
US8286203B2 (en) 2003-12-19 2012-10-09 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for enhanced hot key delivery
WO2005064928A1 (en) * 2003-12-26 2005-07-14 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Recommended program notification method and recommended program notification device
US8196044B2 (en) * 2004-01-05 2012-06-05 Microsoft Corporation Configuration of user interfaces
US20050149988A1 (en) * 2004-01-06 2005-07-07 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. Delivering interactive television components in real time for live broadcast events
US8281339B1 (en) 2004-01-12 2012-10-02 United Video Properties, Inc. Customizable flip and browse overlays in an interactive television system
US7861274B2 (en) * 2004-01-13 2010-12-28 Time Warner Cable, Inc. System and method for managing program assets
IL159838A0 (en) 2004-01-13 2004-06-20 Yehuda Binder Information device
US8175444B2 (en) * 2004-01-14 2012-05-08 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Method of reproducing from storage medium storing interactive graphics stream activated in response to user's command
US7599494B2 (en) * 2004-01-16 2009-10-06 The Directv Group, Inc. Distribution of video content using a trusted network key for sharing content
US7548624B2 (en) * 2004-01-16 2009-06-16 The Directv Group, Inc. Distribution of broadcast content for remote decryption and viewing
US7580523B2 (en) 2004-01-16 2009-08-25 The Directv Group, Inc. Distribution of video content using client to host pairing of integrated receivers/decoders
US20050156902A1 (en) * 2004-01-20 2005-07-21 Mcpherson Roger Electronic tablet
US20100153997A1 (en) * 2004-01-21 2010-06-17 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive television system with templates for managing vendor-specific video-on-demand content
US8161388B2 (en) 2004-01-21 2012-04-17 Rodriguez Arturo A Interactive discovery of display device characteristics
US20050177743A1 (en) * 2004-02-05 2005-08-11 Barber Aaron J. Method and system for a consumer upgradeable decoder
US20050177624A1 (en) * 2004-02-11 2005-08-11 Alio, Inc. Distributed System and Methodology for Delivery of Media Content to Clients having Peer-to-peer Connectivity
US20050177745A1 (en) * 2004-02-11 2005-08-11 Alio, Inc. Distributed System and Methodology for Delivery of Media Content
US20050177853A1 (en) * 2004-02-11 2005-08-11 Alio, Inc. System and Methodology for Distributed Delivery of Online Content in Response to Client Selections from an Online Catalog
US7801303B2 (en) * 2004-03-01 2010-09-21 The Directv Group, Inc. Video on demand in a broadcast network
US8356317B2 (en) 2004-03-04 2013-01-15 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Presence based technology
US7594245B2 (en) 2004-03-04 2009-09-22 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Networked video devices
US8949899B2 (en) 2005-03-04 2015-02-03 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Collaborative recommendation system
CN1946742A (en) * 2004-03-11 2007-04-11 弗雷泽纽斯卡比德国有限公司 Conjugates of hydroxyalkyl starch and a protein, prepared by reductive amination
US7966424B2 (en) 2004-03-15 2011-06-21 Microsoft Corporation Data compression
US20050210510A1 (en) * 2004-03-19 2005-09-22 Microsoft Corporation Method and apparatus for generating a program guide
US7861006B2 (en) 2004-03-23 2010-12-28 Mcnulty Scott Apparatus, method and system for a tunneling client access point
US20050229228A1 (en) * 2004-04-07 2005-10-13 Sandeep Relan Unicast cable content delivery
US20050240963A1 (en) * 2004-04-21 2005-10-27 Showtime Networks, Inc. Interactive gateway
TWI276888B (en) * 2004-04-22 2007-03-21 Novatek Microelectronics Corp Data transferring method
US7523145B2 (en) * 2004-04-22 2009-04-21 Opentv, Inc. System for managing data in a distributed computing system
US7694236B2 (en) 2004-04-23 2010-04-06 Microsoft Corporation Stack icons representing multiple objects
WO2005107260A1 (en) * 2004-04-28 2005-11-10 Leonid Aleksandrovich Pogyba Method for delivering video products to ethnic consumers by using internet engineering and device for carrying out said method
JP2005316761A (en) * 2004-04-28 2005-11-10 Toshiba Corp Electronic apparatus and method for notifying information
TW200603632A (en) * 2004-05-14 2006-01-16 Nielsen Media Res Inc Methods and apparatus for identifying media content
JP4855653B2 (en) * 2004-05-25 2012-01-18 ソニー株式会社 Broadcast program providing system, broadcast receiving terminal device, browsing terminal, operation terminal, and computer program
US20050278375A1 (en) * 2004-05-26 2005-12-15 Stephanie Mitchko Asset management system and associated methods
US9998802B2 (en) 2004-06-07 2018-06-12 Sling Media LLC Systems and methods for creating variable length clips from a media stream
US7975062B2 (en) 2004-06-07 2011-07-05 Sling Media, Inc. Capturing and sharing media content
US7917932B2 (en) 2005-06-07 2011-03-29 Sling Media, Inc. Personal video recorder functionality for placeshifting systems
US8346605B2 (en) * 2004-06-07 2013-01-01 Sling Media, Inc. Management of shared media content
US8099755B2 (en) * 2004-06-07 2012-01-17 Sling Media Pvt. Ltd. Systems and methods for controlling the encoding of a media stream
US7769756B2 (en) * 2004-06-07 2010-08-03 Sling Media, Inc. Selection and presentation of context-relevant supplemental content and advertising
US7707614B2 (en) 2004-06-07 2010-04-27 Sling Media, Inc. Personal media broadcasting system with output buffer
US20050289613A1 (en) * 2004-06-18 2005-12-29 Honeywell International Inc. Control architecture for audio/video (A/V) systems
JP4167205B2 (en) * 2004-06-22 2008-10-15 松下電器産業株式会社 Display control apparatus and display control method
US20050289012A1 (en) * 2004-06-28 2005-12-29 Richard Boller Distribution and marketing system and method for subscription service
US8484308B2 (en) * 2004-07-02 2013-07-09 MatrixStream Technologies, Inc. System and method for transferring content via a network
US7739717B1 (en) 2004-07-13 2010-06-15 The Directv Group, Inc. System and method for performing diagnostics for a customer IRD in a satellite television system
KR100631735B1 (en) * 2004-07-14 2006-10-09 삼성전자주식회사 Multimedia data trading system and method
EP1782267A4 (en) * 2004-07-23 2013-11-13 Korea Electronics Telecomm Extended package scheme to support application program downloading, and system and method for application program service using the same
US7580668B2 (en) * 2004-07-27 2009-08-25 Microsoft Corporation Intelligent data broadcasting
US8904458B2 (en) 2004-07-29 2014-12-02 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for pre-caching a first portion of a video file on a set-top box
US9584868B2 (en) 2004-07-30 2017-02-28 Broadband Itv, Inc. Dynamic adjustment of electronic program guide displays based on viewer preferences for minimizing navigation in VOD program selection
US9344765B2 (en) 2004-07-30 2016-05-17 Broadband Itv, Inc. Dynamic adjustment of electronic program guide displays based on viewer preferences for minimizing navigation in VOD program selection
US7590997B2 (en) 2004-07-30 2009-09-15 Broadband Itv, Inc. System and method for managing, converting and displaying video content on a video-on-demand platform, including ads used for drill-down navigation and consumer-generated classified ads
US7631336B2 (en) 2004-07-30 2009-12-08 Broadband Itv, Inc. Method for converting, navigating and displaying video content uploaded from the internet to a digital TV video-on-demand platform
US11259059B2 (en) 2004-07-30 2022-02-22 Broadband Itv, Inc. System for addressing on-demand TV program content on TV services platform of a digital TV services provider
JP4738773B2 (en) 2004-08-06 2011-08-03 キヤノン株式会社 Image processing apparatus and control method thereof
US20060037043A1 (en) * 2004-08-10 2006-02-16 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. Method and interface for managing movies on a set-top box
US8584257B2 (en) 2004-08-10 2013-11-12 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Method and interface for video content acquisition security on a set-top box
US20060037040A1 (en) * 2004-08-12 2006-02-16 Mahalick Scott G Method of transmitting audio and video signals over radio and television channels
US20060037046A1 (en) * 2004-08-13 2006-02-16 Microsoft Corporation Aligning video data to create a comprehensive program guide
US7543317B2 (en) 2004-08-17 2009-06-02 The Directv Group, Inc. Service activation of set-top box functionality using broadcast conditional access system
US7940746B2 (en) 2004-08-24 2011-05-10 Comcast Cable Holdings, Llc Method and system for locating a voice over internet protocol (VoIP) device connected to a network
US20060048178A1 (en) * 2004-08-26 2006-03-02 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. Interface for controlling service actions at a set top box from a remote control
US7797724B2 (en) * 2004-08-31 2010-09-14 Citrix Systems, Inc. Methods and apparatus for secure online access on a client device
US20070211691A1 (en) * 2004-09-09 2007-09-13 Barber Ronald W Method, system and computer program using standard interfaces for independent device controllers
WO2006035450A1 (en) 2004-09-29 2006-04-06 Hewlett-Packard Development Company L.P. Systems and methods for soliciting feedback using print-augmented broadcast signal
US20060069615A1 (en) * 2004-09-29 2006-03-30 Ajay Gupta Systems and methods for subsidizing the printing costs of advertiser-sponsored documents delivered through broadcast networks
AU2005211539B2 (en) 2004-09-30 2008-04-03 Universal Entertainment Corporation Gaming machine and game system
US8789106B2 (en) 2004-10-01 2014-07-22 Panasonic Corporation Channel contract proposing apparatus, method, program and integrated circuit
US8086261B2 (en) * 2004-10-07 2011-12-27 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for providing digital network access and digital broadcast services using combined channels on a single physical medium to the customer premises
US8806533B1 (en) 2004-10-08 2014-08-12 United Video Properties, Inc. System and method for using television information codes
KR100685992B1 (en) 2004-11-10 2007-02-23 엘지전자 주식회사 Method for information outputting during channel Change in digital broadcasting receiver
US20060174279A1 (en) * 2004-11-19 2006-08-03 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System and method for managing television tuners
JP4897698B2 (en) 2004-11-19 2012-03-14 ティヴォ インク Method and apparatus for securely transferring previously broadcast content
US7716714B2 (en) 2004-12-01 2010-05-11 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for recording television content at a set top box
US8434116B2 (en) * 2004-12-01 2013-04-30 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Device, system, and method for managing television tuners
US7474359B2 (en) 2004-12-06 2009-01-06 At&T Intellectual Properties I, L.P. System and method of displaying a video stream
US20060123451A1 (en) * 2004-12-07 2006-06-08 Showtime Networks Inc. Enhanced content in an on-demand environment
KR20070092735A (en) * 2004-12-13 2007-09-13 코닌클리케 필립스 일렉트로닉스 엔.브이. System and method for scheduling an audiovisual information recording
US7716237B2 (en) * 2004-12-22 2010-05-11 Csc Holdings, Inc. System and associated methods for remotely enabling features
WO2006076581A2 (en) 2005-01-12 2006-07-20 Invidi Technologies Corporation Targeted impression model for broadcast network asset delivery
US20090094640A1 (en) * 2007-09-26 2009-04-09 Anderson Bruce J Targeted advertising in unicast, multicast and hybrid distribution system contexts
US20060156372A1 (en) * 2005-01-12 2006-07-13 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System, method and interface for managing content at a set top box
US8204131B2 (en) * 2005-01-13 2012-06-19 Qualcomm Incorporated Method and system for rapid and smooth selection of digitally compressed video programs
DE602005007069D1 (en) 2005-01-20 2008-07-03 Thomson Licensing BIMODAL SWITCHING FOR CONTROLLING DIGITAL TELEVISION APPLICATIONS ON HAND-HELD VIDEO DEVICES
US7436346B2 (en) 2005-01-20 2008-10-14 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System, method and interface for controlling multiple electronic devices of a home entertainment system via a single control device
US20060168610A1 (en) * 2005-01-26 2006-07-27 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System and method of managing content
TW200704183A (en) * 2005-01-27 2007-01-16 Matrix Tv Dynamic mosaic extended electronic programming guide for television program selection and display
US20060174309A1 (en) * 2005-01-28 2006-08-03 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System and method of managing set top box memory
US7602820B2 (en) 2005-02-01 2009-10-13 Time Warner Cable Inc. Apparatus and methods for multi-stage multiplexing in a network
US7307574B2 (en) * 2005-02-02 2007-12-11 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, Lp Remote control, apparatus, system and methods of using the same
US20060179466A1 (en) * 2005-02-04 2006-08-10 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System and method of providing email service via a set top box
PA8660701A1 (en) * 2005-02-04 2006-09-22 Pfizer Prod Inc SMALL AGONISTS AND THEIR USES
US20060184991A1 (en) * 2005-02-14 2006-08-17 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, Lp System and method of providing television content
US8214859B2 (en) * 2005-02-14 2012-07-03 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Automatic switching between high definition and standard definition IP television signals
WO2006095290A2 (en) * 2005-03-08 2006-09-14 Koninklijke Philips Electronics, N.V. Multiple user control of a down loadable application
US8306975B1 (en) 2005-03-08 2012-11-06 Worldwide Creative Techniques, Inc. Expanded interest recommendation engine and variable personalization
US20080022343A1 (en) 2006-07-24 2008-01-24 Vvond, Inc. Multiple audio streams
US9176955B2 (en) 2005-03-09 2015-11-03 Vvond, Inc. Method and apparatus for sharing media files among network nodes
US7698451B2 (en) * 2005-03-09 2010-04-13 Vudu, Inc. Method and apparatus for instant playback of a movie title
US20090019489A1 (en) * 2005-03-09 2009-01-15 Vvond, Inc. Method and apparatus for displaying movie titles based on distributed objects
US8887224B2 (en) 2005-03-09 2014-11-11 Vudu, Inc. Updating content libraries by transmitting release data
US20090025046A1 (en) * 2005-03-09 2009-01-22 Wond, Llc Hybrid architecture for media services
US20090019468A1 (en) * 2005-03-09 2009-01-15 Vvond, Llc Access control of media services over an open network
US8904463B2 (en) 2005-03-09 2014-12-02 Vudu, Inc. Live video broadcasting on distributed networks
US8219635B2 (en) * 2005-03-09 2012-07-10 Vudu, Inc. Continuous data feeding in a distributed environment
US7191215B2 (en) * 2005-03-09 2007-03-13 Marquee, Inc. Method and system for providing instantaneous media-on-demand services by transmitting contents in pieces from client machines
US7937379B2 (en) * 2005-03-09 2011-05-03 Vudu, Inc. Fragmentation of a file for instant access
US20060218590A1 (en) * 2005-03-10 2006-09-28 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System and method for displaying an electronic program guide
US20060230421A1 (en) * 2005-03-30 2006-10-12 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, Lp Method of using an entertainment system and an apparatus and handset for use with the entertainment system
CN101194505B (en) * 2005-03-30 2016-09-14 乐威指南公司 system and method for video-rich navigation
US20100311399A1 (en) * 2005-03-31 2010-12-09 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for generating audible reminders on mobile user equipment
US9973817B1 (en) 2005-04-08 2018-05-15 Rovi Guides, Inc. System and method for providing a list of video-on-demand programs
US20060236343A1 (en) * 2005-04-14 2006-10-19 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, Lp System and method of locating and providing video content via an IPTV network
KR100713279B1 (en) * 2005-04-18 2007-05-04 엘지전자 주식회사 Method and apparatus for sending data multi of an image display device
US7818667B2 (en) 2005-05-03 2010-10-19 Tv Works Llc Verification of semantic constraints in multimedia data and in its announcement, signaling and interchange
US8387089B1 (en) 2005-05-06 2013-02-26 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for providing a scan
US20060271552A1 (en) * 2005-05-26 2006-11-30 Venture Capital & Consulting Group, Llc. Targeted delivery of content
US8054849B2 (en) 2005-05-27 2011-11-08 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method of managing video content streams
DE102005024528B3 (en) * 2005-05-28 2006-10-12 Blankom Antennentechnik Gmbh Digital head point has metabus which is formed as bus according to IEEE 1394b and digital head point has at least three areas whereby first area has one module of first kind which possesses input for signal
US20060282785A1 (en) * 2005-06-09 2006-12-14 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System and method of displaying content in display windows
US8099511B1 (en) 2005-06-11 2012-01-17 Vudu, Inc. Instantaneous media-on-demand
KR20060131471A (en) * 2005-06-16 2006-12-20 삼성전자주식회사 Method for controlling opc data in lead-in zone optical of blu-ray rewritable disc
US9860599B2 (en) 2005-06-17 2018-01-02 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Methods, systems, and products for providing sample content
US8893199B2 (en) 2005-06-22 2014-11-18 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method of managing video content delivery
US7908627B2 (en) * 2005-06-22 2011-03-15 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method to provide a unified video signal for diverse receiving platforms
US20070011133A1 (en) * 2005-06-22 2007-01-11 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. Voice search engine generating sub-topics based on recognitiion confidence
US8365218B2 (en) 2005-06-24 2013-01-29 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Networked television and method thereof
US20060294568A1 (en) * 2005-06-24 2006-12-28 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. Video game console modular card and method thereof
US8635659B2 (en) 2005-06-24 2014-01-21 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Audio receiver modular card and method thereof
US8282476B2 (en) 2005-06-24 2012-10-09 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Multimedia-based video game distribution
JP5255753B2 (en) * 2005-06-29 2013-08-07 シャープ株式会社 Information terminal device and communication system
US20070003224A1 (en) * 2005-06-30 2007-01-04 Jason Krikorian Screen Management System for Media Player
US7702952B2 (en) * 2005-06-30 2010-04-20 Sling Media, Inc. Firmware update for consumer electronic device
JP4416704B2 (en) * 2005-07-01 2010-02-17 シャープ株式会社 Wireless transmission system
US8190688B2 (en) 2005-07-11 2012-05-29 At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp System and method of transmitting photographs from a set top box
US7665028B2 (en) 2005-07-13 2010-02-16 Microsoft Corporation Rich drag drop user interface
US8074248B2 (en) 2005-07-26 2011-12-06 Activevideo Networks, Inc. System and method for providing video content associated with a source image to a television in a communication network
US7873102B2 (en) 2005-07-27 2011-01-18 At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp Video quality testing by encoding aggregated clips
US20070027842A1 (en) * 2005-07-27 2007-02-01 Sbc Knowledge Ventures L.P. Information-paging delivery
US7903176B2 (en) * 2005-08-05 2011-03-08 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Apparatus for providing multiple screens and method of dynamically configuring multiple screens
US9325944B2 (en) * 2005-08-11 2016-04-26 The Directv Group, Inc. Secure delivery of program content via a removable storage medium
US20090013350A1 (en) * 2005-08-11 2009-01-08 Vvond, Llc Display of movie titles in a library
US8875196B2 (en) 2005-08-13 2014-10-28 Webtuner Corp. System for network and local content access
US7657843B2 (en) * 2005-08-15 2010-02-02 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Menu promotions user interface
US8739231B2 (en) * 2005-08-23 2014-05-27 Vudu, Inc. System and method for distributed video-on-demand
EP1938588A4 (en) 2005-08-31 2010-03-31 Thomson Licensing Bi-modal switching for controlling digital tv applications on video devices
WO2007029091A1 (en) * 2005-09-06 2007-03-15 Nokia Corporation Optimized broadcast of esg with simple fragment management scheme
AU2006287639C1 (en) 2005-09-07 2012-06-28 Open Invention Network, Llc Method and computer program for device configuration
US8189472B2 (en) 2005-09-07 2012-05-29 Mcdonald James F Optimizing bandwidth utilization to a subscriber premises
US7565506B2 (en) 2005-09-08 2009-07-21 Qualcomm Incorporated Method and apparatus for delivering content based on receivers characteristics
US8893179B2 (en) 2005-09-12 2014-11-18 Qualcomm Incorporated Apparatus and methods for providing and presenting customized channel information
US8528029B2 (en) 2005-09-12 2013-09-03 Qualcomm Incorporated Apparatus and methods of open and closed package subscription
US7539472B2 (en) * 2005-09-13 2009-05-26 Microsoft Corporation Type-ahead keypad input for an input device
US8132203B2 (en) 2005-09-30 2012-03-06 Microsoft Corporation In-program content targeting
US20070079342A1 (en) 2005-09-30 2007-04-05 Guideworks, Llc Systems and methods for managing local storage of on-demand content
US7876998B2 (en) 2005-10-05 2011-01-25 Wall William E DVD playback over multi-room by copying to HDD
KR100790146B1 (en) * 2005-10-13 2008-01-02 삼성전자주식회사 Terrestrial digital broadcasting system and a method therof
US8582946B2 (en) * 2005-11-04 2013-11-12 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for recording programs using a network recording device as supplemental storage
US20090024602A1 (en) * 2005-11-07 2009-01-22 Vvond, Llc Method and apparatus for searching a video library by genre
US8159959B2 (en) * 2005-11-07 2012-04-17 Vudu, Inc. Graphic user interface for playing video data
US20070115929A1 (en) * 2005-11-08 2007-05-24 Bruce Collins Flexible system for distributing content to a device
US8533358B2 (en) 2005-11-08 2013-09-10 Qualcomm Incorporated Methods and apparatus for fragmenting system information messages in wireless networks
US8600836B2 (en) * 2005-11-08 2013-12-03 Qualcomm Incorporated System for distributing packages and channels to a device
US8571570B2 (en) 2005-11-08 2013-10-29 Qualcomm Incorporated Methods and apparatus for delivering regional parameters
CN103826166B (en) * 2005-11-30 2020-03-31 意大利希思卫电子发展股份公司 Method and system for generating a recommendation for at least one further content item
US7852416B2 (en) * 2005-11-30 2010-12-14 Broadcom Corporation Control device with language selectivity
US7889765B2 (en) * 2005-11-30 2011-02-15 Time Warner Cable Inc. Apparatus and methods for utilizing variable rate program streams in a network
US8613024B2 (en) 2005-12-13 2013-12-17 United Video Properties, Inc. Cross-platform predictive popularity ratings for use in interactive television applications
US8317618B2 (en) 2005-12-15 2012-11-27 At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp System, method and computer program for enabling an interactive game
US8127331B2 (en) 2005-12-20 2012-02-28 Bce Inc. Method, system and apparatus for conveying personalized content to a viewer
US20070150338A1 (en) * 2005-12-22 2007-06-28 Dale Malik Systems, methods and computer programs for enabling interactive viewer control of advertising content
US20070157223A1 (en) * 2005-12-29 2007-07-05 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for managing content
US20070157222A1 (en) * 2005-12-29 2007-07-05 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for managing content
US9681105B2 (en) * 2005-12-29 2017-06-13 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive media guidance system having multiple devices
US20100153885A1 (en) * 2005-12-29 2010-06-17 Rovi Technologies Corporation Systems and methods for interacting with advanced displays provided by an interactive media guidance application
US9015736B2 (en) 2005-12-29 2015-04-21 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for episode tracking in an interactive media environment
US20070157247A1 (en) * 2005-12-29 2007-07-05 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for managing content
US8607287B2 (en) 2005-12-29 2013-12-10 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive media guidance system having multiple devices
US7699229B2 (en) 2006-01-12 2010-04-20 Broadcom Corporation Laptop based television remote control
US8161412B2 (en) 2006-01-13 2012-04-17 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Systems, methods, and computer program products for providing interactive content
KR100965702B1 (en) * 2006-02-07 2010-06-24 삼성전자주식회사 Apparatus and method for furnishing epg information in digital multimedia broadcasting terminal
US8402503B2 (en) 2006-02-08 2013-03-19 At& T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Interactive program manager and methods for presenting program content
US20070199041A1 (en) * 2006-02-23 2007-08-23 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, Lp Video systems and methods of using the same
US7555464B2 (en) 2006-03-01 2009-06-30 Sony Corporation Multiple DRM management
US8065710B2 (en) 2006-03-02 2011-11-22 At& T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Apparatuses and methods for interactive communication concerning multimedia content
US8689253B2 (en) * 2006-03-03 2014-04-01 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Method and system for configuring media-playing sets
US7788358B2 (en) 2006-03-06 2010-08-31 Aggregate Knowledge Using cross-site relationships to generate recommendations
US7853630B2 (en) * 2006-03-06 2010-12-14 Aggregate Knowledge System and method for the dynamic generation of correlation scores between arbitrary objects
US8200688B2 (en) 2006-03-07 2012-06-12 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Method and system for facilitating information searching on electronic devices
US8209724B2 (en) 2007-04-25 2012-06-26 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Method and system for providing access to information of potential interest to a user
JP4492568B2 (en) * 2006-03-17 2010-06-30 ソニー株式会社 Program list notification apparatus and method, and program recording apparatus and method
US8384743B2 (en) 2006-04-06 2013-02-26 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Linking and browsing media on television
US9167208B2 (en) * 2006-04-07 2015-10-20 Your Choice Interactive, Inc. System and method for providing supplementary interactive content
US20070240232A1 (en) * 2006-04-07 2007-10-11 Pino Angelo J Interactive Television System and Method
US7716232B2 (en) * 2006-04-10 2010-05-11 Flagpath Venture Vii, Llc. Devices, systems, and methods for producing and distributing multiple variations of an instance of a media presentation
US20070240182A1 (en) * 2006-04-10 2007-10-11 John Callahan Methods and apparatus for providing a guide and/or remote control suitable for children
US20070245019A1 (en) * 2006-04-12 2007-10-18 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive media content delivery using a backchannel communications network
US8208796B2 (en) 2006-04-17 2012-06-26 Prus Bohdan S Systems and methods for prioritizing the storage location of media data
EP2911071A1 (en) 2006-04-20 2015-08-26 Veveo, Inc. User interface methods and systems for selecting and presenting content based on user navigation and selection actions associated with the content
US20070250512A1 (en) * 2006-04-24 2007-10-25 Dell Products L.P. Video interactivity via connectivity through a conditional access system
KR100829113B1 (en) * 2006-04-28 2008-05-14 삼성전자주식회사 Apparatus and method for providing of broadcasting data in a digital multimedia broadcasting service
WO2007131069A2 (en) * 2006-05-02 2007-11-15 Inividi Technologies Corporation Fuzzy logic based viewer identification
US20130254787A1 (en) 2006-05-02 2013-09-26 Invidi Technologies Corporation Method and apparatus to perform real-time audience estimation and commercial selection suitable for targeted advertising
US9602512B2 (en) 2006-05-08 2017-03-21 At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp Methods and apparatus to distribute media delivery to mobile devices
US8775319B2 (en) 2006-05-15 2014-07-08 The Directv Group, Inc. Secure content transfer systems and methods to operate the same
US7992175B2 (en) 2006-05-15 2011-08-02 The Directv Group, Inc. Methods and apparatus to provide content on demand in content broadcast systems
US8095466B2 (en) 2006-05-15 2012-01-10 The Directv Group, Inc. Methods and apparatus to conditionally authorize content delivery at content servers in pay delivery systems
US8996421B2 (en) * 2006-05-15 2015-03-31 The Directv Group, Inc. Methods and apparatus to conditionally authorize content delivery at broadcast headends in pay delivery systems
US20070265966A1 (en) * 2006-05-15 2007-11-15 The Directv Group, Inc. Content delivery systems and methods to operate the same
US8001565B2 (en) 2006-05-15 2011-08-16 The Directv Group, Inc. Methods and apparatus to conditionally authorize content delivery at receivers in pay delivery systems
US20070271532A1 (en) * 2006-05-19 2007-11-22 Nguyen Loc V Method and apparatus for displaying layered user interface
US20080320074A1 (en) * 2006-05-24 2008-12-25 Owen Guy Jones Method and apparatus for efficient peer network set-top box web-casting
AU2007257685B2 (en) * 2006-06-12 2011-10-06 Invidi Technologies Corporation System and method for inserting media based on keyword search
AU2007257684B2 (en) * 2006-06-12 2012-03-15 Invidi Technologies Corporation System and method for auctioning avails
US8151291B2 (en) 2006-06-15 2012-04-03 The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc Methods and apparatus to meter content exposure using closed caption information
US9277295B2 (en) 2006-06-16 2016-03-01 Cisco Technology, Inc. Securing media content using interchangeable encryption key
US7661121B2 (en) 2006-06-22 2010-02-09 Tivo, Inc. In-band data recognition and synchronization system
US9137480B2 (en) 2006-06-30 2015-09-15 Cisco Technology, Inc. Secure escrow and recovery of media device content keys
US7978720B2 (en) 2006-06-30 2011-07-12 Russ Samuel H Digital media device having media content transfer capability
US9037828B2 (en) 2006-07-13 2015-05-19 International Business Machines Corporation Transferring storage resources between snapshot storage pools and volume storage pools in a data storage system
US8069191B2 (en) 2006-07-13 2011-11-29 International Business Machines Corporation Method, an apparatus and a system for managing a snapshot storage pool
US20080016081A1 (en) * 2006-07-14 2008-01-17 Anthology Solutions, Inc. System and method for automatic digital library creation
US7577921B2 (en) * 2006-07-18 2009-08-18 Vudu, Inc. Method and system for performing search using acronym
US7636839B2 (en) * 2006-07-21 2009-12-22 Intel Corporation Method, apparatus and system for pre-boot note display
US9178693B2 (en) 2006-08-04 2015-11-03 The Directv Group, Inc. Distributed media-protection systems and methods to operate the same
US9225761B2 (en) 2006-08-04 2015-12-29 The Directv Group, Inc. Distributed media-aggregation systems and methods to operate the same
US8296812B1 (en) 2006-09-01 2012-10-23 Vudu, Inc. Streaming video using erasure encoding
EP2064885A4 (en) 2006-09-01 2011-12-07 Bce Inc Method, system and apparatus for conveying personalized content to a viewer
KR101281813B1 (en) * 2006-09-07 2013-07-04 삼성전자주식회사 Method for automatically searching of data application for all channel and image play apparatus thereof
US7930644B2 (en) 2006-09-13 2011-04-19 Savant Systems, Llc Programming environment and metadata management for programmable multimedia controller
US7751451B2 (en) * 2006-09-14 2010-07-06 Tandberg Television Inc. Systems and methods for analog channel reuse in a cable system
KR100782856B1 (en) * 2006-09-26 2007-12-06 삼성전자주식회사 Method and apparatus for upgrading software of digital broadcasting receiver
US8520850B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2013-08-27 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Downloadable security and protection methods and apparatus
US20080104513A1 (en) * 2006-10-26 2008-05-01 Joker Media Aps System for retrieving information
US8473868B1 (en) 2006-10-27 2013-06-25 Arris Group, Inc. System and method for reverse hierarchical navigation within a user interface
US20080115189A1 (en) * 2006-11-10 2008-05-15 Stephane Lejeune TV-centric system
US7827490B2 (en) * 2006-11-30 2010-11-02 Microsoft Corporation Media state user interface
WO2008070572A2 (en) 2006-12-01 2008-06-12 Hsn Lp Method and system for improved interactive television processing
JP2008141697A (en) * 2006-12-05 2008-06-19 Mitsumi Electric Co Ltd Service providing system and application execution method using service providing system
US20080148335A1 (en) * 2006-12-15 2008-06-19 Thomas Patrick Dawson Expansion of television functionality
US20080155600A1 (en) * 2006-12-20 2008-06-26 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for providing remote access to interactive media guidance applications
US8209424B2 (en) * 2006-12-20 2012-06-26 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for providing remote access to interactive media guidance applications
US8060910B2 (en) * 2006-12-21 2011-11-15 Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. Set top box apparatus having a radio frequency antenna and an associated method
GB2444973A (en) * 2006-12-22 2008-06-25 British Sky Broadcasting Ltd Media demand and playback system
GB2444974B (en) * 2006-12-22 2011-12-28 British Sky Broadcasting Ltd Media device and interface
EP3145200A1 (en) 2007-01-12 2017-03-22 ActiveVideo Networks, Inc. Mpeg objects and systems and methods for using mpeg objects
US9826197B2 (en) 2007-01-12 2017-11-21 Activevideo Networks, Inc. Providing television broadcasts over a managed network and interactive content over an unmanaged network to a client device
US9330529B2 (en) 2007-01-17 2016-05-03 Touchtunes Music Corporation Game terminal configured for interaction with jukebox device systems including same, and/or associated methods
US9171419B2 (en) 2007-01-17 2015-10-27 Touchtunes Music Corporation Coin operated entertainment system
JP4736094B2 (en) * 2007-01-18 2011-07-27 独立行政法人産業技術総合研究所 Sound data generating apparatus and program
US20080178252A1 (en) * 2007-01-18 2008-07-24 General Instrument Corporation Password Installation in Home Networks
US8621540B2 (en) 2007-01-24 2013-12-31 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for provisioning in a download-enabled system
US20090055393A1 (en) * 2007-01-29 2009-02-26 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Method and system for facilitating information searching on electronic devices based on metadata information
US7849477B2 (en) * 2007-01-30 2010-12-07 Invidi Technologies Corporation Asset targeting system for limited resource environments
US8146126B2 (en) 2007-02-01 2012-03-27 Invidi Technologies Corporation Request for information related to broadcast network content
US20080196056A1 (en) * 2007-02-12 2008-08-14 Bassett Ronald W Method of augmenting local programming content
JP2008199558A (en) * 2007-02-16 2008-08-28 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Broadcast receiving system
EP2113155A4 (en) 2007-02-21 2010-12-22 Nds Ltd Method for content presentation
US20080208752A1 (en) * 2007-02-23 2008-08-28 Microsoft Corporation Content communication and purchase using a computer-based media component
EP1968205A1 (en) 2007-02-28 2008-09-10 Nederlandse Organisatie voor toegepast- natuurwetenschappelijk onderzoek TNO Signal quality determination in cable networks
EP1970107A1 (en) 2007-03-16 2008-09-17 British Sky Broadcasting Limited Interactive services
US8418206B2 (en) 2007-03-22 2013-04-09 United Video Properties, Inc. User defined rules for assigning destinations of content
US9953481B2 (en) 2007-03-26 2018-04-24 Touchtunes Music Corporation Jukebox with associated video server
US20080256485A1 (en) * 2007-04-12 2008-10-16 Jason Gary Krikorian User Interface for Controlling Video Programs on Mobile Computing Devices
KR100782923B1 (en) 2007-04-18 2007-12-07 주식회사 마켓포인트 Display controlling sysyem on network
US8087047B2 (en) 2007-04-20 2011-12-27 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for providing remote access to interactive media guidance applications
US9286385B2 (en) 2007-04-25 2016-03-15 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Method and system for providing access to information of potential interest to a user
US11570521B2 (en) 2007-06-26 2023-01-31 Broadband Itv, Inc. Dynamic adjustment of electronic program guide displays based on viewer preferences for minimizing navigation in VOD program selection
US9654833B2 (en) 2007-06-26 2017-05-16 Broadband Itv, Inc. Dynamic adjustment of electronic program guide displays based on viewer preferences for minimizing navigation in VOD program selection
US20090019492A1 (en) 2007-07-11 2009-01-15 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for mirroring and transcoding media content
US20090024707A1 (en) * 2007-07-18 2009-01-22 Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. Electronic Messaging System and Method For A Vehicle
US8625607B2 (en) 2007-07-24 2014-01-07 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Generation, distribution and use of content metadata in a network
US8281255B2 (en) * 2007-07-26 2012-10-02 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for using various content and content information in multiple menu structures
US8209718B2 (en) * 2007-07-26 2012-06-26 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for positioning row advertising in a program guide
US9693106B2 (en) * 2007-07-26 2017-06-27 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for preordering content in a user device associated with a content processing system
US9357155B2 (en) * 2007-07-26 2016-05-31 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for generating row advertising in a program guide
US20090031369A1 (en) * 2007-07-26 2009-01-29 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for ordering video content from an interactive interface
US20090031346A1 (en) * 2007-07-26 2009-01-29 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for populating a menu structure on a user device
JP4600446B2 (en) * 2007-07-26 2010-12-15 株式会社日立製作所 Interactive system
US8856835B2 (en) * 2007-07-26 2014-10-07 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for associating content and content information in a menu structure
US10063813B2 (en) * 2007-07-26 2018-08-28 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for communicating and displaying broadband content availability using information received through a satellite
US20090037431A1 (en) * 2007-07-30 2009-02-05 Paul Martino System and method for maintaining metadata correctness
EP2026558A1 (en) * 2007-07-30 2009-02-18 Sony United Kingdom Limited Transport stream module for digital television receiver
US7954134B2 (en) * 2007-08-28 2011-05-31 Sony Corporation Set back box with digital receiver for upgrading TV with analog receiver
US20090060469A1 (en) * 2007-08-31 2009-03-05 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for recording popular media in an interactive media delivery system
US20090060468A1 (en) * 2007-08-31 2009-03-05 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for recording popular media in an interactive media delivery system
US8107977B2 (en) * 2007-09-07 2012-01-31 United Video Properties, Inc. Cross-platform messaging
US8327403B1 (en) 2007-09-07 2012-12-04 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for providing remote program ordering on a user device via a web server
TWM328056U (en) * 2007-09-13 2008-03-01 Avermedia Tech Inc Digital television box with photo display
US7840591B2 (en) * 2007-09-24 2010-11-23 Cfph, Llc Method and apparatus for associating menu information
US8484240B2 (en) * 2007-09-24 2013-07-09 Cfph, Llc Method and apparatus for generating menu information
US7870166B2 (en) * 2007-09-24 2011-01-11 Cfph, Llc Method and apparatus for menu generation
US10290006B2 (en) 2008-08-15 2019-05-14 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital signage and gaming services to comply with federal and state alcohol and beverage laws and regulations
US8332887B2 (en) 2008-01-10 2012-12-11 Touchtunes Music Corporation System and/or methods for distributing advertisements from a central advertisement network to a peripheral device via a local advertisement server
US8477793B2 (en) * 2007-09-26 2013-07-02 Sling Media, Inc. Media streaming device with gateway functionality
US8032714B2 (en) 2007-09-28 2011-10-04 Aggregate Knowledge Inc. Methods and systems for caching data using behavioral event correlations
US20090099858A1 (en) * 2007-10-13 2009-04-16 Jeffs Alistair E Method and system for ordering content from a first device for a selected user device through an interactive interface
US9824389B2 (en) * 2007-10-13 2017-11-21 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for confirming the download of content at a user device
US8707361B2 (en) * 2007-10-13 2014-04-22 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for quickly recording linear content from an interactive interface
US8046802B2 (en) * 2007-10-13 2011-10-25 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for ordering and prioritizing the downloading of content from an interactive interface
US8561114B2 (en) * 2007-10-13 2013-10-15 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for ordering video content from a mobile device
GB2453789B (en) * 2007-10-19 2012-11-14 British Sky Broadcasting Ltd Television display
CN101150708B (en) * 2007-10-23 2011-09-14 华为终端有限公司 Method, system and device for hiding program
US8350971B2 (en) * 2007-10-23 2013-01-08 Sling Media, Inc. Systems and methods for controlling media devices
US8112407B2 (en) * 2007-10-24 2012-02-07 The Invention Science Fund I, Llc Selecting a second content based on a user's reaction to a first content
US9582805B2 (en) 2007-10-24 2017-02-28 Invention Science Fund I, Llc Returning a personalized advertisement
US8126867B2 (en) * 2007-10-24 2012-02-28 The Invention Science Fund I, Llc Returning a second content based on a user's reaction to a first content
US9513699B2 (en) 2007-10-24 2016-12-06 Invention Science Fund I, LL Method of selecting a second content based on a user's reaction to a first content
US8234262B2 (en) 2007-10-24 2012-07-31 The Invention Science Fund I, Llc Method of selecting a second content based on a user's reaction to a first content of at least two instances of displayed content
US20090112695A1 (en) * 2007-10-24 2009-04-30 Searete Llc, A Limited Liability Corporation Of The State Of Delaware Physiological response based targeted advertising
US20090112694A1 (en) * 2007-10-24 2009-04-30 Searete Llc, A Limited Liability Corporation Of The State Of Delaware Targeted-advertising based on a sensed physiological response by a person to a general advertisement
US20090112697A1 (en) * 2007-10-30 2009-04-30 Searete Llc, A Limited Liability Corporation Of The State Of Delaware Providing personalized advertising
CN101159847B (en) * 2007-10-30 2012-12-05 中兴通讯股份有限公司 System and method for switching broadcast type mobile phone television service to stream media service
US20090133078A1 (en) 2007-11-16 2009-05-21 United Video Properties, Inc Systems and methods for automatically purchasing and recording popular pay programs in an interactive media delivery system
US8195025B2 (en) * 2007-11-30 2012-06-05 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Systems, methods, and computer products for digital video recorder management and scheduling
US20090158350A1 (en) * 2007-12-14 2009-06-18 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for providing enhanced recording options of media content
US20090165049A1 (en) 2007-12-19 2009-06-25 United Video Properties, Inc. Methods and devices for presenting and interactive media guidance application
US20090165051A1 (en) * 2007-12-19 2009-06-25 United Video Properties, Inc. Methods and devices for presenting an interactive media guidance application
US9143493B2 (en) 2007-12-20 2015-09-22 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and apparatus for communicating between a user device and a gateway device to form a system to allow a partner service to be provided to the user device
US8060609B2 (en) * 2008-01-04 2011-11-15 Sling Media Inc. Systems and methods for determining attributes of media items accessed via a personal media broadcaster
JP4572939B2 (en) * 2008-02-18 2010-11-04 ソニー株式会社 Signal processing apparatus, receiving apparatus, and signal processing method
US8300541B2 (en) * 2008-02-19 2012-10-30 Time Warner Cable Inc. Apparatus and methods for utilizing statistical multiplexing to ensure quality of service in a network
DE102008018169A1 (en) 2008-04-03 2008-09-04 Daniel Meier Method for providing program list, involves selecting broadcast program by user for each program location and assigning to these program place and conveying program list to management unit
JP4670893B2 (en) * 2008-04-21 2011-04-13 ソニー株式会社 Signal processing apparatus and signal processing method
US20090266888A1 (en) * 2008-04-23 2009-10-29 Mccarthy Mary Method for organizing and inventorying library materials
US8856003B2 (en) 2008-04-30 2014-10-07 Motorola Solutions, Inc. Method for dual channel monitoring on a radio device
CN101272220B (en) * 2008-04-30 2010-05-12 中兴通讯股份有限公司 Data resolution method
US8293714B2 (en) * 2008-05-05 2012-10-23 Covx Technology Ireland, Ltd. Anti-angiogenic compounds
FR2931332A1 (en) * 2008-05-16 2009-11-20 Alcatel Lucent Sas METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ESTABLISHING A PROGRAM GUIDE IN A DEMAND-BASED VIDEOS SERVICE BASED ON THE USER'S MOOD
US8345798B2 (en) * 2008-05-21 2013-01-01 Entropic Communications, Inc. Channel stacking system and method of operation
US8989561B1 (en) 2008-05-29 2015-03-24 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for alerting users of the postponed recording of programs
US8601526B2 (en) 2008-06-13 2013-12-03 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for displaying media content and media guidance information
US8624908B1 (en) 2008-06-27 2014-01-07 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods of transitioning from buffering video to recording video
US8667279B2 (en) 2008-07-01 2014-03-04 Sling Media, Inc. Systems and methods for securely place shifting media content
US20100001960A1 (en) * 2008-07-02 2010-01-07 Sling Media, Inc. Systems and methods for gestural interaction with user interface objects
US8849435B2 (en) 2008-07-09 2014-09-30 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital downloading jukebox with revenue-enhancing features
US8327402B1 (en) 2008-07-15 2012-12-04 United Video Properties, Inc. Methods and devices for presenting an interactive media guidance application
CA2733193C (en) 2008-08-05 2016-11-01 Invidi Technologies Corporation National insertion of targeted advertisment
EP2332111B2 (en) 2008-08-06 2023-10-11 Invidi Technologies Corporation Third party data matching for targeted advertising
US8381310B2 (en) 2009-08-13 2013-02-19 Sling Media Pvt. Ltd. Systems, methods, and program applications for selectively restricting the placeshifting of copy protected digital media content
US20100064332A1 (en) * 2008-09-08 2010-03-11 Sling Media Inc. Systems and methods for presenting media content obtained from multiple sources
US8667163B2 (en) 2008-09-08 2014-03-04 Sling Media Inc. Systems and methods for projecting images from a computer system
EP2164247A3 (en) * 2008-09-12 2011-08-24 Axel Springer Digital TV Guide GmbH Method for distributing second multi-media content items in a list of first multi-media content items
JP2010074772A (en) * 2008-09-22 2010-04-02 Sony Corp Video display, and video display method
CN101369859B (en) * 2008-09-25 2010-08-18 中兴通讯股份有限公司 Method and system for acquiring mobile phone television electronic service instruction information
US8892630B1 (en) 2008-09-29 2014-11-18 Amazon Technologies, Inc. Facilitating discussion group formation and interaction
US8346669B2 (en) * 2008-10-08 2013-01-01 International Business Machines Corporation Method of requesting a customized instance of an object using information contained within an existing instance
US9124769B2 (en) 2008-10-31 2015-09-01 The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc Methods and apparatus to verify presentation of media content
US8244224B2 (en) * 2008-11-20 2012-08-14 Research In Motion Limited Providing customized information to a user based on identifying a trend
US11832024B2 (en) 2008-11-20 2023-11-28 Comcast Cable Communications, Llc Method and apparatus for delivering video and video-related content at sub-asset level
CN100576894C (en) * 2008-11-21 2009-12-30 海尔集团公司 Menu setting system and method to set up
US9357247B2 (en) 2008-11-24 2016-05-31 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for content delivery and message exchange across multiple content delivery networks
US9191610B2 (en) * 2008-11-26 2015-11-17 Sling Media Pvt Ltd. Systems and methods for creating logical media streams for media storage and playback
KR101600905B1 (en) 2008-12-10 2016-03-08 삼성전자 주식회사 Broadcasting receiving apparatus and control method of the same
US20100162300A1 (en) * 2008-12-19 2010-06-24 At&T Intellectual Property I,L.P. Methods And Systems For Creating An Emergency Alert Channel
US8700072B2 (en) 2008-12-23 2014-04-15 At&T Mobility Ii Llc Scalable message fidelity
WO2010080801A2 (en) * 2009-01-06 2010-07-15 Adc Telecommunications, Inc. Rf circuit module and panel
KR20100084037A (en) * 2009-01-15 2010-07-23 삼성전자주식회사 Apparatus and method for providing user interface
US8438602B2 (en) * 2009-01-26 2013-05-07 Sling Media Inc. Systems and methods for linking media content
US20100192181A1 (en) * 2009-01-29 2010-07-29 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and Method to Navigate an Electonic Program Guide (EPG) Display
WO2010087588A2 (en) * 2009-01-29 2010-08-05 (주)세컨커머셜 System for providing rating points for iga and method thereof
CA2750700C (en) * 2009-01-30 2018-11-27 Invidi Technologies Corporation System and method for auctioning avails
US8819541B2 (en) 2009-02-13 2014-08-26 Language Technologies, Inc. System and method for converting the digital typesetting documents used in publishing to a device-specfic format for electronic publishing
WO2010104690A1 (en) * 2009-03-13 2010-09-16 Simulmedia, Inc. Method and apparatus for television program promotion
US10564804B2 (en) 2009-03-18 2020-02-18 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital jukebox device with improved user interfaces, and associated methods
US9292166B2 (en) 2009-03-18 2016-03-22 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital jukebox device with improved karaoke-related user interfaces, and associated methods
KR101748448B1 (en) 2009-03-18 2017-06-16 터치튠즈 뮤직 코포레이션 Entertainment server and associated social networking services
US10719149B2 (en) 2009-03-18 2020-07-21 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital jukebox device with improved user interfaces, and associated methods
US9083932B2 (en) 2009-03-25 2015-07-14 Eloy Technology, Llc Method and system for providing information from a program guide
US9215423B2 (en) 2009-03-30 2015-12-15 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Recommendation engine apparatus and methods
US11076189B2 (en) 2009-03-30 2021-07-27 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Personal media channel apparatus and methods
US8438596B2 (en) 2009-04-08 2013-05-07 Tivo Inc. Automatic contact information transmission system
US8117564B2 (en) * 2009-04-10 2012-02-14 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for generating a media guidance application with multiple perspective views
US8171148B2 (en) 2009-04-17 2012-05-01 Sling Media, Inc. Systems and methods for establishing connections between devices communicating over a network
JP2010268273A (en) * 2009-05-15 2010-11-25 Dx Antenna Co Ltd Remote control device
US20100306708A1 (en) * 2009-05-29 2010-12-02 Rovi Techonologies Corporation Systems and methods for handling profiles in a community
US9602864B2 (en) 2009-06-08 2017-03-21 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Media bridge apparatus and methods
US8255820B2 (en) 2009-06-09 2012-08-28 Skiff, Llc Electronic paper display device event tracking
US9916625B2 (en) 2012-02-02 2018-03-13 Progressive Casualty Insurance Company Mobile insurance platform system
US8854947B2 (en) * 2009-06-15 2014-10-07 Ppc Broadband, Inc. Device and method for monitoring a communications system
US10565388B2 (en) 2009-06-26 2020-02-18 Disney Enterprises, Inc. Method and system for providing digital media rental
US8571994B2 (en) * 2009-06-26 2013-10-29 Disney Enterprises, Inc. Method and system for allocating access to digital media content
US20110016492A1 (en) * 2009-07-16 2011-01-20 Gemstar Development Corporation Systems and methods for forwarding media asset events
US8406431B2 (en) 2009-07-23 2013-03-26 Sling Media Pvt. Ltd. Adaptive gain control for digital audio samples in a media stream
US20110022620A1 (en) * 2009-07-27 2011-01-27 Gemstar Development Corporation Methods and systems for associating and providing media content of different types which share atrributes
US9479737B2 (en) 2009-08-06 2016-10-25 Echostar Technologies L.L.C. Systems and methods for event programming via a remote media player
US8966101B2 (en) 2009-08-10 2015-02-24 Sling Media Pvt Ltd Systems and methods for updating firmware over a network
US8799408B2 (en) 2009-08-10 2014-08-05 Sling Media Pvt Ltd Localization systems and methods
US9565479B2 (en) 2009-08-10 2017-02-07 Sling Media Pvt Ltd. Methods and apparatus for seeking within a media stream using scene detection
US9525838B2 (en) 2009-08-10 2016-12-20 Sling Media Pvt. Ltd. Systems and methods for virtual remote control of streamed media
US8532472B2 (en) 2009-08-10 2013-09-10 Sling Media Pvt Ltd Methods and apparatus for fast seeking within a media stream buffer
US9160974B2 (en) 2009-08-26 2015-10-13 Sling Media, Inc. Systems and methods for transcoding and place shifting media content
US8314893B2 (en) * 2009-08-28 2012-11-20 Sling Media Pvt. Ltd. Remote control and method for automatically adjusting the volume output of an audio device
US8786702B2 (en) 2009-08-31 2014-07-22 Behavioral Recognition Systems, Inc. Visualizing and updating long-term memory percepts in a video surveillance system
US20110070819A1 (en) * 2009-09-23 2011-03-24 Rovi Technologies Corporation Systems and methods for providing reminders associated with detected users
US9014546B2 (en) 2009-09-23 2015-04-21 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for automatically detecting users within detection regions of media devices
US20110072452A1 (en) * 2009-09-23 2011-03-24 Rovi Technologies Corporation Systems and methods for providing automatic parental control activation when a restricted user is detected within range of a device
US20110078572A1 (en) * 2009-09-30 2011-03-31 Rovi Technologies Corporation Systems and methods for analyzing clickstream data
US8161071B2 (en) 2009-09-30 2012-04-17 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for audio asset storage and management
US8396055B2 (en) 2009-10-20 2013-03-12 Time Warner Cable Inc. Methods and apparatus for enabling media functionality in a content-based network
US10264029B2 (en) 2009-10-30 2019-04-16 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Methods and apparatus for packetized content delivery over a content delivery network
JP5168263B2 (en) * 2009-10-30 2013-03-21 ソニー株式会社 Program recording apparatus and method
CN101707719B (en) * 2009-11-02 2012-08-22 深圳市龙视传媒有限公司 Analyzer, analysis system and analysis method of advertisement code stream
US11418842B2 (en) 2009-11-03 2022-08-16 DISH Technologies L.L.C. Methods and apparatus for presenting content selection menus
US20110111697A1 (en) * 2009-11-06 2011-05-12 Research In Motion Limited Device, system and method for selecting, sharing and displaying electronic content
CA2780067C (en) * 2009-11-06 2014-09-09 Research In Motion Limited Device, system and method for selecting, sharing and displaying electronic content
TWI416402B (en) * 2009-11-10 2013-11-21 Wistron Corp Position remote control system for widget
WO2011059359A1 (en) * 2009-11-13 2011-05-19 Krivosheev Mark Iosifovich Video information system
JP5399211B2 (en) 2009-11-16 2014-01-29 ソニー株式会社 Information processing system, server device, information processing method, and program
US9015225B2 (en) 2009-11-16 2015-04-21 Echostar Technologies L.L.C. Systems and methods for delivering messages over a network
IT1396983B1 (en) * 2009-11-21 2012-12-20 Nova Scientia Tecnologie S R L METHOD FOR DELIVERING A POSTAL ITEM AND EQUIPMENT THAT ACTIVES THIS METHOD
SG171492A1 (en) * 2009-12-01 2011-06-29 Creative Tech Ltd An electronic book reader
US9519728B2 (en) 2009-12-04 2016-12-13 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for monitoring and optimizing delivery of content in a network
KR20110064435A (en) * 2009-12-08 2011-06-15 엘지전자 주식회사 A method of setting initial screen for a network television
US9681106B2 (en) 2009-12-10 2017-06-13 Nbcuniversal Media, Llc Viewer-personalized broadcast and data channel content delivery system and method
US8799485B2 (en) 2009-12-18 2014-08-05 Sling Media, Inc. Methods and apparatus for establishing network connections using an inter-mediating device
US20110154402A1 (en) * 2009-12-18 2011-06-23 Rovi Technologies Corporation Systems and methods for navigating program listings in a media guidance application
US8626879B2 (en) 2009-12-22 2014-01-07 Sling Media, Inc. Systems and methods for establishing network connections using local mediation services
US9178923B2 (en) 2009-12-23 2015-11-03 Echostar Technologies L.L.C. Systems and methods for remotely controlling a media server via a network
US9275054B2 (en) * 2009-12-28 2016-03-01 Sling Media, Inc. Systems and methods for searching media content
CN101909163B (en) * 2009-12-30 2013-06-05 新奥特(北京)视频技术有限公司 Advertising program arranging system
US9201627B2 (en) 2010-01-05 2015-12-01 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for transferring content between user equipment and a wireless communications device
EP2343895A1 (en) * 2010-01-07 2011-07-13 Triax A/S Configuration and management of a headend facility for video and/or audio signals
EP2597608A1 (en) 2010-01-26 2013-05-29 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital jukebox device with improved user interfaces, and associated methods
US20110191456A1 (en) * 2010-02-03 2011-08-04 Sling Media Pvt Ltd Systems and methods for coordinating data communication between two devices
US8856349B2 (en) * 2010-02-05 2014-10-07 Sling Media Inc. Connection priority services for data communication between two devices
US8205227B1 (en) 2010-02-06 2012-06-19 Frontier Communications Corporation Management and delivery of audiovisual content items that correspond to scheduled programs
US8413187B1 (en) 2010-02-06 2013-04-02 Frontier Communications Corporation Method and system to request audiovisual content items matched to programs identified in a program grid
EP2362649A1 (en) * 2010-02-16 2011-08-31 Axel Springer Digital TV Guide GmbH Adaptive placement of auxiliary media in recommender systems
US20110208506A1 (en) * 2010-02-24 2011-08-25 Sling Media Inc. Systems and methods for emulating network-enabled media components
US9342661B2 (en) 2010-03-02 2016-05-17 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for rights-managed content and data delivery
US20110225550A1 (en) * 2010-03-12 2011-09-15 Creedon Michael S System and method for displaying and navigating library information with a virtual library collections browser
US9565466B2 (en) * 2010-03-26 2017-02-07 Mediatek Inc. Video processing method and video processing system
GB201005458D0 (en) 2010-03-31 2010-05-19 Skype Ltd Media appliance
US9122701B2 (en) 2010-05-13 2015-09-01 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for providing media content listings according to points of interest
US9204193B2 (en) 2010-05-14 2015-12-01 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for media detection and filtering using a parental control logging application
JP2011243070A (en) * 2010-05-19 2011-12-01 Sony Corp Information processing system and information processing device
US9167196B2 (en) 2010-05-19 2015-10-20 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for trimming recorded content using a media guidance application
US8402486B2 (en) 2010-06-23 2013-03-19 At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp System and method of ad delivery
US8555314B2 (en) 2010-06-30 2013-10-08 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method of selective channel or advertising delivery
US9906838B2 (en) 2010-07-12 2018-02-27 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for content delivery and message exchange across multiple content delivery networks
KR101701151B1 (en) * 2010-09-20 2017-02-02 삼성전자주식회사 Integrated Message Transmitting and Receiving Method and Apparatus Using Portable Device
JP5866125B2 (en) 2010-10-14 2016-02-17 アクティブビデオ ネットワークス, インコーポレイテッド Digital video streaming between video devices using a cable TV system
US9313534B2 (en) * 2010-12-07 2016-04-12 Intertech Corp. Efficient authorization system for multi-channel broadcast program options
US9269047B2 (en) 2010-12-09 2016-02-23 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Rule-based selection of content
GB2486744A (en) * 2010-12-24 2012-06-27 Starbucks Hk Ltd Multimedia system with separately transmitted supplementary data overlaid onto broadcast video stream based on user input
CN102036117A (en) * 2010-12-31 2011-04-27 广东九联科技股份有限公司 Television program broadcasting method for remembering user interests and system thereof
RU2458473C1 (en) * 2011-02-24 2012-08-10 Общество с ограниченной ответственностью "ТВ Менеджер" System for controlling transmission of analogue television signal over cable television networks
US9496982B2 (en) 2011-03-04 2016-11-15 Alcatel Lucent System and method providing resilient data transmission via spectral fragments
US9686062B2 (en) * 2011-03-04 2017-06-20 Alcatel Lucent Virtual aggregation of fragmented wireless spectrum
US8529328B2 (en) 2011-03-14 2013-09-10 Elis Rocco Tarantino Gaming devices with dedicated player RNG and time share features
CN102685584A (en) * 2011-03-16 2012-09-19 鸿富锦精密工业(深圳)有限公司 Set-top box, earphones and video broadcast method
RU2474872C2 (en) * 2011-03-21 2013-02-10 Константин Сергеевич Богданов Electronic accounting device and method of recording data into financial account base used therein
US9251130B1 (en) 2011-03-31 2016-02-02 Amazon Technologies, Inc. Tagging annotations of electronic books
US9204203B2 (en) 2011-04-07 2015-12-01 Activevideo Networks, Inc. Reduction of latency in video distribution networks using adaptive bit rates
EP2710752A4 (en) 2011-05-17 2014-10-22 Webtuner Corp System and method for scalable, high accuracy, sensor and id based audience measurement system
KR20140035424A (en) 2011-05-24 2014-03-21 웹튜너 코포레이션 System and method to increase efficiency and speed of analytics report generation in audience measurement systems
JP2014518051A (en) 2011-05-26 2014-07-24 ウエブチユーナー・コーポレイシヨン A highly scalable audience measurement system with client event pre-processing
CN102215425B (en) * 2011-05-30 2013-01-02 浙江宇视科技有限公司 Method and equipment for realizing live video on demand
US9513799B2 (en) 2011-06-05 2016-12-06 Apple Inc. Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for providing control of a touch-based user interface absent physical touch capabilities
US9854318B2 (en) 2011-06-06 2017-12-26 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for sharing interactive media guidance information
US9112623B2 (en) 2011-06-06 2015-08-18 Comcast Cable Communications, Llc Asynchronous interaction at specific points in content
US9154813B2 (en) 2011-06-09 2015-10-06 Comcast Cable Communications, Llc Multiple video content in a composite video stream
US8949901B2 (en) 2011-06-29 2015-02-03 Rovi Guides, Inc. Methods and systems for customizing viewing environment preferences in a viewing environment control application
WO2013012768A2 (en) * 2011-07-18 2013-01-24 Thomson Licensing Design for retention base to fixture on cover removal fixture
US9437115B2 (en) * 2011-07-26 2016-09-06 Tata Consultancy Services Limited Method and system for distance education based on asynchronous interaction
US9760631B1 (en) 2011-08-05 2017-09-12 Google Inc. Video segment play-through reporting
TWI559778B (en) 2011-09-18 2016-11-21 觸控調諧音樂公司 Digital jukebox device with karaoke and/or photo booth features, and associated methods
US9286854B2 (en) * 2011-10-31 2016-03-15 Roku, Inc. Multi-interface streaming media system
US9131260B2 (en) 2011-10-31 2015-09-08 Roku, Inc. Streaming media system
US9100685B2 (en) 2011-12-09 2015-08-04 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Determining audience state or interest using passive sensor data
CN102496108A (en) * 2011-12-09 2012-06-13 上海全景数字技术有限公司 Electronic billing system based on set top box
US9218122B2 (en) 2011-12-29 2015-12-22 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for transferring settings across devices based on user gestures
EP2815582B1 (en) 2012-01-09 2019-09-04 ActiveVideo Networks, Inc. Rendering of an interactive lean-backward user interface on a television
US11151224B2 (en) 2012-01-09 2021-10-19 Touchtunes Music Corporation Systems and/or methods for monitoring audio inputs to jukebox devices
US8745654B1 (en) 2012-02-09 2014-06-03 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for managing digital rights for content
US8687947B2 (en) 2012-02-20 2014-04-01 Rr Donnelley & Sons Company Systems and methods for variable video production, distribution and presentation
US9571869B2 (en) * 2012-03-29 2017-02-14 Sony Corporation Method and apparatus for content channels based on selection criteria
US9800945B2 (en) 2012-04-03 2017-10-24 Activevideo Networks, Inc. Class-based intelligent multiplexing over unmanaged networks
US9467723B2 (en) 2012-04-04 2016-10-11 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for automated highlight reel creation in a content delivery network
US10674191B2 (en) 2012-04-06 2020-06-02 Minerva Networks, Inc Systems and methods to remotely synchronize digital data
US9123084B2 (en) 2012-04-12 2015-09-01 Activevideo Networks, Inc. Graphical application integration with MPEG objects
US9197937B1 (en) 2012-04-26 2015-11-24 Music Choice Automatic on-demand navigation based on meta-data broadcast with media content
CA2775700C (en) * 2012-05-04 2013-07-23 Microsoft Corporation Determining a future portion of a currently presented media program
DE102012208801A1 (en) * 2012-05-25 2013-11-28 Robert Bosch Gmbh Multi-switch with dynamic input assignment
US20130325581A1 (en) * 2012-06-05 2013-12-05 3M Innovative Properties Company In-library lending activation
US20150156554A1 (en) * 2012-06-14 2015-06-04 Flextronics Ap, Llc On-screen settings interaction for interactive television
US9609374B2 (en) 2012-06-27 2017-03-28 Rovi Guides, Inc. System and methods for automatically obtaining cost-efficient access to a media content collection
EP2680599A1 (en) 2012-06-29 2014-01-01 Thomson Licensing Provision of a personalized media content
US20150040008A1 (en) * 2013-08-02 2015-02-05 Gamer Parents Inc. Interactive overlay for video applications
US20140082645A1 (en) 2012-09-14 2014-03-20 Peter Stern Apparatus and methods for providing enhanced or interactive features
KR20140055486A (en) * 2012-10-31 2014-05-09 삼성전자주식회사 Display apparatus and method for controlling display apparatus thereof
US11115722B2 (en) 2012-11-08 2021-09-07 Comcast Cable Communications, Llc Crowdsourcing supplemental content
RU2500042C2 (en) * 2012-11-21 2013-11-27 Владимир Алексеевич Небольсин Television receiver display
US9565472B2 (en) 2012-12-10 2017-02-07 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for content transfer protection
US8854555B2 (en) * 2013-01-18 2014-10-07 Darryl Adderly System and method to toggle between two or more television channels
US9253262B2 (en) 2013-01-24 2016-02-02 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for connecting media devices through web sockets
US20140215546A1 (en) * 2013-01-29 2014-07-31 The Boeing Company Systems and methods for video distribution
CN104023265A (en) * 2013-03-01 2014-09-03 联想(北京)有限公司 Method and device for switching audio information streams and electronic equipment
US9553927B2 (en) 2013-03-13 2017-01-24 Comcast Cable Communications, Llc Synchronizing multiple transmissions of content
US9185309B1 (en) 2013-03-14 2015-11-10 Tribune Broadcasting Company, Llc Systems and methods for causing a stunt switcher to run a snipe-overlay DVE
US9473801B1 (en) 2013-03-14 2016-10-18 Tribune Broadcasting Company, Llc Systems and methods for causing a stunt switcher to run a bug-removal DVE
US10880609B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2020-12-29 Comcast Cable Communications, Llc Content event messaging
US9549208B1 (en) * 2013-03-14 2017-01-17 Tribune Broadcasting Company, Llc Systems and methods for causing a stunt switcher to run a multi-video-source DVE
US9049386B1 (en) 2013-03-14 2015-06-02 Tribune Broadcasting Company, Llc Systems and methods for causing a stunt switcher to run a bug-overlay DVE
WO2014145921A1 (en) 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Activevideo Networks, Inc. A multiple-mode system and method for providing user selectable video content
US9294785B2 (en) 2013-06-06 2016-03-22 Activevideo Networks, Inc. System and method for exploiting scene graph information in construction of an encoded video sequence
US9219922B2 (en) 2013-06-06 2015-12-22 Activevideo Networks, Inc. System and method for exploiting scene graph information in construction of an encoded video sequence
US9326047B2 (en) 2013-06-06 2016-04-26 Activevideo Networks, Inc. Overlay rendering of user interface onto source video
CN104254000B (en) * 2013-06-27 2018-05-11 华为技术有限公司 A kind of video data handling procedure and device
US11134304B2 (en) * 2013-07-31 2021-09-28 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Methods and apparatus that facilitate channel switching during commercial breaks and/or other program segments
USD749621S1 (en) * 2013-08-06 2016-02-16 Graftech International Holdings, Inc. Display screen with graphical user interface for a furnace monitoring system
US9674563B2 (en) 2013-11-04 2017-06-06 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for recommending content
WO2015070070A1 (en) 2013-11-07 2015-05-14 Touchtunes Music Corporation Techniques for generating electronic menu graphical user interface layouts for use in connection with electronic devices
CN104683852B (en) 2013-11-29 2018-04-06 国际商业机器公司 The method and apparatus for handling broadcast message
CN103686410A (en) * 2013-12-10 2014-03-26 乐视网信息技术(北京)股份有限公司 Method and terminal for video playing
KR101548228B1 (en) * 2013-12-27 2015-08-28 주식회사 케이티 Apparatus for synchronizing user interface based on user state and method thereof
USD755243S1 (en) * 2013-12-30 2016-05-03 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Display screen or portion thereof with icon
EP3108660A1 (en) * 2014-02-17 2016-12-28 Saronikos Trading and Services, Unipessoal Lda. Method to browse through radio-television services, and relative television apparatus and remote control
US9712482B2 (en) 2014-02-18 2017-07-18 Veveo, Inc. Methods and systems for recommending concept clusters based on availability
US9264656B2 (en) 2014-02-26 2016-02-16 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for managing storage space
GB2539588A (en) * 2014-03-13 2016-12-21 Nielsen Co Us Llc Methods and apparatus to compensate impression data for misattribution and/or non-coverage by a database proprietor
CA2943616A1 (en) 2014-03-25 2015-10-01 Touchtunes Music Corporation Digital jukebox device with improved user interfaces, and associated methods
US9788029B2 (en) 2014-04-25 2017-10-10 Activevideo Networks, Inc. Intelligent multiplexing using class-based, multi-dimensioned decision logic for managed networks
US9547867B2 (en) 2014-05-07 2017-01-17 International Business Machines Corporation Targeted advertising and customized display of advertisements in satellite broadcasting
US9288521B2 (en) 2014-05-28 2016-03-15 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for updating media asset data based on pause point in the media asset
US9621940B2 (en) 2014-05-29 2017-04-11 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for recording, accessing, and delivering packetized content
WO2015187970A2 (en) * 2014-06-06 2015-12-10 Innovari, Inc. Real time capacity monitoring for measurement and verification of demand side management
CN105282620A (en) * 2014-07-23 2016-01-27 深圳市同方多媒体科技有限公司 Homepage customization method and system of smart television
US9756393B2 (en) 2014-07-31 2017-09-05 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Recording option for advertised programs
US9697630B2 (en) 2014-10-01 2017-07-04 Sony Corporation Sign language window using picture-in-picture
US11783382B2 (en) 2014-10-22 2023-10-10 Comcast Cable Communications, Llc Systems and methods for curating content metadata
US10219027B1 (en) 2014-10-24 2019-02-26 Music Choice System for providing music content to a user
US9948962B2 (en) 2014-11-13 2018-04-17 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for efficient delivery of electronic program guide data
US10667008B1 (en) 2014-12-18 2020-05-26 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for setting and receiving user notifications for content available far in the future
USD770501S1 (en) * 2015-01-30 2016-11-01 Teradici Corporation Portion of a display with a graphical user interface
US10499108B2 (en) 2015-01-30 2019-12-03 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha System for service usage reporting
US10116676B2 (en) 2015-02-13 2018-10-30 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for data collection, analysis and service modification based on online activity
US9912997B2 (en) 2015-03-03 2018-03-06 Darryl Adderly System and method to determine content items and associated toggle triggers for a viewer
US9961239B2 (en) 2015-06-07 2018-05-01 Apple Inc. Touch accommodation options
US9916735B2 (en) 2015-07-22 2018-03-13 Igt Remote gaming cash voucher printing system
US10440421B2 (en) 2015-08-14 2019-10-08 DISH Technologies L.L.C. Apparatus, systems and methods for electronic program guide information presented on a display
US9467726B1 (en) 2015-09-30 2016-10-11 The Directv Group, Inc. Systems and methods for provisioning multi-dimensional rule based entitlement offers
US10178421B2 (en) 2015-10-30 2019-01-08 Rovi Guides, Inc. Methods and systems for monitoring content subscription usage
US9813396B2 (en) 2015-10-30 2017-11-07 Rovi Guides, Inc. Methods and systems for managing content subscription data
CN105392046B (en) * 2015-11-24 2019-04-26 天脉聚源(北京)科技有限公司 A kind of interactive television system recommends the method and device of program
KR102147230B1 (en) 2015-12-16 2020-08-25 그레이스노트, 인코포레이티드 Dynamic video overlay
USD810779S1 (en) 2015-12-29 2018-02-20 Sony Corporation Portion of display panel or screen with icon
KR102532071B1 (en) * 2015-12-30 2023-05-15 삼성전자주식회사 Display apparatus, user terminal, control method thereof, computer-readable medium, system thereof
US20170236150A1 (en) * 2016-02-12 2017-08-17 Invidi Technologies Corporation Predictive programmatic system for audience identification and analysis
US10404758B2 (en) 2016-02-26 2019-09-03 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for centralized message exchange in a user premises device
CN107180038A (en) * 2016-03-09 2017-09-19 阿里巴巴集团控股有限公司 The acquisition methods and device of geographic position data
DE102016105661A1 (en) 2016-03-29 2017-10-05 BLANKOM systems GmbH Modular cable head and module for it
US10327043B2 (en) * 2016-07-09 2019-06-18 N. Dilip Venkatraman Method and system for displaying interactive questions during streaming of real-time and adaptively assembled video
CN106301922B (en) * 2016-08-16 2020-02-04 青岛海信宽带多媒体技术有限公司 Method and device for adjusting Tuner state
US9900632B1 (en) 2016-12-30 2018-02-20 Echostar Technologies L.L.C. Viewing suggestions based on closed-captioned content from multiple tuners
US10091549B1 (en) 2017-03-30 2018-10-02 Rovi Guides, Inc. Methods and systems for recommending media assets based on the geographic location at which the media assets are frequently consumed
CN107203591A (en) * 2017-04-25 2017-09-26 北京威动科技有限公司 A kind of film information preservation, methods of exhibiting and device
US10694223B2 (en) * 2017-06-21 2020-06-23 Google Llc Dynamic custom interstitial transition videos for video streaming services
TWI657688B (en) * 2017-11-22 2019-04-21 群登科技股份有限公司 Time division multiplexing channel structure and time division multiplexing communication method using the same
US10839641B2 (en) 2018-02-27 2020-11-17 Stanley P. Dabrowski Method and apparatus for modifying gaming machines to provide supplemental or modified functionality
CN108648437A (en) * 2018-04-26 2018-10-12 安徽科杰粮保仓储设备有限公司 A kind of chargeable door and window remote controler
CN109412817B (en) * 2018-10-29 2020-11-06 旌德县展嘉智能科技有限公司 Computer communication device with adjustable
CN109474839B (en) * 2018-11-05 2022-03-18 海信视像科技股份有限公司 Method and device for displaying EPG user interface during broadcasting program
US10743041B1 (en) 2019-01-31 2020-08-11 DISH Technologies L.L.C. Systems and methods for facilitating adaptive content splicing
CN110047566B (en) * 2019-03-29 2023-09-15 中国人民解放军总医院 Medical data display platform
CN110022453B (en) * 2019-04-02 2021-11-16 视联动力信息技术股份有限公司 Terminal equipment
EP3737007B8 (en) 2019-05-06 2023-11-15 Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG Mobile radio testing device and method for protocol testing
US11870548B2 (en) * 2019-07-22 2024-01-09 Algorkorea Co. Ltd Mobile terminal having integrated radio function, and integrated radio system using same
CN110401842A (en) * 2019-07-26 2019-11-01 广州华多网络科技有限公司 Live broadcasting method, device and storage medium
RU194706U1 (en) * 2019-10-11 2019-12-19 Общество с ограниченной ответственностью "Новая сервисная компания" (ООО "НСК") Automated workplace of the operator of forming a single advertising channel for end-to-end advertising
US11638049B2 (en) 2019-10-16 2023-04-25 Dish Network L.L.C. Systems and methods for content item recognition and adaptive packet transmission
US11303943B2 (en) * 2019-10-16 2022-04-12 Dish Network L.L.C. Systems and methods for facilitating adaptive content items for delivery in a packet stream
US10880351B1 (en) 2019-10-16 2020-12-29 Dish Network L.L.C. Systems and methods for adapting content items to endpoint media devices
EP4052134A1 (en) * 2019-11-01 2022-09-07 InVue Security Products, Inc. Display control for televisions
US11218525B2 (en) 2020-01-21 2022-01-04 Dish Network L.L.C. Systems and methods for adapting content delivery based on endpoint communications
US11245946B2 (en) 2020-01-21 2022-02-08 Dish Network L.L.C. Systems and methods for adapting content items to secured endpoint media device data
RU2719318C1 (en) * 2020-01-28 2020-04-17 Ооо "Новел Ил" Method of transmitting information over fiber-optic communication lines with distributed access nodes
US11012737B1 (en) 2020-04-27 2021-05-18 Dish Network L.L.C. Systems and methods for audio adaptation of content items to endpoint media devices
CN113173466B (en) * 2021-03-23 2023-01-06 上海新时达电气股份有限公司 Elevator interface board and elevator service equipment access method
CN113347500A (en) * 2021-06-01 2021-09-03 广州欢网科技有限责任公司 Personalized program recommendation method and device based on answer mode
KR102417209B1 (en) * 2021-11-10 2022-07-06 (주)코리아테크노 monitoring system of broadcasting communication device

Citations (99)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3891792A (en) * 1974-06-25 1975-06-24 Asahi Broadcasting Television character crawl display method and apparatus
US4381522A (en) * 1980-12-01 1983-04-26 Adams-Russell Co., Inc. Selective viewing
US4455548A (en) * 1981-01-26 1984-06-19 Burnett Dorothy K Call system and methods and apparatus for operating same
USD280099S (en) * 1984-07-06 1985-08-13 Multi-Tech Industries Corp. Telephone keypad for a combined radio, clock and telephone set
US4605964A (en) * 1981-12-19 1986-08-12 Chard Frederick W Method and apparatus for editing the output of a television set
US4639225A (en) * 1982-06-24 1987-01-27 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Portable audio-visual electronic apparatus
US4641205A (en) * 1984-03-05 1987-02-03 Rca Corporation Television system scheduler with on-screen menu type programming prompting apparatus
US4688218A (en) * 1981-07-15 1987-08-18 Etablissement Public De Diffusion Dit "Telediffusion De France" Multiplex channels for continuous flow for numerical signal
US4688246A (en) * 1985-12-20 1987-08-18 Zenith Electronics Corporation CATV scrambling system with compressed digital audio in synchronizing signal intervals
US4694490A (en) * 1981-11-03 1987-09-15 Harvey John C Signal processing apparatus and methods
US4697209A (en) * 1984-04-26 1987-09-29 A. C. Nielsen Company Methods and apparatus for automatically identifying programs viewed or recorded
US4724491A (en) * 1984-08-28 1988-02-09 Adams-Russell Co., Inc. Inserting television advertising spots automatically
US4797568A (en) * 1987-08-21 1989-01-10 Gumbs Curtis M Electronic switching system for controlling indoor and outdoor lights
US4816901A (en) * 1988-04-27 1989-03-28 Universal Video Communications Corp. Method and system for compressing color video data
US4825200A (en) * 1987-06-25 1989-04-25 Tandy Corporation Reconfigurable remote control transmitter
USD301037S (en) * 1986-04-28 1989-05-09 Multivision Products, Inc. Hand-held remote control
US4829558A (en) * 1988-01-19 1989-05-09 Peac Media Research, Inc. System and device for data transmission, and related method
US4829569A (en) * 1984-09-21 1989-05-09 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Communication of individual messages to subscribers in a subscription television system
US4845662A (en) * 1982-11-11 1989-07-04 Tokyo Shibaura Denki Kabushiki Kaisha Data processor employing run-length coding
US4860379A (en) * 1979-05-18 1989-08-22 General Instrument Corporation Data communications system
US4876736A (en) * 1987-09-23 1989-10-24 A. C. Nielsen Company Method and apparatus for determining channel reception of a receiver
US4896370A (en) * 1987-03-27 1990-01-23 Teletec Corporation Control system for microprocessor and software enhanced communications equipment
US4896354A (en) * 1984-10-12 1990-01-23 Sony Corporation Image reception system
US4928168A (en) * 1988-08-08 1990-05-22 Pioneer Electronic Corporation Billing data display system and terminal used therein for a closed circuit television system
US4947429A (en) * 1987-11-30 1990-08-07 Zenith Electronics Corporation Pay per view television signaling method
US4949187A (en) * 1988-12-16 1990-08-14 Cohen Jason M Video communications system having a remotely controlled central source of video and audio data
US4959810A (en) * 1987-10-14 1990-09-25 Universal Electronics, Inc. Universal remote control device
US4961109A (en) * 1986-02-10 1990-10-02 Pioneer Electronic Corporation Chargeable program receiving limit setting system in two-way cable television system
US4965825A (en) * 1981-11-03 1990-10-23 The Personalized Mass Media Corporation Signal processing apparatus and methods
USD314383S (en) * 1986-09-23 1991-02-05 RUF GmbH & Co. KG Elektrotechnische Spezialfabrik Remote-control transmitter
US4995078A (en) * 1988-06-09 1991-02-19 Monslow H Vincent Television broadcast system for selective transmission of viewer-chosen programs at viewer-requested times
US4996597A (en) * 1989-04-20 1991-02-26 Rca Licensing Corporation User programmable switching arrangement
US5001554A (en) * 1988-12-23 1991-03-19 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Terminal authorization method
US5014125A (en) * 1989-05-05 1991-05-07 Cableshare, Inc. Television system for the interactive distribution of selectable video presentations
US5015829A (en) * 1989-04-28 1991-05-14 Hewlett-Packard Company Key pad and front panel assembly for an electronic instrument
US5020129A (en) * 1990-04-16 1991-05-28 General Instrument Corporation Addressable control system for CATV program distribution
US5027400A (en) * 1988-08-19 1991-06-25 Hitachi Ltd. Multimedia bidirectional broadcast system
US5036394A (en) * 1988-12-02 1991-07-30 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Videotext receiver
US5046093A (en) * 1989-09-05 1991-09-03 General Instrument Corporation CATV subscriber apparatus with intelligent remote control
US5047867A (en) * 1989-06-08 1991-09-10 North American Philips Corporation Interface for a TV-VCR system
US5049990A (en) * 1989-07-21 1991-09-17 Sony Corporation Highly efficient coding apparatus
US5057917A (en) * 1990-06-20 1991-10-15 The United States Of America As Represented By The Administrator Of The National Aeronautics And Space Administration Real-time data compression of broadcast video signals
US5078019A (en) * 1989-05-26 1992-01-07 Alps Electric Co., Ltd. Trackball device
US5091782A (en) * 1990-04-09 1992-02-25 General Instrument Corporation Apparatus and method for adaptively compressing successive blocks of digital video
US5093718A (en) * 1990-09-28 1992-03-03 Inteletext Systems, Inc. Interactive home information system
US5103314A (en) * 1990-09-24 1992-04-07 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Color-coded system for selection of rf input terminals and associated scan lists
US5105268A (en) * 1988-11-08 1992-04-14 Fujitsu Limited Community antenna broadcast system having an improved channel selecting system permitting purchase of a selected channel from a plurality of non-purchased channels
USD325581S (en) * 1988-10-07 1992-04-21 Cable Electric Products, Inc. Remote control
US5130792A (en) * 1990-02-01 1992-07-14 Usa Video Inc. Store and forward video system
US5132992A (en) * 1991-01-07 1992-07-21 Paul Yurt Audio and video transmission and receiving system
US5133079A (en) * 1990-07-30 1992-07-21 Ballantyne Douglas J Method and apparatus for distribution of movies
US5132789A (en) * 1988-01-15 1992-07-21 Tiltrac Corporation Tilt rack video tape library and VCP to multiple subscriber system
US5144663A (en) * 1986-04-18 1992-09-01 Kudelski S.A. Fabrique D'engregistreurs Nagra Method of interactive communication between a subscriber and a decoder of a system of pay-television and decoder thereof
USD329238S (en) * 1990-12-21 1992-09-08 Tandy Corporation Universal remote controller
US5150118A (en) * 1989-05-08 1992-09-22 Hewlett-Packard Company Interchangeable coded key pad assemblies alternately attachable to a user definable keyboard to enable programmable keyboard functions
US5151789A (en) * 1989-10-30 1992-09-29 Insight Telecast, Inc. System and method for automatic, unattended recording of cable television programs
US5152011A (en) * 1987-07-27 1992-09-29 Schwob Pierre R Broadcast receiver capable of automatic station identification and format-scanning based on an internal database updatable via data reception over the airwaves
US5151782A (en) * 1989-05-17 1992-09-29 Reiss Media Enterprises Control system for satellite delivered pay-per-view television system
US5155591A (en) * 1989-10-23 1992-10-13 General Instrument Corporation Method and apparatus for providing demographically targeted television commercials
US5182639A (en) * 1991-10-30 1993-01-26 Suganda Jutamulia Real-time analytic pseudocolor encoder system
US5202817A (en) * 1989-06-07 1993-04-13 Norand Corporation Hand-held data capture system with interchangeable modules
US5206722A (en) * 1990-12-28 1993-04-27 At&T Bell Laboratories Remote channel switching for video on demand service
US5206954A (en) * 1990-09-27 1993-04-27 Masprodenkoh Kabushikikaisha Satellite signal receiving apparatus
US5216515A (en) * 1991-05-23 1993-06-01 Adexpress Company Addressable video feed system
US5223924A (en) * 1992-05-27 1993-06-29 North American Philips Corporation System and method for automatically correlating user preferences with a T.V. program information database
US5235328A (en) * 1988-08-23 1993-08-10 Sony Corporation Remote command apparatus
US5235275A (en) * 1990-02-22 1993-08-10 Nkk Corporation Magnetic inspection apparatus for thin steel strip having magnetizer and detection coil within a hollow roller rotated by the steel strip
US5237311A (en) * 1991-08-01 1993-08-17 Picker International, Inc. Hingedly supported integrated trackball and selection device
US5241659A (en) * 1990-09-14 1993-08-31 Eastman Kodak Company Auxiliary removable memory for storing image parameter data
US5247347A (en) * 1991-09-27 1993-09-21 Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. Pstn architecture for video-on-demand services
US5253066A (en) * 1989-06-01 1993-10-12 Vogel Peter S TV recording and viewing control system
US5282028A (en) * 1990-11-27 1994-01-25 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Remote control for digital music terminal with synchronized communications
US5283639A (en) * 1989-10-23 1994-02-01 Esch Arthur G Multiple media delivery network method and apparatus
US5289271A (en) * 1991-09-09 1994-02-22 Watson John C Cable television-usage system
US5293540A (en) * 1991-07-29 1994-03-08 Nview Corporation Method and apparatus for merging independently generated internal video with external video
US5319455A (en) * 1990-09-28 1994-06-07 Ictv Inc. System for distributing customized commercials to television viewers
US5323240A (en) * 1992-02-07 1994-06-21 Sony Corporation Television receiver that automatically keeps track of favorite channels to facilitate tuning
US5327554A (en) * 1990-11-29 1994-07-05 Palazzi Iii Michael A Interactive terminal for the access of remote database information
US5339315A (en) * 1991-05-24 1994-08-16 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Cable broadcasting system and the transmission center for on demand program services
US5341474A (en) * 1992-05-15 1994-08-23 Bell Communications Research, Inc. Communications architecture and buffer for distributing information services
US5341166A (en) * 1992-02-27 1994-08-23 Video Control Technology, Inc. System for controlling selected devices having unique sets of control codes
US5343239A (en) * 1991-11-20 1994-08-30 Zing Systems, L.P. Transaction based interactive television system
US5345594A (en) * 1991-01-31 1994-09-06 Pioneer Electronic Corporation Information transmission system retransmitting information signals according to retransmission schedule
US5353121A (en) * 1989-10-30 1994-10-04 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Television schedule system
US5355162A (en) * 1993-07-13 1994-10-11 Pacific Ray Video Limited Multi-standard cable television system
US5357276A (en) * 1992-12-01 1994-10-18 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Method of providing video on demand with VCR like functions
US5404393A (en) * 1991-10-03 1995-04-04 Viscorp Method and apparatus for interactive television through use of menu windows
US5410326A (en) * 1992-12-04 1995-04-25 Goldstein; Steven W. Programmable remote control device for interacting with a plurality of remotely controlled devices
US5410344A (en) * 1993-09-22 1995-04-25 Arrowsmith Technologies, Inc. Apparatus and method of selecting video programs based on viewers' preferences
US5412416A (en) * 1992-08-07 1995-05-02 Nbl Communications, Inc. Video media distribution network apparatus and method
US5414426A (en) * 1987-10-14 1995-05-09 Universal Electronics Inc. Favorite key macro command and chained macro command in a remote control
US5416508A (en) * 1991-10-22 1995-05-16 Pioneer Electronic Corporation CATV system with transmission of program schedules, linked program broadcasts, and permissive ordering periods
US5432542A (en) * 1992-08-31 1995-07-11 Television Computer, Inc. Television receiver location identification
US5448091A (en) * 1991-08-21 1995-09-05 Sgs-Thomson Microelectronics, Inc. Method of making contact alignment for nonvolatile memory devices
US5481294A (en) * 1993-10-27 1996-01-02 A. C. Nielsen Company Audience measurement system utilizing ancillary codes and passive signatures
US5638505A (en) * 1991-08-16 1997-06-10 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Apparatus and methods for moving/copying objects using destination and/or source bins
US5644354A (en) * 1992-10-09 1997-07-01 Prevue Interactive, Inc. Interactive video system
US6177931B1 (en) * 1996-12-19 2001-01-23 Index Systems, Inc. Systems and methods for displaying and recording control interface with television programs, video, advertising information and program scheduling information
US7075919B1 (en) * 2000-08-22 2006-07-11 Cisco Technology, Inc. System and method for providing integrated voice, video and data to customer premises over a single network

Family Cites Families (738)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3256386A (en) * 1963-01-23 1966-06-14 Charles A Morchand Aural visual multiplex information display system
US3475547A (en) 1965-06-30 1969-10-28 Zenith Radio Corp Subscription television receiver with program use recording
GB1204190A (en) 1966-12-26 1970-09-03 Mainichi Broadcasting System Multiplex communication system
US3639686A (en) * 1969-04-25 1972-02-01 Homarket Inc Television receiver cut-in device
CH488345A (en) 1969-05-14 1970-03-31 Ibm Multiplex facility
US3860873A (en) 1971-10-01 1975-01-14 Tape Athon Corp Fm transmission system
US3789136A (en) * 1972-06-28 1974-01-29 M Haith Electronic system for viewer response to television program stimuli
US3794923A (en) * 1972-12-14 1974-02-26 Itt Head end interconnection system for cable tv systems
US3953666A (en) * 1973-05-25 1976-04-27 Justice James W H Television system for simultaneously transmitting and receiving a plurality of independent pictures on a single carrier screen
US3916092A (en) * 1973-05-25 1975-10-28 Westinghouse Electric Corp Transmission system for audio and coding signals in educational tv
US3849594A (en) * 1973-05-25 1974-11-19 Westinghouse Electric Corp Multi-picture tv system with audio and doding channels
US3825674A (en) * 1973-05-25 1974-07-23 Westinghouse Electric Corp Educational tv branching system
FR2269254B1 (en) 1974-04-26 1978-09-15 Leclercq Marc
US3978470A (en) * 1974-07-10 1976-08-31 Midwest Analog And Digital, Inc. Multi-channel data color display apparatus
US4023408A (en) * 1975-01-10 1977-05-17 Dytronics Company, Inc. Stormscope
US3993955A (en) 1975-04-25 1976-11-23 Tocom, Inc. Method of and apparatus for establishing emergency communications in a two-way cable television system
US4197590A (en) * 1976-01-19 1980-04-08 Nugraphics, Inc. Method for dynamically viewing image elements stored in a random access memory array
USRE32776E (en) * 1976-06-23 1988-11-01 IDR, Incorporated Piggy back row grabbing system
FR2363949A1 (en) * 1976-09-06 1978-03-31 Telediffusion Fse DIGITAL TRANSMISSION AND TEXT DISPLAY SYSTEM ON A TELEVISION SCREEN
US4071697A (en) 1976-10-18 1978-01-31 Atari, Inc. Interactive video/telephone transmission system
US4528589A (en) * 1977-02-14 1985-07-09 Telease, Inc. Method and system for subscription television billing and access
US4225884A (en) 1977-02-14 1980-09-30 Telease, Inc. Method and system for subscription television billing and access
US4160242A (en) 1977-06-28 1979-07-03 Fowler Gerald C Reading machine
US4179212A (en) 1977-09-06 1979-12-18 Xerox Corporation Demand publishing royalty accounting system
US4159417A (en) 1977-10-28 1979-06-26 Rubincam David P Electronic book
US4405829A (en) 1977-12-14 1983-09-20 Massachusetts Institute Of Technology Cryptographic communications system and method
NL7802132A (en) 1978-02-27 1979-08-29 Philips Nv PORTABLE ELEMENT FOR RECORDING, REMEMBERING, DISPLAYING AND DISPLAYING DIGITAL INFORMATION AND BOOKING DEVICE FOR USE IN A BOOKING SYSTEM.
US4264924A (en) * 1978-03-03 1981-04-28 Freeman Michael J Dedicated channel interactive cable television system
JPS54129942A (en) 1978-03-31 1979-10-08 Fujitsu Ltd Direct transfer system between sub-systems
JPH0697787B2 (en) * 1978-06-30 1994-11-30 テレ−ズ インコ−ポレ−テツド Subscriber TV charge calculation method
US4513390A (en) 1979-06-08 1985-04-23 Planning Research Corporation System for digital transmission and synthesis of integrated data
US4406626A (en) 1979-07-31 1983-09-27 Anderson Weston A Electronic teaching aid
CA1142244A (en) 1979-08-22 1983-03-01 Eric J. Gargini Wired broadcasting system with subscriber controlled switched programme selection
US4279035A (en) * 1979-12-27 1981-07-14 Zenith Radio Corporation Channel number entry system
JPS5940105B2 (en) * 1979-12-27 1984-09-28 豊田合成株式会社 Soft brightening products
US4302193A (en) 1980-01-17 1981-11-24 Haynes Leonard S Reading tutor timer
CA1161545A (en) * 1980-04-30 1984-01-31 Manitoba Telephone System (The) Video distribution control system
US4398216A (en) * 1980-09-19 1983-08-09 Telease, Inc. Multiple signal transmission method and system, particularly for television
DE3036552C2 (en) * 1980-09-27 1985-04-25 Blaupunkt-Werke Gmbh, 3200 Hildesheim Television reception system
US4455570A (en) 1980-10-13 1984-06-19 Pioneer Electronic Corporation CATV System
US4331974A (en) 1980-10-21 1982-05-25 Iri, Inc. Cable television with controlled signal substitution
US4451701A (en) 1980-10-30 1984-05-29 Oclc Online Computer Library Center, Incorporated Viewdata system and apparatus
NL8103064A (en) * 1981-06-25 1983-01-17 Philips Nv COMMON AERIAL DEVICE FOR THE RECEPTION AND DISTRIBUTION OF TV AND DIGITAL AUDIO SIGNALS.
JPS5861547U (en) * 1981-10-19 1983-04-25 デイエツクスアンテナ株式会社 satellite receiver
US4740834A (en) 1981-12-14 1988-04-26 Mobarry Robert G Video program distribution
US4429385A (en) 1981-12-31 1984-01-31 American Newspaper Publishers Association Method and apparatus for digital serial scanning with hierarchical and relational access
EP0085209B1 (en) 1982-01-29 1986-07-30 International Business Machines Corporation Audio response terminal for use with data processing systems
US4579533A (en) 1982-04-26 1986-04-01 Anderson Weston A Method of teaching a subject including use of a dictionary and translator
US4509073A (en) * 1982-04-29 1985-04-02 Packet Technologies, Inc. Two-way cable-television system
US4533948A (en) 1982-04-30 1985-08-06 General Instrument Corporation CATV Communication system
US4484217A (en) * 1982-05-11 1984-11-20 Telease, Inc. Method and system for remote reporting, particularly for pay television billing
US4578531A (en) 1982-06-09 1986-03-25 At&T Bell Laboratories Encryption system key distribution method and apparatus
US4507680A (en) * 1982-06-22 1985-03-26 Freeman Michael J One way interactive multisubscriber communication system
US4567512A (en) 1982-08-19 1986-01-28 World Video Library, Inc. Recorded program communication system
DE3364719D1 (en) * 1982-09-07 1986-08-28 Emi Plc Thorn Television and distribution network
US4694880A (en) 1982-09-16 1987-09-22 Gladwin Kirk M Method of continuously casting metal slabs
US4581484A (en) 1982-09-29 1986-04-08 Oclc Online Computer Library Center Incorporated Audio-enhanced videotex system
US4517598A (en) * 1982-10-22 1985-05-14 George Van Valkenburg Method and apparatus for electronic publishing
US4528643A (en) * 1983-01-10 1985-07-09 Fpdc, Inc. System for reproducing information in material objects at a point of sale location
US4532540A (en) 1983-03-28 1985-07-30 Rca Corporation Teletext set-top converter with transparent mode
US4587520A (en) * 1983-04-07 1986-05-06 Rca Corporation Cursor controlled page selection in a video display
US4916539A (en) 1983-04-21 1990-04-10 The Weather Channel, Inc. Communications system having receivers which can be addressed in selected classes
US4625235A (en) 1983-05-19 1986-11-25 Westinghouse Electric Corp. Remote control switching of television sources
US4566030A (en) 1983-06-09 1986-01-21 Ctba Associates Television viewer data collection system
US4816904A (en) 1983-06-09 1989-03-28 Control Data Corporation Television and market research data collection system and method
US4558464A (en) 1983-06-10 1985-12-10 General Instrument Corporation Address-programmable CATV converter
US4633462A (en) * 1983-07-18 1986-12-30 The Board Of Trustees Of The University Of Illinois Multiple access communication on a CATV reverse channel
CA1227865A (en) 1983-10-03 1987-10-06 Markley L. Jones Music delivery system
WO1985001854A1 (en) 1983-10-07 1985-04-25 National Information Utilities Corporation Education utility
US4776011A (en) 1983-10-24 1988-10-04 Sony Corporation Recursive key schedule cryptographic system
AU576787B2 (en) * 1983-11-07 1988-09-08 Sony Corporation Satellite to cable television interface
GB2149544B (en) 1983-11-08 1987-03-25 Standard Telephones Cables Ltd Electronic books for the partially sighted
NL8303991A (en) * 1983-11-18 1985-06-17 Nl Standard Electric Mij B V CABLE TELEVISION NETWORK.
US4658290A (en) 1983-12-08 1987-04-14 Ctba Associates Television and market research data collection system and method
GB8401318D0 (en) * 1984-01-18 1984-02-22 Communications Patents Ltd Communications system
NL8400860A (en) * 1984-03-16 1985-10-16 Nl Standard Electric Mij B V CABLE TELEVISION NETWORK.
US4625076A (en) 1984-03-19 1986-11-25 Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Public Corporation Signed document transmission system
US4602279A (en) 1984-03-21 1986-07-22 Actv, Inc. Method for providing targeted profile interactive CATV displays
US4573072A (en) * 1984-03-21 1986-02-25 Actv Inc. Method for expanding interactive CATV displayable choices for a given channel capacity
AU3542284A (en) * 1984-03-30 1985-10-03 Wang Laboratories, Inc. Enhanced videotex decoder
GB8410671D0 (en) * 1984-04-26 1984-05-31 British Telecomm Transmitting stereo audio programmes
US4673976A (en) 1984-05-31 1987-06-16 American Television & Communications Corporation Cable television system data verification apparatus
EP0167237A3 (en) * 1984-05-31 1988-08-03 AMERICAN TELEVISION &amp; COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION Cable television system
DE3423846A1 (en) 1984-06-28 1986-01-09 Telefunken Fernseh Und Rundfunk Gmbh, 3000 Hannover Television receiver with a teletext decoder
US4644470A (en) 1984-07-20 1987-02-17 International Business Machines Corp. Non-unique names for broadcast messages
US4941125A (en) 1984-08-01 1990-07-10 Smithsonian Institution Information storage and retrieval system
JPS6160150A (en) * 1984-08-31 1986-03-27 Fujitsu Ltd System for calling picture information
US4885775A (en) * 1984-09-21 1989-12-05 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Information display scheme for subscribers of a subscription television system
US4890319A (en) 1984-09-21 1989-12-26 Scientific-Atlantic, Inc. Method for controlling copying of protected information transmitted over a communications link
US4695975A (en) * 1984-10-23 1987-09-22 Profit Technology, Inc. Multi-image communications system
US4774655A (en) 1984-10-24 1988-09-27 Telebase Systems, Inc. System for retrieving information from a plurality of remote databases having at least two different languages
US5036537A (en) * 1984-11-19 1991-07-30 General Instrument Corp. Geographic black-out method for direct broadcast satellite system
GB8429488D0 (en) 1984-11-22 1985-01-03 Communications Patents Ltd Interactive television distribution system
US4691340A (en) 1984-11-28 1987-09-01 Sony Corporation Image information accessing user terminal
US4709266A (en) * 1985-01-14 1987-11-24 Oak Industries Inc. Satellite scrambling communication network using geographically separated uplinks
US4616263A (en) 1985-02-11 1986-10-07 Gte Corporation Video subsystem for a hybrid videotex facility
GB8505874D0 (en) * 1985-03-07 1985-04-11 Ti Crypton Ltd Engine analysers
NL8500690A (en) * 1985-03-12 1986-10-01 Philips Nv REMOTE CONTROL UNIT FOR OPERATING VARIOUS MODULES.
US4674085A (en) 1985-03-21 1987-06-16 American Telephone And Telegraph Co. Local area network
SE448277B (en) 1985-04-12 1987-02-09 Draco Ab INDICATOR DEVICE WITH A DOSAGE DEVICE FOR MEDICINAL PRODUCTS
EP0200310B1 (en) * 1985-05-01 1993-08-11 General Instrument Corporation Direct broadcast satellite signal transmission system
US4731840A (en) 1985-05-06 1988-03-15 The United States Of America As Represented By The United States Department Of Energy Method for encryption and transmission of digital keying data
US4751578A (en) 1985-05-28 1988-06-14 David P. Gordon System for electronically controllably viewing on a television updateable television programming information
US4706121B1 (en) 1985-07-12 1993-12-14 Insight Telecast, Inc. Tv schedule system and process
US4677685A (en) 1985-07-16 1987-06-30 Zenith Electronics Corporation Method and apparatus for downloading a code defining the channel transmission format employed in an addressable CATV system
GB2177873B (en) * 1985-07-19 1989-11-22 Marconi Electronic Devices Communications system
US4665559A (en) * 1985-07-23 1987-05-12 Andrew Benun FM-TV audio adapter
US4695880A (en) * 1985-07-30 1987-09-22 Postron Corp. Electronic information dissemination system
US4745479A (en) * 1985-10-04 1988-05-17 American Dynamics Corporation Multiple image video display system
US4647964A (en) * 1985-10-24 1987-03-03 Weinblatt Lee S Technique for testing television commercials
US4891838A (en) 1985-11-04 1990-01-02 Dental Data Service, Inc. Computer accessing system
US4779138A (en) 1985-11-27 1988-10-18 Casio Computer Co., Ltd. Compact liquid crystal television receiver having information memory
US4854878A (en) 1985-11-29 1989-08-08 Malvino, Inc. Textbook with animated illustrations
US6101324A (en) 1985-12-06 2000-08-08 Media Touch Systems, Inc. Computer touch screen radio station control system
JPS62140134A (en) * 1985-12-16 1987-06-23 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Command input device
US4646150A (en) 1986-01-03 1987-02-24 General Instrument Corporation Apparatus and method for stereo television sound
US4695879A (en) 1986-02-07 1987-09-22 Weinblatt Lee S Television viewer meter
US4694483A (en) 1986-06-02 1987-09-15 Innings Telecom Inc. Computerized system for routing incoming telephone calls to a plurality of agent positions
DE3787583T2 (en) 1986-07-07 1994-02-03 Semiconductor Energy Lab Portable book without paper.
US4866770A (en) * 1986-07-08 1989-09-12 Scientific Atlanta, Inc. Method and apparatus for communication of video, audio, teletext, and data to groups of decoders in a communication system
US4890321A (en) 1986-07-08 1989-12-26 Scientific Atlanta, Inc. Communications format for a subscription television system permitting transmission of individual text messages to subscribers
US4792972A (en) * 1986-08-19 1988-12-20 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Remote programming of CATV channel authorization unit
US4956725A (en) * 1986-08-29 1990-09-11 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Image signal reproducing apparatus
US4712130A (en) * 1986-08-29 1987-12-08 Rca Corporation Chrominance signal frequency converter as for a pix-in-pix television receiver
US4775935A (en) 1986-09-22 1988-10-04 Westinghouse Electric Corp. Video merchandising system with variable and adoptive product sequence presentation order
US4931872A (en) * 1986-11-24 1990-06-05 Gte Laboratories Incorporated Methods of and apparatus for the generation of split-screen video displays
US4825220A (en) 1986-11-26 1989-04-25 General Electric Company Microstrip fed printed dipole with an integral balun
US4941089A (en) 1986-12-12 1990-07-10 Datapoint Corporation Input/output network for computer system
US4796220A (en) 1986-12-15 1989-01-03 Pride Software Development Corp. Method of controlling the copying of software
US4820167A (en) 1987-01-14 1989-04-11 Nobles Anthony A Electronic school teaching system
JP2658030B2 (en) * 1987-01-30 1997-09-30 ソニー株式会社 Information transmission equipment
US4802008A (en) 1987-02-09 1989-01-31 Walling Paul J Satellite communications system for medical related images
JP2722450B2 (en) * 1987-02-25 1998-03-04 ソニー株式会社 Central control device
DE3852101D1 (en) 1987-02-27 1994-12-15 Logicblend Ltd IMPROVEMENTS OF AN INTERACTIVE VIDEO SYSTEM.
US4747785A (en) 1987-03-17 1988-05-31 Global Equipment Company, Div. Of Continental Dynamics Shielding for connector hood
US4885803A (en) * 1987-03-17 1989-12-05 Lawrence W. Hermann System and method for controlling a plurality of electronic entertainment devices
US4974252A (en) 1987-06-03 1990-11-27 Club Theatre Network, Inc. Interactive commercial/entertainment network
US4985697A (en) 1987-07-06 1991-01-15 Learning Insights, Ltd. Electronic book educational publishing method using buried reference materials and alternate learning levels
US4887308A (en) * 1987-06-26 1989-12-12 Dutton Bradley C Broadcast data storage and retrieval system
US4847700A (en) * 1987-07-16 1989-07-11 Actv, Inc. Interactive television system for providing full motion synched compatible audio/visual displays from transmitted television signals
CA1288516C (en) 1987-07-31 1991-09-03 Leendert M. Bijnagte Apparatus and method for communicating textual and image information between a host computer and a remote display terminal
US5208665A (en) 1987-08-20 1993-05-04 Telaction Corporation Presentation player for an interactive digital communication system
US4829372A (en) * 1987-08-20 1989-05-09 Telaction Corporation Presentation player
JPS6450688A (en) * 1987-08-21 1989-02-27 Hashimoto Corp Method and device for generating individual television program
US4930160A (en) 1987-09-02 1990-05-29 Vogel Peter S Automatic censorship of video programs
US5099331A (en) 1987-09-04 1992-03-24 Texas Instruments Incorporated Apparatus for overlaying a displayed image with a second image
US4924513A (en) 1987-09-25 1990-05-08 Digital Equipment Corporation Apparatus and method for secure transmission of data over an unsecure transmission channel
US4918516A (en) * 1987-10-26 1990-04-17 501 Actv, Inc. Closed circuit television system having seamless interactive television programming and expandable user participation
US5566294A (en) 1989-09-29 1996-10-15 Hitachi, Ltd. Method for visual programming with aid of animation
US4835607A (en) 1987-11-16 1989-05-30 Technology, Inc. Method and apparatus for expanding compressed video data
US4855725A (en) 1987-11-24 1989-08-08 Fernandez Emilio A Microprocessor based simulated book
JPH01142918A (en) * 1987-11-30 1989-06-05 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Menu controller
JPH01147727A (en) 1987-12-04 1989-06-09 Hitachi Ltd Fault restoring method for on-line program
US5136411A (en) 1987-12-11 1992-08-04 General Instrument Corporation Dynamically responsive CATV system with shared fiber optic link
US4920432A (en) 1988-01-12 1990-04-24 Eggers Derek C System for random access to an audio video data library with independent selection and display at each of a plurality of remote locations
US4943963A (en) 1988-01-19 1990-07-24 A. C. Nielsen Company Data collection and transmission system with real time clock
GB2214757A (en) * 1988-01-22 1989-09-06 Philips Electronic Associated Signal distribution network
FR2627045B1 (en) * 1988-02-05 1994-07-01 Sgs Thomson Microelectronics SELECTION SYSTEM FOR RECEIVING BROADCASTED OR BROADCASTED BROADCASTS
US5121476A (en) 1988-02-22 1992-06-09 Yee Keen Y TV data capture device
US5010499A (en) 1988-02-22 1991-04-23 Yee Keen Y Digital data capture for use with TV set or monitor
US5157783A (en) 1988-02-26 1992-10-20 Wang Laboratories, Inc. Data base system which maintains project query list, desktop list and status of multiple ongoing research projects
US4885632A (en) 1988-02-29 1989-12-05 Agb Television Research System and methods for monitoring TV viewing system including a VCR and/or a cable converter
US4899292A (en) 1988-03-02 1990-02-06 Image Storage/Retrieval Systems, Inc. System for storing and retrieving text and associated graphics
US5319454A (en) 1990-11-13 1994-06-07 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. CATV system enabling access to premium (pay per view) program events by bar code data entry
US5235619A (en) 1990-03-20 1993-08-10 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Cable television radio frequency subscriber data transmission apparatus and rf return method
JPH01280977A (en) * 1988-03-31 1989-11-13 Toshiba Corp Method and apparatus for displaying slave picture of television system
US5003384A (en) * 1988-04-01 1991-03-26 Scientific Atlanta, Inc. Set-top interface transactions in an impulse pay per view television system
US4928177A (en) 1988-04-11 1990-05-22 Cooper Industries, Inc. Two-way data broadcast networks
US5146600A (en) * 1988-04-30 1992-09-08 Minolta Camera Kabushiki Kaisha Document image filing system for furnishing additional managerial information for management of documents filed in the system
US4907082A (en) * 1988-05-03 1990-03-06 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Dynamic control menu for a television system or the like
US5321840A (en) 1988-05-05 1994-06-14 Transaction Technology, Inc. Distributed-intelligence computer system including remotely reconfigurable, telephone-type user terminal
US4982344A (en) 1988-05-18 1991-01-01 Xerox Corporation Accelerating link creation
EP0374241B1 (en) 1988-05-27 1997-08-27 Kodak Limited Document annotation and manipulation in a data processing system
US4890320A (en) * 1988-06-09 1989-12-26 Monslow H Vincent Television broadcast system for selective transmission of viewer-chosen programs at viewer-requested times
US4845562A (en) * 1988-06-10 1989-07-04 Rca Licensing Corporation Widescreen television reception and recording system utilizing conventional equipment
US5130924A (en) 1988-06-30 1992-07-14 International Business Machines Corporation System for defining relationships among document elements including logical relationships of elements in a multi-dimensional tabular specification
JPH0219079A (en) * 1988-07-06 1990-01-23 Pioneer Electron Corp Video signal processing unit
US4977455B1 (en) * 1988-07-15 1993-04-13 System and process for vcr scheduling
US5208745A (en) 1988-07-25 1993-05-04 Electric Power Research Institute Multimedia interface and method for computer system
DE3925501A1 (en) * 1988-07-30 1990-02-01 Samsung Electronics Co Ltd MULTIPLE SCREEN GENERATING CIRCUIT
US5247575A (en) * 1988-08-16 1993-09-21 Sprague Peter J Information distribution system
US4924303A (en) 1988-09-06 1990-05-08 Kenneth Dunlop Method and apparatus for providing interactive retrieval of TV still frame images and audio segments
JP2644844B2 (en) 1988-09-20 1997-08-25 株式会社日立製作所 Distributed image recognition system
US4965819A (en) 1988-09-22 1990-10-23 Docu-Vision, Inc. Video conferencing system for courtroom and other applications
US5446488A (en) 1988-09-30 1995-08-29 Vogel; Peter S. Television programme distribution signal having the capability to selectively block non-programme material
US4949810A (en) * 1988-10-03 1990-08-21 Dwinnell Wayne F Attachment to stabilize and expand the use of hollow rung ladders
US5221962A (en) * 1988-10-03 1993-06-22 Popeil Industries, Inc. Subliminal device having manual adjustment of perception level of subliminal messages
US4975951A (en) * 1988-10-07 1990-12-04 General Instrument Corporation IPPV programming distribution control system
US4888638A (en) 1988-10-11 1989-12-19 A. C. Nielsen Company System for substituting television programs transmitted via telephone lines
US4975771A (en) * 1989-02-10 1990-12-04 Kassatly Salim A Method and apparatus for TV broadcasting
US5508733A (en) 1988-10-17 1996-04-16 Kassatly; L. Samuel A. Method and apparatus for selectively receiving and storing a plurality of video signals
US5691777A (en) 1988-10-17 1997-11-25 Kassatly; Lord Samuel Anthony Method and apparatus for simultaneous compression of video, audio and data signals
CA2002912A1 (en) 1988-11-14 1990-05-14 William A. Clough Portable computer with touch screen and computer system employing same
US4879736A (en) 1988-11-22 1989-11-07 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft X-ray examination apparatus
US5089956A (en) 1988-11-29 1992-02-18 International Business Machines Corporation Method of distributing related documents to identified end users in an information processing system
US5038402A (en) * 1988-12-06 1991-08-06 General Instrument Corporation Apparatus and method for providing digital audio in the FM broadcast band
NL192712C (en) * 1988-12-08 1997-12-02 Samsung Electronics Co Ltd Video device adapted to display at least one sub-picture in a main picture.
US5159669A (en) 1988-12-15 1992-10-27 Xerox Corporation Automatically creating a second workspace operation record including history data and a unit ID based on a first workspace operation
US5199104A (en) 1988-12-15 1993-03-30 Sony Corporation Electronic organizer with electronic book marker
US5307173A (en) 1988-12-23 1994-04-26 Gemstar Development Corporation Apparatus and method using compressed codes for television program record scheduling
US5077607A (en) * 1988-12-23 1991-12-31 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Cable television transaction terminal
US4994908A (en) 1988-12-23 1991-02-19 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Interactive room status/time information system
USRE36988E (en) * 1988-12-23 2000-12-12 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Terminal authorization method
KR920002049B1 (en) * 1988-12-31 1992-03-10 삼성전자 주식회사 Multi-screen execution method
US4920339A (en) 1989-01-06 1990-04-24 Western Digital Corp. Switchable bus termination and address selector
US5029232A (en) 1989-01-12 1991-07-02 Cycle-Sat., Inc. Satellite communications network
EP0380239A3 (en) * 1989-01-18 1992-04-15 Lotus Development Corporation Search and retrieval system
DE3901790A1 (en) 1989-01-21 1990-07-26 Gfk Gmbh METHOD FOR THE REMOTE CONTROLLED REPLACEMENT OF A PARTICULAR PROGRAM PART OF A TELEVISION PROGRAM BY A SEPARATELY SENT PROGRAM PART FOR SPECIFIC SELECTED RECEIVER, HOUSEHOLD TERMINAL DEVICE AND THROUGH THE DRIVE DRIVE
JPH02200054A (en) * 1989-01-30 1990-08-08 Nippon Telegr & Teleph Corp <Ntt> Center delivery type videotex system
US5054071A (en) * 1989-02-03 1991-10-01 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Volume control for optimum television stereo separation
US5283561A (en) * 1989-02-24 1994-02-01 International Business Machines Corporation Color television window for a video display unit
CA1319762C (en) 1989-02-28 1993-06-29 Elie Cassorla Method for displaying online information
US4985761A (en) 1989-03-02 1991-01-15 Spectradyne, Inc. Current detection circuit and method
EP0461107A4 (en) * 1989-03-09 1992-10-07 Viewfacts, Inc. A system and device for data transmission, and related method
CA2010094A1 (en) 1989-03-09 1990-09-09 Robert R. Butler Binding line book tracking system and method
US5124980A (en) 1989-03-20 1992-06-23 Maki Gerald G Synchronous multiport digital 2-way communications network using T1 PCM on a CATV cable
JPH0322259A (en) 1989-03-22 1991-01-30 Seiko Epson Corp Small-sized data display and reproducing device
JPH078060B2 (en) * 1989-03-28 1995-01-30 松下電器産業株式会社 Remote-controlled electronic device control system
US5239665A (en) * 1989-03-30 1993-08-24 Hiuka Sangyo Kabushiki Kaisha Electronic book having several keys for changing pages and underlining certain portions of text
US4903129A (en) * 1989-04-06 1990-02-20 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Audio signal section apparatus
US5227211A (en) * 1989-04-21 1993-07-13 Hmt Technology Corporation Magnetic recording disk medium comprising a magnetic thin film and a carbon overcoat having surface nitrogen atoms, a specified carbon structure, and oxygen atoms
US4947244A (en) 1989-05-03 1990-08-07 On Command Video Corporation Video selection and distribution system
NL8901133A (en) * 1989-05-03 1990-12-03 Nederland Ptt DATA DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM FOR DISTRIBUTING DATA VIA INFORMATION FREE ZONES IN A TELEVISION SIGNAL TO BE TRANSMITTED BY A TRANSMITTER.
GB8910452D0 (en) 1989-05-06 1989-06-21 Allwood Searle & Timney Friction welding
US5003591A (en) * 1989-05-25 1991-03-26 General Instrument Corporation Functionally modifiable cable television converter system
IL94519A (en) * 1989-06-13 1993-07-08 Tv Answer Int Inc Satellite television communication system for audience polling and processing answers
US5319453A (en) 1989-06-22 1994-06-07 Airtrax Method and apparatus for video signal encoding, decoding and monitoring
US5038211A (en) * 1989-07-05 1991-08-06 The Superguide Corporation Method and apparatus for transmitting and receiving television program information
US5663757A (en) 1989-07-14 1997-09-02 Morales; Fernando Software controlled multi-mode interactive TV systems
JP2906462B2 (en) * 1989-07-18 1999-06-21 ソニー株式会社 Television receiver
USD326446S (en) 1989-07-26 1992-05-26 Wong Curtis G Combined electronic book and CD ROM reader
US5208660A (en) * 1989-07-29 1993-05-04 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Television display apparatus having picture-in-picture display function and the method of operating the same
US5166886A (en) * 1989-07-31 1992-11-24 Molnar Charles E System to demonstrate and sell computer programs
US5231631A (en) 1989-08-15 1993-07-27 At&T Bell Laboratories Arrangement for regulating traffic in a high speed data network
US5167508A (en) 1989-08-21 1992-12-01 Mc Taggart Stephen I Electronic book
US5484292A (en) 1989-08-21 1996-01-16 Mctaggart; Stephen I. Apparatus for combining audio and visual indicia
US4953854A (en) 1989-08-22 1990-09-04 Pizur Sr Stephen J String exerciser
RU2106758C1 (en) * 1989-08-23 1998-03-10 Дельта Бета Пти., Лтд. Method for optimization of program transmission to multiple users, system for optimization of program transmission to multiple users, receiver for program transmitted by system for optimization of program transmission and planning equipment for system for optimization of program transmission
US5421031A (en) * 1989-08-23 1995-05-30 Delta Beta Pty. Ltd. Program transmission optimisation
US5162979A (en) * 1989-10-23 1992-11-10 International Business Machines Corp. Personal computer processor card interconnect system
US5056138A (en) * 1989-09-11 1991-10-08 Nuphase Electronics, Inc. Television selection system
JP2547641B2 (en) 1989-09-27 1996-10-23 三洋電機株式会社 Program reservation device
US5343516A (en) 1989-09-29 1994-08-30 Digital Systems Group, Inc. Computer telecommunications signalling interface
US5049862A (en) 1989-10-06 1991-09-17 Communication Intelligence Corporation ("Cic") Keyless flat panel portable computer--computer aided notebook
US5339239A (en) 1989-10-13 1994-08-16 Mitsubishi Plastics Industries Limited Information collecting and/or service furnishing systems by which a user can request information from a central data base using a portable personal terminal and an access terminal
US5073930A (en) * 1989-10-19 1991-12-17 Green James A Method and system for receiving and distributing satellite transmitted television signals
US5128662A (en) 1989-10-20 1992-07-07 Failla Stephen J Collapsibly segmented display screens for computers or the like
DE3935294A1 (en) 1989-10-24 1991-04-25 Grundig Emv VIDEORECORDER WITH A DEVICE FOR STORING THE CONTENTS OF A TAPE MAGAZINE CONTAINING A VARIETY OF MAGNETIC TAPE CASSETTES
US5241671C1 (en) 1989-10-26 2002-07-02 Encyclopaedia Britannica Educa Multimedia search system using a plurality of entry path means which indicate interrelatedness of information
JPH03141752A (en) 1989-10-27 1991-06-17 Hitachi Ltd Picture signal transmitting method
IT1237668B (en) * 1989-10-31 1993-06-15 Telettra Lab Telefon SYSTEM AND MULTIPLATOR / DEMULTIPLATOR FOR THE TRANSMISSION / RECEPTION OF DIGITAL TELEVISION INFORMATION.
US5318450A (en) 1989-11-22 1994-06-07 Gte California Incorporated Multimedia distribution system for instructional materials
EP0455825B1 (en) 1989-11-28 2000-04-26 Japan Airlines Company, Ltd. Terminal of reserving system and method of operating terminal computer thereof
GB8929152D0 (en) * 1989-12-22 1990-02-28 Gen Electric A digital augmentation system for actv-ii
US5144445A (en) * 1989-12-26 1992-09-01 Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Solid-state image pickup apparatus having a plurality of photoelectric transducers arranged in a matrix
JPH03198119A (en) * 1989-12-27 1991-08-29 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Information processor
US5047887A (en) * 1989-12-28 1991-09-10 Tandy Corporation Method and apparatus for cleaning the tape head and tape path of a video cassette recorder using a wetted cleaning tape
US5218672A (en) 1990-01-19 1993-06-08 Sony Corporation Of America Offline editing system with user interface for controlling edit list generation
JP2822526B2 (en) 1990-01-19 1998-11-11 ソニー株式会社 Personal information processing apparatus and personal information processing method
US5237610A (en) * 1990-02-01 1993-08-17 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Independent external security module for a digitally upgradeable television signal decoder
US5446919A (en) * 1990-02-20 1995-08-29 Wilkins; Jeff K. Communication system and method with demographically or psychographically defined audiences
JP3080382B2 (en) 1990-02-21 2000-08-28 株式会社日立製作所 Cryptographic communication system
US5146552A (en) 1990-02-28 1992-09-08 International Business Machines Corporation Method for associating annotation with electronically published material
US5307481A (en) 1990-02-28 1994-04-26 Hitachi, Ltd. Highly reliable online system
US5251324A (en) 1990-03-20 1993-10-05 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Method and apparatus for generating and collecting viewing statistics for remote terminals in a cable television system
US5255086A (en) 1990-03-20 1993-10-19 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Method and apparatus for RF data transfer in a CATV system
US5351075A (en) * 1990-03-20 1994-09-27 Frederick Herz Home video club television broadcasting system
US5142690A (en) * 1990-03-20 1992-08-25 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Cable television radio frequency data processor
EP0450841B1 (en) 1990-03-29 1996-08-21 Gte Laboratories Incorporated Video control system
US5115426A (en) 1990-03-30 1992-05-19 At&T Bell Laboratories Broadband isdn packet switching arrangements
US5256067A (en) 1990-04-25 1993-10-26 Gildea Patricia M Device and method for optimal reading vocabulary development
US5321846A (en) 1990-04-28 1994-06-14 Sony Corporation Signal transmission system with quicker response and with parallel and serial outputs
US5187735A (en) 1990-05-01 1993-02-16 Tele Guia Talking Yellow Pages, Inc. Integrated voice-mail based voice and information processing system
KR920010811B1 (en) 1990-05-10 1992-12-17 주식회사 금성사 Tv teletext apparatus
US5233333A (en) 1990-05-21 1993-08-03 Borsuk Sherwin M Portable hand held reading unit with reading aid feature
US5257185A (en) 1990-05-21 1993-10-26 Ann W. Farley Interactive, cross-referenced knowledge system
US5640552A (en) * 1990-05-29 1997-06-17 Franklin Electronic Publishers, Incorporated Method and apparatus for providing multi-level searching in an electronic book
USD331760S (en) 1990-05-29 1992-12-15 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Remote control
CA2039652C (en) * 1990-05-30 1996-12-24 Frank Zdybel, Jr. Hardcopy lossless data storage and communications for electronic document processing systems
CA2036205C (en) 1990-06-01 1996-11-19 Russell J. Welsh Program monitoring unit
GB9012326D0 (en) 1990-06-01 1990-07-18 Thomson Consumer Electronics Wide screen television
US5588139A (en) 1990-06-07 1996-12-24 Vpl Research, Inc. Method and system for generating objects for a multi-person virtual world using data flow networks
IL94729A0 (en) 1990-06-13 1991-04-15 Yossef Yomdin Compressed image production,storage transmission and processing
US5260778A (en) * 1990-06-26 1993-11-09 General Instrument Corporation Apparatus for selective distribution of messages over a communications network
US5859594A (en) 1990-06-28 1999-01-12 Motorola, Inc. Selective call receiver having selectable displays
US5161019A (en) * 1990-06-29 1992-11-03 Rca Thomson Licensing Corporation "channel guide" automatically activated by the absence of program information
US5428529A (en) 1990-06-29 1995-06-27 International Business Machines Corporation Structured document tags invoking specialized functions
US5130815A (en) 1990-07-20 1992-07-14 Mti Associates Method and apparatus for encoding a video signal having multi-language capabilities
AU8415891A (en) 1990-07-27 1992-03-02 Harvey M. Ross System and method of manufacturing a single book copy
EP0472070A3 (en) 1990-08-22 1993-06-23 Xerox Corporation Electronic library
JPH04200082A (en) 1990-11-29 1992-07-21 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Teletext broadcast receiver
JP3089479B2 (en) 1990-09-04 2000-09-18 ソニー株式会社 Television image display
US5388196A (en) * 1990-09-07 1995-02-07 Xerox Corporation Hierarchical shared books with database
US5115309A (en) 1990-09-10 1992-05-19 At&T Bell Laboratories Method and apparatus for dynamic channel bandwidth allocation among multiple parallel video coders
CA2499761C (en) * 1990-09-10 2005-11-29 Starsight Telecast, Inc. User interface for television schedule system
US5808608A (en) 1990-09-10 1998-09-15 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Background television schedule system
GB9020082D0 (en) * 1990-09-14 1990-10-24 Crosfield Electronics Ltd Methods and apparatus for defining contours in coloured images
US5319542A (en) 1990-09-27 1994-06-07 International Business Machines Corporation System for ordering items using an electronic catalogue
US5557316A (en) * 1990-09-28 1996-09-17 Ictv, Inc. System for distributing broadcast television services identically on a first bandwidth portion of a plurality of express trunks and interactive services over a second bandwidth portion of each express trunk on a subscriber demand basis
US5526034A (en) * 1990-09-28 1996-06-11 Ictv, Inc. Interactive home information system with signal assignment
US5361091A (en) * 1990-09-28 1994-11-01 Inteletext Systems, Inc. Interactive home information system for distributing video picture information to television viewers over a fiber optic telephone system
US5412720A (en) * 1990-09-28 1995-05-02 Ictv, Inc. Interactive home information system
EP0551433B1 (en) 1990-10-01 2001-05-09 BUSH, Thomas A. Transactional processing system
US5223275A (en) 1990-10-12 1993-06-29 Gellert Jobst U Multi-cavity injection moulding system
US5204947A (en) 1990-10-31 1993-04-20 International Business Machines Corporation Application independent (open) hypermedia enablement services
JPH04180458A (en) * 1990-11-15 1992-06-26 Fuji Xerox Co Ltd Facsimile equipment
IT1241292B (en) 1990-11-22 1993-12-29 Sisvel Spa IMPROVEMENT OF SELECTION OF TELEVISION SIGNALS
US5239540A (en) * 1990-11-27 1993-08-24 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Method and apparatus for transmitting, receiving and communicating digital data signals with corresponding program data signals which describe the digital data signals
US5168372A (en) 1990-11-29 1992-12-01 Sweetser David J Video control system
US5345580A (en) 1990-11-29 1994-09-06 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Microprocessor device and emulator device thereof
JP3181333B2 (en) * 1990-11-30 2001-07-03 株式会社リコー Folding order image forming device
WO1992009948A1 (en) 1990-11-30 1992-06-11 Vpl Research, Inc. Improved method and apparatus for creating virtual worlds
FR2670969B1 (en) 1990-12-19 1993-04-16 France Etat TIME-FREQUENCY DISTRIBUTION DATA TRANSMISSION SYSTEM, WITH CHANNEL STRUCTURING.
US5172413A (en) * 1990-12-20 1992-12-15 Sasktel Secure hierarchial video delivery system and method
US5565999A (en) * 1990-12-21 1996-10-15 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Image data communication processing method, and apparatus therefor
EP0516828B1 (en) * 1990-12-21 1997-07-16 Gte Service Corporation Method for providing video programming nearly on demand
US5383112A (en) 1991-01-07 1995-01-17 Gte Service Corporation Inventory management method
US5311423A (en) * 1991-01-07 1994-05-10 Gte Service Corporation Schedule management method
US5253275A (en) * 1991-01-07 1993-10-12 H. Lee Browne Audio and video transmission and receiving system
US5367643A (en) 1991-02-06 1994-11-22 International Business Machines Corporation Generic high bandwidth adapter having data packet memory configured in three level hierarchy for temporary storage of variable length data packets
JP3198119B2 (en) 1991-02-18 2001-08-13 株式会社ブリヂストン Rubber Crawler Structure
US5285272A (en) * 1991-02-26 1994-02-08 Sasktel Video store and forward on demand apparatus and method
US5253341A (en) * 1991-03-04 1993-10-12 Rozmanith Anthony I Remote query communication system
US5241428A (en) 1991-03-12 1993-08-31 Goldwasser Eric P Variable-delay video recorder
CN1066359A (en) * 1991-03-19 1992-11-18 亚特兰大科研公司 Produce and collect the method and apparatus of cable television system medium-long range terminal viewership statistics
US5220649A (en) 1991-03-20 1993-06-15 Forcier Mitchell D Script/binary-encoded-character processing method and system with moving space insertion mode
US5270809A (en) 1991-03-29 1993-12-14 Scientific-Atlanta Data return for a television transmission system
CA2041210C (en) * 1991-04-25 1998-12-29 Michel Dufresne Television audience data gathering
US5192999A (en) * 1991-04-25 1993-03-09 Compuadd Corporation Multipurpose computerized television
CA2064508A1 (en) * 1991-04-26 1992-10-27 John D. Gerlach, Jr. Methods and apparatus providing for a multimedia authoring and presentation system
IT1254937B (en) * 1991-05-06 1995-10-11 DYNAMIC UPDATE OF NON-VOLATILE MEMORY IN A COMPUTER SYSTEM
US5764276A (en) 1991-05-13 1998-06-09 Interactive Pictures Corporation Method and apparatus for providing perceived video viewing experiences using still images
US5185667A (en) 1991-05-13 1993-02-09 Telerobotics International, Inc. Omniview motionless camera orientation system
US5384588A (en) 1991-05-13 1995-01-24 Telerobotics International, Inc. System for omindirectional image viewing at a remote location without the transmission of control signals to select viewing parameters
US5903319A (en) 1991-05-13 1999-05-11 Interactive Pictures Corporation Method for eliminating temporal and spacial distortion from interlaced video signals
JP2938611B2 (en) * 1991-05-14 1999-08-23 富士通株式会社 TV signal exchange system
US5479508A (en) 1991-05-22 1995-12-26 Zenith Electronics Corp. Method of operating a pay per view television system
US5251909A (en) * 1991-05-28 1993-10-12 Reed Michael J Secured high throughput data channel for public broadcast system
FR2677166B1 (en) 1991-05-30 1993-08-06 Alsthom Gec METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A CONTACT TULIP AND CONTACT TULIP CARRIED OUT ACCORDING TO THE METHOD.
US5151785A (en) * 1991-06-04 1992-09-29 Zenith Electronics Corporation HDTV transmission system with reduced susceptibility to NTSC cochannel interference
JP3129762B2 (en) 1991-06-06 2001-01-31 シャープ株式会社 Small information terminal
US5237614A (en) * 1991-06-07 1993-08-17 Security Dynamics Technologies, Inc. Integrated network security system
CA2044574A1 (en) * 1991-06-13 1992-12-14 Frederick James Anderson Information distribution through a communication subscription system utilizing an interactive storage and retrieval device
US5236199A (en) 1991-06-13 1993-08-17 Thompson Jr John W Interactive media system and telecomputing method using telephone keypad signalling
US5387941A (en) * 1991-06-14 1995-02-07 Wavephore, Inc. Data with video transmitter
US5805677A (en) 1991-07-11 1998-09-08 Sbc Technology Resources, Inc. Apparatus for facilitating the display of information relating to the origin of a third source caller
JP3308562B2 (en) * 1991-07-15 2002-07-29 株式会社日立製作所 Video conference terminal
CA2048039A1 (en) 1991-07-19 1993-01-20 Steven Derose Data processing system and method for generating a representation for and random access rendering of electronic documents
US5367330A (en) 1991-08-01 1994-11-22 Luther Haave Pay-per-view television delivery system
US5210611A (en) 1991-08-12 1993-05-11 Keen Y. Yee Automatic tuning radio/TV using filtered seek
US5488409A (en) 1991-08-19 1996-01-30 Yuen; Henry C. Apparatus and method for tracking the playing of VCR programs
US5367621A (en) 1991-09-06 1994-11-22 International Business Machines Corporation Data processing method to provide a generalized link from a reference point in an on-line book to an arbitrary multimedia object which can be dynamically updated
WO1993005593A1 (en) * 1991-09-10 1993-03-18 Hybrid Networks, Inc. Remote link adapter for use in tv broadcast data transmission system
JPH0575944A (en) * 1991-09-10 1993-03-26 Sony Corp Television receiver
US5528281A (en) 1991-09-27 1996-06-18 Bell Atlantic Network Services Method and system for accessing multimedia data over public switched telephone network
US5396546A (en) * 1991-10-03 1995-03-07 Viscorp Apparatus and method for automatic and user configurable information appliance
US5231494A (en) * 1991-10-08 1993-07-27 General Instrument Corporation Selection of compressed television signals from single channel allocation based on viewer characteristics
US5173051B1 (en) 1991-10-15 1997-06-10 Optical Data Corp Curriculum planning and publishing method
US5524193A (en) 1991-10-15 1996-06-04 And Communications Interactive multimedia annotation method and apparatus
US5235419A (en) 1991-10-24 1993-08-10 General Instrument Corporation Adaptive motion compensation using a plurality of motion compensators
US5350303A (en) 1991-10-24 1994-09-27 At&T Bell Laboratories Method for accessing information in a computer
US5404505A (en) * 1991-11-01 1995-04-04 Finisar Corporation System for scheduling transmission of indexed and requested database tiers on demand at varying repetition rates
US5315711A (en) 1991-11-01 1994-05-24 Unisys Corporation Method and apparatus for remotely and centrally controlling a plurality of host processors
US5195022A (en) 1991-11-01 1993-03-16 Hewlett-Packard Company Removable mass storage module for computer systems
US5734823A (en) 1991-11-04 1998-03-31 Microtome, Inc. Systems and apparatus for electronic communication and storage of information
WO1993009490A1 (en) 1991-11-04 1993-05-13 Vpr Systems Ltd. Lap-top computer for retrieving and displaying text and graphic information encoded on personal library cd-rom
US5428372A (en) 1991-11-06 1995-06-27 Ricoh Company, Ltd. Multiple-use thermal image transfer recording method
US5632022A (en) 1991-11-13 1997-05-20 The United States Of America As Represented By The Administrator Of The National Aeronautics And Space Administration Encyclopedia of software components
GB9124337D0 (en) 1991-11-15 1992-01-08 Philips Electronic Associated Method of storing user information items and apparatus for reproducing stored items
JPH05143476A (en) 1991-11-20 1993-06-11 Fujitsu Ltd Diagnostic system for instruction queue
JP3120085B2 (en) 1991-11-21 2000-12-25 株式会社セガ Electronic devices and information carriers
US20010013123A1 (en) 1991-11-25 2001-08-09 Freeman Michael J. Customized program creation by splicing server based video, audio, or graphical segments
US20040261127A1 (en) * 1991-11-25 2004-12-23 Actv, Inc. Digital interactive system for providing full interactivity with programming events
US5724091A (en) 1991-11-25 1998-03-03 Actv, Inc. Compressed digital data interactive program system
US5497187A (en) 1991-11-29 1996-03-05 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. In-band/out-of-band data transmission method and apparatus for a television system
US5247364A (en) 1991-11-29 1993-09-21 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Method and apparatus for tuning data channels in a subscription television system having in-band data transmissions
US5317391A (en) 1991-11-29 1994-05-31 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Method and apparatus for providing message information to subscribers in a cable television system
US5477262A (en) 1991-11-29 1995-12-19 Scientific-Altanta, Inc. Method and apparatus for providing an on-screen user interface for a subscription television terminal
US5335313A (en) * 1991-12-03 1994-08-02 Douglas Terry L Voice-actuated, speaker-dependent control system for hospital bed
JP2793399B2 (en) 1991-12-09 1998-09-03 日本電気株式会社 Buffer device
MY111174A (en) 1991-12-13 1999-09-30 Thomson Consumer Electronics Inc On/off control of a cable converter unit by a vcr
US5319649A (en) 1991-12-27 1994-06-07 Comstream Corporation Transmission systems and decoders therefor
GB9200281D0 (en) * 1992-01-08 1992-02-26 Thomson Consumer Electronics A pip horizontal panning circuit for wide screen television
US5689648A (en) 1992-01-31 1997-11-18 Raychem Corporation Method and apparatus for publication of information
US5953485A (en) 1992-02-07 1999-09-14 Abecassis; Max Method and system for maintaining audio during video control
US5390348A (en) * 1992-02-12 1995-02-14 Creative Digital Inc. System for tracking and correcting drift and dispersion in satellite transmission signals
JP3299771B2 (en) 1992-02-18 2002-07-08 パイオニア株式会社 Teletext receiver
US5495581A (en) 1992-02-25 1996-02-27 Tsai; Irving Method and apparatus for linking a document with associated reference information using pattern matching
US5446891A (en) 1992-02-26 1995-08-29 International Business Machines Corporation System for adjusting hypertext links with weighed user goals and activities
JPH05250106A (en) * 1992-03-04 1993-09-28 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Cd-rom retrieving device
US5418957A (en) 1992-03-09 1995-05-23 Narayan; Rom Network data dictionary
US5432561A (en) * 1992-03-27 1995-07-11 North American Philips Corporation System for automatically activating picture-in-picture when an auxiliary signal is detected
US5444853A (en) 1992-03-31 1995-08-22 Seiko Epson Corporation System and method for transferring data between a plurality of virtual FIFO's and a peripheral via a hardware FIFO and selectively updating control information associated with the virtual FIFO's
DE4212184A1 (en) 1992-04-10 1993-10-14 Bosch Gmbh Robert Hydraulic control unit for double acting working cylinder esp. in vehicle steering unit - controls both working volumes by one 4/3-way valve with hydraulic shut off valve connected between each working vol. and 4/3-way valve
US5528490A (en) 1992-04-10 1996-06-18 Charles E. Hill & Associates, Inc. Electronic catalog system and method
JP2659896B2 (en) * 1992-04-29 1997-09-30 インターナショナル・ビジネス・マシーンズ・コーポレイション Structured document copy management method and structured document copy management device
US5262875A (en) 1992-04-30 1993-11-16 Instant Video Technologies, Inc. Audio/video file server including decompression/playback means
CA2257658C (en) 1992-05-08 2000-09-12 Joseph S. Nadan Restricted information distribution system apparatus and methods
US5371532A (en) 1992-05-15 1994-12-06 Bell Communications Research, Inc. Communications architecture and method for distributing information services
EP0570785B1 (en) * 1992-05-19 1997-10-01 THOMSON multimedia Method and apparatus for device control by data transmission in TV lines
US5469206A (en) * 1992-05-27 1995-11-21 Philips Electronics North America Corporation System and method for automatically correlating user preferences with electronic shopping information
JP2986613B2 (en) * 1992-05-27 1999-12-06 株式会社日立製作所 Optical transmission module
US5291554A (en) 1992-05-28 1994-03-01 Tv Answer, Inc. Shared-price custom video rentals via interactive TV
JPH05334167A (en) * 1992-05-28 1993-12-17 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Network file system managing device
US5375068A (en) * 1992-06-03 1994-12-20 Digital Equipment Corporation Video teleconferencing for networked workstations
US5703965A (en) 1992-06-05 1997-12-30 The Regents Of The University Of California Image compression/decompression based on mathematical transform, reduction/expansion, and image sharpening
US5311325A (en) 1992-06-10 1994-05-10 Scientific Atlanta, Inc. Method and apparatus for providing periodic subscription television services
US5689663A (en) * 1992-06-19 1997-11-18 Microsoft Corporation Remote controller user interface and methods relating thereto
US5838368A (en) 1992-06-22 1998-11-17 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Remote camera control system with compensation for signal transmission delay
US5835732A (en) 1993-10-28 1998-11-10 Elonex Ip Holdings, Ltd. Miniature digital assistant having enhanced host communication
JPH0619978A (en) 1992-06-30 1994-01-28 Sony Corp Reproducing and display device
CA2139861A1 (en) 1992-07-08 1994-01-20 Bernard J. Craig Media server for supplying video and multi-media data over the public telephone switched network
US5222136A (en) 1992-07-23 1993-06-22 Crest Industries, Inc. Encrypted communication system
JP3114375B2 (en) 1992-07-24 2000-12-04 松下電器産業株式会社 Liquid fuel supply device
JPH0646419A (en) 1992-07-27 1994-02-18 Lsi Japan Kk Tv charging system
DE69333831T2 (en) 1992-08-06 2005-11-10 Fujitsu Ltd., Kawasaki Terminal for transaction processing system using teletext transmission
JPH0668339A (en) * 1992-08-19 1994-03-11 Oki Electric Ind Co Ltd Electronic journal system
US5502576A (en) * 1992-08-24 1996-03-26 Ramsay International Corporation Method and apparatus for the transmission, storage, and retrieval of documents in an electronic domain
JP3579061B2 (en) 1992-08-31 2004-10-20 株式会社東芝 Display device
EP0586954B1 (en) 1992-09-11 2004-11-03 Siemens Information & Communication Networks, Inc. Techniques for producing PC displays and printed transcripts from voicemail messages
US5383044B1 (en) 1992-09-18 1998-09-01 Recoton Corp Systems methods and apparatus for transmitting radio frequency remote control signals
USD362429S (en) * 1992-09-18 1995-09-19 Booklink Corporation Electronic book library for storing digitized computer readable material
WO1994007327A1 (en) 1992-09-21 1994-03-31 Rolm Company Method and apparatus for on-screen camera control in video-conference equipment
US5586235A (en) 1992-09-25 1996-12-17 Kauffman; Ivan J. Interactive multimedia system and method
US5739814A (en) 1992-09-28 1998-04-14 Sega Enterprises Information storage system and book device for providing information in response to the user specification
US5799071A (en) 1992-10-05 1998-08-25 Azar; Sanjar Telecommunications cost-minimizing system
KR960010469B1 (en) * 1992-10-07 1996-08-01 대우전자 주식회사 Digital hdtv having pip function
FR2696890B1 (en) 1992-10-08 1994-11-04 Alcatel Espace Data transmission system in a satellite.
US5420974A (en) 1992-10-15 1995-05-30 International Business Machines Corporation Multimedia complex form creation, display and editing method apparatus
US5446490A (en) * 1992-10-23 1995-08-29 At&T Corp. Interactive television with tailored programming
US5418559A (en) 1992-10-23 1995-05-23 At&T Corp. Multi-channel television converter for conventional and interactive signals
US5388101A (en) 1992-10-26 1995-02-07 Eon Corporation Interactive nationwide data service communication system for stationary and mobile battery operated subscriber units
US5742329A (en) 1992-10-26 1998-04-21 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Image pickup system and communication system for use in video conference system or the like
US5400401A (en) * 1992-10-30 1995-03-21 Scientific Atlanta, Inc. System and method for transmitting a plurality of digital services
US5359601A (en) 1992-10-30 1994-10-25 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Apparatus providing dynamic virtual service selection in a multi-service communications system
US5319707A (en) * 1992-11-02 1994-06-07 Scientific Atlanta System and method for multiplexing a plurality of digital program services for transmission to remote locations
US5539871A (en) * 1992-11-02 1996-07-23 International Business Machines Corporation Method and system for accessing associated data sets in a multimedia environment in a data processing system
USD346620S (en) 1992-11-04 1994-05-03 Mcsorley Jeffrey E Electronic book for displaying sheet music
US5537153A (en) * 1992-11-16 1996-07-16 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Television signal transmission and reception system with multi-screen display for tuning operation
US5398074A (en) * 1992-11-24 1995-03-14 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Programmable picture-outside-picture display
US5367571A (en) * 1992-12-02 1994-11-22 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Subscriber terminal with plug in expansion card
EP0820008A3 (en) 1992-12-01 2006-05-24 Microsoft Corporation A method and system for in-place interaction with embedded objects
US5657414A (en) * 1992-12-01 1997-08-12 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Auxiliary device control for a subscriber terminal
US5440632A (en) * 1992-12-02 1995-08-08 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Reprogrammable subscriber terminal
US5341425A (en) 1992-12-02 1994-08-23 Scientific Atlanta, Inc. Methods and apparatus for uniquely encrypting data at a plurality of data transmission sites for transmission to a reception site
US6463585B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2002-10-08 Discovery Communications, Inc. Targeted advertisement using television delivery systems
US5659350A (en) 1992-12-09 1997-08-19 Discovery Communications, Inc. Operations center for a television program packaging and delivery system
US7835989B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2010-11-16 Discovery Communications, Inc. Electronic book alternative delivery systems
US5600573A (en) * 1992-12-09 1997-02-04 Discovery Communications, Inc. Operations center with video storage for a television program packaging and delivery system
US5986690A (en) 1992-12-09 1999-11-16 Discovery Communications, Inc. Electronic book selection and delivery system
US5798785A (en) 1992-12-09 1998-08-25 Discovery Communications, Inc. Terminal for suggesting programs offered on a television program delivery system
JP3807679B2 (en) 1992-12-09 2006-08-09 セドナ・パテント・サービシズ・エルエルシー Digital cable headend for cable TV distribution system
US6201536B1 (en) 1992-12-09 2001-03-13 Discovery Communications, Inc. Network manager for cable television system headends
US5600364A (en) 1992-12-09 1997-02-04 Discovery Communications, Inc. Network controller for cable television delivery systems
US5483277A (en) * 1992-12-15 1996-01-09 Alcatel Network Systems Simplified set-top converter for broadband switched network
US5341426A (en) 1992-12-15 1994-08-23 Motorola, Inc. Cryptographic key management apparatus and method
US5465401A (en) 1992-12-15 1995-11-07 Texas Instruments Incorporated Communication system and methods for enhanced information transfer
US5392387A (en) 1992-12-17 1995-02-21 International Business Machines Corporation Method and system for enhanced data access efficiency in an electronic book
JP3360856B2 (en) 1992-12-18 2003-01-07 富士通株式会社 Processor
US5389964A (en) 1992-12-30 1995-02-14 Information Resources, Inc. Broadcast channel substitution method and apparatus
TW234223B (en) 1993-01-05 1994-11-11 Yuen Henry C
US5544320A (en) 1993-01-08 1996-08-06 Konrad; Allan M. Remote information service access system based on a client-server-service model
US5323249A (en) * 1993-01-12 1994-06-21 E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company Method for reproducing color images having one color gamut with a device having a different color gamut
US5349638A (en) * 1993-01-25 1994-09-20 Micro-Technology Inc.-Wisconsin Universal calling/originating number identification
US5890122A (en) 1993-02-08 1999-03-30 Microsoft Corporation Voice-controlled computer simulateously displaying application menu and list of available commands
US5491821A (en) 1993-02-24 1996-02-13 International Business Machines Corporation Method and system for incremental processing of computer objects
JPH06250895A (en) 1993-02-26 1994-09-09 Fujitsu Ltd Structured data base system
GB9303998D0 (en) 1993-02-26 1993-04-14 Chater Ian Introduction system
JPH06337896A (en) * 1993-03-31 1994-12-06 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Device and method for retrieving electronic book display
US5426594A (en) 1993-04-02 1995-06-20 Motorola, Inc. Electronic greeting card store and communication system
JPH06303607A (en) 1993-04-15 1994-10-28 Canon Inc Video conference system and its control method
US5437052A (en) * 1993-04-16 1995-07-25 Conifer Corporation MMDS over-the-air bi-directional TV/data transmission system and method therefor
CA2121151A1 (en) 1993-04-16 1994-10-17 Trevor Lambert Method and apparatus for automatic insertion of a television signal from a remote source
JPH06311119A (en) 1993-04-20 1994-11-04 Sony Corp Data broadcasting system
US5408258A (en) 1993-04-21 1995-04-18 The Arbitron Company Method of automatically qualifying a signal reproduction device for installation of monitoring equipment
USD349923S (en) 1993-04-26 1994-08-23 Western Publishing Company, Inc. Electronic book
TW318315B (en) 1993-05-03 1997-10-21 At & T Corp
US5539449A (en) * 1993-05-03 1996-07-23 At&T Corp. Integrated television services system
US5565908A (en) 1993-05-07 1996-10-15 Kayon Systems, Inc. Bi-directional system for providing information, management, and entertainment services
JP3343990B2 (en) 1993-05-19 2002-11-11 ソニー株式会社 Magnetic disk drive
US5524195A (en) 1993-05-24 1996-06-04 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Graphical user interface for interactive television with an animated agent
US5375160A (en) 1993-05-28 1994-12-20 Ledler Corporation Interface apparatus for effecting captioning and communications between a telephone line and a television
US5486278A (en) 1993-06-02 1996-01-23 Moltech Invent S.A. Treating prebaked carbon components for aluminum production, the treated components thereof, and the components use in an electrolytic cell
US5365434A (en) 1993-06-04 1994-11-15 Carolyn E. Carlson Book enhancer
US5579055A (en) 1993-06-07 1996-11-26 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Electronic program guide and text channel data controller
US5485221A (en) 1993-06-07 1996-01-16 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Subscription television system and terminal for enabling simultaneous display of multiple services
JPH08511390A (en) 1993-06-07 1996-11-26 サイエンティフィック−アトランタ・インコーポレーテッド Display system for subscriber terminals
TW235358B (en) 1993-06-11 1994-12-01 Philips Electronics Nv CD-I pointer device with 8 directions, 1 pixel/update
US5408465A (en) 1993-06-21 1995-04-18 Hewlett-Packard Company Flexible scheme for admission control of multimedia streams on integrated networks
US5583560A (en) * 1993-06-22 1996-12-10 Apple Computer, Inc. Method and apparatus for audio-visual interface for the selective display of listing information on a display
US5621456A (en) * 1993-06-22 1997-04-15 Apple Computer, Inc. Methods and apparatus for audio-visual interface for the display of multiple program categories
US5594509A (en) 1993-06-22 1997-01-14 Apple Computer, Inc. Method and apparatus for audio-visual interface for the display of multiple levels of information on a display
US5544342A (en) 1993-06-30 1996-08-06 International Business Machines Corporation System and method for prefetching information in a processing system
EP0632397A3 (en) 1993-07-02 1995-08-16 Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Book data service system with data delivery by broadcasting.
US5414455A (en) 1993-07-07 1995-05-09 Digital Equipment Corporation Segmented video on demand system
US5329590A (en) * 1993-07-08 1994-07-12 Uniden America Corporation Automatic pay-per-view reception in a satellite receiver
US5469431A (en) 1993-07-12 1995-11-21 Philips Electronics North America Corp. Method of and apparatus for channel mapping with relative service identification
US5621658A (en) * 1993-07-13 1997-04-15 International Business Machines Corporation Method and apparatus for communicating an electronic action from a data processing system to another data processing system via an audio device
US5481296A (en) * 1993-08-06 1996-01-02 International Business Machines Corporation Apparatus and method for selectively viewing video information
US5437552A (en) 1993-08-13 1995-08-01 Western Publishing Co., Inc. Interactive audio-visual work
IL106746A (en) 1993-08-19 1997-02-18 News Datacom Ltd CATV systems
US5442626A (en) * 1993-08-24 1995-08-15 At&T Corp. Digital communications system with symbol multiplexers
US5666493A (en) 1993-08-24 1997-09-09 Lykes Bros., Inc. System for managing customer orders and method of implementation
US5581560A (en) 1993-08-27 1996-12-03 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Communication apparatus and method for simultaneous communication of audio and data signals with improved audio control
US5377258A (en) 1993-08-30 1994-12-27 National Medical Research Council Method and apparatus for an automated and interactive behavioral guidance system
JPH0764893A (en) * 1993-08-31 1995-03-10 Canon Inc Network system
FI97517C (en) 1993-09-06 1996-12-27 Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd Packet data transmission in a digital cellular network
US6418556B1 (en) * 1993-09-09 2002-07-09 United Video Properties, Inc. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method
US5589892A (en) 1993-09-09 1996-12-31 Knee; Robert A. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method with data feed access
US5499330A (en) 1993-09-17 1996-03-12 Digital Equipment Corp. Document display system for organizing and displaying documents as screen objects organized along strand paths
JP2781345B2 (en) 1993-09-20 1998-07-30 松下電器産業株式会社 Information playback device
WO1995008894A1 (en) 1993-09-20 1995-03-30 Motorola, Inc. Method and apparatus for trunked telephone access to a cable network
US5491785A (en) 1993-09-30 1996-02-13 Hewlett-Packard Company Information retrieval device for displaying and directly refreshing the display of a dynamically modifiable document
US5689641A (en) 1993-10-01 1997-11-18 Vicor, Inc. Multimedia collaboration system arrangement for routing compressed AV signal through a participant site without decompressing the AV signal
US5638426A (en) * 1993-10-12 1997-06-10 Multimedia Systems Corporation Interactive system for a closed cable network
JPH07175868A (en) 1993-10-15 1995-07-14 Internatl Business Mach Corp <Ibm> Method and system for output of digital information to medium
CA2174336A1 (en) 1993-10-20 1995-04-27 Leo M. Cortjens Adaptive videoconferencing system
US5572625A (en) 1993-10-22 1996-11-05 Cornell Research Foundation, Inc. Method for generating audio renderings of digitized works having highly technical content
US5426699A (en) 1993-10-25 1995-06-20 Antec Corporation Method and apparatus for digitizing a scrambled analog video signal
US5631693A (en) 1993-10-25 1997-05-20 Antec Corporation Method and apparatus for providing on demand services in a subscriber system
EP0836192A1 (en) 1993-10-29 1998-04-15 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Multi-scene recording medium and method and apparatus for reproducing data therefrom
JPH07177277A (en) 1993-11-02 1995-07-14 Ricoh Co Ltd Image document circulation device
US5524201A (en) * 1993-11-03 1996-06-04 Apple Computer, Inc. Method of preparing an electronic book for a computer system
US6243071B1 (en) * 1993-11-03 2001-06-05 Apple Computer, Inc. Tool set for navigating through an electronic book
US5771354A (en) * 1993-11-04 1998-06-23 Crawford; Christopher M. Internet online backup system provides remote storage for customers using IDs and passwords which were interactively established when signing up for backup services
US5481542A (en) * 1993-11-10 1996-01-02 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Interactive information services control system
US5524110A (en) 1993-11-24 1996-06-04 Intel Corporation Conferencing over multiple transports
US5490247A (en) 1993-11-24 1996-02-06 Intel Corporation Video subsystem for computer-based conferencing system
US5473362A (en) * 1993-11-30 1995-12-05 Microsoft Corporation Video on demand system comprising stripped data across plural storable devices with time multiplex scheduling
CA2459063A1 (en) 1993-12-02 1995-06-08 Discovery Communications, Inc. Electronic book menu system and method
JP3237362B2 (en) 1993-12-27 2001-12-10 松下電器産業株式会社 Program guide display device
US5594493A (en) 1994-01-19 1997-01-14 Nemirofsky; Frank R. Television signal activated interactive smart card system
US5880769A (en) 1994-01-19 1999-03-09 Smarttv Co. Interactive smart card system for integrating the provision of remote and local services
US5509074A (en) 1994-01-27 1996-04-16 At&T Corp. Method of protecting electronically published materials using cryptographic protocols
US5534888A (en) * 1994-02-03 1996-07-09 Motorola Electronic book
US5466158A (en) 1994-02-14 1995-11-14 Smith, Iii; Jay Interactive book device
US6298441B1 (en) 1994-03-10 2001-10-02 News Datacom Ltd. Secure document access system
TW236744B (en) 1994-03-23 1994-12-21 Thomson Consumer Electronics
US5598523A (en) 1994-03-31 1997-01-28 Panasonic Technologies, Inc. Method and system for displayed menu activation using a matching distinctive arrangement of keypad actuators
US5500794A (en) 1994-03-31 1996-03-19 Panasonic Technologies, Inc. Distribution system and method for menu-driven user interface
US5602596A (en) 1994-04-08 1997-02-11 U S West Technologies, Inc. Method for navigating a complex multimedia structure at an interactive user station
US5537141A (en) 1994-04-15 1996-07-16 Actv, Inc. Distance learning system providing individual television participation, audio responses and memory for every student
US5768521A (en) 1994-05-16 1998-06-16 Intel Corporation General purpose metering mechanism for distribution of electronic information
US5630125A (en) 1994-05-23 1997-05-13 Zellweger; Paul Method and apparatus for information management using an open hierarchical data structure
US5521631A (en) 1994-05-25 1996-05-28 Spectravision, Inc. Interactive digital video services system with store and forward capabilities
US5477263A (en) * 1994-05-26 1995-12-19 Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. Method and apparatus for video on demand with fast forward, reverse and channel pause
US5818511A (en) 1994-05-27 1998-10-06 Bell Atlantic Full service network
WO1995034170A1 (en) 1994-06-08 1995-12-14 Futurevision Of America Corp. Interactive broadband multimedia system
US5425102A (en) 1994-06-09 1995-06-13 Datasonix Corporation Computer security apparatus with password hints
US5475682A (en) 1994-06-10 1995-12-12 At&T Corp. Method of regulating backpressure traffic in a packet switched network
US5526469A (en) 1994-06-14 1996-06-11 Xerox Corporation System for printing image data in a versatile print server
JPH088853A (en) 1994-06-24 1996-01-12 Sony Corp Scrambling device and descrambling device
US5787171A (en) 1994-06-28 1998-07-28 Sony Corporation Data transmitter and receiver
US5453796A (en) 1994-06-28 1995-09-26 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Signal swap apparatus for a television receiver having an HDTV main picture signal processor and an NTSC Pix-in-Pix signal processor
US5624265A (en) 1994-07-01 1997-04-29 Tv Interactive Data Corporation Printed publication remote contol for accessing interactive media
US5555441A (en) 1994-08-02 1996-09-10 Interim Design Inc. Interactive audiovisual distribution system
US5640193A (en) 1994-08-15 1997-06-17 Lucent Technologies Inc. Multimedia service access by reading marks on an object
US5600775A (en) 1994-08-26 1997-02-04 Emotion, Inc. Method and apparatus for annotating full motion video and other indexed data structures
US5515098A (en) 1994-09-08 1996-05-07 Carles; John B. System and method for selectively distributing commercial messages over a communications network
US5586264A (en) 1994-09-08 1996-12-17 Ibm Corporation Video optimized media streamer with cache management
US5682325A (en) 1994-09-12 1997-10-28 Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. Level 1 gateway for video tone networks
EP0701220B1 (en) * 1994-09-12 2001-07-04 Adobe Systems Inc. Method and apparatus for viewing electronic documents
US5604824A (en) 1994-09-22 1997-02-18 Houston Advanced Research Center Method and apparatus for compression and decompression of documents and the like using splines and spline-wavelets
US5715314A (en) 1994-10-24 1998-02-03 Open Market, Inc. Network sales system
US5608449A (en) 1994-10-31 1997-03-04 Rtc Industries, Inc. Wireless interactive consumer video system
WO1996015517A2 (en) 1994-11-02 1996-05-23 Visible Interactive Corporation Interactive personal interpretive device and system for retrieving information about a plurality of objects
US5724521A (en) 1994-11-03 1998-03-03 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for providing electronic advertisements to end users in a consumer best-fit pricing manner
US5600368A (en) 1994-11-09 1997-02-04 Microsoft Corporation Interactive television system and method for viewer control of multiple camera viewpoints in broadcast programming
US5727065A (en) 1994-11-14 1998-03-10 Hughes Electronics Deferred billing, broadcast, electronic document distribution system and method
US7613659B1 (en) 1994-11-28 2009-11-03 Yt Acquisition Corporation System and method for processing tokenless biometric electronic transmissions using an electronic rule module clearinghouse
US6460036B1 (en) 1994-11-29 2002-10-01 Pinpoint Incorporated System and method for providing customized electronic newspapers and target advertisements
US5629733A (en) 1994-11-29 1997-05-13 News America Publications, Inc. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method with display and search of program listings by title
US5758257A (en) 1994-11-29 1998-05-26 Herz; Frederick System and method for scheduling broadcast of and access to video programs and other data using customer profiles
US5799157A (en) 1994-12-13 1998-08-25 Elcom Systems, Inc. System and method for creating interactive electronic systems to present information and execute transactions
US5774170A (en) 1994-12-13 1998-06-30 Hite; Kenneth C. System and method for delivering targeted advertisements to consumers
US5512934A (en) 1994-12-29 1996-04-30 At&T Corp. System and method for transmission of programming on demand
US5754172A (en) 1995-01-09 1998-05-19 Sony Corporation Information display method
US5892900A (en) 1996-08-30 1999-04-06 Intertrust Technologies Corp. Systems and methods for secure transaction management and electronic rights protection
US5517502A (en) 1995-03-02 1996-05-14 Zenith Electronics Corp. Upstream transmission using multiple transmission tags and downstream acknowledgements in conditional access packets
US5696906A (en) 1995-03-09 1997-12-09 Continental Cablevision, Inc. Telecommunicaion user account management system and method
US5635918A (en) 1995-03-16 1997-06-03 Motorola, Inc. Method and apparatus for controlling message delivery to wireless receiver devices
US5630103A (en) 1995-03-20 1997-05-13 Smith; Patrick C. Radio transmission system for distribution of newspaper copy in computer format to personal computers for viewing
US7116357B1 (en) 1995-03-20 2006-10-03 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Camera monitoring system
US5729471A (en) 1995-03-31 1998-03-17 The Regents Of The University Of California Machine dynamic selection of one video camera/image of a scene from multiple video cameras/images of the scene in accordance with a particular perspective on the scene, an object in the scene, or an event in the scene
EP0827385B1 (en) * 1995-04-21 2000-10-18 Gerd Werding Nail for maintaining the location and shape of broken long bones
US5621793A (en) 1995-05-05 1997-04-15 Rubin, Bednarek & Associates, Inc. TV set top box using GPS
US5721832A (en) 1995-05-12 1998-02-24 Regal Greetings & Gifts Inc. Method and apparatus for an interactive computerized catalog system
US5721956A (en) 1995-05-15 1998-02-24 Lucent Technologies Inc. Method and apparatus for selective buffering of pages to provide continuous media data to multiple users
US5721908A (en) 1995-06-07 1998-02-24 International Business Machines Corporation Computer network for WWW server data access over internet
US5740549A (en) 1995-06-12 1998-04-14 Pointcast, Inc. Information and advertising distribution system and method
US5818441A (en) 1995-06-15 1998-10-06 Intel Corporation System and method for simulating two-way connectivity for one way data streams
DE29510170U1 (en) 1995-06-22 1995-11-30 Siemens Ag Pen-oriented small calculator in the form of a notepad
US6138147A (en) 1995-07-14 2000-10-24 Oracle Corporation Method and apparatus for implementing seamless playback of continuous media feeds
US6119154A (en) 1995-07-14 2000-09-12 Oracle Corporation Method and apparatus for non-sequential access to an in-progress video feed
US5675390A (en) 1995-07-17 1997-10-07 Gateway 2000, Inc. Home entertainment system combining complex processor capability with a high quality display
US5710887A (en) 1995-08-29 1998-01-20 Broadvision Computer system and method for electronic commerce
JP3441306B2 (en) 1995-09-12 2003-09-02 株式会社東芝 Client device, message transmission method, server device, page processing method, and relay server device
US5844600A (en) 1995-09-15 1998-12-01 General Datacomm, Inc. Methods, apparatus, and systems for transporting multimedia conference data streams through a transport network
US5745556A (en) 1995-09-22 1998-04-28 At&T Corp. Interactive and information data services telephone billing system
WO1997012328A1 (en) 1995-09-25 1997-04-03 Adobe Systems Incorporated Optimum access to electronic documents
US5682206A (en) 1995-09-25 1997-10-28 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Consumer interface for programming device
DE69529071T2 (en) 1995-09-29 2003-08-21 Hewlett Packard Co Flying over electronically stored information
EP2282541A3 (en) 1995-10-02 2012-10-03 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Systems and methods for providing television schedule information
JP3029456U (en) 1995-10-13 1996-10-01 由美子 中島 Sound field controller
US5788504A (en) 1995-10-16 1998-08-04 Brookhaven Science Associates Llc Computerized training management system
US5929932A (en) 1995-10-24 1999-07-27 Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Program guide display controller at user terminal of television broadcasting system
US5737533A (en) 1995-10-26 1998-04-07 Wegener Internet Projects Bv System for generating a virtual reality scene in response to a database search
US5737747A (en) 1995-10-27 1998-04-07 Emc Corporation Prefetching to service multiple video streams from an integrated cached disk array
US5870717A (en) 1995-11-13 1999-02-09 International Business Machines Corporation System for ordering items over computer network using an electronic catalog
US5742680A (en) 1995-11-13 1998-04-21 E Star, Inc. Set top box for receiving and decryption and descrambling a plurality of satellite television signals
DE69632736T3 (en) 1995-11-13 2009-07-09 Gemstar Development Corp., Pasadena METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DISPLAYING TEXT OR GRAPHIC DATA ON A TV SCREEN
US5793414A (en) 1995-11-15 1998-08-11 Eastman Kodak Company Interactive video communication system
US5802526A (en) 1995-11-15 1998-09-01 Microsoft Corporation System and method for graphically displaying and navigating through an interactive voice response menu
US5761485A (en) 1995-12-01 1998-06-02 Munyan; Daniel E. Personal electronic book system
US5726909A (en) 1995-12-08 1998-03-10 Krikorian; Thomas M. Continuous play background music system
AU1464397A (en) 1995-12-14 1997-07-03 Motorola, Inc. System and method for an automatic library for a plurality of book cards
US5893132A (en) 1995-12-14 1999-04-06 Motorola, Inc. Method and system for encoding a book for reading using an electronic book
US5815407A (en) 1995-12-14 1998-09-29 Motorola Inc. Method and device for inhibiting the operation of an electronic device during take-off and landing of an aircraft
AU1569997A (en) 1995-12-14 1997-07-03 Motorola, Inc. Method for abridging text in an electronic book
WO1997022112A1 (en) 1995-12-14 1997-06-19 Motorola Inc. Apparatus and method for storing and presenting text
US5761682A (en) 1995-12-14 1998-06-02 Motorola, Inc. Electronic book and method of capturing and storing a quote therein
WO1997022105A1 (en) 1995-12-14 1997-06-19 Motorola Inc. Electronic book and method of controlling a rate of information displayed thereby
WO1997022062A1 (en) 1995-12-14 1997-06-19 Motorola Inc. Electronic book diary and method for use therefor
WO1997022049A1 (en) 1995-12-14 1997-06-19 Motorola Inc. System for inhibiting the operation of an electronic device during take-off and landing of an aircraft
WO1997022110A1 (en) 1995-12-14 1997-06-19 Motorola Inc. System and method of authoring tools for an electronic book
WO1997022102A1 (en) 1995-12-14 1997-06-19 Motorola Inc. Electronic book and a method of displaying a relative position of a current page of a book therefor
AU1342797A (en) 1995-12-14 1997-07-03 Motorola, Inc. Electronic book and graphical user interface for selecting book to read therewith
AU1334897A (en) 1995-12-14 1997-07-03 Motorola, Inc. Electronic book and graphical user interface to provide control thereof
AU1332697A (en) 1995-12-14 1997-07-03 Motorola, Inc. Electronic book and method of displaying an animated page turn therefor
US5697793A (en) 1995-12-14 1997-12-16 Motorola, Inc. Electronic book and method of displaying at least one reading metric therefor
AU1569797A (en) 1995-12-14 1997-07-03 Motorola, Inc. Electronic book and method of annotation therefor
WO1997022106A1 (en) 1995-12-14 1997-06-19 Motorola Inc. Electronic book and method of creating a personal log of reading activity therefor
WO1997022099A1 (en) 1995-12-14 1997-06-19 Motorola Inc. System and method for limiting access to a book card
US5761681A (en) 1995-12-14 1998-06-02 Motorola, Inc. Method of substituting names in an electronic book
AU1063597A (en) 1995-12-14 1997-07-03 Motorola, Inc. Method and electronic book for creating a plurality of versions of a book
WO1997022101A1 (en) 1995-12-14 1997-06-19 Motorola Inc. Electronic book and method of selecting a primary font and a primary size for displaying text therewith
WO1997022065A1 (en) 1995-12-14 1997-06-19 Motorola Inc. Electronic book and method of storing at least one book in an internal machine-readable storage medium
US5661635A (en) 1995-12-14 1997-08-26 Motorola, Inc. Reusable housing and memory card therefor
US6675384B1 (en) 1995-12-21 2004-01-06 Robert S. Block Method and apparatus for information labeling and control
US5737725A (en) 1996-01-09 1998-04-07 U S West Marketing Resources Group, Inc. Method and system for automatically generating new voice files corresponding to new text from a script
JP2000503154A (en) 1996-01-11 2000-03-14 エムアールジェイ インコーポレイテッド System for controlling access and distribution of digital ownership
US5833468A (en) 1996-01-24 1998-11-10 Frederick R. Guy Remote learning system using a television signal and a network connection
US5790935A (en) 1996-01-30 1998-08-04 Hughes Aircraft Company Virtual on-demand digital information delivery system and method
US5930768A (en) 1996-02-06 1999-07-27 Supersonic Boom, Inc. Method and system for remote user controlled manufacturing
US5761606A (en) 1996-02-08 1998-06-02 Wolzien; Thomas R. Media online services access via address embedded in video or audio program
US5635989A (en) 1996-02-13 1997-06-03 Hughes Electronics Method and apparatus for sorting and searching a television program guide
US5862325A (en) 1996-02-29 1999-01-19 Intermind Corporation Computer-based communication system and method using metadata defining a control structure
JP3862315B2 (en) 1996-03-13 2006-12-27 キヤノン株式会社 Image display apparatus and control method thereof
US5893109A (en) 1996-03-15 1999-04-06 Inso Providence Corporation Generation of chunks of a long document for an electronic book system
US6025837A (en) 1996-03-29 2000-02-15 Micrsoft Corporation Electronic program guide with hyperlinks to target resources
EP0798921B1 (en) 1996-03-29 2004-12-29 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Broadcast receiving apparatus for television signals and program display method
US5862329A (en) 1996-04-18 1999-01-19 International Business Machines Corporation Method system and article of manufacture for multi-casting audio visual material
US6016484A (en) 1996-04-26 2000-01-18 Verifone, Inc. System, method and article of manufacture for network electronic payment instrument and certification of payment and credit collection utilizing a payment
US5848396A (en) 1996-04-26 1998-12-08 Freedom Of Information, Inc. Method and apparatus for determining behavioral profile of a computer user
AU2810597A (en) 1996-04-29 1997-11-19 Richard J D'Agostino Video directory entertainment and marketing method and apparatus
US5929849A (en) 1996-05-02 1999-07-27 Phoenix Technologies, Ltd. Integration of dynamic universal resource locators with television presentations
US5940073A (en) 1996-05-03 1999-08-17 Starsight Telecast Inc. Method and system for displaying other information in a TV program guide
EP0810534B1 (en) 1996-05-13 2003-03-19 Oki Electric Industry Co., Ltd. Document display system and electronic dictionary
US5761468A (en) 1996-05-15 1998-06-02 Sun Microsystems Inc Hardware mechanism for optimizing instruction and data prefetching by forming augmented prefetch instructions
US5815671A (en) 1996-06-11 1998-09-29 Command Audio Corporation Method and apparatus for encoding and storing audio/video information for subsequent predetermined retrieval
JP3663010B2 (en) 1996-07-01 2005-06-22 三井鉱山株式会社 Crusher
EP0821522B1 (en) 1996-07-23 2008-04-09 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Camera control apparatus and method
US6279017B1 (en) 1996-08-07 2001-08-21 Randall C. Walker Method and apparatus for displaying text based upon attributes found within the text
US5956034A (en) 1996-08-13 1999-09-21 Softbook Press, Inc. Method and apparatus for viewing electronic reading materials
US5850629A (en) 1996-09-09 1998-12-15 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. User interface controller for text-to-speech synthesizer
CN1171187C (en) 1996-09-25 2004-10-13 教育公司 Automated testing and electronic instructional delivery and student management system
US5881269A (en) 1996-09-30 1999-03-09 International Business Machines Corporation Simulation of multiple local area network clients on a single workstation
US6012890A (en) 1996-10-04 2000-01-11 Instabook Corporation Electronic bookstore vending machine
DE19642178A1 (en) 1996-10-12 1998-04-16 Beiersdorf Ag Electrically conductive transfer tape
US6052717A (en) 1996-10-23 2000-04-18 Family Systems, Ltd. Interactive web book system
US6039575A (en) 1996-10-24 2000-03-21 National Education Corporation Interactive learning system with pretest
US5903652A (en) 1996-11-25 1999-05-11 Microsoft Corporation System and apparatus for monitoring secure information in a computer network
JP3311259B2 (en) 1996-11-29 2002-08-05 キヤノン株式会社 Imaging control method and apparatus, imaging system, and storage medium storing program for executing the method
US6163316A (en) 1997-01-03 2000-12-19 Texas Instruments Incorporated Electronic programming system and method
JP2751923B1 (en) 1997-02-05 1998-05-18 日本電気株式会社 Multipoint video conference system and multipoint video conference device
US5850218A (en) * 1997-02-19 1998-12-15 Time Warner Entertainment Company L.P. Inter-active program guide with default selection control
US6091930A (en) 1997-03-04 2000-07-18 Case Western Reserve University Customizable interactive textbook
US5844890A (en) 1997-03-25 1998-12-01 International Business Machines Corporation Communications cell scheduler and scheduling method for providing proportional use of network bandwith
US6452614B1 (en) 1997-04-14 2002-09-17 Siements Information And Communication Networks, Inc. Organizing a user interface using different personae
US5892915A (en) 1997-04-25 1999-04-06 Emc Corporation System having client sending edit commands to server during transmission of continuous media from one clip in play list for editing the play list
US6034680A (en) 1997-04-25 2000-03-07 Foundation For Concepts In Education, Inc. Supplying supplementary information for printed books
US6606603B1 (en) 1997-04-28 2003-08-12 Ariba, Inc. Method and apparatus for ordering items using electronic catalogs
US5864823A (en) 1997-06-25 1999-01-26 Virtel Corporation Integrated virtual telecommunication system for E-commerce
US5898852A (en) 1997-06-26 1999-04-27 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Load instruction steering in a dual data cache microarchitecture
CA2239339C (en) 1997-07-18 2002-04-16 Lucent Technologies Inc. Method and apparatus for providing speaker authentication by verbal information verification using forced decoding
US6252879B1 (en) 1997-09-17 2001-06-26 Sony Corporation Single counter for controlling multiple finite state machines in a multi-port bridge for local area network
US6606708B1 (en) 1997-09-26 2003-08-12 Worldcom, Inc. Secure server architecture for Web based data management
US5986677A (en) 1997-09-30 1999-11-16 Compaq Computer Corporation Accelerated graphics port read transaction merging
US6101216A (en) 1997-10-03 2000-08-08 Rockwell International Corporation Splitterless digital subscriber line communication system
US6016141A (en) 1997-10-06 2000-01-18 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive television program guide system with pay program package promotion
US6112049A (en) 1997-10-21 2000-08-29 The Riverside Publishing Company Computer network based testing system
US6154633A (en) * 1997-10-22 2000-11-28 Motorola, Inc. Method and apparatus for upgrading features and functions of a set top box in the field
IL122194A0 (en) 1997-11-13 1998-06-15 Scidel Technologies Ltd Method and apparatus for personalized images inserted into a video stream
US6029045A (en) 1997-12-09 2000-02-22 Cogent Technology, Inc. System and method for inserting local content into programming content
DE19755742A1 (en) 1997-12-16 1999-06-17 Thomson Brandt Gmbh Signaling incoming electronic message for certain addressee in on-line service
US6006183A (en) 1997-12-16 1999-12-21 International Business Machines Corp. Speech recognition confidence level display
US6006236A (en) 1997-12-22 1999-12-21 Adobe Systems Incorporated Virtual navigator that produces virtual links at run time for identifying links in an electronic file
US6359881B1 (en) 1997-12-31 2002-03-19 At&T Corp. Hybrid fiber twisted pair local loop network service architecture
US6385614B1 (en) 1998-01-14 2002-05-07 Netlibrary Inc. Electronic bookshelf with multi-user features
EP0985179A1 (en) 1998-02-26 2000-03-15 MONEC Mobile Network Computing Ltd. Electronic device, preferably an electronic book
US6331867B1 (en) 1998-03-20 2001-12-18 Nuvomedia, Inc. Electronic book with automated look-up of terms of within reference titles
US6101485A (en) 1998-03-26 2000-08-08 International Business Machines Corporation Electronic solicitations for internet commerce
US6182050B1 (en) 1998-05-28 2001-01-30 Acceleration Software International Corporation Advertisements distributed on-line using target criteria screening with method for maintaining end user privacy
US6698020B1 (en) * 1998-06-15 2004-02-24 Webtv Networks, Inc. Techniques for intelligent video ad insertion
US6099320A (en) 1998-07-06 2000-08-08 Papadopoulos; Anastasius Authoring system and method for computer-based training
US6415316B1 (en) 1998-09-01 2002-07-02 Aidministrator Nederland B.V. Method and apparatus for implementing a web page diary
US6535505B1 (en) 1998-09-30 2003-03-18 Cisco Technology, Inc. Method and apparatus for providing a time-division multiplexing (TDM) interface among a high-speed data stream and multiple processors
US6611531B1 (en) 1998-09-30 2003-08-26 Cisco Technology, Inc. Method and apparatus for routing integrated data, voice, and video traffic
US6295542B1 (en) 1998-10-02 2001-09-25 National Power Plc Method and apparatus for cross-referencing text
GB9822022D0 (en) 1998-10-09 1998-12-02 Roke Manor Research Method and apparatus for receiving a media broadcast
US6331865B1 (en) 1998-10-16 2001-12-18 Softbook Press, Inc. Method and apparatus for electronically distributing and viewing digital contents
US6351750B1 (en) 1998-10-16 2002-02-26 Softbook Press, Inc. Dynamic conversion of byte ordering for use on different processor platforms
US6363418B1 (en) 1998-10-16 2002-03-26 Softbook Press, Inc. On-line image caching control for efficient image display
US6195667B1 (en) 1998-10-16 2001-02-27 Softbook Press, Inc. On-line menu updating for an electronic book
US6260024B1 (en) 1998-12-02 2001-07-10 Gary Shkedy Method and apparatus for facilitating buyer-driven purchase orders on a commercial network system
US6269483B1 (en) 1998-12-17 2001-07-31 International Business Machines Corp. Method and apparatus for using audio level to make a multimedia conference dormant
US6556561B1 (en) 1998-12-31 2003-04-29 Nortel Networks Corporation Data network for real time information
US6025871A (en) 1998-12-31 2000-02-15 Intel Corporation User interface for a video conferencing system
US6813249B1 (en) 1999-02-16 2004-11-02 Efficient Networks, Inc. System and method for prefetching data
US6486892B1 (en) 1999-04-07 2002-11-26 Joseph L. Stern System and method for accessing, manipulating and viewing internet and non-internet related information and for controlling networked devices
US6249785B1 (en) 1999-05-06 2001-06-19 Mediachoice, Inc. Method for predicting ratings
US6288753B1 (en) 1999-07-07 2001-09-11 Corrugated Services Corp. System and method for live interactive distance learning
US6349410B1 (en) 1999-08-04 2002-02-19 Intel Corporation Integrating broadcast television pause and web browsing
EP1218826A1 (en) 1999-09-08 2002-07-03 Discovery Communications, Inc. Video conferencing using an electronic book viewer
US6320591B1 (en) 1999-09-10 2001-11-20 Gateway, Inc. System and method for the utilization of an electronic book
US6886000B1 (en) 1999-09-29 2005-04-26 International Business Machines Corporation On-line negotiations with dynamic profiling
US6493734B1 (en) 1999-10-15 2002-12-10 Softbook Press, Inc. System and method to efficiently generate and switch page display views on a portable electronic book
US20010027493A1 (en) 1999-12-03 2001-10-04 Wallace Christopher Ryall Method for providing streaming media data in a network-based environment
US7293279B1 (en) 2000-03-09 2007-11-06 Sedna Patent Services, Llc Advanced set top terminal having a program pause feature with voice-to-text conversion
JP2001357219A (en) 2000-06-15 2001-12-26 Media Vision:Kk Method and system for generating and selling book by using network
JP2002010688A (en) 2000-06-22 2002-01-11 Canon Inc Motor-driving control unit
US6725203B1 (en) 2000-10-12 2004-04-20 E-Book Systems Pte Ltd. Method and system for advertisement using internet browser to insert advertisements
US7331057B2 (en) 2000-12-28 2008-02-12 Prime Research Alliance E, Inc. Grouping advertisement subavails
US20020120635A1 (en) 2001-02-27 2002-08-29 Joao Raymond Anthony Apparatus and method for providing an electronic book
US20030018543A1 (en) 2001-06-25 2003-01-23 Alger Jeffrey H. Client portal
JP2003150813A (en) 2001-11-13 2003-05-23 Sony Corp Information processing device and method, information processing system and method, and program
JP4233886B2 (en) 2003-02-10 2009-03-04 横浜ゴム株式会社 Golf club
JP3114375U (en) 2005-07-01 2005-10-27 有限会社フジセイ Mascara brush

Patent Citations (100)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3891792A (en) * 1974-06-25 1975-06-24 Asahi Broadcasting Television character crawl display method and apparatus
US4860379A (en) * 1979-05-18 1989-08-22 General Instrument Corporation Data communications system
US4381522A (en) * 1980-12-01 1983-04-26 Adams-Russell Co., Inc. Selective viewing
US4455548A (en) * 1981-01-26 1984-06-19 Burnett Dorothy K Call system and methods and apparatus for operating same
US4688218A (en) * 1981-07-15 1987-08-18 Etablissement Public De Diffusion Dit "Telediffusion De France" Multiplex channels for continuous flow for numerical signal
US4694490A (en) * 1981-11-03 1987-09-15 Harvey John C Signal processing apparatus and methods
US4965825A (en) * 1981-11-03 1990-10-23 The Personalized Mass Media Corporation Signal processing apparatus and methods
US4605964A (en) * 1981-12-19 1986-08-12 Chard Frederick W Method and apparatus for editing the output of a television set
US4639225A (en) * 1982-06-24 1987-01-27 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Portable audio-visual electronic apparatus
US4845662A (en) * 1982-11-11 1989-07-04 Tokyo Shibaura Denki Kabushiki Kaisha Data processor employing run-length coding
US4641205A (en) * 1984-03-05 1987-02-03 Rca Corporation Television system scheduler with on-screen menu type programming prompting apparatus
US4697209A (en) * 1984-04-26 1987-09-29 A. C. Nielsen Company Methods and apparatus for automatically identifying programs viewed or recorded
USD280099S (en) * 1984-07-06 1985-08-13 Multi-Tech Industries Corp. Telephone keypad for a combined radio, clock and telephone set
US4724491A (en) * 1984-08-28 1988-02-09 Adams-Russell Co., Inc. Inserting television advertising spots automatically
US4829569A (en) * 1984-09-21 1989-05-09 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Communication of individual messages to subscribers in a subscription television system
US4896354A (en) * 1984-10-12 1990-01-23 Sony Corporation Image reception system
US4688246A (en) * 1985-12-20 1987-08-18 Zenith Electronics Corporation CATV scrambling system with compressed digital audio in synchronizing signal intervals
US4961109A (en) * 1986-02-10 1990-10-02 Pioneer Electronic Corporation Chargeable program receiving limit setting system in two-way cable television system
US5144663A (en) * 1986-04-18 1992-09-01 Kudelski S.A. Fabrique D'engregistreurs Nagra Method of interactive communication between a subscriber and a decoder of a system of pay-television and decoder thereof
USD301037S (en) * 1986-04-28 1989-05-09 Multivision Products, Inc. Hand-held remote control
USD314383S (en) * 1986-09-23 1991-02-05 RUF GmbH & Co. KG Elektrotechnische Spezialfabrik Remote-control transmitter
US4896370A (en) * 1987-03-27 1990-01-23 Teletec Corporation Control system for microprocessor and software enhanced communications equipment
US4825200A (en) * 1987-06-25 1989-04-25 Tandy Corporation Reconfigurable remote control transmitter
US5152011A (en) * 1987-07-27 1992-09-29 Schwob Pierre R Broadcast receiver capable of automatic station identification and format-scanning based on an internal database updatable via data reception over the airwaves
US4797568A (en) * 1987-08-21 1989-01-10 Gumbs Curtis M Electronic switching system for controlling indoor and outdoor lights
US4876736A (en) * 1987-09-23 1989-10-24 A. C. Nielsen Company Method and apparatus for determining channel reception of a receiver
US5414426A (en) * 1987-10-14 1995-05-09 Universal Electronics Inc. Favorite key macro command and chained macro command in a remote control
US4959810A (en) * 1987-10-14 1990-09-25 Universal Electronics, Inc. Universal remote control device
US4947429A (en) * 1987-11-30 1990-08-07 Zenith Electronics Corporation Pay per view television signaling method
US5132789A (en) * 1988-01-15 1992-07-21 Tiltrac Corporation Tilt rack video tape library and VCP to multiple subscriber system
US4829558A (en) * 1988-01-19 1989-05-09 Peac Media Research, Inc. System and device for data transmission, and related method
US4816901A (en) * 1988-04-27 1989-03-28 Universal Video Communications Corp. Method and system for compressing color video data
US4995078A (en) * 1988-06-09 1991-02-19 Monslow H Vincent Television broadcast system for selective transmission of viewer-chosen programs at viewer-requested times
US4928168A (en) * 1988-08-08 1990-05-22 Pioneer Electronic Corporation Billing data display system and terminal used therein for a closed circuit television system
US5027400A (en) * 1988-08-19 1991-06-25 Hitachi Ltd. Multimedia bidirectional broadcast system
US5235328A (en) * 1988-08-23 1993-08-10 Sony Corporation Remote command apparatus
USD325581S (en) * 1988-10-07 1992-04-21 Cable Electric Products, Inc. Remote control
US5105268A (en) * 1988-11-08 1992-04-14 Fujitsu Limited Community antenna broadcast system having an improved channel selecting system permitting purchase of a selected channel from a plurality of non-purchased channels
US5036394A (en) * 1988-12-02 1991-07-30 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Videotext receiver
US4949187A (en) * 1988-12-16 1990-08-14 Cohen Jason M Video communications system having a remotely controlled central source of video and audio data
US5001554A (en) * 1988-12-23 1991-03-19 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Terminal authorization method
US4996597A (en) * 1989-04-20 1991-02-26 Rca Licensing Corporation User programmable switching arrangement
US5015829A (en) * 1989-04-28 1991-05-14 Hewlett-Packard Company Key pad and front panel assembly for an electronic instrument
US5014125A (en) * 1989-05-05 1991-05-07 Cableshare, Inc. Television system for the interactive distribution of selectable video presentations
US5150118A (en) * 1989-05-08 1992-09-22 Hewlett-Packard Company Interchangeable coded key pad assemblies alternately attachable to a user definable keyboard to enable programmable keyboard functions
US5151782A (en) * 1989-05-17 1992-09-29 Reiss Media Enterprises Control system for satellite delivered pay-per-view television system
US5078019A (en) * 1989-05-26 1992-01-07 Alps Electric Co., Ltd. Trackball device
US5253066C1 (en) * 1989-06-01 2001-05-22 United Video Properties Inc Tv recording and viewing control system
US5253066A (en) * 1989-06-01 1993-10-12 Vogel Peter S TV recording and viewing control system
US5202817A (en) * 1989-06-07 1993-04-13 Norand Corporation Hand-held data capture system with interchangeable modules
US5047867A (en) * 1989-06-08 1991-09-10 North American Philips Corporation Interface for a TV-VCR system
US5049990A (en) * 1989-07-21 1991-09-17 Sony Corporation Highly efficient coding apparatus
US5046093A (en) * 1989-09-05 1991-09-03 General Instrument Corporation CATV subscriber apparatus with intelligent remote control
US5283639A (en) * 1989-10-23 1994-02-01 Esch Arthur G Multiple media delivery network method and apparatus
US5155591A (en) * 1989-10-23 1992-10-13 General Instrument Corporation Method and apparatus for providing demographically targeted television commercials
US5151789A (en) * 1989-10-30 1992-09-29 Insight Telecast, Inc. System and method for automatic, unattended recording of cable television programs
US5353121A (en) * 1989-10-30 1994-10-04 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Television schedule system
US5130792A (en) * 1990-02-01 1992-07-14 Usa Video Inc. Store and forward video system
US5235275A (en) * 1990-02-22 1993-08-10 Nkk Corporation Magnetic inspection apparatus for thin steel strip having magnetizer and detection coil within a hollow roller rotated by the steel strip
US5091782A (en) * 1990-04-09 1992-02-25 General Instrument Corporation Apparatus and method for adaptively compressing successive blocks of digital video
US5020129A (en) * 1990-04-16 1991-05-28 General Instrument Corporation Addressable control system for CATV program distribution
US5057917A (en) * 1990-06-20 1991-10-15 The United States Of America As Represented By The Administrator Of The National Aeronautics And Space Administration Real-time data compression of broadcast video signals
US5133079A (en) * 1990-07-30 1992-07-21 Ballantyne Douglas J Method and apparatus for distribution of movies
US5241659A (en) * 1990-09-14 1993-08-31 Eastman Kodak Company Auxiliary removable memory for storing image parameter data
US5103314A (en) * 1990-09-24 1992-04-07 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Color-coded system for selection of rf input terminals and associated scan lists
US5206954A (en) * 1990-09-27 1993-04-27 Masprodenkoh Kabushikikaisha Satellite signal receiving apparatus
US5093718A (en) * 1990-09-28 1992-03-03 Inteletext Systems, Inc. Interactive home information system
US5319455A (en) * 1990-09-28 1994-06-07 Ictv Inc. System for distributing customized commercials to television viewers
US5282028A (en) * 1990-11-27 1994-01-25 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Remote control for digital music terminal with synchronized communications
US5327554A (en) * 1990-11-29 1994-07-05 Palazzi Iii Michael A Interactive terminal for the access of remote database information
USD329238S (en) * 1990-12-21 1992-09-08 Tandy Corporation Universal remote controller
US5206722A (en) * 1990-12-28 1993-04-27 At&T Bell Laboratories Remote channel switching for video on demand service
US5132992A (en) * 1991-01-07 1992-07-21 Paul Yurt Audio and video transmission and receiving system
US5345594A (en) * 1991-01-31 1994-09-06 Pioneer Electronic Corporation Information transmission system retransmitting information signals according to retransmission schedule
US5216515A (en) * 1991-05-23 1993-06-01 Adexpress Company Addressable video feed system
US5339315A (en) * 1991-05-24 1994-08-16 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Cable broadcasting system and the transmission center for on demand program services
US5293540A (en) * 1991-07-29 1994-03-08 Nview Corporation Method and apparatus for merging independently generated internal video with external video
US5237311A (en) * 1991-08-01 1993-08-17 Picker International, Inc. Hingedly supported integrated trackball and selection device
US5638505A (en) * 1991-08-16 1997-06-10 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Apparatus and methods for moving/copying objects using destination and/or source bins
US5448091A (en) * 1991-08-21 1995-09-05 Sgs-Thomson Microelectronics, Inc. Method of making contact alignment for nonvolatile memory devices
US5289271A (en) * 1991-09-09 1994-02-22 Watson John C Cable television-usage system
US5247347A (en) * 1991-09-27 1993-09-21 Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. Pstn architecture for video-on-demand services
US5404393A (en) * 1991-10-03 1995-04-04 Viscorp Method and apparatus for interactive television through use of menu windows
US5416508A (en) * 1991-10-22 1995-05-16 Pioneer Electronic Corporation CATV system with transmission of program schedules, linked program broadcasts, and permissive ordering periods
US5182639A (en) * 1991-10-30 1993-01-26 Suganda Jutamulia Real-time analytic pseudocolor encoder system
US5343239A (en) * 1991-11-20 1994-08-30 Zing Systems, L.P. Transaction based interactive television system
US5323240A (en) * 1992-02-07 1994-06-21 Sony Corporation Television receiver that automatically keeps track of favorite channels to facilitate tuning
US5341166A (en) * 1992-02-27 1994-08-23 Video Control Technology, Inc. System for controlling selected devices having unique sets of control codes
US5341474A (en) * 1992-05-15 1994-08-23 Bell Communications Research, Inc. Communications architecture and buffer for distributing information services
US5223924A (en) * 1992-05-27 1993-06-29 North American Philips Corporation System and method for automatically correlating user preferences with a T.V. program information database
US5412416A (en) * 1992-08-07 1995-05-02 Nbl Communications, Inc. Video media distribution network apparatus and method
US5432542A (en) * 1992-08-31 1995-07-11 Television Computer, Inc. Television receiver location identification
US5644354A (en) * 1992-10-09 1997-07-01 Prevue Interactive, Inc. Interactive video system
US5357276A (en) * 1992-12-01 1994-10-18 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Method of providing video on demand with VCR like functions
US5410326A (en) * 1992-12-04 1995-04-25 Goldstein; Steven W. Programmable remote control device for interacting with a plurality of remotely controlled devices
US5355162A (en) * 1993-07-13 1994-10-11 Pacific Ray Video Limited Multi-standard cable television system
US5410344A (en) * 1993-09-22 1995-04-25 Arrowsmith Technologies, Inc. Apparatus and method of selecting video programs based on viewers' preferences
US5481294A (en) * 1993-10-27 1996-01-02 A. C. Nielsen Company Audience measurement system utilizing ancillary codes and passive signatures
US6177931B1 (en) * 1996-12-19 2001-01-23 Index Systems, Inc. Systems and methods for displaying and recording control interface with television programs, video, advertising information and program scheduling information
US7075919B1 (en) * 2000-08-22 2006-07-11 Cisco Technology, Inc. System and method for providing integrated voice, video and data to customer premises over a single network

Cited By (177)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20110138419A1 (en) * 1993-05-27 2011-06-09 Yuen Henry C Method and apparatus for displaying video clips
US20080178216A1 (en) * 1993-09-09 2008-07-24 United Video Properties, Inc. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method
US8893178B2 (en) * 1993-09-09 2014-11-18 United Video Properties, Inc. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method
US20080178222A1 (en) * 1993-09-09 2008-07-24 United Video Properties, Inc. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method
US20030110495A1 (en) * 1993-09-09 2003-06-12 United Video Properties, Inc. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method
US8793738B2 (en) 1994-05-04 2014-07-29 Starsight Telecast Incorporated Television system with downloadable features
US20080184296A1 (en) * 1994-05-20 2008-07-31 Jerry Alten Electronic television program guide schedule system and method
US20020133816A1 (en) * 1994-06-21 2002-09-19 Greene Steven Bradford System for collecting data concerning received transmitted material
US7996864B2 (en) 1994-08-31 2011-08-09 Gemstar Development Corporation Method and apparatus for displaying television programs and related text
US20020059581A1 (en) * 1994-09-14 2002-05-16 Time Warner Entertainment Company, L.P. Video-on-demand service with an interactive interface for facilitating viewer selection of video programs
US20040078815A1 (en) * 1995-04-06 2004-04-22 Lemmons Thomas R. Interactive program guide systems and processes
US8392948B2 (en) 1995-04-06 2013-03-05 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive program guide systems and processes
US8296802B2 (en) 1995-04-06 2012-10-23 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive program guide systems and processes
US20040049783A1 (en) * 1995-04-06 2004-03-11 Lemmons Thomas R. Interactive program guide systems and processes
US20010013126A1 (en) * 1995-04-06 2001-08-09 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive program guide systems and processes
US20030115603A1 (en) * 1995-04-06 2003-06-19 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive program guide systems and processes
US20080184310A1 (en) * 1995-04-06 2008-07-31 Lemmons Thomas R Interactive program guide systems and processes
US20080184321A1 (en) * 1995-04-06 2008-07-31 Lemmons Thomas R Interactive program guide systems and processes
US8555316B2 (en) 1995-04-06 2013-10-08 United Video Properties, Inc. Interactive program guide systems and processes
US9319735B2 (en) 1995-06-07 2016-04-19 Rovi Guides, Inc. Electronic television program guide schedule system and method with data feed access
US9402102B2 (en) 1995-10-02 2016-07-26 Rovi Guides, Inc. System and method for using television schedule information
US8850477B2 (en) 1995-10-02 2014-09-30 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Systems and methods for linking television viewers with advertisers and broadcasters
US8453174B2 (en) 1995-10-02 2013-05-28 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Method and system for displaying advertising, video, and program schedule listing
US8615782B2 (en) 1995-10-02 2013-12-24 Starsight Telecast, Inc. System and methods for linking television viewers with advertisers and broadcasters
US9124932B2 (en) 1995-10-02 2015-09-01 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for contextually linking television program information
US9113207B2 (en) 1995-10-02 2015-08-18 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for contextually linking television program information
US8181200B2 (en) 1995-10-02 2012-05-15 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Method and system for displaying advertising, video, and program schedule listing
US9423936B2 (en) 1996-05-03 2016-08-23 Rovi Guides, Inc. Information system
US8646005B2 (en) 1996-05-03 2014-02-04 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Information system
US8869204B2 (en) 1996-05-03 2014-10-21 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Method and system for displaying advertisements in an electronic program guide
US9027058B2 (en) 1996-05-03 2015-05-05 Rovi Guides, Inc. Information system
US8806538B2 (en) 1996-05-03 2014-08-12 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Information system
US8776125B2 (en) 1996-05-03 2014-07-08 Starsight Telecast Inc. Method and system for displaying advertisements in an electronic program guide
US8732757B2 (en) 1996-12-19 2014-05-20 Gemstar Development Corporation System and method for targeted advertisement display responsive to user characteristics
US8272011B2 (en) 1996-12-19 2012-09-18 Index Systems, Inc. Method and system for displaying advertisements between schedule listings
US8448209B2 (en) 1996-12-19 2013-05-21 Gemstar Development Corporation System and method for displaying advertisements responsive to EPG information
US8635649B2 (en) 1996-12-19 2014-01-21 Gemstar Development Corporation System and method for modifying advertisement responsive to EPG information
US8336071B2 (en) 1996-12-19 2012-12-18 Gemstar Development Corporation System and method for modifying advertisement responsive to EPG information
US8726311B2 (en) 1996-12-19 2014-05-13 Gemstar Development Corporation System and method for modifying advertisement responsive to EPG information
US9197858B2 (en) * 1997-01-07 2015-11-24 Rovi Guides, Inc. System and method for distributing and broadcasting multimedia
US20120240149A1 (en) * 1997-01-07 2012-09-20 United Video Properties, Inc. System and method for distributing and broadcasting multimedia
US8918807B2 (en) 1997-07-21 2014-12-23 Gemstar Development Corporation System and method for modifying advertisement responsive to EPG information
US9191722B2 (en) 1997-07-21 2015-11-17 Rovi Guides, Inc. System and method for modifying advertisement responsive to EPG information
US9015749B2 (en) 1997-07-21 2015-04-21 Rovi Guides, Inc. System and method for modifying advertisement responsive to EPG information
US9591251B2 (en) 1997-10-06 2017-03-07 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive television program guide system with operator showcase
US8806536B2 (en) 1998-03-04 2014-08-12 United Video Properties, Inc. Program guide system with preference profiles
US8613020B2 (en) 1998-04-30 2013-12-17 United Video Properties, Inc. Program guide system with flip and browse advertisements
US9635406B2 (en) 1998-05-15 2017-04-25 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive television program guide system for determining user values for demographic categories
US9015750B2 (en) 1998-05-15 2015-04-21 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive television program guide system for determining user values for demographic categories
US9172987B2 (en) 1998-07-07 2015-10-27 Rovi Guides, Inc. Methods and systems for updating functionality of a set-top box using markup language
US9226006B2 (en) 1998-07-14 2015-12-29 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-server based interactive guide with server recording
US9055319B2 (en) 1998-07-14 2015-06-09 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive guide with recording
US10075746B2 (en) 1998-07-14 2018-09-11 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-server based interactive television guide with server recording
US9118948B2 (en) 1998-07-14 2015-08-25 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-server based interactive guide with server recording
US9154843B2 (en) 1998-07-14 2015-10-06 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-server based interactive guide with server recording
US9055318B2 (en) 1998-07-14 2015-06-09 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-server based interactive guide with server storage
US9021538B2 (en) 1998-07-14 2015-04-28 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-server based interactive guide with server recording
US9232254B2 (en) 1998-07-14 2016-01-05 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-server based interactive television guide with server recording
US9426509B2 (en) 1998-08-21 2016-08-23 Rovi Guides, Inc. Client-server electronic program guide
US20030128230A1 (en) * 1999-05-18 2003-07-10 Gateway, Inc. Method and system for creating a channel map
US7941818B2 (en) 1999-06-28 2011-05-10 Index Systems, Inc. System and method for utilizing EPG database for modifying advertisements
US8931008B2 (en) 1999-06-29 2015-01-06 United Video Properties, Inc. Promotional philosophy for a video-on-demand-related interactive display within an interactive television application
US20070124753A1 (en) * 2000-01-12 2007-05-31 Koichiro Yamaguchi Digital broadcast receiving device
US20020060750A1 (en) * 2000-03-29 2002-05-23 Istvan Anthony F. Single-button remote access to a synthetic channel page of specialized content
US20070288959A1 (en) * 2000-03-29 2007-12-13 Digeo, Inc. Single-button remote access to a synthetic channel page of specialized content
US10015562B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2018-07-03 Rovi Guides, Inc. System and method for metadata-linked advertisements
US8863170B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2014-10-14 United Video Properties, Inc. System and method for metadata-linked advertisements
US10346853B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2019-07-09 Gametek Llc Computing environment transaction system to transact computing environment circumventions
US10607237B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2020-03-31 Gametek Llc Computing environment transaction system to transact purchases of objects incorporated into games
US9294799B2 (en) 2000-10-11 2016-03-22 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for providing storage of data on servers in an on-demand media delivery system
US20020188960A1 (en) * 2001-06-12 2002-12-12 Rodriguez Arturo A. Multiple information levels in media services menus
US9094728B1 (en) * 2001-07-31 2015-07-28 Keen Personal Media, Inc. Client terminal for providing channel subscription from a program guide
US20030046695A1 (en) * 2001-08-29 2003-03-06 Digeo, Inc. System and method for enabling focused navigation using filtering and direct-tune buttons
US9854293B2 (en) 2002-01-04 2017-12-26 Rovi Technologies Corporation Method and apparatus for selecting among multiple tuners
US11412288B2 (en) 2002-01-04 2022-08-09 Rovi Technologies Corporation Method and apparatus for selecting among multiple tuners
US8321892B1 (en) * 2002-03-20 2012-11-27 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and apparatus for filtering data displayed in an electronic television program guide
US9071872B2 (en) 2003-01-30 2015-06-30 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive television systems with digital video recording and adjustable reminders
US9369741B2 (en) 2003-01-30 2016-06-14 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive television systems with digital video recording and adjustable reminders
US10986407B2 (en) 2003-11-06 2021-04-20 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for providing program suggestions in an interactive television program guide
US9191719B2 (en) 2003-11-06 2015-11-17 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for providing program suggestions in an interactive television program guide
US8904441B2 (en) 2003-11-06 2014-12-02 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for providing program suggestions in an interactive television program guide
US10880607B2 (en) 2003-11-06 2020-12-29 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for providing program suggestions in an interactive television program guide
US20050198678A1 (en) * 2004-01-09 2005-09-08 Pioneer Corporation Control information file creating device, information display device, control information file creation method, and information distribution display system
US10261816B2 (en) * 2004-02-10 2019-04-16 Universal Electronics Inc. Interactive web-based codeset selection and development tool
US9792133B2 (en) * 2004-02-10 2017-10-17 Universal Electronics Inc. Interactive web-based codeset selection and development tool
US20130125195A1 (en) * 2004-02-10 2013-05-16 Uei Cayman Inc. Interactive web-based codeset selection and development tool
US20060282852A1 (en) * 2005-03-28 2006-12-14 Purpura Richard F Interactive mosaic channel video stream with barker channel and guide
US9038103B2 (en) 2005-05-06 2015-05-19 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for content surfing
US20060277316A1 (en) * 2005-05-12 2006-12-07 Yunchuan Wang Internet protocol television
US9177081B2 (en) 2005-08-26 2015-11-03 Veveo, Inc. Method and system for processing ambiguous, multi-term search queries
US20070055989A1 (en) * 2005-09-08 2007-03-08 The Directv Group, Inc. Mosaic channel video stream with interactive services
US8056099B2 (en) 2005-09-08 2011-11-08 The Directv Group, Inc. Mosaic channel video stream with interactive services
US20100138873A1 (en) * 2005-10-07 2010-06-03 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Receiving device, server, television receiver, mobile terminal, system, receiving method, information processing program, and storage medium
US8156531B2 (en) 2005-10-07 2012-04-10 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Receiving device, server, television receiver, mobile terminal, system, receiving method, information processing program, and storage medium
US8782719B2 (en) 2005-10-28 2014-07-15 The Directv Group, Inc. Infrastructure for interactive television applications
US20070294734A1 (en) * 2005-10-28 2007-12-20 Arsenault Robert G Infrastructure for interactive television applications
US9113107B2 (en) 2005-11-08 2015-08-18 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive advertising and program promotion in an interactive television system
US8620769B2 (en) 2005-12-29 2013-12-31 United Video Properties, Inc. Method and systems for checking that purchasable items are compatible with user equipment
US8612310B2 (en) 2005-12-29 2013-12-17 United Video Properties, Inc. Method and system for commerce in media program related merchandise
US20070166004A1 (en) * 2006-01-10 2007-07-19 Io.Tek Co., Ltd Robot system using menu selection card having printed menu codes and pictorial symbols
US20070220546A1 (en) * 2006-02-02 2007-09-20 Shanks David E Interactive mosaic channel video stream with additional programming sources
US8832738B2 (en) 2006-02-02 2014-09-09 The Directv Group, Inc. Interactive mosaic channel video stream with additional programming sources
US20070220551A1 (en) * 2006-02-02 2007-09-20 Shanks David E Interactive mosaic channel video stream with nested menu features
US20070204298A1 (en) * 2006-02-17 2007-08-30 Shanks David E Dynamic viewership rating system
US9092503B2 (en) 2006-03-06 2015-07-28 Veveo, Inc. Methods and systems for selecting and presenting content based on dynamically identifying microgenres associated with the content
US9075861B2 (en) 2006-03-06 2015-07-07 Veveo, Inc. Methods and systems for segmenting relative user preferences into fine-grain and coarse-grain collections
US9128987B2 (en) 2006-03-06 2015-09-08 Veveo, Inc. Methods and systems for selecting and presenting content based on a comparison of preference signatures from multiple users
US10984037B2 (en) 2006-03-06 2021-04-20 Veveo, Inc. Methods and systems for selecting and presenting content on a first system based on user preferences learned on a second system
US20070273488A1 (en) * 2006-03-10 2007-11-29 Craig Le System for choosing predictions across multiple platforms
US20070214478A1 (en) * 2006-03-10 2007-09-13 Feldstein David E Dynamic determination of presentation of multiple video cells in an on-screen display
US8752089B2 (en) 2006-03-10 2014-06-10 The Directv Group, Inc. Dynamic determination of presentation of multiple video cells in an on-screen display
US9749693B2 (en) 2006-03-24 2017-08-29 Rovi Guides, Inc. Interactive media guidance application with intelligent navigation and display features
WO2007123573A1 (en) * 2006-04-24 2007-11-01 Thomson Licensing Method and apparatus for providing an on-screen menu system
US20090158217A1 (en) * 2006-04-24 2009-06-18 Anthony Edward Stuart Method and Apparatus for Providing an On-Screen Menu System
US20080060005A1 (en) * 2006-06-30 2008-03-06 Shanks David E User-selectable audio feed for video programming
US8799954B1 (en) 2006-07-31 2014-08-05 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for providing custom media content flipping
US8949895B2 (en) 2006-08-18 2015-02-03 The Directv Group, Inc. Mosaic channel video stream with personalized interactive services
US20080060006A1 (en) * 2006-08-18 2008-03-06 The Directv Group, Inc Mosaic channel video stream with personalized interactive services
US20080059995A1 (en) * 2006-08-23 2008-03-06 The Directv Group, Inc. Selective display of overlay video streams via interactive alert icons
US20090073318A1 (en) * 2006-08-30 2009-03-19 The Directv Group, Inc. Mosaic channel video stream with interactive services
US9654736B2 (en) 2006-08-30 2017-05-16 The Directv Group, Inc. Mosaic channel video stream with interactive services
US8832742B2 (en) 2006-10-06 2014-09-09 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for acquiring, categorizing and delivering media in interactive media guidance applications
US20080189738A1 (en) * 2006-12-18 2008-08-07 Purpura Richard F Active channel for interactive television services
US20100122162A1 (en) * 2007-02-16 2010-05-13 Satoshi Terada Content display device, television receiver, content display method, content display control program, and recording medium
US8479096B2 (en) 2007-02-16 2013-07-02 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Content display device, television receiver, content display method, content display control program, and recording medium
US8490138B2 (en) 2007-02-23 2013-07-16 Rovi Guides, Inc. Channel searching by content type
US20100154005A1 (en) * 2007-02-23 2010-06-17 Baxter John W Channel searching by content type
US10694256B2 (en) 2007-03-09 2020-06-23 Rovi Technologies Corporation Media content search results ranked by popularity
US9326025B2 (en) 2007-03-09 2016-04-26 Rovi Technologies Corporation Media content search results ranked by popularity
US8407737B1 (en) 2007-07-11 2013-03-26 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for providing a scan transport bar
US8402484B2 (en) * 2007-11-14 2013-03-19 At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp Systems and method of controlling access to media content
US8640156B2 (en) 2007-11-14 2014-01-28 At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp Systems and method of controlling access to media content
US20090125971A1 (en) * 2007-11-14 2009-05-14 At&T Knowledge Ventures, Lp Systems and Method of Controlling Access to Media Content
US7444347B1 (en) * 2007-11-16 2008-10-28 International Business Machines Corporation Systems, methods and computer products for compression of hierarchical identifiers
US20090132527A1 (en) * 2007-11-20 2009-05-21 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Personalized video channels on social networks
US20090133049A1 (en) * 2007-11-20 2009-05-21 General Instrument Corporation Method and Apparatus for Limiting Access to Programming in a Switched Digital Video System
US8528013B2 (en) 2007-11-20 2013-09-03 General Instrument Corporation Method and apparatus for limiting access to programming in a switched digital video system
US20090157917A1 (en) * 2007-12-14 2009-06-18 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Signal processing apparatus and control method thereof
US20090158365A1 (en) * 2007-12-18 2009-06-18 Broadcom Corporation Video processing system with user customized graphics for use with layered video coding and methods for use therewith
US9078024B2 (en) * 2007-12-18 2015-07-07 Broadcom Corporation Video processing system with user customized graphics for use with layered video coding and methods for use therewith
US20110302150A1 (en) * 2008-04-03 2011-12-08 Chia-Ching Tsai Data Storage Method for an Electronic Device
US20090254595A1 (en) * 2008-04-03 2009-10-08 Chia-Ching Tsai Data Storage Method and Related Device for an Electronic Device
US8577869B2 (en) * 2008-04-03 2013-11-05 Wistron Corporation Data storage method for an electronic device
US8027968B2 (en) * 2008-04-03 2011-09-27 Wistron Corporation Data storage method and related device for an electronic device
US10063934B2 (en) 2008-11-25 2018-08-28 Rovi Technologies Corporation Reducing unicast session duration with restart TV
US8407733B2 (en) 2008-12-19 2013-03-26 General Instrument Corporation Method and apparatus for establishing individualized subscription plans in a switched digital video system
US20100162321A1 (en) * 2008-12-19 2010-06-24 General Instrument Corporation Method and apparatus for establishing individualized subscription plans in a switched digital video system
US20100310237A1 (en) * 2009-06-09 2010-12-09 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and Method of Recording Programs of Favorite Channels
US8798443B2 (en) 2009-06-09 2014-08-05 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method of recording programs of favorite channels
US8406603B2 (en) * 2009-06-09 2013-03-26 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method of recording programs of favorite channels
US9166714B2 (en) 2009-09-11 2015-10-20 Veveo, Inc. Method of and system for presenting enriched video viewing analytics
US8359616B2 (en) 2009-09-30 2013-01-22 United Video Properties, Inc. Systems and methods for automatically generating advertisements using a media guidance application
CN102238405A (en) * 2010-04-21 2011-11-09 日立民用电子株式会社 Video processing apparatus
US20110261171A1 (en) * 2010-04-21 2011-10-27 Satoshi Otsuka Video processing apparatus
US20110296468A1 (en) * 2010-06-01 2011-12-01 Microsoft Corporation Augmenting television media
US10225143B2 (en) 2010-09-17 2019-03-05 Guest Tek Interactive Entertainment Ltd. Automated entry of hidden service-configuration menu for target configurable device selected from plurality of configurable devices in rooms of hospitality establishment
US9106796B2 (en) 2010-09-17 2015-08-11 Guest Tek Interactive Entertainment Ltd. Configuration apparatus and method of configuring one or more devices having hidden configuration settings
US20120072951A1 (en) * 2010-09-17 2012-03-22 Brian King Configuration apparatus and method of configuring one or more devices having hidden configuration settings
US8250601B2 (en) * 2010-09-17 2012-08-21 Guest Tek Interactive Entertainment Ltd. Configuration apparatus and method of configuring one or more devices having hidden configuration settings
US20120089937A1 (en) * 2010-10-08 2012-04-12 Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. Remote controller with touch screen
US9736524B2 (en) 2011-01-06 2017-08-15 Veveo, Inc. Methods of and systems for content search based on environment sampling
US9076323B2 (en) * 2011-09-29 2015-07-07 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Method and system for interfacing with multiple devices
US20130082826A1 (en) * 2011-09-29 2013-04-04 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Method and system for interfacing with multiple devices
US9125169B2 (en) 2011-12-23 2015-09-01 Rovi Guides, Inc. Methods and systems for performing actions based on location-based rules
US11252475B2 (en) 2012-03-30 2022-02-15 Mimik Technology Inc. System and method for managing streaming services
US11252474B2 (en) 2012-03-30 2022-02-15 Mimik Technology Inc. System and method for managing streaming services
US10375343B2 (en) * 2012-03-30 2019-08-06 Mimik Technology Inc. System and method for managing streaming services
US11259087B2 (en) 2012-10-03 2022-02-22 Mimik Technology Inc. System and method for managing streaming services
US20150262476A1 (en) * 2012-11-20 2015-09-17 Huawei Device Co., Ltd. Method for Processing Key Value Information of Remote Control, Control Device and Remote Control
US9754481B2 (en) * 2012-11-20 2017-09-05 Huawei Device Co., Ltd. Method for processing key value information of remote control, control device and remote control
US10181262B2 (en) * 2012-11-20 2019-01-15 Huawei Device Co., Ltd. Method for processing key value information of remote control, control device and remote control
US9147198B2 (en) 2013-01-10 2015-09-29 Rovi Technologies Corporation Systems and methods for providing an interface for data driven media placement
US9848276B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2017-12-19 Rovi Guides, Inc. Systems and methods for auto-configuring a user equipment device with content consumption material
US20150237398A1 (en) * 2014-02-18 2015-08-20 Kylintv, Inc. Internet protocol television
USD771675S1 (en) * 2015-05-21 2016-11-15 Layer3 TV, Inc. Display screen or portion thereof with graphical user interface
USD778300S1 (en) * 2015-05-21 2017-02-07 Layer3 TV, Inc. Display screen or portion thereof with a graphical user interface shown thereon
USD825532S1 (en) * 2016-06-15 2018-08-14 Comcast Cable Communications, Llc Remote control

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU693775B2 (en) 1998-07-09
DE69328441D1 (en) 2000-05-25
ATE426300T1 (en) 2009-04-15
AU5733294A (en) 1994-07-04
DE69332177D1 (en) 2002-09-05
KR100289174B1 (en) 2001-05-02
KR100329135B1 (en) 2002-05-09
AU692427B2 (en) 1998-06-11
CA2151462C (en) 2004-02-24
CN1285684A (en) 2001-02-28
EP0849948B1 (en) 2002-03-13
CA2445176C (en) 2005-09-06
CA2151459A1 (en) 1994-06-23
JPH08506938A (en) 1996-07-23
ATE457599T1 (en) 2010-02-15
US6515680B1 (en) 2003-02-04
EP0856993A2 (en) 1998-08-05
HK1021680A1 (en) 2000-06-23
JP2005020785A (en) 2005-01-20
EP0920207A1 (en) 1999-06-02
JP2005057793A (en) 2005-03-03
CN1284814A (en) 2001-02-21
DE69323562T2 (en) 1999-09-23
EP0852442A1 (en) 1998-07-08
EP0673583A1 (en) 1995-09-27
KR100348115B1 (en) 2002-09-18
MY111406A (en) 2000-04-29
JPH08506939A (en) 1996-07-23
CN1179563C (en) 2004-12-08
CA2151456C (en) 2004-03-02
US5682195A (en) 1997-10-28
CN1137578C (en) 2004-02-04
ATE176840T1 (en) 1999-03-15
MY128725A (en) 2007-02-28
DE69328441T3 (en) 2010-03-11
HK1012481A1 (en) 1999-07-30
IL107912A (en) 1997-02-18
KR100348111B1 (en) 2002-09-18
JP2005039853A (en) 2005-02-10
DE69331715T2 (en) 2002-10-24
DE69333457D1 (en) 2004-04-22
CA2271552A1 (en) 1994-06-09
DE69323767T2 (en) 1999-10-21
EP0920206A1 (en) 1999-06-02
EP0935393A2 (en) 1999-08-11
AU716182B2 (en) 2000-02-24
ES2129116T3 (en) 1999-06-01
CA2410389C (en) 2004-03-23
DE69333713D1 (en) 2004-12-30
TW290780B (en) 1996-11-11
CA2444170A1 (en) 1994-06-23
CA2445201A1 (en) 1994-06-23
IL107913A (en) 1997-04-15
KR100348114B1 (en) 2002-09-18
US5734853A (en) 1998-03-31
US7571457B1 (en) 2009-08-04
CA2444170C (en) 2009-09-22
DE69327966D1 (en) 2000-04-06
US7716349B1 (en) 2010-05-11
EP0912059A3 (en) 1999-05-19
JP2005039852A (en) 2005-02-10
AU5733194A (en) 1994-07-04
AU5736394A (en) 1994-07-04
CA2447895A1 (en) 1994-06-23
EP0673578B1 (en) 1999-03-03
CN1112808C (en) 2003-06-25
EP0935393B1 (en) 2009-03-18
CA2151462A1 (en) 1994-06-23
AU691479B2 (en) 1998-05-21
EP0856993B1 (en) 2002-07-31
US7017178B1 (en) 2006-03-21
AU715683B2 (en) 2000-02-10
EP0909095B1 (en) 2004-10-27
CN1223525A (en) 1999-07-21
RU2153234C2 (en) 2000-07-20
EP0673580B1 (en) 1999-02-17
CN1137582C (en) 2004-02-04
DE69334106D1 (en) 2007-03-08
KR100289173B1 (en) 2001-05-02
CN1090453A (en) 1994-08-03
CN1284815A (en) 2001-02-21
EP0920208B1 (en) 2010-10-06
CA2151458A1 (en) 1994-06-23
HK1012484A1 (en) 1999-07-30
CA2410389A1 (en) 1994-06-09
US7836481B1 (en) 2010-11-16
DE69328441T2 (en) 2001-01-25
CA2461105A1 (en) 1994-06-09
US8276183B1 (en) 2012-09-25
DE69333457T2 (en) 2004-11-25
AU5845894A (en) 1994-06-22
CN1280446A (en) 2001-01-17
EP0674824A1 (en) 1995-10-04
ATE221714T1 (en) 2002-08-15
IL107913A0 (en) 1994-04-12
EP0920206B2 (en) 2008-10-15
BR9307619A (en) 1999-06-15
DE69333680T2 (en) 2005-08-18
IL120300A (en) 2002-08-14
EP0920207B2 (en) 2006-09-27
DE69327966T2 (en) 2000-11-16
DE69326020D1 (en) 1999-09-16
DE69332177T2 (en) 2003-05-08
CN100369482C (en) 2008-02-13
EP0946060B1 (en) 2007-01-17
ATE197366T1 (en) 2000-11-15
AU5732994A (en) 1994-07-04
ES2138656T3 (en) 2000-01-16
EP0674824B1 (en) 1999-02-17
CN1181683C (en) 2004-12-22
DE69334270D1 (en) 2009-04-30
EP0912059A2 (en) 1999-04-28
JP3807679B2 (en) 2006-08-09
EP0852442B1 (en) 2000-11-02
DE69329627T2 (en) 2001-06-13
AU5869894A (en) 1994-07-04
EP0822718A1 (en) 1998-02-04
WO1994014280A1 (en) 1994-06-23
IL120666A (en) 1999-12-31
CO4480071A1 (en) 1997-07-09
EP0920207B1 (en) 2003-05-07
TW310519B (en) 1997-07-11
EP1164797A1 (en) 2001-12-19
EP0673583B1 (en) 1999-08-11
JP3677037B2 (en) 2005-07-27
JP3958313B2 (en) 2007-08-15
KR100295386B1 (en) 2001-09-22
EP0673579B1 (en) 2001-02-21
KR100348113B1 (en) 2002-09-18
MY110026A (en) 1997-11-29
WO1994014284A1 (en) 1994-06-23
EP0884907A1 (en) 1998-12-16
DE69323560T2 (en) 1999-09-23
EP1164797B1 (en) 2010-02-10
IL127601A0 (en) 1999-10-28
IL120423A (en) 1999-07-14
CA2447895C (en) 2007-05-22
ATE352170T1 (en) 2007-02-15
ATE484151T1 (en) 2010-10-15
IL107912A0 (en) 1994-04-12
CN1276686A (en) 2000-12-13
ES2129621T3 (en) 1999-06-16
ATE278294T1 (en) 2004-10-15
EP0673579A1 (en) 1995-09-27
EP0856994B1 (en) 2004-03-17
BR9307621A (en) 1999-06-15
CA2151457C (en) 2004-06-29
DE69323562D1 (en) 1999-03-25
WO1994014281A1 (en) 1994-06-23
ATE262251T1 (en) 2004-04-15
DE69329949D1 (en) 2001-03-29
DE69332895T2 (en) 2004-02-05
CO4480075A1 (en) 1997-07-09
IL120300A0 (en) 1997-06-10
EP1207695B1 (en) 2011-11-02
IL107910A0 (en) 1994-04-12
ES2145821T3 (en) 2000-07-16
CA2461105C (en) 2009-09-29
JP3958355B2 (en) 2007-08-15
IL127601A (en) 2002-12-01
CA2151459C (en) 2004-03-02
ES2152712T3 (en) 2001-02-01
DE69333999T2 (en) 2006-11-16
CA2445176A1 (en) 1994-06-23
JP3958356B2 (en) 2007-08-15
EP0849948A3 (en) 1998-07-08
IL119479A (en) 1997-11-20
TW370331U (en) 1999-09-11
CN1096151A (en) 1994-12-07
ES2180088T3 (en) 2003-02-01
IL128390A (en) 2002-08-14
CN1189033C (en) 2005-02-09
EP0673581B2 (en) 2009-07-22
IL107910A (en) 1997-06-10
BR9307625A (en) 1999-08-31
MY110138A (en) 1998-02-28
CN1090454A (en) 1994-08-03
US5990927A (en) 1999-11-23
ATE199294T1 (en) 2001-03-15
EP0673581A1 (en) 1995-09-27
NZ314598A (en) 1999-01-28
CA2460634A1 (en) 1994-06-23
EP0910218A3 (en) 1999-05-19
WO1994014279A1 (en) 1994-06-23
NZ259146A (en) 1997-05-26
RU2119726C1 (en) 1998-09-27
AU716184B2 (en) 2000-02-24
HK1021604A1 (en) 2000-06-16
CA2460634C (en) 2010-04-13
ATE237906T1 (en) 2003-05-15
JP2005027347A (en) 2005-01-27
EP1207695A1 (en) 2002-05-22
CN1192617C (en) 2005-03-09
IL107909A0 (en) 1994-04-12
HK1066956A1 (en) 2005-04-01
DE69333756T3 (en) 2009-03-05
JP3958311B2 (en) 2007-08-15
DE69333756D1 (en) 2005-03-17
NZ329943A (en) 1998-12-23
AU6066898A (en) 1998-06-04
CA2553120A1 (en) 1994-06-23
WO1994013107A1 (en) 1994-06-09
CA2271555A1 (en) 1994-06-09
CA2445187A1 (en) 1994-06-23
EP0856994A3 (en) 1998-08-19
IL107908A0 (en) 1993-12-07
EP0920208A1 (en) 1999-06-02
US7260829B1 (en) 2007-08-21
AU4532597A (en) 1998-02-05
CO4180486A1 (en) 1995-06-07
DE69329949T2 (en) 2001-06-07
EP0822718B1 (en) 2002-06-19
BR9307622A (en) 1999-06-15
CN1181680C (en) 2004-12-22
DE69333999D1 (en) 2006-05-18
DE69332962D1 (en) 2003-06-12
NZ259147A (en) 1997-05-26
DE69323560D1 (en) 1999-03-25
RU2138923C1 (en) 1999-09-27
CA2271552C (en) 2006-11-28
CN1093211A (en) 1994-10-05
DE69323767D1 (en) 1999-04-08
DE69333756T2 (en) 2005-11-17
CA2445201C (en) 2007-11-20
CA2445287C (en) 2005-02-22
EP0862328B1 (en) 2003-04-16
HK1012480A1 (en) 1999-07-30
CN1184812C (en) 2005-01-12
JPH08506941A (en) 1996-07-23
CA2151460A1 (en) 1994-06-23
EP0912058B1 (en) 2004-11-24
EP0849948A2 (en) 1998-06-24
EP0856993A3 (en) 1998-08-19
EP0673581B1 (en) 2000-04-19
EP0856994A2 (en) 1998-08-05
ES2145119T3 (en) 2000-07-01
CN1090451A (en) 1994-08-03
EP0673578A1 (en) 1995-09-27
HK1023887A1 (en) 2000-09-22
CA2445187C (en) 2007-05-01
WO1994014283A1 (en) 1994-06-23
US6557173B1 (en) 2003-04-29
DE69326020T2 (en) 2000-04-06
CN1217286C (en) 2005-08-31
IL107911A (en) 1997-09-30
CN1276684A (en) 2000-12-13
US7487523B1 (en) 2009-02-03
ATE281041T1 (en) 2004-11-15
IL120225A (en) 1999-08-17
DE69331715D1 (en) 2002-04-18
EP0849948B2 (en) 2007-08-22
EP0946060A1 (en) 1999-09-29
EP1432248A1 (en) 2004-06-23
CN1181682C (en) 2004-12-22
ATE176841T1 (en) 1999-03-15
DE69333713T2 (en) 2005-07-21
EP0920206B1 (en) 2005-02-09
CN1137581C (en) 2004-02-04
JP3980580B2 (en) 2007-09-26
EP0673582B1 (en) 2000-03-01
BR9307624A (en) 1999-06-15
AU712157B2 (en) 1999-10-28
IL120225A0 (en) 1997-06-10
IL128390A0 (en) 2000-01-31
DE69332962T3 (en) 2006-12-28
HK1048575A1 (en) 2003-04-04
AU692428B2 (en) 1998-06-11
RU2192103C2 (en) 2002-10-27
KR100319581B1 (en) 2002-04-22
ATE177277T1 (en) 1999-03-15
CN1181681C (en) 2004-12-22
CA2271555C (en) 2003-11-11
IL120423A0 (en) 1997-07-13
EP0912058A3 (en) 1999-05-19
DE69332049T2 (en) 2003-02-27
TW447219B (en) 2001-07-21
DE69332049D1 (en) 2002-07-25
CN1259826A (en) 2000-07-12
ATE289148T1 (en) 2005-02-15
IL119479A0 (en) 1997-01-10
US8060905B1 (en) 2011-11-15
DE69333644T2 (en) 2005-10-13
IL107909A (en) 1997-04-15
CN1276683A (en) 2000-12-13
CN1276685A (en) 2000-12-13
CA2151457A1 (en) 1994-06-23
CN1805540A (en) 2006-07-19
CN1137579C (en) 2004-02-04
HK1012483A1 (en) 1999-07-30
AU6066798A (en) 1998-06-04
ES2172038T3 (en) 2002-09-16
CA2553120C (en) 2009-11-24
HK1023880A1 (en) 2000-09-22
DE69332895D1 (en) 2003-05-22
IL107908A (en) 1997-01-10
DE69334106T2 (en) 2007-09-06
DE69334320D1 (en) 2010-03-25
HK1021681A1 (en) 2000-06-23
KR100289175B1 (en) 2001-05-02
EP0862328A1 (en) 1998-09-02
ATE190180T1 (en) 2000-03-15
CA2151460C (en) 2004-02-24
CN1276682A (en) 2000-12-13
CA2151461C (en) 2004-09-21
US7770196B1 (en) 2010-08-03
CO4180487A1 (en) 1995-06-07
ATE283608T1 (en) 2004-12-15
CN100417217C (en) 2008-09-03
JPH08506942A (en) 1996-07-23
CA2151456A1 (en) 1994-06-23
BR9307623A (en) 2000-05-16
ES2178730T3 (en) 2003-01-01
HK1012482A1 (en) 1999-07-30
DE69332962T2 (en) 2004-02-19
CO4180488A1 (en) 1995-06-07
IL120666A0 (en) 1997-08-14
IL107911A0 (en) 1994-04-12
JPH08506940A (en) 1996-07-23
CN1090452A (en) 1994-08-03
ATE532331T1 (en) 2011-11-15
DE69333644D1 (en) 2004-11-04
ATE192005T1 (en) 2000-05-15
JP3980579B2 (en) 2007-09-26
US5559549A (en) 1996-09-24
HK1021679A1 (en) 2000-06-23
US8347345B1 (en) 2013-01-01
CN1121788C (en) 2003-09-17
MY109974A (en) 1997-10-31
EP0935393A3 (en) 1999-08-18
EP0912058A2 (en) 1999-04-28
KR100315067B1 (en) 2002-11-01
CA2151461A1 (en) 1994-06-09
CA2151458C (en) 2004-02-24
JPH08510869A (en) 1996-11-12
US6052554A (en) 2000-04-18
EP0909095A1 (en) 1999-04-14
US7363645B1 (en) 2008-04-22
JP3958354B2 (en) 2007-08-15
ATE183352T1 (en) 1999-08-15
TW269093B (en) 1996-01-21
US20080235725A1 (en) 2008-09-25
ES2128551T3 (en) 1999-05-16
AU4440797A (en) 1998-01-29
EP0673582A1 (en) 1995-09-27
KR100289172B1 (en) 2001-05-02
CA2445287A1 (en) 1994-06-23
CN1275866A (en) 2000-12-06
EP0673580A1 (en) 1995-09-27
ATE219615T1 (en) 2002-07-15
AU5733094A (en) 1994-07-04
CN1259827A (en) 2000-07-12
IL127602A (en) 2003-03-12
ATE240021T1 (en) 2003-05-15
NZ259148A (en) 1996-11-26
CN1118197C (en) 2003-08-13
DE69333680D1 (en) 2004-12-02
KR100348112B1 (en) 2002-09-18
NZ314438A (en) 1998-07-28
ATE214534T1 (en) 2002-03-15
EP0910218B1 (en) 2004-09-29
JP3958312B2 (en) 2007-08-15
WO1994014282A1 (en) 1994-06-23
DE69329627D1 (en) 2000-12-07
JP3761893B2 (en) 2006-03-29
EP0910218A2 (en) 1999-04-21
ES2154291T3 (en) 2001-04-01
IL127602A0 (en) 1999-10-28
TW361771U (en) 1999-06-11
CA2345161A1 (en) 1994-06-09
RU2112325C1 (en) 1998-05-27
DE69334342D1 (en) 2010-11-18
EP1432248B1 (en) 2006-03-29
BR9307620A (en) 1999-08-10
CN1285555A (en) 2001-02-28

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US8060905B1 (en) Television delivery system having interactive electronic program guide
US7669223B1 (en) Apparatus and method for packaging programs in a television program delivery system
US7073187B1 (en) Menu-driven television program access system and method
US7913275B2 (en) Method and apparatus for switching targeted advertisements at a set top terminal
US6181335B1 (en) Card for a set top terminal
US9009773B1 (en) Method and apparatus for providing broadcast data services

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: COMCAST IP HOLDINGS I, LLC, DELAWARE

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SEDNA PATENT SERVICES, LLC (F/K/A TVGATEWAY, LLC);REEL/FRAME:021570/0353

Effective date: 20080913

Owner name: COMCAST IP HOLDINGS I, LLC,DELAWARE

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SEDNA PATENT SERVICES, LLC (F/K/A TVGATEWAY, LLC);REEL/FRAME:021570/0353

Effective date: 20080913

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION