CN1135842C - Electronic program guide with interactive areas - Google Patents
Electronic program guide with interactive areas Download PDFInfo
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- CN1135842C CN1135842C CNB971977119A CN97197711A CN1135842C CN 1135842 C CN1135842 C CN 1135842C CN B971977119 A CNB971977119 A CN B971977119A CN 97197711 A CN97197711 A CN 97197711A CN 1135842 C CN1135842 C CN 1135842C
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Abstract
A television schedule system and method for displaying television schedule information on a television screen (38) includes a program guide (102) having a schedule information area (106) that depicts the programs that are being presented on each channel at each time during the day. An input device allows the viewer to move a pointer (110) over different interactive areas of the guide and the function performed when the area is activated is displayed in a contextual help window (218). Various control glyphs provide for recursive interaction with the guide. Additionally, a video window (220) is interactive and provides tuning functions.
Description
Technical field
Relate generally to TV broadcast time information of the present invention relates more specifically to the system and method for guide of television programs on video screen.
Background technology
Along with the increase of city district or cable network TV station quantity, the quantity of the possible programs of interest that presents to audience increases greatly.Dependence is the cut-parabolic antenna of receiving satellite signal directly, and the getable program amount of spectators further increases.
In addition, can see that from the combination of TV and PC technology TV is facing to numerical characteristic.Television set in the future will comprise a microcomputer, the modulator-demodulator of other computer interconnection on and the network, and Intranet, the internet, and can be connected with the computer peripheral such as printer.Such as almost " video request program " (NVOD), enter " World Wide Web (WWW) ", " Audio on Demand " or the like ability and will provide too much information and bandwidth to the user.
As becoming day by day obviously, in fact information overload can reduce the serviceability of the information that is transmitted.Therefore, provide a kind of management information and to provide intellectual user-friendly interface to spendable information be a great challenge.
Thereby, developed the TV broadcast time system on the video screen that is set directly at spectators, to help classify various programs and determine to watch or write down those programs of spectators.Disclose a kind of such TV broadcast time system in the United States Patent (USP) of generally transferring the possession of 5,353, No. 121 (Young etc.), the complete open book of this patent is the list of references of this paper.In a kind of execution mode of Young, TV program schedule comprises a series of one group of menu screen with the constituent element of different TV programme correspondence that has.Spectators' constituent element that can roll is to observe the TV programme that is presented on the different time different channel.In addition, spectators can select some constituent element with the more details that obtain related-program or go up other submenu that drawstring has additional option.
The latest developments of TV broadcast time table system, for example, the patent of above-mentioned YoungShi has proposed many new challenges.A kind of such challenge provides a kind of system and method, and its suitable being applied on PC, PC/TV, WebTV or the TV is used for managing intelligently available bulk information storage, and is used for providing direct visit and control to electronic program guides to the user.Another challenge is functional on a large scale by the convenient use of the combination of the user interface of limited quantity.
The invention provides a kind of system and method, be used at visual interface, for example video screen, computer monitor etc. show broadcast time information.The present invention also provides a kind of system and method, the program guide that is used to allow spectators to navigate and for example shows on spectators' video screen alternately.This program guide generally includes a schedule information district, and it describes the program that each time of every day is presented on each channel.By input equipment, for example remote controller, give directions device, Genius mouse, keyboard, microphone etc., spectators can show the information area browsing time and/or obtain the more information of the program of relevant concrete interest.
Summary of the invention
According to an aspect of the present invention, by selecting at moving hand in the visual interface district and in this district or " click " direct call action.What " linguistic context help window " in viewing area prompting user can do and what need be done during moving hand on the viewing area.It is underway that this specific character guarantees what the user always understands.
In one aspect of the invention, provide a kind of system and method, display action control that is used to allow spectators to utilize and is configured to pattern (glyphy) recursively changes the configuration of viewing area.Each pattern is to be encouraged by the indication of user input device and click action, and serves as two kinds of diverter switches between the mode.
According to an aspect of the present invention, " information pattern " switching back and forth between " information expansion " of many title lattice/tables one of (select in the lower banner form header sheet) and individual event (be expanded into demonstration can roll program or display items display information).Information pattern provide to general picture slightly look and to going deep into carefully looking of information.
According to another aspect, " seeking other pattern " searched for automatically and shown all other possible table to current selection.
According to another aspect, " upset pattern " overturns between the vertical layout of viewing area and horizontal layout.
According to a further aspect of the invention, " recording figure forming " allows with clicking direct controlling recording.
According to another aspect of the present invention, when having the link of the Web site relevant with the program of current selection, the world wide web (www) icon appears on display.On this WWW icon, click custom system is connected with relevant Web site.
According to another aspect of the present invention, in the time obtaining the relevant chaining service of program with current selection, the chaining service icon on display, occurs, the click of chaining service icon is configured to the access links service to custom system.
According to another aspect of the present invention, when the user pointer movement when showing the video window of current tuning channel, this window is divided into two parts.Upper section is one can click the district, with allow the user directly be tuned on the program of a current selection in this viewing area, the below partly allow the user turn back to window separately before shown preceding working as on the tuning program.
According to another aspect of the present invention, when pointer movement in the zone of arrow indication rotating direction the time, but strengthen the brightness of scrollable area.The zone that can encourage rolling in the viewing area is the part of viewing area.
According to another aspect of the present invention, each performed action of user is confirmed in positive text window, to strengthen the resolution that the user carries out this action.
According to another aspect of the present invention, the display mode header area shows current display mode icon and text specification when not selecting, and this display mode header area shows the display mode the selected icon group of selecting fully when excitation.
According to another aspect of the present invention, when watching program, can encourage and browse window, but its displayed record pattern, world's icon and chaining service icon.
The invention provides a kind of interactive electronic program guide (EPG), comprising: a display screen, comprising interactive areas, the linguistic context help window that in this EPG, shows continuously and the pointer on this screen that is being configured to call the EPG function; A display controller is used to handle the video data that shows on this display screen; A memory is used to store the EPG data of the linguistic context help information that comprises the action of finishing about needs; An input equipment is used for receiving order; And a processor, it is connected to this memory and input equipment, is used to respond the motion of this pointer on this interactive areas, shows the linguistic context help information that shows the action that need finish in the linguistic context help window continuously at this.
The present invention also provides a kind of mutual electronic program guides (IPG) with linguistic context help function that shows on the interactive screen that is used to promote with IPG, it comprises: a plurality of interactive areas in IPG that are configured to call the IPG action; In this IPG, be used to show linguistic context help window about the continuous demonstration of the linguistic context help information of the action that will be performed; Be used to store and comprise that linguistic context helps the IPG memory of data of data; Be connected to the video-stream processor of this memory, be used to show the IPG data that comprise interactive areas, and show about showing the linguistic context help information of carrying out which kind of operation on the help window continuously at this; And the cursor on screen, it responds user command, is used for moving at this IPG, shows each context data in the linguistic context help window to show continuously at this.
Description of drawings
Other characteristics and the advantage of reading following detailed description and accompanying drawing one invention can be clear.
Fig. 1 represents a kind of execution mode of EPG display of the present invention;
Fig. 2 is the calcspar of television system;
Fig. 3 is the calcspar that generates the hardware component of the electronic program guides (EPG) on the screen;
Fig. 4 is the schematic diagram with the hierarchical data base that generates EPG;
Fig. 5 A-5D is the schematic diagram of this data of database structure;
Fig. 6 schematically illustrates the transmission of EPG in the digital satellite system;
The display of rolling function is implemented in Fig. 7-10 expression;
Figure 11-14 expression implements to search the display of informational function;
Figure 15-17 expression implements to search the display of other thing function;
Figure 18-EPG19 represents to implement the display of vertical/horizontal turn over function;
The display of writing function is implemented in Figure 20-25 expression;
Figure 26 represents to implement to be used for the display of the tuber function of video window;
Figure 27 A-27H represents to implement the display of transition cartoon function;
Figure 28 and 29 expressions show the display of interactive program mode district and icon group; And
Figure 30-33 expression is used for and the mutual display of new service characteristic.
Embodiment
The general introduction of interactive screen
A kind of broadcast time table system and provide a group to be used at visual interface is provided, for example video screen, computer monitor etc., on show the method for schedule information.This system and method is specially adapted to TV broadcast time information.TV broadcast time information is presented in the program guide, and this program guide has the schedule information district, to describe a period of time for example one day, a week or longer, the program of interior each cannel broadcast.
This television schedule system comprises an input equipment, for example remote controller, give directions device, Genius mouse, keyboard, microphone etc., to allow user's browsing time show the information area and/or to obtain the relevant specifically more information of programs of interest.
Controller can comprise tracking ball, cursor control, indication device, allow the microphone of voice activation, make some keys that spectators move on screen or button, or the like.In a preferred embodiment, controller comprises a kind of scroll mechanism, is used for moving removable cursor along constituent element matrix on the screen or group of windows.Cursor can comprise the physics icon on the screen, perhaps can be by to constituent element that spectators rolled or window highlights or other visual indication is represented.
Fig. 1 represents to be used for the program guide 102 of television schedule of the present invention system.Comprise some screen message district or windows in the concrete screen as the program guide 102 of the basic mode in the television schedule system, spectators handle input equipment, indication device for example described above, in this concrete screen, move up and down and and screen area in function mutual.Best, for example by background color is changed over brighter active look to observing the current existing screen district that uses of indication from light gray degree metallochrome.In each screen area, typically in matrix or sash, arrange one or more clauses and subclauses, thereby spectators can roll in sash.Utilize input equipment can select or the activation project.
As shown in fig. 1, program guide 102 preferably includes the list information area 106, and this information area 106 has the program matrix 108 of constituent element or clauses and subclauses, to describe the program that each channel of each time of every day presents.Program guide 102 is enumerated channel usually in the left vertical row of program matrix 108, list the time in the horizontal line above matrix.Spectators choose certain zone by moving hand 110 in the zone relevant with required action.When pointer 110 is mobile on certain zone, may automatically strengthen the position of the brightness of these clauses and subclauses with brighter colour with the indication spectators.
In Fig. 1, program guide 102 comprises some out of Memory districts.For example, program guide 102 comprises and shows header area 200, and it comprises that display mode icon 202 and display mode describe body field 204.Interaction data control window 206 illustrates the date of tabulation in the display matrix 108.
Nestle up viewing area 108 below be four little action command character 208-211, they give the ability that spectators recursively change the configuration of viewing area 108.The back can describe the operation and the function of these action command characters in detail.Left side under the viewing area may show world's icon 214, and a star (can obtain chaining service) icon 216 may appear in the right side of tight below, viewing area.The back can describe the operation and the function of world's icon and star icon in detail.
Linguistic context help window 218 is positioned at the bottom of program guide 102, and shows that body field, this body field tell the user works as when pointer is positioned at certain specific region of program guide maybe should do what kind of action.Many examples of the different body field that occur in linguistic context help window 218 can be described below.
The EPG system survey
In a kind of preferred implementation, the electronic program guides of TV can or have on a kind of in the television set of plate customized at television set that personal computer, PCTV and set-top box are connected to be realized.Yet the present invention is not subject to any specific hardware configuration, and increases its use along with the new development meeting of computer and television system combination.Sometimes above-mentioned any called " television system " hereinafter.The calcspar of expression television system is described in Fig. 2.Because the present invention is not limited to any specific television system, will not describe the details of enforcement.
As everyone knows, picture displayed to send by analog signal, for example the NTSC standard that adopts according to the U.S. perhaps sends by the digital signal that is modulated on the analog carrier.Can on cable, perhaps pass through antenna or satellite cut-parabolic antenna, received signal.Usually, television set is designed to receive analog signal, and computer display is designed to show the picture of coding under the number format.Yet decoding system becomes digital data conversion analog signal showing on television set, and television modem can format anolog TV signals to show on monitor.
The analog or digital TV signal that receives through cable 30, antenna 32 or satellite cut-parabolic antenna 34 in Fig. 2 offers television system.If signal is from digital broadcasting service, then decoder 36 becomes base band video and audio frequency or passage 3/4 radio frequency to conversion of signals.If signal is an analog signal, it is then exported as video and passes through.Depend on its configuration, television system 38 receives some outputs of selecting from these output, and shows the program that receives.
PCTV comprise with live video, base band video or channel 3/4 output in one of the TV card 40 that is connected, digitized video image, and this video image is presented in the reproducible window of size on the computer monitor.PCTV can also be connected with telephone land line by modulator-demodulator 42.
If the signal that received is anolog TV signals, this analog signal of TV card digitlization of PCTV, and extract the information that is comprised from vertical blanking period.Otherwise,, then provide audio frequency, video, VBI (vertical blanking information, for example closed-caption, teletext and program-related information), program guide and the conditional access information of separation by bit stream independently if signal is digital signal.The video bit stream of program and audio frequency bit stream conversion display format, and handle performance guide information to form the program guide data storehouse.The processor of institute's saved software generates the image of interactive electronic program guide image and the program that receives in the execute store.This guide can be used for window in shown program mutual and can be used for controlling program.
The television system that the electronic program guides of the guide that is provided by StarSight (starlight) television broadcasting for example is provided show comprises screen display controller and other hardware that the back is illustrated.If the acceptance criteria analog broadcast signal extracts the program guide data that receives by the VBI data amplitude limiter from VBI, and handle to form program database.If receive the DBS digital signal from satellite or cable, in the bit stream that separates, provide VBI data and routine data.Perhaps local ground or remotely generate the program guide image, and offer screen display controller.Provide interactivity through Long-distance Control.
Alternatively, can be on computer monitor program guide, for example through IR (infrared) interactive interfacing formula ground control television set, this IR interface comprises an IR initiator 44 to this monitor, to generate the IR sign indicating number of control TV and/or VCR (video cassette recorder).
If the local electronic program guide data storehouse that generates, the system that generates electronic program guides must receive television schedule information and handle the information that receives to set up database.Thereby this system needs a data receiving-member, a processor, the memory of programs stored sign indicating number and database, a screen display maker (OSD) and a control interface that is used for tuning each selected channel.
In a kind of preferred implementation, by the short command transmission list information of one group of professional format.Information such as the description of each program and information attribute in the title of each program, this channel in the program guide of different order transmission such as given channels, this list.Like this, the information of certain program of certain special time broadcasting sends in several orders.ID facility in each order is in information organization to a relational database, and this database adopts and is stored in data engine (DBE) software in the memory and that carried out by processor.
In a kind of preferred implementation, in spectators' television set, comprise a plate and local ground stored data base, and at specified channel, PBS for example, on the VBI of program in send order.A kind of exemplary plate that is used for program receiving guide information, generation program guide data storehouse, program guide and interactively control program guide is described in Fig. 3.Vertical blanking period at the programming of certain specified channel sends order to this plate.
Alternatively, can send order through landline phone alignment local device.In addition, illustrated as the back, some system's medium-long range set up database, and send program guide to local device.
Database engine makes up hierarchical data base in RAM.The hierarchical structure of this database is described in Fig. 4.This database is constructed inside into catalog (catalogue) structure and the subject data structure that is connect by handle (handle) and handle watch chain.Each handle is the index of certain handle table, and the handle table contains the pointer to memory block, the clauses and subclauses of stored data base in memory block.
In another embodiment, for example DSS sends program guide data become a bit stream of being handled by database engine.
In addition, exploitation N.E.W.S. (news, entertainment, weather and physical culture) database.Transmission comprises the order of report text and report ID.Can set up linking from program guide to the report relevant with certain program, and can be from the relevant report of this guide visit.
Also set up an advertising database from each order, it comprises body text and logos, contains the ID that the program play among this advertisement of handlebar and the EPG couples together in the logos.The user can directly visit advertising message from program guide.
Also set up an internet database from each order, it comprises the URL to the Internet site relevant with the last program that broadcasts of EPG.If spectators are at a platform that allows Web, for example WebTV, PC, PCTV, on watch EPG, then can directly visit the site that has linked from EPG.
In addition, the list, program title and the out of Memory that are used to from database of graphic program module set up various demonstrations.If osd controller moves under character mode, then show it is the grid of character code, these character codes are sent to the osd controller that generates screen display.
A user imports response interface program module response user input and generates and the corresponding new demonstration of specific input.In a kind of preferred implementation, the user utilizes input equipment, and for example remote controller, Genius mouse or keyboard are positioned at pointer on certain part of current demonstration and click.The location of this input respond module response pointer and the current specific demonstration that is just showing are replied demonstration or are taked specific action with generation.In another kind of preferred implementation, the function button on the user interface response remote controller.Below concrete example will be described.
The explanation of the detailed description plate of EPG system
Fig. 3 is a kind of calcspar of execution mode of the electronic hardware components that adopts 52, and these parts are carried out the electronic curtain timetable and shown and other function.This particular hardware component 52 of being described is used for TVRO (receiving only TV) user, and these users have the satellite cut-parabolic antenna that is used to watch TV.These parts are connected with existing TVRO subscriber equipment serially.
In Fig. 3, these parts receive the base band video from the TVRO custom system at 123 places.These parts are randomly exported base band video output 128 or passage 3/4 RF output 130.These parts comprise one 8 microprocessor 100, the ROM 101 of 64 syllabified codes, the RAM 102 that is used for 512 K of program data storage, the gate array 103 of a customization, the segmentation base register 104 that is used for the fast storage data manipulation, be used for the safety logic circuit 106 deciphered of enciphered data to input, a universal serial bus 108 that is used for the display controller interface is used for the universal serial bus 110 of inter-processor communication, is used to the watchdog timer 112 of makeing mistakes and recovering, IR input 113, be used for TV, the IR transmitter circuit 116 of VCR control, IR output 117, CRC-32 coding and decoding logic circuit 118, board mounted power 120, video input 123, screen display controller and formatter 124, the color conversion device 126 of customization, radio frequency modulator 127, the selection in base band video output 128 or RF output 130.
Screen display controller and formatter (OSDCF) 124 serves as i/o controller, screen display controller and closed-caption data (CCD) VBI data amplitude limiter.VBI (vertical blanking period) is a dead space in the TV signal, and it allows TV signal scanning beam to be repositioned onto the top of screen from the bottom of screen.During VBI, numerical data, for example the closed-caption data are modulated onto on the carrier signal.
OSDCF 124 comprises an analog to digital converter (ADC), and the base band video of latter's digitlization input also extracts the digital information that sends among the VBI.As the back more completely illustrates, in VBI, send the message that will be transferred in the database.These message are sent to processor 100, and processor is carried out database engine and handled to set up or new database more.
The OSD of OSDCF 124 partly comprises cache, character memory, clocking capability and an external RAM.OSD reads the advanced figure order of processor 100 transmissions and graphical information is stored among the RAM.OSD output red (R), green (G), blue (B) graph data are used to generate local video signal.The state that depends on the user's input interface that illustrates later shows the output of OSD local video or shows the live video of importing.
Therefore, the screen display graph data that database engine generates is sent to the RAM of OSD, and OSD then generates and makes the local video signal that demonstrates display screen on video screen.The timetable data structure
DBE sets up hierarchical data base in RAM.The hierarchical structure of database is depicted among Fig. 4.This database internal build becomes data dispatching structure and the subject data structure that is connect by handle and handle watch chain.Each handle is the index of a handle table, and the handle table contains the pointer to memory block, and the structure of database is stored in these memory blocks.
By the order that falls progressively, the level of timetable data structure is:
Channel data table: the channel table that comprises subscriber equipment;
Listing: comprise and be used for the time slot that each is predefined in the program of broadcasting on certain channel;
Program title: comprise title text and program title attribute;
Program is described: the grade, attribute and the description text that comprise program.
The channel data table of being described among Fig. 5 A is the maximum data structure in this level.Each channel that this table receives subscriber equipment comprises an entry.Each entry in the channel data table does not change continually, and is to be determined by the position of subscriber equipment and the type of service that receives.Every entry of channel data table comprises the information of relevant this channel and a handle, and this handle is facing to a listing handle table that is used for this channel.
Next data structure in this level is the listing of describing among Fig. 5 B.Listing comprises a time started, the time started normally midnight Greenwich Mean Time and by 24 hours the establishment.The timetable of channel is to be provided by an orderly Pgmtime shelves sequence, and each program of the specific channel broadcasting of certain particular day has Pgmtime shelves.Each the time bay comprise that duration, program title handle and program describe.Find corresponding with certain a given time started entry need in order, from the beginning of listing and add each bar entry of duration scan value.
When complete structure, this database keeps each channel listing weekly.By the listing handle being increased progressively the every day of two bytes in the addressable week.Delete midnight at Greenwich every day and just pass by the listing of that day and the listing that increases same day of next week to upgrade the listing group.
Next data structure in the timetable level is that each program title entry of describing among Fig. 5 C and each program of describing in Fig. 5 D are described entry.For certain given program shelves, utilize the handle interview show title clauses and subclauses and the program that comprise in this grade to describe clauses and subclauses.At the memory bank stored program title clauses and subclauses and the program that are divided into piece clauses and subclauses are described.Each program title identifies with unique program identification number (SID) of one 20, and each program is described one 20 one number sign with a head place appointment.Each program title handle is based on SID, and is biased in the program title handle table being equipped with the program title handle.Be included in first address in the memory bank of wherein storing these program title clauses and subclauses by clauses and subclauses in the program title table of certain specific program title handle visit.Similarly, the program of describing handle visit by program is described the handle table entry stores and is being stored this program therein and describe first address in the memory bank of clauses and subclauses.
Each program title clauses and subclauses comprise the text of subject index ID and this program title.Typically, wall scroll program title clauses and subclauses can be quoted by the listing at many different channels, date, hour.Like this, by utilize being equipped with the handle in the listing, the wall scroll program title clauses and subclauses in all listing reference stores devices, thus use this memory effectively.Many listing clauses and subclauses have the long life-span because these program titles may be used for the series performance play the time a segment length, and since many programs may quote by many listings by these program titles of a plurality of cannel broadcast.
Every program is described clauses and subclauses and is comprised that subject index ID, comment grade, MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America) grade of program, characteristics shield hyte (traits mask bits), making year and program and describe text.Because description is only effective to certain the specific collection in the series, the life-span that program is described clauses and subclauses is tending towards shorter than the life-span of program title clauses and subclauses.The timetable search
Show that for the schedule information that obtains certain special time and in program grids this schedule information needs following step.For each channel in the channel table, visit and search for the listing of this day.According to comprising should seclected time and duration of each program shelves of continuity to the horizontal pane sizing of this channel.Visit the program title clauses and subclauses that each program shelves is quoted, and in the horizontal pane corresponding with these program shelves the display program title.The favorite channel table
Refer again to Fig. 5 A, every clauses and subclauses in the channel data table comprise " liking a link " field.This field comprises the link of the channel that the next one is liked, and is used to form the orderly channel link table of an order of determining by the user.
User interface and database engine provide various screens with facility to will be in guide the ordering and the selection of channel displayed.Storage is to the link of first channel in the orderly channel table in memory.Utilize the channel table clauses and subclauses of the favorite channel of this links and accesses.Field is to visit the channel table clauses and subclauses of next favorite channel to visit " like link " in this channel, and the rest may be inferred, until the delimiter value that runs into regulation, and for example 0 * 00, the end of its expression favorite channel table.
By in each bar channel table clauses and subclauses, keeping a plurality of " liking link " field, can support to have the ability of showing more than one like.The ad data structure
The data structure of advertisement table is similar to listing.It comprises a time started and by layout advertisement in 24 hours.The advertisement table is regionalization, and certain each advertisement of playing to the settled date is comprised advertisement shelves.The advertisement shelves comprise the duration and are used to visit the advertisement ID of ad entry.
Every ad entry comprises an advertisement banner headline body field, a body text field and a pointer (if needs) that points to the advertisement and identifier language.Advertisement and identifier language comprises a graphic file that will show together with advertisement.The help window data structure
This database also comprises the string list of seeking help that the confession of string storage shows of seeking help by ASCII in linguistic context is sought help window 218.Every in this table helps certain interactive areas in string and the EPG demonstration relevant.When spectators on certain interactive areas during moving hand, user interface generates a new screen that is showing the relevant string of seeking help that is presented in the linguistic context help window 218.Set up database
This database is to be set up by the database engine software that moves on processor.This database engine receives the message that is comprising specific instructions.The example of order comprises: " zone order ", and it stipulates that for concrete subscriber equipment spendable channel is to be included in the channel data table; " channel data order ", it comprises the information that is used for forming the clauses and subclauses in the channel data table; And " listing, program title and program are described each order ", they comprise the SID and the DID of the section in the reference stores device.This database engine only select with channel table in the relevant listing order of channel that contains, to be further processed.
This database engine is that all SID included in any listing and DID set up the memory cell in the memory.Having the information that is comprised in the order of the SID of coupling or DID is written in the memory segments of being quoted.In the reality, for more effective search, by hash system handles SID and DID.
Can send to subscriber equipment to message in every way.The front had illustrated the system of the message among a kind of VBI that receives broadcast program.In the DBS system, can in a dedicated bit stream, send message.
In the DBS system, video baseband signal is digitized, compresses and is modulated on the analog carrier signal.Because the progress of compress technique, the carrier wave that is used for sending single program in the past can send four programs now.Usually, except vision signal, also other bit stream coded message, for example audio frequency, VBI (such as the vertical blanking information data of closed-caption and teletext), performance guide information, conditional access information provide by bit stream independently, and be multiplexed on the combined stream, and then be modulated on the carrier signal.
Alternatively, this database itself can flow down transmission in numerical data.For example, be that 36 channels send performance guide information in 3 hours broadcast program piece with DSS.Broadcast program is modulated on the different frequency bands digitally.As shown in Figure 6, a satellite has the transponder 500 that several send simultaneously on different frequency bands.Utilize digital compression technology to be modulated to several channels on the single frequency band.All frequency bands transmit a bit stream that is comprising existing broadcast program.Yet transmission is used for the broadcast program in the future of different channel piece on different frequency bands.Form with rotating disc type or endless loop sends these channel pieces, thereby exists delay before receiving the frequency band of special time.
A decoder at viewer's location place receives 16 carrier waves and controls a tuner/demodulators to select a carrier wave.To this carrier wave sampling, decoding, error correction and demultiplexing to separate different bit streams.This decoder comprises the video decoder chip that compressed video is decompressed, and is actually the picture of virtually any size with reconstruction.
When this guide of viewer accesses, the piece that is used for this time interval is loaded into memory, thereby the user can be mutual with this guide.For the moment in future and different channels, possible life period postpones.For example, if the piece that existing broadcast program piece is B1 and current reception is B4, before receiving and showing existing broadcast program, the user must wait for that piece B5, B6 and B7 are sent out.Spectators will wait for a time delay, it equal to send each piece duration and, i.e. d5+d6+d7.If guide blocks is modulated on the different frequency bands, must cable box be tuned to this frequency band and before sending required piece on the rotating disk, waiting for.Therefore, if following broadcast program is visited this guide, may there be delay.
For cable TV, this database is based upon SST headend equipment place, and sends to along land electric wire on the headend equipment of cable.Any way that wired company wishes with it sends data, VBI, satellite-signal, digital signal or the like.User interface
User interface is the main input of remote control commands as it.In one embodiment, the user is by pressing the various functions of function button request on the remote controller.In another embodiment, use GUI, this GUI to have distinct interaction zone on the display screen with the difference in functionality correspondence.The user with the interactive areas of required function correspondence on moving cursor and select this function to generate order.The concrete mode of input command is not critical.Soon just can use the technology that adopts voice commands.
User interface receives order, uses the display screen of being asked to reply and reply by the function that fill order is asked.Performed function may be to carry out action, for example write down certain program, be tuned to the relevant site, the Internet of certain channel, visit, purchase and watch program or the indent goods that will charge.The data of each screen and form depend on the content of previous screen, hour, database, the order that is received and other parameter.Utilize state table definition screen flow.
For each screen that defined, existence enters operation, withdraws from operation, upgrades operation and a series of request processing operation.When state is collected all data necessary and format screen for entering into for the first time, call and enter operation.Call and withdraw from operation is used for screen with release memory and data.When if some shown informational needs upgrades on the screen, per minute calls and once upgrades operation to upgrade the screen time and to repaint screen.
In case be in certain particular state, this table comprise to remote controller on each key or screen on the quoting of corresponding other software subroutines of each interactive areas.No matter when depress relevant remote controller buttons or select interactive areas, will carry out these subroutines that are cited.
For example, if the user wishes certain program of record under the GUI execution mode, these spectators move to the recording interactive district to cursor and then select this district with request executive logging subroutine.Generate one then and confirm screen.In case this user confirms record request, in record queue, generate one.Write down demons to check this formation and management accounts subroutine from the executed in real time module invokes then.
According to the graphics display command that database engine sends, screen display (OSD) controller display screen.Draw and comprise in the basic command of system display screen: wipe screen commands; Draw the rectangle order; Preserve the rectangle order; Recover the rectangle order; Mobile rectangle order; Write the ASCII string command; And picture channel icon order.
Each screen comprises based on being stored in code in the nonvolatile memory and some invariant regions of data, and comprises Variable Area such as program title and description that some use the data of storing in databases.Illustrated in to database engine, this data construct becomes to be convenient to search for effectively normally with ASCII text string form to be stored in information in the database as the front.In addition, in this database, also storing graphic file, in the window of indicator screen, showing.
Explanation to the detailed description rolling function of program guide
Scrollable area 228-232 allows with the content in any direction roll display district.The following describes the operation of scrollable area 228-232.
With reference to Fig. 7, when the user arrives rolling right side region 230 to pointer movement, strengthen this regional brightness and represent rotating direction with arrow with bright green.Shown text tells the user to click roll display to the right to show the program of back in the linguistic context help window 218.Each click roll display half an hour.Hit down and pin then per half second and roll half an hour, then quicken when decontroling, just to stop if the user continues to pin.
Fig. 8,9 and 10 describes respectively upwards, left and downward rolling operation.For rolling operation up and down, the each click shows next complete vertical screen.Hit down and pin per half second and quicken to show a new vertical screen.
The operation of the control of explanation exercises now 208-211 and function are to the explanation of information pattern
With reference to Figure 11, on program shows, select clauses and subclauses after, when the user from the program moving hand of current selected and pointer movement during to information pattern 209, this pattern splits into the recurrence control button of one two part immediately.Left button 209a shifts near camera lens to watch the deep layer information relevant with certain selected program with the necessary information of the travelling backwards camera lens of symbol prompting on selected clauses and subclauses to obtain being comprised in certain constituent element, right button 209b with symbol prompting on certain particular items.Please note that the text in the linguistic context help window 218 tells the user to take the result of what action and action.
With reference to Figure 12, in case the user finishes the click that camera lens is shifted near pattern 209b, a transition cartoon (back explanation) appears, existing selected program entries moves to top window 209c, and the information of relevant this program is pulled down among the center window 209d.The user interface directs database engine is described text to program and is shown among the center window 209d.Flatly widen center window, make it occupy whole viewing area, only allow scrollable area still be on the periphery.The user can roll round this guide in top illustrated mode now.Text in the linguistic context help window 218 is told the user, can directly access this program when pointer is positioned at wherein double-click.
With reference to Figure 13, when the user on text area during moving hand, the text in the linguistic context help window tells that hit at this class mark can downward rolling text.The information rolling indicator in this text left side shows the zone that a brightness strengthens, and respectively drags in this zone and draws the downward rotating direction of arrow points.
With reference to Figure 14, to information pattern 209, this pattern divides the user once more pointer movement, to show two kinds of different focus configuration.Existing selected button 209b is enhanced brightness.Pointer is on the left button 209a and the text in the linguistic context help window 218 tells the user to click the interview show guide.To searching the explanation of other pattern
With reference to Figure 15, behind a selected program, when the user pointer movement on searching other pattern 210 time, this pattern splits into two partial recursive control buttons immediately.Left button 210a is included in the program demonstration with the selected program of symbol prompting, and right button 210b should select a multinomial tabulation of program with symbol prompting.Please note that the text in the linguistic context help window 218 tells the user to take the consequence of what action and this action.
With reference to Figure 16, after clicking on the multinomial tabulation pattern 210b, system shows the time list of this selected program of broadcast of arranging in chronological order.Existing selected program is selected automatically.If existing selected program is certain day in the future, it will appear at the centre of this table, list the program of playing earlier in its front.Please note that text in the linguistic context help window tells the user to double-click and will directly access this program.
With reference to Figure 17, to searching on other pattern 210, this pattern divides so that two kinds of different configurations shown to be shown the user once more pointer movement.Pointer on left button 210a and existing selected button be enhanced brightness.Text in the linguistic context help window 219 tells user's click meeting that selected program is presented in the program show grid.The explanation of flip vertical pattern
With reference to Figure 18, when user's moving hand and when being placed on pointer on the flip vertical pattern 211 from existing selected program, this pattern splits into the recurrence control button of two parts immediately.Left button 211a is with symbol prompting horizontal display mode, and right button 211b is with the vertical display mode of symbol prompting.The text that please notes 218 li of linguistic context help windows tells the user to take the consequence of what action and action.
With reference to Figure 19, in case the user finishes click, transition cartoon (back explanation) occurs, and the viewing area clockwise rotates, thereby the actual channel clauses and subclauses are across being stretched to the top, those original levels be positioned at program before it vertically be set forth in now it below.Text in the linguistic context help window 218 tells the user can directly access program to the double-click in pointer zone of living in.Show that all action control button 208-211 and these buttons work.Explanation to recording figure forming
With reference to Figure 20, when the user from existing selected program moving hand and when placing pointer on the recording figure forming 208, this pattern is increased brightness, and the text in the linguistic context help window 218 tells the user to take the consequence of what action and this action.
With reference to Figure 21, an actions menu appears when the user clicks on recording figure forming 208.In the figure, pointer is positioned on brightness increase " record once " clauses and subclauses.Text in the linguistic context help window 218 tells user's click can write down this program once.Owing to can only write down once this program, this is unique option.For other program, show that " record every day down ", " record down weekly ", " record is whole little series performance down " may suit.The numeral that occurs in each clauses and subclauses with hit this numerical key and enter input equivalence.For this reason, in such as the operating sequence under the record, do not allow tuning with keypad of direct-type.
With reference to Figure 22, when the user clicks " record is next time ", open an acknowledgement window 300, this window has the text of the action that explanation will take and pointer and is positioned on " Okay " clauses and subclauses that brightness strengthens.If the action that the user clicks described in the acknowledgement window can be done.Also show " cancelling/return " clauses and subclauses.If the user clicks herein, then do not finish action described in the acknowledgement window 300 and demonstration and get back to form described in Figure 23.Please note the effect of text specification " Okay " clauses and subclauses that show in the linguistic context help window 218.
Please noting that other display action control disappears, is inappropriate because call these controls under this linguistic context.
As describing among Figure 23, when the user returns down in proper order from regularly recording, this program entries is increased a videotape symbol 302.So long as effectively, all this symbol can appear at any place that shows this program.
With reference to Figure 24, when the user was placed on pointer on the recording figure forming 208, certain selected program showed the videotape symbol.The text that please notes linguistic context help window 218 tells the user can edit selected recording of programs setting.
In Figure 25, the example for " this program of cancellation from record sheet " only shows the action clauses and subclauses that these are applicable to this selected program.In other cases, for example have the program that repeatedly writes down number of times, can allow the user except that this program of cancellation from record sheet, also can have other change and select in this remaining setting of some visit." cancelling/return " clauses and subclauses always occurs.
In a kind of exemplary configuration, video window 220 " live ground " shows the existing program that accesses, thereby spectators can browse program matrix 106 under the action of not missing the existing program that accesses.This specific character for example allows spectators under the score of being careful football game all the time, browses the program array simultaneously or carries out the mutual of other, the more information of for example stock on order or service, search program etc. with system.In the another kind configuration, spectators can be arranged to browse program matrix 106 with these spectators to video window and change, so that video window 220 is described the program that brightness strengthens in the matrix.This allows the televiewer to watch each program fast from program guide under needn't withdrawing from.
With reference to Figure 26, the user has selected a program in guide, i.e. and " wing of hope ", and pointer placed video window 220.This video window splits into two interactive areas 220a and 220b.Can click window 220a to access the program of selecting from guide, window 220b is to turn back to the current program that accesses under perhaps clicking.Linguistic context help window 218 provides the function of the video window of explaining this division.
A transition cartoon storyboard is used for being shown to from level the upset conversion of vertical demonstration.As everyone knows, by showing a series of slightly different images realization computer animations.Utilize cartoon type ground change to show, spectators are more comfortable and be familiar with the function of EPG.The interactivity of display mode header area
Figure 28 represents that when pointer movement is shown header area 200 the demonstration header area becomes can select icon group district 202a-d.Information indication program guide in the linguistic context help window 218 is existing display mode.Pointer moves on the E-News service icon 202b in Figure 29.The function of E-News service icon
In Figure 30, when selecting press service icon 202b, transition cartoon occurs and display change is become a detailed option table.In Figure 31, when pointer movement arrives " 1 nearest news " classification, help text to point out the function of selecting this classification performed.In Figure 32, when selecting " news category recently ", show a nearest news item table.In Figure 33, in another content, in rotatable text, set forth the title incident.Please note that information pattern has been expanded into its recurrent state.
Database comprises the header sheet of an event header, and each event header comprises a pointer to certain clauses and subclauses in the event description table, and these clauses and subclauses comprise the detailed text of this incident.The user interface response is to the selection presented event title of user interface and presented event description when spectators select domain of dependence.
Claims (10)
1. an interactive electronic program guide (EPG) comprising:
A display screen is comprising interactive areas, the linguistic context help window that shows continuously in this EPG and the pointer on this screen that is being configured to call the EPG function;
A display controller is used to handle the video data that shows on this display screen;
A memory is used to store the EPG data of the linguistic context help information that comprises the action of finishing about needs;
An input equipment is used for receiving order; And
A processor, it is connected to this memory and input equipment, is used to respond the motion of this pointer on this interactive areas, shows the linguistic context help information that shows the action that need finish in the linguistic context help window continuously at this.
2. the EPG of claim 1, wherein said video data comprises being used to make described display controller to show to comprise with the pattern being the video data of each interactive areas of form, and the data of wherein being stored comprise and are used to make described customer controller recursively to change the data of the setting of demonstration when spectators activate this pattern.
3. the EPG of claim 1, wherein the data of being stored comprise interactive title pattern district and when this pointer is placed in this interactive title pattern district, and the data of storing comprise being used for making can select to show that the control icon is displayed on the data of this interactive title pattern viewing area.
4. the EPG of claim 3, wherein first shows that the control icon is a program guide icon, wherein causes this display controller to show a program guide demonstration when it is selected.
5. the EPG of claim 3, wherein second shows that the control icon is a new service icon, wherein causes the tabulation of a new service of this display controller demonstration when it is selected.
6. mutual electronic program guides (IPG) that on the interactive screen that is used to promote with IPG, shows with linguistic context help function, it comprises:
Be configured to call a plurality of interactive areas in IPG of IPG action;
In this IPG, be used to show linguistic context help window about the continuous demonstration of the linguistic context help information of the action that will be performed;
Be used to store and comprise that linguistic context helps the IPG memory of data of data;
Be connected to the video-stream processor of this memory, be used to show the IPG data that comprise interactive areas, and show about showing the linguistic context help information of carrying out which kind of operation on the help window continuously at this; And
Cursor on screen, it responds user command, is used for moving at this IPG, shows each context data in the linguistic context help window to show continuously at this.
7. the IPG of claim 6, wherein this linguistic context help data be can carry out the user or the action notice that needs to carry out to user's text data.
8. the IPG of claim 6, wherein one of a plurality of interactive areas are video windows that is used to show the current TV programme of being transferred to.
9. the IPG of claim 6, wherein a plurality of interactive areas comprise the device that is used to write down a program or is transferred to a television channel.
10. the IPG of claim 6, wherein a plurality of interactive areas comprise the device that one or more is used to visit the device of relevant the Internet location, is used to buy the device of pay-per-use channel or is used to buy commodity.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US2243696P | 1996-08-06 | 1996-08-06 | |
| US60/022,436 | 1996-08-06 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CN1240554A CN1240554A (en) | 2000-01-05 |
| CN1135842C true CN1135842C (en) | 2004-01-21 |
Family
ID=21809578
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNB971977119A Expired - Lifetime CN1135842C (en) | 1996-08-06 | 1997-08-05 | Electronic program guide with interactive areas |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP0919097A4 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP3174349B2 (en) |
| CN (1) | CN1135842C (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2260894C (en) |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5962028A (en) | 1988-04-20 | 1999-10-05 | Norian Corporation | Carbonated hydroxyapatite compositions and uses |
| EP1052849B1 (en) | 1998-11-30 | 2011-06-15 | Sony Corporation | Set-top box and method for operating same |
| JP4470462B2 (en) * | 2003-11-25 | 2010-06-02 | ソニー株式会社 | Image processing apparatus and method, and program |
| CN1914595A (en) * | 2004-02-02 | 2007-02-14 | 皇家飞利浦电子股份有限公司 | Delegating skinning service for CE apparatus GUI to the internet |
| CN100346650C (en) * | 2004-02-26 | 2007-10-31 | 联想(北京)有限公司 | Method of prompting programs played in advance when channel being changed |
| EP1800231A1 (en) * | 2004-09-30 | 2007-06-27 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Decision support systems for clinical guidelines and for navigating said clinical guidelines according to different levels of abstraction |
| US20080229204A1 (en) * | 2007-03-12 | 2008-09-18 | Brian David Johnson | Apparatus, System And Method For The Navigation Of Aggregated Content Using Skipping And Content Metadata |
| KR101197219B1 (en) * | 2007-04-17 | 2012-11-02 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Apparatus and method for managing personal schedule and broadcasting program |
| GB2455803B (en) * | 2007-12-21 | 2012-07-04 | British Sky Broadcasting Ltd | Online EPG |
| WO2015081805A1 (en) * | 2013-12-02 | 2015-06-11 | 乐视致新电子科技（天津）有限公司 | Television, and method and device for processing a play record thereof |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JP2853282B2 (en) * | 1990-07-05 | 1999-02-03 | 富士ゼロックス株式会社 | Help message display method |
| ATE516664T1 (en) * | 1990-09-10 | 2011-07-15 | Starsight Telecast Inc | USER TERMINAL FOR TELEVISION PROGRAM BOARD SYSTEM |
| JPH04365124A (en) * | 1991-06-12 | 1992-12-17 | Nec Corp | Help message display system for japanese-language input system |
| US6239794B1 (en) * | 1994-08-31 | 2001-05-29 | E Guide, Inc. | Method and system for simultaneously displaying a television program and information about the program |
| EP0713172B1 (en) * | 1994-11-15 | 2002-02-06 | Microsoft Corporation | Slide out interface bar |
| 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 |
-
1997
- 1997-08-05 CA CA002260894A patent/CA2260894C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1997-08-05 CN CNB971977119A patent/CN1135842C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1997-08-05 EP EP97936404A patent/EP0919097A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1997-08-05 JP JP50817198A patent/JP3174349B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2260894C (en) | 2005-04-12 |
| JP3174349B2 (en) | 2001-06-11 |
| CA2260894A1 (en) | 1998-02-12 |
| CN1240554A (en) | 2000-01-05 |
| EP0919097A1 (en) | 1999-06-02 |
| JP2000500639A (en) | 2000-01-18 |
| EP0919097A4 (en) | 1999-10-27 |
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