CN1374799A - Method for providing programme distribution - Google Patents
Method for providing programme distribution Download PDFInfo
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- CN1374799A CN1374799A CN 02106593 CN02106593A CN1374799A CN 1374799 A CN1374799 A CN 1374799A CN 02106593 CN02106593 CN 02106593 CN 02106593 A CN02106593 A CN 02106593A CN 1374799 A CN1374799 A CN 1374799A
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Abstract
A method and apparatus are provided for distributing programming. A first set of program segments is transmitted according to a schedule of programming. A second set of program segments is stored on a server, with at least one of the first set of program segments having a counterpart in the second set of program segments. A database is maintained that records user authorizations to program segments on the server. A request from a user for program control of a particular program segment is detected and a determination is made whether to grant program control to the user.
Description
The application requires No. the 60/275th, 496, U.S. Provisional Application submitting to March 13 calendar year 2001 and the priority of No. the 09/877th, 317, U.S.'s non-provisional application of submitting to June 8 calendar year 2001.
Technical field
Present invention relates in general to delivery of content, particularly, is to transmit program to certain separate operation department or resident family.
Background of invention
Content via satellite, multitude of different ways such as microwave, UHF, VDSL, optical fiber, VHF or cable is delivered to user's set top box.The most contents that is obtained is according to being published in program guide neutral line timetable.Utilize these transmission systems can obtain some Additional Services, such as by watching payment (PPV), video request program (VOD) and intend video request program (NVOD).PPV allows the user to buy the right of watching program according to the linear session table.The VOD providing capability is convenient to the user and is watched program at any time and control playback by the user.NVOD is a kind of mixed method, and the program that is obtained is staggered in a series of channel neutral lines broadcasts and time started, but the user can not control playback.
PPV, VOD and NVOD remote storage content, and pass to the user according to channel special use or that share.PPV and NVOD are according to the broadcasting of linear session table, and a plurality of users share single channel and watch program simultaneously.Because share single channel, so the user can not the control content playback.On the contrary, the individual consumer is given in traditional VOD clean culture on dedicated channel, so just allows the control playback.Such as, user can begin, stop, rewinding, F.F. or suspend the VOD program.
Summary of the invention
The present invention relates to transmit program to independent business department or resident family.In one embodiment, provide the method and apparatus that distributes program.Send first program according to program log.Store second batch of program on server, at least one program in first program has homologue in second batch of program.Safeguard that a database comes the mandate of recording user to the program segment on the server.Detect the user to the program control request of specific program section and make and determine whether authorize program to control to the user.
In another embodiment, a collection of video frequency program section is stored on the server.The user is authorized the program control of enjoying the subclass of video frequency program section in advance, to set up the scheme of authorizing in advance.User request is detected the program control of particular video program section, according to mandated program in advance, the program control of particular video program section is authorized to the user.
Accompanying drawing is briefly described
The present invention is described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:
Fig. 1 is the block diagram of an embodiment of expression program delivery system;
Fig. 2 is another embodiment of expression program delivery system, and the block diagram of an additional content provider is arranged at a distance from cable TV supplier;
Fig. 3 block diagram is represented an embodiment of program delivery system, with wireless mode transmit content from cable TV supplier to transmission system;
Fig. 4 block diagram is represented an embodiment of program delivery system, and it adopts satellite-based transmission system;
Fig. 5 is the block diagram that expression comprises an embodiment of the set top box of controlling channel;
Fig. 6 is the block diagram of an embodiment of the set top box of the meaningful storage capacity of expression;
Fig. 7 is that diagram is obtained the real time programme or the flow chart of the flow process of programs stored in advance;
Fig. 7 A is that diagram is obtained the real time programme or the flow chart of the mutual affirmation feature of programs stored in advance;
Fig. 7 B is that diagram is obtained the flow chart of an embodiment of programs stored in advance;
Fig. 7 C is that diagram is obtained the flow chart of another embodiment of programs stored in advance;
Fig. 7 D is that diagram is obtained the flow chart of another embodiment of programs stored in advance;
Fig. 8 A is that diagram is selected the flow chart of the process of programs stored in advance;
Embodiment of block diagram diagram of Fig. 8 B, its coupling confirms that feature is to the embodiment based on menu;
Embodiment who watches specific plan video request program (NVOD) program of block diagram diagram of Fig. 9 A;
Embodiment who watches collection from the program of a plurality of channels of block diagram diagram of Fig. 9 B;
The block diagram of Fig. 9 C illustrates another and watches the embodiment of collection from the program of a plurality of channels;
The NVOD that the flowcharting user of Figure 10 A controls playback watches step;
The flowcharting of Figure 10 B is used to the user to store the process of club's program in advance in this locality;
The block diagram of Figure 11 A is described another embodiment of set top box, and this set top box writes down a plurality of programs simultaneously;
The block diagram of Figure 11 B is described another embodiment of set top box, and this set top box once writes down whole multiplexing program stream;
The block diagram of Figure 11 C is described another embodiment of set top box, and this set top box comprises two tuners;
The block diagram of Figure 12 A is described another embodiment of set top box, and this set top box is recorded in the program on a plurality of different carrier wave channels;
The block diagram of Figure 12 B is described another embodiment of set top box, and this set top box is recorded in the program on a plurality of different carrier wave channels and guarantees its completeness;
The block diagram of Figure 13 A is described program recipient's embodiment, and it produces a plurality of digital channels simultaneously;
The block diagram of Figure 13 B is described another embodiment of program recipient, and it produces a plurality of digital channels simultaneously;
The block diagram of Figure 14 is described an embodiment of program server, and it uses buffer to store a plurality of digital channels at the same time;
The block diagram of Figure 15 is described an embodiment of program server, and it uses statistic multiplexing to make up a plurality of digital channels;
The block diagram of Figure 16 is described an embodiment of program server, and it uses mass storage devices once to store a plurality of digital channels;
The block diagram of Figure 17 is described multiplexing NVOD program, and it was play on a specific transponder above six hours;
The block diagram of Figure 18 is described multiplexing NVOD program, and wherein the time started of each transponder and other transponder are interleaved;
The block diagram of Figure 19 A is described an embodiment of the 4 tunnel multiplexing NVOD programs that have the memory contents activity;
The block diagram of Figure 19 B is described another embodiment that has 4 tunnel multiplexing NVOD programs of memory contents activity;
The block diagram of Figure 20 A is described another embodiment that has 4 tunnel multiplexing NVOD programs of memory contents activity;
The block diagram of Figure 20 B is described another embodiment that has 4 tunnel multiplexing NVOD programs of memory contents activity;
The block diagram of Figure 20 C is described another embodiment that has 4 tunnel multiplexing NVOD programs of memory contents activity;
Figure 21 is to use NVOD circulation program that the flow chart of class video request program (VOD-like) service is provided;
Figure 22 is that expression uses NVOD circulation program that the flow chart of another embodiment of class video request program (VOD-like) service is provided;
Figure 23 is the flow chart that the process of the playback operation of being authorized is verified in expression; And
Figure 24 is the process of the playback operation of being authorized is verified in expression to the program of being stored a flow chart.
In the figure of back, similarly assembly and/or feature are with same reference numeral.And the differentiation mode of the different assembly of same type is to follow a hyphen and be used for second label of region class like assembly after reference numeral.If only use reference numeral in explanation, then this description is applicable to the assembly that any one has the first identical reference numeral, and no matter what second reference numeral be.
The description of specific embodiment
Below description only provide preferred embodiment, rather than limit the scope of the invention, applicability or configuration.Following description of preferred embodiments will provide realizing the description of the preferred embodiment of the present invention for those skilled in the art.Should be appreciated that, under the situation of the spirit and scope that do not depart from following claim and comprised, can make various changes function or element arrangement.
The invention provides a kind of method that is used to distribute program.The user can watch the specific program with playback controls function.By using a teleswitch, the user can rewinding, F.F. or is suspended broadcast to linear session table program.Controlled broadcast can provide from the program beginning, also can provide from the intermediate point of program.
In one embodiment, additional content provider allows the user to watch predetermined linear program log on its TV.The linear session table that offers the user can be watched in real time, that is, watch along with the broadcasting of program.In this embodiment, user's subclass of having subscribed to additional content can also obtain the interests of additional level, is called " club " herein.The clubbite also can at any time visit the whole of linear timetable content or its subclass.Clubbite can use a teleswitch rewinding, F.F. or suspend playback to this content.
The block diagram of Fig. 1 is represented program delivery system 100.This program delivery system 100 comprises transmission system 108, set top box 120, subscriber management system 124, subscriber server 128, program server 132, program request database 136 and satellite antenna 116.Program server 132 and program request database 136 are parts of the content provider of adding.Additional content provider system and other assembly of cable TV provider system are joined together.
Cable TV supplier is mutual with additional content provider system, so that the additional program of supply is given the user.Additional content comprises the commercial channel of supporting, non-commercial channel, and homeshopping, interactive services is by watching paying (PPV), VOD, or NVOD.In this embodiment, program request database 136 and program server 132 provide additional information to cable TV supplier respectively, and its content gives the cable TV provider broadcasts to specific set top box 120.Interface standard or customized software permission additional content provider system and cable TV supplier are mutual.Mutual permission between the system exchanges program, cast and out of Memory mutually.
The relevant additional content of program server 132 storages supplier's program.Subscriber management system 124 checks whether program request database 136 affirmation programs can obtain.Program server 132 is loaded program and is arrived transmission system 108 to the subscriber server 128 or the program that directly is coupled.Therefore, subscriber management system 124 uses information from program request database 136 so that provide program title as the user.
Although program request database 136 separates with subscriber management system 124 in the above-described embodiments, can make up these functions in certain embodiments.Programme information can offer subscriber management system 124 so that use appropriate software and hardware to be used for management in this system.
Referring to Fig. 2, it illustrates another embodiment, wherein additional content provider system 204 is separated with the cable TV provider system.This embodiment allows additional content supplier to have middle cardiac status, and it is communicated by letter with a plurality of cable TV suppliers that are positioned at geographical position far away.First and second satellite antennas 216,220 are 208 intercommunications mutually via satellite.Satellite 208 provides two-way communication, and is mutual such as subscriber management system 124 and program request database 136, and program server 132 sends program and sends programs to set top box 120 to subscriber server 128 or use transmission system 108.
Referring to program delivery system 300 embodiment of Fig. 3, it uses the satellite link program receiving.Satellite television providers uses first satellite antenna 304 to upload program to satellite 308.Transmission system 108 is coupled to second satellite antenna 312 so that program downloading.Transmission system 108 converts satellite-signal to the form that can be understood by set top box 120.Although there is not picture in Fig. 3, other satellite, cable, microwave receiver and antenna can provide program to be distributed to set top box 120 to transmission system 108.
The mode of the control information that transmits between subscriber management system 124 and set top box 120 has common old-fashioned telephone service (POTS) network 316, leads to the control data channel of each set top box 120, or two-way satellite link.The mode that sends data to set top box 120 is the control data channel, and data receive mode is a POTS network 316.POTS network 316 report usages are not to adopt near real-time method, but adopt " storage is transmitted " pattern, set top box 120 report usages according to predetermined time ratio as midnight every night.In addition, subscriber management system 124 can be passed through POTS network 316 periodic queries set top boxs 120.
Referring to Fig. 4, it illustrates another program delivery system 400, and this system is placed into transmission system 108 in the satellite 408.Although only drawn a satellite television providers, can there be a plurality of satellite television providers to upload to satellite 408.Transmission system combination in satellite 408 also downloads to the signal of combination each user's satellite antenna 412 from the program of many content providers.The signal of 120 pairs of downloads of set top box is decoded.
Modulator-demodulator transceiver in each set top box 120 is communicated by letter so that title and out of Memory are provided with subscriber management system 124 by POTS network 416.This embodiment uses the POTS network by carrying out two-way communication near real-time mode.In case need the program of Special Empower to be requested, subscriber management system 124 is just inquired about title.On the contrary, other embodiment uses the broadband packet network to carry out this communication such as the Internet.
Referring to Fig. 5, it with the block diagram formal description embodiment of set top box 120.Set top box 120 recovers digital channel and provides digital channel to arrive the TV indicated channel that the user selects.Set top box 120 comprises program receiver 500, controller 504, display interface 524, control transceiver 528, Long-distance Control transceiver 532, channel display 536.Being included in has a tuner 508 in the program receiver 500, digital channel demodulator 512, and digital channel is selected circuit 516, decryption engine 520.Satellite antenna 412 program receivings of set top box 120 from being coupled to satellite, other embodiment can use other transmission means.Control information sends and receives all passes through POTS network 316 or other two-way channel.
Last step before program broadcasts is to pass through display interface 524 decompression digital channels with the form that is fit to show on TV.MPEG-2 decoder decompression digital channel in display interface 524 is to the NTSC form, and its form is modulated to the frequency of common corresponding channel 3 or 4.Visual tuning is received the program that is included in the digital channel to channel 3 or channel 4.Know as industry, TV also can select composite video or from the S-VIDEO of composite video, perhaps the S-VIDEO input port is so that from set top box 120 reception programs.
The operation of controller 504 monitoring set top boxs 120.Controller 504 is carried out all input processes from remote controller, selects carrier channel and digital channel, and processing control information.Controller 504 comprises look-up table, and mapping digital channel and corresponding carrier channel arrive indicated channel.The user can select indicated channel so that watch the content of corresponding digital channel on TV.By using look-up table, controller 504 causes the set top box 120 tuning digital channels of selecting by remote controller with decode users.
When the user asked program, subscriber management system 124 found suitable transmission path and provides indicated channel to the user.When being ready to begin to watch, the user is just with remote controller request indicated channel.Correct tuning of set top box and decoding are to digital channel that should indicated channel.In another embodiment, controller 504 can remap digital channel to any indicated channel, such as special-purpose club channel.
Control information is sent out and receives by control transceiver 528 through POTS network 316.Such as, set top box 120 can pass through the control data channel request program of transceiver 528, and the response of the indicated channel of subscriber management system 124 these programs of usefulness.Transceiver 528 includes modulator-demodulator, and it is data-modulated demodulating data to telephone wire and from the telephone wire.Controller 504 is handled all data that send and receive from the control data channel of control transceiver 528.Other embodiment utilizes packet network, cellular data network, wired control channel, the two-way communication of microwave link or other known method.
During club's programme replay, the user can control program time-out, rewinding or F.F. with remote controller.Club's program sends to set top box 120 by the special digital channel.Playback command is sent to subscriber management system 124 by the control data channel, and the latter controls subscriber server 128 or program server 132 so that adjust playback.By this way, club's program can be play at VCR or cassette player as local video or audio frequency like that.
Receiver of remote-control sytem 532 allows user's input information to program delivery system 100.Use a teleswitch, the user sends selection instruction according to the menu that is presented on the video screen.Controller 504 is handled these selections and form suitable prompting after the information that receives from subscriber management system 124.These promptings can be produced by controller 504 and/or subscriber management system 124.These promptings allow the user to select club's programme replay or visit its account.
The indicated channel that channel display 536 provides the user to expect.This display 536 can be a light-emitting diode display, LCD display or the coverage diagram that shows on video screen.The user uses to confirm current which indicated channel of having selected from the feedback of channel display 536.
Referring to Fig. 6, shown an embodiment who stores the set top box 600 of some programs in this locality.This embodiment comprises controller 612, receiver 500, display interface 524, program server 132 and program request database 136.Program server 132 is periodically downloaded and be stored in to club's program.This embodiment is by being coupled to the coaxial cable program receiving of transmission system 108.In addition, control information also sends and receives by this cable.
The operation of controller 612 management set top boxs 600.Digital channel controlled device 612 is selected and is downloaded to and watches or directly send to display interface 524 after program server 132 is provided with and be used for watching in real time.Controller 612 also receives user specific information, club's customizing messages and get title from the programme information of program request database 136 so that for the club's program that leaves in the program server 132.
In program server 132, use mass storage devices, such as disk, tape, video tape recorder, the program that storage such as CD is downloaded.Local storage allows with less time-delay time-out, rewinding and F.F. program.Nowadays Lian Jia disk has the storage of 80GB, allows to deposit in set top box 600 video frequency program of approximately same hourage or 1500 hours audio program.Should be appreciated that, may store the information of non-club related-program in certain embodiments.
Control information Be Controlled transceiver 608 sends and receives.The control data channel that these transceiver 608 demodulation enter, its carrier wave are usually in the 100MHz scope, and the control data channel of modulation output, and its carrier frequency is usually at 5-50MHz.Controller 612 is handled all data that send and receive from the control data channel of control transceiver 608.
The control data channel is broadcast to all set top boxs 120 relevant with transmission system 100.For fear of conflicting of the set top box 120 of the control information address of other set top box 120 and expection, the addressing mode of control information is to guarantee that identifier is unique to expection set top box 120.In addition, can adopt cryptography that further fail safe is provided, to avoid set top box 120 decoding control information outside the purpose to control information.
Referring to Fig. 7, this flow chart shows the method for the program that obtains real time programme or store in advance.The flow chart of Fig. 7 comprises the various embodiment of obtaining and confirms embodiment, is labeled as " A ", and " B ", " C " and " D " has more detailed introduction at Fig. 7 A respectively in Fig. 7 D.Real time programme can be the part of common subscription service, and it comprises fixing program log, according to given time bar, such as one month, plays.
The playback of control store program can only obtain in club usually.Clubbite's qualification normally exceeds the propagation service of simple subscription service, usually also than independent subscription service user effort height.But other embodiment can belong to the privilege that subscription service just provides the clubbite.Such as, the commercial TV of supporting can time-out, rewinding and F.F., and it does not belong to subscription service.Another example below will describe in detail, and as a market strategy, it provides the sample of more various club service to non-clubbite.
Beginning of this process is at step 704 user tv tuner machine and set top box 120.If desired, select to check indicated channel that the latter is corresponding to subscription service step 708 user.In order to enable this selection, controller 612 is informed in user's selection by receiver of remote-control sytem 532.In response, controller 612 reference radio channel look-up tables (being channel map) and order receiver 500 to handle the corresponding digital channels.Digital channel is sent to display interface 524 so that compression before showing on TV.For consistent with the digital channel that shows, channel display 536 controlled devices 612 are upgraded so that reflect selected demonstration channel.
In step 712, subscriber's program is play the user according to its timetable in advance.The affirmation service that shows in step 760 can be automatically performed by system provides information to confirm to the user whether ordered program is club's program, allows the clubbite is strengthened feature.In addition, whether there is any one order to be activated in the controller 612 monitoring Management Information Bases (in step 770,780 and 790, showing), can be used to provide controlled watching to visit club's program of storage in advance by the user.Authorize the club's program stored that allows controlled access to select or different club's programs, as hereinafter described in step 712.
If controller detects the input of an order, determine whether to authorize in step 770,780 or 790 club's program is selected to carry out playback controls.In step 744, system uses this affirmation, perhaps is used in step 724 authorized user playback controls, perhaps in certain embodiments, whether shows sales promotion information in step 746 decision.If decision will show this sales promotion information, just sales promotion information is shown to the user in step 748.These sales promotion information can comprise the information of the propagation benefit of describing the clubbite, clubbite's fringe cost, and any other relevant information is such as the special promotion price.
An importance of relevant promotional features is that the user attempts obtaining complimentary visit to club's interests in step 770,780 or 790.Whether allow this complimentary visit in step 752 decision, making of decision can realize by the information of subscriber server 128 access subscription person's management systems 124.Whether allow the example of the relevant information of free of cost visit to include but not limited to following information with decision: whether this complimentary visit was allowed to license to certain specific user in the past, how long the time that this specific user becomes the subscriber has, and whether this user has any behavior of defaulting.
If system determines to authorize complimentary visit, turn back to step 712 so, the user still watches ordered channel with real-time mode.In one embodiment, this whole process may be fully transparent to the user.From user's angle, when he attempts going the club feature of restricted access, to not influence of the program stream in his TV, because the program that he watched is not club's program or because he is not the clubbite.On the contrary, if system determines to authorize complimentary visit, it offers the playback controls of user to club's program in step 724.No matter whether the user is given playback controls in step 724, as complimentary visit or as the club part of user, according to step 770,780 or 790 accurately determine that this control can begin to provide at selected program, perhaps is transfused to that time of program in order.
In case after mandate went through, subscriber management system 124 or controller 612 just sent title to set top box 120,600.Title comprises carrier wave and corresponding to the digital channel information of club's program.Controller 612 order receivers 500 recover to comprise the digital channel of club's program, and provide digital channel to the user.No matter the final authorization control club program by how of user in step 724, system all provides same ability.In step 724, the user can time-out, rewinding or F.F. program, just as playing on user's VCR.The user can be given that the limited time is watched club's program so that save the special user's of giving digital channel resource needed.In other words, in this embodiment, the user is given the predetermined time and watches club's program, such as the twice of program length.Outside the predetermined time, can not start this program.
Fig. 7 A has shown that in detail club confirms an aspect of feature, has described its function in step 760.Confirm each mutation of feature, will describe a wherein part below, be also included within the coverage of the present invention.In step 712, controller 612 common supervisory user moving between different channel waits for that the user is fixed on certain specific subscription channel.One of method that whether definite user is fixed on certain channel in step 761 is the time period (such as 5 seconds) that rests on this channel according to the user.
If the user does not have the ordered channel of visit recently, just simple the continuation real-time provides this channel to the user in step 712 system.But, demonstrate the identifier of the channel that the user stopped just now in step 762.In step 762, the brief relatively demonstration of this identifier (such as 2-6 second) is not watched program so that do not disturb.In one embodiment, the just simple sign user of this identifier is just visiting the service that he subscribes to now.In complex embodiments more, identifier may comprise the information indication of dynamic generation, such as the remaining time of program title that is showing and program.In another embodiment, by the strigula indication, identifier is just basic not to be shown, process is handled and just directly forwarded step 763 to.
In step 763, determine whether accessed subscription channel is club's program.If not, system returns step 712 and shows this program and eliminate identifier after the reasonable time section.If what show is club's program, so just show club's acknowledgement indicator in step 764.Represent with hyphen that in this embodiment club's acknowledgement indicator shows separately rather than shows with identifier.Club's acknowledgement indicator comprises, for example, special icon or character string, it can be obtained special playback controls so that be apprised of by clubbite or other subscriber identification.In certain embodiments, the other parts of the system that same icon is used to describe below are such as at program guide or in various menu functions.This consistency has strengthened the meaning of confirming identifier, can either form its identification value, can strengthen the advertising results of its special club's feature again.Different with static nature, club's acknowledgement indicator includes dynamic basis, the dynamic change of reflection club program list.Demonstration maintenance a period of time (such as between 2 to 6 seconds) of covering marking symbol and acknowledgement indicator, and be removed so that the user can continue to watch the subscription channel in that step 712 is interference-free in step 765.In certain embodiments, periodically explicit identification accorded with and acknowledgement indicator, such as 15 minutes interval.
In step 766, whether controller 612 is also monitored the specified message key and is activated by the user.These message keys are used to display message on screen, describe the program that is showing.These programme informations comprise, such as, program title, the program summary, shows residue total time, the content that program is relevant and the credit rating of program at the time that program begins in program.In different embodiment, use the different combinations or the subclass of these information.In order to respond activation, be shown to user's video screen at step 767 controller 612 indication programme informations to the appointed information key.
In step 768, determine that the program that shows is club's program on the channel of subscribing to.If, just there is an acknowledgement indicator to cover (step 769) on the programme information, so that shown programme information comprises this indication: the programme replay controlling features is obtainable to the clubbite.In one embodiment, acknowledgement indicator and other local show the same that step 764 and system move have strengthened the explanation of icon to the subscriber like this.The dynamic decision of shown affirmation sign is with the dynamic change on the basis of broadcasting of reflection club program.Programme information shows, comprises acknowledgement indicator, can be specified the mode of key to remove by controller 612 to activate once more by the user.
Fig. 7 B has described a method that activates user's playback controls of club's program, generally corresponding to step 780.In this embodiment, play button or equivalent bond whether have been activated in step 782 controller 612 supervisory user.Play button is used as that an independent key means the program of selecting current demonstration and from beginning to visit club's program of being stored.This feature comes the zero access whole program to watch the program that is broadcasting to allow the user by issue an order.
Activate this key,, mean that the user has initiated club's version of the current subscription programs of request visit controller 612.Handle this request in step 784 and 786, determine whether the subscription channel that (1) shows is club's program, whether therefore a clubbite also can visit club's version of storage in advance to (2) this user.Have only when two conditions all satisfy just at step 788 granted access club version.Can obtain the authorization by inquiry controller 612 in certain embodiments, can obtain the authorization by query subscription person's management system 124 in further embodiments.If any one condition does not satisfy, just regain and authorize in step 789.Even so, attempt visit and can initiate as described above that series of steps comprises step 744,748 and 752 obtain club's version of free of cost visit as promotional features.Another embodiment with dashed lines is described.Be not the playback controls mandate that simple withdrawal is not presented at the subscription channel of club's program, the user is directed to club's channel in step 785, and handles the step that turns to Fig. 7 D to show.
In Fig. 7 C, shown a similar method that obtains playback controls, corresponding step 770.In the method, the user indicates him to wish to control the program that is showing, by activating a specific program operating key that is different from play button or its equivalent bond.If the user is awarded playback controls, this program operating key just comprises that those are used to handle the key of program process, such as F.F., rewinding, or suspend, and other playback controls that is activated.In certain embodiments, the program operating key may comprise the ability that user's classification is instructed that gives, and request is provided with the special speed with respect to normal speed of F.F. or rewinding, such as " 2 * ", " 4 * " etc.
Authorising conditional can be detected by inquiry controller 612 and/or subscriber management system 124.Controller detects the program operating key and is activated, and just determines in step 774 and 776 whether the subscription channel that (1) shows is club's program, and whether (2) this user is a clubbite.Have only when two conditions all satisfy just at step 778 granted access club version.If any one condition does not satisfy, just do not authorize and carry out playback controls in step 779.In step 770, can not consider the situation of not this mandate, and determine whether to allow the specific club's program of free of cost visit as the part of promotional features according to step 752.Another embodiment with dashed lines is described.Be not the playback controls mandate that simple withdrawal is not presented at the subscription channel of club's program, the user is directed to club's channel in step 775, and handles the step that turns to Fig. 7 D to show.
After authorizing in step 778, controller 612 or subscriber management system 124 are determined the current point of playback of subscription programs.Playback duration can be determined from mpeg stream.Such as, using the control data channel, playback duration is sent to subscriber management system 124 so that Cun Chu program as required begins to play at the current playback point in step 724 in advance.Like this, club's program is just used the mode of user transparent is substituted the timetable program---and conversion from the timetable program to club's program is seemingly seamless and do not have interim distortion.From clubbite's angle, he be tuned to subscribe to channel, see the brief confirmation of the program that just is being shown, and use its program operating key to wish the control program by it.
Also have alternate manner to make club's program of user capture storage and give the playback controls of program is weighed, shown in Fig. 7 D, corresponding to step 790.In step 728, the user selects to show club's display menu, and multiple program options is arranged on this on-screen menu.Such as, select club's display menu by the suitable key that activates on the remote controller.Menu can be organized according to modes such as program category, lexicographic orders.At some point, need whether the decision user is clubbite (in step 792), such as passing through access subscription person's management system 124.In the embodiment that this figure shows, making of decision is after the user has selected club's program, although can make this decision At All Other Times in other.If the user is not the clubbite,, although may being capped in step 752, this is used to promote purpose, as previously mentioned at step 799 granted access club program not just.
There are a lot of options to offer the user in step 794 and select club's program.In certain embodiments, controller 612 formalization menu screens and send to display interface 524.In further embodiments, on-screen menu may be a digital channel by subscriber management system 124 formalization and by channel, sends to the user.This same channel will finally be used to playback club program.The menu that provides comprises acknowledgement indicator, such as the icon of the dynamic generation that is used in other point of system, emphasizes that it is the club's program that offers appointment especially that program is selected, the change that its complete list may be frequent.In step 796, the user selects club's program from menu option, sets up subscriber authorisation in step 798 program is controlled its playback from the beginning.
Each embodiment that Fig. 7-Fig. 7 D describes is little to the memory location difference of club's program.The different storage mode of describing in detail above is all within the scope of the invention.Briefly, club's program can remote storage, and such as in headend, neighbor node perhaps is stored in this locality, such as in set top box 600.The flow chart description of Fig. 8 A be chosen in the set top box 600 local storage club program specific embodiment.
In step 804, the user selects to show linear timetable program.In step 808, controller 612 should show according to the message formization that obtains from program request database 136.Just be sent to controller 612 when relating to specific thing such as cast by subscriber management system 124 formalization and through control channel.In step 812, program offers the user according to the form that the Pgmtime by channel and planning forms.Set top box 120 should show according to the message formization that receives from control channel in the past.Embodiment based on linear program log will go through shown in Fig. 8 B below.Also can use other configurations shown, comprise according to classification, lexicographic order, ratio or alternate manner organization material.
According to step 814, controller gives acknowledgement indicator to the program in club, such as icon, is used for indicating club's program in the other parts of system.Even in the embodiment of the affirmation sign that adopts the display icon form, its operational mode is different from other may be integrated into icon in the program guide.These icons of the latter only limit to the static information indication usually, such as each program is had convention.This icon that may be accompanied by in certain embodiments based on father's lock feature of immobilized substance classification exists.On the contrary, club's acknowledgement indicator is dynamic indication, the seamless ongoing variation that comprises club's program register, and the latter is stored so that carry out class VOD by playback to small part and controls.Therefore, in order to comprise club's acknowledgement indicator, controller 612 is realized consulting with program request database 136 and/or subscriber management system 124.
In step 816, the user is provided by certain club's program that provides.If necessary, after obtaining title, controller 612 makes set top box 600 playback be stored in club's program in the program server 132.Program server 132 is with the number format programs stored of compression and send digital program to display interface 524 decompression and analog-converted.In step 824, the user enjoys the control fully to playback when watching club's program.In different embodiment, program is controlled at program and is given at the very start, perhaps is given according to its position in linear program log, as Fig. 7 B and Fig. 7 C are described.In step 828, program request database 136 is upgraded according to viewing information.Upgrade program request database 136 and allow enhancing to watch rule, such as allowing the user to watch same program above twice, five times or ten times.Rule such as watching number of times, can be adjusted to follow the contractual obligation of reaching with the copyright holder in each different embodiment.
The example that the program that is shown to the user after the step 814 is arranged has been described in Fig. 8 B schematically.In this example, a series of programs 840 have different length, and 7 different channels (being labeled as " channel A "-" channel G " respectively), the time period is from 6:00 to 11:00.Planning in the example comprises 12 different program 840-1 to 840-12, and table repeats and be staggered in the custom of watching that different channels adapts to different subscribers at a fixed time.In 12 different programs, have in this example 4 (840-2,840-3,840-6, and 840-7) in club, can be taken back by the clubbite and put control visit.Therefore, just beginning of timetable club program, the icon 842 that dynamically produces is comprised the availability of the special club feature that is used for discerning those programs.
Referring to Fig. 9 A, the user watches the NVOD program.In this embodiment, 2 hours NVOD program is by real-time release, and the time started is staggered by half an hour.In other words, channel I 928, channel II 932, channel III 936, channel IV 940 shows same NVOD program with the different time starteds.Like this, the user need wait for that at most half an hour can watch next program in a conventional manner.This embodiment has improved this situation, allows the user to begin at any time to watch and obtains control to playback.
In this embodiment, there are four channels 928,932,936,940 to show the NVOD program.In this embodiment, each channel 928,932,936,940 display program many times.Show that such as channel I 928 the time first time 912-1 of NVOD program is at 4 points, time 912-2 is at 6 points for the second time, and time 912-3 is at 8 points for the third time.The time started of channel II 932 is than late half an hour of the time started of channel I 928.
The user wishes to watch the NVOD program that begins at 7:45 in this embodiment.The first 904 of NVOD program is stored in program server 132.Storage has just taken place when any channel 928,932,936,940 shows the NVOD program for the first time.Storage can be at the set top box 120 of this locality, also can be away from set top box 120.The program of watching of putting control is represented to wish to take back up to the user in only local in this example storage least part 904 or 30 minutes.In case the user begins to watch, the remainder of program just extracts from the channel 928,932,936,940 that is just moving.In this embodiment, remaining 3/4ths program 908 is extracted from channel IV 940 programs that start from 7: 30 924-3.To the storage of other parts, program server 132 programs stored is simultaneously extracted program to program server 132 with from program server 132 when playing in order to be supported in partial programme.
In this embodiment, be locally stored in one and a half hours 904.But other embodiment can have more or less channel and more or less pre-stored.The staggered time of each program start time is exactly to watch the time of storage before.The algorithm of staggered time is divided by channel quantity with program length.Such as, if program is 2 hours, in 8 channels, providing, staggered time is 15 minutes.Therefore, need the local program of storing 15 minutes in advance.
The embodiment of Fig. 9 A stores first's program 904 and downloads second portions 908 from NVOD channel 928,932,936,940.Other embodiment uses other pass through mechanism to be received in program and is requested the first of local storage before.After the user sent request, remainder can be downloaded according to various method, connected such as broadband network, and VDSL connects, and satellite television connects.Broadband network sends second portion by DOCIS modulator-demodulator, DSL modulator-demodulator, satellite modem, power line modem, light modulator-demodulator, radio modem, or other technology.In other embodiments, Cun Chu part and rest parts can be used such as broadband network in advance, and VDSL connects, and methods such as satellite television connection are downloaded.
Referring to Fig. 9 B, this block diagram shows the embodiment that watches the program of assembling 958 from many channels 944,948,952,956.In this embodiment, four channels 944,948,952,956 respectively repeat length be the program segment 960,964,968,972 half an hour of 2 hours program 958.Set top box 120 still can provide NVOD service from four channels 944,948,952,956.As if set top box 120 can be every seamless switching channels half an hour, so that make program 958 in indicated channel broadcast separately.
Take back the program of putting control in order to provide at the channel of being watched 942, four same channels 944,948,952,956 are used.Certain point before the user attempts to watch program 958, first 960 is stored in the mass storage devices of set top box 120.When the request of sending program 958, remainder 964,968,972 by respectively from channel correlation 948,952,956 extract.Remainder 964,968,972 clustered pattern can be orders, also can walk abreast.The user can be allowed to residing at any part control playback of set top box 120, even whole program 958 is not downloaded fully.
Although in this embodiment, with analog or digital channel program receiving part 960,964,968,972, other embodiment can receive all or some program parts 960,964,968,972 from other resource.Such as, first 960 can receive from certain channel, downloads but remainder can connect from broadband network.In another example, first 960 can connect download from broadband network, but remainder can receive from certain channel.And, one skilled in the art will know that and can use any amount of channel.The channel that uses is many more, divides block size just more little.
Referring to Fig. 9 C, this block diagram shows another embodiment that watches the program of assembling 958 from many channels 976,980,984.Less in this embodiment one must the transmission program channel.960 broadcasting of first once.Club all set top box 120 record firsts 960.After first is recorded, remainder 964,968,972 play in the channel 976,980,984 that quantity reduces.Like this, channel I 976 just can substitute two channels.
Be appreciated that other embodiment can repeat first accidentally so that resource contention, service disruption and new erection unit etc. can not stop first is stored into set top box.What it is also understood that is that first can be broadcasted in the channel of not broadcasting other any remainder.This channel can be used to other purposes after having transmitted first.
Top embodiment discusses this locality storage of program.Local storage can be within set top box 120.In addition, local storage can be pale pinkish purple mass storage devices to customer location.Such as, by firmware interface hard disk is coupled to set top box, perhaps be coupled to the network interface of set top box at the server of customer location.Customer location can be resident family or commercial unit, mass storage devices can outside the building structure of customer location or within.
Referring to Figure 10 A, the process of this flow chart description allows to watch the NVOD program under user's control.In step 1004,2 hours new NVOD programs are in 928,932,936,940 beginnings of four channels, and the staggered time started is half an hour.In step 1008, the part 904 half an hour of NVOD program is stored in the program server 132 of set top box 600.In step 1012, the user begins from the beginning to watch the program 904 of storage in advance.In step 1016, set top box 600 determines that channel 928,932,936,940 has remainder 908, allows storage remainder 908 before the user needs.In step 1020, program remainder 908 is stored in program server 132.
The embodiment of Fig. 9 A and Figure 10 A stores the NVOD program for playback.Program remainder 908 is extracted from independent digital channel.On a 6MHz carrier channel, approximately can there be the digital channel of 8 to 14 compressions to be sent out.Each digital channel is carrying audio frequency and/or video, is distinguished with unique program identification address (PID).In order to extract the NVOD program faster, any digital channel of stored information that comprises can both be downloaded from carrier channel is parallel.Such as, if 8 digital channels are play 2 hours same programs, interleaved 15 minutes of time started, so just only needed 15 minutes to extract remaining NVOD program, its mode is to extract from many channels simultaneously.
Even user's decision does not see that NVOD program, this program can be stored so that extract in the future.In case the last reproduction time of NVOD program begins, the remainder of program is stored, and expects that the user wants to watch this program in the future.If the user does not want to watch program in the confirmable time, or needs memory space, just can from program server 132, delete program.
Can use the capacity algorithm to save the space of program server 132.Such as, when program server 132 had soon expired, first in first out (FIFO) algorithm was used for new program vacating space.In addition, can be the space that new program keeps some in advance.And, can point out the user, allow the user determine on program server 132 those programs to keep or volume removes.
The user is apprised of the program that can carry out playback controls.Such as, the NVOD program has the part of storage in advance, will show to cover icon on video screen or display.Like this, the user when just know can time-out, rewinding or F.F..If program server 132 has expired or this program can not be handled in playback, icon does not just occur so.
Although the foregoing description is discussed with the form of NVOD circulation, can carry out different operations in other embodiments.Such as, the time of first's record can connect the time of playing from NVOD circulation or broadband network for the first time at program.When program was watched in user's request, remainder can connect download from NVOD circulation or broadband network.
Referring to Figure 10 B, the process that flow chart shows is to store club's program in advance at customer location.This process starts from step 1050, wherein analyzes linear timetable and determines to provide which program to the local playback controls of club.Usually, the program of expection provides with club's program.In case known club's program, this embodiment transmits whole club program and gives customer location.
In step 1054, club's program is broadcast to the clubbite.The broadcasting of this embodiment is by one or more channels.Usually, the time at midnight is used to broadcasting.If set top box 120 has the ability once to write down a plurality of channels, just can increase speed of download.Should be appreciated that other embodiment can use radio network to connect and download club's program.
Program is locally stored in step 1058 club.Such as, the mass storage devices relevant with domestic consumer or business user can be stored club's program.
In step 1062, the user selects club's program to come playback.This program can be selected or select when watching club's program from menu, and the latter is also play in real time according to the linear session table.Set top box 120 receives club's program from mass storage devices, when the selected playback of club's program.Mass storage devices is positioned at customer location, but can or be integrated in the set top box 120 the outside of set top box 120.
In step 1066, club's programme replay can be controlled fully by the user.Such as, the user can come F.F., rewinding, time-out playback with remote control commands set top box 120.Use club's program to be limited to any contract requirement that various mode is followed the copyright holder.In addition, set top box 120 can be deleted club's program automatically, and (perhaps other condition is triggered) is unless the copyright holder allows unlimited storage when predefined use window expires.
Referring to Figure 11 A, set top box 1100 writes down many programs simultaneously among this embodiment.Receiver 1104 produces a plurality of digital channels on selected carrier channel.The PID of corresponding digital channel is monitored with the form of plaintext M PEG signal, so that multichannel is decomposed a plurality of digital channels.These digital channels are coupled to program server 1108, and the latter stores some or all digital channels for passing through display interface 524 playback in the future.Usually, a subclass of 1108 storages of program server digital channel.
In other embodiments, PID can be left in the basket, and all digital channels are corresponding to the carrier channel of a storage.If the user watches program, just need the independent decryption engine 520 deciphering statistic multiplexings in the set top box 120 and encrypt be modulated at mpeg signal on the carrier channel.Therefore, decryption engine 520 is not used in another intermediate value that comprises digital channel of deciphering and is stored in carrier channel in the program server 1108.For fear of resource contention, carrier channel comprises statistic multiplexing and the digital channel intermediate value of encrypting mpeg signal and being stored, and is not added the program server that writes of processing.When the needs subsequent playback, statistic multiplexing and encrypt mpeg signal and be read from program server 1108, decrypted at decryption engine 520, the digital channel of expection is decomposed by multichannel and digital channel is also decompressed.At last, decompression digital signal by formalization so that show on TV.
If three or more tuners are arranged in other embodiments, just can once write down many statistic multiplexings and encrypt mpeg signal.This embodiment needn't once decipher a plurality of multiplexing signals.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 11 B, it has described another set top box 1150, and this set top box once writes down whole multiplexing program stream.In this embodiment, tuner 508 is peeled off analog carrier signal from the frequency-division multiplex singal that receives.Digital demodulator 512 is removed multiplexing digital signal and is exported this multiplexed signals to program server 1108 or decryption engine 520 from analog carrier.
Program or walk around program server 1108 and do the demonstration of not storing, or be stored in program server 1108 for playback in the future.Whole multiplexing program stream is recorded to program server 1108.No matter multiplexing program stream still is a program server from digital demodulator 512, its all decrypted engine 520 deciphering.By monitoring PID, digital channel demultiplexer 1154 extracts program from multiplexed signals.Select circuit 1158 to select suitable program to be shown to the user.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 11 C, it has been described another and has comprised the set top box 1170 of two tuners.Additional tuner 508-1 allows once to write down two multiplexing program streams or write down another multiplexing program stream when playing a program.Other embodiment can use second tuner that picture-in-picture function is provided.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 12 A, it has described another set top box embodiment, and this set top box is from a plurality of different carrier channels while recorded programs.In this embodiment, satellite antenna 1208 receives a plurality of carrier wave channels by the frequency division multiplexing combination.Such as, the carrier wave channel that satellite antenna 1208 receives from 30 transponders, the corresponding carrier wave channel of each transponder.Each transponder produces data flow with speed 27,000,000 per seconds, and each digital channel uses the speed of 2.5 million per seconds usually.Therefore, in each carrier channel about ten digital channels are arranged.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 12 B, it has described another set top box embodiment 1216, this set top box complete documentation several different carrier channels.This embodiment have many tuner 508 be tuned to many carrier channels, and on digital demodulator 512 with its demodulation.Each digital demodulator 512 produces a multichannel program stream, and the latter comprises one or more digital channels.Select circuit 1212 to reduce the quantity of multichannel program stream.The selected multichannel program stream of program server 1224 storages.
The multichannel program stream can extract from program server.Decryption engine 520 deciphering multichannel program streams produce the corresponding plaintext equivalent.Digital channel demultiplexer 1154 extracts digital channel from plaintext multichannel program stream.Another selects circuit 1158 to select the digital channel of expection to convert the simulation equivalent at display interface 524.
Although this embodiment selects from many multichannel program streams, some embodiment can only handle independent multichannel program stream.Other embodiment has many decryption engines, and digital channel demultiplexer and selection circuit come to provide many digital channels from program server.Some embodiment allow the cable TV operator to control the selection circuit, and such multichannel program stream of storing is not controlled by the user by Long-distance Control.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 13 A, it describes the embodiment of program receiver 1104, and it produces a plurality of digital channels simultaneously.The carrier channel of tuner 508 down conversions expection arrives the IF carrier wave from multicarrier frequency division multiplexing channel.Digital demodulator 512 converts the digital signal on the IF carrier wave to digital baseband signal, and the latter encrypts mpeg signal.520 pairs of digital baseband signal deciphering of decryption engine are so that produce plaintext M PEG signal.Digital channel demultiplexer 1154 is monitored its stems and is separated digital channel according to PID in plaintext M PEG signal.Each is from corresponding different digital channel of signal of digital channel demultiplexer 1154.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 13 B, it describes another embodiment of program receiver 1104.In this embodiment, digital channel is after selected circuit 1158 is chosen, by decryption engine 520 deciphering.On the contrary, whole multichannel program stream is according to the embodiment deciphering of Figure 13 A.Should be appreciated that the deciphering that to carry out in various embodiments multichannel program stream and/or digital channel.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 14, shown program server 1404, it uses buffering area 1416 so that store a plurality of digital channels simultaneously.Program server 1404 comprises control circuit 1408, selects circuit 1412, digital channel buffering area 1416, multiplexer 1420 and mass storage devices 1424.
The buffering area 1416 of some, one of the digital channel of each storage is used for storing the digital channel of expection.Each buffering area 1416 receives selected digital channel in a sequential manner and store program stream is ready to program receiving stream up to mass storage devices 1424.Buffering area 1416 is fifo buffers, and it has a lot of signs to control underflow and overflow.These signs are provided for control circuit 1408 so that send possible underflow and overflow state.
Multiplexer 1420 is routed to mass storage devices 1424 to data from buffering area 1416.All buffering area outputs are received by multiplexer 1420, but once have only one of them to be provided for mass storage devices 1424.By each buffering area 1416 of continuous connection to mass storage devices 1424 can be before it overflows emptying it.Multiplexer 1420 emptying buffering areas 1416 are according to predetermined algorithm, such as the fullest buffering area 1416 of emptying at first.
Digital channel is stored in the mass storage devices 1424.Mass storage devices 1424 only is subject to memory bandwidth, promptly has only a certain amount of data can flow into memory device 1424 within a certain period of time.If mass storage devices 1424 is not enough fast, provide the digital channel of too many data that buffering area 1416 is overflowed so.The various embodiment of mass storage devices 1424 comprise one or more hard disks, tape drive, CD drive or other memory device.A plurality of hard disks are arranged, such as, with allowing bigger memory bandwidth, because the data that enter can be divided on these hard disks.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 15, it describes another embodiment of program server 1504, and it uses statistic multiplexing to make up a large amount of digital channels to be separate data stream, to be stored in mass storage devices 1520.Control circuit provides control signal to select digital channel, and it is multiplexing, stores them, extracts them, and selects the digital channel of expection to watch.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 16, it describes another embodiment of program server 1604, and it uses mass storage devices 1616 once to deposit a plurality of digital channels.Select circuit 1612 to reduce the quantity of digital channel.The digital channel that reduces quantity is coupled to mass storage devices 1616 and storage continuously respectively.Control circuit 1608 these function operations of management.
The mass storage devices 1616 of present embodiment once receives a plurality of digital channels and stores them.In mass storage devices 1616, use independent disc driver or a plurality of disc driver to deposit digital channel.Under the situation of independent disc driver, a plurality of platters and corresponding writing head are arranged.Each writing head is write different digital channels on its platter surface separately.In addition, if use the so different disk of disk groups technology can store each digital channel.
The program server of Figure 14-Figure 16 can be placed on many different positions.Such as, program server can be near content provider.In addition, program server can be on a node of serving many different users position.
Write down a plurality of channels and allow once to store a plurality of programs.Use this feature, the clubbite can download club's program faster.In addition, peak valley time ratio such as midnight, can be used to download these programs.Use the allocated bandwidth club program of peak valley time will reduce apportioning cost.
Figure 17-the NVOD program is obtained in Figure 22 description provides class VOD the process of playback.As VOD, the user can be according to storage condition time-out, F.F. and the rewinding program of program.Although these embodiment programs stored are to the subscriber's local position, other embodiment can be program storage away from the local of customer location and use privately owned channel to send to customer location.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 17, on transponder 1704 as shown in the figure, NVOD program 1750-1759 on specific transponder 1704 reproduction time above six hours.To each digital channel 1708, program 1750-1759 play with NVOD circulation 1712 every 2 hours.Digital channel 1708 is multiplexed into a data flow and is sent by same transponder or analog carrier channel.Digital channel 1708 is used the PID segmentation in data flow.Program carried out NVOD circulation 1712 every 2 hours in this embodiment, but other embodiment can use different cycle periods.Program 1750 is at channel 11708-1, such as, can each NVOD circulation 1712 all change also frequency shift that can be lower.Will be clearer in the discussion of back, program start time departs from another transponder by the staggered phase.Although this embodiment has ten digital channels, 1708 corresponding transponders or analog carrier channel, other embodiment can have more or less digital channel 1708.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 18, four multiplexing NVOD programs 1800, each 1704 last time started of transponder is interleaved with other transponder 1704.This embodiment uses 4 transponders 1704 to send the program circulation, is half an hour for the staggered phase deviation value of 2 hours programs.Although this embodiment uses term " transponder ", the quantity of channel 1708 can be with any the method transmission that they are grouped together, such as the data flow that is carried on the analog carrier channel.
In this embodiment, ten channels are sent by each transponder 1704, and each channel 1708 shows two hours program 1750-1759.The time started of NVOD program 1750-1759 circulation staggered between each transponder 1704 with the staggered phase of half an hour.Such as, the corresponding first transponder 1704-1 of the first channel 1708-1, film " Fletch " is play at 4:00.After half an hour, Fletch still is shown at the first channel 1708-1, but when 4:30 the corresponding second transponder 1704-2.Fletch is corresponding the 3rd transponder 1704-3 when 5:00, and when 5:30 corresponding the 4th transponder 1704-4.
In this embodiment, select the staggered phase to be based on the length and the quantity that is used for the channel 1708 of program 1750-1759 of program 1750-1759.The length of program 1750-1759 just obtains the staggered phase divided by the quantity of the channel 1708 of display program 1750-1759.
Referring to the embodiment 1900, four tunnel of the block diagram of Figure 19 A multiplexing NVOD program 1704 and memory contents activity 1904.At memory contents movable part 1904, slice is represented programs stored, and thick bar is represented the program receiving playback.Such as, be stored as slice 1912 from digital channel five 1708-5 of transponder 1704-3 at the 3rd NVOD circulation 1714-3.Same program is extracted as thick bar 1916.
In this embodiment, each new NVOD circulation 1712-1715 is recorded up to next NVOD circulation 1712-1715 and begins.Such as, between 5:00 and 5:30, tuner is directed to the first that the 3rd transponder 1704-3 writes down all ten channels, 1708 each program 1750-1759 of storage.The storage multi-channel program is called as storage circulation 1906-3.At 5:30, tuner is directed to the 4th transponder 1704-4 and writes down new storage circulation 1906-4.The program of each NVOD circulation 1712-1715 can be identical, and also can circulate at NVOD has difference between the 1712-1715.In this embodiment, storage circulation 1906 overwrites storage circulation 1906 in the past.
Big 15 minutes after the 7th storage circulation 1906-7 enters are 1908 point in mark selected, the five 1708-5 playback of user-selected number word channel.In this embodiment, the user is given the NVOD program guide, resembles to be handled the VOD program.Such as, the user is chosen in the film " Fletch " from corresponding digital channel five 1708-5 of the 3rd transponder 1704-3 of the 3rd NVOD circulation 1714-3.
At this choice point 1908, variation has taken place in normal storage circulation 1906.After choice point 1908, only the selected channel 1708-5 from the 3rd transponder 1704-3 is recorded, and indicates with slice 1912.Other digital channel 1708 in the 3rd NVOD circulation 1714-3 is removed from multiplexing data flow.
For parallel recorded program 1754, after choice point 1908 is by slice 1916 signs, begin playback.In described embodiment, playback approximately needs 2 hours, but may the president put or short point according to the difference of program 1750-1759 length and the quantity of time-out, F.F. and rewinding in replayed section.Next normal storage circulation 1906-8 begins at 9:00, after the 4th NVOD circulation 1715-4 of corresponding the 4th transponder 1704-4 finishes record.Playback proceeds to 9:15 and part covers next storage circulation 1906-8.
This embodiment uses independent tuner to write down the first of new NVOD circulation 1712-1715.But when record whole program 1912, the record of first is interrupted.Other embodiment can continue to write down the first of NVOD circulation 1712-1715, even record whole program 1912 is used second tuner.Use the embodiment of two or more tuners can write down first greater than the staggered phase.Such as, two tuners of top embodiment band can write down each NVOD circulation 1712-1715 one hour.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 19 B, demonstration be embodiment 1950, four path multiplexers 1704 of NVOD program 1750-1759 and the storage the content activity.This embodiment writes down whole multiplexing program stream at the 7th storage circulation 1906-7, even have only a program 1912 viewed.Multiplexing program stream is stored with encryption or unencrypted form.After watching, extra program can arrive program server 1108 by deleted vacating space.
Referring to the block diagram of Figure 20 A, demonstration be another embodiment, four path multiplexers 1704 of NVOD program 1750-1759 and the storage content activity 2004.In this embodiment, the 2012-1 of first of NVOD program is stored a period of time.If the user selects to watch the program of similar VOD pattern, remainder is record and broadcast remainder from the transponder 1704 of NVOD channel 1708 just.Shown in preceding figure, storage activities 2004 usefulness slices 2012 represent to write storage medium, represent to read storage medium with thick bar 2010.Storage medium can be at customer location or away from customer location.
Described storage activities 2004 starts from 4:00 storage circulation 2006-1, wherein the time of the 2012-1 of first of the first transponder 1704-1 program 1750-1759 of NOVD circulation 1712-1 storage equals the staggered phase, is half an hour in this example.Storage circulation 2006-2 in the back does not have program to be stored because the first of current storage is stored.Having only does not have stored part just need be recorded in storage circulation 2006 among the 2012-1 of first of program 1750-1759.At the 3rd storage circulation 2006-3, the 7th channel 1708-7 of the 3rd transponder 1704-3 has new program 1756 after the first of program 1756 is stored.In case program 1750-1759 is removed from next NVOD circulation 1712,1715, the first that is stored just is marked as deletion, if other program needs memory space.
At the 7th storage circulation 2006-7, determine that the program 1750 of the first channel 1708-1 of the 3rd transponder 1704-3 is new.Program 1750 just is stored.At the choice point 2008 that is approximately 7:15, the user selects the 2012-1 of first of storage in advance to watch in class VOD pattern.It is selective to be noted that the program 1750-1759 that has only those remainders 2012-2 to be downloaded just offers the user.Remainder 2012-2 begins the 3rd circulation 1714-3 record from the 3rd transponder 1704-3 at 7:30.
The playback of the program 2016 that is write down starts from after the choice point 2008.In this embodiment, the program within 15-30 minute is cushioned, and the user can be in the time of the same quantity of program 2016 F.F.s like this.Yet temporaty suspension 2016 will increase the quantity of buffering.Not to suspending or the restriction of rewinding program 2016.2010-1 of first and remainder 2010-2 are seamless spliced together with to program 2016 formalization again.
Present embodiment uses independent tuner record 2010-1 of first and second portion 2010-2.Other embodiment can use the bigger first of a plurality of tuner records and download remainder faster.Such as, if three tuners are arranged, remainder can be halfhour program segment from 1704 parallel three times of acquisition of three transponders.
Referring to the embodiment 2050 of the block diagram of Figure 20 B, four tunnel multiplexing 1704 and the memory contents activity of NVOD program 1750-1759.This embodiment 2050 all NVOD circulation 1712-1715 of storage are when the new program 1750-1759 of any channel 1708 carryings.In the embodiment that describes, new program 1750-1759 is detected, and whole like this NVOD circulation 1712-1715 just stores circulation 2006-1 the first, the 3rd, the 4th, the 7th and the 8th, 2006-3, and 2006-4,2006-7,2006-8 is recorded.
Referring to the embodiment 2070 of the block diagram of Figure 20 C, four tunnel multiplexing 1704 and the memory contents activity of NVOD program 1750-1759.All program 1750-1759 of these embodiment 2070 recording occurring continuouslys are when having selected a program during the storage circulation 2006-7 of record NVOD circulation 1712-1715.
Referring to the flow chart of Figure 21, it has been described the program that uses NVOD circulation 1712-1715 class VOD is provided the process of service.Described process starts from step 2104, and set top box 120 receives linear program log from content provider.In this linearity program log, NVOD tabulation and corresponding channel 1708 and transponder 1704 have been provided.From linear program log, be down several NVOD circulation 1712-1715 use transponders 1704 in step 2108 decision.Linear program log has the tabulation in following several weeks, but only analyzes several NVOD circulation 1712-1715 down in this embodiment.
In step 2112, transponder 1704 is tuned to next NVOD circulation 1712-1715.From the whole multiplexing program stream of transponder 1704 in step 2116 by record from the beginning.In certain embodiments, the non-decrypting just storage of whole multiplexing program stream.In further embodiments, multiplexing program stream is deciphered afterwards earlier and is stored.
In step 2120, whether the decision user selects class VOD playback NVOD program 1750-1759.The user can select class VOD playback from menu, also can attempt to handle playback.If the user is not the clubbite, will eject payment screen.If do not have program selected in storage circulation 1906, further test to determine whether that another NVOD circulation 1712-1715 begins in step 2124.These NVOD circulations 1712-1715 separates by the staggered phase usually.When new circulation 1712-1715 is detected, process is knock-oned to step 2108, writes down next circulation 1712-1715.If there is not new NVOD circulation 1712-1715 to be detected, process is got back to step 2120, and whether the test subscriber has selected class VOD playback once more.
If the user has selected class VOD to play in step 2120, process enters step 2128, and set top box 120 will continue recorded program 1912 and spend the staggered phase, be stored up to whole program 1912.After program 1912 is recorded, just can be by the playback of class VOD mode.The user is usually from the beginning playback of programs stored 1916, but the user can be according to storage condition time-out, rewinding or the F.F. of program 1916.
Referring to the flow chart of Figure 22, it has been described the program that uses the NVOD circulation class VOD is provided the process of service.Described process starts from step 2204, receives the linear listing that has the NVOD cyclical information from content provider.Use transponder 1704 in step 2208 decision for next NVOD circulation 1712-1715.
Adjust tuner and receive the multiplexing data flow that has ten program 1750-1759.In step 2216, from the NVOD cyclical information, determine the staggered phase, so just known the size of the 2012-1 of first.In step 2218, the 2012-1 of first of any new program 1750-1759 is recorded.New program refers to that those currently do not have a stored program of the 2012-1 of first (its length is equal to or greater than the staggered phase).
In step 2220, the user selects class VOD playback controls.If made this selection, in step 2228, the remainder 2012-2 of program 1750-1759 just collects from suitable transponder 1704.Program 2016 is played so that the user can control playback.
If do not select the VOD playback, check new NVOD circulation 1712-1715 in step 2224 step 2220 user.If there is not new NVOD circulation 1712-1715, process is got back to step 2220.In addition, if new NVOD circulation 1712-1715 is about to begin, processing procedure just advances to step 2208 from step 2224.Be noted that the condition that is circulated back to step 2208 is that the staggered phase is expired.
Referring to the embodiment of Figure 23, described whether the checking user is clubbite's process.In this embodiment, the checking user is before the clubbite, and the user is allowed to watch the program at linear timetable of any storage.If member's identity is not verified, the user is just switched back the version at linear timetable.Situation according to network congestion and delay is different, and proof procedure may cause the fragment of one to several seconds.
Described process starts from step 2304, and the user is watching the program in the linear session table.In step 2308, the user attempts to handle this program temporarily, such as, suspend, stop, F.F., rewinding or skip the predetermined period.Determine in step 2312 whether viewed program has corresponding storage area to be positioned at headend, customer location, network node or other place.If there is not storage version, just what further do not done but allow the user continue to watch program.If some embodiment can show that some message indications can not be handled or the user joins a club just possible temporarily.
If the program of linear programming has storage version, handle to proceed to step 2316, determine the watching a little of storage version of linear program.In step 2320, viewed linear program part is seamless or minimal distortion is arranged switch to storage version.Interim manipulation request is also carried out in this step.Such as, if the user asks program to suspend, storage version can show by suspended pattern.
In step 2322, carry out inquiry and determine whether the user is the clubbite.In this embodiment, inquiry is initiated by accounting system, and this system is away from customer location.Other embodiment can be after step 2308 the request of any time execution in step 2322.Playback controls will be fast as far as possible switch to storage version and do not wait clubbite's identity to be verified.If clubbite's identity is not verified in step 2324, jump to step 2304, the user switches back and watches linear session table program.If confirmed clubbite's identity in step 2328, the user can continue control node purpose storage version.In this embodiment, the delay of checking can not twisted and the playback that switches to the program storage version from linear listing.
Referring to the flow chart of Figure 24, the process of checking to programs stored mandate playback described.This embodiment is applicable to the situation of program storage in subscriber's local, neighbor node, data converter or other position of system.The user can ask to watch the program of any storage and select a program in step 2404.Program is received in step 2408.In case the part of being asked by the user is received with suitable buffering, just can begin playback.The delay whether beginning of playback can not bring because of determining the user to be authorized to watch program hinders, and program begins to play in step 2412 like this.
In step 2416, authorize to be requested to continue to watch program.Other embodiment can be after step 2404 execution in step 2416 any time, but playback is unaccustomed to answer authorization requests.In step 2420, by inquiry not in the customer location database authentication mandate of (as data transducer, node or other).In certain embodiments, mandate can be stored in the database of subscriber's local.When mandate is verified, just allow to continue to watch in step 2424.Some embodiment have a timer to allow not watch maximum 10 seconds before the response in authorization requests.
In this embodiment, be not verified when authorizing, process proceeds to step 2428, requires the user to pay per view, perhaps requires to add member club, to allow to watch one or more programs.When the user agreed to continue to watch, process proceeded to step 2424, allows to watch.If do not agree to pay or join a club, just prevent and further watch program.Licensing status is retained in set top box, stops further to watch program.
According to top description, many advantages of the present invention are just very clear.The user who is the clubbite can control the linear playback of determining the program of time of all or part.In addition, at any time can watch renewal or frequent requested program.These features allow the user to obtain maximum flexibility when needs are used the television-viewing program.
Many variations of the present invention and modification also can be used.In different embodiment, the program that sends to the user can be video or audio frequency.Above-described a plurality of embodiment uses satellite and cable link to come program receiving, but packet network such as the Internet, also can be used.In addition, the control data channel also can be communicated by letter between set top box and subscriber management system by internet usage.
Some top embodiment are from additional or extra angle discussion the present invention of content provider.In further embodiments, the present invention can be used for the true VOD service, intends video-on-demand service, by watching paid service, homeshopping channel, the commercial channel of supporting, or other TV programme selection.The user is any TV programme of time-out, rewinding or F.F. simply, switches to the version that the user who prerecords can control playback.In addition, the program of any channel that can prerecord with menu access of user.
The foregoing description memory contents is in long-range or local.This locality is stored in set top box and provides.But other embodiment can local in many ways storage.Memory device can be the video tape recording instrument, digital tape recording instrument, hard disk drive, solid-state memory, CD, or other known memory mechanism.Storage medium can be non-moving, or move.Memory device can and be coupled to private cable, wireless transceiver, and/or packet network in the set top box outside.
Some top embodiment are to be content discussion the present invention with the cable television system, but can use other content that technology is provided.As above said, can use digital satellite broadcasting.In addition, can use wireless, phone or power line to distribute content, use numeral or analog signal, or other bandwidth allocation technology.
Although some top embodiment separately discusses set top box and television indicator, should be appreciated that other embodiment can comprise a part of the set top box function being used as other assembly.Such as, set top box can be integrated in the television set.
The activation specific function although some embodiment use a teleswitch should be appreciated that and can adopt other method to activate these functions.Can be used such as alternate manners such as voice activations.
In one embodiment of the invention, it is unlimited that the clubbite visits club's program, and the clubbite can visit club's program at any time in a sense.In other embodiments, visit club program is even also be conditional for the clubbite.Such as, in special time period (such as one month), can be visited by certain clubbite or the number of times watched applies restricted number specific club program.Herein to visiting club's program and watching club's program to distinguish.Visit club program refers to no matter section has and lack more any extraction of any club program at any time.And watch club's program to refer to extract at least one specific time span of club's program and within the time frame of determining.Such as, " watching " can be defined as during 24 hours club's program had and surpass 5 minutes extraction.Therefore, use this definition, the user who extracts specific club program had in one day 7 times, had only 4 minutes at every turn, this program 7 times that has been exactly " visit " so but do not have " watching " it.Similarly, user one day seven times extract and check whole club program this program 7 times that has been exactly " visit " but " watching " it once.
More complicated club changes has different restrictions to different club's programs: on individual fully basis, according to some groupings of club's program, perhaps individual and grouping setting are mixed.These restrictions can comprise: allow club's program to be provided according to the agreement with the copyright holder, if these protocols limit given programs are accessed or the number of times watched.The influence of these restrictions is integrated in the process of visit club program, such as at Fig. 7-Fig. 8 B.The user attempts to visit club's program, needs to determine that the part current which program is used as linear listing plays to the user, and whether this program is club's program, and whether the user is authorized to watch club's program.
Therefore, in one embodiment, each club's program is endowed fixing visit or watches restriction, is stored in subscriber management system 124 and/or program request database 136.Certain embodiments comprises gives king-sized restriction, and the user is actually the right that is given the specific club of unlimited visit program like this.In further embodiments, this restriction is set and equals the number of times that specific club program occurs in the definite timetable of routine.Subscriber management system record club program is by the number of times of specific set top box 120 visits.When the clubbite attempts to visit club's program, visit that subscriber management system 124 is just relatively write down or the number of times of watching number of times and being authorized to.If the restriction of Miao Shuing reaches in advance, visit just is under an embargo; If the restriction of Miao Shuing does not reach in advance, visit just is agreed.
In another embodiment, visit or watch restriction subscriber management system 124 inner just settings according to grouping strategy.This grouping can based on, such as, theme, content classification or credit rating, and other standards.Therefore, in certain embodiment, club's program of the child that leads especially is given very large limits value, and the program of visiting child like this is hard-core to the clubbite.In mix embodiment, some club's programs are provided with visit or watch restriction according to grouping strategy, and other club's programs are provided with independent restriction.In further embodiments, visit or watch restriction to be applied to all club's programs, like this to the visit of club's program or watch just by absolute limitations.
In club, can make up the service that these embodiment are provided with different stage, the clubbite is had different costs.Like this, the clubbite visit the paying of club's program can be according to the access level stepping that provides.Relevant each clubbite's specific access information is recorded in subscriber management system 124, when attempting to visit certain club program as the user.This information can also be used to increase the service of VOD type, when the user wishes to visit the specific club program that exceeds its service range.In this case, but user's additional access request can be provided will receive surcharge.
Such as, if the user is arranged at given 10 club's program viewings of month visit, but he wishes can provide additional visit so watching the 11st club's program this moon, but he will agree to pay surcharge.Subscriber management system 124 checking users had reached limits value before this additional access was provided, and the one-tenth of telling the user to add replenished visit originally.
Can use limits value to realize sals promotion fuction in other embodiments.Such as, after the user satisfies specific predetermined standard, as the visit member of club, just can adjust limits value, as award, so that the additional access to specific club program to be provided by subscriber management system 124 such as within a certain period of time.Therefore, if the user has satisfied predetermined quality standard, such as, the unlimited access of music video to be rewarded, subscriber management system 124 increases limits value to the sizable value of music video to this user in certain period (being called the award phase).In this award phase, the user can at any time or with any number of times visit all club's programs that classifies as music video.
In different embodiment, different ways to restrain can be arranged.In one embodiment, subscriber management system 124 is related to club's visit arrangement to one or more set top boxs 120.This is suitable for when the situation that a plurality of set top box 120 corresponding a plurality of TVs are arranged in individual building or trade company.Subscriber management system 124 related each set top box 120 are to specific access plan, and no matter this access plan is based on independent restriction setting, group policy, or hybrid arrangement, or alternate manner.Just record is watched or is visited when from many set top boxs 120 any one watched or visited club's program.Like this, the visit of club's program just being offered the house of a plurality of set top boxs 120 according to same foundation, just looks like that this house has only a set top box 120 the same.
In another embodiment, the user is given and selects forever to buy club's program copy.When this purchase is allowed by the copyright holder, agree payment purchase expense, subscriber management system 124 authorized users keep persistent copy, and forbid Copy Protection.Therefore, the user can copy club's version of club's program to another equipment, such as PVR, and VCR, or move media, or by electric transmission such as Emails.In addition, when club's program has left user's set top box 120 in, subscriber management system 124 can be consumer-oriented set top box 120 keep the persistent copy of club's program of being bought.
Among more superincumbent embodiment, the program of customer location is selected to be stored in as a club part by content provider.This process can be revised in other embodiments so that have only part club program to be stored according to user preference.Such as, the user can specify interested catalogue or classification, only writes down these club's programs.Need not user's specifies preferences, can monitor in another embodiment and watch custom.User's configuration is used for determining write down that club's program.The user is initiatively inquired to create this user's configuration, perhaps creates this user's configuration by passive monitoring.The related of a plurality of beholders and customer location considered in this user configuration, and the program that is write down should be according to the complex configuration to a plurality of beholders.
Although described the principle of inventing in conjunction with particular device and method in the above, what will be clear that understands this description just as example rather than as the restriction to invention scope.
Claims (27)
1. method that is used to distribute program, this method comprises:
Send first program according to program log;
Store second batch of program on server, at least one program in first program has homologue in second batch of program;
Safeguard that a database comes the mandate of recording user to the program segment on the server;
Detect the program control request of user to the specific program section; And
Determine whether to authorize the control of user's program.
2. method according to claim 1 wherein determines whether to authorize the control of user's program and comprises:
Sign specific program section; And
Determine whether this specific program section has the homologue that is stored on the server.
3. method according to claim 2 determines whether that wherein the program control of agreeing the user comprises also whether definite this user is authorized to the homologue of specific program section on the access server.
4. method according to claim 1 determines whether that wherein the program control of agreeing the user comprises:
Sign specific program section; And
Determine whether this user is authorized to the homologue of specific program section on the access server.
5. method according to claim 1 wherein detects the user program control request of specific program section is comprised the radio program control request of reception from remote controller.
6. method according to claim 1 also comprises and authorizes the user permanent program control to the specific program section.
7. method according to claim 6 is wherein authorized the user the permanent program control of specific program section is comprised that unconfined storage specific program section is to server.
8. method according to claim 6 is wherein authorized the user and the permanent program control of specific program section is comprised is allowed the user from the specific program segment of server copy.
9. method according to claim 1, wherein specific program segment comprises one of video frequency program or audio program.
10. method according to claim 1 also comprises showing homologue to respond detected request, wherein finishes demonstration before determining whether to authorize program control.
11. a method that is used to distribute video frequency program, this method comprises:
A collection of video frequency program section is stored on the server;
The user is authorized the program control of enjoying the subclass of video frequency program section in advance, to set up the scheme of authorizing in advance;
Detect the program control request of user to the particular video program section; And
According to mandated program in advance, authorize the user program control to the particular video program section.
12. method according to claim 11, wherein the program segment subclass is a collection of program.
13. method according to claim 11 wherein detects the user and the program control request of particular video program section is comprised receives the radio program control request.
14. method according to claim 11, wherein server is at subscriber's local.
15. method according to claim 14, wherein server is positioned at set top box.
16. a method that is used to distribute program, this method comprises:
Send first program according to program log;
Store second batch of program on server, at least one program in first program has homologue in second batch of program;
The user is authorized the program control of enjoying the subclass of video frequency program section in advance, to set up the scheme of authorizing in advance;
Safeguard that a database comes the mandate of recording user to the program segment on the server;
Detect the program control request of user to the particular video program section; And
According to mandated program in advance, authorize the user program control to the particular video program section.
17. a system that is used to distribute program, this system comprises:
Transmitter is configured to send first program according to the timetable of program;
Server is configured to store second batch of program on server, and at least one program in first program has homologue in second batch of program;
Database is configured to the mandate of recording user to the program segment on the server;
Detector detects the program control request of user to the particular video program section; And
Control system, with transmitter, server, database and communication detector, this control system is configured to handle transmitter, server, database and detector and authorizes the user program control to the particular video program section according to mandated program in advance.
18. system according to claim 17, wherein control system is used for identifying the specific program section and determines whether this user is authorized to the homologue of specific program section on the access server.
19. system according to claim 18, wherein control system also is used for determining according to mandated program in advance whether this user is authorized to the homologue of specific program section on the access server.
20. system according to claim 17, wherein control system is used for identifying the specific program section and determines according to mandated program in advance whether this user is authorized to the homologue of specific program section on the access server.
21. system according to claim 17, wherein specific program segment comprises one of video frequency program or audio program.
22. a computer-readable storage medium that has embedded computer-readable program is used to instruct the manipulation of program allocation system, this program allocation system comprises transmitter; Server; Database; Detector; And control system, this control system is configured to provide the program control to program segment on the server; Computer-readable program comprises the instruction according to following manipulation program allocation system:
Timetable according to program sends first program with transmitter;
Store second batch of program on server, at least one program in first program has homologue in second batch of program;
Safeguard that a database comes the mandate of recording user to the program segment on the server; And
Detect the program control request of user to the particular video program section.
23. computer-readable storage medium according to claim 22, wherein computer-readable program also comprise according to determining whether to authorize the instruction that the control of user's program moves program allocation system.
24. computer-readable storage medium according to claim 23 is wherein authorized the instruction that the control of user's program moves program allocation system according to determining whether, comprising:
Be used to identify the instruction of specific program section; And
Be used for determining whether this specific program section has the instruction that is stored in the homologue on the server.
25. computer-readable storage medium according to claim 24, wherein authorize the instruction that the control of user's program moves program allocation system, also comprise being used for determining whether this user is authorized to the instruction of the homologue of specific program section on the access server according to determining whether.
26. computer-readable storage medium according to claim 22, wherein specific program segment comprises one of video frequency program or audio program.
27. computer-readable storage medium according to claim 23 is wherein authorized the instruction that the control of user's program moves program allocation system according to determining whether, comprising:
Be used to identify the instruction of specific program section; And
Determine whether this user is authorized to the instruction of the homologue of specific program section on the access server.
Priority Applications (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US10/131,507 US6973621B2 (en) | 2001-04-27 | 2002-04-22 | Customization in a content distribution system |
| US10/128,654 US8566873B2 (en) | 2001-04-23 | 2002-04-22 | Program guide enhancements |
| US10/128,653 US7779439B2 (en) | 2001-04-23 | 2002-04-22 | Program guide environment |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US27549601P | 2001-03-13 | 2001-03-13 | |
| US60/275,496 | 2001-03-13 | ||
| US09/877,317 | 2001-06-08 | ||
| US09/877,317 US7809849B2 (en) | 1999-10-13 | 2001-06-08 | Pre-storing multiple programs with user control of playback |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CN1374799A true CN1374799A (en) | 2002-10-16 |
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|---|---|---|---|
| CN 02106593 Pending CN1374799A (en) | 2001-03-13 | 2002-02-28 | Method for providing programme distribution |
| CN 02106592 Pending CN1374798A (en) | 2001-03-13 | 2002-02-28 | Method for authorizing limited programme distribution |
| CN 02106591 Pending CN1374797A (en) | 2001-03-13 | 2002-02-28 | Prestoraging multi programme with function of controlling playbacy by user |
| CN 02106594 Pending CN1374800A (en) | 2001-03-13 | 2002-02-28 | Programme distribution system |
| CN 02106595 Pending CN1374804A (en) | 2001-03-13 | 2002-02-28 | Prestoring partial programme to permit user to control playback |
Family Applications After (4)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CN 02106592 Pending CN1374798A (en) | 2001-03-13 | 2002-02-28 | Method for authorizing limited programme distribution |
| CN 02106591 Pending CN1374797A (en) | 2001-03-13 | 2002-02-28 | Prestoraging multi programme with function of controlling playbacy by user |
| CN 02106594 Pending CN1374800A (en) | 2001-03-13 | 2002-02-28 | Programme distribution system |
| CN 02106595 Pending CN1374804A (en) | 2001-03-13 | 2002-02-28 | Prestoring partial programme to permit user to control playback |
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| CN102740156B (en) * | 2011-04-11 | 2014-12-10 | 深圳创维数字技术股份有限公司 | Program playback realization method for set-top box, set-top box, server and system |
| CN103618919B (en) * | 2013-11-19 | 2017-09-05 | 深圳Tcl新技术有限公司 | The method and apparatus that Web TV loads video |
| JP7010758B2 (en) * | 2018-04-20 | 2022-01-26 | Ｔｖｓ Ｒｅｇｚａ株式会社 | Electronic devices and program list generation method |
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- 2002-02-28 CN CN 02106593 patent/CN1374799A/en active Pending
- 2002-02-28 CN CN 02106592 patent/CN1374798A/en active Pending
- 2002-02-28 CN CN 02106591 patent/CN1374797A/en active Pending
- 2002-02-28 CN CN 02106594 patent/CN1374800A/en active Pending
- 2002-02-28 CN CN 02106595 patent/CN1374804A/en active Pending
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| CN1374804A (en) | 2002-10-16 |
| CN1374798A (en) | 2002-10-16 |
| CN1374797A (en) | 2002-10-16 |
| CN1374800A (en) | 2002-10-16 |
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