GB2481661A

GB2481661A - Picture in picture (PIP) type video content menus

Info

Publication number: GB2481661A
Application number: GB1017154.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Nilabh Pandey
Original assignee: NDS Ltd
Current assignee: Synamedia Ltd
Priority date: 2010-10-12
Filing date: 2010-10-12
Publication date: 2012-01-04
Also published as: GB201017154D0

Abstract

A system and method for interactively selecting video content comprises using a plurality of decoders (108, fig 1) for decoding a plurality of video streams. The streams are arranged and simultaneously displayed as a primary video stream 302 and a plurality of secondary video streams 306 on a display device 300. The secondary video streams may be displayed as inset picture-in-picture (PIP) cells along a boundary of the display. Upon user selection of a secondary video stream, eg via a remote controller, the selected video stream replaces the primary video stream in the main area of the display. The audio content of secondary video streams may be suppressed, whilst the secondary video streams may be automatically selected for PIP display on the basis of broadcast selection parameters, such as video content.

Description

Interactive system and method for selecting video content

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an interactive system and method for selecting video content, and particularly but not exclusively, to such an interactive system and method for use in a television system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Television systems, for example "paid access" systems such as cable television systems, satellite systems and the like, typically offer access to many different channels. Navigation through such a wide variety of channels by simply "flipping" or changing the channels is time consuming and is less convenient. Therefore, a wide variety of navigational tools have been made available, to assist the television viewer in locating and selecting a channel showing content of interest.

One general category of such tools is an electronic program guide (EPG), which provides information regarding the various television programs, broadcast times, the channel on which each program is being broadcast and so forth. Such EPGs may be customizable or otherwise adjusted to the viewer. Examples of such a system are described in US Patent No. 6,637,029 to Maissel et al and in published PCT Application No. WO 99/0 1984 to Maissel et al. However, frequently television viewers wish to access information about other television programs and/or channels while viewing a particular television program.

EPGs may sometimes be displayed in addition to the television program being viewed, for example on one side of a television screen, but may require excessive television screen area for display. Also the EPG may provide excessive amounts of information to a television viewer who may wish only to see a brief amount of information regarding one or more other television programs being broadcast, particularly (although not necessarily) for concurrent broadcast.

References relevant to the subject of accessing information about television programs and/or channels include PCT Application WO 2008/023140 to De Saint Marc et al; US Patent Application No. 2007/0220546 to Shanks et al, US Patent No. 6,141,003 to Chor et al and US Patent No. 6,405,371 to Oosterhout.

Various descriptions of PIP (picture in picture) provision are provided in US Patent No. 4,729,027 to Hakamada et al, US Patent No. 6,008,860 to Patton et al and published US Patent Application No. 2007/1928 16 to Collet et al. A non-limiting example of a parental control system is provided in US Patent No. 5,666,412 to Handelman et al. As a non-limiting example, a system incorporating a plurality of tuners and video decoders is described in published US Patent Application No. 2006/0209906 to Dabrowa.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, in certain embodiments thereof, seeks to provide an improved interactive system and method for selecting video content.

The present invention, in at least some embodiments seeks to provide a system and method for interactively selecting video content which includes a primary video stream and a plurality of secondary video streams being displayed on a display device, in which the viewer may easily and simply select one of the secondary video streams to replace the currently viewed primary video stream.

According to at least some embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a method for selecting video content, comprising: providing a receiver for receiving the video content, the receiver comprising a plurality of video content decoders for decoding a plurality of streams of video content, a display device for displaying the video content and a viewer controller controlled by a viewer for selecting video content for display on the display device; decoding a plurality of video streams by the plurality of video content decoders to form a primary decoded video stream and a plurality of secondary decoded video streams; displaying the primary and secondary decoded video streams on the display device, such that the primary decoded video stream on the display device is differentially displayed from each secondary decoded video stream; selecting a secondary decoded video stream by the viewer controller to form a selected secondary decoded video stream; and replacing the primary decoded video stream with the selected secondary decoded video stream on the display device, such that the selected secondary decoded video stream becomes a new primary decoded video stream.

Optionally, each video stream comprises audio content and wherein differentially displaying the primary decoded video stream comprises displaying the audio content of the primary decoded video stream without displaying the audio content of the secondary decoded video streams.

Also optionally, differentially displaying the primary decoded video stream comprises displaying the primary decoded video stream on a larger display area of the display device than a display area of each secondary decoded video stream.

Optionally, a combined display area of all secondary decoded video streams is smaller than the larger display area of the primary decoded video stream; alternatively, the displaying the primary and secondary decoded video streams further comprises arranging the larger display area of the primary decoded video stream to a central location of the display. Optionally, the displaying the primary and secondary decoded video streams further comprises arranging the plurality of decoded video streams along a boundary of the central location of the display.

Alternatively, a combined display area of all secondary decoded video streams is larger than the larger display area of the primary decoded video stream.

Optionally, the decoding the plurality of video streams further comprises selecting the plurality of secondary video streams according to at least one selection parameter, the at least one selection parameter relating to a category of video content.

Also optionally, the method further comprises providing a broadcaster for broadcasting the plurality of video streams to the receiver, wherein the at least one selection parameter comprises at least one broadcaster selection parameter, at least one viewer selection parameter, a temporal selection parameter or a combination of any plurality of parameters thereof. Optionally, the selecting the plurality of secondary video streams according to at least one viewer selection parameter further comprises obtaining the at least one viewer selection parameter from a preferred viewer content category list, or obtaining the at least one viewer selection parameter by analyzing at least one previous primary video stream selection by the viewer controller, or a combination thereof. Also optionally, at least one viewer selection parameter comprises a limiting selection parameter and wherein the selecting the plurality of secondary video streams according to at least one viewer selection parameter further comprises limiting a selection of the plurality of secondary video streams according to the limiting selection parameter. Also optionally, the limiting selection parameter is determined according to at least one parental control parameter.

Also optionally, the selecting the plurality of secondary video streams according to at least one broadcaster selection parameter further comprises receiving the broadcaster selection parameter by the receiver.

Optionally the temporal selection parameter comprises one or more of a parameter determined according to a time of day of displaying the secondary video streams, a parameter determined according to a day of the week of displaying the secondary video streams, a parameter determined according to a date of displaying the secondary video streams, or a combination thereof.

Also optionally, differentially displaying the primary decoded video stream comprises continuously displaying the primary decoded video stream and temporarily displaying the plurality of secondary video streams for a period of time.

Optionally the method further comprises providing a video stream selector for selecting a plurality of video streams from the video streams received by the receiver, wherein a number of the video streams is equal to a number of the video content decoders, thereby forming a plurality of previously selected video streams; selecting at least one additional video stream to form an additional selected video stream; decoding the additional selected video stream to form a decoded additional selected video stream; and displaying the decoded additional selected video stream as a secondary decoded video stream. Optionally, the selecting at least one additional video stream to form the additional selected video stream further comprises deselecting a video stream from the plurality of previously selected video streams.

Also optionally, the selecting at least one additional video stream to form the additional selected video stream is performed in response to a command from the viewer controller.

Also optionally, the displaying the decoded additional selected video stream as a secondary decoded video stream and the deselecting the video stream from the plurality of previously selected video streams are performed a plurality of times in response to one or more commands from the viewer controller.

Optionally, the decoding a plurality of video streams by the plurality of video content decoders to form the primary decoded video stream is performed contemporaneously with the decoding the plurality of secondary decoded video streams.

According to at least some embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a system for selecting video content, comprising: a receiver for receiving the video content, the receiver comprising a plurality of video content decoders for decoding a plurality of streams of video content to form a primary decoded video stream and a plurality of secondary decoded video streams; a display device for displaying the plurality of decoded streams of video content; a viewer controller controlled by a viewer for selecting video content for display on the display device; and an arranger in communication with the receiver for arranging the plurality of decoded streams of video content on the display device, such that the primary decoded video stream on the display device is differentially displayed from each secondary decoded video stream, wherein in response to a command from the viewer controller, a secondary decoded video stream is selected to form a selected secondary decoded video stream; and the arranger replaces the primary decoded video stream with the selected secondary decoded video stream on the display device, such that the selected secondary decoded video stream becomes a new primary decoded video stream.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be understood and appreciated more fully from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the drawings in which: FIG. 1 shows a simplified block diagram illustration of a system for interactively selecting video content, the system being constructed and operative in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 shows a flowchart of an exemplary, illustrative method for the operation of the arranger of Figure 1; FIG. 3A-3D relate to an illustrative, exemplary, non-limiting implementation of the display of the plurality of secondary video streams in a "video-surf-bar"; and FIG. 4 shows a flowchart of an exemplary, illustrative method for the operation of the video stream selector of Figure 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

The present invention, in at least some embodiments, provides a system and method for interactively selecting video content which includes a primary video stream and a plurality of secondary video streams being displayed on a display device, in which the viewer may easily and simply select one of the secondary video streams to replace the currently viewed primary video stream, for example by entering a command through a viewer controller. The display device may optionally comprise a television for example.

According to at least some embodiments, the secondary video streams are differentially displayed from the primary video stream. For example and without limitation, only the audio content of the primary video stream may optionally be displayed. Alternatively or additionally, the primary video stream may optionally be displayed on a larger display area of the display device than each secondary video stream, or even optionally a larger display area than the combined display area of all secondary video streams (although optionally the combined display area of all secondary video streams is larger than the display area of the primary video stream).

According to at least some embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of secondary video streams may optionally be displayed at a particular location or locations on the display device, optionally at a boundary of the display area of the primary video stream. For example and without limitation, the plurality of video streams may optionally be displayed in the form of a video-surf-bar, featuring a plurality of cells or locations for displaying the plurality of secondary video streams.

The cells of the video-surf-bar are optionally displayed on or as connected by a transparent background for example, although of course many other display options may be implemented by one of ordinary skill in the art.

According to at least some embodiments of the present invention, the primary and secondary video streams are received by a receiver and are then decoded by a plurality of video content decoders. For example, the receiver may optionally be implemented as a STB (set top box) comprising the plurality of video content decoders. The decoded video streams are then optionally arranged for display, for example optionally by an arranger in communication with the receiver for arranging said plurality of decoded streams of video content for display on the display device.

The viewer then selects a secondary video stream of interest with one or more commands from the viewer controller (for example, optionally through the use of a hot key" or single key command), after which the arranger optionally causes the selected secondary video stream to replace the previous primary video stream on the display device.

The plurality of secondary video streams may optionally be displayed continuously or for a limited period of time. The limited period of time may optionally be predetermined and/or may be determined according to one or more viewer commands through the viewer controller. The limited period of time for display may also optionally be repeated, for example for optionally being displayed periodically.

Without wishing to be limited, the plurality of secondary video streams may optionally comprise "live" video streams (i.e., those video streams being currently received by the receiver), video streams related to video on demand or video streams related to software such as gaming software (in which case the secondary video stream, if selected, would be displayed as a primary video stream related to the software, such as a video stream related to game play (as a non-limiting example, such a video stream could optionally be an advertisement, to be played before or after game play, or as an interruption or overlay during game play; optionally the game itself and the video stream could both be on a STB for example or alternatively they could be at separate locations)). For video streams related to video on demand (VOD), optionally the video stream would incorporate an advertisement of some type, and not only show the "pure" video content of the VOD content item.

The plurality of secondary video streams may optionally be selected according to at least one selection parameter that is related to a category of video content, according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. The category of video content may for example optionally be related to a broadcaster selection parameter, a viewer selection parameter, a temporal selection parameter or a combination thereof. For example, the broadcaster may optionally wish to select or emphasize certain video content, such that video streams related to such video content are optionally selected as secondary video streams. Secondary video streams may also optionally be selected according to one or more interests of the viewer, including content that is currently being viewed, user favorites and the like. Temporal selection parameters may optionally relate to a time of day, a parameter determined according to a day of the week, a parameter determined according to a date, or a combination thereof.

Reference is now made to Fig. 1 which is a simplified block diagram illustration of a system for interactively selecting video content, the system being constructed and operative in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The system 100 includes a receiver 102 for receiving television programs from a transmission network 104, which may optionally include a headend 106. Headend 106 in turn optionally receives television programs from a satellite, by broadcast or from a cable headend (not shown). The term broadcaster" optionally refers to transmission network 104 or any portion thereof. By "television program" it is meant various types of transmitted material, such as television programs, commercials, video clips, program guides and electronic program guides (EPG5), data, multimedia information, hypermedia links, computer programs, computer data and applications which may be downloaded, program applets and teletex. For this non-limiting example of Figure 1, the television programs are assumed to be video streams. For other items such as software, EPGs, data and so forth (or indeed any item described herein other than video streams), it is assumed that a similar mechanism may optionally be used for downloading such transmitted material as for video streams.

For example, to download software, a STB may optionally tune to a service, as for the process used to receive video streams, and the content is downloaded to some memory. Code may then be executed so that some type of action is taken with regard to the downloaded software. As a non-limiting example, an updated version of EPG software may optionally be downloaded by the STB, after tuning to that service. After downloading, the STB may optionally then reboot itself.

Receiver 102 receives the video streams and then decodes a plurality of such video streams through a plurality of decoders 108 to form a primary decoded video stream and a plurality of secondary decoded video streams. For example, receiver 102 and decoders 108 may optionally be implemented as an integrated receiver and decoder (IRD). Operation of receiver 102 and decoders 108 is optionally controlled by a processor 110 in receiver 102. Receiver 102 optionally also comprises a memory 112 and a data bus 114. Memory 112 may optionally comprise flash memory, a conventional high capacity hard disk as used in conventional personal computers or a plurality of high capacity hard disks, or a combination thereof.

The primary and secondary decoded video streams are then displayed on a display device 116 which may include any appropriate type of a conventional display, such as a television for example, which is in communication with receiver 102 through data bus 114. Display device 116 may optionally be wireless or wired communication with receiver 102, or optionally may be integrated with receiver 102.

Display device 116 is optionally capable of displaying both the visual content of the video stream and also the audio content; the latter content may optionally be displayed by any type of speaker(s) or audio systems (not shown), which may be integrated with or separate from a display screen 118 of display device 116. Display device 116 may therefore comprise a plurality of physically separated components in wireless or wired communication, or an integrated unit.

Optionally, the primary and secondary decoded video streams are collectively displayed on display device 116, rather than being only sequentially displayed; however, the primary and secondary video streams are optionally differentially displayed. For example, and without limitation, only the audio content of the primary video stream may optionally be displayed. Alternatively or additionally, the primary video stream may optionally be displayed on a larger display area of display device 116, and particularly of display screen 118, than each secondary video stream, or even optionally a larger display area than the combined display area of all secondary video streams.

Receiver 102 optionally comprises an arranger 120 for arranging the display of the primary and secondary video streams so as to permit the above differential display. For example, arranger 120 may optionally block display of the audio content of the video stream for all video streams except for the primary video stream.

Ananger 120 may also optionally control the relative size of the various video streams and, as described in greater detail below, may also optionally control the relative location of the various video streams on display screen 118. A more detailed description of the operation of arranger 120 is also provided with regard to the flowchart of Figure 2.

Arranger 120 may optionally be implemented as software, hardware, firmware or a combination thereof, but is optionally at least controlled by processor 110. If arranger 120 includes software, the software is optionally stored in memory 112.

Arranger 120 optionally provides picture-in-picture (PIP) of the primary and secondary video streams, such that all of the primary and secondary video streams are optionally simultaneously at least displayed on display screen 118, optionally through differential display as described in greater detail below. Therefore, optionally the secondary video stream is the actual current video stream being received by receiver 102 for a particular television program. PIP displays are well known in the art, and for example are described in US Patent No. 4,729,027 to Hakamada et al (incorporated by reference only with regard to Figure 1 and the accompanying description), US Patent No. 6,008,860 to Patton et al (incorporated by reference only with regard to Figure 2 and the accompanying description) and published US Patent Application No. 2007/192816 to Collet et al (incorporated by reference only with regard to Figure 3 and the accompanying description), provided as non-limiting examples only of PIP display provision.

Arranger 120 therefore optionally determines one or more display parameters for each video stream, as described in greater detail below, and then controls display on display screen 118. Arranger 120 may optionally control one or more circuits for enabling a blended display of all of the video streams on display screen 118 (not shown). Depending upon the requirements of display screen 118, arranger 120 may first cause the primary video stream to be provided to a display component, such as a cathode ray tube of display screen 118 (not shown), after which the secondary video streams are so provided as an overlay. Alternatively, arranger 120 may blend the video streams to form a single output video stream for display screen 118.

For example, with regard to differential display through PIP of the primary and secondary video streams, optionally arranger 120 determines the relative display area of display screen 118 to be provided to each of the primary and secondary video streams. Such a relative display may optionally be determined according to one or more predetermined parameters for the primary and secondary video streams, such that for example the primary video stream always (or optionally) has a particular fraction of the display area. However, such a relative display may also optionally be determined according to one or more parameters that are particular to a specific primary video stream or secondary video stream; for example, if the broadcaster wishes to promote a particular television program, the broadcaster could determine a display area parameter that is larger for the specific secondary video stream for the particular television program.

Arranger 120 also optionally determines the relative location of the primary and secondary video streams for PIP display on display screen 118. For example, the secondary video streams may optionally be ananged for display at a boundary of the primary video stream display on display screen 118. Non-limiting examples of such a boundary display include displaying the secondary video streams at the bottom, top or either side of the display area of the primary video stream, or a combination thereof.

A non-limiting, illustrative embodiment of the display of the secondary video streams in a "video-surf-bar" is described with regard to Figures 3A-3D.

Optionally, control of the display of the video streams by a viewer is performed through a remote control 122, or an input device, such as a keyboard or a mouse (not shown), any of which is a non-limiting example of a viewer controller, which may communicate with receiver 102 through an input/output (110) interface 124 at receiver 102 (remote control 122 is shown as being connected to 110 interface 124 with a line for the purpose of illustration only; communication is optionally wireless). 110 interface 124 is optionally operatively associated with processor 110. It is appreciated that instructions and selections inputted by the viewer via remote control 122 are executed by the processor 110. Optionally, remote control 122 includes a plurality of function keys 126 for operating special functions as described below. When the viewer wishes to enter a command, the viewer selects one or more function keys 126 on remote control 122. Remote control 122 then sends one or more signals to receiver 102 through 110 interface 124, thereby instructing receiver 102 to execute one or more actions. For example and without limitation, such commands may optionally relate to displaying the plurality of secondary video streams, ceasing the display of the plurality of secondary video streams, altering the selection of the secondary video streams being displayed and switching the currently displayed primary video stream for one of the secondary video streams.

The last command optionally causes arranger 120 to select the indicated secondary video stream and to cause the selected secondary video stream to become the primary video stream, such that the selected secondary video stream is displayed as the primary video stream on display device 116. The previous primary video stream then optionally becomes one of the displayed secondary video streams. The primary and secondary video streams are then displayed on display device 116 as previously described.

According to some embodiments, a smart card or other access control (not shown) may optionally be used with receiver 102 to permit further control of access to the plurality of video streams. Receiver 102 also optionally includes an encryptor/decryptor (not shown) which is optionally operatively associated with the data bus 114 and is operative with keys or seeds provided by a smart card through a smart card reader (not shown). It is appreciated that the keys or seeds provided by the smart card may be operative to provide conditional access to and parental control of the selection of primary and/or secondary video streams. Parental control is a non-limiting example of a limiting selection parameter, which limits access to certain video content.

The term "parental control" is used throughout the specification and claims to include control by a person who has right to control what programs another person, or persons, may view and/or record/delete, and/or otherwise use. For example, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, parental control is typically used to control programs whose viewing by children requires consent of a parent.

For example, parental control may optionally be instituted such that at least certain video streams may optionally not be displayed as the primary video stream and/or as a secondary stream, unless an identifier such as a PIN code is entered. Such video streams may for example conespond to certain categories or types of video content and/or video content being flagged with one or more tags related to certain aspects of the content.

According to at least some embodiments of the present invention, parental control is implemented by a parental control module 128 at receiver 102, which may optionally be implemented as software (in which case it is optionally stored in memory 112), hardware, firmware or a combination thereof. Parental control module 128 is optionally at least controlled through processor 110. Viewers who are given permission to alter the functionality of parental control module 128 optionally enter one or more commands through remote control 122, for example to change a default setting or to temporarily allow display of a video stream that would otherwise be blocked.

Parental control module 128 optionally communicates with arranger 120 to indicate which video streams may be displayed, according to the default settings (which are optionally stored in memory 112). If the viewer wishes to override the default settings, optionally a PIN or other identifier must be entered, for example through remote control 122, after which parental control module 128 indicates to arranger 120 that permission is granted to show the video stream. Otherwise parental control module 128 indicates to arranger 120 that permission is not granted to show the video stream, and so arranger 120 optionally does not include that particular video stream as a primary and/or secondary video stream, and does not include that particular video stream as either type of video stream. Optionally a message may be displayed through display device 116 indicating that the particular video stream is blocked for display due to parental control. Also optionally parental control module 128 may block such a video stream from being decoded by any of the decoders 108. A non-limiting example of such parental control systems is provided in US Patent No. 5,666,412 to Handelman et al (incorporated by reference only with regard to Figure 2

and the accompanying description).

An intelligent agent module 130 is optionally located at receiver 102 and may optionally be implemented as software (in which case it is optionally stored in memory 112), hardware, firmware or a combination thereof. Agent module 130 is optionally at least controlled through processor 110. Agent module 130 optionally determines one or more viewer selection parameters (for selecting one or more of the plurality of secondary video streams) that are related to viewer preferences, optionally apart from the parameter(s) related to parental control. For example, agent module may optionally obtain a viewer selection parameter related to a viewer preference from a preferred viewer content category list or viewer "favorites" list). Content in such a list may optionally be determined manually by the viewer, and/or by having the viewer mark a channel or a television program as a favorite", for example while it is being watched, or through some type of automatic analysis. As another example, agent module 130 may optionally obtain such a viewer selection parameter by analyzing at least one previous primary video stream selection by the viewer through remote control 122.

Agent module 130 may determine such a parameter in accordance with viewing habits of the viewer. Agent module 130 optionally learns viewing habits of the viewer by tracking the viewer's favorite programs and other preferences, such as favorite channels, and main viewing hours. Once viewer preferences are determined, agent module 130 optionally increases the weight of any video stream for being selected as a secondary video stream, if characteristics of the video stream match the viewer preferences.

It is appreciated that agent module 130 may optionally include an intelligent agent, as described in published PCT Application No. WO 99/0 1984 to Maissel et al, which learns preferences of the user from observed viewing habits of the user, determines preferences of the user, organizes the user preferences in categories in accordance with a user profile, and adjusts the preferences in accordance with continuously evolving viewing habits of the user. It is further appreciated that the agent may be programmable, and the user may determine preferences by entering information which may be used as inputs for the agent.

Optionally, a plurality of agents may be resident in the agent module 130, each being associated with a member of a family of the user. Optionally, each agent may identify a member of the family to which it conesponds according to a code inputted by the member of the family of the user or a biometrics parameter of the member of the family of the user. Alternatively, each member of the family of the user may select a corresponding agent by using a different key on the remote control 122 or by using a different remote control.

Further alternatively, each member of the family of the user may have an individualized smart card, and each agent may be associated with a colTesponding smart card. Optionally, agents may be stored in corresponding smart cards or activated by the corresponding smart cards which may include viewing preferences of the members of the family of the user.

Agent module 130 also optionally receives one or more broadcaster selection parameters from the broadcaster. The one or more broadcaster selection parameters may optionally define the following information which may characterize the video stream and/or tags which are associated with the program and characterize features of the video stream (or program): (1) A type of the video stream such as a movie, a show, a commercial, and so forth; (2) supplementary information accompanying the video stream such as a review of the program as provided by a reviewer, detailed information regarding a product offered by the video stream, notes accompanying the video stream, tagged portions of the video stream, and a percentage of viewers who are currently watching the program; (3) an associated audio channel in a language which differs from the language used in an original audio channel associated with the program; (4) general information, such as a program title, a time when the program is broadcast, a length of the program, a determination whether the program is encrypted and a compression format of the program; (5) context specific tagging for use with and/or enhancement of transmitted programs; and (6) weighting of the video stream as a potential secondary video stream for display by display device 116.

By "weighting of the video stream" it is meant that the broadcaster may optionally indicate to agent module 130 as to the importance of including any particular video stream in the plurality of displayed secondary video streams. The importance determines the relative weight given to the broadcaster selection parameter for that video stream upon selection of secondary video streams by the arranger 120. For example, if the broadcaster wishes to promote a particular television program, the broadcaster could give a weight to the broadcaster selection parameter for that video stream such that the particular video stream must be shown as one of the secondary video streams (optionally with the exception for any such stream blocked by a limiting parameter, for example with regard to parental control as described above). A somewhat lower weight would increase the tendency to select the video stream as a secondary video stream but would not render such a selection as an absolute.

It is appreciated that the broadcaster set of parameters mentioned above is not meant to be limiting, and it may include additional parameters. It is further appreciated that not all of the above mentioned parameters must be associated with each video stream. For example, video streams may be transmitted without supplementary information or additional audio channels in various languages.

Agent module 130 optionally also receives or calculates one or more temporal selection parameters, which may optionally be determined according to a time of day, a day of the week, a date, or a combination thereof. For example, a particular video stream may be preferentially selected as a secondary video stream according to whether the display is to be made in the morning or evening, a week-day or week-end, or even a special date (such as a holiday for example).

Once agent module 130 has received any broadcaster selection parameters, as well as any viewer selection parameters and/or any temporal selection parameters, agent module 130 optionally sends such parameters to a video stream selector 132 for selecting a plurality of secondary video streams. Video stream selector 132 optionally balances such parameters to determine which video streams may optionally be selected as secondary video streams. Video stream selector 132 then optionally communicates the selection of secondary video streams to arranger 120; optionally, arranger 120 comprises video stream selector 132. Figure 4 shows the process of operation of video stream selector 132 in more detail, but optionally video stream selector 132 combines the viewer selection parameters and broadcaster selection parameters (each of which may optionally feature weighting with regard to the relative importance of each such parameter in the selection process) to select the plurality of secondary video streams. Optionally, limiting parameters, such as parental control parameters provided by parental control module 128, ovelTide any selections made by video stream selector 132.

After arranger 120 receives the selection of the secondary video streams and the secondary video streams are displayed by display device 116, optionally any reaction of the viewer is detected by an AMS (audience measurement system) 134 in receiver 102, such as the viewer selecting one of the displayed secondary video streams to become a primary video stream through sending one or more commands through remote control 122. AMS 134 may then optionally communicate such information, optionally with any statistical analysis, to the broadcaster.

Figure 2 shows a flowchart of an exemplary, illustrative method for the operation of the arranger of Figure 1. The method may be implemented with regard to the system of Figure 1 As shown, in stage 1, the arranger optionally receives the primary video stream, optionally directly from a video decoder in decoded form as described above.

In stage 2, the arranger also optionally receives a selection of a plurality of secondary video streams, for example optionally from a video stream selector. In stage 3, the arranger optionally receives input from an override mechanism, such as a parental control module for example. As described in greater detail below, any such limiting or override mechanism optionally communicates directly with the video stream selector but may, additionally or alternatively, also communicate with the arranger, for providing control of the selection of the video streams for display.

In stage 4, the arranger optionally directs a plurality of video decoders to decode a plurality of video streams conesponding to the selected secondary video streams. For example, optionally a plurality of tuners is provided, each tuner receiving a video stream which is then decoded by a video decoder. As a non-limiting example, a system incorporating a plurality of tuners and video decoders is described in published US Patent Application No. 2006/0209906 to Dabrowa (incorporated by reference only with regard to Figure 1 and the accompanying description).

In stage 5, the arranger receives the decoded secondary video streams from the video decoders.

The arranger then arranges the primary and secondary video streams for display on the display device. In this non-limiting example, in stage 6, the arranger optionally determines the relative locations and sizes of the primary and secondary video streams, such that the visual content of the primary video stream optionally occupies a larger area of the display screen than the visual content of the secondary video streams. Also the visual content of the primary video stream is optionally located at a central portion of the display screen. For example and without limitation, the secondary video streams are prepared for display by converting (if necessary) the analog video signal from the auxiliary signal source to a digital video signal.

Alternatively, the secondary video streams are provided directly as digital video signals. The digital video signals then undergo a process of "subsampling" by eliminating pixel samples and lines therefrom. Typically, the resultant compressed digital video signals are stored in a memory, and are retrieved in synchronism with the horizontal and vertical synchronizing components of the video signal from the primary video stream. A so-called "antialiasing" filter may optionally be used to reduce the bandwidth of the digital signal before compression to avoid artifacts in the auxiliary image due to the subsampling process.

To control the size of the secondary video streams for display, optionally the compression ratio may be changed. As another non-limiting example, part of the display picture may optionally be cropped, so that for example only the center portion of the images of the secondary video streams is actually shown. Such cropping may optionally occur by removing a certain number of lines (and optionally also a certain number of pixels per line) to achieve a displayed image of the desired size.

In stage 7, the ananger optionally removes the audio content of the secondary video streams. Optionally, stage 7 is performed before stage 6.

In stage 8, the arranger optionally blends the primary and secondary video streams to form a single output stream. Optionally and alternatively, as previously described, the arranger may first output the primary video stream and then overlay a portion of the primary video stream with the plurality of secondary video streams.

In stage 9, the single output stream is transmitted to the display device for display.

As another non-limiting example, the digital signals of the secondary video streams may optionally be combined with the digital signal of the primary video stream to formn a combined video signal, in which the combining operation is performed by a switching section or "multiplexer which selectively decouples the main video signal from the display device and instead couples the video signals of the secondary video streams to the display device during predetermined portions of predetermined horizontal scanning lines of the main video signal. For this non-limiting example, stages 8 and 9 are combined.

Figures 3A-3D relate to an illustrative, exemplary, non-limiting implementation of the display of the plurality of secondary video streams in a "video-surf-bar". Figure 3A shows an initial display screen 300, with only the primary video stream 302 being displayed.

In Figure 3B, for example optionally in response to pressing one or more keys on the remote control, the plurality of secondary video streams are displayed as a video-surf-bar 304, in which each cell 306 optionally contains a single secondary video stream display. As described herein, each cell 306 may contain the single secondary video stream display of the same video stream that could be displayed as the primary video stream. For example, if the secondary video stream is of a live event or live broadcast, the secondary video stream changes directly according to the video stream data received by the receiver (not shown), and is hence an altered version of the potential display as a primary video stream optionally only with regard to size, location, display of the audio and so forth, and not with regard to actual content.

A specific cell 306a is shown with hatched lines, as this specific cell 306a is cunently in focus, to indicate that if the viewer were to enter a selection command through the remote control, the secondary video stream being shown in the specific cell 306a would become the primary video stream 302. On the actual display 300, this specific cell 306a could optionally be surrounded with a different color band or otherwise highlighted, to show this focus.

In Figure 3C, in response to pressing the left/right keys on the remote control for example, a different specific cell 306b is now in focus and so is shown with hatched lines. The viewer could continue to press the left/right keys, or any other navigational keys, to navigate along the video-surf-bar 304. Additionally the viewer may optionally ask for informnation on the currently selected event in the cell 306b, for example optionally by entering a command through the remote control, for example through any type of button press, after which the information related to that event can be shown on display screen 300 (not shown).

In Figure 3D, the viewer has pressed "enter" or has otherwise entered one or more commands through the remote control to indicate that the secondary video stream being shown in specific cell 306b is to be displayed as the primary video stream; therefore display screen 300 is now showing a primary video stream 302b.

The secondary video stream of specific cell 306b is removed, since the content is now being shown as primary video stream 302b, and a different secondary video stream is added to a specific cell 306c on the video-surf-bar 304. Optionally, the video-surf-bar 304 remains on the display screen 300 as shown for a period of time, such as 5 seconds for example, after one of the secondary video streams becomes the primary video stream.

Optionally, if the viewer has navigated to the first or last video cell 306, and tries to navigate to a cell which is out of the display area allotted to video-surf-bar 304 (e.g. from the first cell 306 from the left of video-surf-bar 304, attempting to navigate further left; or from the last cell 306 from the right of video-surf-bar 304, attempting to navigate further right), the cells 306 may be shifted accordingly (for example, a new cell 306 is added from the left or right, respectively, and a cell 306 is removed from the opposite side of video-surf-bar 304).

Figure 4 shows a flowchart of an exemplary, illustrative method for the operation of the video stream selector of Figure 1. As shown, in stage 1, the video stream selector optionally receives one or more of broadcaster selection parameters, viewer selection parameters and/or temporal selection parameters from the agent module.

In stage 2, the video stream selector combines the selection parameters, optionally by weight. Optionally, the weighting of some parameters is absolute; for example, limiting parameters such as parental control parameters are optionally able to block the selection of any inappropriate video content and hence any inappropriate video stream.

In stage 3, the video stream selector optionally also receives information regarding the cunently displayed primary video stream, for example from the agent module. This information optionally includes an identification of the cunently displayed primary video stream, for example with regard to its "channel". As a non-limiting example, the primary video stream may optionally be identified according to the PSIP (Program and System Information Protocol) metadata which identifies the virtual channel service through which this video stream is provided. The currently displayed primary video stream is optionally not available as a secondary video stream, such that the identity of the primary video stream is optionally an absolute or blocking parameter.

In stage 4, the video stream selector optionally receives information regarding one or more "positive" absolute selections; for example, the viewer may optionally require that the video stream of a particular channel, or of a particular show if available, is always included as a secondary video stream.

In stage 5, weighted selection parameters are optionally used by the video stream selector to select the plurality of video streams for the secondary video streams. The number of selected secondary video streams is optionally at least limited by, and is equal to, the number of video decoders available to decode the secondary video streams (optionally minus any "positive absolute selections as described for stage 4). For example, if 5 such video decoders are available, the video stream selector optionally selects the 5 top video streams by weighted parameters.

In stage 6, the selected video streams for the secondary video streams are optionally sent to the arranger.

It is appreciated that components of the present invention described herein as being implemented in software may, if desired, be implemented in ROM (read only memory) form. The components described herein as being implemented in software may, generally, be implemented in hardware, if desired, using conventional techniques.

It will be appreciated that various features of the invention which are, for clarity, described in the contexts of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. It will also be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited by what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather the scope of the invention is defined only by the claims which follow.

Claims

What is claimed is: 1. A method for selecting video content, comprising: providing a receiver for receiving the video content, said receiver comprising a plurality of video content decoders for decoding a plurality of streams of video content, a display device for displaying said video content and a viewer controller controlled by a viewer for selecting video content for display on said display device; decoding a plurality of video streams by said plurality of video content decoders to form a primary decoded video stream and a plurality of secondary decoded video streams; displaying said primary and secondary decoded video streams on said display device, such that said primary decoded video stream on said display device is differentially displayed from each secondary decoded video stream; selecting a secondary decoded video stream by said viewer controller to form a selected secondary decoded video stream; and replacing said primary decoded video stream with said selected secondary decoded video stream on said display device, such that said selected secondary decoded video stream becomes a new primary decoded video stream.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein each video stream comprises audio content and wherein differentially displaying said primary decoded video stream comprises displaying said audio content of said primary decoded video stream without displaying said audio content of said secondary decoded video streams.
3. The method according to claim 1, wherein differentially displaying said primary decoded video stream comprises displaying said primary decoded video stream on a larger display area of said display device than a display area of each secondary decoded video stream.
4. The method according to claim 3, wherein a combined display area of all secondary decoded video streams is smaller than said larger display area of said primary decoded video stream.
5. The method according to claim 3, wherein said displaying said primary and secondary decoded video streams further comprises arranging said larger display area of said primary decoded video stream to a central location of said display.
6. The method according to claim 5, wherein said displaying said primary and secondary decoded video streams further comprises arranging said plurality of decoded video streams along a boundary of said central location of said display.
7. The method according to claim 3, wherein a combined display area of all secondary decoded video streams is larger than said larger display area of said primary decoded video stream.
8. The method according to claim 1, wherein said decoding said plurality of video streams further comprises selecting said plurality of secondary video streams according to at least one selection parameter, said at least one selection parameter relating to a category of video content.
9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising providing a broadcaster for broadcasting said plurality of video streams to said receiver, wherein said at least one selection parameter comprises at least one broadcaster selection parameter, at least one viewer selection parameter, a temporal selection parameter or a combination of any plurality of parameters thereof.
10. The method according to claim 9, wherein said selecting said plurality of secondary video streams according to at least one viewer selection parameter further comprises obtaining said at least one viewer selection parameter from a preferred viewer content category list, or obtaining said at least one viewer selection parameter by analyzing at least one previous primary video stream selection by said viewer controller, or a combination thereof.
11. The method according to claim 10, wherein at least one viewer selection parameter comprises a limiting selection parameter and wherein said selecting said plurality of secondary video streams according to at least one viewer selection parameter further comprises limiting a selection of said plurality of secondary video streams according to said limiting selection parameter.
12. The method according to claim 11, wherein said limiting selection parameter is determined according to at least one parental control parameter.
13. The method according to claim 9, wherein said selecting said plurality of secondary video streams according to at least one broadcaster selection parameter further comprises receiving said broadcaster selection parameter by said receiver.
14. The method according to claim 9, wherein said temporal selection parameter comprises one or more of a parameter determined according to a time of day of displaying said secondary video streams, a parameter determined according to a day of the week of displaying said secondary video streams, a parameter determined according to a date of displaying said secondary video streams, or a combination thereof.
15. The method according to claim 1, wherein differentially displaying said primary decoded video stream comprises continuously displaying said primary decoded video stream and temporarily displaying said plurality of secondary video streams for a period of time.
16. The method according to claim 1, further comprising providing a video stream selector for selecting a plurality of video streams from said video streams received by said receiver, wherein a number of said video streams is equal to a number of said video content decoders, thereby forming a plurality of previously selected video streams; selecting at least one additional video stream to form an additional selected video stream; decoding said additional selected video stream to form a decoded additional selected video stream; and displaying said decoded additional selected video stream as a secondary decoded video stream.
17. The method according to claim 16, wherein said selecting at least one additional video stream to form said additional selected video stream further comprises deselecting a video stream from said plurality of previously selected video streams.
18. The method according to claim 17, wherein said selecting at least one additional video stream to form said additional selected video stream is performed in response to a command from said viewer controller.
19. The method according to claim 18, wherein said displaying said decoded additional selected video stream as a secondary decoded video stream and said deselecting said video stream from said plurality of previously selected video streams are performed a plurality of times in response to one or more commands from said viewer controller.
20. The method according to claim 1, wherein said decoding a plurality of video streams by said plurality of video content decoders to form said primary decoded video stream is performed contemporaneously with said decoding said plurality of secondary decoded video streams.
21. A system for selecting video content, comprising: a receiver for receiving the video content, said receiver comprising a plurality of video content decoders for decoding a plurality of streams of video content to form a primary decoded video stream and a plurality of secondary decoded video streams; a display device for displaying said plurality of decoded streams of video content; a viewer controller controlled by a viewer for selecting video content for display on said display device; and an arranger in communication with said receiver for arranging said plurality of decoded streams of video content on said display device, such that said primary decoded video stream on said display device is differentially displayed from each secondary decoded video stream, wherein in response to a command from said viewer controller, a secondary decoded video stream is selected to form a selected secondary decoded video stream; and said arranger replaces said primary decoded video stream with said selected secondary decoded video stream on said display device, such that said selected secondary decoded video stream becomes a new primary decoded video stream.*::r: INTELLECTUAL . ... PROPERTY OFFICE 26 Application No: GB1017154.4 Examiner: Mr Jeremy Cowen Claims searched: 1,21 Date of search: 11 February 2011 Patents Act 1977: Search Report under Section 17 Documents considered to be relevant: Category Relevant Identity of document and passage or figure of particular relevance to claims X 1-21 US2007/182855 Al (SBC Knowledge Ventures), see whole document, esp paragraphs 24-27 & figure 1 X 1-21 US2003/016304A1 (Norsworthy et al), see whole document, eg paragraphs 7-10, figure 2 & claims 25,26 Categories: X Document indicating lack of novelty or inventive A Document indicating technological background and/or state step of the art.Y Document indicating lack of inventive step if P Document published on or after the declared priority date but combined with one or more other documents of before the filing date of this invention.same category.& Member of the same patent family E Patent document published on or after, but with priority date earlier than, the filing date of this application.Field of Search:Search of GB, EP, WO & US patent documents classified in the following areas of the UKCX: Worldwide search of patent documents classified in the following areas of the IPC GO6F; HO4N The following online and other databases have been used in the preparation of this search report WPI,EPODOC International Classification: Subclass Subgroup Valid From HO4N 0005/45 01/01/2011 HO4N 0021/472 01/01/2011 Intellectual Property Office is an operating name of the Patent Office www.ipo.gov.uk