MXPA97003915A - Multichannel television system with video and audio selected by televide - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for communicating a packet data stream that includes video data corresponding to a primary signal and at least first and second alternative video signals that are associated with the primary signal, the primary signal is associated with a first channel designator, comprising the s of: providing control data in the packet data stream which associates the primary signal and the first and second alternative video signals, transmitting the packet data stream to a terminal; the primary signal to an output device that is associated with the terminal during a first period under the first channel designator, at one end of the first period, using the control data to provide a screen display on the output device to assist a user to select one of the first and second alternative video signals for playback in the device or output during a second period which follows the first period, and map the selected alternative video signal to the first channel designator to allow the selected alternative video signal to be displayed on the output device under the first channel designator.

Description

MULTI-CHANNEL TELEVISION SYSTEM WITH VIDEO AND AUDIO SELECTED BY TELEVISION BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a system for processing audio and video data in a package, in a television device terminal. More particularly, the system allows a viewer to select audio inputs and camera angles specific to an event that is being broadcast by a programming service provider. The digital transmission of television signals has become increasingly popular as it can provide audio and video services of much higher quality than those that can be provided with analog techniques. Digital transmission schemes are particularly advantageous for signals that are broadcast via a cable or satellite television network to cable television affiliates and / or directly to domestic-type satellite television receivers. It is expected that digital television receiver and transmitter systems will replace existing analog systems in the same way that digital compact discs have already replaced analogue phonograph records in the audio industry.

However, a considerable amount of digital data must be transmitted on any digital television system. In addition, transmission bandwidths and carrier frequencies are usually constrained by the need to maintain compatibility with existing equipment. The conventional analog radio frequency (RF) television programming is transmitted in an assigned bandwidth of 6 MHz in the spectrum of 54 to 890 MHz. For example, conventional televisions recognize "channel three" as the signal designation of television in the 60 to 66 MHz spectrum, while "channel four" is assigned to the spectrum of 66 to 72 MHz. Also, in many terminals of digital apparatus, the received audio / video signal is converted to a predefined spectrum, typically channel three or four, before being provided for television for display. While a digital television signal is converted to a spectrum compatible with television in the terminal, the signal can be transmitted to the terminal from the service provider, in a variety of ways. For example, digital transmission can be provided in a cable or satellite system at a frequency (eg, 1.2 GHz) that is well above the terrestrial broadcast band. The transmission within the assigned bandwidth of 6 MHz is known i l..J '> / • '!!' •. as "in band" transmission, while transmissions outside this region are known as "out of band" transmissions. Furthermore, while the video and audio data comprising a television program are transmitted in the 6 MHz band, the auxiliary control data for all channels are transmitted out of band (for example, at 75.25 MHz). Digital transmission techniques are superior to analog techniques because they can use the available spectrum more efficiently. For example, by using known digital compression techniques, up to ten conventional television programs can be ported in a 6 MHz bandwidth with standard resolution. The proposed high definition television (HDTV High-Definition Television) systems provide higher resolution but consume additional bandwidth. One way of transmitting compressed digital data to a receiver is the form of packets contained within a packet data stream. Typically, the packets carrying the compressed video data will be multiplexed with other packets that, for example, carry corresponding audio data and control information that are necessary to reconstruct a television signal. A standard for transporting digital television signals in this way is the MPEG-2 standard, the details of which are found in document AVC-491 version 1, April 1993, published by Telecommunications Standardization Sector, Study Group 15, Experts Group 4ATM-Video Coding of the International Organization for Standardization, ISO-IEC / JTC1 / SC29 / G11 entitled "Coded Image and Audio Information Representation", which is mentioned here by reference. More details of the syntax and semantics of the video for the MPEG-2 video can be found in the International Organization for Standardization, document ISO / IEC 11172-6 of April 2, 1993 and entitled "Semantics and Syntax Revised for Video MPEG-2" , which is also mentioned by reference. Also of interest, and mentioned by reference, document MC68VDP / D, a preliminary data sheet entitled "MPEG-2 / DCII Video Decompression Processor" or Motorola Microprocessor and Memory Technologies Group, 1994 that describes a video decompression processor that uses the MPEG-2 and DigiCipher® II standards. In the MPEG-2 system (and in the similar system DigiCipher® II owned by General Instrument Corporation, the assignee of the present), a transport stream or a transport multiplex is formed from a continuous set of fixed-length packets. Each packet is a total of 188 bytes in length and the first four of these bytes are defined as the header packet. The load portion of each packet, which includes either video, audio or other data, is normally 184 bytes. However, a variable length adaptation field can be provided to extend the header, when required. When an adaptation field is present, the loading portion of the package will be correspondingly shorter. In addition, various types of timing and identification information are provided in different portions of the transport stream. These include a packet identifier (PID) that is found in the transport header of each transport packet in order to provide a reference number to identify transport packets that carry a specific service component. This number is included in a service definition (for example ap service or map channel) used for the receiver, in order to identify those transport packages that require the construction of a television program signal. The PID can also serve as a reference for various remultiplexing and fix functions. In the case of video, audio or isochronous control data, the packet stream marked with a single PID represents a single elementary stream of video, audio or isochronous data services, respectively. Each type of package will have a different PID that identifies the type of package. The packet data stream of a programming service is received by a subscriber via a receiver / demixer which is typically incorporated in a television set terminal. The terminal decompresses and decodes the digital data and provides the corresponding video and audio data to an output device (for example a television, a video recorder and / or a separate high-fidelity audio system). In particular, the viewer selects a channel designation (eg, channel 2) that corresponds to a particular programming service provider, (eg, X network). The map channel data of the packet data stream maps to the data that comes from the channel designator to the corresponding programming service provider. For example, when a viewer selects "channel 2" in the terminal of the apparatus, the programming of the "X network" will be processed in the terminal and the television will be provided at a predefined and fixed carrier frequency, for example in the spectrum of 60 to 66 MHz (channel 3 of television). In addition, the data carried by the packet data stream can be used as a graphics processor in the terminal, in order to provide an on-screen display of the available programming. For example, the exhibition can provide a program guide that lists the name of the program, the time of its presentation and the channel. Additionally, this data can be directed to particular terminals to provide an individual account statement and user account information. When the viewer selects a particular programming service for observation, the corresponding data packets are retrieved and decompressed to allow reconstruction of the corresponding video and audio signal. In particular, the data packets with the appropriate PID are demultiplexed, unpacked and provided to a video decompression processor. Finally, the audio and video signals are moded to a specific carrier frequency and are provided to the television for display. As can be seen, the advent of digital television transmission techniques provides high fidelity audio and video to the homes of subscribers, and also provides the opportunity for new services and features for both entertainment and educational purposes. In addition, this programming presents lucrative marketing opportunities for service providers and others that market programming for specific demographic groups, including, for example, those who enjoy sports programs, movies, programs for children and their peers. However, conventional systems are somewhat constrained by the existence of television signal spectrum requirements and channel mapping formats. Consequently, it would be advantageous to provide a digital transmission system for the re-mapping of the channel assignment of one or more of the selected audio and video signals of a programming service. In addition, this re-mapping must be presented according to the orders provided by the user. Additionally, it would be advantageous to provide a graphical user interface to assist the user in selecting the audio and video signals. The user interface must be layers of grouping the alternative audio and video signals that are associated with a primary channel of a programming service. The system must be able to group additional audio and video signals from an additional programming service provider when, for example, two or more service providers are covering the same event. In addition, the system must be compatible with the existing packet data transmission protocols and with the channel allocation data provided by the programming service providers and / or cable system header operators. This system would have many advantageous applications. For example, a viewer could be tuned to a primary channel that was associated with a partic programming service. The programming service could provide additional selections of video and audio that the viewer could choose. For example, a viewer watching a sporting event could select different camera angles and different audio inputs that are provided in the different audio and video signals of the service, without changing the primary channel. The selection process could be carried out through an on-screen display (OSD-On Screen Display) that is intuitively easy to operate by the viewer. For example, a display of a football stadium with different numbered or color-coded regions may allow the viewer to easily select the desired viewing angle, thus providing the feeling that the viewer is actually in the stands. Furthermore, it would be advantageous if this system will be placed so that other channel assignments will remain intact, thus allowing other viewers to see other primary channels on another television in the same home, in the normal pre-assigned channel designation. The present invention provides these and other advantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a method and apparatus for allowing a viewer to control re-mapping of channel assignments in a digital video decoding terminal, in order to access alternative audio and / or video signals from a digital video decoder. programming service provider. In particular, a terminal is presented for processing a packet data stream that includes data from alternative and primary signals of a first programming service (for example network X). The primary signal is associated with the first channel designator (for example channel 10). The channel designator is used to train the viewer who can observe a particular programming service on a particular channel, which is indicated by the terminal. The terminal also includes means for mapping the alternative signal to the first channel designator. This means that the alternative signal, for example, an audio / video signal, was found by the viewer on the same channel as the primary channel. The viewer, who has come to associate "channel 10" with "network X" knows then that he is still observing a program of network X, even though he has the opportunity to see and listen to a number of alternative video and audio selections. . The mapping medium responds to a selection order such as that provided by a microprocessor. The selection order can be an order by default (default) that is presented when the viewer does not select alternative audio / video, when the alternative service is not available for a programming service given at a given time, or when the viewer does not is authorized to access the alternative audio / video. The terminal also includes means for providing the data of the alternative signal to a device for the reproduction of a video and / or audio program. This may include, for example, a video decompression processor and a modulator that provides a signal having a carrier frequency that is compatible with the display monitor or the television set. The terminal may also process data from a second programming service (e.g., the Y network), which has a second channel designator (e.g., channel 11). The user can select the data of the second programming service to be displayed under the first channel designator (channel 10). This can be useful, for example, when two or more service providers cover the same event, and the viewer wishes to have unified control of all available audio and video options. The terminal may include a user interface, for example a hand held remote control unit, which responds to an order provided by a user. If the user does not input an order to access the alternative audio / video, a default setting in the terminal provides the data of the primary audio / video signal to the television. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the terminal includes an on-screen display graphics processor (OSD) that allows the viewer to interact with the terminal through a graphic display, to allow the user to select among the available audio / video signals. The user can choose to observe both primary and alternative video signals, such as in a split-screen or picture-on-picture format, while listening to only one of the audio signals. In an alternative embodiment, the terminal processes a packet data stream that includes data corresponding to a signal from a first programming service, which is associated with a first channel designator, and a signal from a second programming service. The terminal includes mapping means corresponding to a selection order for mapping the signal from the second programming service to the first channel designator. Additionally, the terminal includes means responsive to the first channel designator to provide the signal data from the second programming service to an output device for playback. The signal from the second programming service may be associated with a second channel designator that is different from the first channel designator. The corresponding methods are also presented.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a diagrammatic illustration that provides an overview of the coding, transmission, reception, and distribution scheme according to the present invention. Figure 2 is a diagrammatic illustration of a header end of the cable distribution system according to the present invention. Figure 3 is a diagrammatic illustration of a packet data stream, in band, according to the present invention. Figure 4 is a diagrammatic illustration of a packet data stream, out of band, according to the present invention. Figure 5 is a block diagram of an appliance terminal according to the present invention. Figure 6 is a flow diagram illustrating the user selection processes according to the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES The present invention allows a viewer to select from a selection of camera angles and video feeds available when viewing a program, for example a football game. An interactive graphic display informs the user about the available options. Currently, in many broadcast events, such as football matches or sporting events, service providers use multiple cameras and audio feeds to provide viewers with a variety of camera angles and sounds. For example, normally up to 20 cameras are used in a broadcast of a professional football game. The service provider must, therefore, define what camera angle and what video feed will be transmitted to the viewer, based on their best judgment of the viewer's interest. This inevitably results in many compromises, since a particular viewer may prefer a particular camera angle, for example an aerial view, while another viewer prefers an approach view in the band. In addition, a viewer may prefer to listen to the broadcast of the game by a first commentator, while another prefers a second commentator. Commenters may provide alternative language broadcasts, or may tilt event coverage to one of the participating teams. Alternatively, a viewer probably does not want to listen to the commentator, but wants to listen to the audio feed at the field level. In accordance with the present invention, the viewer can act as their own programming director and easily switch between available video and audio signals. Alternatively, the invention can be used with other types of programming to allow the viewer to interact with the programming and individualize it at will. For example, in a movie broadcast by a service provider, the viewer may have the opportunity to select different story lines and character sets. At predefined points in the movie, the program will pause and the viewer can select a variety of options. According to the selection of the viewer, the corresponding programming segment is displayed. As a further example, the invention can be used for educational purposes. For example, an educational lesson with a multiple-choice test can be presented to the viewer. Depending on the response selected by the viewer, a corresponding programming segment will be displayed, in which the viewer is informed if their response was correct. Then, a corresponding programming segment can be presented either to a revision lesson or to a more advanced lesson. There are many other applications that would benefit the viewer allowing him to individualize programming in order to improve their entertainment and educational value. Figure 1 is a diagrammatic illustration that provides an overview of a coding scheme, transmission, reception and distribution according to the present invention. In one embodiment of the invention, a sporting event that takes place in field 10 is being monitored by video cameras 12, 14, and 16, which include corresponding audio feeds. Cameras 12, 14, and 16 provide video and audio signals on channel A, channel B, and channel C, respectively as shown. While the three cameras and the audio feeds are shown, it will be understood that other additional channels and other cameras and audio feeds can be provided. In addition, audio feeds do not need to be associated with any particular camera. The audio and video signals from channels A, B and C are provided to a processing function 22 of a transmitting apparatus 20. The transmitting apparatus 20 is typically located near field 10 in a vehicle equipment that is used by the provider of programming services. The processing function 22 digitizes and compresses the audio and video signals of channels A, B and C. The function 22 provides packet data streams that include video, audio and other data in separate packets, each of which it is identified by a particular PID. The packet data stream can conform to the aforementioned MPEG-2 or DigiCipher® II standards. The packet data is combined with control messages from an operator interface 28 in the multiplexer / cipher 26. The control messages include information about the locations of the video cameras and the audio feeds. For example, the control messages will specify that the video camera 16 is located in the end area of the field 10, the video camera 14 is located in the sideband, and the video camera 12 provides an aerial view of the field 10. Control messages may also specify that a particular audio feed is associated with a particular video camera, and may specify that a particular audio and video signal, for example channel A, is a primary or default signal that should have initially show on the television of the viewer. The control message may further include graphics data which, for example, provides a graphic display of the field 10 and the relative locations of the audio feeds and cameras. Additionally, control messages may include code download packets, channel mapping information, frequency frame information, and virtual channel assignments. A code download package includes computer software that will be downloaded to the viewer's device terminal. The code controls the operation of the terminal, including the associated user interface and the OSD processor. The channel mapping information assigns a particular transmission spectrum to a particular programming service provider. The information transmitted on a particular spectrum can be retransmitted on a different spectrum, as long as a sufficient channel bandwidth is maintained. The channel mapping information accesses the frequency frame information to accomplish this task. A virtual channel assignment associates a particular channel designator (for example, channel 10) with a corresponding programming service provider (for example network X). Encryption is carried out in function 26, according to one or more specific cryptographic keys, to prevent unauthorized viewers from accessing the programming. These encryption techniques are well known in this field. The packet data streams leaving function 26 are then provided to an advance error correction encoder 30 (FEC) and then modulated in the QAM modulator 32 to provide packet data stream that is ready for transmission . The packet data stream is transmitted via antenna 40 to a satellite 42 and antenna 44. Although a satellite transmission path is shown, it will be understood that other transmission paths can be employed, for example cable links and so-called wireless cables, operating at microwave frequencies. The packet data streams are provided to a cable head end processing function 50, where they can be combined with the programming received from other sources, for example local television stations. Additionally, the control data is added by the operator of the head end system to control the distribution of the programming. The packet data stream is then transmitted through the cable plant, shown in general at 52, to a number of subscribers to their homes or businesses. Conventionally, a connection and lightning distribution system is provided including a representative connection port 54, and representative links 55, 56, 57 and 58. The links provide the data stream to the terminal 70 of the apparatus in the home. of the subscriber for display on an 80 display device, for example a television. Alternatively, the data stream can be provided to the home of the subscriber directly by satellite 42, by a domestic satellite receiver. Figure 2 is a diagrammatic illustration of the head end 50 of the cable distribution system, according to the present invention. The packet data stream is received at terminal 210 and provided to a multiplexer 230. Local programming is received at terminal 220 and is also provided to multiplexer 230. Multiplexer 230 also receives data from an operator interface 240 which they communicate with a memory 250. The operator interface 240 can provide channel mapping data, screen display graphics data and terminal address data. For example, the channel mapping data will specify that a particular programming service (e.g. network X) will be provided in a particular channel designator (e.g. channel 10) of an appliance terminal. In some cases, the desired channel mapping data will already be included in the data stream. In general, the head end operator will have channel allocations present for the different service providers. In addition, the number of alternate audio and video signals provided from a particular service provider may vary. As a result, the head end operator can strip the primary audio and video channels from the service provider to a new channel designator, and can map the alternative audio and video channels to other channel designators, which are not currently assigned.

Alternatively, the head end operator can insert the control data via the multiplexer 230 which groups together the audio and video signals of the packet data streams together with the local programming. For example, the audio of a local commentator provided by terminal 220 can be grouped with the video of the packet data stream provided by terminal 210. In this way, local viewers can hear the coverage of a local commentator of an event. of national network broadcasting. In addition, the head end operator can provide control data that groups audio and video from different service providers, for example when two or more service providers cover the same event. The viewer can then access all the available programming through a single graphical interface, which will be discussed in more detail below. Additionally, the head end operator has the opportunity to group particular audio and video signals coming from packet data streams, according to a stacked marketing scheme. For example, viewers who pay for a basic level of service will be authorized to access only a broadcast of the audio / video's primary signal. : i .. -, ", • -i: -: event Other viewers who pay an additional fee may be authorized to access more available audio or video feeds or all of them.Audio / video can also be grouped according to a classification scheme based on, for example, adult content, violence or the like. Channel mapping data, OSD data and terminal address data may be stored in memory 250 to be used by operator interface 240 While some graphics data may be provided in the packet data stream received by 210, the head end operator may provide additional graphics data for use in an OSD on the viewer's television.For example, the display may provide A program guide that lists the name of the program, the time of its presentation, and the particular channel mapping scheme. to allow the viewer to order additional services from the cable operator. As noted above, the packet data stream may alternatively be transmitted directly to an antenna in the home of the viewer. These transmissions, known as direct broadcast satellite transmissions (DBS-Direct Broadcast Satellite), do not require the intervention of a head end of the cable system, such as the end of the head 50 of Figure 2. However, in this mode they can insert various control and similar data into the satellite uplink, in the same way that they can be added at the head end of the cable system. Figure 3 is a diagrammatic illustration of a packet data stream, in band, according to the present invention. The packet data stream coming from the function 22 in Figure 1 is provided to the cipher / multiplexer 26. The data stream includes the channel video packets A 310, channel A 320 audio packets, video packets of channel B 330, B 340 channel audio packets, C 350 channel video packets and C 360 channel audio packets. Also included are PID 0 band control data packets, shown in 370, and packets of control data in PID 1 band, shown at 380. The audio and video packets of a particular channel are shown grouped in a video / audio pair, but this is not necessarily required. For example, an audio feed can be provided without an accompanying video feed. The audio and video data packets are multiplexed in time by the effect of the multiplexer 26 in order to provide the packet data streams 380. The data stream 380 is modulated at a specific carrier frequency according to the transmission scheme ( for example via cable or satellite) and to the programming service provider. For example, the X network can use a bandwidth of 6 MHz at a carrier frequency of 1.2 GHz to broadcast its signal over the satellite link (40, 42, 44) of Figure 1. In addition, ten carrier channels in a bandwidth 6 MHz can correspond to one or more programming service providers. Similarly, a single service provider may consume a spectrum of more than 6 MHz. Figure 4 is a diagrammatic illustration of a packet data stream, out of band, according to the present invention. The packet data stream from the operator interface 28 in FIG. 1 is provided to the cipher / multiplexer 26. The data stream includes the "code 1" download package 410, "code 2" download package 420, channel mapping packets 430, frequency frame packets 440 and out of band PID control data packets "0" 450 and PID "1" 460. Control message data packets are multiplexed in time by the multiplexer 26, for the purpose of providing the packet data stream 470. The data stream 470 is modulated at a specific carrier frequency (eg 75.25 MHz) which is outside the band used for the transmission of the data packets 380 of Figure 3. Figure 5 is a diagrammatic illustration of an appliance terminal according to the present invention. The apparatus terminal 70 shown is used in conjunction with a cable distribution system. Alternatively, in a DBS system, the terminal 70 can receive transmissions directly from a satellite. In either case, one or more packet data streams are received at input 510, and then provided to a FEC decoder 520 and a demodulator 525. The demodulator 525 has the ability to demodulate currents both in-band and out-of-band. band. In the demodulation processes, the modulated signal is mixed with a signal having the same carrier frequency, thus providing packet data streams in a baseband signal. The demodulated packet data streams are then provided to a demultiplexer / decoder 530, where the encrypted or encoded data packets are decrypted or decoded and separated into two data paths. In a first path, the control data packets, for example the packets 470 of Figure 4, are provided to a microprocessor controller 540, for example as the Model 68331 processor manufactured by Motorola Corporation. On the other path, the video and audio packets are provided to a 555 decompression and processing function. The control data packets, which include code download packets, channel mapping packet data, box packet data of frequency and other miscellaneous control data are received and stored in memory 560, which may comprise a random access memory (RAM). The target code that comes from the code download packages is executed by the microprocessor 540 and the OSD graphics processor 545 to provide the alternative audio and video capabilities of the present invention. For example, the "code 1" packages 410 may include the code related to the on-screen graphics, while the "code 2" packages 420 relate to the mapping and grouping of channels. More code packets or a few code packets can be provided, as required. Alternatively, the code does not need to be downloaded from the packet data stream, but can be installed in terminal 70 locally, either at the time of manufacture or by the viewer through an access port and a "smart card" as well. call. The smart card is an object in the form of a credit card that includes a memory for the storage code. When inserted into an access port of a terminal, the code is downloaded into the memory of the terminal. Channel mapping package data, the frequency frame packet data and other miscellaneous control data are also received by the microprocessor 50 and stored in the memory 560, as required. As already mentioned, the channel mapping data and the frequency frame data allocate the data packets of the various programming services to the channel designators according to a PID in each incoming data packet. The microprocessor 540 also receives a signal that comes from a user interface 535, which responds to the viewer's commands. These commands can be issued by a remote control emitting infrared light, a touch-sensitive screen, a voice recognition mechanism or other convenient mechanism. According to the present invention, the OSD graphics processors 545 and the display device 580 provide a particularly advantageous arrangement. The OSD processor 545 receives the OSD data provided by any of the programming service providers and / or by a cablehead end. The OSD data allows the processor 545 to provide a variety of graphic displays on the display device 580, which may be a standard television or, alternatively, the display of graphics may be provided on a separate display device, for example a video monitor (not shown). The display device 580 reproduces the data of the audio and video signals. In response to the OSD data received by packet data stream and code download packets, the OSD 545 processor can create a graphics display that informs the viewer of the various audio and video options available. For example, a graphics display of a football stadium can show various segments of the stadium in the form of numbered or color-coded regions. Icons representing the available viewing angles and available audio feeds can be used. The graphic display can allow the viewer to select the video and audio settings specific to the equipment, which will provide the coverage that is more inclined or oriented towards the home computer, for example (ie press "1" for equipment coverage). From home) . In this case, the audio will include commentators that are partial to the home team, while the video will include additional coverage of the home team. Similarly, the graphic display provided by the OSD 545 processors can allow the viewer to select audio and video that provides, after the game, interviews to the team members of the home team or the visiting team. Other display options will be more suitable for other applications. For example, a display associated with an educational program may include a multiple-choice questionnaire format that induces the viewer to provide a response by pressing a corresponding button on the manual remote control. In this way the display will instruct the viewer to press a particular key of a manual remote control infrared transmitter, for example, to receive particular audio and video signals on the 580 display device. The display can inform the viewer of the settings of audio and video that are by default (by default), or provide the viewer with instructions on how to change these default settings (by default). The user interface 535 will receive the viewer's commands and will provide them to the microprocessor 540 and the memory 560. The memory can store the information that identifies the particular viewer so that the subsequent displays can be individualized automatically. The microprocessor 540 will issue the selection commands to the processing and decompression function 555, according to the code, the signals coming from the user interface 535 and the channel control and mapping data stored in the memory 560. For example, suppose that the viewer has not yet entered an order addressed to the user interface 535, rather than selecting a primary channel for observation. The microprocessor will then determine which audio and video packets in the received data stream correspond to the primary signals of the particular programming service provider (e.g. network X). Using the packet PIDs, the appropriate video and audio packets will be processed in the 555 function. Additionally, the OSD data coming from the OSD 545 processor will be combined with the video signal in the 555 function to form a composite video signal , which can allow, for example, a split-screen or overlapping screen format, where part of the device's 580 screen displays the OSD graphics and another part displays the video data. The output from function 555 will be a baseband signal carrying digital audio, video and graphics data. The baseband signal will be converted to an analog signal in the digital-to-analog converter (D / A) 550, and then it will be provided to a 570 modulator. In the 570 modulator, the analog signal is modulated in a i 1 i 'I RF carrier frequency which is adjusted by the microprocessor 540 or at a default frequency (eg 60-66 MHz) which is compatible with the display device 580. According to the present invention, the microprocessor 540 can change the pre-assigned channel mapping data of the audio and video packets corresponding to a particular programming service provider and channel designation. This allows the alternate audio and video signals that are associated with the same program to be selected by the viewer and displayed on the 580 device. For example, the primary audio and video signals of the service provider's X network can be associated with the "channel 10" designator. The present invention can modify the channel mapping, so that the alternate video and audio signals of the "X network" are displayed on the "channel 10." In particular, consider the case where the viewer has instructed the user interface 535 to select an audio or video channel other than the primary channel. Upon receipt of the user's order, the microprocessor will read the channel mapping and associated data stored in memory 560 to determine which data packets correspond to the user's selection. In determining the appropriate PIDs, the microprocessor 540 will provide a selection command to the decompression and processing function 555 to instruct it to process the corresponding data packets. The new audio and video signal will then be provided to the D / A 550 converter and then to the 570 modulator. The new analogue bandwave signal provides alternative audio and video signals from a service provider that are modulated on the same RF carrier signal than the primary audio / video signals. The viewer in this way has the ability to individualize programming services, thus optimizing their entertainment and educational value. Figure 6 is a flow diagram of the user selection process according to the present invention. In block 610, the software (for example, target code) is downloaded or installed to the terminal and stored in memory. The target code, which is the code of the compiled source that is written in a language that can vary according to the specific platform of the terminal, comprises a set of instructions for the microprocessor 540 and the OSD 545 processor of the terminal 70 of Figure 5. In block 620, the channel mapping and other control data, for example the frequency frame data are received by the packet data stream and stored in the memory. The channel mapping data includes pre-assigned channel designations in which different audio / video signals of the programming service are displayed. In block 630, the user selects the primary channel of a programming service provider through the user interface. In block 640, the audio and video packets of the selected primary channel are processed and displayed with the pre-assigned channel designation. In block 650, the user invokes the display of the OSD graphics to determine the availability of the alternative audio and video signals, which are associated with the selected programming service provider. In some cases, for example when the programming service providers are different (eg X network and Y network) and are covering the same event or related events, it may be appropriate for the OSD graphics display to be grouped with the audio signals and primary video and / or alternatives of the different programming services. In order to know that two or more of the service providers are covering the same event, the corresponding data must be provided to the terminal by means of the download code, the channel mapping data or other control data. Data can correlate audio / video data of an event from a single service provider, which are provided in adjacent or non-adjacent locations in the spectrum of the data stream received in packet. In addition, the interface can allow the viewer to group selected signals. In block 660, the user selects the desired alternative audio / video signals (e.g., camera angle in the band and audio feed of a sporting event). In block 670, the microprocessor in the terminal reads the memory to obtain and modify the channel mapping and other control data corresponding to the selected audio and video signals. The microprocessor then uses a selection command sent to the decompression and processing function so that the corresponding audio and video packets are processed and displayed together with the OSD graphics. In addition, the selection command is optionally provided to a modulator so that the composite audio, video and graphic signals will be displayed on a predefined spectrum corresponding to the primary channel. Consequently, it can be seen that the present invention allows a viewer to select between available audio and video programs, alternatives, in order to individualize a programming service according to their particular interests. The service provider transmits different audio and video signals, for example from a sporting event, together with the corresponding OSD graphics data, channel mapping and other control data in a packetized data stream to a head end of the device. cable system or directly to a terminal in the user's home. In the terminal, the data is processed according to the objective code stored therein, in order to provide the viewer with an exhibition that presents the available audio and video options, based on the selection of the viewer, the data packages of corresponding audio and video are retrieved, processed and displayed in a primary channel designator of the programming service provider. Alternatively, the programming service provider, the head end of the cable system or the locally installed target code can provide control data that allows the programming of two or more service providers to be grouped, for example when the same Service providers are covering the same event. On the other hand, the code that is downloaded to the terminal can provide this grouping information. This can provide the viewer with an OSD display of alternative audio and video signals from two or more programming services, thus optimizing viewer control and the ability to individualize programming. In addition to the audio and video signals, the data, for example statistics about the sports team or individual player, team calendar, or the like, may be provided by the code or data stream. On the other hand, the viewer can be given the ability to return to see a segment of the program thanks to a particularity of return, when adequate control and memory means are provided. Although the invention has been described in connection with different specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that many adaptations and modifications may be made thereto, without departing from its spirit and scope, as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (16)

1. NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION Having described the present invention, it is considered as a novelty and, therefore, the content of the following CLAIMS is claimed as property: 1. A terminal for processing packet data streams that include data corresponding to a primary signal and at least one alternative signal of a first programming service, the primary signal is associated with a first channel designator, the terminal comprises: a mapping means that responds to a selection order for the mapping of the alternative signal towards the first channel designator; and a means responsive to the first channel designator for providing the data of at least one of the primary signal and the alternative signal to an output device for reproduction.
2. 2. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the data of the alternative signal comprises at least one of: audio data and video data.
3. 3. An apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the packet data stream is compressed, the apparatus further comprises: a means for unpacking the data stream in order to recover the data corresponding to the primary signal and the signal alternative; and a decompression means responsive to the decompression selection command of the unpacked data of at least one of: the primary signal and the alternate signal.
4. An apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising: a means coupled between the decompression means and the output device for modulating the alternative signal to a carrier frequency, in response to the selection command.
5. An apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising: a user interface for providing the selection order in response to an order provided by the user.
6. An apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising: an on-screen display graphics processor (OSD) that is functionally associated with the user interface, the OSD processor provides a graphic display to allow the user to select the alternative signal by the order provided by the user, for playback by the output device.
7. 7. An apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the OSD processor provides a graphical display to allow the user to select the primary signal and the alternative signal by means of the order provided by the user, for concurrent reproduction of the data of at least part of the primary signal and at least part of the alternative signal through the output device.
8. 8. A terminal for processing a packet data stream, which includes data corresponding to a signal of a first programming service that is associated with a first channel designator, and a signal of a second programming service, the terminal comprises : a mapping means responding to a selection command to map the signal of the second programming service to the first channel designator; and a means responsive to the first channel designator for providing the signal data of the second programming service to an output device for reproduction.
9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the signal of the second programming service is associated with a second channel designator that is different from the first channel designator.
10. 10. A method for providing a packet data stream, which includes data corresponding to a primary signal and at least one alternate signal of a first programming service, the primary signal is associated with a first channel designator, the method it includes the steps of: providing a selection order; map the alternative signal to the first channel designator, in response to the selection command; and provide the data of at least one of the primary signal and the alternative signal to an output device, in response to the first channel designator for reproduction.
11. A method according to claim 10, wherein the data of the alternative signal comprises at least one of audio data and video data.
12. 12. A method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the packet data stream is compressed, the method further comprising the steps of: unpacking the data stream to recover the data corresponding to the primary signal and the alternative signal; and decompressing the unpacked data of at least one of the primary signal and the alternative signal, in response to the selection order.
13. A method according to any of claims 10 to 12, further comprising the step of: modulating the alternative signal to a carrier frequency in response to the selection command.
14. A method according to any of claims 10 to 13, wherein the selection order is provided in response to an order provided by the user.
15. 15. A method for processing a packet data stream, including data corresponding to a signal from a first programming service, which is associated with a first channel designator, and a signal from a second programming service, comprising the steps of: providing a selection order; mapping the signal of the second programming service to the first channel designator in response to the selection command; and providing the signal data of the second programming service to an output device for reproduction, in response to the first channel designator.
16. 16. A method according to claim 15, wherein the signal of the second programming service is associated with a second channel designator that is different from the first channel designator. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A viewer can select from a selection of camera angles and audio feeds available when watching a sporting event, for example a football game, without changing television channels. The audio, video and control data are transmitted in packet data streams with control data that provide a pre-assigned channel designation (eg channel 10 for network X). The terminal of the apparatus receives and processes the data streams according to the orders provided by the user. The terminal includes software that can be downloaded through data streams or installed locally. The control data in the data stream is used to provide a graphic display on the screen, which allows the user to select the audio and video that * correspond to certain areas of the football stadium, for example. Optionally, the viewer can select alternative story lines in a movie or similar program. A default setting provides primary audio and video signals. The alternative audio and video signals are selected by the user and mapped to the channel designator of the primary signal so that different camera angles and audio feeds can be observed and heard. The viewer has • m. therefore, the opportunity to individualize programming in order to improve its entertainment or educational value.