US20010015770A1 - Computer convergence device controller for managing disparate video sources - Google Patents
Computer convergence device controller for managing disparate video sources Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20010015770A1 US20010015770A1 US09/850,220 US85022001A US2001015770A1 US 20010015770 A1 US20010015770 A1 US 20010015770A1 US 85022001 A US85022001 A US 85022001A US 2001015770 A1 US2001015770 A1 US 2001015770A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- video
- computer
- convergence
- input
- video signal
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N5/00—Details of television systems
- H04N5/44—Receiver circuitry for the reception of television signals according to analogue transmission standards
- H04N5/445—Receiver circuitry for the reception of television signals according to analogue transmission standards for displaying additional information
- H04N5/45—Picture in picture, e.g. displaying simultaneously another television channel in a region of the screen
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/414—Specialised client platforms, e.g. receiver in car or embedded in a mobile appliance
- H04N21/4143—Specialised client platforms, e.g. receiver in car or embedded in a mobile appliance embedded in a Personal Computer [PC]
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/431—Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering
- H04N21/4312—Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering involving specific graphical features, e.g. screen layout, special fonts or colors, blinking icons, highlights or animations
- H04N21/4316—Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering involving specific graphical features, e.g. screen layout, special fonts or colors, blinking icons, highlights or animations for displaying supplemental content in a region of the screen, e.g. an advertisement in a separate window
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/435—Processing of additional data, e.g. decrypting of additional data, reconstructing software from modules extracted from the transport stream
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/47—End-user applications
- H04N21/485—End-user interface for client configuration
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/4104—Peripherals receiving signals from specially adapted client devices
- H04N21/4135—Peripherals receiving signals from specially adapted client devices external recorder
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/426—Internal components of the client ; Characteristics thereof
Definitions
- the present invention relates to computer convergence devices, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to a personal computer/television (PC/TV) convergence device controller for managing the selection, arbitration, and utilization of multiple disparate video signals received from multiple video sources.
- PC/TV personal computer/television
- a computer convergence device is a fully functional computer integrated or converged with another consumer electronic device.
- One such convergence device is a personal computer/television (PC/TV) convergence device, which integrates personal computer with television functionality, providing television viewing (via broadcast, cable Digital Satellite, video cassette recorder (VCR), electronic game device, or other video source) and personal computing functionality.
- PC/TV personal computer/television
- the convergence of personal computer and television functionalities permits combined access to television viewing and program information, computer related functionality, and Internet Access.
- a PC/TV convergence device may comprise a fully function computer including fax/modems, CD-ROM players, and media storage such as hard drives and floppy drives.
- the convergence with television functionalities may include utilizing multiple video inputs to receive a variety of video signals such as from cable systems, VCR, and electronic game machines.
- the computer is interfaced with a display monitor, often a big screen monitor, with either the interlaced video signal being converted to a scan video graphics adapter (VGA) signal or the computer's scan VGA signal being converted to an National Television Standards Committee (NTSC) interfaced signal.
- VGA scan video graphics adapter
- NTSC National Television Standards Committee
- PC/TV convergence device is controlled by the computer's operating system, the PC/TV convergence device can, among other things, simultaneously display PC applications and TV programs on a single monitor.
- the convergence of personal computer and television functionalities into a single device also permits the utilization of the communications bandwidth, mass storage and graphics of the computer to deliver, store and display small computer applications during a traditional television viewing environment.
- Another problem encountered is the need to be able to arbitrate among the various selectable video sources. For example, if data is being downloaded from one video source, it may be desirable to prevent the interruption of that download to prevent data corruption.
- the present invention overcomes the above identified problems as well as other shortcomings and deficiencies of existing technologies by providing a computer convergence system including a convergence functionality module, a computer, and a display device.
- the convergence functionality module includes a first input for receiving a first video signal and a second input for receiving a second video signal.
- the computer is coupled to the convergence functionality module and receives therefrom indications of the first video signal received at the first input port and indications of said second video signal received at the second input port.
- the computer includes a controller for controlling the mapping of the indications of the first video signal to the primary video viewing surface, and further controls and arbitrates the mapping of the indications of the second video signal to either a second video viewing surface or a data acquisition destination.
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a computer convergence system in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating, in more detail, an embodiment of the computer convergence system as similarly illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a block flow diagram illustrating a preferred embodiment of an arbitration method in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a block flow diagram illustrating a preferred embodiment of a second arbitration method in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention.
- Computer convergence system 10 includes a computer 12 , a convergence functionality module 14 , a display monitor 16 and a remote input 18 .
- Computer 12 may preferably be a personal computer, and although not shown, includes a processor, memory, data retrieval and storage media and communication data ports.
- Display monitor 16 is operable to display video images corresponding to video signals received from computer 12 and may further include an audio output system for playing audio signals also received from computer 12 .
- Computer 12 is coupled to convergence functionality module 14 that is operable to receive or generate data signals, such as video, audio, and graphic information.
- convergence functionality module 14 may comprise a receiver, decoder or tuner capable of receiving television signals in the form of the National Television Standards Committee (NTSC) or Phase Alternate Line (PAL) forms, from any medium such as from a cable system or from a digital satellite system.
- Convergence functionality module 14 may also include or consist of various other types of consumer electronic units.
- convergence functionality module 14 could also include or consist of video gaming units and other direct audio/video sources such as video cassette recorders (RCRs), and video disk player/recorders, including digital versatile disk (DVD) player/recorders.
- RCRs video cassette recorders
- DVD digital versatile disk
- Computer convergence system 10 may preferably be operated by a user using wireless remote input 18 operating, or example, via radio waves, infra-red waves or acoustic waves. Although good results have been achieved using wireless keyboards and remote controls for remote input 18 , it is contemplated that any input device, wireless or hardwired, could be used to operate computer convergence system 10 .
- computer convergence system 10 is configurable to be connected to and communicate with the network 20 .
- network 20 could be any type of network, including a Local Area Network, a Wide Area Network and the Internet.
- computer convergence system 10 can be operated in various modes.
- computer convergence system 10 can be operated in a personal computer mode and a television mode.
- personal computer 12 processes the audio and video information received or generated by convergence functionality module 14 , and outputs the corresponding information on display monitor 16 .
- At least two viewing displays are possible on display monitor 16 when computer convergence system 10 is being operated in television mode, a main display and a secondary display.
- the display image of the main display fills the entire screen, with only a portion of the screen dedicated to the viewing of the secondary display, such as with a picture-in picture (PIP) configuration.
- PIP picture-in picture
- computer, 12 When computer convergence system 10 is being operated in computer mode, computer, 12 is utilized to perform computer functions, including executing and running software and interfacing with network 20 , with the output of computer 12 being displayed on display monitor 16 .
- convergence functionality module 14 includes multiple video inputs 22 , 24 , 26 , 28 , 30 and 32 capable of receiving a variety of video signals from multiple video sources.
- inputs 22 - 32 could be configured as follows: input 22 to receive digital signals such as DVD/DSS video signals; inputs 24 and 26 to receive RF video signals such as from a cable television system; inputs 28 and 30 to receive composite video signals such as from a VCR; and input 32 an S-Video signal such as from a laser disk player.
- convergence functionality module 14 is illustrated in this exemplary embodiment to include the inputs to receive the video signals from various video sources, it is contemplated that convergence functionality module 14 could also include the actual video source such as video players, recorders, tuners, and decoders.
- FIG. 2 there is illustrated a more detailed block diagram of the video controls utilized by computer 12 .
- the video controls are used to process and select the video signals received from convergence functionality module 14 .
- the video controls of computer 12 include a video center control service (VCCS) 34 , hardware abstraction interface (CTVHW) 36 , various multiplexers and analog-to-digital converters 38 , two digital video interfaces 40 and 42 , a primary video viewing surface 44 , a secondary video viewing surface 46 , a data acquisition destination 48 , video port manager (VPM) 50 and a vertical blanking interval (VBI) capture driver 52 .
- VCCS video center control service
- CTVHW hardware abstraction interface
- VPM video port manager
- VBI vertical blanking interval
- VCCS 34 is the central service that provides control for video applications received from convergence functionality module 14 . All messages and commands that query or manipulate video applications are preferably processed and/or routed by VCCS 34 .
- the functionality of the VCCS 34 includes: creating and owning the video display windows, processing all video control functions and transport controls (for example, channel up/down); handling bookkeeping of video control settings; managing the switching of the current video source; managing the external sources; initializing and configuring new external devices; and arbitrating application use.
- VCCS 34 utilizes CTVHW 36 to control the selection of the video sources with multiplexers 38 , and also utilizes CTVHW 36 to control the configuration and modifications of the video source video signals as well and controls the changing of the channels.
- the analog-to digital converters 38 are used to convert analog video signal to digital signals.
- VPM 50 also controlled by VDDS 34 , controls the mapping of the video signal received from digital video interface 40 to the primary video viewing surface 44 , and similarly controls the mapping of the video signal received from digital video interface 42 to the secondary video viewing surface 46 .
- VBI capture driver 52 controls the mapping of the video signal received from digital video interface 42 to data acquisition destination 48 , where, for example, the VBI information will be downloaded.
- VBI includes various types of data, for example, program listing time and content, and subscriber control codes.
- display monitor 16 can display the video image information received from primary video viewing surface 44 on the main display, and can display the video image information received form secondary video viewing surface 46 on the secondary display, such as a PIP.
- secondary video viewing surface 46 on the secondary display
- a single first video input is selected images indicative of the video signal will be displayed on main display of display monitor 16 .
- a second video source is selected to be displayed simultaneously with the images of the first video source, the images corresponding to the second video source will be displayed on the secondary display, such as in a PIP format. It is contemplated that other display formats for simultaneously displaying the main display and the secondary display could also be utilized.
- computer convergence system 10 is operable in two modes, a computer mode and a television mode.
- VCCS 34 via VMP 50 , will request access to digital video interface 40 and select the primary video viewing surface 44 , and via MUX 38 , will select an RF video source (i.e. a television tuner) such as input 24 .
- RF video source i.e. a television tuner
- the user has the option to change the selection of the video source for digital video interface 40 .
- VCCS 34 will check on the availability of digital video interface 42 and will check to see if one of the tuners (RFI or RF 2 ) is being utilized by primary video viewing surface 44 . If the determination is made that digital video interface 42 is available, and that one of the tuners is being utilized by primary video viewing surface 44 , VCCS, via VPM 50 , will select secondary video viewing surface 46 , and via CTVHW controlling multiplexer 38 , will select the available turner. Digital video interface 42 and the turner selected for secondary video viewing surface 46 will then be locked-out to additional user requests, until the user either selects a different video source or turns off the PIP.
- VCCS 34 via CTVHW 36 controlling multiplexer 38 , will select the last chosen video source for secondary video viewing surface 46 .
- Digital video interface 42 will then be locked-out to additional user requests, until the user turns off the PIP.
- VCCS 34 will check on the availability of digital video interface 42 . If the determination is made that digital video interface 42 is available, VCCS, via VBI capture driver 52 , will select data acquisition destination 48 , and via CTVHW controlling multiplexer 38 , will select the available turner. Digital video interface 42 and the tuner selected for secondary video viewing surface 46 will then be locked-out to additional user requests, until data acquisition is complete or until the user turns cancels the request for data acquisition destination 48 .
- VCCS 43 could also control the selections of the video sources such as to prevent duplication of the video sources at the primary video viewing surface 44 and secondary video viewing surface 46 .
- VCCS 34 will also performs the arbitration among any selected conflicting requests for the concurrent selection of the digital video interface 42 .
- FIG. 3 illustrates a flow diagram of the arbitration performed when a user requests access to secondary video viewing surface 46 and for a PIP.
- VCCS 34 will check the availability of digital video interface 42 . If it is determined that digital video interface 42 is not available, the ‘No’ path is followed and as indicated by block 58 , the PIP request is not performed and the PIP is locked out.
- the yes path is followed to block 56 .
- the available turner is then selected.
- the tuner and the digital video interface 42 are locked out to prevent additional user requests.
- the PIP image is displayed on secondary surface 50 . This will continue until the user turns off the secondary surface 50 or chooses another video source, other than RF 2 , as indicated by decision block 64 . If the PIP viewing with RF 2 , is complete, the ‘Yes’ path is followed to block 66 , where the tuner and digital video interface 42 are then made available for additional user requests.
- FIG. 4 there is illustrated a flow diagram of the arbitration performed when a user requests access to data acquisition destination 48 such as for a VBI download.
- VCCS 34 will check the availability of digital video interface 42 . If it is determined that digital video interface 42 is not available, the ‘No’ path is followed and as indicated by block 76 , access to data acquisition destination 48 is not grated and VBI is locked out.
- the computer convergence system 10 includes a convergence functionality module, a computer, and a display device.
- the convergence functionality module includes a first input for receiving a first video signal and a second input for receiving a second video signal.
- the computer is coupled to the convergence functionality module and receives therefrom indications of the first video signal received at the first input port and indications of said second video signal received at the second input port.
- the computer includes controller for controlling the mapping of the indications of the first video signal to a primary video viewing surface, and further controls the mapping of the indications of these second video signal to either the second video viewing surface or the data acquisition destination.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Multimedia (AREA)
- Signal Processing (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
- Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
- Marketing (AREA)
- Controls And Circuits For Display Device (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This application is a divisional of co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 08/834,543, filed Mar. 31, 1997, which is incorporated herein in its entirety.
- None
- None
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to computer convergence devices, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to a personal computer/television (PC/TV) convergence device controller for managing the selection, arbitration, and utilization of multiple disparate video signals received from multiple video sources.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- A computer convergence device is a fully functional computer integrated or converged with another consumer electronic device. One such convergence device is a personal computer/television (PC/TV) convergence device, which integrates personal computer with television functionality, providing television viewing (via broadcast, cable Digital Satellite, video cassette recorder (VCR), electronic game device, or other video source) and personal computing functionality. The convergence of personal computer and television functionalities, among other things, permits combined access to television viewing and program information, computer related functionality, and Internet Access.
- A PC/TV convergence device may comprise a fully function computer including fax/modems, CD-ROM players, and media storage such as hard drives and floppy drives. The convergence with television functionalities may include utilizing multiple video inputs to receive a variety of video signals such as from cable systems, VCR, and electronic game machines. The computer is interfaced with a display monitor, often a big screen monitor, with either the interlaced video signal being converted to a scan video graphics adapter (VGA) signal or the computer's scan VGA signal being converted to an National Television Standards Committee (NTSC) interfaced signal. Because PC/TV convergence device is controlled by the computer's operating system, the PC/TV convergence device can, among other things, simultaneously display PC applications and TV programs on a single monitor. The convergence of personal computer and television functionalities into a single device also permits the utilization of the communications bandwidth, mass storage and graphics of the computer to deliver, store and display small computer applications during a traditional television viewing environment.
- In spite of many recent advances in this area, several problems remain. One major problem encountered is the need to effectively and efficiently control the complexity of the various video applications available for the possible video sources. For example, some of the available video sources include composite video sources, RF video sources, S-Video and digital versatile disk (DVD), with many of these having various video configurations and differing control characteristics.
- Another problem encountered is the need to be able to arbitrate among the various selectable video sources. For example, if data is being downloaded from one video source, it may be desirable to prevent the interruption of that download to prevent data corruption.
- Accordingly, based upon the foregoing, it should be appreciated that there is a need for a computer convergence control system that is capable of effectively and efficiently controlling the selection and application of disparate video signals from various video sources, including being able to arbitrate between the selection and application of the various video sources.
- The present invention overcomes the above identified problems as well as other shortcomings and deficiencies of existing technologies by providing a computer convergence system including a convergence functionality module, a computer, and a display device. The convergence functionality module includes a first input for receiving a first video signal and a second input for receiving a second video signal. The computer is coupled to the convergence functionality module and receives therefrom indications of the first video signal received at the first input port and indications of said second video signal received at the second input port. The computer includes a controller for controlling the mapping of the indications of the first video signal to the primary video viewing surface, and further controls and arbitrates the mapping of the indications of the second video signal to either a second video viewing surface or a data acquisition destination.
- A more complete understanding of the present invention may be had by reference to the following Detailed Description and appended claims when taken in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings wherein:
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a computer convergence system in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention.;
- FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating, in more detail, an embodiment of the computer convergence system as similarly illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a block flow diagram illustrating a preferred embodiment of an arbitration method in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention, and
- FIG. 4 is a block flow diagram illustrating a preferred embodiment of a second arbitration method in accordance with the principles and teachings of the present invention.
- With reference now to the figures wherein like or similar elements are designated with identical reference numerals, there are depicted block diagrams illustrating the present invention. The purpose of these block diagrams is to illustrate the features of the invention and the basic principles of operation of an embodiment thereof.
- Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a block diagram illustrating a
computer convergence system 10.Computer convergence system 10 includes acomputer 12, aconvergence functionality module 14, adisplay monitor 16 and aremote input 18. -
Computer 12 may preferably be a personal computer, and although not shown, includes a processor, memory, data retrieval and storage media and communication data ports.Display monitor 16 is operable to display video images corresponding to video signals received fromcomputer 12 and may further include an audio output system for playing audio signals also received fromcomputer 12. -
Computer 12 is coupled toconvergence functionality module 14 that is operable to receive or generate data signals, such as video, audio, and graphic information. For exampleconvergence functionality module 14 may comprise a receiver, decoder or tuner capable of receiving television signals in the form of the National Television Standards Committee (NTSC) or Phase Alternate Line (PAL) forms, from any medium such as from a cable system or from a digital satellite system.Convergence functionality module 14 may also include or consist of various other types of consumer electronic units. For example,convergence functionality module 14 could also include or consist of video gaming units and other direct audio/video sources such as video cassette recorders (RCRs), and video disk player/recorders, including digital versatile disk (DVD) player/recorders. -
Computer convergence system 10 may preferably be operated by a user using wirelessremote input 18 operating, or example, via radio waves, infra-red waves or acoustic waves. Although good results have been achieved using wireless keyboards and remote controls forremote input 18, it is contemplated that any input device, wireless or hardwired, could be used to operatecomputer convergence system 10. - Still referring to FIG. 1,
computer convergence system 10 is configurable to be connected to and communicate with thenetwork 20. It is contemplated thatnetwork 20 could be any type of network, including a Local Area Network, a Wide Area Network and the Internet. - In general operation,
computer convergence system 10 can be operated in various modes. For example,computer convergence system 10 can be operated in a personal computer mode and a television mode. When is television mode,personal computer 12 processes the audio and video information received or generated byconvergence functionality module 14, and outputs the corresponding information ondisplay monitor 16. At least two viewing displays are possible ondisplay monitor 16 whencomputer convergence system 10 is being operated in television mode, a main display and a secondary display. In a preferred embodiment, the display image of the main display fills the entire screen, with only a portion of the screen dedicated to the viewing of the secondary display, such as with a picture-in picture (PIP) configuration. - When
computer convergence system 10 is being operated in computer mode, computer, 12 is utilized to perform computer functions, including executing and running software and interfacing withnetwork 20, with the output ofcomputer 12 being displayed ondisplay monitor 16. - Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a more detailed block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of
computer convergence system 10. As depicted in this exemplary embodiment,convergence functionality module 14 includesmultiple video inputs inputs inputs convergence functionality module 14 is illustrated in this exemplary embodiment to include the inputs to receive the video signals from various video sources, it is contemplated thatconvergence functionality module 14 could also include the actual video source such as video players, recorders, tuners, and decoders. - Still referring to FIG. 2, there is illustrated a more detailed block diagram of the video controls utilized by
computer 12. The video controls are used to process and select the video signals received fromconvergence functionality module 14. As depicted, the video controls ofcomputer 12 include a video center control service (VCCS) 34, hardware abstraction interface (CTVHW) 36, various multiplexers and analog-to-digital converters 38, two digital video interfaces 40 and 42, a primaryvideo viewing surface 44, a secondaryvideo viewing surface 46, adata acquisition destination 48, video port manager (VPM) 50 and a vertical blanking interval (VBI)capture driver 52. -
VCCS 34 is the central service that provides control for video applications received fromconvergence functionality module 14. All messages and commands that query or manipulate video applications are preferably processed and/or routed byVCCS 34. Thus the functionality of theVCCS 34 includes: creating and owning the video display windows, processing all video control functions and transport controls (for example, channel up/down); handling bookkeeping of video control settings; managing the switching of the current video source; managing the external sources; initializing and configuring new external devices; and arbitrating application use. -
VCCS 34 utilizesCTVHW 36 to control the selection of the video sources withmultiplexers 38, and also utilizes CTVHW 36 to control the configuration and modifications of the video source video signals as well and controls the changing of the channels. The analog-todigital converters 38 are used to convert analog video signal to digital signals.VPM 50, also controlled byVDDS 34, controls the mapping of the video signal received fromdigital video interface 40 to the primaryvideo viewing surface 44, and similarly controls the mapping of the video signal received fromdigital video interface 42 to the secondaryvideo viewing surface 46. - Still referring to FIG. 2,
VCCS 34 further controlsVBI capture driver 52.VBI capture driver 52 controls the mapping of the video signal received fromdigital video interface 42 todata acquisition destination 48, where, for example, the VBI information will be downloaded. VBI includes various types of data, for example, program listing time and content, and subscriber control codes. - As described hereinabove, in this embodiment display monitor16 can display the video image information received from primary
video viewing surface 44 on the main display, and can display the video image information received form secondaryvideo viewing surface 46 on the secondary display, such as a PIP. When a single first video input is selected images indicative of the video signal will be displayed on main display of display monitor 16. If a second video source is selected to be displayed simultaneously with the images of the first video source, the images corresponding to the second video source will be displayed on the secondary display, such as in a PIP format. It is contemplated that other display formats for simultaneously displaying the main display and the secondary display could also be utilized. - Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, a more detailed description of the operation of the present invention will now be given. As described hereinabove, in one exemplary embodiment,
computer convergence system 10 is operable in two modes, a computer mode and a television mode. Upon initialization ofcomputer convergence system 10 in television mode,VCCS 34, viaVMP 50, will request access todigital video interface 40 and select the primaryvideo viewing surface 44, and viaMUX 38, will select an RF video source (i.e. a television tuner) such asinput 24. As can be appreciated, the user has the option to change the selection of the video source fordigital video interface 40. - If access to the secondary
video viewing surface 46, such as a PIP, is requested,VCCS 34 will check on the availability ofdigital video interface 42 and will check to see if one of the tuners (RFI or RF2) is being utilized by primaryvideo viewing surface 44. If the determination is made thatdigital video interface 42 is available, and that one of the tuners is being utilized by primaryvideo viewing surface 44, VCCS, viaVPM 50, will select secondaryvideo viewing surface 46, and viaCTVHW controlling multiplexer 38, will select the available turner.Digital video interface 42 and the turner selected for secondaryvideo viewing surface 46 will then be locked-out to additional user requests, until the user either selects a different video source or turns off the PIP. - If the determination is made that primary
video viewing surface 44 is not utilizing one of the television tuners,VCCS 34, viaCTVHW 36 controllingmultiplexer 38, will select the last chosen video source for secondaryvideo viewing surface 46.Digital video interface 42 will then be locked-out to additional user requests, until the user turns off the PIP. - Similarly, if access to the
data acquisition destination 48, such as a VBI download, is requested,VCCS 34 will check on the availability ofdigital video interface 42. If the determination is made thatdigital video interface 42 is available, VCCS, viaVBI capture driver 52, will selectdata acquisition destination 48, and viaCTVHW controlling multiplexer 38, will select the available turner.Digital video interface 42 and the tuner selected for secondaryvideo viewing surface 46 will then be locked-out to additional user requests, until data acquisition is complete or until the user turns cancels the request fordata acquisition destination 48. - As can be appreciated with this exemplary embodiment, as user is able to potentially select the same video source to be displayed both the main and secondary displays of display monitor16 from signals received from the primary
video viewing surface 44 and the secondaryvideo viewing surface 46. However, it is contemplated, that VCCS 43 could also control the selections of the video sources such as to prevent duplication of the video sources at the primaryvideo viewing surface 44 and secondaryvideo viewing surface 46. - To prevent problems arising when a user requests the performance of a function utilizing
digital interface 42 when it is unavailable,VCCS 34 will also performs the arbitration among any selected conflicting requests for the concurrent selection of thedigital video interface 42. - Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 4, there are illustrated flow diagrams of two preferred arbitration methods performed by
VCCS 34. In particular, FIG. 3 illustrates a flow diagram of the arbitration performed when a user requests access to secondaryvideo viewing surface 46 and for a PIP. As depicted byblocks VCCS 34 will check the availability ofdigital video interface 42. If it is determined thatdigital video interface 42 is not available, the ‘No’ path is followed and as indicated byblock 58, the PIP request is not performed and the PIP is locked out. An example of whendigital video interface 42 may be unavailable, would be when a user is utilizingdigital video interface 42 fordata acquisition destination 48. - If it is determined that
digital video interface 42 is available, the yes path is followed to block 56. As depicted byblock 56, the available turner, is then selected. Then as indicated byblock 60, the tuner and thedigital video interface 42 are locked out to prevent additional user requests. Then, as indicated byblock 62, the PIP image is displayed onsecondary surface 50. This will continue until the user turns off thesecondary surface 50 or chooses another video source, other than RF2, as indicated bydecision block 64. If the PIP viewing with RF2, is complete, the ‘Yes’ path is followed to block 66, where the tuner anddigital video interface 42 are then made available for additional user requests. - Referring now to FIG. 4, there is illustrated a flow diagram of the arbitration performed when a user requests access to
data acquisition destination 48 such as for a VBI download. As depicted byblocks VCCS 34 will check the availability ofdigital video interface 42. If it is determined thatdigital video interface 42 is not available, the ‘No’ path is followed and as indicated byblock 76, access todata acquisition destination 48 is not grated and VBI is locked out. An example of whendigital video interface 42 may be unavailable, would be when a user is utilizingdigital video interface 42 for secondaryvideo viewing surface 46, such as a PIP display. - If it is determined that
digital video interface 42 is available, the yes path is followed to block 74. As depicted byblock 74, the available turner, is then selected. Then as indicated byblock 78, the tuner and thedigital video interface 42 are locked out to prevent additional user requests. Then, as indicated byblock 80, the VBI information is downloaded for the video signal. As depicted bydecision block 82, the downloading will continue until all of the information has been obtained or until the user cancels the function. When VBI downloading has been completed, the ‘Yes’ path is followed to block 84, where the tuner anddigital video interface 42 are then made available for additional user requests. - Based upon the foregoing, it should be appreciated that the
computer convergence system 10 provided in accordance with the principles of the present invention includes a convergence functionality module, a computer, and a display device. The convergence functionality module includes a first input for receiving a first video signal and a second input for receiving a second video signal. The computer is coupled to the convergence functionality module and receives therefrom indications of the first video signal received at the first input port and indications of said second video signal received at the second input port. The computer includes controller for controlling the mapping of the indications of the first video signal to a primary video viewing surface, and further controls the mapping of the indications of these second video signal to either the second video viewing surface or the data acquisition destination. - Although a preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention has been illustrated in the accompanying Drawings and described in the foregoing Detailed Description, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiment disclosed, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the spirit of the invention as set forth and defined by the following claims.
- The foregoing disclosure and description of the preferred embodiment are illustrative and explanatory thereof, and various changes in the components, circuit elements, circuit configurations, and signal connections, as well as in the details of the illustrated circuitry and construction and method of operation may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims (2)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/850,220 US6441861B2 (en) | 1997-03-31 | 2001-05-07 | Computer convergence device controller for managing disparate video sources |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US08/834,543 US6229575B1 (en) | 1997-03-31 | 1997-03-31 | Computer convergence device controller for managing disparate video sources |
US09/850,220 US6441861B2 (en) | 1997-03-31 | 2001-05-07 | Computer convergence device controller for managing disparate video sources |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US08/834,543 Division US6229575B1 (en) | 1997-03-31 | 1997-03-31 | Computer convergence device controller for managing disparate video sources |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20010015770A1 true US20010015770A1 (en) | 2001-08-23 |
US6441861B2 US6441861B2 (en) | 2002-08-27 |
Family
ID=25267169
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US08/834,543 Expired - Fee Related US6229575B1 (en) | 1997-03-31 | 1997-03-31 | Computer convergence device controller for managing disparate video sources |
US09/850,220 Expired - Lifetime US6441861B2 (en) | 1997-03-31 | 2001-05-07 | Computer convergence device controller for managing disparate video sources |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US08/834,543 Expired - Fee Related US6229575B1 (en) | 1997-03-31 | 1997-03-31 | Computer convergence device controller for managing disparate video sources |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US6229575B1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050281539A1 (en) * | 2004-06-18 | 2005-12-22 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Multi function apparatus having SCART connector and control method thereof |
US20070030392A1 (en) * | 2005-08-08 | 2007-02-08 | Hiroki Mizosoe | Decoding apparatus for encoded video signals |
US20070250867A1 (en) * | 2006-04-20 | 2007-10-25 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Display system, video processing apparatus, and video processing method |
US20130169863A1 (en) * | 2011-06-30 | 2013-07-04 | Echo 360, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for an embedded appliance |
Families Citing this family (24)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6507951B1 (en) * | 1998-01-05 | 2003-01-14 | Amiga Development Llc | System for time-shifting events in a multi-channel convergence system |
US7707613B1 (en) * | 1998-01-05 | 2010-04-27 | Gateway, Inc. | Individualized parameter control for multiple media sources in a data processing system |
US6678006B1 (en) * | 1998-01-07 | 2004-01-13 | Ati Technologies, Inc. | Method and apparatus for video processing that includes sub-picture scaling |
AU4439899A (en) | 1998-06-16 | 2000-01-05 | United Video Properties, Inc. | Interactive television program guide with simultaneous watch and record capabilities |
TW508506B (en) * | 1999-10-21 | 2002-11-01 | Mitac Technology Corp | Computer system capable of playing DVD movie and control method of its TV analog signal output |
CA2430019A1 (en) * | 2000-11-27 | 2002-05-30 | Intellocity Usa, Inc. | System and method for providing an omnimedia package |
JP2003316341A (en) * | 2002-04-22 | 2003-11-07 | Ekibika Kk | Web terminal monitor |
KR100489841B1 (en) * | 2002-12-06 | 2005-05-17 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | Digital video data outputting apparatus and method |
US10142023B2 (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2018-11-27 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Antenna system and methods for wireless optical network termination |
US8490129B2 (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2013-07-16 | Qwest Communications International Inc. | Methods, systems and apparatus for selectively distributing urgent public information |
US7194249B2 (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2007-03-20 | Qwest Communications International Inc. | Methods, systems and apparatus for providing urgent public information |
US7921443B2 (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2011-04-05 | Qwest Communications International, Inc. | Systems and methods for providing video and data services to a customer premises |
US8713617B2 (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2014-04-29 | Qwest Communications International Inc. | Systems and methods for providing television signals using a network interface device |
JP2004240825A (en) * | 2003-02-07 | 2004-08-26 | Toshiba Corp | Information processor and method for controlling transmission of picture data |
US20040212737A1 (en) * | 2003-04-22 | 2004-10-28 | Thp Technology Co., Ltd. | System simultaneously showing TV images and video camera images and its method |
US8112449B2 (en) | 2003-08-01 | 2012-02-07 | Qwest Communications International Inc. | Systems and methods for implementing a content object access point |
US7480012B1 (en) * | 2005-02-24 | 2009-01-20 | Pixelworks, Inc. | Multiplexed video digitization system and method |
KR101229711B1 (en) * | 2006-02-17 | 2013-02-05 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | Display apparatus and method for controlling the same |
JP2007295048A (en) | 2006-04-20 | 2007-11-08 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | Display system, video processing apparatus, and video processing method |
US8363162B2 (en) * | 2008-04-28 | 2013-01-29 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Video display system for a motor vehicle |
US20100103146A1 (en) * | 2008-10-28 | 2010-04-29 | Prince William H | Cycling through display input ports |
EP2416565A1 (en) * | 2010-08-05 | 2012-02-08 | Thomson Licensing | Method for handling of audio/video signals and corresponding device |
US20170195735A1 (en) * | 2015-12-31 | 2017-07-06 | Nagravision S.A. | Method and apparatus for peripheral context management |
CN113098515A (en) * | 2020-01-08 | 2021-07-09 | 炬芯科技股份有限公司 | Analog-to-digital conversion system and audio equipment |
Family Cites Families (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE3036552C2 (en) * | 1980-09-27 | 1985-04-25 | Blaupunkt-Werke Gmbh, 3200 Hildesheim | Television reception system |
US4628541A (en) | 1983-08-10 | 1986-12-09 | International Business Machines Corporation | Infra-red data communications system for coupling a battery powered data entry device to a microcomputer |
US4658247A (en) | 1984-07-30 | 1987-04-14 | Cornell Research Foundation, Inc. | Pipelined, line buffered real-time color graphics display system |
US4775928A (en) | 1985-10-30 | 1988-10-04 | Westinghouse Electric Corp. | Hand-held wireless computer controller system |
US4954819A (en) | 1987-06-29 | 1990-09-04 | Evans & Sutherland Computer Corp. | Computer graphics windowing system for the display of multiple dynamic images |
US5291275A (en) | 1990-06-20 | 1994-03-01 | International Business Machines Incorporated | Triple field buffer for television image storage and visualization on raster graphics display |
GB2250668B (en) | 1990-11-21 | 1994-07-20 | Apple Computer | Tear-free updates of computer graphical output displays |
US5291187A (en) | 1991-05-06 | 1994-03-01 | Compaq Computer Corporation | High-speed video display system |
JP3316592B2 (en) | 1991-06-17 | 2002-08-19 | サン・マイクロシステムズ・インコーポレーテッド | Dual buffer output display system and method for switching between a first frame buffer and a second frame buffer |
US5351129A (en) * | 1992-03-24 | 1994-09-27 | Rgb Technology D/B/A Rgb Spectrum | Video multiplexor-encoder and decoder-converter |
TW213530B (en) * | 1992-04-08 | 1993-09-21 | Philips Nv | Apparatus for use in an interconnection system |
US5502462A (en) | 1993-11-01 | 1996-03-26 | The 3Do Company | Display list management mechanism for real-time control of by-the-line modifiable video display system |
JP3256619B2 (en) * | 1993-12-24 | 2002-02-12 | 株式会社東芝 | Character information display |
US5572698A (en) | 1994-04-18 | 1996-11-05 | Rolm Company | System and method for allocating memory resources where the category of a memory resource determines where on a circular stack a pointer to the memory resource is placed |
US5610663A (en) | 1996-01-17 | 1997-03-11 | Acer Peripherals, Inc. | Multi-frequency displaying device for displaying both television and personal computer video signals |
US6055023A (en) * | 1996-12-19 | 2000-04-25 | Thomson Consumer Electronics | Television apparatus for simultaneous decoding of auxiliary data included in multiple television signals |
-
1997
- 1997-03-31 US US08/834,543 patent/US6229575B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2001
- 2001-05-07 US US09/850,220 patent/US6441861B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Cited By (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050281539A1 (en) * | 2004-06-18 | 2005-12-22 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Multi function apparatus having SCART connector and control method thereof |
US20070030392A1 (en) * | 2005-08-08 | 2007-02-08 | Hiroki Mizosoe | Decoding apparatus for encoded video signals |
US20080291329A1 (en) * | 2005-08-08 | 2008-11-27 | Hitachi, Ltd. | Decoding apparatus for encoded video signals |
US20080291328A1 (en) * | 2005-08-08 | 2008-11-27 | Hitachi, Ltd. | Decoding apparatus for encoded video signals |
US8902991B2 (en) * | 2005-08-08 | 2014-12-02 | Hitachi Maxell, Ltd. | Decoding apparatus for encoded video signals |
US20070250867A1 (en) * | 2006-04-20 | 2007-10-25 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Display system, video processing apparatus, and video processing method |
WO2013003698A3 (en) * | 2011-06-30 | 2014-05-08 | Echo 360, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for an embedded appliance |
CN103947183A (en) * | 2011-06-30 | 2014-07-23 | 埃科360公司 | Methods and apparatus for an embedded appliance |
US20130169863A1 (en) * | 2011-06-30 | 2013-07-04 | Echo 360, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for an embedded appliance |
US9003061B2 (en) * | 2011-06-30 | 2015-04-07 | Echo 360, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for an embedded appliance |
US9510045B2 (en) | 2011-06-30 | 2016-11-29 | Echo360, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for an embedded appliance |
US11044522B2 (en) | 2011-06-30 | 2021-06-22 | Echo360, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for an embedded appliance |
US11622149B2 (en) | 2011-06-30 | 2023-04-04 | Echo360, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for an embedded appliance |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US6229575B1 (en) | 2001-05-08 |
US6441861B2 (en) | 2002-08-27 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US6441861B2 (en) | Computer convergence device controller for managing disparate video sources | |
US11412288B2 (en) | Method and apparatus for selecting among multiple tuners | |
JP3026512B2 (en) | Home entertainment system with high quality display | |
US6321382B1 (en) | System for resolving channel selection in a multi-channel convergence system | |
US5650831A (en) | Adjustable power remote control drive | |
EP0840920B1 (en) | Remote control device for an entertainment system | |
US6363204B1 (en) | Viewing management for video sources | |
US6496983B1 (en) | System providing data quality display of digital video | |
US6396480B1 (en) | Context sensitive remote control groups | |
US5995155A (en) | Database navigation system for a home entertainment system | |
US6100936A (en) | Multiple-screen video adapter with television tuner | |
US6011592A (en) | Computer convergence device controller for managing various display characteristics | |
CA2250189A1 (en) | Computer controlled home entertainment system | |
JPH09222933A (en) | Entertainment system for portable computer | |
EP1096793B1 (en) | System, method, signal, user interface and software to display thumbnail banners | |
US7903101B2 (en) | Display device and method with optimal external input setting capability | |
US20070096939A1 (en) | Methods and systems for content distribution using intelligent data management arrangements | |
JP2004524765A (en) | Seamless control of input TV signals | |
US20040194132A1 (en) | Automatic picture conditioning | |
US6219041B1 (en) | Universal user interface for a system utilizing multiple processes | |
US20030194202A1 (en) | Combination system and operation control method for controlling each of a plurality of devices through a single on-screen display | |
KR100288779B1 (en) | Servo system for optical pickup | |
JP2005184645A (en) | Information processor | |
JPH10133636A (en) | Information processing device | |
KR19990012137A (en) | ATM system capable of adaptive moving picture display of virtual channels and channel selection method |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCF | Information on status: patent grant |
Free format text: PATENTED CASE |
|
CC | Certificate of correction | ||
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P., TEXAS Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:COMPAQ INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES GROUP, L.P.;REEL/FRAME:026908/0651 Effective date: 20021001 |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 12 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: HEWLETT PACKARD ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT LP, TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P.;REEL/FRAME:037079/0001 Effective date: 20151027 |