CA2267695A1 - Interface controller for electronic programming guide - Google Patents
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- CA2267695A1 CA2267695A1 CA002267695A CA2267695A CA2267695A1 CA 2267695 A1 CA2267695 A1 CA 2267695A1 CA 002267695 A CA002267695 A CA 002267695A CA 2267695 A CA2267695 A CA 2267695A CA 2267695 A1 CA2267695 A1 CA 2267695A1
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Abstract
A television information system includes a remote control and a processor. The remote control includes an info key, a select key and a plurality of cursor keys, the plurality of cursor keys including up, down, left and right key. The processor sends to an associated display device one of a television signal and an information guide signal, the information guide signal being prepared by the processor and causing a displayed image to have a plurality of software buttons. The processor includes a module to generate a pop up window, the pop up window displaying a prompt to request a user to enter a password. Some software buttons correspond to a programmable functions and include legends displayed thereon, a first programmable function being selected by setting a highlight on a first software button and actuating the select key.
The software buttons include information buttons. Each information button corresponding to respective information in an information guide and includes a limited legend displayed thereon. Additional information on a first information button is displayed in a pop up window when the first information button is highlighted and the info key is actuated. A simplified information guide screen entry and exit is achieved. An intuitive screen interface for selecting a program for viewing, pre-selecting a program and selecting a program for recording is achieved. An intuitive screen interface for setting and clearing a sleep timer is achieved. An intuitive screen interface for selecting and editing preferred channel lists is achieved. An intuitive screen interface for filtering program offerings by major and minor themes is achieved. An intuitive screen interface for providing expanded channel and program information in pop up windows is achieved. An intuitive screen interface for providing password control of preferred channel list editing and pay-per-view selection is achieved in the form of pop up window prompts.
The software buttons include information buttons. Each information button corresponding to respective information in an information guide and includes a limited legend displayed thereon. Additional information on a first information button is displayed in a pop up window when the first information button is highlighted and the info key is actuated. A simplified information guide screen entry and exit is achieved. An intuitive screen interface for selecting a program for viewing, pre-selecting a program and selecting a program for recording is achieved. An intuitive screen interface for setting and clearing a sleep timer is achieved. An intuitive screen interface for selecting and editing preferred channel lists is achieved. An intuitive screen interface for filtering program offerings by major and minor themes is achieved. An intuitive screen interface for providing expanded channel and program information in pop up windows is achieved. An intuitive screen interface for providing password control of preferred channel list editing and pay-per-view selection is achieved in the form of pop up window prompts.
Description
PATENT APPLICATION
DOCKET NO. A-1972 INTERFACE CONTROLLER FOR ELECTRONIC PROGRAMMING
GUIDE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an interface controller for an electronic program guide implemented in a decoder. In particular, the invention relates to s control features of the electronic program guide to improve the user's ease of use.
Description Of Related Art Advanced cable and satellite television systems offer a greater number of 1o television channel selections than ever before. For example, known broadband systems can deliver 110 channels of programming. To aid a user in finding the desired program for viewing, electronic program guide technology has been developed.
An electronic program guide is a database describing the program Is offerings for a period of time (e.g., similar to a weekly television guide magazine). The database is accessed and displayed on the television viewing screen for a user to select a desired program for viewing. However, the amount of information in the database typically is much greater than what can be displayed on a single television viewing screen.
2o To overcome this limitation, known electronic viewing guides either page through successive pages of information or scroll through a revolving table of information.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
25 It is an object to the present invention to provide an intelligent program guide that intelligently filters the information to be displayed to maximize the PATENT APPLICATION
' DOCKET NO. A-1972 information per viewing screen that the particular user desires to see. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a simplified information guide screen entry and exit. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an intuitive screen interface for selecting a program for viewing, pre-selecting a s program and selecting a program for recording. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an intuitive screen interface for setting and clearing a sleep timer. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an intuitive screen interface for selecting and editing preferred channel lists.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide an intuitive screen interface for I o filtering program offerings by major and minor themes. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an intuitive screen interface for providing expanded channel and program information in pop up windows. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an intuitive screen interface for providing password control of preferred channel list editing and pay-per-view 15 selection in the form of pop up window prompts.
These and other objects are achieved in a television information system that includes a remote control and a processor. The remote control includes an info key, a select key and a plurality of cursor keys, the plurality of cursor keys including up, down, left and right key. The processor sends to an associated 2o display device one of a television signal and an information guide signal, the information guide signal being prepared by the processor and causing a displayed image to have a plurality of software buttons. The processor includes a module to generate a pop up window, the pop up window displaying a prompt to request a user to enter a password. Some software buttons correspond to a 25 programmable functions and include legends displayed thereon, a first programmable function being selected by setting a highlight on a first software button and actuating the select key. The software buttons include information buttons. Each information button corresponding to respective information in an information guide and includes a limited legend displayed thereon. Additional 3o information on a first information button is displayed in a pop up window when the first information button is highlighted and the info key is actuated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The invention will be described in detail in the following description of 35 preferred embodiments with reference to the following figures wherein:
FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of the interface control of a decoder of the present invention;
DOCKET NO. A-1972 INTERFACE CONTROLLER FOR ELECTRONIC PROGRAMMING
GUIDE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an interface controller for an electronic program guide implemented in a decoder. In particular, the invention relates to s control features of the electronic program guide to improve the user's ease of use.
Description Of Related Art Advanced cable and satellite television systems offer a greater number of 1o television channel selections than ever before. For example, known broadband systems can deliver 110 channels of programming. To aid a user in finding the desired program for viewing, electronic program guide technology has been developed.
An electronic program guide is a database describing the program Is offerings for a period of time (e.g., similar to a weekly television guide magazine). The database is accessed and displayed on the television viewing screen for a user to select a desired program for viewing. However, the amount of information in the database typically is much greater than what can be displayed on a single television viewing screen.
2o To overcome this limitation, known electronic viewing guides either page through successive pages of information or scroll through a revolving table of information.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
25 It is an object to the present invention to provide an intelligent program guide that intelligently filters the information to be displayed to maximize the PATENT APPLICATION
' DOCKET NO. A-1972 information per viewing screen that the particular user desires to see. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a simplified information guide screen entry and exit. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an intuitive screen interface for selecting a program for viewing, pre-selecting a s program and selecting a program for recording. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an intuitive screen interface for setting and clearing a sleep timer. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an intuitive screen interface for selecting and editing preferred channel lists.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide an intuitive screen interface for I o filtering program offerings by major and minor themes. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an intuitive screen interface for providing expanded channel and program information in pop up windows. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an intuitive screen interface for providing password control of preferred channel list editing and pay-per-view 15 selection in the form of pop up window prompts.
These and other objects are achieved in a television information system that includes a remote control and a processor. The remote control includes an info key, a select key and a plurality of cursor keys, the plurality of cursor keys including up, down, left and right key. The processor sends to an associated 2o display device one of a television signal and an information guide signal, the information guide signal being prepared by the processor and causing a displayed image to have a plurality of software buttons. The processor includes a module to generate a pop up window, the pop up window displaying a prompt to request a user to enter a password. Some software buttons correspond to a 25 programmable functions and include legends displayed thereon, a first programmable function being selected by setting a highlight on a first software button and actuating the select key. The software buttons include information buttons. Each information button corresponding to respective information in an information guide and includes a limited legend displayed thereon. Additional 3o information on a first information button is displayed in a pop up window when the first information button is highlighted and the info key is actuated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The invention will be described in detail in the following description of 35 preferred embodiments with reference to the following figures wherein:
FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of the interface control of a decoder of the present invention;
PATENT APPLICATION
DOCKET NO. A-1972 FIG. 2 is a grid layout of an image area of a display of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is an image area of an opening display of the present invention;
FIG. 4 is an image area of a record or pre-select display of the present s invention;
FIG. 5 is an image area of a sleep timer display of the present invention;
FIG. 6 is an image area of a display highlighted to select preferred channel lists;
FIG. 7 is an image area of a display of a selected preferred channel list;
1o FIG. 8 is an image area of an edit mode display to edit a preferred channel list;
FIG. 9 is an image area of a display to select preferred major themes for viewing;
FIG. 10 is an image area of a display to select preferred minor themes 15 for viewing;
FIG. 11 is an image area of a program information display of the present invention;
FIG. 12 is an image area of a channel information display of the present invention; and 2o FIG. 13 is an image area of a display to enter a pay-per-view password entry prompt.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
In FIG. 1, a representative embodiment of a television information 2s system in a decoder includes a remote control device, a processor and a display device (e.g., a conventional television receiver as depicted in FIG. 1). The remote control device may be or include a keypad on the decoder or on the information system of the decoder. The processor includes a remote control receiver (e. g. , conventional infrared receiver) to receive signals from the remote 3o control indicating specific keys of the remote control that have been actuated (e.g., cursor keys). The processor also includes a microprocessor and a memory for storing both program and data. Processor modules control the processor's function and include data tables and programs stored in the memory and associated parts of the microprocessor or other parts of the processor 35 needed to carry out the program. The processor also includes a switch a formatter to convert information guide data from the microprocessor into information guide signals suitable for displaying on the display device. The switch is controlled by the microprocessor to display on the display device PATENT APPLICATION
DOCKET NO. A-1972 either the television signal or the information guide signal. Other configurations of the formatter and remaining parts of the processor are envisioned. For example, the processor, exclusive or inclusive of the memory, may be implement in an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Also, while NTSC raster scan analog television signals are widely used in the U.S.
presently, other forms of television signals (e.g., PAL, SECAM) are envisioned, and future television signals are envisioned (e.g., digital television standard signals with MPEG compression standards). Depending on the type of televison signal, the switch may include a sync recovery circuit so that the 1 o information guide signal may be synchronized with the television signal.
In FIG. 2, image area 40 of the image displayed on the associated display device includes title area 42 and information area 44. Image area 44 is organized in a grid defining plural rows and plural columns. The grid defines a top row and a bottom row. The grid defines a left extreme column and a right extreme column. The grid need not be spaced at regular intervals nor oriented orthogonal.
In the grid spaces, there are defined a plurality of software buttons, one of which is highlighted. A single button may occupy a single grid space, or a single button may occupy more than one grid space. For example, the second 2o row of FIG. 2 depicts a single button spanning four grid spaces. Similarly, a single button may span plural grid spaces in a single column. A single button may also span plural grid spaces in both column and row directions. A button spanning plural grid spaces is regarded as being located at all spanned grid spaces.
2s A module of the processor moves the highlight on a button up or down or left or right in response to actuation of the cursor keys on the remote controller. The legends on the buttons and their functions are programmable and under control of modules in the processor. The function of a software button is selected by highlighting the button and actuating the select key on the 3o remote control. A corresponding module of the processor performs the selected function.
An information guide is a data table stored in the processor's memory.
The information guide includes information on programs available organized by channel and by time including time of day and day of the week and even week 35 of the year). The information guide is provide in the processor's memory by any conventional means, and it is updated periodically.
The amount of information that may be displayed in information area 44 is limited. The processor includes a module to prepare the information guide PATENT APPLICATION
DOCKET NO. A-1972 signal for display. From a portion of or all of the data in the information guide, image area 40 is formatted and converted to from the information guide signal.
Preferably the top row of grid spaces is reserved for buttons pertaining to time information and a mufti-purpose button on the left end. Preferably the bottom row of grid spaces is reserved for buttons pertaining to programming preference information and a mufti-purpose button on the left end. Preferably, the remaining buttons in the left extreme column are reserved for buttons pertaining to channel information. Preferably, the remaining buttons in information area 44 are reserved for button pertaining to program information relating to the 1 o channels described by the channel information in the left extreme column and during the time intervals corresponding to the time information in the top row.
Preferably, there are displayed program offerings from six virtural channels offered over a two hour interval of four one-half hour time intervals.
However, other display formats are envisioned and equivalent. The processor module to I5 prepare the information guide signal selects the data from the information guide that corresponds to time intervals and channels that are displayed on the top row and extreme left column, respectively.
In FIG. 3, a representative opening information guide image is depicted.
While viewing the television signal, a user may actuate a select key on the 2o remote control to prompt this opening screen. Alternatively, a special guide key may be actuated to prompt the display of the opening information guide image.
The software button in the lower left corner is Tabled with the legend "Exit"
, and it is initially highlighted. When this exit button is highlighted and the select key on the remote control is actuated, the information guide mode is exited and 2s the television signal is again displayed. While watching a television signal, a user may first actuate the select key to obtain the opening information guide image, and then conviently actuate the select key again to return to view the television program. Alternatively, the user may use the cursor keys to move the highlight to the exit button and then actuate the select key to return to view the 3o television program.
When the highlight is on a software button in the extreme right column and the cursor right key is actuated on the remote control, the program information in the rows where channels are defined is moved left by one time interval to make room in the extreme right column for program information 35 pertaining to a time interval that is one time interval later than the latest time interval previously displayed. The program information pertaining to the earliest time interval previously displayed is removed from image area 40, and the channel buttons in the extreme left column remain unaltered. The time PATENT APPLICATION
DOf:KET NO. A-1972 information in the top row is similarly moved left to make room at the right end of the top row for a time information button pertaining to a time that is one time interval later than the latest time interval previously displayed. The time information pertaining to the earliest time interval previously displayed is removed from image area 40, and the multi-purpose button in the extreme left column of the top row remains unaltered. The processor includes an appropriate module to achieve this time scroll function.
When the highlight is on a software button in the extreme left column and the cursor left key is actuated on the remote control, the program I o information in the rows where channels are defined is moved right by one time interval to make room in the column containing the earliest time interval for program information pertaining to a time that is one time interval earlier than the earliest time interval previously displayed. The program information pertaining to the latest time interval previously displayed is removed from image I5 area 40, and the channel buttons in the extreme left column remain unaltered.
The time information in the top row is similarly moved right to make room at the earliest time interval previously displayed for a time information button pertaining to a time interval that is one time interval earlier than the earliest time interval previously displayed. The time information pertaining to the latest time 2o interval previously displayed is removed from image area 40, and the multi-purpose button in the extreme left column of the top row remains unaltered.
The processor includes an appropriate module to achieve this time scroll function.
Thus, scroll left and right functions are achieved. The information guide 25 includes limited data extending over a finite time. It may extend over a few hours in a particular day, over several days (e. g. , a week in advance) or over months. The information guide data in the processor's memory is updated periodically by known means, and the extent of the time data in the memory is preferably defined by the update rate (e. g. , daily, weekly, monthly) to ensure 3o that data for a desirable time in advance of the present time is available to the user. When a user scrolls to an "edge" of the data in time, the time scroll function implemented by a processor control module ceases. Alternatively, the time scroll function wraps the time around between the earliest time interval and the latest time interval represented in the information guide data.
35 In FIG. 4, an information guide image is depicted to illustrate a program select mode, a program pre-select mode, and a program record mode. If the highlight is moved to a program button for a program with a start time that is at or before the current time and the user actuates the select key on the remote PATENT APPLICATION
' DOCKET NO. A-1972 control, a processor module enables the televison signal to be viewed.
However, if the program start time is after the current time, a pop up window appears in image area 40 that prompts the user to decide whether to record the program (i.e., assuming that a recorder interface is installed). If the user declines to record the program or the recorder interface is not installed, the selected program is regarded as pre-selected for viewing, and the processor module will enable viewing of the television signal at the selected time.
In FIG. 5, an information guide image is depicted to illustrate a sleep timer mode. If the highlight is moved to a time information button in the top I o row of information area 44 and the user actuates the select key, the sleep timer will be set for the displayed time. The decoder will automatically turn off at the selected time. The user may use the time scroll function to scroll the displayed image to a time arbitrarily in advance of the current time. If the time highlighted and selected had already been set by the sleep timer (as depicted in the figure as 6:30 AM), the second highlighting and selection clears the sleep timer.
When the highlight is on a software button in the top row and the cursor up key is actuated on the remote control, the program information in the rows where channels are defined is move down by one channel to make room in the 2o first row where a channel was previously displayed. The program information that was in the last row where channel information was previously displayed is removed from image area 40. The time information buttons in the top row and the preference information buttons in the bottom row remain unaltered. The channel information in the extreme left column is similarly moved down to make room in the first row where a channel information button was previously displayed. The channel information button that was in the last row where a channel information button was previously displayed is removed from image area 40. The mufti-purpose buttons in the extreme left column of the top and bottom rows remain unaltered. The processor includes an appropriate module to 3o achieve this channel scroll function.
When the highlight is on a software button in the bottom row and the cursor down key is actuated on the remote control, the program information in the rows where channels are defined is moved up by one channel to make room in the last row where a channel was previously displayed. The program information that was in the first row where channel information was previously displayed is removed from image area 40. The time information buttons in the top row and the preference information buttons in the bottom row remain unaltered. The channel information in the extreme left column is similarly PATENT APPLICATION
DOCKET NO. A-1972 moved up to make room in the last row where a channel information button was previously displayed. The channel information button that was in the first row where a channel information button was previously displayed is removed from image area 40. The multi-purpose buttons in the extreme left column of the top and bottom rows remain unaltered. The processor includes an appropriate module to achieve this channel scroll function.
Thus, channel scroll up and down functions are achieved. The information guide includes channel information in an ordered form (e.g., by channel number or otherwise). One or more sets of preferred channel lists may I o also be prepared as described elsewhere herein; however, the preferred channel lists are still ordered. A list, each list or all channels may exceed in number the number of channels that may be displayed in information area 44 (FIG. 2).
When a user scrolls to an "edge" of the channel list data, the channel scroll function implemented by a processor control module ceases. Alternatively, the I s channel scroll function wraps the channel list around between the first listed channel and the last listed channel.
The button in the lower right of information area 44 is regarded as the "channels" button. In the opening image, as depicted in FIG. 3, the channels button is Tabled "all channels" and the displayed list of channels is culled from 2o all channels in the information guide data since the default at opening is that there is no particular channel preference. In FIG. 6, the user has used the cursor keys so that the channel button, Tabled "all channels" , is highlighted.
Then, upon actuating the select key on the remote control, preferred channel list A is displayed as depicted in FIG. 7. Subsequent highlighting of the channels 25 button and actuation of the select key on the remote control will enable sucessively displaying all of the preferred channel lists. Typically, there are provided a predetermined number of preferred channel lists (e.g., four) to cycle through before returing to the "all channels" list.
From a display of a preferred list as depicted in FIG. 7, a user may enter 3o an edit mode to edit the channel list by using the cursors to highlight the edit software button depicted in the top row in the left extreme column and then actuating the select key. Upon actuating the select key, a pop up window will prompt the user to enter an edit password specific to the preferred channel list to be edited.
3s Upon entry of the correct edit password, the display will then change to a display like the one depicted in Fig. 8. Note that the software button depicted in the top row in the left extreme column has been re-Tabled from "edit" to "done" . The "done" button is used to exit the edit mode. Actuating the select s PATENT APPLICATION
DO(JKET NO. A-1972 key of the remote control while the "done" software button is highlighted will return the display to the initial preferred channel list display as depicted in FIG.
7.
Also note that the channels listed in this edit mode display are the same s as the the channels listed in the all channels display of FIG. 6, except that the Tables on the channel information buttons are displayed in a regular color for those channels included in the preferred channel list and displayed in a contrasting color (or shaded) for those channels excluded from the preferred channel list. Thus, the edit display FIG. 8 shows all channels and uses a I o contrasting color for the channel button Tables to indicate channels not included in the particular preferred channel list that is indicated by the Table on the channels button (lower right corner).
When a desired channel is not included in the preferred channel list that is indicated by the Table on the channels button, the channel may be added to the 15 preferred channel list by moving the highlight to the desired channel button and actuating the select key on the remote. When an undesired channel is included in the preferred channel list that is indicated by the Table on the channels button, the channel may be deleted to the preferred channel list by moving the highlight to the desired channel button and actuating the select key on the remote. The 2o channel scrolling function permits all channels to be reviewed for inclusion or exclusion from the preferred channel list. After all channel selections and deselections are complete, actuating the select key of the remote control while the "done" software button is highlighted will return the display to an updated preferred channel list display.
25 A theme control mode may also be used to pare down the number of channels displayed to a user. Each of the channels in the information guide data is characterized by a major and minor theme attribute that is used in the theme selection. Thus, when a processor module prepares a theme limited display from the information guide data, the list of channels in the prepared display is 3o reduced when the desired theme attribute is not an attributed of the channels as indicated in the information guide data. Alternatively, each program in each channel may be characterized by major and minor theme attributes, and a channel will not be displayed if the desired major and minor theme attributes are not a characterizing feature of the programs on a channel during the time 35 intervals being displayed.
In FIG. 9, the bottom row of software buttons depicts three theme control buttons that are used to select major and minor themes. The user actuates the cursor keys of the remote control to highlight a theme button Tabled PATENT APPLICATION
DOCKET NO. A-1972 either " < < Theme" or " > > Theme" to sequence back or forward, respectively, through a list of predetermined stored major themes. Once highlighted, the theme forward or back button is activated by actuating the select key on the remote control. As the theme list is sequenced through, the currently s accessed major theme from the theme list is displayed as the legend on the center theme button. The major theme list includes an "all themes" category, as well as such other categories as movies, news, sports, etc. When a desired major theme has been accessed, the user moves the highlight to the center theme button that now bears a legend with the desired major theme, and the user 1o actuates the select key on the remote control to select the major theme.
In FIG. 10, a minor theme selection display is depicted after the major theme selection selected, for example, "Sports". The highlight is still on the center theme button, but the fable has changed from "Sports" (i.e., major theme) to "Basketball" , one of the minor themes available under the major I s theme "Sports. " The user actuates the cursor keys of the remote control to highlight a theme button Tabled either " < < Theme" or " > > Theme" to sequence back or forward, respectively, through a list of predetermined stored minor themes. Once highlighted, the theme forward or back button is activated by actuating the select key on the remote control. As the theme list is sequenced 2o through, the currently accessed minor theme from the theme list is displayed as the legend on the center theme button. The minor theme list includes an "all minor themes" category so that the display shows all minor themes of the selected major theme. The minor theme list also includes other categories such as "Basketball" , "Hockey" , "Football" , "Soccer" , "Baseball" , etc. When a 25 desired minor theme has been accessed, the user moves the highlight to the center theme button that now bears a legend with the desired minor theme, and the user actuates the select key on the remote control to select the minor theme.
In an alternative embodiment, theme control may be used in conjunction with preferred channel lists control. For example, when a preferred channel list 3o is to be edited, the major and minor theme control modes may be used to make the initial selection of channels to be included in the preferred channel list.
Afterwards, individual channels may be added or removed by highlighting the corresponding channel button in the left exteme column and acutating the select key on the remote control.
35 In FIG. 11, the user has used the cursor keys so that the program button at 9:30 AM on channel KTLA 899 is highlighted. This program button is fabled with a legend that is the name of the program. With this program button highlighted, the user may actuate an info key on the remote control in order to PATENT APPLICATION
DOCKET NO. A-1972 obtain additional information from respective data in the information guide data.
When the user actuates the info key on the remote control, a pop up window appears in image area 40 with the additional information displayed. The additional information may be any information related to the program, for s example, start time, day and/or date of presentation, duration, writers, actors, parental control ratings and rating service, and if pay-per-view programming, its price.
In FIG. 12, the user has used the cursor keys so that the channel button for channel DTH 963 is highlighted. This channel button is fabled with a legend "DTH 963". With this channel button highlighted, the user may actuate an info key on the remote control in order to obtain additional information from respective data in the information guide data. When the user actuates the info key on the remote control, a pop up window appears in image area 40 with the additional information displayed. The additional information may be any I s information related to the channel, for example, call sign, channel number, network affiliation, frequency is applicable, premium status and costs, private status as in video conferencing, and any other channel wide related information.
In FIG. 13, the user has used the cursor keys so that the program button for "The Three Hearts" program on channel KTLA 899 at 6:30 AM is 2o highlighted. Before highlighting, this program button displayed the title legend in a contrasting color so that the user knows that this is a pay-per-view program.
Now with this program button highlighted, when the user actuates the select key on the remote control, a pop up window appears in image area 40 with a prompt to enter a pay-per-view password.
25 Having described preferred embodiments of a novel interface controller for an electronic programming guide (which are intended to be illustrative and not limiting), it is noted that modifications and variations can be made by persons skilled in the art in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that changes may be made in the particular embodiments of the 3o invention disclosed which are within the scope and spirit of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
Having thus described the invention with the details and particularity required by the patent laws, what is claimed and desired protected by Letters Patent is set forth in the appended claims.
DOCKET NO. A-1972 FIG. 2 is a grid layout of an image area of a display of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is an image area of an opening display of the present invention;
FIG. 4 is an image area of a record or pre-select display of the present s invention;
FIG. 5 is an image area of a sleep timer display of the present invention;
FIG. 6 is an image area of a display highlighted to select preferred channel lists;
FIG. 7 is an image area of a display of a selected preferred channel list;
1o FIG. 8 is an image area of an edit mode display to edit a preferred channel list;
FIG. 9 is an image area of a display to select preferred major themes for viewing;
FIG. 10 is an image area of a display to select preferred minor themes 15 for viewing;
FIG. 11 is an image area of a program information display of the present invention;
FIG. 12 is an image area of a channel information display of the present invention; and 2o FIG. 13 is an image area of a display to enter a pay-per-view password entry prompt.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
In FIG. 1, a representative embodiment of a television information 2s system in a decoder includes a remote control device, a processor and a display device (e.g., a conventional television receiver as depicted in FIG. 1). The remote control device may be or include a keypad on the decoder or on the information system of the decoder. The processor includes a remote control receiver (e. g. , conventional infrared receiver) to receive signals from the remote 3o control indicating specific keys of the remote control that have been actuated (e.g., cursor keys). The processor also includes a microprocessor and a memory for storing both program and data. Processor modules control the processor's function and include data tables and programs stored in the memory and associated parts of the microprocessor or other parts of the processor 35 needed to carry out the program. The processor also includes a switch a formatter to convert information guide data from the microprocessor into information guide signals suitable for displaying on the display device. The switch is controlled by the microprocessor to display on the display device PATENT APPLICATION
DOCKET NO. A-1972 either the television signal or the information guide signal. Other configurations of the formatter and remaining parts of the processor are envisioned. For example, the processor, exclusive or inclusive of the memory, may be implement in an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Also, while NTSC raster scan analog television signals are widely used in the U.S.
presently, other forms of television signals (e.g., PAL, SECAM) are envisioned, and future television signals are envisioned (e.g., digital television standard signals with MPEG compression standards). Depending on the type of televison signal, the switch may include a sync recovery circuit so that the 1 o information guide signal may be synchronized with the television signal.
In FIG. 2, image area 40 of the image displayed on the associated display device includes title area 42 and information area 44. Image area 44 is organized in a grid defining plural rows and plural columns. The grid defines a top row and a bottom row. The grid defines a left extreme column and a right extreme column. The grid need not be spaced at regular intervals nor oriented orthogonal.
In the grid spaces, there are defined a plurality of software buttons, one of which is highlighted. A single button may occupy a single grid space, or a single button may occupy more than one grid space. For example, the second 2o row of FIG. 2 depicts a single button spanning four grid spaces. Similarly, a single button may span plural grid spaces in a single column. A single button may also span plural grid spaces in both column and row directions. A button spanning plural grid spaces is regarded as being located at all spanned grid spaces.
2s A module of the processor moves the highlight on a button up or down or left or right in response to actuation of the cursor keys on the remote controller. The legends on the buttons and their functions are programmable and under control of modules in the processor. The function of a software button is selected by highlighting the button and actuating the select key on the 3o remote control. A corresponding module of the processor performs the selected function.
An information guide is a data table stored in the processor's memory.
The information guide includes information on programs available organized by channel and by time including time of day and day of the week and even week 35 of the year). The information guide is provide in the processor's memory by any conventional means, and it is updated periodically.
The amount of information that may be displayed in information area 44 is limited. The processor includes a module to prepare the information guide PATENT APPLICATION
DOCKET NO. A-1972 signal for display. From a portion of or all of the data in the information guide, image area 40 is formatted and converted to from the information guide signal.
Preferably the top row of grid spaces is reserved for buttons pertaining to time information and a mufti-purpose button on the left end. Preferably the bottom row of grid spaces is reserved for buttons pertaining to programming preference information and a mufti-purpose button on the left end. Preferably, the remaining buttons in the left extreme column are reserved for buttons pertaining to channel information. Preferably, the remaining buttons in information area 44 are reserved for button pertaining to program information relating to the 1 o channels described by the channel information in the left extreme column and during the time intervals corresponding to the time information in the top row.
Preferably, there are displayed program offerings from six virtural channels offered over a two hour interval of four one-half hour time intervals.
However, other display formats are envisioned and equivalent. The processor module to I5 prepare the information guide signal selects the data from the information guide that corresponds to time intervals and channels that are displayed on the top row and extreme left column, respectively.
In FIG. 3, a representative opening information guide image is depicted.
While viewing the television signal, a user may actuate a select key on the 2o remote control to prompt this opening screen. Alternatively, a special guide key may be actuated to prompt the display of the opening information guide image.
The software button in the lower left corner is Tabled with the legend "Exit"
, and it is initially highlighted. When this exit button is highlighted and the select key on the remote control is actuated, the information guide mode is exited and 2s the television signal is again displayed. While watching a television signal, a user may first actuate the select key to obtain the opening information guide image, and then conviently actuate the select key again to return to view the television program. Alternatively, the user may use the cursor keys to move the highlight to the exit button and then actuate the select key to return to view the 3o television program.
When the highlight is on a software button in the extreme right column and the cursor right key is actuated on the remote control, the program information in the rows where channels are defined is moved left by one time interval to make room in the extreme right column for program information 35 pertaining to a time interval that is one time interval later than the latest time interval previously displayed. The program information pertaining to the earliest time interval previously displayed is removed from image area 40, and the channel buttons in the extreme left column remain unaltered. The time PATENT APPLICATION
DOf:KET NO. A-1972 information in the top row is similarly moved left to make room at the right end of the top row for a time information button pertaining to a time that is one time interval later than the latest time interval previously displayed. The time information pertaining to the earliest time interval previously displayed is removed from image area 40, and the multi-purpose button in the extreme left column of the top row remains unaltered. The processor includes an appropriate module to achieve this time scroll function.
When the highlight is on a software button in the extreme left column and the cursor left key is actuated on the remote control, the program I o information in the rows where channels are defined is moved right by one time interval to make room in the column containing the earliest time interval for program information pertaining to a time that is one time interval earlier than the earliest time interval previously displayed. The program information pertaining to the latest time interval previously displayed is removed from image I5 area 40, and the channel buttons in the extreme left column remain unaltered.
The time information in the top row is similarly moved right to make room at the earliest time interval previously displayed for a time information button pertaining to a time interval that is one time interval earlier than the earliest time interval previously displayed. The time information pertaining to the latest time 2o interval previously displayed is removed from image area 40, and the multi-purpose button in the extreme left column of the top row remains unaltered.
The processor includes an appropriate module to achieve this time scroll function.
Thus, scroll left and right functions are achieved. The information guide 25 includes limited data extending over a finite time. It may extend over a few hours in a particular day, over several days (e. g. , a week in advance) or over months. The information guide data in the processor's memory is updated periodically by known means, and the extent of the time data in the memory is preferably defined by the update rate (e. g. , daily, weekly, monthly) to ensure 3o that data for a desirable time in advance of the present time is available to the user. When a user scrolls to an "edge" of the data in time, the time scroll function implemented by a processor control module ceases. Alternatively, the time scroll function wraps the time around between the earliest time interval and the latest time interval represented in the information guide data.
35 In FIG. 4, an information guide image is depicted to illustrate a program select mode, a program pre-select mode, and a program record mode. If the highlight is moved to a program button for a program with a start time that is at or before the current time and the user actuates the select key on the remote PATENT APPLICATION
' DOCKET NO. A-1972 control, a processor module enables the televison signal to be viewed.
However, if the program start time is after the current time, a pop up window appears in image area 40 that prompts the user to decide whether to record the program (i.e., assuming that a recorder interface is installed). If the user declines to record the program or the recorder interface is not installed, the selected program is regarded as pre-selected for viewing, and the processor module will enable viewing of the television signal at the selected time.
In FIG. 5, an information guide image is depicted to illustrate a sleep timer mode. If the highlight is moved to a time information button in the top I o row of information area 44 and the user actuates the select key, the sleep timer will be set for the displayed time. The decoder will automatically turn off at the selected time. The user may use the time scroll function to scroll the displayed image to a time arbitrarily in advance of the current time. If the time highlighted and selected had already been set by the sleep timer (as depicted in the figure as 6:30 AM), the second highlighting and selection clears the sleep timer.
When the highlight is on a software button in the top row and the cursor up key is actuated on the remote control, the program information in the rows where channels are defined is move down by one channel to make room in the 2o first row where a channel was previously displayed. The program information that was in the last row where channel information was previously displayed is removed from image area 40. The time information buttons in the top row and the preference information buttons in the bottom row remain unaltered. The channel information in the extreme left column is similarly moved down to make room in the first row where a channel information button was previously displayed. The channel information button that was in the last row where a channel information button was previously displayed is removed from image area 40. The mufti-purpose buttons in the extreme left column of the top and bottom rows remain unaltered. The processor includes an appropriate module to 3o achieve this channel scroll function.
When the highlight is on a software button in the bottom row and the cursor down key is actuated on the remote control, the program information in the rows where channels are defined is moved up by one channel to make room in the last row where a channel was previously displayed. The program information that was in the first row where channel information was previously displayed is removed from image area 40. The time information buttons in the top row and the preference information buttons in the bottom row remain unaltered. The channel information in the extreme left column is similarly PATENT APPLICATION
DOCKET NO. A-1972 moved up to make room in the last row where a channel information button was previously displayed. The channel information button that was in the first row where a channel information button was previously displayed is removed from image area 40. The multi-purpose buttons in the extreme left column of the top and bottom rows remain unaltered. The processor includes an appropriate module to achieve this channel scroll function.
Thus, channel scroll up and down functions are achieved. The information guide includes channel information in an ordered form (e.g., by channel number or otherwise). One or more sets of preferred channel lists may I o also be prepared as described elsewhere herein; however, the preferred channel lists are still ordered. A list, each list or all channels may exceed in number the number of channels that may be displayed in information area 44 (FIG. 2).
When a user scrolls to an "edge" of the channel list data, the channel scroll function implemented by a processor control module ceases. Alternatively, the I s channel scroll function wraps the channel list around between the first listed channel and the last listed channel.
The button in the lower right of information area 44 is regarded as the "channels" button. In the opening image, as depicted in FIG. 3, the channels button is Tabled "all channels" and the displayed list of channels is culled from 2o all channels in the information guide data since the default at opening is that there is no particular channel preference. In FIG. 6, the user has used the cursor keys so that the channel button, Tabled "all channels" , is highlighted.
Then, upon actuating the select key on the remote control, preferred channel list A is displayed as depicted in FIG. 7. Subsequent highlighting of the channels 25 button and actuation of the select key on the remote control will enable sucessively displaying all of the preferred channel lists. Typically, there are provided a predetermined number of preferred channel lists (e.g., four) to cycle through before returing to the "all channels" list.
From a display of a preferred list as depicted in FIG. 7, a user may enter 3o an edit mode to edit the channel list by using the cursors to highlight the edit software button depicted in the top row in the left extreme column and then actuating the select key. Upon actuating the select key, a pop up window will prompt the user to enter an edit password specific to the preferred channel list to be edited.
3s Upon entry of the correct edit password, the display will then change to a display like the one depicted in Fig. 8. Note that the software button depicted in the top row in the left extreme column has been re-Tabled from "edit" to "done" . The "done" button is used to exit the edit mode. Actuating the select s PATENT APPLICATION
DO(JKET NO. A-1972 key of the remote control while the "done" software button is highlighted will return the display to the initial preferred channel list display as depicted in FIG.
7.
Also note that the channels listed in this edit mode display are the same s as the the channels listed in the all channels display of FIG. 6, except that the Tables on the channel information buttons are displayed in a regular color for those channels included in the preferred channel list and displayed in a contrasting color (or shaded) for those channels excluded from the preferred channel list. Thus, the edit display FIG. 8 shows all channels and uses a I o contrasting color for the channel button Tables to indicate channels not included in the particular preferred channel list that is indicated by the Table on the channels button (lower right corner).
When a desired channel is not included in the preferred channel list that is indicated by the Table on the channels button, the channel may be added to the 15 preferred channel list by moving the highlight to the desired channel button and actuating the select key on the remote. When an undesired channel is included in the preferred channel list that is indicated by the Table on the channels button, the channel may be deleted to the preferred channel list by moving the highlight to the desired channel button and actuating the select key on the remote. The 2o channel scrolling function permits all channels to be reviewed for inclusion or exclusion from the preferred channel list. After all channel selections and deselections are complete, actuating the select key of the remote control while the "done" software button is highlighted will return the display to an updated preferred channel list display.
25 A theme control mode may also be used to pare down the number of channels displayed to a user. Each of the channels in the information guide data is characterized by a major and minor theme attribute that is used in the theme selection. Thus, when a processor module prepares a theme limited display from the information guide data, the list of channels in the prepared display is 3o reduced when the desired theme attribute is not an attributed of the channels as indicated in the information guide data. Alternatively, each program in each channel may be characterized by major and minor theme attributes, and a channel will not be displayed if the desired major and minor theme attributes are not a characterizing feature of the programs on a channel during the time 35 intervals being displayed.
In FIG. 9, the bottom row of software buttons depicts three theme control buttons that are used to select major and minor themes. The user actuates the cursor keys of the remote control to highlight a theme button Tabled PATENT APPLICATION
DOCKET NO. A-1972 either " < < Theme" or " > > Theme" to sequence back or forward, respectively, through a list of predetermined stored major themes. Once highlighted, the theme forward or back button is activated by actuating the select key on the remote control. As the theme list is sequenced through, the currently s accessed major theme from the theme list is displayed as the legend on the center theme button. The major theme list includes an "all themes" category, as well as such other categories as movies, news, sports, etc. When a desired major theme has been accessed, the user moves the highlight to the center theme button that now bears a legend with the desired major theme, and the user 1o actuates the select key on the remote control to select the major theme.
In FIG. 10, a minor theme selection display is depicted after the major theme selection selected, for example, "Sports". The highlight is still on the center theme button, but the fable has changed from "Sports" (i.e., major theme) to "Basketball" , one of the minor themes available under the major I s theme "Sports. " The user actuates the cursor keys of the remote control to highlight a theme button Tabled either " < < Theme" or " > > Theme" to sequence back or forward, respectively, through a list of predetermined stored minor themes. Once highlighted, the theme forward or back button is activated by actuating the select key on the remote control. As the theme list is sequenced 2o through, the currently accessed minor theme from the theme list is displayed as the legend on the center theme button. The minor theme list includes an "all minor themes" category so that the display shows all minor themes of the selected major theme. The minor theme list also includes other categories such as "Basketball" , "Hockey" , "Football" , "Soccer" , "Baseball" , etc. When a 25 desired minor theme has been accessed, the user moves the highlight to the center theme button that now bears a legend with the desired minor theme, and the user actuates the select key on the remote control to select the minor theme.
In an alternative embodiment, theme control may be used in conjunction with preferred channel lists control. For example, when a preferred channel list 3o is to be edited, the major and minor theme control modes may be used to make the initial selection of channels to be included in the preferred channel list.
Afterwards, individual channels may be added or removed by highlighting the corresponding channel button in the left exteme column and acutating the select key on the remote control.
35 In FIG. 11, the user has used the cursor keys so that the program button at 9:30 AM on channel KTLA 899 is highlighted. This program button is fabled with a legend that is the name of the program. With this program button highlighted, the user may actuate an info key on the remote control in order to PATENT APPLICATION
DOCKET NO. A-1972 obtain additional information from respective data in the information guide data.
When the user actuates the info key on the remote control, a pop up window appears in image area 40 with the additional information displayed. The additional information may be any information related to the program, for s example, start time, day and/or date of presentation, duration, writers, actors, parental control ratings and rating service, and if pay-per-view programming, its price.
In FIG. 12, the user has used the cursor keys so that the channel button for channel DTH 963 is highlighted. This channel button is fabled with a legend "DTH 963". With this channel button highlighted, the user may actuate an info key on the remote control in order to obtain additional information from respective data in the information guide data. When the user actuates the info key on the remote control, a pop up window appears in image area 40 with the additional information displayed. The additional information may be any I s information related to the channel, for example, call sign, channel number, network affiliation, frequency is applicable, premium status and costs, private status as in video conferencing, and any other channel wide related information.
In FIG. 13, the user has used the cursor keys so that the program button for "The Three Hearts" program on channel KTLA 899 at 6:30 AM is 2o highlighted. Before highlighting, this program button displayed the title legend in a contrasting color so that the user knows that this is a pay-per-view program.
Now with this program button highlighted, when the user actuates the select key on the remote control, a pop up window appears in image area 40 with a prompt to enter a pay-per-view password.
25 Having described preferred embodiments of a novel interface controller for an electronic programming guide (which are intended to be illustrative and not limiting), it is noted that modifications and variations can be made by persons skilled in the art in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that changes may be made in the particular embodiments of the 3o invention disclosed which are within the scope and spirit of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
Having thus described the invention with the details and particularity required by the patent laws, what is claimed and desired protected by Letters Patent is set forth in the appended claims.
Claims (36)
1. A television information system comprising:
a remote control including a select key and a plurality of cursor keys, the plurality of cursor keys including up, down, left and right keys;
and a processor to send to an associated display device one of a television signal and an information guide signal, the information guide signal causing a displayed image to have a plurality of software buttons, the processor preparing the information guide signal.
a remote control including a select key and a plurality of cursor keys, the plurality of cursor keys including up, down, left and right keys;
and a processor to send to an associated display device one of a television signal and an information guide signal, the information guide signal causing a displayed image to have a plurality of software buttons, the processor preparing the information guide signal.
2 ~2. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the plurality of software buttons includes an exit button;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to display the information guide signal when the processor is sending the television signal to the associated display device and the select key is actuated, the module setting the highlight on the exit button when the information guide signal is initially displayed.
the plurality of software buttons includes an exit button;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to display the information guide signal when the processor is sending the television signal to the associated display device and the select key is actuated, the module setting the highlight on the exit button when the information guide signal is initially displayed.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the plurality of software buttons includes an exit button;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to display the television signal when the processor is sending the information guide signal to the associated display device and the exit button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
the plurality of software buttons includes an exit button;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to display the television signal when the processor is sending the information guide signal to the associated display device and the exit button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein to software buttons includes four time buttons and six channel buttons.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the software buttons include a plurality of program buttons;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to select a first program, the module to select a first program generating a pop up window when the first program is characterized by a start time after a current time, the pop up window displaying a prompt to request a user to select one of record the program and pre-select the program.
the software buttons include a plurality of program buttons;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to select a first program, the module to select a first program generating a pop up window when the first program is characterized by a start time after a current time, the pop up window displaying a prompt to request a user to select one of record the program and pre-select the program.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the module to select a first program includes a sub-module to generate the pop up window when a corresponding first program button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the software buttons include a plurality of program buttons;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to select a first program, the module to select a first program pre-selecting the first program when a recorder interface is absent and when the first program is characterized by a start time after a current time.
the software buttons include a plurality of program buttons;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to select a first program, the module to select a first program pre-selecting the first program when a recorder interface is absent and when the first program is characterized by a start time after a current time.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the software buttons include a channel list button;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to display a preferred channel list when the channel list button is highlighted and the select key is actuated, the module to display a preferred channel list ensuring that the highlight is on the channel list button immediately after the preferred channel list is displayed.
the software buttons include a channel list button;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to display a preferred channel list when the channel list button is highlighted and the select key is actuated, the module to display a preferred channel list ensuring that the highlight is on the channel list button immediately after the preferred channel list is displayed.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein:
the preferred channel list is one list of a plurality of lists, the plurality of lists including an all channels channel list;
the processor further includes a module to display the all channels channel list when the processor is sending the television signal to the associated display device and the select key is actuated.
the preferred channel list is one list of a plurality of lists, the plurality of lists including an all channels channel list;
the processor further includes a module to display the all channels channel list when the processor is sending the television signal to the associated display device and the select key is actuated.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the module to display the all channels channel list includes a sub-module to display the all channels channel list when the preferred channel list is displayed and when the channel list button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
11. The system of claim 8, wherein:
the software buttons include an edit button;
the processor further includes a module to edit the preferred channel list when the edit button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
the software buttons include an edit button;
the processor further includes a module to edit the preferred channel list when the edit button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
12. The system of claim 11, wherein the module to edit the preferred channel list includes a first sub-module to generate a pop up window when the preferred channel list is displayed and the edit button is highlighted and the select key is actuated, the pop up window displaying a prompt to request a user to enter a password.
13. The system of claim 12, wherein:
the software buttons include channel buttons;
the module to edit the preferred channel list further includes a second sub-module to display channels corresponding to the all channels channel list, channel buttons that do not correspond to channels of the preferred channel list being displayed as shaded buttons.
the software buttons include channel buttons;
the module to edit the preferred channel list further includes a second sub-module to display channels corresponding to the all channels channel list, channel buttons that do not correspond to channels of the preferred channel list being displayed as shaded buttons.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the processor further includes a module to add a channel to the preferred channel list when a corresponding channel button is shaded and highlighted and the select key is actuated.
15. The system of claim 13, wherein the processor further includes a module to remove a channel from the preferred channel list when a corresponding channel button is unshaded and highlighted and the select key is actuated.
16. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor further includes a module to display a current major theme, the current major theme being one of a list of major themes.
17. The system of claim 16, wherein:
the software buttons include a theme button;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the module to display a current major theme includes a first sub-module to index to a next listed major theme when the theme button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
the software buttons include a theme button;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the module to display a current major theme includes a first sub-module to index to a next listed major theme when the theme button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the module to display a current major theme further includes a second sub-module to ensure that the highlight is on the theme button immediately after the module is indexed to the next listed major theme.
19. The system of claim 17, wherein:
the software buttons include a current theme button;
the module to display a current major theme further includes a second sub-module to display the current major theme on the current theme button.
the software buttons include a current theme button;
the module to display a current major theme further includes a second sub-module to display the current major theme on the current theme button.
20. The system of claim 19, wherein the processor further includes a module to select the current major theme that is displayed on the current theme button when the current theme button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
21. The system of claim 20, wherein:
a list of minor themes is associated with the selected major theme;
the processor further includes a module to display a current minor theme when a corresponding major theme has been selected, the current minor theme being one of a list of minor themes.
a list of minor themes is associated with the selected major theme;
the processor further includes a module to display a current minor theme when a corresponding major theme has been selected, the current minor theme being one of a list of minor themes.
22. The system of claim 21, wherein:
the module to display a current minor theme includes a first sub-module to index to a next listed minor theme when the theme button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
the module to display a current minor theme includes a first sub-module to index to a next listed minor theme when the theme button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
23. The system of claim 22, wherein the module to display a current minor theme further includes a second sub-module to ensure that the highlight is on the theme button immediately after the module is indexed to the next listed minor theme.
24. The system of claim 22, wherein the module to display a current minor theme further includes a second sub-module to display the current minor theme on the current theme button.
25. The system of claim 24, wherein the processor further includes a module to select the current minor theme that is displayed on the current theme button when the current theme button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
26. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the remote control further includes an info key;
the software buttons include a plurality of program buttons;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to generate a pop up window when a first program button is highlighted and the info key is actuated, the pop up window displaying additional information about a program identified by the first program button.
the remote control further includes an info key;
the software buttons include a plurality of program buttons;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to generate a pop up window when a first program button is highlighted and the info key is actuated, the pop up window displaying additional information about a program identified by the first program button.
27. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the remote control further includes an info key;
the software buttons include a plurality of channel buttons;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to generate a pop up window when a first channel button is highlighted and the info key is actuated, the pop up window displaying additional information about a channel identified by the first channel button.
the remote control further includes an info key;
the software buttons include a plurality of channel buttons;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to generate a pop up window when a first channel button is highlighted and the info key is actuated, the pop up window displaying additional information about a channel identified by the first channel button.
28. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the software buttons include a plurality of program buttons, a first program button corresponding to a pay-per-view program;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to generate a pop up window when the first program button is highlighted and the select key is actuated, the pop up window displaying a prompt to request a user to enter a password.
the software buttons include a plurality of program buttons, a first program button corresponding to a pay-per-view program;
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the processor further includes a module to move the highlight among the software buttons according to actuations of the cursor keys;
the processor further includes a module to generate a pop up window when the first program button is highlighted and the select key is actuated, the pop up window displaying a prompt to request a user to enter a password.
29. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the software buttons include a plurality of program buttons, a first program button corresponding to a pay-per-view program;
the processor includes a module to display the program buttons so that the first button is shaded differently than other buttons of the plurality of program buttons to identify the pay-per-view program.
the software buttons include a plurality of program buttons, a first program button corresponding to a pay-per-view program;
the processor includes a module to display the program buttons so that the first button is shaded differently than other buttons of the plurality of program buttons to identify the pay-per-view program.
30. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor includes a module to generate a pop up window, the pop up window displaying a prompt to request a user to enter a password.
31. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the software buttons include programmble function buttons, each programmable function button corresponding to a respective programmable function and includes a legend displayed thereon;
the processor includes a module to perform a first programmble function when a first programmable function button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
the software buttons include programmble function buttons, each programmable function button corresponding to a respective programmable function and includes a legend displayed thereon;
the processor includes a module to perform a first programmble function when a first programmable function button is highlighted and the select key is actuated.
32. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the remote control includes an info key;
the software buttons include information buttons, each information button corresponding to respective information in an information guide and including a limited legend displayed thereon;
additional information on a first information button is displayed in a pop up window when the first information button is highlighted and the info key is actuated.
the remote control includes an info key;
the software buttons include information buttons, each information button corresponding to respective information in an information guide and including a limited legend displayed thereon;
additional information on a first information button is displayed in a pop up window when the first information button is highlighted and the info key is actuated.
33. The system of claim 1, wherein:
an information guide includes information ordered by time and ordered by channel;
the processor includes a module to prepare the information guide signal from the information guide, the information guide signal including information about a first sub-plurality of time intervals in a first sub-plurality of channels, the plurality of software buttons including program buttons corresponding to the first sub-plurality of channels during the first sub-plurality of time intervals.
an information guide includes information ordered by time and ordered by channel;
the processor includes a module to prepare the information guide signal from the information guide, the information guide signal including information about a first sub-plurality of time intervals in a first sub-plurality of channels, the plurality of software buttons including program buttons corresponding to the first sub-plurality of channels during the first sub-plurality of time intervals.
34. The system of claim 1, wherein:
an information guide includes information ordered by channel;
the processor includes a module to prepare the information guide signal from the information guide, the information guide signal including information about a first sub-plurality of channels, the plurality of software buttons including channel buttons corresponding to the first sub-plurality of channels.
an information guide includes information ordered by channel;
the processor includes a module to prepare the information guide signal from the information guide, the information guide signal including information about a first sub-plurality of channels, the plurality of software buttons including channel buttons corresponding to the first sub-plurality of channels.
35. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the plurality of software buttons are organized in rows, the rows including top and bottom rows;
an information guide includes information ordered by channel;
the processor includes a module to prepare the information guide signal from the information guide, the information guide signal including information about a first sub-plurality of channels;
the processor module to prepare the information guide signal includes a refresh module to re-prepare the information guide signal to include information about a second sub-plurality of channels when one of (1) the highlighted software button is a button in the top row of buttons and the cursor up key is actuated, and (2) the highlighted software button is a button in the bottom row of buttons and the cursor down key is actuated.
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the plurality of software buttons are organized in rows, the rows including top and bottom rows;
an information guide includes information ordered by channel;
the processor includes a module to prepare the information guide signal from the information guide, the information guide signal including information about a first sub-plurality of channels;
the processor module to prepare the information guide signal includes a refresh module to re-prepare the information guide signal to include information about a second sub-plurality of channels when one of (1) the highlighted software button is a button in the top row of buttons and the cursor up key is actuated, and (2) the highlighted software button is a button in the bottom row of buttons and the cursor down key is actuated.
36. The system of claim 1, wherein:
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the plurality of software buttons are organized in columns, the columns including left and right extreme columns;
an information guide includes information ordered by time;
the processor includes a module to prepare the information guide signal from the information guide, the information guide signal including information about a first sub-plurality of time intervals;
the processor module to prepare the information guide signal includes a refresh module to re-prepare the information guide signal to include information about a second sub-plurality of time intervals when one of (1) the highlighted software button is a button in the left extreme column of buttons and the cursor left key is actuated, and (2) the highlighted software button is a button in the right extreme column of buttons and the cursor right key is actuated.
the processor includes a module to display a highlight on one of the software buttons;
the plurality of software buttons are organized in columns, the columns including left and right extreme columns;
an information guide includes information ordered by time;
the processor includes a module to prepare the information guide signal from the information guide, the information guide signal including information about a first sub-plurality of time intervals;
the processor module to prepare the information guide signal includes a refresh module to re-prepare the information guide signal to include information about a second sub-plurality of time intervals when one of (1) the highlighted software button is a button in the left extreme column of buttons and the cursor left key is actuated, and (2) the highlighted software button is a button in the right extreme column of buttons and the cursor right key is actuated.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US5319698A | 1998-04-01 | 1998-04-01 | |
| US09/053,196 | 1998-04-01 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2267695A1 true CA2267695A1 (en) | 1999-10-01 |
Family
ID=29709187
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002267695A Abandoned CA2267695A1 (en) | 1998-04-01 | 1999-03-31 | Interface controller for electronic programming guide |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2267695A1 (en) |
-
1999
- 1999-03-31 CA CA002267695A patent/CA2267695A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued | ||
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20030331 |