CA2340982A1 - Method and apparatus for electronic distribution of digital multi-media information - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for electronic distribution of digital multi-media information Download PDFInfo
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Abstract
A system and methodology for automatically organizing, managing, and distributing digital multi-media information without the negative artifacts which are normally introduced when electronically distributing digitally compressed data and information which contains still images, moving images and sound. Object descriptor fields define the actual multi-media object and its relative mixture of digitized audio, video, text and picture content. Multi-media information packets and segments descriptors are transmitted over available transmission system architectures.
Description
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ELECTRONIC DISTRIBUTION OF DIGITAL
MULTI-MEDIA INFORMATION
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is a system and methodology for automatically organizing, managing, and distributing digital mufti-media information without the negative artifacts which are normally introduced when electronically distributing digitally compressed data and information which contains still images, moving images and sound. This type of digitized information, when stored, and particularly when transmitted between multiple locations, must be compressed due to the large amounts of storage space and transmission bandwidth or transmission time which would be needed if the information were transmitted in its uncompressed form. further, due to compression algorithms usually employed, a significant loss of data is experienced each time the data is compressed, decompressed and then compressed again for transmission to another location. Such multiple compression and decompression cycles are frequently encountered when digitally encoding and electronically transmitting digitized audio, digitized pictures, and digitized video in environments such as syndicated radio transmissions, syndicated video transmissions, digitized training materials, digitized distance learning materials, digitized audio and video advertising material distribution, digitized music distribution, and digitized data transmissions.
The invention system is used to package and assist in production and electronic distribution of pre-produced mufti-media informatior; into digital packets or segments of varying file lengths with defined start and end points. The segmentation is done for the purpose of delivering the information in usable and interactive mufti-media segments and for subsequently electronically transmitting the information packets to remotely located multi-media receiving and recording stations which include hardware and software specifically adapted to be used as part of the invented system. Each segment of mufti-media information is identified with separate alpha-numeric and binary coded data fields which are organized into multimedia "object descriptors" and mufti-media "segment descriptions".
Object descriptor fields define the actual mufti-media object and its relative mixture of digitized audio, video, text, and picture content its life span for use, date and time release information for use, killdate, and file sizes. The "segment descriptor" information packet identifies the starting point of the segment, the ending point of the segment, the segment title and related information namely the type and configuration of each mufti-media information segment (for example: each produced mufti-media segment can consist of any combination of or exclusively of any single digitized information element such as digitized audio, digitized text, digitized pictures, digitized data, and/or digitized video). "Segment descriptors" also generate specific information relating to the mufti-media segments for transmission and later use. "Segment Descriptors" are used to define the length of the segment in bits, kilobits, megabits or gigabits, as appropriate and the mufti-media information segments content, i.e.
what combination of audio, video, pictures, data, and text is included in the segments. The mull-media information packets and segments descriptors are transmitted over available transmission system architectures such as satellites, fiber optic, cable and terrestrial wireless and wired circuits.
Optionally, the transmission and reception system bandwidth and speed of transmission requirements can be scaled automatically using the multiplexor 51, network segment producer 27, and local segment producer 21 to software configure and scale the data rate of the transmitting modem 31 and the receiving modem 55 is automatically bandwidth scaled with data from the command control information processor 35. This feature and invention permits system users to accommodate varying types of mufti-media information for a low cost distribution, by the automated bandwidth, on-demand transmission scheme. This software configurable bandwidth on-demand feature permits many types of mufti-media and data producers to utilize the same hardware, software and telecommunications system configurations cost effectively. For example one mufti-media segment producer might use full motion MPEG video, MPEG audio, text, and pictures requiring a digital transmission speed of between 1.5 and 6.0 megabits per second whereas another mufti-media segment producer might only use MPEG audio, text, and pictures, requiring a transmission speed of 128 kilobits per second for real time transmission. The described invention permits both producers to utilize the same hardware, sofrware, and telecommunications systems without introducing technological obsolescence.
The segmented mufti-media information is transmitted to remotely and geographically dispersed receiving stations which then store the information onto conventional computer storage media such as magnetic or optical hard disk for later playback.
Additional commands can be delivered to the remote devices at the receiving stations which cause the remote devices to operate in either an unattended operation mode to play the stored files at a predetermined times and in a pre-arranged sequence or at convenient local time by interaction with a local user.
The invented system reduces negative artifacts which when introduced, accumulate and degrade or even destroy the integrity and quality of mufti-media information which is electronically distributed using conventional distribution systems. The negative artifacts are normally introduced into such distribution systems during a process called "transcoding" or "stacked coding" which is the by-product process where digitally compressed mufti-media information is encoded, compressed and then decoded and restored to baseband digital information multiple times in the process of preparing the infonmation for transmission, the transmission itself, and the reception and recording or storage of the data.
In a typical digital distribution system, the need to transfer digital multi-media information occurs several times and at several points in the transmission path.
The invented system has application whenever instant electronic distribution of digital information is required or desired including radio network program distribution, advertising distribution, music distribution, video distribution, newsletter distribution, training material distribution, newspaper distribution, and other electronic distribution of information in areas such as home schooling and remote business training.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a block overview diagram showing the elements of the invented system.
Figure 2a is block diagram showing some of the functions performed by network segment producer 27.
Figure 2b is a flowchart of a computer program which performs the remaining functions performed by the network segment producer 27, and segment producer 21.
Figure 3 is a flowchart of a computer program used to illustrate a software implementation of control signal generator 23.
Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functions performed by data input and splitter 33.
Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the functions performed by command control and information processor 35.
Figure 6 is a block diagram of the serial data interface card which performs the function of processing the data and delivering the data for the remote data record, store and playback device 37.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Figure 1 is an overall block diagram showing the various components which may be utilized to organize, manage, and to distribute mufti-media information using the invented system. Digitally encoded information is first produced and processed using digital audio/video components such as a word processor which outputs digitized text 11, e. g. , an ASCII file created by a word processor or the like; a scanner 13 such as a commercially available Hewlett Packard scanner for creating digitized picture and line art files. , Scanned information 13 is compressed using a commercially available compression product 17 such as an Iterated Technologies Fractel Geometry (Trade-mark) plug in PC circuit card and related commercially available software. The digitized audio information 15 is likewise compressed using a compression product 19 for audio such as CCS CDQ 2000 (Trade-mark) or Antex SX-23E MPEG (Trade-mark) PC plug in circuit card (depending on the type of audio compression desired i.e. Dolby (Trade-mark), MUSICAM
(Trade-mark), Apt X (Trademark)). The digitized video information 25 is likewise compressed using a compression product 29, such as Intel Indeco (Trade-mark) PC plug in card, Microsoft (Trade-mark) for Windows (Trade-mark) video plug in card, standard MPEG I or II video plug in cards or similar (depending on the type of video compression desired). The local segment producer 21 is a conventional 486 33 MHz personal computer. It first receives digitized and compressed multimedia input from 17, 19, and 29. This digitized information is organized and managed by software on local segment producer 21 to supply this multi media information data to the file server 41 which stores the multi-media information as files.
Additionally, the local segment producer 21 generates "object descriptor" and "segment descriptor" data fields in the form of software database records and also stores these on the file server 41 for the purpose of automatically software configuring the transmission system for bandwidth control, transmission scheduling, and the automated remote control of receiving devices using data input 55, 33, coamaand control and information processor 35, and data record, store and playback device 37. These data base records are the basis of the actual "object descriptor" and "segment descriptor" data "field" which are transmitted by the network segment producer 27. These files are later processed by the command control and information processor 35 at the remote receiving site to cause the multimedia information segments to be automatically digitally recorded or played on record, store and playback device 37.
Previously produced multi-media material or information is digitally stored at the multi-media file server 41 which is a commercially available 486 66 MHz personal computer which is configured with a high capacity SCSI digital read write data storage. This file server 41 is digitally linked by a commercially available Novell (Trade-mark) networking software and hardware 45 to the local segment producer 21 and network segment producer 27 and remote gateway 39.
In addition to receiving the digitized text, scanned information and digitized audio/video information (i.e., the mufti-media information), digital signal multiplexor 51 also receives a data field "object descriptor" and "segment descriptor" from control signal generator 23, and a bandwidth on demand requirements signal from network segment producer 27 which is used to automatically scale the transmitting modem 31 and receiving modem 55. The digital encoder/multiplexor 51 combines the serial mufti-media information data stream generated by the network segment producer 27 with the control information data stream generated by the control signal generator 23 and digital transmission bandwidth sealing data which is also applied to the modem 31. For purposes of audio, text and picture transmission at data rates of up to 512 kbits/sec a ComStream DAC 700 (Trade-mark) unit can be used for this encoding and multiplexing. For purposes of the higher bandwidth requirements (greater than 512 kbits) a ComStream CDM 101 (Trade-mark) will serve as encoder/multiplexor 51.
The remote telecommunications gateway 39 and remote segment producer 43 act in concert as a remotely located version of the local segment producer 21 and duplicate its functions exactly. Digitized and compressed audio 15, 19, pictures 13, 17, text 11, and video 25, 29 are assembled organized and managed through software in the remote segment producer 43 much as they are in local segment producer. The remote segment producer 43 delivers multi-media data files to the file server 41 through a common connection to the Novell (Trade-mark) Network by way of conventional ISDN lines. switch 56 lines, dial up telephone lines, T-1 and fractional T-1 line, and/or duplex satellite links. This remote segment producer unit permits field multi-media producers to deliver and distribute their produced material to a network of users who are receiving and remotely recording data on devices consisting of units 55-, 33, 35, and 37.
The base band serial data stream which is comprised of compressed multi-media information data and "object descriptor" and "segment descriptor" data is provided to a transmitting modem 31 which is also a commercially available product, such as a ComStream CM 701 (Trade-mark) for satellite, SA and GRI modulators for cable, and other commercially available modulators, which receives the digitized band composite serial bit stream information and converts it to a form suitable for transmission by satellite, wired terrestrial communication wireless terrestrial communication, microwave or cable to a remote station.
At the remote mufti-media receiving station, the transmitted information is received by another modem 55 which converts the received data back to its original baseband form, without loss, which serial baseband data is then passed to data input and splitter 33. Data input and splitter 33 splits the data into two parts, passing one part to command control information processor 35 and the other part consisting of the actual mufti-media information to data record, stored and playback device 37. Command control and information processor 35 extracts the control data information i.e. "object descriptors" and "segment descriptor" data field component of the signal for processing by a specially equipped 486 33 MHz personal computer. Data record, stored and playback device 37 is a 486 33 MHz personal computer configured with software and hardware to record, store interactively and play back the multi-media information based on commands contained in the object and segment descriptor data field. In one embodiment of the invention, a return link 53 is provided to send confirmation and error conditions generated by data record, store and playback device 8a 37 to network segment producer 21 at the originating station.
This low data rate return link 53 operates from 2.4 kbits/sec to 128kbits/sec bi-directional and will be used with software to generate performance and use affidavits about remote user access to distributed mufti-media information and for these same end users to request the automatic electronic transmission of previously produced digitized mufti-media segments to their individually addressed remote recording unit.
The elements of Figure 1 which are unique to the present invention are local segment producer 21, network segment producer 27, remote segment producer 43, data input and splitter 33, commas control and information processor 35, and the software/hardware of configuration data record, store and playback device 37, and the automated software/hardware scalable bandwidth on demand system. Implementation details regarding the foregoing components will now be described with reference to Figures 2-6.
Digital network segment producer 27 produces packetized mufti-media information data files which are created using existing technology using well-known techniques, which data files are multiplexed with alpha-numeric encoded and binary encoded command codes.
These command codes are used to automatically control the recording and storing of the mufti-media information data files at remote geographically dispersed locations. By having command codes which are multiplexed with the data files rather than transmitted as separate data files, and by using the methods and systems of the present invention, the electronic distribution of the mufti-media information is accomplished without transcoding or degrading the quality and integrity of the mufti-media data and without requiring additional telecommunication channels.
For the most part, the various system components utilized to produce the encoded functional commands and provide the required multiplexing of commands with data and subsequent processing of the encoded commands utilize readily available personal computer platforms equipped with interface cards and software which provide the required functionality .
Local and segment producer 21 received as inputs digitized text 11, digitized audio/video 15 and video 25, scanned output from compression device using software, local segment producer 21 from multi-media information into data files, assemble generates "object descriptor" and "segment descriptor" data record field for the database. This information from local segment producer 21 is conveyed to the mufti-media file server 41 for temporary storage and subsequent transmission as controlled by the network segment producer 27. The network segment producer 27 may also receive a feedback signal 53 from data record, store and playback device 37 as a remote location. Network segment producer 27 uses the serial data inputs from the file server 41, noted above and data from optional return link 53, to create a record containing the object and segment descriptor data field with functional control information and information about the mufti-media file which is then multiplexed with the actual mufti-media information file which contains the mufti-media information from devices 15 and 17 and digitized text 11. Network segment producer 27 then processes and creates segments of mufti-media information which are to be transmitted. Each segment has a data field containing the object and segment descriptor, i.e., functional control information and information about the file, in addition to the data field containing the actual mufti-media information. The number of segments produced depends upon the quantity of data to be transmitted, but each segment has a descriptor field portion and a data information portion, i.e., object and segment descriptor, header information multiplexed with the multimedia data information.
Referring now to Figures 2a and 2b, details regarding the processing of the inputs to digital signal multiplexor and segment producer 21 are as follows. Figure 2a is block diagram showing some of the functions performed by digital signal multiplexor and segment producer 21.
The user interface 27a allows an operator to identify and interact with the function of the network segment producer. The interface identifies the segment being dispatched, the number of elements waiting to be dispatched, the number of elements waiting to be dispatched and the number of times each element has been dispatched. The user interface is not critical to the operation of the network segment producer.
The database manager 27b is responsible for managing information concerning the segments which are stored on the multimedia file server. The database contains such information as segment name, date of creation, size, destination, etc.
The multimedia segment dispatcher 27c is responsible for assembling a list of segments which need to be dispatched or transmitted and selecting the next segment which needs to be dispatched. The list is assembled from existing segments which have been stored on the multimedia file server identified in the multimedia database 41, in addition to new segments which are introduced by of the local segment producers. The multimedia segment dispatcher selects a single segment to be transmitted based upon the relative urgency of all of the segments which need to be transmitted.
The control relay generator 27d identifies and delimits the beginning and end of segments which are transmitted by the multimedia data formatter. Specifically, the control relay generator provides synchronized relay contact closures with the beginning and end of the segment transmission. In addition, the multimedia data formatter generates control information (based upon the multimedia database) which identifies and announces each segments before it is transmitted.
Figure 2b is a flowchart of a computer program which performs the remaining functions performed by network and segment producer 27.
The network segment producer is responsible for retrieving segments from the multimedia file server, and transmitting them to the encoder multiplexed. This task is accomplished as follows:
Based upon the segments which exists on the multimedia file server, build a list of segments which need to be transmitted. Prioritize the list considering the age of each segment, the number of times the segment has been transmitted previously, etc.
Select the most urgent segment to transmit.
Transmit the segment header information detailing the segment name, size, creation, etc.
Simultaneously activate a control relay (indicating the start of the segment) and begin transmitting the segment. As the end of the segment, activate a control relay (indicating the end of the segment).
The process is repeated by selecting and transmitting the next segment.
In cases where the low data' rate feedback signal 53 is provided between a remote station and the network segment producer 27, the data signal multiplexor 51 and network segment producer 27 will process information and will software "reconfigure"
subgroups of networks created by database on and ad hoc basis to activate only those data units which require specially requested or privately transmitted mufti-media files. Feeds of this nature will use embedded alpha numeric permissioning codes in the remote units to initiate private reception and storage of this data.
Control signal generator 23 is typically implemented using a computer program which generates a command code, such as two ASCII characters which are used by the data record, store and playback device 37 at the remote station to:
1 ) begin recording or storing a transmitted file in its original data format;
2) confirm receipt of the transmitted data files;
3) end recording or storage of a transmitted file;
MULTI-MEDIA INFORMATION
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is a system and methodology for automatically organizing, managing, and distributing digital mufti-media information without the negative artifacts which are normally introduced when electronically distributing digitally compressed data and information which contains still images, moving images and sound. This type of digitized information, when stored, and particularly when transmitted between multiple locations, must be compressed due to the large amounts of storage space and transmission bandwidth or transmission time which would be needed if the information were transmitted in its uncompressed form. further, due to compression algorithms usually employed, a significant loss of data is experienced each time the data is compressed, decompressed and then compressed again for transmission to another location. Such multiple compression and decompression cycles are frequently encountered when digitally encoding and electronically transmitting digitized audio, digitized pictures, and digitized video in environments such as syndicated radio transmissions, syndicated video transmissions, digitized training materials, digitized distance learning materials, digitized audio and video advertising material distribution, digitized music distribution, and digitized data transmissions.
The invention system is used to package and assist in production and electronic distribution of pre-produced mufti-media informatior; into digital packets or segments of varying file lengths with defined start and end points. The segmentation is done for the purpose of delivering the information in usable and interactive mufti-media segments and for subsequently electronically transmitting the information packets to remotely located multi-media receiving and recording stations which include hardware and software specifically adapted to be used as part of the invented system. Each segment of mufti-media information is identified with separate alpha-numeric and binary coded data fields which are organized into multimedia "object descriptors" and mufti-media "segment descriptions".
Object descriptor fields define the actual mufti-media object and its relative mixture of digitized audio, video, text, and picture content its life span for use, date and time release information for use, killdate, and file sizes. The "segment descriptor" information packet identifies the starting point of the segment, the ending point of the segment, the segment title and related information namely the type and configuration of each mufti-media information segment (for example: each produced mufti-media segment can consist of any combination of or exclusively of any single digitized information element such as digitized audio, digitized text, digitized pictures, digitized data, and/or digitized video). "Segment descriptors" also generate specific information relating to the mufti-media segments for transmission and later use. "Segment Descriptors" are used to define the length of the segment in bits, kilobits, megabits or gigabits, as appropriate and the mufti-media information segments content, i.e.
what combination of audio, video, pictures, data, and text is included in the segments. The mull-media information packets and segments descriptors are transmitted over available transmission system architectures such as satellites, fiber optic, cable and terrestrial wireless and wired circuits.
Optionally, the transmission and reception system bandwidth and speed of transmission requirements can be scaled automatically using the multiplexor 51, network segment producer 27, and local segment producer 21 to software configure and scale the data rate of the transmitting modem 31 and the receiving modem 55 is automatically bandwidth scaled with data from the command control information processor 35. This feature and invention permits system users to accommodate varying types of mufti-media information for a low cost distribution, by the automated bandwidth, on-demand transmission scheme. This software configurable bandwidth on-demand feature permits many types of mufti-media and data producers to utilize the same hardware, software and telecommunications system configurations cost effectively. For example one mufti-media segment producer might use full motion MPEG video, MPEG audio, text, and pictures requiring a digital transmission speed of between 1.5 and 6.0 megabits per second whereas another mufti-media segment producer might only use MPEG audio, text, and pictures, requiring a transmission speed of 128 kilobits per second for real time transmission. The described invention permits both producers to utilize the same hardware, sofrware, and telecommunications systems without introducing technological obsolescence.
The segmented mufti-media information is transmitted to remotely and geographically dispersed receiving stations which then store the information onto conventional computer storage media such as magnetic or optical hard disk for later playback.
Additional commands can be delivered to the remote devices at the receiving stations which cause the remote devices to operate in either an unattended operation mode to play the stored files at a predetermined times and in a pre-arranged sequence or at convenient local time by interaction with a local user.
The invented system reduces negative artifacts which when introduced, accumulate and degrade or even destroy the integrity and quality of mufti-media information which is electronically distributed using conventional distribution systems. The negative artifacts are normally introduced into such distribution systems during a process called "transcoding" or "stacked coding" which is the by-product process where digitally compressed mufti-media information is encoded, compressed and then decoded and restored to baseband digital information multiple times in the process of preparing the infonmation for transmission, the transmission itself, and the reception and recording or storage of the data.
In a typical digital distribution system, the need to transfer digital multi-media information occurs several times and at several points in the transmission path.
The invented system has application whenever instant electronic distribution of digital information is required or desired including radio network program distribution, advertising distribution, music distribution, video distribution, newsletter distribution, training material distribution, newspaper distribution, and other electronic distribution of information in areas such as home schooling and remote business training.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a block overview diagram showing the elements of the invented system.
Figure 2a is block diagram showing some of the functions performed by network segment producer 27.
Figure 2b is a flowchart of a computer program which performs the remaining functions performed by the network segment producer 27, and segment producer 21.
Figure 3 is a flowchart of a computer program used to illustrate a software implementation of control signal generator 23.
Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functions performed by data input and splitter 33.
Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the functions performed by command control and information processor 35.
Figure 6 is a block diagram of the serial data interface card which performs the function of processing the data and delivering the data for the remote data record, store and playback device 37.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Figure 1 is an overall block diagram showing the various components which may be utilized to organize, manage, and to distribute mufti-media information using the invented system. Digitally encoded information is first produced and processed using digital audio/video components such as a word processor which outputs digitized text 11, e. g. , an ASCII file created by a word processor or the like; a scanner 13 such as a commercially available Hewlett Packard scanner for creating digitized picture and line art files. , Scanned information 13 is compressed using a commercially available compression product 17 such as an Iterated Technologies Fractel Geometry (Trade-mark) plug in PC circuit card and related commercially available software. The digitized audio information 15 is likewise compressed using a compression product 19 for audio such as CCS CDQ 2000 (Trade-mark) or Antex SX-23E MPEG (Trade-mark) PC plug in circuit card (depending on the type of audio compression desired i.e. Dolby (Trade-mark), MUSICAM
(Trade-mark), Apt X (Trademark)). The digitized video information 25 is likewise compressed using a compression product 29, such as Intel Indeco (Trade-mark) PC plug in card, Microsoft (Trade-mark) for Windows (Trade-mark) video plug in card, standard MPEG I or II video plug in cards or similar (depending on the type of video compression desired). The local segment producer 21 is a conventional 486 33 MHz personal computer. It first receives digitized and compressed multimedia input from 17, 19, and 29. This digitized information is organized and managed by software on local segment producer 21 to supply this multi media information data to the file server 41 which stores the multi-media information as files.
Additionally, the local segment producer 21 generates "object descriptor" and "segment descriptor" data fields in the form of software database records and also stores these on the file server 41 for the purpose of automatically software configuring the transmission system for bandwidth control, transmission scheduling, and the automated remote control of receiving devices using data input 55, 33, coamaand control and information processor 35, and data record, store and playback device 37. These data base records are the basis of the actual "object descriptor" and "segment descriptor" data "field" which are transmitted by the network segment producer 27. These files are later processed by the command control and information processor 35 at the remote receiving site to cause the multimedia information segments to be automatically digitally recorded or played on record, store and playback device 37.
Previously produced multi-media material or information is digitally stored at the multi-media file server 41 which is a commercially available 486 66 MHz personal computer which is configured with a high capacity SCSI digital read write data storage. This file server 41 is digitally linked by a commercially available Novell (Trade-mark) networking software and hardware 45 to the local segment producer 21 and network segment producer 27 and remote gateway 39.
In addition to receiving the digitized text, scanned information and digitized audio/video information (i.e., the mufti-media information), digital signal multiplexor 51 also receives a data field "object descriptor" and "segment descriptor" from control signal generator 23, and a bandwidth on demand requirements signal from network segment producer 27 which is used to automatically scale the transmitting modem 31 and receiving modem 55. The digital encoder/multiplexor 51 combines the serial mufti-media information data stream generated by the network segment producer 27 with the control information data stream generated by the control signal generator 23 and digital transmission bandwidth sealing data which is also applied to the modem 31. For purposes of audio, text and picture transmission at data rates of up to 512 kbits/sec a ComStream DAC 700 (Trade-mark) unit can be used for this encoding and multiplexing. For purposes of the higher bandwidth requirements (greater than 512 kbits) a ComStream CDM 101 (Trade-mark) will serve as encoder/multiplexor 51.
The remote telecommunications gateway 39 and remote segment producer 43 act in concert as a remotely located version of the local segment producer 21 and duplicate its functions exactly. Digitized and compressed audio 15, 19, pictures 13, 17, text 11, and video 25, 29 are assembled organized and managed through software in the remote segment producer 43 much as they are in local segment producer. The remote segment producer 43 delivers multi-media data files to the file server 41 through a common connection to the Novell (Trade-mark) Network by way of conventional ISDN lines. switch 56 lines, dial up telephone lines, T-1 and fractional T-1 line, and/or duplex satellite links. This remote segment producer unit permits field multi-media producers to deliver and distribute their produced material to a network of users who are receiving and remotely recording data on devices consisting of units 55-, 33, 35, and 37.
The base band serial data stream which is comprised of compressed multi-media information data and "object descriptor" and "segment descriptor" data is provided to a transmitting modem 31 which is also a commercially available product, such as a ComStream CM 701 (Trade-mark) for satellite, SA and GRI modulators for cable, and other commercially available modulators, which receives the digitized band composite serial bit stream information and converts it to a form suitable for transmission by satellite, wired terrestrial communication wireless terrestrial communication, microwave or cable to a remote station.
At the remote mufti-media receiving station, the transmitted information is received by another modem 55 which converts the received data back to its original baseband form, without loss, which serial baseband data is then passed to data input and splitter 33. Data input and splitter 33 splits the data into two parts, passing one part to command control information processor 35 and the other part consisting of the actual mufti-media information to data record, stored and playback device 37. Command control and information processor 35 extracts the control data information i.e. "object descriptors" and "segment descriptor" data field component of the signal for processing by a specially equipped 486 33 MHz personal computer. Data record, stored and playback device 37 is a 486 33 MHz personal computer configured with software and hardware to record, store interactively and play back the multi-media information based on commands contained in the object and segment descriptor data field. In one embodiment of the invention, a return link 53 is provided to send confirmation and error conditions generated by data record, store and playback device 8a 37 to network segment producer 21 at the originating station.
This low data rate return link 53 operates from 2.4 kbits/sec to 128kbits/sec bi-directional and will be used with software to generate performance and use affidavits about remote user access to distributed mufti-media information and for these same end users to request the automatic electronic transmission of previously produced digitized mufti-media segments to their individually addressed remote recording unit.
The elements of Figure 1 which are unique to the present invention are local segment producer 21, network segment producer 27, remote segment producer 43, data input and splitter 33, commas control and information processor 35, and the software/hardware of configuration data record, store and playback device 37, and the automated software/hardware scalable bandwidth on demand system. Implementation details regarding the foregoing components will now be described with reference to Figures 2-6.
Digital network segment producer 27 produces packetized mufti-media information data files which are created using existing technology using well-known techniques, which data files are multiplexed with alpha-numeric encoded and binary encoded command codes.
These command codes are used to automatically control the recording and storing of the mufti-media information data files at remote geographically dispersed locations. By having command codes which are multiplexed with the data files rather than transmitted as separate data files, and by using the methods and systems of the present invention, the electronic distribution of the mufti-media information is accomplished without transcoding or degrading the quality and integrity of the mufti-media data and without requiring additional telecommunication channels.
For the most part, the various system components utilized to produce the encoded functional commands and provide the required multiplexing of commands with data and subsequent processing of the encoded commands utilize readily available personal computer platforms equipped with interface cards and software which provide the required functionality .
Local and segment producer 21 received as inputs digitized text 11, digitized audio/video 15 and video 25, scanned output from compression device using software, local segment producer 21 from multi-media information into data files, assemble generates "object descriptor" and "segment descriptor" data record field for the database. This information from local segment producer 21 is conveyed to the mufti-media file server 41 for temporary storage and subsequent transmission as controlled by the network segment producer 27. The network segment producer 27 may also receive a feedback signal 53 from data record, store and playback device 37 as a remote location. Network segment producer 27 uses the serial data inputs from the file server 41, noted above and data from optional return link 53, to create a record containing the object and segment descriptor data field with functional control information and information about the mufti-media file which is then multiplexed with the actual mufti-media information file which contains the mufti-media information from devices 15 and 17 and digitized text 11. Network segment producer 27 then processes and creates segments of mufti-media information which are to be transmitted. Each segment has a data field containing the object and segment descriptor, i.e., functional control information and information about the file, in addition to the data field containing the actual mufti-media information. The number of segments produced depends upon the quantity of data to be transmitted, but each segment has a descriptor field portion and a data information portion, i.e., object and segment descriptor, header information multiplexed with the multimedia data information.
Referring now to Figures 2a and 2b, details regarding the processing of the inputs to digital signal multiplexor and segment producer 21 are as follows. Figure 2a is block diagram showing some of the functions performed by digital signal multiplexor and segment producer 21.
The user interface 27a allows an operator to identify and interact with the function of the network segment producer. The interface identifies the segment being dispatched, the number of elements waiting to be dispatched, the number of elements waiting to be dispatched and the number of times each element has been dispatched. The user interface is not critical to the operation of the network segment producer.
The database manager 27b is responsible for managing information concerning the segments which are stored on the multimedia file server. The database contains such information as segment name, date of creation, size, destination, etc.
The multimedia segment dispatcher 27c is responsible for assembling a list of segments which need to be dispatched or transmitted and selecting the next segment which needs to be dispatched. The list is assembled from existing segments which have been stored on the multimedia file server identified in the multimedia database 41, in addition to new segments which are introduced by of the local segment producers. The multimedia segment dispatcher selects a single segment to be transmitted based upon the relative urgency of all of the segments which need to be transmitted.
The control relay generator 27d identifies and delimits the beginning and end of segments which are transmitted by the multimedia data formatter. Specifically, the control relay generator provides synchronized relay contact closures with the beginning and end of the segment transmission. In addition, the multimedia data formatter generates control information (based upon the multimedia database) which identifies and announces each segments before it is transmitted.
Figure 2b is a flowchart of a computer program which performs the remaining functions performed by network and segment producer 27.
The network segment producer is responsible for retrieving segments from the multimedia file server, and transmitting them to the encoder multiplexed. This task is accomplished as follows:
Based upon the segments which exists on the multimedia file server, build a list of segments which need to be transmitted. Prioritize the list considering the age of each segment, the number of times the segment has been transmitted previously, etc.
Select the most urgent segment to transmit.
Transmit the segment header information detailing the segment name, size, creation, etc.
Simultaneously activate a control relay (indicating the start of the segment) and begin transmitting the segment. As the end of the segment, activate a control relay (indicating the end of the segment).
The process is repeated by selecting and transmitting the next segment.
In cases where the low data' rate feedback signal 53 is provided between a remote station and the network segment producer 27, the data signal multiplexor 51 and network segment producer 27 will process information and will software "reconfigure"
subgroups of networks created by database on and ad hoc basis to activate only those data units which require specially requested or privately transmitted mufti-media files. Feeds of this nature will use embedded alpha numeric permissioning codes in the remote units to initiate private reception and storage of this data.
Control signal generator 23 is typically implemented using a computer program which generates a command code, such as two ASCII characters which are used by the data record, store and playback device 37 at the remote station to:
1 ) begin recording or storing a transmitted file in its original data format;
2) confirm receipt of the transmitted data files;
3) end recording or storage of a transmitted file;
4) erase a file by name and size;
5) begin playing a file by name and size;
6) switch between direct playback of a transmitted file or playback from storage;
and 7) order or reorder a sequence of transmitted files for later playback at predetermined times.
and 7) order or reorder a sequence of transmitted files for later playback at predetermined times.
8) scale receiver bandwidth on demand.
Of course, the particular codes utilized are not important so long as the command control and information processor 25 and data record, store and playback device 37 at the remote station are programmed to recognize the codes and process the information accordingly. Thus, the information which is input by the user and then put into a stream of characters which form the data files and headers are the command code itself, the name of a transmitted file, and the size of the transmitted file.
Figure 3 is a flowchart showing a software implementation of control signal generator 23 files starting point, file ending point, file run time to minutes, file access availability period in days, file killdate, remote screen button location, remote screen button name, multi-media producer's name and related text information which describes the contents of the multi-media file, and transmission bandwidth requirement.
The control signal generator is responsible for transmitting formatted control packets which are comprised of relay control packets and header data packets.
Relay control packets are generated periodically or in direct response to stimulus (contact closures) provided by a network segment producer. The control signal generator will immediately build a relay packet due to a change in relay closures provided by the network segment producer.
Header data packets are generated in response to serial data provided by the network segment producer. The network segment produner generates a header which precedes the transmission of each segment. The header is gathered in by the control signal generated, re-packetized and queued for transmission by the control signal generator.
The packet summer (E) takes relay control packets and header data packets and merges them into a single output stream. Relay control packets have priority over header data packets.
Data input and splitter 33 is implemented as an interface card installed in an expansion slot in a general purpose personal computer such as IBM 386 or compatible. The expansion slot may be any slot suitable for handling a serial data card.
Figure 4 is a detailed block diagram showing the functional blocks of data input and splitter 33. In essence, data input and splitter 33 creates two data paths containing "object descriptor", and "segment descriptor data file" and multi-media information, one of which is input to command control information and information processor 35 and the other of which is input to data record, store and playback device 37. Command control information and processor 35 is another interface card which plugs into an expansion slot of an IBM 386 or compatible personal computer, which operates to separate the functional commands from the received information to produce an output that is the data header generated by control signal generator 23. The data header information and the second data stream from data, input and splitter 33 are input to data record, store and playback device 37 which utilizes the commands from the data header to record and store the mufti-media information input from data input and splitter 33 or for playing back mufti-media information previously stored.
Data record, store and playback device 37 also checks each segment which was received and provided by data input and splitter 33 using a checksum or equivalent technique to ensure that the received packet is the same as the transmitted packet. In the event that a complete and correct file transfer did not occur, an error flag is set which initiates an inquiry to the originating station via a telecommunications channel, dial-up phone line, terrestrial data link or return satellite link. The originating station them retransmits the segment received erroneously as described above.
The data input and splitter is responsible for separating the control information from the segment information. This is accomplished by deframing the incoming data stream, identifying the control information and stripping the control information out of the data stream. The remaining data is provided to the data processor while the control information is sent to the control processor.
Command control and information processor 35 may be implemented as an interface card which plugs into an expansion slot of and IBM 386 or compatible computer.
Figure S
is a block diagram showing the various functions performed by command control as information processor 35.
The command control information processor is responsible for processing data gathered by the data input and splitter. Packets are assembled from the splitter and are processed by identifying the destination address and authorization. If the packet has been address to a receiving unit, the unit will continue to process the content of the command.
Otherwise, the packet is discarded.
Data input and playback device 37 is implemented as software and hardware which runs on commercially available personal computers such as an IBM 386 or compatible.
Figure 6 is a block diagram which shows the data flow and functional elements of record playback device 37.
The record/playback device is capable of receiving a high speed transmission, deframing the transmission so that it may be processed, and capable of forwarding the data either directly or indirectly to a non-volatile storage device such as a hard disk drive. Data enters the device and is examined for a marker which periodically occurs in the data. Once the marker has been detected, subsequent markers are detected until "synchronization' is achieved. Once synchronized, frames enter the record FIFO and are transferred into memory. After a complete frame is in memory, the data input and splitter separates the frame into its constituent components, control and data, at which point the data may then be stored on the hard disk. In addition, data can be retrieved from the hard disk into memory, transferred from memory to the play FIFO at which point a previously stored data sequence has been successfully reproduced or played.
Of course, the particular codes utilized are not important so long as the command control and information processor 25 and data record, store and playback device 37 at the remote station are programmed to recognize the codes and process the information accordingly. Thus, the information which is input by the user and then put into a stream of characters which form the data files and headers are the command code itself, the name of a transmitted file, and the size of the transmitted file.
Figure 3 is a flowchart showing a software implementation of control signal generator 23 files starting point, file ending point, file run time to minutes, file access availability period in days, file killdate, remote screen button location, remote screen button name, multi-media producer's name and related text information which describes the contents of the multi-media file, and transmission bandwidth requirement.
The control signal generator is responsible for transmitting formatted control packets which are comprised of relay control packets and header data packets.
Relay control packets are generated periodically or in direct response to stimulus (contact closures) provided by a network segment producer. The control signal generator will immediately build a relay packet due to a change in relay closures provided by the network segment producer.
Header data packets are generated in response to serial data provided by the network segment producer. The network segment produner generates a header which precedes the transmission of each segment. The header is gathered in by the control signal generated, re-packetized and queued for transmission by the control signal generator.
The packet summer (E) takes relay control packets and header data packets and merges them into a single output stream. Relay control packets have priority over header data packets.
Data input and splitter 33 is implemented as an interface card installed in an expansion slot in a general purpose personal computer such as IBM 386 or compatible. The expansion slot may be any slot suitable for handling a serial data card.
Figure 4 is a detailed block diagram showing the functional blocks of data input and splitter 33. In essence, data input and splitter 33 creates two data paths containing "object descriptor", and "segment descriptor data file" and multi-media information, one of which is input to command control information and information processor 35 and the other of which is input to data record, store and playback device 37. Command control information and processor 35 is another interface card which plugs into an expansion slot of an IBM 386 or compatible personal computer, which operates to separate the functional commands from the received information to produce an output that is the data header generated by control signal generator 23. The data header information and the second data stream from data, input and splitter 33 are input to data record, store and playback device 37 which utilizes the commands from the data header to record and store the mufti-media information input from data input and splitter 33 or for playing back mufti-media information previously stored.
Data record, store and playback device 37 also checks each segment which was received and provided by data input and splitter 33 using a checksum or equivalent technique to ensure that the received packet is the same as the transmitted packet. In the event that a complete and correct file transfer did not occur, an error flag is set which initiates an inquiry to the originating station via a telecommunications channel, dial-up phone line, terrestrial data link or return satellite link. The originating station them retransmits the segment received erroneously as described above.
The data input and splitter is responsible for separating the control information from the segment information. This is accomplished by deframing the incoming data stream, identifying the control information and stripping the control information out of the data stream. The remaining data is provided to the data processor while the control information is sent to the control processor.
Command control and information processor 35 may be implemented as an interface card which plugs into an expansion slot of and IBM 386 or compatible computer.
Figure S
is a block diagram showing the various functions performed by command control as information processor 35.
The command control information processor is responsible for processing data gathered by the data input and splitter. Packets are assembled from the splitter and are processed by identifying the destination address and authorization. If the packet has been address to a receiving unit, the unit will continue to process the content of the command.
Otherwise, the packet is discarded.
Data input and playback device 37 is implemented as software and hardware which runs on commercially available personal computers such as an IBM 386 or compatible.
Figure 6 is a block diagram which shows the data flow and functional elements of record playback device 37.
The record/playback device is capable of receiving a high speed transmission, deframing the transmission so that it may be processed, and capable of forwarding the data either directly or indirectly to a non-volatile storage device such as a hard disk drive. Data enters the device and is examined for a marker which periodically occurs in the data. Once the marker has been detected, subsequent markers are detected until "synchronization' is achieved. Once synchronized, frames enter the record FIFO and are transferred into memory. After a complete frame is in memory, the data input and splitter separates the frame into its constituent components, control and data, at which point the data may then be stored on the hard disk. In addition, data can be retrieved from the hard disk into memory, transferred from memory to the play FIFO at which point a previously stored data sequence has been successfully reproduced or played.
Claims
OF PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. An improved automated method of transmitting digital multimedia information, comprising at least digital audio and at least digital text, digital data, or digital image information, from a head end to a plurality of radio or television station apparatus distal from the head end, the improved method comprising the steps of :
(a) receiving said multimedia information including said digitized audio compressed using a single lossy compression format;
(b) transmitting the compressed digitized audio multiplexed along with at least digital text, digital data, or digital image information from said head end to said plurality of radio or television station apparatus without further lossy compression or decompression of the digitized audio;
(c) transmitting error or confirmation of delivery information regarding the received compressed digitized audio information from at least one receiving radio or television station apparatus to said head end;
(d) storing the compressed digitized audio information on at least said one receiving radio or television station apparatus:
(e) accessing the stored digitized audio information, decompressing the stored digitized audio information using said single compression format, and utilizing thereafter the decompressed digitized audio information without further lossy compression or decompression of the digitized audio on at least one or another of the receiving radio or television station apparatus.
(a) receiving said multimedia information including said digitized audio compressed using a single lossy compression format;
(b) transmitting the compressed digitized audio multiplexed along with at least digital text, digital data, or digital image information from said head end to said plurality of radio or television station apparatus without further lossy compression or decompression of the digitized audio;
(c) transmitting error or confirmation of delivery information regarding the received compressed digitized audio information from at least one receiving radio or television station apparatus to said head end;
(d) storing the compressed digitized audio information on at least said one receiving radio or television station apparatus:
(e) accessing the stored digitized audio information, decompressing the stored digitized audio information using said single compression format, and utilizing thereafter the decompressed digitized audio information without further lossy compression or decompression of the digitized audio on at least one or another of the receiving radio or television station apparatus.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US30322494A | 1994-09-08 | 1994-09-08 | |
| US08/303,224 | 1994-09-08 | ||
| CA002199360A CA2199360C (en) | 1994-09-08 | 1995-09-06 | Method and apparatus for electronic distribution of digital multi-media information |
Related Parent Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002199360A Division CA2199360C (en) | 1994-09-08 | 1995-09-06 | Method and apparatus for electronic distribution of digital multi-media information |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2340982A1 true CA2340982A1 (en) | 1996-03-14 |
Family
ID=25679096
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2340982 Abandoned CA2340982A1 (en) | 1994-09-08 | 1995-09-06 | Method and apparatus for electronic distribution of digital multi-media information |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2340982A1 (en) |
-
1995
- 1995-09-06 CA CA 2340982 patent/CA2340982A1/en not_active Abandoned
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