CN101352035A - Systems and methods for providing channel groups in an interactive media guidance application - Google Patents

Systems and methods for providing channel groups in an interactive media guidance application Download PDF

Info

Publication number
CN101352035A
CN101352035A CNA2006800495544A CN200680049554A CN101352035A CN 101352035 A CN101352035 A CN 101352035A CN A2006800495544 A CNA2006800495544 A CN A2006800495544A CN 200680049554 A CN200680049554 A CN 200680049554A CN 101352035 A CN101352035 A CN 101352035A
Authority
CN
China
Prior art keywords
channel
group
media
program
user
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
CNA2006800495544A
Other languages
Chinese (zh)
Inventor
M·D·埃利斯
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
TV Guide International Inc
Original Assignee
Prevue International Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Prevue International Inc filed Critical Prevue International Inc
Priority to CN201310628800.3A priority Critical patent/CN103596031B/en
Publication of CN101352035A publication Critical patent/CN101352035A/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Landscapes

  • Two-Way Televisions, Distribution Of Moving Picture Or The Like (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates an interactive media guidance application that provides channel groups. Channel groups may include media channels, such as television channels, radio stations, Internet web sites, etc. Channel groups may be organized around a common characteristic, by utilizing user profile information, and by human editorial selection (e.g., by a service provider or by a user). The guidance application provides information on the channel groups, including media listings, reminders, pending and completed recordings, purchased programs, and previously accessed programs for the channel group. The guidance application enables the user to focus a guidance application function on the channel group. In response to a user initiation to execute the function on the channel group, the function may be executed on all the media channels belonging to the channel group.; Information on the channel group and access to functions that are executable on the channel group may be concentrated in a channel group portal screen of the guidance application.

Description

The system and method for channel-group in using, interactive media guidance is provided
Technical field
The present invention relates to interactive media system, the interactive media guidance that relates to the user interface that receiving media information and request access medium are provided is particularly used.Specifically, the present invention relates to provides the media channel group in interactive media guidance is used, to allow to improve user's navigation and the function in the navigation application.
Background technology
Media delivery system is such as cable, satellite and radio data system, internet and satellite radio systems, for the user provides a large amount of media channels, such as television channel, radio station and internet website.These media channels provide program with many different medium, such as video frequency program (for example, broadcast TV program, order video program), audio program (for example, music channel, Audio on Demand program) and interactive application (for example, recreation and shopping are used).Because the media channel that offers the user is many, just need interactive media guidance to use to provide with the information organization of the permission access medium program such as media list get up to user-friendly interface and other Premium Features of the media experience that improves the user are provided.
It is that the TV program guide of carrying out on the subscriber computer top box is usually used that a kind of common interactive media guidance is used.This program navigating device allows the user to check the rendition list of a plurality of television channels of different display format.For example, the user can order the program navigating device to show the form of the rendition list of organizing by channel order or chronological order.The user is (for example, film, physical culture etc.) or press title (that is alphabet sequence) search and arrangement the rendition list by type.The user can move on to desired program tabulation and goes up and push the additional information that the information request button obtains program by highlighting the district.The user can be set to favorite channel, locking to the visit of program or channel with order sponsored program or pay channel with program navigating device television channel.The prompting that the user can select the program that will write down or setting to watch program.Yet, along with the platform of the access medium program of other types (for example, personal digital assistant, personal media player, cellular telephone, personal computer, gaming platform) appearance, now the needs to media navigation expand to the scope that has exceeded TV and TV program guide device.Now, interactive media guidance is used and can be carried out on any platform, makes the user can the access medium program.Even in television system, the type of the media program that is provided no longer is confined to TV programme, and present interactive TV program omniselector also provides the navigation of the media program (for example, music program, interactive entertainment application etc.) to other types.
Because the media channel that the user can use is so many, therefore needed is to have a kind of perfect approach that media channel, media list and descriptor are organized in the interactive media guidance application, makes the user to be directed on the user's interest media program more convenient and naturally.
Therefore, desirablely provide a kind of interactive media guidance and use, user's attentiveness is focused on the group media channel, the focus information of a group media channel is provided, and the function of a group media channel being carried out navigation application.
Summary of the invention
According to principle of the present invention, these and other some purposes of the present invention are by providing a kind of interactive media guidance of channel-group that can provide should be used for realizing.
Channel-group can be defined as the group that comprises a plurality of media channels.Channel-group definition (being also referred to as the channel-group list) can also comprise some independent media lists.Any independent media list that belongs to the media channel (be also referred to as group channel) of a channel-group and belong to this channel-group can have the common trait that at least one organizes channel-group.Can come the organization channel group by any distinguishable feature of media channel or media list.For example, can be by programme content, the grade of service (for example, cable service, chargeable service), medium type organization channel groups such as (for example, video, audio frequency, mutual).The channel-group list can be judged with artificial editor to be provided, and irrelevant with any objective standard.Channel-group can be by the user or by system's (for example, by serving provider or navigation application) tissue.System can utilize subscriber profile information (for example, which media channel and program are crossed in user capture) that the channel-group that provides to the user and the list of these channel-group determine to be provided.Navigation application can make the user can also allow the user to edit the initial channel-group list that is provided with by system by selecting media channel and media list to set up channel-group for the channel-group list.
Navigation application can provide the channel-group information such as the common trait information of channel-group and propagate channel-group and the video clipping of its program for the user.Navigation application can also for the user provide the channel-group list, the group channel media list (for example, broadcast TV program, request program, pay-per-view), wait the group channel program recording and recorded and purchased, and the program of visiting by the group channel before the user watch history.Navigation application can also for the user provide scaled live telecast group channel broadcasting video and from the group channel other media programs (for example, having recorded program, request program).
Navigation application can also make the user can be with the function of navigation application at one or more selected channel groups.Navigation application can make the user can start the function to one or more selected channel groups (for example, be set to like, locking, purchase) of navigation application.In response, navigation application can be carried out this function (for example, all group channel is set to all group channels of favorite channel, locking and buys all group channels) to the media channel of selected channel group.Navigation application can be carried out this function (for example, these media lists of locking are bought these media lists) to the media list that is included in the selected channel group.
From accompanying drawing and following detailed description of preferred embodiments, can be more clearly visible other features of the present invention, essence of the present invention and each advantage.
Description of drawings
Fig. 1 is the diagrammatic sketch according to exemplary interactive TV system of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is the diagrammatic sketch according to exemplary user television equipment devices of the present invention.
Fig. 3 is the diagrammatic sketch according to another exemplary user television equipment devices of the present invention.
Fig. 4 is the diagrammatic sketch according to exemplary remote controller of the present invention.
Fig. 5 is the diagrammatic sketch according to exemplary user computer equipment of the present invention.
Fig. 6 is the generic diagram according to exemplary subscriber equipment of the present invention.
Fig. 7 shows according to exemplary channel-group of the present invention and selects screen.
Fig. 8 shows according to exemplary channel-group editing screen of the present invention.
Fig. 9 is a diagrammatic sketch of selecting screen according to exemplary channel-group of the present invention.
Figure 10 shows according to exemplary channel-group inlet screen of the present invention.
Figure 11 shows according to exemplary channel-group inlet screen of the present invention.
Figure 12 shows according to exemplary channel-group on-demand media list screen of the present invention.
Figure 12 A shows according to exemplary channel-group video mosaic screen of the present invention.
Figure 13 shows according to exemplary channel-group multipurpose screen of the present invention.
Figure 14 shows according to exemplary channel-group record screen of the present invention
Figure 14 A shows according to exemplary channel-group playlist screen of the present invention.
Figure 15 shows according to exemplary channel-group of the present invention and watches historical screen.
Figure 16 shows according to exemplary channel-group list editing screen of the present invention.
Figure 17 shows according to exemplary channel-group of the present invention and selects screen.
Figure 18 shows according to exemplary channel-group inlet screen of the present invention.
Figure 19 shows according to exemplary channel-group inlet screen of the present invention.
Figure 20 shows the exemplary flow chart that provides channel-group according to of the present invention in interactive media guidance is used.
Figure 21 shows the exemplary flow chart according to definition channel-group of the present invention.
Figure 22 shows the exemplary flow chart that provides channel-group information according to of the present invention.
Figure 23 shows the exemplary flow chart of channel-group being carried out the function of interactive media guidance application according to of the present invention.
Embodiment
The amount of the available medium of user can be sizable in any given media delivery system.Therefore, many users wish to have a kind of media navigation device-permission user of form to carry out medium effectively to select and discern easily the interface that they may wish the medium of visiting.Provide being applied in of this navigation to be called interactive media guidance here and use, perhaps just be called navigation application sometimes.
The interactivity media navigation is used can provide the medium of navigation to take various forms according to them for it.It is the interactive TV program omniselector that a kind of common media navigation is used.The interactive TV program omniselector is well-known navigation application, wherein particularly allows user's navigation and determine their position between TV programme (in some system also have digital music) is selected.The media program of interactive TV program omniselector tissue (for example, TV and music) can provide by traditional broadcasting, cable, satellite or any other suitable channel.Media program can be used as pay-per-view and provides according to order, and can provide (for example, video request program (VOD) system) by program request when the user asks.The media program that provides according to order can be organized into some grades of service by the provider.For example, the user has paid Monthly Fee and just can have the right to visit one group of basic cable TV channel.Paid additional Monthly Fee, just can have the right separately or as the charging channel of part visit such as HBO, Showtime and Cinemax of suit.Order the media channel that program also can comprise free usually radio broadcasting.The on-demand media program can be used as the subscribed services part and provides to the user, perhaps can buy (for example, the request program of pay-per-view) when the user asks.
Adopt current system, can provide media program by countless media channels.Some media channel is around the centre point theme tissue such as news, physical culture, film, music.Some media channel is exclusively used in specific medium, such as mainly being the digital music channel on the audio plays program.Some media channel is shared a public media program composer.For example, media program composer HBO can provide the program of the many media channels such as HBO, HBO Signature, HBOFamily.Some media channel is the local branch of the mixing program that domestic network program and local program are provided of media channel (for example, NBC, ABC, CBS, FOX) domestic network.Some media channel is national cable channel (for example, DISCOVERY, TNT, FX), consistently in the scope of whole country provides same media program.Some media channel is just in certain geographical position available (for example, local public visit channel).
Except providing the navigation by the available program of countless media channels, the interactive TV program omniselector also provides other to help the user to appreciate the function of media program.For example, the interactive program omniselector can make the user can stop the visit of the program that is unsuitable for children with password code.Omniselector can allow the user that favorite channel and the specific aim information that is received on the favorite channel are set.The media channel that omniselector can make the user authorize or to buy needs are paid or the visit of program (for example, order charging channel or subscribe pay-per-view).
The situation of TV program guide device though below briefly touch upon, but be appreciated that, along with the appearance of internet, mobile computing and fast wireless network (allowing user's access medium on the non-television equipment such as cellular telephone), interactive media guidance is used and just no longer is confined to the TV program guide device.Non-with the TV be the center platform (promptly, platform with the devices allocation medium of the transmission of television network that does not belong to the user) allow the user to find and visit can comprise the medium mixture of video clipping, full-motion video (can comprise TV programme), image, audio frequency, interactive application (for example, recreation and shopping are used), internet website and other suitable medium.Therefore, media navigation is also to be essential on the platform (for example, cellular telephone, PDA(Personal Digital Assistant), blackberry, blueberry (Blackberry) etc.) at center with the TV modern times non-.
Can provide interactive media guidance to use as the online application (that is, on the website, providing) on personal computer, perhaps as independent utility on handheld computer, PDA or the cellular telephone or CLIENT PROGRAM.In some system, the user can use by interactive media guidance equipment is carried out remote control.For example, the user can visit the online Media navigation application media device in their family is write down or other settings.This can use the equipment of subscriber household controlled directly or by another media navigation that moves on user's household equipment and realize by online omniselector.
The present invention relates to provide the interactive media guidance of the channel-group of media channel (for example, broadcast TV channel, audio channel, on-demand media channel, interactive entertainment channel, internet website) to use.The media channel (that is group channel) that belongs to a channel-group can have at least one common trait of organization channel group according to this.For example, some media channels that are exclusively used in a kind of content of common type can be combined.Channel-group can be by other channels feature tissues, such as (for example pressing the grade of service, media channel is as the free broadcast channel, the state of basic cable channel or charging channel), COS (for example, media channel is to order channel, demanding channel or pay per view channel), Promgramming person identity (for example, whether media channel is provided by the general programs scheduler such as HBO or DISCOVERY), the channel authority (for example, user's receiving media channel of whether having the right), head of a family's control setting (for example, whether the user controls channel with this channel selection for the head of a family), the channel origin (for example, media channel comes from cable television network, radio network, be non-that be subordinate to or just local), state (for example, whether this channel of user is set to favorite channel), (for example, this channel is a television channel to medium type, audio channel still is the interactive application channel) and so on.
The example that is appreciated that above common channels feature is exemplary rather than exhaustive.System's (for example, serving the provider) can come the organization channel group with any feature of media channel.Also be appreciated that and some independent media lists can also be included in the channel-group list.For example, serve common trait (for example, sports content) the organization channel group that the provider can have by media channel and each media list.The system of being further appreciated that can not strictly adhere to that any objective standard (for example, common characteristic) provides the channel-group list, and can implement editor's control to the channel-group list.System's (for example, serving the provider) can utilize subscriber profile information organization channel group and the list of channel-group is provided.That for example, serves media channel that the provider can ask with the frequentation of user sets up a channel-group of having only these channels with profile information.Navigation application can make the user set up channel-group by the media channel (with each media list) of selecting the channel-group list, can also make the user can edit the initial channel-group list that is provided with by system.
Navigation application of the present invention provides the information of channel-group, guides the user by available countless media channels and tabulation in the current system preferably.Navigation application can provide the information of channel-group itself for the user on the one hand.For example, navigation application can provide the common trait of channel-group information, the advertisement information (for example, the video clipping of propaganda channel-group) of channel-group is described and the advertisement information of the program that provides by the group channel in mode to user propaganda.Navigation application can also provide the channel-group list for the user, organizes the media list (for example, broadcast TV program, request program, pay-per-view) of channel, watches the prompting tabulation, waits to record and recorded record, purchase program and former program of visiting from channel-group.Navigation application can also provide the scaled video of live group channel broadcasting and be derived from other media programs (for example, having recorded program, request program) of group channel for the user.
Except the information of channel-group is provided, navigation application of the present invention makes the user can be with the function of the navigation application media channel at one or more selected channel groups and these channel-group.For example, navigation application makes the user start navigation application functions (for example, be set to like, locking, purchase function) at one or more selected channel groups.Response user indication, navigation application can be carried out the omniselector function at one or more selected channel groups (that is, belonging to all media channels and the tabulation of these channel-group).In one embodiment, to the visit of the information of channel-group with can the omniselector function that channel-group is carried out be concentrated in the navigation application display screen, for the user sets up an inlet type omniselector execution mode.
Fig. 1 shows according to exemplary interactive media guidance system 100 of the present invention.System 100 is used for that illustration can provide various types of medium of (with by visit to end user) for the end user and to some approach of the navigation of such medium.Yet the present invention goes for adopting the system of any one or some approach in these approach or adopts other approach transfer mediums and the system of media navigation is provided.
What first approach represented that the user can visit TV (also have music) broadcast program in some system typically is centring system with the TV.It comprises program source 102 and distribution facility 104.Medium such as TV programme and digital audio offer distribution facility 104 by program source 102 usefulness communication paths 106.Communication path 106 can be satellite path, fiber path, cable trace, any other suitable wired or wireless communication path, or the combination in some paths like this.
Program source 102 can be any suitable TV and audio program source, such as television broadcasting mechanism (for example, NBC, ABC and HBO) or other TVs or audio program making studio.Program source 102 can provide TV programme with various forms and any other appropriate format high definition and single-definition such as 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 480p, the 480i.
Distribution facility 104 can be cable system headend, satellite media distribution facility, television broadcasting mechanism, or (for example with video media, by television channel, video request program channel, pay per view channel) and audio frequency media (for example, by the analog or digital music channel) distribute to any other suitable facility of subscriber equipment.In some approach, distribution facility 104 can also such as video and audio clips, webpage and the interactive application (for example, recreation, shopping are used) and so at the order family that can offer given cable or satellite system, be distributed to the user with other medium.Many media distribution facility 104 are arranged in system 100 usually, but, in Fig. 1, only show one in order to make figure complexity within reason.
Distribution facility 104 can be connected with 112 with various user equipment (ue) device 108,110.Some user equipment (ue) devices can be arranged in some users' for example the family like this.User equipment (ue) device can comprise the subscriber equipment of any other type of user television equipment devices 110, user computer equipment 112 or suitable access medium (for example, TV and music, webpage etc.) or interactive media guidance application function.Subscriber equipment 108 can be the subscriber equipment (for example, user television equipment devices, user computer equipment etc.) of any kind, and for the sake of simplicity, user equipment (ue) device can lead to and is designated as subscriber equipment 108.
User equipment (ue) device 108,110 and 112 can be respectively by the communication path such as communication path 114,116 and 118 from distribution facility 104 receiving media programs (for example, the TV programme of television channel) and other data.User equipment (ue) device 108,110,112 also can send signal by path 114,116 and 118 to distribution facility 104 respectively.Path 114,116 and 118 can be cable or other wired connections, the wireless connections situation of broadcasting or other wireless signals (for example, for), satellite link, perhaps any other suitable link or link combinations.
It is illustrated among Fig. 1 that to provide second approach right and wrong of medium and media navigation to the end user be the approach at center with the TV.In this approach, the medium such as video (can comprise the TV programme from television channel), audio frequency, image, webpage offer subscriber equipment 108 by server 130 by communication network 126.These approach right and wrong are the center with the TV, because medium are provided by the equipment of the traditional tv transfer system that does not belong to the user and send to small part and specially send the equipment of the traditional tv transfer system that does not belong to the user sometimes to.Non-be in the approach at center with the TV, can not comprise TV programme among offering user's medium, even and comprise medium also can only representing among a plurality of medium.
In some embodiment of this approach, communication network 126 is internets.Server 130 can for example provide addressable website of subscriber equipment and online navigation application for the user.In such approach, subscriber equipment can be for example personal computer or the handheld device such as PDA, or the surfed the Net cellular telephone of browser is housed.In some other embodiment, server 130 usefulness internets are as transmission medium and without browser or website.In such approach, subscriber equipment can move the client application that makes user's energy access medium.In other approach, communication network 126 is the private wire networks such as cellular radio network, and it does not comprise the internet.In other approach, communication network 126 comprises private wire network and internet.For example, cellular telephone or other mobile devices are served the provider can provide access to the Internet to its order family by private wire network, and the network that can have by internet and it provides medium such as video clipping or TV programme to its order family.
In some embodiments, these that can mention top provide the approach of medium to combine.For example, it is the media delivery system at center that distribution facility 104 can provide with the TV, simultaneously also is that to provide other that server 130 is provided non-be the visit of the transfer system at center with the TV to subscriber equipment (for example, 108,110 and 112).For example, but subscriber equipment can comprise the set-top box that can surf the Net or the personal computer of rating.Distribution facility 104 can also be for the user provides access to the Internet except playing TV and music program, thereby the user can pass through communication network 126 access servers 130.Distribution facility 104 can by such as have thread path, cable trace, fiber path, satellite path or so any suitable path 134 the combination in some paths communicate by letter with communication network 126.
Media navigation is used and can be adopted any suitable medium type and use the approach of the distribution system of using to provide.It can be the independent utility of for example carrying out on subscriber equipment that media navigation is used.In other need embodiment, it can be that the client-server that has only client program to reside on the subscriber equipment is used that media navigation is used.In other embodiment, navigation application can be used as the addressable website of the browser of carrying out and provides on subscriber equipment.No matter what selected realization is, navigation application all needs it that the information of the medium of navigation is provided for it.For example, information (for example, title, channel and time), the information (for example, channel characteristics) of media channel and the information (for example, channel-group list) of channel-group of relevant media program may be essential for the user being directed to desirable media program.
For example, be among the embodiment at center with the TV at some, navigation application can be an interactive TV program omniselector independently, through feeds of data (for example, continuous feeding, drip are presented, perhaps the data in the channel vertical blanking interval) program receiving navigation data.Data source 120 in the system 100 can comprise the program data storehouse, be used for providing the information relevant with TV programme for the user, such as the airtime of being arranged, title, channel, class information (for example, parental level and reviewer's grade), long title explanation, style or classification information (for example, physical culture, news, film etc.), program format (for example, single-definition, high definition), relevant video clipping and so on.Data source 120 can also comprise the information (for example, channel designation and type) of television channel and the information of channel-group (for example, the video clipping of channel-group list, propaganda channel-group, from the information of the program of channel-group special issue).Data source 120 (for example can also be used to providing advertisement, the advertisement of the advertisement of program navigating device and other interactive television-j o-application), real time data such as sport score, stock market, news data and meteorological data, one or more media navigations are used or the application data of other interactive application, and for any other proper datas of system's 100 uses.As another example, data source 120 can provide the data (for example, in user's request, do not exist user's modification etc. to locate) of the type of pointing out to be included in the information in some interactive media guidance overlapping layers.
The program navigating data can offer subscriber equipment (comprising the subscriber equipment that is positioned on the home network 113) with any suitable approach.For example, programme schedule data and other data can on the television channel sideband, in the television channel vertical blanking interval with band in digital signal, offer subscriber equipment with digital signal outside being with or by any other suitable data transmission technology.Programme schedule data and other data can offer subscriber equipment on a plurality of analog or digital television channels.Programme schedule data and other data can offer subscriber equipment with any suitable frequency (for example, continuously, periodically, every day, response user equipment requests etc.).
At some is among the embodiment at center with the TV, can offer subscriber equipment with the client-server approach from the navigation data of data source 120.For example, reside in navigation application client program on the subscriber equipment in case of necessity and can initiate dialogue with server 140 to obtain navigation data.
In the system 100 a plurality of data sources (such as data source 120) can be arranged, though for fear of making the undue complicated data source that in Fig. 1, only shows of figure.For example, one independently data source can be related with a corresponding media channel in a plurality of media channels or the channel-group or channel-group, the data that are exclusively used in this media channel or channel-group (for example, the advertisement of the program of the rendition list of this channel or channel-group, this channel or channel-group, show the logo data etc. of the logo of this media channel or channel-group in program navigating device display screen) can be provided.Data source 120 and any other system's part of Fig. 1 can provide with the equipment that is in one or more positions.For fear of making figure too complicated, among Fig. 1 some system's parts are shown single square frame.
Data source 120 can offer distribution facility 104 with data by communication path 122, to distribute to associated subscriber equipment and home network 113 (will illustrate below) by path 114,116,118 and 119 (for example, when data source 120 is positioned at the master environment place).Communication path 122 can be any suitable communication path, such as satellite communication pathway or other wireless paths, optical fiber or other wired communication path, support path or other suitable paths of Internet traffic, the perhaps combination in some paths like this.
Some with the TV be the center and non-be in the approach at center with the TV, data source 120 can be passed through path 124, communication network 126 and path 128 (for example, when data source 120 is in facility place such as one of program source 102) directly provides navigation data to subscriber equipment 108.In some embodiment of the present invention, data source 120 can be passed through path 124, communication network 126 and path 139 (for example, when data source 120 is in facility place such as one of program source 102) directly provides navigation data to the subscriber equipment that is positioned on the home network 113 (will illustrate below).Path 124,128 and 139 can be thread path, cable trace, fiber path, satellite path, wireless path, any other suitable path to be arranged, the perhaps combination in some paths like this such as telephone line.Communication network 126 can be any suitable communication network, such as internet, public switched telephone network or packet-based network.
User equipment (ue) device, comprise the user equipment (ue) device that is positioned on the home network 113 (will illustrate below), such as user television equipment devices and personal computer, can use media program arranging data and other interactivity media navigation application datas (for example to the tabulation of user's display media, TV program list) and other information (for example, digital music information).Interactive TV program navigation application or other suitable interactive media guidances are used and can be used in (for example, in the overlapping layer that shows at the top of one or more videos at given television channel) display message on user's the display.Can be that the user produces and shows some mutual demonstrations with any suitable approach.In a suitable approach, distribution facility 104, server 130 or another facility can produce the navigation application display screen, and this display screen can be sent to subscriber equipment and shown.In another suitable approach, subscriber equipment for the data of one or more mutual demonstration usefulness (for example can be stored, media program arranging data, advertisement, logo etc.), and use and can produce these mutual demonstrations according to the instruction that receives from distribution facility 104, server 130 or another facility at least partially in the interactive media guidance carried out on the subscriber equipment.In some embodiment of the present invention, subscriber equipment only storage is used for producing interactive navigation application data presented (for example, the data of only just storing this logo in the time the logo of specific television broadcasting mechanism will being included in one or more mutual demonstrations).In some embodiment of the present invention, subscriber equipment can be stored and not necessarily will be used for producing mutual data presented (what for example, storage was related with specific media channel can show the advertisement that also can not show).Can being combined as user's generation and showing interactive overlapping layer with any other suitable approach or some approach.
In other embodiment, the online interactive media guidance that provides in website for example is provided uses (be center with non-in the TV to be the heart) with the TV.For example, server 130 can be provided in line interactive TV program omniselector.As another example, subscriber equipment 108 can be a mobile device, such as cellular telephone or PDA(Personal Digital Assistant).Mobile device can be to surf the Net, so that the user can visit online navigation application (online navigation application can be to be modified as according to its master to make its be fit to less display screen).Perhaps, mobile device can have the small routine of communicating by letter with server 130, to obtain navigation data by the internet.
Server 130 can pass through communication path 124, communication network 126 and communication path 132 or the combination by another suitable path or some paths from data source 120 program receiving arranging datas and other data.Path 132 can be satellite path, fiber path, the combination in thread path or any other path or some paths is arranged.Subscriber equipment 108 can be used and some other source from server 130 visit online interaction formula media navigations by communication path 128.Subscriber equipment 108 also can and obtain other services of server 130 by communication path 114, distribution facility 104 and communication path 134 visit navigation application.For example, subscriber equipment 108 can be communicated by letter with distribution facility 104 with cable modem or other suitable equipment.
Can visit online interaction formula media navigation application and service device 130 with similar mode such as user television equipment devices 110, user computer equipment 112 and the subscriber equipment that is positioned at the subscriber equipment on the home network 113.User television equipment devices 110 can be visited online interaction formula media navigation application and service devices 130 with communication path 136 or with path 116, distribution facility 104 and path 134.User computer equipment 112 can be visited online interaction formula media navigation application and service devices 130 with communication path 138 or with path 118, distribution facility 104 and path 134.The subscriber equipment that is positioned on the home network 113 can be visited online Media navigation application and servers 130 with communication path 139 or with path 119, distribution facility 104 and path 134.Path 136,138 and 139 can be any suitable path, such as thread path, cable trace, fiber path, wireless path, satellite path or the combination in some paths are like this arranged.
In some embodiments, system 100 can also support other interactive application outside the interactive media guidance application.Such application can be carried out with any suitable approach.For example, interactive application can be carried out this locality on subscriber equipment, perhaps (for example carry out with distribution mode, carry out with the client-server architecture, subscriber equipment is used as client computer to small part with when having at least, and such as the server 140 at distribution facility 104 places, server the server 130 or other suitable equipment as server).If desired, also can use other distributed architecture.In addition, some of the interactive application of system 100 (comprising the media navigation application) or all functions can provide with operating system software or middleware software.Such operating system software and middleware software can be used for replacing application layer software or cooperate with application layer software.In other approach, interactive application can also obtain one or more such as serving provider 142 the server of serving provider place or the support of other suitable equipment.What no matter use is any concrete mode, supports the software of these functions can be called application.
For example, the interactive application such as home shopping service can obtain having the representative of sales ﹠ marketing, order and fulfil facility, account maintenance prevention and other support the support of serving the provider such as serving provider 142 of the equipment of interactive home shopping function.Can be with the home shopping application that subscriber equipment is carried out with visiting the provider that serves that more such functions are provided for the user.Subscriber equipment can or pass through communication network 126 and communication path 146 access services providers 142 by distribution facility 104 and communication path 144.Communication path such as path 144 and 146 can be any suitable path, such as thread path, cable trace, fiber path, satellite path or the combination in some paths are like this arranged.
If desired, use and to support with server 140, server 130 or the equipment of serving provider 142 places such as the interactive media guidance of based on network video tape recorder or video-on-demand applications (for example, as visiting) and so on by the video request program channel.Can store on server 140 or the server 130 or serve provider 142 places with the video on demand content of based on network vcr mode record and video, can when the user asks, offer subscriber equipment.For example, can support the function of the personal video recorder (being sometimes referred to as video tape recorder) carried out with subscriber equipment 108 with the interactive TV program omniselector.Can be used for supporting the exemplary equipment of personal digital video recorder's function to comprise special-purpose personal video recorder device, integrated receiver decoder (IRD), the personal computer that has the set-top box of integrated or external fixed disk drive or have the videograph ability.
Can provide such as media navigation and (for example use, interactive TV program navigation application and video-on-demand applications), home shopping uses, Home Banking uses, recreation is used and other application (for example, the application relevant with Email and chat or other communication functions etc.) and so on interactive application is as the independent utility of using (promptly having and the menu application of using corresponding menu option) visit by the navigation shell.For example, recreation, video-on-demand service, home shopping service, based on network video recorder functionality, personal video recorder functionality, navigation feature, program navigating device function, communication function and other suitable functions can provide with the application of an application or any other right quantity.One or more application can show various overlapping layers on subscriber equipment, comprise the interactive tv information at the video top that for example is stacked in given television channel.
A few il-lustrative example in these types that interactive TV program navigation application, Home Banking are used, home shopping is used, based on network video tape recorder and personal video recorder application, video-on-demand applications, recreation application, communications applications and navigation application are the interactive media navigation that can support of system 100 and other application.Other suitable interactive application that can be supported comprise that press service, Web (World Wide Web (WWW)) browse and other Internet service and the interactive mode service of making a bet (for example, making a bet to horse racing, sport event etc.).These use shown interactive overlapping layer also can be according to customization of the present invention.
The user can have multiple in order to access medium and the subscriber equipment that obtains media navigation.For example, some user can have the home network of visiting with mobile device with in the family.As shown in Figure 1, home network 113 is communicated by letter with server 130 with distribution facility 104 by path 119 and 139 (under the situation of server 130, also by communication network 126).Such home network 113 can for example be arranged in user's the family, perhaps for example is distributed between some subscriber households.Each can comprise the user equipment (ue) device of a plurality of interconnection home network 113, such as user equipment (ue) device 108,110 and 112.In some embodiments, the user can be by installing in the media navigation application controls man that carries out on remote-control device.For example, the user can be by the personal computer in their office or such as maybe can surf the Net online Media navigation application on the mobile device access websites the cellular telephone of PDA.The user can be provided with the setting (for example, record, prompting or other settings) of equipment in some control user families on online navigation application.Online omniselector can be directly or by with user family in media navigation application communication on the equipment subscriber equipment is controlled.
Fig. 2-6 shows the exemplary architecture of subscriber equipment.Fig. 2 shows the exemplary architecture based on set-top box of user television equipment devices 110.User television equipment devices 110 can be independently or the part of home network 113 (Fig. 1).I/O end 202 can be received on the communication path such as path 116 and 136 (Fig. 1).The I/O function can be provided by one or more wired or communication paths, but figure is undue complicatedly to be shown single path with these paths in Fig. 2 for fear of making.TV programme, program navigating data and any other suitable interactive media guidance application data or other data can receive with I/O end 202.Order that produces owing to user and interactive media guidance applications interaction and request and other data also can send by I/O end 202.
Set-top box 204 can be any suitable analog or digital set-top box (for example, cable set-top box).Set-top box 204 can contain be used for be tuned to analog tuner on the desirable analog television channels (for example, comprising TV programme, interactive TV data or both channels).Set-top box 204 can also contain the digital decoding circuit of receiving digital television channel (channel that for example, comprises TV or music program, interactive TV data etc.).Set-top box 204 can also contain the high definition TV tuner that receives and handle hdtv channel.If desired, simulation, numeral and high definition channel can be handled together.Can be equipped with a plurality of tuners (for example, be used for handle watch simultaneously and writing function or picture-in-picture (PIP) function).Set-top box 204 can be to handle the integrated receiver decoder (IRD) of satellite television.If desired, set-top box 204 can have the circuit of handling cable, radio broadcasting and satellite content.
Set-top box 204 can be configured to the media program of preferred format output such as TV programme.Owing to can receive the TV programme of various forms, set-top box 204 can contain TV programme up conversion and the circuit of the scaler that is downconverted into set-top box 204 employed preferred output formats.For example, set-top box 204 can be configured to export the TV programme of 720p.In this example, circuit of the scaler certain high-definition television programs that the standard clarity television program up conversions with 480 row vertical resolutions can be become the 720p form and that will have the vertical resolutions of 1080 row is downconverted into the 720p form.
Set-top box 204 can comprise storage device that registering capacity the is provided digital memeory device of hard disk drive (for example, such as).Set-top box 204 can also with such as video cassette recorder, personal video recorder, optical disc recorder or have storage capacity other the device tape deck 206 be connected.Set-top box 204 can be configured to record standard clarity television program, high-definition television programs, digital music program and other media datas (for example, photo).
Set-top box 204 contains and is used for the processor (for example, microcontroller or microprocessor and so on) that executive software uses.Set-top box 204 can contain for carrying out the memory such as random access memory that uses when using.Also can use nonvolatile storage (for example, being used for storing startup routine and other instructions).In the set-top box 204 or the harddisk memories in the tape deck 206 can be used for Backup Data, perhaps be used for supporting big database and the storage demand that can support than with the random access memory approach.In the set-top box 204 or the harddisk storage devices in the tape deck 206 can also be used to storing and back up the setting of program navigating device or the user that preserved likes item.
Set-top box 204 can have infrared (IR) or other telecommunication circuits of communicating by letter with remote controller or Wireless Keyboard.Set-top box 204 can also have some dedicated buttons and panel display screen.The panel display screen can for example be used for the display machines top box be tuned to current channel.
Set-top box 204 can also have the telecommunication circuit with other devices communicatings, such as cable modem, Integrated Service Digital Network modulator-demodulator, Digital Subscriber Line modulator-demodulator, telephone modem or radio modem.Such communication can relate to internet or any other suitable communication network or path.If desired, these assemblies of set-top box 204 can be integrated into other subscriber equipmenies (for example, television set or video cassette recorder).
Tape deck 206 can be used for the media data that logging machine top box 204 is provided.For example, if set-top box 204 be tuned to a given television channel, the vision signal of this television channel just can send tape deck 206 to and record on videocassette, CD, digital video disk or internal hard disk drive or other storage devices.Tape deck 206 can be configured to record standard clarity television program, high-definition television programs, digital music program or other suitable media datas.Tape deck 206 can have the telecommunication circuit with other devices communicatings, such as cable modem, isdn modem, DSL modulator-demodulator or telephone modem.Such communication can relate to internet or any other suitable communication network or path.The assembly of tape deck 206 can be integrated into other subscriber equipmenies (for example, television set, stereo equipment etc.).
Tape deck 206 can be controlled with remote controller or other appropriate users interfaces.If desired, such as device 206 startup, stop, write down and other functions video recorder functionality can control by set-top box 204.For example, set-top box 204 can be used the infrared command controlling recording device 206 to the remote controller input transmission of tape deck 206, and perhaps set-top box 204 can be come controlling recording device 206 with other wired or wireless communication paths between set-top box 204 and the tape deck 206.
The output of tape deck 206 can offer television set 208 and show to the user.In some embodiments, television set 208 can high resolution displayed program (that is, having the HDTV ability).If desired, can use a plurality of tape decks 206, also service recorder device 206 not.If do not have tape deck 206 or be not just at service recorder device 206, can directly offer television set 208 from the vision signal of set-top box 204.Can come display video with any suitable television set or monitor.In other equipment of the equipment of Fig. 2 and system 100 (Fig. 1), the audio frequency related with each video item distributes with these video items usually, generally plays to the user with video.In some embodiments, audio frequency can be distributed to the receiver (not shown), exports by the external loudspeaker (not shown) after receiver is handled.
Fig. 3 shows another exemplary architecture of user television equipment devices 110 (Fig. 1).User television equipment devices 110 can be independently or the part of home network 113 (Fig. 1).In this example of Fig. 3, user television equipment devices 110 comprises tape deck 302, such as digital VTR (for example, personal video recorder (DVR)) that uses hard disk or other memory means record videos and so on.Tape deck 302 also can be DVD recorder, optical disc recorder, video tape recorder or other suitable tape decks.The equipment 110 of Fig. 3 can also comprise television set 304.In some embodiments, television set 304 can have the HDTV ability.I/O end 306 can be connected on the communication path such as path 116 and 136 (Fig. 1).TV programme, programme schedule data and other data (for example, ad data, point out one or more data that the television channel that the customization overlapping layer shows is arranged, or the like) can receive with I/O end 306.Can send by I/O end 306 from user's order and request and other data.
Tape deck 302 can contain at least one be used for be tuned to analog tuner (for example, to show the video of given television channel to the user, receiving media navigation application data and other data) on the desirable analog television channels.Tape deck 302 can also contain the digital decoding circuit, is used for receiving digital television program, music program, media navigation application data (for example, programme schedule data) and other data on one or more digital channels.Tape deck 302 can also contain the circuit of receiving high-definition television channel.If desired, tape deck 302 can contain the circuit of treatment of simulated, numeral and high definition channel.Tape deck 302 also contains and is used for the processor (for example, microcontroller or microprocessor and so on) that executive software uses.Tape deck 302 can contain for carrying out the memory such as random access memory that uses when using.Can also store with nonvolatile storage and start routine or other instructions.Hard disk in the tape deck 302 and other storage devices can be used for supporting database (for example, program navigating database or other interactive television-j o-application databases).Hard disk or other storage devices in the tape deck 302 can also be used to writing down the video that provides to tape deck 302 by I/O end 306, such as TV programme or video on demand content or other guide.
Tape deck 302 can have IR telecommunication circuit or other suitable telecommunication circuits of communicating by letter with remote controller.Tape deck 302 can also have some dedicated buttons and panel display screen.The panel display screen for example can be used for the displayed record device be tuned to current channel.
Tape deck 302 can also have the telecommunication circuit with other devices communicatings, such as cable modem, isdn modem, DSL modulator-demodulator, telephone modem or radio modem.Such communication can relate to internet or any other suitable communication network or path.
If desired, tape deck 302 can comprise satellite receiver or other equipment of the radio communication circuit with receiving satellite signal.
But the new video of record in the video that the logging machine top box 204 of the tape deck 302 of Fig. 3, the tape deck 206 of Fig. 2 or Fig. 2 can be write down before the playback on television set 304 or 208.This allows the user to push pause button during normally watching TV.When pause button was pressed, current television program just stored on the hard disk of digital VTR 302 (or 206/204).When the user presses broadcast button, the video that can playback writes down.This structure allows the user seamlessly to suspend and restarts to watch TV.The program that tape deck can also be used to making the user to be write down before can watching in the new program of record.
The personal video recorder of the set-top box structure with embedding of the set-top box structure of Fig. 2 (can be integrated with writing function in the set-top box) and Fig. 3 is exemplary.If desired, also can use other structures.For example, user television equipment devices can be based on WebTV box, personal computer TV machine (PC/TV) or any other suitable television equipment structure.If desired, the function of the assembly such as set-top box 204, tape deck 302, WebTV box or PC/TV can be integrated into television set or personal computer or other proper device.
Fig. 4 shows the exemplary remote controller 400 that user television equipment devices 110 or appropriate users computer equipment 112 (Fig. 1) are operated.Remote controller 400 is exemplary, and any other appropriate users input interface (for example, mouse, tracking ball, keypad, keyboard, touch-screen, speech recognition system etc.) also can be used for subscriber equipment is operated.Remote controller 400 can have function key 402 and some other keys 404, such as keypad key, power connection/break key, Pause key, stop key, F.F. and rewind down key.Volume ascending, descending key 406 can be used for adjusting the volume of the audio-frequency unit of video.Channel ascending, descending key 408 can be used for changing the content on medium (TV) channel and the accesses virtual channel.Cursor key 410 can be used for menu on the navigation screen.For example, cursor key 410 can be used for controlling cursor, the pointer on the screen or highlight the position of (being commonly referred to as cursor sometimes here), to point out using concrete option or the other business of being paid close attention on the shown display screen at interactive media guidance.
OK key 421 (being also referred to as options button) can be used for selecting option on the screen that the user highlighted.
Key 402 can comprise the record key 414 of opening entry.Menu button 416 can be used for making interactive media guidance to be applied in (for example, on television set 208 or 304 or on suitable monitor or computer display) display menu on user's the display screen.Information button 418 can be used for to the interactive media guidance application request message.For example, the user is in the program of the given media channel of visit when pushing information key 418, and navigation application can show the buoy of the information that comprises current program of visiting/browse overlapping layer.As another example, when tabulating with a shown specific medium of the outstanding navigation application of cursor, the user pushes information button 418 can make navigation application that the additional information (for example, program specific, scheduling information etc.) related with this media list is provided.
Latch buttons 420 can be used for revising access right.For example, the head of a family can go up option with latch buttons 420 or screen and set up head of a family's control setting that interactive media guidance is used.Head of a family's control setting can be based on the setting (for example, stoping child to watch TV such as every day is from 3:00PM to 5:00PM during one section special time) of time.Head of a family's control setting for example can also be used to stoping program to be watched according to grade, program, channel, channel-group or these any appropriate combination.By the program of locking or prevention (or other medium) inaccessible normally, provide suitable personal identification number (PIN) up to using to interactive media guidance.In case imported this PIN, interactive media guidance is used and is just opened subscriber equipment, allows visit by the content of locking.In an embodiment who highlights, one or more selected channel groups drive latch buttons by the user and give locking.Channel-group of locking can be refused the visit (up to having imported PIN) to all media channels that belong to this channel-group and media list.
Exit button 422 can be used for withdrawing from interactive media guidance and use or withdraw from part interactive media guidance application (for example, making navigation application delete buoy, browse or other intermeshing layers from display screen).The navigation button 424 can be used for calling media navigation and use (for example, channel-group menu screen, media list display screen or other navigation application screens).Like that button 426 can be used for that a media channel or channel-group be set to like (for example, after having selected one or more channel-group, push like button just all these group channels be set to favorite channel).Buy button 428 and can be used for buying program or the channel that needs paying.For example, buy button 428 and can be used for ordering all interior media channels of one or more selected channel groups.
These keys shown in Fig. 4 are exemplary.If desired, also can be equipped with some other key or button.For example, can come with interactive media guidance application access music with music button.Can edit the content (some parts of for example, deletion advertisement, deletion video etc.) of being stored with an Edit button.Can come inputting aphanumeric characters with some alphanumeric button.Can return or back is oppositely browsed (for example, turning back to previous channel, webpage or other display screens) in interactive media guidance is used with one.Can use video recorder functionality button such as broadcast button, pause button, stop button, back, fast forward button and record button to come video recorder functionality (based on this locality or network) in the control system 100 (Fig. 1).Can with a help button call such as with the screen of context-sensitive on help function the help function.
Fig. 5 shows exemplary user computer equipment 112 (Fig. 1).User computer equipment 112 can be independently or the part of home network 113 (Fig. 1).In this structure of Fig. 5, personal computer unit 502 can be controlled with keyboard 504 and/or such as tracking ball, mouse, touch pads, touch-screen, speech recognition system or other the suitable user input apparatus such as the remote controller 400 of Fig. 4 by the user.Can on monitor 506, show such as TV programme or have video content and interactive media guidance application display screens the webpage of video composition.TV and audio program, media navigation application data (for example, TV program guide data), video on demand content, from the videograph of based on network video tape recorder playback with other data can 118 and 138 (Fig. 1) receive from the path with I/O end 508.Owing to user and interactive media guidance are used and system 100 (Fig. 1) reciprocation produces user command and other information also can be by 508 transmissions of I/O end.
Personal computer unit 502 can contain TV or the video card such as the TV tuner card, is used for to simulation, numeral and hdtv channel decoding and processing stream transmission video content.If desired, can be equipped with a plurality of video cards (for example, tuner card).A kind of operable exemplary TV tuner card can contain be used for be tuned on the given analog channel analog television tuner, be used for from the packetizing digital data stream, leaching the digital decoding circuit of desirable Digital Television or music channel and be used for be tuned to high definition TV tuner on the high definition channel.If desired, can handle video and other contents that transmits by input/output line 508 with any suitable card in the computer installation 502 or assembly.
Personal computer unit 502 can contain one or more processors (for example, microprocessor) that interactive media guidance is used or the part interactive media guidance is used that are used for moving.
Personal computer unit 502 can comprise the hard disk drive of store video, program navigating data and other contents, recordable DVD driver, recordable CD driver or other suitable storage devices.Interactive media guidance application and personal computer unit 502 can for example provide the function of personal video recorder with storage device.
Can be used with the network equipment such as subscriber equipment 108, user television equipment devices 110, user computer equipment 112 and the subscriber equipment that is positioned at the subscriber equipment on the home network 113, based on network videograph function is provided such as server 130, server 140 and the equipment of serving the provider place such as service provider 142 (Fig. 1) and so on.Can store into by copy on remote server (for example, server 130 or server 140) or other the based on network equipment such as serving the equipment that provider (for example the service provider 142) locates the videograph function is provided TV programme and other video contents.
Can or be positioned at the user command of importing on the subscriber equipment on the home network 113 (Fig. 1) in response to subscriber equipment 108 and carry out videograph.In people's video tape recorder structure one by one, interactive media guidance is used and can be used for responding user command video is recorded on the subscriber equipment on the spot.In based on network video tape recorder structure, interactive media guidance use can be used for responding user command with videograph to such as server 130, server 140 or serve on the network equipment the equipment at provider 142 places, on the network equipment, carry out virtual record (will illustrate below) in other words.User command can offer the network equipment by these communication paths shown in Fig. 1.This personal video recorder structure and based on network video tape recorder structure can support such as F.F., the function falling back, suspend, play and writing down.
For fear of unnecessary duplicating in based on network video tape recorder environment, system 100 can provide based on network videograph ability with virtual copies or record.Adopt this approach, each user can have the individual zone of tabulation of a user's record on network.Even a large number of users can be classified a video content as in their the based on network video tape recorder individual zone one of their record, this video content also only need be stored once (perhaps minority several times) on the network equipment.Some personal settings or any other proper data can be stored in the individual subscriber zone on the network.
Above illustrated user television equipment devices and the structure of user computer equipment be exemplary.Fig. 6 shows exemplary subscriber equipment 108,110,112 (Fig. 1) and is positioned at the general embodiment of the subscriber equipment on the home network 113 (Fig. 1).Control circuit 602 is received on the I/O end 604.I/O end 604 can be received on one or more communication paths such as the path 114,116,118,128,136 and 138 of Fig. 1.Medium (for example, TV programme, music program, other videos and audio frequency and webpage) can receive by I/O end 604 (for example, from program source 102, server such as server 130 or other equipment, such as serving provider 142, serve provider, distribution facility 104 etc.).Interactive media guidance application data such as the program arrangement information of interactive TV program omniselector can receive from data source 120 by I/O end 604.I/O end 604 can also be used to receiving the data from other interactive television-j o-application of data source 120.The user can send and receive order, request and other suitable data by input/output terminal 604 with control circuit 602.
Control circuit 602 can be based on any suitable treatment circuit 606, such as based on the treatment circuit of one or more microprocessors, microcontroller, digital signal processor, programmable logic device etc.In some embodiments, control circuit 602 is carried out the instruction to interactive media guidance application or other interactive application (for example, browser) from memory.Memory (for example, random access memory and read-only memory), hard disk drive, CD-ROM driver or any other suitable memory or storage device can be configured to the storage device 608 as the part of control circuit 602.Also can comprise tuning circuit, such as one or more analog tuner, one or more MPEG-2 decoder or other digital video circuit, high definition tuner or any other suitable tuning or video circuit or like this combination of some circuit, as the part of circuit 602.Can also be equipped with coding circuit (for example, being used for wireless, analog or digital signal transformation are the mpeg signal for storage).Subscriber equipment can receive and shows, plays or write down the desirable Voice ﹠ Video content of specific TV or music channel or other (for example, the playback of the video on demand content or the Network Based or local video tape recorder of being asked) with tuning and coding circuit.Show on 610 can display of television programmes and other videos and screen on option and information.Display 610 can be the suitable equipment of monitor, television set or any other demonstration visual picture.In some embodiments, display 610 can have the HDTV ability.Loud speaker 612 can be provided as the part of television set, perhaps can be unit independently.The digital music of the video that shows on display 610 and audio frequency component can be play by loud speaker 612.In some embodiments, audio frequency can be distributed to the receiver (not shown), exports by loud speaker 612 after receiver is handled.
The user can control with 614 pairs of control circuits 602 of user's input interface.User's input interface 614 can be any appropriate users interface, such as mouse, tracking ball, keypad, keyboard, touch-screen, touch pads, speech recognition interface or remote controller.
Also can ancillary equipment 618 be received on the treatment circuit 606 by communication path 616.Ancillary equipment can comprise cellular telephone, personal digital assistant, hand-held media player and any other suitable ancillary equipment.Communication path 616 can comprise for example USB cable, IEEE1394 cable or wireless path (for example, bluetooth, infrared path).Treatment circuit 606 equipment 618 to the periphery provides content and data.
Fig. 7 shows the exemplary display screen that interactive media guidance is used.Screen 700 comprises that some expression users select the interactivity element 710 of available channel-group.The tabulation that is included in the channel-group in this channel-group selection screen can be all available channel-group or certain subclass wherein.The available channel-group that shows in screen 700 needs the subclass of channel displayed group can be by serving provider's (for example, Fig. 1 serve provider 142), being determined by the combination of user or input by both party than whole available channel-group after a little while.In one embodiment, the channel-group that is included in the screen 700 can provide by serving the profile information of provider with the user.Subscriber profile information can comprise the information of the media channel and the program of user capture.If a user often visits some and belongs to the media channel of sports channel group or often visit sports cast, navigation application just can be chosen in channel-group and select to show in the screen 700 the sports channel group.In an approach, subscriber profile information can also be used to the ranking order that definite channel-group shows in screen 700.For example, can be significantly the frequentation of explicit user is asked in the first row channel-group of screen 700 channel-group (perhaps containing the channel that the frequentation of user asks or the channel-group of program).Can also point out such " liking " channel-group (for example, given element 710 being shown bigger or on this element, add a designator 711) to the user than other elements.
Perhaps, the channel-group list on screen 700 can manually be provided with by editing screen by the user, and editing screen can be conducted interviews from screen 700 by user's selector button 705.As shown in Figure 8, editing screen 800 can make the user can by cursor 801 is put into the corresponding check box 805 of desirable channel-group on and the options button pushed on the user input apparatus select channel-group.The selected channel group can pointed out by showing to choose to accord with in corresponding square frame 805 on the screen 800.The interactivity element 810 that indicates the channel-group title can be selected in a similar fashion by the user, with the information of checking the selected channel group explanation of this channel-group (for example, to).For example, the information of the sports channel group that is highlighted by cursor 801 can show in overlapping layer 850 when the user pushes options button 412 on the user input apparatus.As shown in the figure, overlapping layer 850 can illustrate the selected channel group and the tabulation that is included in the media channel in this channel-group is provided.When the user selected to finish, the user can preserve setting and return to screen 700 by selector button 820.
Return Fig. 7, screen 700 can comprise a scaled video display window 720 (for example, picture-in-picture or draw in the window that navigates) and information display area 730.In screen 700, can show a cursor 701, can cooperate user input apparatus 400 to be used for the interactivity element of display screen is highlighted by the user.For example, cursor 701 can be used for highlighting a element in the interactivity channel-group element 710 by the user.In one embodiment, when cursor 701 was on the specific channel-group element 710, form 720 can show the video relevant with the channel-group that highlights.For example, form 720 can show channel-group itself, each media channel in this channel-group that one or more propagandas highlight or the video clipping that passes through these group available media programs of channel (for example, special issue program).In an approach, can require the user to point out that the user wishes to check the video relevant with the channel-group that highlights, and begins to show this video again in form 720.For example, when cursor 701 is on the channel-group element 710, can require the user to push information key 418 on the user input apparatus, to begin to play one or more video clippings.
In another embodiment, the user can also check from the live media program of organizing channel by form 720.For example, cursor 701 is put into (perhaps also will push the information key) on the channel-group element time the user, form 720 can provide the live video of first media channel that belongs to the channel-group that highlights.The audio frequency that also can not be provided at the media channels that show in the form 720 can be provided, and in some cases, this depends on that media channel is television channel or is the channel at center with the audio frequency such as music channel.The sign of first media channel in can showing at its video, form 720 is provided.For example, when shown live video is the video of media channel ESPN in form 720, in form 720, can identify this media channel with overlapping layer 721.In an approach, when the user pushed information key on the user input apparatus when cursor 701 remains on the same channel-group element, form 720 can be converted to the Live Program of demonstration from second media channel that belongs to the channel-group that highlights.Like this, user's repeated presses information key when being on the channel-group element at cursor 701 just can be seen all channels in this channel-group that highlights in turn.Perhaps, also can be that navigation application is taken turns the program of each media channel of channel-group feed-in form 720 automatically.When a media channel in a channel-group did not provide continuous playing programs (for example, audio or video play), form 720 can show the propaganda video clipping relevant with this media channel when user or navigation application wheel forward this channel to.For example, can in form 720, introduce this on-demand media channel by the video clipping of an available program of demanding channel or with the video preview of one of them program with propaganda.Perhaps, also can be navigation application along with wheel in form 720 is broadcast the group channel and skipped the media channel that does not have traditional broadcast-type to present simply.
In the embodiment of the live video of insertion promotional videos relevant and group channel with channel-group, form 720 can begin to show the promotional videos montage relevant with this channel-group that highlights automatically when cursor 701 is on the channel-group element, and when the user pushed information key on the user input apparatus, form 720 can be presented with the program of first group of channel and replace the promotional videos montage.Repeat to press the information key and can cause taking turns the program that transfers from these group channels and present, as discussed above.
Perhaps, also can be the relevant general advertisement information of these channel-group that shows and on screen 700, show with form 720, which channel-group element what no matter cursor 701 highlighted is.
Be appreciated that and use form 720 with in any way discussed above or so any combination of some modes.One or more additional video display windows also can be set on screen 700, and these additional video display windows can provide the additional propaganda chance with channel-group, media channel, the relevant or irrelevant products ﹠ services of media program.
Information display area 730 can with the audio video synchronization that in form 720, shows.For example, when form 720 showed the video clipping of a specific channel-group of propaganda, form 720 can show the information of same channel-group.Zone 730 information that provided can be literal, figure, video (with any accompanying audio), and (for example can provide the channel-group explanation, the common trait of channel-group or organizational principle), channel-group list, the current program (for example, special issue program) that can obtain by channel-group etc.Similar, when form 720 shows that the live video of the video clipping of a specific channel of propaganda or a specific channel is presented, viewing area 730 can provide the information of this channel, such as the advertisement information of channel explanation (for example, channel main broadcaster program category) and channel and program thereof.Similar, when form 720 showed a specific program or the promotional videos relevant with specific program, viewing area 730 can furnish an explanation and propagate the further information of this program.
Perhaps, also can be information display area 730 not with the audio video synchronization of form 720.In one embodiment, zone 730 generally can be used to provide channel-group, media channel and by serving the advertisement information of the available media program of provider.Such advertisement information can periodically automatically switch, and makes can propagate a plurality of channel-group, media channel and media program in a given cycle.Viewing area 730 can be interactively, can allow the user to start one or more navigation application functions according to the channel-group of propagating, channel or program in viewing area 730.For example, when showing the information of program of a specific channel or current broadcast in zone 730, user-selected area 730 (for example, by highlight and use key 412 to select with cursor 701) can make the user can visit this specific channel or broadcast the channel of the program of current broadcast.When showing the information of programs in the future in zone 730, user-selected area 730 can make the user can be provided with this prompting or the record of program in the future.The user is appreciated that such function can show further choice menus after select zone 730.This further choice menus can be shown in zone 730 by navigation application usually, perhaps shows as the independent overlapping layer on the screen 700.
In another embodiment, information display area 730 can be synchronous with the channel-group element that cursor 701 highlights.For example, as shown in Figure 7, when cursor 701 highlights the sports channel group, the information that zone 730 can provide this channel-group (for example, the common trait of channel-group or organizational principle, channel-group list, the special issue program that can obtain by channel-group).
Be appreciated that can with any way discussed above or so any combination of some modes use viewing area 730.One or more additional promotional region (for example, zone 740) also can be set on screen 700, and these additional promotional region can provide the additional propaganda chance with channel-group, media channel, the relevant or irrelevant products ﹠ services of media program.
In another aspect of the present invention, the navigation application function can be carried out at a channel-group.The general function that navigation application provided for example comprises that channel is set to favorite channel, controls program or the channel that password locking program or channel and purchase need be paid with the head of a family.In this aspect of the invention, navigation application can start to one or more selected channel groups rather than to the navigation application function of single channel or program the user.Response starts the user command of this function, and navigation application can be carried out this function to channel-group list (that is, all group channels and all can obtain by channel-group other media lists).
As above in conjunction with Fig. 7 illustrated, information display area 730 can be used to provide the visit (for example, for the situation of propagating program in this zone) to navigation feature.Zone 730 can be used to provide similarly to the visit at the function of channel-group.In one embodiment, what other information that no matter showing in zone 730 are, the user is put into cursor 701 1 on the channel-group element 710, and the information area 730 just can show the navigation feature 735 that row can be used the channel-group that highlights.As shown in Figure 7, exemplary functions 735 comprise that function " is made as and likes ", " locking " and " order ".The user when cursor is on the channel-group element 710, push on the user input apparatus like key 426 accordingly the time, navigation application will be carried out " be made as and like " function to the channel-group that highlights.Carrying out " be made as and like " function can make navigation application that all group channels all are set to favorite channel.In addition, those channel-group that have been set to " liking " channel-group by the user can 711 be indicated with sign.
Similar, when the user pushes purchase key 428 when cursor is on the channel-group element, navigation application will be carried out " orders " function to the channel-group that highlights, and this can the road causes expense that navigation application makes burden for users order group channel and checks and approves the visit of user to these channels.It should be noted that this function can be carried out the subclass of group channel.For example, ordered some channels in the group channel and when not ordering some other channel, this channel-group has been carried out " orders " function can cause navigation application to be handled there not being the order of the channel of order before just the user.Be appreciated that this principle also is applicable to other navigation application functions.
If the user pushes corresponding interlocking key 420 when cursor is on the channel-group element, navigation application can be carried out " locking " function to the channel-group that highlights.Carry out " locking " function and can make navigation application stop the visit of these being organized channels, up to the password code of having imported head of a family's control.In addition, " locking " function can also cause locking can not be derived from the independent media list of a group channel by (therefore being listed on the channel-group list) that channel-group obtains.For example, when a channel-group provides the visit that the interactive entertainment that is derived from the GameChannel that is not a group channel is used, this channel-group is carried out the visit that all right locking of " locking " function is used this interactive entertainment.Be appreciated that this principle also is applicable to other navigation application functions, feasible all media lists that provide by channel-group can be subjected to the influence of performed function, even some media list can not be to provide or be derived from a group channel by a group channel.
In another embodiment, the user can select a plurality ofly will carry out the channel-group of navigation application function to them.For example, referring to Fig. 7, the user can highlight the first channel-group element 710 and push information key on the user input apparatus 400 with cursor 701.The information key of pushing has just been selected this channel-group element, causes showing in tabulation 735 available function.When the user moves to cursor 701 on the second channel-group element and pushes the information key, also selected the second channel-group element.So tabulation 735 tabulations that can show to all available function of the first and second selected channel groups.The user presses correspondent button on the user input apparatus 400 (for example, like, locking, purchase) just can carry out corresponding function to these two selected channel group name lists (that is, group channel and other media lists that can obtain by channel-group).It should be noted, may not have common available function (for example, in the characteristic that the first selected channel group has with the selected channel group is different subsequently time) between two or more selected channel groups.In this case, tabulation 735 can be left blank, perhaps can show the message of pointing out not have general utility functions.
Be appreciated that the function applicable to channel-group can be any suitable function of navigation application, be not limited to top illustrated those.
Fig. 9 is a display screen of navigation application, illustration the channel-group of Fig. 7 select another embodiment of screen.Screen 900 illustrations with channel-group with media channel picture displayed in the rendition list district.For example, interactivity channel-group element 910 can appear at the top of the rendition list form 950.Channel-group element 910 can also appear at another district (for example, in the bottom) of form 950 together, perhaps can be dispersed in each media channel tabulation 915 interior (for example, the sports channel group can be close to the demonstration of physical culture media channel) of form.Scaled video display window 920 and information display area 930 can (for example be worked in the rendition list screen of navigation application usually as them, form 920 can provide the video of last tuning channel, and the zone 930 corresponding information of tabulation that can provide and highlight), perhaps can follow above to form 720 and regional 730 illustrated functions.In one embodiment of the invention, (for example select a channel-group the user, by cursor being placed on the channel-group element 710/910 and pushing options button 412 on the user input apparatus) time, navigation application can show the channel-group inlet screen of selected channel group to the user.As shown in figure 10, screen 1000 is as the inlet or the main screen of these group channels of forming this channel-group.
Screen 1000 can be used for providing to the user focus information of channel-group.For example, information display area 1030 can identify the information (for example, the tabulation of group channel, the common trait or the organizational principle of channel-group) of channel-group and indicated channel group itself.As shown in figure 10, exemplary screen 1000 is inlet screens of sports channel group.Therefore, zone 1030 can report that this channel-group is exclusively used in sports cast (for example, as the promotional messages part of soliciting spectators) to spectators.The information area 1030 can also provide the advertisement information by available group of channel of this channel-group and program.In one embodiment, the volume of the information (1031) that zone 1030 can the indicated channel group and group channel and program shields information (1032).If desired, zone 1032 can be presented in available recently program and other available recently medium that belong to this group on the group channel.Can also in the one or more additional propaganda district of screen 1000 (not shown), show advertisement information.Scaled video display window 1020 can cooperate with viewing area 1030 provide the video information relevant with channel-group.In an example, form 1020 can show one or more propaganda channel-group, their formation channel or the video clipping by the available special issue program of these channel-group.Form 1020 can with in zone 1030 or additional propaganda to distinguish the advertisement information 1032 that shows in the zone in the (not shown) synchronous.In an example, when advertisement information 1032 was used to propagate the broadcast program in a future, video window 1020 can show propagated this video clipping of program in the future.When advertisement information 1032 was used to propagate a current broadcasting program or media channel, form 1020 can provide the live video of this program.When advertisement information 1032 was used to propagate a request program, form 1020 can provide the preview clip of this request program.No matter advertisement information is to show in zone 1030 or in additional propaganda district, can be automatically converted to a plurality of programs of propaganda and channel.
Information display area 1030 can also provide the visit to some functions of navigation application.For example, as above illustrated to zone 730, the user (for example can select zone 1030, by being put into cursor 1001 on this zone and pushing options button on the user input apparatus) one or more functions that the media channel propagated or program are started navigation application (for example, visit channel or program, prompting to program is set, is provided with) to recording of programs.In addition, information display area 1030 can provide the visit to the function that can carry out this channel-group.As above illustrated to zone 730, zone 1030 can provide the tabulation 1035 of the available navigation application function of current channel group.In one embodiment, can provide some mutual 1036 in tabulation 1035, making the user highlight and to select need be to the function of current channel group execution.
As shown in figure 10, the media list of the program that demonstration can obtain by channel-group in form 1050.Screen 1000 illustrations the tabulation of time and channel form types show, but be appreciated that it can be any appropriate format that tabulation shows.Can also by screen 1000 to the user provide such as the arrangement and function of search additional navigation feature, these additional navigation features also can be at each media list of channel-group.In the navigation application of the tabulation that provides favorite channel, the favorite channel that belongs to channel-group may be displayed on the top of form 1050 and can indicate with the sign in the channel identication district 1011.Perhaps, favorite channel can be dispersed in the form, indicates with sign 1011.Interactivity element 1010 in the form 1050 has been represented can be by organizing the media program that channel obtains.For broadcasting channel, element 1010 occupies and corresponding length of program duration.For the non-broadcasting channel such as demanding channel, individual element 1010 can be across the whole length of form 1010.Element 1010 can comprise any adequate information relevant with associated program, such as it title, grade, explanation, be about to the action (such as the record of being arranged) that occurs designator, indicate sign literal and the designator relevant of available content recently with other.The user (for example selects element 1010, by being put into cursor 1001 on the element and pushing options button on the user input apparatus) can start to selected program, to available navigation of selected program (for example, be provided with prompting, record is set, checks details) or the two visit.
In some system, the request program that is derived from a specific medium channel or specific program scheduler is combined in the demanding channel together.For example, the request program that is derived from media program scheduler ESPN can be visited from the ESPN demanding channel by the user.The user selects this demanding channel to use to interactive media guidance that (for example, a series of mutual demonstrations) visit is with reception information and the independent request program of visit for the user provides.In an approach shown in Figure 10, the on-demand media channel provides as a channel in lists table.The user selects just to have started with demanding channel elements corresponding 1010 user capture of the navigation application that demanding channel is provided.Similar, other non-broadcast medium channels (for example, GameChannel, webpage channel etc.) also can be listed in the form in such a way.
In another approach, the tabulation of the request program of program request group channel can appear in the lists table respectively.As illustrated in Figure 11, can be rendered as with independent request program elements corresponding 1110 respectively and replaced independent media channel, and can be across the whole length of form.On-demand media tabulation can lump together in the top or the bottom group of lists table 1150, perhaps can be right after in the request program source or with request program to share below common Promgramming person's the media channel.For example, as shown in figure 11, can directly appear under the ESPN media channel in the form from the request program of ESPN demanding channel.The user selects program request tabulation 1110 can make the information and the request interview show of user's energy program receiving.Can take similar approach for the non-traditional medium such as interactive game application and internet webpage.For example, solitary play is used or independent webpage (for example, containing the single report from a news website) can be listed in such a way, rather than lists by a GameChannel or website channel.It should be noted that the on-demand media tabulation that is provided in the grid 1150 needn't be derived from the demanding channel that belongs to this channel-group.Separately the on-demand media tabulation can be added in the channel-group list by the user or by serving the provider, as an independent media list rather than can meet the common trait of this channel-group as a media channel.
In another approach, can be organized under the single demanding channel of this channel-group by all on-demand media tabulations that channel-group obtains.For example, can conduct interviews by sports group's demanding channel that the user selects to organize separately by available all the on-demand media tabulations of sports channel group in channel-group inlet screen, using.
In some embodiments, tabulation grid 1050 can comprise just a subclass as the available non-broadcasted content of the part of channel-group.For example, this form can the popular on-demand content of special issue, the on-demand content of distribution recently or serve the on-demand content of the current propaganda of provider.In these embodiments, the complete list of available non-broadcasted content can by some independently screen obtain.
In some embodiments, can pass through the independent menu access of navigation application by the request program that channel-group obtains.As illustrated in Figure 10, navigation application can provide mutual 1005, selects mutual visit that just provided special-purpose program request media list menu at 1005 o'clock the user.As illustrated in Figure 12, the user has selected item 1005, and navigation application can be with pass through the tabulation that available all on-demand medias tabulation 1210 replacements of this channel-group had before shown in list area 1050.The program request tabulation can be with any suitable order ordering.For example, they can be alphabetically arrange, line up highlight available content recently, by the propaganda ordering, by the popularity ordering or sort by any other suitable mode.Be appreciated that shown program request tabulation can realize with various alternative approach, can make the user search for and to put in order in addition the on-demand media tabulation.Can be by reaching similar effects for the screen 1000 among the embodiment that single demanding channel can be provided by all request programs that channel-group obtains.
As above to Fig. 7 illustrated, scaled video display window of the present invention can be used for the live video of demonstration group channel and present and other videos relevant with channel-group.Figure 10,11 and 12 channel-group inlet screen can be the function of form 1020 designate similar again.In one embodiment, when user's moving cursor 1001 highlighted the rendition list in the lists table, form 1020 can show to be presented with the live video of the corresponding media channel of tabulation that highlights or the promotional videos montage of given channel.In the tabulation that highlights is when being used for a request program (seeing Figure 11 and 12), and video window can show the promotional videos montage of this request program, this request program or the promotional videos montage of the demanding channel related with this program.In another embodiment, the user can be put into cursor on the video display window 1020 (can randomly also push information key 418), receives the live video of first media channel.As above illustrated in conjunction with form 720, video window 1020 can be presented along with the user repeats to press live video that the information key shows each group channel in turn.Perhaps, navigation application can be browsed automatically that live video is presented and without user's input, perhaps can provide the measure that makes the user can specify a given group of channel to present with the live video that shows this group channel.
In one embodiment, can present from the live video of these group channels to user's demonstration with the video mosaic form.For example, as Figure 12 A was illustrated, scaled video window 1255 can be used for showing simultaneously that the live video from each group channel presents.Display screen 1250 for example can be from channel-group screen 1000 visit that enters the mouth.In a suitable approach, the user can move to cursor 1001 on the video display window 1020, points out to wish to check mosaic screen 1250 by the options button of pushing on the user input apparatus.Shown in Figure 12 A, on screen 1250, can provide cursor 1251, this cursor can move between form 1255 to highlight a given form.Be not suitable under the situation of the video feed that shows all group channels on the single display screen, navigation application can provide additional screen to hold additional video window, perhaps can make the user shield additional video window with cursor 1251 volumes.In one embodiment, navigation application can allow to carry out tuner operation with screen 1250.For example, the user can move to cursor 1251 on the form 1255 and push options button on the user input apparatus.Under such user input, navigation application can make subscriber equipment be tuned on the group channel by selected form 1255 expressions.In one embodiment, media list such as the program request tabulation, also can be represented by video window 1255 separately.For example, under the situation of on-demand media tabulation, navigation application can provide the preview of media program or the promotional videos of media program.In one embodiment, when cursor 1251 is on the given form, can provide any audio program that provides by media channel represented in form 1255 or media list to the user.In some embodiments, with the literal of each video window explicit declaration or propaganda channel or channel content.In some embodiments, the user can push the information key on the remote controller when a video window is highlighted, with the additional information or execution other operations relevant with these medium of visiting these medium.
Figure 13 shows making the user can see all program promptings, waiting to record, recorded and purchased the multipurpose screen of channel-group program of navigation application.On demand, can also comprise previous visited and the still addressable on-demand media program of active user.Screen 1300 can be selected option one 006 visit from screen 1000 by the user.In screen 1300 illustrated approach, the multipurpose screen can be organized by date.For example, as shown in figure 13, from all promptings, the record on a specific date with order and to be placed on together under the demonstration title of that day.Therefore, with reference to screen 1300, the user can know, November 11, has been provided with the program prompting to " football at night on Monday " of 9 beginnings in media channel ESPN afternoon.The user knows, on the same date, for FOXSPORTS afternoon " Britain is to Denmark " football match being provided with of 10 to carry out record.The user knows that also November 11, the program of jogging of 7 beginnings in the morning was following from the record of FOXSPORTS channel, and volleyball match is following from the record of RCN channel from 9 in the morning.In addition, the user knows, November 11, has bought pay-per-view request program " all one's life of Dale Jared " from the ESPN program request.Because multipurpose screen 1300 (for example can comprise program item in the future, program prompting in the future and wait to record) and the program item of passing by (for example, the program of having recorded or having purchased, expired program prompting), therefore can obtain screen 1300 for the past and the time (for example, the front and back of current date are 10 days) in the future of one section setting.If desired, can continue available program in the past for illustrating every day.For example, can record program for illustrating every day, the time of program recording and the time of deletion record.As another example, can purchase request program for illustrating every day, the time that time that this program is bought and no longer having the right is watched.
Expression prompting, record in the screen 1300, the element of buying (can randomly also have before visited current still have the right the request program of visiting) can be interactivity.A cursor 1301 can be provided, make the user can highlight an element 1310.For example, the user can highlight the element 1310 that indicates program prompting.The user has selected this element (for example, by pushing the options button on the user input apparatus), details other functions relevant with this program with execution that the user just can edit or delete program prompting and watch the program that has the prompting of being arranged.Similar, the user can with elemental interactions to be recorded, the record of being arranged with editor or deletion, check programme information and carry out other functions relevant with this program.The user selects to indicate the element 1310 of recording program or having purchased program and the user can be visited recorded or purchased program (if this program remains addressable words).
Scaled video display window 1320 can be used for showing and the program element 1310 corresponding videos that highlighted by cursor 1301.For example, when highlighting a program in future (having arranged prompting or program to be recorded) with cursor 1301, form 1320 can show the propaganda video clipping of upcoming program or the preview of upcoming program.In another example, form 1320 can begin this program of playback or the montage of this program is provided when cursor 1301 highlights the current addressable program of expression (for example, still addressable recorded or purchased program, request program).As above illustrated in conjunction with other embodiment, form 1320 can be just just begins such demonstration when certain user points out to show the video relevant with the program that highlights (for example, push on the user input apparatus information request key) when cursor 1301 highlights this program element.Illustrate that district 1330 can cooperate with form 1320, provides the further information of the program that highlights.
In an approach, the user can edit the content of multipurpose screen 1300 with option 1305.By selecting option one 305, the user can be controlled at and whether comprises program prompting on the screen, whether comprising unsettled record on the screen and whether comprise playlist item (being addressable program, such as recording program, the current still addressable program of having purchased or before having visited) on screen.The playlist of channel-group can by navigation application by will from the tabulation of the program of channel-group record and before from channel-group buy or visit and the tabulation of the current program of visiting of still having the right of user combines generation.The project 1310 of user-accessible (for example, some have been recorded program and some and have purchased program) can be selected this element (for example, by cursor 1301 is put on this element and push options button) visit by the user.In addition, but addressable project 1310 can indicate additional mark 1311 from the program playback to the user that point out.
In an alternative approach, the tabulation of program prompting, record and the program of having purchased or before having visited from channel-group can be provided with suitable combining form by navigation application.For example, such as illustrated in Figure 14, record screen 1400 can remain to be recorded and the tabulation of having recorded for the user provides the institute of channel-group.Figure 14 A illustration the playlist screen of all media lists of recording, having purchased and having visited of user-accessible is provided.The tabulation of the information of each channel-group perhaps, also can independently be provided respectively on the screen at some.
Figure 15 illustration another aspect of the present invention, the history of watching to channel-group is provided.Watch historical screen 1500 can be provided at the tabulation of all media programs that user in the past period visited by channel-group for the user.In screen 1500 illustrated these approach, watch the historical screen can be by the date tissue of interview show.In another approach, watching history can be interior single accumulation tabulation of one set period (for example five days).In order to make the quantity of watching the program that occurs in the historical screen remain on rational degree, may desirable requirement user before a program is considered to visit notice that this program will acquire a certain degree.For example, program is just watched on the historical screen its accessed by the user just it being added to when surpassing 5 minutes.This approach can be rejected a large amount of owing to the user just browses the clauses and subclauses that channel causes in watching historical screen.
Shown in screen 1500, watch historical screen can provide some to indicate the element 1510 of the media program that the user before visited by channel-group.Can enter the mouth screen access to the historical screen of watching of a given channel-group by channel-group by the user.For example, the user can select the option one 007 on the screen 1000 to visit for the historical screen 1500 of watching of sports channel group.Can watch program or visit to visit media program by program request or paying that channel-group obtains by watching program, request on the channel in the group channel by other medium (for example, recreation, website) that channel-group provided.Element 1510 can indicate group channel, the title of program, the initial broadcast time (if relevant) of program and the duration of user capture program of carrying program.In addition, element 1510 can also provide a status indicator 1511 on each program.Status indicator provides the information of the character of the program of visiting.For example, status indicator can indicate that the program of having visited is broadcast program, request program or pay-per-view.Status indicator can also be used to indicating the program of before having visited current whether also addressable (for example, with sign 1512 signs).The still addressable media program of before visited and active user comprises the program that write down, pass through the still available request program of on-demand content provider and previous purchase of user when the user asks and still addressable pay-per-view (for example, user buy in the past three days film).For the still addressable program of user, the user selects elements corresponding 1510 (for example by cursor is put on this element and push options button on the user input apparatus) that the visit to this program (for example, this program of playback) just can be provided.
As shown in figure 15, the user can highlight an element 1510 of watching on the historical screen by moving cursor 1501.Scaled video window 1520 can match with illustrative area 1530, and the information of the previous media program of visiting that cursor highlights is provided.For example, information display area 1530 can provide the descriptor of previous program of visiting, and form 1520 can provide the video relevant with this program.For example, if the program user who highlights is current still addressable, form 1520 can begin this program of playback.As above in conjunction with scaled video window illustrated, playback video can need the user to start (for example, requiring the user to push information key on the user input apparatus when cursor highlights element 1510).When the user selects to visit this program, in form 1520, just begin to provide in this approach of scaled video of program, navigation application can to the user's query user will from program begin carry out playback and still continue the playback in form 1520, carried out.
If the user-selected current inaccessible of previous program of visiting, navigation application can be pointed out selected program inaccessible to the user, and to selected program when suitable, navigation application can provide the information of the following first phase of series under information relevant with the replay (that is, reruning) of this program of before having visited or the selected program for the user.
In some cases, form 1520 and zone 1530 can provide the information afterwards of previous program of visiting.For example, zone 1530 can show the descriptor (comprising the explanatory memorandum of contest and the statistical information of contest) of athletic competition in the past, and form 1520 can show the video clipping of the outstanding sight of contest.In another approach, propagate another phase in this series during first phase that form 1520 and zone 1530 can be used in the program series that the user highlights or select before to have visited.In some embodiments, the user can visit the additional detail of this program or carry out other functions relevant with this program by pushing options button or information key when highlighting element 1510.
Be appreciated that it is exemplary watching historical screen 1500, the functions that are provided with of watching historical screen comprise the program of before visiting from channel-group are put in order and searched for more.
In another aspect of this invention, navigation application can make the user set up self-defined channel-group by setting up and edit channel-group list (that is, belonging to the tabulation of the channel and the media list of channel-group).In illustrated this embodiment of Figure 16, the user can set up self-defined channel-group by the channel of selecting will be included in the channel list.The user can select the channel-group of Fig. 7 to select the element 706 in the screen to visit screen 1600.Channel-group create screen 1600 can comprise preexist channel-group tabulation and serve tabulations that the provider provides or all channels that subscriber equipment is received.Shown channel and channel-group are by element 1610 and check box 1605 expressions.Be provided with a cursor 1601, the user selects the check box 1605 that the element 1610 with a channel or channel-group highlights accordingly (for example by be put into cursor on the check box and push options button) can cause this channel or channel-group to add the channel-group list to show 1620 (and have choose a symbol be placed on by the element of selected channel or channel-group).The user can also receive channel or the channel-group information that helps list to select.For example, when the user is put into cursor on the element of a channel-group and pushes the information key, navigation application can by show overlapping layer 1650 (similar) with the overlapping layer 850 of Fig. 8 or by with one of user guiding independently information screen provide this channel-group information (for example, forming the channel of this channel-group, the character of channel-group) for the user.Similar, when the user asked the information of a channel elements that highlights 1610, navigation application can provide the information (for example, the character of the program that channel carried) of this channel with similar mechanism.In some cases, the user can wish independent media list rather than whole media channel are added the channel-group list.Such as illustrated in Figure 16, this can show that overlapping layer 1660 (appending on the overlapping layer 1650) realizes when selecting a channel elements 1610 the user.Overlapping layer 1660 can comprise by the more available media lists 1661 of selected channel.For example, screen 1600 expression users have selected the interactive game channel, and the tabulation of all interactive game application 1661 that provide by GameChannel is provided overlapping layer 1660.With to the class of operation of element 1610 and check box 1605 seemingly, can select one by one to use 1661 by selecting check box 1662, the user can be by selecting the information of element 1661 each application of reception.Can also help users to select to be included in channel in the selected channel group element with the similar overlapping layers of overlapping layer 1660 with one, make that the user can be with channel-group element 1610 as the omniselector that guide desirable each channel into.When the user finishes being provided with of channel-group list 1620, the user can highlight with option 1630 and (for example set up this channel-group, for select screen 700 visits by channel-group) and application is withdrawed from, get back to previous screen (for example, screen 700).Screen 1600 can also make the user can edit the channel-group list.For example, the user can select to edit a channel-group by the selection element 1008 in the channel-group inlet screen of selecting Figure 10.Navigation application can make the user can edit a channel-group list, and no matter this list is originally by serving still customer-furnished that the provider provides.
The media program that is appreciated that indication among the present invention can be any suitable media program, such as TV programme, audio program/internet webpage, interactive application (for example, recreation, home shopping are used), photo and so on.The media channel that is further appreciated that indication among the present invention can be the provider or the media program source of any media program, such as television channel, internet website, satelline radio channel.Single channel-group can contain the combination of some different medium of type in its list.In another embodiment of the present invention, interactive media guidance is used and can be carried out on the unconventional platform such as PDA, and the navigation to the mixed-media channel such as internet website, satelline radio channel, interactive game channel and movies on demand channel can be provided.Such as illustrated in Figure 17, some interactivity channel-group elements 1710 can be provided, be used for the group of forming by internet website, satellite radio station, interactive game channel and movies on demand channel.For example, element 1710 " world " can be represented a group of being made up of the program of the concern world incident of some internet websites and other types.Element 1710 " physical culture " and " money " can be represented the group be made up of the program of the internet website of paying close attention to described theme and other types similarly.Element 1710 " jazz " can be represented to be devoted to the group that the satellite radio station of jazz is formed by some.As before illustrated in other embodiments, the media channel group that selection will show in screen 1700 can be set by serving provider, user or their certain combination.
(for example select an interactivity channel-group element 1710 the user, point out this selection by cursor 1701 being moved on on this element with user's input that PDA provided) time, navigation application can provide the information of a display media channel-group and allow visit to be applicable to the group inlet screen of the function of this group.For example, the user selects element 1710 " world " can make navigation application show inlet screen 1800, and it comprises the tabulation of the media channel (for example, CNN.com, BBCNews.com, Reuters.com) in the group.In addition, can provide media list 1811, with the link of special issue for example to the webpage that contains the top news report for each media channel.The user selects element 1810 (for example pointing out this selection by cursor 1801 being moved on on this element and with user's input that PDA provided) that the visit to the homepage of user-selected website can be provided.Similar, the user selects element 1811 can provide the direct visit by the dark linked web pages (webpage of the news report of being propagated for example, is provided) that the user asked.The user can also receive the information (for example, the character of web site contents) at each networking station by the information request keyed jointing of for example pushing on the PDA device when highlighting website element 1810.Navigation application can also show the tabulation of the function that can carry out channel-group to the user, makes the user can start the function that group is carried out.Such as illustrated in Figure 18, these media channels (for example, website) that element 1820 can be expressed as group are provided with the function of e-mail alert.When carrying out, if this function can for example have new top news report to add to will be in any one website of channel-group by Email to user report.
In another example, Figure 19 illustration the jazz channel-group inlet screen that can when the user selects element 1710 " jazz ", show.A plurality of satellite radio station of compiling the jazz program can be shown as element 1910 with other can belong to the channel-group list such as music and the medium with the relevant website of jazz on screen 1900.Information display area 1920 can be used to provide the information of this channel-group.For example, the overall concise and to the point promotional messages of channel-group, the separately promotional messages of radio station and the information of the special issue program that provides by channel-group can be provided in zone 1920.As discussed above, the advertisement information of special issue program can periodically change a plurality of programs of propaganda into.Zone 1920 can also be used to providing the information of the radio station that the user highlights, such as the explanation to the musical genre of this radio station.Screen 1900 can provide the media list of group channel.For example, can be provided at the fooled prosthomere purpose tabulation of this music channel for 1910 times in each channel elements.Can also provide over and the tabulation of program in the future.The user (for example selects music channel element 1910, by cursor 1901 being moved on on this element and pointing out this selection with user's input that PDA provided) can provide to selected radio station visit (promptly, be tuned in the selected radio station), perhaps also do not order under this radio station's situation, the preview clip of the program of this radio station is provided the user.The user selects element 1910 navigation application is shown provide to be the information (for example, media list) of selected radio station and to allow the user to carry out the channel special function relevant with selected channel.
Screen 1900 can make the user can receive the preview of shown media list.For example, be the media list of the radio programming of a current broadcast by selection, the user just can be tuned on this program.When selected media list was the program of broadcasting in the future, the user can receive the preview clip of this program.As above illustrated in other embodiments, navigation application can also provide visit to program request list screen (1906), multipurpose screen (with any screen that constitutes tabulation that is provided by the multipurpose screen that contains, such as record screen (1907)), access history screen, channel-group list editing screen etc. with screen 1900.Screen 1900 can also provide visit to the function that can carry out channel-group for the user.For example, the user selects element 1905 can make navigation application that order to all radio stations (can randomly also have independent media list (for example, the program request disc)) that provide by the jazz group is provided, and just allows subsequently they are conducted interviews.
Be appreciated that the screen of Fig. 7-16 and the screen of Figure 17-19 all are the example of the combination of some functions.Alternative embodiment can be combined in shown function on these screens in a different manner, add some functions again, and is perhaps different with these embodiment.
Figure 20 shows the exemplary flow chart that provides channel-group according to of the present invention in interactive media guidance is used.
In step 2010, the definition channel-group.The channel-group definition can be the channel-group list, and it can comprise the tabulation that will be included in the media channel in the channel-group, can also comprise each media list that can not be derived from the group channel.Channel-group list (that is any independent media list in group channel and the list) can have at least one common feature.As shown in the exemplary flow chart of Figure 21, step 2010 can comprise serves provider's input step 2011 and user's input step 2012.In step 2011, can for example provide the channel-group definition by serving provider 142 (Fig. 1).For example, serving the provider can use user's profile information as the input of giving the channel-group list.The service provider can work out the channel-group list with one or more common traits of media channel or media list.In addition, serve the provider and can artificially edit control the channel-group list.In step 2012, the channel-group list can comprise the input from the user.In an approach, can for example utilize the editing screen of Figure 16 that the channel-group list is provided by the user fully.In another approach, the user can edit by serving the channel-group list that the provider before provided.In step 2013, set up channel-group list (that is, the channel-group definition), the channel-group list for example can be stored in the media distribution facility 104 or subscriber equipment 108 (Fig. 1) with other navigation application data.For example, the server 140 of media distribution facility 104 can provide the channel-group database of storage of channel group name list.This database can comprise the expression database items of each channel-group of definition (for example, by serving provider or user) in system.The channel-group database items can comprise channel-group list database items, and channel-group list database items comprises each the independent media channel in the expression channel-group list and the database items of media list.
In step 2020, the information of channel-group is offered the user.As shown in the exemplary flow chart of Figure 22, the step 2201-2216 in being included in step 2020 can provide a large amount of channel-group information.In step 2201, can for example provide the media list of channel-group to the user with channel-group inlet screen 1000.The media list of channel-group can comprise the media list of organizing channel and be included in the interior any independent media list of channel-group list.The media list of channel-group can comprise on-demand media tabulation (can be can not be pay-per-view also) (Figure 12).For example, in the illustrative system of Fig. 1, media list can be stored in the media list database on the server 140.Each media list can identify separately (for example, using list code) and can with the mutual reference of the media channel that tabulation is provided.When the media list of channel-group was checked in user request, navigation application can be be stored in channel-group list database items on the server 140 to media list data base querying and the media channel and the corresponding media list of media list that are identified in channel-group list database items.Then, the media list of corresponding channel-group can be sent to subscriber equipment, show to the user.
In step 2202, can for example provide the preview of media list with the video preview form of on-demand media tabulation.For example, in the illustrative system of Fig. 1, media program can be stored in the media program database on the server 140, and can keying for corresponding media list.When the user asks the preview of a media list, navigation application can use with the corresponding key of this media list to the media program data base querying.So, the media program of respective media tabulation can be sent to subscriber equipment, preview is provided.
In step 2203, can provide the history of watching of channel-group.Watch historical trace user medium by the channel-group visit in one period preset time.For example, in the illustrative system of Fig. 1, each channel-group database items can comprise that is watched a historical data library item.Watch each media list that the historical data library item comprises that some expression users visits by channel-group.For example, during with the given media list of one of user equipment access, navigation application can send to server 140 by the media list that this is given the user.Server 140 can be with the channel-group of media channel information under channel-group data base querying media channel of this tabulation.What then, this media list is added suitable channel-group watches the historical data library item.
In step 2204, can provide the tabulation of the program prompting of channel-group.In step 2205 and 2206, can provide the unsettled record of channel-group and the tabulation of having recorded program.In step 2208, can provide the tabulation of purchasing program from channel-group.For example, in the illustrative system of Fig. 1, prompting, unsettled record and recorded program and can all be expressed as media list database items in one or more prompting/database of records on the server 140.Each the media list item that is stored in the database can comprise list code and the sign (for example, channel code) that the media channel of media list is provided.Therefore, when user's request was watched the prompting of a channel-group or write down, navigation application can be inquired about suitable prompting/database of record with the media channel sign indicating number and the media list sign indicating number that are included in the channel-group list database items.In step 2307 and 2309, can provide recording program or having purchased the preview of program respectively from channel-group.Such preview can be to realize with the similar mode of preview is provided in step 2202.Can for example provide step 2204-2209 by multipurpose screen 1300 (Figure 13).
In step 2210, can provide the advertisement information of channel-group itself.The advertisement information of channel-group can comprise the video clipping of propagating channel-group.In step 2211, can provide the advertisement information of group channel, such as the video clipping of a group of propaganda channel.In step 2212, can provide advertisement information, such as the information or the video of special issue program from the media program of channel-group.For example, in the illustrative system of Fig. 1, server 140 can comprise an advertisement information database.Advertisement information (no matter information is audio frequency, video, literal, figure etc.) is stored in the database with the database items of sign advertisement information.Identifier depends on the circumstances and can comprise one or more sign indicating numbers that advertisement information is related with channel-group, media channel or media list.Need advertisement information (for example in navigation application, on screen 1000, to show) time, navigation application can be retrieved for the advertisement information relevant with channel-group that shows with the channel-group, media channel and the media list inquiry advertisement information database that are included in the channel-group database items.
In step 2213, can provide the live media of group channel to present (for example, video feed, audio feed), and in step 2214, it is tuning to carry out selectivity by the user.For example, in the illustrative system of Fig. 1, being included in each media channel in the channel-group list database items or media list database items can comprise and make navigation application aim at the program source identifier of the program source (for example, digital TV channel, internet website URL) of media channel or media list.Navigation application can make subscriber equipment aim at the program source of being represented by the program source identifier, receives live media and presents.
In step 2215, can provide the tabulation of the navigation application function that can carry out channel-group (for example, it is set to like, locking, order).For example, in the illustrative system of Fig. 1, be included in the tabulation that each media channel in the channel-group list database items and media list database items can comprise the navigation application function that can carry out media channel or media list.The tabulation of the function that can carry out channel-group can form by extracting the denominator function the tabulation separately from these.
In step 2216, can provide the tabulation of the group channel in the channel-group.In the illustrative system of Fig. 1, this tabulation can be provided by the channel-group database on the server 140.
Step 2210-2216 for example can provide by the channel-group screen (Figure 10) that enters the mouth.Be appreciated that above these steps are the information of illustration rather than the exhaustive channel-group that can provide.In step 2217, the information of step display 2201-2216 can be provided or channel-group inlet screen 1000 (Figure 10) to the visit of the information of step 2201-2216 is provided.The information that channel-group like this, just can the center in navigation application be provided.
In step 2030, channel-group is carried out the function of navigation application.As discussed above, navigation application can be carried out one or more selected channel groups and for example " be set to like ", the function of " locking/release ", " order " and " news warning ".As shown in the exemplary flow chart of Figure 23, step 2030 can comprise that channel-group selects step 2031, user's setting up procedure 2032, group channel execution in step 2033 and media list execution in step 2034.In step 2031, the user can select one or more to the channel-group of a function of startup navigation application.For example, as combining screen 700 (Fig. 7) is illustrated, the user can select a plurality of to the channel-group of execution function.Perhaps, as combining screen 1000 (Figure 10) was illustrated, navigation application can be set to the current channel-group of watching by situation selected channel group.In step 2032, the user starts the function to the navigation application of channel-group by inputting user command (for example by user input apparatus 400).In step 2033, navigation application is carried out this function to the group channel that is included in one or more selected channel groups.For example, in carrying out " locking " function, navigation application can be at these group channels of back locking of entering password, and only just can the channel of institute's locking be conducted interviews having imported behind the password.In step 2034, navigation application can be randomly to not being that any independent media list that is derived from the group channel is carried out this function in the channel-group list that is included in one or more selected channel groups.For example, in carrying out " locking " function, navigation application can locking in the channel-group list is not the visit of the independent program of broadcasting on a group channel to being included in.
For example, in the illustrative system of Fig. 1, navigation application can by one of the channel-group database on the querying server 140 establishment to the media channel that will carry out a function and the tabulation of media list.Utilize the channel group code of user-selected one or more channel-group, navigation application can be visited the channel-group list database items of selected channel group, with establishment to the channel of this function of execution and the tabulation of media list.In some cases, carry out the navigation application function and can realize by the one or more items of information that change in media channel or the media list database items.For example, in an exemplary embodiments, navigation application can be carried out " locking " function by the value of the head of a family's control section in media channel or the table data library item is changed into " Y " from " N ".Navigation application can be with reference to the database of such media channel and media list database items when receiving media channel of visit or media list.For example, when receiving the user command of a media list of visit, navigation application can be to this data base querying and corresponding media list database items of user-selected tabulation and media channel database items.If any one database items contains the head of a family's control section that reads as " Y ", navigation application just stops the visit to this media list, and carries out the function that the demonstration input head of a family controls the request of PIN.Therefore, in this exemplary example, navigation application can by change in the database items with the previous tabulation of working out (to the media channel of this function of execution and the tabulation of tabulation) value of corresponding certain field carries out a function to one or more channel-group.
It should be noted, more than be exemplary in conjunction with flow chart to the explanation of the system of Fig. 1, should not be construed as and get rid of other system and the approach that realizes function given in these flow charts.
Be appreciated that above explanation is an illustrative principle of the present invention, those skilled in the art can carry out various modifications under the situation that does not deviate from scope and spirit essence of the present invention.

Claims (56)

1. method that channel-group is provided in interactive media guidance is used, described method comprises:
Definition comprises that the channel-group of a plurality of media channels, wherein said a plurality of media channels are subclass of the media channel that receives of subscriber equipment;
The information of channel-group is provided, and wherein said information comprises the media list of described a plurality of media channels;
Reception starts the user command of the function of navigation application to channel-group; And
The response user command is carried out described function to channel-group.
2. the process of claim 1 wherein that carrying out described function comprises each carries out described function in described a plurality of media channels.
3. the method for claim 1, the user command that wherein receive to start function comprises that reception starts the user command of functions to one or more selected channel groups, comprises the described a plurality of media channels that belong to these one or more selected channel groups are carried out described function and carry out described function.
4. the method for claim 1, described method also comprise channel-group is defined as and comprise the media list that is not from described a plurality of media channels.
5. the method for claim 4, described method also comprises the response user command, to not being to carry out described function from the described media list of described a plurality of media channels.
6. the process of claim 1 wherein that receiving the user command that starts function comprises that the reception channel-group is set to the user command of favorite channel group, comprises that described a plurality of media channel is set to like media channel and carry out described function.
7. the process of claim 1 wherein that receiving the user command that starts function comprises that reception stops the user command to the visit of channel-group, comprises with the visit of password prevention to described a plurality of media channels and carry out described function.
8. the process of claim 1 wherein that the user command that receive to start function comprises receives the user command of ordering channel-group, comprises and makes the user order at least some media channels in described a plurality of media channel and carry out described function.
9. the process of claim 1 wherein that the user command that receive to start function comprises receives the user command that is provided with the alarm of channel-group, is included in when satisfying condition for any media channel in described a plurality of media channels to User Alarms and carry out described function.
10. the process of claim 1 wherein that the definition channel-group comprises the tabulation that receives described a plurality of media channels.
11. also comprising, the method for claim 10, described method receive the modification of user to this tabulation.
12. the method for claim 10, the tabulation that wherein receives described a plurality of media channels comprises the tabulation of the media channel that receives total at least one common trait.
13. the method for claim 1, described method also comprise the selection of response user to the respective media tabulation, and the visit to media program is provided.
14. the process of claim 1 wherein that to provide the information of channel-group also to comprise one of following at least:
The tabulation of described a plurality of media channels is provided;
The media list of channel-group is provided;
The tabulation of the on-demand media program of channel-group is provided;
The tabulation of the prompting of channel-group is provided;
The tabulation of the unsettled record of channel-group is provided;
The tabulation of recording program of channel-group is provided;
The tabulation of purchasing program of channel-group is provided; And
Provide channel-group former program of visiting watch history.
15. the method for claim 14 wherein provides the history of watching of channel-group to comprise the tabulation of the media program that the tracking user visited by channel-group in one period preset time.
16. the process of claim 1 wherein provides the information of channel-group also to comprise to provide one of following at least preview:
On-demand media program from channel-group;
The media program of record from channel-group;
Purchase media program from channel-group; And
The former media program of visiting of channel-group.
17. the method for claim 16 wherein provides preview to comprise the scaled video of display program.
Provide channel-group inlet screen 18. the method for claim 1, described method also comprise, described channel-group inlet screen provides the visit to the information of channel-group and the function that can carry out channel-group.
19. the method for claim 18 wherein provides visit to the information of channel-group to be included in to show on the described inlet screen one of following at least:
The video clipping of propaganda channel-group;
Propagate the video clipping of one of described a plurality of media channels;
The tabulation of described a plurality of media channels;
The advertisement information of media program that can be by channel-group visit;
Live feed from one of described a plurality of media channels;
The media list of channel-group; And
The tabulation of the function that can carry out channel-group.
20. the method for claim 18 wherein provides visit to the information of channel-group to be included in to provide on the described inlet screen to one of following at least visit:
Channel-group watch history;
The tabulation of the prompting of channel-group;
The tabulation of the unsettled record of channel-group;
The tabulation of finishing record of channel-group;
The tabulation of purchasing program of channel-group; And
The on-demand media tabulation of channel-group.
21. the method that channel-group is provided in the interactive TV program navigation application, described method comprises:
Definition comprises that the channel-group of a plurality of television channels, wherein said a plurality of television channels are subclass of the television channel that receives of subscriber equipment;
The information of channel-group is provided, and wherein said information comprises the rendition list of described a plurality of television channels;
Reception starts the user command of the function of program navigating application to channel-group; And
The response user command is carried out described function to described a plurality of television channels.
22. also comprising, the method for claim 21, described method provide the tabulation of liking television channel.
23. the method for claim 21, the user command that wherein receive to start function comprises that the reception channel-group is set to the user command of favorite channel group, comprises and adds described a plurality of television channels to like television channel tabulation and carry out described function.
24. the method for claim 21 wherein receives the user command that starts function and comprises that reception stops the user command to the visit of channel-group, comprises with the visit of password prevention to described a plurality of television channels and carry out described function.
Receive the user command of ordering channel-group 25. the method for claim 21, the user command that wherein receive to start function comprise, comprise and make the user order at least some television channels in described a plurality of television channel and carry out described function.
26. the method for claim 21 wherein provides the information of channel-group also to comprise to provide the tabulation of the request program that can obtain by channel-group.
27. the method for claim 21 wherein provides the information of channel-group also to comprise to provide the scaled video preview with the shown corresponding TV programme of the rendition list.
28. the method for claim 21 wherein provides the information of channel-group also to comprise to provide the scaled video from the live television broadcasting of one of described a plurality of television channels.
29. an interactive media guidance system that is used to provide channel-group comprises:
Use at least partially in the interactive media guidance of implementing on the circuit, described circuit is configured to:
Definition comprises that the channel-group of a plurality of media channels, wherein said a plurality of media channels are subclass of the media channel that receives of subscriber equipment;
The information of channel-group is provided, and wherein said information comprises the media list of described a plurality of media channels;
Reception starts the user command of the function of navigation application to channel-group; And
The response user command is carried out described function to channel-group.
30. the system of claim 29, the wherein said circuit that is configured to carry out described function also is configured to each carries out described function in described a plurality of media channels.
31. the system of claim 29, wherein:
The described circuit that is configured to receive the user command that starts function also is configured to receive the user command that one or more selected channel groups is started functions; And
The described circuit that is configured to carry out described function also is configured to the described a plurality of media channels that belong to these one or more selected channel groups are carried out described function.
32. the system of claim 29, wherein said circuit also is configured to channel-group is defined as and comprises the media list that is not from described a plurality of media channels.
33. the system of claim 32, wherein said circuit also is configured to respond user command, to not being to carry out described function from the described media list of described a plurality of media channels.
34. the system of claim 29, wherein:
The described circuit that is configured to receive the user command that starts function also is configured to receive the user command that channel-group is set to the favorite channel group; And
The described circuit that is configured to carry out described function also is configured to described a plurality of media channel and is set to like media channel.
35. the system of claim 29, wherein:
The described circuit that is configured to receive the user command that starts function also is configured to receive the user command of prevention to the visit of channel-group; And
The described circuit that is configured to carry out described function also is configured to stop visit to described a plurality of media channels with password.
36. the system of claim 29, wherein:
The described circuit that is configured to receive the user command that starts function also is configured to receive the user command of ordering channel-group; And
The described circuit that is configured to carry out described function also is configured to make the user to order at least some media channels in described a plurality of media channel.
37. the system of claim 29, wherein:
The described circuit that is configured to receive the user command that starts function also is configured to receive the user command that is provided with the alarm of channel-group; And
The described circuit that is configured to carry out described function also is configured to when satisfying condition for any media channel in described a plurality of media channels to User Alarms.
38. the system of claim 29, the wherein said circuit that is configured to define channel-group also is configured to receive the tabulation of described a plurality of media channels.
39. the system of claim 38, wherein said circuit also is configured to receive the modification of user to this tabulation.
40. the system of claim 38, the wherein said circuit that is configured to receive the tabulation of described a plurality of media channels also is configured to receive the tabulation of the media channel of total at least one common trait.
41. the system of claim 29, wherein said circuit also is configured to respond the selection of user to the respective media tabulation, and the visit to media program is provided.
42. the system of claim 29, it is one of following at least that the wherein said circuit that is configured to provide the information of channel-group also is configured to provide:
The tabulation of described a plurality of media channels;
The media list of channel-group;
The tabulation of the on-demand media program of channel-group;
The tabulation of the prompting of channel-group;
The tabulation of the unsettled record of channel-group;
The tabulation of recording program of channel-group;
The tabulation of purchasing program of channel-group; And
The former program of visiting of channel-group watch history.
43. the system of claim 42 wherein saidly is configured to provide the historical circuit of watching of channel-group also to be configured to follow the tracks of the tabulation of the media program that the user visited by channel-group in one period preset time.
44. the system of claim 29, the wherein said circuit that is configured to provide the information of channel-group also is configured to provide one of following at least preview:
On-demand media program from channel-group;
The media program of record from channel-group;
Purchase media program from channel-group; And
The former media program of visiting of channel-group.
45. the system of claim 44, the wherein said circuit that is configured to provide preview also is configured to the scaled video of display program.
46. the system of claim 29, wherein said circuit also is configured to provide channel-group inlet screen, and described channel-group inlet screen provides the visit to the information of channel-group and the function that can carry out channel-group.
47. the system of claim 46 wherein saidly is configured to provide circuit to the visit of the information of channel-group also to be configured to show on described inlet screen one of following at least:
The video clipping of propaganda channel-group;
Propagate the video clipping of one of described a plurality of media channels;
The tabulation of described a plurality of media channels;
The advertisement information of media program that can be by channel-group visit;
Live feed from one of described a plurality of media channels;
The media list of channel-group; And
The tabulation of the function that can carry out channel-group.
48. the system of claim 46 wherein saidly is configured to provide circuit to the visit of the information of channel-group also to be configured to provide on described inlet screen to one of following at least visit:
Channel-group watch history;
The tabulation of the prompting of channel-group;
The tabulation of the unsettled record of channel-group;
The tabulation of finishing record of channel-group;
The tabulation of purchasing program of channel-group; And
The on-demand media tabulation of channel-group.
49. an interactive media guidance system that is used to provide channel-group comprises:
Use at least partially in the interactive media guidance of implementing on the circuit, described circuit is configured to:
Definition comprises that the channel-group of a plurality of television channels, wherein said a plurality of television channels are subclass of the television channel that receives of subscriber equipment;
The information of channel-group is provided, and wherein said information comprises the rendition list of described a plurality of television channels;
Reception starts the user command of the function of program navigating application to channel-group; And
The response user command is carried out described function to described a plurality of television channels.
50. the system of claim 49, wherein said circuit also is configured to provide the tabulation of liking television channel.
51. the system of claim 49, wherein:
The described circuit that is configured to receive the user command that starts function also is configured to receive the user command that channel-group is set to the favorite channel group; And
The described circuit that is configured to carry out described function also is configured to add described a plurality of television channels to like television channel tabulation.
52. the system of claim 49, wherein:
The described circuit that is configured to receive the user command that starts function also is configured to receive the user command of prevention to the visit of channel-group; And
The described circuit that is configured to carry out described function also is configured to stop visit to described a plurality of television channels with password.
53. the system of claim 49, wherein:
The described circuit that is configured to receive the user command that starts function also is configured to receive the user command of ordering channel-group; And
The described circuit that is configured to carry out described function also is configured to make the user to order at least some television channels in described a plurality of television channel.
54. the system of claim 49, the wherein said circuit that is configured to provide the information of channel-group also is configured to provide the tabulation of the request program that can obtain by channel-group.
55. the system of claim 49, the wherein said circuit that is configured to provide the information of channel-group also is configured to provide the scaled video preview with the shown corresponding TV programme of the rendition list.
56. the system of claim 49, the wherein said circuit that is configured to provide the information of channel-group also is configured to provide the scaled video from the live television broadcasting of one of described a plurality of television channels.
CNA2006800495544A 2005-12-29 2006-12-08 Systems and methods for providing channel groups in an interactive media guidance application Pending CN101352035A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CN201310628800.3A CN103596031B (en) 2005-12-29 2006-12-08 The system and method that channel group is provided in interactive media guidance application

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US34219205A 2005-12-29 2005-12-29
US11/342,192 2006-01-27

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CN201310628800.3A Division CN103596031B (en) 2005-12-29 2006-12-08 The system and method that channel group is provided in interactive media guidance application

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
CN101352035A true CN101352035A (en) 2009-01-21

Family

ID=40269759

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CNA2006800495544A Pending CN101352035A (en) 2005-12-29 2006-12-08 Systems and methods for providing channel groups in an interactive media guidance application

Country Status (1)

Country Link
CN (1) CN101352035A (en)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN102665138A (en) * 2012-04-09 2012-09-12 华为技术有限公司 Method and device for selecting and controlling television channels
CN104883601A (en) * 2011-05-26 2015-09-02 Lg电子株式会社 Display apparatus for processing multiple applications and method for controlling the same
CN105359545A (en) * 2013-02-08 2016-02-24 Tqtvd软件有限公司 Integrated user interface for access to linear and non-linear multimedia content from multiple sources, and method for implementing the same
CN111614988A (en) * 2011-07-31 2020-09-01 谷歌有限责任公司 System and method for presenting home screen shortcuts

Cited By (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN104883601A (en) * 2011-05-26 2015-09-02 Lg电子株式会社 Display apparatus for processing multiple applications and method for controlling the same
US9762969B2 (en) 2011-05-26 2017-09-12 Lg Electronics Inc. Display apparatus for processing multiple applications and method for controlling the same
US10085065B2 (en) 2011-05-26 2018-09-25 Lg Electronics Inc. Display apparatus for processing multiple applications and method for controlling the same
US10484744B2 (en) 2011-05-26 2019-11-19 Lg Electronics Inc. Display apparatus for processing multiple applications and method for controlling the same
US11388479B2 (en) 2011-05-26 2022-07-12 Lg Electronics Inc. Display apparatus for processing multiple applications and method for controlling the same
US11902627B2 (en) 2011-05-26 2024-02-13 Lg Electronics Inc. Display apparatus for processing multiple applications and method for controlling the same
CN111614988A (en) * 2011-07-31 2020-09-01 谷歌有限责任公司 System and method for presenting home screen shortcuts
US11523169B2 (en) 2011-07-31 2022-12-06 Google Llc Systems and methods for presenting home screen shortcuts
US11818302B2 (en) 2011-07-31 2023-11-14 Google Llc Systems and methods for presenting home screen shortcuts
CN102665138A (en) * 2012-04-09 2012-09-12 华为技术有限公司 Method and device for selecting and controlling television channels
CN102665138B (en) * 2012-04-09 2014-12-24 华为技术有限公司 Method and device for selecting and controlling television channels
CN105359545A (en) * 2013-02-08 2016-02-24 Tqtvd软件有限公司 Integrated user interface for access to linear and non-linear multimedia content from multiple sources, and method for implementing the same

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
CN103596031B (en) The system and method that channel group is provided in interactive media guidance application
CN102098537B (en) Systems and methods for episode tracking in an interactive media environment
CN101390390B (en) Systems and methods for episode tracking in an interactive media environment
JP5819883B2 (en) Media library in interactive media guide application
JP5207370B2 (en) Terminal for displaying communication system portals
JP5252560B2 (en) System and method for forming an aggregation of episodes of a series program in order
CN100373945C (en) Interactive television program guide system with listings groups
KR101995550B1 (en) Systems and methods for providing interactive media guidance on a wireless communications device
CN101352035A (en) Systems and methods for providing channel groups in an interactive media guidance application
CA2763736C (en) Systems and methods for displaying program data relating to a show

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
C06 Publication
PB01 Publication
C10 Entry into substantive examination
SE01 Entry into force of request for substantive examination
C12 Rejection of a patent application after its publication
RJ01 Rejection of invention patent application after publication

Application publication date: 20090121