CN1145358C - Apparatus and method for preventing unauthorized circumvention of television program blocking function - Google Patents
Apparatus and method for preventing unauthorized circumvention of television program blocking functionInfo
- Publication number
- CN1145358C CN1145358C CNB998131490A CN99813149A CN1145358C CN 1145358 C CN1145358 C CN 1145358C CN B998131490 A CNB998131490 A CN B998131490A CN 99813149 A CN99813149 A CN 99813149A CN 1145358 C CN1145358 C CN 1145358C
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- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 claims description 6
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/438—Interfacing the downstream path of the transmission network originating from a server, e.g. retrieving encoded video stream packets from an IP network
- H04N21/4383—Accessing a communication channel
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/44—Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream or rendering scenes according to encoded video stream scene graphs
- H04N21/44008—Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream or rendering scenes according to encoded video stream scene graphs involving operations for analysing video streams, e.g. detecting features or characteristics in the video stream
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/45—Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
- H04N21/4508—Management of client data or end-user data
- H04N21/4532—Management of client data or end-user data involving end-user characteristics, e.g. viewer profile, preferences
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/45—Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
- H04N21/454—Content or additional data filtering, e.g. blocking advertisements
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N7/00—Television systems
- H04N7/08—Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division
- H04N7/087—Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only
- H04N7/088—Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only the inserted signal being digital
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N7/00—Television systems
- H04N7/16—Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
- H04N7/162—Authorising the user terminal, e.g. by paying; Registering the use of a subscription channel, e.g. billing
- H04N7/163—Authorising the user terminal, e.g. by paying; Registering the use of a subscription channel, e.g. billing by receiver means only
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Multimedia (AREA)
- Signal Processing (AREA)
- Databases & Information Systems (AREA)
- Computer Security & Cryptography (AREA)
- Two-Way Televisions, Distribution Of Moving Picture Or The Like (AREA)
- Circuits Of Receivers In General (AREA)
Abstract
A method and apparatus for preventing unauthorized circumvention of blocking of television programs are disclosed. The system of the present invention prevents an unauthorized person from circumventing the VChip blocking of a specific show or channel through tuning with the cable box. A controller monitors the vertical synchronization(VSyncs)of the video signal coming into the TV(102). If a video interrupt is identified by the controller without the TV sending an IR command to the cable box, the controller redials the cable box to the channel it was on before detecting the video interrupt. This hinders an unauthorized person from working around VChip blocking functions.
Description
Technical field
The source control of relate generally to TV programme of the present invention, and more specifically, relate to a kind of system that prevents unauthorized circumvention of television program blocking function.
Background technology
A kind ofly propose and be commonly referred to the V-Chip system by the system of US Congress's signature in the U.S..This system relates to the code that the field blanking interval (" VBI ") that utilizes standard television signal comprises one or more equivalent coefficients of the program that indication then will play.These equivalent coefficients can comprise the grade announced with Motion Picture Association of America (for example, G, PG, PG-13, R, the value class of NC-17) similarly grade and for example violence of the relevant classification of program character, term, exposed and property content.User V-Chip television system is assented family allowable and is arranged its television system to stand for a long while according to him the one or more hobby in these grades to be got rid of some programs, perhaps alternatively is arranged to only to allow those to have the program of certain content level according to these graded categories.
Especially when existing and during junction box that TV is connected, a problem of V-Chip system for V-Chip controller (TV) do not exist this junction box whether really be tuned to feedback on the channel of defined.Unauthorized people can walk close to the junction box control board or utilize remote controller to change the junction box channel when TV does not know.Thereby, need the female choke system of a kind of follow-on V-Chip that is not easy to walk around.
Summary of the invention
The present invention is intended to satisfy the equipment and the method for these needs.Therefore, provide a kind of equipment and method of crossing V-Chip program blocking function according to an embodiment with being used to prevent from not ratify.According to the present invention, a seed defencive function prevents that the VChip that unauthorized personnel cross specific program or channel by tuning junction box from stopping.In one embodiment, in VChip or VChipPlus+, realize this sub-defencive function.This sub-defencive function monitors the vertical synchronization (VSyncs) of the vision signal that enters TV.
According to an aspect of the present invention, provide a kind of be used to prevent non-through approval cross the method for the TV programme choke system that is comprising a junction box and a TV tuner, described method comprises step: the first timing window is set; The timing between the VSynch in succession of the vision signal of supervision from the junction box to the TV tuner; If in the first timing window, do not detect the timing between the VSynch in succession, confirm unauthorized channel change attempt and junction box be tuned to second channel; And junction box adjust back to unauthorized channel change attempt taking place before on the channel that is tuned to of junction box.
According to a further aspect in the invention, provide a kind of system that is used to prevent the unauthorized circumvention of television program blocking system, comprising: a junction box is used to receive a plurality of vision signals; The electric TV tuner that is connected with this junction box that goes up is used for receiving video signals; Be used to be provided with the controller of the first timing window, wherein said controller monitors the timing between the VSynch in succession of the vision signal from the junction box to the television receiver, and if in the first timing window, do not detect the timing between the VSynch in succession, described controller junction box from first channel tuning to second channel, and junction box adjusted back to first channel.
Because between the stage of replacement, the time between the VSyncs is different at channel, controller can and compare detection to it and predetermined value by the timing between the continuous VSyncs of monitoring video signal whether the channel change takes place.As if junction box not being sent sub-protection controller identification appearance interruption frequently under the IR order, this controller retunes to this junction box on the channel that it was positioned at before detecting this video breaks.This stops the flexible VChip blocking function of unauthorized personnel.
From following by estimating as the detailed description that realizes the embodiments of the invention that best mode example of the present invention illustrates and describes, the insider will appreciate that other embodiments of the invention be become conspicuous.Can recognize, all can not deviate under the spirit and scope of the present invention, the present invention that allow other with different embodiment, and its details of counting the aspect allows the modification on the various alternate manners.Therefore, each drawings and detailed description regards illustrative and not restrictive as in nature.
Description of drawings
Will be better appreciated by these and other feature of the present invention, aspect and advantage by following explanation, appendix claim book and each accompanying drawing, accompanying drawing is:
Figure 1A is the calcspar of typical TV (television set) and junction box configuration;
Figure 1B is the example flow of sub-defencive function;
Fig. 2 is the electric calcspar according to female control appliance of one embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 3 is the electric calcspar according to the female control appliance that is used for wired system of one embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 4 is the electric calcspar according to the combined female control appliance of the V-Chip system with adopting VCR Plus+ and automatic channel conversion of one embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 5 is and the electric calcspar that has the female control appliance that combines with improved VCR Plus+ integrated circuit in the V-Chip system now;
Fig. 6 is the top plan view according to the remote controller of the system that is used for application drawing 4 of one embodiment of the invention; And
Fig. 7 is the simplification chronogram of the continuous VSyncs of some examples.
Embodiment
The present invention points to a kind of system that is used to prevent to cross without approval based on the parental control system of V-Chip.This parental control system of explanation in 5,382, No. 983 patents of the U.S. resembles in this article the complete description this patent included and is reference.Time difference between the VSync of controller difference during the channel that is caused by the interference in the vision signal changes.If detect difference among the VSyncs, controller to junction box send the IR signal with it be tuned to correct channel.
Fig. 1 illustrates and is used for connecting junction box and TV and typical structure in one embodiment of the invention.TV signal feed-in junction box 7 from the cable feed-in.Junction box 7 has channel and changes control.The output of junction box, promptly the signal of the channel correspondence of selecting with the user is input to TV receiver 8.TV receiver 8 comprises a VChip Plus+ controller circuitry or VChip control circuit.VChip Plus+ controller circuitry and VChip control circuit can be included in the inside of TV receiver 8, perhaps the part of a discrete parts that is electrically connected with television receiver 8.TV receiver 8 can be that TV receiver, digital TV, PC/TV or any other of any routine can receive, handles and show the electronic unit embodiment of TV signal.The 9a that can use a teleswitch changes the channel in junction box 7 and/or the TV receiver 8.
The VChip controller that comprises in the TV receiver 8 is followed the tracks of which channel of any moment by tuning.The tuning of channel can directly carry out in TV inside, perhaps undertaken by VChip controller (TV) from some IR signal to junction box that launch under the situation of using junction box.But, because the Tuning mechanism between VChip controller and the junction box typically is unidirectional, do not exist to the VChip controller about this junction box whether real be tuned to the feedback of predetermined channel.
Yet the VChip controller can determine whether to take place channel by the timing between the VSyncs in succession of monitoring video signal and change.During channel changed, the time between the VSync can differ one or two cycle.This species diversity be take place that the disturbance in the vision signal causes when tuning and be used for determining whether to take place channel and change.If detect difference among the VSync, controller to junction box send the IR signal with it be tuned to correct channel.
Referring now to Figure 1B, it illustrates the flow process of sub-defencive function.No matter when there is tuning incident, in the vertical synchronization timing, there are differences (" VSync disturbance ").Because controller is known the correct time that sends harmonic ringing, in frame 101, it is provided with " the first timing window " after sending harmonic ringing.Then, as shown in frame 102, the timing between the VSync in succession of controller monitoring video signal.Shown in frame 103, if the VSync disturbance occurs outside this " timing window ", a kind of in following two kinds of incidents taken place then.
(1) disturbance comes from TV channel source itself, perhaps
(2) someone directly adjusts junction box by remote controller or from control board.
In both of these case, at frame 104, controller arrives certain channel (different with last correct channel) to the junction box channel tuning.At frame 106, controller adjusts back to correct channel to junction box.During adjusting back to the final step of correct channel, controller sends the back at the IR signal " the second timing window " is set, as shown in frame 105.
Described in frame 107, if in " the second timing window ", do not detect " VSync disturbance ", controller draw that the IR signal path has been covered and " the VSync disturbance " of front from attempting to cross someone of this system.Controller blocks screen, as shown in frame 108.If detect " VSync disturbance " in this " second timing window ", controller recognizes that junction box has been throttled back up to correct channel and has not taked any particular action, as shown in frame 109.
The embodiment that is used for the parental control system that uses together with V-Chip described above system shown in Fig. 2.Be connected to the input of junction box 10 with channel change control from multichannel radio (RF) TV signal of cable feed-in.The output of junction box 10, it is the signal channel RF TV signal under the selected channel frequency of user, is connected with TV drive circuit 12.The output of TV drive circuit 12 is connected with TV display 16 by transmission blocking circuit 14.Disable circuit 14 can be that conventional simulation signal transmission gate, numeral are blocked module or technical known any other like.
For the operation of parental control system is described, suppose that the TV signal of each channel that the cable feed-in is carried contains additional data, comprising channel identication for example HBO, CNN or NBC.Preferably channel identication is embedded among the VBI of signal of each channel with the XDS form.
The output of TV drive circuit 12 also is connected with the input of VBI decoder 18, and VBI decoder 18 is peeled off xds signal from base-band television signal.Represent the having of VBI decoder 18 10 of junction boxs be tuned to the output of data-signal of channel identication of channel be connected to microprocessor 20, the latter's output control disable circuit 14.Microprocessor 20 is connected with RAM 22.
The program that the storage selection will be blocked in RAM 22.In RAM 22 with stack architecture to each program storage date, time, passage and program length, as the U.S. 5,382, No. 983 patents (" ' No. 983 patents ") and co-pending U. S. application 08/684, in 678 illustrated like that, resemble in this article the complete description these are openly included and be reference.Can generate the program blocking data storehouse of storing among the RAM with some diverse ways.A kind of method is that the grade service according to customization sends by date, time, channel and lengthy content and constitutes the program data group and from the VBI or the telephone wire of TV signal these data are downloaded to RAM 22, and wherein the grade of this customization is for example served and worked out by religious group, newspaper or political organization.
The user can call selected service and the command processor 20 of on-screen menu, key entry that the customization grade service that sends is selected and download and the selected corresponding program data group of service in VBI or telephone wire.Another kind method is to key in the data of relevant program by remote controller.The third method is to utilize the electronic program guides (" EPG ") of cursor from screen to select, in this guide epg database not only be used for determining the program that will block but also be used for determining watching or recording under program.
Under any circumstance, microprocessor 20 continuously 10 of the output of the real-time clock in the monitor microprocessors 20 and junction boxs be tuned to the channel identication of channel, wherein this channel identication is by VBI decoder 18 or by monitoring tuner and utilizing channel map to obtain.These data that are monitored attribute and program blocking data storehouse compare.Explanation is like that passed through array data realization this point in the stack of RAM 22 preferably as in the patent of ' 983, makes that the top of this stack is the television broadcasting of the next program that will block.When finding coupling, little processing 20 excitation disable circuits 14, thus stop TV display 16 that this program is shown.
When surmounting system, in VBI, also comprise the code of one or more equivalent coefficients of the program that an indication is just being broadcasted together with the use of V-Chip system.In the present embodiment, the user according to the one or more arrangement television systems in these grades to get rid of some programs.User's selection be stored among the RAM 22 and and VBI in the code that sends compare.Detect under the situation of the program that will get rid of by VBI decoder 18 at microprocessor 20, that consults among the RAM 22 storage allows to surmount table.If this program is not included in this and allows to surmount in the table, disable circuit 14 is stoping the program that this is excluded to be presented on the TV display 16 under the control of microprocessor.On the contrary, if the program that broadcasts is not got rid of by the grade criterion that the user sets up at present, microprocessor 20 checks that the obstruction of storage among the RAM 22 surmounts table.Do not surmount in the table if this program is not included in to block, disable circuit 14 allows this program is passed to TV display 16 under the control of microprocessor.
Passing through channel, date, time started and length (or concluding time) or passing through for example in the U.S. 5,335, the compressed code definition that illustrates in No. 079 patent is comprising to block and is surmounting table and allow to surmount among this illustrated embodiment of TV program of table, to add junction box and video tape recorder (" VCR ") in order adapting to, to need a kind of alternative layout.
Utilize the hook of conventional junction box or VCR to connect, junction box or VCR are connected to the front end of TV receiver.Junction box or VCR have the tunable band pass filter that is used for tuning required channel.TV signal from tuning in to channels is modulated to the fixed carrier frequency, and for example channel 3, and is connected to the TV receiver.The TV receiver be tuned to junction box or VCR carrier frequency output and and selected concrete channel irrelevant.Since the TV receiver always be tuned to fixed frequency, the microprocessor of Fig. 2 can not conclude when selected TV program that get clogged or chosen at junction box or VCR place.
Forward Fig. 3 to, show that wherein one of the present invention is adapted to use the two the embodiment of system of junction box and VCR, this system utilizes the low-cost mechanism of simple switch S1 to realize.Video output terminals by the video inputs of VCR 23 being connected to TV tuner 24 (its forever be tuned to the program that starts of parent) solves the tuning problem of VCR.
Tuning for junction box, junction box 26 is used for tuning ciphered program.During setting up, the user transfers mark encryption (charge) channel in the survey at its cable.This can be automatically or the artificially carry out.In the present embodiment, ciphered program supplier sends their name (HBO, ESPN etc.) in the VBI of TV signal.Thereby, when the user selects an encoded channel, junction box 26 be tuned to relevant channel and by VBI decoder 28 scanning VBI to obtain name.If this name can not be discerned, then block this channel.
Also can provide and the identical signal controlling VCR record that provides to display 30 by TV tuner 24 by video inputs to VCR.Thereby guarantee that it contains approved program in that this signal is processed.Like this, the user can only record down the program of approval.
In operation, when the user asks one not during encoded channel, microprocessor 32 checks whether the channel that (from setting up table) asked is designated as encoded channel, and checks whether (from the PlusCode table) does not block for this this channel of concrete time slot.If this TV channel be do not block and do not encrypt, switch S 1 is set to position 2 and TV tuner 24 is transferred to the channel of being asked.If this requested channel gets clogged, S1 is arranged on position 4, thereby TV tuner 24 do not have input.The user also can write down the program (but none other than program is exported because VCR imports from the TV tuner) of demonstration.
If the user asks an encoded channel, microprocessor 32 checks whether the channel of being asked is designated as encoded channel, and checks whether (from the PlusCode table) does not block for this this channel of concrete time slot.If this TV channel does not get clogged and encrypts, S1 be arranged on position 3 and junction box 26 be tuned on the channel of being asked.VBI decoder 26 monitors the output of junction box, searches channel name in VBI (for example every broadcasting in one minute).If find name, the channel name in it and the channel setting table is compared.If detect coupling, TV tuner 24 be tuned to channel 3, and show this program.If do not detect coupling, S1 is switched to position 4, and make display 30 for blank.Like this, change the junction box channel if the user attempts the artificially, the inspection of VBI name can be failed and can be switched to position 4 to S1 so that display is blank.The user also can write down the program (but none other than program is exported because VCR imports from the TV tuner) of demonstration.
If the user asks to play videotape among the VCR, S1 switches to position 1, and TV tuner 24 be tuned to channel 3.Please note in the position that VCR does not have the input of RF/ video 1 time.The user can not use the VCR tuner like this.
Turn to Fig. 4, it illustrates of the present invention one calcspar that mixes the V-Chip system and surmount the embodiment of system (" V-Chip Plus+ system ").This V-Chip Plus+ system preferably as illustrate in 5,335, No. 079 patent of the U.S. that responding compressed code like that sets up and respectively surmount table and comprises the automatic channel ability to transform.Particularly, TV tuner 34 is set, is used to let slip the selected channel of multichannel RF TV signal at the front end of TV receiver.The TV tuner 34 that can be any conventional tuner in the technology (comprising PC/TV and digital TV) provides amplification, be down-converted to intermediate frequency (" IF "), separate the mediation frequency tuning.
By microprocessor 44 TV tuner 34 be tuned to selected channel.Preferably with infrared (" IR ") remote controller be user's input block 46 of form be connected with microprocessor 44 with provide the user to the TV channel control, user's input block 46 also allows user's remote control ground to arrange V-Chip Plus+ system to surmount table so that get rid of some programs and editor or revise V-Chip Plus+ according to one or more equivalent coefficients.
When the user wishes to check that the concrete grade set or V-Chip Plus+ surmount table in this V-Chip Plus+ system, microprocessor 44 is retrieved suitable information and information is connected to video processor 50 from RAM 48, locates to format this information for demonstration the latter.The bit map that canned data preferably shows on TV display 42 in the video processor 50.Video processor 50 is connected with vision mixer 40.The information overlap of vision mixer 40 outputs shows although the insider will appreciate that can be presented on the information from vision mixer 40 in the TV display 42 as a window in the TV program or be shown as the full screen that replaces the TV program on the current TV program of watching.
Be inconjunction with and use user's input block 46 under the information that presents on the TV display, the user arranges this V-Chip Plus+ system to get rid of some programs according to one or more equivalent coefficients.User's input block 46 preferably can surmount table by moving cursor on TV display 42 and input separation command manipulation V-Chip Plus+ hierarchical system and V-Chip Plus+.Realize cursor control by microprocessor 44 being connected to video processor 50 through cursor position register 52.
The user can utilize the compressed code that for example illustrates in 5,335, No. 079 patent of the U.S. to realize each V-Chip Plus+ that TV display 42 is showed is surmounted the editor of table.Utilize G code decoder 54 to handle these compressed codes.If microprocessor 44 is determined to receive G code from user's input block 46, then G code is sent to G code decoder 54 and decipher.G code decoder 54 converts G code to channel, date, time and length (" CDTL ") information, and microprocessor 44 utilizes this CDTL information to surmount the V-ChipPlus+ hierarchical system for each selected TV program.CDTL information is stored among the RAM48 by stack architecture, as explanation in 5,382, No. 983 patents of the U.S. like that.
VBI by the decoding TV signal implements V-Chip Plus+ system.The VBI decoder 56 that is connected with the output of TV drive circuit 36 extracts xds signal from base-band television signal.The output of VBI decoder 56 that is comprising one or more hierarchical systems of current TV program of just broadcasting is connected with microprocessor 44.The equivalent coefficient that the user is ranked hierarchical system that relatively extracts from the VBI of TV signal by microprocessor 44 and the RAM 48.Determine should block under the situation of the TV program of just broadcasting at present at equivalent coefficient that microprocessor 44 is ranked according to these, that consults storage among the RAM 48 allows to surmount table.If this TV program is not included in this and allows to surmount in the table, microprocessor 44 excitation disable circuits 38 are to block the TV program of broadcasting at present from TV display 42.
On the contrary, if should play the TV program of just broadcasting at present according to the equivalent coefficient that is ranked of storage among the RAM 48, the obstruction of consulting storage among the RAM 48 surmounts table.If this TV program is not included in this obstruction and surmounts in the table, disable circuit 38 allows this TV program is passed to TV display 42 under the control of microprocessor 44.Microprocessor 44 is consulted these V-Chip Plus+ and is surmounted table by the CDTL information of storage among the RAM 48 and the tuner channel of the internal clocking (not shown) setting in microprocessor 44 and the microprocessor are compared.Select ground fully,, can peel off channel information from the XDS data by VBI decoder 56 if wherein feasible.
In brief, automatically detect the TV service of particular type in one embodiment of this invention by the channel allocation that monitors the TV station.This realizes by be with scanning TV tuner 34 at its RF by microprocessor 44.Whether the TV station that the detector 57 that is connected with TV tuner 34 has been assigned to by the stability inspection that monitors horizontal synchronization pulse on each channel of TV tuner 34 skims over the RF band.Then microprocessor 44 can be determined the type of TV service according to the channel allocation in the given geographic area.This method only requires that the user utilizes user's input block 46 to key in zip code.Alternatively, supporting the user to utilize user's input block 46 directly to key in the automatic detection that to exempt the concrete TV service that the user is used under the information of the model of relevant VCR and junction box and the trade mark.
In case determine the TV service of the particular type that the user uses, VBI decoder 56 can extract suitable channel map according to user's geographical position from TV signal.Microprocessor 44 scans TV tuner 34 once more to locate a channel with channel map information of sending in the VBI part of this TV signal.Then microprocessor 44 extract with and the channel map of the geographical position corresponding identification code labeling of user's input and in channel map memory 58, store this channel map that extracts.
Shown in Fig. 4 to the embodiment of V-Chip Plus+ system specialization towards a kind of fully integrated system that adopts single microprocessor.Yet, the insider easily understanding can occur in a large number need be the application of V-Chip Plus+ system modification to the TV receiver that has existing V-Chip system.As the consequence of Congress, estimate that many TV manufacturer can develop V-Chip IC (" IC ") and carry out layout and can be included as a kind of standard feature to the V-Chip ability according to standardized hierarchical system for the user to V-Chip system signature.In these systems, V-Chip Plus+ upgrading is received on the monolithic IC that is easy to be integrated in the existing V-Chip system is good.The example embodiment of this V-Chip Plus+ shown in Figure 5 system.
Now according to Fig. 5, the V-Chip system comprises basic TV processing and the drive circuit with reference to Fig. 4 explanation.Particularly, TV tuner 35 front end that is positioned at the TV receiver is used for the selected channel of multichannel RF TV signal is passed to TV drive circuit 37.The output of TV drive circuit 37 is connected to disable circuit 39.The output of disable circuit 39 is connected to TV display 43 by vision mixer 41, optionally to show the TV program of just broadcasting at present on selected channel.
The V-Chip 57 that is connected with the output of TV drive circuit 37 extracts xds signal from base-band television signal.Peel off the equivalent coefficient that the user was ranked stored the equivalent coefficient of TV program of current broadcast and the internal storage relatively from the XDS data with this grade coefficient and V-Chip 57.Determine to block at equivalent coefficient that V-Chip 57 is ranked according to these under the situation of TV program of present broadcasting, V-Chip 57 excitation disable circuits 37 are so that block this TV program of broadcasting at present to TV display 43.On the contrary, if should play the program of present broadcasting, this TV program is passed to TV display 43 by V-Chip 57 de-energisation disable circuits 39 and permission according to these equivalent coefficients that are ranked.
The V-Chip system provides editor to equivalent coefficient by utilizing edit routine to the user, particularly, when the user wishes to watch each the concrete grade that is provided with in the V-Chip system, V-Chip 57 is connected to video processor 51 from the memory search adequate information and information under the control of user's input block, format this information for demonstration the latter.Video processor 51 is connected with vision mixer 41.The information overlap of vision mixer 41 outputs shows although the insider will appreciate that can be presented on the information from vision mixer 41 in the TV display 43 as a window in the TV program or be shown as the full screen that replaces the TV program on the current TV program of watching.Together with using user's input block under the exhibition information on the TV display 43, the user arranges the V-Chip system so that get rid of some programs according to one or more equivalent coefficients.
Utilize outside V-Chip Plus+IC 47 to reach the customization of the blocking function of V-Chip 57.Realize that in IC V-Chip Plus+ circuit is a kind of economic means, yet the insider will appreciate that can utilize discrete parts realization V-Chip Plus+ function.Preferably V-Chip Plus+IC 47 is designed to be easy to be retrofitted in the existing TV receiver that the V-Chip ability has been installed.On the circuit between V-Chip 57 and the disable circuit 39, insert V-Chip Plus+IC 47.This need line 59 disconnects V-Chip 57 and disable circuit 39 by going in succession.In operation, when V-Chip 57 determines block the TV program of present broadcasting according to the equivalent coefficient that is ranked, block signal is connected to V-Chip Plus+IC 47.Respond this block signal, what the microprocessor 45 among the V-Chip Plus+IC 47 was consulted among the RAM 49 storage allows to surmount table.If this TV program is not included in this and allows to surmount in the table, microprocessor 45 can encourage disable circuit 39 TV display 43 is blocked this TV program of broadcasting at present.On the contrary, if V-Chip 57 determines play the TV program of present broadcasting according to the equivalent coefficient that is ranked, block signal not is connected to V-Chip Plus+IC 47.Respond this not block signal, the obstruction of consulting storage among the RAM 49 surmounts table.If this TV program is not included in this obstruction and surmounts in the table, disable circuit 39 allows this TV program is passed to TV display 43 under the control of microprocessor 45.
V-Chip Plus+IC 47 is also connected to video processor 51 and edits each V-Chip Plus+ for users and surmount table.In this configuration, the user can arrange the V-Chip system to surmount table to get rid of some programs and editor according to one or more equivalent coefficients or to revise V-Chip Plus+.Surmount when table when the user wishes to watch or edits V-Chip Plus+, microprocessor 45 is linked video processor 51 from RAM 49 retrieval adequate informations and this information, formats this information for demonstration the latter.Video processor 51 is by vision mixer 41 these information of output, and best overlay is on the TV program of watching at present.For example utilize compressed code to realize each V-ChipPlus+ is surmounted the editor of table.Utilize a G code decoder 55 to handle these compressed codes with reference to the same procedure of the explanation of the embodiment among Fig. 4 by the front.
User's input block 46 preferably adopts the form of hand-held remote control IR reflector, and it is communicated by letter with the IR receiver that is connected to microprocessor 44.As shown in Figure 6, the IR reflector has the shell 60 that some operating keys are being set thereon.CHANNEL SURF key 62, V-CHIPPLUS+ key 64, REVIEW key 69, BABYSITTER key 71, MENU key 63, ENTER key 65 and CHANGE key 67 all are arranged on the shell 60.Respectively upper and lower, left and right arrow key 66,68,70 and 72 below REVIEW key 69 and BABYSITTER key 71.Numeric keypad 73 be positioned at ENTER key 65 and CHANGE key 67 below.Two kinds of different patterns, promptly set under TV pattern and the GUIDE pattern and select to block and blocking function not.
In the TV pattern, the preferably full menu-drive of user interface.Show on the TV display that various screen items surmount table for be ranked V-Chip Plus+ system and each V-Chip Plus+ of editor.By one of selecting in CHANNEL SURF key 62, V-CHIPPLUS+ key 64 or the MENU key 63 on user's input block, can visit these screen items from conventional TV picture watching mode.Under GUIDE (guide) pattern, provide user interface by the electronic program guides that shows on the screen.Show that on the TV display screen items in this program guide surmounts table for be ranked V-Chip Plus+ system and each V-Chip Plus+ of editor.Press the VCR Plus+ interface in the layout screen that VCR Plus+ key on the remote controller shows guide.The user can import the Plus code and then select it to wish the behavior that program is taked: write down (acquiescence is selected), watch or block.These options occur with tile shape in the zone in this guide.
Referring now to Fig. 7, the example of the relation that the timing of Vsync shown in it and it and junction box channel change.The situation that the VChip controller can be distinguished the tuning situation of controller and the someone attempts to cross the VChip blocking function.If tuning by the controller startup, controller is set up a timing window that is used for the VSync disturbance immediately after sending harmonic ringing.If detect the difference in the VSync timing in this timing window, controller determines that then it is legal that this channel changes, as shown in Figure 7.For some junction boxs, an example in the cycle between the VSync is 16.67 milliseconds.If detect timing difference in the outside of this window, then controller can be taked following action:
(a) if correct channel is 2, controller send the IR signal in case junction box be tuned to channel 3, and then send another IR signal it is adjusted back to correct channel (channel 2).
(b) if correct channel is certain channel (for example, channel x) outside 2, then controller send an IR signal junction box be tuned to channel 2, send another IR signal then it is adjusted back to channel x (correct channel).
Yet, even exist the rare situation of VSync timing meeting when channel tuning does not take place " mistake is dodged " itself.In other words, exist the time (only be rare) of VSync timing meeting from the previous frame change.For example, this can take place under the situation of " cutting apart channel ", broadcasts during one day different time from the program of homology not cutting apart the next channel of channel.When program source changed, the VSync timing also changed.Top method and system is designed to be this situation of consideration.Controller earlier junction box be tuned to adjacent channel, yet again it is adjusted back to correct channel.
Yet anyone can utilize an object to block the IR signal of self-controller, and manually junction box be tuned to any channel of its hope.In order to prevent this situation, during the process that adjusts back to channel x (correct channel), controller is set a timing window, is similar to done in the conventional tuning process such.If do not detect VSync timing difference in this timing window, controller draws someone and is altering and the blocked video screen.
" adjacent " channel tuning guarantees that next step " adjusts back to correct channel " and produce the difference in the VSync timing.Some " intelligence " junction boxs are followed the tracks of present channel.If receive the new channel number that equates with its present channel, " intelligence " junction box does not carry out tuning.The result is, do not have any VSync timing difference, and someone has blocked the IR signal path seemingly.If remove " adjacent " channel tuning step, when timing difference during from channel self, controller can not detect this difference.Thereby " adjacent " channel tuning is guaranteed to there are differences in the VSync timing during " being transferred to correct channel " step.
Yet too wide if " window " is provided with, this system can lose efficacy.For example, suppose that correct channel (current channel) is that channel 5 and certain unauthorized people want to be transferred to the channel 11 in " blocked list ".This unratified people manually the junction box channel tuning to channel 11.Yet the VChip controller detects from tuning " VSync disturbance " to channel 11.It send immediately the IR signal be tuned to channel 2.Whether this IR signal gets clogged this moment is inessential.Then the VChip controller sends another IR signal by the timing window of setting immediately behind this signal junction box is adjusted back to channel 5.This unratified people can utilize an object to block the IR signal of controller this moment, and attempts simultaneously manually junction box to be transferred to channel 9.If this timing window suitably is set, can in this timing window, not detect by the manual tuning creation of this unratified people " VSync disturbance " thus block screen.
Tuning process because when last bit digital of receiving channels number in when " ENTER key " (perhaps in some cases) beginning junction box can make this system safer by the time randomization between the numeral that makes channel (the internal digital timing up to the junction box trade mark limits).Its objective is and be difficult to more cross.
According to the type and the trade mark of junction box, the value of timing window is different.Yet accurately being provided with quite of the timing window of every type junction box determined to high precision.In one embodiment, automatically determine the timing window by controller.Controller is determined the timing window by sending the IR signal that junction box is transferred to first channel.Then, controller sends another junction box and is transferred to the IR signal of another channel to measure the time between " VSync disturbance " and these the tuning IR signals.Can increase a special allowance with as threshold value to this timing window of measuring.
For example, controller sends junction box is transferred to the IR signal of channel 9 and is attempted then to confirm whether junction box is tuned to channel 9.After identifying the trade mark, controller can send other IR signal of junction box being transferred to other channel that has real broadcast singal probably, thereby measures the time between " VSync disturbance " and these the tuning IR signals.A kind of suitable combination should be channel 3 and channel 4 one one of them be loaded with actual signal.Then can add a little timing allowance and be used as the setting of timing window this time of measuring.Can or during using this junction box for the first time, the user carry out above-mentioned processing during " foundation of the junction box trade mark " process.Then the timing window of setting up is saved in and is provided with the back reference in memory such as the nonvolatile memory.The user can utilize the password artificially to adjust the timing window that this is saved.
In another embodiment, controller is dynamically determined the timing window in the operation phase interval.Enough bufferings are set to store the timing between the VSync in the operational phase.Determine comprising the timing window of appropriate threshold value from the data of these bufferings.The advantage of this method is that if change for certain reason VSync timing, controller can be adjusted it automatically.In addition, the unusual quilt " on average " in the scope clocking internal of buffered data.Then the timing window of setting up is saved in and is provided with the back reference in memory such as the nonvolatile memory.The user can utilize the password artificially to adjust the timing window that this is saved.
The insider understands and can make various modifications to demonstration of the present invention described above and other embodiment, and can not deviate from broad range of the present invention.Should understand the present invention and not be subject to disclosed these specific embodiments or various structure, it is intended that topped by any change, adjustment or modification in the scope and spirit of the present invention of appended claims book definition on the contrary.
Claims (14)
- One kind be used to prevent non-through approval cross the method for the TV programme choke system that is comprising a junction box and a TV tuner, described method comprises step:The first timing window is set;The timing between the VSynch in succession of the vision signal of supervision from the junction box to the TV tuner;If in the first timing window, do not detect the timing between the VSynch in succession, confirm unauthorized channel change attempt and junction box be tuned to second channel; AndJunction box is adjusted back to unauthorized channel to be changed on the trial generation channel that junction box is tuned to before.
- 2. the method for claim 1 also comprises step:The second timing window is set;The timing of the next VSynch of monitoring video signal;If in the second timing window, do not detect the timing that is used for next VSynch, encourage a function.
- 3. the method for claim 2, wherein the function that is encouraged is the blocked video signal.
- 4. the method for claim 2, wherein the first timing window is identical with the second timing window.
- 5. the process of claim 1 wherein that the step that the first timing window is set comprises the cycle of measuring between two tuning in succession incidents.
- 6. the method for claim 5 also comprises measured threshold value of cycle interpolation.
- 7. the process of claim 1 wherein that the step that the first timing window is set comprises the timing of measuring between a plurality of tuning in succession incidents and average is got in the timing that these are measured.
- 8. system that is used to prevent the unauthorized circumvention of television program blocking system comprises:A junction box is used to receive a plurality of vision signals;The electric TV tuner that is connected with this junction box that goes up is used for receiving video signals;Be used to be provided with the controller of the first timing window,Wherein said controller monitors the timing between the VSynch in succession of the vision signal from the junction box to the television receiver, andIf in the first timing window, do not detect the timing between the VSynch in succession, described controller junction box from first channel tuning to second channel, and junction box adjusted back to first channel.
- 9. the system of claim 8, its middle controller is used to be provided with the second timing window, and the timing of the next VSynch of monitoring video signal,If do not detect the timing that is used for next VSynch in the second timing window, described controller encourages a function.
- 10. the system of claim 9, wherein the function that is encouraged is the blocked video signal.
- 11. the system of claim 9, wherein the first timing window is identical with the second timing window.
- 12. the system of claim 8, wherein said controller is used to measure two cycles between the tuning in succession incident to set the first timing window.
- 13. the system of claim 12, wherein said controller is used for the measured cycle is added a threshold value.
- 14. the system of claim 8, wherein said controller is used to measure the timing between a plurality of tuning in succession incidents and the timing that these are measured is got average to set the first timing window.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US10362998P | 1998-10-08 | 1998-10-08 | |
| US60/103,629 | 1998-10-08 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CN1325593A CN1325593A (en) | 2001-12-05 |
| CN1145358C true CN1145358C (en) | 2004-04-07 |
Family
ID=22296183
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNB998131490A Expired - Fee Related CN1145358C (en) | 1998-10-08 | 1999-10-08 | Apparatus and method for preventing unauthorized circumvention of television program blocking function |
Country Status (6)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP1135932A1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP2002527959A (en) |
| CN (1) | CN1145358C (en) |
| AU (1) | AU6426299A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2346300C (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2000021297A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US20040210947A1 (en) | 2003-04-15 | 2004-10-21 | Shusman Chad W. | Method and apparatus for interactive video on demand |
| US20030196206A1 (en) | 2002-04-15 | 2003-10-16 | Shusman Chad W. | Method and apparatus for internet-based interactive programming |
Family Cites Families (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5495282A (en) * | 1992-11-03 | 1996-02-27 | The Arbitron Company | Monitoring system for TV, cable and VCR |
| US5420647A (en) * | 1993-01-19 | 1995-05-30 | Smart Vcr Limited Partnership | T.V. viewing and recording system |
| US5715014A (en) * | 1996-09-03 | 1998-02-03 | Motorola, Inc. | Circuit and method of providing parental discretionary control on a PIP IC |
-
1999
- 1999-10-08 JP JP2000575307A patent/JP2002527959A/en not_active Ceased
- 1999-10-08 CA CA002346300A patent/CA2346300C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1999-10-08 WO PCT/US1999/023710 patent/WO2000021297A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1999-10-08 AU AU64262/99A patent/AU6426299A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1999-10-08 CN CNB998131490A patent/CN1145358C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1999-10-08 EP EP99951929A patent/EP1135932A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| JP2002527959A (en) | 2002-08-27 |
| WO2000021297A1 (en) | 2000-04-13 |
| CA2346300C (en) | 2003-12-30 |
| EP1135932A1 (en) | 2001-09-26 |
| CN1325593A (en) | 2001-12-05 |
| AU6426299A (en) | 2000-04-26 |
| CA2346300A1 (en) | 2000-04-13 |
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