WO2001003428A1 - Programmable memory device for television signals - Google Patents

Programmable memory device for television signals Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2001003428A1
WO2001003428A1 PCT/DE2000/002239 DE0002239W WO0103428A1 WO 2001003428 A1 WO2001003428 A1 WO 2001003428A1 DE 0002239 W DE0002239 W DE 0002239W WO 0103428 A1 WO0103428 A1 WO 0103428A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
control information
television signal
interface
signal
memory
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/DE2000/002239
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Matthias Zahn
Original Assignee
Matthias Zahn
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 Matthias Zahn filed Critical Matthias Zahn
Priority to AU68185/00A priority Critical patent/AU6818500A/en
Publication of WO2001003428A1 publication Critical patent/WO2001003428A1/en

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/418—External card to be used in combination with the client device, e.g. for conditional access
    • H04N21/4184—External card to be used in combination with the client device, e.g. for conditional access providing storage capabilities, e.g. memory stick
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/422—Input-only peripherals, i.e. input devices connected to specially adapted client devices, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
    • H04N21/4227—Providing Remote input by a user located remotely from the client device, e.g. at work
    • 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
    • H04N21/433—Content storage operation, e.g. storage operation in response to a pause request, caching operations
    • H04N21/4334—Recording operations
    • 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
    • H04N21/462—Content or additional data management, e.g. creating a master electronic program guide from data received from the Internet and a Head-end, controlling the complexity of a video stream by scaling the resolution or bit-rate based on the client capabilities
    • H04N21/4622—Retrieving content or additional data from different sources, e.g. from a broadcast channel and the Internet
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47—End-user applications
    • H04N21/472—End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content
    • H04N21/47214—End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content for content reservation or setting reminders; for requesting event notification, e.g. of sport results or stock market
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47—End-user applications
    • H04N21/478—Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification, shopping application
    • H04N21/4782—Web browsing, e.g. WebTV
    • 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]
    • H04N21/60—Network structure or processes for video distribution between server and client or between remote clients; Control signalling between clients, server and network components; Transmission of management data between server and client, e.g. sending from server to client commands for recording incoming content stream; Communication details between server and client 
    • H04N21/63—Control signaling related to video distribution between client, server and network components; Network processes for video distribution between server and clients or between remote clients, e.g. transmitting basic layer and enhancement layers over different transmission paths, setting up a peer-to-peer communication via Internet between remote STB's; Communication protocols; Addressing
    • H04N21/637—Control signals issued by the client directed to the server or network components
    • H04N21/6377—Control signals issued by the client directed to the server or network components directed to server
    • 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]
    • H04N21/60—Network structure or processes for video distribution between server and client or between remote clients; Control signalling between clients, server and network components; Transmission of management data between server and client, e.g. sending from server to client commands for recording incoming content stream; Communication details between server and client 
    • H04N21/65—Transmission of management data between client and server
    • H04N21/658—Transmission by the client directed to the server
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N5/00—Details of television systems
    • H04N5/76—Television signal recording
    • H04N5/765—Interface circuits between an apparatus for recording and another apparatus
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N5/00—Details of television systems
    • H04N5/76—Television signal recording
    • H04N5/78—Television signal recording using magnetic recording
    • H04N5/782—Television signal recording using magnetic recording on tape
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N5/00—Details of television systems
    • H04N5/76—Television signal recording
    • H04N5/84—Television signal recording using optical recording
    • H04N5/85—Television signal recording using optical recording on discs or drums
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N5/00—Details of television systems
    • H04N5/76—Television signal recording
    • H04N5/907—Television signal recording using static stores, e.g. storage tubes or semiconductor memories
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N5/00—Details of television systems
    • H04N5/76—Television signal recording
    • H04N5/91—Television signal processing therefor
    • H04N5/92—Transformation of the television signal for recording, e.g. modulation, frequency changing; Inverse transformation for playback
    • H04N5/926—Transformation of the television signal for recording, e.g. modulation, frequency changing; Inverse transformation for playback by pulse code modulation
    • H04N5/9261—Transformation of the television signal for recording, e.g. modulation, frequency changing; Inverse transformation for playback by pulse code modulation involving data reduction

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a programmable device according to the preamble of patent claim 1.
  • the object of the present invention is therefore to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art, and in particular to expand the possibilities of television and the recording of television signals and to make them more user-friendly.
  • the object of the invention is achieved in a device of the type mentioned by the features specified in the characterizing part of claim 1.
  • the storage device is in particular "tapeless", which provides a multitude of advantages.
  • the storage density is increased, access to certain storage locations is simplified, processing is possible, etc.
  • the storage device can in particular also be a flash memory or a DVD.
  • the radio signal is preferably a digital signal.
  • a particular advantage of the present invention is that in order to provide the necessary intelligence, the video recorder and the television set are not modified. Instead, the possibilities of a personal computer and in particular the INTERNET are used in connection with the device according to the invention. This applies in particular to the input of the control information by means of an appropriately comfortable input program.
  • the device according to the invention therefore manages with minimal "intelligence", since it only has to be provided with correspondingly prepared control information. However, no direct cable or radio connection to a PC is necessary for this.
  • the device according to the invention can completely replace a video recorder or to cooperate with this, e.g. B. if a recorded program is to be permanently stored on a video cassette, especially in an edited version.
  • the device preferably has a coding device and a decoding device for the television signal.
  • the coding or decoding devices are provided in particular for the purpose of data compression or decompression of the video data for storage on the hard disk memory in order to increase the storage density.
  • a particularly preferred variant of the invention provides that the control information is received in the device together with the television signal, in particular in the blanking interval and / or the teletext signal. In this way it is ensured that every user who can receive a television signal of sufficient quality also receives the control information necessary for the operation of the device according to the invention.
  • control information can also be transmitted digitally to the device according to the invention.
  • a satellite receiver and / or a cable connection is preferably provided for this purpose.
  • signal transmission is also possible terrestrially (DVPP).
  • the device preferably also has an interface to a video recorder.
  • a recorded program can be copied from the device according to the invention to a video tape and stored.
  • the television signal can also be processed, e.g. B. certain program parts can be cut out.
  • the device has an interface to a personal computer. This is particularly preferred because video editing using a PC is possible.
  • the programmable, portable storage medium is advantageously a smart card or the like.
  • the smart card or a USB stick is attached to a suitable terminal described and read on the device according to the invention by the reading device.
  • the user therefore does not have to have his own personal computer to use this embodiment, in particular not in connection with the device according to the invention, but only has access to a corresponding terminal, e.g. B. in public institutions or at his workplace.
  • a remote control is provided for entering control information.
  • This input option for control information is preferred as an additional option in the case in which the user is in spatial proximity to the device according to the invention and in particular wants to trigger a playback process.
  • Fig. 1 is a highly schematic representation of the device according to the invention, and its use with other peripheral devices.
  • the device according to the invention is shown schematically in FIG. 1 with reference number 1. Furthermore, a television set 11 and a video recorder 21.
  • the device 1 receives television or video signals via cable, a satellite receiver and / or via an antenna for receiving terrestrial signals.
  • a satellite signal processing device 31 is also optionally provided upstream of the device according to the invention.
  • a DF-1 receiver or further additional devices can also be provided in connection with the device 1 according to the invention.
  • the device 1 according to the invention has an integrated circuit, which is shown schematically as a board 2 or circuit board in an enlarged representation.
  • the board 2 can be functionally divided into two parts, namely a main board part 2a with a hard disk memory 3 and a video processing board part 2b.
  • the main board 2a is preferably designed to be PC-compatible.
  • the hard disk memory 3 is preferably designed in such a way that there is approximately 10 gigabyte of storage space. This space is sufficient to store five hours of DVD quality video or ten hours of S quality video.
  • the device 1 is connected to a personal computer 5 with INTERNET access 6.
  • the personal computer 6 is connected to a monitor 7.
  • the connection shown schematically at 8 can be provided via the serial RS 232 interface or a 10/100 Ethernet interface or another suitable interface, in particular a wireless connection.
  • an embodiment is preferred in which the device 1 is not directly connected to the personal computer 5, but communication is nevertheless possible, as will be explained in more detail below.
  • a remote control la which controls the device 1 according to the invention via IR pulses, and remote controls 11a and 21a are also provided for the television set 11 and the video recorder 21. Furthermore, further remote controls (not shown) can be provided in the system according to the invention.
  • the operation of the device 1 according to the invention is extremely versatile and will be described in the following using selected modes or operating modes.
  • a user can via a suitable INTERNET website, which, for. B. detailed program information, showview information, etc., and has a suitable order program, transmit control information to the provider of the website.
  • control information has, for. B. the command of recording a certain program content.
  • the control information about the blanking interval is transmitted to the device 1 together with the television signal.
  • a technology which is known under the brand name INTERCAST is preferably used.
  • a smart card or a corresponding portable, writable data storage device is loaded via the PC 5, which has such a writing device.
  • the device 1 according to the invention has a corresponding reading device (not shown).
  • the PC 5 can also be connected via a corresponding control program through a direct connection, e.g. B. a cable or radio connection, as indicated above, transmit the corresponding control information to the device 1.
  • the advantage of the second and third variants of the invention is the independence from an INTERNET access.
  • the device 1 according to the invention can also be controlled via a radio signal. For example, GPS, GSM or RDS signals are provided.
  • the advantage of the first two and the fourth variants is the independence from a PC 5, which is in a corresponding connection to the device. The user therefore does not need his own PC to operate the device 1, but only access to a corresponding terminal.
  • control information of recording a program in addition to a command can also have other contents.
  • deletion of a program that has already been recorded and stored in the device 1 can also be provided.
  • data or information can be added to the control information programmed by the user.
  • the control information can be preceded and transmitted with an identification code for the user or a wake-up code for the device 1 which is in a sleep / power saving mode.
  • a user can initiate the recording by device 1 while watching television, for example via remote control 1 a. In this way, when switching and switching back the pro no content lost. "Zapping" without loss of program content is therefore possible.

Abstract

The invention relates to a programmable device (1) for storing a television signal. Said device has a memory device (3) for storing the television signal, at least one interface for receiving a television signal, an interface with a reproducing device (11) for the television signal and at least one interface for inputting control information for the device (1). The aim of the invention is to increase possibilities for television and for recording television signals and to increase user-friendliness. To this end, the memory device (3) is a memory with random access, and the at least one interface for inputting control information is the interface for receiving the television signal and/or the device for reading out a portable programmable storage medium and/or a device for receiving a radio signal. The control information is preferably received in the device (1) together with the television signal, especially in the picture blanking interval and/or the videotext signal. The programmable, portable storage medium is preferably a smart card or similar. The invention also relates to a corresponding method.

Description

Programmierbare Speichervorrichtung für Fernsehsignale Programmable memory device for television signals
Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft eine programmierbare Vorrichtung gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1.The present invention relates to a programmable device according to the preamble of patent claim 1.
Im Stand der Technik sind Fernsehgeräte und Videorecorder bekannt. Die bekannten Vorrichtungen besitzen allerdings hinsichtlich Interaktionsfähigkeit und Bedienungsfreundlichkeit eine Vielzahl von Nachteilen. Insbesondere ist die Programmierung des Videorecorders aufwendig und kompliziert.Television sets and video recorders are known in the prior art. However, the known devices have a number of disadvantages with regard to interactivity and ease of use. In particular, programming the video recorder is complex and complicated.
Die Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung besteht daher darin, die Nachteile des Standes der Technik zu überwinden, und insbesondere die Möglichkeiten des Fernsehens und der Aufzeichnung von Fernsehsignalen zu erweitern und bedienungsfreundlicher zu machen.The object of the present invention is therefore to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art, and in particular to expand the possibilities of television and the recording of television signals and to make them more user-friendly.
Die erfindungsgemäße Aufgabe wird bei einer Vorrichtung der eingangs genannten Art durch die im kennzeichnenden Teil des Patentanspruchs 1 angegebenen Merkmale gelöst.The object of the invention is achieved in a device of the type mentioned by the features specified in the characterizing part of claim 1.
Die Speichereinrichtung ist insbesondere "bandlos", was eine Vielzahl von Vorteilen vorsieht. So ist die Speicherdichte erhöht, der Zugriff auf bestimmte Speicherstellen vereinfacht, eine Bearbeitung möglich u.s.w. Die Speichereinrichtung kann insbesondere auch ein Flashmemory oder eine DVD sein. Das Funksignal ist vorzugsweise ein digitales Signal.The storage device is in particular "tapeless", which provides a multitude of advantages. The storage density is increased, access to certain storage locations is simplified, processing is possible, etc. The storage device can in particular also be a flash memory or a DVD. The radio signal is preferably a digital signal.
Ein besondere Vorteil der vorliegenden Erfindung besteht darin, daß um die notwendige Intelligenz vorzusehen, der Videorecorder und das Fernsehgerät nicht modifiziert wird. Anstelle davon werden die Möglichkeiten eines Personalcomputers und insbesondere des INTERNET in Verbindung mit der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung genutzt. Dies gilt in besonderem Maße für die Eingabe der Steuerinformation durch ein entsprechend komfortables Eingabeprogramm. Die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung kommt daher mit einer minimalen "Intelligenz" aus, da ihr lediglich eine entsprechend aufbereitete Steuerinformation bereitgestellt werden muß. Dazu ist aber keine direkte Kabel- oder Funkverbindung mit einem PC notwendig aber möglich. Die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung kann einen Videorecorder vollständig ersetzen oder auch mit diesem zusammenzuarbeiten, z. B. wenn ein aufgezeichnetes Programm permanent auf einer Videokassette, insbesondere in einer bearbeiteten Fassung, gespeichert werden soll.A particular advantage of the present invention is that in order to provide the necessary intelligence, the video recorder and the television set are not modified. Instead, the possibilities of a personal computer and in particular the INTERNET are used in connection with the device according to the invention. This applies in particular to the input of the control information by means of an appropriately comfortable input program. The device according to the invention therefore manages with minimal "intelligence", since it only has to be provided with correspondingly prepared control information. However, no direct cable or radio connection to a PC is necessary for this. The device according to the invention can completely replace a video recorder or to cooperate with this, e.g. B. if a recorded program is to be permanently stored on a video cassette, especially in an edited version.
Vorzugsweise weist die Vorrichtung eine Codiereinrichtung und eine Decodiereinrichrung für das Fernsehsignal auf. Die Codier- bzw. Decodiereinrichtungen sind insbesondere zum Zweck der Datenkompression bzw. -dekompression der Videodaten zur Speicherung auf dem Festplattenspeicher zur Erhöhung der Speicherdichte vorgesehen.The device preferably has a coding device and a decoding device for the television signal. The coding or decoding devices are provided in particular for the purpose of data compression or decompression of the video data for storage on the hard disk memory in order to increase the storage density.
Eine besonders bevorzugte Variante der Erfindung sieht vor, daß die Steuerinformation zusammen mit dem Fernsehsignal, insbesondere in der Bildaustastlücke und/oder dem Videotextsignal, in der Vorrichtung empfangen wird. Auf diese Weise wird sichergestellt, daß jeder Anwender der ein Fernsehsignal in ausreichender Qualität empfangen kann, auch die zum Betrieb der erfmdungsgemäßen Vorrichtung notwendige Steuerinformation erhält.A particularly preferred variant of the invention provides that the control information is received in the device together with the television signal, in particular in the blanking interval and / or the teletext signal. In this way it is ensured that every user who can receive a television signal of sufficient quality also receives the control information necessary for the operation of the device according to the invention.
Ebenfalls kann die Steuerinformation digital an die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung übertragen werden. Vorzugsweise ist dazu ein Satellitenempfänger und/oder ein Kabelanschluß vorgesehen. Auch terrestrisch ist in diesem Fall eine Signalübertragung möglich (DVPP).The control information can also be transmitted digitally to the device according to the invention. A satellite receiver and / or a cable connection is preferably provided for this purpose. In this case, signal transmission is also possible terrestrially (DVPP).
Vorzugsweise weist die Vorrichtung ferner eine Schnittstelle zu einem Videorecorder aufweist. Dadurch kann ein aufgezeichnetes Programm von der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung auf ein Videoband kopiert und aufbewahrt werden. Vor oder während des Kopiervorgangs kann das Fernsehsignal auch bearbeitet werden, z. B. können bestimmte Programmteile herausgeschnitten werden.The device preferably also has an interface to a video recorder. As a result, a recorded program can be copied from the device according to the invention to a video tape and stored. Before or during the copying process, the television signal can also be processed, e.g. B. certain program parts can be cut out.
In einer Variante der Erfindung weist die Vorrichtung eine Schnittstelle zu einem Personalcomputer auf. Dies ist insbesondere deshalb bevorzugt, da eine Videobearbeitung mittels PC möglich ist.In a variant of the invention, the device has an interface to a personal computer. This is particularly preferred because video editing using a PC is possible.
Vorteilhafterweise ist das programmierbare, portable Speichermedium eine Smartcard oder dergleichen ist. Die Smartcard oder ein USB-Stick wird an einem dafür geeigneten Terminal beschrieben und an der erfmdungsgemäßen Vorrichtung von der Leseeinrichtung ausgelesen. Der Anwender muß daher zur Nutzung dieses Ausführungsbeispiels keinen eigenen Personalcomputer, insbesondere nicht in Verbindung mit der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung, besitzen, sondern lediglich Zugang zu einem entsprechenden Terminal, z. B. in öffentlichen Einrichtungen oder an seinem Arbeitsplatz, haben.The programmable, portable storage medium is advantageously a smart card or the like. The smart card or a USB stick is attached to a suitable terminal described and read on the device according to the invention by the reading device. The user therefore does not have to have his own personal computer to use this embodiment, in particular not in connection with the device according to the invention, but only has access to a corresponding terminal, e.g. B. in public institutions or at his workplace.
In einer besonders bedienungsfreundlichen Variante ist eine Fernbedienung zur Eingabe von Steuerinformation vorgesehen. Diese Eingabemöglichkeit von Steuerinformation ist als zusätzliche Möglichkeit in dem Fall, in welchem der Anwender sich in räumlicher Nähe zu der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung befindet und insbesondere einen Abspielvorgang auslösen möchte bevorzugt.In a particularly user-friendly variant, a remote control is provided for entering control information. This input option for control information is preferred as an additional option in the case in which the user is in spatial proximity to the device according to the invention and in particular wants to trigger a playback process.
Bevorzugte Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung sind in den abhängigen Patentansprüchen offenbart.Preferred embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims.
Die Erfindung, sowie weitere bevorzugte Ausführungsformen der Erfindung werden nachfolgend anhand einer Beschreibung von bevorzugten Ausführungsbeispielen der Erfindung unter Bezugnahme auf die beigefügten Zeichnungen näher erläutert. In den Zeichnungen zeigt:The invention, as well as further preferred embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below on the basis of a description of preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:
Fig. 1 eine stark schematische Darstellung der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung, sowie deren Einsatz mit weiteren Peripheriegeräten.Fig. 1 is a highly schematic representation of the device according to the invention, and its use with other peripheral devices.
Die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung ist in Fig. 1 schematisch mit dem Bezugszeichen 1 angezeigt. Ferner ist ein Fernsehgerät mit 11 und ein Video-Recorder mit 21 bezeichnet. Die Vor- richtung 1 empfängt Fernseh- bzw. Videosignale über Kabel, einen Satellitenempfänger und/oder über eine Antenne zum Empfang terrestrischer Signale. Eine Satellitensignal Verarbeitungseinrichtung 31 ist ebenfalls optional, der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung vorgeschaltet, vorgesehen. Alternativ oder zusätzlich kann ebenfalls ein DF-1 Empfänger oder weitere Zusatzgeräte in Verbindung mit der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung 1 vorgesehen sein. Die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung 1 weist eine integrierte Schaltung auf, die schematisch als Board 2 bzw. Platine in vergrößerter Darstellung gezeigt ist. Das Board 2 kann funktionsmäßig in zwei Teile, nämlich einen Hauptboardteil 2a mit einem Festplattenspeicher 3 und einen Videoverarbeitungsboardteil 2b, unterteilt werden. Das Hauptboard 2a ist vorzugsweise PC- kompatibel ausgebildet. Der Festplattenspeicher 3 ist vorzugsweise derart ausgelegt, daß in etwa 10 GigaByte Speicherplatz vorhanden sind. Dieser Speicherplatz ist ausreichend, um fünf Stunden Videosignal in DVD-Qualität oder zehn Stunden Video in S-Qualität zu speichern.The device according to the invention is shown schematically in FIG. 1 with reference number 1. Furthermore, a television set 11 and a video recorder 21. The device 1 receives television or video signals via cable, a satellite receiver and / or via an antenna for receiving terrestrial signals. A satellite signal processing device 31 is also optionally provided upstream of the device according to the invention. Alternatively or additionally, a DF-1 receiver or further additional devices can also be provided in connection with the device 1 according to the invention. The device 1 according to the invention has an integrated circuit, which is shown schematically as a board 2 or circuit board in an enlarged representation. The board 2 can be functionally divided into two parts, namely a main board part 2a with a hard disk memory 3 and a video processing board part 2b. The main board 2a is preferably designed to be PC-compatible. The hard disk memory 3 is preferably designed in such a way that there is approximately 10 gigabyte of storage space. This space is sufficient to store five hours of DVD quality video or ten hours of S quality video.
In der dargestellten Variante der Erfindung ist die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung 1 mit einem Personalcomputer 5 mit INTERNET-Zugang 6 verbunden. Der Personalcomputer 6 ist mit einem Monitor 7 verbunden. Die schematisch bei 8 angezeigte Verbindung kann über die serielle RS 232 Schnittstelle oder eine 10/100 Ethernet Schnittstelle oder eine andere geeignete Schnittstelle, insbesondere eine drahtlose Verbindung, vorgesehen sein. Bevorzugt ist allerdings eine Ausführungsform, bei welcher die Vorrichtung 1 nicht in unmittelbarer Verbindung mit dem Personalcomputer 5 steht, aber dennoch Kommunikation möglich ist, wie im folgenden noch näher erläutert wird.In the variant of the invention shown, the device 1 according to the invention is connected to a personal computer 5 with INTERNET access 6. The personal computer 6 is connected to a monitor 7. The connection shown schematically at 8 can be provided via the serial RS 232 interface or a 10/100 Ethernet interface or another suitable interface, in particular a wireless connection. However, an embodiment is preferred in which the device 1 is not directly connected to the personal computer 5, but communication is nevertheless possible, as will be explained in more detail below.
Eine Fernbedienung la, welche über IR-Pulse die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung 1 ansteuert, sowie Fernbedienungen 11a und 21a sind ebenfalls für das Fernsehgerät 11 bzw. den Videorecorder 21 vorgesehen. Ferner können weitere (nicht dargestellte) Fernbedienungen in dem erfindungsgemäßen System vorgesehen sein.A remote control la, which controls the device 1 according to the invention via IR pulses, and remote controls 11a and 21a are also provided for the television set 11 and the video recorder 21. Furthermore, further remote controls (not shown) can be provided in the system according to the invention.
Der Betrieb der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung 1 ist äußerst vielseitig und wird im folgen- den anhand von ausgewählten Modi oder Betriebsarten beschrieben.The operation of the device 1 according to the invention is extremely versatile and will be described in the following using selected modes or operating modes.
Beispielsweise kann ein Anwender über eine geeignete INTERNET- Website, welche z. B. detaillierte Programminformation, Showview-Information u. a., sowie ein geeignetes Auftragsprogramm aufweist, eine Steuerinformation an den Provider der Website übermitteln. Eine derartige Steuerinformation weist, z. B. den Befehl der Aufnahme eines bestimmten Programminhalts, auf. Um nun die Steuerinformation an die Vorrichtung 1 zu übertragen, sind erfindungsgemäß vier Varianten (im Betrieb alleine oder in Kombination) vorgesehen. In einer ersten Variante wird die Steuerinformation über die Bildaustastlücke zusammen mit dem Fernsehsignal an die Vorrichtung 1 übertragen. Dazu wird vorzugsweise eine Technologie, welche unter dem Markennamen INTERCAST bekannt ist, verwendet. In der zweiten Variante wird eine Smartcard oder eine entsprechende portable, beschreibbare Datenspeichereinrichtung, insbesondere ein USB-Stick, über den PC 5, welcher über eine derartige Schreibeinrichtung verfügt, geladen. Die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung 1 weist bei dieser Ausführungsform eine entsprechende (nicht dargestellte) Leseeinrichtung auf. Allerdings kann gemäß einer dritten Variante auch der PC 5 über ein entsprechendes Steuerprogramm durch eine unmittelbare Verbindung, z. B. eine Kabel- oder Funkverbindung, wie oben angedeutet, mit der Vorrichtung 1 die entsprechende Steuerinformation an diese übermitteln. Der Vorteil der zweiten und dritten Varianten der Erfindung besteht in der Unabhängigkeit von einem INTERNET-Zugang. Gemäß einer vierten Variante kann auch die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung 1 über ein Funksignal angesteuert werden. Beispielsweise sind dazu GPS, GSM oder RDS Signale vorgesehen. Der Vorteil der ersten beiden und der vierten Varianten besteht in der Unabhängigkeit von einem PC 5, welcher sich in entsprechender Verbindung zu der Vorrichtung befindet. Der Anwender benötigt daher zum Betrieb der Vorrichtung 1 keinen eigenen PC, sondern nur einen Zugang zu einem entsprechenden Terminal.For example, a user can via a suitable INTERNET website, which, for. B. detailed program information, showview information, etc., and has a suitable order program, transmit control information to the provider of the website. Such control information has, for. B. the command of recording a certain program content. In order to transmit the control information to the device 1, According to the invention, four variants (in operation alone or in combination) are provided. In a first variant, the control information about the blanking interval is transmitted to the device 1 together with the television signal. For this purpose, a technology which is known under the brand name INTERCAST is preferably used. In the second variant, a smart card or a corresponding portable, writable data storage device, in particular a USB stick, is loaded via the PC 5, which has such a writing device. In this embodiment, the device 1 according to the invention has a corresponding reading device (not shown). However, according to a third variant, the PC 5 can also be connected via a corresponding control program through a direct connection, e.g. B. a cable or radio connection, as indicated above, transmit the corresponding control information to the device 1. The advantage of the second and third variants of the invention is the independence from an INTERNET access. According to a fourth variant, the device 1 according to the invention can also be controlled via a radio signal. For example, GPS, GSM or RDS signals are provided. The advantage of the first two and the fourth variants is the independence from a PC 5, which is in a corresponding connection to the device. The user therefore does not need his own PC to operate the device 1, but only access to a corresponding terminal.
Es sei bemerkt, daß die Steuerinformation, neben einem Befehl ein Programm aufzuzeichnen, auch weitere Inhalte haben kann. So kann beispielsweise auch das Löschen eines bereits aufgezeichneten und in der Vorrichtung 1 gespeicherten Programms vorgesehen sein. Schließlich ist auch bevorzugt der vom Anwender programmierten Steuerinformation auch Daten bzw. Information hinzuzufügen. Beispielsweise kann der Steuerinformation ein Identifizierungs- code für den Anwender oder eine Weckcode für die sich in einem Sleep-/Stromsparmodus befindliche Vorrichtung 1 vorangestellt und übertragen werden.It should be noted that the control information of recording a program in addition to a command can also have other contents. For example, the deletion of a program that has already been recorded and stored in the device 1 can also be provided. Finally, it is also preferable to add data or information to the control information programmed by the user. For example, the control information can be preceded and transmitted with an identification code for the user or a wake-up code for the device 1 which is in a sleep / power saving mode.
In einer weiteren Betriebsart der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung kann ein Anwender während des Fernsehens die Aufzeichnung durch die Vorrichtung 1 beispielsweise über die Fern- bedienung la initiieren. Auf diese Weise geht beim Umschalten und Zurückschalten des Pro- gramms kein Inhalt verloren. Ein "Zappen" ohne Verlust von Programminhalt ist somit möglich.In a further operating mode of the device according to the invention, a user can initiate the recording by device 1 while watching television, for example via remote control 1 a. In this way, when switching and switching back the pro no content lost. "Zapping" without loss of program content is therefore possible.
Die Erfindung wurde zuvor anhand von bevorzugten Ausfuhrungsformen näher erläutert. Für einen Fachmann ist jedoch offensichtlich, daß verschiedene Abwandlungen und Modifikationen gemacht werden können, ohne von dem der Erfindung zugrundeliegenden Gedanken abzuweichen. The invention was previously explained in more detail using preferred embodiments. However, it is obvious to a person skilled in the art that various modifications and modifications can be made without departing from the concept on which the invention is based.
Bezugszeichenliste :Reference symbol list:
1 Vorrichtung la Fembedienung für die Vorrichtung1 device remote control for the device
2 Board bzw. Platine2 board or board
2a Hauptboardteil2a main board part
2b Videoverarbeitungsboardteil2b video processing board part
3 Festplattenspeicher3 hard disk space
5 Personalcomputer5 personal computers
6 LNTERNET-Zugang6 LNTERNET access
7 Monitor7 monitor
8 Verbindung8 connection
11 Fernsehgerät11 TV set
11a Fembedienung für das Fernsehgerät11a Remote control for the television set
21 Videorecorder21 video recorders
21a Fembedienung für den Videorecorder 21a Remote control for the video recorder

Claims

Patentansprüche claims
1. Programmierbare Vorrichtung (1) zur Speicherung eines Femsehsignals mit:1. Programmable device (1) for storing a television signal with:
- einer Speichereinrichtung zur Speicherung des Femsehsignals;- A memory device for storing the television signal;
- wenigstens einer Schnittstelle zum Empfangen eines Femsehsignals;- At least one interface for receiving a television signal;
- einer Schnittstelle zu einer Wiedergabeeinrichtung für das Femsehsignal; und- An interface to a display device for the television signal; and
- wenigstens einer Schnittstelle für die Eingabe von Steuerinformation für die Vorrichtung- At least one interface for entering control information for the device
(i);(I);
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Speichereinrichtung ein Speicher mit wahlfreiem Zugriff ist, und daß die wenigstens eine Schnittstelle für die Eingabe von Steuerinformation die Schnittstelle zum Empfangen des Femsehsignals und/oder eine Einrichtung zum Auslesen eines portablen, programmierbaren Speichermediums und/oder eine Einrichtung zum Empfangen eines Funksignals ist.characterized in that the memory device is a random access memory and that the at least one interface for the input of control information, the interface for receiving the television signal and / or a device for reading out a portable, programmable storage medium and / or a device for receiving a Radio signal is.
2. Vorrichtung (1) nach Ansprach 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Speichereinrichtung ein Festplattenspeicher (3) oder ein Halbleiterspeicher oder ein optischer Speicher ist.2. Device (1) according spoke 1, characterized in that the memory device is a hard disk memory (3) or a semiconductor memory or an optical memory.
3. Vorrichtung (1) nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, gekennzeichnet durch eine Codiereinrichtung und eine Decodiereinrichtung für das Femsehsignal.3. Device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a coding device and a decoding device for the television signal.
4. Vorrichtung (1) nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Steuerinformation in analoger Weise zusammen mit dem Femsehsignal zu der Vorrichtung (1) übertragen wird.4. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the control information is transmitted in an analogous manner together with the television signal to the device (1).
5. Vorrichtung (1) nach Ansprach 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Steuerinformation in der Bildaustastlücke und/oder dem Videotextsignal in der Vorrichtung (1) empfangen wird. 5. The device (1) according spoke 4, characterized in that the control information in the blanking interval and / or the teletext signal is received in the device (1).
6. Vorrichtung (1) nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Steuerinformation in digitaler Weise zusammen mit dem Femsehsignal zu der Vorrichtung (1) übertragen wird.6. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the control information is transmitted in a digital manner together with the television signal to the device (1).
7. Vorrichtung (1) nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Vorrichtung (1) femer eine Schnittstelle zu einem Videorecorder (21) aufweist.7. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the device (1) furthermore has an interface to a video recorder (21).
8. Vorrichtung (1) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Vorrichtung eine Schnittstelle zu einem Personalcomputer (5) aufweist.8. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device has an interface to a personal computer (5).
9. Vorrichtung (1) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das programmierbare, portable Speichermedium eine Smartcard oder dergleichen ist.9. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the programmable, portable storage medium is a smart card or the like.
10. Vorrichtung (1) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, gekennzeichnet durch eine Fembedienung ( 1 a) zur Eingabe von Steuerinformation.10. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a remote control (1 a) for entering control information.
11. Verfahren unter Verwendung einer Vorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Eingabe von Steuerinformation zusammen mit dem Femsehsignal und/oder mittels eines portablen, programmierbaren Speichermediums und/oder einer Einrichtung zum Empfangen eines Funksignals erfolgt.11. The method using a device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input of control information takes place together with the television signal and / or by means of a portable, programmable storage medium and / or a device for receiving a radio signal.
12. Verfahren nach Anspruch 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Funksignal ein GSM, GPS oder ein RDS Signal ist.12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that the radio signal is a GSM, GPS or an RDS signal.
13. Verfahren nach Ansprach 11 oder 12, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Steuerinformation für eine Vielzahl von Vorrichtungen (1) von im wesentlichen einen Sender an alle Vorrichtungen (1) übertragen wird.13. The method according spoke 11 or 12, characterized in that the control information for a plurality of devices (1) is transmitted from essentially one transmitter to all devices (1).
14. Verfahren nach Anspruch 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß ein Anwender die Steuerin- formation über das INTERNET an einen Provider übermittelt. 14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that a user transmits the control information via the INTERNET to a provider.
PCT/DE2000/002239 1999-07-02 2000-07-03 Programmable memory device for television signals WO2001003428A1 (en)

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