WO2003063487A1 - Broadcasting system and method supporting vod service - Google Patents

Broadcasting system and method supporting vod service Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2003063487A1
WO2003063487A1 PCT/KR2003/000139 KR0300139W WO03063487A1 WO 2003063487 A1 WO2003063487 A1 WO 2003063487A1 KR 0300139 W KR0300139 W KR 0300139W WO 03063487 A1 WO03063487 A1 WO 03063487A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
information
vod
user
signal
top box
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/KR2003/000139
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Kwang-Bae Song
Original Assignee
Ezcen Inc., Ltd.
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
Priority claimed from KR1020020004088A external-priority patent/KR100347186B1/en
Application filed by Ezcen Inc., Ltd. filed Critical Ezcen Inc., Ltd.
Publication of WO2003063487A1 publication Critical patent/WO2003063487A1/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
    • H04N21/43—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
    • H04N21/439—Processing of audio elementary streams
    • H04N21/4398—Processing of audio elementary streams involving reformatting operations of audio signals
    • 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]
    • H04N21/20—Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/25—Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/254—Management at additional data server, e.g. shopping server, rights management server
    • H04N21/2543—Billing, e.g. for subscription services
    • 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
    • H04N21/439—Processing of audio elementary streams
    • H04N21/4394—Processing of audio elementary streams involving operations for analysing the audio stream, e.g. detecting features or characteristics in audio streams
    • 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
    • H04N21/4516—Management of client data or end-user data involving client characteristics, e.g. Set-Top-Box type, software version or amount of memory available
    • 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
    • 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
    • H04N21/47202—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 requesting content on demand, e.g. video on demand
    • 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
    • H04N21/47815—Electronic shopping
    • 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
    • H04N21/6582—Data stored in the client, e.g. viewing habits, hardware capabilities, credit card number
    • 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]
    • H04N21/80—Generation or processing of content or additional data by content creator independently of the distribution process; Content per se
    • H04N21/85—Assembly of content; Generation of multimedia applications
    • H04N21/858—Linking data to content, e.g. by linking an URL to a video object, by creating a hotspot
    • H04N21/8586—Linking data to content, e.g. by linking an URL to a video object, by creating a hotspot by using a URL
    • 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
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00—Television systems
    • H04N7/16—Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
    • H04N7/173—Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems with two-way working, e.g. subscriber sending a programme selection signal
    • H04N7/17309—Transmission or handling of upstream communications
    • H04N7/17318—Direct or substantially direct transmission and handling of requests
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00—Television systems
    • H04N7/16—Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
    • H04N7/173—Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems with two-way working, e.g. subscriber sending a programme selection signal
    • H04N2007/1739—Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems with two-way working, e.g. subscriber sending a programme selection signal the upstream communication being transmitted via a separate link, e.g. telephone line

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a broadcasting system and method supporting a voice on demand (VOD) service.
  • VOD voice on demand
  • the present invention relates to a broadcasting system and method supporting VOD service, which provides a real time VOD service as well as a broadcasting service to users through a digital subscriber line (DSL).
  • DSL digital subscriber line
  • internet broadcasting systems deliver video information to the users in streaming format through a telephone line, leased line, or cable network.
  • the internet broadcasting service using the cable network has drawbacks in that its service range is limited, its transmission rate is lower than 10Mbps, and user data load is more critical than that in the telephone line or leased line.
  • the distance between repeaters and user's terminal is long so as to cause to increase traffic load on the specific section. Accordingly, the bidirectional communication, which requires high data rate, on the cable is limited.
  • the broadcasting service on the telephone line or leased line causes lack in a smoothness of the representation of the video information when a plurality of users access the server at the same time such that the number of the simultaneous accesses should be limited.
  • ADSL Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line
  • VDSL Very High Data rate Digital Subscriber Line
  • the leased line supports 2Mbps
  • the present invention has been made in an effort to solve the above problem and the object of the present invention is to provide the users with a broadcasting system and method supporting the real time VOD service as well as the broadcasting service on the DSL.
  • a bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD includes a VOD service server which converts analog video signal into digital video signal, produces VOD information, encodes the VOD information in streaming format, and transmits the VOD information to user terminals in multicast or unicast; a switching system which transmits the VOD information from the VOD service server to the user terminals through communication network and transmits video request from the user terminal to the VOD service server; and a set top box which decodes the VOD information received from the switching system through the communication network, transfers the decoded VOD information to the user terminal, and transmits the video request signal from the user terminal to the switching system.
  • the switching system is a DSL concentration apparatus of telephone company.
  • a bidirectional broadcasting method supporting VOD includes encoding a VOD information in a stream format, VOD information being produced by converting analog video signal into digital video signal, transmitting the VOD information encoded in the streaming format, decoding the received VOD information, and outputting the VOD information.
  • a bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD includes an editing/transmitting server which converts analog broadcasting video signal into digital video signal so as to produce VOD information, encodes the VOD information in streaming format, and transmits the VOD information to user terminals in multicast or unicast; a real time transmitter which encodes the received non-VOD information and then decodes the encoded information so as to output; a gigabit switching hub which outputs the VOD information and non-VOD information through a plurality of output ports; a switching system set top box of which input port is connected to an output port of the gigabit switching hub, the switching system set top box transmitting the VOD information or non-VOD information receiving from the gigabit switching hub to the user terminal and transmitting the VOD request information inputted by the user to the editing/delivery server; a set top box which decodes the VOD information received from the switching system set top box through the communication network, outputs the decoded VOD information to the user terminal, and transmits the VOD
  • the switching system set top box is a DSL concentration device.
  • the user terminal is a TV or PC.
  • a bidirectional broadcasting method for a VOD information-providing set top box includes generating VOD information by converting received non-VOD information and formatting the
  • VOD information in a streaming format encoding and decoding the non-VOD information and then broadcasting the information in real time; transmitting firstly the VOD information and non-VOD information in multicasting method; transmitting secondly the received information or the non-VOD information to the user and receiving a VOD request information from the user; transmitting fourthly the VOD information of streaming format in real time; decoding the received VOD information into a broadcasting video signal; and transmitting fifthly the decoded broadcasting video signal.
  • a bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD includes an editing/delivery server which converts received non-VOD information into digital signal so as to generate VOD information, formats the VOD information in a streaming format, and transmits the VOD information in a multicasting or unicasting method; a switching system which transmits the received VOD information to the user terminal and transmits a VOD request information inputted by the user to the editing/delivery server; and a set top box which decodes the received VOD information and transmits the decoded VOD information to the user terminal, and transmits the VOD request information inputted through the user terminal to the switching system, wherein the set top box includes: a video signal processing unit for converting the non-VOD information into an analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal so as to transmit the converted signal to the user terminal; a radio interface unit for transmitting the non-VOD information or VOD information to the user terminal in a wireless communication method and for receiving the non-VOD information and VOD information from the user terminal in the
  • a bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD includes an editing/delivery server which converts received non-VOD information into digital signal so as to generate VOD information, formats the VOD information in a streaming format, and transmits the VOD information in a multicasting or unicasting method; a switching system which transmits the received VOD information to the user terminal and transmits a VOD request information inputted by the user to the editing/delivery server; and a set top box which decodes the received VOD information and transmits the decoded VOD information to the user terminal, and transmits the VOD request information inputted through the user terminal to the switching system, wherein the set top box includes: a video signal processing unit for converting the non-VOD information into an analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal so as to transmit the converted signal to the user terminal; a radio interface unit for transmitting the non-VOD information or VOD information to the user terminal in a wireless communication method and for receiving the non-VOD information and VOD information from the user terminal in the
  • the set top box includes a PSTN interface unit for forming a communication channel with a counterpart user using a public switched telephone network telephone network (PSTN); a multiplexer for forming the communication channel between the user and the counterpart user through the PSTN interface unit; and a telecommunication interface unit for outputting a communication signal from the multiplexer through a receiver of the user's handset and outputs the communication signal inputted from the microphone of the user's handset through the multiplexer.
  • PSTN public switched telephone network telephone network
  • the set top box includes an input/output interface unit which receives the VOD information or non-VOD information, or outputs the VOD request information to the editing/delivery ser; a control unit which controls such that the communication data is outputted through the user's handset when the communication data is incoming communication signal, and outputs the transmission communication signal inputted by the user's handset through the input/output interface unit; a communication signal processing unit which processes the incoming communication signal inputted through the control unit for converting the analog voice signal or converts the user's analog voice signal inputted from the user's handset into digital signal and then outputs the digital signal to the input/output interface unit through the control unit; and a DTMF detecting unit which detects a dual tone multi frequency (DTMF) signal inputted from the handset when the communication channel is formed by the multiplexer through the input/output interface unit, and outputs the DTMF signal to the input/output interface unit, wherein the multiplexer forms the communication channel between the user and the counterpart user through the input/output interface unit and
  • the bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD further comprises a memory for storing menu items provided to a system operating program and the user, and the controlling unit provides the user with settlement menu item, transmits settlement message to the user terminal when the user selects the settlement menu item for receiving pay service, transmits authorization information to an authorization server when the user inputs the authorization information in response to the settlement message such that the settlement is performed after the authorization process.
  • the user terminal is an analog broadcasting reception TV or a digital broadcasting reception TV.
  • the control unit stores viewing information in the memory and transmits the viewing information stored in the memory to the editing/delivery server when the user selects the information for viewing such that the user can receive the custom information by the editing/delivery server.
  • the control unit provides the user with custom information request menu item, stores a selected custom information link in the memory as the menu information when one of the custom information provided by the editing/delivery server is selected after the custom information request menu item is selected by the user, and outputs the corresponding information from the editing/delivery server when the link information among the menu items in the memory is selected by the user.
  • the control unit provides the user with menu items with which the user can select a wanted channel or VOD information, stores the channel and VOD information when the channel or VOD information is selected, and provides the user with the non-VOD information or VOD information from the editing/delivery server through the wanted channel.
  • the VOD information is video (movie), text broadcasting, bidirectional advertisement, game, news, music, home shopping, and electrical program
  • the control unit outputs incoming call announcement message when an incoming call is received.
  • the incoming call announcement message is a text message or a voice message.
  • the set top box includes a remote controller which transmits remote control signal according to the user's manipulation; and a remote control reception unit which receives the remote control signal from the remote
  • controller and transmit the received remote control signal to the control unit, wherein the control unit controls the whole system in response to the remote control signal received by the remote control reception unit or outputs the remote control signal to the input/output interface unit.
  • the set top box further includes a network interface unit which is connected to a plurality of PCs such that the PCs shares information stored therein.
  • the set top box further includes a USB module which is connected to a plurality of electric appliances and controls operation of the electric appliances outside.
  • the wireless interface unit is a Bluetooth module.
  • the set top box further includes a caller's phone number detecting unit which extracts a caller's phone number from a incoming call inputted through the PSTN interface unit.
  • a bidirectional broadcasting method supporting VOD includes providing a user with a settlement menu item when the user subscribes a pay service for VOD information; transmitting a settlement message to a user terminal when the user select the settlement menu item; and performing an authorization procedure and settlement procedure when the user input authorization information in response to the settlement message.
  • the user terminal is a TV for receiving analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal.
  • VOD information is video(movie), text broadcasting, bidirectional advertisement, game, news, music, home shopping, or electric program guide information.
  • FIG. 1 is a block diagram for illustrating a reception device using DSL according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a transmission device using DSL according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram for illustrating a broadcasting .reception device according to the present invention
  • FIG. 4 is a block diagram for illustrating a reception method using DSL according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 5 is a block diagram for illustrating a transmission method using DSL according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 is a block diagram for illustrating a bidirectional broadcasting system using DSL according to the present invention
  • FIG. 7 is a block diagram for illustrating a bidirectional broadcasting system having a set top box for providing VOD information according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a block diagram for illustrating a wireless set top box adopted to the bidirectional broadcasting system of FIG. 7. .
  • the non-VOD information means the real time video information broadcasted over a ground wave, internet, cable, etc. that are received according to the user's channel selection regardless with the user's intention.
  • the VOD information means video information that is selected by the user so as to be intentionally received and reproduced.
  • the VOD request information is the information generated when the non-VOD or VOD information is selected.
  • Custom information is the information that the user requests frequently, and viewing information is the information produced when the non-VOD or VOD information is provided, the viewing information is bases of the Custom information.
  • the structure of the first embodiment of the present invention comprises a VOD service server, a switching system set top box, and a user terminal.
  • FIG. 1 is a drawing for illustrating relationship between the set top box 10 and the user terminal 30.
  • the set top box 10 is a DSL Remote Unit and is provided with a DSL Modem.
  • the dada received through the communication network is inputted to the multiplexer/demultiplexer 11 in the set top box as the DSL modem so as to be decoded into the digital video signal after demulplexed.
  • the communication network includes Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL), Very-High-Data-Rate Digital Subscriber Line, RADSL, High-Data-Rate Digital Subscriber Line (RADSL), and SDSL extended from the Digital Subscriber Line (DSL). Also, the packet data inputted to the multiplexer/demultiplexer 11 for setop box through the communication network is demultiplexed and then decoded into digital video signal. The digital video signal is outputted to the PC as the user terminal 30 through the digital interface (22).
  • ADSL Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line
  • RADSL Very-High-Data-Rate Digital Subscriber Line
  • RADSL High-Data-Rate Digital Subscriber Line
  • DSL Digital Subscriber Line
  • the packet data inputted to the multiplexer/demultiplexer 11 for setop box through the communication network is demultiplexed and then decoded into digital video signal.
  • the digital video signal is outputted to the PC as the user terminal 30 through the digital interface (22).
  • the multiplexer/demultiplexer 11 for set top box analyzes a pattern of the data packet during a predetermined period for stabilizing the data so that the data is stably communicated.
  • FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the VOD service server 40 and the switching system set top box 70.
  • a VOD service server 40 is a video database server that transmits VOD information and a gigabit-switching hub 50 is a multicasting device for multi-user communication.
  • the switching system set top box 70 of FIG. 2 is a DSL remote unit as in the set top box 10 of FIG. 1 and means the DSL concentration device as a DSL Access Multiplexer (DSLAM) belonged to the Korea Telecom, which performs data switching between the VOD service server 40 and the set top box 10.
  • DSL Access Multiplexer DSL Access Multiplexer
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram for illustrating cooperation of the set top box 10 and the VOD service server 40 of FIG. 1.
  • the VOD information provided by the VOD service server 40 and the gigabit switching hub 50 are connected to the switching system set top box 70 through the interface unit 60 and the interface unit 60 includes an analog interface 61 for converting the digital video signal into the analog video signal so as to output the digital and a Ethernet interface 62 for directly output the digital video signal.
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram for illustrating cooperation of the set top box 10 and the VOD service server 40 of FIG. 1.
  • VOD service server 40 is inputted to the decoder 13 through the gigabit-switching hub 50.
  • the VOD service server 40 is included in an editing/delivery server to be described in other embodiment.
  • the decoder 13 decodes the inputted video information and then sends the decoded video information to the multiplexer/demultiplexer 11 for the set top box.
  • the multiplexer/demultiplexer 11 for the set top box demultiplexes the video signal and then outputs the video signal to the control unit through Ethernet interface unit 12 under supporting of a DSL-local device 14.
  • the control unit checks which terminal is used by the user and outputs the VOD information through the analog interface (not shown) or the digital interface.
  • the set top box 10 is a DSL system and allows the physical channel of 1.544Mbps (T1) to 24Mbps as long as 3.5Km, which is established between the telephone company and a home, to be connected so as to support bidirectional communication as well as unidirectional transmission.
  • the set top box 10 as the DSL system supports the 9.6Kbps to 24Mbps bidirectional data communication using 2 wired telephone lines without additional repeater.
  • the VOD service server 40 converts the received non-VOD information into the digital signal so as to produce the VOD information and then encoding the VOD information in streaming format.
  • the VOD information is transmitted to the switching system set top box 70 in the manner of multicasting or unicasting.
  • the switching system set top box 70 transmits the received VOD information to the set top box 10 and the set top box 10 decodes the received VOD information into broadcasting video information signal.
  • the set top box 10 converts the broadcasting video information signal into analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal so as to output to the TV or PC as the user terminal .30 through the analog interface 21 or digital interface 22.
  • the second embodiment of the present invention comprises an editing/delivery server, a switching system, a set top box, and user terminal.
  • FIG. 4 is a block diagram for illustrating a cooperation of the set top box
  • the set top box 10a is a DSL Remote unit and includes a DSL modem.
  • the VOD information is inputted to the DSL modem 11a of the set top box 10a so as to be demultiplexed and then decoded into digital video signal by the decoder 12a.
  • the decoded video signal is converted into analog video signal through the analog interface 21a so as to be outputted to the TV as the user terminal 30a.
  • VOD information inputted to the DSL modem 11a is demultiplexed and then transmitted to the PC as the user terminal 30a through the digital interface 22a, which is the Ethernet line, under control of the control unit 13a.
  • FIG. 5 is a block diagram for illustrating the editing/delivery server and the switching system set top box.
  • the editing/delivery server 40a, a real time broadcasting device 35a, a gigabit switching hub 50a as a multicasting device for a multi user communication, and a DSLAM device as a switching system set top box 60a are depicted.
  • the switching system set top box 60a of FIG. 5 is the DSL remote unit similar to the set top box 10a of FIG. 4 and means the DSL concentration device as a DSL Access Multiplexer (DSLAM) belonged to the Korea Telecom, which switches data (e.g. non-VOD information and VOD information) between the editing/delivery server 40a and the set top box 10a.
  • DSL Access Multiplexer DSL Access Multiplexer
  • the system of FIG. 5 includes an editing/delivery server(40a) which converts the received non-VOD information into VOD information and formats the VOD information in the streaming format so as to transmit to the user terminal in multicasting or unicasting method; a real time transmitter (35a) having an encoder 351a for encoding the received non-VOD information and decoder 352a for decoding so as to output to the real time transmitter 35a, a gigabit switching hub 50a which outputs the VOD information and non-VOD information through a plurality of output ports, and a switching system set top box 60a which transmits the received VOD or non-VOD information to the user terminal and transmits VOD request information inputted by the user to the editing/delivery server 40a.
  • an editing/delivery server(40a) which converts the received non-VOD information into VOD information and formats the VOD information in the streaming format so as to transmit to the user terminal in multicasting or unicasting method
  • a real time transmitter (35a) having an
  • the real time transmitter 35a encodes the received non-VOD information using the encoder 351a and then decodes the non-VOD information so as to output in real time. And, the VOD information and the real time digital broadcasting signal from the editing/delivery server 40a and the real time transmitter 35a are transferred to the gigabit switching hub 50a and then outputted through the plural output ports.
  • the editing/delivery server 40a converts the analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal into MPEG 2 digital signal and then transmits the MPEG digital signal to the gigabit switching hub 50a in multicasting method.
  • the broadcasting source of the VOD information is transferred to the gigabit switching hub 50a using a real time streaming protocol (RTSP) by inserting MPEG 2 transport stream.
  • RTSP real time streaming protocol
  • the VOD information transmitted to the gigabit switching hub 50a is transmitted to the set top box connected to the user terminal through the switching system set top box 60a as the DSL concentration device and the telephone line connected to the switching system set top box 60a.
  • FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the set top box 10a of FIG. 4 according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • the non-VOD information or the VOD information received through the DSL line is inputted to the controller 13a through the DSL modem and the network interface 14a.
  • the controller 13a transmits the non-VOD information or VOD information received the network interface 14a in response to the user's channel selection signal inputted through the A/V channel interface 15a to the user terminal through an A/V decoder 16a and a video out.
  • the network interface 14a is a network signal distribution device and is provided with a downlink terminal.
  • the controller 13a is provided with an infrared receiving port 17a such that the user can input the VOD request information using a remote controller or an wireless keyboard.
  • the set top box utilizing a Linux as in the FIG. 6 distributes the non-VOD information or the VOD information received through the DSL network (telephone line) to the user terminal such as the TV or PC.
  • the non-VOD information or VOD information is outputted to the TV through the A/V interface 15a and the A/V decoder 16a after converted into the digital video signal or analog video signal or is outputted to the PC through the network interface 14a without signal conversion.
  • the A/V denotes Audio/Video
  • the A/V channel interface 15a is a device which can select a live broadcasting signal
  • the A/V decoder 16a is a conversion device for outputting the broadcasting signal to the user terminal (TV).
  • the set top box for providing the VOD information includes a ground wave broadcasting system 100 for generating and transmitting ground wave broadcasting signals in real time in NTSC or PAL method, a cable broadcasting system 200 for generating and transmitting cable broadcasting signals, an internet broadcasting system 300 for generating and transmitting internet broadcasting signal, an editing/delivery server 400 which receives and edits the ground wave broadcasting signal, cable broadcasting signal, or internet broadcasting signal so as to generate the VOD information and broadcasts the VOD information in the stream format, and a set top box 700 which outputs the VOD information to the user terminal and transmits the VOD request information inputted from the user terminal 800 to the editing/delivery server 400.
  • a ground wave broadcasting system 100 for generating and transmitting ground wave broadcasting signals in real time in NTSC or PAL method
  • a cable broadcasting system 200 for generating and transmitting cable broadcasting signals
  • an internet broadcasting system 300 for generating and transmitting internet broadcasting signal
  • an editing/delivery server 400 which receives and edits the
  • the set top box 700 is connected to the editing/delivery server 400 through the switching system 600 of the telephone company and the high speed data line such as ADSL, VDSL, etc.
  • the set top box 700 includes a video signal processing unit for converting the non-VOD information or VOD information received through the communication network into analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal so as to output to the user terminal 800; a wireless interface unit 715 for transmitting the no-VOD information or VOD information to the user terminal 800 and receiving the VOD request information transmitted from the user terminal 800 in the wireless transmission method; a PSTN interface unit 720 for establishing communication line to the counterpart user using the public switched telephone network (PSTN); a multiplexer 725 for establishing the communication line between the user and the counterpart user through the PSTN interface unit 720; a telephone communication interface unit 730 for outputting the communication signal from the multiplexer 725 through the receiver of the user's handset and outputting the communication signal inputted from the transmitter of the user's handset to the multiplexer 725; an input/output interface unit 735 for inputting the data received through the communication network 500 or outputting the data through the communication network 500; a control unit 740 for controlling so that the data is
  • the card reader 785 transmits the card information read from the card to an authorization server 950 through the input/output interface unit 735 under control of the control unit 740.
  • the authorization server 950 requests credit check to a financial server 900 using the card information and sends an authorization information to the set top box 700 if the credit of the card is positively acknowledged.
  • the video signal processing unit 710 includes an analog broadcasting signal generation unit 711 which separates the video signal and the voice signal from the non-VOD information and the video signal and outputs the converted composite video signal to the TV connected to the video signal processing unit
  • a digital broadcasting signal generation unit 712 which separates the video signal and the voice signal from the non-VOD information and outputs the video signal converted into RGB signal to the TV, for receiving the digital broadcasting signal, connected to the video signal processing unit 710 when the non-VOD information such as the digital broadcasting signal generated in the MPEG method is received through the input/output interface unit 735.
  • the wireless interface unit 715 is a Bluetooth module.
  • the multiplexer 725 establishes the communication line between the user and the counterpart user through the input/out interface unit 735 under control of the control unit 740.
  • the telephone interface unit 730 is the DTMF detection unit 750, which outputs the dialing signal of the telephone.
  • the control unit 740 controls the whole system in response to the signal received by the remote signal receiving unit 760 and outputs the remote signal to the input/output interface unit 735.
  • the control unit 740 provides settlement menu items to the user and outputs the settlement message to the user terminal when the user selects the settlement menu item that the user want to be serviced, transmits the information for authorization to the authorization server 950 when the user inputs the authorization information in response to the settlement message so as to settled the service charge after the authorization procedure.
  • the user terminal 800 is a Analog television receiver or the digital broadcasting signal.
  • the control unit 740 stores viewing information to be described hereinbelow in a memory 780 when the user selects a predetermined non-VOD information or VOD information, transmits the viewing information stored in the memory 780 to the editing/delivery server 400, and provides the custom information to the user by the editing/delivery server 400.
  • the control unit 740 provides the user with the custom information request menu item, stores link information of the selected information in the memory 780 when the user selects the custom information request menu item and information among the information provided by the editing/delivery server 400, outputs the information received from the editing/delivery server 400 to the user terminal 800 when the user select the link information among the menus stored in the memory 780.
  • the control unit 740 provides a menu item for selecting a wanted channel or VOD information such that the control unit 740 stores and transmits the selected channel or VOD information to the editing/delivery server 400 so as to watch the selected channel or VOD information when the user select the menu item.
  • the VOD information includes the VOD (video on demand), text broadcasting and information on demand (IOD) as the bidirectional advertisement, game on demand (GOD), news on demand (NOD), music on demand (MOD), home shopping, and electronic program guide (EPG) information.
  • VOD video on demand
  • IOD information on demand
  • GOD game on demand
  • NOD news on demand
  • MOD music on demand
  • home shopping home shopping
  • EPG electronic program guide
  • the control unit 740 outputs incoming call announcement message to the user terminal 800 when there is an incoming call.
  • the incoming call announcement message is text message or voice message.
  • the communication signal processing unit 745 includes a digital signal processor (DSP) and a codec.
  • DSP digital signal processor
  • the remote controller 755 is provided with a plurality of key button and keyboard such that the user inputs the characters so as to transmit the text message to the editing/delivery server 400 through the set top box 700 and the
  • the memory 780 stores the menu items providing to the operation program and the user for controlling the whole system and viewing information captured by the control unit 740.
  • the memory 780 stores user information including scheduling information and channel information that are selected and requested by the user through the menu items.
  • the above structure set top box 700 accesses to the internet through the
  • the DSL of the switching system 600 in the telephone company receives and processes the non-VOD information provided through the editing/delivery server 400 so as to output to eh user terminal 800.
  • the set top box 700 receives and processes the non-VOD information received from the non-VOD information received from ground wave broadcasting system 100, cable broadcasting system 200, or internet broadcasting system 300 in real time so as to output to the user terminal 800.
  • the user can request and receive the non-VOD information or VOD information provided from the broadcasting systems 100, 200, and 300 in various manners.
  • the set top box 700 accesses to the switching system 600 of the telephone company through the input/output interface unit 735 such that the switching system 600 establishes an online connection to the editing/delivery server 400 through the communication network and outputs the video image on the screen of the user terminal 800 through the set top box 700.
  • connection to the editing/delivery server 400 can be performed by a notebook, PDA, or portable terminal of the user terminal 800 through the Bluetooth module as the wireless interface unit 715 rather than the wired lines so as to search and be serviced the VOD information provided by the editing/delivery server 400.
  • the controller 740 of the set top box 700 outputs the menu items stored in the memory 780 to the screen of the user terminal 800 according to the user's request and provides the service corresponding to the menu item selected by the user.
  • the control unit 740 transmits a settlement message to the user terminal 800. If user inputs authorization information in response to the settlement message, the control unit 740 controls so as to transmit the authorization information to the authorization server 950 and the financial server 900 settles after the authorization process.
  • the control unit 740 outputs a message to the user terminal such that the user can select the VOD information. If the VOD information is inputted in response to the message, the control unit 740 stores the VOD information in the memory 780 as viewing information and transmits the viewing information to the editing/delivery server 400 such that the editing/delivery server 400 provides the user with the custom information.
  • the control unit 740 supports a function in that the user selects the wanted information among the various information provided by the editing/delivery server 400 and stores link information of the selected information in the memory 780 as the menu information such that the control unit 740 transmits the corresponding information received from the editing/delivery server 400 to the user terminal 800 when the user select the link information among the menu in the memory.
  • the control unit 740 outputs message for selecting the non-VOD information and VOD information, stores the non-VOD information and VOD information in the memory 780 as the viewing information and transmits the viewing information to the editing/delivery server 400 when the user input the non-VOD information and VOD information in response to the message so as to provide the non-VOD information or VOD information.
  • the non-VOD information selection means to select a channel, and the VOD information selection is performed in such a way that a category such as video (movie), text broadcasting, bidirectional advertisement, game, news, music, home shopping, electric program guide information, etc, is selected and then VOD information belonged to the selected category.
  • a category such as video (movie), text broadcasting, bidirectional advertisement, game, news, music, home shopping, electric program guide information, etc.
  • the user displays the settlement page on the display of the user terminal 800
  • the card information read by the card reader 785 is transmitted to the authorization server 950 through the input/output interface 735 under control of the control unit 740 when the user inserts the card for settlement into the card reader 785 of the set top box 700 and clicks the settlement button.
  • the settlement request information is transmitted to the financial server 900 such that the service charge is paid.
  • the card company provides mileage or points.
  • the settlement button is positioned near the card reader 785 of the set top box 700 or provided on the settlement window.
  • the set top box 700 provides predetermined points to the user when the user recommends a person for membership, watches the pay VOD, buys a product of which price is higher than a predetermined price, watches the real time broadcasting longer than a predetermined time, proposes an improvement to be adopted. If the points accumulated become greater than a predetermined value, the points can be changed with a free gift or cyber money or used for buying products at offline affiliate companies.
  • the set top box 700 checks ratings and hitting number of the specific information and provides the checking information to the editing/delivery server 400 such that the editing/delivery server 400 rates the information providers on the basis of the checking information and leaves out the information provider of low rate.
  • the set top box 700 provides a function in that the user transmits the VOD generated using the music, dancing clip, amateur movie, etc. to the editing/delivery server 400 such that the viewers can validate the VOD. In this case the viewer can watch the VOD free of charge and the individuals can make public their product at the low cost.
  • the PSTN interface unit 720 of the set top box 700 is connected to the PSTN through a local line and outputs the signal received through the local line to the multiplexer 725 and the calling number detecting unit 775.
  • the multiplexer 725 transmits the signal received through the local line to the user's handset through the telecommunication interface unit 730 such that the user can hear the voice signal from the counterpart caller through the receiver of the handset.
  • the control unit 740 outputs incoming call announcement message through the user terminal 800, the incoming call announcement message being a text message or a voice message. Also, the calling number detecting unit 775 extracts the caller's phone number from the signal received through the local line and outputs the signal to the handset under control of the control unit 740. If the handset is provided with a display device, the caller's phone number is displayed on the display device.
  • dialing signal and the voice signal inputted for communication with the counterpart user are transmitted through the telecommunication interface unit 730, multiplexer 725, PSTN interface unit 720, and local line so as to establish the communication channel to the counterpart user.
  • the set top box 700 can be connected to a VoIP phone instead of the normal telephone.
  • the dialing signal is outputted through the DTMF detecting unit 750 such that the DTMF detecting unit 750 extracts the DTMF signal from the dialing signal and outputs the DTMF signal to the input/output interface unit 735 through the control unit 740.
  • the DTMF signal outputted to the input/output interface unit 735 is transmitted to the counterpart user's telephone through the communication network 500 so as to generate ringing tone. If the counterpart user hold up the receiver, a communication channel is established through the communication network, input/output interface unit 735, control unit 740, communication signal processing unit 745, multiplexer 725, and the telecommunication interface unit 730.
  • the communication signal processing unit 745 includes the DSP and CODEC such that the digital voice signal inputted from the control unit 740 is converted into analog signal by the DSP and CODEC and the converted analog signal is outputted the receiver of the telephone through the multiplexer 725 and the telecommunication interface unit 730.
  • the analog voice signal inputted through the microphone of the telephone is outputted to the communication signal processing unit 745 through the telecommunication interface unit 730 and the multiplexer 725 so as to be converted into digital signal by the CODEC and then the converted digital signal is processed in the DSP and the transmitted to the counterpart user telephone through the control unit 740, input/output interface unit 735, and the communication network 500.
  • the set top box 700 is provided with a network interface unit 765 (Ethernet Card) such that a plurality of PC can be connected to the set top box 700 so as to construct a communication network for sharing information.
  • a network interface unit 765 Ethernet Card
  • the set top box 700 is provided with an USB module 770 to which electric appliances such as a sound equipment and video player can be connected so as to implement a home automation system.
  • the present invention improves the inefficient internet broadcasting method such that it is possible to provide a plurality of users with digital video contents using the relatively low capacity DSL line and low performance server.
  • the present invention allows the users to watch the real time video and VOD so as to be able to provide the people unfamiliar with the internet with internet broadcasting contents.
  • the set top box is provided with a Bluetooth devices such that the set top box can communicate with the terminal without tangled lines.
  • the remote controller is provided such that the user can remotely controls the set top box.
  • the set top box is provided with the network card such that a plurality of PC can be connected to the set top box to construct a communication network sharing the information. Also, in the present invention the set top box is provided with the USB module so as to built the home automation environment, which make the user comfortable.
  • the present invention is a set top box for the high speed broadcasting network using the DSL network, allows the users to access internet using the conventional TV, and supports VOD service such as the internet broadcast and movie, financial service such as stock exchange and home banking, and home shopping in an easy manner.
  • VOD service such as the internet broadcast and movie
  • financial service such as stock exchange and home banking
  • the present invention allows the user to easily buy the products by inserting the credit card into the card reader of the set top box and pushing the settlement button while seeing the shopping information, resulting in simplifying the settlement procedure and protection from hacking.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Databases & Information Systems (AREA)
  • Computer Security & Cryptography (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Two-Way Televisions, Distribution Of Moving Picture Or The Like (AREA)

Abstract

A bidirectional-broadcasting system supporting VOD, according to the present invention, includes a VOD service server which converts analog video signal into digital video signal, produces VOD information, encodes the VOD information in streaming format, and transmits the VOD information to user terminals in multicast or unicast; a switching system which transmits the VOD information from the VOD service server to the user terminals through communication network and transmits video request from the user terminal to the VOD service server; and a set top box which decodes the VOD information received from the switching system through the communication network, transfers the decoded VOD information to the user terminal, and transmits the video request signal from the user terminal to the switching system.

Description

BROADCASTING SYSTEM AND METHOD SUPPORTING VOD SERVICE
Technical Field
The present invention relates to a broadcasting system and method supporting a voice on demand (VOD) service.
Particularly, the present invention relates to a broadcasting system and method supporting VOD service, which provides a real time VOD service as well as a broadcasting service to users through a digital subscriber line (DSL).
Background Art
Typically, internet broadcasting systems deliver video information to the users in streaming format through a telephone line, leased line, or cable network.
However, the internet broadcasting service using the cable network has drawbacks in that its service range is limited, its transmission rate is lower than 10Mbps, and user data load is more critical than that in the telephone line or leased line.
Also, in the cable network the distance between repeaters and user's terminal is long so as to cause to increase traffic load on the specific section. Accordingly, the bidirectional communication, which requires high data rate, on the cable is limited.
On the other hand, the broadcasting service on the telephone line or leased line causes lack in a smoothness of the representation of the video information when a plurality of users access the server at the same time such that the number of the simultaneous accesses should be limited.
Also, even though an Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) supports 8Mbps, Very High Data rate Digital Subscriber Line (VDSL) supports 21Mbps, and the leased line supports 2Mbps, the service cost increases as the data transmission rate increases.
Disclosure of Invention
The present invention has been made in an effort to solve the above problem and the object of the present invention is to provide the users with a broadcasting system and method supporting the real time VOD service as well as the broadcasting service on the DSL.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a broadcasting system and method supporting VOD service, which converts analog video signal into digital video signal and distributes the digital signal through a hub such that the digital video signal is transmitted to the user in a uni-casting or multi-casting manner over VDSL.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a broadcasting system and method supporting VOD service, which allows to implement a wireless networking environment by connecting communication terminals such as PDA, notebook, PC, or portable terminal to a Bluetooth module installed in a set top box, which display analog or video broadcasting signals on the TV received through a communication network.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a broadcasting system and method supporting VOD service, which allows a user to selectively connect a telephone or internet phone to a set top box.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a broadcasting system and method supporting VOD service, which allows a user to control various function of the set top box using a remote controller. It is still another object of the present invention to provide a broadcasting system and method supporting VOD service, which allows a plurality of PCs to be connected to a set top box by means of network cards so as to share information.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a broadcasting system and method supporting VOD service, which allows various electric appliances to be connected to the set top box through a USB module installed therein so as to be automatically controlled.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a broadcasting system and method supporting VOD service, which is capable of simplifying settlement process and protecting from hacking by installing a card reader to the set top box for supporting pay service.
To achieve the above objects, in one aspect of the present invention, a bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD, includes a VOD service server which converts analog video signal into digital video signal, produces VOD information, encodes the VOD information in streaming format, and transmits the VOD information to user terminals in multicast or unicast; a switching system which transmits the VOD information from the VOD service server to the user terminals through communication network and transmits video request from the user terminal to the VOD service server; and a set top box which decodes the VOD information received from the switching system through the communication network, transfers the decoded VOD information to the user terminal, and transmits the video request signal from the user terminal to the switching system. The switching system is a DSL concentration apparatus of telephone company.
The user terminal is a TV or personal computer (PC). In another aspect of the present invention a bidirectional broadcasting method supporting VOD includes encoding a VOD information in a stream format, VOD information being produced by converting analog video signal into digital video signal, transmitting the VOD information encoded in the streaming format, decoding the received VOD information, and outputting the VOD information.
In another aspect of the present invention, a bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD includes an editing/transmitting server which converts analog broadcasting video signal into digital video signal so as to produce VOD information, encodes the VOD information in streaming format, and transmits the VOD information to user terminals in multicast or unicast; a real time transmitter which encodes the received non-VOD information and then decodes the encoded information so as to output; a gigabit switching hub which outputs the VOD information and non-VOD information through a plurality of output ports; a switching system set top box of which input port is connected to an output port of the gigabit switching hub, the switching system set top box transmitting the VOD information or non-VOD information receiving from the gigabit switching hub to the user terminal and transmitting the VOD request information inputted by the user to the editing/delivery server; a set top box which decodes the VOD information received from the switching system set top box through the communication network, outputs the decoded VOD information to the user terminal, and transmits the VOD request inputted by the user terminal to the switching system set top box.
The switching system set top box is a DSL concentration device.
The user terminal is a TV or PC.
The VOD information is one of video, sound, and text information. In another aspect of the present invention, a bidirectional broadcasting method for a VOD information-providing set top box includes generating VOD information by converting received non-VOD information and formatting the
VOD information in a streaming format; encoding and decoding the non-VOD information and then broadcasting the information in real time; transmitting firstly the VOD information and non-VOD information in multicasting method; transmitting secondly the received information or the non-VOD information to the user and receiving a VOD request information from the user; transmitting fourthly the VOD information of streaming format in real time; decoding the received VOD information into a broadcasting video signal; and transmitting fifthly the decoded broadcasting video signal.
In another aspect of the present invention, a bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD includes an editing/delivery server which converts received non-VOD information into digital signal so as to generate VOD information, formats the VOD information in a streaming format, and transmits the VOD information in a multicasting or unicasting method; a switching system which transmits the received VOD information to the user terminal and transmits a VOD request information inputted by the user to the editing/delivery server; and a set top box which decodes the received VOD information and transmits the decoded VOD information to the user terminal, and transmits the VOD request information inputted through the user terminal to the switching system, wherein the set top box includes: a video signal processing unit for converting the non-VOD information into an analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal so as to transmit the converted signal to the user terminal; a radio interface unit for transmitting the non-VOD information or VOD information to the user terminal in a wireless communication method and for receiving the non-VOD information and VOD information from the user terminal in the wireless communication method; and a control unit for controlling the whole system. In another aspect of the present invention, a bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD includes an editing/delivery server which converts received non-VOD information into digital signal so as to generate VOD information, formats the VOD information in a streaming format, and transmits the VOD information in a multicasting or unicasting method; a switching system which transmits the received VOD information to the user terminal and transmits a VOD request information inputted by the user to the editing/delivery server; and a set top box which decodes the received VOD information and transmits the decoded VOD information to the user terminal, and transmits the VOD request information inputted through the user terminal to the switching system, wherein the set top box includes: a video signal processing unit for converting the non-VOD information into an analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal so as to transmit the converted signal to the user terminal; a radio interface unit for transmitting the non-VOD information or VOD information to the user terminal in a wireless communication method and for receiving the non-VOD information and VOD information from the user terminal in the wireless communication method; and a control unit for controlling the whole system.
The set top box includes a PSTN interface unit for forming a communication channel with a counterpart user using a public switched telephone network telephone network (PSTN); a multiplexer for forming the communication channel between the user and the counterpart user through the PSTN interface unit; and a telecommunication interface unit for outputting a communication signal from the multiplexer through a receiver of the user's handset and outputs the communication signal inputted from the microphone of the user's handset through the multiplexer.
The set top box includes an input/output interface unit which receives the VOD information or non-VOD information, or outputs the VOD request information to the editing/delivery ser; a control unit which controls such that the communication data is outputted through the user's handset when the communication data is incoming communication signal, and outputs the transmission communication signal inputted by the user's handset through the input/output interface unit; a communication signal processing unit which processes the incoming communication signal inputted through the control unit for converting the analog voice signal or converts the user's analog voice signal inputted from the user's handset into digital signal and then outputs the digital signal to the input/output interface unit through the control unit; and a DTMF detecting unit which detects a dual tone multi frequency (DTMF) signal inputted from the handset when the communication channel is formed by the multiplexer through the input/output interface unit, and outputs the DTMF signal to the input/output interface unit, wherein the multiplexer forms the communication channel between the user and the counterpart user through the input/output interface unit and the telecommunication interface unit outputs the dialing signal of the handset to the DTMF detecting unit.
The bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD further comprises a memory for storing menu items provided to a system operating program and the user, and the controlling unit provides the user with settlement menu item, transmits settlement message to the user terminal when the user selects the settlement menu item for receiving pay service, transmits authorization information to an authorization server when the user inputs the authorization information in response to the settlement message such that the settlement is performed after the authorization process.
The user terminal is an analog broadcasting reception TV or a digital broadcasting reception TV.
The control unit stores viewing information in the memory and transmits the viewing information stored in the memory to the editing/delivery server when the user selects the information for viewing such that the user can receive the custom information by the editing/delivery server. The control unit provides the user with custom information request menu item, stores a selected custom information link in the memory as the menu information when one of the custom information provided by the editing/delivery server is selected after the custom information request menu item is selected by the user, and outputs the corresponding information from the editing/delivery server when the link information among the menu items in the memory is selected by the user.
The control unit provides the user with menu items with which the user can select a wanted channel or VOD information, stores the channel and VOD information when the channel or VOD information is selected, and provides the user with the non-VOD information or VOD information from the editing/delivery server through the wanted channel.
The VOD information is video (movie), text broadcasting, bidirectional advertisement, game, news, music, home shopping, and electrical program
guide information.
The control unit outputs incoming call announcement message when an incoming call is received.
The incoming call announcement message is a text message or a voice message. The set top box includes a remote controller which transmits remote control signal according to the user's manipulation; and a remote control reception unit which receives the remote control signal from the remote
controller and transmit the received remote control signal to the control unit, wherein the control unit controls the whole system in response to the remote control signal received by the remote control reception unit or outputs the remote control signal to the input/output interface unit.
The set top box further includes a network interface unit which is connected to a plurality of PCs such that the PCs shares information stored therein.
The set top box further includes a USB module which is connected to a plurality of electric appliances and controls operation of the electric appliances outside.
The wireless interface unit is a Bluetooth module. The set top box further includes a caller's phone number detecting unit which extracts a caller's phone number from a incoming call inputted through the PSTN interface unit.
The set top box further includes a card reader which reads information stored in a card. In another aspect of the present, a bidirectional broadcasting method supporting VOD includes providing a user with a settlement menu item when the user subscribes a pay service for VOD information; transmitting a settlement message to a user terminal when the user select the settlement menu item; and performing an authorization procedure and settlement procedure when the user input authorization information in response to the settlement message.
The user terminal is a TV for receiving analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal.
The method of claim 27, wherein the VOD information is video(movie), text broadcasting, bidirectional advertisement, game, news, music, home shopping, or electric program guide information.
Brief Description of the Drawings
FIG. 1 is a block diagram for illustrating a reception device using DSL according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention,
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a transmission device using DSL according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention,
FIG. 3 is a block diagram for illustrating a broadcasting .reception device according to the present invention, FIG. 4 is a block diagram for illustrating a reception method using DSL according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention,
FIG. 5 is a block diagram for illustrating a transmission method using DSL according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention,
FIG. 6 is a block diagram for illustrating a bidirectional broadcasting system using DSL according to the present invention,
FIG. 7 is a block diagram for illustrating a bidirectional broadcasting system having a set top box for providing VOD information according to another embodiment of the present invention, and
FIG. 8 is a block diagram for illustrating a wireless set top box adopted to the bidirectional broadcasting system of FIG. 7. .
Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described hereinafter with reference to accompanying drawings. Prior to explanation of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, it is note that the non-VOD information means the real time video information broadcasted over a ground wave, internet, cable, etc. that are received according to the user's channel selection regardless with the user's intention. The VOD information means video information that is selected by the user so as to be intentionally received and reproduced. The VOD request information is the information generated when the non-VOD or VOD information is selected. Custom information is the information that the user requests frequently, and viewing information is the information produced when the non-VOD or VOD information is provided, the viewing information is bases of the Custom information.
1. First Embodiment
As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3, the structure of the first embodiment of the present invention comprises a VOD service server, a switching system set top box, and a user terminal.
That is, FIG. 1 is a drawing for illustrating relationship between the set top box 10 and the user terminal 30. The set top box 10 is a DSL Remote Unit and is provided with a DSL Modem. The dada received through the communication network is inputted to the multiplexer/demultiplexer 11 in the set top box as the DSL modem so as to be decoded into the digital video signal after demulplexed. The decoded video
signal is converted into analog video signal through an analog interface 21 so as to be outputted to the TV as the user terminal 30. The communication network includes Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL), Very-High-Data-Rate Digital Subscriber Line, RADSL, High-Data-Rate Digital Subscriber Line (RADSL), and SDSL extended from the Digital Subscriber Line (DSL). Also, the packet data inputted to the multiplexer/demultiplexer 11 for setop box through the communication network is demultiplexed and then decoded into digital video signal. The digital video signal is outputted to the PC as the user terminal 30 through the digital interface (22).
Also, the multiplexer/demultiplexer 11 for set top box analyzes a pattern of the data packet during a predetermined period for stabilizing the data so that the data is stably communicated.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the VOD service server 40 and the switching system set top box 70. A VOD service server 40 is a video database server that transmits VOD information and a gigabit-switching hub 50 is a multicasting device for multi-user communication.
The switching system set top box 70 of FIG. 2 is a DSL remote unit as in the set top box 10 of FIG. 1 and means the DSL concentration device as a DSL Access Multiplexer (DSLAM) belonged to the Korea Telecom, which performs data switching between the VOD service server 40 and the set top box 10.
The VOD service server 40 and the gigabit switching hub 50 are connected to the switching system set top box 70 through the interface unit 60 and the interface unit 60 includes an analog interface 61 for converting the digital video signal into the analog video signal so as to output the digital and a Ethernet interface 62 for directly output the digital video signal. FIG. 3 is a block diagram for illustrating cooperation of the set top box 10 and the VOD service server 40 of FIG. 1. The VOD information provided by the
VOD service server 40 is inputted to the decoder 13 through the gigabit-switching hub 50. Here, the VOD service server 40 is included in an editing/delivery server to be described in other embodiment.
The decoder 13 decodes the inputted video information and then sends the decoded video information to the multiplexer/demultiplexer 11 for the set top box. The multiplexer/demultiplexer 11 for the set top box demultiplexes the video signal and then outputs the video signal to the control unit through Ethernet interface unit 12 under supporting of a DSL-local device 14.
The control unit checks which terminal is used by the user and outputs the VOD information through the analog interface (not shown) or the digital interface.
The set top box 10 is a DSL system and allows the physical channel of 1.544Mbps (T1) to 24Mbps as long as 3.5Km, which is established between the telephone company and a home, to be connected so as to support bidirectional communication as well as unidirectional transmission.
Also, the set top box 10 as the DSL system supports the 9.6Kbps to 24Mbps bidirectional data communication using 2 wired telephone lines without additional repeater.
The operation of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described hereinafter.
The VOD service server 40 converts the received non-VOD information into the digital signal so as to produce the VOD information and then encoding the VOD information in streaming format. The VOD information is transmitted to the switching system set top box 70 in the manner of multicasting or unicasting.
The switching system set top box 70 transmits the received VOD information to the set top box 10 and the set top box 10 decodes the received VOD information into broadcasting video information signal.
The set top box 10 converts the broadcasting video information signal into analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal so as to output to the TV or PC as the user terminal .30 through the analog interface 21 or digital interface 22.
2. Second Embodiment
As shown in FIG. 4 to FIG. 6, the second embodiment of the present invention comprises an editing/delivery server, a switching system, a set top box, and user terminal. FIG. 4 is a block diagram for illustrating a cooperation of the set top box
10a and the user terminal 30a. The set top box 10a is a DSL Remote unit and includes a DSL modem.
The VOD information is inputted to the DSL modem 11a of the set top box 10a so as to be demultiplexed and then decoded into digital video signal by the decoder 12a. the decoded video signal is converted into analog video signal through the analog interface 21a so as to be outputted to the TV as the user terminal 30a.
Also, the VOD information inputted to the DSL modem 11a is demultiplexed and then transmitted to the PC as the user terminal 30a through the digital interface 22a, which is the Ethernet line, under control of the control unit 13a.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram for illustrating the editing/delivery server and the switching system set top box. The editing/delivery server 40a, a real time broadcasting device 35a, a gigabit switching hub 50a as a multicasting device for a multi user communication, and a DSLAM device as a switching system set top box 60a are depicted.
The switching system set top box 60a of FIG. 5 is the DSL remote unit similar to the set top box 10a of FIG. 4 and means the DSL concentration device as a DSL Access Multiplexer (DSLAM) belonged to the Korea Telecom, which switches data (e.g. non-VOD information and VOD information) between the editing/delivery server 40a and the set top box 10a.
That is, the system of FIG. 5 includes an editing/delivery server(40a) which converts the received non-VOD information into VOD information and formats the VOD information in the streaming format so as to transmit to the user terminal in multicasting or unicasting method; a real time transmitter (35a) having an encoder 351a for encoding the received non-VOD information and decoder 352a for decoding so as to output to the real time transmitter 35a, a gigabit switching hub 50a which outputs the VOD information and non-VOD information through a plurality of output ports, and a switching system set top box 60a which transmits the received VOD or non-VOD information to the user terminal and transmits VOD request information inputted by the user to the editing/delivery server 40a.
The real time transmitter 35a encodes the received non-VOD information using the encoder 351a and then decodes the non-VOD information so as to output in real time. And, the VOD information and the real time digital broadcasting signal from the editing/delivery server 40a and the real time transmitter 35a are transferred to the gigabit switching hub 50a and then outputted through the plural output ports.
Here, the editing/delivery server 40a converts the analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal into MPEG 2 digital signal and then transmits the MPEG digital signal to the gigabit switching hub 50a in multicasting method. The broadcasting source of the VOD information is transferred to the gigabit switching hub 50a using a real time streaming protocol (RTSP) by inserting MPEG 2 transport stream. The VOD information transmitted to the gigabit switching hub 50a is transmitted to the set top box connected to the user terminal through the switching system set top box 60a as the DSL concentration device and the telephone line connected to the switching system set top box 60a.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the set top box 10a of FIG. 4 according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. The non-VOD information or the VOD information received through the DSL line is inputted to the controller 13a through the DSL modem and the network interface 14a. the controller 13a transmits the non-VOD information or VOD information received the network interface 14a in response to the user's channel selection signal inputted through the A/V channel interface 15a to the user terminal through an A/V decoder 16a and a video out.
The network interface 14a is a network signal distribution device and is provided with a downlink terminal. The controller 13a is provided with an infrared receiving port 17a such that the user can input the VOD request information using a remote controller or an wireless keyboard.
While, the set top box utilizing a Linux as in the FIG. 6 distributes the non-VOD information or the VOD information received through the DSL network (telephone line) to the user terminal such as the TV or PC.
The non-VOD information or VOD information is outputted to the TV through the A/V interface 15a and the A/V decoder 16a after converted into the digital video signal or analog video signal or is outputted to the PC through the network interface 14a without signal conversion.
The A/V denotes Audio/Video, the A/V channel interface 15a is a device which can select a live broadcasting signal, and the A/V decoder 16a is a conversion device for outputting the broadcasting signal to the user terminal (TV). 3. Third embodiment
As shown in FIG. 7, the set top box for providing the VOD information according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a ground wave broadcasting system 100 for generating and transmitting ground wave broadcasting signals in real time in NTSC or PAL method, a cable broadcasting system 200 for generating and transmitting cable broadcasting signals, an internet broadcasting system 300 for generating and transmitting internet broadcasting signal, an editing/delivery server 400 which receives and edits the ground wave broadcasting signal, cable broadcasting signal, or internet broadcasting signal so as to generate the VOD information and broadcasts the VOD information in the stream format, and a set top box 700 which outputs the VOD information to the user terminal and transmits the VOD request information inputted from the user terminal 800 to the editing/delivery server 400.
The set top box 700 is connected to the editing/delivery server 400 through the switching system 600 of the telephone company and the high speed data line such as ADSL, VDSL, etc.
Referring to FIG. 8, the set top box 700 includes a video signal processing unit for converting the non-VOD information or VOD information received through the communication network into analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal so as to output to the user terminal 800; a wireless interface unit 715 for transmitting the no-VOD information or VOD information to the user terminal 800 and receiving the VOD request information transmitted from the user terminal 800 in the wireless transmission method; a PSTN interface unit 720 for establishing communication line to the counterpart user using the public switched telephone network (PSTN); a multiplexer 725 for establishing the communication line between the user and the counterpart user through the PSTN interface unit 720; a telephone communication interface unit 730 for outputting the communication signal from the multiplexer 725 through the receiver of the user's handset and outputting the communication signal inputted from the transmitter of the user's handset to the multiplexer 725; an input/output interface unit 735 for inputting the data received through the communication network 500 or outputting the data through the communication network 500; a control unit 740 for controlling so that the data is to be outputted through the user's handset when the data inputted through the input/output interface unit 735 is the reception communication signal and controlling the transmission communication signal inputted through the user's handset is to be outputted through the input/output interface unit 735; a communication signal processing unit 745 for processing the reception communication signal so as to convert the communication signal into analog voice signal and output the analog voice signal and for converting the analog voice signal of the user into the digital signal and outputting the digital signal to the input/output interface unit 735 through the control unit 740; a DTMF detection unit 750 for detecting DTMF (Dual Tone Multi Frequency) signal inputted from the handset so as to output the DTMF signal to the input/output interface unit 735 through the controller 740 when the communication is established through the input/output interface unit 735 by the multiplexer 725; a remote controller 755 for transmitting the remote signal according to the user's manipulation; a remote controller signal reception unit 760 for receiving the remote signal transmitted from the remote controller 755 and outputting the remote signal to the control unit 740; a network interface unit for connecting a plurality of PC so as to share information stored in the respective PC; an USB module 770 for connecting a plurality of electric appliances and controlling the operation of the electric appliances outside; an incoming call number detecting unit 775 for detecting the caller's phone number from the signal inputted through the PSTN interface unit; and a card reader 785 for reading information stored in a card.
The card reader 785 transmits the card information read from the card to an authorization server 950 through the input/output interface unit 735 under control of the control unit 740. The authorization server 950 requests credit check to a financial server 900 using the card information and sends an authorization information to the set top box 700 if the credit of the card is positively acknowledged.
The video signal processing unit 710 includes an analog broadcasting signal generation unit 711 which separates the video signal and the voice signal from the non-VOD information and the video signal and outputs the converted composite video signal to the TV connected to the video signal processing unit
710 for receiving the analog broadcasting signal when the non-VOD information such as the ground wave broadcasting signal generated in the NTSC or PAL method is received through the input/output interface unit 735; and a digital broadcasting signal generation unit 712 which separates the video signal and the voice signal from the non-VOD information and outputs the video signal converted into RGB signal to the TV, for receiving the digital broadcasting signal, connected to the video signal processing unit 710 when the non-VOD information such as the digital broadcasting signal generated in the MPEG method is received through the input/output interface unit 735.
The wireless interface unit 715 is a Bluetooth module. The multiplexer 725 establishes the communication line between the user and the counterpart user through the input/out interface unit 735 under control of the control unit 740.
The telephone interface unit 730 is the DTMF detection unit 750, which outputs the dialing signal of the telephone.
The control unit 740 controls the whole system in response to the signal received by the remote signal receiving unit 760 and outputs the remote signal to the input/output interface unit 735.
The control unit 740 provides settlement menu items to the user and outputs the settlement message to the user terminal when the user selects the settlement menu item that the user want to be serviced, transmits the information for authorization to the authorization server 950 when the user inputs the authorization information in response to the settlement message so as to settled the service charge after the authorization procedure.
Here, the user terminal 800 is a Analog television receiver or the digital broadcasting signal. The control unit 740 stores viewing information to be described hereinbelow in a memory 780 when the user selects a predetermined non-VOD information or VOD information, transmits the viewing information stored in the memory 780 to the editing/delivery server 400, and provides the custom information to the user by the editing/delivery server 400. The control unit 740 provides the user with the custom information request menu item, stores link information of the selected information in the memory 780 when the user selects the custom information request menu item and information among the information provided by the editing/delivery server 400, outputs the information received from the editing/delivery server 400 to the user terminal 800 when the user select the link information among the menus stored in the memory 780.
The control unit 740 provides a menu item for selecting a wanted channel or VOD information such that the control unit 740 stores and transmits the selected channel or VOD information to the editing/delivery server 400 so as to watch the selected channel or VOD information when the user select the menu item.
Here, the VOD information includes the VOD (video on demand), text broadcasting and information on demand (IOD) as the bidirectional advertisement, game on demand (GOD), news on demand (NOD), music on demand (MOD), home shopping, and electronic program guide (EPG) information.
The control unit 740 outputs incoming call announcement message to the user terminal 800 when there is an incoming call. In this time, the incoming call announcement message is text message or voice message.
The communication signal processing unit 745 includes a digital signal processor (DSP) and a codec.
The remote controller 755 is provided with a plurality of key button and keyboard such that the user inputs the characters so as to transmit the text message to the editing/delivery server 400 through the set top box 700 and the
input/output interface unit 735.
The memory 780 stores the menu items providing to the operation program and the user for controlling the whole system and viewing information captured by the control unit 740. The memory 780 stores user information including scheduling information and channel information that are selected and requested by the user through the menu items.
The above structure set top box 700 accesses to the internet through the
DSL of the switching system 600 in the telephone company, and receives and processes the non-VOD information provided through the editing/delivery server 400 so as to output to eh user terminal 800. Also, the set top box 700 receives and processes the non-VOD information received from the non-VOD information received from ground wave broadcasting system 100, cable broadcasting system 200, or internet broadcasting system 300 in real time so as to output to the user terminal 800.
The user can request and receive the non-VOD information or VOD information provided from the broadcasting systems 100, 200, and 300 in various manners. In a first manner, if the user inputs the address of the editing/delivery server 400 and selects execution command using the keyboard of the remote controller 775 for receiving the VOD information he/she want to see, the set top box 700 accesses to the switching system 600 of the telephone company through the input/output interface unit 735 such that the switching system 600 establishes an online connection to the editing/delivery server 400 through the communication network and outputs the video image on the screen of the user terminal 800 through the set top box 700.
The connection to the editing/delivery server 400 can be performed by a notebook, PDA, or portable terminal of the user terminal 800 through the Bluetooth module as the wireless interface unit 715 rather than the wired lines so as to search and be serviced the VOD information provided by the editing/delivery server 400.
In a second manner, the controller 740 of the set top box 700 outputs the menu items stored in the memory 780 to the screen of the user terminal 800 according to the user's request and provides the service corresponding to the menu item selected by the user.
First, in case that the user select a settlement menu item among the menu items provided by the set top box 700, the control unit 740 transmits a settlement message to the user terminal 800. If user inputs authorization information in response to the settlement message, the control unit 740 controls so as to transmit the authorization information to the authorization server 950 and the financial server 900 settles after the authorization process.
Second, in case that the user selects a menu item for VOD information such as movie, music, drama or the like, the control unit 740 outputs a message to the user terminal such that the user can select the VOD information. If the VOD information is inputted in response to the message, the control unit 740 stores the VOD information in the memory 780 as viewing information and transmits the viewing information to the editing/delivery server 400 such that the editing/delivery server 400 provides the user with the custom information.
Third, in case that the user selects a custom information request menu item among the menu items provided by the set top box 700 through the editing/delivery server 400, the control unit 740 supports a function in that the user selects the wanted information among the various information provided by the editing/delivery server 400 and stores link information of the selected information in the memory 780 as the menu information such that the control unit 740 transmits the corresponding information received from the editing/delivery server 400 to the user terminal 800 when the user select the link information among the menu in the memory. Fourth, in case that the user selects the menu item for selecting the non-VOD information or VOD information among the menu items provided by the set top box 700, the control unit 740 outputs message for selecting the non-VOD information and VOD information, stores the non-VOD information and VOD information in the memory 780 as the viewing information and transmits the viewing information to the editing/delivery server 400 when the user input the non-VOD information and VOD information in response to the message so as to provide the non-VOD information or VOD information.
Here, the non-VOD information selection means to select a channel, and the VOD information selection is performed in such a way that a category such as video (movie), text broadcasting, bidirectional advertisement, game, news, music, home shopping, electric program guide information, etc, is selected and then VOD information belonged to the selected category.
Fifth, in case that the user want to buy something during online shopping using the user terminal, the user displays the settlement page on the display of the user terminal 800, the card information read by the card reader 785 is transmitted to the authorization server 950 through the input/output interface 735 under control of the control unit 740 when the user inserts the card for settlement into the card reader 785 of the set top box 700 and clicks the settlement button. If the card is authorized by the authorization server 950, the settlement request information is transmitted to the financial server 900 such that the service charge is paid. When an affiliate card is used, the card company provides mileage or points.
The settlement button is positioned near the card reader 785 of the set top box 700 or provided on the settlement window.
The set top box 700 provides predetermined points to the user when the user recommends a person for membership, watches the pay VOD, buys a product of which price is higher than a predetermined price, watches the real time broadcasting longer than a predetermined time, proposes an improvement to be adopted. If the points accumulated become greater than a predetermined value, the points can be changed with a free gift or cyber money or used for buying products at offline affiliate companies.
Also, the set top box 700 checks ratings and hitting number of the specific information and provides the checking information to the editing/delivery server 400 such that the editing/delivery server 400 rates the information providers on the basis of the checking information and leaves out the information provider of low rate.
Also, the set top box 700 provides a function in that the user transmits the VOD generated using the music, dancing clip, amateur movie, etc. to the editing/delivery server 400 such that the viewers can validate the VOD. In this case the viewer can watch the VOD free of charge and the individuals can make public their product at the low cost.
The PSTN interface unit 720 of the set top box 700 is connected to the PSTN through a local line and outputs the signal received through the local line to the multiplexer 725 and the calling number detecting unit 775.
The multiplexer 725 transmits the signal received through the local line to the user's handset through the telecommunication interface unit 730 such that the user can hear the voice signal from the counterpart caller through the receiver of the handset.
Once there is an incoming call, the control unit 740 outputs incoming call announcement message through the user terminal 800, the incoming call announcement message being a text message or a voice message. Also, the calling number detecting unit 775 extracts the caller's phone number from the signal received through the local line and outputs the signal to the handset under control of the control unit 740. If the handset is provided with a display device, the caller's phone number is displayed on the display device.
Also, the dialing signal and the voice signal inputted for communication with the counterpart user are transmitted through the telecommunication interface unit 730, multiplexer 725, PSTN interface unit 720, and local line so as to establish the communication channel to the counterpart user.
The set top box 700 can be connected to a VoIP phone instead of the normal telephone. In this case, if the user dials using the VoIP phone, the dialing signal is outputted through the DTMF detecting unit 750 such that the DTMF detecting unit 750 extracts the DTMF signal from the dialing signal and outputs the DTMF signal to the input/output interface unit 735 through the control unit 740.
The DTMF signal outputted to the input/output interface unit 735 is transmitted to the counterpart user's telephone through the communication network 500 so as to generate ringing tone. If the counterpart user hold up the receiver, a communication channel is established through the communication network, input/output interface unit 735, control unit 740, communication signal processing unit 745, multiplexer 725, and the telecommunication interface unit 730.
The communication signal processing unit 745 includes the DSP and CODEC such that the digital voice signal inputted from the control unit 740 is converted into analog signal by the DSP and CODEC and the converted analog signal is outputted the receiver of the telephone through the multiplexer 725 and the telecommunication interface unit 730. The analog voice signal inputted through the microphone of the telephone is outputted to the communication signal processing unit 745 through the telecommunication interface unit 730 and the multiplexer 725 so as to be converted into digital signal by the CODEC and then the converted digital signal is processed in the DSP and the transmitted to the counterpart user telephone through the control unit 740, input/output interface unit 735, and the communication network 500.
The set top box 700 is provided with a network interface unit 765 (Ethernet Card) such that a plurality of PC can be connected to the set top box 700 so as to construct a communication network for sharing information.
The set top box 700 is provided with an USB module 770 to which electric appliances such as a sound equipment and video player can be connected so as to implement a home automation system.
Accordingly, the present invention improves the inefficient internet broadcasting method such that it is possible to provide a plurality of users with digital video contents using the relatively low capacity DSL line and low performance server.
Also, the present invention allows the users to watch the real time video and VOD so as to be able to provide the people unfamiliar with the internet with internet broadcasting contents.
Also, in the present invention the set top box is provided with a Bluetooth devices such that the set top box can communicate with the terminal without tangled lines. Also, in the present invention the remote controller is provided such that the user can remotely controls the set top box.
Also, in the present invention the set top box is provided with the network card such that a plurality of PC can be connected to the set top box to construct a communication network sharing the information. Also, in the present invention the set top box is provided with the USB module so as to built the home automation environment, which make the user comfortable.
Also, the present invention is a set top box for the high speed broadcasting network using the DSL network, allows the users to access internet using the conventional TV, and supports VOD service such as the internet broadcast and movie, financial service such as stock exchange and home banking, and home shopping in an easy manner.
Also, the present invention allows the user to easily buy the products by inserting the credit card into the card reader of the set top box and pushing the settlement button while seeing the shopping information, resulting in simplifying the settlement procedure and protection from hacking.

Claims

What is claimed is:
1. A bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD comprising: a VOD service server which converts analog video signal into digital video signal, produces VOD information, encodes the VOD information in streaming format, and transmits the VOD information to user terminals in multicast or unicast; a switching system which transmits the VOD information from the VOD service server to the user terminals through communication network and transmits video request from the user terminal to the VOD service server; and a set top box which decodes the VOD information received from the switching system through the communication network, transfers the decoded
VOD information to the user terminal, and transmits the video request signal from the user terminal to the switching system.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the switching system is a DSL concentration apparatus of telephone company.
3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the user terminal is a TV or personal computer (PC).
4. A bidirectional broadcasting method supporting VOD comprising: encoding a VOD information in a stream format, VOD information being produced by converting analog video signal into digital video signal; transmitting the VOD information encoded in the streaming format; decoding the received VOD information; and outputting the VOD information.
5. A bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD comprising: an editing/transmitting server which converts analog broadcasting video signal into digital video signal so as to produce VOD information, encodes the VOD information in streaming format, and transmits the VOD information to user terminals in multicast or unicast; a real time transmitter which encodes the received non-VOD information and then decodes the encoded information so as to output; a gigabit switching hub which outputs the VOD information and non-VOD information through a plurality of output ports; a switching system set top box of which input port is connected to an output port of the gigabit switching hub, the switching system set top box transmitting the VOD information or non-VOD information receiving from the gigabit switching hub to the user terminal and transmitting the VOD request information inputted by the user to the editing/delivery server; a set top box which decodes the VOD information received from the switching system set top box through the communication network, outputs the decoded VOD information to the user terminal, and transmits the VOD request inputted by the user terminal to the switching system set top box.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the switching system set top box is a DSL concentration device.
7. The system of claim 5, wherein the user terminal is a TV or PC.
8. The system of claim 5, wherein the VOD information is one of video, sound, and text information.
9. A bidirectional broadcasting method for a VOD information-providing set top box comprising: generating VOD information by converting received non-VOD information and formatting the VOD information in a streaming format; encoding and decoding the non-VOD information and then broadcasting the information in real time; transmitting firstly the VOD information and non-VOD information in multicasting method; transmitting secondly the received information or the non-VOD information to the user and receiving a VOD request information from the user; transmitting fourthly the VOD information of streaming format in real time; decoding the received VOD information into a broadcasting video signal; and transmitting fifthly the decoded broadcasting video signal.
10. A bidirectional broadcasting system supporting VOD comprising: and editing/delivery server which converts received non-VOD information into digital signal so as to generate VOD information, formats the VOD information in a streaming format, and transmits the VOD information in a multicasting or unicasting method; a switching system which transmits the received VOD information to the user terminal and transmits a VOD request information inputted by the user to the editing/delivery server; and a set top box which decodes the received VOD information and transmits the decoded VOD information to the user terminal, and transmits the VOD request information inputted through the user terminal to the switching system, wherein the set top box includes: a video signal processing unit for converting the non-VOD information into an analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal so as to transmit the converted signal to the user terminal; a radio interface unit for transmitting the non-VOD information or VOD information to the user terminal in a wireless communication method and for receiving the non-VOD information and VOD information from the user terminal in the wireless communication method; and a control unit for controlling the whole system.
11. The system of claim 10, wherein the set top box comprises: a PSTN interface unit for forming a communication channel with a counterpart user using a public switched telephone network (PSTN); a multiplexer for forming the communication channel between the user and the counterpart user through the PSTN interface unit; and a telecommunication interface unit for outputting a communication signal from the multiplexer through a receiver of the user's handset and outputs the communication signal inputted from the microphone of the user's handset through the multiplexer.
12. The system of claim 10 or claim 11 , wherein the set top box includes: an input/output interface unit which receives the VOD information or non-VOD information, or outputs the VOD request information to the editing/delivery ser; a control unit which controls such that the communication data is outputted through the user's handset when the communication data is incoming communication signal, and outputs the transmission communication signal inputted by the user's handset through the input/output interface unit; a communication signal processing unit which processes the incoming
communication signal inputted through the control unit for converting the analog voice signal or converts the user's analog voice signal inputted from the user's handset into digital signal and then outputs the digital signal to the input/output interface unit through the control unit; and a DTMF detecting unit which detects a dual tone multi frequency (DTMF) signal inputted from the handset when the communication channel is formed by the multiplexer through the input/output interface unit, and outputs the DTMF
signal to the input/output interface unit,
wherein the multiplexer forms the communication channel between the user and the counterpart user through the input/output interface unit and the telecommunication interface unit outputs the dialing signal of the handset to the DTMF detecting unit.
13. The system of claim 10 further comprises a memory for storing menu items provided to a system operating program and the user, and the controlling unit provides the user with settlement menu item, transmits settlement message to the user terminal when the user selects the settlement menu item for receiving pay service, transmits authorization information to an authorization server when the user inputs the authorization information in response to the settlement message such that the settlement is performed after the authorization process.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the user terminal is an analog broadcasting reception TV or a digital broadcasting reception TV.
15. The system of claim 13, wherein the control unit stores viewing information in the memory and transmits the viewing information stored in the memory to the editing/delivery server when the user selects the information for viewing such that the user can receive the custom information by the editing/delivery server.
16. The system of claim 13, wherein the control unit provides the user with custom information request menu item, stores a selected custom information link in the memory as the menu information when one of the custom information provided by the editing/delivery server is selected after the custom information request menu item is selected by the user, and outputs the corresponding information from the editing/delivery server when the link information among the menu items in the memory is selected by the user.
17. The system of claim 13, wherein the control unit provides the user with menu items with which the user can select a wanted channel or VOD information, stores the channel and VOD information when the channel or VOD information is selected, and provides the user with the non-VOD information or VOD information from the editing/delivery server through the wanted channel.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the VOD information is video (movie), text broadcasting, bidirectional advertisement, game, news, music, home shopping, and electrical program guide information.
19. The system of claim 12, wherein the control unit outputs incoming call announcement message when an incoming call is received.
20. The system of claim 19, wherein the incoming call announcement message is a text message or a voice message.
21. The system of claim 10, wherein the set top box includes: a remote controller which transmits remote control signal according to the user's manipulation; and a remote control reception unit which receives the remote control signal from the remote controller and transmit the received remote control signal to the control unit, wherein the control unit controls the whole system in response to the remote control signal received by the remote control reception unit or outputs the remote control signal to the input/output interface unit.
22. The system of claim 10, wherein the set top box further includes a network interface unit which is connected to a plurality of PCs such that the PCs shares information stored therein.
23. The system of claim 10, wherein the set top box further includes a USB module which is connected to a plurality of electric appliances and controls operation of the electric appliances outside.
24. The system of claim 10, wherein the wireless interface unit is a
Bluetooth module.
25. The system of claim 12, wherein the set top box further includes a caller's phone number detecting unit which extracts a caller's phone number from a incoming call inputted through the PSTN interface unit.
26. The system of claim 12, wherein the set top box further includes a card reader which reads information stored in a card.
27. A bidirectional broadcasting method supporting VOD comprising: providing a user with a settlement menu item when the user subscribes a pay service for VOD information; transmitting a settlement message to a user terminal when the user select the settlement menu item; and performing an authorization procedure and settlement procedure when the user input authorization information in response to the settlement message.
28. The method of claim 27, wherein the user terminal is a TV for receiving analog broadcasting signal or digital broadcasting signal.
29. The method of claim 27, wherein the VOD information is video(movie), text broadcasting, bidirectional advertisement, game, news, music, home shopping, or electric program guide information.
PCT/KR2003/000139 2002-01-24 2003-01-22 Broadcasting system and method supporting vod service WO2003063487A1 (en)

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KR1020020004088A KR100347186B1 (en) 2001-03-22 2002-01-24 Interactive broadcasting system having set top box for providing vod broadcasting information and method of operating the same

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