WO2003073329A1 - System and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television - Google Patents

System and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2003073329A1
WO2003073329A1 PCT/US2003/005433 US0305433W WO03073329A1 WO 2003073329 A1 WO2003073329 A1 WO 2003073329A1 US 0305433 W US0305433 W US 0305433W WO 03073329 A1 WO03073329 A1 WO 03073329A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
content
personal channel
procedure
search
personal
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2003/005433
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
David S. Wang
Original Assignee
Sony Electronics Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Sony Electronics Inc. filed Critical Sony Electronics Inc.
Priority to EP03709286A priority Critical patent/EP1485826A4/en
Priority to AU2003213240A priority patent/AU2003213240A1/en
Priority to JP2003571951A priority patent/JP4891525B2/en
Priority to KR1020047013290A priority patent/KR100961302B1/en
Publication of WO2003073329A1 publication Critical patent/WO2003073329A1/en

Links

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
    • H04N21/47—End-user applications
    • H04N21/475—End-user interface for inputting end-user data, e.g. personal identification number [PIN], preference data
    • H04N21/4755—End-user interface for inputting end-user data, e.g. personal identification number [PIN], preference data for defining user preferences, e.g. favourite actors or genre
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00—Television systems
    • H04N7/14—Systems for two-way working
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F16/00—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor
    • G06F16/90—Details of database functions independent of the retrieved data types
    • G06F16/95—Retrieval from the web
    • G06F16/953—Querying, e.g. by the use of web search engines
    • G06F16/9535—Search customisation based on user profiles and personalisation
    • 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
    • H04N21/266—Channel or content management, e.g. generation and management of keys and entitlement messages in a conditional access system, merging a VOD unicast channel into a multicast channel
    • H04N21/2665—Gathering content from different sources, e.g. Internet and satellite
    • 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
    • H04N21/266—Channel or content management, e.g. generation and management of keys and entitlement messages in a conditional access system, merging a VOD unicast channel into a multicast channel
    • H04N21/2668—Creating a channel for a dedicated end-user group, e.g. insertion of targeted commercials based on end-user profiles
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/45—Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
    • H04N21/4508—Management of client data or end-user data
    • H04N21/4532—Management of client data or end-user data involving end-user characteristics, e.g. viewer profile, preferences
    • 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
    • H04N21/458—Scheduling content for creating a personalised stream, e.g. by combining a locally stored advertisement with an incoming stream; Updating operations, e.g. for OS modules ; time-related management operations
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/45—Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
    • H04N21/462—Content or additional data management, e.g. creating a master electronic program guide from data received from the Internet and a Head-end, controlling the complexity of a video stream by scaling the resolution or bit-rate based on the client capabilities
    • H04N21/4622—Retrieving content or additional data from different sources, e.g. from a broadcast channel and the Internet
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47—End-user applications
    • H04N21/482—End-user interface for program selection
    • H04N21/4828—End-user interface for program selection for searching program descriptors
    • 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
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S707/00—Data processing: database and file management or data structures
    • Y10S707/912—Applications of a database
    • Y10S707/913—Multimedia
    • Y10S707/914—Video
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S707/00—Data processing: database and file management or data structures
    • Y10S707/912—Applications of a database
    • Y10S707/913—Multimedia
    • Y10S707/916—Audio
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S707/00—Data processing: database and file management or data structures
    • Y10S707/912—Applications of a database
    • Y10S707/922—Communications
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S707/00—Data processing: database and file management or data structures
    • Y10S707/99931—Database or file accessing
    • Y10S707/99933—Query processing, i.e. searching
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S707/00—Data processing: database and file management or data structures
    • Y10S707/99931—Database or file accessing
    • Y10S707/99937—Sorting

Definitions

  • This invention relates generally to techniques for utilizing interactive television systems, and relates more particularly to a system and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television.
  • enhanced system capability to perform various advanced operations may provide additional benefits to a system user, but may also place increased demands on the control and management of various system components.
  • an enhanced electronic system that effectively supports interactive television may benefit from an efficient implementation because of the large amount and complexity of the digital data involved. Due to growing demands on system resources and substantially increasing data magnitudes, it is apparent that developing new techniques for implementing and utilizing television systems is a matter of concern for related electronic technologies. Therefore, for all the foregoing reasons, developing effective systems for implementing and utilizing television systems remains a significant consideration for designers, manufacturers, and users of contemporary electronic entertainment systems.
  • a system and method are disclosed for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television.
  • a settop box may be directly coupled to a television device, and may also be indirectly coupled to one or more content databases through a distributed computer network such as the Internet.
  • a system user may activate a personal channel configuration procedure by communicating with a personal channel manager in the settop box by utilizing a wireless remote control device.
  • the system user may next preferably use any desired techniques to define one or more content categories for performing a content record search procedure to download designated content records.
  • the system user may utilize the wireless remote control device and a configuration GUI provided on the television device to perform the personal channel configuration procedure.
  • the system user may then preferably select appropriate search parameters for performing the foregoing content record search procedure by utilizing any effective means.
  • the personal channel manager may preferably provide available search parameters for the defined content categories on the configuration GUI.
  • the system user may preferably specify a maximum number of content records per content category for the content record search procedure.
  • the system user may then preferably specify a date/ time range per content category for the content record search procedure.
  • the system user may preferably specify designated content databases in each content category for the content record search procedure.
  • the system user may also preferably specify a maximum total program duration for a personal channel program comprised of content records that are located during the content record search procedure.
  • the system user may preferably specify a particular content record sequence or other sorting criteria for organizing the content records that are retrieved from content databases during the content record search procedure.
  • the system user may initially activate a personal channel mode in the settop box by utilizing the wireless remote control device or any other appropriate means.
  • a search module from the personal channel manager may then preferably perform the content record search procedure by searching one or more specified content databases to locate designated content records.
  • the search module may also preferably flag the designated content records when they are located by setting a corresponding download flag in each of the located content records.
  • the search module may then coordinate operations with respective database servers of the specified content databases to access and download the designated content records.
  • a content packaging module from the personal channel manager may preferably perform a content record sorting procedure by utilizing any appropriate techniques to thereby produce a corresponding personal channel program.
  • the content packaging module may sort downloaded content records in accordance with various sorting criteria that may be specified during the foregoing personal channel configuration procedure.
  • the system user may preferably view the personal channel program on the television device.
  • the personal television channel may operate in an off-line mode during which the search module may preferably previously perform the content record search procedure at a particular designated time (or may perform the content record search procedure at pre-determined intervals).
  • the content packaging module may then preferably perform the content record sorting procedure in advance, so that the personal channel program is ready for viewing as soon as the system user activates the personal channel mode.
  • FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic system, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a block diagram for one embodiment of the settop box of FIG. 1 , in accordance with the present invention
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram for one embodiment of the memory of FIG. 2, in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 4 is a block diagram for one embodiment of the personal channel manager of FIG. 3, in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a block diagram for one embodiment of a content database from FIG. 1 , in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 is a block diagram for one embodiment of a content record from FIG. 5, in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 is a flowchart of method steps for performing a personal channel configuration procedure, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a flowchart of method steps for effectively utilizing a personal television channel, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the present invention relates to an improvement in interactive television systems.
  • the following description is presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention, and is provided in the context of a patent application and its requirements.
  • Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein may be applied to other embodiments.
  • the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described herein.
  • the present invention is described herein as a system and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television, and may comprise a personal channel manager that may preferably include a configuration module, a search module, and a content packaging module.
  • a system user may preferably utilize the configuration module to perform a personal channel configuration procedure to specify personal channel configuration data for performing a content record search procedure.
  • the search module may preferably manage the content record search procedure according to one or more search parameters that may be defined during the personal channel configuration procedure.
  • the search manager may selectively locate and access one or more content records from one or more remote content databases during the foregoing content record search procedure.
  • the content packaging module may then responsively coordinate a content record sorting procedure according to user- specified sorting criteria to thereby organize the located content records into a personal channel program.
  • the personal channel program may then preferably be presented upon an interactive television device for viewing by the system user.
  • electronic system 110 may preferably include, but is not limited to, a network 112, a settop box (STB) 114, a television 122, a remote control 124, and one or more content databases 130.
  • STB settop box
  • electronic system 110 may readily be implemented using various components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 1 embodiment.
  • a computer device (not shown) or other electronic device may readily be coupled to STB 114 to thereby communicate with network 112 or any other device in electronic system 110.
  • STB settop box
  • settop box (STB) 114 may preferably be implemented as any electronic device that is configured to support and manage various functionalities for utilizing television 122 or other devices (not shown) in electronic system 110.
  • STB 114 may preferably communicate with network 112 via communications line 118, and may further communicate with content databases 130 via path 134.
  • STB 114 may communicate with content databases 130 by utilizing any other desired communication technologies or methods.
  • communications line 118 and path 134 may be high-speed broadband connections in certain instances, and in other environments, a lower-speed dial-up connection may suffice. The operation and utilization of STB 114 is further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 4-8.
  • content database(s) 130 may include one or more separate content databases 130 that each may store appropriate content records for a corresponding content provider. For example, a particular broadcasting organization or other programming source may select and catalogue appropriate content records into a corresponding content database 130 for access by STB 114. The implementation and utilization of content database(s) 130 are further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 5-8.
  • television 122 may be implemented in any effective and appropriate manner.
  • television 122 may preferably be implemented as an interactive television device.
  • remote control 124 may preferably be implemented as wireless device that includes an infrared transmitter unit by which a system user may input various types of information via transmission path 126 to control the operation of STB 114.
  • the implementation and utilization of the FIG. 1 electronic system 110 is further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 2-8.
  • STB 114 may preferably include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU) 212, a memory 220, and input/ output interfaces (I/O interfaces) 224. Selected ones of the foregoing components of STB 114 may preferably be coupled to, and communicate through, an STB bus 228.
  • STB 114 may readily be implemented using various components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 2 embodiment.
  • STB 114 may alternately be implemented as any other desired type of electronic device or entity.
  • STB 114 may be implemented within television 122 or as part of a personal computer device.
  • CPU 212 may be implemented to include any appropriate and compatible microprocessor device that preferably executes software instructions to thereby control and manage the operation of STB 114.
  • memory 220 may be implemented to include any combination of desired storage devices, including, but not limited to, read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), and various types of non-volatile memory, such as floppy disks or hard disks. The contents and functionality of memory 220 are further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 3 and 4.
  • I/O interfaces 224 may preferably include one or more input and/ or output interfaces to receive and/ or transmit any required types of information for STB 114.
  • STB 114 may utilize I/O interfaces 224 to communicate with network 110 and content databases 130 via communication line 118 and path 134 respectively (see FIG. 1).
  • STB 114 may utilize I/O interfaces 224 to communicate with TV 122 via path 122 (FIG. 1).
  • a system user may utilize I/O interfaces 224 to communicate with STB 114 by utilizing any appropriate and effective techniques.
  • a system user may utilize remote control 124 to communicate with STB 114 through I/O interfaces 224.
  • memory 220 preferably includes, but is not limited to, application software 312, an operating system 316, one or more types of content data 320, a personal channel manager 324, personal channel configuration data 328, a network manager 332, and a display manager 336.
  • memory 220 may readily include various other components in addition to, or instead of, those components discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 3 embodiment.
  • application software 312 may include program instructions that are preferably executed by CPU 212 (FIG. 2) to perform various functions and operations for STB 114.
  • the particular nature and functionality of application software 312 preferably varies depending upon factors such as the specific type and particular functionality of the corresponding STB 114.
  • operating system 316 preferably controls and coordinates low- level functionality of STB 114.
  • content data 320 may include any appropriate information or data for use by STB 114.
  • content data 320 may include video information and audio information for display on television 122.
  • personal channel manager 324 may preferably coordinate and manage various functions for configuring and utilizing various types of personal channel programming, in accordance with the present invention.
  • personal channel configuration data 328 may preferably include any type of information related to a personal channel configuration for STB 114. The implementation and utilization of personal channel manager 324 and personal channel configuration data 328 are further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 4 through 8.
  • STB 114 may preferably utilize network manager 332 to communicate with network 112 and content databases 130.
  • STB 114 may preferably utilize display manager 336 to display various programming and other information on television 122.
  • the present invention is disclosed and discussed as being implemented primarily as software. However, in alternate embodiments, some or all of the functions of the>present invention may be performed by appropriate electronic hardware circuits that are configured for performing various functions that are equivalent to those functions of the software modules discussed herein.
  • FIG. 4 a block diagram of the FIG. 3 personal channel manager 324 is shown, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • personal channel manager 324 may preferably include, but is not limited to, a configuration module 416, a search module 420, and a content packaging module 424.
  • personal channel manager 324 may readily be implemented using various components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 4 embodiment.
  • personal channel manager 324 may preferably utilize configuration module 416 to perform a personal channel configuration procedure to specify certain types of personal channel configuration data 328 (FIG. 3).
  • configuration module 416 to perform the foregoing personal channel configuration procedure is further discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 7.
  • personal channel manager 324 may preferably utilize search module 420 to perform a content record search procedure to locate designated types of content records from one or more corresponding content databases 130.
  • search module 420 to perform the foregoing content record search procedure is further discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 8.
  • personal channel manager 324 may preferably utilize content packaging module 424 to perform a content record sorting procedure to thereby create a corresponding personal channel program for viewing by a system user.
  • content packaging module 424 may perform the foregoing content record sorting procedure.
  • content database 130 may preferably include, but is not limited to, one or more content records 524.
  • content database 130 may readily be implemented using various components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 5 embodiment.
  • content records 524 may include a series of individual segments of selected program content information.
  • a database server (not shown) may preferably include any appropriate entities that are configured to manage bi-directional communications and data transfer operations for one or more content database 130.
  • the particular nature and functionality of the database server may preferably vary depending upon factors such as the specific type and particular functionality of the corresponding content database(s) 130.
  • content record 524 may preferably include, but is not limited to, one or more types of content information 614, one or more search parameters 618, and a download flag 622.
  • content record 524 may readily be implemented using various components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 6 embodiment.
  • content information 614 may include any appropriate information for presentation by STB 114 on television 122, or for utilization by a system user via any other appropriate reproduction devices.
  • content information 614 may include video and/ or audio information for presentation on television 122.
  • Content information 614 may also include text or graphics information for presentation on television 122.
  • download flag 622 may preferably be set by search module 420 (FIG. 4) of personal channel manager 324 whenever a content record search procedure affirmatively identifies a corresponding content record 524 as a search target.
  • search parameters 618 may preferably include any appropriate means for identifying a particular content record 524 as a search target during a content record search procedure.
  • a content provider may preferably define certain appropriate search parameters 618 in content records 524, depending upon the nature of the corresponding content information 614.
  • a system user may then enter one or more of those search parameters 618 as personal channel configuration data 328 (FIG. 3) during a personal channel configuration procedure.
  • a search module 420 may responsively compare the personal channel configuration data 328 with search parameters 618 in content records 524 to thereby identify those designated content records 524 that are of interest to the system user.
  • search parameters 618 may include any effective information for identifying corresponding content information 614.
  • search parameters 618 may preferably include, but are not limited to, keywords related to content information 614, a content category, a content type, a content date/ time, and a content provider.
  • search parameters 618 may also include information or data obtained directly from video data and/ or audio data within content information 614.
  • search parameters 618 may include various types of audio/video signatures. The selection and utilization of search parameters is further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 7 and 8.
  • FIG. 7 a flowchart of method steps for performing a personal channel configuration procedure is shown, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the FIG. 7 example is presented for purposes of illustration, and in alternate embodiments, the present invention may readily utilize various steps and sequences other than those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 7 embodiment.
  • a system user or other appropriate entity may initiate a personal channel configuration procedure in STB 114 (FIG. 1) by utilizing any effective means.
  • a system user may utilize remote control 124 (FIG. 1) to initiate the foregoing personal channel configuration procedure.
  • the system user or other appropriate entity may preferably use any desired techniques to define one or more content categories for performing a content record search procedure.
  • a configuration module 416 from a personal channel manager 324 and a display manager 336 of STB 114 may preferably generate a configuration graphical user interface (GUI) on television 122.
  • GUI configuration graphical user interface
  • the system user may responsively utilize remote control 124 to input appropriate information during the personal channel configuration procedure.
  • the foregoing configuration GUI may preferably initially display one or more main content topics, and the system user may then define narrower content categories within the main content topics. For example, the system user could narrow a main topic entitled "News" by defining a content category entitled "United States News".
  • the system user or another entity may preferably select appropriate search parameters for performing the foregoing content record search procedure by utilizing any effective techniques.
  • the system user may utilize the foregoing configuration GUI and remote controller 124 to input appropriate search parameters during the personal channel configuration procedure.
  • personal channel manager 324 may preferably provide available search parameters for the defined content categories on the configuration GUI.
  • step 756 the system user or another entity may preferably specify a maximum number of content records 524 per content category for the content record search procedure.
  • step 760 the system user or another entity may preferably specify a date/ time range per content category for the content record search procedure. In certain alternate embodiments, only a date range (without a corresponding time) may be specified in step 760.
  • the system user or another entity may preferably specify designated content database(s) 130 in each content category for the content record search procedure.
  • the system user or other entity may preferably specify a maximum total program duration for the personal channel program.
  • the system user or other entity may also specify a particular content record sequence for sorting content records 524 that are retrieved from content database(s) during the content record search procedure.
  • the system user may select a default sorting order that may be pre-determined.
  • the system user may also select a sorting order that is based upon content categories, or which may be based upon the prior sorting history of personal channel programs in STB 114.
  • the system user may sort the retrieved content records 524 according to criteria which include, but are not limited to, search parameters for the particular content record search procedure or the chronological dates of retrieved content records 524.
  • FIG. 8 a flowchart of method steps for utilizing a personal television channel is shown, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the FIG. 8 example is presented for purposes of illustration, and in alternate embodiments, the present invention may readily utilize various steps and sequences other than those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 8 embodiment.
  • a system user or other appropriate entity may preferably perform a personal channel configuration procedure, as discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 7.
  • personal channel configuration data (328) may be provided as part of STB 114, or may be obtained from an appropriate data source such as the Internet.
  • step 840 is shown within a dotted box to signify that the personal channel configuration procedure need not be performed each time the personal television channel is utilized.
  • the personal channel configuration procedure of step 840 is most typically performed before initial use of the personal television channel, and thereafter only periodically.
  • the system user or other appropriate entity may preferably activate a personal channel mode in STB 114 by utilizing any appropriate techniques.
  • the system user may utilize remote control 124 to activate the personal channel mode in STB 114.
  • a search module 420 from a personal channel manager 324 of STB 114 may preferably perform a content record search procedure by searching one or more specified content database(s) 130 to locate designated content records 524.
  • search module 420 may utilize any effective means to perform the foregoing content record search procedure.
  • search module 420 may utilize search parameters 618 to perform the content record search procedure, as discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 6.
  • search module 420 may preferably flag the designated content records 524, when they are located, by utilizing any desired method. For example, search module 420 may set a corresponding download flag 622 in the located content record 524, as discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 6. Then, in step 860, search module 420 may preferably coordinate operations with respective database servers of content database(s) 130 to download the designated content records 524.
  • a content packaging module 424 may preferably perform a content record sorting procedure by utilizing any appropriate techniques to thereby produce a corresponding personal channel program.
  • content packaging module 424 may preferably sort downloaded content records 524 in accordance with various criteria that may be specified during the foregoing personal channel configuration procedure, as discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 7.
  • the system user may preferably view the personal channel program on television 122.
  • the foregoing personal channel mode is described in the context of an on-line mode during which the search module 420 may preferably perform the content record search procedure immediately after the system user activates the personal channel mode, and the content packaging module 424 may then preferably perform a content record sorting procedure before the system user is able to view the completed personal channel program.
  • the foregoing on-line mode would also be appropriate for the live streaming of content records 524 for display on television 122.
  • the personal channel mode may operate in an off-line mode during which the search module 420 may preferably previously perform the content record search procedure at a particular designated time (or may perform the content record search procedure at pre-determined intervals).
  • the content record search procedure may also be an ongoing and continuous procedure of searching and downloading designated content records.
  • the content packaging module 424 may then preferably perform the content record sorting procedure in advance, so that the personal channel program is ready for viewing as soon as the system user activates the personal channel mode.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Databases & Information Systems (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Astronomy & Astrophysics (AREA)
  • Data Mining & Analysis (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Two-Way Televisions, Distribution Of Moving Picture Or The Like (AREA)
  • Information Retrieval, Db Structures And Fs Structures Therefor (AREA)

Abstract

A system and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television comprises a personal channel manager that may include a configuration module, a search module, and a content packaging module. A system user may utilize the configuration module to perform a personal channel configuration procedure to specify personal channel configuration data for performing a content record search procedure. The search module may manage the content record search procedure according to one or more search parameters that may be defined during the personal channel configuration procedure. The search module may selectively locate and access one or more content records from one or more remote content databases during the foregoing content record search procedure. The content packaging module may then responsively coordinate a content record sorting procedure according to user-specified sorting criteria to thereby organize the located content records into a personal channel program. The personal channel program may then be presented upon a television device for viewing by the system user.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EFFECTIVELY IMPLEMENTING A PERSONAL CHANNEL FOR INTERACTIVE TELEVISION
BACKGROUND SECTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to techniques for utilizing interactive television systems, and relates more particularly to a system and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television.
2. Description of the Background Art
Implementing effective methods for utilizing television systems is a significant consideration for designers and manufacturers of contemporary electronic entertainment systems. However, effectively implementing television systems may create substantial challenges for system designers. For example, enhanced demands for increased system functionality and performance may require more system processing power and require additional hardware resources. An increase in processing or hardware requirements may also result in a corresponding detrimental economic impact due to increased production costs and operational inefficiencies.
Furthermore, enhanced system capability to perform various advanced operations may provide additional benefits to a system user, but may also place increased demands on the control and management of various system components. For example, an enhanced electronic system that effectively supports interactive television may benefit from an efficient implementation because of the large amount and complexity of the digital data involved. Due to growing demands on system resources and substantially increasing data magnitudes, it is apparent that developing new techniques for implementing and utilizing television systems is a matter of concern for related electronic technologies. Therefore, for all the foregoing reasons, developing effective systems for implementing and utilizing television systems remains a significant consideration for designers, manufacturers, and users of contemporary electronic entertainment systems.
SUMMARY In accordance with the present invention, a system and method are disclosed for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a settop box may be directly coupled to a television device, and may also be indirectly coupled to one or more content databases through a distributed computer network such as the Internet. In certain embodiments, initially, a system user may activate a personal channel configuration procedure by communicating with a personal channel manager in the settop box by utilizing a wireless remote control device.
The system user may next preferably use any desired techniques to define one or more content categories for performing a content record search procedure to download designated content records. For example, in certain embodiments, the system user may utilize the wireless remote control device and a configuration GUI provided on the television device to perform the personal channel configuration procedure.
The system user may then preferably select appropriate search parameters for performing the foregoing content record search procedure by utilizing any effective means. For example, in certain embodiments, the personal channel manager may preferably provide available search parameters for the defined content categories on the configuration GUI. Next, the system user may preferably specify a maximum number of content records per content category for the content record search procedure.
In certain embodiments, the system user may then preferably specify a date/ time range per content category for the content record search procedure. In addition, the system user may preferably specify designated content databases in each content category for the content record search procedure. The system user may also preferably specify a maximum total program duration for a personal channel program comprised of content records that are located during the content record search procedure. Finally, the system user may preferably specify a particular content record sequence or other sorting criteria for organizing the content records that are retrieved from content databases during the content record search procedure.
In certain embodiments, during utilization of the personal television channel, the system user may initially activate a personal channel mode in the settop box by utilizing the wireless remote control device or any other appropriate means. A search module from the personal channel manager may then preferably perform the content record search procedure by searching one or more specified content databases to locate designated content records. The search module may also preferably flag the designated content records when they are located by setting a corresponding download flag in each of the located content records.
The search module may then coordinate operations with respective database servers of the specified content databases to access and download the designated content records. Next, a content packaging module from the personal channel manager may preferably perform a content record sorting procedure by utilizing any appropriate techniques to thereby produce a corresponding personal channel program. For example, the content packaging module may sort downloaded content records in accordance with various sorting criteria that may be specified during the foregoing personal channel configuration procedure. Finally, the system user may preferably view the personal channel program on the television device.
In addition to the foregoing embodiment, the personal television channel may operate in an off-line mode during which the search module may preferably previously perform the content record search procedure at a particular designated time (or may perform the content record search procedure at pre-determined intervals). The content packaging module may then preferably perform the content record sorting procedure in advance, so that the personal channel program is ready for viewing as soon as the system user activates the personal channel mode. The present invention thus provides an effective methodology for flexibly providing interactive television programming that includes content information which is advantageously directed to specific system user interests. The present invention therefore provides an improved a system and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic system, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a block diagram for one embodiment of the settop box of FIG. 1 , in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a block diagram for one embodiment of the memory of FIG. 2, in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 4 is a block diagram for one embodiment of the personal channel manager of FIG. 3, in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a block diagram for one embodiment of a content database from FIG. 1 , in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 6 is a block diagram for one embodiment of a content record from FIG. 5, in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a flowchart of method steps for performing a personal channel configuration procedure, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and
FIG. 8 is a flowchart of method steps for effectively utilizing a personal television channel, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present invention relates to an improvement in interactive television systems. The following description is presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention, and is provided in the context of a patent application and its requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein may be applied to other embodiments. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described herein.
The present invention is described herein as a system and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television, and may comprise a personal channel manager that may preferably include a configuration module, a search module, and a content packaging module. A system user may preferably utilize the configuration module to perform a personal channel configuration procedure to specify personal channel configuration data for performing a content record search procedure.
The search module may preferably manage the content record search procedure according to one or more search parameters that may be defined during the personal channel configuration procedure. The search manager may selectively locate and access one or more content records from one or more remote content databases during the foregoing content record search procedure. The content packaging module may then responsively coordinate a content record sorting procedure according to user- specified sorting criteria to thereby organize the located content records into a personal channel program. The personal channel program may then preferably be presented upon an interactive television device for viewing by the system user.
Referring now to FIG. 1, a block diagram of an electronic system 110 is shown, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In the FIG. 1 embodiment, electronic system 110 may preferably include, but is not limited to, a network 112, a settop box (STB) 114, a television 122, a remote control 124, and one or more content databases 130. In alternate embodiments, electronic system 110 may readily be implemented using various components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 1 embodiment. For example, a computer device (not shown) or other electronic device may readily be coupled to STB 114 to thereby communicate with network 112 or any other device in electronic system 110. In the FIG. 1 embodiment, settop box (STB) 114 may preferably be implemented as any electronic device that is configured to support and manage various functionalities for utilizing television 122 or other devices (not shown) in electronic system 110. In the FIG. 1 embodiment, STB 114 may preferably communicate with network 112 via communications line 118, and may further communicate with content databases 130 via path 134. In alternate embodiments, STB 114 may communicate with content databases 130 by utilizing any other desired communication technologies or methods. For example, communications line 118 and path 134 may be high-speed broadband connections in certain instances, and in other environments, a lower-speed dial-up connection may suffice. The operation and utilization of STB 114 is further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 4-8.
In the FIG. 1 embodiment, content database(s) 130 may include one or more separate content databases 130 that each may store appropriate content records for a corresponding content provider. For example, a particular broadcasting organization or other programming source may select and catalogue appropriate content records into a corresponding content database 130 for access by STB 114. The implementation and utilization of content database(s) 130 are further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 5-8. In the FIG. 1 embodiment, television 122 may be implemented in any effective and appropriate manner. In certain embodiments, television 122 may preferably be implemented as an interactive television device. In the FIG. 1 embodiment, remote control 124 may preferably be implemented as wireless device that includes an infrared transmitter unit by which a system user may input various types of information via transmission path 126 to control the operation of STB 114. The implementation and utilization of the FIG. 1 electronic system 110 is further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 2-8.
Referring now to FIG. 2, a block diagram for one embodiment of the FIG. 1 settop box (STB) 114 is shown, in accordance with the present invention. In the FIG. 2 embodiment, STB 114 may preferably include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU) 212, a memory 220, and input/ output interfaces (I/O interfaces) 224. Selected ones of the foregoing components of STB 114 may preferably be coupled to, and communicate through, an STB bus 228. In alternate embodiments, STB 114 may readily be implemented using various components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 2 embodiment. In addition, STB 114 may alternately be implemented as any other desired type of electronic device or entity. For example, STB 114 may be implemented within television 122 or as part of a personal computer device. In the FIG. 2 embodiment, CPU 212 may be implemented to include any appropriate and compatible microprocessor device that preferably executes software instructions to thereby control and manage the operation of STB 114. In the FIG. 2 embodiment, memory 220 may be implemented to include any combination of desired storage devices, including, but not limited to, read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), and various types of non-volatile memory, such as floppy disks or hard disks. The contents and functionality of memory 220 are further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 3 and 4.
In the FIG. 2 embodiment, I/O interfaces 224 may preferably include one or more input and/ or output interfaces to receive and/ or transmit any required types of information for STB 114. For example, in the FIG. 2 embodiment, STB 114 may utilize I/O interfaces 224 to communicate with network 110 and content databases 130 via communication line 118 and path 134 respectively (see FIG. 1). Furthermore, STB 114 may utilize I/O interfaces 224 to communicate with TV 122 via path 122 (FIG. 1). In addition, a system user may utilize I/O interfaces 224 to communicate with STB 114 by utilizing any appropriate and effective techniques. For example, a system user may utilize remote control 124 to communicate with STB 114 through I/O interfaces 224.
Referring now to FIG. 3, a block diagram for one embodiment of the FIG. 2 memory 220 is shown, in accordance with the present invention. In the FIG. 3 embodiment, memory 220 preferably includes, but is not limited to, application software 312, an operating system 316, one or more types of content data 320, a personal channel manager 324, personal channel configuration data 328, a network manager 332, and a display manager 336. In alternate embodiments, memory 220 may readily include various other components in addition to, or instead of, those components discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 3 embodiment.
In the FIG. 3 embodiment, application software 312 may include program instructions that are preferably executed by CPU 212 (FIG. 2) to perform various functions and operations for STB 114. The particular nature and functionality of application software 312 preferably varies depending upon factors such as the specific type and particular functionality of the corresponding STB 114. In the FIG. 3 embodiment, operating system 316 preferably controls and coordinates low- level functionality of STB 114. In the FIG. 3 embodiment, content data 320 may include any appropriate information or data for use by STB 114. For example, content data 320 may include video information and audio information for display on television 122.
In the FIG. 3 embodiment, personal channel manager 324 may preferably coordinate and manage various functions for configuring and utilizing various types of personal channel programming, in accordance with the present invention. In the FIG. 3 embodiment, personal channel configuration data 328 may preferably include any type of information related to a personal channel configuration for STB 114. The implementation and utilization of personal channel manager 324 and personal channel configuration data 328 are further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 4 through 8. In the FIG. 3 embodiment, STB 114 may preferably utilize network manager 332 to communicate with network 112 and content databases 130. In addition, STB 114 may preferably utilize display manager 336 to display various programming and other information on television 122. In the FIG. 3 embodiment, the present invention is disclosed and discussed as being implemented primarily as software. However, in alternate embodiments, some or all of the functions of the>present invention may be performed by appropriate electronic hardware circuits that are configured for performing various functions that are equivalent to those functions of the software modules discussed herein.
Referring now to FIG. 4, a block diagram of the FIG. 3 personal channel manager 324 is shown, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In the FIG. 1 embodiment, personal channel manager 324 may preferably include, but is not limited to, a configuration module 416, a search module 420, and a content packaging module 424. In alternate embodiments, personal channel manager 324 may readily be implemented using various components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 4 embodiment.
In the FIG. 4 embodiment, personal channel manager 324 may preferably utilize configuration module 416 to perform a personal channel configuration procedure to specify certain types of personal channel configuration data 328 (FIG. 3). One embodiment for utilizing configuration module 416 to perform the foregoing personal channel configuration procedure is further discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 7. In the FIG. 4 embodiment, personal channel manager 324 may preferably utilize search module 420 to perform a content record search procedure to locate designated types of content records from one or more corresponding content databases 130. One embodiment for utilizing search module 420 to perform the foregoing content record search procedure is further discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 8.
In the FIG. 4 embodiment, personal channel manager 324 may preferably utilize content packaging module 424 to perform a content record sorting procedure to thereby create a corresponding personal channel program for viewing by a system user. One embodiment for utilizing content packaging module 424 to perform the foregoing content record sorting procedure is further discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 8.
Referring now to FIG. 5, a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a FIG. 1 content database 130 is shown, in accordance with the present invention. In the FIG. 5 embodiment, content database 130 may preferably include, but is not limited to, one or more content records 524. In alternate embodiments, content database 130 may readily be implemented using various components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 5 embodiment.
In the FIG. 5 embodiment, content records 524 may include a series of individual segments of selected program content information. One embodiment for an exemplary content record 524 is further discussed below in conjunction with FIG. 6. In certain embodiments, a database server (not shown) may preferably include any appropriate entities that are configured to manage bi-directional communications and data transfer operations for one or more content database 130. The particular nature and functionality of the database server may preferably vary depending upon factors such as the specific type and particular functionality of the corresponding content database(s) 130.
Referring now to FIG. 6, a block diagram of a FIG. 5 content record 524 is shown, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In the FIG. 6 embodiment, content record 524 may preferably include, but is not limited to, one or more types of content information 614, one or more search parameters 618, and a download flag 622. In alternate embodiments, content record 524 may readily be implemented using various components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 6 embodiment. In the FIG. 6 embodiment, content information 614 may include any appropriate information for presentation by STB 114 on television 122, or for utilization by a system user via any other appropriate reproduction devices. For example, content information 614 may include video and/ or audio information for presentation on television 122. Content information 614 may also include text or graphics information for presentation on television 122. In the FIG. 6 embodiment, download flag 622 may preferably be set by search module 420 (FIG. 4) of personal channel manager 324 whenever a content record search procedure affirmatively identifies a corresponding content record 524 as a search target. In the FIG. 6 embodiment, search parameters 618 may preferably include any appropriate means for identifying a particular content record 524 as a search target during a content record search procedure. In certain embodiments of the present invention, a content provider may preferably define certain appropriate search parameters 618 in content records 524, depending upon the nature of the corresponding content information 614. A system user may then enter one or more of those search parameters 618 as personal channel configuration data 328 (FIG. 3) during a personal channel configuration procedure. A search module 420 may responsively compare the personal channel configuration data 328 with search parameters 618 in content records 524 to thereby identify those designated content records 524 that are of interest to the system user.
The foregoing search parameters 618 may include any effective information for identifying corresponding content information 614. For example, search parameters 618 may preferably include, but are not limited to, keywords related to content information 614, a content category, a content type, a content date/ time, and a content provider. In certain embodiments, search parameters 618 may also include information or data obtained directly from video data and/ or audio data within content information 614. For example, search parameters 618 may include various types of audio/video signatures. The selection and utilization of search parameters is further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 7 and 8.
Referring now to FIG. 7, a flowchart of method steps for performing a personal channel configuration procedure is shown, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The FIG. 7 example is presented for purposes of illustration, and in alternate embodiments, the present invention may readily utilize various steps and sequences other than those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 7 embodiment.
In the FIG. 7 embodiment, in step 740, a system user or other appropriate entity may initiate a personal channel configuration procedure in STB 114 (FIG. 1) by utilizing any effective means. For example, in certain embodiments, a system user may utilize remote control 124 (FIG. 1) to initiate the foregoing personal channel configuration procedure. Then, in step 748, the system user or other appropriate entity may preferably use any desired techniques to define one or more content categories for performing a content record search procedure. For example, in certain embodiments of the foregoing personal channel configuration procedure, a configuration module 416 from a personal channel manager 324 and a display manager 336 of STB 114 may preferably generate a configuration graphical user interface (GUI) on television 122. The system user may responsively utilize remote control 124 to input appropriate information during the personal channel configuration procedure. In certain embodiments, during step 748, the foregoing configuration GUI may preferably initially display one or more main content topics, and the system user may then define narrower content categories within the main content topics. For example, the system user could narrow a main topic entitled "News" by defining a content category entitled "United States News".
In step 752, the system user or another entity may preferably select appropriate search parameters for performing the foregoing content record search procedure by utilizing any effective techniques. For example, in certain embodiments, the system user may utilize the foregoing configuration GUI and remote controller 124 to input appropriate search parameters during the personal channel configuration procedure. In certain embodiments, personal channel manager 324 may preferably provide available search parameters for the defined content categories on the configuration GUI.
Then, in step 756, the system user or another entity may preferably specify a maximum number of content records 524 per content category for the content record search procedure. Next, in step 760, the system user or another entity may preferably specify a date/ time range per content category for the content record search procedure. In certain alternate embodiments, only a date range (without a corresponding time) may be specified in step 760.
In step 764, the system user or another entity may preferably specify designated content database(s) 130 in each content category for the content record search procedure. Finally, in step 768, the system user or other entity may preferably specify a maximum total program duration for the personal channel program. In addition, during step 768, the system user or other entity may also specify a particular content record sequence for sorting content records 524 that are retrieved from content database(s) during the content record search procedure.
For example, in certain embodiments, the system user may select a default sorting order that may be pre-determined. The system user may also select a sorting order that is based upon content categories, or which may be based upon the prior sorting history of personal channel programs in STB 114. Alternately, the system user may sort the retrieved content records 524 according to criteria which include, but are not limited to, search parameters for the particular content record search procedure or the chronological dates of retrieved content records 524.
Referring now to FIG. 8, a flowchart of method steps for utilizing a personal television channel is shown, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The FIG. 8 example is presented for purposes of illustration, and in alternate embodiments, the present invention may readily utilize various steps and sequences other than those discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 8 embodiment. In the FIG. 8 embodiment, in step 840, a system user or other appropriate entity may preferably perform a personal channel configuration procedure, as discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 7. Alternately, in certain embodiments, personal channel configuration data (328) may be provided as part of STB 114, or may be obtained from an appropriate data source such as the Internet. In the FIG. 8 embodiment, step 840 is shown within a dotted box to signify that the personal channel configuration procedure need not be performed each time the personal television channel is utilized. For example, in many embodiments, the personal channel configuration procedure of step 840 is most typically performed before initial use of the personal television channel, and thereafter only periodically.
In step 848, the system user or other appropriate entity may preferably activate a personal channel mode in STB 114 by utilizing any appropriate techniques. For example, in certain embodiments, the system user may utilize remote control 124 to activate the personal channel mode in STB 114. In step 852, a search module 420 from a personal channel manager 324 of STB 114 may preferably perform a content record search procedure by searching one or more specified content database(s) 130 to locate designated content records 524. In accordance with the present invention, search module 420 may utilize any effective means to perform the foregoing content record search procedure. For example, search module 420 may utilize search parameters 618 to perform the content record search procedure, as discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 6.
In step 856, search module 420 may preferably flag the designated content records 524, when they are located, by utilizing any desired method. For example, search module 420 may set a corresponding download flag 622 in the located content record 524, as discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 6. Then, in step 860, search module 420 may preferably coordinate operations with respective database servers of content database(s) 130 to download the designated content records 524.
Then, in step 864, a content packaging module 424 may preferably perform a content record sorting procedure by utilizing any appropriate techniques to thereby produce a corresponding personal channel program. In accordance with the present invention, content packaging module 424 may preferably sort downloaded content records 524 in accordance with various criteria that may be specified during the foregoing personal channel configuration procedure, as discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 7. Finally, in step 868, the system user may preferably view the personal channel program on television 122.
In accordance with the present invention, the foregoing personal channel mode is described in the context of an on-line mode during which the search module 420 may preferably perform the content record search procedure immediately after the system user activates the personal channel mode, and the content packaging module 424 may then preferably perform a content record sorting procedure before the system user is able to view the completed personal channel program. The foregoing on-line mode would also be appropriate for the live streaming of content records 524 for display on television 122.
Alternately, the personal channel mode may operate in an off-line mode during which the search module 420 may preferably previously perform the content record search procedure at a particular designated time (or may perform the content record search procedure at pre-determined intervals). In the off-line mode, the content record search procedure may also be an ongoing and continuous procedure of searching and downloading designated content records. The content packaging module 424 may then preferably perform the content record sorting procedure in advance, so that the personal channel program is ready for viewing as soon as the system user activates the personal channel mode. The present invention thus provides an effective methodology for flexibly providing interactive television programming that includes content information which is advantageously directed to specific system user interests.
The invention has been explained above with reference to certain embodiments. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure. For example, the present invention may readily be implemented using configurations and techniques other than those described in the embodiments above. Additionally, the present invention may effectively be used in conjunction with systems other than those described above. Therefore, these and other variations upon the discussed embodiments are intended to be covered by the present invention, which is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. A system for implementing a personal television channel, comprising: a configuration module by which a system user performs a personal channel configuration procedure to specify personal channel configuration data for performing a content record search procedure; a search module configured to manage said content record search procedure according to one or more search parameters that are defined during said personal channel configuration procedure, said search module selectively accessing one or more content records during said content record search procedure; a content packaging module configured to coordinate a content record sorting procedure according to sorting criteria to thereby organize said content records into a personal channel program; and a television device configured to present said personal channel program for utilization by said system user.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein said content records each include audio/video data and selected ones of said search parameters, said content records being stored on one or more content databases that are provided by corresponding content providers.
3. The system of claim 2 wherein said configuration module, said search module, and said content packaging module are implemented as a personal channel manager that resides in one of a settop box device, an interactive television device, and a personal computer device.
4. The system of claim 3 wherein said personal channel manager communicates with said one or more content databases by utilizing a network manager to connect said personal channel manager with an Internet system, said one or more content databases being coupled to said Internet system.
5. The system of claim 3 wherein said system user initiates said personal channel configuration procedure, said configuration module and a display manager responsively providing a configuration GUI on said television device.
6. The system of claim 5 wherein said system user initiates said personal channel configuration procedure and interacts with said configuration GUI by utilizing a wireless remote control device.
7. The system of claim 5 wherein said system user defines one or more content categories for performing said content record search procedure, said content categories each being a narrowing subdivision of a different predefined main topic that is supported by said personal television channel.
8. The system of claim 7 wherein said system user selects said search parameters for said content record search procedure, said search parameters including one or more keywords related to content information in a corresponding content record.
9. The system of claim 8 wherein said search parameters further include a content category, a content type, and a content date/time that are related to said content information in said corresponding content record.
10. The system of claim 7 wherein said system user selects said search parameters for said content record search procedure, said search parameters including at least one of content provider data obtained directly from video data within said content information and content provider data obtained directly from audio data within said content information.
11. The system of claim 8 wherein said system user specifies a content record sequence for performing said content record sorting procedure based upon said sorting criteria to thereby produce said personal channel program, said specified criteria including said search parameters.
12. The system of claim 11 wherein said system user specifies limiting criteria for said content record search procedure, said limiting criteria including a date /time range, a maximum total duration for said personal channel program, and a maximum number of said content records for each of said content categories.
13. The system of claim 11 wherein said system user specifies one or more of said content databases to be examined for each of said content categories during said content record search procedure.
14. The system of claim 3 wherein said system user activates a personal channel mode for utilizing said personal channel manager to provide said personal channel program to said television device.
15. The system of claim 14 wherein said search module searches specified ones of said content databases during said content record search procedure to locate designated ones of said content records by utilizing said search parameters defined in said personal channel configuration procedure.
16. The system of claim 15 wherein said search modules sets corresponding download flags after locating each of said designated ones of said content records during said content record search procedure.
17. The system of claim 15 wherein said search module communicates with database servers corresponding to said one or more content databases to download said designated ones of said content records during said content record search procedure.
18. The system of claim 17 wherein said content packaging module performs said content record sorting procedure by specifying a content record sequence based upon said sorting criteria to thereby produce said personal channel program, said sorting criteria including at least one of a predetermined default sorting order, said content categories, a prior sorting history of personal channel programs, and chronological dates of said content records.
19. The system of claim 14 wherein said personal channel mode is an online mode during which said search module perform said content record search procedure after said system user activates said personal channel mode, said content packaging module then performing said content record sorting procedure before said system user may view said personal channel program.
20. The system of claim 14 wherein said personal channel mode is an offline mode during which said search module has previously performed said content record search procedure at one or more designated times, said content packaging module then performing said content record sorting procedure in advance, so that said personal channel program is ready to view as soon as said system user activates said personal channel mode.
21. A method for implementing a personal television channel, comprising the steps of: performing a personal channel configuration procedure with a configuration module to specify personal channel configuration data for performing a content record search procedure; managing said content record search procedure with a search module according to one or more search parameters that are defined during said personal channel configuration procedure, said search module selectively accessing one or more content records during said content record search procedure; coordinating a content record sorting procedure with a content packaging module according to sorting criteria to thereby organize said content records into a personal channel program; and presenting said personal channel program on a television device for utilization by a system user.
22. The method of claim 21 wherein said content records each include audio/video data, text data, and selected ones of said search parameters, said content records being stored on one or more content databases that are provided by corresponding content providers.
23. The method of claim 22 wherein said configuration module, said search module, and said content packaging module are implemented as a personal channel manager that resides in one of a settop box device, an interactive television device, and a personal computer device.
24. The method of claim 23 wherein said personal channel manager communicates with said one or more content databases by utilizing a network manager to connect said personal channel manager with an Internet system, said one or more content databases being coupled to said Internet system.
25. The method of claim 23 wherein said system user initiates said personal channel configuration procedure, said configuration module and a display manager responsively providing a configuration GUI on said television device.
26. The method of claim 25 wherein said system user initiates said personal channel configuration procedure and interacts with said configuration GUI by utilizing a wireless remote control device.
27. The method of claim 25 wherein said system user defines one or more content categories for performing said content record search procedure, said content categories each being a narrowing subdivision of a different predefined main topic that is supported by said personal television channel.
28. The method of claim 27 wherein said system user selects said search parameters for said content record search procedure, said search parameters including one or more audio /video signatures related to content information in a corresponding content record.
29. The method of claim 28 wherein said search parameters further include a content category, a content type, and a content date/ time that are related to said content information in said corresponding content record.
30. The method of claim 27 wherein said system user selects said search parameters for said content record search procedure, said search parameters including at least one of content provider data obtained directly from video data within said content information and content provider data obtained directly from audio data within said content information.
31. The method of claim 28 wherein said system user specifies a content record sequence for performing said content record sorting procedure based upon said sorting criteria to thereby produce said personal channel program, said specified criteria including said search parameters.
32. The method of claim 31 wherein said system user specifies limiting criteria for said content record search procedure, said limiting criteria including a date /time range, a maximum total duration for said personal channel program, and a maximum number of said content records for each of said content categories.
33. The method of claim 31 wherein said system user specifies one or more of said content databases to be examined for each of said content categories during said content record search procedure.
34. The method of claim 23 wherein said system user activates a personal channel mode for utilizing said personal channel manager to provide said personal channel program to said television device.
35. The method of claim 34 wherein said search module searches specified ones of said content databases during said content record search procedure to locate designated ones of said content records by utilizing said search parameters defined in said personal channel configuration procedure.
36. The method of claim 35 wherein said search modules sets corresponding download flags after locating each of said designated ones of said content records during said content record search procedure.
37. The method of claim 35 wherein said search module communicates with database servers corresponding to said one or more content databases to download said designated ones of said content records during said content record search procedure.
38. The method of claim 37 wherein said content packaging module performs said content record sorting procedure by specifying a content record sequence based upon said sorting criteria to thereby produce said personal channel program, said sorting criteria including at least one of a predetermined default sorting order, said content categories, a prior sorting history of personal channel programs, and chronological dates of said content records.
39. The method of claim 34 wherein said personal channel mode is an online mode during which said search module perform said content record search procedure after said system user activates said personal channel mode, said content packaging module then performing said content record sorting procedure before said system user may view said personal channel program.
40. The method of claim 34 wherein said personal channel mode is an offline mode during which said search module has previously performed said content record search procedure as an ongoing and continuous procedure of searching and downloading said content records, said content packaging module then performing said content record sorting procedure in advance, so that said personal channel program is ready to view as soon as said system user activates said personal channel mode.
41. A computer-readable medium comprising program instructions for implementing a personal television channel by performing the steps of: performing a personal channel configuration procedure with a configuration module to specify personal channel configuration data for performing a content record search procedure; managing said content record search procedure with a search module according to one or more search parameters that are defined during said personal channel configuration procedure, said search module selectively accessing one or more content records during said content record search procedure; coordinating a content record sorting procedure with a content packaging module according to sorting criteria to thereby organize said content records into a personal channel program; and presenting said personal channel program on a television device for utilization by a system user.
42. A system for implementing a personal television channel, comprising: means for performing a personal channel configuration procedure to specify personal channel configuration data for performing a content record search procedure; means for managing said content record search procedure according to one or more search parameters that are defined during said personal channel configuration procedure, said means for managing selectively accessing one or more content records during said content record search procedure; means for coordinating a content record sorting procedure according to sorting criteria to thereby organize said content records into a personal channel program; and means for presenting said personal channel program for utilization by a system user.
43. A system for implementing a personal television channel, comprising: a configuration module by which a system user performs a personal channel configuration procedure for said personal television channel; a search module configured to manage a content record search procedure to selectively access one or more content records; a content packaging module configured to coordinate a content record sorting procedure to organize said content records into a personal channel program; and a television device configured to present said personal channel program for utilization by said system user.
PCT/US2003/005433 2002-02-26 2003-02-24 System and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television WO2003073329A1 (en)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP03709286A EP1485826A4 (en) 2002-02-26 2003-02-24 System and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television
AU2003213240A AU2003213240A1 (en) 2002-02-26 2003-02-24 System and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television
JP2003571951A JP4891525B2 (en) 2002-02-26 2003-02-24 System and method for effectively implementing personal channel for interactive television
KR1020047013290A KR100961302B1 (en) 2002-02-26 2003-02-24 System and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/083,213 US6772147B2 (en) 2002-02-26 2002-02-26 System and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television
US10/083,213 2002-02-26

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2003073329A1 true WO2003073329A1 (en) 2003-09-04

Family

ID=27753251

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2003/005433 WO2003073329A1 (en) 2002-02-26 2003-02-24 System and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (5) US6772147B2 (en)
EP (2) EP1485826A4 (en)
JP (2) JP4891525B2 (en)
KR (3) KR101030874B1 (en)
AU (1) AU2003213240A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2003073329A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (76)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7490092B2 (en) * 2000-07-06 2009-02-10 Streamsage, Inc. Method and system for indexing and searching timed media information based upon relevance intervals
US6772147B2 (en) * 2002-02-26 2004-08-03 Sony Corporation System and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television
US7177608B2 (en) * 2002-03-11 2007-02-13 Catch A Wave Technologies Personal spectrum recorder
KR100469263B1 (en) * 2002-06-03 2005-02-02 엘지전자 주식회사 Method and apparatus for managing data of PVR sytem
WO2006053011A2 (en) * 2004-11-09 2006-05-18 Veveo, Inc. Method and system for secure sharing, gifting, and purchasing of content on television and mobile devices
US7895218B2 (en) 2004-11-09 2011-02-22 Veveo, Inc. Method and system for performing searches for television content using reduced text input
US20080196057A1 (en) * 2005-03-31 2008-08-14 Koninklijke Philips Electronics, N.V. Apparatus, Method and System for Generating Private Personal Virtual Channels
US8122034B2 (en) 2005-06-30 2012-02-21 Veveo, Inc. Method and system for incremental search with reduced text entry where the relevance of results is a dynamically computed function of user input search string character count
US7779011B2 (en) 2005-08-26 2010-08-17 Veveo, Inc. Method and system for dynamically processing ambiguous, reduced text search queries and highlighting results thereof
US7788266B2 (en) 2005-08-26 2010-08-31 Veveo, Inc. Method and system for processing ambiguous, multi-term search queries
KR100806579B1 (en) * 2005-09-23 2008-02-28 엘지전자 주식회사 Schedule management method and system to use digital multimedia broadcasting
US20070088681A1 (en) * 2005-10-17 2007-04-19 Veveo, Inc. Method and system for offsetting network latencies during incremental searching using local caching and predictive fetching of results from a remote server
US7644054B2 (en) * 2005-11-23 2010-01-05 Veveo, Inc. System and method for finding desired results by incremental search using an ambiguous keypad with the input containing orthographic and typographic errors
US20070157264A1 (en) * 2005-12-30 2007-07-05 Norton Garfinkle Method and system for providing a comprehensive integration of transmitted video, interactive television, video on demand and video catalogue services
WO2007089663A2 (en) * 2006-01-27 2007-08-09 Veveo, Inc. System and method for incremental user query on handheld device
US7739280B2 (en) 2006-03-06 2010-06-15 Veveo, Inc. Methods and systems for selecting and presenting content based on user preference information extracted from an aggregate preference signature
US8073860B2 (en) 2006-03-30 2011-12-06 Veveo, Inc. Method and system for incrementally selecting and providing relevant search engines in response to a user query
US7461061B2 (en) * 2006-04-20 2008-12-02 Veveo, Inc. User interface methods and systems for selecting and presenting content based on user navigation and selection actions associated with the content
US11363347B1 (en) 2006-05-19 2022-06-14 Universal Innovation Council, LLC Creating customized programming content
US9602884B1 (en) 2006-05-19 2017-03-21 Universal Innovation Counsel, Inc. Creating customized programming content
US8751672B2 (en) 2006-06-21 2014-06-10 Verizon Data Services Llc Personal video channels
KR100710272B1 (en) * 2006-07-20 2007-04-20 엘지전자 주식회사 A mobile terminal and broadcast signal receiving and reservation method using the same
US7536384B2 (en) 2006-09-14 2009-05-19 Veveo, Inc. Methods and systems for dynamically rearranging search results into hierarchically organized concept clusters
WO2008045690A2 (en) 2006-10-06 2008-04-17 Veveo, Inc. Linear character selection display interface for ambiguous text input
US8520850B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2013-08-27 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Downloadable security and protection methods and apparatus
US8078884B2 (en) 2006-11-13 2011-12-13 Veveo, Inc. Method of and system for selecting and presenting content based on user identification
US8555318B2 (en) * 2006-12-06 2013-10-08 Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. Customized media on demand
US20080178239A1 (en) * 2007-01-19 2008-07-24 At&T Knowledge Ventures, Lp System and method of providing selected video content
US8621540B2 (en) 2007-01-24 2013-12-31 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for provisioning in a download-enabled system
US8782698B2 (en) * 2007-04-30 2014-07-15 Google Inc. Customizable media channels
US8296294B2 (en) 2007-05-25 2012-10-23 Veveo, Inc. Method and system for unified searching across and within multiple documents
WO2008148012A1 (en) 2007-05-25 2008-12-04 Veveo, Inc. System and method for text disambiguation and context designation in incremental search
US8943539B2 (en) 2007-11-21 2015-01-27 Rovi Guides, Inc. Enabling a friend to remotely modify user data
US8768137B2 (en) * 2007-12-14 2014-07-01 Microsoft Corporation Program segments display bar
KR101527385B1 (en) * 2008-04-28 2015-06-09 삼성전자 주식회사 Image processing apparatus and image processing method having the same
SG2014015010A (en) * 2008-04-30 2014-05-29 Gradalis Inc Highly pure plasmid dna preparations and processes for preparing the same
US20090328104A1 (en) * 2008-06-26 2009-12-31 At&T Delaware Intellectual Property, Inc. Methods, systems, and computer products for personalized channel services
US9357247B2 (en) 2008-11-24 2016-05-31 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for content delivery and message exchange across multiple content delivery networks
US9442933B2 (en) * 2008-12-24 2016-09-13 Comcast Interactive Media, Llc Identification of segments within audio, video, and multimedia items
US8713016B2 (en) 2008-12-24 2014-04-29 Comcast Interactive Media, Llc Method and apparatus for organizing segments of media assets and determining relevance of segments to a query
US11531668B2 (en) 2008-12-29 2022-12-20 Comcast Interactive Media, Llc Merging of multiple data sets
US8176043B2 (en) * 2009-03-12 2012-05-08 Comcast Interactive Media, Llc Ranking search results
US11076189B2 (en) 2009-03-30 2021-07-27 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Personal media channel apparatus and methods
US9215423B2 (en) 2009-03-30 2015-12-15 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Recommendation engine apparatus and methods
US8490135B2 (en) * 2009-05-11 2013-07-16 Microsoft Corporation Virtual media channels
US8533223B2 (en) 2009-05-12 2013-09-10 Comcast Interactive Media, LLC. Disambiguation and tagging of entities
US8813127B2 (en) * 2009-05-19 2014-08-19 Microsoft Corporation Media content retrieval system and personal virtual channel
US9602864B2 (en) 2009-06-08 2017-03-21 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Media bridge apparatus and methods
US9892730B2 (en) 2009-07-01 2018-02-13 Comcast Interactive Media, Llc Generating topic-specific language models
US9166714B2 (en) 2009-09-11 2015-10-20 Veveo, Inc. Method of and system for presenting enriched video viewing analytics
US8396055B2 (en) 2009-10-20 2013-03-12 Time Warner Cable Inc. Methods and apparatus for enabling media functionality in a content-based network
US10264029B2 (en) 2009-10-30 2019-04-16 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Methods and apparatus for packetized content delivery over a content delivery network
US9519728B2 (en) 2009-12-04 2016-12-13 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for monitoring and optimizing delivery of content in a network
US20110191332A1 (en) 2010-02-04 2011-08-04 Veveo, Inc. Method of and System for Updating Locally Cached Content Descriptor Information
KR20130001726A (en) 2010-02-19 2013-01-04 톰슨 라이센싱 Enhanced content search
US9342661B2 (en) 2010-03-02 2016-05-17 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for rights-managed content and data delivery
US9906838B2 (en) 2010-07-12 2018-02-27 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for content delivery and message exchange across multiple content delivery networks
US8997136B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2015-03-31 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for packetized content delivery over a bandwidth-efficient network
EP2609750A4 (en) * 2010-08-26 2014-10-08 Tarik Taleb System and method for creating multimedia content channel customized for social network
WO2012034069A1 (en) 2010-09-10 2012-03-15 Veveo, Inc. Method of and system for conducting personalized federated search and presentation of results therefrom
US8395552B2 (en) 2010-11-23 2013-03-12 Metamagnetics, Inc. Antenna module having reduced size, high gain, and increased power efficiency
US9602414B2 (en) 2011-02-09 2017-03-21 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for controlled bandwidth reclamation
CA2835115C (en) 2011-05-09 2016-12-13 Metamagnetics, Inc. Magnetic grain boundary engineered ferrite core materials
US9571869B2 (en) * 2012-03-29 2017-02-14 Sony Corporation Method and apparatus for content channels based on selection criteria
US9467723B2 (en) 2012-04-04 2016-10-11 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for automated highlight reel creation in a content delivery network
CN103581736A (en) * 2012-07-26 2014-02-12 腾讯科技（深圳）有限公司 Digital television terminal, video file playing method and video file playing system
US20140082645A1 (en) 2012-09-14 2014-03-20 Peter Stern Apparatus and methods for providing enhanced or interactive features
US9565472B2 (en) 2012-12-10 2017-02-07 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for content transfer protection
US20140245334A1 (en) * 2013-02-26 2014-08-28 Rawllin International Inc. Personal videos aggregation
US9621940B2 (en) 2014-05-29 2017-04-11 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for recording, accessing, and delivering packetized content
US10116676B2 (en) 2015-02-13 2018-10-30 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for data collection, analysis and service modification based on online activity
US10397631B2 (en) 2015-10-23 2019-08-27 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Method and apparatus for flexible consumption of media content
US10404758B2 (en) 2016-02-26 2019-09-03 Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc Apparatus and methods for centralized message exchange in a user premises device
DE112018007257T5 (en) * 2018-03-09 2020-12-24 Lg Electronics Inc. Display device
KR102127250B1 (en) * 2019-05-30 2020-06-29 이세령 Server and method for providing channel information of video sharing service
WO2024151245A1 (en) * 2023-01-09 2024-07-18 Rakuten Mobile Usa Llc System, method and computer program for managing information in marketplace

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5534911A (en) 1994-11-02 1996-07-09 Levitan; Gutman Virtual personal channel in a television system
US6133909A (en) * 1996-06-13 2000-10-17 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Method and apparatus for searching a guide using program characteristics
US6484164B1 (en) * 2000-03-29 2002-11-19 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Data search user interface with ergonomic mechanism for user profile definition and manipulation

Family Cites Families (21)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5481296A (en) * 1993-08-06 1996-01-02 International Business Machines Corporation Apparatus and method for selectively viewing video information
US5544354A (en) * 1994-07-18 1996-08-06 Ikonic Interactive, Inc. Multimedia matrix architecture user interface
US5861906A (en) * 1995-05-05 1999-01-19 Microsoft Corporation Interactive entertainment network system and method for customizing operation thereof according to viewer preferences
DK0932398T3 (en) * 1996-06-28 2006-09-25 Ortho Mcneil Pharm Inc Use of topiramate or derivatives thereof for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of manic depressive bipolar disorders
FR2752130B1 (en) * 1996-07-31 1999-03-19 Thomson Multimedia Sa METHOD FOR SELECTING PROGRAMS, ESPECIALLY TELEVISION PROGRAMS AND GRAPHIC DEVICE AND INTERFACE IMPLEMENTING SAID METHOD
US6184877B1 (en) * 1996-12-11 2001-02-06 International Business Machines Corporation System and method for interactively accessing program information on a television
US6005565A (en) * 1997-03-25 1999-12-21 Sony Corporation Integrated search of electronic program guide, internet and other information resources
US6324338B1 (en) * 1998-08-07 2001-11-27 Replaytv, Inc. Video data recorder with integrated channel guides
JP5068910B2 (en) * 1999-08-31 2012-11-07 トムソン ライセンシング Method and apparatus for delivery of targeted video programming
US6684399B1 (en) * 1999-09-17 2004-01-27 Spotware Technologies, Inc. Electronic program guide including live network multimedia broadcast channels
AU1783401A (en) * 1999-11-22 2001-06-04 America Online, Inc. Managing electronic content from different sources
AU1627601A (en) * 1999-11-29 2001-06-04 Binary Broadcasting Corporation Secure digital music distribution
JP2001238196A (en) * 2000-02-21 2001-08-31 Hitachi Ltd Retrieval system, receiver, retrieval device and retrieval method
EP1130871A1 (en) * 2000-03-01 2001-09-05 BRITISH TELECOMMUNICATIONS public limited company Media session discovery
KR100809308B1 (en) * 2000-03-29 2008-03-04 코닌클리케 필립스 일렉트로닉스 엔.브이. Search user interface for constructing and managing user profiles and search criteria
JP4992175B2 (en) 2000-03-29 2012-08-08 ソニー株式会社 Content guide generation apparatus and content guide generation method
JP3810268B2 (en) * 2000-04-07 2006-08-16 シャープ株式会社 Audio visual system
JP4953496B2 (en) * 2000-05-15 2012-06-13 ソニー株式会社 Content search / presentation system and method, and software storage medium
JP4218185B2 (en) * 2000-05-23 2009-02-04 ソニー株式会社 Program recording / reproducing system, program recording / reproducing method, and program recording / reproducing apparatus
US6850934B2 (en) * 2001-03-26 2005-02-01 International Business Machines Corporation Adaptive search engine query
US6772147B2 (en) 2002-02-26 2004-08-03 Sony Corporation System and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5534911A (en) 1994-11-02 1996-07-09 Levitan; Gutman Virtual personal channel in a television system
US6133909A (en) * 1996-06-13 2000-10-17 Starsight Telecast, Inc. Method and apparatus for searching a guide using program characteristics
US6484164B1 (en) * 2000-03-29 2002-11-19 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Data search user interface with ergonomic mechanism for user profile definition and manipulation

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See also references of EP1485826A4

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US8386496B2 (en) 2013-02-26
KR101030874B1 (en) 2011-04-22
KR100961302B1 (en) 2010-06-04
JP4891525B2 (en) 2012-03-07
USRE41810E1 (en) 2010-10-05
KR20100067691A (en) 2010-06-21
US20120180088A1 (en) 2012-07-12
JP2005518740A (en) 2005-06-23
US20080271085A1 (en) 2008-10-30
KR20040084937A (en) 2004-10-06
KR100995440B1 (en) 2010-11-18
US20130073540A1 (en) 2013-03-21
US8825676B2 (en) 2014-09-02
KR20100003307A (en) 2010-01-07
EP1485826A1 (en) 2004-12-15
US6772147B2 (en) 2004-08-03
EP1485826A4 (en) 2005-08-31
EP2378442A1 (en) 2011-10-19
US8176059B2 (en) 2012-05-08
JP5345126B2 (en) 2013-11-20
JP2011120252A (en) 2011-06-16
US20030163443A1 (en) 2003-08-28
AU2003213240A1 (en) 2003-09-09

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US6772147B2 (en) System and method for effectively implementing a personal channel for interactive television
US9405753B2 (en) Dynamic ratings-based streaming media playback system
US7228305B1 (en) Rating system for streaming media playback system
US6721741B1 (en) Streaming media search system
US7281034B1 (en) System and method for media playback over a network using links that contain control signals and commands
US20040177370A1 (en) Storage and use of viewer preference data in a device remote from a set-top box
WO2001053994A2 (en) Streaming media search and playback system
CN101589617A (en) Customized media on demand
US20170078361A1 (en) Method and System for Collecting Digital Media Data and Metadata and Audience Data
CN103686308A (en) Method and system for setting video shuffle playing
US20240236424A1 (en) Dynamic syncing of aggregated media from streaming services
EP1348176A2 (en) Streaming media search and playback system

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AE AG AL AM AT AU AZ BA BB BG BR BY BZ CA CH CN CO CR CU CZ DE DK DM DZ EC EE ES FI GB GD GE GH GM HR HU ID IL IN IS JP KE KG KP KR KZ LC LK LR LS LT LU LV MA MD MG MK MN MW MX MZ NO NZ OM PH PL PT RO RU SC SD SE SG SK SL TJ TM TN TR TT TZ UA UG UZ VC VN YU ZA ZM ZW

AL Designated countries for regional patents

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): GH GM KE LS MW MZ SD SL SZ TZ UG ZM ZW AM AZ BY KG KZ MD RU TJ TM AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IT LU MC NL PT SE SI SK TR BF BJ CF CG CI CM GA GN GQ GW ML MR NE SN TD TG

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application
WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 1020047013290

Country of ref document: KR

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2003571951

Country of ref document: JP

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2003709286

Country of ref document: EP

WWP Wipo information: published in national office

Ref document number: 1020047013290

Country of ref document: KR

WWP Wipo information: published in national office

Ref document number: 2003709286

Country of ref document: EP