A system and method includes a user receiving device receiving a linear content signal from a head end and a client device in communication with the user receiving device. The user receiving device generates renderable signal from the live linear content and communicates the linear content signal or renderable signal to the client device as a display signal. The client device comprises a virtual reality application defining a television display area for a graphics display of a virtual reality display device. The virtual reality application scales the linear content signal or the renderable signal to correspond to the television display area to form scaled content. The virtual reality display device displays virtual reality graphics with the scaled content in the television display area.
G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
A63F 13/26 - Output arrangements for video game devices having at least one additional display device, e.g. on the game controller or outside a game booth
H04N 21/431 - Generation of visual interfaces; Content or additional data rendering
H04N 21/41 - Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
H04N 21/462 - Content or additional data management e.g. creating a master electronic program guide from data received from the Internet and a Head-end or controlling the complexity of a video stream by scaling the resolution or bit-rate based on the client capabi
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
H04N 21/4402 - Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream or rendering scenes according to MPEG-4 scene graphs involving reformatting operations of video signals for household redistribution, storage or real-time display
H04N 21/443 - OS processes, e.g. booting an STB, implementing a Java virtual machine in an STB or power management in an STB
H04N 21/478 - Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification or shopping application
H04N 21/61 - Network physical structure; Signal processing
H04N 21/258 - Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics or processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
H04N 21/4408 - Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream or rendering scenes according to MPEG-4 scene graphs involving video stream encryption, e.g. re-encrypting a decrypted video stream for redistribution in a home network
H04N 21/4405 - Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream or rendering scenes according to MPEG-4 scene graphs involving video stream decryption
Embodiments disclose systems and methods for testing and determining outages of communication systems. A server can receive signal-reception-related information from set-top boxes (STBs) in a particular geographical region, where a STB: receives signals having a predefined pattern, generates a comparison of the predefined pattern to reference patterns stored on the STB, generates the signal-reception-related information based on the comparison, and sends the signal-reception-related information. The server can determine an outage status for the particular geographical region based on the signal-reception-related information. The server can generate an output based on the outage status. The output is configured to provide information related to the outage status of the particular geographical region and information for possible responses related to the outage status. The server can send the output.
H04N 21/24 - Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. monitoring of server load, available bandwidth or upstream requests
H04N 21/442 - Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. detecting the failure of a recording device, monitoring the downstream bandwidth, the number of times a movie has been viewed or the storage space available from the internal hard disk
3.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRIGGERING USER INTERFACES FOR PRODUCT AND/OR SERVICE TRANSACTIONS VIA USER RECEIVING DEVICES AND MOBILE DEVICES
A user receiving device including at least one transceiver module, an output module, and a control module. The at least one transceiver module is configured to receive a file from a first backend device. The file indicates where in a video an object is shown. The output module is configured to playout the video on a display. The display is connected to the user receiving device. The control module is configured to monitor data in the file while the video is being played out to detect the object, and generate a signal to indicate on the display that the object is purchasable.
G06Q 30/02 - Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
4.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SPOTTED ADVERTISING AND CONTROL OF CORRESPONDING USER INTERFACES AND TRANSACTIONS VIA USER RECEIVING DEVICES AND MOBILE DEVICES
A user receiving device including at least one transceiver module, an output module, and a control module. The at least one transceiver module is configured to receive metadata and a program or video from a first backend device. The metadata indicates where in the program or video a spotted ad is included. The output module is configured to display the program or video on a display. The display is connected to the user receiving device. The at least one transceiver module is configured to receive a request signal from a mobile device. The request signal indicates a viewer of the video has detected the spotted ad. The control module is configured to, based on the request signal, save information pertaining to the request signal, open a dialogue window or initiate a survey.
A dongle is configured to connect to a set top box. The dongle includes a memory for storing data, such as callback data files, and a wireless communication module for forwarding the stored data to an access point, for delivery to a television service provider head end. The dongle can also receive information to be provided to the set top box. Authentication and authorization of the dongle ensure only authenticated and authorized devices can access the system. A communication technology is used that allows for a large coverage area and simultaneous communication with many set top boxes.
A system for viewing on-demand content includes a user receiving device and a local head end in communication with the receiving device that communicates metadata and material identifiers for on-demand content. Each on-demand content is associated with one of the material identifiers. The user receiving device stores the metadata and the material identifiers for the on-demand content. The local head end receives content. Each content is associated with one of the material identifiers. The user receiving device communicates a request for on-demand content data signal to the local head end. The local head end communicates a manifest comprising material identifiers for content stored at the head end. The user receiving device, after receiving the manifest, displays metadata from the memory of the user receiving device corresponding to the material identifiers.
A system and method for moving displayed content between a first device and a second device includes a first display displaying video content having a first content identifier. A first device forms a transfer signal by a gesture or a user interface. The first device communicates a query command signal comprising the first content identifier to a separate web service. The first device receives an asset data signal comprising at least a second content identifier from the web service in response to the query command signal. The second content identifier relates to the first content identifier. One of the first device and the second device requests the video content based on the second identifier and a resume point. The resume point corresponds to a playback position of the video content being displayed at about a time of generating the transfer signal and a second display displays the video content.
H04N 21/41 - Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
H04N 21/658 - Transmission by the client directed to the server
H04N 21/6587 - Control parameters, e.g. trick play commands or viewpoint selection
H04N 21/845 - Structuring of content, e.g. decomposing content into time segments
H04N 21/262 - Content or additional data distribution scheduling, e.g. sending additional data at off-peak times, updating software modules, calculating the carousel transmission frequency, delaying a video stream transmission or generating play-lists
8.
SYSTEM AND METHOD TO DETECT GARBLED CLOSED CAPTIONING
A garbled closed captioning detector analyzes closed captioning data at predetermined intervals to determine whether a metric derived from the closed-captioning data exceeds a threshold. If the metric exceeds the predetermined threshold, the closed captioning data is presumed to be garbled. For example, the metric may be the percentage of words in the closed captioning data having a desired word length observed in a particular interval compared to all words in the closed captioning data observed in the interval. If the percentage of words having a desired word length exceeds a predetermined threshold, the closed captioning data is presumed to be garbled.
A system for controlling a communication system includes a local area network, a client device and a server device in communication with the client device through the local area network. The server device communicates an audio-video stream and a remote user interface to the client device through the local area network. The client receives an input signal and communicates an allocate memory signal requesting the server device to allocate memory in response to the input signal. The server device allocates memory for receiving data corresponding to the input signal in response to the allocate memory signal to form allocated memory. The client device communicates the data signal corresponding to the input signal to the server device. The server device stores data from the data signal in the allocated memory and communicates a response to the client device based on the data signal.
H04N 21/658 - Transmission by the client directed to the server
H04N 21/239 - Interfacing the upstream path of the transmission network, e.g. prioritizing client requests
H04N 21/233 - Processing of audio elementary streams
H04N 21/234 - Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing of video streams or manipulating MPEG-4 scene graphs
H04N 21/472 - End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification or for manipulating displayed content
10.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMMERSIVE VIEWING EXPERIENCE
Described herein are methods and systems that may help to provide selectable viewing options for a television program. An exemplary method involves: (i) receiving a television video transport stream comprising video content associated with a particular television program, wherein the television video transport stream comprises focal-point metadata regarding at least one focus point, wherein the at least one focus point corresponds to a sub-frame within at least one frame of the video content, (ii) receiving focal-point input data indicating a zoom request, (iii) processing the video content in response to the focal- point input data, and (iv) generating a television video output signal comprising video content that is zoomed to the sub-frame, wherein the television video output signal is configured to be displayable on a graphic display.
H04N 21/218 - Source of audio or video content, e.g. local disk arrays
H04N 21/6587 - Control parameters, e.g. trick play commands or viewpoint selection
H04N 21/4728 - End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification or for manipulating displayed content for selecting a ROI [Region Of Interest], e.g. for requesting a higher resolution version of a selected region
H04N 21/84 - Generation or processing of descriptive data, e.g. content descriptors
11.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR USING HIERARCHICAL METADATA FOR SEARCHING AND RECORDING CONTENT
A user device for storing or displaying content recommendations includes a search session manager receiving metadata associated with content. The metadata includes a received hierarchical identifier including a primary level and a secondary level unique to the primary level. A memory stores selected hierarchical identifiers. A search module compares the received hierarchical identifiers with the selected hierarchical identifiers. A screen display displays content from at least one of the primary level and secondary level based on comparing.
A wireless communication device includes: heat transfer fins; first and second antennas; a wireless transmitter; and a wireless receiver. The heat transfer fins project outwardly from the wireless communication device, receive heat produced by electric components of the wireless communication device, and transfer heat to air passing the heat transfer fins. The first antenna is disposed at least partially within a first recess formed in a first exterior surface of one of the heat transfer fins and contacts at least a portion of the first recess. The second antenna is disposed at least partially within a second recess formed in a second exterior surface of another one of the heat transfer fins and contacts at least a portion of the second recess. The wireless transmitter applies first signals to the first antenna to wirelessly transmit signals. The wireless receiver receives second signals generated by the second antenna.
An electronic device includes: a housing having one or more interior surfaces; an electronic circuit that is disposed within the housing, that does not directly contact any of the one or more interior surfaces of the housing, and that includes at least one electrical component that consumes electrical power; and a thermally conductive material that surrounds the electronic circuit within the housing, that directly contacts both the at least one electrical component and the one or more interior surfaces of the housing, that absorbs heat from the at least one electrical component, and that transfers heat to the housing.
Embodiments disclose systems and methods for requesting a communication. A method may include receiving, at a computing device, a first input that corresponds to a request for one or more phone numbers, wherein the request is associated with an account. In response to receiving the first input, the method may include the computing device selecting a phone number that is pre-associated with the account. The method may also include transmitting a call request from the computing device, wherein the call request indicates the selected phone number is to be called.
An apparatus and method for combining signals received from a direct broadcast satellite system with signals received from a wireless network, includes a satellite antenna for receiving the signals from the direct broadcast satellite system; and a wireless network antenna, co-located with the satellite antenna, for receiving the signals from the wireless network. The wireless network antenna includes an antenna assembly that is rotated by a controller based on characteristics of the signals received from the wireless network. The controller energizes and de-energizes a motor to mechanically rotate the antenna assembly to properly align the wireless network antenna to communicate with the wireless network. The wireless network antenna comprises a closed cylinder, wherein the antenna assembly is rotatably mounted within the closed cylinder, such that, upon command from the controller, the motor engages the antenna assembly to mechanically rotate the antenna assembly about a central axis of the closed cylinder.
H01Q 1/24 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles with receiving set
H01Q 1/42 - Housings not intimately mechanically associated with radiating elements, e.g. radome
H01Q 3/04 - Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system using mechanical movement of antenna or antenna system as a whole for varying one co-ordinate of the orientation
H01Q 19/12 - Combinations of primary active antenna elements and units with secondary devices, e.g. with quasi-optical devices, for giving the antenna a desired directional characteristic using reflecting surfaces wherein the surfaces are concave
H01Q 21/28 - Combinations of substantially independent non-interacting antenna units or systems
16.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING HIGH BANDWIDTH SIGNALS WITH LOW BANDWIDTH TRANSPONDERS
A method and apparatus for transmitting a plurality of elementary data streams to a plurality of receivers is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of generating M data streams comprising K multiplexed elementary data streams in a first entity, transmitting the M data streams to a second entity, generating N transmitter streams from the M data streams in the second entity; and transmitting each of the N transmitter streams to the plurality of receivers using an associated one of N broadcast sub-transmitters.
H04N 21/2365 - Multiplexing of several video streams
H04N 21/61 - Network physical structure; Signal processing
H04N 21/238 - Interfacing the downstream path of the transmission network, e.g. adapting the transmission rate of a video stream to network bandwidth; Processing of multiplex streams
17.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DISPLAYING RECOMMENDED CONTENT SUCH AS MOVIES ASSOCIATED WITH A CLUSTER
A method and system for recommending content includes a user device having a memory storing a taxonomy table having content cluster identifiers therein. The user device receives an external recommendations list for the content cluster at the user device. The recommendations list has a plurality of content identifiers each having one content cluster identifier. A viewer tracking module generates a viewed content history for content relative to the content clusters identifiers that correspond to viewed content at the user device. A recommendation module generates an internal recommendations list by comparing the external recommendations list to the viewed content history at the user device. The internal recommendation list also presents recommendations capturing the distinct user tastes in a family viewing device. A display displays the internal recommendations list, with section headers of different granularity describing the nature of the recommended content at cluster, sub-genre and genre levels.
H04N 21/442 - Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. detecting the failure of a recording device, monitoring the downstream bandwidth, the number of times a movie has been viewed or the storage space available from the internal hard disk
G06F 17/30 - Information retrieval; Database structures therefor
G11B 27/034 - Electronic editing of digitised analogue information signals, e.g. audio or video signals on discs
H04H 60/33 - Arrangements for monitoring the users' behaviour or opinions
H04N 21/466 - Learning process for intelligent management, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies
H04N 21/262 - Content or additional data distribution scheduling, e.g. sending additional data at off-peak times, updating software modules, calculating the carousel transmission frequency, delaying a video stream transmission or generating play-lists
H04N 21/482 - End-user interface for program selection
H04N 21/84 - Generation or processing of descriptive data, e.g. content descriptors
18.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RECORDING RECOMMENDED CONTENT USING CLUSTERING
A method and system for storing push content includes a user device having a memory and a viewer tracking module generating a viewed content history for content corresponding to viewed content at the user device. A recommendation recording module compares the viewed content history and push content and stores at least one push content at the user device in response comparing to form a recorded content push list. A display displays the recorded content push list corresponding to the content stored in the user device.
H04N 21/231 - Content storage operation, e.g. caching movies for short term storage, replicating data over plural servers or prioritizing data for deletion
H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
G06Q 50/00 - Systems or methods specially adapted for specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
H04L 12/18 - Arrangements for providing special services to substations for broadcast or conference
H04N 21/442 - Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. detecting the failure of a recording device, monitoring the downstream bandwidth, the number of times a movie has been viewed or the storage space available from the internal hard disk
H04N 21/6543 - Transmission by server directed to the client for forcing some client operations, e.g. recording
19.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING USER RECEIVING DEVICES WITH USER PROFILES
A system and method for operating with profiles includes a head end associating a first account profile having first profile settings and a first identifier and a second account profile having second profile settings and a second identifier with a user account. A first user receiving device operates with the first profile settings. The head end communicates second profile settings to the first user receiving device and the first user receiving device operates with the second profile settings.
H04N 21/258 - Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics or processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
20.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TRANSFERRING USER SETTINGS TO ANOTHER USER RECEIVING DEVICE USING A MOBILE USER DEVICE
A system and method for operating a user receiving device includes a first user device that receives first user settings and stores the first user settings therein. The first user device communicates first user settings to a second user receiving device. The second user receiving device operates with the first user settings.
A system and method for operating a user receiving device includes a bead end associating a first riser device with a user account having first user settings. A first user device communicates a device identifier associated with the user receiving device to the head end. The head end communicates the first user settings associated with the user account to the user receiving device. The user receiving device operates with the first user settings.
H04N 21/258 - Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics or processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
H04N 21/6547 - Transmission by server directed to the client comprising parameters, e.g. for client setup
22.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING A USER RECEIVING DEVICE USING VOICE COMMANDS
A system and method includes a language processing module converting an electrical signal corresponding to an audible signal into a textual signal. The system further includes a command generation module converting the textual signal into a user receiving device control signal. A controller controls a function of a user receiving device in response to the user receiving device control signal.
A system and method for operating the same includes a conversation manager that receives a receiving a first search request and, after receiving the first search request, receives a second search request. The system also includes a classifier module within the conversation manager classifying the first search request relative to the second search request as related or not related. A context merger module within the classifier module combines the first search request and the second search request to form a merged search request. A search module performs a second search based on the merged search request.
A system includes a voice converter converting a first voice command into a first electrical command and a command library having library contents. A language responsiveness module (LRM) stores the first electrical command in a temporary set when a first control command cannot be determined from the library contents. A voice prompt module receives a second voice command when the first control command cannot be determined from the library contents. The voice converter converts a second voice command into a second electrical command corresponding to the second voice command. The LRM compares the second electrical command to the command library. The LRM determines a second control command corresponding to the second electrical command in response to comparing the second voice command to the command library and stores the first voice command in the command library after determining the control command corresponding to the second voice command.
A user receiving device (30) and method includes a content delivery network manager interaction module communicating a request for a content delivery network address for a content to a content delivery network manager (228) and receiving the content delivery network address for a content delivery network (50) and a content delivery network token from the content delivery network manager (228). The user receiving device (30) also includes a manifest interaction module communicating a manifest request to the content delivery network address of the content delivery network (50) and receiving a manifest from the content delivery network (50) comprising a plurality of chunk addresses. The user receiving device (30) also includes a content delivery network interaction module generating requests for chunks of the content from the content delivery network (50) using the content delivery network token and a respective chunk address and receiving the chunks from the content delivery network (50).
A method and apparatus for assigning processing requests is disclosed. The method is typically used in a processing system comprising a first processing center and one or more second processing centers remote from the first processing center, a. A method of assigning a processing request may comprise the steps of: determining at a traffic distribution controller a capacity of each of the processing centers to process the processing request, accepting a processing request in the first processing center, and assigning the processing request to at least one of the second processing centers according to the determined current capacity of each of the processing centers. The processing request is initially addressed to a first global address of the first processing center, then the processing request is readdressed to a second global address of one of the second processing centers.
A system and method for distributing television signals includes a multi-switch module multiplexing television signals therethrough. The system further includes a plurality of unit configurations having respective power sources therein. The plurality of unit configurations receives the television signals. The system also includes a splitting module in communication with the multi-switch module and the plurality of unit configurations whereby at least one of the plurality of unit configurations powers the multi-switch module.
H04N 21/61 - Network physical structure; Signal processing
H04N 7/10 - Adaptations for transmission by electrical cable
H04H 40/90 - Arrangements characterised by circuits or components specially adapted for receiving specially adapted for broadcast systems covered by groups specially adapted for satellite broadcast receiving
H04H 20/63 - Arrangements specially adapted for specific applications, e.g. for traffic information or for mobile receivers for local area broadcast, e.g. instore broadcast to plural spots in a confined site, e.g. MATV [Master Antenna Television]
28.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMMUNICATING BETWEEN A HOST DEVICE AND USER DEVICE THROUGH AN INTERMEDIATE DEVICE USING A COMPOSITE VIDEO SIGNAL
A system and method includes a host device using a first format, an intermediate device, a user device using a second format and a network in communication with the host device, the intermediate device and the user device. The user device communicates a first user generated signal having the second format to the intermediate device. The intermediate device converts the second format of the first user generated signal to the first format to form a second user generated signal. The intermediate device communicates the second user generated signal to the host device.
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
G06F 9/44 - Arrangements for executing specific programs
H04N 21/472 - End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification or for manipulating displayed content
H04N 21/6377 - Control signals issued by the client directed to the server or network components directed to server
29.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMMUNICATING BETWEEN A HOST DEVICE AND A USER DEVICE THROUGH AN INTERMEDIATE DEVICE USING A COMPOSITE GRAPHICS SIGNAL
A system and method includes a host device, an intermediate device and a user device. A network is in communication with the host device, the intermediate device and the user device. The host device communicates a first graphics command and a second graphics command to the intermediate device. The intermediate device composites the first graphics command and the second graphics command to form a composite graphics command and communicating the composite graphics command to the user device. The user device generates a screen display in response to the composite graphics command.
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
H04N 21/472 - End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification or for manipulating displayed content
H04N 21/6377 - Control signals issued by the client directed to the server or network components directed to server
G06F 9/44 - Arrangements for executing specific programs
30.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMMUNICATING BETWEEN A HOST DEVICE AND USER DEVICE THROUGH AN INTERMEDIATE DEVICE SYNTAX TRANSLATION
A system and method includes a host device (server 510), an intermediate device (514) and a user device (516) having a device type associated therewith. A network is in communication with the host device, the intermediate device and the user device. The host device communicates a first graphics command to the intermediate device. The intermediate device converts the first graphics command to a second graphics command in response to the device type. The user device generates a screen display in response to the second graphics command. The conversion may be from a RVU protocol command to a JSON command. JSON responses from the user device are converted into RVU responses by the intermediate device.
A checkerboard subsampled image (fig.4) is packed in a format to remove shifts that would otherwise result in jagged edges where edges that were not jagged used to exist when checkerboard subsampling is used to reduce video bandwidth. The packing format places alternate rows of a checkerboard subsampled image row by row (fig.6A) or places alternate columns of a checkerboard image line by line (fig.6B). By removing the shift and jagged edges, high frequency components that are difficult compress and display as annoying artifacts arc eliminated.
A system and method for using content on multiple devices includes a head end associating a first user device and a second user device with a user account and authorizing the first user device and the second user device to receive content. The first user device forms a selection signal corresponding to a first content. The head end communicates the first content to the first user device corresponding to the selection signal. The first user device displays the first content on a first display associated therewith. The second user device receives the first content and displays the first content on a second display associated with the second user device.
H04N 21/41 - Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
H04N 21/414 - Specialised client platforms, e.g. receiver in car or embedded in a mobile appliance
H04N 21/472 - End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification or for manipulating displayed content
H04N 21/658 - Transmission by the client directed to the server
H04N 21/6587 - Control parameters, e.g. trick play commands or viewpoint selection
33.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INSERTING ADVERTISING INTO A VIDEO SIGNAL AT A RECEIVING DEVICE NOT HAVING A DIGITAL VIDEO RECORDER ( NON-DVR) RECEIVER
system and method to operating a non-recordable receiving device comprises a video storage device and a network. The non-DVR receiving device is separate from the video storage device and communicates with the video storage device through the network. The non-DVR receiving device receives a video signal, monitors the television signal for an insert indicator and proximate the insert indicator, communicates an advertisement request signal from the non-DVR receiving device to the video storage device through the network. The video storage device communicates an advertisement to the non-DVR receiving device in response to the advertisement request signal. The non- DVR receiving device displays the advertisement on a display associated with the non- DVR receiving device.
H04N 21/2668 - Creating a channel for a dedicated end-user group, e.g. by inserting targeted commercials into a video stream based on end-user profiles
H04N 21/658 - Transmission by the client directed to the server
H04N 21/6587 - Control parameters, e.g. trick play commands or viewpoint selection
A method and system for providing content to a receiving device from a local headend is set forth. The local headend communicates channel data for content stored at a video server to a receiving device, receives a selection of the channel data to form selected content from the receiving device and communicates content corresponding to the selection to the receiving device. The local headend stores a purchase record corresponding to the selection at the local headend, associates the purchase record with the receiving device within the local headend and communicates a request for a callback from the local headend to the receiving device. The receiving device communicates a callback signal from the receiving device to an external headend comprising purchase data corresponding to the purchase record.
H04N 21/472 - End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification or for manipulating displayed content
H04N 21/222 - Secondary servers, e.g. proxy server or cable television Head-end
35.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DISPLAYING CONTENT OR CONFLICTS FROM MULTIPLE RECEIVING DEVICES ON A SECOND SCREEN DEVICE
A system and method is set forth for displaying schedule recording events or a second screen device that includes a controller and a display. The controller includes a hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) engine and a calendar display module. The HTTP engine receives scheduled recording data from a first receiving device. The scheduled recording data comprising a plurality of scheduled recording events. The HTTP engine receives conflict data corresponding to a conflict between at least two scheduled recording events based on the scheduled recording data. The calendar display module displays the scheduled recording events on a calendar screen display and displays a screen indicator at the second screen device indicative of a conflict.
H04N 21/436 - Interfacing a local distribution network, e.g. communicating with another STB or inside the home
H04N 21/458 - 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
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
36.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MANAGING DIGITAL RIGHTS FOR CONTENT
A method and system for providing digital rights to a user device is set forth. The user device forms a selection signal from guide data. The user device communicates a digital rights determination signal to a first authentication module in response to selecting. The first authentication module communicates a query signal to a second authentication rnodule to determine whether the user device is authorized to receive content associated vvith the selection signal. The second authentication module communicates an address of a content delivery module to the user device through the first authentication module when the user device is authorized. A digital rights management server communicates a request for content to a content delivery module using the address of the content delivery module. The content delivery module communicates content to the user device corresponding to the selection signal. The user device displays content on the display associated with the user device.
H04N 21/239 - Interfacing the upstream path of the transmission network, e.g. prioritizing client requests
H04N 21/258 - Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics or processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
H04N 21/266 - Channel or content management, e.g. generation and management of keys and entitlement messages in a conditional access system or merging a VOD unicast channel into a multicast channel
H04N 21/6334 - Control signals issued by server directed to the network components or client directed to client for authorisation, e.g. by transmitting a key
A system and method for remotely transcoding content includes a set top box generating a playlist corresponding to content titles stored in a memory of the set top box. A user device is in communication with the cloud location and the set top box through a network. The user device reviews the playlist and selects a first content title from the playlist to form a selection. The cloud location includes a transcoder device transcoding content corresponding to the selection to form transcoded content. One of the cloud location and the set top box communicates the transcoded content to the user device.
H04N 21/2343 - Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing of video streams or manipulating MPEG-4 scene graphs involving reformatting operations of video signals for distribution or compliance with end-user requests or end-user device requirements
H04N 21/254 - Management at additional data server, e.g. shopping server or rights management server
H04N 21/414 - Specialised client platforms, e.g. receiver in car or embedded in a mobile appliance
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
38.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTING UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A SET TOP BOX USING WEATHER PROFILES
A system and method for determining unauthorized use of a set top box includes a set top box that receives a profile of weather conditions in a geographic area, generating a weather log, comparing the weather log and the profile and disabling the set top box from receiving signals in response to comparing. A head end and a plurality of other set top boxes may be used to gather the weather data to form the profile.
H04N 21/258 - Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics or processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
H04N 21/442 - Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. detecting the failure of a recording device, monitoring the downstream bandwidth, the number of times a movie has been viewed or the storage space available from the internal hard disk
H04N 21/45 - 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
H04N 21/454 - Content filtering, e.g. blocking advertisements
H04N 21/61 - Network physical structure; Signal processing
H04N 21/658 - Transmission by the client directed to the server
H04N 21/6334 - Control signals issued by server directed to the network components or client directed to client for authorisation, e.g. by transmitting a key
39.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RENDERING ANTI-ALIASED TEXT TO A VIDEO SCREEN
Text is rendered to a television screen using only the alpha channel. This is accomplished by delaying blending with underlying video until the end of the process to thereby preserve the alpha channel information. Glyphs are used to graphically represent character data in the text to be rendered. Glyphs can be stored in a character texture. In addition, the glyphs can be contained in rectangles having identifiable locations in the character texture. The rectangles can have sizes dependent upon the glyph the rectangle contains.
A prerendered line texture stored in memory is used to generate an anti-aliased destination line in any direction to be displayed on a screen. A combination of tiling, stretching, and/or mirroring is used to generate the anti-aliased destination line. A blitter blits a rectangle in the prerendered line texture to a destination rectangle in the frame buffer that is displayed on the screen.
A method and system for controlling a local content aggregated system includes a switch module receiving a plurality of external channel signals, a plurality of user receiving devices and a local headend generating a local channel signal. The local headend also communicates the local channel signal to the switch module and communicates local program guide data corresponding to the local channel signal to the plurality of user receiving devices. The plurality of user receiving devices receives external program guide data corresponding to the plurality of external channels. The user receiving device selects either a first external channel signal from a plurality of external channel signals or the local channel signal at the program guide to form a selection signal corresponding to a selected channel at a first user receiving device of the plurality of user receiving devices. The user receiving device communicates the selection signal to the switch module from the first receiving device. The switch module switches the switch module in response to the selection signal and communicates the selected channel signal to the first user receiving device.
H04N 21/462 - Content or additional data management e.g. creating a master electronic program guide from data received from the Internet and a Head-end or controlling the complexity of a video stream by scaling the resolution or bit-rate based on the client capabi
H04N 21/482 - End-user interface for program selection
H04N 21/214 - Specialised server platform, e.g. server located in an airplane, hotel or hospital
42.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR USING A SECOND SCREEN DEVICE TO TUNE A SET TOP BOX
A system and method for displaying operating a receiving device includes a second screen device in communication with the receiving device. The second screen device displays streamed content having an identifier associated therewith having a touch screen, forms a tune command comprising the identifier and a receiving device identifier in response to a gesture on the touch screen and communicates the tune command to the receiving device from the second screen device. The receiving device is tuned to receive a channel corresponding to the streamed content in response to the tune command. The receiving device displays the channel.
A system and method for controlling a mobile device at a headend includes the mobile device communicating a request for content to the headend. The headend requests geographic coordinate location data from the mobile device and, when geographic coordinate data is available, determines a first geographic region associated with the mobile device in response to the geographic coordinate location data. When geographic coordinate data is not available from the mobile device, the headend extracts an IP address from the request and determines a second geographic region based on the IP address and a confidence level. When the confidence level is below a threshold, the headend determines a third geographic region based on subscriber data for the mobile device. The headend controls the mobile device in response to one of the first geographic region, the second geographic region and the third geographic region.
H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
H04N 7/173 - Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems with two-way working, e.g. subscriber sending a programme selection signal
H04N 21/222 - Secondary servers, e.g. proxy server or cable television Head-end
H04N 21/258 - Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics or processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
H04H 60/52 - Arrangements for identifying or recognising characteristics with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time, e.g. for identifying broadcast stations or for identifying users for identifying locations of users
H04W 4/02 - Services making use of location information
H04W 4/04 - in a dedicated environment, e.g. buildings or vehicles
H04N 21/45 - 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
H04N 21/454 - Content filtering, e.g. blocking advertisements
44.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR USING A SECOND SCREEN DEVICE FOR INTERACTING WITH A SET TOP BOX TO ENHANCE A USER EXPERIENCE
A system and method for displaying data related to a content displayed through a set top box (22) includes a second screen device (40) generating a content information request signal requesting data corresponding to the content, communicates the content information request signal to the set top box. A data services center aggregates data from a plurality of data sources including at least one social media source to form aggregated related content data. The set top box (22) communicates a content information signal to the second screen device (40) comprising a content identifier. The second screen device (40) generates a request for related data signal corresponding to the content using the content identifier, communicates the request for related data signal through a network, receives aggregated related content data corresponding to the content from a data services center (50) and displays the aggregated related content data on a display (42) associated therewith.
H04N 21/472 - End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification or for manipulating displayed content
H04N 21/436 - Interfacing a local distribution network, e.g. communicating with another STB or inside the home
H04N 21/41 - Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
45.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONFIGURING A USER INTERFACE OF A RECEIVING UNIT FOR AN AUXILIARY REMOTE CONTROL DEVICE
A system and method for controlling a user interface comprises an auxiliary remote control device having an auxiliary remote control device identifier associated therewith and a receiving unit comprising a filter module having a filter feature for filtering content data from a set of available content data in response to an auxiliary remote control device identifier received at the receiving unit. The filter module forms filtered available content data less than the set of available content data. The receiving unit displays the user interface having the filtered available content data associated with the auxiliary remote control device on a display associated with the receiving unit.
A system and method for generating television recommendations includes a viewer tracking module that tracks viewer events to form a viewer tracking log. A recommendation module that determines a timeslot, generates a timeslot viewing profile based on the timeslot. The viewer tracking log corresponds to television programs watched previously at the user device during the timeslot. The recommendation module compares the timeslot viewing profile with available content for the timeslot and generates a content recommendation list.
H04N 21/44 - Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream or rendering scenes according to MPEG-4 scene graphs
H04N 21/466 - Learning process for intelligent management, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies
47.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING AN AUTOMATED SET TOP BOX TEST
A system and method for testing a set top box includes a test manager module in communication with the set top box having a test script including a bitstream. A bitstream player in communication with the test manager module receives the bitstream and communicates the bitstream to the set top box. The test manager module receives a screen image from the set top box that is generated in response to the bitstream. An optical character recognition module performs optical character recognition to obtain a test text string from the screen image. The test manager module compares the test text string with an expected text string. A report module generates a report in response to comparing.
A system and method for sharing television data includes a first device and an encoded content identifier module in communication with the first device generating an encoded content identifier for a content and communicating the encoded content identifier to a first device through a network. The first device includes a user interface for selecting the content identifier. The first device performs a function in response to a type of device, the encoded content identifier and selecting the content identifier.
H04N 21/482 - End-user interface for program selection
H04N 21/258 - Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics or processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
49.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SEARCHING FOR CONTENT IN A USER DEVICE
A system and method for searching for content in a user device includes a receiver receiving a plurality of data objects. The user device includes a search module comprising a parsing module parsing search data from the plurality of data objects and a memory interface module storing search data within a memory of the user device. The search module comprises a search performance module searching the search data in response to a search query. The search module comprises a search results module generating search results from the search data and suggestion data. The user device is associated with a display that displays the search results.
H04N 5/445 - Receiver circuitry for displaying additional information
G06F 17/30 - Information retrieval; Database structures therefor
H04N 7/24 - Systems for the transmission of television signals using pulse code modulation
H04N 21/235 - Processing of additional data, e.g. scrambling of additional data or processing content descriptors
H04N 21/435 - Processing of additional data, e.g. decrypting of additional data or reconstructing software from modules extracted from the transport stream
50.
METHOD FOR CREATING INTERACTIVE APPLICATIONS FOR TELEVISION
Methods, apparatuses, and systems for creating an overlay application for use within a broadcast communications system are disclosed. A method in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises collecting image data from a computer network, generating at least one selectable area within the image data, associating a function with the at least one selectable area, and selectively displaying the image data on a monitor simultaneously with a broadcast data stream, wherein selection of the at least one selectable area executes the associated function.
A system and method for communicating content to a user device includes a head end that communicates metadata for a plurality of content including the content titles. The system also includes the user device that generates a screen display comprising the plurality of content titles from the metadata and generates a selection corresponding to a first content title from a user interface, the user device adds metadata for the first content title to a queue and displays the queue in a priority order on the screen display. The user device is tuned to receive content corresponding to the first content title and stores the content in a storage device.
H04N 21/458 - 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
H04N 21/472 - End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification or for manipulating displayed content
52.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PUSHING CONTENT IN A BROADCAST COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
A push scheduler for communicating push and carousel content and method for operating the same includes a block manager that receives content channel data from the channel listing system and forming a channel block having a channel and a time period associated therewith based on the channel data. The scheduler further includes a schedule manager that forms an assignment by assigning push and carousel content data to the channel block with a predetermined recurrence rate within the block and a material manager that controls the communication of push and carousel content based on the channel block.
H04H 60/06 - Arrangements for scheduling broadcast services or broadcast-related services
H04H 60/07 - Arrangements for generating broadcast information; Arrangements for generating broadcast-related information with a direct linkage to broadcast information or to broadcast space-time; Arrangements for simultaneous generation of broadcast information and broadcast-related information characterised by processes or methods for the generation
53.
REMOTELY INSERTING WATERMARK INTO ENCRYPTED COMPRESSED VIDEO BITSTREAM
A method and apparatus for remote watermarking of a media program is disclosed. The method inserts a pattern of substituted second versions of media program portions that are invisible to the viewer, into reproduced copies of the media program. The method permits the watermarking of encrypted media programs.
A method and apparatus for rendering an OSD on a background frame having a plurality of background subframes together defining a 3D image is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of generating a first background subframe describing a first perspective and having an overlaid OSD, generating a second background subframe describing the first perspective and having the overlaid OSD, and providing the first background subframe describing the first perspective and having the overlaid OSD and the second background subframe having the overlaid OSD to a display.
A system and method for allocating tuner resources in a multi-room digital video recording system, wherein the system includes a server device having a plurality of tuners therein and a first client device in communication with the server device and allocated at least a first tuner from the plurality of tuners. A second client in communication client device generates a tuner request. The server device allocates the first tuner to the second user device and communicates a content signal through the first tuner to the second client device.
H04N 7/16 - Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
H04N 21/458 - 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
56.
PHASE NOISE AND FREQUENCY ERROR RESILIENT DEMODULATION SCHEME FOR MOCA
Systems and methods for demodulating signals are disclosed. A system in accordance with the present invention comprises a frequency estimator, a tuner, coupled to the frequency estimator, for tuning to a frequency based on an estimate from the frequency estimator, a phase offset estimator for determining an average phase offset, and a demodulator, coupled to the tuner and the phase offset estimator, for demodulating the plurality of symbols, wherein the demodulator corrects a phase offset for a given symbol in the plurality of the symbols based on the average phase offset of symbols prior to the given symbol.
A system and method for communicating software images includes a server device that stores a software image therein and a client device that communicates a client device identifier to the server device through a network. The server communicates the software image to the client device through the network. The client device operates based on the software image.
A system and method for controlling a communication system includes a local area network, a first client device (122) and a first server device (110) in communication with the first client device through the local area network. The first server device (110) communicates an audio-visual stream and remote user interface data (RUI) to the first client device (122) through the local area network. The first client device (122) renders a display using the audio-video stream and the remote user interface. The first client device (122) generates a key command and communicates the key command to the first server device (110) in response to the remote user interface data.
Systems and methods for increasing coverage and throughput in a wireless communication system. An antenna for use in a wireless communications system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises a plurality of antenna elements, an antenna selection switch, coupled to the plurality of antenna elements, and a control system, coupled to the antenna selection switch, wherein the control system selectively energizes the plurality of antenna elements to create a communications link to a device in the wireless communications system through the antenna.
H01Q 19/12 - Combinations of primary active antenna elements and units with secondary devices, e.g. with quasi-optical devices, for giving the antenna a desired directional characteristic using reflecting surfaces wherein the surfaces are concave
60.
FREQUENCY DRIFT ESTIMATION FOR LOW COST OUTDOOR UNIT
Systems and devices for controlling frequency drift in satellite broadcast systems. A receiver antenna system for a direct broadcast satellite signal communications system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises an oscillator, a mixer, coupled to the oscillator, for converting satellite signals at a first frequency to signals at an intermediate frequency, an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter, coupled to the mixer, for receiving the signals at the intermediate frequency and for converting the signals at the intermediate frequency at near-real-time to a digital data stream, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), coupled to the A/D converter, for processing the digital data stream, and a drift estimator, coupled to the DSP, the drift estimator determining a frequency drift of the oscillator, wherein the receiver antenna system corrects the frequency drift of the oscillator using the determined frequency drift.
H03J 7/04 - Automatic frequency control where the frequency control is accomplished by varying the electrical characteristics of a non-mechanically adjustable element or where the nature of the frequency controlling element is not significant
61.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A RECEIVING CIRCUIT MODULE TO ENCODE A CHANNEL SIGNAL INTO MULTIPLE ENCODING FORMATS
A receiving circuit module and method for operating the same includes a housing receiving a first signal, a first encoder disposed within the housing encoding the first signal to form a first encoded signal and a second encoder disposed within the housing encoding the first signal to form a second encoded signal having a different format than the first signal.
H04N 7/24 - Systems for the transmission of television signals using pulse code modulation
H04H 20/74 - Wireless systems of satellite networks
H04H 20/51 - Arrangements characterised by circuits or components specially adapted for broadcast specially adapted for broadcast systems covered by groups specially adapted for satellite broadcast systems
A method includes determining a first aggregate received power level of an orthogonal frequency division multiplexed (OFDM) signal received at a first network node, adjusting a nominal PHY Margin an amount that is dependent upon a measurement of an aggregate received power level of the OFDM signal, determining a data transmission rate based on the adjusted nominal PHY Margin, and receiving data being transmitted in accordance with the data transmission rate at the first node.
A system and method for a system for communicating with a user device includes a broadcast management system generating content channel data signals. The system also includes a software download manager in communication with the broadcast management system. The software download manager generates an announcement file and a download resolution file. The download manager communicates the announcement file. The user device has user device identifier data and receives the download resolution file in response to the announcement file and stores the software image in the user device in response to the download resolution file.
A method and system for ordering content includes a content processing system and a device in communication with the content ordering system. The device displaying a link corresponding to content and accessing a content ordering system by selecting the link. The content processing system enables a content recording request. A user receiving device receives the content associated with the link in response to the content recording request and stores the content in a memory.
A system and method for communicating with a user device includes an interactive head end and a broadcast channel management system communicating content channel data to the interactive head end. The interactive head end forms a streaming service in response to the content channel data and communicates interactive content to the user device in response to the streaming service.
A communication interface device and method for operating the same includes a communication module receiving a request for a content list from a first user device and a list module generating a content list. The communication module communicates the content list device to the first user device and receives a content selection from the user device. A control module initiates a transfer of content corresponding to the content selection from a content storage device. The communication module receives the content at the communication interface device from the content storage device and communicates the content to the first user device.
A method and system for generating a search includes a user device, a partner service provider in communication with the user network device, and a primary service provider in communication with the partner service provider. The user device generates a search request for search data at the user device and communicates the search request to a partner service provider. The partner service provider communicates the search request to a primary service provider. The primary service provider generates search results data and communicates search results data to the user device. The user device displays the search results on a display device associated with the user device.
Overlay applications for use in a media presentation system are described. An example method for use with broadcast media includes maintaining a collection of overlay applications to be displayed in connection with the broadcast media; enabling a user to select and configure one or more of the overlay applications for presentation on a media presentation system; executing one or more selected overlay applications to display periodically updated information associated with the overlay applications.
A method and system for providing content includes a network having a plurality of receiving units generating a plurality of recording requests for content and communicating the recording requests through the network. The system also includes a first receiving unit of the plurality of receiving units that is selected by the network to record content corresponding to the request in a first memory and storing the content in a first memory of the first receiving unit. The network communicates a do-not record signal to the plurality of receiving units except the first receiving unit. A second receiving unit of the plurality of receiving units forms a selection for the content and communicating the selection to the first receiving unit. The first receiving unit streams the content to the second receiving unit through the network. The second receiving unit displays the content on a display associated with the second receiving unit.
Methods and apparatuses identifying a co-channel interference signal in communications systems are disclosed. An exemplary method comprises generating an interference signal by subtracting a reconstructed desired signal from an at least partially demodulated composite signal, and generating synchronization statistics of interference signal using different scrambling codes. The interference signal is identified as the signal associated with the scrambling code that was used to generate an interference signal having a desired synchronization statistic.
A broadcast system and method for allocating its resources includes a broadcast operation channel management system forming a database having broadcast system data from a bit rate allocation for a transponder of a satellite and a guide channel definition. The broadcast operation channel management system generates a user interface that displays a least a portion of the broadcast system data on a display. The broadcast system data is modified through the user interface.
H04H 20/74 - Wireless systems of satellite networks
72.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COMMUNICATING BETWEEN A USER DEVICE AND A GATEWAY DEVICE TO FORM A SYSTEM TO ALLOW A PARTNER SERVICE TO BE PROVIDED TO THE USER DEVICE
A system and method of communicating between a user receiving device, a user locator module and a partner service provider includes a gateway device having a port configured to communicate with a user receiving device. The user receiving device registers with the user device locator module through the port. The user device locator module determines the location of a user receiving device. The partner service provider and the user receiving device form a peer-to-peer connection in response to the location data.
A method and system for providing content includes an intermediate web provider having content therein and a user network device communicating a user identifier data to the intermediate web provider. The intermediate web provider communicates the user identifier data for the user network device to a primary service provider. The system also includes a primary service provider authenticating the user network device using the user identifier. The intermediate web device forms a content list corresponding to at least some of the content provided to the intermediate web provider. The intermediate web provider communicates the content list to the user network device from the intermediate web provider. The user network device forms a selection from the content list at the user network device and communicates the selection to the partner service provider. The intermediate user device communicates the content corresponding to the selection to the user network device. The user network device displays the content on a display associated therewith.
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for presenting video game contests via television. A system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises a network of gaming platforms, wherein the network of gaming platforms comprise at least one player platform and at least one spectator platform, each gaming platform in the network of gaming platforms having a video output, wherein the at least one spectator platform has a delayed start in the video game contest, a plurality of converters, each converter in the ρlurality of converters respectively coupled to the video outputs of the gaming platforms, a production facility, coupled to the plurality of converters, for viewing the video outputs of the gaming platforms via the plurality of converters and for selecting a chosen video output to be broadcast, and a broadcast system, coupled to the production facility, for distributing the chosen video output.
Systems, methods, and devices for presenting video game contests via television are presented. A system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises a network of gaming platforms, wherein the network of gaming platforms comprise at least one player platform and at least one spectator platform, the at least one spectator platform having a viewing perspective different from that of the at least one player platform, each gaming platform in the network of gaming platforms having a video output, a plurality of converters, each converter in the plurality of converters respectively coupled to the video outputs of the gaming platforms, a production facility, coupled to the plurality of converters, for viewing the video outputs of the gaming platforms via the plurality of converters and for selecting a chosen video output to be broadcast, and a broadcast system, coupled to the production facility, for distributing the chosen video output.
A receiving unit 28 includes a tuner that receives a first signal that may include a satellite signal. A demodulator demodulates the satellite signal to form a second signal. The second signal may be internet protocol (IP) encapsulated to form an IP encapsulated signal. The IP encapsulated signal may be communicated through an IP network to a decoder. The decoder 144 decodes the second signal or the IP encapsulated signal. A modulator 146 modulates the decoded signal which is communicated to user devices through a network 147. In addition, IP encapsulated signals may also be communicated to various user devices through the network.
H04N 7/24 - Systems for the transmission of television signals using pulse code modulation
H04N 7/173 - Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems with two-way working, e.g. subscriber sending a programme selection signal
H04N 7/20 - Adaptations for transmission via a GHz frequency band, e.g. via satellite
H04H 40/90 - Arrangements characterised by circuits or components specially adapted for receiving specially adapted for broadcast systems covered by groups specially adapted for satellite broadcast receiving
77.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ORDERING CONTENT FROM A FIRST DEVICE FOR A SELECTED USER DEVICE THROUGH AN INTERACTIVE INTERFACE
A method and system for ordering content includes a first device having an ordering interactive interface having available content and a first user device identifier and a second user device identifier. The first device forms a content selection corresponding to the on-demand content from the interactive interface and a user device selection corresponding to the first user device or the second user device. The first device communicates the content selection and the user device selection to a content processing system. The content processing system communicates a control word to the user device corresponding to the content selection and the user device selection. A user device receives the content corresponding to the selection in response to the control word and the user device selection.
H04N 7/173 - Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems with two-way working, e.g. subscriber sending a programme selection signal
78.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FILE SHARING BETWEEN A GROUP OF USER DEVICES WITH CRUCIAL PORTIONS SENT VIA SATELLITE AND NON-CRUCIAL PORTIONS SENT USING A PEER-TO-PEER NETWORK
A communication system 100 includes a group of user devices 110, a satellite 106 and a content delivery network 120 in communication with the group of user devices 110. The content delivery network 120 selects a plurality of user devices 110 from the group of user devices 110, divides content into a crucial portion and non-crucial portions, communicates the non-crucial portions to the plurality of user devices using a peer-to-peer network until all non- critical portions are received. After communicating the non-crucial portions, the content delivery network 120 communicates the crucial portion to the plurality of user devices 110 through the satellite. The plurality of user devices assembles the crucial portion and the non- crucial portions to form the content, hi addition, security information may be first transmitted through the satellite to the user devices so that a peer-to-peer network may be established. Thereafter, the non-crucial portion are exchanged through the peer-to-peer network.
Broadband system interfaces and features are described. An example includes a user interface for use with a content delivery system including an on-demand service comprising at least one channel dedicated to an on-demand content provider, wherein the channel is accessible in a same manner as a broadcast channel of the content delivery system; and at least one homepage to be presented when a user navigates to the at least one channel, wherein the homepage includes a template of sections to provide a single-level user interface by altering the contents of at least one section in response to an input.
A method for arranging virtual channels and linear channels for a content processing system includes establishing a linear channel number assignment for linear channel, generating a virtual channel assignment and arranging the virtual channel assignments with a predetermined relationship to the linear channel number assignment.
A system and method for preordering content includes a content processing system and a user device in communication with the content processing system. The content processing system receives program guide data for linear channels and receives future available content data at the user device. The future available content data comprises an availability window having an availability start time and an availability end time. The user device stores the program guide data in the user device storing the future available content data in a memory of the user device, forms a future content selection, and stores the future content selection in a queue until the availability window is reached. When within the availability window, the user device communicates a material identification to the content processing system. The content processing system communicates the content corresponding to the material identification to the user device.
A communication system (100) includes a first content delivery network (280), a second content delivery network (280) and a communication network (132). A content management system (221) generates a content delivery network identification and associates the content delivery network identification with content. A content distribution system (260) selects the first content delivery network or the second content delivery network in response to the content delivery network identification to form a selected content delivery network. The content distribution system (260) communicates the content to the selected content delivery network (280) in response to the content delivery network identification. The selected content delivery network (280) communicates the content to a user device (110, 112) through the selected content delivery network (280) and the communication network (132).
A system and method for ordering content for a user device includes an ordering interface such as an interactive interface having available content. The interactive interface receives a content selection corresponding to a content from the interactive interface and communicating a customer identifier and a material identification to a transaction system. A content processing system communicates a control word to the user device. A user device receives the content corresponding to the material identification.
Embodiments of a material delivery device including a deformable reservoir and associated controllable output mechanism are described. Methods of use and control of the device are also disclosed. According to some embodiments, a material delivery device may be placed in an animal in order to controllably dispense at least one material into the animal. The material delivery device may include a programmable mechanism to control the release of the material into the animal. In selected embodiments, a remote controller may be used to program or to control the material delivery device. Some embodiments are described wherein a magnetic field, an electric field, or electromagnetic control signal may be used.
H04H 40/90 - Arrangements characterised by circuits or components specially adapted for receiving specially adapted for broadcast systems covered by groups specially adapted for satellite broadcast receiving
85.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AUTHENTICATING A CODE IMAGE UPON STARTING A DEVICE
A device such as a mobile receiving unit (28) may include a memory (74) having a software image (106) therein. The memory (74) has a first stored signature (104) therein. A controller (60) may include a boot loader module (69) that generates a second signature from a portion of the software image (102 A-E) less than a full image. The controller (60) authenticates the software image using the first signature and the second signature.
An outcome prediction system viewed on a monitor. A system in accordance with the present invention comprises a processor, coupled to the monitor and further comprising a scoring system for a plurality of contests, the scoring system and the plurality of contests displayed on the monitor, the scoring system providing a first moniker indicating that a selected outcome was correct and a second moniker indicating that the selected outcome was incorrect, wherein the scoring system counts a number of first monikers and a number of second monikers and provides a total number of first monikers; a navigation bar; displayed on the monitor, to allow for viewing of a broadcast program on the monitor, wherein the broadcast program is related to at least one of the plurality of contests, and an input device, coupled to the processor, for inputting at least one selected outcome into the processor.
A communication system (10) includes a controller (10, 160) for communicating a selection list to a wireless device (28, 36). The wireless device includes a user interface (280) for selecting a selection from a selection list (452). The wireless device generates a selection signal in response to selecting and wirelessly transmits the selection signal to the controller (100, 160). The controller (100, 160) wirelessly transmits content corresponding to the selection signal to the wireless device. The controller (100, 160) may be a business service controller or a local communications controller.
A system and method for providing call-back in a mobile satellite system 10 includes generating a call-back signal at a mobile satellite receiving device 28 and wirelessly communicating the call-back signal to a head end 20. Various methods, including wireless, cellular and WiFi networks may be used to communicate the signal.
A system and method for providing conditional access authorizations in a satellite- receiving system includes generating a conditional access signal at a head-end 20, receiving the conditional access signal at a fixed satellite receiver 54. The conditional access signal is communicated from the fixed satellite receiver 54 to a mobile satellite receiver 28. Conditional access is stored in the mobile satellite receiver 28 and enables the use of the signals by the mobile satellite receiver in response to the conditional access signal.
A receiving unit (28) includes a tuner circuit board (100) that receives a first signal that may include a satellite signal. The tuner circuit board (100) demodulates the satellite signal to form a second signal. The second signal is provided to an internet protocol (IP) and control module circuit board (102) that is separated from the tuner circuit board (100). The internet protocol (IP) and control module circuit board (102) formats the second signal to form an EP encapsulated signal. The IP encapsulated signal is communicated to a device (44) so that a display (46) may be generated.
Systems and methods for characterizing amplifiers. A system for characterizing an amplifier in accordance with the present invention comprises a Gaussian signal source for generating a signal in the frequency domain, a notch filter, coupled to the Gaussian Noise source, wherein the notch filter has a notch at a specified frequency and a frequency bandwidth, the frequency bandwidth encompassing the specified frequency, an Inverse Fast Fourier Transform device, coupled to an output of the notch filter, a normalization device, coupled to the Inverse Fast Fourier Transform device, an amplifier under test, coupled to the normalization device, for amplifying the signal generated by the Gaussian signal source, and a measurement device, coupled to an output of the amplifier, for measuring a power output of the amplifier in the frequency bandwidth and a noise output at the specified notch frequency, and for calculating the ratio between the power output and the noise output.
An interactive mosaic channel video stream with indicators as to the action on a given video stream. The interactive mosaic channel is displayed on a video monitor, with a plurality of individual video feeds being presented at a given time, comprising a plurality of video cells presenting at least video information, each video cell associated with one of the plurality of individual video feeds, each video cell further comprising an area within the video cell reporting data related to the video feed, and a cursor, which can be moved between the plurality of video cells, for selecting at least one characteristic associated with a selected video cell, such that the user can then directly select a video program associated with the selected video cell.
An interactive alert system displayed on a video monitor. The system comprises a first video stream presenting at least video information, the first video stream comprising a viewer channel, and an overlay video stream, displayed simultaneously with the first video stream, wherein the overlay video stream provides information on a second video stream.
An interactive mosaic channel video stream with indicators as to the action on a given video stream. An interactive matrixed video channel displayed on a video monitor, with a plurality of individual video feeds being presented at a given time, comprising a plurality of video cells presenting at least video information, each video cell associated with one of the plurality of individual video feeds, each video cell further comprising an area within the video cell reporting data related to the video feed, a cursor, which is moveable between the plurality of video cells, for selecting at least one characteristic associated with a selected video cell, such that a video program associated with the selected video cell is selectable via the cursor, and at least one selection screen, associated with the video information, wherein selections of at least one individual participant are made and statistics related to the selected individuals are displayed on the video monitor based on performance of the at least one individual participant.
An interactive matrixed video channel displayed on a video monitor. A channel in accordance with the present invention has a plurality of individual video feeds being presented at a given time and comprises a plurality of video cells presenting at least video information, each video cell associated with one of the plurality of individual video feeds, each video cell further comprising an area within the video cell reporting data related to the video feed, and a cursor, which can be moved between the plurality of video cells, for selecting an audio program associated with a selected video cell, wherein the audio program is selected from a group comprising a broadcast audio program, a second audio program, and a live audio program.
The Energy spectral density of OFDM signals inherently rolls off slowly. Slow OFDM spectral rolloff has system level implications traditionally mitigated by some combination of the following: addition of bandlimiting filtering; use of significant guard bands of zeroed tones; and, guard time shaping. Each of these techniques negatively impact system performance and/or flexibility. This application presents a methodology for active cancellation of out of band spectral energy. The technique can be used by itself or in conjunction with above traditional methods to help control out of band emission. Examples of the use of the new technique are provided. Computational cost of the new technique is also discussed.
A system for receiving satellite signals for display on a monitor. A system in accordance with the present invention comprises an antenna, a server receiver, coupled to the antenna, at least one client receiver, coupled to the server receiver, wherein the server receiver further comprises a network tuner.
A system for receiving satellite signals for display on a monitor. A system in accordance with the present invention comprises an antenna, a server receiver, coupled to the antenna, and at least one client receiver, coupled to the server receiver, wherein the server receiver maintains a list of satellite video signals to be recorded by the server receiver, the satellite video signals including network recorded data and metadata associated with the network recorded data, and wherein the list can be accessed by the server receiver and the at least one client receiver.
A system for receiving satellite signals for display on a monitor, in, accordance with the present invention comprises an antenna (200), a server receiver (312), coupled to the antenna, and at least one client receiver (310), coupled to the server receiver, wherein the client receiver sends commands to the antenna and receives signals from the antenna through the server receiver.
Architectures and systems for delivering satellite signals to a receiver are disclosed. A system in accordance with the present invention comprises a gateway, comprising a tuner, a processor, coupled to the tuner, a converter, coupled to the processor, wherein the tuner tunes to a selected satellite signal and forwards information contained in the satellite signal to the CPU, which processes the information and forwards it to the converter; and an output from the converter for delivering the converted processed information, and a client, coupled to the gateway, wherein the client receives the converted processed information.