System for capture and selective playback of broadcast programmes

FIELD: physics, video.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to television, particularly for capture and selective playback of broadcast programmes. An apparatus for storing broadcast programmes for future transmission to subscribers comprises means for receiving a broadcast channel data stream which comprises a plurality of sequential programmes and a data storage means, wherein video and audio data relating to each programme are extracted from a received broadcast channel data stream and stored on the data storage means at a known position, wherein service information relating to each programme is extracted from the data stream and stored at a known position on the data storage means with data identifying the position on the storage means at which the video and audio data for the programme are stored.

EFFECT: providing viewers with a wide selection of programme archival and viewing options, and enforcing viewing rules and restrictions imposed by broadcast content providers, channel owners and regulators.

37 cl, 6 dwg

The technical field to which the invention relates

The present invention relates to a broadcast program. More specifically, the present invention relates to systems, methods, code of computer programs to capture and selective playback of broadcast programs.

The level of technology

Advances in technology have changed how you view people television. The advent of video cassette recorders (VCR) have enabled people to record a broadcast program for viewing at a later time. The relatively recent emergence of personal devices video recording (PVR) and digital devices video recording (DVR) gave viewers more flexibility when writing programs. Although these client devices are common, they have several drawbacks. For example, many such devices have a limited amount of memory that does not allow viewers to save a greater number of programs. Such devices can be noisy and may require additional hardware to communicate with sources of information about programs. In addition, many content providers and broadcast organizations are concerned that they have no control over the use and copying of programs written in such clients is their device.

Some broadcast organizations have tried to provide flexibility of view, while maintaining the control programs by providing a 'time shift' or delayed broadcast of the whole channel. Broadcast may have a temporal offset for a few minutes or hours, for example, the entire grid cell broadcast channel may be transmitted on an hour later than the original broadcast. Broadcast with a time shift provides viewers the opportunity to view the programmes they missed, when the program was originally passed.

Broadcast in real time and broadcast with a time shift does not provide the viewer in some way control the ability to view their broadcast programs. Therefore, while the viewer will not record a program on a suitable storage device, it can show the program at the time of broadcast organization.

Some operators provide subscribers equipment, providing the ability to view on demand. Usually broadcast organization sends a broadcast by way of a small number of selected events, such as movies, at regular intervals of time. Spectators can the be written to receive a specific broadcast certain events. After subscription, the transfer can be done with a broadcast method using satellite or methods of distribution through the cable network directly into a television set-top box audience. But again time broadcast cannot be controlled by the user.

It would be desirable to provide broadcast systems and methods that overcome the disadvantages associated with existing systems. For example, it is desirable to provide systems and methods that provide viewers with a wide range of options for archiving and viewing programs. Moreover, it is desirable to provide systems and methods to ensure that instilled and restrictions imposed by providers of broadcast content, the owners of the channels and regulators. Also it is desirable to provide broadcast systems, which can deliver the program to the audience via telephone lines.

Disclosure of invention

According to the first aspect of the present invention a method of saving broadcast programs for future transmission to subscribers includes the steps are:

accept the flow of data on the broadcast channel containing multiple sequential programs;

extract video and audio data for each program from the data stream;

from Lescaut service information, related to each program, from the data stream;

retain the video and audio data for each program in a known position in the tool data storage; and

save the service information for each program in a known location in the storage medium with the data identifying the position on the medium in which is stored the corresponding video and audio data.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the device for storing broadcast programs for future transmission to the subscriber contains:

means for receiving a data stream on a broadcast channel containing multiple sequential programs, and a means of storing data, and video and audio data for each program are extracted from the received message to the broadcast channel data stream and stored in the storage medium data in a known position,

service information related to each program, are separated from the data stream and store in a known position in the storage medium with the data identifying the position in the storage medium in which is stored the corresponding video and audio data.

According to a third aspect of the present invention a method of receiving a broadcast program on demand includes the steps are:

ask for the schedule of previous broadcast p is ogram, which is available for extraction, and the schedule is generated from the service information extracted from the broadcast data stream, which includes the previously mentioned past broadcast of the program;

take the schedule;

choose to extract the program from the schedule;

transmit a request for receiving the selected program; and

accept the selected program via the unicast session is established between the set top box and the provider of broadcast services.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the device receiving a broadcast program on demand contains:

the means for requesting schedule a previous broadcast programs that are available for retrieval, and the schedule is generated from the service information selected from the broadcast data stream, which includes the previously mentioned past broadcast of the program;

means for receiving schedule a previous broadcast programs;

the tool of choice for extracting programs from the schedule;

means for sending the request for the selected program; and

means for receiving the selected program via the unicast session is established between the specified device and provider of broadcast services.

According to the fifth is the SPECTA of the present invention a method of broadcasting includes the steps on which:

take input data stream comprising the program;

extracted from the specified input stream data service information associated with the specified program;

transmit the command to the multiple subscribers;

create essentially at the time of the transfer, archive a copy of the specified program, and a backup copy is stored in a known position in the short-term archive storage device, and it is associated with the specified service information; and

transmit the specified archive copy of said program to the first caller when you receive a request from the specified first subscriber.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the method of operation of a broadcasting system and broadcasting system receives the broadcast data stream having multiple programs, includes the steps are:

generate a schedule specified set of programs from the service information extracted from the specified broadcast data stream;

accept the request to the archive from the first subscriber with the specified query on the archive includes selecting the desired program from the specified schedule;

confirm that the first subscriber is authorized to archive the specified desired program;

create a backup copy of the specified Proc. of the required program; and

allow access to the specified backup specified by the first subscriber.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention a device for broadcast contains:

the head node, coupled to receive input data stream on a broadcast channel containing multiple programs, with specified head node generates an output stream of data containing a specified number of programs in the output format;

processor service information associated with the specified parent node and receiving the specified input stream of data on the broadcast channel, and the specified processor retrieves service information service information associated with each of a specified set of programs;

the server time offset associated with the specified parent node and the specified processor service information, and the specified server time offset stores a copy of the many programs and connects the storage location of each of these copies with service information associated with each of said programs; and

the transmission network connected to the specified parent node and the server time offset specified by the processor service information, configured to transmit the output data stream in a variety of subscriber device is in and the selective transmission of copies specified multiple programs within a specified subscriber unit.

According to the eighth aspect of the present invention computer readable medium having executable computer instructions for performing steps, comprising:

receiving input data stream comprising the program;

allocation of service information from the specified input stream data, and the specified service information associated with the specified program;

creating essentially during the specified broadcast archival copy of the specified program with the specified archive copy is stored in a known position in the short-term archive storage device, and it is associated with the specified service information; and

transmit a broadcast manner specified archival copy the specified program to the first caller when you receive a request from the specified first subscriber.

According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the method of operation of a television set-top boxes contains the stages on which:

looking at the schedules, and specified the schedules created on the basis of the service information extracted from the broadcast data stream having multiple programs;

select the desired program from the specified program schedule;

initiate copying of the desired program from the temporary archive in a permanent archive that is available to specify the ow set-top boxes; and

take a unicast transfer of the copy of the specified desired program from the specified long-term archive.

Brief description of drawings

Examples of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, on which:

figure 1 is a block diagram illustrative of a broadcast system;

figure 2 is a block diagram showing several components that can be used by the provider of broadcast services (or interests) in order to provide the subscriber with the possibility of watching it on TV as broadcast programs and archived programs;

figure 3 is a block diagram illustrative of a broadcast system;

figure 4 is a more detailed block diagram of the sequence of operations showing a procedure for storing programs and information about the event on the server with a temporary shift;

figure 5 is a block diagram of the sequence of operations showing the procedure of selecting and retrieving a program from a server with a time shift; and

6 is a block diagram of the sequence of operations showing the process of creating a backup copy of the program.

The implementation of the invention

The present invention relates to the istemem, methods, computer code programs and means of capture and selective playback of broadcast programs. For simplicity and ease of presentation in the present description uses several terms. For example, the term “subscriber” is used to designate the individual or entity that are relevant subscription with the provider of broadcast services to retrieve and view the broadcast data or broadcast data direct transmission, or archived broadcast data, or both). The subscriber, for example, may be associated with a specific set top box that identifies the caller. Also in the present description “subscribers” can be called “users” or “audience”. As used in the present description, the term “television set” is commonly used to specify devices associated with subscribers who receive multicast data from the service provider broadcast data. Digital set-top box may be a dedicated device designed to receive broadcast data, or it can be implemented as a component or feature associated with a personal computer or other computing device.

The term “provider of broadcast services” or “service provider” can the t can be used to describe the entity (or entities), which uses the components of a broadcast system according to the options of implementation set forth in the present description, to provide subscribers with broadcast data direct transmission and archived broadcast data. For example, in some embodiments, the implementation of “provider of broadcast services” may be an entity that uses (or associated with) one or more systems configured to transfer programs to subscribers. In some embodiments, the implementation of the providers of broadcast services use of system, including switching or Central station, which are made with the ability to deliver digital data to subscribers via twisted two-wire lines, which are present in many households and enterprises around the world (such as telephone or copper cables). In some embodiments, the implementation of the providers of broadcast services provide such data, using the methods of transmission for digital subscriber line (“DSL”). In one illustrative embodiment, set forth in the present description, a provider of broadcast services provides digital data using the methods of transmission for asymmetric DSL (“ADSL”), although specialists in the art it is obvious that also can be used as is by other means DSL (typically referred to as “xDSL”). Furthermore, although discussed wired communication methods, specialists in the art should note that the distinguishing features of the embodiments can also be implemented using wireless methods.

As used in the present description, the term “multicast data direct transmission or broadcast program direct transmission” refers to broadcast data that can be viewed on schedule, and broadcast the broadcast entity broadcasting. As used in the present description, the term “archived broadcast data” or “archived program” refers to broadcast data or programs that should be saved for viewing at a later time than the time of “direct broadcast”. Options for implementation provide two different types of archive data: short-term archives (e.g., in which programs are stored within a relatively short period of time, for example 24 to 72 hours) and long-term archives (e.g., in which programs are stored for a longer period of time). For example, long-term archives can provide the opportunity for an indeterminate amount of storage programs. As another example, in some embodiments, the wasp is estline provider of broadcast services may store programs for a set period (for example, one month or one year). As another example, a provider of broadcast services may periodically poll of subscribers to determine whether to delete the archived program from the archive.

To start below will be described an example of the present invention with reference to figure 1, which shows the image broadcast system 50. Broadcasting system 50 includes one or more providers 51 broadcast services, delivering content to one or more subscribers 54A-n.

Subscribers can receive the data broadcast programs in several ways. For example, subscribers, such as subscriber 54n) can receive a broadcast program of “direct transfer”; that is, using the method of viewing the program during the broadcast. As an illustrative example (which will be used throughout the description) broadcast the program “direct transmission” can represent the “evening news”broadcast which begins every evening on weekdays at 18 hours local time. Broadcasting system 50 allows the subscribers, such as subscriber 54n, show this program in its appointed time (18 hours local time). As used in the present description, (and as defined below) those who min “direct transmission” is used in General to denote the actual and the scheduled time of broadcasting a broadcast program (and the term is not specific to the program, viewed directly at the time of shooting). To minimize traffic in the relay channel ADSL Central or switching stations such broadcast “direct transfer” is transmitted to subscribers to a multicast manner to avoid duplication of traffic. This increase throughput systems for data video and audio programs to a large number of subscribers without compromising performance repeater channel (thus allowing more subscribers to interact with the system for selective viewing archived programs, as described below).

Subscribers can be connected to a multicast broadcast transmission programs using, for example, described in the Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP), IETF RFC 3376, October 2002) (available in www.ietf.org), the contents of which are incorporated in the present description in its entirety by reference.

Broadcasting system 50 allows subscribers such as subscriber 54n) to view the program at some point in time after the start time of the broadcast of “direct transmission”. The system generates and stores short-term backup of all broadcast programs received by the provider 51 broadcast services. For more details on how g is nezirut and retain short-term backup, will be provided below. Usually, the provider 51 broadcast service includes a storage device 53 (or device group), adapted to store copies of broadcast programs for several different broadcast channels. At the same time provide sufficient memory to store 24-72 hours of broadcast programs for several different channels. Together with the generation and storage of such short-term backups, create a schedule of programs. Subscribers who wish to view the program within 24-72 hours from the point in time at which it was transmitted (i.e., after the broadcast of “direct transfer”), can interact with the schedule of programs to select a program and to initiate its streaming subscriber. Such programs are stored in a manner that allows the user to fast-forward, stop, and rewind while watching the program. For example, the subscriber 54b may decide to start watching “the evening news” at 18.15 and not during a broadcast of “direct transmission” at 18.00. In addition, the subscriber 54b can fast-forward, rewind or stop, as desired while viewing the program.

Broadcasting system 50 further allows the momentum (such as the subscriber 54A) to choose a specific program for long-term archive. For example, a provider 51 broadcast services or subscriber, such as subscriber 54A, shown in figure 1) may wish to create a permanent copy of the particular broadcast “evening news”. The subscriber 54A may indicate this wish, by contacting the provider 51 broadcast services (for example, through television set-top box or other device, as will be described in more detail below). A copy of the broadcast can then be stored in a storage device 52 used for long-term storage of programs. A copy of the program can be associated with information that uniquely identifies the subscriber 54A, so that the subscriber 54A could be allowed access to the program at his request. For example, the subscriber 54A can view a specific episode of the weekly “evening news” after their broadcast. The subscriber 54A can re-view the same episode, while this episode will not be deleted from the archive (e.g., the subscriber's request or upon expiration of the archive period). To reduce the necessary storage resources to a copy of the program stored in long-term archives, may have access to many subscribers. For example, each customer who made the request to create a copy of the program may be granted access to a shared archive.

Shirokov is satelina system 50 allows you to selectively send to the subscribers of each of the types of broadcasts providing the best choice, control and flexibility when viewing. Subscribers can get access to the broadcast transmission via a telephone line, such as copper telephone cables currently installed in many households. The system can provide broadcast and archived programs to subscribers using asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL) (although the specialists in this field of technology should take into account that other means, known or developed in the future can be used to deliver programmes in accordance with the modalities for the implementation described in the present description). Alternatively, the program can be delivered using encoding schemes, such as the well-known scheme “Moving Picture Experts Group version 2” (MPEG-2), although the specialists in this field of technology should take into account that can also be used with other encoding scheme.

Multicast data is being passed from the service provider 51 broadcast services to subscribers 54, using the encoding with a constant bit rate (CBR), thus ensuring maximum bit rate, which is used both for video and for audio. The authors of the present invention, it was found that ispolzovanpokoleniya CBR provides reliable and compatible transmission of content over networks ADSL, despite the distance from the switching station (or “Central station”) and despite the requirements of high bit rates to provide quality video services. If the bit rate of the video for specific programs change, the system can use encoders made with the possibility of filling or stuffing” video extra (empty) data to create a truly constant bit rate. In addition, the retransmission channel Central or switching station ADSL can be done with a stock” to ensure a particular level of connection, which ensures that subscribers will be sufficient available bandwidth. For example, the relay channel can be designed on the assumption that at any point in time are active 33% of subscribers served by data retransmission channel. This can be realized by reducing the number of subscribers associated with each access multiplexer digital subscriber lines (DSLAM)associated with a particular switching or Central station.

The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to figure 2. In the system of figure 2 shows several different components that can be used by the provider of broadcast services (or their interests), h is usually used to allow the subscriber to view a broadcast program direct transmission, and archived on TV 9. Several components of the system of figure 2 can be used by the service provider or for the purposes of offering or archiving program for subscribers. Some or all of the components may be implemented on one or more computing devices, configured to perform the functions set forth in this description. Although some components are shown as separate devices, some or all of the functionality described in the present description may be implemented in one or more computing devices or networks of computing devices.

Figure 2 source 1 broadcast channel generates data to be transmitted broadcast channels, which are provided to the head node 2 distribution programs (BDHE). For example, source 1 broadcast channel can be any number of different types of sources of broadcast data, such as, for example, sources of television, video, audio or other data. Every transmitted data includes video and audio for each channel, as well as service information (SI) for each broadcast program of each channel. The service information includes information about each program, including the start time and about liternet, and a brief overview of the program.

As used in the present description, the term “proprietary information” (SI) “certain program information” (PSI) refers to the information embedded in the stream MPEG-2 in the form of additional packet transmission having a unique identifier of the package. For example, SI may include electronic reference information about the program, such as a summary of the program, the Dating and the channel on which it was placed, and other information that identifies the type, content and the Dating of specific programs. SI may include additional information such as the description table (SDT), which provides information identifying the service provider program, “information event table” (or EIT)containing the names of the programs, start time, duration, etc. and other information about the Dating and events.

Broadcast data may be transmitted using a variety of communication environments. For example, source 1 broadcast channel can provide multiple channels of broadcast data in a digital or analog television broadcasts transmitted by digital satellite, digital terrestrial, cable, digital subscriber line (xDSL) or analog or direct transmission over the network. Broadcast data may be received from a digital source (or transformed in some way in the digital broadcast data before receiving BDHE 2). In addition, the digital broadcast data may be encoded using an encoding scheme, such as the coding scheme MPEG-2, but can also be used for other coding schemes. Using the coding scheme such as MPEG-2, allows you to receive digital broadcast data, which include encapsulated service information stream broadcast MPEG-2, associated with the digital broadcast data. This service information as will be described in more detail below, provides precise Dating of programs.

In the system of figure 2 can be used several sources 1 broadcast channels. For example, the system may take tens or even hundreds of transmitted data of different channels from different sources of broadcast channels. Every transmitted data channels contain multiple programs. Such transmitted data channels are accepted in BDHE 2. BDHE 2 includes equipment collection video and also may include encoders for compressing data channel in the form that is appropriate for set-top boxes to decode and display on the TV. BDHE 2 may also include equipment multiplexing for multiplexing data. Broadcast data may be encoded in digital videos is nderte for broadcasting (DVB), such as video and audio MPEG-2, and encapsulated in a stream of MPEG-2. More BDHE 2 will be discussed below with reference to figure 3.

After collection, coding, and multiplexing each of the broadcast channels are sent encapsulated in the stream MPEG-2 server 3 temporal offset and the server 4, the server schedules broadcasts, under control of the video server Manager 5. The same output can be sent to each server. Alternatively, data may be transferred to the processor of the service information (not shown, but which may be configured as part of a BDHE 2 or as a separate component) and then used to create the schedule information in the server 4 schedules a broadcast transmission. CPU usage of service information will be described below with reference to figure 3.

The server 3 a time offset is a conventional computer system (or network of computer systems with memory, which allows it to locally save the data broadcast transmission. The programs for each broadcast channel is stored, at least for some period of time. For example, the server 3 a time offset can store 24 to 72 hours broadcast program of each broadcast channel, allowing subscribers prosma is regarded programs broadcast channels within a certain period of time (for example, 24-72 hours) after the time when the program was originally broadcast. As described in more detail below, the server 3 temporary shift also works, allowing subscribers to selectively archive broadcast program for viewing at a chosen time. Such long-term archives can be stored in (or to be accessible through the server 10 content archive.

Although more details will be provided below, in the General case, the server 3 temporary shift receives multiple coded channels broadcast data from BDHE 2 and stores video and audio data for each channel on the disk in a continuous stream. Server 3 temporary shift also works for the exact determination of the beginning and end of each program, as well as the locations in which each program is stored on disk. This information allows the server 3 temporary shift quickly and accurately extract the program at the request of subscribers. In addition, the server 3 a time offset can function to store the data broadcast channels so that it can effectively and accurately to scroll back and forth upon request subscribers. Additional details of these features will be discussed below.

Server 4 schedules broadcasts communicates with the server 3 a time offset (and other sources of information schedule) to create accurate "historical" schedule of programs. This schedule information is provided to subscribers, who can interact with the schedule to select the desired program to view or archive. Server 4 schedules a broadcast transmission, as will be discussed below, can create and maintain different types of schedules (e.g., including the long form, or a detailed schedule, and a short form, or a short schedule). These types of schedules can be presented to the subscribers and used by subscribers for interactive identification programs for viewing or archiving (for example, the subscriber may interact with the schedule for selecting one or more viewers of the short-term archive, or to select one or more programs for conservation in the long-term archive for later viewing).

Manager 5 video server manages the distribution of digital broadcast data to the audience for broadcast direct transmission of each channel. Manager 5 video server also stores (or has access to) customer's information. For example, the customer information may include information related to a specific customer or subscriber with a unique ID assigned to the set-top box 8 of the customer. The customer information may also include the formation used to track the viewing preferences of the customer, demographic information, etc. may Also be provided with other information, as described below. Manager 5 video server provides control equipment 6 switching and routing, including unicast, multicast, and broadcast transmission of each channel. Each broadcast channel is passed through a network 7 to a television set-top box 8, which sends the data to the TV 9. Network 7 may be any of several different types of networks or combinations of networks. For example, the network 7 may is a global network for local switching station and local channel using ADSL. 7 enables the delivery of broadcast data in digital set-top box 8 of the subscriber, and allows the transfer of data from set-top boxes 8 hardware 6 switching and routing (for example, to select programs for archiving, for playing programs etc). Subscribers can also have access to information about the service or the program associated with the current program through a television set-top box 8.

Digital set-top box 8 may be any device configured to receive digital broadcast data in a home subscriber. Where digital broadcast data is received by the subscribers using methods ADSL, digital set-top box 8 includes a modem or receiver allows you to receive and transmit data over telephone lines. Where the digital broadcast data received in MPEG, digital set-top box 8 can decode received data is MPEG. Digital set-top box 8 includes information that uniquely identifies the subscriber associated with the set top box. For example, a television set-top box 8 includes a unique identifier, such as a digital signature or other cryptographic identifier. This identifier may be provided in the device, protected from unauthorized interference, such as a smart card. Such a unique identifier of the subscriber can be added to the end of messages sent from the set-top box 8 provider of broadcast services, allowing the provider of broadcast services to identify the subscriber. In addition, the unique identifier can be used when installing unicast sessions between equipment 6 switching and routing and individual set top box 8. Digital set-top box 8 can be equipped with infrared or other sensor, allowing the subscriber to interact with the set top box 8 using the remote control.

The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to figure 3, on what toroi shows a more detailed examples of a broadcast system 50. Broadcasting system 50 includes one or more providers of broadcast channels/owner(s) 12 rights, which generates or causes the generation of a broadcast data provided in BDHE 2 for distribution to subscribers through multiple set-top boxes 8. In this example, the digital data broadcast channel obtained from BDHE 2 through one or more sources 30 digital channels (such as digital terrestrial, digital satellite or digital cable sources). Such digital data broadcast channels receive encoded in MPEG-2 (or similar). As shown, the digital data broadcast channel, adopted in MPEG-2 format from the source 30 digital channels, usually take in a transport stream of the multiple programs (or MPTS) (i.e., the packet stream having multiple coded in it).

This MPTS information channels provide the decoder 3 decodes the digital data broadcast channel serial digital information for each channel. When the decoder 31 is lost information about the services associated with individual programs. Information about the services (or, at least, part of it) is preserved when passing digital data broadcast ka is Ala, taken at the source 30 digital channel processor 19 service information (IS). This processor 19 IS can be implemented as BDHE 2 or it may be implemented as a separate component associated with BDHE 2.

The processor 19 IS receiving a digital data broadcast channel in the format of MPTS and then parses the information from each broadcast channel for more program information associated with each channel. For example, the processor 19 SI parses the input data to obtain “description tables (SDT) and “informational table of events” (EIT) for each broadcast channel. These tables provide information on each program, and the programs received on each channel. For example, the tables provide information that identifies the program name, program description, program duration, start and end times (scheduled and actual) and information about the genre of the program.

The processor 19 SI returns information in BDHE 2 for multiplexing video and audio data for each channel. BDHE 2 encodes each channel in the flow of a single program (or SPTS streams)using the encoder 32. Such encoded audio and video information associated with information of SI processor 19 SI using a multiplexer 33. The processor 19 SI returns transport on the OK MPEG, contains service information table access programs (PAT) and table card programs (RMT), as well as hidden data transferred many IDs programs (PID) for each channel. The multiplexer 33 inserts such hidden PID audio and video data for each channel. To guarantee compatibility when playing the total bandwidth used by each of the PID hidden data, is set to a constant bit rate (CBR). Usually, the total bandwidth assigned to each PID hidden data, which is again associated with the audio and video data multiplexer 33, remains relatively small compared with the bandwidth of video and audio.

Each of MPTS transport streams are then divided into transport streams of many individual programs (including data SI for each program), using the network interface 34. The network interface 34 may provide an interface that identifies the transport stream MPEG-2. Traffic flows of many individual programs are held in the device 6 switching and routing for routing (under control of the video server Manager 5) as a broadcast data transfer directly to the corresponding digital set-top box 8.

The processor 19 SI can be made with the possibility of saving will complement the school bandwidth by selectively parse and use of specific types of service information. For example, information of the subtitle can be processed to reduce bandwidth. As a concrete example, the processor 19 SI selects the subtitle in the form of Teletext data from MPTS taken from BDHE 2 by parsing the full flow of the Teletext and discharge flow only information of the Teletext. For example, some broadcast systems include the subtitles in the form of Teletext specific page information of the Teletext associated with the broadcast. In some systems, the subtitles included on page 888” Teletext. In such a system, the processor 19 SI made with the possibility of re-packaging “page 888” and optional insertion of a new service (such as package “page 100”) in a stream with a different PID hidden data (again in CBR).

Missing pages can also be saved on the server Teletext or in a database (not shown in figure 3), which can later be queried set top box 8 subscriber while viewing a broadcast program. As another example, the DVB subtitles (if present) can also be selected by the processor 19 SI to reduce bandwidth. For example, the processor 19 SI can parse information subtitles and translate the subtitles in the form of requiring a reduced bandwidth (for example, info the information can be stored on the server and can only be displayed in response to a specific request from a set-top box 8). In this case, the CPU 19 SI can work together with BDHE 2 to remove some types of service information from the stream transmission, at the same time ensuring that the required service information will remain associated with the respective programs.

The processor 19 SI can also be configured to handle radio channels (for example, by identifying radio channels as having audio and not video - PID). Audio PID can be sent directly to the multiplexer 33 without the need for transcoding. In addition, the CPU 19 SI can also be configured to retrieve interactive applications (which can be stored by the video server Manager 5 for use on demand), thus eliminating the need for carousel systems commonly used in the environment of a broadcast transmission. In some types of environments broadcasts, such as satellite and cable systems, often there is no reverse channel, which can be used to query for interactive applications and related resources. Previous systems compensate for this lack of feedback channel by using the carousel. For example, the channel provider resubmits (or “uses " carousel”) interactive application and associated resources with a separate MPEG PID. Such previous systems the volumes focus on what it is that television set identifies, retrieves, and puts in a cache such information. This can lead to problems. For example, if the viewer moves around the application or moves from one application to another, the necessary information may not be placed in the cache memory, and digital set-top box must wait until the channel provider will resume data transmission (or until the data will not appear on the carousel). One Protocol that is used to implement such roundabout ways, defined extensions for Digital Storage Media Command and Control (DSM-CC) to MPEG-2, part 6.

Options for implementation set forth in the present description, allow the broadcast systems to broadcast interactive applications without the need for such roundabout ways. Alternative version interactive applications can be delivered to subscribers on the basis of the rules of access or permissions providers channels or owners of the content (for example, to ensure that only the most recent version of a particular interactive application is made available to subscribers and so on).

In addition to providing the processed service information to the head node for combining audio and video data for each program, the processor 19 SI also provides obrabotanno the service information server 4 schedule broadcasts for use in creating data 15 the exact schedule. Using the service information based on the digital data broadcast channel, in the form in which they were taken BDHE 2, the system is able to create a historical schedule with accurate information about the actual time of the beginning and end of broadcast programs, each broadcast channel, the received BDHE 2. Such information can be combined with published data schedule (for example, such as data program schedule published by the providers of broadcast channels/owners of the channels 12) to create data 15 schedule containing essentially complete and accurate information about the programs.

As an example, many programs, such as sporting events direct transmission, have scheduled time for the broadcast, which is the intended time. This estimated time is used by providers of broadcast channels/owners of the channels 12 to form programs. Often, however, such programs may be terminated earlier (later). The system allows you to create data 15 schedule that specifies a valid schedule for the program. As will be described in more detail below, this information can be used for accurate and efficient archiving programs DL is later playback (for example, sports event that really lasts 47 minutes will be identified as lasting 47 minutes, and not as having a different duration, for example, an hour).

The network interface 34 BDHE 2 also provides demultiplexing data SPTS streams in the server 3 a time offset. As shown, the server 3 temporal shift has several different functional components. In particular, each of demultiplexing data channels SPTS streams provide in the channel 42 of collection and storage, which functions to read the received stream and save it in the correct location for storage in the next available storage device. The channel 42 of the collecting and storage also operates to perform a cyclic transition from the end of each storage device and maintain the circular buffer. The flow taken from the BDHE 2 remain unchanged format (i.e., it is stored in the same format in which it is adopted). As mentioned, the data is stored in separate storage devices 43, 44 (or memory) for each channel. Each storage device (or memory area) can be made with the ability to operate as a circular buffer or buffer with a cyclic transition, set size to store a certain amount of broadcast data (for example, if fu is Ktsia short-term archive is designed to provide 24 hours short-term archived programs each buffer of the specified size to provide Parking for 24 hours of data). When reaching the end of the buffer, the oldest program in the buffer is overwritten with the latest programs for each channel.

The channel 42 of the collection and storage are also made with possibility of parsing packets of hidden data SI from the stream transmission. Packets of hidden data SI transmit in table 41 schedule along with the stored identifying information, stores the program that is associated with specific data SI. For example, table 41 schedule may include information record for each program, which includes information for SI programs, together with information of the location on the disk, which accurately identifies the location on the disk that stores the program (for example, the location of the buffer to store the particular data channel, such as storage 43, 44). Stream SPTS streams accepted by the channel 42 collection and storage, is a CBR, which allows the channel 42 of the collection and storage to reliably predict the amount of memory required for each program, and to ensure timely re-reading data from the disc during playback. CBR ensures that the output flow rate during playback will be equal to the input speed.

Table 41 schedule may contain information that identifies the channel list, the each of which is associated with records, containing the ID of the event or program, the event time and the position on the disk that stores the program. This provides the ability to determine the exact time of the beginning and end of the program during playback. Position start and end are located at the boundaries of the programs. For example, the start position and end can always be located on the border of the video “program group” (GOP) or audio Packed elementary stream (PES) to ensure that the playback always starts at a stable point. Information about the program in table 41 schedule can be deleted once the circular buffer programs will overwrite the program.

The server 3 a time offset includes the analyzer 45 video and audio. The analyzer video and audio stream is configured to uniquely identify each boundary video GOP. Streams taken by the channel 42 of the collection and storage of disassembled to identify these boundaries. The location of each GOP in each channel is stored in the list 46 GOP. GOP can span many packets streams MPEG transport stream (and usually can include approximately 12 frames, including internal or I frames, predicted or P frames and bidirectional or frames). According to the MPEG-2 GOP always begins with an I frame. The analyzer 45 video and audio stream to the implementation of the eh with the possibility of identifying such boundaries and linking them with the location of storage. The analyzer 45 additionally analyzes flows to identify the locations of the packets of audio PES. Specialists in this field of technology should take into account that discuss the implementation can also be used with other standards (for example, examining the flows to identify the boundaries set by other standards).

The server 3 a time offset includes a device 47 for selecting frames fast forward (“FF”)/scroll backward (“REW”), which is made with the possibility of selecting frames I of the video streams, in the form in which they are stored by the server 3 a time offset. This helps eliminate expensive and time-consuming methods of search frame I in response to customer requests. As the flow FF and REW thread create by extracting frames I and introducing them to the transport stream MPEG. The time information of the transport stream that includes information PTS/DTS, testirovanie PCR, generated by the server 3 a time offset.

The system can use the location of the frame I at the beginning of each GOP to identify boundaries. GOP does not necessarily contain the same number of frames; for example, coders can sometimes interrupt the GOP to insert the frame I when changing scenes. The system ensures appropriate playback speed FF/REW by monitoring and adjustment, if this is not bhodemon) speed which frames I saved to disk. Unlike normal playback programs output the playback speed FF/REW is not defined input speed (ie, FF/REW may not be saved at the same speed with which it is played). On the contrary, the playback speed can be adjusted by setting the interval between frames I. When writing FF/REW in the database device 46 47 selection FF/REW frames may miss some of the shots I in data received from the channel 42 collection and storage. In this case, the playback speed can be configured for compatibility.

Communication storage location and time between threads FF/REW and the original content stream is stored (for example, the storage 46 of the data)that allows the server 3 a time offset to determine the position of the correct point of the FF/REW button when prompted and that ensures that after FF/REW will be determined location to the correct point in the program to resume playback. Regulation playback is managed by the server 3 a time offset with the use of station 6 switching and routing (or other output device) as a source scheduling (e.g., ATM switch ATM can be used as a source scheduling).

The server 3 a time offset which also includes the module 49 playback control playback of archived programs. Playback includes determining the location of the beginning of the requested program and the flow of content suitable storage device in a particular TV set-top box 8, associated with the subscriber who has requested the content. The request message provided from the set-top box 8, may include information that identifies a specific user making the request (as well as information that allows station 6 switching and routing to establish a unicast session with this set top box). If the subscriber has requested a program, the request is sent to the server 3 a time offset via module 49 playback, which initiates the conversion table 41 schedules to identify the point at which the requested program. The starting point of each program is aligned with the GOP or the PES packet to guarantee the availability of the starting point of the play. Play continues until, until you reach the end of the program, or until until you have taken other steps, such as, for example, a request to stop playback, switch request or a request to view another program.

If the program switch or choose another program, the current program continues to play until then, until you reach the end of the video GOP (or p is chum audio PES). After reaching the end in a television set-top box 8 indulges message using hidden data PID, warning, digital set-top box 8 of the impending shutdown. Playback continues from the beginning of the next program or the nearest frame of the GOP (or audio PES) to the switching point. The server 3 a time offset can be accomplished with the possibility of re-play from any of the nearest video frame GOP (or audio PES), allowing you to use the system with different types of set-top boxes (because of different set-top boxes may vary in how they respond to off during playback).

As mentioned above, the present invention allows subscribers to do a custom query to create a backup program to save in the long-term archive. Server 3 temporary shift running Manager 5 video server can function to initiate the saving of one or more programs on the server 10 of the archive content. For example, as will be discussed in more detail below, the subscriber may request that a particular program was archived for later viewing by the subscriber. This request is sent from a set-top box 8 Manager 5 video server, which initiates a transfer request to the server 3 a time offset. If packets SPTS streams, including the matter of requesting the program, accepted by the server 3 a time offset, the server 3 temporary shift operates to initiate transmission of the copy of the program in the server 10 of archive content for storage in the storage 17 data archive.

Such features archiving can lead to storage of at least two copies: one copy in the store 17 data archive (“long-term” archive for later retrieval by the subscriber(subscriber), requesting backup) and one copy on the server 3 a time offset (“short-term” archive to view any subscriber wishing to view the program for a period of time during which the system stores a broadcast program). As a result, the system provides the possibility of greater duration, and view the best selection programs. The version stored on the server 3 a time offset can be regarded as a short-term storage of content, providing a viewing window, for example, a few days after the broadcast of the program, while the version stored on the server 10 of archive content, can provide a more long term storage and viewing program. That is, the server 3 a time offset provides a circular buffer archived programs for each channel, while the server 10 content archive provides a specified breezily shelf life of selected programs.

Several different storage configurations can be used to store information program. For example, can be used hard disks or magnetic tape. Can be used discs or partitioned drives. As additional protection against failures can be used sectors RAID. Can be used multiple drives to a single channel. Can be used a number of backup disks for storing identical content, reducing the chances of failure, and potentially allowing automatic recovery after a failure. In addition, this configuration can provide improved overall performance by distributing the load on a very popular TV on many disks. In this case, the data broadcast direct transmission can be delivered to authorized subscribers while generating data, service information, archiving programs and the formation of accurate historical schedule.

Not all channels must be provided in all server time offset. For example, the placement of the channels in the server time offset may depend on the popularity of the programs available on that channel. The placement of the channels in the server time offset is produced in such a way that to get the servers set a time offset, a way is able to handle the load during simultaneous mass viewing.

Program play (for example, any of the long-term, or from short-term archive) may also include the selection or the insertion of advertisements in the program for transmission to the subscriber. Such selection and insertion are performed under control of Manager 5 video server, which has access to information identifying the location of advertisements in each program and channel. Manager 5 video server may also have access to a database of advertisements (such as a database 20). Additional details of the identification, selection and insertion of advertisements provided in co-filed patent application no._____, filed simultaneously with the present application (index as a patent attorney PJF01627WO).

Figure 4 shows the block diagram of the sequence of operations, representing the method according to the present invention. The block diagram in figure 4 (and other block diagrams contained in this description) include several stages of the process. These process steps are not necessarily performed in the sequence shown; the specialists in this field of technology should take into account that can be used in different sequences together with the examples considered in the present description. The block diagram in figure 4 in the General case shows the process to the th may be performed by the server 3 a time offset to create a short-term archive programs. As discussed above, the stream of broadcast data for all broadcast channels pass through BDHE 2 to the server 3 temporal shift (TSS). This is shown by item 100 figure 4.

Typically, as discussed above, the server 3 temporary shift takes each of the coded and demultiplexing channels broadcast data and stores video and audio data for each channel on the disk in the form of a continuous stream (step 110). The number of stored broadcast data is limited by the size of the disk. Each channel broadcast data is stored on disk (or set of disks) in a continuous stream. If the disk capacity is exhausted, the server 3 temporary shift overwrites the earliest multicast data channel cyclic way. If memory is exhausted, the earliest programs in the channel is removed from the server 3 temporary shift to make space for new programs in the channel.

As discussed above, in systems that are implemented using MPEG encoding, transport stream MPEG for each channel carries the “service information” (or SI)related to the programs broadcast. The service information includes a variety of information related to programs. In known systems service information is typically used by devices 'settings' h the specific channel. For example, satellite transmission uses a table of related programs” MPEG TS (RAT) and table card programs” (RMT) to identify parts of the broadcast stream (“IDs (PID))that contain video, audio and other sources. Digital set-top box 8, which receives the broadcast stream includes a decoder, which 'sets' of these PID by setting your decoder to the point location of this thread. PAT and PMT are parts of SI.

As discussed above, the service information carries a separate “information event table” (EIT), which contains an event for each program. EIT may contain data that includes the event identifier (ID) (or the app ID, start time, duration, name of the program, a brief overview, and genre. Additional information may be included in the EIT. Event ID allows the provider of the broadcast channel and the owner of the rights to appoint the state, which may or may not be made to broadcast the specific program (for example, rules about rights program”). Rules on rights to the program may include, without limitation, rules that take into account, whether paid program, is there any age limit and restrictions on days and times. Additionally, there may be primeneniya rules. For example, in the UK (or other countries) “restrictive” law may prohibit some types of broadcasts in certain periods of the day (for example, cannot be broadcast programs for adults at a particular time of day). The system can enforce such bans on broadcast, using the rules on the rights of the software for access control programs, initial broadcast which was carried out in these restricted periods of time. In some cases, the owners of the software can determine that the user is not allowed access to a particular program. The event ID can also identify the program name or other unique identification, for example, an alphanumeric code.

“Informational table of events” (EIT) for a specific program contained in the data stream synchronized with the beginning of the program. EIT can be extracted from the service information processor 19 and IS then re-introduced into the data stream by the multiplexer 33. The server 3 a time offset selects the event data from the stream on the stage 120 and compiles a table of programs (shown in table 41 schedule 2). The server 3 a time offset identifies the location on disk where you saved the program, and this information is on position is added to the table 41 schedule with the corresponding event data at step 140. In this case, the event data for each program are shown in position on the drive on which the program is stored to allow easy removal of the program. This displays the event data in the position corresponding program on disk allows you to start programs from any random point in a continuous data stream channel and easily retrieve them.

The server 3 a time offset can capture multiple channels simultaneously, it is possible to many simultaneous sessions of play. Thus, many users can simultaneously extract the same program. Server 3 temporary shift creates a table on the stage 40, which identifies all programs that are currently stored on the disk, information events for each program and position on the disk from which the program begins. The server time offset also includes a time base, which can be obtained, for example, from the table time and date table/offset time. Such information about the date and time provided in the server 3 temporary shift in PID hidden data.

If the disk is used to store information program for a specific channel is full, the earliest stored program is overwritten. If the program starts to overwrite the information the way the party and the point of beginning such a program are removed from the table 41 schedule so what additional records such programs cease to exist.

Table 41 schedule a known amount of memory of each storage device 43,44 server channel 3 time offset and, therefore, the available number of hours of storage that is continually updated as new programs are stored, and the old program is overwritten.

BDHE 2 (or processor 19 SI) also sends data to be transmitted to the server 4 schedules broadcasts (BSS). As discussed above, BSS can be implemented in the form of a computer system with a local storage device, which operates, in particular, to highlight the service information from the data stream, including EIT. BSS 4 selects video and audio data for each program. For the server 3 a time offset and BSS 4 can be used the same computer system.

Information allocated DSS 4, includes an event ID, ID, program start time, program duration, program description, and genre of the program. The SI can also be accessed for additional information. Information is stored in the local database, and BSS 4 uses the information to create a historical schedule of programs for each channel. The compile information in a user-friendly format to ensure that subscribers are able prosmotra the AMB and interact with the schedule. Schedule create in real time as the broadcast program and its reception. BSS 4 can also function to identify any rules that are associated with a particular program. BSS 4 may also collect information about upcoming programs intended for broadcast. It is added to the schedule. The schedule associated with time scan, and therefore, BSS 4 knows when it will be broadcast program. BSS 4 support schedule for all broadcast channels provided by the head node.

If for a specific program detailed information events are not included in the service information, additional information may be added to the schedule from an external data source (such as an external data 11 schedule given by the provider of the broadcast channel/owner(s) of rights 12, as shown in figure 2 and 3). For example, a summary of the film may be added through line of communication with your computer.

Data 15 schedule consolidated BSS 4, and table 41 schedule created TSS 3, usually synchronized because both TSS and BSS receive the same synchronized broadcast stream input from BDHE 2 and, therefore, accept the user is cnie and synchronized event table. In addition, BSS 4 can be performed with the opportunity to learn the amount of memory each data storage channel TSS 3 and, therefore, can update the schedule automatically when a program is removed from TSS 3. TSS 3 can transmit in BSS 4 information indicating when the program is removed from TSS 3, in order BSS 4 had the ability to provide accurate schedule of available programs.

Data 15 schedule BSS transmit from BSS 4 and commute and sent using the device 6 switching and routing for the network, and then sent to the set-top box 8 subscribers to view. Figure 5 presents a flowchart of the sequence of operations, which shows the interaction of the user with the schedule established BSS 4 to select programs for viewing. At step 200, the viewer (or subscriber) can choose to view the schedule created BSS 4. The schedule created BSS 4, retrieve and transmit TV subscriber (or other display device) through a television set-top box 8 on the stage 210. At step 220, the subscriber can navigate through the schedule and to request additional information. At step 230, the subscriber requests a particular program for viewing. After the program selection request transmitted through a network 7 to the server 3 a time offset at step 240. The server 3 a time offset refers to table 41 timetable the Oia and matches the program ID of the event at step 250. The server 3 a time offset (or BSS 4 or the video server Manager may, in addition, to verify or check that the caller is indeed authorized to view the requested program. If the program is in table 41 schedule and if the subscriber is authorized to view the requested program, the process moves to step 260, in which the server 3 a time offset identifies the storage location on the disk corresponding to the requested program. Then this position is used by the server 3 a time offset to retrieve the requested program from the data store at step 270.

Then the program is passed to the subscriber television set-top box 8 network 7 via a point-to-point transmission line. The requested program will be played from the beginning of the program or from the point that the caller has chosen to step 260. The subscriber has full control of the program, and at step 290 may stop, rewind and scroll forward the extracted program. The system allows the server 3 temporary shift lead unicast transmission or use any other method of providing archived programs many subscribers simultaneously. For example, the server 3 a time offset tracks the location on each disk, in which localized each subscriber, reads data from choosing the proper positions on the disk and sends it to each television set-top box 8.

After completing the program may stop or continue playing the next scheduled program on this channel. The subscriber may return to broadcast live transmission on any channel running to broadcast the extracted programs, or on the channel, which he viewed to extract the zipped program.

The system uses the schedule created BSS 4 and the server 3 a time offset, to allow callers to interact with the system in several different ways. For example, the subscriber can view the schedule to identify the program for viewing, broadcast direct transfer which occurs at the present time. Subscribers can also view the schedule to identify programs for viewing of the short-term archive (for example, programs that were broadcast a few days ago). In addition, subscribers can interact with the schedule to identify programs for archiving (for example, to identify programs to add to the long-term archive for viewing by the subscriber) or to extract a program from a long-term archive.

The schedules provide subscribers through a television set-top box 8, and the user interacts with the program using the UYa remote control, the input device of the computer or other navigation device. When choosing a program schedule television set 8 retrieves the schedule of programs of BSS 4. Then the schedule of programs is displayed on the TV subscriber or the display device. For example, the schedule may include a list of all programs of each channel, arranged in reverse temporal order. Moreover, BSS 4 can be extracted and displayed the future of the schedule.

The interaction between the user and the schedule may include the use of access rules or rules about the rights to the program. For example, if a subscriber wants to view the list of future programs from the schedule until the submission of the timesheet, the first subscriber can be applied rules on rights to programs that will result in the provision of the schedule that shows only such program to view, in which the caller is authorized. Such rules on rights to the program can be executed after the request of the subscriber to view the program or after the subscriber's request to save the program in the long-term archive.

The subscriber can view the list and find more information about future programs. Subscribers can also set alarm means, and in this case, the television set 8 will be informirovat the subscriber at the appropriate time before the broadcast program, that is about the beginning. Default BSS 4 returns the list of programs, starting with the next program intended for broadcast.

The subscriber can navigate through the list using the instructions that can be controlled using a remote control or other suitable means. The selected program can be displayed and the user can request additional information about the program. The schedule may also include icons or color coding to indicate the availability or content of specific programs.

Subscribers may be available to different types of schedules. For example, long-term schedule with a time shift (LFTS) may be provided to indicate all the programs that are available for viewing. In addition, there may be provided a short schedule with a time shift (SFTS), which only lists the current previous and subsequent programs. Both schedules provide subscribers with the help of BSS 4.

LFTS is a display schedule of the content, which is present in the list of broadcast programs in a given window (for example, the previous 72 hours, or the time period during which the stored short-term archive programs), as well as a list of current programs and future programs. ABO the coefficients can access the list of programs, stored in short-term archive, which is available for viewing on demand (represent permissions or access rights). LFTS indicates the availability of individual programs through the use of icons (or no icons) and a brief content of each selected on the screen.

SFST is displayed if the subscriber selects a channel broadcast direct transfer to view, or go channels broadcast direct transfer. SFST can display the program that is currently playing on the selected broadcast channel, the following program(s)and program(s), broadcast only what was happening. The subscriber can choose to view the previous program(s) (from the short-term archive) directly from the menu, or the subscriber can interact with the set top box 8, to cause LFTS to gain access to the complete program and navigation operations. The subscriber can stop SFTS broadcast channel different from the channel that is showing on the screen, and to select programs for viewing from another channel (broadcast both programs is at this point in time, and programs broadcast which was earlier).

There may be many countries the CI or screens schedule information. To view these pages the subscriber can interact with the set top box 8 to scroll individual items or move from one page to another. The subscriber can choose the schedule for the different channels. Switching between schedules of channels can be performed while maintaining a temporal correlation between the channels.

Subscribers can interact with schedules programs in other ways. For example, the communication channel between BSS 4 and each set top box 8 is interactive and allows subscribers to send out multiple search commands or messages in BSS 4, allowing subscribers to search the schedule for programs using search criteria, including program type, or genre. This kind of genre or type of search may initiate execution of BSS 4 retrieve a list of relevant programmes in the TV console 8 subscriber for display. Then, the subscriber can select one of these programs from the list. In addition, in the schedule list, the subscriber can perform the operation of finding similar programs, appropriate for the genre of the currently selected program, in this case, the BSS 4 may return a list of possible programs that can be displayed to the user for selection.

The choice of genre-based menu that allows a subscriber is to choose from a list of programs by genre (for example, “drama” or “soap Opera”). For example, the display of all similar programs on different channels may be presented to the subscriber for selection. Can be applied access rights or privileges to restrict the selection by the subscriber of some programs. Information can be captured to identify which genres are viewed most often. Such information can be used to display the list of genres in order of frequency and time spent viewing individual homeowners or in the order selected using other criteria.

Subscribers can choose from the schedule of programs by identifying similar content. For example, the subscriber may select or highlight content on LFTS and switch to the list of similar programs by using the category of genres. This choice can be made either from the environment of the current broadcast channel, or several or all of the schedules of broadcast channels provided by the service. This allows the viewer soap Opera And” easy to find other programs in the same genre, for example, “soap Opera”. This can be displayed either by channel number, or by time or according to other criteria.

The subscriber can designate certain programs as favorite. Such information concerning the customer can store the camping in the base 14 of the client's data. When the subscriber selects an access to your favorite programs, it provides a list of the names of his favorite programs.

Selecting one of these names favorite programs initiates the provision of the set top box 8 subscriber request in BSS 4 to search for a stored program schedule for all programs with the same name as your favourite programs. A list of similar programs return, and there can be displayed the date and time of the original broadcast. The viewer can select a program from this list for playback.

Subscribers can enter or save labeling programs in their area favorite programs. This allows them to quickly access all of the programs with the same name, which is broadcast in the corresponding time window. First, provide different episodes of the same program with the most recent time and the time in which they originally aired (or provide another criterion). Re-program can be either included or excluded from the list, for example, the same episodes, broadcast transmission which occurs at a different time.

Can be considered other ways of selecting a particular program. For example, the subscriber may identify programs is by typing any code associated with such a program. Examples of this include, without limitation, enter the app ID, enter VideoPlus code or by scanning the barcode.

All types of program selection made by the subscriber must be authenticated to ensure that the choice is consistent with all the rules of access, permissions or rights program. These rules are applied by the server 3 a time offset. In some embodiments, the implementation of additional control is provided by limited access to some of the programs through a personal identification number (PIN) or similar mechanism. The system may prevent the provision of prohibited programs as options for this user.

The application of the rules on rights to the program access rules or permissions ensures that the program is allowed to view only if it is available for a specific user requesting access. Information affecting the availability of the program to a specific user, and includes information provided by the owners of the channels, software owners, regulators and providers of broadcast services.

For example, the owners of the channels may not have rights, allowing the service providers of broadcast services stores and play (for example, either short-term or long-term archive) specific program. Examples of situations of this type include moving pictures or sporting events, for which the owner of the channel has no rights on providing on-demand, for example, a broadcast organization And performs the broadcast program, which is the property of the company, but may not grant rights to such program. If the owner does not provide And the rights to execute broadcast program, the program may not be available for storage and later playback or through short-term, either through long-term archives.

Provider of broadcast services may negotiate with by the owners of proprietary software (the“content owners”) on the issue of human rights and authorization to record and playback programmes (for example, a provider of broadcast services negotiates with the owner of D on the rights to broadcast programs E).

Government permitting and regulatory authorities can impose rules (such as “limiting” rules)that restrict access to programs. In some situations, the system ensures that programs that were transferred to the broadcast way forward is new during the restrictive period or restrictions, will not play during the restrictive period of time. Regulators can also impose other requirements.

Individual subscribers can have a subscription, which gives them access only to specific channels and programs. This type of constraints can be imposed by taking into account the base 4 customer data Manager 5 video server.

Provider of broadcast services can create access rules to ensure that the requirement is controlled accordingly. For example, a provider of broadcast services can create access rules to limit the number of subscribers who can view the program from the short-term archive at the same time. Some rules may be imposed on the periods of activity associated with the mass viewing for extra bandwidth management and other sources.

As discussed above, the information identifying each of these rules on rights to the program access rules or permissions may be stored in a database accessible to the provider of broadcast services. Information about access rules, or permissions granted by the regulatory authorities or the owners of the channels in SI associated with each program. Information is available in BSS 4 from third sources, so that the database is the rules of access or permissions could be created and associated with each of the programs in the schedule, created by BSS 4. Information can also be transmitted to the server 3 a time offset to use when creating the table 41 schedule. The data of the customer stored in the database 14 customer data can be taken into account when the rules are applied.

Definition schema signs can be used to indicate different types of accessibility programs. For example, one specific definition schema signs can use two types of rules: rules of content and rules of the time period (any of which may be imposed by any company having an impact on the view, including the owners of the channels, content owners, service providers etc). Definition schema signs may include rules such as: (1) rule content: <regular expression>Available/Restricted/Unavailable; and (2) rule period: <original time period>Available/Restricted/Unavailable.

For example, the program may be determined by such characteristics as:

“Unavailable” any program that is created as “Unavailable” in the database availability. The owners of the channels, regulators or provider of broadcast services, can determine the specific program as “Unavailable”. Can also be used subclass “Not yet available” (for example, to refer to any “next” program, which is broadcasted at the current time broadcast method, but to the th limited access for some period of time).

“Restricted”: there are two reasons for limited access - any current program, which is designed as “Restricted” in the access database and any broadcast program during the time limit or within another regulated period. Access to “Restricted” managed. For example, the subscriber may be required to enter your PIN or possession of the access code.

“Available”: as a result of what other rules do not limit the availability of the program is available for viewing at the present time.

Such rules can be applied to a particular query in the following way. First, it may be verified by determining whether the requested program content rules. If the requested program matches more than one rule, the rule indicating “Unavailable”, take precedence over any rules that indicates “Restricted” or “Available”. If not applicable no rule content can be applied rules period to identify whether there is a restriction on any time period. Again, if there is more than one rule period, the rules that indicate “Unavailable”, shall prevail over the “Restricted” or “Available”. If the request does not match any rule, the requested program is available. Time periods objectives of the om can be marked as “Unavailable”, however, only specific programs are reported as “Available”.

These rules can be applied together with the request for a specific program or in conjunction with a request for a schedule of BSS 4. For example, if a subscriber wants to view the program schedule may be requested from set-top boxes in BSS 4. BSS 4 returns the schedule for the requested time period, and it includes only those items that are “Available”. Instead, BSS 4 may return the schedule of the program listed in the list of “Available”, “Unavailable” and “Restricted” programs. If the caller requests a program that is “Unavailable”, digital set-top box 8 can provide the request was declined. If the caller requests a program that is “Unavailable”, the server 3 a time offset applies restrictions on the reproduction and refuses to play the program.

The components of the broadcasting system of the present invention operate to capture control information and other information that may be collected and processed at a later time to determine the activity of the subscriber, statistics view channels and programs and providing providers broadcast channel/owners rights 12 evidence that their access rules and allow rules have been complied with.

the System of the present invention can be accomplished with the possibility of inserting targeted ads and advertisements, specific subscribers. Such advertisements may be inserted at the beginning, end or in another position during playback of the program from either short-term or long-term archives. The target orientation can be achieved by reference to the base 14 customer data information, including, without limitation, the preferences of the subscriber, the browsing history of the user, the age, gender and demographic information.

As discussed above, subscribers can initiate a selective preservation programs for obtaining access to long-term archive. Such long-term archive can be managed by the server 10 of archive content, which may provide an opportunity to individuals to save a large number of hours of archived programs, such as movies, music and television broadcast.

Figure 6 shows the block diagram 300 of a sequence of operations, which represents the process steps relating to the creation of the archival copy of the program, based on the subscriber's request. The process begins at step 302 where from a person accept a request for archiving. For example, a request for archiving can be provided directly by the subscriber in response to viewing of the program schedule (for example, the subscriber may request the archive is the testing program for broadcast at 21.00 1 July to CNN). Requests for archiving can also be provided on the basis of preferences, assessed by the subscriber or a third party. For example, the subscriber may specify that he would like to archive all the football games, which were broadcast on TV and which are relevant to a specific command.

The process continues to step 304, which identifies the subscriber making the request. The subscriber can be identified by the code stored in the set-top box 8, associated with the subscriber. The subscriber may be prompted to enter verifying information.

After identification of the subscriber, the process continues to step 306, which collects the preferences associated with the subscriber's request. This step may be optional steps, which include when you want to collect marketing data of the user preferences. For example, you may collect information associated with the details of the subscriber's request (for example, can be collected identifying information demographic information of the subscriber, the requested program, the time the request is granted, etc). In this case, may be collected such information of the subscriber, which allows you to provide subscribers with targeted recruitment programs and advertisements (as well as subscribers with similar demographic data and).

The process continues to step 308, where the system determines whether the request is for archiving eligible (i.e., can there be a request is satisfied). For example, at step 308, the process may include applying one or more rules, content and time for the request in order to determine whether the program is specific to the subscriber. If the program is not available to a particular subscriber, the process goes to step 310, where the subscriber is informed about the failure of the request (for example, including a message that provides details about the reasons for the rejection of the request). In addition, in some situations, the request may be rejected if the requested program has already been broadcast (and if the program is no longer stored in the short-term archive).

If the requested program is available for archiving, the process goes to step 312. To avoid creating multiple copies of the same program in different long-term archives can be created one (or more) long-term archive, which is shared by multiple subscribers. For example, numerous requests for archiving can come to some popular programs. At step 312, the process may include determining whether there is already requested program in a long-term archive. If so, then the subscriber, supresivos the mu program, can be granted access to previously archived program at step 314. For example, the database permissions associated with long-term archive can be updated to indicate that the subscriber has access to the program. The process continues to step 322, where the subscriber reports a successful backup.

If the requested program has not been previously archived, the process moves to step 316, in which the server 3 temporary shift operates to determine the location of the requested program (either in the short-term archive, or in the schedule of programs created BSS 4). If the requested program is a short-term archive server 3 temporary shift initiates (step 318) create a copy in the permanent archive supported by the server 10 of the archive content. If the requested program is not broadcast, the server 3 a time offset (step 318) creates an archived copy in long-term archives after the broadcast of the program. The process moves to step 320, where the subscriber provide rights of access to archived program, and at step 322, in which the caller reported the successful creation of the backup. In this case, the subscribers can selectively request the creation of backups that are available to them.

The subscriber may be determined by the amount according to the EN payments (including, without limitation, a lump-sum payment, subscription and time-limited access) to create a personal backup program. The server 3 a time offset ensures that the restrictions on access and use will be executed, and initiate the transmission of the copy of the program to be stored in the server 10 of the archive content.

Typically, the server 10 of archive content may include a local storage device. When you view the program schedule to the subscriber may be given the option program for archiving. Manager 5 video server organizes server 3 temporary shift the transmission program in the server 10 of archive content, except when he already has a copy of this program.

The server 10 of archive content can create an information table, similar to the schedule table generated by the server 3 a time offset that identifies the program includes the details of the event ID and identifies the position on the disk that stores the program. The subscriber can access the schedule inside the server 10 content archive and select the program in the server 10 of archive content for viewing, similar to the choice of the server 3 a time offset.

The programs included in the personal archive of the subscriber may be automatically deleted after the expiry of the agreed time window is. By agreement of the owners of the rights to broadcast channels/content system may increase the period of time during which the individual archive can store a copy of the program to ensure longer storage time on the server side, with or without additional payment or subscription. Subscribers can manage their archival areas by adding new software or removal of existing programs.

May be no restrictions on the choice of the playback source, if for each subscriber played only one source. For example, the subscriber may selectively choose to view the program “direct transmission”stored program of short-term archive or the program stored in the personal archive of the subscriber (“long-term” archive). Several television receivers can be connected to set top box 8 of the subscriber, or can be multiple set-top boxes 8, associated with the subscriber. In these cases, family members user can view various programs.

The present invention allows the capture and preservation in a centralized server system of all broadcast programs transmitted by television broadcast channel, to play subscribers in the ass the nom time window according to the commercial rules agreed with owners of broadcast channels or content.

Many broadcast channels can be simultaneously captured and stored, providing on demand access to all broadcast programs transmitted on all the channels at the agreed time window.

By simultaneously storing multiple broadcast channels, the viewer has the option of choice for a wide range of content. For example, if the schedule for the 10-and broadcast channels are available within the previous 72 hours and if the average program length is 30 minutes, according to the present invention, subscribers can choose at any given time approximately 1440 programs (including direct broadcast transmission and short-term archives broadcasts). Viewers who do not have access to short-term archives, according to the present invention may have the choice to view only 10 programs. In addition, according to the present invention, the subscriber can either browse the “direct transfer” program from the time it started on schedule, or the subscriber may view it as an archived program with additional control FF, REW and pause.

The present invention provides the providers Shirokov is athelny channels and the owners of the rights to the content very high degree of control over the playback of programs, previously transmitted broadcast method. For example, providers of broadcast channels and the owners of the rights to the content are able to completely disable the playback of programs from short-term or long-term archives (for example, broadcast channel And may deny access to news broadcasts, previously transferred to the broadcast method), to limit the length of the playback window, or to regulate the level of interactivity available within each program. The present invention also may terminate the subscriber in obtaining or recording of some programs. Additionally, the present invention provides a broadcast organizations and service providers to stay within the established rules (such as rules of “restrictions”), requiring a PIN on relevant programs and denying access to others.

All content, including all broadcast channels, programs, short-term archive and programs long-term archive can be provided directly from the remote server. This ensures seamless integration programs “direct transfer of programs from short-term archive and programs of long-term archive, all of these can be accessed through a single menu (for example, through the schedule, the war is undertaken to subscribers through a television set-top box 8). This single menu can also be used to change channels, view schedules for future broadcasts or perform other tasks, including other methods of selection.

Remote server have the ability to store full schedule of broadcast channels, but with playback, certain commercial rules, consistent with a separate broadcast channels. This implies that the owners of the rights to broadcast channels or content retain a high degree of control over how visible their content environment to allow viewing on demand.

A wide range of programs, previously transferred to the broadcast method, available on demand with no additional action required from the viewer, and without restrictions imposed by the client on the amount of content that can be saved.

Although embodiments of described with reference to the MPEG-2 standard, the specialists in this field of technology should be taken into account when reading the present description that can be used other ways of coding. For example, can be used or can be applied to other standards (e.g. MPEG-4 and/or H.264, and so on).

1. The method of operation of a broadcasting system and broadcasting system receives a broadcast stream Yes the data contains many programs and associated service information containing phases in which:
pull a copy of each of the programs in real-time
retain said copy of each program;
extract of the said broadcast data stream service information embedded in each program;
make and keep connected with the history of the schedule adopted programs of the mentioned service information, selected from the above-mentioned broadcast stream data;
receiving from the subscriber the choice of program, and program selection specifies the access request to the desired program from the mentioned linked with the history of the schedule;
confirm that the subscriber is authorized to access referred to the program selected in accordance with the data rights program, which determine the rules relating to the broadcast of this program; and
allow the subscriber access to the saved copy referred to the selected program in accordance with the rights to the program.

2. The method according to claim 1, further containing the step of transmitting said subscriber electronic reference information about the program to view referred to by the subscriber, and electronic reference information about the program takes into account the mentioned linked with the history of the schedules and data rights the and program to specify programs available referred to the caller.

3. The method according to claim 2, in which the electronic reference information about the program includes information specifying restrictions on the subscriber's access to programs.

4. The method according to claim 2, in which the electronic reference information about the program includes a program for viewing where the subscriber is not authorized.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding paragraphs in which the data rights program provides prevention playback program for a limited period of time.

6. The method according to claim 1, in which the data rights program restrict access to program subscribers who have received subscription rights to view the above-mentioned program.

7. The method according to claim 6, in which checks to confirm that any subscription rights associated with the said subscriber before access is authorized.

8. The method according to claim 1, in which the mentioned programmes initially remain in the temporary archive.

9. The method of claim 8, further containing the step of copying the mentioned desired program from the above-mentioned temporary archive in long-term archive for access to said subscriber.

10. The method according to claim 9, in which the rights to the program applied to the copy in the permanent archive for subsequent management the m access to the subscriber.

11. The method according to claim 1, in which the access to the mentioned desired program rejects, if any request to access a copy of the program conflicts with any rights to the software associated with this program.

12. The method according to po containing the drafting phase and maintain information about the rights to the program from one or more sources.

13. The method according to item 12, in which the data of rights to the program include information coming from one or more of the provider of broadcast services, content owner and regulatory authority.

14. The method according to claim 1, in which the data of rights to the program associated with the program, using data extracted from the service information.

15. The method according to claim 1, further containing the step authentication PIN code provided by the said subscriber, before access will be allowed.

16. The method according to claim 1, wherein the step of extracting the service information embedded in each program, of the above-mentioned broadband stream runs in real time and simultaneously with the step of storing a copy of each program.

17. A device for the preservation of broadcast programs for future transmission to multiple subscribers, containing:
means for receiving a data stream broadcast channel containing multiple sequential programs;
redtwo retrieve a copy of each of the programs in real-time
tool storage for saving mentioned copies of each of the adopted programs;
the retrieval tool, service information embedded in each program, of the above-mentioned stream data;
tool for creating and saving associated with the history of the schedule adopted programs of the mentioned service information extracted from the aforementioned broadcast stream data;
means receiving from the subscriber a selection of programs, and program selection specifies the access request to the desired program from the mentioned linked with the history of the schedule;
a means of confirming that the subscriber is authorized to access referred to the program selected in accordance with the data rights program, which determine the rules relating to the broadcast of this program; and
the tool permits the subscriber access to the saved copy referred to the selected program in accordance with the rights to the program.

18. The device according to 17, further containing a means for transmission to said subscriber electronic reference information about the program to view referred to by the subscriber, and electronic reference information about the program takes into account the mentioned linked with the history of the schedules and data rights to the program to specify the programs mentioned by the caller.

19. At trojstvo on p, which electronic reference information about the program includes information specifying restrictions on the subscriber's access to programs.

20. The device according to p, in which the electronic reference information about the program includes a program for viewing where the subscriber is not authorized.

21. The device according to any one of p-20, in which the data rights program provides prevention playback program for a limited period of time.

22. The device according to 17, in which the data rights program restrict access to program subscribers who have received subscription rights to view the above-mentioned program.

23. The device according to item 22, further containing a validation tool to confirm any subscription rights associated with the said subscriber before access is authorized.

24. The device 17 that contains a temporary archive, which initially retain the mentioned programmes.

25. The device according to paragraph 24, optionally containing long-term archive, a copy which referred to the desired program for subsequent transmission to said subscriber.

26. The device according A.25, in which the rights to the program applied to the copy in the permanent archive to control subsequent access to the subscriber.

28. The device according to 17, further containing a means for compiling and storing data about the rights to the program from one or more sources.

29. The device according to p in which the data of rights to the program include information coming from one or more of the provider of broadcast services, content owner and regulatory authority.

30. The device according to 17, in which the data of rights to the program associated with the program, using data extracted from the service information.

31. The device according to 17, further containing a means of authenticating PIN code provided by the said subscriber, prior to granting access.

32. The device according to 17, in which the retrieval tool, service information embedded in each program, of the above-mentioned data stream is configured to retrieve service information in real time.

33. System broadcast, containing:
the head node, coupled to receive input data stream broadcast channel containing notesto programs, and referred to the head node generates an output data stream, containing mentioned many programs in the output format;
processor service information associated with said parent node and the host mentioned input data stream to a broadcast channel, and the said processor retrieves service information service information embedded in each of these many programs;
the server time offset associated with said parent node and said processor service information, and mentioned the server time offset retrieves a copy referred to the many programs in real time and stores said copy mentioned many programs;
the server schedules a broadcast transmission, coupled with the aforementioned processor service information generating unit associated with the history of the schedule adopted programs depending on the mentioned service information; and
a communication network connected with the said head node and said server time offset, and referred to the transmission network made with the possibility of transfer of the aforementioned output data in a variety of subscriber devices and the selective transfer of the aforementioned copies mentioned many of the programs mentioned in the subscriber device, and
server the temporal is th shift is made capable of receiving from the subscriber a selection of the program, the choice of the program indicates the access request to the desired program from the mentioned linked with the history of the schedule;
the server time offset is also configured to confirm that the subscriber is authorized to access referred to the program selected in accordance with the data rights program, which determine the rules relating to the broadcast program; and
the server time offset is also configured to allow the subscriber access to the saved copy referred to the selected program in accordance with the rights to the program.

34. System p, optionally containing:
server archive of content associated with the mentioned server time offset and said transmission network, and server archive content stores long-term copy of the program selected by the subscriber.

35. System p or 34, in which the above-mentioned server schedules a broadcast transmission is connected with the possibility of transfer of the aforementioned multiple subscriber devices electronic reference information about the program, and electronic reference information about the program takes into account the mentioned schedule and data rights to the program to specify the programs mentioned by the caller.

36. System p, in which the electronic reference information about prog is the Amma includes information specifies restrictions on the subscriber's access to programs.

37. System p, in which the electronic reference information about the program includes a program for viewing where the subscriber is not authorized.