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| United States Patent | 5089885 |
| Link to this page | http://www.wikipatents.com/5089885.html |
| Inventor(s) | Clark; Morris (Coconut Grove, FL) |
| Abstract | A method of using a programmed data processor to operate a video
information selection system wherein a viewer can select video information
to be displayed on a common channel of the television monitors of all
viewers. The viewer accesses the data processor by use of a telephone
keypad and selects video information to be broadcast by inputting a
digital code. The data processor processes the signal generated, retrieves
the video information from memory and places it on queue to be broadcast.
A plurality of such slave video information selection systems can be
remotely controlled, monitored and operated by a host programmed data
processor at a location remote from the slave video information selection
systems. |
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Title Information  |
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Drawing from US Patent 5089885 |
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Telephone access display system with remote monitoring |
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| Publication Date |
February 18, 1992 |
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| Filing Date |
August 1, 1988 |
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| Parent Case |
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This application is a continuation-in-part application of Ser. No. 930,207,
entitled Telephone Access Display System filed Nov. 14, 1986, which issued
as U.S. Pat. No. 4,761,684 on Aug. 2, 1988.
The present invention relates generally to a method of displaying
subscriber selected video information on a television monitor. More
particularly, the present invention relates to a method including a
programmed data processor, of operating a system wherein remotely selected
video information is broadcast by a cable television or television
transmitter to all television receivers tuned to a predetermined channel.
The selection occurs using a telephone keypad at the viewer's location.
The data processor controls the retrieval of the information from its
storage location and broadcasts the video selection to all the television
receivers of cable subscribers or viewers.
There presently are systems that allow a subscriber to view selected video
information on cable television. In a first such system, a transmitting
station utilizes a coder unit to scramble the video and audio signal so
that a conventional television cannot clearly receive the signals. A
decoder is provided for each subscriber to unscramble to coded signal. The
use of the decoder is recorded for billing purposes. Such a system allows
the subscriber to view video information chosen by the cable company.
However, the subscriber cannot view video information chosen by the
subscriber.
In a second system, the subscriber is furnished with a list of video
information that may be chosen. This video information is supplied through
a free channel. The subscriber actuates a control at his home which
searches for the free channel of a cable system. When that channel is
found, the subscriber actuates a selector control which transmits a signal
corresponding to the video information selected over the free channel to
the cable head end. The head end then automatically selects the required
film and starts the broadcast of the video information. This type of
system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,278,677 to Fannoy.
In a third system, such as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,264,924 to Freeman, a
private coaxial cable distribution network allows a transmitting station
to simultaneously transmit a plurality of unscrambled subscription
television program signals to a plurality of subscribers on a plurality of
television channels. The signals are related in time and content to each
other. Each signal is transmitted at a different frequency which
corresponds to a different television reception channel, with regular or
free television programming being simultaneously provided at one or more
further different television reception channel frequencies. Each
subscriber is provided with a switch by which he can choose to view free
television, listen to music or view pay television.
In a fourth system, a control unit is provided at the subscriber's home.
The subscriber is provided with a list of video information that may be
chosen. The subscriber actuates the control or command terminal unit to
select the video information. This command terminal unit is a
microprocessor with a keypad coupled to the telephone system and a cable.
The cable system sends this video information in time compressed form to
only the subscriber that requested it. The video information is converted
to real time before it is broadcast at the subscriber's home. This type of
system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,590,516 and 4,567,512 to Abraham.
In a fifth system, a telephone at the subscriber's home is utilized instead
of the control unit to select video information for viewing. The
subscriber dials the cable television company and enters a digital code
corresponding to the selected video information. The video information is
sent via cable in time compressed form and is broadcast to the subscriber
requesting it. This type of system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,521,806
to Abraham.
In U.S. Pat. No. 4,381,522 to Lambert, a sixth system is disclosed. A
subscriber enters a digital code on a telephone corresponding to the
selected video information. In this system, there are a plurality of
channels. There is a minicomputer at the cable station that responds to
viewer selection signals provided on the telephone line. The channel and
start and stop times for the selected program are displayed on the
television monitor of all subscribers. The program is then broadcast so
that any subscriber interested can view it. Each selected program is
typically assigned for broadcast in the order that it is received.
These systems, however, do not allow a subscriber or viewer to select and
view video information that will be broadcast to all subscribers or
viewers on one common channel using only a conventional television
receiver and a telephone having a Touch Tone keypad. The systems described
above involve complex electronic equipment that increases the overall cost
and down time of the system.
Nor do such systems allow for the remote diagnosis, operation, and control
provided by the present invention. Such remote capabilities enable, for
example, the receipt of a dedication forwarded from a central or host
station to be displayed on a broadcast from a particular remote system
location. In addition, the present system can utilize an audio track from
one source and video information from another source and place them both
on the outgoing line for display on each viewer's television receiver.
SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
In view of the foregoing, it should be apparent that there still exists a
need in the art for a method of operating a video information system so
that a subscriber or viewer can select video information to be broadcast
to all subscribers or viewers on one common channel using only a
conventional Touch Tone keypad or telephone including such a keypad. In
addition, there exists a need in the art for a method of and apparatus for
operating a remote viewing system of selected video program material at
local subscriber remote or slave locations which may be controlled and
monitored from a remote centralized host location.
It is, therefore, an object of this invention to provide a method for
subscribers of a cable television system to select video information to be
broadcast on one common channel to all subscribers' television monitors
using a telephone keypad.
It is another object of this invention to provide a method for placing
video information on queue to be broadcast in accordance with the time the
selection was made by the subscriber.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a method of and
apparatus for the remote monitoring and controlling of slave remote
systems for enabling the viewing of selected video program material at
local subscriber remote receiving locations.
A further object of the present invention is to provide for the remote
selection at remote receiving locations of video programs to be broadcast
over the television receivers of all viewers of a predetermined channel
utilizing two-way cable or low power RF input of selection signals by the
viewers or cable subscribers.
Still another objection of the present invention is to provide apparatus
for and a method of using an audio track from one source at a slave or
host installation and video information from another source at that same
slave or host location, to be output on a single channel from a video
switch as controlled by the host or slave computer, respectively.
These and other objects are achieved by a method of operating a video
information selection system using a programmed data processor in which a
subscriber or viewer can select certain video information that is then
displayed on one common channel of the television monitors of all
subscribers or viewers. The subscriber's or viewer's telephone keypad is
used to access a data processor. The invention may be designed to be used
with the telephone company's "900" service. Using this service, a caller
is charged a nominal fee per call by the telephone company. The video
information system then recovers a portion of the fee from the phone
company. The subscriber or viewer enters a digital code on the telephone
keypad that corresponds to the video information desired for viewing. The
selected video information is retrieved by the data processor from a
memory device and broadcast over the cable system or by means of a
television transmitter to the television receivers of all subscribers or
viewers tuned to a predetermined single channel or frequency. The
television transmitter may be a low power television transmitter or any
other type of television transmitter.
The inventive method also includes the step of placing the selected video
information in line or on queue so that the first video information
selected is the first video information broadcast on the common channel
and subsequent video information selected is broadcast in turn according
to the relative time it was selected.
The inventive method further contemplates a plurality of slave or local
cable television or low power RF transmitting systems which may be
accessed by a viewer or subscriber at a location remote from the slave
cable system or television transmitter for selecting video program
material for display over a single channel for viewing by all viewers
having television receivers tuned to that channel. While the viewer may
preferably make the selection utilizing a telephone keypad, alternatively,
a two-way cable box in the case of a cable based system or a low power RF
transmitter in the case of either a cable or television transmitter
system, may be utilized by the viewer for such purpose. A low power RF
receiver, capable of receiving the signals transmitted by the low power RF
transmitter used by the viewer, would thus be used to receive the signals
transmitted by the subscriber or viewer for input into the computer of the
slave or local system. The host or master system is typically located at a
central location and controls, monitors and/or operates a plurality of
such slave systems using the programmed data procesors of the respective
systems. Communication between host and slave systems is accomplished by
modems and telephone lines.
The inventive method and apparatus disclosed herein also includes the
ability of a host, slave or local system to respond to multiple incoming
telephone lines. Such multiple incoming telephone lines can be used, for
example, by viewers to select several viewing options, such as one
selection for a set price and three selections for a different set price.
With these and other objects, advantages and features of the invention that
may become hereinafter apparent, the nature of the invention may be more
clearly understood by reference to the following detailed description of
the invention, the appended claims, and to the several drawings attached
herein. |
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Title Information |
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References |
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| *references marked with an asterisk below are user-added references |
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U.S. References |
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| Market Size |
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Estimate the gross annual revenues of the relevant market
sector:
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Estimate the percentage of the relevant market sector this invention will capture:
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| Reasonable Royalty |
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What percentage of gross sales should the inventor or assignee be paid?
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Public's "Guesstimation" of Royalty Value
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| Market Size | N/A | [No votes] | | x | Market Share | N/A | [No votes] | | x | Reasonable Royalty | N/A | [No votes] |
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Market Review |
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Technical Review |
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Claims |
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What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus for the remote viewing of selected video program material at viewer remote receiving locations, comprising:
a) a television broadcasting device for providing a television signal for transmission to said remote locations over a single common channel;
b) a device for providing program signals to said television broadcasting means;
c) a least one selectable source of video program materials;
d) a selection device for generating a video program selection signal from a viewer remote receiving location with such selection being made through a telephone system keypad;
e) a dedication device for generating a dedication message from a viewer corresponding to a video program selected by a viewer; and
f) a programmed data processor, coupled to said at least one selectable source of video program materials, said dedication device and said device for providing program signals, for responding to telephonically transmitted selection and dedication
signals from a remote location and for providing control signals to said at least one selectable source of video program materials in accordance with the desired video program selected by a viewer such that the selected video program and the
corresponding dedication message generated from said dedication device are coupled by said device for providing program signals to said television broadcasting means for transmission over the single common channel to all of the viewer remote receiving
locations viewing the single common channel irrespective of whether the viewers at such locations have selected any video program material so that a viewer at a remote receiving location may tune a television receiver at that location to the single
common channel in order to sequentially view all of the selected video programs and corresponding dedications transmitted by said television broadcasting device over the single common channel.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said dedication device includes a keyboard, connected to said programmed data processor, for inputting to said programmed data processor a dedication message received by a viewer.
3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said dedication device includes a voice interface for receiving telephonic voice dedication messages from viewers and for converting the voice dedication messages from analog format into digital
format for use by said programmed data processor.
4. The apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising an audio mixing device, connected to said voice interface, for converting the digitally formatted dedication message signals into audio dedication message signals and for mixing audio
portions of a selected video program with the audio dedication message signals.
5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a dedication message is broadcast by said broadcasting device at essentially the same time a corresponding selected video program is broadcast by said broadcasting device.
6. A remote viewing system, comprising:
a television broadcasting device for providing a television signal for transmission to viewer remote receiving locations over a single common channel;
a control station including:
a) a device for providing video program material signals to said television broadcasting means;
b) at least one selectable source of video program materials;
c) a selection device for generating a video program selection signal from a viewer remote receiving location with such selection being made through a telephone system keypad; and
d) a first programmed data processor coupled to said at least one selectable source of video program materials and said device for providing video program signals to said television broadcasting device, said first programmed data processor being
responsive to a video program selection signal transmitted from a remote location for providing control signals to said at least one selectable source of video program materials in accordance with the desired video program material selected by a viewer
such that the selected video program material is coupled by said device for providing video program signals to said television broadcasting device for transmission over the single common channel to all of the viewer remote receiving locations viewing the
single common channel irrespective of whether the viewers at such locations have selected any video program material so that a viewer at a remote receiving location may tune a television receiver at that location to the single common channel in order to
sequentially view all of the selected video program materials transmitted by said television broadcasting device over the single common channel; and
a remotely located monitoring and controlling device, including a second programmed data processor, for coupling to said first programmed data processor for two-way communication between said first and second programmed data processors for
monitoring and controlling the operation of said control station by providing instructions for operating said control station directly to said first programmed data processor.
7. The system according too claim 6, wherein said second programmed data processor controls which video program material is provided by said control station to said broadcasting device.
8. The system according to claim 6, wherein said second programmed data processor is coupled to said first programmed data processor via a telephone link.
9. The system according to claim 6, wherein said second programmed data processor sends and receives data files to and from said first programmed data processor, respectively.
10. The system according to claim 6, wherein said selection device includes a low power radio-frequency transmitter and said control station includes a radio-frequency receiver for receiving radio-frequency selection signals transmitted by a
viewer.
11. The system according to claim 6, wherein said selection and controlling device includes a two-way cable box for transmitting video selections to said control station and for receiving video material transmitted from said control station.
12. The system according to claim 6, wherein said monitoring selectively monitors the operation of a plurality of remote control stations.
13. The system according to claim 6, wherein said monitoring and controlling device selectively controls the operation of at least one remotely located control station.
14. The system according to claim 6, wherein said selectable source of video program materials includes magnetic tapes.
15. The system according to claim 6, wherein said selectable source of video program materials includes laser disks automatically retrieved and played by a robot.
16. The system according to claim 6, wherein said second programmed data processor monitors the number of times particular video materials have been selected over a predetermined time period.
17. The system according to claim 6, wherein said second programmed data processor monitors the revenues generated by said control station.
18. The system according to claim 6, wherein said second programmed data processor controls the selection of commercial advertising provided by said control station to said broadcasting device.
19. A system for the remote viewing of selected video program material at viewer remote receiving locations, comprising:
a) a television broadcasting device for providing a television signal for transmission to said remote locations over a single common channel;
b) a plurality of selectable sources of program material having video and audio portions;
c) a selection device for generating a video program selection signal from a viewer remote receiving location with such selection being made through a telephone system keypad;
d) a switching device connected to said plurality of selectable sources of program materials, for selectively switching video and audio portions of the program materials to said television broadcasting device;
e) a programmed data processor coupled to said plurality of selectable sources of program materials and said switching device, said programmed data processor being responsive to selection signals transmitted from a remote location for providing
control signals to said at least one selectable source of program materials and to said switching device in accordance with the desired program material selected by a viewer such that selected video portions from one selectable source and selected audio
portions from another source are transmitted to said television broadcasting device for broadcast over the single common channel to all of said viewer remote receiving locations viewing the single common channel irrespective of whether the viewers at
such locations have selected any program material so that a viewer at a remote receiving location may tune a television receiver at that location to the single common channel in order to sequentially view all of the selected program materials broadcast
by said television broadcasting means over the single common channel.
20. The system according to claim 19, further comprising a phone interface, connected to said programmed data processor, for receiving multiple telephonically transmitted program selection signals over a plurality of telephone request lines.
21. The system according to claim 20, wherein said phone interface polls each request line in sequence in order to determine if any of the lines is ringing.
22. The system according to claim 19, wherein said switching device further includes a generator device for generating selected program materials such that a video portion from a first source is mixed with an audio portion from a second source.
23. The system according to claim 19, wherein said switching device includes a graphic interface device, connected to said programmed data processor, for superimposing textual and graphic information on the video portion of the selected program
material.
24. The system according to claim 19, wherein the video portion includes a menu listing several program selections with each selection assigned a corresponding numeric code.
25. The system according to claim 24, wherein a viewer selects a program by telephonically transmitting the corresponding numeric code.
26. A method for the remote viewing of selected video program material at viewer remote receiving locations comprising:
a) providing at a control station at least one selectable source of video program materials;
b) telephonically transmitting video program selection signals and corresponding dedication message signals from a remote location to the control station;
c) receiving at the control station the transmitted selection signals and corresponding dedication message signals;
d) retrieving from the at least one selectable source of video program materials the selected video program selected by a viewer.
e) transmitting the selected video program and the corresponding dedication message by means of a television broadcasting device over a single common channel to all of the viewer remote receiving locations viewing the single common channel
irrespective of whether the viewers at such locations have selected any video program material;
f) tuning a television receiver at a remote viewing location to the single common channel; and
g) sequentially viewing all of the selected video programs and the corresponding dedication messages transmitted by the television broadcasting device over the single common channel.
27. The method according to claim 26, wherein the receiving step (c) includes the step of inputting, via a keyboard located at the control station, a dedication message to be broadcast over the single common channel.
28. The method according to claim 26, wherein the receiving step (c) includes the steps of receiving telephonic voice dedication messages from viewers via a voice interface means and converting the voice messages from analog format into digital
format for use by the control station.
29. The method according to claim 28, wherein the receiving step (c) further includes the steps of converting the digitally formatted dedication message signals into audio detection message signals and mixing audio portions of a selected video
program with the audio dedication message signals.
30. The method according to claim 26, wherein the transmitting step (e) includes broadcasting the dedication message at essentially the same time the corresponding selected video program is broadcast.
31. A method for the remote viewing of selected program material at viewer remote receiving locations, comprising:
a) providing at a control station at least one selectable source of video program materials;
b) transmitting a video program selection signal from a viewer at a remote receiving location to the control station using a telephone keypad;
c) receiving at the control station the transmitted selection signal;
d) retrieving from the at least one selectable source of video program materials the selected video program;
e) transmitting selected video program material to a television broadcasting device remotely located from the control station;
f) transmitting the selected video program over a single common channel to all of the viewer remote receiving locations viewing the single common channel irrespective of whether the viewers at such locations have selected any video program
material;
g) tuning a television receiver at a remote receiving location to the single common channel;
h) sequentially viewing all of the selected video program materials transmitted by said television broadcasting device over the single common channel; and
i) remotely monitoring and controlling the operation of the control station during the steps a-e.
32. The method according to claim 31, further comprising the step of remotely controlling the video program material transmitted to the television broadcasting device.
33. The method according to claim 31, wherein the remotely monitoring and controlling step (i) is accomplished via a telephone link.
34. The method according to claim 31, wherein the remotely monitoring and controlling step (i) includes the steps of sending and receiving data files to and from the control station, respectively.
35. The method according to claim 31, wherein the transmitting step (b) includes the step of transmitting the video program selection signal using a low power radio-frequency transmitter and the receiving step (c) includes the step of receiving
radio-frequency video program selection signals transmitted by a viewer.
36. The method according to claim 31, wherein the transmitting step (b) includes the step of transmitting video program selection signals over a two-way cable box and the receiving step (c) includes the step of receiving the transmitted video
material over the two-way cable box.
37. The method according to claim 31, wherein the remotely monitoring and controlling step (i) further includes selectively monitoring the operation of a plurality of remote control stations.
38. The method according to claim 31, further comprising selectively controlling the operation of a plurality of remote control stations.
39. The method according to claim 31, wherein the at least one selectable source of video program materials includes magnetic tapes.
40. The method according to claim 31, wherein the at least one selectable source of video program materials includes laser disks automatically retrieved and played by a robot.
41. The method according to claim 31, wherein the remotely monitoring and controlling step (i) further includes a step of monitoring the number of times particular video materials have been selected over a predetermined time period.
42. The method according to claim 31, wherein the remotely monitoring and controlling step (i) further includes a step of monitoring revenues generated at the control station.
43. The method according to claim 31, further including the step of remotely controlling the selection of commercial advertising transmitted to the television broadcasting device.
44. A method for remote viewing of selected video program material at viewer remote receiving locations, comprising:
a) providing at a control station a plurality of selectable sources of program material having video and audio portions;
b) transmitting program material selection signals from a viewer at a remote receiving location to the control station;
c) receiving at the control station the transmitted selection signals;
d) retrieving from the at least one selectable source of program materials the program material selected by a viewer;
e) transmitting selected video portions from one selectable source and selected audio portions from another selectable source to a television broadcasting means remotely located from the control station;
f) transmitting the selected video and audio portions over a single common channel to all of the viewer remote receiving locations viewing the single common channel irrespective of whether the viewers at such locations have selected any program
material;
g) tuning a television receiver at a remote viewing location to the single common channel; and
h) sequentially viewing all of the selected program materials transmitted by the television broadcasting means over the single common channel.
45. The method according to claim 44, wherein the receiving step (c) includes the step of receiving multiple, telephonically-transmitted, program selection signals over a plurality of telephone request lines.
46. The system according to claim 45, wherein the receiving step (c) further includes the step of polling each request line in sequence in order to determine if any of the lines is ringing.
47. The method of according to claim 44, wherein the transmitting step (e) further includes the step of generating selected program materials such that a video portion from a first source is mixed with an audio portion from a second source.
48. The method according to claim 44, wherein the transmitting step (e) includes the step of superimposing textual and graphic information on the video portion of the selected program material.
49. The method according to claim 44, wherein the transmitting step (b) includes the step of telephonically transmitting a numeric code corresponding to a program selection. |
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Claims |
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Description |
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BRIEF
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a flow chart showing the functional steps utilized by the method of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing the functional steps of the "Setup" subroutine of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing the functional steps of the "Script" subroutine of the present invention;
FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing the functional steps of the "Proc Beg", and "Proc" and "Proc End" subroutines of the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing the functional steps of the SCRCMD subroutine of the present invention;
FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing the functional steps of the "BRK" subroutine of the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing the functional steps of the "ISERV" subroutine of the present invention;
FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the functional steps of the "TTServ" subroutine of the present invention;
FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing the functional steps of the "KyServ" subroutine of the present invention;
FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the functional steps of the "Log Read" companion program to the present invention;
FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the functional steps of the message procedure program utilized with the present invention;
FIGS. 12(A), 12(B), 13-16 are flow charts showing the functional steps and subroutines of the host program used with the present invention;
FIGS. 17(A), 17(B), 18-22 are flow charts showing the functional steps and subroutines of the slave program used with the present invention;
FIG. 23 is a schematic functional block diagram of a hardware system for use with the present invention; and
FIG. 24 is a schematic functional block diagram of a preferred alternative hardware system with use with the present invention; and
FIGS. 25A-D are pictorials of menu screens and other video and text information as displayed on a viewer's television receiver by the system of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION FOR THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring now to the drawings wherein like parts are designated by like reference numerals throughout, there is illustrated in FIG. 1 a flow chart showing the overall operation of the method of the present invention. That method is designed to
be utilized by a cable television subscriber or a viewer of non-cable television, using the subscriber's or viewer's television, a telephone keypad, a modem and a programmed data processor. The television can be connected to receive the television
signal using any available means, such as by cable, satellite or other broadcast transmission medium. The method of the present invention allows subscribers to request video information for display on one common channel of their televisions using a
telephone operated control link. The inventive method may also be used on a plurality of independent channels.
The subscriber uses a telephone keypad to access the CATV system's central computer or a separate computer located at the head end of a CATV system or transmitter of a broadcast station, by communicating through a modem. The subscriber can then
select particular video information for display on his own television and also on all televisions tuned to the particular cable channel or broadcast channel utilized by the CATV or television broadcast system by providing a predetermined code to the
system's computer via his telephone. Such video information may include graphics, text, music videos, or any other audio or video information. Such audio/video information may be stored on a plurality of suitable storage means, such as a laser disk
player, a VCR, other tape storage means, or any other suitable electronic storage means. The method of the present invention also allows an operator of the CATV data processor or separate computer to select video information to be broadcast by entering
a digital code corresponding to the desired or selected video information on the keyboard of the control console or computer. The types of information broadcast may be commercial spots, the results of contest polling information, birthday messages,
dedications or any other type of messages.
At the beginning of utilizing the inventive method, the program is read into the data processor and started 10. The subscriber's television display screen is then cleared and the display setup 12. The title logo and copyright notice is then
displayed 14. The program next determines whether the setup file is on the command line 16. If the setup file is on the command line, the setup file is retrieved from the command line 18. The "Setup" subroutine is then executed 20. If the setup file
is not on the command line, then the setup file is set to "TADSET.SET" 22. That functions to put the setup file on the command line. The "Setup" subroutine is then likewise executed 20.
The program then sets up the attached hardware 24. Such hardware may include the modem, a printer, a keyboard or other peripherals. When the hardware is set up, the scroll file is also set up and then read 26. The scroll file contains a menu
listing vide information available for viewing by the subscriber. A sample menu listing is shown in Table 1. It may contain music video selections as well as a code for entry by a viewer or system operator for selecting a desired music video or other
video information. The program then checks the keys and the modem using the "ISERV" subroutine 28. "ISERV", as will be explained below, allows the program to access a subscriber's telephone by modem or to receive commands from the CATV or the system
computer console keys or keyboard.
The program then clears the recursion control variable 30. That step merely makes sure that the variables are set to their lowest level. The "Script" subroutine 32 is then executed. At this point, the "Script" subroutine runs only the
"Default" command. Those "Default" commands are executed before the viewer makes a selection. The program then determines whether the "Default" command is valid 34. Such "Default" commands result in the television screen of the viewers displaying
instructional messages, form example, the cost of each selection, the selections available and instructions for using the subscriber's telephone keypad in order to make a selection. This inventive method may also display this information while other
video information is displayed, such as a scrolling list of the video programs available, together with their selection codes. If the "Default" command is valid, then the program returns to A and once again checks the input from the subscriber's or
viewer's telephone 28. If the "Default" command is not valid, the program then displays the error and requests a new "Default" file 36. The program then returns to A and once again checks the input from the subscriber's or viewer's telephone 28.
Referring now to FIG. 2, which illustrates the "Setup" subroutine, when it is determined that the setup file is on the command line, the file is passed to the "Setup" subroutine 40, the program first sets defaults to all system parameters 42.
Next, the program determines if the setup file is valid 44. If the setup file is not valid, an error is displayed and the computer asks for a new setup file 46. A determination is then made whether it is a new file or a skip 48. If it is a skip, the
program then returns to the calling program 50. If it is a new setup file, the program returns to B and once again determines whether the setup file is valid 44. If the setup file is valid, the program then reads the next line of the setup file 52 and
determines whether it is the end of the file 54. If it is the end of the file, the program returns to the calling program 56. If it is not the end of the file, the program returns to C and once again reads the next line of the setup file 52.
Referring now to FIG. 3, which illustrates the "Script" subroutine 60, when the recursion variables are cleared 30, the script subroutine is called 32. The program first opens the script file 62 and determines whether the file is valid 64. If
the scrip file is not valid, an error is displayed and the "Script" subroutine returns to the calling program 68. If the file is valid, one is added to the recursion level 70 and the local parameters are set up 72. The current position, for example, is
set to zero. The program then reads the next line of the script file 74. A determination is next made as to whether it is the end of the file 76. If it is the end of the file, then one is subtracted from the recursion level 78 and the "Scrip"
subroutine returns to the calling program 80. If it is not the end of the file, then the program gets the next command 82. A determination is next made as to whether there is no command 84. If there is no command, the program returns to D and once
again reads the next line of the script file 24. If there is a command, then the program checks the input from the subscriber's telephone 86. At this point, the "ISERV" subroutine is called 86.
The program next determines whether it is the beginning of a procedure 88. A procedure is a set of rules or steps to be followed in operating equipment in the computer system. If it is the beginning of a procedure, the program then calls the
"Proc Beg" (Procedure Begin) subroutine 90. The program then returns to D and once again reads the next line of the script file 74. If it is not the beginning of a procedure, the program then determines whether it is the end of the procedure 92. If it
is the end of the procedure, the program calls the "Proc End" (Procedure End) subroutine 94 and returns to D and reads the next line on the script file 74. If it is not the end of a procedure, the program determines whether there is a procedure 96. If
there is a procedure, the program executes the "Proc" (Procedure) subroutine 98 and then returns to D to read the next line of the script file 74.
The program next determines whether it is the beginning of a repeat 100. If it is the beginning of a repeat, the current position is saved 102 and the program returns to D and reads the next line of the script file 74. A repeat is a group of
commands that are executed repeatedly. If it is not a repeat beginning, the program determines whether it is the end of a repeat 104. If it is the end of a repeat, the program goes to the saved position 106 and then returns to D to read the next line
of the script file 74. If it is not the end of a repeat, the program determines whether it is another command 108. If it is another command, the program calls the "SCRCMD" or script command subroutine and then returns to D and reads the next line of
the script file 74. If it is not another command, the program returns to D and reads the next line of the script file 74.
Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which illustrates the "Proc Beg", "Proc End" and "Proc" subroutines. When it is determined by the script subroutine that it is the beginning of a procedure, the "Proc Beg" subroutine 120 is called 90. The
program first determines if there are too many procedures 122. If it is determined that there are too many procedures, an error is displayed and the "Proc Beg" subroutine returns to the "Script" subroutine 126. However, if it is determined that there
are not too many procedures, the program saves the procedure begin position in a table 128. The program then gets the next command 130 and determines whether that command is a procedure end command 132. If it is a procedure end command, then the "Proc
Beg" subroutine 120 returns to the "Script" subroutine 134.
The "Proc" subroutine 150 is called when it is determined that the line in the script file is a procedure 98. The program first determines whether the return stack is full 152. If the return stack is full, an error is displayed 154 and the
program returns to the "Script" subroutine 156. If the return stack is not full, then the program finds the procedure in the table 158. It is then determined whether a procedure is defined 160. If the procedure is not defined, an error is displayed on
the monitor at the CATV control console 162 and the program returns to the "Script" subroutine. If the procedure is defined, the program saves the return position in the return stack 166. The program then sets the return to the procedure position 168
and returns to the "Script" subroutine 170.
The "Proc End" subroutine 180 is called when it is determined by the "Script" subroutine 60 that the line of the script file is the end of a procedure 94. A determination is then made as to whether there is a return in stage 187. If it is
determined that there is a return in stage, the return is set to return position 184 and the "Proc End" subroutine returns to the "Script" subroutine 188. If it is determined that the return is not in stage, an error is displayed 186 and the program
returns to the "Script" subroutine 190.
Referring now to FIG. 5, which illustrates the "SCRCMD" subroutine, when it is determined that a line in the script file is another command, the "SCRCMD" subroutine 200 is called 110. The program first determines if the command is a chain
command 202. A chain command is a group of logically related commands linked together by a pointer. If the command is a chain command, it is determined whether that chain command is valid 204. If that chain command is found to be valid, it is executed
recursively 206 and the program then returns to the "Script" subroutine 208. If the chain command is not valid, an error is displayed 210 and the program returns to the "Script" subroutine 212.
If it is determined that the current line of the script file is not a chain command, the program then asks whether it is a "break" command 214. If it is a break command, the program executes the "BRK" subroutine 216. The break command allows
the program to periodically check to see whether the default commands should be stopped because a subscriber of viewer has called in.
If it is determined that the line in the script file is not a break command, the program then determines if it is some other command 218. If it is not another command, the "ISERV" subroutine is executed 220 and the program returns to the
"Script" subroutine 222. If it is determined that the current line in the script file is some other command, the command is executed 224. Table I contains a list of a command that the program may execute at this point. The program then returns to the
"Script" subroutine 226.
TABLE I ______________________________________ Textcolor Sets the color of the text to be displayed in the scroll and in the current script number displayed. Backcolor Sets the color of the text background if any is used. Border Sets the
color of the solid border. Row Sets up the current row cursor position. To be used with Printtext command. Column Sets up the current column cursor position. To be used with Printtext command. Printtext Prints string of text at current cursor
position. Erasetext Erases text printed on a certain row. Graphback Changes graphics background to a certain color. Dispic Retrieves file as a picture and displays it. LVJB Selects section of laser disk to be played. LWVJB Waits for section of
laser disk to finish. Delay Causes a delay for N amount of seconds. Graphonly Displays graphics only with no video showing. Superimp Superimposes graphics over video. Vidoonly Displays video only with no graphics showing. Audiocart Triggers audio
cart switch. Videotape Sends address and begins playing of certain spots on tape machine. Wvideotape Waits for video tape to complete spot. Audiol Activates audio channel one. Audio2 Activates audio channel two. Switchon Turns external switch on. Switchoff Turns external switch off. Modemon Allows modem to answer. Modemoff Does not allow modem to answer. Addlog Adds a number to LG log. Sound Activates a tone at console. ______________________________________
Referring now to FIG. 6, which illustrates the "BRK" or break subroutine 230, when it is determined by the "SCRCMD" subroutine that the current command is a break command, the program executes the "BRK" subroutine 216. The program first
determines whether the command is in the default script 232. If it is not, then the program returns to "SCRCMD" subroutine 234. The program then determines if it has looped n times 236. If the program has looped n times, the program then returns to
the "SCRCMD" subroutine 238. If it is determined that the program has not looped n times, then the script and number is displayed on the television monitor of all subscribers or viewers tuned to the channel and the file or selection requested by the
subscriber is found 240.
A determination is then made as to whether the script file is valid 242. If the script file is valid, the script file is executed 244. The script is then logged in a log file 246 and the display prompts removed from the television monitor and
the file removed from queue 250. As will be explained below each selected video information is placed in line or on queue to be broadcast after video information previously selected. The program then returns to E and once again determines if it has
looped n times 236. If it is determined that the file is not a valid script file, an error is then displayed on the CATV control console 248, the display prompts cleared and the file removed from queue 250. The program likewise then returns to E and
determines whether it has looped n times 236.
Referring now to FIG. 7, which illustrates the "ISERV" subroutine 300, which is called by the control program after the scroll file is setup and read 28. "ISERV" is called by the "Script" subroutine 60 when it is determined that there is a
command 86. "ISERV" is also called by the "SCRCMD" subroutine 200 when a determination has been made that the line of the script file read is not any other command 220. The "ISERV" subroutine first determines whether there is a modem present 302. If
there is no modem present, the program next executes the "KYSERV" subroutine 306. If there is a modem present, the "TTSERV" subroutine is executed 304 and then the "KYSERV" subroutine 306 is executed. The program then returns 308 to the control program
or the subroutine that called it.
The "TTSERV" subroutine checks to see whether a subscriber has called to make a selection. This subroutine receives selections, processes the selections and places them on queue. The "KYSERV" subroutine checks to see whether an operator at the
cable television station or broadcast station has activated a key on the keyboard of the computer 1104 (see FIGS. 23 and 24). A request for display of video information can also be made by an operator using the keyboard. The keyboard also serves as a
means of correcting errors and running tests. In the case of a host system, the keyboard also serves as a means for monitoring, controlling and operating a plurality of slave systems, as will be described.
Referring now to FIG. 8, which illustrates the "TTSERV" subroutine 500 which is called by the "ISERV" subroutine when it is determined that there is a modem present 304. A determination is first made as to whether the telephone has been answered
502. If the telephone has not been answered, the program returns to the "ISERV" subroutine 504. If the telephone has been answered, a prompt is transmitted on the channel, is displayed on all television monitors tuned to that common channel or
frequency, and the audio turned on 506. In this manner, the inventive method provides confirmation of the viewer's selection through both the selecting viewer's telephone and the television monitor of all viewers. Other audio information may also be
provided such as astrological and sports information. In addition, advertising messages may be conveyed.
The program then receives the response of the viewer/subscriber/caller 508. A determination is made as to whether the subscriber has entered enough selection digits 510 to select the desired video information. If it is determined that the
subscriber has entered enough digits, a determination is made as to whether the time to enter digits has expired 512. If the time to enter digits has not expired, the words "Thank You" are displayed on all subscribers' television screens 514. The
selection of the viewer or subscriber is then added to the queue and logged in a log file 516 in non-volatile memory. The message is cleared from the viewers' screens and the phone hung up 522. It may then be determined whether the subscriber is a club
member 524. If the subscriber is a club member, the program returns to F and once again answers with a display prompt and audio 506. It is in this way that the program may give a multiple selection for the price of one. This feature can also be
modified by means of a determination of which of a plurality of incoming telephone lines the call is received on, whether the viewer/caller is entitled to make a predetermined plurality of selections, at a higher cost than a single selection. If the
subscriber is not a club member, the program then returns to the "ISERV" subroutine 526. The operator of the video selection system described herein may utilize a "900" service of the phone company so that the phone company charges the caller a nominal
fee for calling and the operator of the video selection system then receives the majority of this fee.
If it is determined that the viewer did not enter enough digits 510 or that the time to enter digits has expired 512, then the subroutine calculates and displays a Jukebox Pick 518. A Jukebox Pick is a random selection made by the data processor
1104. The Jukebox Pick is then added to the queue and logged in a Log file in non-volatile memory 520. An important feature of the present inventive method is that a line or queue is made of all the video information selected by the
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