US20060149813A1 - System and method for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices - Google Patents
System and method for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060149813A1 US20060149813A1 US11/368,871 US36887106A US2006149813A1 US 20060149813 A1 US20060149813 A1 US 20060149813A1 US 36887106 A US36887106 A US 36887106A US 2006149813 A1 US2006149813 A1 US 2006149813A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- content
- digitally encoded
- audio
- playback device
- recited
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L12/00—Data switching networks
- H04L12/28—Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
- H04L12/2854—Wide area networks, e.g. public data networks
- H04L12/2856—Access arrangements, e.g. Internet access
- H04L12/2869—Operational details of access network equipments
- H04L12/2898—Subscriber equipments
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q50/00—Systems or methods specially adapted for specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
- G06Q50/10—Services
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/01—Protocols
- H04L67/04—Protocols specially adapted for terminals or networks with limited capabilities; specially adapted for terminal portability
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/01—Protocols
- H04L67/06—Protocols specially adapted for file transfer, e.g. file transfer protocol [FTP]
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/2866—Architectures; Arrangements
- H04L67/30—Profiles
- H04L67/306—User profiles
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/50—Network services
- H04L67/55—Push-based network services
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/50—Network services
- H04L67/56—Provisioning of proxy services
- H04L67/565—Conversion or adaptation of application format or content
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/50—Network services
- H04L67/56—Provisioning of proxy services
- H04L67/568—Storing data temporarily at an intermediate stage, e.g. caching
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L69/00—Network arrangements, protocols or services independent of the application payload and not provided for in the other groups of this subclass
- H04L69/30—Definitions, standards or architectural aspects of layered protocol stacks
- H04L69/32—Architecture of open systems interconnection [OSI] 7-layer type protocol stacks, e.g. the interfaces between the data link level and the physical level
- H04L69/322—Intralayer communication protocols among peer entities or protocol data unit [PDU] definitions
- H04L69/329—Intralayer communication protocols among peer entities or protocol data unit [PDU] definitions in the application layer [OSI layer 7]
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/4104—Peripherals receiving signals from specially adapted client devices
- H04N21/4113—PC
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/4104—Peripherals receiving signals from specially adapted client devices
- H04N21/4126—The peripheral being portable, e.g. PDAs or mobile phones
- H04N21/41265—The peripheral being portable, e.g. PDAs or mobile phones having a remote control device for bidirectional communication between the remote control device and client device
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/4104—Peripherals receiving signals from specially adapted client devices
- H04N21/4135—Peripherals receiving signals from specially adapted client devices external recorder
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/414—Specialised client platforms, e.g. receiver in car or embedded in a mobile appliance
- H04N21/41407—Specialised client platforms, e.g. receiver in car or embedded in a mobile appliance embedded in a portable device, e.g. video client on a mobile phone, PDA, laptop
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/414—Specialised client platforms, e.g. receiver in car or embedded in a mobile appliance
- H04N21/4143—Specialised client platforms, e.g. receiver in car or embedded in a mobile appliance embedded in a Personal Computer [PC]
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/433—Content storage operation, e.g. storage operation in response to a pause request, caching operations
- H04N21/4331—Caching operations, e.g. of an advertisement for later insertion during playback
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/436—Interfacing a local distribution network, e.g. communicating with another STB or one or more peripheral devices inside the home
- H04N21/4363—Adapting the video or multiplex stream to a specific local network, e.g. a IEEE 1394 or Bluetooth® network
- H04N21/43637—Adapting the video or multiplex stream to a specific local network, e.g. a IEEE 1394 or Bluetooth® network involving a wireless protocol, e.g. Bluetooth, RF or wireless LAN [IEEE 802.11]
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/443—OS processes, e.g. booting an STB, implementing a Java virtual machine in an STB or power management in an STB
- H04N21/4437—Implementing a Virtual Machine [VM]
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/45—Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
- H04N21/458—Scheduling content for creating a personalised stream, e.g. by combining a locally stored advertisement with an incoming stream; Updating operations, e.g. for OS modules ; time-related management operations
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/47—End-user applications
- H04N21/478—Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification, shopping application
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/47—End-user applications
- H04N21/482—End-user interface for program selection
- H04N21/4825—End-user interface for program selection using a list of items to be played back in a given order, e.g. playlists
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/80—Generation or processing of content or additional data by content creator independently of the distribution process; Content per se
- H04N21/81—Monomedia components thereof
- H04N21/8106—Monomedia components thereof involving special audio data, e.g. different tracks for different languages
- H04N21/8113—Monomedia components thereof involving special audio data, e.g. different tracks for different languages comprising music, e.g. song in MP3 format
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/80—Generation or processing of content or additional data by content creator independently of the distribution process; Content per se
- H04N21/81—Monomedia components thereof
- H04N21/8146—Monomedia components thereof involving graphical data, e.g. 3D object, 2D graphics
- H04N21/8153—Monomedia components thereof involving graphical data, e.g. 3D object, 2D graphics comprising still images, e.g. texture, background image
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/2866—Architectures; Arrangements
- H04L67/289—Intermediate processing functionally located close to the data consumer application, e.g. in same machine, in same home or in same sub-network
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/50—Network services
- H04L67/60—Scheduling or organising the servicing of application requests, e.g. requests for application data transmissions using the analysis and optimisation of the required network resources
- H04L67/62—Establishing a time schedule for servicing the requests
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to ubiquitous computing devices and, more particularly, to a system for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices.
- HPNA Home Phoneline Networking Association
- HPNA High Speed Downlink Packets Networking technology that uses the AC power wiring in the home to carry data signals has also appeared. Similar to HPNA devices, adapters are required to convert data signals from devices into voltage fluctuations carried on to and off of the AC wires, allowing any AC outlet to become a network interface. Although both HPNA and power line networking products are convenient to use because they require no new wires, the advantage of AC power line products over HPNA is that AC power outlets are more ubiquitous than RJ-11 phone jacks.
- Wireless radio-frequency (RF) LAN technology has also been introduced into the home networking market. Theoretically, wireless technology is the most convenient for the end user to install.
- IEEE 802.11b is a direct sequence spread spectrum technology.
- HomeRF is a frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology. Adapters that are RF transceivers are required for each device to communicate on the network.
- IEEE 802.11b and HomeRF include additional encryption and security protocol layers so that the user's devices have controlled access to data being sent through the LAN.
- the current data-rate roadmap shows HomeRF increasing from 10 Mbps to 20 Mbps, utilizing the 5 Ghz band.
- the IEEE 802.11 technology roadmap shows the introduction of 802.11a at 54 Mbps, also utilizing the 5 Ghz band.
- LAN data-rates are increasing much faster than wide-area data-rates, such as the data-rates provided by “last mile” technologies including DSL, DOCSIS. Wireless wide area data-rates are also improving slowly.
- Current digital cellular technology provides less than 64 Kbps data-rates, with most systems providing throughput in the 20 Kbps range.
- PVRs Personal Video Recorders
- VCRs Video Recorders
- a graphical user interface is provided that allows users to make content preference selections.
- a PVR supports the trend toward user controlled “anytime” access to digital content.
- the MP3 digital audio format is an audio encoding technology that allows consumers to further compress digital audio files such as those found on Compact Disks, to much smaller sizes with very little decrease in sound quality.
- the MP3 format is the audio layer of MPEG-2 digital audio and video compression and transmission standard.
- the MP3 format allows for compression of audio content to approximately 1 million bytes per minute of audio, at near Compact Disk quality. This capability, combined with a decrease in the cost of flash memory, a type of non-volatile silicon-based mass memory, has made it possible to develop affordable, portable digital audio playback devices. These are devices that are significantly smaller than portable CD players because they contain no moving parts, only flash memory and a microprocessor for decoding MP3 compressed audio content.
- PC-based MP3 software players have been created that provide a convenient graphical user interface and software decoding of MP3 files.
- Some technology allows users to play MP3 files on their PC, using an existing sound card with external speakers.
- the user must interface with the PC, using a mouse and keyboard, and must be nearby the PC sound output equipment.
- MP3 encoded audio files has also enabled these files to be shared by users across the Internet, since the transfer of these files takes an acceptable amount of time.
- Internet-based digital music access and distribution service businesses have appeared that provide various means for users to gain access to digital audio files.
- Graphic content such as video and still images are also increasingly available.
- Digital still and video cameras allow the capture and rapid transfer of images.
- One example is a frame housing similar to a conventional picture frame, but with a large LCD in place of a photograph.
- the device includes a microprocessor, memory, and modem. The device must be plugged into a phone line, and it functions by automatically dialing-up to a server where new digital images are stored. Based on user instructions made through a setup function on a website, a group of photos are sent to, and stored on, and displayed by the device.
- These picture frames may be costly due to the fact that they includes a large LCD, and also because they must include enough memory to store the digital images. This type of picture frame is an example of digital content delivered beyond the PC.
- Internet access is also available through the use of wireless phones with Internet browsing capability and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) with wide-area wireless connections.
- PDAs Personal Digital Assistants
- One such device uses the paging network, which provides among the lowest bandwidth connection available at approximately 2.4 Kbps.
- Another such device uses the cellular wireless infrastructure which provides a maximum of 19.2 Kbps.
- Many wireless cellular phones now provide “wireless web” limited browsing capability.
- the slow data-rates provided by these products, as well as limited display area and awkward methods of user interaction, have resulted in slow adoption rates, and signals that users increasingly demand rich media experiences that can only be supported by broadband data-rates. Additionally, use of these products supports the trend of access to Internet content beyond the PC.
- Cable, as well as satellite TV services are efficient in providing video content to a wide variety of users.
- most existing cable and satellite systems provide video delivery services on a broadcast model, that is, customers must choose from a set number of audio/video programs that are simultaneously broadcast, with the schedule determined by the broadcast networks.
- With the overlaying of data services over existing cable lines there is the opportunity to provide a video-on-demand service whereby customers could order video programming of their choice at any time.
- a simple calculation will show that pure video-on-demand cannot be supported by the bandwidth available on the existing networks, due to the high data-rates required to transport high-quality video and audio in real-time.
- What is needed is a system that provides an economically optimal architecture and management system for allowing users to set up preferences for content of varying types, including rich content, and other services, to be automatically delivered to inexpensive client devices.
- a system and a method for providing content, management and interactivity for client devices are described.
- Digital data based on user specified preferences is automatically obtained and transferred from a wide area network to a computer.
- the digital data is then automatically sent from the computer to a client device using a wireless data transceiver.
- the client device is a television.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a system at the highest level
- FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a system control application
- FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment of an example console GUI on the PC desktop
- FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an audio device content editor GUI on a PC display desktop window;
- FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an audio device content editor GUI after a content object has been dragged and placed;
- FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an audio device content editor GUI with a dialog box launched;
- FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an audio device content editor GUI with a “new playlist” text box open;
- FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an Internet clock content editor GUI
- FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an Internet clock content GUI after a content module has been dragged and placed;
- FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an Internet clock content GUI after a content module has been expanded from “Monday” to “Friday”;
- FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an Internet clock content GUI and a softkey assignment pop-up menu
- FIG. 12 illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of a audio playback device
- FIG. 13 illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of an Internet clock
- FIG. 14 illustrates one embodiment of a tag aggregation web page
- FIG. 15 illustrates one embodiment of a PC desktop with a console and an audio device controller
- FIG. 16 illustrates one embodiment of a PC desktop with a console and an Internet clock controller
- FIG. 17 illustrates a functional block diagram of one embodiment of a storage gateway
- FIG. 18 illustrates one embodiment of a digital image editor GUI
- FIG. 19 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of an audio playback device/stereo system
- FIG. 20 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the audio playback device with a remote control removed
- FIG. 21 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a tag response sequence
- FIG. 22 illustrates one embodiment of a PC desktop with a content preference selection web page
- FIG. 23 illustrates a system block diagram of one embodiment of a storage gateway peripheral
- FIG. 24 illustrates one embodiment of a a home PC storage server setup flowchart
- FIG. 25 illustrates a flowchart of one embodiment of a process of programming client device content on a website
- FIG. 26 illustrates one embodiment of a home PC storage server operation sequence
- FIG. 27 illustrates a schematic for one embodiment of a system for delivering content with a wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter and a TV;
- FIG. 28 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter hardware
- FIG. 29 illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of a webpad
- FIG. 30 illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of a PDA with wireless LAN adapter module attached
- FIG. 31 illustrates an isometric exploded view of one embodiment of a wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter
- FIG. 32 illustrates a schematic of one embodiment of an interactive digital video system with a LAN TV remote control
- FIG. 33 illustrates a schematic of one embodiment of a system with a TV providing an alarm clock function
- FIG. 34 illustrates a schematic of one embodiment of a system with a TV providing an alarm clock function with a webpad included;
- FIG. 35 illustrates an isometric view of an alarm clock remote control
- FIG. 36 illustrates an isometric exploded view of one embodiment of a alarm clock remote control
- FIG. 37 illustrates a schematic of one embodiment of a system with a stereo system providing an alarm clock function
- FIG. 38 illustrates one embodiment of a system for providing content, distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices
- FIG. 39 illustrates one embodiment of an image of a webpage for selecting a client device to program
- FIG. 40 illustrates one embodiment of an image of a webpage which is a first setup page for an Internet clock
- FIG. 41 illustrates one embodiment of an image of a webpage for programming the content for an Internet clock
- FIG. 42 illustrates one embodiment of an image of a webpage showing the results of a user's selection of content for an Internet clock.
- the Internet is used interchangeably with the term web or worldwide web. Both of these are defined as the worldwide network of PCs, servers, and other devices.
- Broadband connection is defined as a communications network in which the frequency bandwidth can be divided and shared by multiple simultaneous signals.
- a broadband connection to the Internet typically provides minimum upstream and downstream data-rates of approximately 200 K or more bits per second.
- There are many different types of broadband connections including DSL, cable modems, and fixed and mobile wireless connections.
- a Data Over Cable System Interface Specification (DOCSIS) modem is an industry standard type of cable modem that is used to provide broadband access to the Internet over a coaxial cable physical layer that is also used for the delivery of cable TV signals (CATV).
- DOCSIS modems are well known in the telecommunications industry and will not be described here in detail.
- a Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) modem is also an industry standard type of modem that is used to provide broadband access to the Internet, but over conventional copper phone lines (local loops). DSL modems are well known in the telecommunications industry and will not be described here in further detail.
- gateway used interchangeably with broadband gateway, is defined as an integral modem and router, and may include hub functionality.
- the modem function is used to change voltage fluctuations on an input carrier line (a DSL line input or a cable TV input) into digital data.
- Routers are devices that connect one distinct network to another by passing only certain IP addresses that are targeted for specific networks. Hubs allow one network signal input to be split and thus sent to many devices.
- Gateway storage peripheral is defined as an add-on storage device with processing power, an operating system, and a software application that manages the downloading and storage of data.
- An example scenario for the use of a gateway storage peripheral is a system where a user has a DOCSIS modem and would like to add an always-on storage capability.
- the gateway storage peripheral is connected to the DOCSIS modem via a USB port or an Ethernet port in the DOCSIS modem.
- a gateway storage peripheral in combination with a DOCSIS modem or any type of broadband modem is considered a storage gateway system.
- a PC that is always left on and connected to an always-on gateway with a DSL or broadband cable connection is considered a storage gateway system.
- the term “message” is defined as information that is sent digitally from one computing device to another for various purposes.
- content is used to mean the information contained in digital files or streams. For example, content may be entertainment or news, or audio files in MP3 format.
- Data is used to mean information such as digital schedule contents, responses from devices sent back through the system, or digital messages and email.
- Content and “data” are sometimes used interchangeably.
- Client devices are those devices that are not fully functional without a host device such as a personal computer.
- LAN Local Area Network
- IEEE 802.11b Wireless LAN technology
- HomeRF Wireless LAN technology
- ISM Internet Protocol
- TCP/IP Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocols
- a LAN typically constitutes a group of interconnected devices that share a common geographic location and are typically grouped together as a subnet.
- a local network for example, would be a home network where several computers and other smart devices would be digitally connected for the purpose of transferring content and data, controlling each other, sharing programming, or presenting data and content to a user.
- Codec compression/Decompression algorithm
- compression/Decompression algorithm is a software application that is used to decode (uncompress) encoded (compressed) media files or streams.
- Most content is stored and sent in a compressed format so that the content files are smaller and thus take up less storage space and use less bandwidth when being transferred via the Internet.
- the content is then decoded at the playback device.
- MP3 audio files are encoded and must be decoded by a microprocessor running the codec in order for the audio content to be presented to the user in an analog format.
- HTTP Hyper-text transfer protocol, the protocol used by Web browsers and Web servers to transfer files, such as text and graphic files.
- Data-rate is defined as the data throughput of a telecommunications system or technology, and is measured in a quantity of bits per second, such as millions of bits per second (Mbps).
- FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a system at the highest level.
- the system provides a communication connection and a content and data management system including software and hardware on three different computing platforms: (1) the Internet 8 , (2) a local PC 34 or PC 34 and a storage gateway 38 , and (3) the local client devices 78 a, b, c, and d .
- a PC 34 is shown in FIG. 37 .
- PC 34 is a conventional computer including a microprocessor, system memory, hard disk drive 30 , display, keyboard, and mouse, and runs the Windows operating system, provide by Microsoft Coproration.
- PC 34 also includes a Universal Serial Bus (hereafter USB) port for connecting peripheral devices.
- PC 34 is connected to content and data 10 on Internet 8 via a wide area network broadband communication link 14 that provides data delivery rates ranging from 500 kbps to 3,000 kbps.
- the broadband connection 14 is maintained by DOCSIS storage gateway 38 .
- FIG. 17 illustrates a functional block diagram of one embodiment of a storage gateway 38 .
- Hard disk drive 30 is combined with a conventional DOCSIS cable modem and a HomeRF LAN transceiver 50 .
- These subsystems are controlled by a computer comprised of a microprocessor 280 , and the SDRAM 284 running an operating system.
- the core module 42 software application described below, runs on and functionally connects storage gateway 38 to the other system components.
- the high-speed LAN connection 70 between PC 34 , storage gateway 38 , and devices 78 is a HomeRF wireless network.
- the communications protocol between PC 34 and Internet 8 is HTTP and TCP/IP.
- the GUI module 46 software aspect of system control application 18 exists on PC 34 .
- core module 42 aspect of system control application 18 exists and is run on both storage gateway 38 and on PC 34 .
- the communication message structure between client devices 78 and PC 34 and storage gateway 38 are XML formatted messages 74 sent over HTTP.
- content and data 10 on Internet 8 may be expressed on web pages as an organization of text and graphical information, some of which is configured as interactive hyperlinks, all of which are formatted using HTML for presentation to end user's PCs 34 via HTTP communication protocols.
- a content selection web page 22 is shown in FIGS. 4 through FIG. 11 .
- the graphical interactive representation of the portal to the end user is as a series of hyper-linked web pages and hyper-linked text and images.
- the physical manifestation of the portal is that of software and data stored on servers located at various and disparate physical locations, but connected by Internet 8 .
- Content 10 on Internet 8 may be arranged for delivery to local client devices 78 a, b, c, and d by a system that allows for graphical icons, referred to in this disclosure as content objects 20 , that exist on content selection web page 22 , to be dragged and dropped onto content editors on a PC 34 .
- Drag and droppable content object 20 is a graphical representation of a file system path that points to a digital content file stored locally on hard disk drive 30 on PC 34 or on storage gateway 38 , or on a server on Internet 8 , or is the graphical designation of a URL or IP address and port number of an digital content stream originating on a server on Internet 8 .
- the purpose of the portal is to simplify and facilitate the discovery and selection of content 10 from Internet 8 for later use on client devices 78 .
- Content selection web page 22 capability may include, but is not limited to the following functionality:
- Content 10 from Internet 8 that may be used in the system disclosed here may be selected from a wide range of content selection web pages 22 , that may be formatted differently, and may be available from many different content creators and content aggregators.
- Content creators include for example the music labels such as firms whose business it is to create or commission to create, and own content.
- Content aggregators are firms whose business it is to collect certain types of content, such as digital music, for the purpose of enabling ease of selection by end users and distribution.
- content selection labels 46 are graphical representations of HTML links to actual content files, such as digital audio or digital video files. These links are organized and stored in a content link database on content link database server. The actual content files to which content selection labels 46 refer are stored at the content creator's or content aggregator's servers.
- a system control application 18 is comprised of two sub-applications, the core module 42 and the Graphical User Interface (hereafter GUI) module 46 .
- core module 42 is implemented as a multi-threaded Java application with instances running on both PC 34 and storage gateway 38 .
- a Windows version of a Java Virtual Machine (JVM) resides and runs on PC 34 and interprets core module 42 instructions for the Windows operating system.
- JVM Java Virtual Machine
- a VxWorks version of JVM interprets core module 42 instructions to VxWorks.
- GUI module 46 may be implemented as a Win32 application and resides and runs on PC 34 .
- System control application 18 serves the function of managing the connection between content 10 and various servers on Internet 8 , and PC 34 and storage gateway 38 , and also manages the flow of information between PC 34 and storage gateway 38 , and client devices 78 .
- Core module 42 and GUI module 46 access and modify the system control application database 96 using methods called over HTTP and expressed with XML grammar.
- System control application database 96 is a set of files that contain system parameters and data. For example, a track (song name) shown in audio device content editor 24 is referenced as a file name and a path designation a particular hard disk drive 30 on either of PC 34 or storage gateway 38 , in a listing in system control application database 96 . Actions that are taken, such as playing this file, are triggered by XML messages 74 sent from client devices 78 via LAN 70 or from GUI module 46 to core modules(s) 42 over HTTP.
- the GUI module includes segments of the software application that run the GUI, including, but not limited to, the following functions:
- Core module 42 includes the portion of the system control application 18 that acts on content and data 10 from Internet 8 and also processes commands contained in messages sent from client devices 78 , providing, but not limited to, the following functions:
- System control application 18 and system control application database 96 are designed to function with a number of instances of core module 42 and GUI module 46 running concurrently on multiple PCs 34 and or storage gateways 38 , all connected by the same LAN 70 . It is anticipated that users will own and operate multiple PCs 34 in a single home for example, with different content 10 cached on each PC 34 . In one embodiment, the focus will be on a singular GUI module located and executed on a PC.
- Client devices 78 may take many physical forms but the common attribute is that it client devices 78 are nodes on a LAN 70 , receiving digital content and data 10 , and instructions, from core module 42 subsystem of the system control application 18 . In an alternative embodiment, client devices 78 may send back XML message 74 control instructions and data from interaction or data that originates at client devices 78 . In one embodiment, client devices 78 may include a webpad 92 , an audio playback device 86 , an Internet clock 82 , a digital picture frame, and an automotive storage device.
- Client devices depend on LAN 70 connectivity to provide the majority of their functionality. Different client devices 78 may range widely in the amount of integral memory capability.
- One embodiment described below shows an audio playback device 86 that is connected to a stereo receiver 114 .
- An alternative embodiment shows an Internet connected clock 82 .
- Audio playback device 86 and Internet clock 82 are described as examples of how the system functions.
- FIG. 12 illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of a audio playback device 86 .
- the audio playback device 86 functionally connects digital audio content from a remote digital audio source to an conventional stereo system. Audio playback device 86 receives a stream of encoded audio content from PC 34 or storage gateway 38 , decodes it in real-time, and converts the uncompressed digital information into analog electrical signals.
- an audio playback device 86 may include a plastic injection-molded main housing 168 that contains a printed-circuit board (PCB).
- PCB electrically connects the components of a computer, and includes a microprocessor with dynamic memory (SDRAM) and programmable (flash) memory.
- SDRAM dynamic memory
- flash programmable memory
- the audio playback device 86 also includes a wireless network interface sub-system for communicating with PC 34 and storage gateway 38 , an infra-red (IR) control sub-system for processing IR commands from the IR remote control 90 , and a display 170 sub-system for presenting text and graphical information to the user.
- a wireless network interface sub-system for communicating with PC 34 and storage gateway 38
- an infra-red (IR) control sub-system for processing IR commands from the IR remote control 90
- a display 170 sub-system for presenting text and graphical information to the user.
- the audio playback device 86 also includes a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for converting the uncompressed digital information into analog signals that are presented at the standard left and right RCA connectors, 240 and 244 .
- DAC digital-to-analog converter
- the audio playback device 86 firmware also includes a CODEC for decoding the audio file that is streamed to it from PC 34 or storage gateway 38 .
- remote control 90 can be attached to audio playback device 86 front bezel 164 , as shown in FIG. 12 .
- FIG. 20 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the audio playback device with a remote control 90 removed.
- FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing how left analog output 240 and right analog output 244 included in audio content playback device 86 are connected respectively to the left line input 248 and right line input 252 on existing stereo receiver 114 .
- Stereo receiver 114 functions in the conventional way, pre-amplifying and amplifying the audio signals and delivering them to the left speaker 272 and the right speaker 276 .
- audio playback device 86 also includes a terrestrial broadcast tuner subsystem for tuning local AM and FM broadcast radio.
- the audio playback device 86 remote control 90 includes button controls for the following functions: Power button 196 —for powering the device on and off; Source/User button 204 —for selecting the user (owner of playlists and corresponding tracks) or for selecting storage gateway 38 , PCs 34 , or terrestrial broadcast, from which content 10 from Internet 8 or other terrestrial content will be delivered; Playlist forward button 176 and playlist back button 172 —for advancing through and selecting playlists; Track forward button 184 and track backward button 180 —for advancing through and selecting tracks for playback; Play/Pause button 192 —for starting and pausing (stopping at point in the middle of a playback of an audio file); Stop button 200 —for stopping playback of audio content; Tag button 188 —for triggering the transmission of information about a currently playing track (file, Internet 8 stream, or terrestrial broadcast) back through the system for delivery to the end user on a website or for delivery to the content creator or content originator; User-defined button 206 —This button may be associated
- the text descriptors associated with the playlists and associated tracks are sent to audio playback device 86 when requests are made by button activations. For example, if the user activates forward playlist button 176 , the text string for the next playlist after the one that is currently being played is sent to audio playback device 86 via LAN 70 , is processed, and the text is displayed on display 170 . Likewise if forward-track button 184 is activated, the text string that is the name of the next sequential file from the current playlist stored in system control application database 96 located on storage gateway 38 or PC 34 , is sent by core module 42 to audio playback device 86 , where the text string is displayed on display 170 .
- play button 192 If play button 192 is then activated, the currently playing track is halted and the track that is being displayed is sent, decoded, and played through the stereo system.
- the functional interface to the user of audio playback device 86 is similar to that found on a typical CD changer, where the CD represents the playlist, and the tracks on the CD represent the tracks in the playlist.
- FIG. 13 illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of an Internet clock 82 .
- Internet clock 82 includes a plastic injection-molded main housing 122 with a microprocessor, dynamic memory, non-volatile memory, TFT display 132 , and operating system and firmware programming.
- the display 132 on the Internet clock 82 is a large TFT graphics LCD, capable of showing images with 8-bit color.
- the control buttons or dials on Internet clock 82 may include the following:
- Internet clock 82 includes microprocessor and memory sufficient to receive and decode a full-motion video stream.
- Internet clock 82 also contains an integral sound system consisting of an amplifier and speakers 136 . Therefore Internet clock 82 is capable of presenting audio, video, and interactive multimedia.
- the digital electronics and packaging technology for such a devices is well known in the consumer electronics industry, so it will not be described in greater detail.
- the setup functions provide the user with the ability to organize and manage content that is to be sent to a device.
- Content 10 may be stored or generated on Internet 8 , or may exist on a local storage device, such on the PC's 34 hard disk drive 30 , or on storage gateway 38 . In one embodiment, this content is organized and managed with the use of device content editors that are an aspect of GUI module 46 of system control application 18 .
- a content editor is a part of GUI module 46 and may be used for managing and manipulating content 10 that will be sent to networked client device 78 .
- an audio device content editor 24 is used to program and control content 10 for audio playback device 86 .
- an Internet clock content editor 40 is used to program and control content for Internet clock 82 .
- Content editors may be launched from console 16 . This is explained below.
- Audio device content editor 24 provides the user with the ability to group audio files (tracks) into user-defined playlists, which are text association that contains a list of and paths to audio files or the URLs or IP addresses of audio streams, and are stored in system control application database 96 .
- a user may create a playlist called “Classical Music” that contains ten Beethoven symphonies.
- a common type of audio file format is the MP3 (MPEG layer 3 ) format. Certain tracks such as MP3 music files are stored on hard disk drive 30 on PC 34 , while other tracks such as streamed Internet 8 radio, are stored as URLS or IP addresses. Streamed media can be in a variety of formats.
- a popular format is in the Windows Media format, created by Microsoft Corporation.
- the audio device content editor 24 capability includes, but is not limited to, the following functionality:
- the audio device content editor also includes a function such that when a CD-ROM is loaded into the PC CD-ROM drive, the audio content on the CD-ROM that is in the PCM format can be automatically transcoded into MP3 files and stored on the PC hard disk drive.
- This function can be turned on or off by the user in a preference interface box. The interaction between audio device content editor 24 and the other elements of the system will be discussed later.
- the Internet clock content editor 40 manages content 10 that is associated with a scheduled routine, such as a wakeup routine.
- Internet clock content editor 40 allows the user to associate content 10 such as audio or video files (stored on the user's hard disk drive 30 or streamed over Internet 8 ) with an associated time and date.
- a set of content selections for the one-week period shown on Internet clock content editor in FIG. 8 is called a wake-up routine.
- the user can associate a pointer to a news stream from the Internet 8 , shown as “MSNBC” in the figure, to be triggered at 8 am on Monday through Friday. This association is created by dragging and dropping 28 content object 20 from content selection web page 22 , to Internet clock content editor 40 .
- the scheduler function in core module 42 initiates the serving of content designated by content object 20 , to Internet clock 82 , where it is played or presented to the user to wake them up, or for other purposes where automatic triggering is required.
- the Internet clock content editor 40 capability includes, but is not limited to the following functionality:
- both audio device content editor 24 and Internet clock content editor 40 are launched manually by the user by clicking on the associated client device control bar 26 on console 16 .
- FIG. 3 shows PC desktop 12 with console 16 showing three client device control bars 26 (the PC's speakers here are not considered a client device although audio can be channeled to them).
- FIG. 3 shows the initial state of launched and running system control application 18 , using the mouse the user would position the pointer on PC desktop 12 on client device control bar 26 that is associated with audio playback device 86 and activate the left mouse button.
- Audio device content editor 24 launches and the result is shown in FIG. 4 , with audio device content editor 24 displayed on PC desktop 12 .
- PC desktop 12 in FIG. 4 also shows content selection web page 22 .
- Content selection web page 22 can be launched in a number of ways.
- One method for launching content selection web page 22 is to activate the Content Guide button 30 located on the bottom of console 16 by using the mouse to place the pointer on top of Content Guide button 30 , and pressing and releasing the left mouse button.
- Another launching method is to have content selection web page 22 “bookmarked” (Netscapte Navigator) in a browser, or added to a “favorites” list in a browser (Microsoft Internet Explorer).
- the spherical icons on content selection web page 22 are content objects 20 that are dragged and dropped onto the audio device content editor 24 tracks window 34 .
- the user moves the pointer on top of content object 20 , depresses the left mouse button, and moves the pointer-content object 20 bundle to tracks window 34 of audio device content editor 24 (while continuing to depress the left mouse button).
- the user releases the left mouse button a text description of content object 20 appears in tracks window 34 of audio device content editor 24 .
- FIG. 5 shows that content object 20 “Top 40 Radio” has been dragged from content selection web page 22 to audio device content editor 24 tracks window 34 , with drag and drop path 28 depicted. The user would perform this drag and drop operation on content objects 20 for which playback at audio playback device 86 is desired.
- the “Top 40 Radio” content object 20 represents the URL of an Internet 8 radio stream.
- the user can also add audio files to the playlists using a conventional Windows dialog box that allows the user to navigate to a specific sub-directory on PC 34 .
- This type of PC 34 file access is a well known function of PCs 34 .
- Audio device content editor 24 also provides the capability for the user to create playlists. This is accomplished by using the New List button 37 , shown as part of audio device content editor 24 in FIG. 4 through FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 7 shows that a playlist creation text entry box 36 is launched when the user activates New List button 37 .
- GUI module 46 modifies system control application database 96 , a file that contains the text names of playlists, the file names and paths of local content files, and URLs of streams, that the user has selected as tracks.
- a copy of system control application database 96 is stored on both the PC's hard disk drive and on the storage gateway's hard disk drive.
- a portion of the files that are set up by the user as tracks in playlists that are accessed at audio playback device 86 are stored on storage gateway 38 .
- the user can still access tracks stored on storage gateway 38 at audio playback device 86 if PC 34 has been shutdown.
- the system may also function with the some or all of the files that constitute the tracks listed in audio device content editor 24 stored on the PC 34 .
- the PC 34 must be booted and functioning for the user to access any files stored on PC 34 . Accessing those files at audio playback device 86 is discussed below.
- FIG. 8 shows an initial state for using the Internet clock content editor 40 .
- Internet clock content editor 40 is formatted as a calendar (with a time domain format), since Internet clock 82 will have varying content depending on the time of day or night.
- Internet clock content editor 40 is also launched from console 16 in the same way that audio device content editor 24 is launched.
- FIG. 9 shows Internet clock content editor 40 after content object 20 has been dragged onto the editor window in the “Monday” slot.
- FIG. 10 shows that the user has dragged content object 20 , expanding it across the weekly calendar slots, stopping on the “Friday” slot.
- content object 20 is referred to as an expandable content bar 48 .
- Expandable content bars 48 are dragged across the day sections of Internet clock content editor 40 by using the mouse to position the pointer on the right side of expandable content bars 48 , depressing the left mouse button, dragging across Internet clock content editor 40 (expandable content bar 48 will graphically elongate) while keeping the mouse button depressed.
- the mouse button can be released when expandable content bar 48 is dragged to the last day on which content 10 referred to by expandable content bar 48 is to be played.
- the result of this programming activity is that every day of the week between Monday and Friday, core module 42 will automatically send prescribed content 10 to Internet clock 82 at the time indicated on left hand side of Internet clock content editor 40 , or at the time that the user has set as the wake-up time at Internet clock 82 .
- Settings at Internet clock 82 take precedence over Internet clock content editor 40 settings.
- GUI module 46 receives commands from the user via the GUI that is drawn on PC desktop 12 .
- the user's actions and decisions are recorded by device content editors such as Internet clock content editor 40 and audio device content editor 24 which include GUI module 46 , are encoded as digitally described messages, and are then communicated to and stored in system control application database 96 by core module 42 .
- device content editors such as Internet clock content editor 40 and audio device content editor 24 which include GUI module 46
- core module 42 exists as a JAVA software program on storage gateway 38
- content 10 , the playlists, and names of tracks and stream addresses are stored on hard disk drive 30 at storage gateway 38 .
- PC 34 also contains a copy of system control application database 96 .
- the user can activate and control the delivery of content 10 that has been set-up in audio device content editor 24 , either at audio playback device 86 , or at PC 34 .
- audio playback device 86 is connected to stereo receiver 114
- the user can access the playlist information on an interface at audio playback device 86 .
- FIG. 12 shows that remote control 90 is used to access the source, playlist, and track (content object 20 ) at audio playback device 86 .
- Display 170 included on audio playback device 86 displays text information according to the manipulations of the controls by the user.
- an IR stream is transmitted from remote control 90 and is received by IR subsystem 104 on audio playback device 86 .
- This message is decoded by microprocessor in audio playback device 86 as a forward select button selection, and an XML message 74 is sent from audio playback device 86 to core module 42 requesting that a string of text that represents the next playlist title be sent via high-speed LAN 70 to audio playback device 86 .
- Core module 42 receives XML message 74 and sends the text string representing the next playlist to audio playback device 86 , via high-speed LAN 70 .
- Microprocessor 208 processes this XML message 74 and displays the text string on audio playback device 86 display 170 .
- IR subsystem 104 triggers XML formatted message 74 to be sent to core module 42 stating that play button 192 was activated.
- Core module 42 determines the present file or stream listing on audio playback device 86 display 170 , and initiates a stream of that file or Internet 8 stream to audio playback device 86 .
- client devices are controlled by using a device controller GUI on PC 34 .
- Device controllers are launched from console 16 by right clicking on client device control bar 26 on console 16 associated with the specific device that is to be controlled.
- FIG. 15 shows the audio playback device controller 60
- FIG. 16 shows the Internet clock device controller 88 .
- the function of a device controller is to remotely control networked client devices 78 , and to also allow for the setting of certain preferences and features for client devices 78 .
- audio playback device controller 60 is used to directly control audio playback device 86 , such as to instruct audio playback device 86 to play, stop or pause on a particular track.
- Internet Clock controller 88 is used to directly control Internet Clock 82 such as to turn Internet clock on or off, or set the date or time, as shown in FIG. 16 .
- a play/pause button 80 holding down play button causes the player to fast forward, playing brief samples of the audio file at muted volume
- a stop button 76 holding down play button causes the player to fast forward, playing brief samples of the audio file at muted volume
- a stop button 76 holding down play button causes the player to fast forward, playing brief samples of the audio file at muted volume
- a stop button 76 holding down play button causes the player to fast forward, playing brief samples of the audio file at muted volume
- a stop button 76 causes the player to fast forward, playing brief samples of the audio file at muted volume
- a track backward button 72 causes the player to fast forward, playing brief samples of the audio file at muted volume
- a track forward button 84 causes the player to fast forward, playing brief samples of the audio file at muted volume
- a balance slider 94 balance slider 94 .
- the function controls now shown in FIG. 16 are available on an additional menu accessed by activating “more” button 112 .
- content 10 that the user has selected for playback in the content editor is sent automatically to the playback device, based on some prescribed time setting that was pre-set by the user.
- a scheduling function in core module 42 compares time inputs listed in system control application database 96 with the current state of PC 34 system timer. When a match occurs between a time input in system control application database 96 and the current state of PC 34 system timer, core module 42 initiates the delivery of content 10 to client device 78 .
- content 10 is a stream from a URL on Internet 8
- a connection is created by core module 42 between the streaming URL via broadband communication link 14 , through storage gateway 38 , and via LAN 70 to client device 78 .
- certain content objects 20 designate a location for file-based content 10 that changes on a regular basis.
- a specific file is a content object 20 instance that is cached on local PC 34 or storage gateway 38 and streamed to client device 78 .
- content 10 for Internet clock 82 may include a digital audio file with news located on a server on Internet 8 that may be updated every four hours. If content object 20 instance is a file designation that is not local, the scheduling function in core module 42 will periodically check the file at its location on Internet 8 to see if the file has changed. It will do this by comparing the locally cached file's creation date and title, and other file information, with the file located on Internet 8 .
- the new file will be downloaded and stored on PC 34 or storage gateway 38 , so that the latest file can be sent to client device 78 at the prescribed time. This is part of the scheduling function listed in core module 42 functions in FIG. 2 .
- Storage gateway 38 is an “always-on” device. Therefore, in one embodiment, the scheduling function running on core module 42 on storage gateway 38 may be set to automatically access and acquire content 10 on Internet 8 at times when wide area network bandwidth is less expensive, such as overnight or during midday. Core module 42 on storage gateway 38 may also limit data-rates at certain times to further optimize wide area network bandwidth usage. For example, core module 42 can be limited to download data-rate speeds of 200 Kbps during the hours of 4 pm to 10 pm, and allowed to download at the maximum broadband rate any other time. In one embodiment, this download optimization setting can be set by users, who may want access to bandwidth while they are home in the evening. In an alternative embodiment, it may be set by network operators. These data-rate control settings and times may be set using a network bandwidth optimization control GUI, accessible by user at PC 34 or by network operators remotely. The data-rate control settings and times are stored in system control application database 96 .
- FIG. 12 shows tag button 188 on audio playback device 86 .
- FIG. 13 shows tag button 128 on Internet clock 82 .
- activation of tag button 128 by the user results in a transmission of XML message 74 back through LAN 70 informing core module 42 that the tag button 128 was activated.
- Core module 42 then compiles and transmits tag XML message 74 to tag storage and processing server 138 . This process is described in FIG. 21 .
- the information in core module 42 tag XML message 74 may include but is not limited to: metadata or meta-tags included in the file or stream (characters or images); the file name if content 10 is a file; the URL or IP address of the stream if content 10 is a stream; time; date; and user identifier.
- FIG. 14 shows that the information in the message formatted as a readable text message and presented to a user on a personal tag aggregation web page 56 .
- the user has signed up with an account and receives a password for entry into protected tag aggregation web page 56 .
- the core module 42 should have access to accurate time and date information.
- FIG. 2 shows that core module 42 has a function that accesses a server on Internet 8 where accurate time and date data is available, and these quantities are stored locally by core module 42 in system control application database 96 and is updated relative to the internal time and date timer located internal to PC 34 or storage gateway 38 that stores and runs core module 42 aspect of system control application 18 .
- system control application 18 resides on a set-top box that includes the components and functionality of storage gateway 38 .
- Set-top boxes are available that include a DOCSIS cable modem as well as a CATV tuner, hard disk drive 30 , and microprocessor.
- the TV can be used as the output device on which the device control GUIs are visually presented, and a set top box remote control with a cursor pointing function is the input device.
- the GUI images look and function similarly to those shown in FIG. 3 through FIG. 11 .
- Most set-top boxes already contain the circuitry and firmware to draw images on a TV screen (NTSC format), so GUI module 46 would be minimally modified to support the number of pixels on conventional TV screens.
- system can also be operated whereby the system control application resides on the set-top box and the GUI module that runs on a PC.
- the set-top box and PC are connected via a LAN and the system control application and GUI module are functionally connected using the LAN.
- a storage gateway peripheral 134 is defined as a computer with a integral hard disk drive 30 and processing capability, and an integral wireless LAN transceiver 58 to provide LAN 70 connectivity, that is added to an existing gateway 150 device for the purpose of adding content 10 mass storage and serving capability.
- FIG. 23 shows a network topology including PC 34 , a conventional gateway 150 that is a DOCSIS cable modem.
- Storage gateway peripheral 134 is connected to gateway 150 via a wired LAN connection, in this case Ethernet, that is included in all gateways 150 .
- Storage gateway peripheral 134 is always-on, and includes power management features such as the ability to power down hard disk drive 30 .
- Core module 42 is stored and runs on storage gateway peripheral 134 , thus all of the services and functions provided by a system using a storage gateway 38 are provided with the use of a storage gateway peripheral 134 .
- the content editors can be programmed and executed across the network as Java applications stored on storage gateways 38 or on a storage gateway peripheral 134 device.
- Java Virtual Machine any computer with a display and input peripherals such as a keyboard and a mouse, and that has a Java Virtual Machine (JVM), would be a viable client device content programming, set-up, and control workstation.
- This embodiment could also be implemented so that it was entirely browser-based. A user could access the device content editors within a browser window, with the application running as a Java applet.
- another device that can exist as a client device in this platform is a digital picture frame.
- digital picture frame functionality is to set up Internet clock 82 to present a timed sequence of digital images on LCD 132 when Internet clock 82 is not being used for presentation of other content 10 .
- the Internet clock 82 may be set up to present digital images automatically.
- the Internet clock 82 may be set up to present digital images under direct control of the user.
- the user could attach a digital image to one of the softkey buttons located on Internet clock 82 .
- a separate GUI the digital image editor 96 would be accessed via the left-mouse-click on Internet clock 82 client device control bar 26 located on console 16 .
- Launching this editor is similar to launching audio device content editor 24 , described previously.
- FIG. 18 shows an example of digital image editor 96 .
- the frame would then show a small image of the actual file.
- the user can drag-and-drop these images to reorder them.
- digital image editor 96 is a GUI that is used to create a digital image playlist for such a device. Digital image editor 96 is launched by left-clicking on the “digital image player” client device control bar 26 on console 16 .
- the system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices 78 shown in FIG. 1 may also be used to access, store, and serve digital video, such as movies, television (hereafter TV 162 ) shows, and other video content. Users may make selections using online Internet 8 services accessed on a web site as per the systems disclosed herein. Digital video files, such as DVD movies that are encoded using the MPEG-2 format, are then downloaded and stored on user's PC 34 , storage gateway 38 , or storage gateway peripheral 134 .
- the storage gateway system is a set-top cable box that includes a hard disk drive.
- the digital video files are then streamed to a client device 78 that is a TV 162 , or any other client device 78 that can decode and present digital video.
- a PDA 164 such as an iPaq, manufactured by Compaq Computer Corporation of Houston, Tex., with a wireless LAN 70 capability and the ability to decode MPEG-2 video is a viable terminal client device 78 .
- the advantage of this system, as opposed to streaming digital video directly from a cable headend or DSL ISP is that it provides for more efficient use of network bandwidth. Digital video files are very large, potentially several giga-bytes (billions of bytes).
- the downloading of these large files can be spread out over a longer period of time than would be required if the digital video files are streamed and viewed in real-time.
- the digital video files can always be downloading during periods of inactivity on wide area broadband communications connection 14 .
- the download data-rates can be controlled from the head-end based on the time of day.
- core module 42 includes a data-rate control function described in this disclosure. The allowable data-rate can be reduced for peak times of wide area network usage, and can be increased during off-peak times.
- the system includes a broadband gateway 94 connected to a PC 34 with a wireless LAN access point 54 , a TV 162 connected to a wireless LAN-to-NTSC (National Television Standards Committee) converter 158 , and a hand-held portable computing device such as a webpad 92 .
- a webpad 92 is defined as a PDA 164 or other tablet-based portable computing device that includes a wireless LAN communication 70 capability.
- Both the TV 162 in combination with the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 and webpad 92 with a wireless LAN capability constitute client devices 78 that may be connected to the system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices 78 as shown in FIG. 1 .
- the fundamental operation of the system involves both synchronized and un-synchronized wireless data communication 70 between the PC 34 , webpad 92 and wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 /TV 162 combination.
- the webpad 92 that is included in this system is similar to many PDAs 164 that are currently available except that Webpad 92 includes an integral wireless LAN transceiver 58 integrated circuit and antenna 112 , as well as an IR transceiver subsystem 146 .
- FIG. 29 shows that webpad also includes an LCD 400 , an attachable stylus 404 for using the stylus-based interface, control buttons 408 , and an IR transceiver 412 .
- the LCD 400 includes an integral backlight so that the display may be read in low light.
- Contained inside the housing is a printed circuit board that functionally connects the electronic components, including the microprocessor and memory chips that constitute the functional data-manipulating aspect of the device.
- the antenna 112 is located internal to the webpad 92 , mounted to the printed circuit board.
- FIG. 30 shows an alternative embodiment of the webpad 92 aspect of the invention where a PDA 164 is adapted for wireless communication using a wireless LAN adapter module 166 that mechanically and electrically connects to the PDA 164 . See FIG. 31 .
- the wireless LAN adapter module 166 connects electrically via the docking connector on the PDA 164 .
- Wireless LAN adapter module 166 includes a printed circuit board that functionally connects the microprocessor, DRAM and flash memory, a wireless LAN transceiver 58 , antenna, batteries, power conversion sub-system, and UART, as well as an IR transceiver subsystem.
- the antenna is located internal to the wireless LAN adapter module 166 , mounted to the printed circuit board.
- the wireless LAN adapter module 166 also includes an audio DAC and an audio output jack 416 that is used to play back audio content sent from the PC 34 , such as an MP3 file, through earphones that connect to the wireless LAN adapter module 166 .
- Wireless LAN adapter module 166 establishes a communication link with the PDA 164 using a serial PPP connection, and also establishes a TCP/IP wireless LAN communication link 70 with the LAN. Firmware operates these connections and enables the wireless LAN adapter module 166 to transfer data between the PDA 164 and the LAN.
- the PC 34 in combination with the cable modem 94 functions as a gateway storage system by acquiring, storing, distributing, and managing the content that will ultimately be sent to and displayed on the TV 162 .
- the PC 34 gains access to digital content in many ways.
- the user may insert a Digital Video Disk (DVD) into a DVD drive integral to the PC 34 .
- the PC 34 is also connected to the Internet 8 and thus has access to a large amount of digital content on the Internet 8 such as MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 files, Flash animations, and the like.
- TV network stations may provide access to their programming through releases on the Internet 8 .
- the PC 34 is connected to the Internet 8 through a DOCSIS cable modem, any type of broadband connection 14 will provide the same results.
- a Local Area Network is established by connecting the PC 34 to a wireless LAN access point 54 that is functionally connected to the PC 34 via a USB 62 connection.
- LANs and wireless LANs and their functionality have been described in detail in previous embodiments.
- the TV 162 is functionally connected to the storage gateway system via a wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 .
- FIG. 28 shows a block diagram of one embodiment of hardware components in the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 .
- FIG. 31 shows an exploded view of the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 . Referring now to FIG. 31 , the there is a top housing 528 and bottom housing 524 . There is also a printed circuit board 508 that contains the electronic components, including the microprocessor, memory chips, and wireless LAN transceiver, IR transceiver 560 , audio DAC, and a video DAC, that constitute the functional data-manipulating aspect of the device.
- the antenna is located internal to the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 , integral to the printed circuit board 508 as is shown in FIG. 31 .
- an external antenna that is re-positionable, may be used.
- An optional display 556 may be included.
- the software stored and executed in the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 includes a real-time operating system (RTOS), audio and video (MPEG-2) CODECs, TCP/IP network communication stack, a wireless LAN transceiver 58 driver, and command processing firmware for handling messages sent between the various components of the system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices 78 .
- the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 receives IP-based packetized data send out by the storage gateway system and converts it into a format that is able to be displayed on the TV 162 . Specifically, it converts compressed digital video information into the NTSC standard.
- the NTSC standard defines the television video format used for broadcasts in the United States of America and is currently set at 525 lines of resolution per second and combines blue, red, and green signals with an FM frequency for audio.
- the TV 162 can display content that is initially stored on the PC 34 .
- conversion of digital PC 34 data to common formats such as NTSC, or S-video for input into video playback and recording devices is the function provided by standalone DVD players.
- many PCs 34 include combination CD-ROM/DVD drives and in combination with a video card, provide the capability to present the DVD output on a TV 162 .
- a wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 is an application of this technology. Referring to FIG. 35 , the data, in NTSC form, is then sent to the TV 162 input through a NTSC cable 520 . Power to the TV 162 may be supplied via a switched AC line 536 from the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 so that the system has the capability of turning the TV 162 on and off. There is software control of the switched AC line 536 to the TV 162 .
- the user may manipulate the system with software by using interfaces at the PC 34 directly.
- the user may operate a LAN TV remote control 170 that communicates via IR with the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 .
- the user may control the system via a webpad 92 .
- a TV 162 content and control editor GUI is provided as a component of the GUI module aspect of the system control application 18 .
- the TV content and control editor is launched using the system console 16 , which includes an icon for the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 /TV 162 combination when it is present on the LAN.
- the TV 162 content and control editor is similar to the audio device controller, providing on-screen conventional controls to the end user, such as play, pause, stop, fast-forward, fast-backward, chapter skip ahead, chapter skip backward, and main menu.
- FIG. 32 shows where the LAN TV remote control 170 is used to control the system.
- LAN TV remote control 170 is designed to operate with the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 .
- LAN TV remote control 170 includes an IR transceiver subsystem.
- the controls included on the LAN TV remote control 170 are the conventional controls used for controlling DVD or video playback including play, pause, stop, fast-forward, fast-backward, chapter skip ahead, chapter skip backward, and main menu. General navigation controls are also included for interacting with other type of content.
- a tag button is also included on the LAN TV remote control 170 .
- the LAN TV remote control 170 could also be designed with an integral display for displaying content that is related and synchronized with content on the TV 162 that is received by conventional broadcast or through the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 .
- the webpad 92 interacts with the system via the wireless LAN communication link 70 wireless LAN.
- the webpad 92 functions as a node on the wireless LAN.
- the user is able to select the content that is to be transmitted to the TV 162 .
- the user can interact with the content on the TV 162 by operating the webpad 92 .
- a user who is watching a website can manipulate the website by utilizing the webpad 92 to perform various functions such as scrolling, inputting text, or pushing buttons.
- An additional function on the webpad 92 would be the ability to tag chosen content so that the system control application 18 in conjunction with tag storage and processing server will aggregate a record of that content on a tag aggregation webpage 56 for subsequent viewing by the end user.
- the tagging function is provided as a software GUI tag button 420 on the webpad 92 .
- the tag button functionality could also be mapped to an existing control button 408 on the webpad 92 . The tagging process is described in detail in a previous embodiment.
- the webpad 92 is also used to control aspects of the TV 162 directly using existing onboard IR capabilities.
- Webpads 92 and PDAs 164 may include IR transceivers. Since most TVs 162 are designed to communicate with IR remote-controls, the webpad 92 can use its IR transceiver to communicate directly with the TV's 162 IR receiver in order to control aspects of the TV 162 such as channel selection or volume control.
- the specific IR configurations for individual TV 162 brands can be downloaded from the Internet 8 by the system control application 18 and sent to the webpad 92 .
- the webpad 92 can be used to replace the TV remote-control.
- the IR functions of the webpad 92 can further be controlled and programmed using the wireless LAN communication link 70 that exists between the webpad 92 and the PC 34 so that the PC 34 can effectively control the TV 162 through the IR transmissions from the webpad 92 .
- the components described above form an integrated system that allows the user to gain access to digital video and audio content through the use of the system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices.
- the PC 34 as a caching server for the TV 162
- the user has greater control over the content that is played on the TV 162 .
- Content can be chosen, accessed and stored from multiple reservoirs on the Internet 8 and can be played by the users.
- a webpad 92 the user can conveniently control the content that is sent to the TV 162 , as well as interact with the material displayed on the TV 162 .
- the following description is an example of how the PC 34 to TV 162 system can be used.
- the PC 34 downloads a digital movie news program through the Internet 8 during the night.
- the PC 34 stores the program until, at some time during the morning, the user requests to view the program by utilizing the webpad 92 .
- the PC 34 then sends the content to the TV 162 where it is played.
- the user requests to view a web page by entering a URL address into the webpad 92 .
- the PC 34 sends the contents of the page to the TV 162 where it is displayed.
- the user uses the webpad 92 to continue to manipulate page content and browse the Internet 8 in real time.
- Another use for this system is to provide content on the webpad 92 that is related or complementary to that which is playing on the TV 162 .
- the content playing on the TV 162 is referred to as primary content and the content that is related or complementary to the primary content is referred to as ancillary content.
- a digital record of the currently playing content is available to and stored by, the system control application 18 .
- the system control application 18 In the case where content is either stored locally at the PC 34 or whether it is streaming directly through the storage gateway system, the content and timing of delivery are being controlled by the system control application 18 . Therefore, the digital information such as content title and embedded meta-data are available.
- the webpad 92 is used as a remote control
- the status of the user's system is known. For example, if the user is watching a terrestrial broadcast or a conventional cable TV broadcast, and uses the webpad 92 as a remote control to control the system, the control parameters such as broadcast or cable channel are transmitted by the webpad 92 to the system control application 18 .
- the user has also established an account with an associated Internet 8 server that is for example running the content link database server 130 .
- the user's geographic location is known. With this information, the currently playing content on a given terrestrial broadcast or cable TV channel can be determined by the system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices.
- ancillary content is pushed into and displayed on the webpad 92 in real-time.
- the primary content playing on the TV 162 is an advertisement for a automobile
- the ancillary content that is automatically loaded into and displayed on the webpad 92 is a website for that particular automobile.
- ancillary content that is information pertaining to one of the actors is automatically loaded into and displayed by the webpad 92 .
- the system control application 18 receives the information regarding the state of the system, sends this information to the content link database server 130 , and ancillary content is sent back to the system control application 18 which routes the ancillary content to the webpad 92 .
- an additional function that is required by content link database server 130 is to identify the primary content based on matching the time and date of the viewing action with a lookup table of content that is being broadcast at the at time and date in the user's geographic location.
- Terrestrial broadcast information is made publicly available by broadcasters, for example through publications such as TV Guide.
- FIG. 33 shows an embodiment of the invention used to perform the functions of an alarm clock, or for otherwise automatically triggering the operation of the system, that uses a TV 162 as the audio and video output device.
- the system includes an alarm clock remote control 174 shown in FIG. 35 .
- the purpose of alarm clock remote control 174 is to provide an alarm clock-like user interface to the system, that can be placed on a nightstand or otherwise operate in an ergonomically similar location as a conventional alarm clock.
- the alarm clock remote control 174 may be located on a nightstand while the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 and TV 162 are located across the room.
- the alarm clock remote control 174 includes a top housing 600 and bottom housing 604 .
- the display 616 is used to show such information as the time, system settings, system status, and content titles.
- the plastic housing contains a printed circuit board 620 , microprocessor 624 , memory chips 628 , IR transceiver 640 and other electronic components that constitute the functional data-manipulating aspect of the device.
- the alarm clock remote control 174 includes a set of interface control buttons 612 used to perform such functions as inputting a wake up time, tagging specific content that is presented on the TV 162 , or turning the TV 162 off for a specific time interval (snooze button 632 ).
- user interaction inputs into the alarm clock remote control 174 are transmitted to the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 , where they are processed and acted upon.
- the connection between the alarm clock remote control 174 and the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 uses a 900 Mhz RF transmission system.
- the alarm clock remote control 174 includes a wireless LAN transceiver connection to the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter, in place of or in addition to the IR transceiver.
- the alarm clock remote control 174 is a node on the LAN and sends messages to the other devices such as the system control application 18 , wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 , and the webpad 92 .
- FIG. 34 shows a schematic of the system where webpad 92 is also a client device 78 on the system and may be used for programming and control purposes.
- a system for programming content for the present embodiment is provided.
- the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 /TV 162 combination appears as an icon on the console 16 on the PC 34 .
- the Internet clock content editor 40 for the present embodiment can be launched from this console 16 icon and used to set up content for transmission to the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 and TV 162 , as described above.
- An Internet clock controller 88 and Internet clock content editor 40 also exists for the webpad 92 that can be used to set up services for the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 /TV 162 sub-system. For example, the user inputs a wake-up time into the interface at the PC 34 , webpad 92 , or alarm clock remote control 174 .
- Each of the PC 34 , webpad 92 , and alarm clock remote control 174 include a communication link to the system control application 18 , therefore the wake-up time input is saved in the system control application database 96 .
- the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 is used to switch on the TV 162 at the specified time, for example, in order to wake up a person sleeping in the room.
- a switched AC power line 536 in the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 may be used to control the on/off function of the TV 162 .
- the TV 162 can be left continuously powered on and receive a blank screen signal from the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 when the system in inactive, such as overnight.
- FIG. 37 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention where the player device is a stereo system rather than a TV.
- the audio playback device is similar to the one described in previous embodiments.
- a stereo system is used to perform the functions of an alarm clock, or can be automatically triggered for other purposes.
- An audio playback device is connected to an existing stereo system as described in a previous embodiment.
- the audio playback device may include a software controlled switched AC power supply, so that the stereo system can be turned off and powered on when its use is required.
- the audio playback device is used to switch on the stereo at a specific time pre-determined by the user and the stereo can be used to play pre-selected audio content.
- the PDA can be used to communicate with the system through an IR communication link only.
- the PDA would not have a wireless transceiver but would communicate with the system via an IR communication link to the HRF-to-NTSC converter or HRF-to Stereo signal converter.
- the converter includes an IR transceiver and the necessary circuitry for receiving and interpreting IR data transmissions.
- an embodiment of the alarm clock control module includes an IR communication link to the HRF-to-NTSC converter or HRF-to-Stereo signal converter, rather than an HRF communication link.
- the system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices 78 has several permutations that have not yet been explicitly mentioned. For example, some, but not including all, permutations that are implied are the following: the system can be wholly controlled through the PC 34 and can be used without the use of the webpad 92 ; the system can include numerous player client devices 78 on the LAN such as several TVs 162 and, or several stereos 114 and, or several alarm clock remote controls 174 .
- FIG. 38 shows a system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices 78
- the storage gateway system is a digital cable set-top box 154 with a hard disk drive 30 .
- one TV 162 is connected directly to the set-top box 154 via the conventional NTSC output.
- Subsequent TVs 162 as well as webpads 92 and other devices may be connected via wireless or wired LAN communications links 70 .
- the system control application 18 runs on the set-top box 154 and operates with the TV 162 that is directly connected as a client device 78 so that user interactions on any of the user interactions devices mentioned above are processed accordingly.
- the second-screen interactive TV 162 service that is described above functions on the system shown in FIG. 38 .
- the system for providing content and other information services to client devices can be implemented with just a PC 34 .
- System control application 18 resides on hard disk drive 30 on PC 34 and provides all of the functions and features including those provided by core module 42 and GUI module 46 .
- System control application database 96 also resides on PC 34 , as well as all cached content 10 .
- LAN 70 is established by the use of a HomeRF wireless LAN access point 54 .
- the wireless LAN access point 54 is a self-contained device that communicates with PC 34 via the USB port.
- Wireless LAN access point 54 includes an RF network interface transceiver, and a microprocessor and firmware for managing the transfer of data between host PC 34 , and an antenna. There is also an antenna integrated into a plastic housing.
- Wireless LAN access point 54 gets its power from the USB connection.
- the wireless LAN access point 54 could also be incorporated into an internal add-on bus card, such as a card that would attach to the PCI bus.
- Such peripheral bus cards are well known in the field of PC design. In the case of a bus card, there would be an external antenna.
- PC 34 includes a Basic Input Output System (hereafter BIOS) for controlling the basic functions of the system.
- BIOS Basic Input Output System
- BIOS may also be used to automate the booting of PC 34 .
- system control application 18 includes software that can modify the BIOS software of PC 34 so that automatic pre-scheduled activation of PC 34 is enabled. Subsequent control of PC 34 to connect to the Internet 8 and perform operations, is also provided by the scheduling function in core module 42 .
- BIOS consists of a set of instructions and data that the microprocessor uses as part of its initial sequence of operation. These instructions are stored in a BIOS flash memory chip, which is a non-volatile type of memory chip, so that the instructions and data are retained when power to the computer is turned off. BIOS software and design, as well as reprogrammable flash memory technology, is well known in the PC industry and will not be described in detail here.
- BIOS software and design, as well as reprogrammable flash memory technology, is well known in the PC industry and will not be described in detail here.
- the date and time that the computer uses for various purposes is a function that is controlled by the BIOS chip and interface.
- a PC motherboard includes a timer and date function that is backed up by a battery on the motherboard. The purpose of this system is so that when the computer is turned on, the operating system has access to accurate time and date information.
- BIOS Since the time and date (timer) function is always operating on a computer motherboard, and this system is connected to the BIOS, most BIOS systems include an automated wakeup function. This is a function that operates internal to the BIOS chip and can be activated or de-activated. If the automatic wake-up function is turned on and a specific time and date is entered and stored in the BIOS memory, a software function operating in the BIOS continually compares the current date and time with a designated wake-up time and function that is stored in memory. When the two times and dates match, a power-on command is given and PC 34 power-up sequence begins. The BIOS modification software automatically modifies the BIOS from the OS level, so that the user doesn't have to access the BIOS during the early phase of PC 34 boot.
- BIOS modification software Another function that is performed by the BIOS modification software is to modify the internal settings of PC 34 that control the power saving modes and control parameters which include parameters such as when the PC display is turned off, and when drives are spun down while PC 34 is operating.
- the BIOS modification software allows for the “always-on” operation of PC 34 . In this case, the PC can be put into a low-power mode with monitor off and with the drive not spinning. Control of various power saving modes is also provided for users at the operating system level.
- the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface is a set of functions that provide control of PC 34 power usage, allowing the computer to be put into various suspend states, as well as spinning down drives and other functions. Power control functions in core module 42 modify ACPI settings, providing for quiet, low power operation of PC 34 .
- PC 34 exists in the user's home, or other location where there is a desire for the ability to play Internet content or data 10 , including multimedia content, on one or more standalone devices apart from PC 34 .
- PC 34 is booted (started up) and a connection to Internet 8 is made. This is achieved by using the dial-up networking function that is standard on any machine with the Windows operating system. This connection could also be an always-on DSL, ISDN, or cable modem connection.
- browser software is started and the user would navigate to a specific information appliance setup website associated with the system and the devices. This website would have a particular URL that would be supplied in the instruction materials that come with wireless LAN access point 54 or client device 78 .
- the browser, or other interface to the website server the user would navigate to a setup page at the website that asks for a serial number of client device 78 that the user is planning to use.
- the user would then connect the USB cable on wireless LAN access point 54 to the USB port on PC 34 .
- the user would then enter this serial number, which is included in the documentation that is included with the end-user device.
- the online application has a database of these serial numbers that are associated with each individual manufactured client device 78 (including both wireless LAN access point 54 and client device 78 ) that are distributed into the market. Once a match is made between the serial number that the user entered at the website, and a serial number that is included in the online database, an online application automatically begins downloading and installing system control application 18 to user's PC 34 . This software is installed on user's PC 34 and provides the following functions.
- a scheduling function determines when PC 34 automatically connects to the Internet. If PC 34 is running in a power saving mode, such as with the display turned off and with the drives not spinning, the scheduling function will initially act to take the PC 34 out of power saving mode, and then to automatically connect to the Internet using the Dialup Action. Many users will already have PC 34 set up to dial up to an Internet service provider (ISP). In this case, the dialup networking function that already exists will be used. If the user does not have this installed on PC 34 , an application is included that will install the correct dialup information, so that a connection is made to the correct ISP and server.
- ISP Internet service provider
- PC 34 automatically boots and dials up the ISP.
- An Internet 8 connection is established.
- PC 34 automatically connects to the web server associated with client device 78 .
- the user's account is referenced as well as the identifying serial number of user's client device 78 .
- a volume of content 10 that the user specified to be automatically delivered to Internet clock 82 is downloaded to user's PC 34 , where it is stored on the PC 34 hard disk drive 30 .
- PC 34 terminates the connection to the ISP, and shuts down. This occurs at 1:30 am.
- PC 34 may also be kept on, as selected by the user during the configuration of the system.
- the PC again automatically boots.
- the wireless communication system establishes a connection to Internet clock 82 .
- PC 34 initiates the transfer of content to Internet clock 82 . This content is presented to the user as sound and images, waking up the user.
- a website that is accessed for the purpose of downloading and setting up the system control application 18 on PC 34 , and for controlling the content that is sent to client devices 78 , and for controlling the features of client devices 78 .
- This website is accessible from any computer that is connected to the Internet 8 and includes a browser.
- the website also contains a database for storing the content preferences of the user or owner of client devices 78 . These content preferences include pointers to the locations of the content entities, such as audio files, video files, or text files, on Internet 8 that the user had specified to be played on client device 78 .
- the website could also include a server-based version of system control application 18 that would retrieve and store content and data according to user preferences on the web.
- FIG. 39 shows a web-page that is used to choose a particular device that is to be controlled or set-up.
- the web-page in FIG. 39 is equivalent in function to console 16 .
- FIG. 40 shows a web-page that is displayed when the “iclock” icon on FIG. 39 is selected.
- FIG. 41 is a calendar-based GUI application that is a java applet and is launched when the “first time” button is selected on the web-page on FIG. 42 .
- FIG. 42 shows the result of content selections made based on the content menu.
- client device 78 is a portable computing device referred to as a webpad 92 , able to be carried around the house or within range of LAN 70 .
- Webpad 92 includes a set of rechargeable batteries and a battery recharging system. There is also a dock into which the webpad 92 is placed during times when it is not used. When it is docked, there are electrical contacts in the dock that make contact with the electrical contacts on webpad 92 and the batteries are recharged.
- Webpad 92 also has stored in its non-volatile memory an identifying serial number, which is used to identify webpad 92 on the wireless network, and is also used to coordinate the content that is specified by the user to be sent to and cached at the local PC 34 , and ultimately sent wirelessly to webpad 92 .
- identifying serial number is used to identify webpad 92 on the wireless network
- users can access cached content on PC 34 or storage gateway 38 such as digital, searchable Yellow Pages or White Pages, and other reference databases.
- webpad 92 can access the Internet 8 via PC 34 or storage gateway 38 , utilizing PC 34 or storage gateway 38 as a router.
- webpad 92 can be used to control other client devices 78 .
- a webpad 92 version of audio device content editor and audio device controller GUI allow the user to access playlists and tracks, and control audio playback device 86 in real time while away from PC 34 .
- XML messages 74 are sent from webpad 92 to PC 34 or storage gateway 38 , processed by core module 42 , and appropriate XML messages are sent to audio playback device 86 .
- An embodiment of the audio device content editor and audio device controller that is implemented as a web-page and runs in a browser, using HTTP and HTML, can be used to operate the audio playback device on the PDA. Browsers are available for PDAs.
- LAN 70 could be implemented with a number of different of wireless systems such as 802.11b, 802.11a, or BluetoothTM.
- the wireless communication system could be a 900 Mhz system used on many cordless phones.
- the system could be implemented with a phone line network system where the house wiring is used as the network physical layer for communication between PC 34 and client devices 78 .
- the system could be implemented using an AC power line networking technology that uses the AC wiring in the home as the network physical layer. It should be noted also, that the system will work with any type of connection to the internet, including other broadband technologies such as DSL or fixed wireless, or a dialup modem connection.
- a phone that includes a microprocessor, memory, and network interface is also a client device.
- the content 10 that would be transferred to it would be the digital address books, such as those that are a part of PDA databases and desktop organizer software.
- the phone numbers from these personal information managers, and other relevant phone numbers could be downloaded from the web and cached at the PC, and subsequently transferred to the phone database, so that dialing can be made much easier.
Abstract
Description
- This patent application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/924,646 filed on Aug. 8, 2001, which is a Continuation-in-part (CIP) of patent application Ser. No. 09/841,268, filed Apr. 24, 2001, entitled “System for Providing Content, Management, and Interactivity for Thin Client Devices.”
- This application claims the benefit of the filing date of the following U.S. patent applications:
- U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/199,638, filed Apr. 25, 2000, entitled “System for Presenting Data and Content from the Internet on Client Devices”;
- U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/841,268, filed Apr. 24, 2001, entitled “System for Providing Content, Management, and Interactivity for Thin Client Devices”;
- U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/268,434, filed Feb. 12, 2001, entitled “System for Delivering Content to Client Devices”, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/223,872, filed Aug. 8, 2000, entitled “Home PC to Electronic Player Device Content Delivery System”.
- The present invention relates generally to ubiquitous computing devices and, more particularly, to a system for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices.
- The rapid buildup of telecommunications infrastructure combined with substantial investment in Internet-based businesses and technology has brought Internet connectivity to a large segment of the population. Recent market statistics show that a majority of households in the U.S. own at least one personal computer (PC), and a significant number of these PCs are connected to the Internet. Many households include two or more PCs, as well as various PC productivity peripherals such as printers, scanners, and the like. Decreases in the cost of PC components such as microprocessors, hard disk drives, memory, and displays, have driven the commoditization of PCs. Although the majority of household PCs are connected to the Internet by dialup modem connections, broadband connectivity is being rapidly adopted, and is decreasing in price as a variety of technologies are introduced and compete in the marketplace. A large majority of households in the U.S. and Europe are viable for at least one or more type of broadband connection, such as cable, DSL, optical networks, fixed wireless, or two-way satellite transmission.
- A market for home networking technology has emerged, driven by the need to share an Internet connection between two or more PCs, and to connect all the PCs to productivity peripherals. There has been innovation in local area network (LAN) technology based on end-user desire for simplicity and ease of installation. Installing Ethernet cable is impractical for a majority of end-users, therefore a number of no-new-wires technologies have been introduced. The Home Phoneline Networking Association (HPNA) promotes networking products that turn existing phone wiring in the home into an Ethernet physical layer. Adapters are required that allow each device to plug into any RJ-11 phone jack in the home. The adapter modifies the signal from devices so that it can be carried by the home phone lines. Existing HPNA products provide data-rates equivalent to 10base-T Ethernet, approximately 10 Mbps. Networking technology that uses the AC power wiring in the home to carry data signals has also appeared. Similar to HPNA devices, adapters are required to convert data signals from devices into voltage fluctuations carried on to and off of the AC wires, allowing any AC outlet to become a network interface. Although both HPNA and power line networking products are convenient to use because they require no new wires, the advantage of AC power line products over HPNA is that AC power outlets are more ubiquitous than RJ-11 phone jacks.
- Wireless radio-frequency (RF) LAN technology has also been introduced into the home networking market. Theoretically, wireless technology is the most convenient for the end user to install. There are currently two prevalent standards for wireless networking, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11b and HomeRF. Both of these systems utilize the unlicensed 2.4 Ghz ISM band as the carrier frequency for the transmission of data. Both of these technologies have effective ranges of approximately 150 feet in a typical household setting. IEEE 802.11b is a direct sequence spread spectrum technology. HomeRF is a frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology. Adapters that are RF transceivers are required for each device to communicate on the network. In addition to utilizing Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) protocols, IEEE 802.11b and HomeRF include additional encryption and security protocol layers so that the user's devices have controlled access to data being sent through the LAN.
- Due to market competition and the effect of Moore's Law, home networking technology is greatly increasing in performance and availability, while decreasing in price. For example, the current data-rate roadmap shows HomeRF increasing from 10 Mbps to 20 Mbps, utilizing the 5 Ghz band. The IEEE 802.11 technology roadmap shows the introduction of 802.11a at 54 Mbps, also utilizing the 5 Ghz band. It is important to note that LAN data-rates are increasing much faster than wide-area data-rates, such as the data-rates provided by “last mile” technologies including DSL, DOCSIS. Wireless wide area data-rates are also improving slowly. Current digital cellular technology provides less than 64 Kbps data-rates, with most systems providing throughput in the 20 Kbps range.
- While networked PCs with Internet connectivity provide greater convenience for productivity applications, there are other trends that are influencing end user's content experiencing habits. For example, Personal Video Recorders (hereafter PVRsare increasing in popularity. These devices are an improvement on VCR “time-shifting” functionality, allowing users to record, pause, and start live broadcast media, almost in real time. These devices digitize terrestrially broadcast television content and store the files on a hard disk drive, providing much faster random access, fast-forwarding, and rewinding. A graphical user interface is provided that allows users to make content preference selections. A PVR supports the trend toward user controlled “anytime” access to digital content.
- The MP3 digital audio format is an audio encoding technology that allows consumers to further compress digital audio files such as those found on Compact Disks, to much smaller sizes with very little decrease in sound quality. The MP3 format is the audio layer of MPEG-2 digital audio and video compression and transmission standard. For example, the MP3 format allows for compression of audio content to approximately 1 million bytes per minute of audio, at near Compact Disk quality. This capability, combined with a decrease in the cost of flash memory, a type of non-volatile silicon-based mass memory, has made it possible to develop affordable, portable digital audio playback devices. These are devices that are significantly smaller than portable CD players because they contain no moving parts, only flash memory and a microprocessor for decoding MP3 compressed audio content.
- PC-based MP3 software players have been created that provide a convenient graphical user interface and software decoding of MP3 files. Some technology allows users to play MP3 files on their PC, using an existing sound card with external speakers. However, to listen to MP3s the user must interface with the PC, using a mouse and keyboard, and must be nearby the PC sound output equipment.
- The smaller size of MP3 encoded audio files has also enabled these files to be shared by users across the Internet, since the transfer of these files takes an acceptable amount of time. Internet-based digital music access and distribution service businesses have appeared that provide various means for users to gain access to digital audio files.
- In addition to music, many other types of audio content are now available in digital format, such as spoken-word content, news, commentary, and educational content. Digital files containing audio recordings of books being read aloud are available for download directly from their website.
- Graphic content such as video and still images are also increasingly available. Digital still and video cameras allow the capture and rapid transfer of images. Products exist that allows users to share digital images across the Internet. One example is a frame housing similar to a conventional picture frame, but with a large LCD in place of a photograph. The device includes a microprocessor, memory, and modem. The device must be plugged into a phone line, and it functions by automatically dialing-up to a server where new digital images are stored. Based on user instructions made through a setup function on a website, a group of photos are sent to, and stored on, and displayed by the device. These picture frames may be costly due to the fact that they includes a large LCD, and also because they must include enough memory to store the digital images. This type of picture frame is an example of digital content delivered beyond the PC.
- Internet access is also available through the use of wireless phones with Internet browsing capability and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) with wide-area wireless connections. One such device uses the paging network, which provides among the lowest bandwidth connection available at approximately 2.4 Kbps. Another such device uses the cellular wireless infrastructure which provides a maximum of 19.2 Kbps. Many wireless cellular phones now provide “wireless web” limited browsing capability. The slow data-rates provided by these products, as well as limited display area and awkward methods of user interaction, have resulted in slow adoption rates, and signals that users increasingly demand rich media experiences that can only be supported by broadband data-rates. Additionally, use of these products supports the trend of access to Internet content beyond the PC.
- Other technology providers provides software that channels content from the Internet to a handheld device through a PC with an Internet connection. The handheld must be docked in its cradle for the transfer to take place. The personal computer is used mainly as a communication link, as none of the content is stored on the computer, it passes through the PC and is stored on the handheld device. The user removes the handheld device from the cradle and then accesses the information from the last download on the handheld device. Many systems do not provide for rich media experiences as that example of a handheld device. Other devices are limited in processing power, and handheld devices do not leverage the processing power of the personal computer. However, handheld devices do further support the trend of access to Internet content beyond the PC.
- Cable, as well as satellite TV services are efficient in providing video content to a wide variety of users. However, most existing cable and satellite systems provide video delivery services on a broadcast model, that is, customers must choose from a set number of audio/video programs that are simultaneously broadcast, with the schedule determined by the broadcast networks. With the overlaying of data services over existing cable lines, there is the opportunity to provide a video-on-demand service whereby customers could order video programming of their choice at any time. However, a simple calculation will show that pure video-on-demand cannot be supported by the bandwidth available on the existing networks, due to the high data-rates required to transport high-quality video and audio in real-time.
- The convergence of the digitization of content, combined with the proliferation and decreasing cost of networking and data processing components, is providing the opportunity to deliver rich content via the Internet, to a variety of inexpensive devices beyond the personal computer.
- What is needed is a system that provides an economically optimal architecture and management system for allowing users to set up preferences for content of varying types, including rich content, and other services, to be automatically delivered to inexpensive client devices.
- A system and a method for providing content, management and interactivity for client devices are described. Digital data based on user specified preferences is automatically obtained and transferred from a wide area network to a computer. The digital data is then automatically sent from the computer to a client device using a wireless data transceiver. In one embodiment, the client device is a television.
- The present invention will be understood more fully from the detailed description given below and from the accompanying drawings of various embodiments of the invention, which, however, should not be taken to limit the invention to the specific embodiments, but are for explanation and understanding only:
-
FIG. 1 . illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a system at the highest level; -
FIG. 2 . illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a system control application; -
FIG. 3 . illustrates one embodiment of an example console GUI on the PC desktop; -
FIG. 4 . illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an audio device content editor GUI on a PC display desktop window; -
FIG. 5 . illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an audio device content editor GUI after a content object has been dragged and placed; -
FIG. 6 . illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an audio device content editor GUI with a dialog box launched; -
FIG. 7 . illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an audio device content editor GUI with a “new playlist” text box open; -
FIG. 8 . illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an Internet clock content editor GUI; -
FIG. 9 . illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an Internet clock content GUI after a content module has been dragged and placed; -
FIG. 10 . illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an Internet clock content GUI after a content module has been expanded from “Monday” to “Friday”; -
FIG. 11 . illustrates one embodiment of a web-based content guide GUI window and an Internet clock content GUI and a softkey assignment pop-up menu; -
FIG. 12 . illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of a audio playback device; -
FIG. 13 . illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of an Internet clock; -
FIG. 14 . illustrates one embodiment of a tag aggregation web page; -
FIG. 15 . illustrates one embodiment of a PC desktop with a console and an audio device controller; -
FIG. 16 . illustrates one embodiment of a PC desktop with a console and an Internet clock controller; -
FIG. 17 . illustrates a functional block diagram of one embodiment of a storage gateway; -
FIG. 18 . illustrates one embodiment of a digital image editor GUI; -
FIG. 19 . illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of an audio playback device/stereo system; -
FIG. 20 . illustrates an alternative embodiment of the audio playback device with a remote control removed; -
FIG. 21 . illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a tag response sequence; -
FIG. 22 . illustrates one embodiment of a PC desktop with a content preference selection web page; -
FIG. 23 . illustrates a system block diagram of one embodiment of a storage gateway peripheral; -
FIG. 24 . illustrates one embodiment of a a home PC storage server setup flowchart; -
FIG. 25 . illustrates a flowchart of one embodiment of a process of programming client device content on a website; -
FIG. 26 . illustrates one embodiment of a home PC storage server operation sequence; -
FIG. 27 . illustrates a schematic for one embodiment of a system for delivering content with a wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter and a TV; -
FIG. 28 . illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter hardware;FIG. 29 . illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of a webpad; -
FIG. 30 . illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of a PDA with wireless LAN adapter module attached; -
FIG. 31 . illustrates an isometric exploded view of one embodiment of a wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter; -
FIG. 32 . illustrates a schematic of one embodiment of an interactive digital video system with a LAN TV remote control; -
FIG. 33 . illustrates a schematic of one embodiment of a system with a TV providing an alarm clock function; -
FIG. 34 . illustrates a schematic of one embodiment of a system with a TV providing an alarm clock function with a webpad included; -
FIG. 35 . illustrates an isometric view of an alarm clock remote control; -
FIG. 36 . illustrates an isometric exploded view of one embodiment of a alarm clock remote control; -
FIG. 37 . illustrates a schematic of one embodiment of a system with a stereo system providing an alarm clock function; -
FIG. 38 . illustrates one embodiment of a system for providing content, distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices; -
FIG. 39 . illustrates one embodiment of an image of a webpage for selecting a client device to program; -
FIG. 40 . illustrates one embodiment of an image of a webpage which is a first setup page for an Internet clock; -
FIG. 41 . illustrates one embodiment of an image of a webpage for programming the content for an Internet clock; and -
FIG. 42 . illustrates one embodiment of an image of a webpage showing the results of a user's selection of content for an Internet clock. - A system and a method for providing content, management and interactivity for client devices are described. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the present invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the present invention.
- A set of definitions is provided below to clarify the present invention.
- The Internet is used interchangeably with the term web or worldwide web. Both of these are defined as the worldwide network of PCs, servers, and other devices.
- Broadband connection is defined as a communications network in which the frequency bandwidth can be divided and shared by multiple simultaneous signals. A broadband connection to the Internet typically provides minimum upstream and downstream data-rates of approximately 200 K or more bits per second. There are many different types of broadband connections including DSL, cable modems, and fixed and mobile wireless connections.
- A Data Over Cable System Interface Specification (DOCSIS) modem is an industry standard type of cable modem that is used to provide broadband access to the Internet over a coaxial cable physical layer that is also used for the delivery of cable TV signals (CATV). DOCSIS modems are well known in the telecommunications industry and will not be described here in detail.
- A Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) modem is also an industry standard type of modem that is used to provide broadband access to the Internet, but over conventional copper phone lines (local loops). DSL modems are well known in the telecommunications industry and will not be described here in further detail.
- The term gateway, used interchangeably with broadband gateway, is defined as an integral modem and router, and may include hub functionality. The modem function is used to change voltage fluctuations on an input carrier line (a DSL line input or a cable TV input) into digital data.
- Routers are devices that connect one distinct network to another by passing only certain IP addresses that are targeted for specific networks. Hubs allow one network signal input to be split and thus sent to many devices.
- Gateway storage peripheral is defined as an add-on storage device with processing power, an operating system, and a software application that manages the downloading and storage of data. An example scenario for the use of a gateway storage peripheral is a system where a user has a DOCSIS modem and would like to add an always-on storage capability. The gateway storage peripheral is connected to the DOCSIS modem via a USB port or an Ethernet port in the DOCSIS modem. A gateway storage peripheral in combination with a DOCSIS modem or any type of broadband modem is considered a storage gateway system. A PC that is always left on and connected to an always-on gateway with a DSL or broadband cable connection is considered a storage gateway system.
- The term “message” is defined as information that is sent digitally from one computing device to another for various purposes. The term “content” is used to mean the information contained in digital files or streams. For example, content may be entertainment or news, or audio files in MP3 format. “Data” is used to mean information such as digital schedule contents, responses from devices sent back through the system, or digital messages and email. “Content” and “data” are sometimes used interchangeably. “Client devices” are those devices that are not fully functional without a host device such as a personal computer.
- Local Area Network (LAN) is defined as a network structure that includes two or more devices that can communicate with other devices utilizing a shared communication infrastructure, including wired network technologies, such as Ethernet, or wireless network technologies such as Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11b or HomeRF technology. Wireless LAN technology such as IEEE 802.11b and HomeRF are based on the unlicensed 2.4 Ghz ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) frequency band and are well known the telecommunications and LAN industries. These networking technologies utilize Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocols (TCP/IP) protocols. A LAN typically constitutes a group of interconnected devices that share a common geographic location and are typically grouped together as a subnet. A local network, for example, would be a home network where several computers and other smart devices would be digitally connected for the purpose of transferring content and data, controlling each other, sharing programming, or presenting data and content to a user.
- Codec (Compression/Decompression algorithm) is a software application that is used to decode (uncompress) encoded (compressed) media files or streams. Most content is stored and sent in a compressed format so that the content files are smaller and thus take up less storage space and use less bandwidth when being transferred via the Internet. The content is then decoded at the playback device. For example, MP3 audio files are encoded and must be decoded by a microprocessor running the codec in order for the audio content to be presented to the user in an analog format.
- HTTP is Hyper-text transfer protocol, the protocol used by Web browsers and Web servers to transfer files, such as text and graphic files.
- Data-rate is defined as the data throughput of a telecommunications system or technology, and is measured in a quantity of bits per second, such as millions of bits per second (Mbps).
- First, a description of the various components of the system is provided. Then, a description of three functional modes is provided. It should be noted that the functionality of the software and hardware pertinent to the invention disclosed in this document is described at several levels including at the interface level (what the end user sees and experiences) and at the action level (software and hardware interactions involving digital messages, content, and data). It is assumed that software engineers of reasonable ability would be able to program the functions described here using common programming languages and tools.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a system at the highest level. The system provides a communication connection and a content and data management system including software and hardware on three different computing platforms: (1) theInternet 8, (2) alocal PC 34 orPC 34 and astorage gateway 38, and (3) thelocal client devices 78 a, b, c, and d. One embodiment of aPC 34 is shown inFIG. 37 . In one embodiment,PC 34 is a conventional computer including a microprocessor, system memory,hard disk drive 30, display, keyboard, and mouse, and runs the Windows operating system, provide by Microsoft Coproration.PC 34 also includes a Universal Serial Bus (hereafter USB) port for connecting peripheral devices.PC 34 is connected to content anddata 10 onInternet 8 via a wide area networkbroadband communication link 14 that provides data delivery rates ranging from 500 kbps to 3,000 kbps. - In one embodiment, the
broadband connection 14 is maintained byDOCSIS storage gateway 38.FIG. 17 illustrates a functional block diagram of one embodiment of astorage gateway 38.Hard disk drive 30 is combined with a conventional DOCSIS cable modem and aHomeRF LAN transceiver 50. These subsystems are controlled by a computer comprised of amicroprocessor 280, and theSDRAM 284 running an operating system. Thecore module 42 software application described below, runs on and functionally connectsstorage gateway 38 to the other system components. - Referring again to
FIG. 1 , in one embodiment, the high-speed LAN connection 70 betweenPC 34,storage gateway 38, and devices 78, is a HomeRF wireless network. The communications protocol betweenPC 34 andInternet 8 is HTTP and TCP/IP. TheGUI module 46 software aspect ofsystem control application 18 exists onPC 34. In one embodiment,core module 42 aspect ofsystem control application 18 exists and is run on bothstorage gateway 38 and onPC 34. The communication message structure between client devices 78 andPC 34 andstorage gateway 38 are XML formattedmessages 74 sent over HTTP. - Referring again to
FIG. 1 , content anddata 10 onInternet 8 may be expressed on web pages as an organization of text and graphical information, some of which is configured as interactive hyperlinks, all of which are formatted using HTML for presentation to end user'sPCs 34 via HTTP communication protocols. A contentselection web page 22 is shown in FIGS. 4 throughFIG. 11 . The graphical interactive representation of the portal to the end user is as a series of hyper-linked web pages and hyper-linked text and images. The physical manifestation of the portal is that of software and data stored on servers located at various and disparate physical locations, but connected byInternet 8. -
Content 10 onInternet 8 may be arranged for delivery tolocal client devices 78 a, b, c, and d by a system that allows for graphical icons, referred to in this disclosure as content objects 20, that exist on contentselection web page 22, to be dragged and dropped onto content editors on aPC 34. Drag anddroppable content object 20 is a graphical representation of a file system path that points to a digital content file stored locally onhard disk drive 30 onPC 34 or onstorage gateway 38, or on a server onInternet 8, or is the graphical designation of a URL or IP address and port number of an digital content stream originating on a server onInternet 8. The purpose of the portal is to simplify and facilitate the discovery and selection ofcontent 10 fromInternet 8 for later use on client devices 78. - Content
selection web page 22 capability may include, but is not limited to the following functionality: -
- 1) Presentation and organization of content and or links to content according to file type (e.g. MP3, MPEG, and the like), and or according to genre (e.g. music or video);
- 2) Further sub classification of content within file types or genres. For example a “music” category may be further divided into additional classifications such as “classical”, “jazz”, “pop”, “internet radio” and the like;
- 3) Additional information that is relevant to content links. For example, a song link may be displayed with information about the artist and or reviews and links to further information such as lyrics, artist concert schedule, and the like;
- 4) A system to search for particular content on the web portal and or its affiliate links; and
- 5) A system to retain user preference information for the purpose of customizing the web portal content according to the users preferences.
-
Content 10 fromInternet 8 that may be used in the system disclosed here may be selected from a wide range of contentselection web pages 22, that may be formatted differently, and may be available from many different content creators and content aggregators. Content creators include for example the music labels such as firms whose business it is to create or commission to create, and own content. Content aggregators are firms whose business it is to collect certain types of content, such as digital music, for the purpose of enabling ease of selection by end users and distribution. - The capability for determining and aggregating the content objects 20 presented to a specific user on content
selection web pages 22 are derived from content preferences selections provided by the user. For example, referring now toFIG. 22 a content preferenceselection web page 24 is shown with contentselection check boxes 42 beside content selection labels 46 that describe a variety of content choices. In one embodiment, the user may use the mouse to click on the boxes next to desired content types, as shown inFIG. 22 . Thereafter upon returning to contentselection web page 22, onlycontent objects 20 that relate to the selected content types are displayed to the user. Functionally, content selection labels 46 are graphical representations of HTML links to actual content files, such as digital audio or digital video files. These links are organized and stored in a content link database on content link database server. The actual content files to which content selection labels 46 refer are stored at the content creator's or content aggregator's servers. - Referring now to
FIG. 1 and 2, asystem control application 18 is comprised of two sub-applications, thecore module 42 and the Graphical User Interface (hereafter GUI)module 46. In one embodiment,core module 42 is implemented as a multi-threaded Java application with instances running on bothPC 34 andstorage gateway 38. A Windows version of a Java Virtual Machine (JVM) resides and runs onPC 34 and interpretscore module 42 instructions for the Windows operating system. Likewise, a VxWorks version of JVM interpretscore module 42 instructions to VxWorks.GUI module 46 may be implemented as a Win32 application and resides and runs onPC 34.System control application 18 serves the function of managing the connection betweencontent 10 and various servers onInternet 8, andPC 34 andstorage gateway 38, and also manages the flow of information betweenPC 34 andstorage gateway 38, and client devices 78. -
Core module 42 andGUI module 46 access and modify the systemcontrol application database 96 using methods called over HTTP and expressed with XML grammar. Systemcontrol application database 96 is a set of files that contain system parameters and data. For example, a track (song name) shown in audiodevice content editor 24 is referenced as a file name and a path designation a particularhard disk drive 30 on either ofPC 34 orstorage gateway 38, in a listing in systemcontrol application database 96. Actions that are taken, such as playing this file, are triggered byXML messages 74 sent from client devices 78 viaLAN 70 or fromGUI module 46 to core modules(s) 42 over HTTP. - The GUI module includes segments of the software application that run the GUI, including, but not limited to, the following functions:
-
- 1. Displaying GUI elements on a computer display for view by the end user;
- 2. Acknowledging user responses made via mouse and keyboard, or other pointing and interaction devices;
- 3. Allowing for manipulation of the GUI elements such as:
- a. drag and drop 28 of content objects 20,
- b. GUI button activations,
- c. text entry, and
- d. pull down menu and menu selections;
- 4. Communication between
GUI module 46 andcore module 42. The selections and control manipulations made by the end user are communicated tocore module 42 where they can be acted upon; and - 5. Launching of specific device content and control editors from a
system console 16, as shown initially inFIG. 3 , described below.
-
Core module 42 includes the portion of thesystem control application 18 that acts on content anddata 10 fromInternet 8 and also processes commands contained in messages sent from client devices 78, providing, but not limited to, the following functions: -
- 1. Communication links:
- a. Accessing
content 10 onInternet 8 at a prescribed location as determined by user inputs into the GUI content editors such as audiodevice content editor 24 and Internetclock content editor 40, - b. Accessing and communicating with
GUI module 46, and - c. Accessing and communicating with client devices 78;
- a. Accessing
- 2. Managing the caching (local storage) of
content 10 fromInternet 8 or otherwise digital content files; - 3. Streaming of
content 10 fromInternet 8 to client devices 78 connected toPC 34 andstorage gateway 38 via LAN 70:- a. Managing and routing streaming
digital content 10 fromInternet 8 to client devices 78, and - b. Managing and routing streams of cached
digital content 10 files onstorage gateway 38 orPC 34 to the client devices 78;
- a. Managing and routing streaming
- 4. Scheduling—time-based automation of the accessing, caching, and streaming of
content 10 fromInternet 8 at times prescribed by the user or at times derived by direction given by the user through the GUI content editors such as audiodevice content editor 24 and Internetclock content editor 40. The scheduling function accesses time and date inputs associated with actions stored in systemcontrol application database 96 by GUI module. The scheduling function periodically compares these time and date entries with the current state of PC's 34 or storage gateway's 38 internal timer. When there is a match, the action is taken; - 5. Managing user responses at client devices 78—messages are sent from client devices 78 to
core module 42, based on button activations at client devices 78; - 6. Network Address Translation (NAT) and routing—certain client devices 78 must be connected to the
Internet 8 in real time.Core module 42 acts to connect messages and streams from client devices 78 toInternet 8, and fromInternet 8 to the client devices 78; - 7. Client device 78 Application/Software Delivery—Client device 78 application code can be stored at
PC 34 orstorage gateway 38 and delivered to client devices 78 on an as-needed basis. For example, if the network device isaudio playback device 86 that must be able to decode a variety of different encoded audio streams, then a specific CODEC (sent as a BLOB—binary large object) can be delivered toaudio playback device 86 viaLAN 70 and installed into memory immediately before a content stream requiring that specific CODEC. Many different types of applications can be delivered just-in-time to client devices 78. The advantage of this feature is that is requires for exampleaudio playback device 86 to have smaller quantities of non-volatile (flash) memory and smaller quantities of volatile (SDRAM) memory. Reprogramming or modifying the firmware at client devices 78 is also made easier since the software is accessible atPC 34 orstorage gateway 38; - 8. Transcoding—Certain types of content will be received at
PC 34 orstorage gateway 38, decoded, re-encoded using a different CODEC atPC 34, and then streamed to client devices 78; - 9. Auto-discovery—Client devices 78 connected to
PC 34 viaLAN 70 will automatically appear as a specific clientdevice control bar 26 onconsole 16 located onPC 34desktop 12. One or more client device control bars 26 constituteconsole 16, shown in FIGS. 3 throughFIGS. 11 ; - 10. Message Transactions—text or other content or data from the
Internet 8 can be transferred and presented ondisplay 170 and display 132 client devices 78; - 11. Tag servicing—when a
tag button 128 ortag button 188 is pressed on one of client devices 78, time, data, and information pertaining to currently playing content is aggregated into a message and sent to tag storage and processing server. Tag processing services included incore module 42 acquire information that is included in the message. Tagging is described in greater detail later in this document. Tag servicing includes a function wherecore module 42 periodically accesses a specific location onInternet 8 to acquire and store an accurate time and date; - 12. Synchronization—Data, such as user data and related information, such as an accurate time and date, must be synchronized across the three platforms (web, device, and local server).
Core module 42 time and date data is thus synchronized with an external (absolute) standard; and - 13. Mirroring—Users can specify that content selections they make using the device content editors are to be mirrored at various other devices. For example, a user may have
audio playback device 86 and a car caching and playback device. The user can specify that they want content 10 fromInternet 8 that is cached onstorage gateway 38 in the home to be mirrored exactly in the car-based caching device. The end user can thereby access all of the exactsame content 10 in the same playlist structure in both the home and in the automobile.
- 1. Communication links:
-
System control application 18 and systemcontrol application database 96 are designed to function with a number of instances ofcore module 42 andGUI module 46 running concurrently onmultiple PCs 34 and orstorage gateways 38, all connected by thesame LAN 70. It is anticipated that users will own and operatemultiple PCs 34 in a single home for example, withdifferent content 10 cached on eachPC 34. In one embodiment, the focus will be on a singular GUI module located and executed on a PC. - Client devices 78 may take many physical forms but the common attribute is that it client devices 78 are nodes on a
LAN 70, receiving digital content anddata 10, and instructions, fromcore module 42 subsystem of thesystem control application 18. In an alternative embodiment, client devices 78 may send backXML message 74 control instructions and data from interaction or data that originates at client devices 78. In one embodiment, client devices 78 may include awebpad 92, anaudio playback device 86, anInternet clock 82, a digital picture frame, and an automotive storage device. - Client devices depend on
LAN 70 connectivity to provide the majority of their functionality. Different client devices 78 may range widely in the amount of integral memory capability. One embodiment described below shows anaudio playback device 86 that is connected to astereo receiver 114. An alternative embodiment shows an Internet connectedclock 82. However, it should be clearly understood that the system is designed to function with a wide variety of networked client devices 78.Audio playback device 86 andInternet clock 82 are described as examples of how the system functions. -
FIG. 12 illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of aaudio playback device 86. Theaudio playback device 86 functionally connects digital audio content from a remote digital audio source to an conventional stereo system.Audio playback device 86 receives a stream of encoded audio content fromPC 34 orstorage gateway 38, decodes it in real-time, and converts the uncompressed digital information into analog electrical signals. - In one embodiment, an
audio playback device 86 may include a plastic injection-moldedmain housing 168 that contains a printed-circuit board (PCB). PCB electrically connects the components of a computer, and includes a microprocessor with dynamic memory (SDRAM) and programmable (flash) memory. Microprocessor in combination with dynamic memory executes instructions from its operating system and programming, referred to as the firmware 220 stored in programmable memory. - In one embodiment, the
audio playback device 86 also includes a wireless network interface sub-system for communicating withPC 34 andstorage gateway 38, an infra-red (IR) control sub-system for processing IR commands from the IRremote control 90, and adisplay 170 sub-system for presenting text and graphical information to the user. - In one embodiment, the
audio playback device 86 also includes a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for converting the uncompressed digital information into analog signals that are presented at the standard left and right RCA connectors, 240 and 244. - In one embodiment, the
audio playback device 86 firmware also includes a CODEC for decoding the audio file that is streamed to it fromPC 34 orstorage gateway 38. - In one embodiment,
remote control 90 can be attached toaudio playback device 86front bezel 164, as shown inFIG. 12 .FIG. 20 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the audio playback device with aremote control 90 removed.FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing howleft analog output 240 andright analog output 244 included in audiocontent playback device 86 are connected respectively to theleft line input 248 andright line input 252 on existingstereo receiver 114.Stereo receiver 114 functions in the conventional way, pre-amplifying and amplifying the audio signals and delivering them to theleft speaker 272 and theright speaker 276. As shown inFIG. 19 ,audio playback device 86 also includes a terrestrial broadcast tuner subsystem for tuning local AM and FM broadcast radio. - In one embodiment, the
audio playback device 86remote control 90 includes button controls for the following functions:Power button 196—for powering the device on and off; Source/User button 204—for selecting the user (owner of playlists and corresponding tracks) or for selectingstorage gateway 38,PCs 34, or terrestrial broadcast, from whichcontent 10 fromInternet 8 or other terrestrial content will be delivered;Playlist forward button 176 and playlist backbutton 172—for advancing through and selecting playlists;Track forward button 184 and trackbackward button 180—for advancing through and selecting tracks for playback; Play/Pause button 192—for starting and pausing (stopping at point in the middle of a playback of an audio file);Stop button 200—for stopping playback of audio content;Tag button 188—for triggering the transmission of information about a currently playing track (file,Internet 8 stream, or terrestrial broadcast) back through the system for delivery to the end user on a website or for delivery to the content creator or content originator; User-definedbutton 206 —This button may be associated with a variety of functions as selected by the user using the audio playback device setup GUI. - The text descriptors associated with the playlists and associated tracks are sent to
audio playback device 86 when requests are made by button activations. For example, if the user activatesforward playlist button 176, the text string for the next playlist after the one that is currently being played is sent toaudio playback device 86 viaLAN 70, is processed, and the text is displayed ondisplay 170. Likewise if forward-track button 184 is activated, the text string that is the name of the next sequential file from the current playlist stored in systemcontrol application database 96 located onstorage gateway 38 orPC 34, is sent bycore module 42 toaudio playback device 86, where the text string is displayed ondisplay 170. Ifplay button 192 is then activated, the currently playing track is halted and the track that is being displayed is sent, decoded, and played through the stereo system. The functional interface to the user ofaudio playback device 86 is similar to that found on a typical CD changer, where the CD represents the playlist, and the tracks on the CD represent the tracks in the playlist. -
FIG. 13 illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of anInternet clock 82.Internet clock 82 includes a plastic injection-moldedmain housing 122 with a microprocessor, dynamic memory, non-volatile memory,TFT display 132, and operating system and firmware programming. In one embodiment, thedisplay 132 on theInternet clock 82 is a large TFT graphics LCD, capable of showing images with 8-bit color. The control buttons or dials onInternet clock 82 may include the following: -
- 1. The
Softkey buttons 124 a, b, c, d, and e, along-side display 132 that are labeled by graphics ondisplay 132. Softkey buttons 124 a-e can be used as presets to allow the user to jump to content presentations that are associated with each button by a GUI pull-down menu 52 on Internetclock content editor 40, as shown inFIG. 11 . - 2. Volume dial
- 3. Snooze button 120 (on/off)
- 4. Source select (terrestrial radio,
Internet 8 content) - 5. The
Tag Button 128—for triggering the transmission of information about a currently playing track (file,Internet 8 stream, or terrestrial broadcast) back through the system for presentation to the end user on tagaggregation web page 56, or for delivery to the content creator or content originator.
- 1. The
-
Internet clock 82 includes microprocessor and memory sufficient to receive and decode a full-motion video stream.Internet clock 82 also contains an integral sound system consisting of an amplifier andspeakers 136. ThereforeInternet clock 82 is capable of presenting audio, video, and interactive multimedia. The digital electronics and packaging technology for such a devices is well known in the consumer electronics industry, so it will not be described in greater detail. - In one embodiment, there are three functional modes: (1) setup, (2) real-time user controlled content/data delivery, and (3) automatic content/data delivery.
- The setup functions provide the user with the ability to organize and manage content that is to be sent to a device.
Content 10 may be stored or generated onInternet 8, or may exist on a local storage device, such on the PC's 34hard disk drive 30, or onstorage gateway 38. In one embodiment, this content is organized and managed with the use of device content editors that are an aspect ofGUI module 46 ofsystem control application 18. - A content editor is a part of
GUI module 46 and may be used for managing and manipulatingcontent 10 that will be sent to networked client device 78. In one embodiment, an audiodevice content editor 24 is used to program andcontrol content 10 foraudio playback device 86. In an alternative embodiment, an Internetclock content editor 40 is used to program and control content forInternet clock 82. Content editors may be launched fromconsole 16. This is explained below. - Audio
device content editor 24 provides the user with the ability to group audio files (tracks) into user-defined playlists, which are text association that contains a list of and paths to audio files or the URLs or IP addresses of audio streams, and are stored in systemcontrol application database 96. For example, a user may create a playlist called “Classical Music” that contains ten Beethoven symphonies. A common type of audio file format is the MP3 (MPEG layer 3) format. Certain tracks such as MP3 music files are stored onhard disk drive 30 onPC 34, while other tracks such as streamedInternet 8 radio, are stored as URLS or IP addresses. Streamed media can be in a variety of formats. A popular format is in the Windows Media format, created by Microsoft Corporation. In on embodiment, the audiodevice content editor 24 capability includes, but is not limited to, the following functionality: -
- 1. Display playlists
- 2. Display tracks in a playlist
- 3. Create a new playlist
- 4. Delete a playlist and its associated tracks
- 5. Add a track to a playlist
- 6. Reorder playlists (accomplished by dragging and dropping the playlists in the GUI window frame)
- 7. Delete a track from a playlist (highlight the track, activate the “delete” button)
- 8. Reorder tracks in a playlist (this is accomplished by dragging and dropping the tracks in the playlist editor).
- In one embodiment, the audio device content editor also includes a function such that when a CD-ROM is loaded into the PC CD-ROM drive, the audio content on the CD-ROM that is in the PCM format can be automatically transcoded into MP3 files and stored on the PC hard disk drive. This function can be turned on or off by the user in a preference interface box. The interaction between audio
device content editor 24 and the other elements of the system will be discussed later. - In one embodiment, the Internet
clock content editor 40 managescontent 10 that is associated with a scheduled routine, such as a wakeup routine. Internetclock content editor 40 allows the user to associatecontent 10 such as audio or video files (stored on the user'shard disk drive 30 or streamed over Internet 8) with an associated time and date. A set of content selections for the one-week period shown on Internet clock content editor inFIG. 8 is called a wake-up routine. For example, referring now toFIG. 9 , the user can associate a pointer to a news stream from theInternet 8, shown as “MSNBC” in the figure, to be triggered at 8 am on Monday through Friday. This association is created by dragging and dropping 28content object 20 from contentselection web page 22, to Internetclock content editor 40. At the prescribed time, the scheduler function incore module 42 initiates the serving of content designated bycontent object 20, toInternet clock 82, where it is played or presented to the user to wake them up, or for other purposes where automatic triggering is required. - In one embodiment, the Internet
clock content editor 40 capability includes, but is not limited to the following functionality: -
- 1. Display calendar (time, days, weeks, months, dates, and the like)
- 2. Select and associate content with a time and date
- 3. Add additional content to a pre-existing routine
- 4. Delete a content object from a routine
- 5. Play audio files from an audio playlist (a playlist made using the audio device content editor)
- 6. Schedule the display of graphics files, such as a series of digital pictures on
Internet clock 82 when it is not executing a scheduled wake-up routine. - 7. Associate a content type or content module with one of the softkey buttons 124 located beside
display 132. - 8. Synchronize with a user's personal (digital) information manager (PIM), such as a personal digital assistant.
- In one embodiment, both audio
device content editor 24 and Internetclock content editor 40 are launched manually by the user by clicking on the associated clientdevice control bar 26 onconsole 16.FIG. 3 showsPC desktop 12 withconsole 16 showing three client device control bars 26 (the PC's speakers here are not considered a client device although audio can be channeled to them). For example, consideringFIG. 3 as the initial state of launched and runningsystem control application 18, using the mouse the user would position the pointer onPC desktop 12 on clientdevice control bar 26 that is associated withaudio playback device 86 and activate the left mouse button. Audiodevice content editor 24 launches and the result is shown inFIG. 4 , with audiodevice content editor 24 displayed onPC desktop 12. - In an alternative embodiment,
PC desktop 12 inFIG. 4 also shows contentselection web page 22. Contentselection web page 22 can be launched in a number of ways. One method for launching contentselection web page 22 is to activate theContent Guide button 30 located on the bottom ofconsole 16 by using the mouse to place the pointer on top ofContent Guide button 30, and pressing and releasing the left mouse button. Another launching method is to have contentselection web page 22 “bookmarked” (Netscapte Navigator) in a browser, or added to a “favorites” list in a browser (Microsoft Internet Explorer). - The spherical icons on content
selection web page 22 arecontent objects 20 that are dragged and dropped onto the audiodevice content editor 24tracks window 34. Using the mouse to control the pointer onPC desktop 12, the user moves the pointer on top ofcontent object 20, depresses the left mouse button, and moves the pointer-content object 20 bundle totracks window 34 of audio device content editor 24 (while continuing to depress the left mouse button). When the user releases the left mouse button, a text description ofcontent object 20 appears intracks window 34 of audiodevice content editor 24. -
FIG. 5 shows thatcontent object 20 “Top 40 Radio” has been dragged from contentselection web page 22 to audiodevice content editor 24tracks window 34, with drag anddrop path 28 depicted. The user would perform this drag and drop operation on content objects 20 for which playback ataudio playback device 86 is desired. For example, the “Top 40 Radio”content object 20 represents the URL of anInternet 8 radio stream. - As shown in
FIG. 6 , the user can also add audio files to the playlists using a conventional Windows dialog box that allows the user to navigate to a specific sub-directory onPC 34. This type ofPC 34 file access is a well known function ofPCs 34. Audiodevice content editor 24 also provides the capability for the user to create playlists. This is accomplished by using theNew List button 37, shown as part of audiodevice content editor 24 inFIG. 4 throughFIG. 7 .FIG. 7 shows that a playlist creationtext entry box 36 is launched when the user activatesNew List button 37. - On the software action level, when a user creates or modifies a playlist by adding tracks such as described above using audio
device content editor 24,GUI module 46 modifies systemcontrol application database 96, a file that contains the text names of playlists, the file names and paths of local content files, and URLs of streams, that the user has selected as tracks. A copy of systemcontrol application database 96 is stored on both the PC's hard disk drive and on the storage gateway's hard disk drive. - In one embodiment, a portion of the files that are set up by the user as tracks in playlists that are accessed at
audio playback device 86 are stored onstorage gateway 38. In this scenario, the user can still access tracks stored onstorage gateway 38 ataudio playback device 86 ifPC 34 has been shutdown. The system may also function with the some or all of the files that constitute the tracks listed in audiodevice content editor 24 stored on thePC 34. ThePC 34 must be booted and functioning for the user to access any files stored onPC 34. Accessing those files ataudio playback device 86 is discussed below. -
FIG. 8 shows an initial state for using the Internetclock content editor 40. Internetclock content editor 40 is formatted as a calendar (with a time domain format), sinceInternet clock 82 will have varying content depending on the time of day or night. Internetclock content editor 40 is also launched fromconsole 16 in the same way that audiodevice content editor 24 is launched.FIG. 9 shows Internetclock content editor 40 aftercontent object 20 has been dragged onto the editor window in the “Monday” slot.FIG. 10 shows that the user has draggedcontent object 20, expanding it across the weekly calendar slots, stopping on the “Friday” slot. Oncecontent object 20 is dragged and placed onto Internetclock content editor 40,content object 20 is referred to as anexpandable content bar 48. Expandable content bars 48 are dragged across the day sections of Internetclock content editor 40 by using the mouse to position the pointer on the right side of expandable content bars 48, depressing the left mouse button, dragging across Internet clock content editor 40 (expandable content bar 48 will graphically elongate) while keeping the mouse button depressed. The mouse button can be released whenexpandable content bar 48 is dragged to the last day on whichcontent 10 referred to byexpandable content bar 48 is to be played. Again referring toFIG. 10 , the result of this programming activity is that every day of the week between Monday and Friday,core module 42 will automatically sendprescribed content 10 toInternet clock 82 at the time indicated on left hand side of Internetclock content editor 40, or at the time that the user has set as the wake-up time atInternet clock 82. Settings atInternet clock 82 take precedence over Internetclock content editor 40 settings. - In setup mode,
GUI module 46 receives commands from the user via the GUI that is drawn onPC desktop 12. The user's actions and decisions are recorded by device content editors such as Internetclock content editor 40 and audiodevice content editor 24 which includeGUI module 46, are encoded as digitally described messages, and are then communicated to and stored in systemcontrol application database 96 bycore module 42. In the preferred embodiment, wherecore module 42 exists as a JAVA software program onstorage gateway 38,content 10, the playlists, and names of tracks and stream addresses, are stored onhard disk drive 30 atstorage gateway 38.PC 34 also contains a copy of systemcontrol application database 96. - In real-time mode, the user can activate and control the delivery of
content 10 that has been set-up in audiodevice content editor 24, either ataudio playback device 86, or atPC 34. In one embodiment whereaudio playback device 86 is connected tostereo receiver 114, the user can access the playlist information on an interface ataudio playback device 86.FIG. 12 shows thatremote control 90 is used to access the source, playlist, and track (content object 20) ataudio playback device 86.Display 170 included onaudio playback device 86 displays text information according to the manipulations of the controls by the user. For example, when the user presses forwardplaylist button 176 onremote control 90, an IR stream is transmitted fromremote control 90 and is received byIR subsystem 104 onaudio playback device 86. This message is decoded by microprocessor inaudio playback device 86 as a forward select button selection, and anXML message 74 is sent fromaudio playback device 86 tocore module 42 requesting that a string of text that represents the next playlist title be sent via high-speed LAN 70 toaudio playback device 86.Core module 42 receivesXML message 74 and sends the text string representing the next playlist toaudio playback device 86, via high-speed LAN 70. Microprocessor 208 processes thisXML message 74 and displays the text string onaudio playback device 86display 170. - When
play button 192 is pressed, againIR subsystem 104 triggers XML formattedmessage 74 to be sent tocore module 42 stating thatplay button 192 was activated.Core module 42 determines the present file or stream listing onaudio playback device 86display 170, and initiates a stream of that file orInternet 8 stream toaudio playback device 86. - In an alternative embodiment, client devices are controlled by using a device controller GUI on
PC 34. Device controllers are launched fromconsole 16 by right clicking on clientdevice control bar 26 onconsole 16 associated with the specific device that is to be controlled.FIG. 15 shows the audioplayback device controller 60 andFIG. 16 shows the Internetclock device controller 88. The function of a device controller is to remotely control networked client devices 78, and to also allow for the setting of certain preferences and features for client devices 78. Thus continuing with our previously mentioned examples, audioplayback device controller 60 is used to directly controlaudio playback device 86, such as to instructaudio playback device 86 to play, stop or pause on a particular track. SimilarlyInternet Clock controller 88 is used to directly controlInternet Clock 82 such as to turn Internet clock on or off, or set the date or time, as shown inFIG. 16 . - The following is a list of controls and features for audio
playback device controller 60 for one embodiment: a play/pause button 80 (holding down play button causes the player to fast forward, playing brief samples of the audio file at muted volume); astop button 76; a track backwardbutton 72; atrack forward button 84; and abalance slider 94. - The following is a list of controls for features on
Internet clock controller 88 for one embodiment: ramp display back light during wakeup routine (slowly increase the light of the display during the wakeup routine); ramp audio volume during wakeup routine (slowly increase the volume of the device during the wakeup routine; length of dwell time for snooze button (the length of time thatInternet clock 82 is dormant aftersnooze button 120 is activated; deactivate snooze button 120 (no snoozing); and length of time for sleep mode (the length oftime Internet clock 82 will playcontent 10 when activated at night while the user is falling asleep). The function controls now shown inFIG. 16 are available on an additional menu accessed by activating “more”button 112. - In one embodiment, in automatic mode,
content 10 that the user has selected for playback in the content editor is sent automatically to the playback device, based on some prescribed time setting that was pre-set by the user. A scheduling function incore module 42 compares time inputs listed in systemcontrol application database 96 with the current state ofPC 34 system timer. When a match occurs between a time input in systemcontrol application database 96 and the current state ofPC 34 system timer,core module 42 initiates the delivery ofcontent 10 to client device 78. In the case wherecontent 10 is a stream from a URL onInternet 8, a connection is created bycore module 42 between the streaming URL viabroadband communication link 14, throughstorage gateway 38, and viaLAN 70 to client device 78. - In one embodiment, certain content objects 20 designate a location for file-based
content 10 that changes on a regular basis. In this case, a specific file is acontent object 20 instance that is cached onlocal PC 34 orstorage gateway 38 and streamed to client device 78. For example,content 10 forInternet clock 82 may include a digital audio file with news located on a server onInternet 8 that may be updated every four hours. Ifcontent object 20 instance is a file designation that is not local, the scheduling function incore module 42 will periodically check the file at its location onInternet 8 to see if the file has changed. It will do this by comparing the locally cached file's creation date and title, and other file information, with the file located onInternet 8. If the file's creation date and/or title has changed, the new file will be downloaded and stored onPC 34 orstorage gateway 38, so that the latest file can be sent to client device 78 at the prescribed time. This is part of the scheduling function listed incore module 42 functions inFIG. 2 . -
Storage gateway 38 is an “always-on” device. Therefore, in one embodiment, the scheduling function running oncore module 42 onstorage gateway 38 may be set to automatically access and acquirecontent 10 onInternet 8 at times when wide area network bandwidth is less expensive, such as overnight or during midday.Core module 42 onstorage gateway 38 may also limit data-rates at certain times to further optimize wide area network bandwidth usage. For example,core module 42 can be limited to download data-rate speeds of 200 Kbps during the hours of 4 pm to 10 pm, and allowed to download at the maximum broadband rate any other time. In one embodiment, this download optimization setting can be set by users, who may want access to bandwidth while they are home in the evening. In an alternative embodiment, it may be set by network operators. These data-rate control settings and times may be set using a network bandwidth optimization control GUI, accessible by user atPC 34 or by network operators remotely. The data-rate control settings and times are stored in systemcontrol application database 96. - Because
LAN 70 technology is a two-way interconnection technology, responses from client devices 78, in one embodiment, may be sent back through the system and processed and presented to the user and other interested entities at bothPC 34 and on the web.FIG. 12 showstag button 188 onaudio playback device 86.FIG. 13 showstag button 128 onInternet clock 82. During the playing ofcontent 10, activation oftag button 128 by the user results in a transmission ofXML message 74 back throughLAN 70 informingcore module 42 that thetag button 128 was activated.Core module 42 then compiles and transmitstag XML message 74 to tag storage and processing server 138. This process is described inFIG. 21 . The information incore module 42tag XML message 74 may include but is not limited to: metadata or meta-tags included in the file or stream (characters or images); the file name ifcontent 10 is a file; the URL or IP address of the stream ifcontent 10 is a stream; time; date; and user identifier. - The transmission of
tag XML message 74 can have different results.FIG. 14 shows that the information in the message formatted as a readable text message and presented to a user on a personal tagaggregation web page 56. In this scenario, the user has signed up with an account and receives a password for entry into protected tagaggregation web page 56. - For the tagging function, the
core module 42 should have access to accurate time and date information.FIG. 2 shows thatcore module 42 has a function that accesses a server onInternet 8 where accurate time and date data is available, and these quantities are stored locally bycore module 42 in systemcontrol application database 96 and is updated relative to the internal time and date timer located internal toPC 34 orstorage gateway 38 that stores and runscore module 42 aspect ofsystem control application 18. - An alternative embodiment of this system includes the TV as an output device for using
GUI module 46 aspect ofsystem control application 18. In this embodiment,system control application 18 resides on a set-top box that includes the components and functionality ofstorage gateway 38. Set-top boxes are available that include a DOCSIS cable modem as well as a CATV tuner,hard disk drive 30, and microprocessor. - In this system, the TV can be used as the output device on which the device control GUIs are visually presented, and a set top box remote control with a cursor pointing function is the input device. The GUI images look and function similarly to those shown in
FIG. 3 throughFIG. 11 . Most set-top boxes already contain the circuitry and firmware to draw images on a TV screen (NTSC format), soGUI module 46 would be minimally modified to support the number of pixels on conventional TV screens. - In alternative embodiments, the system can also be operated whereby the system control application resides on the set-top box and the GUI module that runs on a PC. The set-top box and PC are connected via a LAN and the system control application and GUI module are functionally connected using the LAN. The database and content files
- A storage gateway peripheral 134 is defined as a computer with a integral
hard disk drive 30 and processing capability, and an integralwireless LAN transceiver 58 to provideLAN 70 connectivity, that is added to an existinggateway 150 device for the purpose of addingcontent 10 mass storage and serving capability.FIG. 23 shows a networktopology including PC 34, aconventional gateway 150 that is a DOCSIS cable modem. Storage gateway peripheral 134 is connected togateway 150 via a wired LAN connection, in this case Ethernet, that is included in allgateways 150. Storage gateway peripheral 134 is always-on, and includes power management features such as the ability to power downhard disk drive 30.Core module 42 is stored and runs on storage gateway peripheral 134, thus all of the services and functions provided by a system using astorage gateway 38 are provided with the use of a storage gateway peripheral 134. - In one embodiment, the content editors can be programmed and executed across the network as Java applications stored on
storage gateways 38 or on a storage gateway peripheral 134 device. The advantage of this is that any computer with a display and input peripherals such as a keyboard and a mouse, and that has a Java Virtual Machine (JVM), would be a viable client device content programming, set-up, and control workstation. This embodiment could also be implemented so that it was entirely browser-based. A user could access the device content editors within a browser window, with the application running as a Java applet. - In one embodiment, another device that can exist as a client device in this platform is a digital picture frame. One implementation of digital picture frame functionality is to set up
Internet clock 82 to present a timed sequence of digital images onLCD 132 whenInternet clock 82 is not being used for presentation ofother content 10. In one embodiment, theInternet clock 82 may be set up to present digital images automatically. In an alternative embodiment, theInternet clock 82 may be set up to present digital images under direct control of the user. - In one embodiment, the user could attach a digital image to one of the softkey buttons located on
Internet clock 82. A separate GUI, thedigital image editor 96 would be accessed via the left-mouse-click onInternet clock 82 clientdevice control bar 26 located onconsole 16. Launching this editor is similar to launching audiodevice content editor 24, described previously.FIG. 18 shows an example ofdigital image editor 96. There is a frame into which the user can drag-and-drop image files, or the user can navigate to image files via a conventional dialog box, and add these image files to the frame. The frame would then show a small image of the actual file. The user can drag-and-drop these images to reorder them. - Alternatively, dedicated digital picture frame can be used to display digital images. Referring again to
FIG. 18 ,digital image editor 96 is a GUI that is used to create a digital image playlist for such a device.Digital image editor 96 is launched by left-clicking on the “digital image player” clientdevice control bar 26 onconsole 16. - In one embodiment, the system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices 78 shown in
FIG. 1 may also be used to access, store, and serve digital video, such as movies, television (hereafter TV 162) shows, and other video content. Users may make selections usingonline Internet 8 services accessed on a web site as per the systems disclosed herein. Digital video files, such as DVD movies that are encoded using the MPEG-2 format, are then downloaded and stored on user'sPC 34,storage gateway 38, or storage gateway peripheral 134. - In one embodiment the storage gateway system is a set-top cable box that includes a hard disk drive. The digital video files are then streamed to a client device 78 that is a
TV 162, or any other client device 78 that can decode and present digital video. For example, aPDA 164 such as an iPaq, manufactured by Compaq Computer Corporation of Houston, Tex., with awireless LAN 70 capability and the ability to decode MPEG-2 video is a viable terminal client device 78. The advantage of this system, as opposed to streaming digital video directly from a cable headend or DSL ISP is that it provides for more efficient use of network bandwidth. Digital video files are very large, potentially several giga-bytes (billions of bytes). The downloading of these large files can be spread out over a longer period of time than would be required if the digital video files are streamed and viewed in real-time. The digital video files can always be downloading during periods of inactivity on wide areabroadband communications connection 14. Additionally, the download data-rates can be controlled from the head-end based on the time of day. For example,core module 42 includes a data-rate control function described in this disclosure. The allowable data-rate can be reduced for peak times of wide area network usage, and can be increased during off-peak times. - The system for delivering video to a
TV 162, including the provision for second screen interactive services with awebpad 92, will now be described in detail. Referring now toFIG. 27 , the system includes abroadband gateway 94 connected to aPC 34 with a wirelessLAN access point 54, aTV 162 connected to a wireless LAN-to-NTSC (National Television Standards Committee)converter 158, and a hand-held portable computing device such as awebpad 92. Awebpad 92 is defined as aPDA 164 or other tablet-based portable computing device that includes awireless LAN communication 70 capability. Both theTV 162 in combination with the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 andwebpad 92 with a wireless LAN capability constitute client devices 78 that may be connected to the system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices 78 as shown inFIG. 1 . The fundamental operation of the system involves both synchronized and un-synchronizedwireless data communication 70 between thePC 34,webpad 92 and wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158/TV 162 combination. - The
webpad 92 that is included in this system is similar tomany PDAs 164 that are currently available except thatWebpad 92 includes an integralwireless LAN transceiver 58 integrated circuit andantenna 112, as well as an IR transceiver subsystem 146.FIG. 29 shows that webpad also includes anLCD 400, anattachable stylus 404 for using the stylus-based interface,control buttons 408, and anIR transceiver 412. TheLCD 400 includes an integral backlight so that the display may be read in low light. Contained inside the housing is a printed circuit board that functionally connects the electronic components, including the microprocessor and memory chips that constitute the functional data-manipulating aspect of the device. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 29 , theantenna 112 is located internal to thewebpad 92, mounted to the printed circuit board. - Wireless capability can be added to existing
PDAs 164 such as the iPaq. For example, a Compact Flash HomeRF wireless transceiver card, as well as the required software drivers, are available for theiPaq PDA 164.FIG. 30 shows an alternative embodiment of thewebpad 92 aspect of the invention where aPDA 164 is adapted for wireless communication using a wirelessLAN adapter module 166 that mechanically and electrically connects to thePDA 164. SeeFIG. 31 . The wirelessLAN adapter module 166 connects electrically via the docking connector on thePDA 164. WirelessLAN adapter module 166 includes a printed circuit board that functionally connects the microprocessor, DRAM and flash memory, awireless LAN transceiver 58, antenna, batteries, power conversion sub-system, and UART, as well as an IR transceiver subsystem. In this embodiment, the antenna is located internal to the wirelessLAN adapter module 166, mounted to the printed circuit board. The wirelessLAN adapter module 166 also includes an audio DAC and anaudio output jack 416 that is used to play back audio content sent from thePC 34, such as an MP3 file, through earphones that connect to the wirelessLAN adapter module 166. WirelessLAN adapter module 166 establishes a communication link with thePDA 164 using a serial PPP connection, and also establishes a TCP/IP wirelessLAN communication link 70 with the LAN. Firmware operates these connections and enables the wirelessLAN adapter module 166 to transfer data between thePDA 164 and the LAN. - The
PC 34 in combination with thecable modem 94 functions as a gateway storage system by acquiring, storing, distributing, and managing the content that will ultimately be sent to and displayed on theTV 162. ThePC 34 gains access to digital content in many ways. In one embodiment, the user may insert a Digital Video Disk (DVD) into a DVD drive integral to thePC 34. ThePC 34 is also connected to theInternet 8 and thus has access to a large amount of digital content on theInternet 8 such as MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 files, Flash animations, and the like. TV network stations may provide access to their programming through releases on theInternet 8. Although, here thePC 34 is connected to theInternet 8 through a DOCSIS cable modem, any type ofbroadband connection 14 will provide the same results. - A Local Area Network (LAN) is established by connecting the
PC 34 to a wirelessLAN access point 54 that is functionally connected to thePC 34 via aUSB 62 connection. LANs and wireless LANs and their functionality have been described in detail in previous embodiments. - The
TV 162 is functionally connected to the storage gateway system via a wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158.FIG. 28 shows a block diagram of one embodiment of hardware components in the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158.FIG. 31 shows an exploded view of the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158. Referring now toFIG. 31 , the there is atop housing 528 andbottom housing 524. There is also a printedcircuit board 508 that contains the electronic components, including the microprocessor, memory chips, and wireless LAN transceiver,IR transceiver 560, audio DAC, and a video DAC, that constitute the functional data-manipulating aspect of the device. In one embodiment, the antenna is located internal to the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158, integral to the printedcircuit board 508 as is shown inFIG. 31 . In another embodiment, an external antenna that is re-positionable, may be used. Anoptional display 556 may be included. - The software stored and executed in the wireless LAN-to-
NTSC converter 158 includes a real-time operating system (RTOS), audio and video (MPEG-2) CODECs, TCP/IP network communication stack, awireless LAN transceiver 58 driver, and command processing firmware for handling messages sent between the various components of the system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices 78. The wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 receives IP-based packetized data send out by the storage gateway system and converts it into a format that is able to be displayed on theTV 162. Specifically, it converts compressed digital video information into the NTSC standard. The NTSC standard defines the television video format used for broadcasts in the United States of America and is currently set at 525 lines of resolution per second and combines blue, red, and green signals with an FM frequency for audio. Through the use of the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158, theTV 162 can display content that is initially stored on thePC 34. - In one embodiment, conversion of
digital PC 34 data to common formats such as NTSC, or S-video for input into video playback and recording devices is the function provided by standalone DVD players. Additionally,many PCs 34 include combination CD-ROM/DVD drives and in combination with a video card, provide the capability to present the DVD output on aTV 162. A wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 is an application of this technology. Referring toFIG. 35 , the data, in NTSC form, is then sent to theTV 162 input through aNTSC cable 520. Power to theTV 162 may be supplied via a switchedAC line 536 from the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 so that the system has the capability of turning theTV 162 on and off. There is software control of the switchedAC line 536 to theTV 162. - There are three different methods for control of the system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity of digital video by the end user. In one embodiment, the user may manipulate the system with software by using interfaces at the
PC 34 directly. In an alternative embodiment, tthe user may operate a LAN TVremote control 170 that communicates via IR with the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158. In another alternative embodiment, the user may control the system via awebpad 92. - In one embodiment, where the
PC 34 is used as the control site for the system, aTV 162 content and control editor GUI is provided as a component of the GUI module aspect of thesystem control application 18. The TV content and control editor is launched using thesystem console 16, which includes an icon for the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158/TV 162 combination when it is present on the LAN. TheTV 162 content and control editor is similar to the audio device controller, providing on-screen conventional controls to the end user, such as play, pause, stop, fast-forward, fast-backward, chapter skip ahead, chapter skip backward, and main menu. -
FIG. 32 shows where the LAN TVremote control 170 is used to control the system. LAN TVremote control 170 is designed to operate with the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158. LAN TVremote control 170 includes an IR transceiver subsystem. The controls included on the LAN TVremote control 170 are the conventional controls used for controlling DVD or video playback including play, pause, stop, fast-forward, fast-backward, chapter skip ahead, chapter skip backward, and main menu. General navigation controls are also included for interacting with other type of content. A tag button is also included on the LAN TVremote control 170. The LAN TVremote control 170 could also be designed with an integral display for displaying content that is related and synchronized with content on theTV 162 that is received by conventional broadcast or through the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158. - In one embodiment, where the
webpad 92 is the input device, thewebpad 92 interacts with the system via the wirelessLAN communication link 70 wireless LAN. Thus, thewebpad 92 functions as a node on the wireless LAN. By using software on thewebpad 92, in conjunction with thesystem control application 18 on thePC 34 as well as access to theInternet 8, the user is able to select the content that is to be transmitted to theTV 162. Furthermore, the user can interact with the content on theTV 162 by operating thewebpad 92. For example, a user who is watching a website can manipulate the website by utilizing thewebpad 92 to perform various functions such as scrolling, inputting text, or pushing buttons. An additional function on thewebpad 92 would be the ability to tag chosen content so that thesystem control application 18 in conjunction with tag storage and processing server will aggregate a record of that content on atag aggregation webpage 56 for subsequent viewing by the end user. The tagging function is provided as a softwareGUI tag button 420 on thewebpad 92. The tag button functionality could also be mapped to an existingcontrol button 408 on thewebpad 92. The tagging process is described in detail in a previous embodiment. - In another embodiment, the
webpad 92 is also used to control aspects of theTV 162 directly using existing onboard IR capabilities. Webpads 92 andPDAs 164 may include IR transceivers. Sincemost TVs 162 are designed to communicate with IR remote-controls, thewebpad 92 can use its IR transceiver to communicate directly with the TV's 162 IR receiver in order to control aspects of theTV 162 such as channel selection or volume control. The specific IR configurations forindividual TV 162 brands can be downloaded from theInternet 8 by thesystem control application 18 and sent to thewebpad 92. Thus, in effect, thewebpad 92 can be used to replace the TV remote-control. The IR functions of thewebpad 92 can further be controlled and programmed using the wirelessLAN communication link 70 that exists between the webpad 92 and thePC 34 so that thePC 34 can effectively control theTV 162 through the IR transmissions from thewebpad 92. - The components described above form an integrated system that allows the user to gain access to digital video and audio content through the use of the system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices. By using the
PC 34 as a caching server for theTV 162, the user has greater control over the content that is played on theTV 162. Content can be chosen, accessed and stored from multiple reservoirs on theInternet 8 and can be played by the users. Furthermore, through the use of awebpad 92, the user can conveniently control the content that is sent to theTV 162, as well as interact with the material displayed on theTV 162. - The following description is an example of how the
PC 34 toTV 162 system can be used. ThePC 34 downloads a digital movie news program through theInternet 8 during the night. ThePC 34 stores the program until, at some time during the morning, the user requests to view the program by utilizing thewebpad 92. ThePC 34 then sends the content to theTV 162 where it is played. - In an alternate embodiment, the user requests to view a web page by entering a URL address into the
webpad 92. ThePC 34 sends the contents of the page to theTV 162 where it is displayed. The user uses thewebpad 92 to continue to manipulate page content and browse theInternet 8 in real time. - Another use for this system is to provide content on the
webpad 92 that is related or complementary to that which is playing on theTV 162. The content playing on theTV 162 is referred to as primary content and the content that is related or complementary to the primary content is referred to as ancillary content. - Regardless of whether the primary content playing on the
TV 162 is obtained through the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 or via other conventional inputs to the TV, such as a terrestrial antenna or a cable TV converter, a digital record of the currently playing content is available to and stored by, thesystem control application 18. In the case where content is either stored locally at thePC 34 or whether it is streaming directly through the storage gateway system, the content and timing of delivery are being controlled by thesystem control application 18. Therefore, the digital information such as content title and embedded meta-data are available. - In the case where the
webpad 92 is used as a remote control, the status of the user's system is known. For example, if the user is watching a terrestrial broadcast or a conventional cable TV broadcast, and uses thewebpad 92 as a remote control to control the system, the control parameters such as broadcast or cable channel are transmitted by thewebpad 92 to thesystem control application 18. The user has also established an account with an associatedInternet 8 server that is for example running the content link database server 130. In this case, the user's geographic location is known. With this information, the currently playing content on a given terrestrial broadcast or cable TV channel can be determined by the system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices. - With the ability to determine the currently playing content on the
TV 162, a wide variety of ancillary content types and services are possible. In one embodiment, ancillary content is pushed into and displayed on thewebpad 92 in real-time. For example, if the primary content playing on theTV 162 is an advertisement for a automobile, the ancillary content that is automatically loaded into and displayed on thewebpad 92 is a website for that particular automobile. Or for example if the currently playing primary content on theTV 162 is a popular TV show, ancillary content that is information pertaining to one of the actors is automatically loaded into and displayed by thewebpad 92. - The
system control application 18 receives the information regarding the state of the system, sends this information to the content link database server 130, and ancillary content is sent back to thesystem control application 18 which routes the ancillary content to thewebpad 92. In the case of where the user is viewing a conventional terrestrial broadcast, an additional function that is required by content link database server 130 is to identify the primary content based on matching the time and date of the viewing action with a lookup table of content that is being broadcast at the at time and date in the user's geographic location. Terrestrial broadcast information is made publicly available by broadcasters, for example through publications such as TV Guide. -
FIG. 33 shows an embodiment of the invention used to perform the functions of an alarm clock, or for otherwise automatically triggering the operation of the system, that uses aTV 162 as the audio and video output device. - The system includes an alarm clock
remote control 174 shown inFIG. 35 . The purpose of alarm clockremote control 174 is to provide an alarm clock-like user interface to the system, that can be placed on a nightstand or otherwise operate in an ergonomically similar location as a conventional alarm clock. For example, the alarm clockremote control 174 may be located on a nightstand while the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 andTV 162 are located across the room. - Referring now to
FIG. 36 , the alarm clockremote control 174 includes atop housing 600 andbottom housing 604. There is anoptional LCD 616 that contains an integral backlight so that the display may be read in low light. Thedisplay 616 is used to show such information as the time, system settings, system status, and content titles. The plastic housing contains a printedcircuit board 620,microprocessor 624,memory chips 628,IR transceiver 640 and other electronic components that constitute the functional data-manipulating aspect of the device. - The alarm clock
remote control 174 includes a set ofinterface control buttons 612 used to perform such functions as inputting a wake up time, tagging specific content that is presented on theTV 162, or turning theTV 162 off for a specific time interval (snooze button 632). In one embodiment, user interaction inputs into the alarm clockremote control 174 are transmitted to the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158, where they are processed and acted upon. For example, when the system is activated and content is streaming from the storage gateway system to theTV 162 and the user activates thesnooze button 632 on the alarm clockremote control 174, a message is sent to the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158, via theIR transceiver 640 sub-system, that thesnooze button 632 has been activated. The wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 in turn sends a message to the storage gateway system to halt the stream, via the wirelessLAN communication link 70. In another embodiment the connection between the alarm clockremote control 174 and the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 uses a 900 Mhz RF transmission system. - In an alternative embodiment the alarm clock
remote control 174 includes a wireless LAN transceiver connection to the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter, in place of or in addition to the IR transceiver. Here, the alarm clockremote control 174 is a node on the LAN and sends messages to the other devices such as thesystem control application 18, wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158, and thewebpad 92.FIG. 34 shows a schematic of the system wherewebpad 92 is also a client device 78 on the system and may be used for programming and control purposes. - A system for programming content for the present embodiment is provided. The wireless LAN-to-
NTSC converter 158/TV 162 combination appears as an icon on theconsole 16 on thePC 34. The Internetclock content editor 40 for the present embodiment can be launched from thisconsole 16 icon and used to set up content for transmission to the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 andTV 162, as described above. AnInternet clock controller 88 and Internetclock content editor 40 also exists for thewebpad 92 that can be used to set up services for the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158/TV 162 sub-system. For example, the user inputs a wake-up time into the interface at thePC 34,webpad 92, or alarm clockremote control 174. - Each of the
PC 34,webpad 92, and alarm clockremote control 174 include a communication link to thesystem control application 18, therefore the wake-up time input is saved in the systemcontrol application database 96. The wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 is used to switch on theTV 162 at the specified time, for example, in order to wake up a person sleeping in the room. A switchedAC power line 536 in the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 may be used to control the on/off function of theTV 162. Alternatively, theTV 162 can be left continuously powered on and receive a blank screen signal from the wireless LAN-to-NTSC converter 158 when the system in inactive, such as overnight. -
FIG. 37 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention where the player device is a stereo system rather than a TV. In this embodiment, the audio playback device is similar to the one described in previous embodiments. In one embodiment, a stereo system is used to perform the functions of an alarm clock, or can be automatically triggered for other purposes. An audio playback device is connected to an existing stereo system as described in a previous embodiment. The audio playback device may include a software controlled switched AC power supply, so that the stereo system can be turned off and powered on when its use is required. The audio playback device is used to switch on the stereo at a specific time pre-determined by the user and the stereo can be used to play pre-selected audio content. - In an alternative embodiment, the PDA can be used to communicate with the system through an IR communication link only. In this scenario, the PDA would not have a wireless transceiver but would communicate with the system via an IR communication link to the HRF-to-NTSC converter or HRF-to Stereo signal converter. In this embodiment the converter includes an IR transceiver and the necessary circuitry for receiving and interpreting IR data transmissions.
- Similarly, an embodiment of the alarm clock control module includes an IR communication link to the HRF-to-NTSC converter or HRF-to-Stereo signal converter, rather than an HRF communication link.
- The system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices 78 has several permutations that have not yet been explicitly mentioned. For example, some, but not including all, permutations that are implied are the following: the system can be wholly controlled through the
PC 34 and can be used without the use of thewebpad 92; the system can include numerous player client devices 78 on the LAN such asseveral TVs 162 and, orseveral stereos 114 and, or several alarm clockremote controls 174. -
FIG. 38 shows a system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for client devices 78 where the storage gateway system is a digital cable set-top box 154 with ahard disk drive 30. In this embodiment, oneTV 162 is connected directly to the set-top box 154 via the conventional NTSC output.Subsequent TVs 162 as well aswebpads 92 and other devices may be connected via wireless or wired LAN communications links 70. Thesystem control application 18 runs on the set-top box 154 and operates with theTV 162 that is directly connected as a client device 78 so that user interactions on any of the user interactions devices mentioned above are processed accordingly. For example, the second-screeninteractive TV 162 service that is described above functions on the system shown inFIG. 38 . - In one embodiment, the system for providing content and other information services to client devices can be implemented with just a
PC 34.System control application 18 resides onhard disk drive 30 onPC 34 and provides all of the functions and features including those provided bycore module 42 andGUI module 46. Systemcontrol application database 96 also resides onPC 34, as well as all cachedcontent 10. In this embodiment,LAN 70 is established by the use of a HomeRF wirelessLAN access point 54. The wirelessLAN access point 54 is a self-contained device that communicates withPC 34 via the USB port. WirelessLAN access point 54 includes an RF network interface transceiver, and a microprocessor and firmware for managing the transfer of data betweenhost PC 34, and an antenna. There is also an antenna integrated into a plastic housing. WirelessLAN access point 54 gets its power from the USB connection. In one embodiment, the wirelessLAN access point 54 could also be incorporated into an internal add-on bus card, such as a card that would attach to the PCI bus. Such peripheral bus cards are well known in the field of PC design. In the case of a bus card, there would be an external antenna. - The automated services function of
core module 42, wherebycontent 10 is automatically accessed, downloaded and cached onPC 34, and wherebycontent 10 is automatically streamed to client devices 78, is facilitated ifPC 34 is always on, or ifPC 34 can be automatically turned on (booted).PC 34 includes a Basic Input Output System (hereafter BIOS) for controlling the basic functions of the system. The BIOS may also be used to automate the booting ofPC 34. In the implementation wherebyPC 34 boots automatically,system control application 18 includes software that can modify the BIOS software ofPC 34 so that automatic pre-scheduled activation ofPC 34 is enabled. Subsequent control ofPC 34 to connect to theInternet 8 and perform operations, is also provided by the scheduling function incore module 42. - The BIOS consists of a set of instructions and data that the microprocessor uses as part of its initial sequence of operation. These instructions are stored in a BIOS flash memory chip, which is a non-volatile type of memory chip, so that the instructions and data are retained when power to the computer is turned off. BIOS software and design, as well as reprogrammable flash memory technology, is well known in the PC industry and will not be described in detail here. The date and time that the computer uses for various purposes is a function that is controlled by the BIOS chip and interface. Typically, a PC motherboard includes a timer and date function that is backed up by a battery on the motherboard. The purpose of this system is so that when the computer is turned on, the operating system has access to accurate time and date information. Since the time and date (timer) function is always operating on a computer motherboard, and this system is connected to the BIOS, most BIOS systems include an automated wakeup function. This is a function that operates internal to the BIOS chip and can be activated or de-activated. If the automatic wake-up function is turned on and a specific time and date is entered and stored in the BIOS memory, a software function operating in the BIOS continually compares the current date and time with a designated wake-up time and function that is stored in memory. When the two times and dates match, a power-on command is given and
PC 34 power-up sequence begins. The BIOS modification software automatically modifies the BIOS from the OS level, so that the user doesn't have to access the BIOS during the early phase ofPC 34 boot. - Another function that is performed by the BIOS modification software is to modify the internal settings of
PC 34 that control the power saving modes and control parameters which include parameters such as when the PC display is turned off, and when drives are spun down whilePC 34 is operating. The BIOS modification software allows for the “always-on” operation ofPC 34. In this case, the PC can be put into a low-power mode with monitor off and with the drive not spinning. Control of various power saving modes is also provided for users at the operating system level. The Advanced Configuration and Power Interface is a set of functions that provide control ofPC 34 power usage, allowing the computer to be put into various suspend states, as well as spinning down drives and other functions. Power control functions incore module 42 modify ACPI settings, providing for quiet, low power operation ofPC 34. -
PC 34 exists in the user's home, or other location where there is a desire for the ability to play Internet content ordata 10, including multimedia content, on one or more standalone devices apart fromPC 34. There is a setup activity for the system, requiring several one-time actions by the user. Then there is an actual use scenario. Referring now toFIG. 5 , first, the setup activity will be described. -
PC 34 is booted (started up) and a connection toInternet 8 is made. This is achieved by using the dial-up networking function that is standard on any machine with the Windows operating system. This connection could also be an always-on DSL, ISDN, or cable modem connection. Once a connection is made toInternet 8, browser software is started and the user would navigate to a specific information appliance setup website associated with the system and the devices. This website would have a particular URL that would be supplied in the instruction materials that come with wirelessLAN access point 54 or client device 78. Using the browser, or other interface to the website server, the user would navigate to a setup page at the website that asks for a serial number of client device 78 that the user is planning to use. The user would then connect the USB cable on wirelessLAN access point 54 to the USB port onPC 34. The user would then enter this serial number, which is included in the documentation that is included with the end-user device. The online application has a database of these serial numbers that are associated with each individual manufactured client device 78 (including both wirelessLAN access point 54 and client device 78) that are distributed into the market. Once a match is made between the serial number that the user entered at the website, and a serial number that is included in the online database, an online application automatically begins downloading and installingsystem control application 18 to user'sPC 34. This software is installed on user'sPC 34 and provides the following functions. - A scheduling function determines when
PC 34 automatically connects to the Internet. IfPC 34 is running in a power saving mode, such as with the display turned off and with the drives not spinning, the scheduling function will initially act to take thePC 34 out of power saving mode, and then to automatically connect to the Internet using the Dialup Action. Many users will already havePC 34 set up to dial up to an Internet service provider (ISP). In this case, the dialup networking function that already exists will be used. If the user does not have this installed onPC 34, an application is included that will install the correct dialup information, so that a connection is made to the correct ISP and server. - At 12 am,
PC 34 automatically boots and dials up the ISP. AnInternet 8 connection is established.PC 34 automatically connects to the web server associated with client device 78. Here the user's account is referenced as well as the identifying serial number of user's client device 78. A volume ofcontent 10 that the user specified to be automatically delivered toInternet clock 82 is downloaded to user'sPC 34, where it is stored on thePC 34hard disk drive 30. After the content has completely downloaded,PC 34 terminates the connection to the ISP, and shuts down. This occurs at 1:30 am. At thispoint PC 34 may also be kept on, as selected by the user during the configuration of the system. - At 5:30 am, the PC again automatically boots. The wireless communication system establishes a connection to
Internet clock 82. At 6:00 am, the specified wake up time of the user,PC 34 initiates the transfer of content toInternet clock 82. This content is presented to the user as sound and images, waking up the user. - In an alternative embodiment there is a website that is accessed for the purpose of downloading and setting up the
system control application 18 onPC 34, and for controlling the content that is sent to client devices 78, and for controlling the features of client devices 78. This website is accessible from any computer that is connected to theInternet 8 and includes a browser. The website also contains a database for storing the content preferences of the user or owner of client devices 78. These content preferences include pointers to the locations of the content entities, such as audio files, video files, or text files, onInternet 8 that the user had specified to be played on client device 78. The website could also include a server-based version ofsystem control application 18 that would retrieve and store content and data according to user preferences on the web. -
FIG. 39 shows a web-page that is used to choose a particular device that is to be controlled or set-up. The web-page inFIG. 39 is equivalent in function to console 16.FIG. 40 shows a web-page that is displayed when the “iclock” icon onFIG. 39 is selected.FIG. 41 is a calendar-based GUI application that is a java applet and is launched when the “first time” button is selected on the web-page onFIG. 42 .FIG. 42 shows the result of content selections made based on the content menu. - In one embodiment, client device 78 is a portable computing device referred to as a
webpad 92, able to be carried around the house or within range ofLAN 70.Webpad 92 includes a set of rechargeable batteries and a battery recharging system. There is also a dock into which thewebpad 92 is placed during times when it is not used. When it is docked, there are electrical contacts in the dock that make contact with the electrical contacts onwebpad 92 and the batteries are recharged.Webpad 92 also has stored in its non-volatile memory an identifying serial number, which is used to identifywebpad 92 on the wireless network, and is also used to coordinate the content that is specified by the user to be sent to and cached at thelocal PC 34, and ultimately sent wirelessly towebpad 92. For example, users can access cached content onPC 34 orstorage gateway 38 such as digital, searchable Yellow Pages or White Pages, and other reference databases. Additionally, webpad 92 can access theInternet 8 viaPC 34 orstorage gateway 38, utilizingPC 34 orstorage gateway 38 as a router. - Furthermore, webpad 92 can be used to control other client devices 78. For example, a
webpad 92 version of audio device content editor and audio device controller GUI allow the user to access playlists and tracks, and controlaudio playback device 86 in real time while away fromPC 34.XML messages 74 are sent fromwebpad 92 toPC 34 orstorage gateway 38, processed bycore module 42, and appropriate XML messages are sent toaudio playback device 86. An embodiment of the audio device content editor and audio device controller that is implemented as a web-page and runs in a browser, using HTTP and HTML, can be used to operate the audio playback device on the PDA. Browsers are available for PDAs. -
LAN 70 could be implemented with a number of different of wireless systems such as 802.11b, 802.11a, or Bluetooth™. The wireless communication system could be a 900 Mhz system used on many cordless phones. The system could be implemented with a phone line network system where the house wiring is used as the network physical layer for communication betweenPC 34 and client devices 78. The system could be implemented using an AC power line networking technology that uses the AC wiring in the home as the network physical layer. It should be noted also, that the system will work with any type of connection to the internet, including other broadband technologies such as DSL or fixed wireless, or a dialup modem connection. - A phone that includes a microprocessor, memory, and network interface is also a client device. The
content 10 that would be transferred to it would be the digital address books, such as those that are a part of PDA databases and desktop organizer software. The phone numbers from these personal information managers, and other relevant phone numbers could be downloaded from the web and cached at the PC, and subsequently transferred to the phone database, so that dialing can be made much easier. - A system and a method for providing content, management and interactivity for client devices have been described. Although the present invention is described herein with reference to specific embodiments, many modifications and variations therein will readily occur to those with ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, all such variations and modifications are included within the intended scope of the present invention as defined by the following claims.
Claims (26)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/368,871 US20060149813A1 (en) | 1999-03-04 | 2006-03-06 | System and method for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices |
Applications Claiming Priority (8)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12272799P | 1999-03-04 | 1999-03-04 | |
US51900700A | 2000-03-03 | 2000-03-03 | |
US19963800P | 2000-04-25 | 2000-04-25 | |
US22387200P | 2000-08-08 | 2000-08-08 | |
US26843401P | 2001-02-12 | 2001-02-12 | |
US09/841,268 US20020013852A1 (en) | 2000-03-03 | 2001-04-24 | System for providing content, management, and interactivity for thin client devices |
US09/924,646 US7130616B2 (en) | 2000-04-25 | 2001-08-07 | System and method for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices |
US11/368,871 US20060149813A1 (en) | 1999-03-04 | 2006-03-06 | System and method for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/924,646 Division US7130616B2 (en) | 1999-03-04 | 2001-08-07 | System and method for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20060149813A1 true US20060149813A1 (en) | 2006-07-06 |
Family
ID=27499345
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/924,646 Expired - Lifetime US7130616B2 (en) | 1999-03-04 | 2001-08-07 | System and method for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices |
US11/368,871 Abandoned US20060149813A1 (en) | 1999-03-04 | 2006-03-06 | System and method for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/924,646 Expired - Lifetime US7130616B2 (en) | 1999-03-04 | 2001-08-07 | System and method for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US7130616B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1310073B1 (en) |
KR (1) | KR20030040388A (en) |
AT (1) | ATE347771T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2001281204A1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE60125044T2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2002013487A2 (en) |
Cited By (75)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20030093531A1 (en) * | 2001-11-10 | 2003-05-15 | Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha | Document service appliance |
US20030204585A1 (en) * | 2002-04-25 | 2003-10-30 | Yahoo! Inc. | Method for the real-time distribution of streaming data on a network |
US20050039133A1 (en) * | 2003-08-11 | 2005-02-17 | Trevor Wells | Controlling a presentation of digital content |
US20050149969A1 (en) * | 2004-01-06 | 2005-07-07 | Vishnu Kumar | TV graphical menu interface that provides browseable listing of connected removable media content |
US20060112189A1 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2006-05-25 | Michael Demuth | Method for tracking transport requests and computer system with trackable transport requests |
US20060117311A1 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2006-06-01 | Michael Demuth | Method for effecting software maintenance in a software system landscape and computer system |
US20060123392A1 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2006-06-08 | Michael Demuth | Method for generating a transport track through a software system landscape and computer system with a software system landscape and a transport track |
US20060136648A1 (en) * | 2002-07-18 | 2006-06-22 | Thomas Gros | Bus station with integrated bus monitor function |
US20060155832A1 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2006-07-13 | Michael Demuth | Method for setting change options of software systems of a software system landscape and computer system with software systems having change options |
US20060203812A1 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2006-09-14 | Michael Demuth | Method for effecting changes in a software system landscape and computer system |
US20070189246A1 (en) * | 2006-02-13 | 2007-08-16 | Lajos Molnar | Buffering multimedia mobile devices and methods to operate the same |
US20080077886A1 (en) * | 2006-09-21 | 2008-03-27 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Selective detailed display of devices in a network |
US20080104521A1 (en) * | 2006-10-30 | 2008-05-01 | Yahoo! Inc. | Methods and systems for providing a customizable guide for navigating a corpus of content |
US20080147735A1 (en) * | 2006-12-18 | 2008-06-19 | Microsoft Corporation | Media content catalogs |
US20080162570A1 (en) * | 2006-10-24 | 2008-07-03 | Kindig Bradley D | Methods and systems for personalized rendering of digital media content |
US20080215170A1 (en) * | 2006-10-24 | 2008-09-04 | Celite Milbrandt | Method and apparatus for interactive distribution of digital content |
US7426593B2 (en) * | 2005-02-24 | 2008-09-16 | Sony Corporation | Information processing system, reproducing terminal device and reproducing method, information processing device and method, and program for synchronous display of content |
US20080263098A1 (en) * | 2007-03-14 | 2008-10-23 | Slacker, Inc. | Systems and Methods for Portable Personalized Radio |
US20080317475A1 (en) * | 2007-05-24 | 2008-12-25 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Led light interior room and building communication system |
US20090049092A1 (en) * | 2007-08-16 | 2009-02-19 | Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. | Content ancillary to sensory work playback |
US7512906B1 (en) * | 2002-06-04 | 2009-03-31 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | System and methodology providing adaptive interface in an industrial controller environment |
US20090113470A1 (en) * | 2007-10-30 | 2009-04-30 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Content management method, and broadcast receiving apparatus and video apparatus using the same |
WO2010037022A1 (en) * | 2008-09-26 | 2010-04-01 | Fuhu, Inc. | Hypervisor and webtop in a set top box environment |
US20100106852A1 (en) * | 2007-10-24 | 2010-04-29 | Kindig Bradley D | Systems and methods for providing user personalized media content on a portable device |
US7711838B1 (en) * | 1999-11-10 | 2010-05-04 | Yahoo! Inc. | Internet radio and broadcast method |
US20100115429A1 (en) * | 2007-01-05 | 2010-05-06 | Ants Inc. | System for selecting and playing a user-specified content within a window of a web browser and programs therefor |
US20100121891A1 (en) * | 2008-11-11 | 2010-05-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and system for using play lists for multimedia content |
US20100241733A1 (en) * | 2006-06-22 | 2010-09-23 | Ga Jeong Shin | Contents transmitting ip adaptor transmitting contents to portable device and Contents transmitting method using the ip adaptor |
US7877730B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2011-01-25 | Sap Ag | Method for effecting a preliminary software service in a productive system of a software system landscape and computer system |
US20110047617A1 (en) * | 2005-11-10 | 2011-02-24 | Microsoft Corporation | Protecting against network resources associated with undesirable activities |
US20110069844A1 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2011-03-24 | Krampf Steven S | Entertainment system with bandless content selection |
US7926056B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2011-04-12 | Sap Ag | Method for effecting a software service in a system of a software system landscape and computer system |
US20110167130A1 (en) * | 2010-01-06 | 2011-07-07 | Wakeupcall.Tv, Llc | Informational Video Delivery Software And Associated Methods |
US7987492B2 (en) | 2000-03-09 | 2011-07-26 | Gad Liwerant | Sharing a streaming video |
US8090309B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2012-01-03 | Chestnut Hill Sound, Inc. | Entertainment system with unified content selection |
US20120117587A1 (en) * | 2010-11-10 | 2012-05-10 | Sony Network Entertainment International Llc | Second display support of character set unsupported on playback device |
US8188878B2 (en) | 2000-11-15 | 2012-05-29 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light communication system |
WO2012129633A2 (en) * | 2011-03-31 | 2012-10-04 | Omnego Inc. | System and method for acquiring electronic data records |
US8543505B2 (en) | 2011-01-14 | 2013-09-24 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Method of providing lumens and tracking of lumen consumption |
US20140095657A1 (en) * | 2012-10-02 | 2014-04-03 | Daniel Perrine McLane | Interactive Event Cast to Multiple Mobile Devices |
US8745683B1 (en) | 2011-01-03 | 2014-06-03 | Intellectual Ventures Fund 79 Llc | Methods, devices, and mediums associated with supplementary audio information |
US8890773B1 (en) | 2009-04-01 | 2014-11-18 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Visible light transceiver glasses |
US20140344640A1 (en) * | 2012-10-02 | 2014-11-20 | Chirp Inc. | Interactive Event Cast to Multiple Mobile Devices |
US20140379776A1 (en) * | 2010-08-04 | 2014-12-25 | Keertikiran Gokul | System, method and apparatus for enabling access to applications and interactive services |
US8935300B1 (en) * | 2011-01-03 | 2015-01-13 | Intellectual Ventures Fund 79 Llc | Methods, devices, and mediums associated with content-searchable media |
US9100124B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2015-08-04 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED Light Fixture |
US9258864B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2016-02-09 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light control and management system |
US9265112B2 (en) | 2013-03-13 | 2016-02-16 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light control and management system |
US9294198B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2016-03-22 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Pulsed light communication key |
US9414458B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2016-08-09 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light control assembly and system |
US9413852B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2016-08-09 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Time-stamping of industrial cloud data for synchronization |
US9438648B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2016-09-06 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Industrial data analytics in a cloud platform |
US9455783B2 (en) | 2013-05-06 | 2016-09-27 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Network security and variable pulse wave form with continuous communication |
US9477936B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2016-10-25 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Cloud-based operator interface for industrial automation |
US20160335258A1 (en) | 2006-10-24 | 2016-11-17 | Slacker, Inc. | Methods and systems for personalized rendering of digital media content |
US9547650B2 (en) | 2000-01-24 | 2017-01-17 | George Aposporos | System for sharing and rating streaming media playlists |
US9703902B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2017-07-11 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data for industrial simulation |
US9709978B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2017-07-18 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data for virtualization of an industrial automation environment with information overlays |
US9786197B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2017-10-10 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data to facilitate enhancing performance in connection with an industrial automation system |
US9989958B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2018-06-05 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data for virtualization of an industrial automation environment |
US10026049B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2018-07-17 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Risk assessment for industrial systems using big data |
US10191911B2 (en) * | 2017-05-27 | 2019-01-29 | Plesk International Gmbh | Permanent website hosting on mobile devices |
US10225584B2 (en) | 1999-08-03 | 2019-03-05 | Videoshare Llc | Systems and methods for sharing video with advertisements over a network |
US10275463B2 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2019-04-30 | Slacker, Inc. | System and method for scoring and ranking digital content based on activity of network users |
US10313754B2 (en) | 2007-03-08 | 2019-06-04 | Slacker, Inc | System and method for personalizing playback content through interaction with a playback device |
US10448472B2 (en) | 2015-08-11 | 2019-10-15 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Function disabler device and system |
US10460085B2 (en) | 2008-03-13 | 2019-10-29 | Mattel, Inc. | Tablet computer |
US10496061B2 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2019-12-03 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Modeling of an industrial automation environment in the cloud |
US11042131B2 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2021-06-22 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Backup of an industrial automation plant in the cloud |
US11126397B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2021-09-21 | Chestnut Hill Sound, Inc. | Music audio control and distribution system in a location |
US11243505B2 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2022-02-08 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Cloud-based analytics for industrial automation |
US11265082B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2022-03-01 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light control assembly and system |
US11513477B2 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2022-11-29 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Cloud-based industrial controller |
US11729457B2 (en) * | 2012-03-19 | 2023-08-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Context-based user music menu systems and methods |
US11783345B2 (en) | 2014-01-15 | 2023-10-10 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Cyber life electronic networking and commerce operating exchange |
Families Citing this family (658)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6453334B1 (en) | 1997-06-16 | 2002-09-17 | Streamtheory, Inc. | Method and apparatus to allow remotely located computer programs and/or data to be accessed on a local computer in a secure, time-limited manner, with persistent caching |
US20080220775A1 (en) * | 1997-07-30 | 2008-09-11 | Steven Tischer | Apparatus, method, and computer-readable medium for securely providing communications between devices and networks |
US20080192768A1 (en) * | 1997-07-30 | 2008-08-14 | Steven Tischer | Apparatus, method, and computer-readable medium for interfacing communication devices |
US20080207179A1 (en) * | 1997-07-30 | 2008-08-28 | Steven Tischer | Apparatus and method for testing communication capabilities of networks and devices |
US20080194208A1 (en) * | 1997-07-30 | 2008-08-14 | Steven Tischer | Apparatus, method, and computer-readable medium for communicating between and controlling network devices |
US20080207178A1 (en) * | 1997-07-30 | 2008-08-28 | Steven Tischer | Apparatus and method for restricting access to data |
US7149514B1 (en) | 1997-07-30 | 2006-12-12 | Bellsouth Intellectual Property Corp. | Cellular docking station |
US20080194225A1 (en) * | 1997-07-30 | 2008-08-14 | Steven Tischer | Apparatus and method for providing emergency and alarm communications |
US20080207197A1 (en) * | 1997-07-30 | 2008-08-28 | Steven Tischer | Apparatus, method, and computer-readable medium for interfacing devices with communications networks |
US20020002039A1 (en) | 1998-06-12 | 2002-01-03 | Safi Qureshey | Network-enabled audio device |
US20050210101A1 (en) * | 1999-03-04 | 2005-09-22 | Universal Electronics Inc. | System and method for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices |
US20020013852A1 (en) * | 2000-03-03 | 2002-01-31 | Craig Janik | System for providing content, management, and interactivity for thin client devices |
US7468934B1 (en) | 1999-07-12 | 2008-12-23 | Ez4Media, Inc. | Clock with link to the internet |
US7142934B2 (en) | 2000-09-01 | 2006-11-28 | Universal Electronics Inc. | Audio converter device and method for using the same |
US20020065927A1 (en) * | 2000-09-05 | 2002-05-30 | Janik Craig M. | Webpad and method for using the same |
US7277765B1 (en) | 2000-10-12 | 2007-10-02 | Bose Corporation | Interactive sound reproducing |
US7062567B2 (en) | 2000-11-06 | 2006-06-13 | Endeavors Technology, Inc. | Intelligent network streaming and execution system for conventionally coded applications |
US8831995B2 (en) | 2000-11-06 | 2014-09-09 | Numecent Holdings, Inc. | Optimized server for streamed applications |
JP2002163386A (en) * | 2000-11-29 | 2002-06-07 | Sony Corp | System and method for transmitting/receiving data |
US8078730B2 (en) * | 2000-12-22 | 2011-12-13 | Rockstar Bidco, LP | System, device, and method for maintaining communication sessions in a communication system |
US6996085B2 (en) * | 2000-12-22 | 2006-02-07 | Nortel Networks Limited | System, device, and method for providing network access in a communication system |
US6990497B2 (en) | 2001-06-26 | 2006-01-24 | Microsoft Corporation | Dynamic streaming media management |
US7076478B2 (en) | 2001-06-26 | 2006-07-11 | Microsoft Corporation | Wrapper playlists on streaming media services |
US6986018B2 (en) | 2001-06-26 | 2006-01-10 | Microsoft Corporation | Method and apparatus for selecting cache and proxy policy |
US20030038849A1 (en) * | 2001-07-10 | 2003-02-27 | Nortel Networks Limited | System and method for remotely interfacing with a plurality of electronic devices |
JP2003030964A (en) * | 2001-07-11 | 2003-01-31 | Sony Corp | Playback device and editing device |
US7127271B1 (en) | 2001-10-18 | 2006-10-24 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US7466992B1 (en) | 2001-10-18 | 2008-12-16 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US7107081B1 (en) | 2001-10-18 | 2006-09-12 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
AU2002356829A1 (en) * | 2001-10-19 | 2003-04-28 | Pangrac And Associates Development, Inc. | Field technician communicator |
CA2737849C (en) * | 2001-10-26 | 2017-01-24 | Research In Motion Limited | System and method for remotely controlling mobile communication devices |
KR100451180B1 (en) * | 2001-11-28 | 2004-10-02 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | Method for transmitting message service using tag |
IL147415A0 (en) * | 2001-12-31 | 2002-08-14 | Dorit Information System Ltd | A system that controls music from pc |
US7159174B2 (en) * | 2002-01-16 | 2007-01-02 | Microsoft Corporation | Data preparation for media browsing |
US7209874B2 (en) * | 2002-02-25 | 2007-04-24 | Zoran Corporation | Emulator-enabled network connectivity to a device |
US9122808B2 (en) | 2002-02-25 | 2015-09-01 | Csr Technology Inc. | Network interface to a video device |
US7010762B2 (en) | 2002-02-27 | 2006-03-07 | At&T Corp. | Pre-loading content to caches for information appliances |
US7565158B1 (en) * | 2002-03-28 | 2009-07-21 | Nokia Corporation | Push page user interface in a short range radio enabled mobile terminal |
JP2004021547A (en) * | 2002-06-14 | 2004-01-22 | Buffalo Inc | Wireless lan system |
US8275371B2 (en) | 2002-07-15 | 2012-09-25 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and method for providing communications and connection-oriented services to devices |
US20100226481A1 (en) * | 2002-07-15 | 2010-09-09 | Steven Tischer | Apparatus and method for providing emergency and alarm communications |
US8533070B2 (en) * | 2002-07-15 | 2013-09-10 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and method for aggregating and accessing data according to user information |
US8526466B2 (en) | 2002-07-15 | 2013-09-03 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and method for prioritizing communications between devices |
US8000682B2 (en) | 2002-07-15 | 2011-08-16 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and method for restricting access to data |
US8416804B2 (en) | 2002-07-15 | 2013-04-09 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and method for providing a user interface for facilitating communications between devices |
US7200424B2 (en) | 2002-07-15 | 2007-04-03 | Bellsouth Intelectual Property Corporation | Systems and methods for restricting the use and movement of telephony devices |
US8554187B2 (en) | 2002-07-15 | 2013-10-08 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and method for routing communications between networks and devices |
US8543098B2 (en) | 2002-07-15 | 2013-09-24 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and method for securely providing communications between devices and networks |
US7882162B2 (en) * | 2002-08-08 | 2011-02-01 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Rapid access to data on a powered down personal computer |
US7209124B2 (en) * | 2002-08-08 | 2007-04-24 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Multiple-position docking station for a tablet personal computer |
US7952569B2 (en) * | 2002-08-08 | 2011-05-31 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | System and method of switching between multiple viewing modes in a multi-head computer system |
US20040027392A1 (en) * | 2002-08-08 | 2004-02-12 | Dunn Loren S. | System and method for quick access of computer resources to control and configure a computer |
EP1389856A1 (en) * | 2002-08-13 | 2004-02-18 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Method to allocate radio resources in an ad-hoc radio communication system |
US20040044697A1 (en) * | 2002-08-28 | 2004-03-04 | Nixon Michael L. | Systems and methods for distributing, obtaining and using digital media files |
JP4157347B2 (en) * | 2002-09-13 | 2008-10-01 | 富士通株式会社 | Gateway card, gateway device, gateway control method, and gateway control program |
US7240075B1 (en) * | 2002-09-24 | 2007-07-03 | Exphand, Inc. | Interactive generating query related to telestrator data designating at least a portion of the still image frame and data identifying a user is generated from the user designating a selected region on the display screen, transmitting the query to the remote information system |
US7810130B2 (en) * | 2002-10-08 | 2010-10-05 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Method and apparatus of power management for moving image-streaming content |
JP2006508568A (en) * | 2002-11-18 | 2006-03-09 | コーニンクレッカ フィリップス エレクトロニクス エヌ ヴィ | Record-based community recording device |
US8443288B2 (en) * | 2002-11-22 | 2013-05-14 | Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc. | Ubiquitous companion agent |
US7089319B2 (en) * | 2002-12-09 | 2006-08-08 | Anton Lysenko | Method and system for instantaneous on-demand delivery of multimedia content over a communication network with aid of content capturing component, delivery-on-demand client and dynamically mapped resource locator server |
US7088238B2 (en) * | 2002-12-11 | 2006-08-08 | Broadcom, Inc. | Access, monitoring, and control of appliances via a media processing system |
US8732086B2 (en) * | 2003-01-02 | 2014-05-20 | Catch Media, Inc. | Method and system for managing rights for digital music |
US20040131335A1 (en) * | 2003-01-02 | 2004-07-08 | Halgas Joseph F. | Method and apparatus for providing anytime television interactivity |
US8666524B2 (en) | 2003-01-02 | 2014-03-04 | Catch Media, Inc. | Portable music player and transmitter |
US8644969B2 (en) | 2003-01-02 | 2014-02-04 | Catch Media, Inc. | Content provisioning and revenue disbursement |
US8918195B2 (en) * | 2003-01-02 | 2014-12-23 | Catch Media, Inc. | Media management and tracking |
US20060107330A1 (en) * | 2003-01-02 | 2006-05-18 | Yaacov Ben-Yaacov | Method and system for tracking and managing rights for digital music |
US8229512B1 (en) | 2003-02-08 | 2012-07-24 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US8241128B1 (en) | 2003-04-03 | 2012-08-14 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
JP2004336723A (en) * | 2003-04-17 | 2004-11-25 | Sharp Corp | Terminal apparatus and center apparatus, control method and control program thereof communication system, and recording medium recording these programs |
JP4368138B2 (en) * | 2003-05-02 | 2009-11-18 | ソニー株式会社 | Network system, electronic device terminal, server device, and content distribution / playback method |
DE10319935A1 (en) * | 2003-05-02 | 2004-11-18 | Deutsche Thomson-Brandt Gmbh | Method for providing a user interface for operating a device in a network of distributed stations and network device for performing the method |
US20040236847A1 (en) * | 2003-05-19 | 2004-11-25 | Sumit Roy | Systems and methods for performing a service on content requested by a client device |
US7606872B2 (en) * | 2003-05-19 | 2009-10-20 | X10 Wireless Technology, Inc. | System and method for integrated, multiple-remote controlled computer media server |
US7660877B2 (en) * | 2003-05-19 | 2010-02-09 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Systems and methods in which a provider is selected to service content requested by a client device |
KR100533671B1 (en) * | 2003-06-05 | 2005-12-05 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Apparatus and method for efficiently managing multimedia contents |
US20040255338A1 (en) * | 2003-06-13 | 2004-12-16 | Apple Computer, Inc. | Interface for sending synchronized audio and video data |
US8069255B2 (en) | 2003-06-18 | 2011-11-29 | AT&T Intellectual Property I, .L.P. | Apparatus and method for aggregating disparate storage on consumer electronics devices |
US8275910B1 (en) | 2003-07-02 | 2012-09-25 | Apple Inc. | Source packet bridge |
US9207905B2 (en) | 2003-07-28 | 2015-12-08 | Sonos, Inc. | Method and apparatus for providing synchrony group status information |
US8234395B2 (en) | 2003-07-28 | 2012-07-31 | Sonos, Inc. | System and method for synchronizing operations among a plurality of independently clocked digital data processing devices |
US11106425B2 (en) | 2003-07-28 | 2021-08-31 | Sonos, Inc. | Synchronizing operations among a plurality of independently clocked digital data processing devices |
US11106424B2 (en) | 2003-07-28 | 2021-08-31 | Sonos, Inc. | Synchronizing operations among a plurality of independently clocked digital data processing devices |
US8290603B1 (en) | 2004-06-05 | 2012-10-16 | Sonos, Inc. | User interfaces for controlling and manipulating groupings in a multi-zone media system |
US8086752B2 (en) | 2006-11-22 | 2011-12-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods for synchronizing operations among a plurality of independently clocked digital data processing devices that independently source digital data |
US11650784B2 (en) | 2003-07-28 | 2023-05-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Adjusting volume levels |
US11294618B2 (en) | 2003-07-28 | 2022-04-05 | Sonos, Inc. | Media player system |
US20050055722A1 (en) * | 2003-09-09 | 2005-03-10 | Sony Corporation | Intelligent routing of digital content |
US8090402B1 (en) | 2003-09-26 | 2012-01-03 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US7280843B2 (en) | 2003-09-30 | 2007-10-09 | International Business Machines Corporation | Plug-and-play mass storage reflector |
US8996420B2 (en) * | 2003-11-21 | 2015-03-31 | Intel Corporation | System and method for caching data |
US8121635B1 (en) * | 2003-11-22 | 2012-02-21 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
KR100533680B1 (en) * | 2003-12-10 | 2005-12-05 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Muitimedia contents management apparatus in portable digital device and method thereof |
IL159838A0 (en) | 2004-01-13 | 2004-06-20 | Yehuda Binder | Information device |
US11201755B2 (en) | 2004-03-16 | 2021-12-14 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Premises system management using status signal |
US11244545B2 (en) | 2004-03-16 | 2022-02-08 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Cross-client sensor user interface in an integrated security network |
US20160065414A1 (en) | 2013-06-27 | 2016-03-03 | Ken Sundermeyer | Control system user interface |
US11677577B2 (en) | 2004-03-16 | 2023-06-13 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Premises system management using status signal |
US10156959B2 (en) | 2005-03-16 | 2018-12-18 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Cross-client sensor user interface in an integrated security network |
US10127802B2 (en) | 2010-09-28 | 2018-11-13 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Integrated security system with parallel processing architecture |
US9729342B2 (en) | 2010-12-20 | 2017-08-08 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Defining and implementing sensor triggered response rules |
US11159484B2 (en) | 2004-03-16 | 2021-10-26 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Forming a security network including integrated security system components and network devices |
US11916870B2 (en) | 2004-03-16 | 2024-02-27 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Gateway registry methods and systems |
US11343380B2 (en) | 2004-03-16 | 2022-05-24 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Premises system automation |
US9141276B2 (en) | 2005-03-16 | 2015-09-22 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Integrated interface for mobile device |
US8635350B2 (en) | 2006-06-12 | 2014-01-21 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | IP device discovery systems and methods |
US9531593B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2016-12-27 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Takeover processes in security network integrated with premise security system |
US11368327B2 (en) | 2008-08-11 | 2022-06-21 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Integrated cloud system for premises automation |
US11113950B2 (en) | 2005-03-16 | 2021-09-07 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Gateway integrated with premises security system |
AU2005223267B2 (en) * | 2004-03-16 | 2010-12-09 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Premises management system |
US10339791B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2019-07-02 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Security network integrated with premise security system |
US11368429B2 (en) | 2004-03-16 | 2022-06-21 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Premises management configuration and control |
US10721087B2 (en) | 2005-03-16 | 2020-07-21 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Method for networked touchscreen with integrated interfaces |
US10522026B2 (en) | 2008-08-11 | 2019-12-31 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Automation system user interface with three-dimensional display |
US11316958B2 (en) | 2008-08-11 | 2022-04-26 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Virtual device systems and methods |
US11277465B2 (en) | 2004-03-16 | 2022-03-15 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Generating risk profile using data of home monitoring and security system |
US11489812B2 (en) | 2004-03-16 | 2022-11-01 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Forming a security network including integrated security system components and network devices |
US20090077623A1 (en) | 2005-03-16 | 2009-03-19 | Marc Baum | Security Network Integrating Security System and Network Devices |
US10142392B2 (en) | 2007-01-24 | 2018-11-27 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Methods and systems for improved system performance |
US7711796B2 (en) | 2006-06-12 | 2010-05-04 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Gateway registry methods and systems |
US10237237B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2019-03-19 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Communication protocols in integrated systems |
US11582065B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2023-02-14 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Systems and methods for device communication |
US10200504B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2019-02-05 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Communication protocols over internet protocol (IP) networks |
US11811845B2 (en) | 2004-03-16 | 2023-11-07 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Communication protocols over internet protocol (IP) networks |
JP2005303975A (en) * | 2004-03-19 | 2005-10-27 | Onkyo Corp | Network av system, controller, and its operation program |
US8041348B1 (en) | 2004-03-23 | 2011-10-18 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US7480484B2 (en) * | 2004-03-30 | 2009-01-20 | Omnivision Technologies, Inc | Multi-video interface for a mobile device |
US9977561B2 (en) | 2004-04-01 | 2018-05-22 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems, methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture to provide guest access |
US9374607B2 (en) | 2012-06-26 | 2016-06-21 | Sonos, Inc. | Media playback system with guest access |
US7260387B2 (en) * | 2004-04-16 | 2007-08-21 | Inventec Appliances Corporation | Mute-until feature for electronic devices |
US7912457B2 (en) * | 2004-04-21 | 2011-03-22 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Methods and apparatus for creation and transport of multimedia content flows |
US20050245243A1 (en) * | 2004-04-28 | 2005-11-03 | Zuniga Michael A | System and method for wireless delivery of audio content over wireless high speed data networks |
US20060080408A1 (en) * | 2004-04-30 | 2006-04-13 | Vulcan Inc. | Smart home control of electronic devices |
US7792920B2 (en) * | 2004-04-30 | 2010-09-07 | Vulcan Inc. | Network-accessible control of one or more media devices |
US8028038B2 (en) | 2004-05-05 | 2011-09-27 | Dryden Enterprises, Llc | Obtaining a playlist based on user profile matching |
US8028323B2 (en) | 2004-05-05 | 2011-09-27 | Dryden Enterprises, Llc | Method and system for employing a first device to direct a networked audio device to obtain a media item |
US8024055B1 (en) | 2004-05-15 | 2011-09-20 | Sonos, Inc. | Method and system for controlling amplifiers |
PT1769342T (en) | 2004-05-25 | 2019-09-17 | Muxi Tecnologia Em Pagamentos S A | System for accessing a pos terminal, method for downloading and updating applications and method for performing electronic operation using such a system |
US8326951B1 (en) | 2004-06-05 | 2012-12-04 | Sonos, Inc. | Establishing a secure wireless network with minimum human intervention |
US8868698B2 (en) | 2004-06-05 | 2014-10-21 | Sonos, Inc. | Establishing a secure wireless network with minimum human intervention |
US10268352B2 (en) | 2004-06-05 | 2019-04-23 | Sonos, Inc. | Method and apparatus for managing a playlist by metadata |
US20050289277A1 (en) * | 2004-06-29 | 2005-12-29 | Jackson Riley W | Data processing on extended mobile access enabled computer |
US7212783B2 (en) * | 2004-07-07 | 2007-05-01 | Motorola, Inc. | System and method for managing content between devices in various domains |
JP4342393B2 (en) * | 2004-07-14 | 2009-10-14 | 株式会社東芝 | Electronic device mounted on portable terminal device and control method of electronic device |
TW200604934A (en) * | 2004-07-16 | 2006-02-01 | Benq Corp | Firmware management system and method thereof |
US20140071818A1 (en) | 2004-07-16 | 2014-03-13 | Virginia Innovation Sciences, Inc. | Method and system for efficient communication |
US7957733B2 (en) | 2004-07-16 | 2011-06-07 | Sellerbid, Inc. | Method and apparatus for multimedia communications with different user terminals |
US7899492B2 (en) | 2004-07-16 | 2011-03-01 | Sellerbid, Inc. | Methods, systems and apparatus for displaying the multimedia information from wireless communication networks |
US8544043B2 (en) * | 2004-07-21 | 2013-09-24 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Methods and apparatus for providing content information to content servers |
KR100927732B1 (en) * | 2004-07-23 | 2009-11-18 | 한국전자통신연구원 | Extended package scheme to support application program downloading, and System and Method for application program service using the same |
US7684374B2 (en) * | 2004-07-28 | 2010-03-23 | Broadcom Corporation | Handling of multimedia call sessions and attachments using multi-network simulcasting |
KR100678940B1 (en) * | 2004-08-13 | 2007-02-07 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Method for remote controlling and monitoring display device and system for the same |
US7814195B2 (en) * | 2004-09-10 | 2010-10-12 | Sony Corporation | Method for data synchronization with mobile wireless devices |
US7526566B2 (en) * | 2004-09-10 | 2009-04-28 | Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications Ab | Methods of operating radio communications devices including predefined streaming times and addresses and related devices |
US20060059535A1 (en) * | 2004-09-14 | 2006-03-16 | D Avello Robert F | Method and apparatus for playing content |
US7389036B2 (en) * | 2004-11-09 | 2008-06-17 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | A/V data recording/reproducing apparatus and method for selecting stored file list thereof |
JP2008527468A (en) | 2004-11-13 | 2008-07-24 | ストリーム セオリー,インコーポレイテッド | Hybrid local / remote streaming |
US20060105702A1 (en) * | 2004-11-17 | 2006-05-18 | Muth Edwin A | System and method for interactive monitoring of satellite radio use |
CA2590863A1 (en) * | 2004-12-09 | 2006-06-15 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Method and apparatus for creation and transport of multimedia content flows to a distribution network |
US7461162B2 (en) * | 2004-12-16 | 2008-12-02 | International Business Machines Corporation | Usage consciousness in HTTP/HTML for reducing unused data flow across a network |
US7617513B2 (en) * | 2005-01-04 | 2009-11-10 | Avocent Huntsville Corporation | Wireless streaming media systems, devices and methods |
US20060173974A1 (en) * | 2005-02-02 | 2006-08-03 | Victor Tang | System and method for providing mobile access to personal media |
US7266383B2 (en) * | 2005-02-14 | 2007-09-04 | Scenera Technologies, Llc | Group interaction modes for mobile devices |
US8473569B2 (en) * | 2005-02-18 | 2013-06-25 | Texas Instruments Incorporated | Apparatus and method for consumer-oriented distribution of information processing capability |
KR101280271B1 (en) * | 2005-02-24 | 2013-07-08 | 아드레아 엘엘씨 | System and method for providing RSS content in a broadcast system |
EP3211884A1 (en) | 2005-03-02 | 2017-08-30 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Playlists and bookmarks in an interactive media guidance application system |
US9306809B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2016-04-05 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Security system with networked touchscreen |
US10999254B2 (en) | 2005-03-16 | 2021-05-04 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | System for data routing in networks |
US20120324566A1 (en) | 2005-03-16 | 2012-12-20 | Marc Baum | Takeover Processes In Security Network Integrated With Premise Security System |
US20170180198A1 (en) | 2008-08-11 | 2017-06-22 | Marc Baum | Forming a security network including integrated security system components |
US11700142B2 (en) | 2005-03-16 | 2023-07-11 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Security network integrating security system and network devices |
US11615697B2 (en) | 2005-03-16 | 2023-03-28 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Premise management systems and methods |
US11496568B2 (en) | 2005-03-16 | 2022-11-08 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Security system with networked touchscreen |
US20110128378A1 (en) | 2005-03-16 | 2011-06-02 | Reza Raji | Modular Electronic Display Platform |
US20060209174A1 (en) * | 2005-03-17 | 2006-09-21 | Isaac Emad S | System and method for selective media recording and playback |
US20070061725A1 (en) * | 2005-03-17 | 2007-03-15 | Isaac Emad S | System and method for managing content between devices having different capabilities |
US8024523B2 (en) | 2007-11-07 | 2011-09-20 | Endeavors Technologies, Inc. | Opportunistic block transmission with time constraints |
JP2006270675A (en) * | 2005-03-25 | 2006-10-05 | Fujitsu Ltd | Information device cooperation apparatus, system, and program |
US7756878B2 (en) * | 2005-03-31 | 2010-07-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | E-mail response system |
KR101156113B1 (en) * | 2005-03-31 | 2012-06-20 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Method of controlling digital image processing apparatus for convenient communication, and digital image processing apparatus adopting the method |
US20060253782A1 (en) * | 2005-04-01 | 2006-11-09 | Vulcan Inc. | Interface for manipulating multimedia playlists |
US8208954B1 (en) | 2005-04-08 | 2012-06-26 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US7774412B1 (en) * | 2005-05-06 | 2010-08-10 | Adobe Systems Inc. | Methods and apparatus facilitating distribution of content |
US20060259575A1 (en) * | 2005-05-11 | 2006-11-16 | Manish Upendran | User interface distribution systems and methods |
US8607163B2 (en) * | 2005-06-09 | 2013-12-10 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Preview mode for content |
US8639864B1 (en) * | 2005-06-30 | 2014-01-28 | Emc Corporation | Method and system for facilitating communication between a host and downstream devices in a data storage system |
US7778230B2 (en) * | 2005-08-02 | 2010-08-17 | WAAU Inc. | Mobile router device |
US7813314B2 (en) * | 2005-08-02 | 2010-10-12 | Waav Inc. | Mobile router device |
US7707146B2 (en) * | 2005-08-03 | 2010-04-27 | Novell, Inc. | System and method of searching for providing clue-based context searching |
US7539673B2 (en) * | 2005-08-03 | 2009-05-26 | Novell, Inc. | System and method of re-ordering search results based on prior user actions |
US7707284B2 (en) | 2005-08-03 | 2010-04-27 | Novell, Inc. | System and method of searching for classifying user activity performed on a computer system |
US8527874B2 (en) | 2005-08-03 | 2013-09-03 | Apple Inc. | System and method of grouping search results using information representations |
US8271549B2 (en) | 2005-08-05 | 2012-09-18 | Intel Corporation | System and method for automatically managing media content |
US7930369B2 (en) * | 2005-10-19 | 2011-04-19 | Apple Inc. | Remotely configured media device |
KR101062200B1 (en) * | 2005-10-24 | 2011-09-05 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Control method of information processing device, information processing system and information processing device |
US20070174876A1 (en) * | 2006-01-24 | 2007-07-26 | Media Ip Holdings Llc | Method and system for providing broadband access, HDTV, and broadband-enabled services |
US7634263B2 (en) * | 2006-01-30 | 2009-12-15 | Apple Inc. | Remote control of electronic devices |
KR100807284B1 (en) * | 2006-02-01 | 2008-03-03 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Portable Computer And Control Method Thereof |
US20070208837A1 (en) * | 2006-02-22 | 2007-09-06 | Lifen Tian | Device management system for processing client requests |
CA2666199C (en) | 2006-03-27 | 2015-08-25 | Nielsen Media Research, Inc. | Methods and systems to meter media content presented on a wireless communication device |
US9075509B2 (en) | 2006-05-18 | 2015-07-07 | Sonos, Inc. | User interface to provide additional information on a selected item in a list |
US10079839B1 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2018-09-18 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Activation of gateway device |
US8692809B2 (en) * | 2006-07-06 | 2014-04-08 | Elo Touch Solutions, Inc. | Auto-gain switching module for acoustic touch systems |
US8483853B1 (en) | 2006-09-12 | 2013-07-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Controlling and manipulating groupings in a multi-zone media system |
US8788080B1 (en) | 2006-09-12 | 2014-07-22 | Sonos, Inc. | Multi-channel pairing in a media system |
US9202509B2 (en) | 2006-09-12 | 2015-12-01 | Sonos, Inc. | Controlling and grouping in a multi-zone media system |
KR100818927B1 (en) * | 2006-10-27 | 2008-04-04 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Apparatus and method for contents management of portable device |
WO2008053568A1 (en) * | 2006-10-31 | 2008-05-08 | Panasonic Corporation | Apparatus and method for preloading data in mobile communication devices |
US20080227384A1 (en) * | 2006-11-07 | 2008-09-18 | Acetrax Operations Ag | Wireless pc to audio visual link assembly for a motion video distribution system |
US20080114794A1 (en) * | 2006-11-10 | 2008-05-15 | Guideworks Llc | Systems and methods for using playlists |
US20080115173A1 (en) * | 2006-11-10 | 2008-05-15 | Guideworks Llc | Systems and methods for using playlists |
US8463893B2 (en) * | 2006-11-30 | 2013-06-11 | Red Hat, Inc. | Automatic playlist generation in correlation with local events |
EP1944944A1 (en) | 2007-01-12 | 2008-07-16 | Thomson Licensing | System and method for combining pull and push modes |
US11706279B2 (en) | 2007-01-24 | 2023-07-18 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Methods and systems for data communication |
US7633385B2 (en) | 2007-02-28 | 2009-12-15 | Ucontrol, Inc. | Method and system for communicating with and controlling an alarm system from a remote server |
US20080235588A1 (en) * | 2007-03-20 | 2008-09-25 | Yahoo! Inc. | Media player playlist creation and editing within a browser interpretable document |
US9654737B2 (en) * | 2007-03-27 | 2017-05-16 | Sony Corporation | Methods, systems and apparatuses to enhance broadcast entertainment |
US8422491B2 (en) * | 2007-04-18 | 2013-04-16 | Waav Inc. | Mobile network configuration and method |
US8451986B2 (en) | 2007-04-23 | 2013-05-28 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Method and system for automatically providing alternate network access for telecommunications |
US7890089B1 (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2011-02-15 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US8559983B1 (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2013-10-15 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US8490198B2 (en) | 2007-05-18 | 2013-07-16 | Apple Inc. | Techniques for local personalization of content |
US20080295012A1 (en) * | 2007-05-23 | 2008-11-27 | Microsoft Corporation | Drag-and-drop abstraction |
US10523689B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2019-12-31 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Communication protocols over internet protocol (IP) networks |
US11089122B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2021-08-10 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Controlling data routing among networks |
US11646907B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2023-05-09 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Communication protocols in integrated systems |
US11237714B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2022-02-01 | Control Networks, Inc. | Control system user interface |
US10666523B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2020-05-26 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Communication protocols in integrated systems |
US11423756B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2022-08-23 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Communication protocols in integrated systems |
US11218878B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2022-01-04 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Communication protocols in integrated systems |
US11601810B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2023-03-07 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Communication protocols in integrated systems |
US11212192B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2021-12-28 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Communication protocols in integrated systems |
US11316753B2 (en) | 2007-06-12 | 2022-04-26 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Communication protocols in integrated systems |
US20090054046A1 (en) * | 2007-08-20 | 2009-02-26 | Mobix Communication, Inc. | Method and apparatus for voice and internet programming of wireless device features |
US11831462B2 (en) | 2007-08-24 | 2023-11-28 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Controlling data routing in premises management systems |
US8676273B1 (en) | 2007-08-24 | 2014-03-18 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US8086678B2 (en) | 2007-09-24 | 2011-12-27 | Zipit Wireless, Inc. | Device centric controls for a device controlled through a web portal |
US8639214B1 (en) | 2007-10-26 | 2014-01-28 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US8472935B1 (en) | 2007-10-29 | 2013-06-25 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US8892738B2 (en) | 2007-11-07 | 2014-11-18 | Numecent Holdings, Inc. | Deriving component statistics for a stream enabled application |
US8335501B1 (en) * | 2007-11-21 | 2012-12-18 | At&T Mobility Ii Llc | Controlling functions of mobile communications devices |
JP2011520302A (en) | 2007-12-10 | 2011-07-14 | デラックス・デジタル・スタジオズ,インコーポレイテッド | Method and system for use in linking multimedia devices |
US8775647B2 (en) | 2007-12-10 | 2014-07-08 | Deluxe Media Inc. | Method and system for use in coordinating multimedia devices |
US8065325B2 (en) * | 2007-12-12 | 2011-11-22 | Packet Video Corp. | System and method for creating metadata |
US8744720B1 (en) | 2007-12-27 | 2014-06-03 | Iwao Fujisaki | Inter-vehicle middle point maintaining implementer |
US8724619B2 (en) | 2007-12-31 | 2014-05-13 | Apple Inc. | Transparently routing a telephone call between mobile and VOIP services |
US8107921B2 (en) | 2008-01-11 | 2012-01-31 | Seven Networks, Inc. | Mobile virtual network operator |
US11916928B2 (en) | 2008-01-24 | 2024-02-27 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Communication protocols over internet protocol (IP) networks |
US8756101B2 (en) * | 2008-01-25 | 2014-06-17 | Tunein, Inc. | User and stream demographics metadata guide based content services |
US8595373B2 (en) * | 2008-01-25 | 2013-11-26 | Tuneln, Inc. | Guide based content services |
US8990360B2 (en) | 2008-02-22 | 2015-03-24 | Sonos, Inc. | System, method, and computer program for remotely managing a digital device |
US8503991B2 (en) | 2008-04-03 | 2013-08-06 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to monitor mobile devices |
US8768307B1 (en) * | 2008-04-23 | 2014-07-01 | ZeroTouch Digital, Inc. | Methods and devices for remote processing of messages, and performing user tracking and monitoring with respect to data originating from a mobile communication device |
US8543157B1 (en) | 2008-05-09 | 2013-09-24 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device which notifies its pin-point location or geographic area in accordance with user selection |
EP2134056A1 (en) | 2008-06-10 | 2009-12-16 | Alcatel Lucent | Device and method for automatically and remotely managing execution of user application(s) |
US20170185278A1 (en) | 2008-08-11 | 2017-06-29 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Automation system user interface |
US8510778B2 (en) | 2008-06-27 | 2013-08-13 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Systems and methods for ranking assets relative to a group of viewers |
US8578018B2 (en) | 2008-06-29 | 2013-11-05 | Microsoft Corporation | User-based wide area network optimization |
US8340726B1 (en) | 2008-06-30 | 2012-12-25 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US8468426B2 (en) * | 2008-07-02 | 2013-06-18 | Apple Inc. | Multimedia-aware quality-of-service and error correction provisioning |
US8452307B1 (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2013-05-28 | Iwao Fujisaki | Communication device |
US10459739B2 (en) | 2008-07-09 | 2019-10-29 | Sonos Inc. | Systems and methods for configuring and profiling a digital media device |
US11729255B2 (en) | 2008-08-11 | 2023-08-15 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Integrated cloud system with lightweight gateway for premises automation |
US11792036B2 (en) | 2008-08-11 | 2023-10-17 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Mobile premises automation platform |
US11258625B2 (en) | 2008-08-11 | 2022-02-22 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Mobile premises automation platform |
US11758026B2 (en) | 2008-08-11 | 2023-09-12 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Virtual device systems and methods |
US10530839B2 (en) | 2008-08-11 | 2020-01-07 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Integrated cloud system with lightweight gateway for premises automation |
US8713091B2 (en) * | 2008-10-03 | 2014-04-29 | Microsoft Corporation | Network based JIT on a priori knowledge of a set of disparate clients |
US8589591B2 (en) * | 2010-06-04 | 2013-11-19 | Boadcom Corporation | Customized delivery of content by a broadband gateway |
US10061742B2 (en) | 2009-01-30 | 2018-08-28 | Sonos, Inc. | Advertising in a digital media playback system |
US8693466B2 (en) * | 2009-04-08 | 2014-04-08 | Apple Inc. | Apparatus and methods for bridging calls or data between heterogeneous network domains |
US8638211B2 (en) | 2009-04-30 | 2014-01-28 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Configurable controller and interface for home SMA, phone and multimedia |
WO2011021898A2 (en) * | 2009-08-21 | 2011-02-24 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Shared data transmitting method, server, and system |
AU2011250886A1 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2013-01-10 | Icontrol Networks, Inc | Control system user interface |
US8578001B2 (en) | 2010-06-25 | 2013-11-05 | Digi International Inc. | Smart energy gateway with integrated plug |
US8378848B2 (en) | 2010-06-25 | 2013-02-19 | Digi International Inc. | Virtual smart energy meter with integrated plug |
US9363571B2 (en) * | 2010-08-27 | 2016-06-07 | Intel Corporation | Touch sensing apparatus and method |
US9104302B2 (en) | 2010-09-09 | 2015-08-11 | Opentv, Inc. | Methods and systems for drag and drop content sharing in a multi-device environment |
US8836467B1 (en) | 2010-09-28 | 2014-09-16 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Method, system and apparatus for automated reporting of account and sensor zone information to a central station |
US8583040B2 (en) * | 2010-10-01 | 2013-11-12 | Digi International Inc. | Devices, systems, and methods for configuring a wireless device |
US8923997B2 (en) | 2010-10-13 | 2014-12-30 | Sonos, Inc | Method and apparatus for adjusting a speaker system |
BRPI1003568A2 (en) | 2010-10-29 | 2012-06-12 | Log On Multimidia Ltda | Dynamic audiovisual browser and method |
US9009768B2 (en) * | 2010-11-08 | 2015-04-14 | Sony Corporation | Media playback control through remote device control |
EP2652933A1 (en) * | 2010-12-15 | 2013-10-23 | Telefonaktiebolaget L M Ericsson (PUBL) | Streaming transfer server, method, computer program and computer program product for transferring receiving of media content |
US11750414B2 (en) | 2010-12-16 | 2023-09-05 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Bidirectional security sensor communication for a premises security system |
US9147337B2 (en) | 2010-12-17 | 2015-09-29 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Method and system for logging security event data |
US11429343B2 (en) | 2011-01-25 | 2022-08-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Stereo playback configuration and control |
US11265652B2 (en) | 2011-01-25 | 2022-03-01 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback device pairing |
US8938312B2 (en) | 2011-04-18 | 2015-01-20 | Sonos, Inc. | Smart line-in processing |
KR101695514B1 (en) * | 2011-05-24 | 2017-01-11 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | Method for transmitting a broadcast service, apparatus for receiving same, and method for processing an adjunct service using the apparatus for receiving same |
US9343818B2 (en) | 2011-07-14 | 2016-05-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Antenna configurations for wireless speakers |
US9042556B2 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2015-05-26 | Sonos, Inc | Shaping sound responsive to speaker orientation |
US9118945B2 (en) | 2011-07-29 | 2015-08-25 | Thomson Licensing | Interrelated multiple screen advertising |
US9286384B2 (en) | 2011-09-21 | 2016-03-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Methods and systems to share media |
US20130076651A1 (en) | 2011-09-28 | 2013-03-28 | Robert Reimann | Methods and apparatus to change control centexts of controllers |
US9052810B2 (en) | 2011-09-28 | 2015-06-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Methods and apparatus to manage zones of a multi-zone media playback system |
US8971546B2 (en) | 2011-10-14 | 2015-03-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems, methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture to control audio playback devices |
US9094706B2 (en) | 2011-10-21 | 2015-07-28 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods for wireless music playback |
US9460631B2 (en) | 2011-11-02 | 2016-10-04 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems, methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture for playback demonstration at a point of sale display |
US9665339B2 (en) | 2011-12-28 | 2017-05-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Methods and systems to select an audio track |
US9084058B2 (en) | 2011-12-29 | 2015-07-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Sound field calibration using listener localization |
US9191699B2 (en) | 2011-12-29 | 2015-11-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods for connecting an audio controller to a hidden audio network |
US9247492B2 (en) | 2011-12-29 | 2016-01-26 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods for multi-network audio control |
US9654821B2 (en) | 2011-12-30 | 2017-05-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods for networked music playback |
US9344292B2 (en) | 2011-12-30 | 2016-05-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods for player setup room names |
US9729115B2 (en) | 2012-04-27 | 2017-08-08 | Sonos, Inc. | Intelligently increasing the sound level of player |
US9524098B2 (en) | 2012-05-08 | 2016-12-20 | Sonos, Inc. | Methods and systems for subwoofer calibration |
US9521074B2 (en) | 2012-05-10 | 2016-12-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for direct routing between nodes of networks |
US8908879B2 (en) | 2012-05-23 | 2014-12-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio content auditioning |
US8903526B2 (en) | 2012-06-06 | 2014-12-02 | Sonos, Inc. | Device playback failure recovery and redistribution |
US9031255B2 (en) | 2012-06-15 | 2015-05-12 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems, methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture to provide low-latency audio |
US9882995B2 (en) | 2012-06-25 | 2018-01-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems, methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture to provide automatic wireless configuration |
US9674587B2 (en) | 2012-06-26 | 2017-06-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods for networked music playback including remote add to queue |
US9715365B2 (en) | 2012-06-27 | 2017-07-25 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods for mobile music zones |
US9706323B2 (en) | 2014-09-09 | 2017-07-11 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback device calibration |
US9137564B2 (en) | 2012-06-28 | 2015-09-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Shift to corresponding media in a playback queue |
US9668049B2 (en) | 2012-06-28 | 2017-05-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback device calibration user interfaces |
US9219460B2 (en) | 2014-03-17 | 2015-12-22 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio settings based on environment |
US9690539B2 (en) | 2012-06-28 | 2017-06-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Speaker calibration user interface |
US9690271B2 (en) | 2012-06-28 | 2017-06-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Speaker calibration |
US9106192B2 (en) | 2012-06-28 | 2015-08-11 | Sonos, Inc. | System and method for device playback calibration |
US9031244B2 (en) | 2012-06-29 | 2015-05-12 | Sonos, Inc. | Smart audio settings |
US8995687B2 (en) | 2012-08-01 | 2015-03-31 | Sonos, Inc. | Volume interactions for connected playback devices |
US8930005B2 (en) | 2012-08-07 | 2015-01-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Acoustic signatures in a playback system |
US8965033B2 (en) | 2012-08-31 | 2015-02-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Acoustic optimization |
US8910265B2 (en) | 2012-09-28 | 2014-12-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Assisted registration of audio sources |
US9078010B2 (en) | 2012-09-28 | 2015-07-07 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio content playback management |
US9008330B2 (en) | 2012-09-28 | 2015-04-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Crossover frequency adjustments for audio speakers |
US9516440B2 (en) | 2012-10-01 | 2016-12-06 | Sonos | Providing a multi-channel and a multi-zone audio environment |
US9179197B2 (en) | 2012-10-10 | 2015-11-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for multicast optimization |
US9565475B2 (en) | 2012-10-11 | 2017-02-07 | Netflix, Inc. | System and method for managing playback of streaming digital content |
US9727321B2 (en) | 2012-10-11 | 2017-08-08 | Netflix, Inc. | System and method for managing playback of streaming digital content |
US9952576B2 (en) | 2012-10-16 | 2018-04-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Methods and apparatus to learn and share remote commands |
US9319153B2 (en) | 2012-12-04 | 2016-04-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Mobile source media content access |
US10055491B2 (en) | 2012-12-04 | 2018-08-21 | Sonos, Inc. | Media content search based on metadata |
US9510055B2 (en) | 2013-01-23 | 2016-11-29 | Sonos, Inc. | System and method for a media experience social interface |
US9319409B2 (en) | 2013-02-14 | 2016-04-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Automatic configuration of household playback devices |
US9237384B2 (en) | 2013-02-14 | 2016-01-12 | Sonos, Inc. | Automatic configuration of household playback devices |
US9195432B2 (en) | 2013-02-26 | 2015-11-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Pre-caching of audio content |
CN105229740A (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2016-01-06 | 搜诺思公司 | There is the media playback system controller of multiple graphical interfaces |
US9501533B2 (en) | 2013-04-16 | 2016-11-22 | Sonos, Inc. | Private queue for a media playback system |
US9247363B2 (en) | 2013-04-16 | 2016-01-26 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback queue transfer in a media playback system |
US9361371B2 (en) | 2013-04-16 | 2016-06-07 | Sonos, Inc. | Playlist update in a media playback system |
US9307508B2 (en) | 2013-04-29 | 2016-04-05 | Google Technology Holdings LLC | Systems and methods for syncronizing multiple electronic devices |
US9684484B2 (en) | 2013-05-29 | 2017-06-20 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback zone silent connect |
US9798510B2 (en) | 2013-05-29 | 2017-10-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Connected state indicator |
US9703521B2 (en) | 2013-05-29 | 2017-07-11 | Sonos, Inc. | Moving a playback queue to a new zone |
US10715973B2 (en) | 2013-05-29 | 2020-07-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback queue control transition |
US9495076B2 (en) | 2013-05-29 | 2016-11-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Playlist modification |
US9735978B2 (en) * | 2013-05-29 | 2017-08-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback queue control via a playlist on a mobile device |
US9953179B2 (en) | 2013-05-29 | 2018-04-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Private queue indicator |
US9438193B2 (en) | 2013-06-05 | 2016-09-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Satellite volume control |
US9654073B2 (en) | 2013-06-07 | 2017-05-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Group volume control |
US9285886B2 (en) | 2013-06-24 | 2016-03-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Intelligent amplifier activation |
US9207651B2 (en) * | 2013-06-27 | 2015-12-08 | Crestron Electronics Inc. | Connection aware power control of network displays |
US9298415B2 (en) | 2013-07-09 | 2016-03-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods to provide play/pause content |
US9232277B2 (en) | 2013-07-17 | 2016-01-05 | Sonos, Inc. | Associating playback devices with playback queues |
US9355555B2 (en) | 2013-09-27 | 2016-05-31 | Sonos, Inc. | System and method for issuing commands in a media playback system |
US9933920B2 (en) | 2013-09-27 | 2018-04-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Multi-household support |
US9231545B2 (en) | 2013-09-27 | 2016-01-05 | Sonos, Inc. | Volume enhancements in a multi-zone media playback system |
US9720576B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2017-08-01 | Sonos, Inc. | Controlling and displaying zones in a multi-zone system |
US9166273B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2015-10-20 | Sonos, Inc. | Configurations for antennas |
US9298244B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2016-03-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Communication routes based on low power operation |
US9456037B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2016-09-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Identifying a useful wired connection |
US9241355B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2016-01-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Media system access via cellular network |
US9244516B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2016-01-26 | Sonos, Inc. | Media playback system using standby mode in a mesh network |
US9344755B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2016-05-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Fast-resume audio playback |
US9288596B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2016-03-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Coordinator device for paired or consolidated players |
US20150095679A1 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2015-04-02 | Sonos, Inc. | Transitioning A Networked Playback Device Between Operating Modes |
US9122451B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2015-09-01 | Sonos, Inc. | Capacitive proximity sensor configuration including a speaker grille |
US9223353B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2015-12-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Ambient light proximity sensing configuration |
US10095785B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2018-10-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio content search in a media playback system |
US9537819B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2017-01-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Facilitating the resolution of address conflicts in a networked media playback system |
US9654545B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2017-05-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Group coordinator device selection |
US9323404B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2016-04-26 | Sonos, Inc. | Capacitive proximity sensor configuration including an antenna ground plane |
US10296884B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2019-05-21 | Sonos, Inc. | Personalized media playback at a discovered point-of-sale display |
US10028028B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2018-07-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Accessing last-browsed information in a media playback system |
US9300647B2 (en) | 2014-01-15 | 2016-03-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Software application and zones |
US9313591B2 (en) | 2014-01-27 | 2016-04-12 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio synchronization among playback devices using offset information |
US20150220498A1 (en) | 2014-02-05 | 2015-08-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Remote Creation of a Playback Queue for a Future Event |
US9226087B2 (en) | 2014-02-06 | 2015-12-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio output balancing during synchronized playback |
US9226073B2 (en) | 2014-02-06 | 2015-12-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio output balancing during synchronized playback |
US9226072B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2015-12-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Media content based on playback zone awareness |
US9372610B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2016-06-21 | Sonos, Inc. | Media system controller interface |
US9408008B2 (en) | 2014-02-28 | 2016-08-02 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback zone representations |
US11146637B2 (en) | 2014-03-03 | 2021-10-12 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Media content management |
US11405463B2 (en) | 2014-03-03 | 2022-08-02 | Icontrol Networks, Inc. | Media content management |
US9679054B2 (en) | 2014-03-05 | 2017-06-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Webpage media playback |
USD792420S1 (en) | 2014-03-07 | 2017-07-18 | Sonos, Inc. | Display screen or portion thereof with graphical user interface |
USD785649S1 (en) | 2014-03-07 | 2017-05-02 | Sonos, Inc. | Display screen or portion thereof graphical user interface |
USD775632S1 (en) | 2014-03-07 | 2017-01-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Display screen or portion thereof with graphical user interface |
USD786266S1 (en) | 2014-03-07 | 2017-05-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Display screen or portion thereof with graphical user interface |
USD772918S1 (en) | 2014-03-07 | 2016-11-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Display screen or portion thereof with graphical user interface |
US9892118B2 (en) | 2014-03-18 | 2018-02-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Dynamic display of filter criteria |
US20150261493A1 (en) * | 2014-03-11 | 2015-09-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback Zone Representations |
US10599287B2 (en) | 2014-03-11 | 2020-03-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Group volume control |
US9264839B2 (en) | 2014-03-17 | 2016-02-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback device configuration based on proximity detection |
US10331736B2 (en) | 2014-03-21 | 2019-06-25 | Sonos, Inc. | Facilitating streaming media access via a media-item database |
US9223862B2 (en) | 2014-03-21 | 2015-12-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Remote storage and provisioning of local-media index |
US9338514B2 (en) | 2014-03-28 | 2016-05-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Account aware media preferences |
US10587693B2 (en) | 2014-04-01 | 2020-03-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Mirrored queues |
US9705950B2 (en) | 2014-04-03 | 2017-07-11 | Sonos, Inc. | Methods and systems for transmitting playlists |
US9478247B2 (en) | 2014-04-28 | 2016-10-25 | Sonos, Inc. | Management of media content playback |
US9524338B2 (en) | 2014-04-28 | 2016-12-20 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback of media content according to media preferences |
US10129599B2 (en) | 2014-04-28 | 2018-11-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Media preference database |
US9680960B2 (en) | 2014-04-28 | 2017-06-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Receiving media content based on media preferences of multiple users |
US20150324552A1 (en) | 2014-05-12 | 2015-11-12 | Sonos, Inc. | Share Restriction for Media Items |
US9537852B2 (en) | 2014-06-04 | 2017-01-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Cloud queue access control |
US9720642B2 (en) | 2014-06-04 | 2017-08-01 | Sonos, Inc. | Prioritizing media content requests |
US20150355818A1 (en) | 2014-06-04 | 2015-12-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Continuous Playback Queue |
US20150356084A1 (en) | 2014-06-05 | 2015-12-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Social Queue |
US9672213B2 (en) | 2014-06-10 | 2017-06-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Providing media items from playback history |
US9348824B2 (en) | 2014-06-18 | 2016-05-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Device group identification |
US10068012B2 (en) | 2014-06-27 | 2018-09-04 | Sonos, Inc. | Music discovery |
US9535986B2 (en) | 2014-06-27 | 2017-01-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Application launch |
US9646085B2 (en) | 2014-06-27 | 2017-05-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Music streaming using supported services |
US9779613B2 (en) | 2014-07-01 | 2017-10-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Display and control of pre-determined audio content playback |
US9519413B2 (en) | 2014-07-01 | 2016-12-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Lock screen media playback control |
US10462505B2 (en) | 2014-07-14 | 2019-10-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Policies for media playback |
US9485545B2 (en) | 2014-07-14 | 2016-11-01 | Sonos, Inc. | Inconsistent queues |
US10498833B2 (en) | 2014-07-14 | 2019-12-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Managing application access of a media playback system |
US9460755B2 (en) | 2014-07-14 | 2016-10-04 | Sonos, Inc. | Queue identification |
US9467737B2 (en) | 2014-07-14 | 2016-10-11 | Sonos, Inc. | Zone group control |
US9512954B2 (en) | 2014-07-22 | 2016-12-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Device base |
US8995240B1 (en) | 2014-07-22 | 2015-03-31 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback using positioning information |
US9367283B2 (en) | 2014-07-22 | 2016-06-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio settings |
US10209947B2 (en) | 2014-07-23 | 2019-02-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Device grouping |
US9807436B2 (en) | 2014-07-23 | 2017-10-31 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Systems and methods for providing media asset recommendations for a group |
US9671997B2 (en) | 2014-07-23 | 2017-06-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Zone grouping |
US9524339B2 (en) | 2014-07-30 | 2016-12-20 | Sonos, Inc. | Contextual indexing of media items |
US9874997B2 (en) | 2014-08-08 | 2018-01-23 | Sonos, Inc. | Social playback queues |
US10275138B2 (en) | 2014-09-02 | 2019-04-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Zone recognition |
US10127006B2 (en) | 2014-09-09 | 2018-11-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Facilitating calibration of an audio playback device |
US9952825B2 (en) | 2014-09-09 | 2018-04-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio processing algorithms |
US9910634B2 (en) | 2014-09-09 | 2018-03-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Microphone calibration |
US9891881B2 (en) | 2014-09-09 | 2018-02-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio processing algorithm database |
US9742839B2 (en) | 2014-09-12 | 2017-08-22 | Sonos, Inc. | Cloud queue item removal |
US10778739B2 (en) | 2014-09-19 | 2020-09-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Limited-access media |
US9667679B2 (en) | 2014-09-24 | 2017-05-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Indicating an association between a social-media account and a media playback system |
WO2016049342A1 (en) | 2014-09-24 | 2016-03-31 | Sonos, Inc. | Social media connection recommendations based on playback information |
US10645130B2 (en) | 2014-09-24 | 2020-05-05 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback updates |
US9723038B2 (en) | 2014-09-24 | 2017-08-01 | Sonos, Inc. | Social media connection recommendations based on playback information |
US9860286B2 (en) | 2014-09-24 | 2018-01-02 | Sonos, Inc. | Associating a captured image with a media item |
US9959087B2 (en) | 2014-09-24 | 2018-05-01 | Sonos, Inc. | Media item context from social media |
US9690540B2 (en) | 2014-09-24 | 2017-06-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Social media queue |
US9671780B2 (en) | 2014-09-29 | 2017-06-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback device control |
US10002005B2 (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2018-06-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Displaying data related to media content |
US9521212B2 (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2016-12-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Service provider user accounts |
US9840355B2 (en) | 2014-10-03 | 2017-12-12 | Sonos, Inc. | Packaging system with slidable latch |
US9876780B2 (en) | 2014-11-21 | 2018-01-23 | Sonos, Inc. | Sharing access to a media service |
US20160156992A1 (en) | 2014-12-01 | 2016-06-02 | Sonos, Inc. | Providing Information Associated with a Media Item |
US9973851B2 (en) | 2014-12-01 | 2018-05-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Multi-channel playback of audio content |
US9665341B2 (en) | 2015-02-09 | 2017-05-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Synchronized audio mixing |
US9329831B1 (en) | 2015-02-25 | 2016-05-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback expansion |
US9330096B1 (en) | 2015-02-25 | 2016-05-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback expansion |
US9891880B2 (en) | 2015-03-31 | 2018-02-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Information display regarding playback queue subscriptions |
US9483230B1 (en) | 2015-04-09 | 2016-11-01 | Sonos, Inc. | Wearable device zone group control |
US10152212B2 (en) | 2015-04-10 | 2018-12-11 | Sonos, Inc. | Media container addition and playback within queue |
US9678707B2 (en) | 2015-04-10 | 2017-06-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Identification of audio content facilitated by playback device |
US9706319B2 (en) | 2015-04-20 | 2017-07-11 | Sonos, Inc. | Wireless radio switching |
US9787739B2 (en) | 2015-04-23 | 2017-10-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Social network account assisted service registration |
US10664224B2 (en) | 2015-04-24 | 2020-05-26 | Sonos, Inc. | Speaker calibration user interface |
US9678708B2 (en) | 2015-04-24 | 2017-06-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Volume limit |
WO2016172593A1 (en) | 2015-04-24 | 2016-10-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback device calibration user interfaces |
US11113022B2 (en) * | 2015-05-12 | 2021-09-07 | D&M Holdings, Inc. | Method, system and interface for controlling a subwoofer in a networked audio system |
US11209972B2 (en) | 2015-09-02 | 2021-12-28 | D&M Holdings, Inc. | Combined tablet screen drag-and-drop interface |
US9864571B2 (en) | 2015-06-04 | 2018-01-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Dynamic bonding of playback devices |
US10248376B2 (en) | 2015-06-11 | 2019-04-02 | Sonos, Inc. | Multiple groupings in a playback system |
US9544701B1 (en) | 2015-07-19 | 2017-01-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Base properties in a media playback system |
US9729118B2 (en) | 2015-07-24 | 2017-08-08 | Sonos, Inc. | Loudness matching |
US9538305B2 (en) | 2015-07-28 | 2017-01-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Calibration error conditions |
US9736610B2 (en) | 2015-08-21 | 2017-08-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Manipulation of playback device response using signal processing |
US9712912B2 (en) | 2015-08-21 | 2017-07-18 | Sonos, Inc. | Manipulation of playback device response using an acoustic filter |
US10007481B2 (en) | 2015-08-31 | 2018-06-26 | Sonos, Inc. | Detecting and controlling physical movement of a playback device during audio playback |
US10001965B1 (en) | 2015-09-03 | 2018-06-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback system join with base |
US9693146B2 (en) | 2015-09-11 | 2017-06-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Transducer diaphragm |
US9693165B2 (en) | 2015-09-17 | 2017-06-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Validation of audio calibration using multi-dimensional motion check |
EP3351015B1 (en) | 2015-09-17 | 2019-04-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Facilitating calibration of an audio playback device |
US9779759B2 (en) | 2015-09-17 | 2017-10-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Device impairment detection |
US9946508B1 (en) | 2015-09-30 | 2018-04-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Smart music services preferences |
US9949054B2 (en) | 2015-09-30 | 2018-04-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Spatial mapping of audio playback devices in a listening environment |
US10042602B2 (en) | 2015-09-30 | 2018-08-07 | Sonos, Inc. | Activity reset |
US10098082B2 (en) | 2015-12-16 | 2018-10-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Synchronization of content between networked devices |
US10114605B2 (en) | 2015-12-30 | 2018-10-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Group coordinator selection |
US10284980B1 (en) | 2016-01-05 | 2019-05-07 | Sonos, Inc. | Intelligent group identification |
US10303422B1 (en) | 2016-01-05 | 2019-05-28 | Sonos, Inc. | Multiple-device setup |
US9898245B1 (en) | 2016-01-15 | 2018-02-20 | Sonos, Inc. | System limits based on known triggers |
US9743207B1 (en) | 2016-01-18 | 2017-08-22 | Sonos, Inc. | Calibration using multiple recording devices |
US11106423B2 (en) | 2016-01-25 | 2021-08-31 | Sonos, Inc. | Evaluating calibration of a playback device |
US10003899B2 (en) | 2016-01-25 | 2018-06-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Calibration with particular locations |
US9886234B2 (en) | 2016-01-28 | 2018-02-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods of distributing audio to one or more playback devices |
US9743194B1 (en) | 2016-02-08 | 2017-08-22 | Sonos, Inc. | Woven transducer apparatus |
US9965247B2 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2018-05-08 | Sonos, Inc. | Voice controlled media playback system based on user profile |
US9942680B1 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2018-04-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Transducer assembly |
US9826306B2 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2017-11-21 | Sonos, Inc. | Default playback device designation |
US10509626B2 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2019-12-17 | Sonos, Inc | Handling of loss of pairing between networked devices |
US9947316B2 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2018-04-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Voice control of a media playback system |
US10097939B2 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2018-10-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Compensation for speaker nonlinearities |
US10264030B2 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2019-04-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Networked microphone device control |
US10348849B2 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2019-07-09 | At&T Mobility Ii Llc | Automatic delivery of media content to a device |
US10095470B2 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2018-10-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio response playback |
US20170255623A1 (en) * | 2016-03-03 | 2017-09-07 | Electric Objects, Inc | Content management platform and device for displaying subscription and user-commissioned content |
US9930463B2 (en) | 2016-03-31 | 2018-03-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Defect detection via audio playback |
US9860662B2 (en) | 2016-04-01 | 2018-01-02 | Sonos, Inc. | Updating playback device configuration information based on calibration data |
US9864574B2 (en) | 2016-04-01 | 2018-01-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback device calibration based on representation spectral characteristics |
US9763018B1 (en) | 2016-04-12 | 2017-09-12 | Sonos, Inc. | Calibration of audio playback devices |
US9978390B2 (en) | 2016-06-09 | 2018-05-22 | Sonos, Inc. | Dynamic player selection for audio signal processing |
US9794710B1 (en) | 2016-07-15 | 2017-10-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Spatial audio correction |
US10152969B2 (en) | 2016-07-15 | 2018-12-11 | Sonos, Inc. | Voice detection by multiple devices |
US10134399B2 (en) | 2016-07-15 | 2018-11-20 | Sonos, Inc. | Contextualization of voice inputs |
US9860670B1 (en) | 2016-07-15 | 2018-01-02 | Sonos, Inc. | Spectral correction using spatial calibration |
US10372406B2 (en) | 2016-07-22 | 2019-08-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Calibration interface |
US9883304B1 (en) | 2016-07-29 | 2018-01-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Lifetime of an audio playback device with changed signal processing settings |
US9693164B1 (en) | 2016-08-05 | 2017-06-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Determining direction of networked microphone device relative to audio playback device |
US10459684B2 (en) | 2016-08-05 | 2019-10-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Calibration of a playback device based on an estimated frequency response |
US10115400B2 (en) | 2016-08-05 | 2018-10-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Multiple voice services |
US10657408B2 (en) | 2016-08-26 | 2020-05-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Speaker spider measurement technique |
US9794720B1 (en) | 2016-09-22 | 2017-10-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Acoustic position measurement |
US10318233B2 (en) | 2016-09-23 | 2019-06-11 | Sonos, Inc. | Multimedia experience according to biometrics |
US9942678B1 (en) | 2016-09-27 | 2018-04-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio playback settings for voice interaction |
US9967689B1 (en) | 2016-09-29 | 2018-05-08 | Sonos, Inc. | Conditional content enhancement |
US9743204B1 (en) | 2016-09-30 | 2017-08-22 | Sonos, Inc. | Multi-orientation playback device microphones |
US9967655B2 (en) | 2016-10-06 | 2018-05-08 | Sonos, Inc. | Controlled passive radiator |
US10712997B2 (en) | 2016-10-17 | 2020-07-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Room association based on name |
US10181323B2 (en) | 2016-10-19 | 2019-01-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Arbitration-based voice recognition |
US10142726B2 (en) | 2017-01-31 | 2018-11-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Noise reduction for high-airflow audio transducers |
US11183181B2 (en) | 2017-03-27 | 2021-11-23 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods of multiple voice services |
US9860644B1 (en) | 2017-04-05 | 2018-01-02 | Sonos, Inc. | Limiter for bass enhancement |
US10735880B2 (en) | 2017-05-09 | 2020-08-04 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods of forming audio transducer diaphragms |
US10028069B1 (en) | 2017-06-22 | 2018-07-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Immersive audio in a media playback system |
US10475449B2 (en) | 2017-08-07 | 2019-11-12 | Sonos, Inc. | Wake-word detection suppression |
US11076177B2 (en) | 2017-09-05 | 2021-07-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Grouped zones in a system with multiple media playback protocols |
US10048930B1 (en) | 2017-09-08 | 2018-08-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Dynamic computation of system response volume |
US10292089B2 (en) | 2017-09-18 | 2019-05-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Re-establishing connectivity on lost players |
US10985982B2 (en) | 2017-09-27 | 2021-04-20 | Sonos, Inc. | Proximal playback devices |
US10446165B2 (en) | 2017-09-27 | 2019-10-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Robust short-time fourier transform acoustic echo cancellation during audio playback |
US10051366B1 (en) | 2017-09-28 | 2018-08-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Three-dimensional beam forming with a microphone array |
US10482868B2 (en) | 2017-09-28 | 2019-11-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Multi-channel acoustic echo cancellation |
US10621981B2 (en) | 2017-09-28 | 2020-04-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Tone interference cancellation |
USD854043S1 (en) | 2017-09-29 | 2019-07-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Display screen or portion thereof with graphical user interface |
US10466962B2 (en) | 2017-09-29 | 2019-11-05 | Sonos, Inc. | Media playback system with voice assistance |
FR3072239A1 (en) * | 2017-10-11 | 2019-04-12 | Honeywell International Inc. | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LOADING AIRCRAFT DATA USING CABIN BRIDGES |
US10880650B2 (en) | 2017-12-10 | 2020-12-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Network microphone devices with automatic do not disturb actuation capabilities |
US10818290B2 (en) | 2017-12-11 | 2020-10-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Home graph |
WO2019152722A1 (en) | 2018-01-31 | 2019-08-08 | Sonos, Inc. | Device designation of playback and network microphone device arrangements |
US10656902B2 (en) | 2018-03-05 | 2020-05-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Music discovery dial |
US10462599B2 (en) | 2018-03-21 | 2019-10-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods of adjusting bass levels of multi-channel audio signals |
US10623844B2 (en) | 2018-03-29 | 2020-04-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Headphone interaction with media playback system |
US10862446B2 (en) | 2018-04-02 | 2020-12-08 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods of volume limiting |
US10397694B1 (en) | 2018-04-02 | 2019-08-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback devices having waveguides |
US10698650B2 (en) | 2018-04-06 | 2020-06-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Temporary configuration of a media playback system within a place of accommodation |
US10499128B2 (en) | 2018-04-20 | 2019-12-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback devices having waveguides with drainage features |
US11175880B2 (en) | 2018-05-10 | 2021-11-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods for voice-assisted media content selection |
US10863257B1 (en) | 2018-05-10 | 2020-12-08 | Sonos, Inc. | Method of assembling a loudspeaker |
US10956116B2 (en) | 2018-05-15 | 2021-03-23 | Sonos, Inc. | Media playback system with virtual line-in groups |
US10847178B2 (en) | 2018-05-18 | 2020-11-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Linear filtering for noise-suppressed speech detection |
US10959029B2 (en) | 2018-05-25 | 2021-03-23 | Sonos, Inc. | Determining and adapting to changes in microphone performance of playback devices |
US10735803B2 (en) | 2018-06-05 | 2020-08-04 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback device setup |
US10433058B1 (en) | 2018-06-14 | 2019-10-01 | Sonos, Inc. | Content rules engines for audio playback devices |
US10602286B2 (en) | 2018-06-25 | 2020-03-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Controlling multi-site media playback systems |
US10681460B2 (en) | 2018-06-28 | 2020-06-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods for associating playback devices with voice assistant services |
US10747493B2 (en) | 2018-07-09 | 2020-08-18 | Sonos, Inc. | Distributed provisioning of properties of operational settings of a media playback system |
US10299061B1 (en) | 2018-08-28 | 2019-05-21 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback device calibration |
US10461710B1 (en) | 2018-08-28 | 2019-10-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Media playback system with maximum volume setting |
US11076035B2 (en) | 2018-08-28 | 2021-07-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Do not disturb feature for audio notifications |
US11206484B2 (en) | 2018-08-28 | 2021-12-21 | Sonos, Inc. | Passive speaker authentication |
US10587430B1 (en) | 2018-09-14 | 2020-03-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Networked devices, systems, and methods for associating playback devices based on sound codes |
US10878811B2 (en) | 2018-09-14 | 2020-12-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Networked devices, systems, and methods for intelligently deactivating wake-word engines |
US11024331B2 (en) | 2018-09-21 | 2021-06-01 | Sonos, Inc. | Voice detection optimization using sound metadata |
US10811015B2 (en) | 2018-09-25 | 2020-10-20 | Sonos, Inc. | Voice detection optimization based on selected voice assistant service |
US11100923B2 (en) | 2018-09-28 | 2021-08-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods for selective wake word detection using neural network models |
US10692518B2 (en) | 2018-09-29 | 2020-06-23 | Sonos, Inc. | Linear filtering for noise-suppressed speech detection via multiple network microphone devices |
US10277981B1 (en) | 2018-10-02 | 2019-04-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods of user localization |
US11514777B2 (en) | 2018-10-02 | 2022-11-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Methods and devices for transferring data using sound signals |
US11416209B2 (en) | 2018-10-15 | 2022-08-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Distributed synchronization |
US11899519B2 (en) | 2018-10-23 | 2024-02-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Multiple stage network microphone device with reduced power consumption and processing load |
EP3654249A1 (en) | 2018-11-15 | 2020-05-20 | Snips | Dilated convolutions and gating for efficient keyword spotting |
USD963685S1 (en) | 2018-12-06 | 2022-09-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Display screen or portion thereof with graphical user interface for media playback control |
US11183183B2 (en) | 2018-12-07 | 2021-11-23 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods of operating media playback systems having multiple voice assistant services |
US11393478B2 (en) | 2018-12-12 | 2022-07-19 | Sonos, Inc. | User specific context switching |
US11132989B2 (en) | 2018-12-13 | 2021-09-28 | Sonos, Inc. | Networked microphone devices, systems, and methods of localized arbitration |
US10602268B1 (en) | 2018-12-20 | 2020-03-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Optimization of network microphone devices using noise classification |
US11740854B2 (en) | 2019-01-20 | 2023-08-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Playing media content in response to detecting items having corresponding media content associated therewith |
KR20210146885A (en) | 2019-02-07 | 2021-12-06 | 메이츠 홀딩 비.브이. | Inline Damper Bellows Dual Opposite Driver Speakers |
US10867604B2 (en) | 2019-02-08 | 2020-12-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Devices, systems, and methods for distributed voice processing |
US11315556B2 (en) | 2019-02-08 | 2022-04-26 | Sonos, Inc. | Devices, systems, and methods for distributed voice processing by transmitting sound data associated with a wake word to an appropriate device for identification |
US11188294B2 (en) | 2019-02-28 | 2021-11-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Detecting the nearest playback device |
WO2020176893A1 (en) | 2019-02-28 | 2020-09-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback transitions between audio devices |
US11184666B2 (en) | 2019-04-01 | 2021-11-23 | Sonos, Inc. | Access control techniques for media playback systems |
WO2020207608A1 (en) | 2019-04-11 | 2020-10-15 | Mayht Holding B.V. | Linear motor magnet assembly and loudspeaker unit |
US10998615B1 (en) | 2019-04-12 | 2021-05-04 | Sonos, Inc. | Spatial antenna diversity techniques |
US11120794B2 (en) | 2019-05-03 | 2021-09-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Voice assistant persistence across multiple network microphone devices |
US10681463B1 (en) | 2019-05-17 | 2020-06-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Wireless transmission to satellites for multichannel audio system |
US11178504B2 (en) | 2019-05-17 | 2021-11-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Wireless multi-channel headphone systems and methods |
US10880009B2 (en) | 2019-05-24 | 2020-12-29 | Sonos, Inc. | Control signal repeater system |
WO2020247811A1 (en) | 2019-06-07 | 2020-12-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Automatically allocating audio portions to playback devices |
US11342671B2 (en) | 2019-06-07 | 2022-05-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Dual-band antenna topology |
US11416210B2 (en) | 2019-06-07 | 2022-08-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Management of media devices having limited capabilities |
US11126243B2 (en) | 2019-06-07 | 2021-09-21 | Sonos, Inc. | Portable playback device power management |
US11093016B2 (en) | 2019-06-07 | 2021-08-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Portable playback device power management |
US11361756B2 (en) | 2019-06-12 | 2022-06-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Conditional wake word eventing based on environment |
US11200894B2 (en) | 2019-06-12 | 2021-12-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Network microphone device with command keyword eventing |
US10586540B1 (en) | 2019-06-12 | 2020-03-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Network microphone device with command keyword conditioning |
US11523206B2 (en) | 2019-06-28 | 2022-12-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Wireless earbud charging |
US11138969B2 (en) | 2019-07-31 | 2021-10-05 | Sonos, Inc. | Locally distributed keyword detection |
US11138975B2 (en) | 2019-07-31 | 2021-10-05 | Sonos, Inc. | Locally distributed keyword detection |
US10871943B1 (en) | 2019-07-31 | 2020-12-22 | Sonos, Inc. | Noise classification for event detection |
US10734965B1 (en) | 2019-08-12 | 2020-08-04 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio calibration of a portable playback device |
US11539545B2 (en) | 2019-08-19 | 2022-12-27 | Sonos, Inc. | Multi-network playback devices |
US11528574B2 (en) | 2019-08-30 | 2022-12-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Sum-difference arrays for audio playback devices |
US11818187B2 (en) | 2019-08-31 | 2023-11-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Mixed-mode synchronous playback |
US11762624B2 (en) | 2019-09-23 | 2023-09-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Capacitive touch sensor with integrated antenna(s) for playback devices |
US10754614B1 (en) | 2019-09-23 | 2020-08-25 | Sonos, Inc. | Mood detection and/or influence via audio playback devices |
US11303988B2 (en) | 2019-10-17 | 2022-04-12 | Sonos, Inc. | Portable device microphone status indicator |
US11189286B2 (en) | 2019-10-22 | 2021-11-30 | Sonos, Inc. | VAS toggle based on device orientation |
US11483670B2 (en) | 2019-10-30 | 2022-10-25 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods of providing spatial audio associated with a simulated environment |
US11204737B2 (en) | 2019-11-11 | 2021-12-21 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback queues for shared experiences |
US11636855B2 (en) | 2019-11-11 | 2023-04-25 | Sonos, Inc. | Media content based on operational data |
US11093689B2 (en) | 2019-11-12 | 2021-08-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Application programming interface for browsing media content |
WO2021108805A1 (en) | 2019-11-26 | 2021-06-03 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods of spatial audio playback with cancellation of unwanted direct sound |
US11200900B2 (en) | 2019-12-20 | 2021-12-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Offline voice control |
US11409495B2 (en) | 2020-01-03 | 2022-08-09 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio conflict resolution |
US11562740B2 (en) | 2020-01-07 | 2023-01-24 | Sonos, Inc. | Voice verification for media playback |
US11175883B2 (en) | 2020-01-17 | 2021-11-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback session transitions across different platforms |
US11556307B2 (en) | 2020-01-31 | 2023-01-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Local voice data processing |
US11308958B2 (en) | 2020-02-07 | 2022-04-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Localized wakeword verification |
US11445301B2 (en) | 2020-02-12 | 2022-09-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Portable playback devices with network operation modes |
US11528555B2 (en) | 2020-02-19 | 2022-12-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Acoustic waveguides for multi-channel playback devices |
US11356764B2 (en) | 2020-03-03 | 2022-06-07 | Sonos, Inc. | Dynamic earbud profile |
US11422770B2 (en) | 2020-03-03 | 2022-08-23 | Sonos, Inc. | Techniques for reducing latency in a wireless home theater environment |
US11038937B1 (en) | 2020-03-06 | 2021-06-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Hybrid sniffing and rebroadcast for Bluetooth networks |
US11348592B2 (en) | 2020-03-09 | 2022-05-31 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods of audio decoder determination and selection |
US11418556B2 (en) | 2020-03-23 | 2022-08-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Seamless transition of source of media content |
WO2021195658A1 (en) | 2020-03-25 | 2021-09-30 | Sonos, Inc. | Thermal control of audio playback devices |
US11758214B2 (en) | 2020-04-21 | 2023-09-12 | Sonos, Inc. | Techniques for clock rate synchronization |
CA3175994A1 (en) | 2020-04-21 | 2021-10-28 | Dieter Rapitsch | Cable retraction mechanism for headphone devices |
AU2021259316B2 (en) | 2020-04-21 | 2023-11-23 | Sonos, Inc. | Priority media content |
US11482224B2 (en) | 2020-05-20 | 2022-10-25 | Sonos, Inc. | Command keywords with input detection windowing |
US11727919B2 (en) | 2020-05-20 | 2023-08-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Memory allocation for keyword spotting engines |
US11308962B2 (en) | 2020-05-20 | 2022-04-19 | Sonos, Inc. | Input detection windowing |
US11528551B2 (en) | 2020-06-01 | 2022-12-13 | Sonos, Inc. | Acoustic filters for microphone noise mitigation and transducer venting |
US11737164B2 (en) | 2020-06-08 | 2023-08-22 | Sonos, Inc. | Simulation of device removal |
US11553269B2 (en) | 2020-06-17 | 2023-01-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Cable assemblies for headphone devices |
US11922955B2 (en) | 2020-08-24 | 2024-03-05 | Sonos, Inc. | Multichannel playback devices and associated systems and methods |
US11698771B2 (en) | 2020-08-25 | 2023-07-11 | Sonos, Inc. | Vocal guidance engines for playback devices |
US11943823B2 (en) | 2020-08-31 | 2024-03-26 | Sonos, Inc. | Techniques to reduce time to music for a playback device |
WO2022056126A1 (en) | 2020-09-09 | 2022-03-17 | Sonos, Inc. | Wearable audio device within a distributed audio playback system |
US11809778B2 (en) | 2020-09-11 | 2023-11-07 | Sonos, Inc. | Techniques for extending the lifespan of playback devices |
US20220103199A1 (en) | 2020-09-29 | 2022-03-31 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio Playback Management of Multiple Concurrent Connections |
US11831288B2 (en) | 2020-10-23 | 2023-11-28 | Sonos, Inc. | Techniques for enabling interoperability between media playback systems |
US11812240B2 (en) | 2020-11-18 | 2023-11-07 | Sonos, Inc. | Playback of generative media content |
US11551700B2 (en) | 2021-01-25 | 2023-01-10 | Sonos, Inc. | Systems and methods for power-efficient keyword detection |
CA3211475A1 (en) | 2021-03-08 | 2022-09-15 | William SHOESMITH | Updating network configuration parameters |
US11962964B2 (en) | 2021-03-08 | 2024-04-16 | Sonos, Inc. | Headset with improved headband and method for manufacturing the headset |
US11930328B2 (en) | 2021-03-08 | 2024-03-12 | Sonos, Inc. | Operation modes, audio layering, and dedicated controls for targeted audio experiences |
US11818427B2 (en) | 2021-03-26 | 2023-11-14 | Sonos, Inc. | Adaptive media playback experiences for commercial environments |
US11700436B2 (en) | 2021-05-05 | 2023-07-11 | Sonos, Inc. | Content playback reminders |
CA3233442A1 (en) | 2021-09-30 | 2023-04-06 | Sonos, Inc. | Audio parameter adjustment based on playback device separation distance |
Citations (99)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4682370A (en) * | 1982-10-18 | 1987-07-21 | Matthews Gordon H | Apparatus for automatically detecting and playing desired audio segments over a broadcast receiver |
US5127045A (en) * | 1989-11-16 | 1992-06-30 | Cragun David R | Identifying telephone controller system |
US5276909A (en) * | 1991-06-25 | 1994-01-04 | Autotalk, Inc. | Traffic information broadcast system |
US5282246A (en) * | 1991-11-08 | 1994-01-25 | Yang Chao Ming | Handsfree mobile telephone rack |
US5410344A (en) * | 1993-09-22 | 1995-04-25 | Arrowsmith Technologies, Inc. | Apparatus and method of selecting video programs based on viewers' preferences |
US5420907A (en) * | 1993-07-27 | 1995-05-30 | Shapiro; L. Dennis | Automatic control system for a remotely controllable sound producing device |
US5481616A (en) * | 1993-11-08 | 1996-01-02 | Sparkomatic Corporation | Plug-in sound accessory for portable computers |
US5522089A (en) * | 1993-05-07 | 1996-05-28 | Cordata, Inc. | Personal digital assistant module adapted for initiating telephone communications through DTMF dialing |
US5523781A (en) * | 1993-02-11 | 1996-06-04 | Precision Industries, Incorporated | System for controlling television and billing for its use |
US5528316A (en) * | 1993-02-26 | 1996-06-18 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Method for selecting a television turn-on time volume level |
US5606594A (en) * | 1994-01-27 | 1997-02-25 | Dell Usa, L.P. | Communication accessory and method of telecommunicating for a PDA |
US5640453A (en) * | 1994-08-11 | 1997-06-17 | Stanford Telecommunications, Inc. | Universal interactive set-top controller for downloading and playback of information and entertainment services |
US5651070A (en) * | 1995-04-12 | 1997-07-22 | Blunt; Thomas O. | Warning device programmable to be sensitive to preselected sound frequencies |
US5739665A (en) * | 1996-01-25 | 1998-04-14 | Enbloc, Inc. | Radio modem docking station for palm-sized computer |
US5768539A (en) * | 1994-05-27 | 1998-06-16 | Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. | Downloading applications software through a broadcast channel |
US5774664A (en) * | 1996-03-08 | 1998-06-30 | Actv, Inc. | Enhanced video programming system and method for incorporating and displaying retrieved integrated internet information segments |
US5786768A (en) * | 1997-04-16 | 1998-07-28 | Patrick Plastics Inc. | Clock radio gas detector apparatus and method for alerting residents to hazardous gas concentrations |
US5790935A (en) * | 1996-01-30 | 1998-08-04 | Hughes Aircraft Company | Virtual on-demand digital information delivery system and method |
US5790897A (en) * | 1995-08-21 | 1998-08-04 | New Media Corp. | Plug-in computer card with internal audio speaker element |
US5859970A (en) * | 1996-08-27 | 1999-01-12 | Telxon Corporation | Portable computer with internal ethernet/token ring controller |
US5860001A (en) * | 1997-05-19 | 1999-01-12 | International Business Machines Corporation | Computer system having at least two boot sequences |
US5864708A (en) * | 1996-05-20 | 1999-01-26 | Croft; Daniel I. | Docking station for docking a portable computer with a wireless interface |
US5889506A (en) * | 1996-10-25 | 1999-03-30 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Video user's environment |
US5890016A (en) * | 1996-05-07 | 1999-03-30 | Intel Corporation | Hybrid computer add in device for selectively coupling to personal computer or solely to another add in device for proper functioning |
US5905523A (en) * | 1993-10-15 | 1999-05-18 | Two Way Tv Limited | Interactive system |
US5907793A (en) * | 1992-05-01 | 1999-05-25 | Reams; David A. | Telephone-based interactive broadcast or cable radio or television methods and apparatus |
US5907322A (en) * | 1996-10-16 | 1999-05-25 | Catch Tv Acquisition Corp. | Television event marking system |
US5913039A (en) * | 1996-01-19 | 1999-06-15 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Video on demand system with a transmission schedule table in the video server including entries for client identifiers, video titles, and reproduction start times |
US5915026A (en) * | 1994-12-23 | 1999-06-22 | Gemstar Development Corporation | System and method for programming electronic devices from a remote site |
US6012083A (en) * | 1996-09-24 | 2000-01-04 | Ricoh Company Ltd. | Method and apparatus for document processing using agents to process transactions created based on document content |
US6011853A (en) * | 1995-10-05 | 2000-01-04 | Nokia Mobile Phones, Ltd. | Equalization of speech signal in mobile phone |
US6023241A (en) * | 1998-11-13 | 2000-02-08 | Intel Corporation | Digital multimedia navigation player/recorder |
US6038542A (en) * | 1998-04-28 | 2000-03-14 | Micron Electronics, Inc. | System for notifying an individual of a previously scheduled event |
US6044275A (en) * | 1998-03-23 | 2000-03-28 | Ericsson Inc. | System and method for time defined delivery of short message service messages |
US6043976A (en) * | 1997-10-24 | 2000-03-28 | Universal Scientific Industrial Co., Ltd. | Docking base for a portable computer |
US6052145A (en) * | 1995-01-05 | 2000-04-18 | Gemstar Development Corporation | System and method for controlling the broadcast and recording of television programs and for distributing information to be displayed on a television screen |
US6055566A (en) * | 1998-01-12 | 2000-04-25 | Lextron Systems, Inc. | Customizable media player with online/offline capabilities |
US6060993A (en) * | 1998-11-03 | 2000-05-09 | Adapt Media, Inc. | Mobile display system |
US6104334A (en) * | 1997-12-31 | 2000-08-15 | Eremote, Inc. | Portable internet-enabled controller and information browser for consumer devices |
US6134584A (en) * | 1997-11-21 | 2000-10-17 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method for accessing and retrieving information from a source maintained by a network server |
US6169879B1 (en) * | 1998-09-16 | 2001-01-02 | Webtv Networks, Inc. | System and method of interconnecting and using components of home entertainment system |
US6170060B1 (en) * | 1997-10-03 | 2001-01-02 | Audible, Inc. | Method and apparatus for targeting a digital information playback device |
US6177931B1 (en) * | 1996-12-19 | 2001-01-23 | Index Systems, Inc. | Systems and methods for displaying and recording control interface with television programs, video, advertising information and program scheduling information |
US6181284B1 (en) * | 1999-05-28 | 2001-01-30 | 3 Com Corporation | Antenna for portable computers |
US6192340B1 (en) * | 1999-10-19 | 2001-02-20 | Max Abecassis | Integration of music from a personal library with real-time information |
US6205485B1 (en) * | 1997-03-27 | 2001-03-20 | Lextron Systems, Inc | Simulcast WEB page delivery using a 3D user interface system |
US6209011B1 (en) * | 1997-05-08 | 2001-03-27 | Microsoft Corporation | Handheld computing device with external notification system |
US6208384B1 (en) * | 1996-07-11 | 2001-03-27 | Douglas G. Brown | Methods and systems for providing information to a television using a personal computer |
US6223213B1 (en) * | 1998-07-31 | 2001-04-24 | Webtv Networks, Inc. | Browser-based email system with user interface for audio/video capture |
US6229430B1 (en) * | 2000-02-18 | 2001-05-08 | Mary Smith Dewey | System and method for alerting a user |
US6243772B1 (en) * | 1997-01-31 | 2001-06-05 | Sharewave, Inc. | Method and system for coupling a personal computer with an appliance unit via a wireless communication link to provide an output display presentation |
US6259707B1 (en) * | 1998-10-30 | 2001-07-10 | Sony Corporation | Synchronizing a data driven interaction controller and a non-data driven interaction controller |
US6263503B1 (en) * | 1999-05-26 | 2001-07-17 | Neal Margulis | Method for effectively implementing a wireless television system |
US20020010759A1 (en) * | 1999-12-30 | 2002-01-24 | Hitson Bruce L. | System and method for multimedia content composition and distribution |
US20020011923A1 (en) * | 2000-01-13 | 2002-01-31 | Thalia Products, Inc. | Appliance Communication And Control System And Appliance For Use In Same |
US6351467B1 (en) * | 1997-10-27 | 2002-02-26 | Hughes Electronics Corporation | System and method for multicasting multimedia content |
US6353635B1 (en) * | 1999-02-12 | 2002-03-05 | Microsoft Corporation | Method for simultaneously controlling multiple devices using a single communication channel |
US6360101B1 (en) * | 1998-12-31 | 2002-03-19 | Ericsson Inc. | Cellular phone that displays or sends messages upon its arrival at a predetermined location |
US20020038376A1 (en) * | 2000-09-18 | 2002-03-28 | Halliday Christopher I. | Time shifting over a global communication network |
US20020049717A1 (en) * | 2000-05-10 | 2002-04-25 | Routtenberg Michael D. | Digital content distribution system and method |
US20020058495A1 (en) * | 1998-12-30 | 2002-05-16 | Albert Chow | Method and apparatus for providing neighborhood cordless services |
US6401059B1 (en) * | 1999-05-25 | 2002-06-04 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method and system for using a personal digital assistant as a remote control |
US20020078248A1 (en) * | 2000-09-05 | 2002-06-20 | Janik Craig M. | Adapter module for a personal digital assistant and method for using the same |
US20020087887A1 (en) * | 2000-09-19 | 2002-07-04 | Busam Vincent R. | Device-to-device network |
US6424369B1 (en) * | 1997-10-06 | 2002-07-23 | Edwin L. Adair | Hand-held computers incorporating reduced area imaging devices |
US20020103880A1 (en) * | 2001-01-26 | 2002-08-01 | David Konetski | System and method for using resources of a computer system in conjuction with a thin media client |
US6434403B1 (en) * | 1999-02-19 | 2002-08-13 | Bodycom, Inc. | Personal digital assistant with wireless telephone |
US6437836B1 (en) * | 1998-09-21 | 2002-08-20 | Navispace, Inc. | Extended functionally remote control system and method therefore |
US6442529B1 (en) * | 1998-11-17 | 2002-08-27 | Novaweb Technologies, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for delivering targeted information and advertising over the internet |
US6507273B1 (en) * | 1999-10-08 | 2003-01-14 | Digipower Manufacturing Inc. | Network-based remotely-controlled power switch device |
US6509908B1 (en) * | 1998-05-13 | 2003-01-21 | Clemens Croy | Personal navigator system |
US6516340B2 (en) * | 1999-07-08 | 2003-02-04 | Central Coast Patent Agency, Inc. | Method and apparatus for creating and executing internet based lectures using public domain web page |
US6518902B2 (en) * | 2001-04-30 | 2003-02-11 | Texas Instruments Incorporated | PC card and WLAN system having high speed, high resolution, digital-to analog converter with off-line sigma delta conversion and storage |
US6535590B2 (en) * | 1999-05-27 | 2003-03-18 | Qwest Communicationss International, Inc. | Telephony system |
US6539433B1 (en) * | 1998-09-30 | 2003-03-25 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | System for distributing native program converted from Java bytecode to a specified home appliance |
US6542721B2 (en) * | 1999-10-11 | 2003-04-01 | Peter V. Boesen | Cellular telephone, personal digital assistant and pager unit |
US6549942B1 (en) * | 1995-05-25 | 2003-04-15 | Audiohighway.Com | Enhanced delivery of audio data for portable playback |
US6557756B1 (en) * | 1998-09-04 | 2003-05-06 | Ncr Corporation | Communications, particularly in the domestic environment |
US6577849B1 (en) * | 1999-02-03 | 2003-06-10 | Motorola, Inc. | Method and apparatus for providing additional information about a broadcast |
US6581103B1 (en) * | 1999-10-22 | 2003-06-17 | Dedicated Radio, Llc | Method for internet radio broadcasting including listener requests of audio and/or video files with input dedications |
US6587822B2 (en) * | 1998-10-06 | 2003-07-01 | Lucent Technologies Inc. | Web-based platform for interactive voice response (IVR) |
US6594682B2 (en) * | 1997-10-28 | 2003-07-15 | Microsoft Corporation | Client-side system for scheduling delivery of web content and locally managing the web content |
US6611537B1 (en) * | 1997-05-30 | 2003-08-26 | Centillium Communications, Inc. | Synchronous network for digital media streams |
US6611654B1 (en) * | 1999-04-01 | 2003-08-26 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics Nv | Time- and location-driven personalized TV |
US6678215B1 (en) * | 1999-12-28 | 2004-01-13 | G. Victor Treyz | Digital audio devices |
US6708217B1 (en) * | 2000-01-05 | 2004-03-16 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method and system for receiving and demultiplexing multi-modal document content |
US6725460B1 (en) * | 1998-01-31 | 2004-04-20 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Multi-media data automatic delivery system |
US20040117845A1 (en) * | 2002-12-11 | 2004-06-17 | Jeyhan Karaoguz | Personal inter-home media exchange network |
US6762690B1 (en) * | 1998-04-08 | 2004-07-13 | Thomson Licensing S.A. | Method and apparatus for optimizing the resource sharing for audio/video/data processing devices in a home network environment |
US6842779B1 (en) * | 1998-03-11 | 2005-01-11 | Yasuo Nishizawa | Agent accessory tool cooperating with integrated application on WEB server by HTTP protocol |
US20050028208A1 (en) * | 1998-07-17 | 2005-02-03 | United Video Properties, Inc. | Interactive television program guide with remote access |
US6889382B1 (en) * | 1999-07-27 | 2005-05-03 | Mediaone Group, Inc. | Remote TV control system |
US20060031551A1 (en) * | 2000-09-06 | 2006-02-09 | Robert Agresta | System, device and method for remotely providing, accessing and using personal entertainment media |
US7043532B1 (en) * | 1998-05-07 | 2006-05-09 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Method and apparatus for universally accessible command and control information in a network |
US20070033265A1 (en) * | 1998-09-22 | 2007-02-08 | Avocent Huntsville Corporation | System and method for accessing and operating personal computers remotely |
US7222354B1 (en) * | 1999-10-05 | 2007-05-22 | International Business Machines, Corporation | Dynamic composition at the set-top box |
US20070156842A1 (en) * | 2005-12-29 | 2007-07-05 | Vermeulen Allan H | Distributed storage system with web services client interface |
US7516078B2 (en) * | 2005-05-25 | 2009-04-07 | Microsoft Corporation | Personal shared playback |
US8438297B1 (en) * | 2005-01-31 | 2013-05-07 | At&T Intellectual Property Ii, L.P. | Method and system for supplying media over communication networks |
Family Cites Families (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5905251A (en) * | 1993-11-24 | 1999-05-18 | Metrologic Instruments, Inc. | Hand-held portable WWW access terminal with visual display panel and GUI-based WWW browser program integrated with bar code symbol reader in a hand-supportable housing |
US5991306A (en) | 1996-08-26 | 1999-11-23 | Microsoft Corporation | Pull based, intelligent caching system and method for delivering data over a network |
US6052751A (en) | 1997-02-14 | 2000-04-18 | Advanced Micro Devices, I Nc. | Method and apparatus for changing the number of access slots into a memory |
US6008777A (en) | 1997-03-07 | 1999-12-28 | Intel Corporation | Wireless connectivity between a personal computer and a television |
GB9715228D0 (en) | 1997-07-18 | 1997-09-24 | Sertway Limited | Communications system and method |
GB9715516D0 (en) * | 1997-07-22 | 1997-10-01 | Orange Personal Comm Serv Ltd | Data communications |
US5990885A (en) | 1997-07-29 | 1999-11-23 | Network Machines, Inc. | Personalized services, including a personal presence, for customers based upon collected personal preferences |
US6304895B1 (en) * | 1997-08-22 | 2001-10-16 | Apex Inc. | Method and system for intelligently controlling a remotely located computer |
US5978807A (en) | 1997-09-30 | 1999-11-02 | Sony Corporation | Apparatus for and method of automatically downloading and storing internet web pages |
US6467089B1 (en) * | 1997-12-23 | 2002-10-15 | Nielsen Media Research, Inc. | Audience measurement system incorporating a mobile handset |
GB2343073B (en) | 1998-10-23 | 2003-01-22 | Sony Uk Ltd | Television receiving apparatus with remote control |
US6326982B1 (en) | 1999-06-24 | 2001-12-04 | Enreach Technology, Inc. | Method and apparatus for automatically accessing web pages based on television programming information |
EP1201084A1 (en) | 1999-08-02 | 2002-05-02 | Sun Microsystems, Inc. | Method and apparatus for presenting video data obtained from a network |
US6496692B1 (en) | 1999-12-06 | 2002-12-17 | Michael E. Shanahan | Methods and apparatuses for programming user-defined information into electronic devices |
-
2001
- 2001-08-07 US US09/924,646 patent/US7130616B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-08-08 AT AT01959676T patent/ATE347771T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2001-08-08 WO PCT/US2001/024933 patent/WO2002013487A2/en active Search and Examination
- 2001-08-08 KR KR10-2003-7001840A patent/KR20030040388A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2001-08-08 AU AU2001281204A patent/AU2001281204A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2001-08-08 DE DE60125044T patent/DE60125044T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-08-08 EP EP01959676A patent/EP1310073B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2006
- 2006-03-06 US US11/368,871 patent/US20060149813A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (100)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4682370A (en) * | 1982-10-18 | 1987-07-21 | Matthews Gordon H | Apparatus for automatically detecting and playing desired audio segments over a broadcast receiver |
US5127045A (en) * | 1989-11-16 | 1992-06-30 | Cragun David R | Identifying telephone controller system |
US5276909A (en) * | 1991-06-25 | 1994-01-04 | Autotalk, Inc. | Traffic information broadcast system |
US5282246A (en) * | 1991-11-08 | 1994-01-25 | Yang Chao Ming | Handsfree mobile telephone rack |
US5907793A (en) * | 1992-05-01 | 1999-05-25 | Reams; David A. | Telephone-based interactive broadcast or cable radio or television methods and apparatus |
US5523781A (en) * | 1993-02-11 | 1996-06-04 | Precision Industries, Incorporated | System for controlling television and billing for its use |
US5528316A (en) * | 1993-02-26 | 1996-06-18 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Method for selecting a television turn-on time volume level |
US5522089A (en) * | 1993-05-07 | 1996-05-28 | Cordata, Inc. | Personal digital assistant module adapted for initiating telephone communications through DTMF dialing |
US5420907A (en) * | 1993-07-27 | 1995-05-30 | Shapiro; L. Dennis | Automatic control system for a remotely controllable sound producing device |
US5410344A (en) * | 1993-09-22 | 1995-04-25 | Arrowsmith Technologies, Inc. | Apparatus and method of selecting video programs based on viewers' preferences |
US5905523A (en) * | 1993-10-15 | 1999-05-18 | Two Way Tv Limited | Interactive system |
US5481616A (en) * | 1993-11-08 | 1996-01-02 | Sparkomatic Corporation | Plug-in sound accessory for portable computers |
US5606594A (en) * | 1994-01-27 | 1997-02-25 | Dell Usa, L.P. | Communication accessory and method of telecommunicating for a PDA |
US5768539A (en) * | 1994-05-27 | 1998-06-16 | Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. | Downloading applications software through a broadcast channel |
US5640453A (en) * | 1994-08-11 | 1997-06-17 | Stanford Telecommunications, Inc. | Universal interactive set-top controller for downloading and playback of information and entertainment services |
US5915026A (en) * | 1994-12-23 | 1999-06-22 | Gemstar Development Corporation | System and method for programming electronic devices from a remote site |
US6052145A (en) * | 1995-01-05 | 2000-04-18 | Gemstar Development Corporation | System and method for controlling the broadcast and recording of television programs and for distributing information to be displayed on a television screen |
US5651070A (en) * | 1995-04-12 | 1997-07-22 | Blunt; Thomas O. | Warning device programmable to be sensitive to preselected sound frequencies |
US6549942B1 (en) * | 1995-05-25 | 2003-04-15 | Audiohighway.Com | Enhanced delivery of audio data for portable playback |
US5790897A (en) * | 1995-08-21 | 1998-08-04 | New Media Corp. | Plug-in computer card with internal audio speaker element |
US6011853A (en) * | 1995-10-05 | 2000-01-04 | Nokia Mobile Phones, Ltd. | Equalization of speech signal in mobile phone |
US5913039A (en) * | 1996-01-19 | 1999-06-15 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Video on demand system with a transmission schedule table in the video server including entries for client identifiers, video titles, and reproduction start times |
US5739665A (en) * | 1996-01-25 | 1998-04-14 | Enbloc, Inc. | Radio modem docking station for palm-sized computer |
US5790935A (en) * | 1996-01-30 | 1998-08-04 | Hughes Aircraft Company | Virtual on-demand digital information delivery system and method |
US5774664A (en) * | 1996-03-08 | 1998-06-30 | Actv, Inc. | Enhanced video programming system and method for incorporating and displaying retrieved integrated internet information segments |
US5890016A (en) * | 1996-05-07 | 1999-03-30 | Intel Corporation | Hybrid computer add in device for selectively coupling to personal computer or solely to another add in device for proper functioning |
US5864708A (en) * | 1996-05-20 | 1999-01-26 | Croft; Daniel I. | Docking station for docking a portable computer with a wireless interface |
US6208384B1 (en) * | 1996-07-11 | 2001-03-27 | Douglas G. Brown | Methods and systems for providing information to a television using a personal computer |
US5859970A (en) * | 1996-08-27 | 1999-01-12 | Telxon Corporation | Portable computer with internal ethernet/token ring controller |
US6012083A (en) * | 1996-09-24 | 2000-01-04 | Ricoh Company Ltd. | Method and apparatus for document processing using agents to process transactions created based on document content |
US5907322A (en) * | 1996-10-16 | 1999-05-25 | Catch Tv Acquisition Corp. | Television event marking system |
US5889506A (en) * | 1996-10-25 | 1999-03-30 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Video user's environment |
US6177931B1 (en) * | 1996-12-19 | 2001-01-23 | Index Systems, Inc. | Systems and methods for displaying and recording control interface with television programs, video, advertising information and program scheduling information |
US6243772B1 (en) * | 1997-01-31 | 2001-06-05 | Sharewave, Inc. | Method and system for coupling a personal computer with an appliance unit via a wireless communication link to provide an output display presentation |
US7349975B2 (en) * | 1997-03-27 | 2008-03-25 | Jlb Ventures Llc | Simulcast web page delivery |
US6205485B1 (en) * | 1997-03-27 | 2001-03-20 | Lextron Systems, Inc | Simulcast WEB page delivery using a 3D user interface system |
US5786768A (en) * | 1997-04-16 | 1998-07-28 | Patrick Plastics Inc. | Clock radio gas detector apparatus and method for alerting residents to hazardous gas concentrations |
US6209011B1 (en) * | 1997-05-08 | 2001-03-27 | Microsoft Corporation | Handheld computing device with external notification system |
US5860001A (en) * | 1997-05-19 | 1999-01-12 | International Business Machines Corporation | Computer system having at least two boot sequences |
US6611537B1 (en) * | 1997-05-30 | 2003-08-26 | Centillium Communications, Inc. | Synchronous network for digital media streams |
US6170060B1 (en) * | 1997-10-03 | 2001-01-02 | Audible, Inc. | Method and apparatus for targeting a digital information playback device |
US6424369B1 (en) * | 1997-10-06 | 2002-07-23 | Edwin L. Adair | Hand-held computers incorporating reduced area imaging devices |
US6043976A (en) * | 1997-10-24 | 2000-03-28 | Universal Scientific Industrial Co., Ltd. | Docking base for a portable computer |
US6351467B1 (en) * | 1997-10-27 | 2002-02-26 | Hughes Electronics Corporation | System and method for multicasting multimedia content |
US6594682B2 (en) * | 1997-10-28 | 2003-07-15 | Microsoft Corporation | Client-side system for scheduling delivery of web content and locally managing the web content |
US6134584A (en) * | 1997-11-21 | 2000-10-17 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method for accessing and retrieving information from a source maintained by a network server |
US6104334A (en) * | 1997-12-31 | 2000-08-15 | Eremote, Inc. | Portable internet-enabled controller and information browser for consumer devices |
US6055566A (en) * | 1998-01-12 | 2000-04-25 | Lextron Systems, Inc. | Customizable media player with online/offline capabilities |
US6725460B1 (en) * | 1998-01-31 | 2004-04-20 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Multi-media data automatic delivery system |
US6842779B1 (en) * | 1998-03-11 | 2005-01-11 | Yasuo Nishizawa | Agent accessory tool cooperating with integrated application on WEB server by HTTP protocol |
US6044275A (en) * | 1998-03-23 | 2000-03-28 | Ericsson Inc. | System and method for time defined delivery of short message service messages |
US6762690B1 (en) * | 1998-04-08 | 2004-07-13 | Thomson Licensing S.A. | Method and apparatus for optimizing the resource sharing for audio/video/data processing devices in a home network environment |
US6038542A (en) * | 1998-04-28 | 2000-03-14 | Micron Electronics, Inc. | System for notifying an individual of a previously scheduled event |
US7043532B1 (en) * | 1998-05-07 | 2006-05-09 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Method and apparatus for universally accessible command and control information in a network |
US6509908B1 (en) * | 1998-05-13 | 2003-01-21 | Clemens Croy | Personal navigator system |
US20050028208A1 (en) * | 1998-07-17 | 2005-02-03 | United Video Properties, Inc. | Interactive television program guide with remote access |
US6223213B1 (en) * | 1998-07-31 | 2001-04-24 | Webtv Networks, Inc. | Browser-based email system with user interface for audio/video capture |
US6557756B1 (en) * | 1998-09-04 | 2003-05-06 | Ncr Corporation | Communications, particularly in the domestic environment |
US6169879B1 (en) * | 1998-09-16 | 2001-01-02 | Webtv Networks, Inc. | System and method of interconnecting and using components of home entertainment system |
US6437836B1 (en) * | 1998-09-21 | 2002-08-20 | Navispace, Inc. | Extended functionally remote control system and method therefore |
US20070033265A1 (en) * | 1998-09-22 | 2007-02-08 | Avocent Huntsville Corporation | System and method for accessing and operating personal computers remotely |
US6539433B1 (en) * | 1998-09-30 | 2003-03-25 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | System for distributing native program converted from Java bytecode to a specified home appliance |
US6587822B2 (en) * | 1998-10-06 | 2003-07-01 | Lucent Technologies Inc. | Web-based platform for interactive voice response (IVR) |
US6259707B1 (en) * | 1998-10-30 | 2001-07-10 | Sony Corporation | Synchronizing a data driven interaction controller and a non-data driven interaction controller |
US6060993A (en) * | 1998-11-03 | 2000-05-09 | Adapt Media, Inc. | Mobile display system |
US6023241A (en) * | 1998-11-13 | 2000-02-08 | Intel Corporation | Digital multimedia navigation player/recorder |
US6442529B1 (en) * | 1998-11-17 | 2002-08-27 | Novaweb Technologies, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for delivering targeted information and advertising over the internet |
US20020058495A1 (en) * | 1998-12-30 | 2002-05-16 | Albert Chow | Method and apparatus for providing neighborhood cordless services |
US6360101B1 (en) * | 1998-12-31 | 2002-03-19 | Ericsson Inc. | Cellular phone that displays or sends messages upon its arrival at a predetermined location |
US6577849B1 (en) * | 1999-02-03 | 2003-06-10 | Motorola, Inc. | Method and apparatus for providing additional information about a broadcast |
US6353635B1 (en) * | 1999-02-12 | 2002-03-05 | Microsoft Corporation | Method for simultaneously controlling multiple devices using a single communication channel |
US6434403B1 (en) * | 1999-02-19 | 2002-08-13 | Bodycom, Inc. | Personal digital assistant with wireless telephone |
US6611654B1 (en) * | 1999-04-01 | 2003-08-26 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics Nv | Time- and location-driven personalized TV |
US6401059B1 (en) * | 1999-05-25 | 2002-06-04 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method and system for using a personal digital assistant as a remote control |
US6263503B1 (en) * | 1999-05-26 | 2001-07-17 | Neal Margulis | Method for effectively implementing a wireless television system |
US6535590B2 (en) * | 1999-05-27 | 2003-03-18 | Qwest Communicationss International, Inc. | Telephony system |
US6181284B1 (en) * | 1999-05-28 | 2001-01-30 | 3 Com Corporation | Antenna for portable computers |
US6516340B2 (en) * | 1999-07-08 | 2003-02-04 | Central Coast Patent Agency, Inc. | Method and apparatus for creating and executing internet based lectures using public domain web page |
US6889382B1 (en) * | 1999-07-27 | 2005-05-03 | Mediaone Group, Inc. | Remote TV control system |
US7222354B1 (en) * | 1999-10-05 | 2007-05-22 | International Business Machines, Corporation | Dynamic composition at the set-top box |
US6507273B1 (en) * | 1999-10-08 | 2003-01-14 | Digipower Manufacturing Inc. | Network-based remotely-controlled power switch device |
US6542721B2 (en) * | 1999-10-11 | 2003-04-01 | Peter V. Boesen | Cellular telephone, personal digital assistant and pager unit |
US6192340B1 (en) * | 1999-10-19 | 2001-02-20 | Max Abecassis | Integration of music from a personal library with real-time information |
US6581103B1 (en) * | 1999-10-22 | 2003-06-17 | Dedicated Radio, Llc | Method for internet radio broadcasting including listener requests of audio and/or video files with input dedications |
US6678215B1 (en) * | 1999-12-28 | 2004-01-13 | G. Victor Treyz | Digital audio devices |
US20020010759A1 (en) * | 1999-12-30 | 2002-01-24 | Hitson Bruce L. | System and method for multimedia content composition and distribution |
US6708217B1 (en) * | 2000-01-05 | 2004-03-16 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method and system for receiving and demultiplexing multi-modal document content |
US20020011923A1 (en) * | 2000-01-13 | 2002-01-31 | Thalia Products, Inc. | Appliance Communication And Control System And Appliance For Use In Same |
US6229430B1 (en) * | 2000-02-18 | 2001-05-08 | Mary Smith Dewey | System and method for alerting a user |
US20020049717A1 (en) * | 2000-05-10 | 2002-04-25 | Routtenberg Michael D. | Digital content distribution system and method |
US20020078248A1 (en) * | 2000-09-05 | 2002-06-20 | Janik Craig M. | Adapter module for a personal digital assistant and method for using the same |
US20060031551A1 (en) * | 2000-09-06 | 2006-02-09 | Robert Agresta | System, device and method for remotely providing, accessing and using personal entertainment media |
US20020038376A1 (en) * | 2000-09-18 | 2002-03-28 | Halliday Christopher I. | Time shifting over a global communication network |
US20020087887A1 (en) * | 2000-09-19 | 2002-07-04 | Busam Vincent R. | Device-to-device network |
US20020103880A1 (en) * | 2001-01-26 | 2002-08-01 | David Konetski | System and method for using resources of a computer system in conjuction with a thin media client |
US6518902B2 (en) * | 2001-04-30 | 2003-02-11 | Texas Instruments Incorporated | PC card and WLAN system having high speed, high resolution, digital-to analog converter with off-line sigma delta conversion and storage |
US20040117845A1 (en) * | 2002-12-11 | 2004-06-17 | Jeyhan Karaoguz | Personal inter-home media exchange network |
US8438297B1 (en) * | 2005-01-31 | 2013-05-07 | At&T Intellectual Property Ii, L.P. | Method and system for supplying media over communication networks |
US7516078B2 (en) * | 2005-05-25 | 2009-04-07 | Microsoft Corporation | Personal shared playback |
US20070156842A1 (en) * | 2005-12-29 | 2007-07-05 | Vermeulen Allan H | Distributed storage system with web services client interface |
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
---|
R. Binder et al, "ALOHA packet broadcasting - A retrospect", AFIPS '75 proceedings of the May 19-22, 1975, National Computer Conference and Exposition, pg. 203-215 * |
Cited By (181)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10225584B2 (en) | 1999-08-03 | 2019-03-05 | Videoshare Llc | Systems and methods for sharing video with advertisements over a network |
US10362341B2 (en) | 1999-08-03 | 2019-07-23 | Videoshare, Llc | Systems and methods for sharing video with advertisements over a network |
US7711838B1 (en) * | 1999-11-10 | 2010-05-04 | Yahoo! Inc. | Internet radio and broadcast method |
US10318647B2 (en) | 2000-01-24 | 2019-06-11 | Bluebonnet Internet Media Services, Llc | User input-based play-list generation and streaming media playback system |
US9779095B2 (en) | 2000-01-24 | 2017-10-03 | George Aposporos | User input-based play-list generation and playback system |
US9547650B2 (en) | 2000-01-24 | 2017-01-17 | George Aposporos | System for sharing and rating streaming media playlists |
US10523729B2 (en) | 2000-03-09 | 2019-12-31 | Videoshare, Llc | Sharing a streaming video |
US10277654B2 (en) | 2000-03-09 | 2019-04-30 | Videoshare, Llc | Sharing a streaming video |
US7987492B2 (en) | 2000-03-09 | 2011-07-26 | Gad Liwerant | Sharing a streaming video |
US8902076B2 (en) | 2000-11-15 | 2014-12-02 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light communication system |
US8188878B2 (en) | 2000-11-15 | 2012-05-29 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light communication system |
US9413457B2 (en) | 2000-11-15 | 2016-08-09 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light communication system |
US20030093531A1 (en) * | 2001-11-10 | 2003-05-15 | Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha | Document service appliance |
US7664825B2 (en) * | 2001-11-10 | 2010-02-16 | Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha | System and method of managing documents using bookmarks |
US20030204585A1 (en) * | 2002-04-25 | 2003-10-30 | Yahoo! Inc. | Method for the real-time distribution of streaming data on a network |
US10018993B2 (en) | 2002-06-04 | 2018-07-10 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Transformation of industrial data into useful cloud information |
US8132127B2 (en) | 2002-06-04 | 2012-03-06 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | System and methodology providing adaptive interface in an industrial controller environment |
US7512906B1 (en) * | 2002-06-04 | 2009-03-31 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | System and methodology providing adaptive interface in an industrial controller environment |
US20060136648A1 (en) * | 2002-07-18 | 2006-06-22 | Thomas Gros | Bus station with integrated bus monitor function |
US20050039133A1 (en) * | 2003-08-11 | 2005-02-17 | Trevor Wells | Controlling a presentation of digital content |
US20050149969A1 (en) * | 2004-01-06 | 2005-07-07 | Vishnu Kumar | TV graphical menu interface that provides browseable listing of connected removable media content |
US10310801B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2019-06-04 | Chestnut Hill Sound, Inc. | Media entertainment system with fail-safe alarm modes |
US7926056B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2011-04-12 | Sap Ag | Method for effecting a software service in a system of a software system landscape and computer system |
US11126397B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2021-09-21 | Chestnut Hill Sound, Inc. | Music audio control and distribution system in a location |
US20060112189A1 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2006-05-25 | Michael Demuth | Method for tracking transport requests and computer system with trackable transport requests |
US20060117311A1 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2006-06-01 | Michael Demuth | Method for effecting software maintenance in a software system landscape and computer system |
US20060123392A1 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2006-06-08 | Michael Demuth | Method for generating a transport track through a software system landscape and computer system with a software system landscape and a transport track |
US20060155832A1 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2006-07-13 | Michael Demuth | Method for setting change options of software systems of a software system landscape and computer system with software systems having change options |
US20060203812A1 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2006-09-14 | Michael Demuth | Method for effecting changes in a software system landscape and computer system |
US7721257B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2010-05-18 | Sap Ag | Method for effecting software maintenance in a software system landscape and computer system |
US7725891B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2010-05-25 | Sap Ag | Method for effecting changes in a software system landscape and computer system |
US8655303B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2014-02-18 | Chestnut Hill Sound, Inc. | Entertainment system with sourceless selection including playlists |
US7853651B2 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2010-12-14 | Sap Ag | Method for tracking transport requests and computer system with trackable transport requests |
US7877730B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2011-01-25 | Sap Ag | Method for effecting a preliminary software service in a productive system of a software system landscape and computer system |
US8725063B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2014-05-13 | Chestnut Hill Sound, Inc. | Multi-mode media device using metadata to access media content |
US20110069844A1 (en) * | 2004-10-27 | 2011-03-24 | Krampf Steven S | Entertainment system with bandless content selection |
US8355690B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2013-01-15 | Chestnut Hill Sound, Inc. | Electrical and mechanical connector adaptor system for media devices |
US8839185B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2014-09-16 | Sap Ag | Method for generating a transport track through a software system landscape and computer system with a software system landscape and a transport track |
US8195114B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2012-06-05 | Chestnut Hill Sound, Inc. | Entertainment system with bandless content selection |
US10114608B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2018-10-30 | Chestnut Hill Sound, Inc. | Multi-mode media device operable in first and second modes, selectively |
US8090309B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2012-01-03 | Chestnut Hill Sound, Inc. | Entertainment system with unified content selection |
US8843092B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2014-09-23 | Chestnut Hill Sound, Inc. | Method and apparatus for accessing media content via metadata |
US9225773B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2015-12-29 | Chestnut Hill Sound, Inc. | Entertainment system with sourceless selection of networked and non-networked media content |
US9164758B2 (en) | 2004-10-27 | 2015-10-20 | Sap Se | Method for setting change options of software systems of a software system landscape and computer system with software systems having change options |
US7426593B2 (en) * | 2005-02-24 | 2008-09-16 | Sony Corporation | Information processing system, reproducing terminal device and reproducing method, information processing device and method, and program for synchronous display of content |
US20110047617A1 (en) * | 2005-11-10 | 2011-02-24 | Microsoft Corporation | Protecting against network resources associated with undesirable activities |
US20070189246A1 (en) * | 2006-02-13 | 2007-08-16 | Lajos Molnar | Buffering multimedia mobile devices and methods to operate the same |
US20100241733A1 (en) * | 2006-06-22 | 2010-09-23 | Ga Jeong Shin | Contents transmitting ip adaptor transmitting contents to portable device and Contents transmitting method using the ip adaptor |
US20080077886A1 (en) * | 2006-09-21 | 2008-03-27 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Selective detailed display of devices in a network |
US7962860B2 (en) * | 2006-09-21 | 2011-06-14 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Selective detailed display of devices in a network |
US8712563B2 (en) | 2006-10-24 | 2014-04-29 | Slacker, Inc. | Method and apparatus for interactive distribution of digital content |
US10657168B2 (en) | 2006-10-24 | 2020-05-19 | Slacker, Inc. | Methods and systems for personalized rendering of digital media content |
US8443007B1 (en) | 2006-10-24 | 2013-05-14 | Slacker, Inc. | Systems and devices for personalized rendering of digital media content |
US20160335258A1 (en) | 2006-10-24 | 2016-11-17 | Slacker, Inc. | Methods and systems for personalized rendering of digital media content |
US20080162570A1 (en) * | 2006-10-24 | 2008-07-03 | Kindig Bradley D | Methods and systems for personalized rendering of digital media content |
US20080215170A1 (en) * | 2006-10-24 | 2008-09-04 | Celite Milbrandt | Method and apparatus for interactive distribution of digital content |
US8914729B2 (en) * | 2006-10-30 | 2014-12-16 | Yahoo! Inc. | Methods and systems for providing a customizable guide for navigating a corpus of content |
US20080104521A1 (en) * | 2006-10-30 | 2008-05-01 | Yahoo! Inc. | Methods and systems for providing a customizable guide for navigating a corpus of content |
US9323790B2 (en) | 2006-12-18 | 2016-04-26 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Media content catalogs |
US8706777B2 (en) | 2006-12-18 | 2014-04-22 | Microsoft Corporation | Media content catalogs |
US20080147735A1 (en) * | 2006-12-18 | 2008-06-19 | Microsoft Corporation | Media content catalogs |
US20100115429A1 (en) * | 2007-01-05 | 2010-05-06 | Ants Inc. | System for selecting and playing a user-specified content within a window of a web browser and programs therefor |
US10313754B2 (en) | 2007-03-08 | 2019-06-04 | Slacker, Inc | System and method for personalizing playback content through interaction with a playback device |
US20080263098A1 (en) * | 2007-03-14 | 2008-10-23 | Slacker, Inc. | Systems and Methods for Portable Personalized Radio |
US9363018B2 (en) * | 2007-05-24 | 2016-06-07 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light interior room and building communication system |
US8571411B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2013-10-29 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light broad band over power line communication system |
US10250329B1 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2019-04-02 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light fixture |
US8188879B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2012-05-29 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light global positioning and routing communication system |
US8886045B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2014-11-11 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light broad band over power line communication system |
US11265082B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2022-03-01 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light control assembly and system |
US10820391B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2020-10-27 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light control assembly and system |
US20080317475A1 (en) * | 2007-05-24 | 2008-12-25 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Led light interior room and building communication system |
US8744267B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2014-06-03 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Building illumination apparatus with integrated communications, security and energy management |
US10090925B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2018-10-02 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light fixture |
US10051714B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2018-08-14 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light control assembly and system |
US10812186B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2020-10-20 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light fixture |
US9100124B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2015-08-04 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED Light Fixture |
US10050705B2 (en) * | 2007-05-24 | 2018-08-14 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light interior room and building communication system |
US9967030B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2018-05-08 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Building illumination apparatus with integrated communications, security and energy management |
US11664895B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2023-05-30 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light control assembly and system |
US20130094863A1 (en) * | 2007-05-24 | 2013-04-18 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Led light interior room and building communication system |
US9768868B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2017-09-19 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light dongle communication system |
US9246594B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2016-01-26 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light dongle communication system |
US9252883B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2016-02-02 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light global positioning and routing communication system |
US9755743B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2017-09-05 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light global positioning and routing communication system |
US9258864B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2016-02-09 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light control and management system |
US8687965B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2014-04-01 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light dongle communication system |
US9294198B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2016-03-22 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Pulsed light communication key |
US11664897B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2023-05-30 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light fixture |
US8593299B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2013-11-26 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light global positioning and routing communication system |
US9414458B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2016-08-09 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light control assembly and system |
US20090003832A1 (en) * | 2007-05-24 | 2009-01-01 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Led light broad band over power line communication system |
US8331790B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2012-12-11 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light interior room and building communication system |
US9413459B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2016-08-09 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light dongle communication system |
US9577760B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2017-02-21 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Pulsed light communication key |
US20160277110A1 (en) * | 2007-05-24 | 2016-09-22 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Led light interior room and building communication system |
US10374706B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2019-08-06 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light broad band over power line communication system |
US9461740B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2016-10-04 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Building illumination apparatus with integrated communications, security and energy management |
US9461748B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2016-10-04 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light fixture |
US9660726B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2017-05-23 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light broad band over power line communication system |
US11201672B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2021-12-14 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light fixture |
US10911144B2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2021-02-02 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light broad band over power line communication system |
US8095646B2 (en) * | 2007-08-16 | 2012-01-10 | Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. | Content ancillary to sensory work playback |
US20090049092A1 (en) * | 2007-08-16 | 2009-02-19 | Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. | Content ancillary to sensory work playback |
US20100106852A1 (en) * | 2007-10-24 | 2010-04-29 | Kindig Bradley D | Systems and methods for providing user personalized media content on a portable device |
US20090113470A1 (en) * | 2007-10-30 | 2009-04-30 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Content management method, and broadcast receiving apparatus and video apparatus using the same |
US10460085B2 (en) | 2008-03-13 | 2019-10-29 | Mattel, Inc. | Tablet computer |
WO2010037022A1 (en) * | 2008-09-26 | 2010-04-01 | Fuhu, Inc. | Hypervisor and webtop in a set top box environment |
US20100121891A1 (en) * | 2008-11-11 | 2010-05-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and system for using play lists for multimedia content |
US10411746B2 (en) | 2009-04-01 | 2019-09-10 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Visible light communication transceiver glasses |
US11424781B2 (en) | 2009-04-01 | 2022-08-23 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Visible light communication transceiver glasses |
US10763909B2 (en) | 2009-04-01 | 2020-09-01 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Visible light communication transceiver glasses |
US9654163B2 (en) | 2009-04-01 | 2017-05-16 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Visible light transceiver glasses |
US8890773B1 (en) | 2009-04-01 | 2014-11-18 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Visible light transceiver glasses |
US20110167130A1 (en) * | 2010-01-06 | 2011-07-07 | Wakeupcall.Tv, Llc | Informational Video Delivery Software And Associated Methods |
US9215273B2 (en) | 2010-08-04 | 2015-12-15 | Premkumar Jonnala | Apparatus for enabling delivery and access of applications and interactive services |
US20140379776A1 (en) * | 2010-08-04 | 2014-12-25 | Keertikiran Gokul | System, method and apparatus for enabling access to applications and interactive services |
US9207924B2 (en) | 2010-08-04 | 2015-12-08 | Premkumar Jonnala | Apparatus for enabling delivery and access of applications and interactive services |
US11640287B2 (en) | 2010-08-04 | 2023-05-02 | Aprese Systems Texas Llc | Method, apparatus and systems for enabling delivery and access of applications and services |
US9210214B2 (en) * | 2010-08-04 | 2015-12-08 | Keertikiran Gokul | System, method and apparatus for enabling access to applications and interactive services |
US10255059B2 (en) | 2010-08-04 | 2019-04-09 | Premkumar Jonnala | Method apparatus and systems for enabling delivery and access of applications and services |
US20120117587A1 (en) * | 2010-11-10 | 2012-05-10 | Sony Network Entertainment International Llc | Second display support of character set unsupported on playback device |
US8677402B2 (en) * | 2010-11-10 | 2014-03-18 | Sony Corporation | Second display support of character set unsupported on playback device |
US8935300B1 (en) * | 2011-01-03 | 2015-01-13 | Intellectual Ventures Fund 79 Llc | Methods, devices, and mediums associated with content-searchable media |
US8745683B1 (en) | 2011-01-03 | 2014-06-03 | Intellectual Ventures Fund 79 Llc | Methods, devices, and mediums associated with supplementary audio information |
US8543505B2 (en) | 2011-01-14 | 2013-09-24 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Method of providing lumens and tracking of lumen consumption |
US8751390B2 (en) | 2011-01-14 | 2014-06-10 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Method of providing lumens and tracking of lumen consumption |
WO2012129633A2 (en) * | 2011-03-31 | 2012-10-04 | Omnego Inc. | System and method for acquiring electronic data records |
WO2012129633A3 (en) * | 2011-03-31 | 2012-11-29 | Omnego Inc. | System and method for acquiring electronic data records |
US9565275B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2017-02-07 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Transformation of industrial data into useful cloud information |
US9413852B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2016-08-09 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Time-stamping of industrial cloud data for synchronization |
US11470157B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2022-10-11 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Cloud gateway for industrial automation information and control systems |
US10139811B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2018-11-27 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Smart device for industrial automation |
US10116532B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2018-10-30 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Cloud-based operator interface for industrial automation |
US10749962B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2020-08-18 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Cloud gateway for industrial automation information and control systems |
US10965760B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2021-03-30 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Cloud-based operator interface for industrial automation |
US9965562B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2018-05-08 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Industrial automation app-store |
US9568908B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2017-02-14 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Industrial automation app-store |
US9477936B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2016-10-25 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Cloud-based operator interface for industrial automation |
US9568909B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2017-02-14 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Industrial automation service templates for provisioning of cloud services |
US11729457B2 (en) * | 2012-03-19 | 2023-08-15 | Sonos, Inc. | Context-based user music menu systems and methods |
US20140095657A1 (en) * | 2012-10-02 | 2014-04-03 | Daniel Perrine McLane | Interactive Event Cast to Multiple Mobile Devices |
US20140344640A1 (en) * | 2012-10-02 | 2014-11-20 | Chirp Inc. | Interactive Event Cast to Multiple Mobile Devices |
US9088626B2 (en) * | 2012-10-02 | 2015-07-21 | Chirp Inc. | Interactive event cast to multiple mobile devices |
US9253285B2 (en) * | 2012-10-02 | 2016-02-02 | Chirp, Inc. | Interactive event cast to multiple mobile devices |
US9655189B2 (en) | 2013-03-13 | 2017-05-16 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light control and management system |
US9265112B2 (en) | 2013-03-13 | 2016-02-16 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | LED light control and management system |
US10275463B2 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2019-04-30 | Slacker, Inc. | System and method for scoring and ranking digital content based on activity of network users |
US11018774B2 (en) | 2013-05-06 | 2021-05-25 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Network security and variable pulse wave form with continuous communication |
US11552712B2 (en) | 2013-05-06 | 2023-01-10 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Network security and variable pulse wave form with continuous communication |
US10205530B2 (en) | 2013-05-06 | 2019-02-12 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Network security and variable pulse wave form with continuous communication |
US11824586B2 (en) | 2013-05-06 | 2023-11-21 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Network security and variable pulse wave form with continuous communication |
US9455783B2 (en) | 2013-05-06 | 2016-09-27 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Network security and variable pulse wave form with continuous communication |
US9786197B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2017-10-10 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data to facilitate enhancing performance in connection with an industrial automation system |
US9703902B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2017-07-11 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data for industrial simulation |
US9438648B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2016-09-06 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Industrial data analytics in a cloud platform |
US10726428B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2020-07-28 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Industrial data analytics in a cloud platform |
US10984677B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2021-04-20 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data for industrial automation system training |
US10564633B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2020-02-18 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data for virtualization of an industrial automation environment with information overlays |
US9989958B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2018-06-05 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data for virtualization of an industrial automation environment |
US10026049B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2018-07-17 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Risk assessment for industrial systems using big data |
US11676508B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2023-06-13 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data for industrial automation system training |
US9709978B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2017-07-18 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data for virtualization of an industrial automation environment with information overlays |
US9954972B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2018-04-24 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Industrial data analytics in a cloud platform |
US10257310B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2019-04-09 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Industrial data analytics in a cloud platform |
US11295047B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2022-04-05 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data for industrial simulation |
US10816960B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2020-10-27 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data for virtualization of an industrial machine environment |
US10204191B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2019-02-12 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Using cloud-based data for industrial simulation |
US11783345B2 (en) | 2014-01-15 | 2023-10-10 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Cyber life electronic networking and commerce operating exchange |
US11409251B2 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2022-08-09 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Modeling of an industrial automation environment in the cloud |
US11513477B2 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2022-11-29 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Cloud-based industrial controller |
US11243505B2 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2022-02-08 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Cloud-based analytics for industrial automation |
US10496061B2 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2019-12-03 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Modeling of an industrial automation environment in the cloud |
US11042131B2 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2021-06-22 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Backup of an industrial automation plant in the cloud |
US11880179B2 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2024-01-23 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Cloud-based analytics for industrial automation |
US11927929B2 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2024-03-12 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Modeling of an industrial automation environment in the cloud |
US11651680B2 (en) | 2015-08-11 | 2023-05-16 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Function disabler device and system |
US11200794B2 (en) | 2015-08-11 | 2021-12-14 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Function disabler device and system |
US10448472B2 (en) | 2015-08-11 | 2019-10-15 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Function disabler device and system |
US10932337B2 (en) | 2015-08-11 | 2021-02-23 | Federal Law Enforcement Development Services, Inc. | Function disabler device and system |
US10191911B2 (en) * | 2017-05-27 | 2019-01-29 | Plesk International Gmbh | Permanent website hosting on mobile devices |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1310073A2 (en) | 2003-05-14 |
DE60125044T2 (en) | 2007-07-12 |
ATE347771T1 (en) | 2006-12-15 |
KR20030040388A (en) | 2003-05-22 |
US20020068558A1 (en) | 2002-06-06 |
AU2001281204A1 (en) | 2002-02-18 |
EP1310073B1 (en) | 2006-12-06 |
US7130616B2 (en) | 2006-10-31 |
WO2002013487A3 (en) | 2003-01-09 |
WO2002013487A2 (en) | 2002-02-14 |
DE60125044D1 (en) | 2007-01-18 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7130616B2 (en) | System and method for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices | |
US7937450B2 (en) | System for providing content, management, and interactivity for thin client devices | |
US20050210101A1 (en) | System and method for providing content, management, and interactivity for client devices | |
US7107605B2 (en) | Digital image frame and method for using the same | |
US10712999B2 (en) | Audio converter device and method for using the same | |
US9628545B2 (en) | System and method for using a webpad to control a data stream | |
US20080263618A1 (en) | System for presenting media programs | |
US20020178279A1 (en) | Webpad and method for using the same | |
JP5603914B2 (en) | System and method for providing content, management and interactivity for client devices |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: UNIVERSAL ELECTRONICS INC.,CALIFORNIA Free format text: MERGER;ASSIGNOR:SIMPLEDEVICES, INC.;REEL/FRAME:018246/0357 Effective date: 20060828 Owner name: UNIVERSAL ELECTRONICS INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: MERGER;ASSIGNOR:SIMPLEDEVICES, INC.;REEL/FRAME:018246/0357 Effective date: 20060828 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: EZ4MEDIA, INC., ILLINOIS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:UNIVERSAL ELECTRONICS INC.;REEL/FRAME:020845/0386 Effective date: 20080331 Owner name: EZ4MEDIA, INC.,ILLINOIS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:UNIVERSAL ELECTRONICS INC.;REEL/FRAME:020845/0386 Effective date: 20080331 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: SIMPLEDEVICES, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: CONFIRMATORY ASSIGNMENT;ASSIGNOR:JANIK, CRAIG M.;REEL/FRAME:022368/0493 Effective date: 20090306 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: VIVIANA RESEARCH LLC, DELAWARE Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:EZ4MEDIA, INC.;REEL/FRAME:022526/0441 Effective date: 20090331 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: INTELLECTUAL VENTURES ASSETS 186 LLC, DELAWARE Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:CALLAHAN CELLULAR L.L.C.;REEL/FRAME:062708/0463 Effective date: 20221222 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: INTELLECTUAL VENTURES ASSETS 186 LLC, DELAWARE Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:MIND FUSION, LLC;REEL/FRAME:063295/0001 Effective date: 20230214 Owner name: INTELLECTUAL VENTURES ASSETS 191 LLC, DELAWARE Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:MIND FUSION, LLC;REEL/FRAME:063295/0001 Effective date: 20230214 |