U.S. patent application number 09/740263 was filed with the patent office on 2002-05-09 for network interface unit control system and method therefor.
Invention is credited to Barraclough, Keith, Bednarz, Philip, Martin, Bryan R., Voois, Paul.
Application Number | 20020054601 09/740263 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26868190 |
Filed Date | 2002-05-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020054601 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Barraclough, Keith ; et
al. |
May 9, 2002 |
Network interface unit control system and method therefor
Abstract
External-services data are processed for use in a user facility
in a manner that enables easy user interface and control. According
to an example embodiment of the present invention, an arrangement
for processing external-services data includes an audio, video, and
data signal bussing arrangement adapted to distribute audio, video,
and data to designated points in a user facility. A plurality of
appliances are communicatively coupled to the bussing arrangement
and adapted to receive and process one or more audio, video, and
data signals. A user input device is adapted to command a network
interface unit (NIU) to process the external-services data for use
at a particular one of the plurality of appliances in the user
facility. External-services data is delivered over the bussing
arrangement and to one or more of the plurality of appliances using
the (NIU).
Inventors: |
Barraclough, Keith; (Menlo
Park, CA) ; Martin, Bryan R.; (Campbell, CA) ;
Bednarz, Philip; (Menlo Park, CA) ; Voois, Paul;
(Sunnyvale, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CRAWFORD PLLC
Suite 390
1270 Northland Drive
St. Paul
MN
55120
US
|
Family ID: |
26868190 |
Appl. No.: |
09/740263 |
Filed: |
December 18, 2000 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60172539 |
Dec 17, 1999 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
370/401 ;
725/37 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 12/2838 20130101;
G08B 21/0484 20130101; H04L 2012/2849 20130101; H04L 12/2856
20130101; H04L 12/2803 20130101; H04L 2012/2845 20130101; H04L
12/2876 20130101; H04L 2012/2841 20130101; G08B 25/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
370/401 ;
725/37 |
International
Class: |
H04L 012/28; H04L
012/56; G06F 013/00; H04N 005/445; G06F 003/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, the arrangement comprising: an audio, video, and
data signal bussing arrangement adapted to distribute audio, video,
and data to designated points in the user facility; a plurality of
appliances communicatively coupled to the bussing arrangement,
wherein the plurality of appliances are adapted to process at least
one of: audio, video, and data signals; a network interface unit
(NIU) adapted to communicatively couple the external services data
over the bussing arrangement and with the plurality of appliances
in the user facility; and a user input device adapted to command
the NIU to process the external-services data for use at a
particular one of the plurality of appliances in the user
facility.
2. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the user input
device includes one of the plurality of appliances.
3. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of
appliances includes at least one of a TV, a phone, a computer, a
printer, a videophone, a videocassette recorder, an analog
recorder, a digital recorder, a stereo, a camera, a wireless phone,
an intercom, an audio speaker, and a pager.
4. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the user input
device includes at least one of: a TV, a phone, a computer, a
videophone, a videocassette recorder, a wireless phone, an audio
speaker, a pager, a remote control, a modem, a voice recognition
system, an Internet access device, a keypad, and a touch
screen.
5. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the bussing
arrangement includes at least one of: a coaxial cable, a telephony
line, a Ti line, an ISDN line, a DSL line, an infrared transmitter,
a wireless transmitter, a telephone modem, a wireless modem, a
cable modem, a broadband modem, and a computer network.
6. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the user input
device includes a television remote adapted to select NIU commands
from a display generated by the NIU and displayed on the
television.
7. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the user input
device includes a telephone adapted to select NIU commands from a
command menu programmed into the NIU.
8. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the NIU is further
adapted to configure the external services data for use at a
particular one of the plurality of appliances.
9. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 8, wherein the external
services data includes audio and video data, and wherein the NMU is
adapted to configure the audio data for use at an audio appliance
and to configure the video data for use at a video appliance.
10. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, further comprising a data
memory circuit coupled to the NIU and adapted to store data.
11. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 10, wherein the NIU is adapted
to store incoming external services data until a routing command is
received from the user input device.
12. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 11, wherein the user input
device is adapted to communicate with the NIU and determine the
type of data that is stored.
13. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 12, wherein the user input
device is adapted to determine the source of the data.
14. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 10, wherein the NIU is adapted
to store configuration information in the data memory circuit,
wherein the configuration information includes routing information
for external services data.
15. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the
external-services data includes data having a first data form, and
wherein the NIU is adapted to convert the external services data
into a second data form for use by a particular one of the
plurality of appliances.
16. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 15, wherein the first data form
includes packet-based data, and wherein the second data form
includes non-packet-based data.
17. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 15, wherein the first data form
includes word processing data, and wherein the second data form
includes audio data.
18. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 17, wherein the first data form
includes an email message, and wherein the NIU is adapted to read
and convert the email into an audio message.
19. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 15, wherein the first data form
includes audio data, and wherein the second data form includes word
processing data.
20. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the user input
device is further adapted to include a security code, and wherein
the NIU is further adapted to respond only to commands having the
security code.
21. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of
appliances include a TV, and wherein NWU is adapted to display the
configuration of the plurality of appliances on the TV screen.
22. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 21, and wherein the
configuration data includes telephone data including at least one
of: the telephone number assigned to the phone, call waiting
options, caller ID options, answering options, forwarding options,
message storage options, call blocking options, and call screening
options.
23. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 21, wherein the user input
device is adapted to command the NIU based upon the configuration
display on the TV screen.
24. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 11, wherein one of the
plurality of appliances includes a display, and wherein the NIU is
adapted to display the stored incoming external services data on
the display.
25. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 24, wherein the user input
device is adapted to command the NIU based upon the displayed
incoming external services data.
26. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 25, wherein the NIU is adapted
to display email, audio messages, and video messages, and wherein
the user input device is adapted to respond to an input
corresponding to the displayed information and to command the NIU
to route the displayed information to a particular one of the
plurality of appliances.
27. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 11, further comprising a local
data memory circuit coupled to the NIU, wherein the data is stored
in the local data memory circuit.
28. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 11, wherein the data is stored
at a location external from the NIU.
29. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the NIU includes a
processor adapted to function as an answering machine for incoming
telephony calls.
30. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the user input
device is coupled to the bussing arrangement and uses the bussing
arrangement to command the NIU.
31. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 30, wherein the NIU is adapted
to receive configuration information in the form of DTMF tones,
wherein the bussing arrangement includes a two-wire analog system,
and wherein the user input device is adapted to send control
signals to the NIU including DTMF tones.
32. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the user input
device is adapted to send control signals to the NIU that are
configured to enable the control of external-data services
including at least one of: caller ID information, address book
information, pay-per-view access information, downloadable
multimedia information, dynamically allocable telephone numbers,
call forwarding, message on hold, directory assistance, and
household systems control information.
33. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the NIU includes a
printed circuit board (PCB) having at least one general processor
and at least one specific processor adapted to process video
data.
34. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 33, wherein the PCB includes a
RISC processor.
35. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 33, wherein the PCB includes a
DSP processor.
36. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein each of the
plurality of appliances is adapted to deliver status information
signals to the NIU including the status of the appliance sending
the signal, further comprising a user interface device adapted to
access and provide the status information to a user.
37. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of
appliances includes a microphone adapted for use in an intercom
system.
38. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 37, further comprising a
monitoring device coupled and adapted to receive audio signals from
the microphone and, responsive to detecting an audio signal above a
threshold level, send an alert signal to a user via the NIU.
39. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 38, wherein the microphone is
located near an infant, and the system is used to monitor the
infant.
40. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 39, wherein the alert includes
a page signal.
41. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 38, wherein the microphone is
adapted to monitor noise for security monitoring.
42. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 1, further comprising an
appliance interface device coupled to an appliance and to the
bussing arrangement and adapted to receive a first type of signal
and convert the data signal to a second type of data signal.
43. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 42, wherein the appliance
interface device is further adapted to receive a signal via a first
type of communications line and to transmit the signal via a second
type of communications line.
44. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 42, wherein the appliance
interface device is programmable via a user input.
45. An arrangement for processing external-services data for use in
a user facility, according to claim 42, wherein the appliance
interface device is programmable by an external-services provider
via the NIU.
46. A network interface system for interfacing different types of
communication systems including a first user-based communication
system and a packet-based communication system, comprising: a data
memory circuit adapted to store configuration data; a user
communication device; a processor arrangement adapted to write
configuration data into and read configuration data from the memory
circuit and to provide data for presenting configuration
information for accessing at the user communication device, further
adapted to process data received from, and exchange processed data
between, the first user-based communication system and the
packet-based communication system, and, in response to the
configuration data, also adapted to route selected information
provided by the packet-based communication system to selected
channels of the first user-based communication system; user input
means for inputting configuration-defining control signals, wherein
the processor arrangement responds to the configuration-defining
control signals by changing the configuration data in the memory
circuit and by rerouting selected information provided by the
packet-based communication system to selected channels of the first
user-based communication system according to the
configuration-defining control signals.
47. A network interface system, according to claim 46, further
comprising a network system coupled to the first user-based
communications system.
48. A network interface system, according to claim 46, wherein the
user input means includes at least one of: an IR key panel, a
wall-mount unit for the system, a TV, a telephone, a computer, a
videophone, a videocassette recorder, a wireless phone, a remote
control, a modem, a voice recognition system, an Internet access
device, a keypad, and a touch screen.
49. A network interface system, according to claim 46, wherein the
processor arrangement is further adapted to write configuration
data into the memory circuit in response to signals received from
the packet-based communication system
50. A network interface system, according to claim 46, wherein the
processor arrangement is further adapted to permit reconfiguration
in response to a user-provided security code.
51. A network interface system, according to claim 46, wherein the
user communication device includes at least one of: a TV monitor, a
printer, and computer.
52. A network interface system, according to claim 46, wherein the
user communication device includes a voice generating unit adapted
to produce prerecorded messages.
53. A network interface system, according to claim 46, wherein the
user input means includes a computer adapted to communicate on the
Internet.
54. A network interface system, according to claim 46, wherein the
packet-based communication system includes at least one of: a cable
modem, a wireless modem, a broadband modem, a telephone modem, a
DSL, a Ti line, and a computer network.
55. A network interface system for interfacing different types of
communication systems including a first user-based communication
system and a packet-based communication system, comprising: a data
memory circuit adapted to store data; a user communication device;
a processor arrangement adapted to write data-intercept select data
into and read data-intercept select data from the memory circuit
and to provide data for communicating with a user via the
communication device, further adapted to process data received
from, and exchange processed data between, the first user-based
communication system and the packet-based communication system,
and, in response to the data in the data memory circuit, also
adapted to intercept information from the packet-based
communication system and to store the intercepted information in
the data memory circuit; user means for inputting message-retrieval
control signals, wherein the processor arrangement responds to the
message-retrieval control signals by displaying messages (email,
voice mail, etc.) from the data memory circuit.
56. A network interface system, according to claim 55, wherein the
user input means is at least one of: an IR key panel, a wall-mount
unit for the system, a TV, a telephone, a computer, a videophone, a
videocassette recorder, a wireless phone, a remote control, a
modem, a voice recognition system, an Internet access device, a
keypad, and a touch screen.
57. A network interface system, according to claim 55, wherein the
processor arrangement is further adapted to write data-intercept
select data into the memory circuit in response to signals received
from the packet-based communication system
58. A network interface system, according to claim 55, wherein the
processor arrangement is further adapted to write data-intercept
select data into the memory circuit in response to signals received
from the input means.
59. A network interface system, according to claim 55, wherein the
user communication device includes a TV monitor.
60. A network interface system, according to claim 55, wherein the
user communication device includes a voice generating unit adapted
to produce prerecorded messages.
61. A network interface system, according to claim 60, wherein the
voice generating unit audibly produces the prerecorded messages
over the user communication device.
62. A network interface system, according to claim 61, wherein the
user communication device is communicating a first audio signal,
and wherein the prerecorded messages are audibly produced at a
sound level over that of the first audio signal.
63. A network interface system, according to claim 55, wherein the
user communication device includes a computer adapted to
communicate on the Internet.
64. A network interface system, according to claim 55, wherein the
packet-based communication system includes at least one of: a cable
modem, a wireless modem, a broadband modem, a telephone modem, a
DSL, a TI line, and a computer network.
65. A method for controlling communications data in a
communications system having a NIU, a user interface device, a
plurality of communications appliances, and a bussing system, the
method comprising: using the user interface device and programming
the NIU with configuration information for external-services data;
receiving external-services data at the NIU; responsive to the
configuration information, configuring the received
external-services data and transferring the configured data via the
bussing arrangement to one of the communications appliances; and
receiving the transferred external-services data at the one
communications appliance.
66. The method of claim 65, wherein programming the data receiving
unit with configuration information includes programming routing
information for routing the external-services data to particular
ones of a plurality of communications devices.
67. The method of claim 66, wherein the particular ones of a
plurality of communications devices include a telephony device, and
wherein the routing data includes the assignment of a particular
telephone number to the telephony device.
68. The method of claim 66, wherein the particular ones of a
plurality of communications devices include an Internet device, and
wherein the routing data includes the assignment of a particular
Internet protocol address to the Internet device.
69. The method of claim 66, wherein the particular ones of a
plurality of communications devices include a TV, and wherein the
routing data includes the assignment of a particular television
subscription package to the TV.
70. The method of claim 65, wherein using the user interface device
and programming the NIU with configuration information for
external-services data includes programming from an
external-services provider location, wherein the configuration
information controls the type of external services that the NIU
passes to the plurality of communications devices.
71. The method of claim 70, wherein the external-services data
includes television data, and wherein the external-services
provider location programs the NIU with a television subscription
package.
72. The method of claim 71, wherein the television subscription
package includes a specified number of television sets that can use
the television data.
73. The method of claim 71, wherein the television subscription
package includes a pay-per-view event.
74. The method of claim 70, wherein the external-services data
includes packet-based data, and wherein the external-services
provider location programs the NIU with a packet-based access
package.
75. The method of claim 70, wherein the external-services data
includes telephony-based data, and wherein the external-services
provider location programs the NIU with a telephony-based access
package.
Description
RELATED PATENT DOCUMENTS
[0001] The present invention claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/172,639, filed Dec. 17, 1999 and is related
to U.S. Pat. No. 5,379,351 entitled "Video Compression and
Decompression Processing and Processors," and to U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/098,106 (8.times.8S.51C1) entitled
"Videocommunicating Apparatus and Method Therefor," each of which
is incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to interfacing and
controlling the interface of different communication systems and,
more particularly, to network interface circuits and approaches for
interfacing external service-provider networks, and a target
facility, such as a residence.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The electronics industry continues to rely upon advances in
technology to realize higher-functioning devices at cost-effective
prices. For many communication applications, realizing
higher-functioning devices in a cost-effective manner requires
creative use of communications channels. There have been many
technologies developed recently that have permitted such
cost-effective communication. Examples include Internet
applications enabling a user access to a seemingly unlimited number
of web sites and other users, cable TV systems enabling a user to
view any of a hundred or more channels, and video-image processing
techniques that enable video data to be communicated simultaneously
with voice data over a plain old telephone service (POTS) line. As
the popularity of these technologies increases, so does the need to
merge and coordinate these technologies in a manner that is
convenient and cost-effective for the user.
[0004] The above-mentioned need is being increasingly addressed
through the introduction of network systems providers. Network
systems providers sell communication services for individuals,
companies and the like to communicate with a plurality of
communication systems. This is typically accomplished using Network
Interface Units (NIU) to provide an interface between a network
system, such as a broadband digital cable network, and a customer's
premises. These devices are often in a location that is
inaccessible to the user of the network. For example, for digital
cable telephony systems, an NIU is often placed at a building which
is passed by a cable network. This enables the premises to be
supplied with cable service and multiple telephony lines of voice,
video or data services. As another example, NIUs are used in
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) systems to provide access to multiple
voice, video and data connections provided through a DSL line.
[0005] In cable systems, the telephony signal is transported on the
cable system and can be supplied by a modulated carrier-based
Hybrid Fiber Coaxial system or by a packet based cable network, and
can be facilitated using a cable modem. The streams of audio,
video, and data are input to the device in digital form. This
enables the NIU to perform signal-processing tasks on the incoming
streams and to store data from these streams in memory either in
the NIU or in memory devices in the network.
[0006] One example type of cable system includes a broadband
wireless system using a wireless broadband modem. Typical wireless
broadband systems can provide up to or exceed 30 Mbps of data
transfer over a 6 MHz channel, providing high burst speed access to
a local area. The area of coverage of such wireless systems varies
with the frequency used, but typically can serve up to or exceed a
30-mile radius. One type of broadband wireless system transmits
data from a wireless provider down to receiver that receives the
information and provides it to a wireless modem. The return signal
is sent up via other communication systems, such as those including
POTS, Ti, DSL, or coaxial cable. Another type of wireless broadband
system uses two-way wireless communication, wherein both the down
(incoming) and the up (outgoing) communications are wireless. As
with a conventional cable system using coaxial cable as a data
transfer medium, an NIU can be used to perform signal-processing
tasks on both the down and up information.
[0007] Widespread acceptance and usage of NIU-based communication
services are largely a function of cost and user convenience.
Therefore, widespread acceptance and usage of such technology
cannot be forced, even when appropriately addressing the marketing
needs and overcoming the exorbitant costs of the mass production
equipment. For both the unsophisticated and sophisticated users of
such communication services, it is important to provide
straight-forward, user-friendly control over the NIUs and over the
devices that interface with and configure the NIUs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention is directed to programmable
communication control arrangements and methods for programming the
same. According to one example embodiment, the present invention
addresses the above-discussed issues through a system and method of
controlling an NIU and enabling configuration of an NIU-based
system for a user facility. The NITU-based system includes an
audio, video, and data signal bussing arrangement adapted to
distribute audio, video, and data to a plurality of appliances
communicatively coupled to the bussing arrangement. Each of the
plurality of appliances is adapted to receive and process one or
more types of the distributed signals. A NIU is coupled to the
bussing arrangement and is adapted to communicatively couple the
external services data over the bussing arrangement and with the
plurality of appliances in the user facility. Using an input device
adapted to command the NIU, external-services data is processed for
use in the user facility.
[0009] According to another example embodiment of the present
invention, a network interface system is arranged for interfacing
different types of communication systems including a first
user-based communication system and a packet-based communication
system. A data memory circuit is adapted to store configuration
data for the system. A processor arrangement is adapted to write
configuration data into and read configuration data from the memory
circuit and to provide data for presenting configuration
information for accessing at a user communication device. The
processor arrangement is further adapted to process data received
from, and exchange processed data between, the first user-based
communication system and the packet-based communication system. In
response to the configuration data, the processor arrangement is
adapted to route selected information provided by the packet-based
communication system to selected channels of the first user-based
communication system. A user input arrangement is used for
inputting configuration-defining control signals. The processor
arrangement responds to the configuration-defining control signals
by changing the configuration data in the memory circuit and by
rerouting selected information provided by the packet-based
communication system to selected channels of the first user-based
communication system according to the configuration-defining
control signals.
[0010] According to another example embodiment of the present
invention, a network interface system is arranged for interfacing
different types of communication systems including a first
user-based communication system and a packet-based communication
system. The system includes a data memory circuit adapted to store
data for use in the system. A processor arrangement is adapted to
write data-intercept select data into and read data-intercept
select data from the memory circuit and to provide data for
communicating with a user via a user communication device. The
processor arrangement is further adapted to process data received
from, and exchange processed data between, the first user-based
communication system and the packet-based communication system. In
response to the data in the data memory circuit, the processor
arrangement is also adapted to intercept information from the
packet-based communication system and to store the intercepted
information in the data memory circuit. A user input arrangement is
adapted to input message-retrieval control signals that the
processor arrangement responds to by displaying messages (email,
voice mail, etc.) from the data memory circuit.
[0011] According to yet another example embodiment of the present
invention, a method is used to control communications data in a
communications system having a NIU, a user interface device, a
plurality of communications appliances, and a bussing system. The
user interface device is used and the NIU is programmed with
configuration information for external-services data. The
external-services data is received at the NIU and, responsive to
the configuration information, the received external-services data
is configured and transferred via the bussing arrangement to one of
the communications appliances.
[0012] Other aspects of the present invention are directed to
example methods and application-specific implementations relating
to the above arrangements.
[0013] The above summary is not intended to characterize each
embodiment of the present invention. Other aspects of the present
invention are provided by way of example upon review of the figures
and corresponding description of the drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The invention may be more completely understood in
consideration of the following detailed description of various
embodiments of the invention in connection with the accompanying
drawings, in which:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a communications arrangement in a user facility,
according to an example embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 shows a communication system having several example
system components, according to particular embodiments of the
present invention; and
[0017] FIG. 3 is an example flow chart used to show a particular
implementation of the communication system of FIG. 2, according
another example embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] While the invention is amenable to various modifications and
alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of
example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should
be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the
invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary,
the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and
alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention
as defined by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] The present invention is believed to be applicable to a
variety of different types of data communications systems, and the
invention has been found to be particularly suited for enabling and
controlling communications between one or more communications
networks and a facility, and between appliances located in the
facility. While the present invention is not necessarily limited to
such applications, various aspects of the invention may be
appreciated through a discussion of various examples using this
context.
[0020] According to one example embodiment of the present
invention, a system and method are used for controlling an NIU and
enabling configuration of an NIU-based system for a user facility.
In one implementation, the customer/user inputs NIU configuration
information via an unsophisticated user-friendly device such as a
telephone keypad, a computer accessing an Internet web page, or a
dedicated input such as an infrared remote control. Such
customer/user configuration may include, for example, selecting an
option from a command menu either displayed visually or played
audibly. The audible menu may be played using, for example, a voice
generating device or a prerecorded message. In another
implementation, an external-services provider, such as a cable
television, Internet, or telephone services provider, inputs NIU
configuration information via communications lines coupling the
external-services provider with the NIU. In still another
implementation, a combination of customer/user and external-service
provider inputs are used to configure the NIU.
[0021] The NIU-based system includes an audio, video, and data
signal bussing arrangement adapted to distribute audio, video, and
data to designated points in the user facility. The bussing
arrangement includes one or more types of communication lines
communicatively coupled to a plurality of appliances. Each of the
plurality of appliances is adapted to receive and process one or
more types of the distributed signals. The NIU is coupled to the
bussing arrangement and is adapted to communicatively couple the
external services data over the bussing arrangement and with the
plurality of appliances in the user facility. Using an input device
adapted to command the NIU, external-services data is configured
for use in the user facility. For example, configuring the
external-services data may include routing the data to a particular
one of the plurality of appliances, enabling the use of a
particular type of data to a limited number of appliances, or
converting the data from a first form to a second form, such as
from analog to digital or packet-based to non-packet-based.
[0022] One example application of the present invention includes a
network interface system adapted to interface a user-based
communication system and a packet-based communication system. The
system includes a data memory circuit, a user communication device,
a processor, and a user input device, some or all of which may be
included in a single NIU. The data memory circuit is adapted to
store configuration data. The processor is adapted to write to and
read from the data memory circuit and to provide the configuration
information for access at the user communication device. The
processor further processes data received from, and exchanges
processed data between the first user-based communications system
and the packet-based communication system, and routes selected
information provided by the packet-based system to selected
channels of the first user-based system. The user input device is
adapted to input configuration-defining control signals for
changing the configuration data and rerouting the selected
information to other selected channels of the first user-based
system.
[0023] In another example application, the data memory circuit is
adapted to store data intercept select data. The processor is
adapted to provide data for communicating with a user via the
communication device, to intercept information from the
packet-based system, and to store the intercepted data in the data
memory circuit. The user input device is adapted to input
message-retrieval control signals from the processor in the form of
displayed messages, such as email or voice mail, from the memory
circuit.
[0024] The user-based communications system may, for example,
include a network such as a computer network or a bussing
arrangement. In addition, the user input device and the user-based
communications system may be part of the same device. Other example
devices and systems that may be used in connection with the
user-based system, packet-based system, input and communications
devices, as well as methods for controlling, configuring, and
operating these systems are described in connection with other
example embodiments that follow below.
[0025] In one particular example embodiment, the NIU includes a
printed circuit board (PCB) that has at least one general processor
and at least one specific processor adapted to process video data.
The PCB also may include in additional processors such as a RISC
processor and/or a DSP processor. For more information regarding
NIU-related devices suitable for use in conjunction with the
present invention, reference may be made to "8.times.8 Application
Note: Symphony VoIP Access Gateway."
[0026] Another example embodiment of the present invention includes
using an arrangement such as described herein in a household. FIG.
1 shows an external-services provider 110 coupled via a
communications line 120 to a NIU 130 for use in a household 115.
The NIU 130 is adapted to configure the external-services data
received via communications line 120. The NIU is further coupled to
a bussing arrangement 140 adapted to deliver the external-services
data to one or more appliances 150 or 160 in the house. Optionally,
another communications line 170 is coupled from appliance 160 to
the external-services provider 110. The portion of FIG. 1 connected
to the NIU labeled as "Facility Internal" corresponds to the
user-based system, and the portion labeled as "External Providers"
corresponds to the packet-based system as described above,
according to one particular implementation.
[0027] In another example embodiment of the present invention, an
appliance interface device is coupled between the appliance and the
bussing arrangement and adapted to exchange data between the
bussing arrangement and the appliance. The interface device can be
adapted to receive data of a first type from the bussing
arrangement and convert the data to a second type for delivery to
the appliance. When sending data from the appliance to the bussing
arrangement, the interface device converts the data of the second
type to data of the first type. The interface device may also be
adapted to receive data from a first type of communications line,
and to transfer the data to a second type of communications line.
For example, the bussing arrangement may include a digital cable
line, and the interface device can be coupled to an ordinary
telephone having a two-wire analog system. The interface device
receives digital data from the bussing arrangement and converts the
data into DTMF tones transferred over the two-wire analog system
and receivable by the telephone. When the telephone sends a signal
via the two-wire analog system, the interface device converts the
signal to a digital signal and sends the signal via the bussing
arrangement. In addition to the conversion of digital data to
analog data as described herein, the interface device may be
adapted to make data conversions as is necessary for use in
connection with various household appliances, some of which have
been described in connection with the present invention and shown
by example illustration in the figures appended hereto.
[0028] The interface device may be manufactured to convert the
first type of data to a second type of data, or to connect the
first type of communications line to the second type of
communications line. Alternatively, the interface device is
programmable for converting various types of data and connecting to
various communication lines. In one implementation, the NIU
configures the interface device. In another implementation, the
interface device is programmed using a user appliance. In still
another implementation, the interface device is programmed as part
of its manufacture.
[0029] Various appliances, communications lines, and methods of
communication may be used in connection with FIG. 1. For example,
FIG. 2 shows several example types of service providers 210,
communications systems 220, appliances 230, and bus arrangements
240, that can be used in connection with the present invention.
Though not shown, the bussing arrangements 230 may include one of,
all of, or more than the types of communications systems shown for
use in coupling the NIU 245 to external-service providers. In
addition, the user input device 250 may include one of, all of, or
more than the types of appliances listed for connection to the NIU
245 via the communications system included in the bus, and yet
others include a telephone keypad, an IR key panel, a wall-mount
unit for the system, and a voice recognition system. Several of the
examples shown in FIG. 2 will be described herein in connection
with particular embodiments of the present invention. It will be
apparent that other examples consistent with the above may be
implemented in place of or in conjunction with the examples
provided herein.
[0030] As technology advances, many of the types of appliances
listed in FIG. 2 are capable of receiving information using more
than one communications method. One example embodiment includes the
use of broadband technology to deliver and exchange information of
different types using the same communications line. For instance, a
coaxial cable installed in the bussing arrangement can, in addition
to delivering cable television, deliver other information such as
Internet and telephony information. In this manner, the user can
use the telephony appliance 160 to request a service change to the
services provider using the same cable that is used for sending a
signal to the television. Other broadband applications include
wireless cable systems, wherein the user facility receives data via
a down converter from a local wireless transmitter. Available
wireless systems include one-way wireless, wherein the user
facility receives data via the down converter and sends data via a
second line, and two-way wireless, wherein the user both sends and
receives information.
[0031] In one particular example embodiment, a method for
configuring the NIU includes using an appliance 150 that includes a
viewing device, such as a television, and appliance 160 that
includes a telephony device, such as a telephone or an Internet
telephony device, wherein the external-services provider sends the
configuration information to the NIU. The NIU sends a signal to the
television that includes configuration information for the NrU for
display on the television screen. A user in the house views the
configuration information and uses the telephony device to contact
the external-services provider if any changes in service are
desired. The external-services provider then sends new
configuration information to the NIU to reflect the desired
changes. This is useful for managing the services provided to the
household or other location which includes the NIU. As an
alternative to using a telephony device in the above example
embodiment, the viewing appliance itself is used to send a signal
reflecting a desired change in the configuration of the NIU,
according to another example embodiment of the present invention.
For instance, the viewing appliance may include a television having
a remote. The remote is used to select configuration options from
the television screen. The selected options are sent to the NIU,
which in turn sends a signal to the external-services provider
reflecting the desired changes. In response to the request, the
external-services provider sends a signal having configuration
information for the desired changes to the NIU.
[0032] In another example embodiment, the user is authorized by the
external-services provider to make configuration changes to the
NIU. When the user makes changes, the NIU notifies the
external-services provider of the changes. The external-services
provider can then use the notification to bill the user for the
services selected. In one implementation, the selected changes are
sent to the external-services provider, and the NIU receives only
the selected services that are requested from the external-services
provider. In another implementation, the NIU receives a full range
of services, such as a full range of pay-per-view television
selections available from the external-services provider. Based on
the configuration selections of the user, the NIU enables use of
the external-services only for those selections, and a change in
services provided by the external-services provider is not
necessary.
[0033] In still another implementation, the user configures the NIU
to only allow selections from a particular set of external-services
data. For example, one configuration only allows the selection of
television services having a viewing rating of a particular
category. This is useful for parental control of the viewing of
movies, television, or other external-services. The configuration
of the NIU may also include a password or security code so that a
particular user can control the configuration of the device.
Alternatively, the NIU may include several levels of password
access, wherein individuals in the user facility are enabled
various levels of configuration access based upon their password
access level. In this manner, the purchasing user (e.g.,parent,
supervisor) can control the use of the NIU and external-services by
other users (e.g., children, employees) in the facility.
[0034] In addition to parental control, this implementation has the
ability to limit access by employees to services, such as access to
certain Internet web sites or access to certain audio or video
feeds for videoconferencing purposes. A configurable NIU is
particularly useful for videoconferencing, wherein the
videoconference data is sent only to intended participants
throughout a facility or throughout several facilities. For
instance, a company having two or more locations, each having an
NIU, can hold a videoconference with employees at each location by
configuring the NIU devices to send the data to the participants at
both locations. A user sets up the NIU for delivery either by
programming the NIU directly or by contacting an external-services
provider and requesting the desired NIU configuration. The
communication between the facilities is accomplished via an
external-services provider, and the confidentiality of the
videoconference is maintained by the configuration of the NIU.
[0035] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of a method for using and
configuring an NIU using a television display and user selection,
such as described above. At block 310, an external-services
provider sends configuration data to a NIU, and the NIU receives
the data at block 320. The NIU sends configuration data for display
on the television display for viewing by the user at block 330. The
configuration information may, for example, include configuration
information such as which Internet service is being used, which
television cable subscription is current, or which telephones in
the user facility are assigned to particular telephone numbers. At
block 340, a user views the configuration information displayed on
the TV, and selects an option from the displayed configuration
information. Options may include, for example, ordering a
television channel subscription or pay-per-view event, selecting or
terminating a service, or requesting the assignment or reassignment
of a particular appliance to a service. Once the user has selected
an option, the option is communicated to the NIU which delivers the
selection to the external-services provider at block 350. The
service provider processes the selection and sends the NIU new
configuration data consistent with the selection at block 360. In
response to the new configuration information, the NIU provides
services consistent with the new configuration data at block 370.
In another example embodiment of the present invention, the NIU is
adapted to use memory that is adapted to store external-services
data, such as audio and video recordings, email, and voicemail. The
memory may, for example, be included in the NIU, or may be an
external memory, such as part of an appliance in the user facility
or at an external-service provider, such as memory located at a
communications terminal. One particular implementation includes a
method for selecting and receiving downloadable multimedia, such as
pay-per-view movies. The user chooses a movie selection from a
list, such as displayed on a television set or computer. The choice
is delivered to the external-services provider via a communication
line using, for example, a telephone, an Internet appliance, or a
remote control for selecting a choice displayed on a TV and sent
via the NIU to the external-services provider. The
external-services provider sends a digital copy of the movie to the
NIU in response to the request. The NIU receives the copy and
transfers the movie to a selected video display in the user
facility. In a more particular implementation, the digital copy of
the movie includes configuration information, such as the number of
viewing appliances to which it can be sent, the number of times the
movie can be viewed, and a timeframe for which viewing of the movie
is allowed (e.g., purchasing a 24 hour viewing license).
[0036] Another particular implementation includes a method for
selecting downloadable music including music recordings typically
purchased on media such as compact discs. A user makes a selection
from a list of music recordings available for download in a similar
manner as described above for purchasing a pay-per-view movie. The
selection is sent to the downloadable music provider, such as via
the NIU or by using other communications devices independent of the
NIU, and the downloadable music provider sends the music data to
the NIU. The NIU receives the data from the provider and routes the
data via the bussing arrangement to an appliance selected by the
user.
[0037] Another particular implementation of using the memory at the
NIU includes storing email, voice mail, video mail, or other
communications at the NIU. A user configures the NIU to store
incoming communications data at the NIU for future access. The user
then contacts the NIU using a user input device, such as described
herein, and directs the NIU to send the message to an appliance.
The user input device may also include the capability to view all
of the data that is stored as well as the type of data that is
stored, either at the user input device or via another appliance
such as a TV, and also may include the capability to determine the
source of the data. In addition, the user may direct the NIU to
configure the information for receipt at a particular appliance.
For instance, the NIU may be configured to receive word processing
data, such as an email, and configure the data to be sent as a
voice message to a telephone, or may simply convert an analog
message to digital or vice-versa. In this manner, a user can
contact the NIU from a remote location and receive messages sent to
the user facility.
[0038] In another example embodiment of the present invention, the
NIU is configured to provide authorization for a user to receive
external-services data by establishing a credit arrangement with
the user. For instance, a user can set up an account for use in
conjunction with the external-services provider. In one
implementation, the user supplies a credit account number, such as
a credit card number or a bank account, and the NIU is configured
to charge the credit account for the selected external-services. In
another implementation, the user provides a debit account to the
external-services provider and the NIU deducts funds from that
account based upon the selections made for external-services.
[0039] According to another example embodiment of the present
invention, a NIU is used to control data communications and
configurations internally in a user facility. For example, a user
can direct signal input and output to and from appliances
throughout the facility. One application includes the use of a
stereo system and audio speakers. Sound data, such as from a
broadcast source (possibly received through the NIU or through
other sources), a compact disc player, a cassette player, a video
player, or a phonograph player, is sent to the NIU. The user
configures the NIU for distribution of the sound to one or more
selected audio speakers or audio systems in the home. Using that
configuration, the NIU distributes the sound data to each audio
speaker.
[0040] Configuration of the NIU may include using a user input
device to send configuration information to the NIU. The user input
device may include a device such as described above for use in
contacting an external-service provider, or another type of device.
One particular application includes using a bussing arrangement
having a two-wire analog system, wherein signals are sent to the
NIU from the user input device using DTMF tones. The NIU is
configured to receive the DTMF tones and use the tones to effect
configuration of the NIU.
[0041] Another use of the NIU is in connection with an intercom
system in a user facility, according to another example embodiment
of the present invention. The intercom system includes audio
receivers, such as microphones, and audio speakers. The speakers
may, for example, include the audio speakers adapted for use in
connection with other appliances in the facility, such as those
connected for stereo listening or television viewing. A user sends
an intercom message, such as by depressing a button and speaking
into a microphone, and the audio information is sent to the NIU.
The NIU is programmed to deliver the audio information to one or
more audio speakers in the facility. The intercom system may also
include a selection arrangement, wherein the user selects the
destination of the audio signal when the signal is sent, such as
prior to depressing an intercom button. This is particularly useful
when it is desired to send the intercom signal so that it is heard
over another audio signal, such as a stereo signal. For instance,
when loud music or other audio is being played in a portion of the
facility, a conventional intercom system may not generate a loud
enough signal to be heard. By using the NIU, the loud music or
other audio can be reduced in volume so that the intercom message
can be heard.
[0042] Another example embodiment of the present invention includes
using an audio input, such as a microphone that is part of an
intercom system, together with an NIU to monitor audio in a user
facility. For example, the NIU can be configured by a user to
receive audio data from a microphone located in an infant's
sleeping area, and transmit the audio to a particular appliance in
the facility. The audio data can be sent to an audio speaker where
the infant's sounds can be monitored. In this manner, an infant can
be monitored throughout the facility.
[0043] In a more particular example embodiment, the NIU is
configured to transmit the audio data to another appliance, such as
a wireless phone. The wireless phone receives the audio data,
enabling audio monitoring of the facility at a remote location.
This is useful in many applications, such as for security
monitoring, monitoring an infant, or for a parent wanting to
monitor children while away from home. In a more particular example
embodiment, the NIU is configured to transmit a signal upon
receiving audio data above a certain sound level. For instance, a
microphone may be used for detecting an intrusion, or for
monitoring the audio level of an infant. The NIU is configured to
detect the sound level of the incoming signal, and to transmit a
second signal to an appliance upon detecting that the sound level
is above a configured threshold level. The threshold level is set
to correspond to a user-defined occurrence, such as an infant's cry
(i.e. used in a manner such as a typical baby monitor is used) or
an intrusion resulting in breaking glass or other audible
incident.
[0044] One particular application involving the detection of an
infant's cry includes sending a page signal upon detecting the cry.
This is particularly useful for monitoring an infant in a manner
that does not necessarily require the individual doing the
monitoring to be able to hear the infant. For example, a pager can
be set to vibrate in response to a signal. Using this feature, a
NIU is configured to send a page upon receiving a signal from an
audio source that is above a particular level. The page may be sent
directly to a pager, or may be sent via an external-services
provider. The ability to monitor an infant without necessarily
being able to hear is important for individuals who are deaf or
hard-of-hearing, or for an individual located in an area having
high sound levels, such as a person riding a lawn mower, operating
loud equipment, or listening to loud music.
[0045] In another example embodiment of the present invention, the
NTU is configured to received video data from a video capture
appliance in a user facility. The video data may then be sent to
another appliance for further use. For example, one or more
security cameras can be located in the facility and coupled to a
bus leading to the NIU. The NIU is configured by the user to direct
the incoming video data to an appliance, such as a VCR or other
video recorder, or to direct the incoming video data to an
external-services provider, such as a security monitoring provider.
The NIU is optionally configured by the external-services security
provider, and the configuration includes the selection of video
data from a particular appliance to be sent to the
external-services provider. In another example, the NIU is used to
route video data, such as that supplied by a VCR or other movie
playback device, to one or several viewing locations in the home.
By coupling several appliances with the NIU via the bussing
arrangement, the control, distribution, and use of information such
as video data is easier to accomplish.
[0046] In another example embodiment related to the distribution of
video data, both video and audio data for a particular audio-visual
communication, such as a movie, are distributed from the NIU to
separate audio and video appliances. This eliminates the need for
appliances, such as a TV, VCR, or DVD player to be connected
directly to a stereo or other audio output system. Using a
connection to the NIU via the bussing arrangement, the audio is
sent directly to an audio output device.
[0047] The appliances coupled to the bussing arrangement in the
user facility are configured using the NIU and a user input device,
according to another example embodiment of the present invention.
The NIU is adapted to retrieve configuration information for the
appliances. The configuration information may, for example, be
stored in a data memory at the NMU, or may be available at the
appliance itself for delivery to the NIU via the bussing
arrangement. A user connects to the NIU via a user input device,
such as a TV or a computer, and views the configuration of
appliances connected to the NIU via the bussing arrangement. The
user then selects configuration changes, if desired, and the
changes are made via the NIU. The configuration changes may include
changes made to the appliance itself, and may include changes made
at the NIU for distribution of data to the appliances.
[0048] For example, one configurable appliance includes a
telephone. Telephone services, such as a dynamically allocated
telephone number, call waiting, caller ID, answering options,
forwarding options, message storage options, message on hold
options, call blocking options, address book information, directory
assistance options, and call screening options are displayed for
user selection. The user selects choices from the display, and the
selections are used for configuration of the telephone appliance
via the NIU. This configuration is applicable to traditional
telephones using a POTS system, to Internet telephones, wireless
telephones, and packet-based telephones, to name a few
examples.
[0049] The NJU is adapted to assign Internet protocol (IP)
addresses to particular Internet appliances in a user facility,
according to another example embodiment of the present invention.
In a similar manner as the telephone configuration described above,
one or more Internet appliances are configured. For example,
incoming data can be routed to a particular computer location in a
house or business. This allows the use of several computers in
different locations within or external to a user facility while
using a particular IP address.
[0050] The user input device is adapted to configure the NIU to
control household systems, such as heat, air conditioning,
lighting, water, and security systems, according to another example
embodiment of the present invention. The control can be
accomplished from an internal or external location. For example,
controlling the systems externally is advantageous for making
changes when not at home, such as by turning on lights or turning
up the heat or air conditioning prior to arriving home. This can be
accomplished, for example, using a simple telephone and calling the
NIU, or using an Internet connection and connecting the NIU via the
Internet. Passwords or other protective methods may be used to
provide secure access. In one particular embodiment, a password is
entered via a telephone or via the Internet. In another
application, the NIU checks the Internet protocol address of the
sender and verifies that the address is authorized to make
changes.
[0051] In another implementation, the NIU is further adapted to use
compression and decompression technology to communicate data. In
one particular example embodiment, the NIU receives compressed
information, such as video telephony information, from an external
source. The NTU decompresses the information and delivers it to an
appliance in the user facility. A user receives the information via
the appliance, and sends information back to the external source
via the NIU, which compresses the data prior to sending it. For
more information regarding example uses such as
compression/decompression and multimedia processing technology,
reference may be made to U.S. Pat. No. 5,379,351 entitled "Video
Compression and Decompression Processing and Processors," and to
multimedia processing kits, such as described in connection with
"8.times.8 Application Note: Symphony VoIP Access Gateway"
(attached hereto as an appendix) available from 8.times.8, Inc. of
Santa Clara, Calif.
[0052] While the present invention has been described with
reference to several particular example embodiments, those skilled
in the art will recognize that many changes may be made thereto
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention, which is set forth in the following claims.
* * * * *