U.S. patent application number 12/010045 was filed with the patent office on 2008-09-04 for electronic book secure communication with home subsystem.
This patent application is currently assigned to Discovery Communications, Inc.. Invention is credited to John S. Hendricks.
Application Number | 20080215895 12/010045 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39103692 |
Filed Date | 2008-09-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080215895 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hendricks; John S. |
September 4, 2008 |
Electronic book secure communication with home subsystem
Abstract
The invention, an electronic book selection and delivery system,
is a new way to distribute books and other textual information to
bookstores, libraries and consumers. The primary components of the
system are a subsystem for placing text in a video signal format
and a subsystem for receiving and selecting text that is placed in
the video signal format. The system configuration for consumer use
contains additional components and optional features that enhance
the system, namely: (1) an operation center, (2) a video
distribution system, (3) a home subsystem, including reception,
selection, viewing, transacting and transmission capabilities, and
(4) a billing and collection system. The operation center and/or
video distribution points perform the functions of manipulation of
text data, security and coding of text, cataloging of books,
messaging center, and uplink functions. The home subsystem performs
the functions of connecting to a video distribution system, menu
selecting text, storing text, and transacting through phone or
cable communicating mechanisms. A portable book-shaped viewing
device is used for viewing the textual material delivered. The
billing and collection system performs the transaction, management,
authorization, collection and publisher payments automatically
utilizing the telephone system.
Inventors: |
Hendricks; John S.;
(Potomac, MD) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ARENT FOX LLP
1050 CONNECTICUT AVENUE, N.W., SUITE 400
WASHINGTON
DC
20036
US
|
Assignee: |
Discovery Communications,
Inc.
|
Family ID: |
39103692 |
Appl. No.: |
12/010045 |
Filed: |
January 18, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09722519 |
Nov 28, 2000 |
7336788 |
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12010045 |
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09237825 |
Jan 27, 1999 |
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09722519 |
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08336247 |
Nov 7, 1994 |
5986690 |
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09237825 |
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07991074 |
Dec 9, 1992 |
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08336247 |
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08160194 |
Dec 2, 1993 |
5990927 |
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07991074 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
713/193 ;
715/273 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 2221/0704 20130101;
G06F 21/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
713/193 ;
715/273 |
International
Class: |
H04L 9/06 20060101
H04L009/06; G06F 17/21 20060101 G06F017/21 |
Claims
1-26. (canceled)
27. A method of communicating between components of a home
subsystem comprising: a home library for receiving and storing
electronic books, the electronic books comprising data text and a
unique key associated therewith, and a portable, electronic viewer
for processing and displaying the electronic books, said portable
viewer having a unique key associated therewith, the method
comprising: in the library, without user input of an identifier of
the user, comparing the unique key associated with the viewer data
text of an electronic book to the unique key identifying the
electronic viewer; if the comparing step produces a match, sending
the data text related to an electronic book from the library to the
viewer; and storing the data text in the viewer.
28. The method of claim 27, further comprising encrypting the data
text.
29. The method of claim 28, further comprising preventing the
electronic viewer from outputting decrypted data text.
30. The method of claim 28, further comprising: displaying the data
text on a display portion of the electronic viewer; and decrypting
the data text as the data text is displayed.
31. The method of claim 27, farther comprising compressing the data
text.
32. The method of claim 31, further comprising preventing the
electronic viewer from outputting decompressed data text.
33. The method of claim 31, further comprising: displaying the data
text on a display portion of the electronic viewer; and
decompressing the data text as the data text is displayed.
34. The method of claim 27, wherein the data text is encrypted and
compressed when it is received by the electronic viewer, and
further comprising decompressing and decrypting a portion of the
data text.
35. The method of claim 27, further comprising encrypting and
compressing the data text before it is sent to the electronic
viewer, and further comprising decompressing and decrypting the
data text one page at a time, as a current page is displayed on the
electronic viewer.
36. The method of claim 27, wherein the electronic viewer has a
unique key for decrypting the data text, whereby only one
electronic viewer can access a particular transmission of data
text.
37. The method of claim 27, wherein the data text is transmitted as
a digital bit stream.
38. The method of claim 27, wherein the data text is transmitted
from a remote cable headend to the library and bundled into a data
file, which data file is sent to the electronic viewer.
39. A method for processing data text for electronic books in a
home system comprising a library and a viewer, the method,
comprising sending a packet of data text, inserted in a video
signal, from a remote operations center to the library; encrypting
and compressing the packet; sending the packet to a viewer
communicatively coupled to the library; storing the packet in a
viewer storage; decompressing and decrypting the packet, comprising
decompressing and decrypting an electronic book page by page, just
before a page is displayed on a display of the viewer; and
displaying the data text on the display of the viewer.
40. The method of claim 39, further comprising storing the packet
to a data file in the library, which data file is capable of
storing a plurality of packets related to an electronic book.
41. The method of claim 40, wherein the step of encrypting and
compressing the packet comprises encrypting and compressing the
data file, and wherein the step of sending the packet to the viewer
comprises sending the data file to the viewer.
42. The method of claim 39, wherein the data packet. is sent in a
bit stream having a packet identifier, and further comprising
comparing a packet identifier with a library identifier, and
wherein the step of sending the packet to the library comprises
sending the packet to the library if the packet identifier matches
the library identifier.
43. The method of claim 42; wherein the step of decompressing and
decrypting the data file comprises using a security key unique to
the viewer.
44. The method of claim 39, wherein the step of decompressing and
decrypting comprises decompressing and decrypting a page of an
electronic book at a time, as the page is displayed on the display.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 09/237,825, filed Jan. 27, 1999, entitled ELECTRONIC BOOK
SELECTION AND DELIVERY SYSTEM, which is a divisional of U.S.
application Ser. No. 08/336,247, filed Nov. 7, 1994, entitled
ELECTRONIC BOOK SELECTION AND DELIVERY SYSTEM, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 07/991,074, filed
Dec. 9, 1992, entitled REMOTE CONTROL FOR MENU DRIVEN SUBSCRIBER
ACCESS TO TELEVISION PROGRAMMING and U.S. application Ser. No.
08/160,194, entitled ADVANCED SET-TOP TERMINAL FOR CABLE TELEVISION
DELIVERY SYSTEMS, filed Dec. 9, 1993.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Sparked by the concept of an information superhighway, a
revolution will take place in the distribution of books. Not since
the introduction of Gutenberg's movable typeset printing has the
world stood on the brink of such a revolution in the distribution
of text material. The definition of the word "book" will change
drastically in the near future. Due to reasons such as security,
convenience, cost, and other technical problems, book and magazine
publishers are currently only able to distribute their products in
paper form. This invention solves the problems encountered by
publishers.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0003] The electronic book selection and delivery system is a new
way to distribute books to bookstores, libraries, and consumers.
The technological breakthroughs of this invention provide a secure
electronic system for both delivering selected books and receiving
payments. The system has an unusual combination of features that
provides the consumer with a daily use household appliance that has
a high tech aura while being very practical, portable, and easy to
use.
[0004] The clear advantage of the system is that it eliminates the
distribution of any physical object such as a paper book or
computer memory device from any book distribution system. The
purchase of a book becomes a Pay-Per-Read.TM. event avoiding the
overhead, "middle-men," printing costs, and time delay associated
with the current book distribution system. Published material and
text such as the President's speech, a new law, a court decision on
abortion, or O. J. Simpson's testimony can be made immediately
available to the consumer at a nominal fee.
[0005] The system is a novel combination of new technology
involving the television, cable, telephone, and computer
industries. It utilities high bandwidth data transmissions, strong
security measures, sophisticated digital switching, high resolution
visual displays and user friendly interface software.
[0006] The primary components of the text delivery system are the
subsystem for placing the text onto a video signal and the
subsystem for receiving and selecting text that was placed on the
video signal. The preferred embodiment of the system includes
additional components and optional features that enhance the
system. The system may be configured for use by bookstores,
libraries, and consumers. The system for consumer use is made up of
four subsystems, namely: (1) an Operations Center, (2) a video
distribution system, (3) a home subsystem including reception,
selection, viewing, transacting and transmission capabilities, and
(4) a billing and collection system.
[0007] The Operations Center performs several primary functions:
manipulating text data (including receiving, formatting and storing
of text data), security encoding text, cataloging books, providing
a messaging center capability, and performing uplink functions. The
system delivers the text from the Operations Center to consumer
homes by inserting data within analog video signals. The insertion
of text is generally performed with a text generator and an encoder
at an uplink site that is within or near the Operations Center. The
system can be several lines of the Vertical Blanking Interval
(VBI), all the lines of the analog video signal, or a digital video
signal to transmit text data. Using the VBI delivery method, the
top ten or twenty book titles may be transmitted with video during
normal programming utilizing existing cable or broadcast
transmission capability without disruption to the subscriber's
video reception. Using the entire video signal, thousands of books
may be transmitted within just one hour of air time. Nearly any
analog or digital video distribution system may be used to deliver
the video signal with included text.
[0008] The home subsystem performs five primary functions:
connecting to the video distribution system, selecting text,
storing text, displaying text, and transacting through a phone or
cable communicating mechanism. The components of the home subsystem
may be configured in a variety of hardware configurations. Each
function may be performed by a separate component, the components
may be integrated, or the capability of existing cable set top
converter boxes and televisions may be utilized. Preferably, a
connector, library unit and viewer unit are used. The connector
portion of the home subsystem receives the analog video signal and
strips or extracts the text from the video. The home library stores
the text signal, provides a user friendly software interface to the
system and processes the transactions at the consumer home. The
viewer provides a screen for viewing text or menus.
[0009] The viewing device is preferably a portable book shaped
viewer which stores one or more books for viewing and provides a
screen for interacting with the home library unit. A high
resolution LCD display is used to both read the books and to
interact with the home library software. An optional phone
connector or return-path cable connection initiates the telephone
calls and, with the aid of the library, transmits the necessary
data to complete the ordering and billing portion of the consumer
transaction. The billing and collection system performs transaction
management, authorizations, collections and publisher payments
automatically utilizing the telephone system.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the primary components of the
electronic book selection and delivery system.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a schematic showing an overview of the electronic
book selection and delivery system.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a schematic of the delivery plan for the
electronic book selection and delivery system.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the operations center.
[0014] FIG. 5a is a flow diagram of the processing at the
operations center and uplink.
[0015] FIG. 5b is a block diagram of the hardware configuration for
an uplink site.
[0016] FIG. 6a is a block diagram of the hardware configuration for
a four component home subsystem.
[0017] FIG. 6b is a schematic of a two unit home subsystem.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of the processes performed by the
video connector.
[0019] FIG. 8 is a block diagram for an example of a library
unit.
[0020] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of some of the processes performed
by the library on the received data stream.
[0021] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of the processes performed by the
library unit on information requests from the viewer.
[0022] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the components for an
example of a viewer.
[0023] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of some of the processes performed
by the viewer on an information request from a subscriber.
[0024] FIG. 13 is a chart depicting the menu structure and
sequencing of menus in the menu system.
[0025] FIG. 14a is a schematic of an introductory menu.
[0026] FIG. 14b is a schematic showing an example of a main
menu.
[0027] FIG. 14c through FIG. 14q are schematics showing examples of
submenus.
[0028] FIG. 14r is a schematic showing another example of a main
menu.
[0029] FIG. 14s and FIG. 14t are schematics showing examples of
screens for a book.
[0030] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of an electronic book system
for a bookstore or public library.
[0031] FIG. 16a and FIG. 16b are schematics of hardware
modifications or upgrades to a set top converter.
[0032] FIG. 17 is a schematic showing a set top terminal that
includes a data receiver and data transmitter.
[0033] FIG. 18a is a schematic of a book-on-demand system.
[0034] FIG. 18b is a schematic of an operations center supporting a
book-on-demand system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0035] The primary components of the electronic book selection and
delivery system 200 are an encoder 204, a video distribution system
208, a connector 212, and a text selector 216 as shown in FIG. 1.
The encoder 204 places textual data on a video signal to form a
composite signal. A variety of equipment and methods may be used to
encode text data onto a video signal. The video distribution system
208 distributes the video signal from the single point of the
encoder 204 to multiple locations which have connectors 212. The
connector 212 receives the digital or analog video signal from the
video distribution system 208 and separates, strips or extracts the
text data from the composite video signal. If necessary, the
extracted text data is converted into a digital bit stream. Text
selector 216 works in connection with the connector 212 to select
text.
[0036] Using a connector 212 and text selector 216 combination,
various methods of selecting and retrieving desired text from a
composite or video signal are possible. Text may be preselected,
selected as received or selected after being received and stored.
The preferred method is for the connector 212 to strip all the text
from the video signal and have the text selector 216 screen all the
text as received from the connector 212. The text selector 216 only
stores text in long term or permanent memory if the text passes a
screening process described below.
[0037] An overview of a preferred embodiment is shown in FIG. 2.
The system 200 includes: an operations center 250 including an
uplink site 254, a video distribution system 208, a home subsystem
258 including a video connector 212, a library 262, a viewer 266,
and a phone connector 270, and telephone system 274 and a billing
and collection subsystem 278. The operations center receives
textual material from outside sources 282 such as publishers,
newspapers, and on-line services. The operations center receives
this textual material in various digital formats and converts them
to a standard compressed format for storage. In so doing, the
operations center creates a pool of textual material that is
available to be delivered to the home system. Normally, the text
material is grouped by books or titles for easy access. The
operations center includes an uplink site for placing the text onto
a video signal and sending the composite video signal into a video
distribution system. The uplink site would generally include an
encoder (not shown in FIG. 2) to encode the text onto a video
signal.
[0038] Many analog and digital video distribution systems 208 can
be used with this text delivery system 200, such as, cable
television distribution systems, broadcast television distribution
systems, video distributed over telephone systems, direct satellite
broadcast distribution systems, and other wire and wireless
distribution systems. Nearly any distribution system which can
deliver a video signal will work with the text delivery system. It
is also possible to distribute the text without using a video
signal as described below.
[0039] The home subsystem performs five primary functions, (1)
connecting with a video distribution system, (2) selecting data,
(3) storing data, (4) displaying data, and (5) handling
transactions. An important optional function of the home sub-system
is communicating using a telephone communication system. The home
subsystem is made up of primarily four parts: a video connector 212
or similar type of connector for connecting with a video
distribution system, a library unit 262 for storing and processing,
a viewer unit 266 for viewing menus and text and a telephone
connector 270 for connecting with a telephone communications system
274.
[0040] The billing and collection subsystem 278 may be co-located
with the operations center 250 or located remote from the
operations center. The billing and collection subsystem 278 is in
communication with the home subsystem via telephone-type
communication systems. Any of a number of telephone type
communication systems, such as, a cellular system, will operate
with the billing and collection system. The billing and collection
system records the books or portions of text that are selected or
ordered by the subscriber. The collection system will charge a
subscriber's credit account or bill the subscriber. In addition,
the billing and collection system will monitor that amount due to
publishers or other outside sources 282 who have provided textual
data or other services such as air time to enable the text delivery
system 200 to operate.
[0041] FIG. 3 is an expanded overview of a preferred delivery plan
for the electronic book selection and delivery system. It is a
comprehensive delivery plan to support various types of users and
various billing systems. FIG. 3 shows that publishers 282 will
provide text transfer 302 to the operations center 250' and receive
payments 306 from the billing and collection system 278'. A
separate channel uplink site 254' is shown in this configuration
receiving data 310 from the operations center 250'. The operations
center 250' has three separate sections (318, 322, 326) one for
text receiving, formatting and re-entry 318, a second for security
encoding 322 and a third section for catalog and messaging center
functions 326.
[0042] The collection and billing system 278' shown has two
sections (330, 334) one for transaction management, authorizations
and publisher payments 330, and the other for customer service 334.
The customer service section 334 provides for data entry and access
to customer account information. Transaction accounting information
338 is supplied to credit card companies 342 by the transaction
management section 330 of the billing and collection system 278'.
The credit card companies 342 provide billing 346 to customers
either electronically or by mail.
[0043] Three methods for communicating between the subscriber base
348 and the billing and collection system 278' are shown: by
telephone switching 350 alone, cellular switching 354 and telephone
switching 250 combined, and by use of the cable system 358 and the
telephone switching 350. The system shown supports both one-way 362
and two-way cable communication 366 with subscribers. Libraries and
schools 370 as well as bookstores 374 may use the delivery
system.
[0044] Libraries and schools 370 would have a modified system to
allow the viewer to be checked-out or borrowed while bookstores 374
would rent or sell the viewer and sell electronic book data. The
bookstores 374 as well as the libraries and schools 370 may be
serviced by cable 378. Optional direct broadcast systems (DBS) 382
can also be used with the system 200.
I. The Operations Center
[0045] FIG. 4 is a schematic of an operations center 250 which
includes an uplink 254. The Operations Center 250 gathers text or
books by receiving, formatting, storing, and encoding. A data
stream 302 containing text is received at the operations center by
a data receiver 402. The data receiver 402 is under the control of
a processor 404. After reception, the data stream is formatted
using digital logic for formatting 406 which is also under the
control of the processor 404. If any additional text is being
generated at the operation center locally for insertion into the
distributed signal, the text generation is handled through text
generator hardware 410 which may include a data receiver and a
keyboard (not shown). Following processing by the text generator,
the additional text can be added to the text received the combining
hardware 414 that includes digital logic circuitry (not shown).
[0046] The processing at the operations center is controlled by a
processor 404 which uses an instruction memory 416. The processor
and instruction memory may be supplied by a personal computer or
mini-computer. To perform the catalog and messaging functions, the
operations center uses a catalog and message memory 420 and the
text generator 410 if necessary.
[0047] The data stream of text, catalog and messages is preferably
encoded by a security ending prior to being sent to the uplink
module 424. Various encoding techniques may be used such as the
commercial derivative of NSA's encryption algorithm, Data
Encryption System (DES), and General Instrument's DigiCipher II may
be used by the security encoding module 424. Following encoding,
the encoded text may be stored in text memory 428 prior to being
sent the uplink 254. It is preferred that a first-in-first-out text
memory arrangement is used under the control of the processor 404.
Various types of memory may be used for the text memory 428
including RAM. The operations center may use file server technology
for the text memory 428 to catalog and spool books for transmission
as is described below.
[0048] To transmit textual data, the delivery system uses high
bandwidth transmission techniques such as those defined by the
North American Broadcast Teletext Standard (NABTS) and the World
System Teletext (WST) standard. Using the WST format (where each
line of the Vertical Blanking Interval contains 266 data bits), a
four hundred page book, for example, may be transmitted during
programming using four lines of the Vertical Blanking Interval at a
rate of approximately one book every 1.6 minutes (63,840 bits per
second). Alternatively, books may be transmitted over a dedicated
channel, which interrupts programming so that 246 lines of video
can be used to transmit approximately 2,250 books every hour (3.9
Mbits per second). A teletext type format is the simplest but
possibly the slowest text format to use with the system. In either
event, an encoder is utilized at an uplink site to insert textual
data into the analog video signal. In many other respects, the
delivery of the textual information is completed using existing
cable television plants and equipment.
[0049] FIG. 5a is a flowchart of the steps involved in processing
text from the publisher or provider 282 that occurs at the
operations center 250. As shown in block 500, the publisher 282
processes data files of text for books, compresses, encrypts and
sends the data files to the operations center or uplink. Text files
for books are preferably sent one book at a time. As shown in block
504, the uplink 254 or operations center 250 receives and processes
the data stream from the publisher 282. Generally, part of this
processing includes encryption and error correction.
[0050] As shown in block 508, files are broken into smaller packets
of information. Header information is added to the packets. The bit
stream is converted from a serial digital bit stream to an analog
bit stream that is compatible with an NTSC video signal. Block 512
shows the switching of analog data into the video lines of a video
signal. The analog data is either placed in the VBI or the active
video lines.
[0051] FIG. 5b is an example of a hardware configuration to perform
some of the functions for blocks 508 and 512. A video feed 516 is
received and processed through a sync stripper 520. The sync signal
532 stripped is used by the digital logic control 524. The digital
logic control 524 receives the sync signal 532 and a serial digital
bit stream 528 for processing. The digital logic control 524 passes
the serial digital bit stream to the Digital to Analog converter
536 and outputs a control signal 540 for the video switch 544. The
video switch 544 integrates the video feed 516 and analog data
stream 548 into a video feed with analog data signal inserted
552.
[0052] As an alternative to cable or television delivery methods,
the telephone system may be used to transmit books to the
subscribers. An average book would take about 7 minutes to transmit
over the public telephone system. Using the telephone system, it is
not necessary to combine video and text into a composite signal. In
most other respects, the operation center would remain similar
whether text delivery was by telephone or cable. It is preferred
that file server technology (such as that described in U.S. Pat.
No. 5,262,875, entitled AUDIO/VIDEO FILE SERVER INCLUDING
DECOMPRESSION/PLAYBACK MEANS, issued to Mincer, et al., and, U.S.
Pat. No. 5,218,695, entitled FILE SERVER SYSTEM HAVING HIGH-SPEED
WRITE EXECUTION, issued to Noveck, et al., incorporated herein by
reference) be used at the operation center with a telephone system
text delivery method.
II. The Home Subsystem
[0053] The hardware configuration for a four component home
subsystem 258 is shown in FIG. 6a. FIG. 6b shows a hardware
configuration for a two component home subsystem. The home
subsystem 258 performs several functions, such as receiving data
and video transmissions, stripping the data from the video signal,
screening and storing the data, providing user friendly interface
software, displaying menus and text, processing transactions,
initiating telephone calls and transmitting billing data. Various
hardware configurations may be utilized to achieve the desired
functions of the home subsystem. For example, as shown in FIG. 6b,
the home subsystem can be configured to utilize the reception and
channel tuning capability of the current installed subscriber base
of cable converter boxes and televisions 601. The home subsystem
can also be designed as an advanced set top terminal converter box
with menu generation capability, electronic memory and a telephone
modem as described in section V below.
[0054] The electronic components which make up the home subsystem
can be arranged in a variety of ways. In the four unit subsystem of
FIG. 6a the viewer 266 and library 262 are wired together while the
remaining components communicate through RF transceivers 604. In
the simplest version of the home subsystem there are only two
units, a library 262 and a viewer 266. FIG. 6b shows a two unit
home subsystem with certain optional features. The viewer 266 is
generally equipped with a high resolution viewing area 602, digital
logic (including a key 605, security 606, and a microprocessor
621), video graphics control and memory 607, power supply circuitry
602 (not shown), an optional battery 603 and an optional RF
transceiver 604. In a two unit arrangement, the library 262
contains the connector function to the video distribution system,
connector function to a public telephone communications system, and
memory 600 (which may be removable and portable 600'). More
specifically, the library would include data stripping functions
617, digital logic 609, memory storage 600, power circuitry 610,
optional telephone connections 611 (including cellular or PCN
611'), optional battery (not shown), optional tuner module 613 and
an optional RF transceiver 604. The video connector 212 and the
public telephone system connection 270, as well as the removable
portable memory unit 600 of the library may be broken out into
separate components. (FIG. 6b shows a removable portable hard disk
memory 600' with removable cartridges 614.) Therefore, the home
subsystem may have as many as five separate components which
communicate with each other. The two, three, four or five separate
components which make up the home subsystem can communicate with
each other in a variety of ways, including hardwired connection
615, RF transceiver 604 and other wireless methods.
[0055] RF communications are preferred in the home because it
allows the separate components to be located throughout the home
without restriction.
[0056] The data communicated between the units is preferably secure
data. In addition, the library 262 may provide power to the viewer
266 through the hard wire communication link 615.
[0057] To receive and strip the data from the video signal at the
consumer's home, either a cable interface device or cable connector
is used. The cable connector device includes a tuner 613, while the
cable interface device makes use of existing tuning equipment in
the home. In either configuration, data is stripped from the video
signal and stored at the subscriber's location in the library 262.
The phone connector 270, and modem 611 initiate telephone calls and
transmit ordering and billing information to the Operations Center
or billing and collection system. The home library 262 is the
intelligent component of the home subsystem, incorporating the
hardware and software necessary to store the text data, generate
menus and effect the purchase transactions. In addition to an RF
transceiver 604, the home library 262 also includes the necessary
jacks and connections to allow the system to be connected to the
viewer 266. As shown in FIG. 6b, the library communicates the text
data to the viewer in a secure format which requires a key 605 for
decryption. The text is generally only decrypted page by page just
before viewing.
[0058] a. The Video Connector
[0059] FIG. 7 shows the flow of the processes performed by the
video connector 212. The video connector receives the video signal
608, tunes to the channel containing the text data 612, strips the
text data from the video signal 616, and communicates the text data
stream to logic components in the library 620.
[0060] The connection to the video distribution system is
preferably a cable connector to a cable television delivery system,
as shown in FIG. 6b. The cable connector includes a data stripper
circuit 617, which accepts video input from either a set top
converter, TV or VCR 601, or an optional tuner block 613 that
receives the CATV signal through the cable connector 212'. The data
stripper circuit 617 strips data out of the video, and outputs a
digital bit stream to the digital logic portion 609 of the library
unit 262. The data is embedded in the video signal either in the
vertical blanking interval or the active video portion in an
encrypted and compressed format. The data stripper circuit 617 can
be placed inside the set top converter box 601, TV, or in the
library unit. The data stripper circuit 617 outputs the digital bit
stream to be used by the library digital logic 609.
[0061] The video connector 212 may also contain a channel tuner
module 613 that can tune to the video channel and provide access to
the video that contains the data to be stripped. Using the optional
tuner module 613, a set top converter, VCR, or TV tuner is not
needed in the home subsystem. The optional tuner module 613 would
instead receive the CATV signal directly through the cable
connector 212'.
[0062] b. Library
[0063] An embodiment of the library 212 for a two unit home
subsystem is shown in both FIG. 6b and FIG. 8. The embodiment shown
includes the following optional parts the video connector 212,
phone connector 270, RF transceiver 604, and battery pack 624 in
addition to a removal portable memory 600', microprocessor 628,
instruction memory unit 632, digital logic 636, and power unit
640.
[0064] The library 262 contains a digital logic section 609 (not
shown in FIG. 8) which includes the microprocessor 628, the digital
logic 636 and the instruction memory unit 632. The microprocessor
628 is preferably a secure microprocessor such as the Mot SC21
device sold by Motorola. The digital logic section 609 will receive
the serial digital bit stream from the data stripper circuit 617
and process the data. Error correction will also be performed by
the digital logic section 609 and the data will be checked for
proper address. If the address of the data is correct and the
library 262 is authorized to receive the data, the data will be
transferred to the memory storage unit 600, 600'. Authorization to
receive the data is provided by the cable headend or another
distribution point. An authorization code may be sent in the serial
digital bit stream. The digital logic section 609 will send
appropriate text and graphical data to the memory storage unit 600,
600'. It transfers this data in a compressed and encrypted format
and the data remains stored in a compressed and encrypted
format.
[0065] i. Memory Storage Unit
[0066] The memory storage unit of the library is preferably a
removable portable memory unit 600 (as shown in FIGS. 6a, 6b and
8). A variety of options are available for memory storage: a hard
disk drive, such as an 80 megabyte, a 200 megabyte, a hard disk
with removable platters, and CD ROM. Referring to FIG. 6b, a hard
disk drive unit 600' which contains removable platters may also be
used. This would provide virtually unlimited library storage
capacity. Data will be stored in the memory storage unit in a
compressed and encrypted format. As is also shown in FIG. 6b, the
data will also contain a key or unique ID number that matches the
ID or key of the viewer 266. This matching of a unique key or ID
number prevents unauthorized transfer of text data from the memory
storage unit to an unauthorized viewer. Small memory devices such
as smart cards, electronic memory cards or PCM CIA cards (personal
computer memory card industry association) may also be used to
store the data.
[0067] ii. Power Circuitry
[0068] As shown in FIGS. 6b and 8, the library 262 will accept
power from either AC wall power or optional battery power. It is
preferred that the power circuitry provide all the voltage
necessary from either the battery 624 or AC unit for the various
circuitry in the library. Preferably the power circuitry will also
provide power to the viewer through a single data cable when
connected to the viewer. The power circuitry will recharge the
battery using AC power when in operation. With the optional battery
unit 624 installed, the library 262 becomes a portable unit and can
still provide power to the viewer 266. In order to extend battery
life, power conservation measures may be utilized, such as shutting
down the memory system when not in use. When the viewer unit 266 is
being utilized and the library circuitry is not being utilized,
virtually all power may be shut down to the library 262.
[0069] iii. Connection to the Public Telephone System
[0070] The connection to the telephone system is preferably
provided by a modem 611. Various available modems may be used to
perform this function. As shown in FIG. 6b, cellular phone or PCN
phone connections 611' may also be provided. When the home
subsystem is first initialized, the modem will be used to transfer
the name and credit card information of the consumer to the billing
and collection subsystem. The telephone connection 270 may be
utilized each time a book is purchased by a consumer to complete
and record the transaction. The telephone connection 270 may also
be used as a means for receiving the text data from the operations
center, by-passing the video distribution system. The phone
connection 270 may be a separate unit as shown in FIG. 6b.
[0071] iv. Library Processing
[0072] FIG. 9 shows an example of some basic processing performed
by the library 262 on the data stream received from the video
connector 212 or stripper circuit 617. First the data stream is
checked for error correction by block 650. If an error is detected,
block 654 de-interleaves the data followed by block 658 running a
FEC (Forward Error Correcting) algorithm. The combination of block
650, 654 and 658 perform the error correction needed on the
datastream. If no error correction is necessary the data proceeds
to block 662 where packets are individually checked for packet
address.
[0073] If the address is a unique address, block 666 checks whether
the address of the packet matches the library box ID number. The
library box ID number is a unique number associated with that
library 262 which is used to ensure security of the data. Block 670
determines whether an electronic file has already been opened into
which the data packet can be saved. If no data file has been opened
then block 674 opens a new data file for that packet. If an
electronic file has been opened, then the packet is saved in that
electronic file on disk, block 678. Next, the process checks to see
if this is the last packet for a particular book for a particular
textual data block being received 682. If it is the last packet of
information, then the electronic file is closed and the directory
of available electronic files is updated 686. Following either
block 682 or 686, the process returns to receive another data
packet from the data stream received from the data stripper
block.
[0074] With the packet address is checked and the address is
determined to be a broadcast address, the process determines the
type of message that is being sent 690. The message is then stored
in appropriate electronic message file 694 and the process is
returned to block 650 to receive another data packet and perform
another error check.
[0075] Using the process of FIG. 9, the library is able to receive,
store and update directories related to the textual data and
graphical data that can be used to depict pictures in a given book.
Variations of the processes are possible depending on the format of
the data and operating system of the library 262.
[0076] FIG. 10 shows an example of the processing of information
requests from the viewer 266 at the library 262. Information
requests from the viewer 266 are received either through the cable
connecting the viewer 266 to the library 262 or through wireless
transmissions such as RF. It is possible in some embodiments for
subscribers' requests to come from a set top converter box 602.
[0077] Information requests received from the viewer 266 generally
fall into three categories: (1) directory data of books stored in
the library 262, (2) index of all available books on the system,
and (3) requests for a specific book (Block 700). Process block 704
answers a request from the viewer 266 for a directory of data
showing the books stored at the viewer 266. The directory of data
is sent to the viewer 266 so that it may be displayed to the
subscriber. Process block 708 handles requests from the viewer 266
for an index of all available books on the system. The library 262
will obtain an index of all the available books on the system and
transmit that index, process 712, with menu information to the
viewer box. Process block 716 replies to a request from the viewer
266 for a specific book. The library 262 opens an electronic file
for the specific book requested by the viewer 266 and transmits the
record or transmits the information on a packet-by-packet basis to
the viewer, 720. This process of transmitting the specific book,
record, or packets to the viewer continues until the last record or
packet has been sent, 724.
[0078] In addition to the processes shown on FIG. 10 in handling a
request for a specific book, the library 262 also orders and
receives specific books from the operations center 250 using the
process as described in 716. Following a request for a specific
book which is not stored at the library 262, the library 262 will
proceed to determine the next available time the book will be on
the video distribution system 208 and ensure reception and storage
of that book (process not shown). In performing this process the
library 262 will transmit to the viewer information on when it will
obtain the text data for the book so that the subscriber may view
the book. In addition to timing information, price and other
ordering information may also be passed by the library unit 262 to
the subscriber.
[0079] c. The Viewer
[0080] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a viewer 266 showing its
internal components. The viewer 266 of FIG. 11 is similar to the
viewer 266 depicted in FIG. 6b. The viewer 266 is designed to
physically resemble a bound book. The viewer 266 is made up of five
primary components and four optional components: (1) LCD display
602, (2) digital circuitry (not shown), (3) video graphics
controller 607', (4) controls 740, (5) book memory 728, (6)
optional power supply circuitry 736, (7) optional battery 603', (8)
optional RF transceiver 604, and (9) optional cellular or mobile
communicator (not shown).
[0081] (1) A high resolution LCD screen, preferably of VGA quality,
is used by the viewer 266 to display text and graphic images. The
screen is preferably the size of one page of a book.
[0082] (2) Digital circuitry that includes a secure microprocessor
621, instruction memory 732, and digital logic. Data is transferred
to the viewer 266 in compressed and encrypted format. The secure
microprocessor 621 compares the ID number of the viewer 266 with
the incoming data stream and only stores the text data if the ID
number of the viewer 266 matches that within the incoming data
stream. It is preferred that the viewer 266 not output text data or
other data and that the data is decompressed and decrypted only at
the moment of viewing and only for the current page being viewed.
These measures are preferred because they provide additional
security against unauthorized access to data.
[0083] (3) A video graphics controller 607' that is capable of
assisting and displaying VGA quality text and graphic images is
included in the viewer 266. The graphics controller 607' is
controlled by the digital circuitry described above. Text may be
displayed in multiple font sizes.
[0084] (4) The viewer 266 of FIG. 11 has touch panel controls 740.
The controls 740 allow the consumer to select stored books and
books from catalogues, move a cursor, and turn pages in a book.
Typically, the preferred controls include forward and reverse page
buttons 741, a ball 743 for cursor movement, a selection button
745, a current book button 747 and a bookmark button 749 (see FIG.
14a).
[0085] (5) Book memory 728 for at least one book or more of text is
included in the viewer 266. The memory 728 stores text and any
graphics which represent pictures in a book. The memory 728 can
also store menu graphics data. Two different memory 728 devices may
be used in the viewer 266, one for the instructions for the
microprocessor 621 in the digital circuitry and a second type of
memory may be used for the book memory 728. Various memory devices
available on the market may be used such as, ROM, RAM or a small
hard disk. Since a book requires approximately 0.6 megabytes of
storage, a small hard disk providing approximately 60 MBytes of
storage provides memory to store approximately 100 books. Text for
books may be stored in various font sizes so that larger or smaller
fonts may be recalled from memory 728 as desired.
[0086] (6) Power supply circuitry 736 in the view will accept power
from either an AC power source or from an optional battery 603', or
the library 262. The power supply circuitry provides the necessary
voltages to accommodate the various systems within the viewer
266.
[0087] (7) An optional battery 603' is provided in the preferred
embodiment. The battery 603' is automatically recharged when AC
power is available.
[0088] (8) An optional RF transceiver 604 which provided two-way
data link between the viewer 266 and other components of the home
subsystem can also be included in the viewer 266.
[0089] (9) Also, the viewer 266 may include a cellular transceiver
(not shown) for mobile communications.
[0090] The viewer 266 of FIG. 11 has parts available for providing
a library connection 744, electronic card memory 748, CD ROM units
752, and a portable memory unit 756 (such as that shown in FIG. 6b
600'). Various electronic memory cards such as PCM CIA can be used
with this viewer 266.
[0091] Security, low power consumption and excellent display
technology are desired features of the viewer 266 design. The
viewer 266 should be lightweight and portable. The viewer 266
contains a software operating system that allows books to be
stored, read and erased and includes the capability to order books
and retain them in memory for a predefined period of time
determined by the system operator. The software can be configured
to allow the book to be read during a period of time (i.e., two
weeks) and then automatically erased, read once and erased, or held
in memory permanently. Each viewer 266 has a unique key 605. All of
the data storage is encrypted with the key 605 for an individual
viewer 266 to prevent more than one viewer device 266 accessing the
text file or book file.
[0092] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of some of the processes executed
by the viewer 266. Generally, the viewer 266 receives inputs from
the subscriber through touch panel controls 740. The subscriber's
information requests are then processed 800 by the viewer 266.
[0093] If the subscriber requests a menu of available books,
process block 804 will select a book menu. Process block 808 will
open the electronic files which list the books that are available
(related to the category of topic of the menu) and display the menu
with the names of the available books.
[0094] If the subscriber selects a particular book to read, then
process block 812 will process the selection and determine the
electronic file that contains the specific book. Process block 816
will open the file for that specific book and normally access the
first page. (If a pointer has already been set in that books
electronic file, the process may default to that printer.) Process
block 820 will then determine which page needs to be displayed.
Process block 820 will determine whether a next page, previous page
or a bookmarked page needs to be displayed. If the pointer for the
electronic file is not in the correct location then process block
828 will move the pointer and obtain the previous page of data from
the stored file. Otherwise, process block 824 will normally obtain
the next page of text from the stored electronic file. Process
block 832 will decrypt and decompress the text data and send the
data to the video display. The video display will generally have a
video display memory associated with it and process block 832 will
send the data directly to that video display memory. The circuitry
for the display then completes the process of displaying the page
of text.
[0095] If the subscriber, through the controls 740, requests (from
process block 800) that the power be turned off, then the process,
836, of turning the power off will be initiated. Process block 840
saves the pointer in memory to the page number in the book that the
viewer 266 is currently reading. Process block 844 closes all the
electronic files and signals the power circuitry to shut down the
power to the various circuits in the viewer 266. With these
examples of basic processes the viewer 266 is able to display book
selections and display text from those books.
[0096] d. Menu System
[0097] It is preferred that the electronic book system have a menu
system for selecting features and books from the electronic book
system. The operating software and memory required for the menu
system is preferably located at the viewer 266. However, it can
also be located at the library or the library and the viewer 266
can share the software and memory needed to operate the menu
system. Since the menus are usually displayed on the viewer 266 and
it is preferred that the viewer 266 be capable of operating in the
absence of the library, the basic software and memory to create the
menus is more conveniently located at the viewer 266.
[0098] The preferred menu system is a system which allows
sequencing between menus and provides menu graphics for graphical
displays such as on the viewer 266. In a system which uses a set
top converter these menus may also be displayed on a television
screen. In the simplest embodiment, the menus provide just basic
text information for the subscriber to choose from. In more
sophisticated embodiments, the menus provide visual displays and
icons to assist the subscriber.
[0099] FIG. 13 depicts a menu system with sequencing. The primary
menus in the system are an introductory menu 850, a main menu 854
and various submenus 858. In the embodiment shown, there are three
levels of submenus. In certain instances one or two submenus is
sufficient to easily direct the subscriber to the selection or
information requested. However, there are features in which three
or more submenus makes the user interface more friendly for the
subscriber. Each level of submenus may consist of various menus.
The particular menu displayed depends on the selection by the
subscriber on the previous shown menu. An example of this tree
sequence of menus are the help submenus 887, 888. Depending upon
the specific help requested, a different menu is displayed.
[0100] An example of an introductory menu 850 is shown on FIG. 14a.
Generally the introductory menu 850 introduces the viewer 266 to
the system and provides initial guidance and instruction. The
introductory menu 850 is followed by a main menu 854, an example of
which is shown in FIG. 14b. The main menu provides the viewer 266
with the basic selection or features available in the system. For
example, FIG. 14b shows that the viewer 266 is able to choose by a
point and click method, six available options; (1) free previews,
(2) books you can order, (3) books in your library, (4) your
current book, (5) help, and (6) other system features. Following a
selection on the main menu, a submenu is shown.
[0101] FIG. 13 shows ten available primary or first level submenus.
They are (1) account set up 862, (2) free previews 866, (3) books
in your library 872, (4) books you can order 878, (5) your current
book 884, (6) help 887, (7) available features 890, (8) messages
893, (9) account information 896 (10) outgoing message submenu 898.
FIG. 14c is an example of a first level submenu for books in your
library 872. This "Book In Your Library" submenu shows six
available books by title and author and provides the subscriber
with the ability to check a different shelf of books or return to
the main menu. FIGS. 14d and 14e show other submenus for books that
may be ordered using the "Books You Can Order" submenu.
[0102] The "Account Set Up Menu" 862 and further submenu us related
to account set up (which provide instructions and account input
864) are shown in FIG. 14f through FIG. 14m. These submenus allow
initialization of an account at the operations center and orders to
be charged to credit cards. The submenus include the ability to
enter data related to your credit cards.
[0103] Free previews for books 866 are also provided by submenus
(868, 870). Examples of the free preview menus are shown in FIG.
14n, FIG. 14o, and FIG. 14p.
[0104] Referring to FIG. 13, submenus are shown on the "Books In
Your Library" submenu 872 and are preferably broken into shelf
numbers with submenus for each shelf 874, 876. The submenus on the
"Books You Can Order" submenu 878 is similarly broken out into
submenus by shelves 880, 882. These shelves may each be a category
or genre of books. Books may be grouped into categories such as
best sellers, novels, fiction, romance, etc. See FIG. 14d.
[0105] Referring to FIG. 13, the submenu for "Your Current Book"
allows a subscriber to select a current book 884 and then determine
what page to view. This selection is confirmed with submenu 885.
The help submenu provides the subscriber with additional help
screens 888. The submenus for available features 890 are preferably
broken out into a separate submenu for each feature 891, 892.
[0106] Referring to FIG. 13, messages can also be sent with the
electronic book selection and delivery system. A level one message
screen provides the subscriber with the ability to select from the
various pending messages he has 893. Each message is then shown on
a separate submenu screen 894, 895. An example of such a submenu is
shown in FIG. 14q.
[0107] Referring to FIG. 13, account information is shown on a
level one submenu 896 and then follow-on submenus show the recent
orders and your account balance 897. There is also a level one
submenu for outgoing messages 898 which has a follow-on submenu
used as an input screen 899.
[0108] In addition to the specific features and submenus described
in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14a through FIG. 14q, many other variations and
features are possible. FIG. 14r is an example of a main menu with
additional features and submenus available.
[0109] When a book is finally selected for viewing on the system it
will appear on the screen as shown in FIG. 14s for the title and
FIG. 14t for a page of text.
III. The Billing and Collection System
[0110] The billing and collection system utilizes the latest
technology in electronic transaction and telephone switching to
track orders, authorize deliveries, bill consumers, and credit
publishers automatically. The telephone calls initiated by the
phone connector are received by the billing and collection system
which responds immediately without human intervention by placing
the order and charging the consumers credit card account. Data is
compiled periodically and publishers are credited for sales of
their books. The billing and collection system may also connect
with subscribers through two-way cable connections, cellular or
other communication means.
[0111] It is preferred that the billing and collection system
communicate with the operations center to track changes in
available books and to provide statistical data to the operations
center.
IV. Library and Bookstore System
[0112] The electronic book system can be modified to be used at
public libraries and bookstores. FIG. 15 shows one possible
arrangement of components for a public library or bookstore
location. The main unit at public library or bookstore is the file
server 900. The file server 900 is a large electronic memory unit
that can store thousands of books. Various electronic storage means
may be used in the file servers, such as hard disks and read-write
CD ROMs and read only CD ROMs.
[0113] The system comprises five components; a converter or video
connector 904, a controller 908, a viewer 912, and a catalog
printer 916. The software for controlling the system is primarily
located in the controller. The converter or video connector 904 is
similar to those described above. In this configuration the
controller unit 908 monitors the data being transferred to the file
server by the converter 904. The controller 908 is preferably
provided with a viewing screens and several control buttons. When
it is necessary to have a larger screen to perform more
sophisticated controlling of the system a viewer may be connected
to the controller 908 and the viewer screen and controls may be
used.
[0114] The controller 908 is only able to download books to the
viewer 912 which are authorized to receive books from the
particular file server. For security reasons it is not desirable
that the public viewer 912 have access to more than one file
server. In this way, security can be maintained over the text data
for books. It is preferred that the public viewer 912 be limited to
receiving one or two books at a time from the controller 908. When
the user of the public viewer 912 needs a new or additional book he
returns the viewer 912 to the library where he receives a new book
from the controller 908.
[0115] In order to track the books that are available on the file
server, the titles of the available books may be printed on a
catalog printer 916. The catalog printer 916 is connected to the
library controller 908 and the titles of the books are downloaded
to the catalog printer 916. None of the coded text for any of the
books can be printed using the controller 908 and catalog printer
916 of this system. In order to maintain security over the data,
none of the book data is allowed to be downloaded to the printer.
Once a complete printout of available book titles, magazines, or
other textual material is complete, a hard copy of the catalog 920
can be maintained at the file server.
[0116] The system shown may also be used at bookstores. The
bookstores can rent the public viewer 912 to customers with the
text for one or two books loaded onto the viewer 912. The viewer
912 may be provided with an automatic timeout sequence. The timeout
sequence would erase the textual data for the books after a certain
period of time, for example, two weeks. It is expected that after a
period of time (perhaps within two weeks) the renter would return
the public viewer 912 to the bookstore and receive additional books
for viewing. Using this arrangement, it is also possible for the
bookstore to (permanently) sell a viewer 912 to a regular customer.
The customer then returns to the bookstore from time to time to
receive textual data for a book which the customer can then store
permanently on his own viewer 912. Various other configurations are
possible for bookstores and libraries using the file server and
viewer 912 described.
V. Use of Set Top Converter
[0117] Existing set top converter boxes such as those made by
Scientific Atlanta or General Instruments are presently unequipped
to handle the book selection system of the present invention.
Although set top converters may be built which include the library
functions, hardware modifications are necessary in order to use the
book selection system with existing set top converter
technology.
[0118] FIGS. 16a and 16b are examples of hardware modification. A
port is used to attach hardware upgrades described below to a set
top terminal. Two upgrades are possible to set top converters 601
to assist in receiving and selecting electronic books. A menu
generation card upgrade (FIG. 16a) and an information download unit
(FIG. 16b). Each of these upgrades may be connected to the set top
terminal unit through an upgrade port. A four wire a cable, ribbon
cable or the like may be used to connect the upgrade to the set top
converter 601.
[0119] A card addition 950 to a set top converter 601 is depicted
in FIG. 16a. The card 950 shown provides the additional
functionality needed to utilize the book selection system with
existing set top converter 601 technology. The card 950 may be
configured to slip inside the frame of a set top terminal and
become part of the set top terminal, an advanced set top terminal.
The primary functions the card 950 adds to the set top converter
601 are the interpreting of data signals, generating of menus,
sequencing of menus, and, ultimately, the ability of the viewer 912
to select a book using either the television or a viewer 912. The
card 950 also provides a method for a remote location, such as the
cable headend, to receive information on books ordered. The books
ordered information and control commands may be passed from the
cable headend to the card 950 using telephone lines.
[0120] The primary components of the card 950 are a PC chip CPU
952, a VGA graphic controller 954, a video combiner 956, logic
circuitry 958, NTSC encoder 960, a receiver 962, demodulator (not
shown), and a dialer 611'. The card 950 operates by receiving the
data text signal from the cable headend through the coaxial cable.
The logic circuitry 958 of the card 950 receives data 964, infrared
commands 966, and synchronization signals (not shown) from the set
top converter 601. Menu selections made by the viewer 912 on the
remote control are received by the set top converter's 601 IR
equipment and passed through to the card 950. The card 950
interprets the IR signal and determines the book (or menu) the
subscriber has selected. The card 950 modifies the IR command to
send the information to the set top converter 601. The modified IR
command contains the channel information needed by the set top
converter 601. Using the phone line 968 and dialer 611', the card
950 is able to transmit books ordered information to the cable
headend. It is also possible to receive the books over the
telephone lines and by-pass the video distribution system.
[0121] These commands are passed through the interface linking the
set top terminal's microprocessor with the microprocessor of the
hardware upgrades. In this way, subscriber inputs, entered through
the set top terminal keypad or remote control, can be transferred
to any of the hardware upgrades for processing and responses
generated therein can then be sent back to the set top terminal for
display. In the preferred embodiment the IR commands 966 are
transferred from set top terminal 601 to hardware upgrade.
[0122] Hardware upgrades may include a microprocessor, interactive
software, processing circuitry, bubble memory, and a long-term
memory device. In addition to these basic components, the hardware
upgrade may make use of an additional telephone modem or CD-ROM
device.
[0123] The information download hardware upgrade 1001 (shown in
FIG. 16b) allows the subscriber to download large volumes of
information from the operations center or cable headend using the
set top converter 601. The hardware upgrade 1001 will enable
subscribers to download data, such as books and magazines, to local
storage. Primarily, the hardware upgrade 1001 is an additional
local storage unit 1003 (e.g., hard disk, floppy, optical disk or
magnetic cartridge and may include a microprocessor 1005,
instruction memory 1007, and a random access memory 1009, as shown
in FIG. 16b). Preferably, a small portable viewer 912 is also
provided with the upgrade 1001 to enable downloaded text to be read
without the use of a TV.
[0124] The downloadable information may be text or graphics
supplied by the operations center or cable headend. With this
upgrade, books may be downloaded and read anywhere with the
portable reader. Using this upgrade, books may be downloaded and
stored in compressed form for later decompression. The books would
be decompressed only at the time of viewing. Important text that
the public desires immediate access may made available through this
system. Text such as the President's speech, a new law, or a recent
abortion decision rendered by the Supreme Court may be made
immediately available.
[0125] In the preferred embodiment, book ordering information is
stored at each set top terminal until it is polled by the cable
headend using a polling request message format. An example of a
polling request message format consists of six fields, namely: (1)
a leading flag at the beginning of the message, (2) an address
field, (3) a subscriber region designation, (4) a set top terminal
identifier that includes a polling command/response (or P/F) bit,
(5) an information field, and (6) a trailing flag at the end of the
message. A similar response frame format for information
communicated by the set top terminal to the cable headend in
response to the polling request may be used.
[0126] FIG. 17 shows a preferred set top terminal that includes a
data receiver 617' and a data transmitter 1011. The data
transmitter provides upstream data communications capability
between the set top terminal 601 and the cable headend. Upstream
data transmissions are accomplished using the polling system
described and, using a data transmitter 1011. Both receiver 617'
and transmitter 1011 may be built into the set top terminal 601
itself or added through an upgrade module. Regardless of the
specific hardware configuration, the set top terminal's data
transmission capabilities may be accomplished using the hardware
shown in FIG. 17.
[0127] FIG. 17 shows RF signals, depicted as being received at by a
data receiver 617' and tuner 613 working in unison. Both of these
devices are interfaced with the microprocessor 1013, which receives
inputs 1015, from the subscriber, either through a set top
terminal's keypad, a remote control unit or viewer 912. All cable
signals intended for reception on the subscriber's TV are accessed
by the tuner 613 and subsequently processed by the processing
circuitry 1017. This processing circuitry 1017 typically includes
additional components (not shown) for descrambling, demodulation,
volume control and remodulation on a Channel 3 or 4 TV carrier.
[0128] Data targeted to individual set top terminals is received by
the data receiver 617' according to each set top terminal's
specific address or ID. In this way, each addressable set top
terminal only receives its own data. The data receiver 617' may
receive set top terminal 601 specific data in the information field
of the signal frame described or on a separate data carrier located
at a convenient frequency in the incoming spectrum.
[0129] Any received data includes information regarding books and
menus available for selection. The subscriber may enter a series of
commands 1015 using a keypad or remote control in order to choose a
channel or program. Upon receipt of such commands, the set top
terminal's microprocessor 1013 instructs the tuner to tune to the
proper frequency of the channel carrying data and subsequently
instructs the processing circuitry 1017 to begin descrambling of
this data.
[0130] Upon selection of a book, the microprocessor 1013 stores any
selection information in local memory (not shown) for later data
transmission back to the cable headend. The set top terminal's
microprocessor 1013 coordinates all CATV signal reception and also
interacts with various upstream data transmission components.
Typically, the data transmitter 1011 operates in the return
frequency band between 5 and 30 MHZ. In an alternative embodiment,
the frequency band of 10 to 15 MHZ may be used. Regardless,
however, of the frequency band used, the data transmitter 1011
sends information to the cable headend in the information field of
the response frame described. Those skilled in the art will
recognize that a number of variations and combinations of the
above-described set top terminal hardware components may be used to
accomplish upstream data transmissions.
VI. Books-On-Demand System
[0131] The electronic book system described may also be configured
in a book-on-demand style. FIG. 18a shows one example of a
configuration for a book-on-demand system. A book on demand system
requires more powerful two-way communications between the
consumer's home, bookstore or library and either the operations
center or a distribution site 1020 such as the cable headend. This
type of two-way communication can be provided by the hardware shown
in FIG. 17 and described above.
[0132] Referring to FIG. 18a, in a book-on-demand system, the
subscriber selects the book to be download from an available menu
of books. The available menu is usually sent to the subscriber
location by the distribution site 1020. After his selection,
information about his selection (or request) is then communicated
to either a distribution point 1020 (such as a cable headend) or
the operations center. Upon receipt of this request, the needed
textual and graphical information for the book is spooled and sent
to the subscriber. In this manner, books are only sent when
requested by the subscriber and are sent immediately upon demand
for the book.
[0133] In order to support such a demand system, the text delivery
and distribution must be conducted on a strong nodal architectured
distribution system, such as, a video-on-demand cable or telephone
television system, or through use of individual telephone calls on
the public telephone system.
[0134] The book-on-demand system allows for a greater selection of
books to the subscriber and limits the amount of communicated book
data that is unnecessary or unneeded. It also provides the book to
the subscriber in a much timelier fashion.
[0135] In addition to a stronger distribution system, a
book-on-demand system requires a distribution point 1020 to have
more sophisticated equipment to spool out the textual information.
This can be accomplished using file server technology 1024 for
storing the books and ATM 1028 or telephone-type switching (not
shown) to distribute the textual information. The file server 1024
and distribution technology that can be used in configuring such a
book-on-demand system is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,262,875 and
U.S. Pat. No. 5,218,695, cited above.
[0136] FIG. 18a shows an embodiment for a book-on-demand system
that utilizes file server technology. In addition to books, the
embodiment of FIG. 18a will support distribution of nearly any
digital data. Books or textual files are received from publishers
282 and other sources through local feeds 1032, ATM 1028, or by
satellite dish 1036. The data is then stored in memory 1040 at the
file server 1024. Preferably, distribution point 1020 is a cable
headend that receives requests from subscribers and delivers text
to subscribers over a two-way communication system (such as a
video-on-demand system (VOD) 1044).
[0137] The library unit 262 can be connected to either a basic
premium-type service cable system 1048, a near video-on-demand type
cable system (or pay-per-view (PPV) 1052) or a video-on-demand
cable system 1044. In connecting with either of these three systems
the library 262 may access the cable directly or may access the
system through a set top terminal 601', 601'', or 601'''.
[0138] Using the two-way video-on-demand system 1044, a subscriber
is able to request a specific book title and receive that text
immediately following its request. To accomplish this, the
distribution point 1020 transmits a list of available books through
the cable delivery system to the library 262. The library 262
displays the list of available books on a menu or similar format.
As described earlier, it is preferred that the library 262 use
menus which list categories of available books to form its request
from the distribution point 1020. After selecting a book the
library 262 then sends a request signal on the two-way
communication system 1044 back to the distribution point 1020. This
request signal can be handled in two ways. Either the library 262
initiates the request or the distribution point 1020 polls the
various libraries on to the two-way system 1044. Upon receiving the
request for the book title, the text associated with that book
title is transmitted to the library 262 using the two-way cable
system 1044.
[0139] FIG. 18b is an expanded view of an operations center 250
that supports a regional or national book-on-demand system. In
fact, the operations center 250 shown supports distribution of
nearly any digital data. The operations center 250 supports
multiple feeds to receive digital information by tape 1060, 1060',
ATM 1028, or satellite 1036. The information is processed through
an input MUX 1064 and a small file server 1068 before reaching the
master file server 1072. Digital data such as books received from
publishers 282 is then stored on the master file server 1072. It is
preferred that the digital data is stored compressed in a standard
format such as MPEG2.
[0140] A system controller 1076 provides control over the regional
or national book-on-demand system. Books may be packaged into
groups to provide feeds to various cable headends. In addition,
scheduling and marketing research are conducted at the operations
center 250. In order to handle the scheduling and market research,
book buy data is received at the operations center 250 through a
multiplexer 1082. Book buy information can be provided by the
operation center 250 to the billing and collection subsystem.
[0141] The operations center 250 is also equipped to insert
messages or advertisements into the file server. These messages or
advertisements will eventually be received by the subscribers.
[0142] The master file server 1072 uses an output multiplexer 1080
and ATM 1028 as well as satellite connections to distribute digital
data. In the preferred embodiment, cable headends receive text data
on books from the master file server 1080 through the output
multiplexer 1028 and an ATM system 1028. After receiving the
digital book data, the cable headends store the books in a local
file server 1024. FIG. 18a's distribution point 1020 is an example
of a cable headend which may receive data from the operations
center 250 of FIG. 18b through an ATM hookup 1088 or satellite
hookup.
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