U.S. patent application number 12/259417 was filed with the patent office on 2009-05-07 for interactive television system and method.
Invention is credited to Gary Richard Sohmers.
Application Number | 20090115843 12/259417 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37069905 |
Filed Date | 2009-05-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090115843 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sohmers; Gary Richard |
May 7, 2009 |
Interactive Television System and Method
Abstract
A system and method for simulating a user's participation at an
event. The system and method including providing a virtual queue or
line for meeting and obtaining an autograph of a celebrity,
attending a live event and/or for purchasing an item. The system
and method include providing video and audio content to a remote
user device, such as a television or a computer, for display on the
monitor. A plurality of video cameras positioned in and around a
line for obtaining an autograph provide a respective plurality of
video and audio feeds that are broadcast to users of the system. An
interface selectively changes the feed shown on the user's device
to simulate movement in the line toward the celebrity until the
user is able to view the celebrity autograph an item specifically
designated for the user. The item can be merchandise, such as a CD,
DVD, photograph or poster, selected by the user. The system mails
the autographed item to the viewer and can also provide a recording
of the autograph session.
Inventors: |
Sohmers; Gary Richard;
(Hudson, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
UNGARETTI & HARRIS LLP;INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY GROUP - PATENTS
70 WEST MADISON STREET, SUITE 3500
CHICAGO
IL
60602-4224
US
|
Family ID: |
37069905 |
Appl. No.: |
12/259417 |
Filed: |
October 28, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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11098772 |
Apr 4, 2005 |
|
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12259417 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
348/61 ;
348/211.11; 348/E7.077; 386/224; 386/E5.068; 725/61 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 7/173 20130101;
H04N 21/21805 20130101; H04N 21/47815 20130101; H04N 21/812
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
348/61 ; 386/125;
348/211.11; 725/61; 386/E05.068; 348/E07.077 |
International
Class: |
H04N 7/18 20060101
H04N007/18; H04N 5/232 20060101 H04N005/232 |
Claims
1. A system for allowing a user to virtually meet and obtain an
autograph of a celebrity from a remote location comprising: an
interface connected to a network, the interface configured to
electronically generate a list of celebrities available to sign
autographs, the interface further configured to receive a signal
from a remote user device selecting a first celebrity from the list
of celebrities; a camera coupled to the interface positioned to
record the first celebrity autographing an item, wherein the camera
provides a video signal to the interface of the celebrity signing
an autograph.
2. The system of claim 1 further comprising a device coupled to the
interface for creating a copy of the video signal of the first
celebrity signing an autograph provided by the camera positioned to
record the first celebrity autographing an item.
3. The system of claim 2 wherein the device for creating a copy is
a DVD burner.
4. The system of claim 1 wherein the interface is configured to
transmit the video signal of the first celebrity signing an
autograph to the remote user device.
5. The system of claim 4 wherein the interface is configured to
transmit the video signal of the first celebrity signing an
autograph in real time.
6. The system of claim 1 wherein the interface is configured to
electronically generate a list of a plurality available items that
can be autographed.
7. The system of claim 6 wherein the interface is configured to
receive a signal from the remote user device identifying a first
item of the plurality of items to have autographed by the first
celebrity.
8. The system of claim 1 further comprising another camera coupled
to the interface positioned to provide a signal simulating a
virtual line for obtaining the autograph of the first
celebrity.
9. A method for method for allowing a user to virtually meet and
obtain an autograph of a celebrity from a remote location
comprising: providing a list of celebrities accessible over a
network connection by a remote user device; receiving an input
signal from the remote user device selecting a first celebrity from
the list of celebrities; and, creating a video signal of the first
celebrity signing an item.
10. The method of claim 9 further comprising the step of: sending
the video signal of the celebrity signing the autograph to the
remote user over the network connection.
11. The method of claim 10 wherein the step of sending the video
signal of the celebrity signing the autograph to the remote user
over the network connection is performed in real time.
12. The method of claim 9 further comprising the steps of:
recording the video signal of the celebrity signing the
autograph.
13. The method of claim 12 wherein the step of recording the video
signal of the celebrity signing the autograph comprises: burning
the video signal onto a DVD.
14. The method of claim 9 further comprising: providing a list of
items to be autographed accessible over a network connection by a
remote user device; receiving an input signal from the remote user
device selecting a first item to be autographed from the list of
items.
15. The method of claim 9 wherein the step of creating a video
signal of the first celebrity signing an item includes: recording
the celebrity addressing the user of the remote user device.
16. The method of claim 9 wherein the step of creating a video
signal of the first celebrity signing an item includes: receiving
questions from the remote user device for the celebrity to
answer.
17. The method of claim 9 wherein the step of creating a video
signal of the first celebrity signing an item includes: positioning
a camera to capture the celebrity signing the item.
18. The method of claim 9 further comprising: providing a time the
video of the selected celebrity signing the item will be available
for viewing through the remote user device.
19. The method of claim 9 wherein the step of creating a video
signal of the first celebrity signing an item includes: positioning
a camera to simulate a viewer being in line for meeting and
receiving an autograph of the celebrity.
20. The method of claim 19 wherein the step of creating a video
signal of the first celebrity signing an item includes: recording
the celebrity signing autographs for others.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority on U.S. Utility patent
application Ser. No. 11/098,772 filed Apr. 4, 2005, currently
pending, which is herein incorporated by reference.
FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0003] The present invention generally relates to an interactive
environment wherein a remote user can participate or otherwise
interact with a live event via the user's television and/or other
similar communication devices, and more particularly to an
interactive event broadcasting system wherein a user interacts with
the system during a live event via a television to purchase an
item.
[0004] In one form, the present invention relates to an interactive
television or computer environment to allow a remote user of the
system to meet and obtain an autograph from a celebrity, and more
particularly to a television or computer system that utilizes
multiple camera signals to simulate or provide a virtual line or
queue for meeting a celebrity and obtaining an autograph on paper,
a picture or other merchandise from the celebrity.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Television signal distribution systems typically broadcast
television signals to individual users or subscribers on a
plurality of individual television channels. The channels may be
modulated onto one or more carrier frequencies within a discernable
frequency band. With digital television signals, each discernable
frequency band may consist of one or more programs of video, audio,
and data content that is digitally encoded.
[0006] Typically, a television viewer intentionally and explicitly
invokes a tuning action to select a program of choice. This is a
conscious decision, based on selecting a specific channel number or
a textual description of a channel's content provided in an
integrated electronic interactive program guide. This generic
content broadcast and viewer content selection paradigm is widely
deployed and accepted.
[0007] Utilizing this paradigm, it is difficult to create program
content where the users feel as if they were an active part of the
process. That is, the user's involvement is passive; the user does
not have the sensation or illusion of participating in the events
displayed on the television, and cannot interact with the any
aspect of the event. The user is merely a silent observer.
[0008] The present invention is provided to solve the problems
discussed above and other problems, and to provide advantages and
aspects not provided by prior systems and methods of this type. A
full discussion of the features and advantages of the present
invention is deferred to the following detailed description, which
proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention provides a personalized, dynamic
viewing experience using more than one video and audio streams
transparently and automatically tuned from within a user's
television set. The invention utilizes unique viewer rules that
identify content types, stream sources, start times and durations,
and other discrete synchronous and asynchronous events. The system
and method of the present invention can simulate a user's
participation at any live event, such as--for example--standing in
line to meet a celebrity and obtaining a unique item, such as the
celebrity's autograph; purchasing an item of merchandise; or
viewing and participating in a live entertainment event.
[0010] The system of the present invention utilizes several video
and audio sources. These sources are produced wherein each is a
separate and distinct program stream suitable for general broadcast
to a large population of users viewing the experience via a
"receiver." Examples of receivers include a television set working
in combination with a cable or satellite set-top, an advanced
digital television, or television enabled personal computer.
[0011] The system and apparatus described by this invention sends
signals in the form of data encapsulated events, or messages, to
specific viewers' receivers to switch (or "tune") to alternatively
available video/audio streams. The viewer or user of the system
does not control this tuning behavior, nor does the viewer know
that tuning to an alternative stream has been performed (other than
realizing the video being displayed shows a different scene than
the previous one). From the viewer's perspective, the serialized,
sequential concatenation of the multiple streams provides a
seamless viewing experience. The system and apparatus uses well
established broadcast structure to implement the unique viewing
experience.
[0012] According to one embodiment, the present invention provides
a system and method utilizing an interactive television or computer
environment to allow a user of the system to virtually meet and
obtain an autograph from another, such as a celebrity. The system
simulates the experience of a real autograph session while allowing
the user to have this experience from a remote location (e.g., the
user's home). In this regard, the system creates a "virtual line"
or "virtual queue" for the user to stand. The system allows the
user to select a celebrity from a list of celebrities signing
autographs. The system also allows the user to select merchandise
to purchase and have autographed while waiting in line and provides
instructions or other data while in use.
[0013] The system utilizes a plurality of camera feeds or streams
(or sometimes referred to as a signal or signals) that are sent to
the user's television or computer monitor (the system can also
include additional camera and/or voice or data signals sent to the
user's telephone or cell phone, PDA, etc.). A plurality of cameras
providing the streams are positioned to simulate a virtual queue or
line. Each queue is preferably associated with a fixed number of
video streams. The system selectively sends the camera streams to
the user's television or computer monitor to simulate the user
progressing through the line until reaching the celebrity providing
an autograph. At the last camera the transaction or interaction
occurs, such as a celebrity signing the item purchased by the user
and possibly addressing the user and/or answering questions posed
by the user. The signed item is then shipped to the user.
[0014] In one embodiment of the invention, a system for simulating
a queue for meeting and obtaining an autograph from a celebrity
viewable from a remote device is disclosed. The system comprises a
first camera positioned at a first point of a line providing a
first video signal of the line from the first point; a second
camera positioned at a second point of the line and providing a
second video signal of the line from the second point; and a third
camera positioned at a third point of the line and providing a
third video signal of the line from a third point. The third signal
includes a direct view of the celebrity providing an autograph of
an item. The system also includes an interface for broadcasting the
first, second and third signals to a remote user device. The
interface controls switching between the first, second and third
signals to simulate movement in the line toward the celebrity on
the user's device. The video signals are preferably sent in real
time. This allows the user to interact in the process, such as by
identifying an item to be autographed and requesting who the
autograph should be made out to while viewing the celebrity.
[0015] Preferably, a MPEG-2 data stream is provided with the first,
second and third video signals to provide the primary signaling
path. However, the system can include other interactive signaling
paths, such as a phone modem, DSL, cable modem or cable out-of-band
(OOB) signal.
[0016] The first, second and third video signals are broadcast in a
format receivable by a television set or in a format for receiving
by other user devices, such as a computer, PDA, etc.
[0017] The interface can further broadcast additional information
to the user device. This can include advertisements or promotions
relating to the celebrity content.
[0018] According to another embodiment, the invention provides a
system for simulating participation in a line for obtaining a
unique item, such as an autograph of a celebrity, that comprises a
plurality of cameras wherein each camera provides a video (and
possibly an audio) stream of a line for obtaining an autograph from
a celebrity. The system also includes an interface system for
broadcasting each video stream to a remote user device and
switching among each video stream to simulate movement in the line
toward a celebrity on the remote user device.
[0019] The interface system is configured to broadcast the video
streams via a cable system or via a satellite system. The interface
system can also broadcast a data stream with the video (and audio)
streams to the remote user device.
[0020] According to yet another embodiment of the invention, a
method for providing a virtual queue for an experiential event such
as meeting and obtaining an autograph of a celebrity is disclosed.
The method comprises the steps of providing a first video feed of a
first position in a line for obtaining an autograph of a celebrity
for viewing on a remote user device, and providing a second video
feed of a second position of the line for obtaining an autograph of
a celebrity for viewing on the remote user device. The method
further includes enabling viewing of the first video feed on the
remote viewer device, and, disabling viewing of the first video
feed and enabling viewing of the second video feed on the remote
user device to simulate movement in the line on the remote user
device.
[0021] Additional video feeds can be provided to further create the
illusion of moving in the line. In this instance, for example, the
method can include providing an intermediate video feed of an
intermediate position of the line for obtaining an autograph
between the first position and the second position, and, enabling
viewing of the intermediate video feed after the step of disabling
viewing of the first video feed and prior to the step of enabling
viewing of the second video feed. Further intermediate feeds can be
added in a like manner.
[0022] Preferably, the method is interactive and includes the step
of receiving input from the remote user device identifying a first
item from a plurality of available items to have autographed by the
celebrity. Similarly, the method can include the step of receiving
input from the user device selecting a particular celebrity line
from a plurality of available celebrity lines.
[0023] According to yet a further embodiment of the invention, an
interactive system for providing video simulating a user's
participation at an event (such as--for example--movement in a
queue to obtain an autograph of a celebrity) is disclosed. The
system comprises a plurality of discrete video channels, each
channel corresponding to a signal from a respective video camera;
and an interface system configured to receive the plurality of
video channels and broadcast the plurality of video channels to a
remote user device. The interface is further configured to
selectively enable the display of the video channels (e.g., one at
a time) on the remote user device to simulate a user's
participation at an event. The user can actively participate in the
event, for example, by providing an input signal from the user's
device selecting merchandise to purchase, or identifying a specific
location or a particular manner in which to view the event.
[0024] The systems and methods described can further include
providing a certificate with the autographed item attesting to its
authenticity. A picture or video (on a DVD, CD or VHS tape, or any
other recordable or downloadable media) of the celebrity signing
the item can be included with the certificate.
[0025] According to yet another embodiment, the present invention
is broadly directed toward a system and method for providing an
interactive experience wherein a remote user interacts or
participates in a live event through a television and/or other
communication device(s). The system can be used, for example, for
an interactive experience wherein a user purchases an item.
[0026] Using a set top interface, the user can receive one or more
live feeds from an event and can actively provide input to the live
event to alter or manage the viewing experience, such as selecting
a celebrity queue and obtaining an autograph as described above.
Other examples include (but are not limited to) user interaction
with a live salesperson or creator of a product to customize,
produce and/or acquire a personalized product such as a painting or
carving; or participation in or purchase of a live entertainment
event, such as a musical, concert, or play.
[0027] Other features and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the following specification taken in conjunction with
the following drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] To understand the present invention, it will now be
described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying
drawings in which:
[0029] FIG. 1 is a graphical representation of a plurality of
cameras positioned about a queue or line for meeting and obtaining
an autograph from a celebrity in accordance with an embodiment of
the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 2 is a graphical representation of a virtual queue
bandwidth structure;
[0031] FIG. 3 is a graphical representation illustrating
information flows between the system of the present invention and a
plurality of remote user devices;
[0032] FIG. 4 is a graphical representation of a high level
functional architecture of the present system;
[0033] FIG. 5 is a graphical representation of a high level
functional architecture of the system and transaction fulfillment
environment (STFE) component of FIG. 4;
[0034] FIG. 6 is a graphical representation of a high level
functional architecture of the content creation environment (CCE)
component of FIG. 4;
[0035] FIG. 7 is a graphical representation of a high level
functional architecture of the user interface environment (UIE) of
FIG. 4;
[0036] FIG. 8 is a graphical representation of a high level network
architecture for the present system; and,
[0037] FIG. 9 is a graphical representation of a generic cable
headend for use with the present system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many
different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be
described in detail preferred embodiments of the invention with the
understanding the present disclosure is to be considered as an
exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not
intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the
embodiments illustrated.
[0039] The present system is designed to allow a user to
participate in some form in a live event via the user's television
or other remote communication device. An example that illustrates
the interactive nature of the invention--between the remote user
and the live event--involves the user's remote participation and
viewing of an autograph session with a celebrity (in this example,
the user interacts with the event by providing input selecting a
celebrity queue and an item to be autographed). However, the system
has broader applications wherein a user remotely interacts (at
least to some extent) in a live event. This can range from
selecting an item for purchase in a live selling format televised
to the user, to input into unique product creation, to selecting a
manner of watching a live event (e.g., the user may interactively
choose the perspective to view the event from), to having more
control over the direction of the event by providing input to
interface of the system. The system includes a broadcast system for
providing a video and/or audio feed of the live event, and a user
device that receives the broadcast video/audio feed and provides an
interactive signal from the user to the broadcast system.
[0040] As discussed above, in one preferred embodiment the system
is utilized to simulate a line to a remote user for obtaining a
unique item, such as an autograph from a celebrity (e.g., an actor,
sports figure, author, etc.). Aspects of the system will be
described with respect to this embodiment. However, such aspects
can be utilized with a large variety of other formats.
[0041] The user accesses the system utilizing the user's television
or computer (other components such as the user's phone, PDA, etc.
can also be involved in the process). The system utilizes several
cameras positioned to create a virtual queue, or line, to the
celebrity. Signals from the cameras are switched to simulate the
movement of the user through the line. The user progresses until
just before the celebrity where the user can view the celebrity
signing the user's purchased merchandise. At this point the user
can optionally interact with the celebrity (e.g., through a typed
question e-mailed to the system). The system can include more than
one celebrity queue broadcast on different stations.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 1, three cameras 12a, 12b, 12c are
positioned in a standard celebrity queue or line. The first camera
12a views the main line and provides an entertaining area for the
user to wait. The second camera 12b is positioned closer to the
celebrity 14. The second camera 12b can be a preparation area where
instructions and/or other information can be conveyed to the user
of the system regarding meeting the celebrity 14. The third camera
12c is positioned closest to and focuses on the celebrity 14 to
provide a direct frontal view of the celebrity 14. This third
camera 12c shows the celebrity 14 autographing the user's selected
merchandise. One or more green screens 15 can be provided as
described in detail below.
[0043] The system progressively switches the camera signal
presented to the user's television or computer to create the effect
of moving down the line toward the celebrity. Although only three
cameras 12a-12c are shown in FIG. 1, additional cameras at
different positions in line or at different angles can be added to
further create or enhance the feel of moving in a line closer to
the celebrity. Additionally, the cameras do not have to be
stationary. That is, one or more of the cameras can provide a
moving image.
[0044] Moreover, each step or camera signal can be used for
additional purposes while the user is waiting, such as choosing an
item for signature, providing information about the celebrity,
showing film clips of the celebrity, promoting the celebrity's new
movie, book or CD, other advertising or promotion, etc. Preferably,
the video signals provided by the cameras 12a-12c are viewed live
by the user.
[0045] The system can use well established broadcast technology in
the unique manner described herein to implement the virtual line.
Specifically, the system can use pre-existing data networks for
signaling. The primary signaling path is a MPEG-2 data stream sent
with the video. The signaling path can also include other
interactive paths, such as a phone modem, DSL, cable modem or a
cable out-of-band (OOB) signal.
[0046] The virtual queue provided by the system 2 is a collection
of related data streamed from various content creation centers.
From a technical standpoint, the queue is a collection of network
bandwidth, divided into timeslots and set up to carry the video and
data necessary to create the simulated experience. FIG. 2
illustrates a number of timeslots 16 utilized for various virtual
queues 18. The celebrities are booked for particular slots 16. The
queues 18 can have particular themes (e.g., pairs--two celebrities
having a particular relation to each other, sports figures,
etc.).
[0047] FIG. 3 illustrates the various content or information flows
from the system 2 to the user's television 20 or computer 22 or
phone 24, etc. The home channel 26 to a user's television set 20,
is a data only MPEG-2 program, carried in an MPEG-2-MPTS
(Multi-Program Transport Stream). The home channel 26 is a one-way
broadcast channel carrying basic information for the system 2,
including welcome messages and other fundamental data. The primary
piece of information provided by the home channel 26 is the overall
queue directory for the system 2. The queue directory contains a
listing of all available queues 18 along with information relating
to each queue 18. Such information can include: a unique ID for
each queue; a source ID (i.e., a unique ID for the "channel"
carrying the queue); a description of the queue; the name of the
queue celebrity(ies); start and end times; number of
cameras/stages; etc. The home channel 26 carries the data as MPEG-2
private data sections in a carousel format. The system 2 assigns
the home channel a fixed and permanent source ID, so that the
television (i.e., through a cable or satellite set top) knows where
to tune in order to receive the home channel data.
[0048] The system can be configured so that only an authorized
television can tune to the home channel 26. Technology utilized for
authorizing premium cable stations (e.g., HBO, Cinemax) can be
utilized in this regard. The system 2 prevents unauthorized users
from viewing the content because all content is encrypted with the
operator's conditional access (CA) system.
[0049] The queue content and data flow 28 is also a full MPEG-2
program carried in an MPEG-2 MPTS. This data flow 28 can be part of
the home channel flow 26, or it can be a separate flow. The queue
content and data flow 28 can contain multiple video, audio and data
components for which the MPEG-2 program provides a "wrapper." The
video and audio components carry the various camera feeds or
signals for the queue 18, while the data component carries the
switching and queue management messages to instruct the television
20 or computer 22 when to switch video components to a different
camera feed. Wrapping all the queue 18 information into a single
package ensures all the related information arrives together and in
synchrony. The MPEG-2 program wrapper also provides a universal
delivery package understood by both satellite and cable television
systems.
[0050] The system 2 also includes an interactive link 30. The
interactive link 30 is a TCP/IP link designed to carry interactive
data to and from the user. The physical connection for the link 30
can take a variety of forms, depending on the capabilities of the
user's home. The primary examples are: telephone modem, DSL
(Digital Subscriber Line), and DOCSIS cable modem. These may
connect directly to the computer 22 or television 20.
Alternatively, the physical connection for the link 30 can feed
into a user's home network, if available. In this instance, the
user's computer 22 or television 20 would connect to the home
network via home networking technology such as HPNA (Home Phoneline
Networking Alliance), WiFi or standard Ethernet.
[0051] The system 2 can further include a basic interactive voice
link 32 that provides a limited level of interactivity for the
user. This voice link 32 communicates via dual tone multi-frequency
(DTMF--i.e., the tones heard when dialing on a phone) or straight
voice. The link 32 connects the user to the system's call center
34, where an interactive voice response (IVR) system responds to
the DTMF tones or a real-live person (RLP) speaks with the user.
The IVR or RLP interfaces the user to the control system.
[0052] The system 2 can also include a basic interactive data link
36 that provides a limited level of interactivity through an
out-of-band (OOB) data channel found on the cable networks. The
link 36 is a medium speed link designed for low rate interactivity
with a headend-based server. Currently, VOD (video on demand)
systems are the primary users of the OOB channel to communicate
"trick-play" commands, like "play," "pause" and "rewind." This
channel also carries all the cable system's operational
information.
[0053] In operation, the user of the system begins by accessing the
system's home channel (e.g., tuning the user's television 20 to the
appropriate channel) (see flow "A," i.e., reference no. 26 in FIG.
3). The system 2 gathers basic initialization data and the queue 18
directory from this MPEG-2 data program channel 26. Initialization
data can include (for example): a welcome message; a user interface
look and feel information/template; and advertisements etc. After
the user views a welcome message and any advertisements, the user
moves to investigate the available queues 18. The system
application displays the current queues and their associated
information based on the information received from the queue
directory. The user then selects the queue 18 the user would like
to enter by use of the set-top box or television set's remote
control, or by use of the Internet or any other remote or wired
device, using a drop-down menu box on the display or other known
guide technologies.
[0054] Based on the user's queue 18 selection, the system
application tunes to the main video component of the selected queue
18 (see flow "B," i.e., 28 in FIG. 3). The system application uses
the source ID associated with the desired queue 18 in the queue
directory to make this channel change. Once the user enters the
queue 18, the system application also tunes and monitors the
queue's data link for queue information. This information includes
(for example): the celebrity(ies) name(s); a description of the
queue; status information; schedule information, including
scheduled time for the user to meet the celebrity, and
advertisements. While viewing, the system application monitors the
data channel for queue "movement" commands. These commands instruct
the television to tune another video component (e.g., a feed from
another camera in the system) to simulate moving in the queue
18.
[0055] The user can interact with the system, for example, to make
a reservation for a queue 18. The user's interaction can take place
via the television 20 (through flow "C," 30 or flow "E," 36), or
the telephone (through flow "D," 32), or via the computer 22
(through flow "C," 30).
[0056] The generic functional architecture of the system 2 includes
three basic components: a content creation environment (CCE) 38; a
user interface environment (UIE) 40; and a system and transaction
fulfillment environment (STFE) 42. These three components work
closely together as illustrated in FIG. 4. Each of the environments
38, 40, 42 has its own internal states and state transitions.
Additionally, each environment 38, 40, 42 interacts with the other
environments to influence the state of the user's experience.
[0057] The CCE 38 handles the creation and integration of content.
It is the source of all content presented to the user by the system
2.
[0058] The UIE 40 presents the user with a fully integrated and
interactive experience. The UIE 40 may execute on single or
multiple hardware platforms within the user's home. For example,
the UIE 40 may execute only on the television 20, or it may execute
on a combination of the television 20 and computer 22, and possibly
other components such as a PDA or cell phone.
[0059] The STFE 42 interfaces to all the environments 38, 40 to
ensure a close, cooperative collaboration. The STFE 42 manages the
virtual queues 18 and synchronizes the UIE 40 to movement in those
queues 18. The STFE 42 also provides any templates and/or MIME
types to the CCE 38 for proper creation of content. Additionally,
the STFE 42 also provides merchandize management and transaction
fulfillment (e.g., shipping autograph merchandise to the user). It
also processes all user requests to purchase merchandise and select
celebrity queues 18.
[0060] The STFE 42 plays a central role in the functional
architecture of the system 2. The STFE's 42 major functions are
grouped into three main areas: user management; system operation
and queue management; and transaction fulfillment.
[0061] User management functions include: Registering new users and
administering their accounts; establishing, authenticating, and
maintaining sessions with each user; maintaining capabilities of
each user environment (i.e., television 20 v. computer 22 v. PDA v.
cell phone etc.); and maintaining the interaction state of each
user. The system operation and queue management functions include:
determining and tracking virtual queue 18 characteristics (e.g.,
depth, scheduling, priorities) and managing queues; providing a
database repository for user interface content; and recognizing
event triggers and issuing commands to coordinate and synchronize
activities within the CCE 38 and UIE 40 (including sourcing all
camera switching commands). The transaction fulfillment functions
include: taking customer (i.e., user) orders; booking queue 18
reservation for future and current autograph sessions; and
fulfilling orders for standard merchandise as well as autographed
merchandise.
[0062] Upon startup, the STFE 42 authenticates the user and
provides subscriber specific data, style templates and MIME types.
The STFE 42 also manages all interactive UIEs, tracking their
capabilities (e.g., TV-only, TV with Computer, TV and PDA, etc.)
and maintaining constant communication with them to synchronize
status and other external events. The STFE 42 also provides
redirection and/or a gateway to other content sources, as
appropriate, for chat rooms, e-commerce, etc. The STFE 42 maintains
user accounts and provides the interface to manage them including a
call center 34.
[0063] The STFE 42 directs each state change for subscribers (i.e.,
users) in each queue 18. For example, when a user in a virtual
queue 18 moves from the line to the preparation area (i.e., the
final stage before meeting the celebrity), the STFE 42 signals the
UIE 40 to change camera angles, i.e., from the first camera 12a to
the second camera 12b. The STFE 42 also notifies a physical queue
handler (i.e., a person at the CCE site) to move people and
merchandise to the preparation area, and if necessary, address the
user via video camera. The queue handler can also reconcile any
scheduling conflicts for a user in multiple queues.
[0064] The STFE 42 is responsible for acquiring and shipping
merchandise to users of the system 2. It also ensures the celebrity
autograph events have the appropriate merchandise in the necessary
quantities. After an event, the transaction fulfillment system of
the STFE 42 handles delivery of merchandise as well as returning
un-used merchandise to the warehouse. The STFE 42 also provides a
gateway 44 (e.g., an Extranet adapter) to other business partners
46 (e.g., Amazon, Yahoo, MSN, AOL, etc.). The interface 45 for the
gateway 44 could be in the form of a business-to-business (B2B)
format or an electronic data interchange (EDI) format. The STFE 42
also handles merchandise return from a user and credit issues.
[0065] The STFE 42, through a UIE manager component 48, gathers
capability information from each user interface. This includes
video display capabilities, such as MPEG-2, web content handling
capabilities (e.g., HTML, XML and XSL). The STFE uses this
information to tailor the user interface content delivered to the
UIE 40. The user interface content includes television specific
data for use in a television 20 environment, and HTML (or XML or
XSL) content for a browser based display environment (as well as
content for other possible environments, e.g., cell phone, PDA,
etc.).
[0066] The STFE 42, through a queue manager component 50 (with
possibly assistance by the UIE manager component 48), controls all
queues 18, and delivers the necessary queue events and the
appropriate command to synchronize the user interface with the
queue manager component 50. For example, when a user moves to the
autograph station in the virtual queue 18, the STFE 42 signals the
UIE 40 to change channel (i.e., from camera 12b to camera 12c) in
order to see the celebrity signing the merchandise. The STFE 42
also periodically communicates queue status information to insure
proper synchronization of the UIE 40 with the physical queue.
[0067] The STFE 42 and the UIE 40 communicate any interaction the
user has with the system 2. This includes queue 18 selection,
commerce, reservations, etc. The interaction data could arrive via
an IP connection or via the call center.
[0068] The STFE 42, through a CCE manager component 52, controls
all queues 18 and delivers the necessary queue events to the CCE 38
to synchronize the CCE 38 with the queue manager 50 status. For
example, when a user moves to the autograph station of a virtual
queue 18, the CCE manager component 52 signals the CCE 38 to notify
the physical queue handler to advance in the queue 18 and perhaps
address the user via the camera and instruct them how the autograph
session will work. The CCE manager component 50 also periodically
communicates queue status information to insure proper
synchronization of the CCE 38 with the queue manager component
50.
[0069] The STFE 42 accepts and manages all the user interface
content created and delivered by the CCE 38. The STFE 42 stores the
content and serves it to the user (through the UIE 40) as they log
on and interact with the system 2.
[0070] The CCE 38 creates, manages and manipulates the video,
audio, and data content delivered to the UIE 40 for presentation to
the user. In this regard, the CCE 38 provides content creation,
including video pre-production, live video production, Internet
MIME type authoring and DVD production. To accomplish such
creation, the CCE 38 includes television production facilities, web
content creation platforms, asset management tools, audio and video
transmission facilities, and Internet connectivity. The CCE 38 is a
geographically distributed platform, where video and audio content
from various locations converge to create bundled streams
(multiplexes) for distribution through an operator's network to
users. The content can include dynamically produced real time video
and audio components (e.g., the signing by the celebrity) and
pre-produced static content (e.g., advertising). The CCE 38 also
uses data for controlling the presentation of a basic graphical
user interface (GUI).
[0071] Video pre-production, as mentioned above, includes all of
the non-live video and audio assets needed to support the UIE 40.
This can include backgrounds, advertisements, etc. Any necessary
overlay areas (such as chroma keyed video overlay) are inserted
during pre-production. Live video production includes capturing of
live video from the celebrity autograph queue(s) 18, the insertion
of any pre-produced content and the insertion of real-time data
(received from the STFE 42) into marquees and overlays.
[0072] Internet MIME type authoring involves the following Internet
MIME types, authored both statically and dynamically: HTML, XML;
XSL; Rich Media and Java Applets. The system 2 uses some HTML for
delivering and presenting information to the user. The CCE 38
utilizes XML for delivering certain information, such as
merchandise Pick-lists, Scripts for celebrity queue hosts and queue
status marquee displays. XSL provides templated for device specific
presentations including Browser, Phone, PDA, advanced televisions
20. Rich media types for inclusion in the user presentation include
Micromedia Flash, MPEG video and MP3 audio.
[0073] The final stage of content creation is delivering it to the
users of the system 2. This requires video uplinks to allow the CCE
38 to uplink live video feeds or signals to DBS/Cable satellites
for broadcast to user homes. Additionally, real-time video
recording is provided to the content storage system 54 (the system
can burn DVDs or tapes from this system 54 for delivery to
customers). File servers that interface with the content storage
system 54, are provided for storing and sharing content. Virtual
Private Network (VPN) gateways allow the use of the standard file
server network for access to content from geographically disparate
locations (these are unnecessary if a single location houses the
system 2). Internet servers (e.g., HTTP and FTP servers) provide
the primary mechanism for distribution of content. VOD pitchers
provide video content to local VOD systems. A "pitcher" typically
uplinks the content to a satellite for broadcast to a wide area.
Additionally, the CCE 38 can utilize a variety of digital transport
system to interconnect with both internal and external systems.
[0074] The CCE 38 and the STFE 42 interact on several aspects of
the system 2. The STFE controls synchronization of content "events"
between the UIE 40 and the CCE 38. The STFE 42 uses actions and
trigger events to achieve such synchronization. For example, when
the STFE 42 determines it is time for a user to enter the celebrity
autograph area, it notifies the CCE queue manager via a message on
the user's computer, and also notifies the user's television 20 to
switch channels to the broadcast component carrying that
celebrity's live video feed (i.e., from the camera 12c). The STFE
42 can request XSL style templates and MIME types for distribution
to the UIE 40. This is often done to support UIE 40 initialization
when a user first logs onto the system. Afterwards, the UIE may
access the CCE 38 directly for content. The STFE 42 delivers queue
18 status information (e.g., time remaining, number of people in
queue, names of queue members, queue statistics, etc.) to the CCE
38 for insertion into the broadcast video content. The CCE 38 can
insert this data in a variety of ways, such as a marquee or overlay
screen 15.
[0075] The CCE 38 requires the necessary merchandise to support the
virtual queue environment. Merchandise must be on hand at the time
of celebrity signing in order to film the signing of the object.
This requires communication of acquisition and delivery information
with the STFE 42.
[0076] The STFE 42 maintains the user database. The CCE 38 may
request user information as it develops content for a virtual queue
18. Such information may include: name, preferences, merchandise
selections and past purchase information. The CCE 38 and the UIE 40
trade any user specific data required for the service. This may
include: celebrity questions and queue preparation advisories.
[0077] The UIE 40 is responsible for integrating the content assets
made available to the user's receiver (typically a cable or DBS
digital television 20). The UIE 40 also provides for the
possibility that multiple devices may be employed to provide the
user experience. A goal of the UIE is to minimize the software
requirements on the user's devices, and to target as wide a
population of existing and emerging user devices as possible.
[0078] The UIE 40 is the system's "store front" to the user. It
gathers all the data from the STFE 42 and the CCE 38 and displays
it for the user. Display can be one or more screens 15, depending
on the user's home configuration (e.g., both the television 20 and
the computer 22). The UIE 40 processes and relays, when
appropriate, user interaction data to the proper system
components.
[0079] FIG. 8 illustrates the network architecture for the system
2. The architecture includes a content distribution network 60, an
operator distribution and access network 62 and an operations and
control network 64.
[0080] The content distribution network 60 sources and distributes
the system's content to access network operators, such as DBS or
cable. Content from one or more content creation environments (CCE)
38 are shown connected by a fiber network 66 to an aggregation and
uplink center 68. The content sources are multiplexed and uplinked
via a satellite 69 (or transmitted via a cable network) for
distribution to the cable and satellite operators from the center
68. That is, the center 68 transmits the content from each CCE 38
to a satellite uplink center 70 and a cable uplink center 72. Since
all content flows into the aggregation and uplink center 68, it can
discard undesired video components of the content. Additionally,
the aggregation and uplink center 68 can interact with the STFE
over a wide area network (WAN) 74.
[0081] The cable uplink center 72 transmits the content to one or
more cable headends 76 for transmission to user devices located in
the user's homes 78. The satellite uplink center 70 transmits the
content to a satellite 80, which in turn, transmits the content
straight to the user's homes 78.
[0082] In addition to the video content, the satellite uplink
center 70 also inserts all necessary data, such as operational
data, electronic program guide (EPG) listings information and any
other data associated with interactive television applications. The
operational data can include, for example, software downloads,
television authorization messages and channel maps.
[0083] The cable uplink center 72 inserts content or data at the
center 72 or at a cable headend 76. Content provided at the headend
76 includes data relating to local channels, local advertising and
VOD (video on demand) content. The cable headend 76 also provides
an insertion point for other services, such as high speed data and
telephony. Each cable headend 76 houses the master controller for
all television set tops 20 hosted by the headend 76.
[0084] The operations and control network 64 provides the
connectivity for control and operation of the overall system 2. The
heart of this network 64 is the IP-based WAN 74 to which all major
components connect.
[0085] There is a variety of data connections to and from the home
78. One connection, common to both satellite and cable systems, is
a MPEG-2 data component riding with the video streams. The CCE 38
inserts this data stream (received from the STFE 42) directly into
the MPEG-2 stream creation device (e.g., an encoder) to produce a
multi-program transport stream containing all the video, audio and
data components combined into a single digital multiplex. The
television 20 ultimately receives and de-multiplexes this
"package," interprets the components and takes appropriate action.
This data channel is the best choice for communicating queue
specific information, such as queue directory and queue position
switching commands (as user's "move" in the virtual queue 18) to
the user's television 20.
[0086] FIG. 9 illustrates a typical cable headend 76 that can be
utilized in conjunction with the present invention. The center of
FIG. 9 includes primary components for delivering both broadcast
and interactive video 82. FIG. 9 also discloses a cable modem
termination system (CMTS) 84 and a gateway server 86 to provide
access to the WAN 74. The gateway server 86 acts as a translator
between the central STFE controller 88 (see FIG. 8) and each of the
user devices managed by the headend 76. Its primary translation
function is addressing/routing of packets from the STFE 42 to each
user device (e.g., 20 or 22). The gateway server 86 provides an IP
address for each user device (however, this address is only unique
within the domain of the headend). When a packet arrives at the
gateway server 86, it routes the packet to the local IP address for
the specific user device.
[0087] Walking through the following example of the system will
illustrate the various televised environments a user navigates
through in participating in an interactive event. The example is
provided with respect to selecting an autograph queue and obtaining
an autograph; however the system can be utilized for a large
variety of live events wherein input from the user effects the
user's viewing of the event in some manner.
[0088] In a first or initial environment (upon tuning onto a log-in
channel broadcast by the system), a greeter welcoming the user or a
welcome message is broadcast or transmitted to the user's
television (this can be a recorded segment). The greeter invites
the user to log-in if already registered with the system (e.g., a
subscriber), or to register. Icons can be provided for the user to
log-in or register. The user can utilize a remote for the set top
to navigate to and click on the appropriate icon.
[0089] If the user clicks on the "register" icon, the user is
directed to a screen 15 for gathering relevant data (e.g., address,
credit card number, etc.) and for selecting or customizing
on-screen 15 characteristics of the greeting environment (e.g.,
select the greeter from a list of greeters or greeter types such as
a young man or woman, older man or woman, business type person,
hippie, game show host, etc.).
[0090] Once registered, the user can log-in. This screen 15 prompts
the user to enter an ID and password. Once entered, the selected
greeter type welcomes the user to the system. The greeter can
explain the various interactive viewing options available to the
user, and assist the user in navigating through the system. These
options include: the schedule and identity of autograph signing
guests, listening to music or watching videos of the celebrities
appearing in the autograph lines, chatting with other users in an
autograph queue, shopping, bidding at an auction, playing games,
and entering contests to win prizes. The greeter may prompt the
user to quickly select a queue if nearing the end of an autograph
session or upon sensing the wait in line becoming large.
[0091] The user can click on an icon that provides a schedule of
autograph signing quests. A drop down menu can be used to provide
the list of and the times appearing. When the user clicks on a
celebrity's name the environment changes.
[0092] The next environment can be a live feed of a large room
(i.e., a studio set) with the hustle and bustle, ambient nose and
fluidity of an office or warehouse operation with lots of action.
The user is provided with a live camera view of the actual signing
location from a distance at the back of the line. The user will be
able to see, for example, people sitting at tables looking into
cameras, people moving merchandise around, people standing in lines
at tables--just like being in person at a real autograph signing
session.
[0093] The back walls of the studio set will feature a plurality of
green screens 15 15 that will function as a menu board with drop
down boxes, and as full motion and still advertising with
commercials digitally displayed on the screens 15 15. The greeter
can appear on one of the screen 15s and prompt the user to place an
order for merchandise by clicking on an autograph merchandise icon
and to get in a queue for an autograph via an autograph icon.
[0094] Clicking on the autograph merchandise icon causes a menu box
showing a selection of items that are in stock that can be
autographed to appear on one of the green screens 15 15. These
items are guaranteed to be signed right in front of the user on his
screen 15, which can be recorded. If the user doesn't want to wait
to view the signing, the box provides a buy it now option. The cost
of the item and autograph fee are posted on the screen 15 as the
items are being chosen. When the user is finished placing an order
for signed items, the user's credit card is charged and the user is
given a position in the queue for the in-person autograph
experience. A countdown clock can be provided giving the user an
approximate waiting time.
[0095] The countdown clock lets the user know the approximate time
of the encounter (whether getting an autograph, or creating a
unique item for purchase). The clock would appear on-screen at key
times in the process, alerting the user to time remaining until the
event. At a predetermined time prior to the event, e.g., five
minutes, the clock can appear and remain on-screen in a countdown
mode. The system will automatically coordinate the clock with the
event--such as placement in a queue--hesitating or pausing as
needed to make sure the event and the clock coincide in real time.
The clock is aligned with all systems necessary to know when the
purchased merchandise is in queue for signing, and any delays that
occur due to human error or out-of-system issues. When the user
signs up for an event, the clock keeps track of their time on the
system.
[0096] Depending on the waiting time, the greeter will again appear
on one of the green screens 15 to provide the user with available
options that can be utilized while the user waits. Again, the
greeter segments can be pre-recorded segments or messages.
[0097] A menu box giving options to get in queue for other
autograph signing quests without losing the user's place in the
current line can appear on one of the green screens 15 15. The user
can then order merchandise to be signed. The system can compare the
waiting times and determine whether the second or subsequent lines
will conflict with the user's approximate signing time in the
current line.
[0098] A menu box giving options to buy merchandise related to the
celebrity can also appear in one of the screens 15 15. These items
may be available for shipping only and may not be able to be
signed.
[0099] A green screen 15 can also include a menu box providing the
user access to an interactive auction. The user can bid using the
remote control to the interface.
[0100] A green screen 15 can also include a menu box providing the
user access to a chat room. A standard chat room box will allow the
users in a queue to talk to each other.
[0101] A menu box providing the user videos or audio selections of
music or spoken word readings of the celebrity in queue (or others)
can also appear on a green screen 15. This can be used to promote
products available for sale (e.g., music CDs, etc.).
[0102] A menu box providing the user access to games that can
played alone or with other people in the queue can also be
provided. Prizes could be awarded in the form of celebrity
merchandise or advertiser's products to players that win or achieve
certain scores. Similarly, a menu box can be provided giving the
user access to a selection of contests can be provided (for similar
prizes).
[0103] The user can also click on advertisements appearing in the
green screens 15 15 to receive more information on a product,
coupons, gifts, promotions, or prompting from a digital interactive
advertising applications. The advertisements can be full motion
video or still images. The ads can be targeted to specific users
based on the data provided in the user's registration or by style
or type of the celebrity in the queue.
[0104] At a predetermined time before the approximate signing time,
the greeter can return to the screen 15 and indicate it is time to
move forward. This changes the camera feed to the user to a
relatively close angle real time shot of the celebrity (e.g., about
10-15 feet away). The user will be able to see the celebrity taking
to people. The option icons or buttons are still visible on one of
the green screens 15 15.
[0105] At this point, the greeter can appear on a green screen 15
and ask the user if they would like to submit a question to the
celebrity. The user is then prompted to type in a question.
[0106] Countdown warnings can be provided, for example at 10
minutes, 5 minutes, 2 minutes before the signing time. When the
countdown clock reaches zero, the environment changes to a camera
that is dead-on the celebrity with the celebrity looking directly
into the camera. The celebrity can then greet the user (using the
user's name), answer any pending question, and sign the selected
merchandise.
[0107] Following the signing, the camera feed is changed back to
the initial view from the back of the queue, or is changed to a new
queue the user signed up for. If the user has completed the
autograph session, the user can change the channel or turn the set
off. There is no need to log-out.
[0108] While the specific embodiments have been illustrated and
described, numerous modifications come to mind without
significantly departing from the spirit of the invention, and the
scope of protection is only limited by the scope of the
accompanying claims.
* * * * *