U.S. patent application number 12/655008 was filed with the patent office on 2010-04-29 for system for simultaneous delivery of digital television and interactive broadband service.
Invention is credited to William J. Rouhana, JR..
Application Number | 20100107209 12/655008 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39738542 |
Filed Date | 2010-04-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100107209 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Rouhana, JR.; William J. |
April 29, 2010 |
System for simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service
Abstract
A method and apparatus is provided for the delivery of digital
television and interactive broadband service in a manner that
maximizes the usage of the digital broadcast spectrum. A digital
television signal is transmitted to a given broadcast area in a
relatively small part (for example, a 1 MHz band) of one or more
licensed portions of the digital broadcast spectrum. Interactive
broadband service is delivered within at least a portion of the
same broadcast area covered by the broadcast digital television
signal, in the remainder (for example, a 5 MHz band) of an unused
part of the same licensed portion of the digital broadcast spectrum
as is occupied by the digital television signal, or within an
unlicensed (unused) portion of the digital broadcast spectrum. The
broadcasting of the digital television and delivery the interactive
broadband service occur simultaneously. In one embodiment, digital
television and broadband service are delivered by the same
equipment within the same bandwidth.
Inventors: |
Rouhana, JR.; William J.;
(Greenwich, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
EPSTEIN DRANGEL BAZERMAN & JAMES, LLP
60 EAST 42ND STREET, SUITE 820
NEW YORK
NY
10165
US
|
Family ID: |
39738542 |
Appl. No.: |
12/655008 |
Filed: |
December 21, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11713383 |
Mar 2, 2007 |
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12655008 |
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60779761 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60779693 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60779957 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60779509 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60779560 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60779562 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60779839 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60779508 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60779564 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60779563 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60779757 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60779561 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60779887 |
Mar 6, 2006 |
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60788212 |
Mar 31, 2006 |
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60788210 |
Mar 31, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
725/118 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 21/631 20130101;
H04L 12/2856 20130101; G06Q 30/0273 20130101; H04N 21/2385
20130101; H04L 12/2801 20130101; H04N 21/23424 20130101; H04H 60/90
20130101; H04N 21/238 20130101; H04N 21/6131 20130101; H04N 7/17309
20130101; H04N 21/6112 20130101; H04N 21/239 20130101; H04L 12/2861
20130101; H04N 21/6175 20130101; H04N 21/6125 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
725/118 |
International
Class: |
H04N 7/173 20060101
H04N007/173 |
Claims
1. A method for delivery of interactive broadband service
comprising the steps of: providing interactive broadband service at
a first node, delivering the interactive broadband service to
communications devices from a second node and connecting the first
node and the second node, wherein the step of connecting the first
node and the second node comprises the step of enabling one or more
communications paths selected from the following group: fiber,
cable, fixed wireless, cellular, PCS, WiMax, laser and local
exchange carrier telephone network.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein each of the communications paths
utilizes a different communication medium.
3. Apparatus for delivery of interactive broadband service
comprising: means for providing interactive broadband service at a
first node, means for delivering the interactive broadband service
to communications devices from a second node, and means for
connecting said first node and said second node, wherein said means
for connecting said first node and said second node comprises means
for enabling one or more types of communications paths selected
from the following group: fiber, cable, fixed wireless, cellular,
PCS, WiMax, laser and local exchange carrier telephone network.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein each of said communication
paths utilizes a different communications medium.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Applicant claims priority on the following provisional
patent applications:
TABLE-US-00001 Title Ser. No. Filing Date System For Simultaneously
Delivering 60/779,761 Mar. 6, 2006 Digital Transmission And
Interactive Communications Services Low Power System For
Simultaneously 60/779,693 Mar. 6, 2006 Delivering Digital
Transmission And Interactive Communications Services High Power
System For Simultaneously 60/779,957 Mar. 6, 2006 Delivering
Digital Transmission And Interactive Communications Services
Cellular System For Simultaneously 60/779,509 Mar. 6, 2006
Delivering Digital Transmission And Interactive Communications
Services System For Simultaneously Delivering 60/779,560 Mar. 6,
2006 Digital Transmission And Interactive Communications Services
Utilizing Reflectors To Maximize Signal Strength Method And
Apparatus For Eliminating 60/779,562 Mar. 6, 2006 Interference In
System For Simultaneously Delivering Digital Transmission And
Interactive Communications Services System For Simultaneously
Delivering 60/779,839 Mar. 6, 2006 Digital Transmission And
Interactive Communications Services Low Power System For
Simultaneously 60/779,508 Mar. 6, 2006 Delivering Digital
Transmission And Interactive Communications Services High Power
System For Simultaneously 60/779,564 Mar. 6, 2006 Delivering
Digital Transmission And Interactive Communications Services
Cellular System For Simultaneously 60/779,563 Mar. 6, 2006
Delivering Digital Transmission And Interactive Communications
Services System For Simultaneously Delivering 60/779,757 Mar. 6,
2006 Digital Transmission And Interactive Communications Services
Utilizing Reflectors To Maximize Signal Strength Method And
Apparatus For Eliminating 60/779,561 Mar. 6, 2006 Interference In
System For Simultaneously Delivering Digital Transmission And
Interactive Communications Services System For Simultaneously
Delivering 60/779,887 Mar. 6, 2006 Digital And Interactive
Communications Services Utilizing Reflectors To Maximize Signal
Strength Advertising Revenue Supported System 60/788,212 Mar. 31,
2006 For Voice Data And Video Interactive Communications Services
System For Utilizing Paging Spectrum 60/788,210 Mar. 31, 2006 To
Provide Network Management
This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 11/713,383 filed Mar. 2, 2007 in the name of William J. Rouhana
Jr. entitled: "System for Simultaneous Delivery of Digital
Television and Interactive Broadband Service".
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable
REFERENCE TO A "SEQUENCE LISTING", A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM
LISTING APPENDIX SUBMITTED ON COMPACT DISC
[0003] Not Applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for
the transmission of digital television and for the delivery of
interactive broadband service and more particularly for the
simultaneous delivery of digital television and interactive
broadband service in a manner that maximizes digital broadcast
spectrum usage.
[0006] 2. Description of Prior Art Including Information Disclosed
Under 37 CFR 1.97 and 1.98
[0007] The U.S. Congress has set a Feb. 18, 2009 deadline for
television stations to switch entirely from analog to digital
broadcasts. All such digital television broadcasts must utilize the
digital broadcast spectrum located at 480-698 MHz. This switch will
allow broadcasters to deliver a single channel of television
programming utilizing only a small part, for example, 1 MHz of the
6 MHz, of bandwidth that each broadcast license allocates to each
television station owner. One embodiment of the present invention
is directed to a system for using the remaining part, for example,
5 MHz of the 6 MHz, of the bandwidth allotted to each license
holder to deliver interactive broadband service at the same time
that digital television signal is broadcast within the licensed
bandwidth. A second embodiment of the present invention is directed
to a system for using the bandwidth between the 6 MHz bands
allotted to license holders to deliver interactive broadband
service at the same time that the digital television signal is
broadcast within the licensed bandwidth. A third embodiment of the
present invention is directed to a system where the digital
television signal and the interactive broadband service are
delivered in an integrated fashion within the same bandwidth,
either licensed or unlicensed, utilizing Internet protocol.
[0008] Spectrum is an extremely valuable and scarce resource.
Maximizing the use of spectrum for its best and highest use is a
critical financial and public policy goal. In August 2006, the FCC
conducted the Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) auction in which
other spectrum, which can be used in similar ways but which is less
valuable then digital broadcast spectrum, was sold to
telecommunications, satellite and cable service providers. In that
auction, various companies in the wireless industry paid
approximately $14 billion for 90 MHz of AWS Spectrum. There are 200
MHz of digital broadcast spectrum.
[0009] In another comparable spectrum development, specifically in
the 700 MHz frequency, on Feb. 1, 2005, Aloha Partners LP announced
that it purchased Cavalier Group LLC and DataCom Wireless LLC,
respectively the second and third largest owners of 700 MHz
spectrum in the United States. Though the purchase price
comparables were not disclosed publicly, those purchases indicate
additional interest in the ownership of spectrum assets.
[0010] Demand for broadband services is exploding. Over the last
several years, various devices including computers, PDA's, cellular
telephones and other similar devices have been connected to the
world wide web (the Internet) for a variety of services that are of
increasing importance in delivery to both commerce and consumer
entertainment. The ability to deliver these services on a mobile or
portable basis is increasingly viewed as an essential element of
the telecommunications and entertainment industries. Mobile or
portable delivery requires the use of wireless technologies which,
in turn, requires the use of spectrum. As a result, the demand for
spectrum is expected to continue to skyrocket and spectrum costs
are expected to continue to increase.
[0011] Recently, the Federal Communications Commission has begun a
proceeding to determine how to use the unlicensed portions of the
digital broadcast spectrum. This proceeding seeks to set
regulations for the use of the "white space" (unlicensed spectrum)
in the digital television band.
[0012] By utilizing the system of the present invention, a digital
broadcast spectrum owner, or a user of the digital broadcast white
space, or both can utilize digital television spectrum to most
efficiently and effectively deliver both television and broadband
service to end users.
[0013] Thus, the present invention is directed to a method and
apparatus for the delivery of interactive broadband service and,
more particularly, to the delivery of that service utilizing the
digital broadcast spectrum, currently located at 480-698 MHz, while
simultaneously delivering television using that spectrum.
[0014] Interactive broadband service may be delivered by WiMax
(World Interoperability for Microwave Access) based upon the IEEE
802.16 standard. WiMax enables broadband speeds over wireless
networks at a cost which permits mass market. Currently, there are
two main WiMax applications: fixed WiMax applications are
point-to-multipoint enabling broadband access to homes and
businesses, and mobile WiMax which offers the full mobility of
cellular networks at broadband speeds. The present invention is
capable of both fixed and mobile WiMax applications.
[0015] Alternatively, delivery of the interactive broadband service
in accordance with the present invention may utilize any of the
following technologies: 3G, EV-DO or HSPDA.
[0016] In the following specification, the term "digital broadcast
spectrum" is used to refer any portion of the broadcast spectrum
that may be used to broadcast digital signals. Thus, although
examples provided to understand the invention relate to the 480-698
MHz frequency band currently used to for television signals, that
term is to be understood to include, in addition to the 480-698 MHz
frequency band presently allotted to television signals, the
spectra which are currently or in the future may be allotted to
television, cellular, PCS, AWS and other similar services.
[0017] Further, the reference to "licensed" and "unlicensed"
portions of the digital broadcast spectrum should be not be
considered to be limited to the current licensing scheme and may
best be understood as generally referring to used and unused
portions of the digital broadcast spectrum.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0018] It is, therefore, a prime object of the present invention to
provide a system for the simultaneous delivery of digital
television and interactive broadband service.
[0019] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service utilizing the same licensed band of
the digital broadcast spectrum.
[0020] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service utilizing one or more licensed bands
of the digital broadcast spectrum and the "white space" outside of
or between licensed bands.
[0021] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service utilizing the unused bandwidth that
each broadcast license allocates to each television station
owner.
[0022] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service utilizing a digital television signal
transmitter and a WiMax transmitter/receiver, both transmitting on
frequencies within the same 6 MHz portion of the digital broadcast
spectrum.
[0023] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband services utilizing a digital television
signal transmitter and a WiMax transmitter/receiver, both
transmitting on frequencies within the same 6 MHz portion of the
digital broadcast spectrum, wherein the WiMax transmitter/receiver
covers at least a portion of the broadcast area of the digital
television transmitter.
[0024] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service utilizing a digital television signal
transmitter and a WiMax transmitter/receiver, both transmitting on
frequencies within the same 6 MHz portion of the digital broadcast
spectrum, wherein network management signals are delivered outside
that portion of the spectrum to provide cost effective network
management, in lieu of using a portion of any spectrum being used
to deliver the broadband services, thereby maximizing the use of
the spectrum used to deliver such services to end users.
[0025] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service utilizing a digital television signal
transmitter and a WiMax software defined transmitter/receiver
connected to a network management signal transmitter/receiver,
wherein the WiMax transmitter/receiver and network management
signal transmitter/receiver cover at least a section of the
broadcast area of the digital television signal transmitter.
[0026] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband services utilizing a digital television
signal transmitter and a plurality of WiMax transmitters/receivers,
each connected to a network management signal transmitter/receiver,
wherein the WiMax transmitter/receivers and the network management
signal transmitter/receivers cover at least a portion of the
broadcast area of the digital television transmitter.
[0027] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service utilizing a digital television signal
transmitter and multiple WiMax transmitters/receivers, all
transmitting on the same 6 MHz portion of the digital broadcast
spectrum.
[0028] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service utilizing a digital television signal
transmitter and a WiMax transmitter/receiver, both transmitting on
the same 6 MHz portion of the digital broadcast spectrum, wherein
the digital television signal transmitter transmits on a part of
that portion of the digital broadcast spectrum and the WiMax
transmitter/receiver transmits on all or part of the remaining part
of that portion of the digital broadcast spectrum.
[0029] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service utilizing a digital television signal
transmitter and a plurality of WiMax transmitters/receivers, all
transmitting on the same 6 MHz portion of the digital broadcast
spectrum, wherein the digital television signal transmitter
transmits on 1 MHz of that portion of the digital broadcast
spectrum and the WiMax transmitter/receivers transmit on all or
part of the remaining 5 MHz of that portion of the digital
broadcast spectrum.
[0030] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service utilizing the same digital broadcast
spectrum, wherein the interactive broadband service is delivered to
broadband communication devices having interference detection
technology.
[0031] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband services utilizing the same digital broadcast
spectrum, wherein the interactive broadband services are delivered
by a WiMax transmitter/receiver to broadband communications devices
including computers, wherein the computers utilize a lower return
signal bit rate than the bit rate of the signal from the WiMax
transmitter/receiver.
[0032] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service utilizing the same digital broadcast
spectrum, wherein the interactive broadband service is delivered by
a WiMax transmitter/receiver to broadband communications devices,
and signal reflectors are utilized to boost the return signals from
the broadband communications devices.
[0033] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of television signals via
digital transmission and interactive broadband service utilization
devices (including voice, video and data transfer) utilizing low or
high power broadcasting on both a fixed and mobile basis.
[0034] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service utilizing the same digital broadcast
spectrum, wherein the interactive broadband service is delivered by
a WiMax transmitter/receiver to broadband communications devices
utilizing equipment that is compliant with WiMax standards under
802.16d (fixed) or 802.16e (mobile) as well as other delivery
technologies, such as 3G, EV-DO and HSDPA.
[0035] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the simultaneous delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service wherein the digital television signal
is converted to an Internet protocol television signal and provided
to the interactive broadband service delivery equipment via the
Internet such that the Internet protocol signal is integrated with
the interactive broadband service signal and is broadcast using the
same equipment and bandwidth as is used to deliver the interactive
broadband service.
[0036] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the delivery of interactive broadband service wherein
the interactive broadband service is provided at a first node and
delivered to communications devices from a second node and wherein
the first node and the second node are connected by enabling one or
more communications paths as needed from the following group:
fiber, cable, fixed wireless, cellular, PCS, WiMax, laser and local
exchange carrier telephone network, each of the communications
paths utilizing a different communication medium.
[0037] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
system for the delivery of interactive broadband service by an
Internet based service provider having a website for its service
users, wherein links refer service users from the service
provider's website to other websites and the service provider
charges a fee based upon the number of referrals and the gross
revenue generated from advertising, the sale of goods or services,
or otherwise by the referrals, as reflected by embedded tags
identifying the service provider's website as the source of the
referrals.
[0038] In general, the above noted objectives are achieved by the
system of the present invention, as follows.
[0039] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a
method is provided for delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service using the same portion of the digital
broadcast spectrum. The method includes broadcasting a digital
television signal to a given broadcast area in a first frequency
band within a portion of the digital broadcast spectrum and
delivering interactive broadband service within at least a portion
of the same broadcast area covered by the broadcast digital
television signal in a second frequency band within the same
portion of the digital broadcast spectrum occupied by the digital
television signal, wherein broadcasting a digital television signal
and delivering interactive broadband service occur
simultaneously.
[0040] The step of delivering interactive broadband service
includes providing the interactive broadband service using a
technology selected from the following: WiMax, 3G, EV-DO or
HSPDA.
[0041] The step of delivering interactive broadband service
includes providing interactive broadband service using multiple
sources within the broadcast area covered by the digital television
signal. Preferably, the sources are positioned at spaced locations
within the broadcast area covered by the digital television
signal.
[0042] The method further includes providing a communication device
capable of receiving interactive broadband service within at least
a portion of the broadcast area of the digital television signal
and providing the communication device with interference detection
technology capable of canceling out the digital television signal
or other potentially interfering signals.
[0043] The method further includes providing a communication device
capable of communication with the source of the interactive
broadcast service within a portion of the area covered by the
digital television signal, including sending return signals from
the communication device to the source of the interactive broadband
service, and reflecting the return signals to the source of the
interactive broadband service. The step of reflecting includes
positioning a plurality of signal reflectors at spaced locations
within the area to which the interactive broadband service is
delivered by the source. Such signal reflectors may be used to
boost return signal power, avoid obstacles such as buildings or
mountains located between the communication device and the source
or to permit the reduction of the size of the service source
transmitter/receivers.
[0044] The method further includes using network management signals
transmitted at a frequency outside of the portion of the digital
broadcast spectrum within which the digital television signal is
broadcast and the interactive broadband service is delivered.
[0045] The method further includes providing one or more fixed or
mobile communications devices within the area covered by the
broadcast television signal for communicating with the source of
the interactive broadband service.
[0046] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method is provided for delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service using the digital broadcast spectrum.
The method includes broadcasting a digital television signal to a
given broadcast area in a frequency band within one or more
licensed portions of the digital broadcast spectrum and delivering
interactive broadband service within at least a portion of the same
broadcast area covered by the broadcast digital television signal,
in a frequency band within an unlicensed portion of the digital
broadcast spectrum, wherein broadcasting of the digital television
signal and delivering interactive broadcast service occur
simultaneously.
[0047] The step of delivering interactive broadband services
includes providing interactive broadband service using a technology
selected from the following: WiMax, 3G, EV-DO or HSPDA.
[0048] The step of delivering interactive broadband service
includes providing interactive broadband service using multiple
sources within the broadcast area covered by the digital television
signal. Preferably, the multiple sources are positioned at spaced
locations within the broadcast area covered by the digital
television signal.
[0049] The method further includes providing a communication device
capable of receiving the interactive broadband service within a
portion of the broadcast area of the digital television signal and
providing the communication device with interference detection
technology capable of canceling out the digital television signal
and other interference, such as adjacent or co-channel
interference.
[0050] The method further includes providing a device capable of
communication with the source of the interactive broadband service
within the broadcast area covered by the digital television signal,
including sending return signals from the communication device to
the source of the interactive broadband service, and reflecting the
return signals from the communication device to the source of the
interactive broadband service. Preferably, the step of reflecting
includes positioning a plurality of signal reflectors at spaced
locations within the area to which the interactive broadband
service are delivered, including around the periphery thereof.
[0051] The method further includes using network management signals
transmitted at a frequency outside of the portions of the digital
broadcast spectrum, such as the paging frequency, within which the
digital television signal is broadcast and the interactive
broadband service is delivered.
[0052] The method further includes providing one or more fixed or
mobile communication devices within the area covered by the
broadcast television signal for communicating with the source of
the interactive broadband service.
[0053] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
apparatus is provided for delivery of a digital television and
interactive broadband service using the same portion of the digital
broadcast spectrum. The apparatus includes means for transmitting a
digital television signal to a broadcast area in a first frequency
band within a portion of the digital broadcast spectrum and means
for delivering interactive broadband service within at least a
portion of the broadcast area in a second frequency band within
that portion of the digital broadcast spectrum, wherein the digital
television signal transmitting means and the interactive broadband
service delivery means function simultaneously.
[0054] The interactive broadband service delivery means includes a
transmitter/receiver using a technology selected from the
following: WiMax, 3G, EV-DO or HSPDA.
[0055] The interactive broadband services delivery means includes
more than one transmitter/receiver within the broadcast area.
[0056] The interactive broadband service delivery means includes
multiple interactive broadband service delivery means positioned at
spaced locations within the broadcast area.
[0057] The interactive broadband service delivery means includes
multiple WiMax transmitter/receivers positioned at spaced locations
within the broadcast area.
[0058] The apparatus further includes a communication device
capable of receiving the interactive broadband service within a
portion of the broadcast area. The communication device includes
means for canceling the broadcast digital television signal.
[0059] The apparatus further includes a device capable of
communicating with the interactive broadband service delivery means
within a portion of the broadcast area by sending a return signal
from the communication device to the interactive broadband service
delivery means and means for reflecting the return signal from the
communication device to the interactive broadband service delivery
means. The return signal reflecting means includes a plurality of
signal reflectors positioned at spaced locations around within the
area to which the interactive broadcast service is delivered,
including around the periphery thereof.
[0060] The apparatus further includes means for transmitting
network management signals on a frequency outside the portion of
the digital broadcast spectrum, such as the paging frequency,
utilized for the digital television signal and the interactive
broadband service.
[0061] The apparatus further includes one or more fixed or mobile
communication devices within the broadcast area for communicating
with the interactive broadband service delivery means.
[0062] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
apparatus is provided for delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service using the digital broadcast spectrum.
The apparatus includes means for transmitting a digital television
signal to a broadcast area in a frequency band within one or more
licensed portions of the digital broadcast spectrum and means for
delivering interactive broadband service within at least a portion
of that broadcast area in a frequency band within an unlicensed
portion of the digital broadcast spectrum, wherein the digital
television signal transmitting means and the interactive broadband
service delivery means function simultaneously.
[0063] The interactive broadband service delivery means includes a
transmitter/receiver using a technology selected from the
following: WiMax, 3G, EV-DO or HSPDA.
[0064] The interactive broadband service delivery means includes
more than one transmitter/receiver within the broadcast area.
[0065] The interactive broadband service delivery means includes
multiple interactive broadband service delivery means located at
spaced positions within the broadcast area.
[0066] The interactive broadband service delivery means includes
multiple WiMax transmitter/receivers located at spaced positions
within the broadcast area.
[0067] The apparatus further includes a communication device
capable of receiving the interactive broadband services within a
portion of the broadcast area. That device includes means for
canceling the broadcast digital television signal or other
interference.
[0068] The apparatus further includes a device capable of
communicating with the interactive broadband service delivery means
within a portion of the broadcast area by sending a return signal
from the communication device to the interactive broadband service
delivery means and means for reflecting the return signal from the
communication device to the interactive broadband service delivery
means. The return signal reflecting means includes a plurality of
signal reflectors positioned at spaced locations within the area to
which the interactive broadcast service is delivered, including
around the periphery thereof.
[0069] The apparatus further includes means for transmitting
network management signals on a frequency outside the portion of
the digital broadcast spectrum, such as the paging frequency,
utilized by the digital television signal transmitting means and
interactive broadband service delivery means.
[0070] The apparatus further includes one or more fixed or mobile
communication devices within the broadcast area for communicating
with the interactive broadband service delivery means.
[0071] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method is provided for delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service using the same portion of the digital
broadcast spectrum. The method includes the steps of: broadcasting
a digital television signal to a given broadcast area within a
portion of the digital broadcast spectrum and delivering
interactive broadband service within at least a portion of the same
broadcast area covered by the broadcast digital television signal
in the same portion of the digital broadcast spectrum occupied by
the digital television signal, wherein the step of broadcasting a
digital television signal and the step of delivering interactive
broadband service occur simultaneously.
[0072] The step of broadcasting a digital television signal
includes the step of converting the digital television signal into
an Internet protocol television signal and the step of broadcasting
the Internet protocol television signal using the same equipment as
is used to deliver the interactive broadband service.
[0073] The method further includes the step of using the Internet
to provide the Internet protocol television signal to the equipment
used to deliver the interactive broadband signal service.
[0074] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method is provided for delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service using the same portion of the digital
broadcast spectrum. The method includes the steps of: delivering a
digital television signal to a given broadcast area within a
portion of the digital broadcast spectrum and delivering
interactive broadband service within at least a portion of the same
broadcast area covered by the broadcast digital television signal
in the same portion of the digital broadcast spectrum occupied by
the digital television signal, wherein the step of delivering a
digital television signal and the step of delivering interactive
broadband service utilize the same delivery equipment.
[0075] The step of delivering a digital television signal includes
the step of converting the digital television signal into an
Internet protocol television signal and the step of using the
Internet to provide the Internet protocol television signal to the
delivery equipment.
[0076] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
apparatus is provided for delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service using the same portion of the digital
broadcast spectrum. The apparatus includes: means for broadcasting
a digital television signal to a given broadcast area within a
portion of the digital broadcast spectrum and means for delivering
interactive broadband service within at least a portion of the same
broadcast area covered by the broadcast digital television signal
in the same portion of the digital broadcast spectrum as is
occupied by the digital television signal. The means for delivering
interactive broadband service includes the means for broadcasting a
digital television signal.
[0077] The means for broadcasting a digital television signal
includes means for converting the digital television signal into an
Internet protocol television signal and means for broadcasting the
Internet protocol television signal using the means for delivering
the interactive broadband service.
[0078] The apparatus further includes means for using the Internet
to provide the Internet protocol television signal to the means for
delivering the interactive broadband signal service.
[0079] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
apparatus is provided for delivery of digital television and
interactive broadband service using the same portion of the digital
broadcast spectrum The apparatus includes: means for delivering a
digital television signal to a given broadcast area within a
portion of the digital broadcast spectrum and means for delivering
interactive broadband service within at least a portion of the same
broadcast area as is covered by the broadcast digital television
signal in the same portion of the digital broadcast spectrum
occupied by the digital television signal. The digital television
signal is delivered by the means for delivering interactive
broadband service.
[0080] The means for delivering a digital television signal
includes means for converting the digital television signal into an
Internet protocol television signal and means for using the
Internet to provide the Internet protocol television signal to the
interactive broadband service delivery means.
[0081] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method is provided for delivery of interactive broadband service.
The method includes the steps of: providing interactive broadband
service at a first node, delivering the interactive broadband
service to communications devices from a second node and connecting
the first node and the second node. The step of connecting the
first node and the second node includes enabling one or more
communications paths from the following group: fiber, cable, fixed
wireless, cellular, PCS, WiMax, laser and local exchange carrier
telephone network. Preferably, each of the communications paths
utilizes a different communication medium.
[0082] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
apparatus is provided for delivery of interactive broadband
service. The apparatus includes means for providing interactive
broadband service at a first node, means for delivering the
interactive broadband service to communications devices from a
second node, and means for connecting the first node and the second
node. The means for connecting the first node and the second node
include means for enabling one or more types of communications
paths from the following group: fiber, cable, fixed wireless,
cellular, PCS, WiMax, laser and local exchange carrier telephone
network. Preferably, each of the communication paths utilizes a
different communications medium.
[0083] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method is provided for delivery of interactive broadband service
by an Internet based service provider. The method includes the
steps of: providing interactive broadband service to service user's
communications devices, providing a website for service users,
providing links to refer service users from the service provider's
website to the websites of others and charging a fee based upon the
number of referrals and/or the gross revenues generated from
advertising, the sale of goods and services or otherwise by the
referrals.
[0084] Preferably, the links to advertiser's websites include an
embedded tag identifying the service provider's website as the
source of the referral.
[0085] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
apparatus is provided for delivery of interactive broadband service
by an Internet based service provider. The apparatus includes means
for providing interactive broadband service to service user's
communications devices, means for providing a website for its
service users, means for providing links to refer service users
from the service provider's website to other websites and means for
charging a fee based upon the number of referrals and/or the gross
revenues generated from advertising, the sale of goods and services
or otherwise by the referrals.
[0086] Preferably, means are provided for embedding a tag
identifying the service provider's website as the source of the
referral.
[0087] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method is provided for delivery of interactive broadband service.
The method includes the steps of: providing interactive broadband
service, delivering the interactive broadband service to
communications devices using interactive broadband service delivery
equipment, providing the interactive broadband service to the
interactive broadband service delivery equipment via the Internet
using a local exchange carrier telephone network operated by a
telephone company having a central office and locating the
interactive broadband service delivery equipment proximate the
central office of the telephone company.
[0088] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
apparatus is provided for delivery of interactive broadband
service. The apparatus includes: means for providing interactive
broadband service, means for delivering the interactive broadband
service to communications devices using interactive broadband
service delivery equipment, means for providing the interactive
broadband service to the interactive broadband service delivery
equipment via the Internet using a local exchange carrier telephone
network operated by a telephone company having a central office,
wherein the interactive broadband service delivery equipment is
located proximate the central office of the telephone company
operating the local exchange carrier telephone network.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF DRAWINGS
[0089] To these and to such other objects that may hereinafter
appear, the present invention relates to a system for the
simultaneous delivery of digital television and interactive
broadband service as described in detail in the following
specification and recited in the annexed claims, taken together
with the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals refer to
like parts and in which:
[0090] FIG. 1 is a layout diagram of the system of the present
invention;
[0091] FIG. 2 illustrates the digital television transmitter,
interactive broadband service transmitter/receiver and network
management signal transmitter/receiver of the present
invention;
[0092] FIG. 3 illustrates the digital broadcast spectrum showing a
typical the frequency allotment in accordance with the first and
second preferred embodiments of the present invention;
[0093] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the interference detection
circuitry in a typical interactive broadband service communication
device of the present invention;
[0094] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating the Internet delivery
of television signals to the interactive broadband service delivery
transmitter/receiver such that the signals can be time integrated
for delivery by the same equipment as the interactive broadband
service, within the same bandwidth; and
[0095] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the various communications
paths available for connecting the Internet to the interactive
broadband service delivery transmitter/receiver.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0096] The present invention is a method and apparatus for
simultaneous broadcast of digital television and delivery of
interactive broadband service. The interactive broadband service
may include any two-way voice, video and/or data communication. The
system advantageously utilizes the unused or "white space" portions
of the digital broadcast spectrum to deliver the interactive
broadband service in order to maximize the use of this limited
spectrum resource. The result of this simultaneous delivery system
is to provide the most efficient and effective way to deliver such
services.
[0097] Three preferred embodiments of the present invention are
disclosed. The first two preferred embodiments utilize the same
method and apparatus. The difference lies in the frequencies over
which the interactive broadband service is delivered. The
difference between the two preferred embodiments is illustrated
with reference to FIG. 3.
[0098] In the third preferred embodiment of the present invention,
as described below with reference to FIG. 5, the digital television
signal is not broadcast separately from the interactive broadband
service but instead by the same equipment as is used to deliver the
interactive broadband service and within the same portion of the
digital broadcast spectrum as the interactive broadband service. In
that embodiment, the digital television signal is converted to an
Internet protocol television signal and provided through the
Internet to the interactive broadband service delivery equipment.
The Internet protocol television signal is then time integrated
with the interactive broadband service signal such that it can be
delivered using the same equipment as is used to deliver the
interactive broadband service, over the same portion of the digital
broadcast spectrum.
[0099] FIG. 3 is a graphic representation of a portion of the
digital broadcast spectrum, generally designated A, which is
divided into two F.C.C. licensed portions 10, 12, each, for
example, 6 MHz wide, separated by an unlicensed and thus unused
"white space" 14. For purposes of illustration, each of the
licensed portions 10, 12 is subdivided into six sections, each
section representing a part, for example, 1 MHz wide frequency
band, of the licensed portion.
[0100] Transmission of a digital television signal only requires
only a narrow bandwidth, for example, 1 MHz band. Accordingly, the
first subdivision of each licensed portion 10, 12 of spectrum A is
shown as allocated for the broadcast of a digital television
signal, as denoted by the crosshatching. The remaining five
subdivisions of each licensed portion 10, 12, each representing,
for example, a band 1 MHz wide, are not required for the
transmission of digital television signal. In the first preferred
embodiment of the present invention, those unused frequencies
within the licensed bandwidth are utilized for the delivery of the
interactive broadband service.
[0101] Thus, in the first preferred embodiment of the present
invention, both the digital television signal and the interactive
broadband service are simultaneously delivered at different
frequencies within the same licensed portion of the digital
broadcast spectrum, for example is 6 MHz wide.
[0102] In the second preferred embodiment, instead of utilizing the
unused space within the licensed portions 10, 12 of spectrum A to
deliver the interactive broadband service, an unlicensed portion 14
of spectrum A that lies outside (in the example illustrated,
between) the licensed portions 10, 12 is utilized to deliver the
interactive broadband service.
[0103] As seen in FIG. 2, the system of the present invention
utilizes a conventional digital television transmitter 16. It also
utilizes multiple interactive broadband service delivery means,
each preferably including an interactive broadband service delivery
transmitter/receiver, such as a conventional WiMax compliant
software defined transmitter/receiver 18. Preferably, a network
management signal transmitter/receiver, such as a conventional
paging service transmitter/receiver 20, is coupled to each WiMax
transmitter/receiver 18.
[0104] As illustrated in FIG. 1, all three components are located
at one central location 22 within a geographical area 24, which
represents the broadcast coverage area for the digital television
signal from transmitter 16. The separate antennae for each of the
components are preferably located as high above the ground as is
possible, for example on a rooftop or tower 26.
[0105] At other locations 28 within broadcast area 24, remote from
central location 22, an interactive broadband service delivery
transmitter/receiver 18 and a network management signal
transmitter/receiver 20 connected to that interactive broadband
service delivery transmitter/receiver 18 are located, again as high
as possible above the ground, for example, on a tower. Although
only two remote equipment locations 28 are illustrated on FIG. 1
for simplicity, it should be understood that as many remote
equipment locations as are necessary to provide delivery of
interactive broadband service throughout broadcast area 24 may be
provided.
[0106] The WiMax transmitter/receiver 18 at central location 22
delivers interactive broadband service within the geographical area
denoted 30 of area 24. The network management signal
transmitter/receiver 20 connected to that WiMax
transmitter/receiver delivers network management signals to the
same geographical area 30 of area 24.
[0107] The WiMax transmitter/receiver 18 situated at each remote
location 28 within broadcast area 24 delivers the interactive
broadband service within the geographical area denoted as 32
surrounding that location. The network management signal
transmitter/receiver 20 connected to that WiMax
transmitter/receiver delivers network management signals within the
geographical area 32 of area 24 covered by that WiMax
transmitter/receiver. The size of the areas 30 and 32 depends upon
the strength of the transmitter/receivers, which may be adjusted by
changing power levels, using additional antennas, etc. Further, the
delivery areas may overlap, as illustrated.
[0108] Transmitter 16 may be any conventional digital television
transmitter such as Product Number DVB-T-V/7.5 IOT/7.5 kw with TH
760 I.O.T. used with a matching antenna. Transmitter/receivers 18
may be any conventional WiMax compliant software defined
transmitter/receiver, such as one from Alvarion-BreezeMAX Macro
Base Station, tuned to the desired frequency and used with a
matching antenna.
[0109] However, equipment that operates using other technologies
may be employed instead of a WiMax transmitter/receiver. For
example, conventional EVDO transmitter/receivers, such as Product
IP-RN 8000 from Airvana, or 3G and HSPDA transmitter/receivers,
such as Product 3G-n macro or mini transmitter/receivers from
Motorola Horizon, may be employed instead of WiMax
transmitter/receivers.
[0110] Transmitter/receiver 20 may be any conventional paging
signal transmitter/receiver. For example, a TTI Wireless Paging
Transmitter/receiver available from Turn-Key Technologies, Inc may
be employed for this purpose.
[0111] Because the strength of the digital television signal or
other interference, such as adjacent or co-channel interference,
may be much greater than the strength of the interactive broadband
service delivery signal within broadcast area 24, the digital
television signal or other signals may tend to interfere with the
reception of the interactive broadband service delivery signal by
the fixed or mobile communications devices 44 that interact with
the interactive broadband service delivery transmitter/receivers
18. Accordingly, it is preferable to equip those communications
devices with interference detection circuitry in the chip set. Such
interference detection circuitry is commercially available and
typically functions as depicted in FIG. 4.
[0112] FIG. 4 shows a function block diagram of the interference
detection section of a typical transmitter/receiver 18. The
received signal, which includes a combination of the high power
digital television signal or other interfering signals, and the
lower power interactive broadband service delivery signal, is
provided to the input/output circuit 34 of the transmitter/receiver
18. Circuit 34 shunts a portion of the received digital television
signal or other interfering signal to a signal inverter circuit 36.
Circuit 34 passes the remainder of the combined signal to a
cancellation circuit 38. The inverted digital signal from circuit
36 is transferred to cancellation 38 where it cancels the remaining
portion of the digital television signal or other interfering in
the combined signal, leaving only the interactive broadband service
delivery signal for further processing by circuit 40.
[0113] Again referring to FIG. 1, a number of signal reflectors 42
may be utilized to maximize the strength of the return signals from
the various fixed and mobile interactive broadband service
communication devices 44 within area 24 back to the broadband
service provider. The signal reflectors 42 may be strategically
placed at the various distances from the locations of the
interactive broadband service delivery transmitter/receivers 18 to
boost the return signal from the communications devices. These
reflectors would be placed at a variety of locations as needed
within the range of the interactive broadband service delivery
transmitter/receiver, including the periphery of the interactive
broadband service delivery transmitter/receiver range or at the
periphery of the licensed territory, depending on whether the
transmission approach taken in an area is single transmission or
cellular.
[0114] Signal reflectors 42 may be used to boost the return signal
power from the communication devices 44 back to the interactive
broadband service delivery transmitter/receiver, avoid obstacles
such as buildings or mountains located between the communication
devices 44 and the interactive broadband service signal delivery
transmitter/receiver 18 or to permit the reduction of the size of
the transmitter/receivers 18.
[0115] The factors to be taken into account in positioning
reflectors 42 include: (a) the demand within the interactive
broadband service delivery transmitter/receiver range (greater
demand generally requires more reflectors); (b) the output power
level of the interactive broadband service delivery
transmitter/receiver and other transmitters with the same area
covered by the interactive broadband service delivery
transmitter/receiver (greater power and more additional
transmitters generally require more reflectors); (c) the geography
of the terrain within the interactive broadband service delivery
transmitter/receiver range (more variability in terrain generally
requires more reflectors); (d) the height and proximity to each
other of buildings within the area covered by the interactive
broadband service delivery transmitter/receiver (a greater number
of buildings and taller buildings generally require more
reflectors); (e) the size of the area covered by the interactive
broadband service delivery transmitter/receiver (larger coverage
area generally requires more reflectors); (f) the distance between
interactive broadband service delivery transmitter/receivers
(greater the distance generally requires more reflectors); and (g)
the desired speed of the interactive broadband service, especially
the uplink speed (faster uplink speed generally requires more
reflectors).
[0116] The reflectors may be any conventional signal reflector,
such as the antenna reflectors available from Rohde & Schwarz.
Different size reflectors with optimum feeds may be selected as
needed.
[0117] Interactive broadband service delivery transmitter/receivers
18 can deliver service to a variety of types of interactive
broadband service communications devices 44. Such devices may
include fixed devices, such as home/office communications and
computing equipment or mobile devices such as PDA's, cellular
phones or hand-held computers.
[0118] For some communications devices 44, such as hand-held
computers, it may be preferable to use a lower bit rate return
signal than the signal transmitted by the interactive broadband
service delivery transmitter/receiver 18 to the communications
device 44. For example, the transmitted signal from
transmitter/receiver 18 may utilize a bit rate of 1.5 mbs and the
return signal from the device 44 may utilize a bit rate of 800
kbs.
[0119] FIG. 5 illustrates the third preferred embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, delivery of digital
television and interactive broadband service is accomplished using
the same portion of the digital broadcast spectrum and the same
delivery equipment. The digital television signal is delivered to
broadcast area 24 within a portion of the digital broadcast
spectrum. The interactive broadband service is delivered within at
least a portion of the same broadcast area 24 covered by the
broadcast digital television signal in the same portion of the
digital broadcast spectrum occupied by the digital television
signal. The broadcasting a digital television signal and the
delivery of the interactive broadband service occur
simultaneously.
[0120] In this embodiment, the digital television signal is first
converted into an Internet protocol television signal. The Internet
is used to provide the Internet protocol television signal to the
equipment that is used to deliver the interactive broadband signal
service. Thus, in this embodiment, the separate digital television
signal transmitter 16 is eliminated.
[0121] As is illustrated in FIG. 5, the digital television
originates with a digital television signal source 46. Source 46 is
connected to a converter 48 which converts the digital television
signal from source 46 into an Internet protocol television signal.
The Internet protocol television signal is then provided via the
Internet 49 to the interactive broadband transmitter/receiver
18.
[0122] Transmitter/receiver 18 takes the Internet protocol
television signal and integrates that signal with the interactive
broadband service signal from the service provider 50. That
integrated signal is delivered by transmitter/receiver 18.
Accordingly, both the digital television signal and the interactive
broadband service signal are broadcast in the same broadcast area,
using the same transmitter/receiver 18, within the same portion of
the digital broadcast spectrum.
[0123] FIG. 6 illustrates another aspect of the present invention
having to do with the means for connecting the interactive
broadband service provider 50, which in an Internet based system
typically provides the service via the Internet to the interactive
broadband service delivery means, such as transmitter/receiver 18,
via an existing fiber network or local exchange carrier telephone
network (LEC) 52. Accordingly, a means of connecting the Internet
to the interactive broadband service delivery means is
required.
[0124] In the present invention, that connecting means consists of
multiple possible connection paths using different connection
technologies. The Internet carrying fiber network or LEC 52 is
connected to a connector/selector circuit 54 which is used to
enable one of a number of possible connection paths to provide
two-way broadband service communications with the broadband service
delivery transmitter/receiver 18. The connection paths may employ a
variety of different technologies including one or more of the
following: cable 56; fiber 58; a light connection between lasers
60; cellular, PCS or WiMax transmitters/receivers 62; or fixed
wireless transmitters/receivers 64, the latter preferably operating
in the 5 to 90 Gigahertz range. The other ends of those connections
are connected to a second connector/selector circuit 66 which
enables the same connection path as connector/selector circuit 54
and is, in turn, connected to transmitter/receiver 18.
[0125] Obviously, not all of the different types of communication
path identified above will be available on all systems. Further,
the connector/selector circuits can be used to enable communication
paths as is required at a particular time, or during a defined time
period. On the other hand, the selection may be determined ahead of
time to enable a particular communication path or hierarchy of
communication paths.
[0126] Which particular communication path is enabled at a
particular time depends upon a number of different factors. Those
factors include: the amount of demand for the broadband service in
the coverage area of the service delivery transmitter/receiver; the
distance between the fiber network or LEC and the service delivery
transmitter/receiver; cost of building and operating the connection
path; the quality of the service required to be delivered in the
area covered by the service delivery transmitter/receiver; the
availability of the various connection paths at a particular time
(for example, if the cable connection is being used to capacity, a
second choice, such as fixed wireless, may be selected); the
topography of the coverage area of the service delivery
transmitter/receiver; and the need for redundant communication
paths.
[0127] Alternatively, with respect to signal distribution from the
broadband service provider through a local exchange carrier
telephone network, the problem of connecting the service delivery
transmitter/receiver 18 with the service provider can sometimes be
solved by eliminating the various connections altogether and
placing the service delivery transmitter/receivers 18 at locations
proximate the central offices of the telephone company providing
the local exchange carrier telephone network by which the broadband
service is provided. In many cases, those telephone company central
offices may be widely dispersed, thereby providing a wide broadband
service coverage area.
[0128] The interactive broadband service provided by the present
invention may be paid for by the user through monthly subscription
fees, as is customary for such services. However, since it is
contemplated that the system of the present invention will be
Internet based, the service provider will operate a website for its
service users with a home page that is used by its service users to
access all other Internet sites.
[0129] The service provider's home page will link to other
websites, as is common. When a service user goes from the service
provider's website to another website, an embedded "tag" is sent to
the other website along with the user connection, signifying that
the service provider's website is the source of the referral. That
"tag" will follow the service user where ever the service user goes
on the Internet during that session.
[0130] The other website operators pay a fee to the service
provider for the referral of the service user from the service
provider's website. That fee may based upon advertising, sales
leads, and/or commissions for the sale of goods and services to the
referred service users, either on a periodic (monthly) basis or
based on the number of customer referrals to the other website from
the service provider's website, as represented by the embedded
"tags", or both. Ultimately, it may be the object of the service
provider to obtain sufficient funds from such fees to provide the
interactive broadband service to service users for a greatly
reduced fee or even no fee.
[0131] It will now be appreciated that the present invention
relates to a system for simultaneously delivering television via
digital transmission and interactive broadband service (including
two-way voice, video and data communications) utilizing low or high
power broadcasting on both a fixed and mobile basis.
[0132] The system operator subdivides each channel of television
spectrum (which is licensed by the FCC in 6 MHz blocks) into a
first channel consisting of a small part (for example, 1 MHz of the
licensed bandwidth) for the delivery of digital television
utilizing conventional digital television signal transmitting
equipment and a second channel consisting of the remaining part
(for example, 5 MHz) of spectrum for the delivery of broadband
communications service. The broadband service is preferably
delivered utilizing equipment that is compliant with WiMax
standards under 802.16d (fixed) or 802.16e (mobile).
[0133] Other delivery technologies, in addition to WiMax, such as
3G, EV-DO and HSPDA could be utilized in the portion of the band
not allocated to digital television, to deliver the broadband
service. Further, the WiMax, 3G, EV-DO or HSPDA
transmitter/receiver equipment could be used, either alone or
integrated with an existing cellular, PCS or other providers of
such services utilizing the broadcast spectrum alone or with that
spectrum integrated with other broadcast or other spectra to
deliver such services.
[0134] The delivery of the digital television signal or the
interactive broadband service signals or both can be cellularized
in order to maximize signal strengths for the end user, minimize
interference from each signal and allow for the greatest frequency
reuse. Where appropriate, a single transmitter for each signal
situated within the covered area can be utilized when the likely
demand for such services would not justify the costs of
cellularization.
[0135] Software defined "WiMax certified" or "pre-WiMax"
transmitter/receivers are preferably used to deliver the
interactive broadband service. Those devices would be capable of
providing such services over the entire 480-698 MHz band, including
the "white spaces", but would initially utilize only proprietary
licensed spectrum, as in the first preferred embodiment of the
present invention. Once the "white space" issues are resolved by
the FCC, the software defined transmitter/receivers could easily be
reset to use all of the available "white space" in a particular
broadcast area, as set forth in the second preferred embodiment of
the present invention, in addition to the bandwidth of the
proprietary licensed spectrum. This would allow the licensed system
operator access to a larger amount of spectrum with lower capital
costs.
[0136] The above approaches can be used for both full power and low
power television spectrum grants. For some low power applications,
system operators may increase the amount of power beyond that
necessary to deliver television in order to reach the full contour
of the low power license with broadband services.
[0137] Further, digital television signals could be delivered
utilizing Internet protocol as the delivery mechanism for
television, thereby increasing the flexibility of use of the
spectrum being used and further increasing the amount of broadband
services that could be delivered in the amount of spectrum that is
available where demand is likely to be greater.
[0138] A variety of issues can be addressed by utilizing approaches
similar to those taken by cellular providers using other spectrum.
For example, interference that might result in certain cases from
the power differential between the television signal and the
broadband signal could be eliminated by utilizing existing
interference detection technology described above that would detect
the strongest signal at a device and inject that signal into the
receiving device to cancel it out. Adjacent and co-channel signal
interference issues would be dealt with via a combination of the
above techniques. In addition, a lower bit rate return link
referred to previously can be utilized to enable lower power
devices to send data back to the originating point which would also
enhance the reliability of the above described systems.
[0139] The above described approach can be utilized to deliver
broadband services in connection with incumbent local exchange
carrier's network facilities. The cell sites for the deployment of
any of these networks could be co-located with incumbent local
exchange carrier's central office facilities, thereby allowing the
use of the incumbent local exchange carrier's fiber and other
interconnection capacity. This would save on the cost of
interconnection for the wireless broadband provider, while also
allowing the incumbent local exchange carriers to add broadband
capacity to their product offering and network at a lower cost than
the alternatives, in most cases. That would be especially true for
rural local exchange carriers. This approach to networking would
not be limited to digital broadcast spectrum only. Any mobile
spectrum could be used in this way.
[0140] Alternatively, cell sites could be interconnected using a
combination of LEC facilities, cable, cellular, WiMax, PCS, laser,
fiber and fixed wireless facilities. The above described system
could be used for the interconnection of cell sites to provide
backhaul connections to PCS, cellular and other wireless service
providers in addition to the other services that could be provided
in the previously described system.
[0141] A more flexible approach to the breakdown of the spectrum
could be undertaken to allow for the delivery of any number of
television channels (up to capacity of the a licensed portion of
the spectrum, which is currently 6 MHz) with the unused portion of
the spectrum used to deliver broadband services. From 1 to 5
channels could be utilized with the balance being used for
broadband. Streaming, broadcasting and Internet protocol delivery
could be used to deliver services in separated parts of the
spectrum simultaneously. The spectrum could be subdivided using any
of these three delivery methods to deliver services in these
separate parts.
[0142] In order to provide cost effective network management,
paging and/or other similar frequencies are used to provide network
management services in lieu of using a portion of any spectrum
being used to deliver the broadband services, thereby maximizing
the use of the spectrum used to deliver such services to end users.
The present invention can also be used by other wireless carriers
using other types of spectrum. The paging spectrum would be used as
phone lines are used today to monitor equipment performance at each
interactive broadband service transmitter/receiver site and to send
information back to a network management center in response to
commands delivered to the cell sites. In some cases repairs would
be made remotely over the paging network as well.
[0143] Broadband communications services that would be offered over
the network of the present invention, such as two-way voice, data
and/or video communications, could be billed to the end user on a
single bill, along with other services such a PCS, cellular
services, cable television, telephone services etc. or alone.
[0144] Alternatively, those services could be offered at low or no
cost to the service user and paid for by sharing advertising and/or
other revenues with the operators of other websites accessed by the
service user from the service provider's website. The service
provider would develop a website for use as the portal by its
service users accessing the Internet over the service provider's
network or other systems. The service users would then search the
web from the network by first arriving at the service provider's
portal, which would be credited for a portion of the advertising or
other revenue generated by the service users' subsequent web
activities.
[0145] While only a limited number of preferred embodiments of the
present invention have been disclosed for purposes of illustration,
it is obvious that many modifications and variations could be made
thereto. It is intended to cover all of those modifications and
variations which fall within the scope of the present invention, as
defined by the following claims.
* * * * *