CN1188575A - Broadcast system with associated data transmission capabilities - Google Patents

Abstract

A broadcast system includes a device to compare program material to be transmitted with a database of known material and to transmit along with the program material data corresponding to that program material. A corresponding receiving system stores the data in memory and displays, at the selection of the user, the data corresponding to the program material. The user selectively stores the data on a magnetic recording card for electronic coupon or other uses. Various modes of operation are selectable by the user, and the data may be used as electronic coupons, or to control attached equipment, or to sound alarms, or for other applications.

Description

Broadcasting system with associated data transmission capability

relevant application

This is a continuation-in-part of co-pending US Patent Application Serial No. 08,045,352, filed April 8, 1993.

Background and Field of Invention

This invention relates generally to broadcast systems, and more particularly to systems for transmitting data related to audio or video program material to provide listeners or viewers with useful information related to the program material.

A number of wireless broadcast systems are known in which digital data is transmitted together with audio program material. For example, the United States Radio Broadcast Data System (United States Radio Broadcast Data System), initiated by the National Association of Broadcasters (National Broadcasters Association) and the Electronics Industry Association (Electronics Industry Association) and published by the National Radio Systems Committee (National Radio System Committee), The "RBDS") standard describes a system for broadcasting a variety of program-related information on subcarriers of standard FM broadcast channels. The RBDS standard describes a system for transmitting station logo and location information, as well as time, business and various other information.

U.S. Patent no. 5,063,610 to Alwadish discloses a system in which commercial text, song titles, or other program-related data can be transmitted with the audio program material and stored, displayed, or displayed by the listener using appropriate receiving equipment. Print. The Alwadish system is understood to require data corresponding to program material to be stored with the program material source itself (ie, on a CD or digital sound tape). Therefore, the Alwadish system relies on custom-made sound program source hardware and software.

In another field, systems are described which automatically monitor received broadcast signals in order to record the program content of such broadcasts. For example, U.S. Patent nos. 4,450,532 and 4,843,562 to Kenyon et al. teach schemes for automatically identifying received program material as one of a plurality of "reference" library programs.

Significantly lacking in the known prior art, however, is a system for broadcasting programming material and associated data that does not rely on customized programming source material and associated devices, wherein the program and the data are at the source level on the link. It is desirable to have a system in which conventional sources (e.g., conventional records, tapes, or CDs) can be played on conventional source equipment (e.g., conventional turntables, tape players, and CD players) and also The advantage of transmitting data related to program material is provided.

It would also be desirable to have systems and methods for using such broadcast data for various purposes.

Contents of the invention

According to the present invention, a broadcast delivery system includes: a conventional program source, means for detecting which of several program sources is selected, means for comparing program material with a database of known program material to identify program material, and and means for providing a data stream corresponding to the identified program material to a transmitter for transmission with the program material.

Also in accordance with the invention, a receiver includes a demodulator for detecting program material and a data stream, and user interface means for providing a user with a menu of data options, the options of which depend on information in the data stream.

Still according to the invention, the receiver includes a data card recorder for recording selected information from the data stream on a portable data card for subsequent use.

Still in accordance with the present invention, the receiver operates in different modes to selectively receive, process and reproduce portions of the transmitted program material and data.

Still according to the invention, the receiver comprises a game mode for processing the transmitted game data.

Still according to the invention, the receiver generates signals based on the transmitted data to control connected devices.

Still according to the invention, the receiver generates a scannable barcode based on the transmitted data.

In another aspect of the invention, a receiver includes a plurality of tuner subsystems for selectively receiving more than one channel of programming material and transmitted data.

In another aspect of the invention, the receiver is connected to a computer system to control the operation of the system based on the transmitted data.

The features and advantages described in the description are not all-inclusive, and, in particular, many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from the drawings, description, and claims. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the description has been chosen primarily for readability and instructional purposes, and not for the purpose of describing or limiting the inventive subject matter, the adoption of the claims being necessary to identify such inventive subject matter of.

Brief description of the drawings

Fig. 1 is a block diagram of a system for transmitting program material and related data according to the present invention. FIG. 1 a is a block diagram detailing the data stream generator illustrated in FIG. 1 .

Figure 2 is a block diagram of a system for receiving program material and associated data in accordance with the present invention.

3 is an illustration of a user interface display panel displaying information related to a musical composition in accordance with the present invention.

4 is an illustration of a user interface display panel displaying information related to a composer, in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a receiver in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 6 illustrates memory addresses used for data storage and retrieval in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 7 illustrates the composition of a data packet according to the invention.

Figure 8 illustrates the receiver screen menu hierarchy in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates the flow of screen menus of the programmer terminal illustrated in FIG. 1 .

Figure 10 is a block diagram of a receiver operating in different modes to selectively receive, process and reproduce portions of transmitted program material and data in accordance with the present invention.

11 is a block diagram of a receiver including a game mode for processing transmitted game data in accordance with the present invention.

12 is a block diagram of a receiver that generates signals based on transmitted data to control a connected device in accordance with the present invention.

13 is a block diagram of a receiver that generates a scannable barcode based on transmitted data.

14 is a block diagram of a receiver including multiple tuner subsystems for selectively receiving more than one channel of program material and transmitted data in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 15 is a block diagram of a system according to the present invention, including a receiver and connected computer system controlling it in response to transmitted data.

Description of the preferred embodiment

The figures depict preferred embodiments of the invention for purposes of illustration only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following discussion that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods described herein may be used without departing from the inventive principles described herein.

Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a transmission system 100 in accordance with the present invention. The operation of transmission system 100 is illustrated by discussing the components illustrated in FIG. 1 . Conventional sound sources such as microphone 102 , CD player 103 , and tape player 104 provide program source sound to mixing station 101 . Mixing station 101 and sound sources 102-104 may be conventional devices such as those already present in common radio broadcasting stations. The audio output from mixing station 101 is fed via audio bus 113 to transmitter 110 for transmission from antenna 111 in a conventional manner. Transmitter 110 may be any conventional radio broadcast transmitter with main and subcarrier channel input capabilities, such as those typically installed in modern FM broadcast stations. Incidental conventional audio compression, band limiting, or other processing circuitry (not shown) may be installed on mixing station 101, on transmitter 110, or between them, regardless of the purpose here.

The audio output from mixing station 101 is also provided to program material identifier 106 via audio bus 113 . The purpose of the program material identifier 106 is to compare the program material from the mixing station 101 with the database of known program material 107 . If a match is detected, program material identifier 106 sends to data stream generator 105 pertinent program data, such as the title, composer, and performer of the program material. Any suitable program identification system may be used to implement program material identifier 106 and database of known program material 107, such as the system described by Kenyon et al. in U.S. Patent no. 4,843,562 for received broadcast audio signals. The contents of U.S. Patent no. 4,843,562 are incorporated herein by reference. One skilled in the art can readily identify sound programs using such known systems, implementing the program material identifier 106 of FIG. 1 and the database of known program material 107 .

The output data provided by the program material identifier 106 is converted by the data stream generator 105 into a form that can be used directly on the regular subcarrier channel input of the transmitter 110 . The manner in which this conversion is performed will depend on the particular program material identifier 106 used and the data format desired for transmission, and can be readily accomplished by one skilled in the art. In a preferred embodiment, the data stream generator 105 is configured to comply with a large transmission capacity multiplexed data broadcasting system protocol called L-MSK published by NHK (Nippon Broadcasting Corporation). This protocol allows data transfer rates up to 32kbit per second.

The mixing station 101 also provides a signal, either through existing facilities on the mixing station 101 or through a simple modification, which signal indicates which program source (i.e., microphone 102, CD player 103, or tape player 102) is currently selected by the mixing station 101. machine 104). Program source detector 108 converts this signal into a form usable by data stream generator 105 . While the specific implementation of source detector 108 may vary from one type of mixing station 101 to another, one skilled in the art will readily be able to implement source detector 108 to operate with any particular mixing station 101 .

The data stream generator 105 generates different data streams according to the program source detected by the program source detector 108 . For example, if source detector 108 indicates that mixing station 101 has selected CD player 103 or tape player 104, stream generator 105 provides information generated by program material identifier 106 to transmitter 110. However, if program source detector 108 indicates that microphone 102 is selected, data stream generator 105 may generate data identifying the announcer's name, or the fact that news or business information is being broadcast, depending on the use of microphone 102 . If the microphone 102 is used for multiple purposes, the data stream generator 105 can generate generic messages such as station logos or arbitrary advertisements. Thus, in operation, the data stream generator 105 provides a data stream to the transmitter 110 which, for example, represents details of the musical composition played on the CD player 103, followed by an advertiser corresponding to the commercial program played on the tape drive 104. message, followed by the appropriate message corresponding to the microphone 102 options, such as "Traffic Alert".

In one embodiment of the present invention, the database of known program material 107 includes both the data needed by the program material identifier 106 to identify a particular program and the data associated with the program that is communicated to the transmitter 110 by the data stream generator 105 . As is known in the art of conventional identification systems, data relating to program material may be entered from programmer terminal 112 by manual keyboarding, or by some other common method of data entry. Programmer terminal 112 may be a dedicated computer terminal or may be a personal computer connected to stream generator 105 via a conventional local area network. The database 107 may be provided by a third party, for example in the form of computer tape or disk, containing data identifying what is needed and what is expected to be transmitted. In such an embodiment, other data related to program material, such as data related to program material for advertising campaigns, may be entered into database 107 independently using conventional data entry techniques. Additionally, when the program source detector 108 indicates that the microphone 102 is selected, the data to be transmitted may be stored as part of the database 107 or in a separate database (not shown). Those skilled in the art will recognize that any such options for providing relevant data for transmission may be used in accordance with the present invention.

It is apparent from FIG. 1 that none of the existing components of a conventional broadcast station (with the possible exception of the mixing station 101 discussed above) need to be replaced or changed in order to implement the delivery system 100 . An upgrade from a conventional distribution system to the distribution system 100 of FIG. 1 requires only the connection of the program source detector 108 to the mixing station 101, the feed tap of the sound program material between the mixing station 101 and the transmitter 110 to the program source identifier 106, and connect the data stream generator 105 to the subcarrier channel input of the transmitter 110.

Referring now to FIG. 1a, a detailed functional block diagram of the data stream generator 105 is shown. The main components of the data stream generator 105 include a data input processor 153 , a database manager 155 , a system controller 157 , an output buffer (spooler) 154 , and an NHK encoder 152 . Data input processor 153 receives program source data from program source detector 108 via serial RS-232 data link 151 and also receives program identification data from program material identifier 106 via serial RS-232 data link 151 . Data input processor 153 uses this input data to determine which data from screen store database 156 should be accessed using database manager 155 and sends it to output buffer 154 . For example, if the data input processor 153 receives indicates that the CD player is activated and the program material being broadcast is a music option called "Concertino for Piano and Chamber Ensemble", it will make the specific data corresponding to the option The database entries are extracted from the screen storage database 156 and provided to the output buffer 154 by the database manager 155. The database entry includes all data necessary to display data information related to music options on the receiver, as described below in connection with Figures 3 and 4.

System controller 157 is connected to database manager 155 and output buffer 154 for two purposes, respectively. First, system controller 157 provides timing and control signals to manage the movement of data from database manager 155 to output buffer 154 . Second, the system controller 157 provides the means for inserting data into the screen store database 156 through the database manager 155 through a connection to the programmer terminal 112 . For example, radio station personnel may enter data relating to any particular item of the screen storage database to allow such information to be transmitted through the system when the associated selection of program material is played. As a specific example, if there is a public performance of "Concertino for Piano & Chamber Ensemble" in the local symphony hall, this event can be entered into the screen store database 156 so that when this music selection is played, this information will be emitted for displayed on the user receiver. Additional discussion related to data items is provided below in connection with FIG. 9 .

Output buffer 154 is a buffer that stores data to be transmitted and sends such data over RS-232 serial data link 151 to the NHK data encoder to allow transmitter 110 to transmit the data. The NHK data encoder converts the data from the output buffer 154 into a data stream satisfying the above-mentioned NHK high-capacity multiplex data broadcasting protocol L-MSK specification. An example of a commercial device operating according to this protocol is the model 4001A FM Multiplex Signal Transmitter for mobile receivers supplied by Eiden Co., Ltd. (Tokyo, Japan).

In a preferred embodiment, components 152-157 are implemented using a programmable general purpose computer. Those skilled in the art can easily realize the functions of these components in such a manner.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a receiving system 200 in accordance with the present invention. The operation of the receiving system 200 is illustrated by a discussion of the constituent components illustrated in FIG. 2 . Signals transmitted by transmission system 100 of FIG. 1 are received by antenna 211 and demodulated by demodulator 201 into voice and data components in a conventional manner. Demodulator 201 is of conventional design for detecting and demodulating voice and data signals transmitted on the main broadcast channel and the channel's subcarriers, respectively. The audio program information from demodulator 201 is supplied to conventional program material reproduction circuit 202 . Data related to the program material (corresponding to those generated by data stream generator 105 of FIG. 1 ) is corrected in a conventional manner by error correction circuitry 203 and passed to the microprocessor using any conventional techniques and equipment known to those skilled in the art. device 204, and then stored in data memory 205.

User interface means 206 allow a user of receiving system 205 to selectively access the data stored in 203 . The user interface device 206 is implemented using a conventional microprocessor-based design well known to those skilled in the art of user interface design and implementation. The user interface device 206 provides display capabilities for transmission data, as well as user input capabilities that allow a user to select portions of the transmission data.

A conventional data card recorder 207 , such as those used for recording information on magnetic library cards or the like, is connected to the data storage 205 via the microprocessor 204 . The purpose of the data card recorder 207 is to allow the user of the receiving device 200 to store selected data on a portable magnetic card. For example, data relating to an advertiser's promotion can be used as an "e-coupon" to enable listeners who record such data to receive discounts on merchandise. The coupon data may include standard identification data for the product, such as a "SKU" code for the product. Corresponding magnetic card readers (not shown) of conventional design may be used at stores that honor such coupons.

The receiving system 200 can be easily implemented by adding digital data functions corresponding to the error correction circuit 203, micro Processor 204, data storage 205, user interface means 206, and if required, data card recorder 207. Alternatively, the functions of units 203-207 can be implemented with a general-purpose digital computer (for example, a conventional personal computer, notebook computer, or home entertainment computer), and the antenna demodulator 201, the program material reproduction circuit 202, and the antenna 211 can be implemented with an additional device or by plugging in a circuit card. In this case, the general purpose digital computer could even be used to provide the main program channel's audio/video program material output, ie, that program material duplication circuit 202 routinely provides. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize other possible implementations in accordance with the present invention.

Referring now to FIG. 3 , there is shown a display panel 300 of the user interface device 206 . Display panel 300 includes four menu keypads 301 - 304 and a larger information window 305 . In a preferred embodiment, the display panel 300 has a conventional liquid crystal design, and conventional touch screen technology is used to switch between the menu keypads 301-304. Alternatively, physically separate switches could be used near the menu keypads 301-304, but one benefit of using touch screen technology is that the size, location and number of keypads can be dynamically changed under software control. Information window 305 of FIG. 3 displays composer, title, and performer data stored in memory 205 corresponding to program material being received by receiving system 200 at the same time. Menu keypad 301 provides the user with the option to request another screen with other information relevant to this composer; menu keypad 302 provides the user with the option to request band information; menu keypad 303 provides the user with the option to request Another screen option for runtime information; menu keypad 304 provides the user with the option to request ordering information for this recording. It should be appreciated that the information provided in information window 305 and menu keypads 301-304 may actually be varied and is not limited to the type of information or layout shown in FIG.

In another embodiment, some of the top level menu options may be stored in non-volatile memory (not shown) of the user interface device 206, but in general the information displayed on the display panel 300, as well as the keypad (eg 301-304) The number, style, and labels are determined by the data generated by the data stream generator 105 , sent to the receiving system 200 , and stored in the data store 205 . For convenience, the data corresponding to the menu keypad (eg, 301) is called header data. The number of menu options and the amount of information that can be displayed is limited only by the bandwidth of the data transmission subcarrier channel and the capacity of the data memory 205 . Within these constraints, each radio station can choose to include as much or as little header data as it needs to display, and can customize the layout and menu information that appears on display panel 300.

Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown the display panel 300 after the user has touched the menu keypad 301 of FIG. 3 to request a screen with more information about the composer. Information window 405 now displays different information than information window 305 of FIG. 3 . Menu keypad 301 of FIG. 3 is replaced by menu key 401, providing the user with the ability to return to the first screen (ie, the screen of FIG. 3). Keypad 302 of FIG. 3 is replaced by keypad 402, providing the user with another option to browse screens representing other works by the composer. There are no other options under this menu path, and the keypads 303 and 304 in FIG. 3 have no corresponding keypad replacements in FIG. 4 .

Referring now to FIG. 5 , there is shown the process of receiving and displaying data as described in connection with FIGS. 3 and 4 . The process begins by receiving data at step 501 . Then, step 502 performs error correction to verify the received data. When this step is completed, the received and verified data is stored at the specified address in step 503 for subsequent use. A check is then made at step 504 to determine, based on the received data, whether new program material (eg, new music selections) is currently being sent. If not, a check is made at step 505 to determine whether the user has passed the on-screen keypad. (eg 301-304) a selection has been made and a new screen has been requested. New screen requests are indicated by the "New Screen Request Flag" setting. If the new screen request flag is not set, the process returns to step 501 to obtain other data.

If the check at step 504 indicates that new program material is being sent, processing proceeds to step 506 where a new main menu screen is displayed for the new program material. According to the invention, the first data sent for new program material corresponds to the main menu screen for that option, so as soon as a new program is detected, the main screen data for that material should already be available. When the new home screen data is displayed at step 506, processing returns to step 501 to obtain and verify other data corresponding to other screens. In a preferred embodiment, once a new program option is detected, the data from the previous program option need not be discarded, but can be stored by the user for later retrieval. In another embodiment, the user can restore data from several of the preceding options if desired. For example, if a user hears about a music option they like, but doesn't think about ordering it until the end of that option, they may want to look up ordering information for that option after the next option starts. Conventional techniques known to those skilled in the art can be used to store and retrieve such information from the foregoing options.

If the check at step 505 indicates that the user has requested a new screen, processing flows to step 507 where a determination is made regarding the particular new screen requested. Then, step 508 checks whether new screen data for the current program option has been stored. If not, processing returns to step 501 to allow additional data to be retrieved. If the necessary data for the screen has been stored, step 509 resets the new screen request flag and step 510 displays the new screen. Processing then returns to step 501 .

Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown a memory map 600 of screen data in accordance with the present invention. The data of the main screen menu is given at the highest address, which is 1000 at this time. Screen data corresponding to main screen menu option numbers 1 to 4 are stored at addresses 1100-1400, respectively. Screen data corresponding to the menu options for the screen data at address 1100 are stored at locations 1110 through 1130, and so on. Therefore, the screen data address is defined such that the most significant bit of the address indicates the parent screen corresponding to a screen of data. Referring now also to FIG. 8, this screen hierarchy can be considered a pyramid, and the main menu screen of Data 800 appears at the top of the pyramid, and the screen pyramid expands as one moves down the menu screens, eg, 801-804. The memory map 600 of FIG. 6 does not list addresses in numerical order, but according to this menu hierarchy. This menu hierarchy also determines which data is sent first when new program material options are broadcast. Initially the data for menu screen 800 (e.g., data at address 1000) is broadcast first, then the data for menu screens 801-804 accessed directly from that menu screen (e.g., data at addresses 1100, 1200, 1300), then Data from menu screens accessed from those menu screens, such as 812 (eg, data at addresses 1110, 1120, 1130), and so on hierarchically. In this way, the user will get the data at a higher level faster than sending the data strictly in address order. The data for the main screen 800 is sent first and is repeated more frequently, while the data for subsequent screens, such as 801-804 is sent next and repeated less frequently.

Referring now to FIG. 7, there is shown a data packet 700 in accordance with the present invention. To provide a flexible structure for presenting data on a receiver display, such as display 300 illustrated in FIG. 3, data is sent in variable length packets, such as 700. In the preferred embodiment, packet 700 includes several components, the first being an 8-bit pyramid address 710 identifying the data to be transmitted corresponding to a particular option of program material. Therefore, if a music item is broadcasting, all data related to that music item will have the same pyramid address. Then, an 8-bit field is used for the screen address 720, identifying the particular screen data. This address is mainly used for control purposes so that when the user chooses to view a new screen, there is an address identifying the data corresponding to that screen.

The following 8-bit data field is used for packet type 730 identification. Group type 730 provides data indicating whether group 700 is a group that provides screen text, a group that sets parameters for such screen text (e.g., the font of the text), or a group that only provides control information (e.g., if the The screen makes a specific user selection to jump to, or the action to take if no user selection is made within a specific "timeout" period). In another embodiment, an other packet type 730 may indicate that the data of the packet will be used to draw a graphic image on the display 300. Packet type 730 is followed by 8-bit start address 740 . Where grouping type 730 indicates that text is to be displayed on the screen, start address 740 is used to provide the row and column on display 300 where this text begins. Where packet type 730 is used to control jumping to other addresses, start address 740 is used to provide the address to jump to. Following the start address is a variable length text body segment 750 (including the text to be displayed on display 300, if any). In the preferred embodiment, conventional techniques (such as a simple header) may be used to indicate the length of the text body segment 750 . Finally, a 16-bit error correction field 760 is included in packet 700 so that the received data can be verified using conventional error checking methods, such as those previously mentioned in connection with FIGS. 2 and 5 .

In another simplified embodiment, a fixed hierarchy can be used for data and display 300, thereby eliminating the need for variable length packets 700. For example, a "chunk" structure could be used, where each program material option has a corresponding fixed-size data chunk. As a specific example, the menu structure may be three levels deep, with menus in each level except the last providing three options for subsequent menus. If each menu is limited to a specified number of characters of text, then each screen in the hierarchy can use a fixed address. Thus, despite the loss of flexibility, increased data throughput is possible because the addressing of the data is implicit in the structure and a unique address does not have to be sent for each piece of data. One of ordinary skill in the art can readily use the appropriate data structure for the specific needs of any system according to the present invention.

Referring again to FIG. 8, there is shown a flow diagram of the menu hierarchy in accordance with the present invention. The menu hierarchy of FIG. 8 corresponds to the displays illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 . In the diagram of FIG. 8, the main menu 800 provides the user with four choices of secondary screens 801-804. Screen 801 in turn provides the user with two choices of other screens, one being the main menu screen 800 and the other being "Screen 12" 812. Screens 800-804 and 812 are shown with larger boxes to indicate that these screens are displayed directly, or are possible screen selections in FIGS. 3 and 4 .

In the example of FIG. 8, other screen selections may also be provided. For example, "Screen 2" 802 provides four screen selections 822-824, and one of these selections 822 also provides selection of another screen 825, which itself allows selection of another screen 826. This structure can be used in cases where the information on a particular topic is long enough to require three screens of presentation.

Similarly, "Screen 3" 803 provides two choices 831,832. Screen 832 also provides three options, screens 833-835. "Screen 4" 804 provides three options 841-843. Any screen configuration may be used for a given program material option, as appropriate to the requirements of the program material itself. The only limitations of this structure are the transmission time of the data and the memory available in the receiver to store this data. In another embodiment, even if there is not enough memory to store all the data in the hierarchy, a small "scratch" memory can be used to store the data at the next lower level of the hierarchy requested by the user to be sent. In this way, very complex hierarchies can be used without requiring large receiver data memories, at the added cost of potentially slower response times.

FIG. 8 illustrates only one return path to the main menu 800 for clarity. It should be appreciated, however, that in a preferred embodiment, each screen at the bottom of the hierarchy will provide the user with the option to return to the main menu 800 . Furthermore, other screens may also offer this choice, and the user may be given the possibility to jump directly to the previous screen (the "parent" in the hierarchy), or even to a screen anywhere in the hierarchy. The path for navigating through the hierarchy is not fixed in any way, and can be different for each program material option (ie, each music passage).

Referring now to FIG. 9, there is shown a diagram of the menu options provided to programmer terminal 112 of delivery system 100 illustrated in FIG. As previously mentioned, programmer terminal 112 allows for the entry of data related to program material. In a preferred embodiment, a menu-driven user interface provides flexible configuration for entering different types of data. Main menu 900 allows the programmer to select operations related to the music database, advertisement database, backup database, and possibly other databases. These databases are part of the screen store database 156 discussed above in connection with FIG. 1a.

The music database menu 901 provides the programmer with three other options for operation. Updates menu 911 allows the programmer to download music database updates, such as those provided by third-party database services. This information is available on disk, CD, tape, or through online services. Such information may typically include an identification portion that identifies a particular music option in a manner compatible with program material identifier 106, as well as title and artist information of the type described above in connection with FIGS. 3 and 4 . In the preferred embodiment, existing databases are only updated by entering new or changed information, but completely new databases of information can also be downloaded in accordance with the present invention.

Modify menu 912 allows the programmer to coupe the information in the current music database. For example, if the amount of information stored in the delivery system 100 is limited, the modify menu 912 allows the programmer to delete information that is no longer needed in the music selection. For example, if a radio station changes the music it plays from classical to jazz, it might not make sense to keep classical music information in a database. With large storage constraints, programmers can even delete information about "stale" songs that will be played rarely or not at all in the future. Conventional techniques may be used in modify menu 912 to allow the programmer to search for and select specific items to delete.

Modify menu 912 also allows the programmer to add localized information to the database. Such information may include, for example, the date, time and location of an upcoming local performance of a particular music option, or may be used to add option information not contained in the general database downloaded using the update menu 911. Conventional techniques may be used to allow a programmer to customize any receiver screen (eg, those shown in Figures 3 and 4) to provide such localized information. In some cases, it may be desirable to restrict the local station's ability to modify certain option information, and conventional bit-toggling techniques may be used to allow or deny such modifications. Information downloaded using the update menu 911 can be supplemented or replaced if local modifications are required. In the event that a programmer wishes to add program option information not contained in the general database downloaded using update menu 911, modify menu 912 also allows the programmer to record and store a "stamp" of the new program option so that it can be identified by the program material recognizer 106 identified.

Print menu 913 allows the programmer to print various reports about information that was previously stored using update menu 911 and modify menu 912 .

If the programmer selects the advertisement database menu 902, the programmer can perform various operations on the data sent with the advertisement program material. The update menu 921 provides similar functions to the update menu 911 of the music database 901 . For example, update menu 921 may be used to load the advertisement database with information to be sent with an advertisement for a particular item. Modify menu 922 provides the ability to add, delete and change advertising information. In addition to the functions discussed in connection with the modify menu 912 of the music database menu 901, the modify menu 922 also allows the programmer to specify start and end dates for particular commercials so that relevant data can be added and deleted from the active commercial database as desired.

Links menu 923 provides the programmer with internal and external linking capabilities. An example of internal linking is a feature that allows advertising messages to be broadcast selectively within the context of specific program options. For example, if an advertiser is sponsoring a musician's local performance, any selection of programming material for that musician may be associated with the advertiser's information. An example of an external link would be to allow a conventional "business" software package to interface with an advertisement database to track advertisement schedules, rotations and changes. As an example of this use of external links, when a business directs the deletion of a completed advertising campaign, all information stored for that campaign in the advertising database is automatically deleted.

The print menu 924 generates and prints reports about the advertising database as required by the programmer. For example, a programmer may request a report of all entries for advertisers that will send advertising information during a news broadcast on the main (ie, voice) channel.

If the programmer selects the backup database menu 903, various operations can be performed on the information to be transmitted when program material other than music or commercials is being transmitted or when the program material identifier 106 cannot identify the program material being transmitted. For example, one fallback option is to send the station call logo, location and logo, or the current time. Another could be a set of turnaround messages about upcoming shows. As another example of backup database use, if the program source detector 108 described in conjunction with FIG. machine display panel 300. Update menu 931 allows the programmer to download new information for this database in a manner similar to that described in connection with update menus 911 and 921 . Modify menu 932 allows the programmer to make additional additions, changes or deletions to this database and is similar in operation to the functionality described in connection with modify menus 912 and 922 . Print menu 933 allows the programmer to generate and print reports about the contents of the backing database, and is similar to print menus 913 and 924 previously described.

If the programmer selects the other database menu 904, various operations related to any other database supported by the sending system 100 can be performed. An example of such other databases is a schedule of commercials or reminders to be played. Another type of database could be an astrological database, where astrological information is transmitted at predetermined times regardless of what program material is being transmitted. A third example of a database accessible through the Other Databases menu 904 is information on an automated interactive listener call-in fax service, where the listener uses the fax machine's handset to request a printout of information about the program material currently being sent. Finally such a database could provide listeners of receivers (such as receiver 200) without associated data capabilities with a mechanism for obtaining similar information about program options.

In another embodiment, the systems illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 can also be used to provide personal information to users. The PIN may be stored in data storage 203 or other available storage within receiving system 200 . This identification code may be entered by the user or may be predetermined eg using the serial number of the receiving system 200 as the identification code. Using known information related to the personal identification code stored in the listener receiving system 200, the radio station operating the sending system 100 can include personal information (e.g., a free song or reward) in the relevant data provided to the listener by the data stream generator 105. prize announcement). User interface means 206 performs a simple check to see if any such messages received match a personal identification code, and when such a match is detected, only those personal messages are displayed (or output to card recorder 207). One application of this functionality would be to allow a listener to call a radio station and request that a program be dedicated to his or her loved ones who may be listening in another location. In another application, the station itself may offer incentive prizes via electronic coupons to those listeners who have pre-registered with an identification code and are listening when a listener's bonus coupon is announced to be available for recording data cards.

In a second alternative embodiment, related data capabilities may be added to the video program material. For example, a menu screen could appear as an inset to a television image, and the user could be offered the option of receiving data pertaining to the audio track of the moving picture being viewed. Similarly, a conventional pointing device, or "mouse," may be used by the user to select a portion of a video picture for which the user may require additional information. So, if a mannequin is showing fashion, jewelry, and a particular hairstyle, the user can position the cursor over a piece of jewelry and press the pointer to get a description of the jewelry and information on how to order it.

In yet other embodiments, the program-related data may be data corresponding to a software computer program. For example, a television or radio station may send an entire software program to a user during a particular audio/video program segment. The software may or may not be directly associated with the audio/video program being delivered, but is generally meaningful to those interested in that audio/video program. As a particular example, a station may distribute home entertainment computer game software that includes the same characters in the cartoon along with a children's cartoon. The software can transmit gradually throughout a sound/video program, or even during commercial breaks, making the user reluctant to change stations in the middle of a data transmission. In another aspect of this embodiment, the station may send the software for a small portion of the entire broadcast day, either to certain individual groups or to all listeners/viewers, thus giving these viewers/listeners another incentive to make them Keep tuning to that station. This software download capability can also be used to provide updated system software for immediate use by the receiver 200, or it can be used to download software that is completely unrelated to the audio/video program material being transmitted by the station.

In yet other embodiments, information such as winning a lottery ticket may be sent, either with an audio/visual program associated with the lottery pattern, or at other times. A simple memory arrangement in the user's receiver can store such information for either future manual review by the user, or for automatic comparison with the user's pre-entered lottery selections.

Referring now to FIG. 10, there is shown a receiver 1000 capable of operating in multiple modes in accordance with the present invention. Instead of a single mode where programs and related data are always received and processed, receiver 1000 allows the user to select different modes of operation. By appropriately selecting menu items using the user interface 1002, the user can select one of several modes of operation. In the example illustrated in Figure 10, seven modes are available. The "full" mode corresponds to the operation described above in connection with FIG. 2, in which the receiver 100 provides audio output and display of related data. The "SoundOnly" mode ignores the associated data, allowing the receiver 1000 to operate as a conventional sound-only radio. The "Data Only" mode mutes the audio output of the receiver 1000 and operates as a data receiver only, storing and displaying data, as described above in connection with FIG. 2 .

The "Station Activate" mode similarly mutes the audio output while data reception is maintained, but reactivates the audio output when predetermined related data is received from the sending station. For example, receiver 1000 is configured to, when it is in radio active mode, mute the audio until data is received indicating that there is an emergency message to send, at which point it will reactivate the audio output for the duration of the emergency message.

The "Listener Priority" mode similarly mutes the sound output while maintaining data reception, but allows the listener to select the type of data that causes the sound output to reactivate. For example, in the preferred embodiment, the user selects the "Listener Preferences" mode, which generates a list of "Weather", "Traffic", "Financial", "Sports", and "News" The "News Headlines" submenu is displayed. Users can select one or more of these categories. Prior to transmission of program material in any of these categories, the transmitting station transmits a corresponding data signal which, when received, causes the audio output of receiver 1000 to be reactivated. In another embodiment, data corresponding to each of these categories is sent in addition to program material, or no program material at all. In this embodiment, the receiver 1000 stores and/or displays the received data of each category selected according to the user's selection. In yet another embodiment, data and/or program material is categorized according to their importance, eg, "5-star" (most important) to "1-star" (only generally important). In this embodiment, the user selects the desired priority level for reactivating audio output or data storage. For example, if the user selects "3-star", then any program material with "3-star" or higher priority will be provided to the sound output, or all data with "3-star" or higher priority will be displayed and/or storage. Thus, a great deal of flexibility is provided to the user in determining the type and amount of information that receiver 1000 provides.

The "Half-Sleep" mode causes the receiver 1000 to continue receiving and storing data as in the "Data Only" mode, but the data is not displayed. This mode can be selected when power consumption is a critical issue.

The "Game" mode is similar to the "Half-sleep" mode, except that the stored data is only the transmitted game data for the description below in connection with FIG. 11 .

Still referring to FIG. 10 , the user interface 1002 is connected to the data decoder 1004 such that menu selections made through the user interface 1002 can control the operation of the data decoder 1004 . Depending on the mode selected by the user, the data decoder 1004 either stops functioning or filters the incoming data for the data types described above in connection with each of the modes discussed. Receiver power controller 1006 coupled to data decoder 1004 receives control signals from data decoder 1004 and controls the audio, data, and display circuits of receiver 1000 for each selected mode in the manner discussed above. For example, if the user selects the "station active" mode of operation, the data decoder 1004 checks whether the incoming data is a predetermined data set corresponding to the sending station wishing to activate the receiver in this mode. (eg receiver 1000). When such a data set is decoded, the data decoder 1004 sends a signal to the receiver power controller 1006 which reactivates the receiver 1000 audio output.

In a preferred embodiment, user interface 1002 is implemented by user interface device 206 in FIG. 2, and data decoder 1004 and receiver power controller 1006 are implemented by microprocessor 204 in FIG.

Referring now to FIG. 11, there is shown a receiver 1100 according to the present invention comprising a game mode for processing transmitted game data. The data transmitted as discussed in connection with FIG. 1 may include data for playing various games. For example, the sending station may send data representing bingo cards (a game of chance) and numbers, as well as card game data, such as poker, blackjack, and the like. To encourage audience loyalty, "winning" data can be sent at different times of the day. If the receiver 1100 is tuned to the station, it may receive the winning data; if not, it will not receive the winning data. If the receiver 1100 tunes to a particular station long enough to receive winning data, a prize ticket, either electronic or hard copy, is generated that the user can redeem for prizes, merchandise discounts, or other benefits.

In particular, receiver 1100 includes game data decoder 1104, which filters incoming data for game-related data. For example, such data may be identified by a predetermined data header. Game data decoder 1104 decodes and stores such data in game data store 1106 , all under the control of game data processor 1108 . If the game data processor 1108 determines that winning data is stored in the game data store 1106, the game data processor 1108 instructs the lottery generator 1110 to issue a lottery that the user can redeem. If desired, user interface 1102 allows the user to interact with game data, informs the user of game results, and can also display lottery tickets, as discussed below in connection with FIG. 13 .

In one embodiment, the sending station sends data representing bingo cards every morning. During the day, the station sends data representing bingo numbers. Card data and number data are stored in the game data memory 1106 . If, during the day, a sufficient portion of the number data matches the card data (as in normal bingo games), the user is a winner and gets a ticket dealt. In a variation of this embodiment, the user uses user interface 1102 to select a different card to send at the beginning of the day.

In another embodiment, the user or the transmitting station selects or transmits data through the user interface, respectively, to select a particular poker game. The transmitting station periodically transmits data representing the dealing of the cards, which is either received by the user of the receiver 1000 via the user interface 1102 for storage in the game data store 1106, or is left unprocessed. If the user selects a set of cards representing winning hands in the selected game, as determined by the game data processor 1108, the game data processor 1108 instructs the lottery ticket generator 1110 to generate a prize ticket. It should be appreciated that various other games, such as roulette and slot machines, can be implemented in this manner.

In a preferred embodiment, the game data decoder 1104 and the game data processor 1108 are implemented by the microprocessor 204 in FIG. 2, the game data storage is implemented by the data storage 205 of FIG. Apparatus 206 is implemented, and lottery generator 1110 is implemented by microprocessor 204 in FIG. 2 and data card recorder 207 or user interface apparatus 206, as described in more detail below in connection with FIG. 13 .

Referring now to FIG. 12, there is shown a receiver 1200 configured to control an external device 1208 based on transmitted data in accordance with the present invention. In one embodiment, receiver 1200 includes a data decoder 1204 that examines the received data stream for data of a predetermined type. One such type of data corresponds to the sonic properties of the program material being broadcast, so that lights, bells, chimes, and other indicating devices can be activated synchronously with the program material. A simple example is to send data corresponding to the tempo and volume of the program material, so that by using the external device interface 1206, an external device 1208 consisting of decorative lights can be activated in a manner corresponding to the program material. In this example, for example, the lights of the Christmas tree can be controlled in accordance with the delivered Christmas music program material. Similarly, professional dance floor lights and "smoke" machines can be triggered with such data corresponding to transmitted dance music program material. In another example, a "bobbleball" display with or without displayed lyrics can be made to move with the delivered music program material lyrics. In another example, data to drive a conventional electric piano or other musical instrument may be sent along with the program material so that the listener can hear a "live" piano performance from the receiver 1200 sound output with background music or vocal work.

In a different embodiment, receiver 1200 is installed in a car. Data decoder 1204 is configured to examine received data for a unique data set that corresponds to the serial number or other identification number of receiver 1200 or the vehicle in which it is installed. In this embodiment, if the car in which the receiver 1200 is installed is stolen, the car owner can request the sending station to broadcast this unique data set. Once this unique data set is decoded, the data decoder 1204 provides signals to the device interface 1206 to control external devices 1208 such as the car's lights, horn, electronic door locks, and ignition in an appropriate manner. In a variation of this embodiment, receipt of a unique data set by the receiver 1200 causes the car lights to flash, the horn to sound, the doors to lock, and the ignition to turn off.

Referring now to FIG. 13, there is shown a receiver 1300 which can generate a scannable barcode 1321 based on transmitted data in accordance with the present invention. As mentioned above, it is desirable in many applications to generate coupons that users can redeem at the provider's site for prizes, discounts, and other benefits. One way to generate such a coupon is through the use of a data card recorder 207, as described in connection with FIG. Another way to generate an electronic coupon is to display a barcode 1321 on the user interface 1302 that can be scanned with conventional barcode reader equipment.

In one embodiment, the data decoder 1304 examines the received data for a predetermined data type representative of the electronic lottery. For example, when a sending station broadcasts program material from a particular CD, the station may also broadcast data representing an electronic lottery offering a discount on the purchase of that CD from a particular supplier. When such data is decoded by data decoder 1304, decoder 1304 instructs lottery generator 1310 to generate corresponding electronic lottery tickets. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13 , the lottery generator causes the user interface 1302 to display a lottery 1320 including a conventional barcode 1321 and a text message 1322 . The user interface 1302 provides the user with options to display the lottery and to store the lottery. Also, a delete coupon menu selection is provided so that the supplier can delete the coupon after it has been scanned. In a preferred embodiment, the user interface 1302 provides a liquid crystal display panel that can display the coupon 1320, the display panel should be of sufficient quality and contrast to allow barcode scanning. In operation, the supplier may scan not only the barcode 1321 provided by the user interface 1302, but other recorded information identifying the receiver 1300 as well. Such information may be available through another barcode representation on the user interface 1302 carrying the serial number of the receiver 1300, or may be available via a conventional printed barcode or serial number on the back or bottom of the receiver 1300. By collecting both lottery and receiver information, a supplier or third party can gather customer profile and demographic information, which is useful for marketing or other business purposes.

Referring now to FIG. 14, there is shown a receiver 1400 including a plurality of tuners for selectively receiving more than one channel of program material and transmitting data in accordance with the present invention. In some cases, a user may prefer programming material from one station and data from another station. Therefore, rather than requiring the user to switch between such stations, receiver 1400 may include an audio tuner 1404 as well as a data tuner 1406 to allow receiver 1400 to provide audio programming material from the first station and from the second. The platform provides data. User interface 1302 allows the user to choose whether to receive voice and data from a single station, or from separate stations. In a variation of this embodiment, the sound tuner 104 is used in this mode for sound and data reception. In another variation, the sound tuner 104 and the data tuner 1406 are simply tuned to the same frequency in this mode. Conventional user interface techniques allow the user to enter single or dual mode, and to enter the desired frequency. Thus, if a user likes a music program on a first station, but wishes to receive an electronic lottery ticket from a second station, as discussed in connection with FIG. 13, the receiver 14 allows this to be done.

Referring now to FIG. 15, there is shown a system according to the present invention comprising a receiver 1500 and an associated computer 1510 which can be controlled in response to received data. Connectors 1502 and 1512 electrically connect computer 1510 and receiver 1500 . It should be appreciated that other means of connecting computer 1510 and receiver 1500, such as infrared or other wireless links, may also be used. Connected in this manner, the computer 1510 can display and process data received by the receiver 1500 . For example, receiver 1500 and computer 1510 may be configured such that important news, weather or business information received by receiver 1500 as data is flashed on computer 1510's screen. If receiver 1500 or computer 1510 is equipped with a modem, the user can conduct transactions with remote sites based on the received data. For example, if the data received provides the name of a CD on which current programming material can be found, the computer 1510 can be configured to automatically dial a remote location to place an order for the CD, which can then be mailed to the user.

In another embodiment, the data received by the receiver 1500 may be directly used by the computer 1510 . For example, the data may represent game data used by the computer 1510, a computer program used by the computer 1510, or even data for a customized screensaver that the computer 1510 displays during periods when it does not require input from the user. Such screen saver information may dynamically move on the computer 1510 display along with the program material being received by the receiver 1500 .

In another embodiment, receiver 1500 may be configured in a collapsible form, allowing for portability and ease of use, while still providing a form factor compatible with computer 1510 connections. It should be appreciated that other convenient form factors and configurations of receiver 1500 and computer 1510 may be used, as may be required in any particular application.

As can be seen from the above description, the invention disclosed herein provides a novel and beneficial broadcast system with associated data capability, wherein program material is identifiable in the broadcast room and associated data can be transmitted therewith, and the receiver system includes flexible menu A user interface and a magnetic card reader are shown. The foregoing discussion discloses and describes only exemplary methods and embodiments of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention may be embodied in other specific ways without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Accordingly, the disclosure of the present invention is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive, which is set forth in the appended claims.

Claims (22)

1. A system for transmitting and receiving program material and related data, including: a transmitter for broadcasting said program material and said associated data, said associated data including header data defining a plurality of user interface options; a receiver comprising, a demodulator for detecting said program material and said associated data being detected program material and detected associated data, respectively; program material reproduction circuitry for reproducing said detected program material; and User interface means for displaying said first portion of said detected related data on a display, displaying header data from said detected related data on said display as a menu of user interface options, and using upon displaying a subsequent portion of said detected related data in response to user selection of one of said user interface options, said receiver operating in a plurality of modes in response to a mode selection by a user operating said user interface means middle. 2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said plurality of modes includes a mode for selectively muting the audio output from said receiver in response to non-receipt of said detected related data of a predetermined type . 3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said plurality of modes includes a mode for selectively storing said detected related data in response to predetermined types of said detected related data. 4. The system claimed in claim 1, wherein said plurality of modes includes a game mode, in which said current portion of said detected related data is compared with previously stored data, and in response to said detected A correspondence between said current portion of relevant data and said previously stored data is detected to generate therefrom a signal indicative of a winning outcome. 5. The system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising indicating means operatively connected to said demodulator, said plurality of modes including one for activating said mode in response to detected associated data of a predetermined type. mode of the pointing device described above. 6. The system claimed in claim 5, further comprising an interface circuit disposed between said indicating device and said demodulator, said interface circuit responding to said demodulator corresponding to said detected Signals generated in relation to the data control the operation of the pointing device. 7. A system as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that said indicating means is a car alarm. 8. A system as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that said indicating means is a lighting means. 9. A system as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that said pointing means is a theatrical effect device. 10. A system as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that said indicating means is a musical instrument. 11. A system as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that said indicating means is a vehicle ignition interlock device. 12. A system as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that said indicating means is a vehicle door locking system. 13. The system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that one of said plurality of modes provides the display of a scannable barcode on said user interface device. 14. A system as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that said scannable barcode is generated in response to said detected related data. 15. A system as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that said scannable barcode forms part of a lottery ticket on said user interface means. 16. A system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a computer which receives said related data as input for processing said related data. 17. A system for transmitting and receiving program material and related data, comprising: a transmitter for broadcasting said program material and said associated data, said associated data including header data defining a plurality of user interface options; a receiver comprising, a first demodulator for detecting said program material as detected program material; a second demodulator for detecting said related data as the detected related data; program material reproduction circuitry for reproducing said detected program material; and user interface means for displaying a first portion of said detected associated data on a display on which said header data from said detected associated data is displayed as a menu of user interface options , and displaying a subsequent portion of said detected related data according to a user's selection of one of said user interface options. 18. A method of transmitting and receiving program material and related data comprising the steps of: transmitting said program material and said associated data, said associated data including header data defining a plurality of user interface options; detecting said program material and said related data as detected program material and detected related data, respectively; copying said detected program material; displaying said first portion of detected relevant data; display header data as a menu of user interface options; and A subsequent portion of said detected related data is displayed upon user selection of one of said user interface options and upon selection of one of a plurality of modes of operation. 19. The method as claimed in claim 18, wherein said plurality of modes includes a mode for selectively muting copying of said program material in response to non-receipt of said detected related data of a predetermined type. 20. The method as claimed in claim 18, wherein said plurality of modes includes a mode for selectively storing said detected related data in response to a predetermined type of said detected related data. 21. The method as claimed in claim 18, characterized in that said plurality of modes includes a game mode in which said current portion of said detected related data is compared with previously stored data and in response to said Correspondence between said current portion of data and said previously stored data is detected to generate a signal indicative of a winning outcome therefrom. 22. A method as claimed in claim 18, characterized in that said plurality of modes includes a mode providing an indication in response to said detected related data comprising data of a predetermined type.

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