United States Patent Nº 5,132,992
Audio and video transmission and receiving system

Abstract
Bibliographic
Background of the Invention
Summary of the Invention
Brief Description of the Drawings
Description of the Preferred Embodiments
Claims

ABSTRACT    Back to top

A system of distributing video and/or audio information employs digital signal processing to achieve high rates of data compression. The compressed and encoded audio and/or video information is sent over standard telephone, cable or satellite broadcast channels to a receiver specified by a subscriber of the service, preferably in less than real time, for later playback and optional recording on standard audio and/or video tape.

26 Pages, 58 Claims, 19 Figures.



BIBLIOGRAPHIC    Back to top

SERIAL: 07/637,562

FILING DATE: January 7, 1991

ISSUE DATE: July 21, 1992

INVENTOR: Yurt, Paul; P.O. Box 676, Times Square Station; New York, NY 10108
Browne, H. Lee; Two Soundview Dr.; Greenwich, CT 06830

REPRESENTATIVE: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner

EXAMINER: Chin; Stephen

ART UNIT: 2603

US CLASS: 375/122
358/86 X, 455/5.1 X

INT'L CLASS: H04N 1/00 (Volume 1)

SEARCH FIELD: 375/122, 358/335, 358/133, 358/86, 358/84, 358/102, 358/903, 360/8, 360/9.1, 360/14.1, 455/3, 455/4, 455/5, 455/2

US REFERENCES: 3,599,178 issued in August 1971 to Jackson et al. (340/172.5)
3,746,780 issued in July 1973 to Stetten et al. (178/6.6A)
4,009,344 issued in February 1977 to Flemming (179/15BS)
4,009,346 issued in February 1977 to Parker et al. (179/15AQ)
4,028,733 issued in June 1977 to Ulicki (358/86)
4,062,043 issued in December 1977 to Zeidler et al. (358/86)
4,071,697 issued in January 1978 to Bushnell et al. (179/2TV)
4,122,299 issued in October 1978 to Cannon (178/26A)
4,381,522 issued in April 1983 to Lambert (358/86)
4,400,717 issued in August 1983 to Southworth et al. (358/13)
4,450,477 issued in May 1984 to Lovett (358/86)
4,506,387 issued in March 1985 to Walter (455/612)
4,518,989 issued in May 1985 to Yabiki et al. (358/86)
4,521,806 issued in June 1985 to Abraham (358/86)
4,533,936 issued in August 1985 to Tiemann et al. (358/12)
4,538,176 issued in August 1985 to Nakajima et al. (358/86)
4,567,512 issued in January 1986 to Abraham (358/86)
4,590,516 issued in May 1986 to Abraham (358/86)
4,679,079 issued in July 1987 to Catros et al. (358/135)
4,688,246 issued in August 1987 to Eilers et al. (380/9)
4,734,765 issued in March 1988 to Okada et al. (358/102)
4,755,872 issued in July 1988 to Bestler et al. (358/86)
4,763,191 issued in August 1988 to Gordon et al. (358/86)
4,785,349 issued in November 1988 to Keith et al. (358/136)
4,807,023 issued in February 1989 to Bestler et al. (358/86)
4,833,710 issued in May 1989 to Hirashima (380/20)
4,847,677 issued in July 1989 to Music et al. (358/13)
4,868,653 issued in September 1989 to Golin et al. (358/133)
4,890,320 issued in December 1989 to Monslow et al. (380/10)
4,907,081 issued in March 1990 to Okamura et al. (358/133)
4,914,508 issued in April 1990 to Music et al. (358/13)
4,920,432 issued in April 1990 to Eggers et al. (360/33.1)
4,937,821 issued in June 1990 to Boulton (370/124)
4,947,244 issued in August 1990 to Fenwick et al. (358/86)
4,949,169 issued in August 1990 to Lumelsky et al. (358/86)
4,949,187 issued in August 1990 to Cohen (358/335)
4,963,995 issued in October 1990 to Lang (358/335)
5,032,927 issued in July 1991 to Watanabe et al. (358/133 X)

OTHER REFERENCES: Ernie Ohrenstein, "Supercomputers Seek High Throughput and Expandable Storage", Computer Technology Review, IEEE Spectrum, May, 1990, pp. 33–43.
Patricia A. Morreale, et al., "Metropolitan–Area Networks," IEEE Spectrum, May 1990, pp. 40–43.


POST ISSUANCE
(As of 2001-05-14)

RECLASSIFIED: 375/240

348/5 X, 348/7 X, 348/10 X

ASSIGNMENT: February 6, 1992 - ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST.
Assignor: BROWNE, H. LEE, signed on February 5, 1992
Assignor: YURT, PAUL, signed on February 5, 1992
Assignee: BROWNE, H. LEE D/B/A GREENWICH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES TWO SOUNDVIEW DRIVE GREENWICH, CONNECTICUT 06830
Reel/Frame: 6007/0679

CITED BY: 05600573 issued on February 4, 1997 to Hendricks Operations center with video storage for a television program packaging and delivery system
05601436 issued on February 11, 1997 to Sudman Apparatus and method for generating and presenting an audiovisual lesson plan
05604682 issued on February 18, 1997 to McLaughlin Information service control point which retrieves information as blocks of data and outputs the retrieved data via a communications link
05608447 issued on March 4, 1997 to Farry Full service network
05613190 issued on March 18, 1997 to Hylton Customer premise wireless distribution of audio-video, control signals and voice
05613191 issued on March 18, 1997 to Hylton Customer premise wireless distribution of audio-video, control signals and voice using CDMA
05621660 issued on April 15, 1997 to Chaddha Software-based encoder for a software-implemented end-to-end scalable video delivery system
05621728 issued on April 15, 1997 to Lightfoot Level 1 gateway controlling broadband communications for video dial tone networks
05624265 issued on April 29, 1997 to Redford Printed publication remote contol for accessing interactive media
05625404 issued on April 29, 1997 to Grady Method and system for accessing multimedia data over public switched telephone network
05625405 issued on April 29, 1997 to DuLac Architectural arrangement for a video server
05627836 issued on May 6, 1997 to Conoscenti VPI/VCI administration
05630204 issued on May 13, 1997 to Hylton Customer premise wireless distribution of broad band signals and two-way communication of control signals over power lines
05631693 issued on May 20, 1997 to Wunderlich Method and apparatus for providing on demand services in a subscriber system
05632007 issued on May 20, 1997 to Freeman Interactive system and method for offering expert based interactive programs
05635979 issued on June 3, 1997 to Kostreski Dynamically programmable digital entertainment terminal using downloaded software to control broadband data operations
05636139 issued on June 3, 1997 to McLaughlin Information service control point which retreives information as blocks of data
05644354 issued on July 1, 1997 to Thompson Interactive video system
05644355 issued on July 1, 1997 to Koz Adaptive video subscriber system and methods for its use
05649013 issued on July 15, 1997 to Stuckey Royalty tracking method and apparatus
05406278 issued on April 11, 1995 to Graybill Method and apparatus for data compression having an improved matching algorithm which utilizes a parallel hashing technique
05410343 issued on April 25, 1995 to Coddington Video-on-demand services using public switched telephone network
05412416 issued on May 2, 1995 to Nemirofsky Video media distribution network apparatus and method
05412720 issued on May 2, 1995 to Hoarty Interactive home information system
05220420 issued on June 15, 1993 to Hoarty Interactive home information system for distributing compressed television programming
05247347 issued on September 21, 1993 to Litteral PSTN architecture for video-on-demand services
05253275 issued on October 12, 1993 to Yurt Audio and video transmission and receiving system
05253341 issued on October 12, 1993 to Rozmanith Remote query communication system
05262875 issued on November 16, 1993 to Mincer Audio/video file server including decompression/playback means
05341474 issued on August 23, 1994 to Gelman Communications architecture and buffer for distributing information services
05353024 issued on October 4, 1994 to Graybill Method for data compression having an improved encoding algorithm which utilizes a token stacking technique
05422674 issued on June 6, 1995 to Hooper Remote display of an image by transmitting compressed video frames representing background and overlay portions thereof
05353337 issued on October 4, 1994 to Tsumura Device for the transmission of data by telephone line
05428606 issued on June 27, 1995 to Moskowitz Digital information commodities exchange
05371499 issued on December 6, 1994 to Graybill Data compression using hashing
05371532 issued on December 6, 1994 to Gelman Communications architecture and method for distributing information services
05371551 issued on December 6, 1994 to Logan Time delayed digital video system using concurrent recording and playback
05385475 issued on January 31, 1995 to Sudman Apparatus and method for generating and presenting an audio visual lesson plan
05440336 issued on August 8, 1995 to Buhro System and method for storing and forwarding audio and/or visual information on demand
05442389 issued on August 15, 1995 to Blahut Program server for interactive television system
05442749 issued on August 15, 1995 to Northcutt Network video server system receiving requests from clients for specific formatted data through a default channel and establishing communication through separate control and data channels
05684799 issued on November 4, 1997 to Bigham Full service network having distributed architecture
05508733 issued on April 16, 1996 to Kassatly Method and apparatus for selectively receiving and storing a plurality of video signals
05708961 issued on January 13, 1998 to Hylton Wireless on-premises video distribution using digital multiplexing
05519435 issued on May 21, 1996 to Anderson Multi-user, on-demand video storage and retrieval system including video signature computation for preventing excessive instantaneous server data rate
05524141 issued on June 4, 1996 to Braun System and method for providing directory information over a telephony network using ADSI
05526034 issued on June 11, 1996 to Hoarty Interactive home information system with signal assignment
05528281 issued on June 18, 1996 to Grady Method and system for accessing multimedia data over public switched telephone network
05659350 issued on August 19, 1997 to Hendricks Operations center for a television program packaging and delivery system
05659793 issued on August 19, 1997 to Escobar Authoring tools for multimedia application development and network delivery
05539449 issued on July 23, 1996 to Blahut Integrated television services system
05541638 issued on July 30, 1996 to Story User programmable entertainment method and apparatus
05541917 issued on July 30, 1996 to Farris Video and TELCO network control functionality
05666293 issued on September 9, 1997 to Metz Downloading operating system software through a broadcast channel
05550577 issued on August 27, 1996 to Verbiest Video on demand network, including a central video server and distributed video servers with random access read/write memories
05550578 issued on August 27, 1996 to Hoarty Interactive and conventional television information system
05550863 issued on August 27, 1996 to Yurt Audio and video transmission and receiving system
05553311 issued on September 3, 1996 to McLaughlin Customer premise device for controlling data transmissions by storing a limited number of operation algorithms and receiving operation instructions from external sources
05557316 issued on September 17, 1996 to Hoarty System for distributing broadcast television services identically on a first bandwidth portion of a plurality of express trunks and interactive services over a second bandwidth portion of each express trunk on a subscriber demand basis
05557675 issued on September 17, 1996 to Schupak Computer controlled audio-visual system
05561688 issued on October 1, 1996 to Jones, Jr. Real-time digital audio compression/decompression system
05563649 issued on October 8, 1996 to Gould System and method for transmitting video material
05566353 issued on October 15, 1996 to Cho Point of purchase video distribution system
05568181 issued on October 22, 1996 to Greenwood Multimedia distribution over wide area networks
05570126 issued on October 29, 1996 to Blahut System for composing multimedia signals for interactive television services
05675738 issued on October 7, 1997 to Suzuki Video information server system including server center cooperating with request terminals performing video on demand
05581479 issued on December 3, 1996 to McLaughlin Information service control point, which uses different types of storage devices, which retrieves information as blocks of data, and which uses a trunk processor for transmitting information
05583561 issued on December 10, 1996 to Baker Multi-cast digital video data server using synchronization groups
05583863 issued on December 10, 1996 to Darr, Jr. Full service network using asynchronous transfer mode multiplexing
05583864 issued on December 10, 1996 to Lightfoot Level 1 gateway for video dial tone networks
05583920 issued on December 10, 1996 to Wheeler, Jr. Intelligent peripheral in video dial tone network
05583995 issued on December 10, 1996 to Gardner Apparatus and method for data storage and retrieval using bandwidth allocation
05680325 issued on October 21, 1997 to Rohner Network capacity creation for video dial tone network
05682195 issued on October 28, 1997 to Hendricks Digital cable headend for cable television delivery system
05682196 issued on October 28, 1997 to Freeman Three-dimensional (3D) video presentation system providing interactive 3D presentation with personalized audio responses for multiple viewers
05682325 issued on October 28, 1997 to Lightfoot Level 1 gateway for video tone networks
05697048 issued on December 9, 1997 to Kimura On-vehicle data communication system and method
05699370 issued on December 16, 1997 to Kaniwa Information recording and reproduction apparatus to be controlled by temporal information
05711672 issued on January 27, 1998 to Redford Method for automatically starting execution and ending execution of a process in a host device based on insertion and removal of a storage media into the host device
05712906 issued on January 27, 1998 to Grady Communications systems supporting shared multimedia session
05585858 issued on December 17, 1996 to Harper Simulcast of interactive signals with a conventional video signal
05587734 issued on December 24, 1996 to Lauder User interface for selecting television information services through pseudo-channel access
05592477 issued on January 7, 1997 to Farris Video and TELCO network control functionality
05592511 issued on January 7, 1997 to Schoen Digital customized audio products with user created data and associated distribution and production system
05594492 issued on January 14, 1997 to O'Callaghan Method and apparatus for rapid channel selection
05594507 issued on January 14, 1997 to Hoarty Compressed digital overlay controller and method for MPEG type video signal
05594789 issued on January 14, 1997 to Seazholtz Transaction implementation in video dial tone network
05597307 issued on January 28, 1997 to Redford Method for starting up a process automatically on insertion of a storage media into a host device
05724091 issued on March 3, 1998 to Freeman Compressed digital data interactive program system
05734589 issued on March 31, 1998 to Kostreski Digital entertainment terminal with channel mapping
05734853 issued on March 31, 1998 to Hendricks Set top terminal for cable television delivery systems
05742797 issued on April 21, 1998 to Celi, Jr. Dynamic off-screen display memory manager
05748493 issued on May 5, 1998 to Lightfoot Level 1 Gateway for video dial tone networks
05749735 issued on May 12, 1998 to Redford Interactive book, magazine and audio/video compact disk box
05761607 issued on June 2, 1998 to Gudesen System for local processing/accessing and representation of large volumes of data
05767913 issued on June 16, 1998 to Kassatly Mapping system for producing event identifying codes
05768517 issued on June 16, 1998 to Kassatly Paperless publication distribution and retrieval system
05768535 issued on June 16, 1998 to Chaddha Software-based encoder for a software-implemented end-to-end scalable video delivery system
05768539 issued on June 16, 1998 to Metz Downloading applications software through a broadcast channel
05774530 issued on June 30, 1998 to Montgomery Telecommunications network circuit usage measurement
05784095 issued on July 21, 1998 to Robbins Digital audio system with video output program guide
05788507 issued on August 4, 1998 to Redford Method for remotely controlling a display of information from a storage media
05802283 issued on September 1, 1998 to Grady Method and system for accessing multimedia data over public switched telephone network
05805204 issued on September 8, 1998 to Thompson System and method for communicating data and objective code for an interactive video guide system
05790174 issued on August 4, 1998 to Richard, III PSTN architecture for video-on-demand services
05790176 issued on August 4, 1998 to Craig Media server for supplying video and multi-media data over the public switched telephone network
05790177 issued on August 4, 1998 to Kassatly Digital signal recording/reproduction apparatus and method
05790423 issued on August 4, 1998 to Lau Interactive audio transmission receiving and playback system
05809120 issued on September 15, 1998 to Montgomery Telecommunications network circuit usage measurement
05818511 issued on October 6, 1998 to Farry Full service network
05825879 issued on October 20, 1998 to Davis System and method for copy-protecting distributed video content
05826102 issued on October 20, 1998 to Escobar Network arrangement for development delivery and presentation of multimedia applications using timelines to integrate multimedia objects and program objects
05839905 issued on November 24, 1998 to Redford Remote control for indicating specific information to be displayed by a host device
05841979 issued on November 24, 1998 to Schulhof Enhanced delivery of audio data
05854835 issued on December 29, 1998 to Montgomery Telecommunications network circuit usage measurement
05867780 issued on February 2, 1999 to Malackowski Access free wireless telephony fulfillment service system
05875279 issued on February 23, 1999 to Owashi Subscriber terminal of an interactive communication system and control device thereof
05883661 issued on March 16, 1999 to Hoarty Output switching for load levelling across multiple service areas
05887243 issued on March 23, 1999 to Harvey Signal processing apparatus and methods
05905942 issued on May 18, 1999 to Stoel Multiple dwelling unit interactive audio/video distribution system
05911582 issued on June 15, 1999 to Redford Interactive system including a host device for displaying information remotely controlled by a remote control




BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION    Back to top

The present invention relates generally to an audio and video transmission and receiving system, and more specifically to such a system in which the user controls the access and the playback operations of selected material.

At the present time, only a video cassette recorder (VCR) or a laser disk player (LDP) allow a viewer to enjoy control over selection of particular audio/video material. Using either a VCR or an LDP requires the viewer to obtain a video tape either by rental or by purchase. Remote accessing of the material has not yet been integrated into an efficient system.

Several designs have been developed which provide the viewer with more convenient means of accessing material. One such design is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,506,387, issued to Walter. The Walter patent discloses a fully dedicated, multi-conductor, optical cable system that is wired to the viewer's premises. While the system affords the viewer some control over accessing the material, it requires that a location designated by the viewer be wired with a dedicated cable. The Walter system further requires the viewer be at that location for both ordering and viewing the audio/video material.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,890,320issued to Monslow, describes a system which broadcasts viewer selected material to a viewer at a prescribed time. This system is limited in that it requires multiple viewers in multiple locations to view the audio/video material at the time it is broadcast, rather than allowing each viewer to choose his or her own viewing time. The system disclosed in Monslow also does not allow for the stop, pause, and multiple viewing functions of existing VCR technology.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,590,516, issued to Abraham, discloses a system that uses a dedicated signal path, rather than multiple common carriers, to transmit audio/video programming. The receiver has no storage capability. The system provides for only display functions, which limits viewing to the time at which the material is ordered. Like Monslow, the Abraham system does not allow for the stop, pause, and multiple viewing functions of existing VCR technology.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,963,995, issued to Lang, discloses an audio/video transceiver with the capability of editing and/or copying from one video tape to another using only a single tape deck. Lang does not disclose a system with one or more libraries wherein a plurality of system subscribers may access information stored in the film and tape library or libraries, and play back the selected information at a time and place selected by the subscriber.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a user with the capability of accessing audio/video material by integrating both accessing and playback controls into a system that can use multiple existing communications channels.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a picture and sound transmission system which allows the user to remotely select audio/video material from any location that has either telephone service or a computer.

A still further object of the present invention is to provide a picture and sound transmission system wherein the selected audio/video material is sent over any one of several existing communication channels in a fraction of real time to any location chosen by the user that has a specified receiver.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a picture and sound transmission system wherein the user may play back the selected audio/video material at any time selected by the user and retain a copy of the audio/video material for multiple playbacks in the future.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a picture and sound transmission system wherein the information requested by the user may be sent as only audio information, only video information, or as a combination of audio and video information.

Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by means of the instrumentalities and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.




SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION    Back to top

To achieve the objects in accordance with the purposes of the present invention, as embodied and described herein, the transmission and receiving system for providing information to remote locations comprises source material library means prior to identification and compression; identification encoding means for retrieving the information for the items from the source material library means and for assigning a unique identification code to the retrieved information; conversion means, coupled to identification encoding means, for placing the retrieved information into a predetermined format as formatted data; ordering means, coupled to the conversion means, for placing the formatted data into a sequence of addressable data blocks; compression means, coupled to the ordering means, for compressing the formatted and sequenced data; compressed data storing means, coupled to the compression means, for storing as a file the compressed sequenced data received from the compression means with the unique identification code assigned by the identification encoding means; and transmitter means, coupled to the compressed data storing means, for sending at least a portion of a specific file to a specific one of the remote locations.

The present invention further comprises a distribution method responsive to requests identifying information to be sent from a transmission system to a remote location, the method comprising the steps of storing audio and video information in a compressed data form; requesting transmission, by a user, of at least a part of the stored compressed information to the remote location; sending at least a portion of the stored compressed information to the remote location; receiving the sent information at the remote location; buffering the processed information at the remote location; and playing back the buffered information in real time at a time requested by the user.

Additionally, the present invention comprises a receiving system responsive to a user input identifying a choice of an item stored in a source material library to be played back to the subscriber at a location remote from the source material library, the item containing information to be sent from a transmitter to the receiving system, and wherein the receiving system comprises transceiver means for automatically receiving the requested information from the transmitter as compressed formatted data blocks; receiver format conversion means, coupled to the transceiver means, for converting the compressed formatted data blocks into a format suitable for storage and processing resulting in playback in real time; storage means, coupled to the receiver format conversion means, for holding the compressed formatted data; decompressing means, coupled to the receiver format conversion means, for decompressing the compressed formatted information; and output data conversion means, coupled to the decompressing means, for playing back the decompressed information in real time at a time specified by the user.





BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS    Back to top

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate the presently preferred apparatus and method of the invention and, together with the general description given above and the detailed description of the preferred embodiment given below serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:

FIGS. 1a-1g are high level block diagrams showing different configurations of the transmission and receiving system of the present invention;

FIGS. 2a and 2b are detailed block diagrams of preferred implementations of the transmission system of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a preferred method of ordering a selection from a library in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a preferred method of user request via a user interface of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a preferred method of implementing a queue manager program of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a preferred implementation of the receiving system of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a preferred method of distribution of the present invention; and

FIGS. 8a-8e are block diagrams of preferred implementations of data structures and data blocking for items in the audio and video distribution system of the present invention.




DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS    Back to top

FIGS. 1a-1g are high level block diagrams showing different configurations of the transmission and receiving system of the present invention. FIGS. 1a, 1b, 1d, 1e, 1f, and 1g each show transmission system 100, described in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 2a and 2b. A user of the transmission and receiving system of the present invention preferably accesses transmission system 100 by calling a phone number or by typing commands into a computer. The user then chooses audio and/or video material from a list of available items which he or she wants to listen to and/or watch.

As shown in FIG. 1a, the transmission and receiving system may preferably comprise a peer to peer configuration where one transmission system 100 communicates with one reception system 200. As shown in FIG. 1b, the transmission and receiving system of the present invention may alternatively comprise a plurality of reception systems 200, 200´, 200, and 200´, which are each associated with a single transmission system 100.

FIG. 1c shows a high level block diagram of the transmission and receiving system of the present invention including remote order processing and item database 300, described in more detail with respect to FIG. 3. Remote order processing and item database 300 preferably enables users to access desired items by remote communication. The remote order processing and item database 300 may communicate with a plurality of transmission systems 100, 100´, 100, and 100´, each of which communicates with a respective set of reception systems 200, 200´, 200, and 200´. Each of the reception systems in sets 200, 200´, 200, and 200´ may preferably communicate with a plurality of users.

FIG. 1d shows a high level block diagram of the transmission and receiving system of the present invention including a transmission system 100 distributing to a plurality of users via a reception system 200 configured as a cable television system.

FIG. 1e shows a high level block diagram of the transmission and receiving system of the present invention including a transmission system 100 distributing to a plurality reception systems 200 and 200´. In the configuration shown in FIG. 1e, reception system 200 is a direct connection system wherein a user is directly connected to transmission system 100. Reception system 200´ preferably includes a first cable television system 200a and a second cable television system 200b. Users of cable television systems 200a and 200b are indirectly connected to transmission system 100.

FIG. 1f shows a high level block diagram of the transmission and receiving system of the present invention including transmission system 100 distributing via several channels to reception systems 200 and 200´. Reception system 200 is preferably non-buffering. In such a system, users are directly connected to transmission system 100, as in reception system 200 in FIG. 1e.

Reception system 200´ shown in FIG. 1fis a cable television system, as shown in reception systems 200´ of FIG. 1e. In FIG. 1f, the reception system 200´ is preferably buffering, which means that users may receive requested material at a delayed time. The material is buffered in intermediate storage device 200c in reception system 200´.

In the configuration of FIG. 1f, decompression of the requested material may preferably occur at the head end of a cable television reception system 200´. Thus, distribution may be provided to users via standard television encoding methods downstream of the head end of the cable distribution system. This method is preferred for users who only have cable television decoders and standard television receivers.

FIG. 1gshows a high level block diagram of the transmission and receiving system of the present invention including transmission system 100 distributing to a reception system 200, which then preferably transmits requested material over airwave communication channels 200d, to a plurality of users. The transmission and receiving system shown in FIG. 1g may preferably transmit either compressed or uncompressed data, depending on the requirements and existing equipment of the user. The airwave transmission and receiving system shown in FIG. 1g may preferably employ either VHF, UHF or satellite broadcasting systems.

With respect to the transmission and receiving sytems set forth in FIGS. 1a-1g, the requested material may be fully compressed and encoded, partly decompressed at some stage in transmission system 100, or fully decompressed prior to transmission. The reception systems 200 may either buffer the requested material for later viewing, or decompress in real time the requested material as it is distributed by transmission system 100. Alternatively, the reception systems 200 of the present invention may perform a combination of buffering and non-buffering by buffering some of the requested material and decompressing the remainder of the requested material for immediate viewing as it is distributed by transmission system 100.

In direct connection configurations, such as reception systems 200 shown in FIGS. 1e and 1f, the user preferably selects the reception system 200 to which the requested material is sent, and optionally selects the time playback of the requested material as desired. Accordingly, the user may remotely access the transmission system 100 from a location differenct than the location of reception system 200 where the material will be sent and/or played back. Thus, for example, a user may preferably call transmission system 100 from work and have a movie sent to their house to be played back after dinner or at any later time of their choosing.

In non-direct connection reception systems such as shown in reception system 200´ of FIG. 1f, intermediate storage device 200c may preferably include, for example, sixteen hours of random access internal audio and video storage. A reception system with such storage is capable of storing several requested items for future playback. The user could then view and/or record a copy of the decompressed requested material in real time, or compressed in non-real time, at a time of their choosing. Accordingly, the user would not have to make a trip to the store to purchase or rent the requested material.

In any of the transmission and receiving systems illustrated in FIGS. 1a-1g, the requested material may be copy protected. To achieve copy protection, the requested material, as an item, is encoded as copy protected during storage encoding in transmission system 100. The user may then play back the item only one time. The user may also optionally review select portions of the item prior to its automatic erasure from the memory of the reception system 200. In this way, requested material may be distributed to "view only" users and also to "view and copy" users who wish to retain copies of the distributed items.

Copy protected programs, when decompressed and played back, would have a copy protection technique applied to the analog and digital output signals. The analog video output is protected from copying through the use if irregular sync signals, which makes the signal viewable on a standard television but not recordable on a audio/video recorder. Digital output protection is effected through copy protect bit settings in the digital output signal, thus preventing a compatible digital recorder from recording the digital audio and/or video signal stream. A protected item will not be passed to the compressed data port of the digital recorder for off line storage.

FIGS. 2a and 2b illustrate detailed block diagrams of preferred implementations of the transmission system 100 of the present invention. Transmission system 100 may either be located in one facility or may be spread over a plurality of facilities. A preferred embodiment of transmission system 100 may preferably include only some of the elements shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b.

Transmission system 100 of a preferred embodiment of the present invention preferably includes source material library means for temporary storage of items prior to conversion and storage in a compressed data library means. The items of information may include analog and digital audio and video information as well as physical objects such as books and records which require conversion to a compatible media type before converting, compressing and storing their audio and video data in the compressed data library means.

As shown in FIG. 2a, the source material library means included in transmission system 100 preferably includes a source material library 111. The source material library 111 may include different types of materials including television programs, movies, audio recordings, still pictures, files, books, computer tapes, computer disks, documents of various sorts, musical instruments, and other physical objects. These materials are converted to or recorded on a media format compatible to the digital and analog inputs of the system prior to being compressed and stored in a compressed data library 118. The different media formats preferably include digital or analog audio and video tapes, laser disks, film images, optical disks, magnetic disks, computer tapes, disks and, cartridges.

The source material library 111, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, may preferably include a single source material library or a plurality of source material libraries. If there are a plurality of source material libraries, they may be geographically located close together or may be located far apart. The plurality of source material libraries may communicate using methods and channels similar to the methods and channel types which libraries may employ for communication with the receiving system 200 of the user, or the source material libraries may communicate via any available method.

Prior to being made accessible to a user of the transmission and receiving system of the present invention, the item must be stored in at least one compressed data library 118, and given a unique identification code by identification encoder 112. Storage encoding, performed by identification encoder 112, aside form giving the item a unique identification code, optionally involves logging details about the item, called program notes, and assigning the item a popularity code. Storage encoding may be performed just prior to conversion of the item for transmission to reception system 200, at any time after starting the conversion process, or after storing the item in the compressed data library 118.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method of encoding the information involves assigning a unique identification code and a file address to the item, assigning a popularity code, and inputting the program notes. This process is identical for any of the different media types stored in the source material library 111.

The transmission system 100 of the present invention also preferably includes conversion means 113 for placing the items from source material library 111 into a predetermined format as formatted data. In the preferred embodiment, after identification encoding is performed by identification encoder 112, the retrieved information is placed into a predetermined format as formatted data by the converter 113. The items stored in source material library 111 and encoded by identification encoder 112 may be in either analog or digital form. Converter 113 therefore includes analog input receiver 127 and digital input receiver 124. If items have only one format, only one type of input receiver 124 or 127 is necessary.

When the information from identification encoder 112 is digital, the digital signal is input to the digital input receiver 124 where it is converted to a proper voltage. A formatter 125 sets the correct bit rates and encodes into least significant bit (lsb) first pulse code modulated (pcm) data. Formatter 125 includes digital audio formatter 125a and digital video formatter 125b. The digital audio information is input into a digital audio formatter 125a and the digital video information, if any, is input into digital video formatter 125b. Formatter 125 outputs the data in a predetermined format.

When the retrieved information from identification encoder 112 is analog, the inforamtion is input to an analog-to-digital converter 123 to convert the analog data of the retrieved information into a series of digital data bytes. Converter 123 preferably forms the digital data bytes into the same format as the output of formatter 125.

Converter preferably includes an analog audio converter 123a and an analog video converter 123b. The analog audio converter 123a preferably converts the retrieved audio signal into pcm data samples at a fixed sampling rate. The analog video converter 123b preferably converts the analog video information, retrieved from identification encoder 123, into pcm data also at fixed sampling rates.

If the retrieved information being converted contains only audio information, then the audio signal is fed to the appropriate digital audio input or analog input. When the retrieved information contains both audio and video information, the audio and video signals are passed simultaneously to the audio and video converter inputs. Synchronization between the audio and video data can be maintained in this way.

If, for example, the retrieved information to be converted from the source material library 111 is a motion picture film, the picture frames in the film are passed through a digital telecine device to the digital input receiver 124. Format conversion is then preferably performed by digital video formatter 125b. Accompanying audio information is passed through an optical or magnetic digital playback device. This device is connected to digital audio formatter 125a.

In some cases, such as in inter-library transfers, incoming materials may be in a previously compressed form so that there is no need to perform compression by precompression processor 115 and compressors 128 and 129. In such a case, retrieved items are passed directly from identification encoder 112 to the compressed data formatter 117. The item database records, such as the program notes which may also be input from another system, to the compressed data formatting section 117, where this data, if necessary, is reformatted to make it compatible with the material stored in compressed data library 118. Such material may be received in the form of digital tapes or via existing communication channels and may preferably input directly to a short term storage 117´ in the compressed data formatting section 117.

The transmission system 100 of the present invention also preferably includes ordering means for placing the formatted information into a sequence of addressable data blocks. As shown in FIG. 2a, the ordering means in the preferred embodiment includes time encoder 114. After the retrieved information is converted and formatted by the converter 113, the information may be time encoded by the time encoder 114. Time encoder 114 places the blocks of converted formatted information from converter 113 into a group of addressable blocks. The preferred addressing scheme employs time encoding. Time encoding allows realignment of the audio and video information in the compressed data formatting section 117 after separate audio and video compression processing by precompression processor 115 and compressor 116.

The converted formatted information of the requested material is then preferably in the form of a series of digital data bytes which represent frames of video data and samples of the audio data. A preferred relationship of the audio and video bytes to each other is shown in FIG. 8. Incoming signals are input and converted in sequence, starting with the first and ending with the last frame of the video data, and starting with the first and ending with the last sample of the audio data. Time encoding by time encoder 114 is achieved by assigning relative time markers to the audio and video data as it passes from the converter 113 through the time encoder 114 to the precompression processor 115. Realignment of audio and video data, system addressing of particular data bytes, and user addressing of particular portions of items are all made possible through time encoding.

Through the use of the address of an item and its frame number it is possible to address any particular block of audio or video data desired. From here, further addressing down to the individual byte is possible. Frames and groups of frames may preferably be further broken down, as necessary to the individual bytes and bits, as required for certain processing within the system.

User and system addressing requirements dictate the level of granularity available to any particular section of the system. Users are able to move through data in various modes, thus moving through frame addresses at various rates. For example, a user may desire to listen to a particular song. They may preferably enter the song number either when requesting the item from the compressed data library 118 and only have that song sent to their receiving system 200 or they may preferably select that particular song from the items buffered in their receiving system 200. Internal to the system, the song is associated with a starting frame number, which was indexed by the system operator via the storage encoding process. The system item database may contain information records for individual frames or groups of frames. These can represent still frames, chapters, songs, book pages, etc. The frames are a subset of, and are contained within, the items stored in the compressed data library 118. Time encoding by time encoder 114 makes itmes and subsets of items retrieveable and addressable throughout the transmission system 100. Time encoding enables subsequent compression of the information to be improved because data reduction prpcesses may be performed in the time dimension. This is described in greater detail below.

The transmission system 100 of the present invention also preferably includes data compression means for compressing the formatted and sequenced data. The sequence of addressable data blocks which was time encoded and output by time encoder 114 is preferably sent to precompression processor 115. The data arriving from time encoder 114 may be at various frame rates and of various formats. Precompression processor 115 preferably includes audio precompressor 115a and video precompressor 115b.

Video precompression processor 115b buffers incoming video data and converts the aspect ratio and frame rate of the data, as required by compression processor 116. The frame buffer 131 of video precompression processor 115b holds all incoming data until the data is compressed by the data compressor 116. The incoming video data is processed for sample rate optimization, aspect ratio fitting and buffered in buffer 130 for compression processing by the video precompression processor 115b.

Video precompression processor 115b processes the incoming video data so that if fits into the aspect ratio of the transmission and receiving system of the present invention. When incoming material with a different aspect ratio than the aspect ratio of the system is selected, a chosen background is preferably placed around the inactive region of the video information. In this way, no data is lost to differences in the aspect ratio between incoming material, and the converted and compressed data stored in transmission system 100. Images resulting from a different aspect ratio may have an inactive region where background information is contained, or may be converted into a best fit arrangement. Output from the video precompression processor 115b is stored in the frame buffer 131, which is dual ported and is directly addressable by video compressor 129.

The incoming audio data is processed for sample rate and word length optimization and is then buffered in buffer 130 for compression processing by the audio precompression processor 115aAudio precompression processor 115a may preferably transcode incoming audio information, as required, to create the optimum sample rate and word lengths for compression processing. The output of the audio precompression processor 115a is a constant sample rate signal of a fixed word length which is buffered in frame buffer 130. The frame buffer 130 is dual ported and is directly addressable by audio compressor 128. Blocking the audio data into frames at audio precompression processor 115a makes it possible to work with the audio data as addressable packets of information.

Once precompression processing is finished, the frames are compressed by the data compressor 116. Compressor 116 preferably comprises an audio data compressor 128 and a video data compressor 129. The benefits of data compression performed by data compressor 116 are shortened transmission time, faster access time, greater storage capacity, and smaller storage space requirements. Compression processing performed by compessors 128 and 129 requires multiple samples of data to perform optimum compression. Audio and video informaion is preferably converted into blocks of data organized in groups for compression processing by audio compressor 128 and video compressor 129, respectively. These blocks are organized as frames, and a number of frames are contained respectively in the buffers 130 and 131. By analyzing a series of frames it is possible to optimize the compression process.

Audio data is preferably compressed by audio compressor 128 by application of an adaptive differential pulse code modulation (ADPCM) process to the audio data. This compression process, which may be implemented by the apt-x 100 digital audio compression system, is manufactured by Audio Processing Technology (APT). Audio compression ratios of 8X or greater are achieved with the APT system.

Compression by compressor 116 may be performed on a group of 24 video frames may preferably be passed in sequence to the frame buffer 130 of the video precompression processor 115b where they are analyzed by video compressor 129 which performs data reduction processing on the video data. Video compression is preferably performed by video compressor 129. Video compression is achieved by the use of processors running algorithms designed to provide the greatest amount of data compression possible. Video data compression preferably involves applying two processes: a discrete cosine transform, and motion compensation. This process is described in "A Chip Set Core of Image Compression", by Artieri and Colavin. Multiple frames of video data may preferably be analyzed for patterns in the horizontal (H), vertical (V), diagonal (zigzag) and time (Z) axis. By finding repetition in the video data, redundancy may be removed and the video data may be compressed with a minimal loss of information.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the transmission system 100 may further comprise compressed data storing means, coupled to the compression means, for storing as a file the compressed sequenced data with the unique identification code received from the data compression means. After compression processing by compressor 116, the compressed audio and video data is preferably formatted and placed into a single file by the compressed data storage means 117. The file may contain the compressed audio and/or video data, time markers, and the program notes. The file is addressable through the unique identification code assigned to the data by the identification encoder 112.

Further, according to the present invention, the transmission system preferably includes compressed data library means for separately storing composite formatted data blocks for each of the files. The compressed data storage means preferably includes compressed data library 118, as shown in FIG. 2b. After the data is processed into a file by the compressed data storage means 117, it is preferably stored in a compressed data library 118. In a preferred embodiment, compressed data library 118 is a network of mass storage devices connected together via a high speed network. Access to any of the files stored in compressed data library 118 is available from multiple reception systems 200 connected to the transmission and receiving system.

Stored items are preferably accessed in compressed data library 118 through a unique address code. The unique address code is a file address for uniquely identifying the compressed data items stored in the compressed data library section of a library system. This file address, combined with the frame number, and the library system address allow for complete addressability of all items stored in one or more compressed data libraries 118. Compressed data library addresses along with receiving system addresses are used to form a completely unique address for distribution system control.

The unique address code is an address assigned to the item by the system operator during storage encoding, which is preferably done prior to long term storage in the compressed data library 118. In a preferred embodiment, the unique address code is used for requesting and accessing information and items throughout the transmission and receiving system. The unique address code makes access to the requested data possible.

The storage encoding process performed by encoder 112 also allows entry of item notes and production credits. Production credits may include the title, names of the creators of the item such as the producer, director, actors, etc. Other details regarding the item which may be of interest and which may make the items more accessible are kept in an item database.

Item addresses are mapped to item names by identification encoder 112 and may preferably be used as an alternative method of accessing items. The item names are easier to remember, thus making user access more intuitive by using item names. The storage encoding entry process performed in identification encoder 112 operates a program which updates a master item database containing facts regarding items in the compressed data library system. The storage encoding process may be run by the system operator whereby the system operator accesses the master item database to track and describe items stored in one or more compressed data libraries. The names and other facts in the item database may preferably be updated at any time via the storage encoding process. Changes made to the master item database may be periodically sent to the remote order processing and item database 300.

As described in more detail later, a user may preferably access an item via its unique identification code, via its title, or the user may use other known facts for accessing an item. The user may access items in the compressed data library 118 directly using the unique address code or the user may obtain access via the remote order processing and item database 300. Indirect access via the remote order processing and item database 300 is possible using, for example, a synthesized voice system, a query type of computer program interface, or customer assistance operators. In addition to providing interactive access to the remote order processing and item database 300, a catalog listing some or all available titles may also preferably be published. With a published catalog, users may obtain the unique address code for an item very easily thereby allowing for retrieval from the compressed data library 118 without any help from an interactive system.

To achieve user access via an interactive system, facts about the items may be kept in files as a part of the items or the facts may be kept separately, for example, by systems which only to inform users of the available items and take orders. For example, in systems which have portions split in separate locations, the facts about the items may be separated from the items themselves and stored in separate files. A system of this type can distribute user orders to other portions of the transmission and receiving system for ultimate distribution to the requesting user. Further, to support a plurality of users, multiple versions of the item database may preferably reside either on multiple database servers, in catalogs, or on other computer systems.

The item database master may reside in the system control computer 1123 where may be is updated and kept current to the contents of the compressed data library 118. The data stored in the item database master may be accessed by users via application programs, running on the system control computer 1123, and on the reception system 200 of the user. Users may connect to the item database via any available telecommunication channels. Copies of the item database master may be updated and informed of new entries into compressed data library 118 at periodic intervals determined by the system manager.

Other copies of the item database master may also be made available to users from the remote order processing and item database 300 which batch processes and downloads user requests to the control computer 1123 of the compressed data library 118 via standard telecommunications or high speed communication channels. Moreover, multiple remote order processing and item database 300 sites make it possible for more locations to process orders than there are library facilities, and thus make order processing more efficient.

Preferably, access of a requested item via the remote order processing and item database 300 operates as follows. If the user does not know the title of the desired item, he or she may request the item by naming other unique facts related to the item. For example, a user would be able to access an item about Tibetan Medicine by asking for all items which include information about "Tibet" and include information about "Medicine." The remote order processing and item database 300 would then be searched for all records matching this request. If there is more than one item with a match, each of the names of the matching items are preferably indicated to the user. The user then selects the item or items that he or she desires. Upon selection and confirmation, by the user, a request for transmission of a particular item or items is sent to the distribution manager program of the system control computer 1123. The request contains the address of the user, the address of the item, and optionally includes specific frame numbers, and a desired viewing time of the item.

The storage encoding process performed by identification encoder 112 also allows entry of a popularity code. The popularity code is preferably assigned on the basis of how often the corresponding item is expected to be requested from the compressed data library 118. This popularity code can be used to determine the most appropriate form of media for storage of the compressed data in a mixed media system. Mixed media systems are preferably employed as more cost effective storage in very large compressed data libraries 118. Once assigned, the popularity code may be dynamically updated, by factoring item usage against system usage. Thus, stored items are dynamically moved to the most appropriate media over their life in the compressed data library 118. If a particular item stored in compressed data library 118 is retrieved frequently by users, storage in compressed data library 118 is preferably on higher speed, more reliable, and probably more expensive media. Such media includes Winchester and magneto-optical disks.

If an item stored in compressed data library 118 is retrieved less frequently, it may be stored in the compressed data library 118 on a digital cassette tape. Examples of such cassette tapes are a Honeywell RSS-600 (Honeywell Inc. Minneapolis, Minn.), Summus JukeBoxFilm and tape library (Summus Computer Systems, Houston, Tex. 800-255-9638), or equivalent cassette tapes. All items stored in the compressed data library 118 are on line and are connected to the high speed network. Thus, they may be readily accessed.

Instead of using a remote order processing and item database 300, the compressed data library 118 may include the program notes which were input by the system operator. The program notes may preferably include the title of the item stored in the compressed data library 118, chapter or song titles, running times, credits, the producer of the item, acting and production credits, etc. The program notes of an item stored in the compressed data library 118 may be thus contained within the compressed data file formed in the compressed data formatter 117.

In some cases, where multiple compressed data libraries 118 are organized, the popularity code may dictate distribution of a particular item to multiple distribution systems. In such cases, a copy of the compressed data is sent to another library and the other library can then distribute the compressed data to users concurrently with the original compressed data library 118.

The compressed data library 118 is composed of a network of storage devices connected through a High Performance Parallel Interface (HPPI) Super Controller (available from Maximum Strategy Inc., San Jose, Calif.). Therefore, multiple communication controllers may preferably access the large quantity of data stored in compressed data library 118 at very high speeds for transfer to a reception system 200 of a user upon request. For more details on this configuration see Ohrenstein, "Supercomputers Seek High Throughput and Expandable Storage", Computer Technology Review, pp. 33-39 April 1990.

The use of an HPPI controller allows file placement onto multiple mass storage devices of the compressed data library 118 with a minimum of overhead. Database management software controls the location and tracking of the compressed data library 118 which can be located across multiple clusters of file servers connected together by one or more high speed networks over multiple systems.

The transmission system 100 of the present invention may also preferably include library access/interface means for receiving transmission requests to transmit items and for retrieving formatted data blocks stored in the compressed data library 118 corresponding to the requests from users. The compressed audio and/or video data blocks, along with any of the information about the item stored in the compressed data library 118 may be accessed via library access interface 121. The library access interface 121 receives transmission requests either directly from the users or indirectly by remote order processing and item database 300. The transmission format means 119 receives the request and retrieves the composite formatted data block of the requested item stored in compressed data library 118 and converts the compressed formatted data block into a format suitable for transmission. The requested item is then sent to the user via the transmitter 122 or directly via interface 121.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, customer access of an item stored in compressed data library 118 via the library access interface 121 may be performed in various ways. The methods of requesting a stored item are analogous to making an airline reservation or transferring funds between bank accounts. Just as there are different methods available for these processes it is desirable to have several ordering methods available to the users of the system of the present invention. For example, telephone tone decoders and voice response hardware may be employed. Additionally, operator assisted service or user terminal interfaces may be used.

Customer access via telephone tone decoders and voice response hardware is completely electronic and may preferably be performed between a system user and a computer order entry system. The user may obtain help in ordering an item from a computer synthesized voice. With such an access method, the user will normally be accessing a dynamic catalog to assist them. Confirmation of selections and pricing information may preferably be given to the user prior to completion of the transaction.

This process of access, performed by remote order processing and item database configuration 300, shown in FIG. 1c, preferably includes the following steps, shown in flowchart 3000 of FIG. 3. First, the user calls the system access number (step 3010). Upon successfully dialing the system access number, the user receives instructions from the system (step 3020). The instructions may preferably include steps the user must take in order to place an order. Preferably, the instructions may be bypassed by the experienced user who knows how to place an order.

The user then enters a customer ID code by which the system accesses the user's account, and indicates to the system that the user is a subscriber of the system (step 3030). In response to the user entering his ID code in step 3030 the system confirms whether the user is in good standing (step 3040). If the user is in good standing, the system queues the user to input his request (step 3050).

The user request may preferably be made from a catalog sent to each of the subscribers of the system. The user will preferably identify his choice and enter the corresponding identification code of the item (step 3060). The system then preferably confirms the selection that the user has made and informs the user of the price of the selection (step 3070).

The user then indicates whether the confirmation performed in step 3070 is correct (step 3080). If the confirmation performed in step 3070 is correct, the user so indicates and then inputs a desired delivery time and delivery location (step 3090).

If the confirmation performed in step 3070 does not result in the selection desired by the user, the user re-inputs the item identification code in step 3060 and the confirmation steps 3070 and 3080 are repeated. Therefore, proper selection of the selected item is insured. Once there is confirmation, the user enters the playback time and destination in step 3090.

The user then preferably confirms that the order is correct (step 3100). The confirmation performed in step 3100 includes confirmation of the entire transaction including the selected item, the selected time of playback, and the location of playback. The transaction is then completed and the request is placed on a transmission queue at the appropriate compressed data library 118 (step 3110).

Access by the users via operator assisted service includes telephone operators who answer calls from the users. The operators can sign up new customers, take orders, and help with any billing problems. The operators will preferably have computer terminals which give them access to account information and available program information. Operators can also assist a user who does not know a title by looking up information stored in files which may contain the program notes, as described above. Once the chosen program is identified, the operator informs the user of the price. After the user confirms the order, the user indicates the desired delivery time and destination. The operator then enters the user request into the system. The request is placed in the transmission queue.

Access by a user terminal interface method provides the user with access from various terminals including personal computers, and specialized interfaces built into the reception system 200 for the user. Such access allows a user to do a search of available programs from a computer screen. This process involves the steps 4000 shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a preferred method of user request via a user interface of the present invention. In the preferred method of FIG. 4, the user first logs onto the user terminal interface (step 4010). After the user logs on, the user may preferably select a desired item by searching the database of available titles in the library system control computer 1123 or any remote order processing and item database 300 (step 4020). The search may preferably be performed using the database containing the program notes, described above with respect to FIGS. 2a and 2b. It is possible to process orders and operate a database of available titles at multiple locations remote of the source material library 111. Users and order processing operators may preferably access such remote systems and may place transmission requests from these systems. Orders placed on these systems will be processed and distributed to the appropriate libraries. After the desired item is found, the user selects the item for transmission at a specific time and location (step 4030).

To complete an order, the remote order processing and item database 300 preferably connects to the compressed data library 118 of choice via the library access interface 121 and communicates with the library system control computer 1123. Preferably the user's account ID, identification of the item for transmission and the chosen destination for the item are communicated. Through employment of distributed order processing systems of this type many orders may be processed with minimal library overhead.

All transmission requests from the access methods are placed into a transmission queue managed by the library system control computer 1123. This queue is managed by a program that controls the distribution of the requested items to the reception system 200 of the user. The queue manager program also operates in the system control computer and keeps track of the user ID, the chosen program and price, the user channel type, the number of requests for a given program, the latest delivery time, and the compressed data library media type (for example, high speed or low speed). From this information, the queue manager program makes best use of the available distribution channels and media for efficient transmission and storage of the requested items.

The queue manager program also manages the file transmission process for multiple requests for a single file, stored in the compressed data library 118. During a given time period, the queue manager program will optimize access to the compressed data library 118, wherever possible it will place the data on multiple outputs for simultaneous transmission to more than one requesting user.

The conversion performed by transmission data converter 119 encodes the data for the transmission channel. The transmission data converter transfers the desired segments of data from the compressed data library 118 onto the communication channel which is used to deliver the data to the reception system 200.

The transmission system 100 of the present invention preferably further includes transmitter means 122, coupled to the compressed data library 118, for sending at least a portion of a specific file to at least one remote location. The transmission and receiving system of the present invention preferably operates with any available communication channels. Each channel type is accessed through the use of a communications adaptor board or processor connecting the data processed in the transmission format converter 119 to the transmission channel.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention also includes means by which to access users via common access lines. These may include standard telephone, ISDN or B-ISDN, microwave, DBS, cable television systems, MAN, high speed modems, or communication couplers. Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) which are common carrier or private communication channels are designed to link sites in a region. MANs are described by Morreale and Campbell in "Metropolitan-area networks" (IEEE Spectrum, May 1990 pp. 40-42). The communication lines are used to transmit the compressed data at rates up to, typically, 10 Mb/sec.

In order to serve a multitude of channel types, a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a multitude of output ports of each type connected to one or more computers on the transmission and receiving system. The management of transmission is then distributed. That is, the computer controlling the transmission queue tells the transmission encoding computer its task and then the task is executed by the transmission encoding computer, independent of the transmission queue computer. The transmission queue computer provides the data for transmission by the file server which also distributes to other transmitters located in the same or other transmission encoding computers.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a preferred method of implementing a queue manager program of the present invention. The queue manager program, in the distribution process, preferably confirms availability of an item from the compressed data library 118 and logically connects the item stored in compressed data library 118 to the communications controller, illustrated in FIG. 2a (step 5010). After availability is confirmed in step 5010, the data awaits transmission by the transmitter 122.

After availability is confirmed in step 5010, the communications controller preferably makes the physical connection to the reception system 200 of the user (step 5020). This is normally done by dialing the receiving device of the user. The reception system 200 preferably answers the incoming call and confirms the connection (step 5030).

Once connected to the reception system 200, in steps 5020 and 5030, the data stored in compressed data library 118 is preferably transferred in data blocks from the compressed data library 118 to the communications controller (step 5040). The data blocks are buffered by the communications controller. The buffered data is sent down the communications channel to the reception system 200 by transmitter 122 (step 5050).

The transmitter 122 places the formatted data onto the communications channel. This is an electrical conversion section and the output depends upon the chosen communication path. The signal is sent to the reception system 200 in either a two way or a one way communication process. In a standard telephone connection, the transmitter 122 is preferably a modem. When using an ISDN channel, the transmitter 122 is preferably a data coupler.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, many forms of communication channels may be employed. Distribution of information is by common carrier communication channels whenever possible. These channels include common telephone service, ISDN and Broadband ISDN, DBS, cable television systems, microwave, and MAN.

In order that reception is performed efficiently, the reception system 200 confirms reception of the initial data block before receiving the remaining data blocks whenever possible (step 5060). After all data blocks have been received and reception is confirmed, the communications controller breaks the physical connection to the reception system 200 (step 5070). Then, confirmation of the transmission is sent to the queue manager (step 5080). Finally, the queue manager updates the list and sends the information to the billing program, which updates the account of the user (step 5090).

When item distribution occurs through a broadcasting method such as a communications satellite, the process is one way, with ongoing reception not being confirmed by the reception system 200. In these situations, some further redundancy is included by transmission formatter 122 with the data blocks for error correction processing to be performed in the reception system 200. In such one way communication situations, the queue manager program running in library system control computer 1123 confirms reception, via telephone line connection for example, to the reception system 200 after distribution. This should occur prior to updating the user's account and the dispatch lists.

The real time output signals are output to a playback system such as an audio amplifier and/or television. This output may also be sent to an audio/video recorder for more permanent storage. Moreover, in the preferred embodiment only non-copy protected data can be recorded on an audio/video recorder. Any material which is copy protected will be scrambled at the video output in a way which makes it viewable on a standard audio/video receiver but does not allow for recording of the material.

The reception system 200 has playback controls similar to the controls available on a standard audio/video recorder. These include: play, fast forward, rewind, stop, pause, and play slow. Since items are preferably stored on random access media, the fast forward and rewinding functions are simulations of the actual events which occur on a standard audio/video recorder. Frames do not tear as on an audio/video recorder, but in fast play modes they go by very quickly.

The library access interface 121 in the reception system 200 preferably includes a title window where a list of available titles are alphabetically listed. This window has two modes: local listing of material contained within the library system control computer 1123, and library listing for all available titles which may be received from the available, remotely accessible libraries. The titles listed in this window are sent from the database on the library system control computer 1123 or the remote order processing and item database 300.

The system may also preferably include dispatching control software which receives input from the remote order processing and item database 300 and sends distribution requests to the distribution systems. In instances where not all items are contained in each of the compressed data libraries 118, the dispatching software will keep a list of the available titles in a particular compressed data library 118. The dispatch software may also preferably coordinate network traffic, source material library 111 utilization, source material library 111 contents, and connection costs. By proper factoring of these variables, efficient use of the available distribution channels may be achieved.

FIG. 6 illustrates a block diagram of a preferred implementation of the reception system 200 according to the present invention. The reception system 200 is responsive to user requests for information stored in source material library 111. The reception system 200 includes transceiver 201 which receives the audio and/or video information transmitted by transmitter 122 of the transmission system 100. The transceiver 201 automatically receives the information from the transmitter 122 as compressed formatted data blocks.

The transceiver 201 is preferably connected to receiver format converter 202. The receiver format converter 202 converts the compressed formatted data blocks into a format suitable for playback by the user in real time.

In the reception system 200 of the present invention, the user may want to play back the requested item from the source material library 111 at a time later than when initially requested. If that is the case, the compressed formatted data blocks from receiver format converter 202 are stored in storage 203. Storage 203 allows for temporary storage of the requested item until playback is requested.

When playback is requested, the compressed formatted data blocks are sent ot data formatter 204. Data formatter 204 processes the compressed formatted data blocks and distinguishes audio information from video information.

The separated audio and video information are respectively decompressed by audio decompressor 209 and video decompressor 208. The decompressed video data is then sent simultaneously to converter 206 including digital video output converter 211 and analog video output converter 213. The decompressed audio data is sent simultaneously to digital audio output converter 212 and analog audio output converter 214. The outputs from converters 211-214 are produced in real time.

The real time output signals are output to a playback system such as a TV or audio amplifier. They may also be sent to an audio/video recorder of the user. By using the reception system 200 of the present invention, the user may utilize the stop, pause, and multiple viewing functions of the receiving device. Moreover, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the output format converters may be connected to a recorder which enables the user to record the requested item for future multiple playbacks.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart 400 of a preferred method of distribution of the present invention. The distribution method is preferably responsive to requests identifying information to be sent from the transmission system 100 to remote locations. Method 400 assumes that the items have already been stored in compressed data library 118.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, the first step of the distribution method 400 involves retrieving the information for selected items in the source material library 111, upon a request by a user of the distribution system (step 412). This is analogous to taking books off of a shelf at the local public library after the person has decided that he or she would like to read them.

After the information for the selected items is retrieved in step 412, the distribution method 400 of the present invention further comprises the step of processing the information for efficient transfer (step 413). The processing performed in step 413 preferably includes assigning a unique identification code to the retrieved information performed by identification encoder 112 shown and described with respect to FIG. 2a (step 413a). The processing also preferably includes placing the retrieved information into a predetermined format as formatted data by converter 113 (step 413b), and placing the formatted data into a sequence of addressable data blocks by ordering means 114 (step 413c).

Processing step 413 also includes compressing the formatted and sequenced data performed by data compressor 116 (step 413d), and storing as a file the compressed sequenced data received from the data compression means with the unique identification assigned by the identification encoding means (step 413e).

After the information is processed for efficient transfer, in substeps 413a-e of step 413, the distribution method 400 of the present invention preferably includes the step of storing the processed information is stored in a compressed data library (step 414). Preferably, the compressed data library is analogous to compressed data library 118, described with respect to FIG. 2a.

After the information is stored in a compressed data library 118, the transmission and receiving system preferably waits to receive a transmission request (step 415). Upon receiving a transmission request, from transmission system 100, the compressed formatted data is preferably converted for output to a reception system 200, selected by the user. The information is preferably transmitted over an existing communication channel to a reception system 200, and is received by that system (step 417). When the information is received in step 417, it is preferably formatted for the particular type of reception system 200 to which the information is sent.

The received information is preferably buffered (step 418) by a storage means analogous to element 203 shown in FIG. 3. The information is preferably buffered so that it may be stored by the user for possible future viewings. The requested information is then payed back to the reception system 200 of the user at the time requested by the user (step 419).

FIGS. 8a-8e are block diagrams of preferred implementations of data structures and data blocking for items in the audio and video distribution system. FIG. 8a shows the block structure of video data where a video frame 812 is composed of a plurality of video samples 811, and a second of video 813 is composed of a plurality of video frames 812.

FIG. 8b shows the block structure of audio data where an audio data frame 822 is composed of a plurality of audio sample 821, and a second of audio 823 is composed of a plurality of audio data frames 822. FIG. 8c shows the block structure of a data frame 832 composed of a plurality of data bytes 831. The combination of the audio frames 812, video frames 822, and data frames 832 comprise the elements of a single item. FIG. 8d shows a block representation of for three illustrative items which may be stored in the source material library 111. Each of items 1-3 contains its own arrangement of video frames 812, audio frames 822, and data frames 832.

FIG. 8e shows methods of distribution to reception systems 200 with both mutiplexed and non-multiplexed signal paths, both addressed and non-addressed blocks of items. A block of an item may be an entire item or, alternatively, may be only a portion of an item, as selected by a user. Further, the blocks may be composed of either compressed, partially compressed, or fully decompressed data, as required by the configuration of the reception system 200.

As shown in FIG. 8e, the same block, for example, block 1, may be simultaneously transmitted over different distribution channels. The blocks when transmitted over one of the distribution channels may have receiver addresses appended to the blocks or the reception system 200 may have been preconfigured to receive the blocks comprising data frames for particular items from the active distribution channel.

Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.





CLAIMS    Back to top

What is claimed is:

1. A transmission system for providing information to be transmitted to remote locations, the transmission system comprising:

library means for storing items containing information; identification encoding means for retrieving the information in the items from the library means and for assigning a unique identification code to the retrieved information;

conversion means, coupled to the identification encoding means, for placing the retrieved information into a predetermined format as formatted data;

ordering means, coupled to the conversion means, for placing the formatted data into a sequence of addressable data blocks;

compression means, coupled to the ordering means, for compressing the formatted and sequenced data blocks;

compressed data storing means, coupled to the data compression means, for storing as files the compressed, sequenced data blocks received from the data compression means with the unique identification code assigned by the identification encoding means; and

transmitter means, coupled to the compressed data storing means, for sending at least a portion of one of the files to one of the remote locations.

2. A transmission system as recited in claim 1, wherein the transmitter means includes:

transmission format means for placing the compressed, sequenced data blocks onto a communication path.

3. A transmission system as recited in claim 1, wherein the information in the items includes analog signals, and wherein the conversion means further comprises:

converting means, coupled to the identification encoding means, for A/D converting the analog signals of the information into a series of digital bytes; and

formatting means, coupled to the converting means, for converting the series of digital data bytes into formatted data with a predetermined format.

4. A transmission system as recited in claim 1, wherein the information in the items includes digital signals, and wherein the conversion means further comprises:

digital input receiver means, coupled to the identification encoding means, for converting the digital signals of the information into predetermined voltage levels; and

formatting means, coupled to the digital input receiver means, for converting the predetermined voltage levels into formatted data witha predetermined format.

5. A transmission system as recited in claim 3, wherein the information in the items includes digital signals, and wherein the conversion means further comprises:

digital input receiver means, coupled to the identification encoding means, for converting the digital signals of the information into predetermined voltage levels; and

voltage levels adjusting means, coupled to the digital input receiver means, for converting the predetermined voltage levels into formatted data with the predetermined format.

6. A transmission system as recited in claim 2, wherein the compressed data storing means further comprises:

compressed data library means for separately storing a plurality of files, each including at least one compressed, sequenced data block.

7. A transmission system as recited in claim 6, further comprising:

system control interface means, coupled to the transmission format means, for generating a listing of available items; and p1 library access interface means, coupled to the transmission format means, for receiving transmission requests to transmit items, and for retrieving formatted data blocks stored in the compressed data library means corresponding to the requests from subscribers.

8. A transmission system as recited in claim 1, further comprising:

precompression data processing means, coupled to the ordering means, for storing the formatted data blocks.

9. A transmission system as recited in claim 1, wherein the information in the items includes analog audio information, and wherein the conversion means further comprises:

audio converting means, coupled to the identification encoding means, for converting the analog audio signals into streams of digital audio data.

10. A transmission system as recited in one of claims 1 or 9, wherein the information in the items includes analog video information, and wherein the conversion means further comprises:

video converting means, coupled to the identification encoding means, for converting the analog video signals into streams of digital video data.

11. A transmission system as recited in one of claims 1 or 9, wherein the information in the items includes partially encoded information, and wherein the conversion means further comprises:

digital input means, coupled to the identification encoding means, for receiving partial encoded information in the items.

12. A transmission system as recited in claim 1, wherein the data compression means comprises:

means for performing a multi-channel analysis of the formatted data for inclusion in a predetermined algorithm; and

compression processors for running the predetermined algorithm and for compressing the formatted data.

13. A transmission system as recited in claim 1, wherein the compression means comprises:

means for identifying patterns in the formatted data for inclusion in a predetermined algorithm; and

compression processors for running the predetermined algorithm and for compressing the formatted data.

14. A transmission system as recited in claim 12, wherein the multi-dimensional analysis means includes means for performing the multi-dimensional analysis in the horizontal dimension.

15. A transmission system as recited in claim 12, wherein the multi-dimensional analysis means includes means for performing the multi-dimensional analysis in the vertical dimension.

16. A transmission system as recited in claim 12, wherein the multi-dimensional analysis means includes means for performing the multi-dimensional analysis in the time dimension.

17. A transmission system as recited in claim 12, wherein the multi-dimensional analysis means includes means for performing the multi-dimensional analysis in the zig-zag dimension.

18. A transmission system as recited in claim 1, wherein the information in the items includes digital signals, and wherein the conversion means further comprises formatting means for converting the digital signals of the information into formatted data with a predetermined format.

19. A distribution method responsive to requests from a user identifying items in a transmission system containing information to be sent from the transmission system to receiving systems at remote locations, the method comprising the steps of:

storing, in the transmission system, information from items in a compressed data form, the information including an identification code and being placed into ordered data blocks;

sending a request, by the user to the transmission system, for at least a part of the stored information to be transmitted to the one of the receiving systems at one of the remote location selected by the user;

sending at least a portion of the stored information from the transmission system to the receiving system at the selected remote location;

receiving the sent information by the receiving system at the selected remote location;

storing a complete copy of the received information in the receiving system at the selected remote location; and

playing back the stored copy of the information using the receiving system at the selected remote location at a time requested by the user.

20. The distribution method as recited in claim 19, wherein the information in the items includes analog and digital signals, and wherein the step of storing the information comprises the steps, performed by the transmission system, of:

converting the analog signals of the information to digital components;

formatting the digital signals of the information;

ordering the converted analog signals and the formatted digital signals into a sequence of addressable data blocks and;

compressing the ordered information.

21. The method of claim 19 wherein the step of storing the items includes the substep of

storing the items in a plurality of compressed audio and video libraries in the transmission system.

22. The method of claim 19 further comprising the steps, performed by the transmission system, of:

storing a list of items available to the user from at least one compressed data library; and

providing the user with the list so that the user may remotely select a particular item for transmission.

23. The distribution method as recited in claim 19, wherein the step of storing includes the step of storing the received information at the head end of a cable television reception system.

24. The distribution method as recited in claim 19, wherein the step of storing includes the step of storing the received information in an intermediate storage device.

25. A receiving system responsive to a user input identifying a choice of an item stored in a source material library at a transmission system to be played back to a user at a location remote from the source material library, the item containing information to be sent from the transmission system to the receiving system, the receiving system comprising:

requesting means for transmitting to the source material library in the transmission system the identity of the item;

transceiver means, coupled to the requesting means, for receiving the item from the transmission system as at least one compressed, formatted data block;

receiver format conversion means, coupled to the transceiver means, for converting the at least one compressed, formatted data block into a format suitable for storage processing, and for playback at the receiver system;

storage means, coupled to the receiver format conversion means, for storing a complete copy of the formatted data;

decompressing means, coupled to the storage means, for decompressing the copy of the formatted data; and

output data conversion means, coupled to the decompressing means, for playing back the decompressed copy of the data at a time specified by the user.

26. A receiving system as recited in claim 25, further comprising:

user interface means for translating the input into a request for sending the requested information from the transmitter to the receiving system.

27. A receiving system as recited in claim 25, wherein the output data conversion means includes recording means which controls the playback of the copy.

28. A receiving system as recited in claim 25, wherein the storage means stores the formatted information until playback is requested by an operator.

29. A receiving system as recited in claim 25, wherein the formatted data includes video information, and wherein the decompressing means further comprises:

video signal decompressing means for decompressing the video information contained in the formatted data.

30. A receiving system as recited in claim 29, wherein the output data conversion means further comprises:

digital video output means, connected to the video signal decompressing means, for outputting a digital video signal; and

analog video output means, connected to the video signal decompressing means, for outputting an analog video signal.

31. A receiving system as recited in claim 30, wherein the video output means further comprises:

copy protection means for preventing copying by the user of protected information.

32. A receiving system as recited in claim 25, wherein the formatted data includes audio information, and wherein the decompressing means further comprises:

audio signal decompressing means for decompressing the audio information contained in the formatted data.

33. A receiving system as recited in claim 32, wherein the output data conversion means further comprises:

digital audio output means, connected to the audio signal decompressing means, for outputting a digital audio signal; and

analog audio output means, connected to the audio signal decompressing means, for outputting an analog audio signal.

34. A receiving system as recited in claim 25, wherein the formatted data includes audio and video information, and wherein the decompressing means further comprises:

video signal decompressing means for decompressing the video information contained in the formatted data; and

audio signal decompressing means for decompressing the audio information contained in the formatted data.

35. A receiving system as recited in claim 25, wherein the transceiver means receives the information via any one of telephone, ISDN, broadband ISDN, satellite, common carrier, computer channels, cable television systems, MAN, and microwave.

36. A receiving system as recited in claim 25, wherein the source material library is a compressed data library.

37. A receiving system as recited in claim 29, wherein the output data conversion means further comprises digital video output means, connected to the video signal decompressing means, for outputting a digital video signal.

38. A receiving system as recited in claim 29, wherein the output data conversion means further comprises analog video output means, connected to the video signal decompressing means, for outputting an analog video signal.

39. A receiving system as recited in claim 32, wherein the output data conversion means further comprises digital audio output means, connected to the audio signal decompressing means, for outputting a digital audio signal.

40. A receiving system as recited in claim 32, wherein the output data conversion means further comprises analog audio output means, connected to the audio signal decompressing means, for outputting an analog audio signal.

41. A method of transmitting information to remote locations, the transmission method comprising the steps, performed by a transmission system, of:

storing items having information in a source material library;

retrieving the information in the items from the source material library;

assigning a unique identification code to the retrieved information;

placing the retrieved information into a predetermined format as formatted data;

placing the formatted data into a sequence of addressable data blocks;

compressing the formatted and sequenced data blocks;

storing, as a file, the compressed, formatted, and sequenced data blocks with the assigned unique identification code; and

sending at least a portion of the file to one of the remote locations.

42. A transmission method as recited in claim 41, wherein the step of placing further includes the steps of:

A/D converting analog signals of the retrieved information into a series of digital data bytes; and

converting the series of digital data bytes into formatted data with a predetermined format.

43. A transmission method as recited in claim 41, wherein the step of placing further includes the steps of:

converting digital signals of the retrieved information into predetermined voltage levels; and

converting the predetermined voltage levels into formatted data with a predetermined format.

44. A transmission method as recited in claim 41, wherein the step of placing further includes the step of converting digital signals of the retrieved information into formatted data with a predetermined format.

45. A transmission method as recited in claim 41, wherein the storing step further comprises the step of:

separately storing a plurality of files, each including compressed, sequenced data blocks.

46. A transmission method as recited in claim 45, further comprising the steps, performed by the transmission system, of:

generating a listing of available items;

receiving transmission requests to transmit available items; and

retrieving stored formatted data blocks corresponding to requests from users.

47. A distribution system including a transmission system and a plurality of receiving systems at remote locations, the transmission system being responsive to requests identifying items containing information to be sent from the transmission system to the receiving systems at the remote locations, the distribution system comprising:

storage means in the transmission system for storing information from the items in a compressed data form, in which the information includes an identification code and is placed into ordered data blocks;

requesting means in the transmission system, coupled to the storage means, for receiving requests from a user for at least a part of the stored information to be transmitted to the receiving system at one of the remote locations selected by the user;

transmission means in the transmission system, coupled to the requesting means, for sending at least a portion of the stored information to the receiving system at the selected remote location;

receiving means in the receiving system for receiving the transmitted information;

memory means in the receiving system, coupled to the receiving means, for storing a complete copy the received information; and

playback means in the receiving system, coupled to the memory means, for playing back the stored copy of the received information at a time requested by the user.

48. A distribution system as recited in claim 47, wherein the information in the items includes analog and digital signals, and wherein the storage means further comprises:

conversion means, for converting the analog signals of the information to digital components;

formatting means, coupled to the conversion means, for formatting the digital signals of the information;

ordering means, coupled to the formatting means, for ordering the converted analog signals and the formatted digital signals into a sequence of addressable data blocks and;

compression means, coupled to the ordering means, for compressing the ordered information.

49. A distribution system as recited in claim 47, wherein the memory means includes means for receiving information at the head end of a cable television reception system.

50. A distribution system as recited in claim 49, wherein the head end of the cable television reception system includes means for decompressing the received signals and distributing the decompressed received signals.

51. A distribution system as recited in claim 49, wherein the head end of the cable television reception system includes means for distributing compressed signals.

52. A distribution system as recited in claim 49, wherein the head end of the cable television reception system includes means for decompressing the received signals and for distributing the decompressed received signals and compressed received signals.

53. A distribution system as recited in claim 47, wherein the memory means is an intermediate storage device.

54. A method of receiving information at a receiving system from a transmission system which information is responsive to an input from a user, the input identifying a choice of an item stored in a source material library to be played back to the user at a receiving system at a location remote from the source material library, the item containing information to be sent from the transmission system to the receiving system, the receiving method comprising the steps of:

transmitting the identity of an item from the user to the source material library at the transmission system;

receiving at the receiving system the item from the transmission system as at least one compressed formatted data block;

converting, at the receiving system, the at least one compressed formatted data into a format suitable for storage processing and for playback in real time;

storing the converted information at the receiving system;

decompressing the stored information at the receiving system; and

playing back, at the receiving system, the decompressed information at a time specified by the user.

55. A receiving method, as recited in claim 54, wherein the decompressing step further includes the step of decompressing video information contained in the stored information.

56. A receiving method as recited in claim 54, wherein the decompressing step further includes the step of decompressing audio information contained in the stored information.

57. A receiving method as recited in claim 54, wherein the decompressing step further includes the steps of:

decompressing video information contained in the stored information; and

decompressing audio information contained in the stored information.

58. a receiving method as recited in claim 54, wherein the step of transmitting further includes the step of transmitting to a compressed data library the identity of an item.


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