Patents by Inventor Jeffrey P. Markley

Jeffrey P. Markley has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 10009652
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for selecting digital access technology used to deliver content data over a network are disclosed. In one embodiment, the network comprises an HFC cable or satellite network that includes a server process interfacing with a plurality of customer premises equipment (CPE), and/or associated client devices, each having different capabilities profiles. The server determines one or more capabilities possessed by the CPE, and evaluates one or more program or content choices for possible delivery to that CPE based on its profile. The server generates a list of programs or content based on this evaluation, and transmits this list to the CPE, which displays the list for viewing by a user. The user is therefore offered a list of available content that is compatible with their specific configuration. A business and operational rules engine is also optionally employed to control the operation of the foregoing processes to accomplish particular business or operational goals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: TIME WARNER CABLE ENTERPRISES LLC
    Inventors: Charles A. Hasek, Jeffrey P. Markley
  • Publication number: 20180144106
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing access to content across a plurality of devices and environments. In one embodiment, a downloadable rights profile is utilized in order for a user device to determine whether to provide content to a subscriber. The user device is first registered to content delivery the network; the device then requests a rights profile indicating the rights of the subscriber associated with the device to access content. The rights profile is transmitted to the device. The rights profile may be configured to be valid only for a pre-determined time, thus enabling a subscriber's rights to be updated (including revoked). Security mechanisms may also be utilized to ensure access to content is limited only to authorized subscribers. In another embodiment, a user-based authentication procedure is utilized, thereby making the rights determination and content provision process completely agnostic to the underlying hardware.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2017
    Publication date: May 24, 2018
    Inventors: Chris Cholas, Jeffrey P. Markley, Vipul Patel, Christopher Marsh
  • Publication number: 20180070129
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for content, media and data delivery and access between devices of a premises and one or more portable media devices. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a media bridge between a portable media device (PMD) and a user's home network and/or home devices (e.g., set-top boxes, DVRs, etc.)). The apparatus is adapted to convert content stored on a PMD to a format capable of being rendered on a home device which may then store or playback the content. Control of the presentation is also provided by the bridging apparatus. The apparatus may also be adapted to transfer content from the home device to the PMD for storage or playback. In another embodiment, the apparatus may function within a home network having a trusted domain to provide content between a plurality devices on the network (and in the domain) and the PMD.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2017
    Publication date: March 8, 2018
    Inventors: Chris Cholas, William L. Helms, Jeffrey P. Markley
  • Publication number: 20170374104
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for provisioning of customer premise equipment (CPE) equipped with a secure microprocessor to receive e.g., digital video content by entering unique identification of the CPE at one or more servers located at the headend or other location of a content-based network. In one embodiment, the CPE comprises a download-enabled (e.g., DCAS) host with embedded cable modem and embedded set-top box functionality, and the provisioning includes enabling DOCSIS functionality of the CPE, assigning an IP address to the CPE and providing the CPE with a client image for the conditional access system chosen by the network operator. In one variant, the network operator can deactivate a provisioned device while connected to the network, as well when disconnected from the network. The network operator can also add, delete or replace conditional access client image in a provisioned device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2017
    Publication date: December 28, 2017
    Inventors: Shrikant Apsangi, Srinivas Guduru, Jason Kazimir Schnitzer, Jeffrey P. Markley, John B. Carlucci, John G. Bevilacqua
  • Patent number: 9817952
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing access to content across a plurality of devices and environments. In one embodiment, a downloadable rights profile is utilized in order for a user device to determine whether to provide content to a subscriber. The user device is first registered to content delivery the network; the device then requests a rights profile indicating the rights of the subscriber associated with the device to access content. The rights profile is transmitted to the device. The rights profile may be configured to be valid only for a pre-determined time, thus enabling a subscriber's rights to be updated (including revoked). Security mechanisms may also be utilized to ensure access to content is limited only to authorized subscribers. In another embodiment, a user-based authentication procedure is utilized, thereby making the rights determination and content provision process completely agnostic to the underlying hardware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: TIME WARNER CABLE ENTERPRISES LLC
    Inventors: Chris Cholas, Jeffrey P. Markley, Vipul Patel, Christopher Marsh
  • Patent number: 9749677
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for content, media and data delivery and access between devices of a premises and one or more portable media devices. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a media bridge between a portable media device (PMD) and a user's home network and/or home devices (e.g., set-top boxes, DVRs, etc.)). The apparatus is adapted to convert content stored on a PMD to a format capable of being rendered on a home device which may then store or playback the content. Control of the presentation is also provided by the bridging apparatus. The apparatus may also be adapted to transfer content from the home device to the PMD for storage or playback. In another embodiment, the apparatus may function within a home network having a trusted domain to provide content between a plurality devices on the network (and in the domain) and the PMD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Chris Cholas, William L. Helms, Jeffrey P. Markley
  • Patent number: 9742768
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for protected content access, browsing and transfer over a network. In one embodiment, the network comprises a premises (e.g., residential) Local Area Network (LAN), and the apparatus comprises a server and renderer consumer premise equipment (CPE). The renderer CPE scans the network to search for a server CPE that implements a compatible security framework. The renderer authenticates itself with the server, and the server allows content browsing and selection access only to an authorized and authenticated renderer. A negotiation and exchange protocol comprises messages exchanged between the renderer and the server that include one or more of device identification, encryption key exchange, digital certificates and information regarding security package used by each CPE.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: TIME WARNER CABLE ENTERPRISES LLC
    Inventors: Chris Cholas, William L. Helms, John B. Carlucci, Jeffrey P. Markley
  • Patent number: 9674224
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for provisioning of customer premise equipment (CPE) equipped with a secure microprocessor to receive e.g., digital video content by entering unique identification of the CPE at one or more servers located at the headend or other location of a content-based network. In one embodiment, the CPE comprises a download-enabled (e.g., DCAS) host with embedded cable modem and embedded set-top box functionality, and the provisioning includes enabling DOCSIS functionality of the CPE, assigning an IP address to the CPE and providing the CPE with a client image for the conditional access system chosen by the network operator. In one variant, the network operator can deactivate a provisioned device while connected to the network, as well when disconnected from the network. The network operator can also add, delete or replace conditional access client image in a provisioned device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Shrikant Apsangi, Srinivas Guduru, Jason Kazimir Schnitzer, Jeffrey P. Markley, John B. Carlucci, John G. Bevilacqua
  • Patent number: 9614686
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for enabling protected premises networking capabilities. In one embodiment, the premises network is a Multimedia over Coaxial Alliance (MoCA) network, and is secured by a requirement that devices use a password or key to access the network. The password may be given only to authorized devices. Information regarding a device may be utilized to associate the device with a particular premises network, and provide a password to authorized devices. The password is unique to the premises in one variant by being derived from a subscriber account. At least one of the devices requesting access to the premises network may comprise a gateway device. A home network utilizing existing coaxial cable in the premises is created between a plurality of authorized devices each receiving the password.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Scott W. Ramsdell, Jeffrey P. Markley, Renee Storosh, Chris Cholas, Srinivas Guduru
  • Patent number: 9602864
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for content, media and data delivery and access between devices of a premises and one or more portable media devices. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a media bridge between a portable media device (PMD) and a user's home network and/or home devices (e.g., set-top boxes, DVRs, etc.)). The apparatus is adapted to convert content stored on a PMD to a format capable of being rendered on a home device which may then store or playback the content. Control of the presentation is also provided by the bridging apparatus. The apparatus may also be adapted to transfer content from the home device to the PMD for storage or playback. In another embodiment, the apparatus may function within a home network having a trusted domain to provide content between a plurality devices on the network (and in the domain) and the PMD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Chris Cholas, William L. Helms, Jeffrey P. Markley
  • Publication number: 20170055013
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for determining and selecting digital coding and/or decoding technology, delivery bitrates, and resolution parameters for programming and data delivery over, e.g., a content-based network. In one embodiment, the network comprises an HFC cable or satellite network that includes a server process interfacing with a plurality of customer premises equipment (CPE), and/or associated client devices, each having different display resolution, bitrate, and/or decoding capabilities profiles. The server determines the one or more capabilities possessed by the CPE or client device, and evaluates one or more program or content choices for possible delivery to that CPE or device based on its profile. The selection process may also take into consideration network and/or CPE operational considerations, such as conservation of downstream bandwidth, CPE uprating capability, client device power consumption, and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2016
    Publication date: February 23, 2017
    Inventors: Charles Hasek, Jeffrey P. Markley
  • Publication number: 20160335419
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing access to content across a plurality of devices and environments. In one embodiment, a downloadable rights profile is utilized in order for a user device to determine whether to provide content to a subscriber. The user device is first registered to content delivery the network; the device then requests a rights profile indicating the rights of the subscriber associated with the device to access content. The rights profile is transmitted to the device. The rights profile may be configured to be valid only for a pre-determined time, thus enabling a subscriber's rights to be updated (including revoked). Security mechanisms may also be utilized to ensure access to content is limited only to authorized subscribers. In another embodiment, a user-based authentication procedure is utilized, thereby making the rights determination and content provision process completely agnostic to the underlying hardware.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2016
    Publication date: November 17, 2016
    Inventors: Chris Cholas, Jeffrey P. Markley, Vipul Patel, Christopher Marsh
  • Publication number: 20160295275
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for content, media and data delivery and access between devices of a premises and one or more portable media devices. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a media bridge between a portable media device (PMD) and a user's home network and/or home devices (e.g., set-top boxes, DVRs, etc.)). The apparatus is adapted to convert content stored on a PMD to a format capable of being rendered on a home device which may then store or playback the content. Control of the presentation is also provided by the bridging apparatus. The apparatus may also be adapted to transfer content from the home device to the PMD for storage or playback. In another embodiment, the apparatus may function within a home network having a trusted domain to provide content between a plurality devices on the network (and in the domain) and the PMD.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Chris Cholas, William L. Helms, Jeffrey P. Markley
  • Publication number: 20160269775
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for premises gateway functions that integrate or unify functions typically distributed across multiple devices within a content-based network. In one embodiment, the out-of-band (OOB) signaling functionality normally provided in each of a set-top-box (STB) and digital video recorder (DVR) are unified into a common OOB (e.g., DOCSIS) capable premises gateway device, thereby obviating OOB tuners and related components from each device. In another variant, the premises gateway is adapted for all-IP operation, such as for use with IP-based computers and IP set-top boxes, etc. Fully unified variants are also disclosed, wherein the DVR and/or STB functions are physically integrated within the premises gateway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2016
    Publication date: September 15, 2016
    Inventors: Chris Cholas, William L. Helms, Louis Williamson, Jeffrey P. Markley
  • Patent number: 9398336
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for selecting digital (network) interface technology for programming and data delivery over, e.g., a content-based network. In one embodiment, the network comprises an HFC cable or satellite network that includes a server process interfacing with a plurality of customer premises equipment (CPE), and/or associated client devices, each having different capabilities profiles. The server determines the one or more capabilities possessed by the CPE, and evaluates one or more program or content choices for possible delivery to that CPE based on its profile. The server generates a list of programs or content based on this evaluation, and transmits this list to the CPE, which displays the list for viewing by a user. The user is therefore offered a list of available content that is compatible with their specific configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Markley, Charles A. Hasek
  • Publication number: 20160150272
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for centralized content, media and data delivery and access within a premises such as, e.g., a residence. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a remotely manageable premises device that acts as a centralized client networking platform, providing gateway services such as network management as well as traditional content and high-speed data delivery functions. The device also acts as the shared internet connection for all devices in the premises via a cable modem, sharing personal and DVR content such as video, music and photos (and any associated metadata) throughout the premises, and providing both a wired and wireless network in the home. Telephony services utilizing e.g., embedded multimedia terminal adapter (eMTA) and/or Wi-Fi architectures may also be provided via the device. The device can also provide a trusted domain for content or data, as well as allowing a subscriber total mobility in the home.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2015
    Publication date: May 26, 2016
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Markley, Louis D. Williamson, John B. Carlucci
  • Patent number: 9342661
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing access to content across a plurality of devices and environments. In one embodiment, a downloadable rights profile is utilized in order for a user device to determine whether to provide content to a subscriber. The user device is first registered to content delivery the network; the device then requests a rights profile indicating the rights of the subscriber associated with the device to access content. The rights profile is transmitted to the device. The rights profile may be configured to be valid only for a pre-determined time, thus enabling a subscriber's rights to be updated (including revoked). Security mechanisms may also be utilized to ensure access to content is limited only to authorized subscribers. In another embodiment, a user-based authentication procedure is utilized, thereby making the rights determination and content provision process completely agnostic to the underlying hardware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: TIME WARNER CABLE ENTERPRISES LLC
    Inventors: Chris Cholas, Jeffrey P. Markley, Vipul Patel, Christopher Marsh
  • Patent number: 9300919
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for content, media and data delivery and access between devices of a premises and one or more portable media devices. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a media bridge between a portable media device (PMD) and a user's home network and/or home devices (e.g., set-top boxes, DVRs, etc.)). The apparatus is adapted to convert content stored on a PMD to a format capable of being rendered on a home device which may then store or playback the content. Control of the presentation is also provided by the bridging apparatus. The apparatus may also be adapted to transfer content from the home device to the PMD for storage or playback. In another embodiment, the apparatus may function within a home network having a trusted domain to provide content between a plurality devices on the network (and in the domain) and the PMD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Chris Cholas, William L. Helms, Jeffrey P. Markley
  • Patent number: 9282365
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for premises gateway functions that integrate or unify functions typically distributed across multiple devices within a content-based network. In one embodiment, the out-of-band (OOB) signaling functionality normally provided in each of a set-top-box (STB) and digital video recorder (DVR) are unified into a common OOB (e.g., DOCSIS) capable premises gateway device, thereby obviating OOB tuners and related components from each device. In another variant, the premises gateway is adapted for all-IP operation, such as for use with IP-based computers and IP set-top boxes, etc. Fully unified variants are also disclosed, wherein the DVR and/or STB functions are physically integrated within the premises gateway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Chris Cholas, William L. Helms, Louis Williamson, Jeffrey P. Markley
  • Publication number: 20150341690
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for selecting digital access technology for programming and data delivery over, e.g., a content-based network. In one embodiment, the network comprises an HFC cable or satellite network that includes a server process interfacing with a plurality of customer premises equipment (CPE), and/or associated client devices, each having different capabilities profiles. The server determines the one or more capabilities possessed by the CPE, and evaluates one or more program or content choices for possible delivery to that CPE based on its profile. The server generates a list of programs or content based on this evaluation, and transmits this list to the CPE, which displays the list for viewing by a user. The user is therefore offered a list of available content that is compatible with their specific configuration. A business and operational rules engine is also optionally employed to control the operation of the foregoing processes to accomplish particular business or operational goals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2015
    Publication date: November 26, 2015
    Inventors: Charles A. Hasek, Jeffrey P. Markley