Abstract: A TV program distribution system comprises: a TV broadcast signal distribution device for distributing a scrambled pay TV program provided by a TV program provider; an auction management device for managing selling, by auction, of the viewing right of the pay TV program; an account management device for charging winning bidders of the pay TV program determined by the auction; and a conditional access management device for managing conditional access information to make it possible for each STB of each winning bidder of the pay TV program to descramble the scrambled pay TV program. The TV program distribute system sells the pay TV program by auction, limiting the number of STBs allowed to access the pay TV program, so that the TV program distribution system makes it possible for the TV program provider to collect fees of the pay TV program according to market value of the pay TV program.

Abstract: A system and method for reviewing and checking cinema movies for completeness and conformity with exhibitor expectations in a time-saving and efficient manner. In one embodiment, a method for evaluating presentations is provided wherein for each presentation length, a reel time duration X is determined, points of interest are determined, and presentation length portions to be evaluated are selected as preferably including at least a duration of time which includes each of the determined points of interest. The selected portions may include a buffer portion, e.g., a period of time from about 5% of the total presentation length time before to about 5% of the total presentation length time after each of the determined points of interest. Another portion may be presentation length selected for evaluation which includes at least 10% of the total presentation length time. Such 10% selected portion is preferably selected from the center of each presentation length.

Abstract: An interactive Internet-based system and method provides a number of components that can be used to provide interactivity, including chat, polling, and trivia functionalities, particularly for use in enhancing other events, such as television programs.

Abstract: A method of dynamically displaying content to an audience is disclosed. The method includes displaying content to the audience wherein at least a portion of the audience is proximate a display means, capturing a plurality of responses from the audience, aggregating the plurality of responses and dynamically updating the displayed content based on the aggregated plurality of responses.

Abstract: A method, medium and implementing computer system are provided in which the aggregate preferences of a gathered group of individuals in a certain proximity and with respect to a predetermined perceivable and controllable function are ascertained. Individual preferences are processed to obtain a group preference and if the group preference meets predetermined criteria, the group preference is implemented with respect to the controllable function. In a specific example, movie preview playlists are modified by a control server according to the ascertained preferences of the particular group to whom the movie previews are being presented. In another example, the ambient temperature of a room in which a group of individuals is gathered is adjusted by a temperature-control server in response to the polled and ascertained preferences of each of the individuals.

Abstract: A method and system for providing a universal voting card (UVC) is disclosed. Generic votes stored in association with a UVC may be used at any time in any combination against voting campaigns that span, e.g., wireless carrier networks, television networks and television shows. A generic vote is issued by a UVC holder through the dispatch of an SMS message to a destination address (USC, toll-free TN, etc.). Each time that a generic vote is issued by a UVC holder the ‘number of votes remaining’ on the UVC is decremented; when the ‘number of votes remaining’ on the UVC reaches zero then the UVC is no longer usable.

Abstract: A content recommendation system and methodology is provided in which various demographic information and viewing information is obtained from multiple viewers and recommendations of video content to view are provided to a viewer based on the viewer's demographic profile and the viewing preferences of other viewers with the same or similar demographic profile. The recommendations are a result of data mining the aggregated viewing information. Other feedback, such as real-time statistics or likes/dislikes, can also be provided for presentation to the viewer.

Abstract: High-speed programs review is described. In embodiment(s), a television client device can initiate a high-speed review of a group of programs that have been recorded together. A content distributor may record a group of television programs that have been previously broadcast for a particular television channel, and then maintain the programs for on-demand viewing when selected by a viewer. The client device can receive program information from the content distributor, and the program information can identify each of the progress when reviewing the group of programs at high-speed. The program information that corresponds to a program can then be rendered for display when the program becomes selectable for on-demand viewing while reviewing the programs at high-speed.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for improved, real-time survey data processing and analysis. Certain embodiments use distributed computing techniques to perform statistical calculations for survey data, such as general purpose and multi-rater feedback data. Certain embodiments use a matrix structure coupled with hash tables for efficient processing of survey statistics across an entire survey. Certain embodiments use a criteria parser based on externally definable lexical rules to determine which survey responses belong to which groups. Certain embodiments allow coalescing of summarization requests between summarization servers to allow for peak performance across any number of surveys. Certain embodiments provide a scalable, adaptable survey processing system and method that processes survey results in real time, allowing for immediate feedback during the survey process.

Abstract: A program drawing-up apparatus can provide information effectively and efficiently. The program drawing-up apparatus (2) comprises a program control device (3) and a narration synthesizer device (4). The program control device (3) has a delivery request acquisition section for acquiring a delivery request from a client apparatus (6), a contents data retrieval section for retrieving contents data and a program drawing-up section for drawing up a program showing the sequence of delivery of the contents data and the auxiliary data on the basis of the delivery request. The narration synthesizer device (4) has a narration synthesizing section for synthetically generating narration data to be delivered in combination with contents data. Information can be provided effectively because contents can be delivered with one or more than one narrations added thereto.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that facilitates receiving content at a client from one or more servers that can potentially provide the content. The client starts by sending a request for the content to a directory server. In response to the request, the client receives a list of candidate servers that can potentially provide the content from the directory server. Once the client has received the list of candidate servers, the client sends a request to one or more of the candidate servers for the content, and subsequently receives the content from one or more of the candidate servers.

Abstract: The present invention makes viewers surely view commercial programs. When a commercial program is broadcasted and displayed on a display (7A), a viewer is requested a response. The viewer operates a prescribed key in the ten key (32) of a remote controller (31) for response. If the viewer responds to the response request of the commercial program, points are added to a smart card (10). The viewer can view a pay program using the points recorded in the smart card (10).

Abstract: To store community program ratings, a rating for a program is received and an identification of whether the rating is a private rating for the user or is a rating that can be accessed by a plurality of other users is made. The rating and an indication of whether the rating is a private rating for the user or is a rating that can be accessed by a plurality of other users are sent to a community rating system for storage. To retrieve community program ratings, a request for a rating of a community for a program is received. User ratings for the program are accessed, the user ratings being ratings previously submitted by users in the community that were not identified as being private, and are presented to the user.

Abstract: A system and method for ranking media. Embodiments enable presenting media in a first venue, obtaining feedback from at least one user and providing an indication whether to present the media in a second venue. The media may be audio, video, and/or text or any combination thereof. The first venue for example may be the Internet or an Internet online community. The second venue may for example be television (cable, broadcast or a DVD variant) or radio. The media may be presented in the first venue and feedback is obtained in any manner, for example via the first venue or over any other medium such as by phone, computer or in any other way. The feedback for example may be based solely on the media or in relation to other media presented. The indication may be provided as to whether to present the media in a second venue.

Abstract: A content recommendation system (100) to schedule a delivery of diverse content when a user is more receptive to the recommendation is provided. The system can include an outlier scheduling module (120) for scheduling an insertion of an outlier (224) in a recommended content based on a schedule model (125) and a trigger policy (127), an outlier selection module (140) for selecting the outlier from recommended content of an affinity model (145) based on a selection policy (147), and an outlier evaluation module (160) for monitoring a current user context and adjusting the selecting and the scheduling of the outlier in response to a user feedback of the outlier. The content recommendation system can expose the user to diverse content based on the user's current consumption pattern and current context.

Abstract: A system and method for ranking media. Embodiments enable presenting media in a first venue, obtaining feedback from at least one user and providing an indication whether to present the media in a second venue. The media may be audio, video, and/or text or any combination thereof. The first venue for example may be the Internet or an Internet online community. The second venue may for example be television (cable, broadcast or a DVD variant) or radio. The media may be presented in the first venue and feedback is obtained in any manner, for example via the first venue or over any other medium such as by phone, computer or in any other way. The feedback for example may be based solely on the media or in relation to other media presented. The indication may be provided as to whether to present the media in a second venue.

Abstract: A method of collecting information is provided. The method includes sending an interactive text markup programming language script, using a session initiation protocol (SIP) message, to a communications device. The interactive script includes a first query and a second query that depends on a response to the first query. The method also includes receiving the response from the communications device. The response is based upon input from a user of the communications device.

Abstract: A system and method for collecting data and statistically assessing such data for real time voting results. According to a preferred embodiment, input from a plurality of voters may be received through multiple modalities, namely, mobile/cellular phone networks, land line phone networks, set top boxes and/or the Internet. Voting data from each modality is received regionally and thereafter forwarded to a central vote processing location where statistical assessment and voting results may be generated in real time. In an alternative embodiment, the system and methods of the present invention can enable individual viewers to make selections on an individual basis, or autonomous groups may make selections on a group basis which in turn can be used in novel programming, VPTS, conducting polls, submission and acquisition of marketing/general data, RTCFA, or selecting any type of content options.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for providing polling related data to viewers in an interactive cable televisions system. Users viewing a program can initiate a request for participating in a polling activity. The request and other program-related information are sent to the cable television system provider. Appropriate polling window data is returned to the set top box allowing a polling window to be displayed to the viewer. The viewer may choose one or several selections, and transmit the response to the cable television system provider. User responses can be tallied and presented in real time to the viewer audience. Program producers can incorporate the results of viewer feedback in real-time allowing the outcome of the program to be based on the collective viewer feedback.

Abstract: A system and method for event demand creation and event organization is provided in which an interested party can create a demand for an event at a particular location and then encourage other people to join the demand. Once the demand reaches critical mass, the event provider is notified of the demand and asked to agree to the demanded event.

Abstract: A system (200) and method (400) for affecting a performance (210) is provided. During the performance, a plurality of audience evaluations can be received (310), the plurality of audience evaluations can be associated with the performance (320), and a sensory aspect of the performance can be adjusted (330) in accordance with the plurality of audience evaluations. The method can include capturing a plurality of sensory actions from multiple devices (160) handled in an audience, generating a plurality of evaluations from the plurality of sensory actions, and identifying a collective audience assessment of the performance from the plurality of sensory actions.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for presenting targeted advertisements to DVR users are described. After a DVR has finished playing a recorded television program, or in response to other specified events, the DVR presents a screen which comprises a “save or delete” menu. In addition to the “save” and “delete” options, the menu additionally comprises one or more other options. Each of these other options may correspond to a separate promotional item. For example, a user's selection of such an option may cause the DVR to display or play an advertisement on the user's television set. Additionally or alternatively, these other options, when selected by a user, may cause the DVR to display a user interface through which the user can actually purchase a product or service. The product or service advertised or offered may be one that was featured or referenced in the television program that the user was just watching.

Abstract: A method and system are provided to determine whether or not an interactive show shall be interrupted and switched to a next show by a predetermined rule with regard to a ballot of viewers at terminals in an interactive system.

Abstract: A viewer of an interactive video casting system can be presented with promotions having purchase offers or offers of credits toward future purchases. These promotions can be provided by correlating a program being viewed with user profile information and product information. If presented with the promotion while viewing a program, the viewer can buy products/services offered in the promotion, or defer the promotion for future viewing or as a credit. Credits toward a future purchase can be maintained in a storage area for the user and applied to a later purchase. Promotions can also be correlated to other interactive video casting tools or interfaces, such as the user's calendar, so that promotions relevant to calendar entries can be presented to the user.

Abstract: Disclosed is a client terminal connectable to a video distribution system (VDS) and a display device. The client terminal includes a VDS interface to receive program guide information and program rating data from the VDS, a display interface to display a program guide on the display device, a user interface to receive user input, a local memory to store a ranking program, and a terminal controller responsive to the user interface and the ranking program. The terminal controller responsive to the user interface and the ranking program: allows the user to select a rating source from a list of rating sources displayed on the display device, via user input; ranks the program listings based upon program rating data associated with the selected rating source; and displays the ranked program listings in the program guide on the display device.

Abstract: A user preference information data structure which is capable of classifying and setting user's preference information regarding multimedia contents with multiple items to thereby provide users with user's request-based whole or partial multi-media information, and a method for providing multi-media information by using the user preference information data structure. The multiple item user preference information data structure for multi-media contents comprising: single item user preference information for single items related to the multi-media information; and multiple items user preference information for multiple items formed by combining the single items.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments provide an incentive for a viewer to watch and react to audio/video programming. For example, the viewer may be prompted during a program to provide an indicated response to an event within an indicated time period. Thereafter, the indicated response to the event may be detected, a response time of the indicated response to the event may be measured, viewer performance may be evaluated based upon the response time, and the incentive may be presented to the viewer based upon the response time. According to an exemplary embodiment, a viewer actuates a pushbutton key of a set-top box remote control unit and a signal that corresponds with the key is transmitted to and recorded by the set-top box. Other exemplary embodiments include a media delivery device for providing incentives, rewards, discounts, marketing data, and/or measurements to the viewer and a media delivery network.

Abstract: A computer-implemented transmission scheme is provided to control client-server interchanges within a distributed communications network, such as a real time opinion research system. Interchanges include transmitting media streams between one or more clients to a server over a computer network, including the global Internet. A polling management unit sets and manages the transmission mode that includes event-driven and periodic interchanges. Periodic interchanges can be simultaneously or staggeredly transmitted to a sampling pool of active clients. A transmission mode unit implements the transmission scheme set by the polling management unit. A parameter selector establishes the transmission interval and transmission period which are used to trigger each communication interchange. A client assignor creates one or more sampling classes from the sampling pool by applying a sampling quotient that is generated by the parameter selector. A schedule editor produces a transmission schedule for the active clients.

Abstract: A method and a communication network system for increased viewership of a public event or broadcast program which is affected by providing incentives to the viewers in the nature of a sweepstake program drawn from the viewers' responses to queries communicating to the viewers in connection with the event or broadcast presentation. Sweepstake rules are selectable to encourage viewer interaction and engagement with the presentation. Dynamic incentive drivers are applied in real time to further enhance viewer participation and excitement. Broadcast sponsor shares in the revenue generated by the service provider providing the communication services by which the viewers' responses are made in response to the queries.

Abstract: A multi-media geography game show allows real time participation of contestants, live show audience participants and remote TV viewers having Internet connections. Answers to questions related to geography provided within an allotted time period qualify participants for monetary or material rewards, together with learning credits. The learning credits may be converted to college credits by taking appropriate validation tests from accredited educational institutions that have made arrangements with the geography game show. The responses of contestants, live show audience participants and remote TV viewers, as well as the rewards and the leaning credits, are electronically processed and appropriate credits are issued using print outs or magnetic media.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a system, method and computer instructions for recommending functionality to users of a system with one or more users. In an embodiment, a functionality recommendation system includes a usage tracking module for tracking usage of functionality by users of a system with one or more users and a recommendation module for: (1) suggesting functionality to users not using the functionality; and/or (2) prompting users of functionality to suggest use of that functionality to users not using the functionality. The functionality recommendation system may also include a recommendation listing module that organizes suggestions, a recommendation output module that outputs suggestions, and/or a functionality tutorial module that outputs information regarding suggested functionality, for example.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for facilitating video test screening on an electronic visual communications network. One step is to establish a database for a video test screening audience. The database contains audience member information and ID numbers for the audience members. A further step is establishing a test screening audience database. Audience members are selected without regard to the time a person was added to the database, or in a sequence according to the time a person volunteered to serve, or by a combination involving both techniques. Members of the audience are given a special access code to be entered with the member's identification number in order to gain access to the test video for test screening on the network. Verification codes and quizzing of the members may also be used for viewing verification.

Abstract: A printing apparatus for printing out contents carried on broadcast signals onto paper, which comprises a receiving unit for receiving the broadcast signals; a detecting unit for detecting designated contents, which are designated for printing, from contents carried on the broadcast signals received by the receiving unit; and a printing unit for printing out the designated contents detected by the detecting unit onto paper.

Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus and methods for upgrading a set top terminal for use with a cable television program delivery system. A hardware upgrade or expansion card is connected to a set top terminal to enhance the functionality of the set top terminal and to allow the set top terminal to receive digital audio programs. The hardware upgrade includes audio signal processing circuitry such as a tuner, demodulator, demultiplexor, decryptor, and decompressor. A microprocessor in the hardware upgrade enables the upgrade to accept subscriber inputs so as to select a particular digital audio program for listening. Subscriber inputs may be generated from a remote control and a menu system of the set top terminal.

Abstract: A system and method for interactively affecting the course of a program or programming content. Viewer purchase electronic tokens which can be used to vote on the sequence of content in a broadcast whether it be audio, video or a combination thereof. Users are periodically polled by a server to vote on the direction that a broadcast is taking. The broadcast is then modified with real-time or stored content based upon the polling results from the viewers. Thus communities of voters have a chance to vote on the direction of content. The invention also allows sub-communities to be formed to pre-vote on a broadcast so that the sub-community can possible vote as a bloc on the direction and content of programming that is presented.

Abstract: A method and system for enabling automatic or semi-automatic interactive responses to electronic queries using audio-band coded data as the query medium and wireless data communications as the response medium. Typical applications include interactive broadcast advertising in which a coded data query is embedded in a broadcast audio channel and reproduced as an acoustic audio signal in a broadcast receiver. This acoustic signal is then detected by the microphone of a wireless telephone and decoded and processed by the electronic circuitry of said wireless telephone. Upon a pre-determined further action by the user, the decoded and processed query data causes the wireless telephone to transmit a pre-determined message. The pre-determined message includes information which instructs the serving wireless network to properly route the message so that it effectively provides a response to the original query.

Abstract: A user is prompted during television commercial breaks to depress one or more pushbuttons on a television remote control at certain times to confirm that the user is watching the advertisements. A set top box connected to the television receives and decodes the signal from the remote control. When the user responds properly to a prompt, the set top box increments a tally maintained in the set top box memory to accumulate points by which the user can earn rewards.

Abstract: The invention relates to a subscriber for indicating liveness to a broker in a multicast publish/subscribe messaging system comprising the broker and a plurality of subscribers. The subscriber, having seen an indication of liveness, sets a timer. If the subscriber sees an indication of liveness prior to the expiry of the timer, then the subscriber cancels the timer. However if an indication of liveness is not seen by the subscriber prior to the expiry of its timer, then the subscriber sends its own indication of liveness to the broker.

Abstract: Methods and systems for selecting media service providers are described. A type of service to be performed on an item of content is identified. The item of content is identified during a session with a client device. Information regarding current resource availability is received from a plurality of service providers. The information is ascertained from ongoing resource measurements. A service provider is selected from the plurality of service providers based on the information that is received. Information is provided for transferring the session to the service provider. The service provider performs the service on the item of content.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for improved, real-time survey data processing and analysis. Certain embodiments use distributed computing techniques to perform statistical calculations for survey data, such as general purpose and multi-rater feedback data. Certain embodiments use a matrix structure coupled with hash tables for efficient processing of survey statistics across an entire survey. Certain embodiments use a criteria parser based on externally definable lexical rules to determine which survey responses belong to which groups. Certain embodiments allow coalescing of summarization requests between summarization servers to allow for peak performance across any number of surveys. Certain embodiments provide a scalable, adaptable survey processing system and method that processes survey results in real time, allowing for immediate feedback during the survey process.

Abstract: A method configured for facilitating an interactive multimedia experiences comprising accessing a system-readable specification defining a multimedia experience configured for audience interaction and performing the multimedia experience in accordance with information comprised by the system-readable specification. The information comprised by the system-readable specification includes information for enabling facilitation of audience response tracking, experience navigation and feedback of audience responses. Performing the multimedia experience includes gathering audience responses, analyzing the audience responses, outputting information resulting from the analyzing audience responses and outputting experience content.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for generation of interactive programming. An interactive programming server embeds interactive components into a video signal. The interactive programming server receives content from a content source and interactive components from an interactive component source and uses the content and interactive components to generate an interactive Video On Demand (iVOD) interactive program. The iVOD interactive program is transmitted to a participant who views the content and interacts with the interactive components of the iVOD interactive program. The participant's responses to the content is transmitted back to the interactive programming server where the participant responses are incorporated into new content which is used to generate new iVOD interactive programming.

Abstract: The interactive multimedia devices is based on network structures involving: a broadcasting network (120) and a return path network (140). On the broadcasting network, the interactive data are multiplexed with the broadcast audiovisual signals so as to offer interactivity to connected end-users on the return path network. To address specific sociological profiles, and to save bandwidth, a plurality of filters, let's say a number N, is associated with a single interactive application. In such case, the comparison continues until one of the N filters match the profile stored in the terminal permanent memory. If one of the filters matches the viewer's profile, the interactive application is executed, else the application is ignored. In this way, a plurality of categories of viewers can interact. A plurality of filters can be associated with an interactive application with different contents. To each filter corresponds a content.

Abstract: A system for capturing a video image of the scene and for correlating data relative to the scene is disclosed. The system comprises a collection device which uses as inputs environmental stimuli and video and audio stimuli which correlates the various data such that statistical analysis can be performed.

Abstract: A method for providing an incentive for a viewer to watch and react to audio/video programming. The method includes prompting the viewer during a television programming stream to provide an indicated response to an event within an indicated time period, detecting the indicated response to the event, measuring a response time of the indicated response to the event, evaluating viewer performance based upon the response time, and providing the incentive to the viewer based upon the response time. The method involves a viewer actuating a pushbutton key of a set-top box remote control unit and transmitting and recording the response via the set-top box. A media delivery device for providing incentives, rewards, discounts, marketing data, and measurements to a viewer and a media delivery network.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for assessing and linking market research questions to participant's (user's) credentials, where the market research questions are integrated into selected continuing education courses or product training. The users may not earn credit for such continuing education unless they answer the market research questions. This method allows a mechanism to perform market research on any group of professionals that require continuing education or training. The method and apparatus of the various embodiments of the present invention have applications on the Internet, stand-alone and networked computer systems, integrated computer-television systems, and conventional communication systems, such as voice telephony.

Abstract: Described are methods and apparatus for encouraging viewers to pay attention to television programs, commercials in particular, by offering viewers some incentive to watch. In one embodiment, viewers are notified that they can receive frequent-flier miles for answering one or more simple questions at the conclusion of the commercial. To verify that the viewer paid attention to the commercial, the answer to the question may be based on the content of the commercial. A sponsor might ask, for example, that the viewer identify the name of the sponsor or the color of an announcer's shirt. A correct answer indicates that the viewer watched the commercial, and that the viewer is therefore entitled to some reward. For example, viewers who watch the commercial may be entered in a prize drawing, or may receive prize points, such as frequent-flier miles. In other embodiments, viewers may verify that they watched a given program by selecting an icon or pressing a button on a remote control.

Abstract: A systems for inserting feedback from members of the viewing public into a television program. Viewers submit reactions to programming in realtime in the form of spoken messages, text messages, or graphics which are incorporated into the program being watched or into a separate program broadcast subsequently. The invention has many applications in the entertainment industry, including, for example, making television programs more entertaining and creating an extra revenue source for broadcasters.

Abstract: A system and a method for bidirectional transmission/reception in which the information aired in e.g., television broadcast can be received with a high probability to permit a sponsor to readily comprehend the state of reception. A collective information generating system 5 includes temporary reply recovery device 131, . . . , 13m for recovering the response data sent from the transmission/reception device 2 over a transmitting network 6, a quiz response recovery unit 14 and a CPU 15 having the information generating function of generating the lottery result information based on the response data recovered by the quiz response recovery unit 14. The lottery result information generated by the collective information generating system 5 is multiplexed by the multiplexing broadcast encoder 11 and transmitted to the transmission/reception unit 2 by a broadcast transmission device 12.

Abstract: A wireless audience response system that comprises a plurality of remote response units, each of the response units comprising a first transmitter, a first receiver and a first processor coupled to the first transmitter and the first receiver and having a selectable input, the input being operable by a user to instruct the first processor to provide a response output, comprising at least one of a plurality of outputs, to the first transmitter. There also is a central control unit comprising a second transmitter, a second receiver and a second processor operatively coupled to the second transmitter and the second receiver. The second processor is operative to control the second transmitter to selectively transmit a command signal, comprising at least one of a plurality of command signals, to said plurality of remote response units, and dynamically assign a plurality of time slots to respective ones of the remote response units.