With Subscriber Selection Or Switching Patents (Class 455/3.04)
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Publication number: 20080114884Abstract: Provided herein is a centralized registry service enabling subscribers to “opt-out” of any or all mobile messaging programs. The registry service supports access to storage medium information by mobile and wireless carriers, companies operating mobile messaging programs, mobile applications or platforms, and most importantly, individual subscribers. The registry service can be used with any message based network, including non mobile networks.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 17, 2004Publication date: May 15, 2008Applicant: M-QUBE, INC.Inventors: Gerald Hewes, Boon Hwang, Michael Pirie, Randall Snyder
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Patent number: 7373122Abstract: A setting information transmission means 1c transmits setting information (area information) concerning broadcast reception of a reproducing apparatus 1 itself and set by a user, to an external device. List information corresponding to the setting information and including broadcast station names, broadcast station identification information, and frequencies of broadcast stations which can be received by the reproducing apparatus 1 is returned to and received by a list information reception means 1d from the external device. The broadcast station names included in the received list information are displayed on the display means 1e. The user checks the displayed broadcast station names and makes an input operation. In response to this input operation, a recording means 1f records parts of the received list information (e.g., frequencies, broadcast station names, and broadcast station identification information) onto a recording medium, with the parts linked to each other.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2004Date of Patent: May 13, 2008Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Hiroyuki Kikkoji, Nozomu Okuzawa, Natsumi Saito, Shinsuke Yamashita, Jun Moriya, Yasuhiro Murase
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Publication number: 20080101415Abstract: A method and system for sending private data to a subscriber via a broadcast analog transmission is provided. A service provider assigns to each subscriber a unique key that specifies a sub-channel (i.e., frequency) that is within a predetermined channel (i.e., broadcast band). Each subscriber is provided with a receiver unit that is configured to demodulate analog signals at the sub-channel indicated by the key that is assigned to the particular subscriber. A service provider system broadcasts over an analog network the private data intended for receipt by a specific subscriber utilizing the key that is assigned to the subscriber. Accordingly, although the service provider system broadcasts the private data, only the receiver unit that is configured to demodulate the analog signals at the sub-channel indicated by the key that is assigned to the specific subscriber will receive the private data.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2006Publication date: May 1, 2008Applicant: Microsoft CorporationInventors: Rajesh Veeraraghavan, Vibhore Goyal
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Patent number: 7362952Abstract: A personal digital assistant (PDA) apparatus and a recording and reproduction apparatus improved in convenience in use by reflecting the viewing situation in the PDA into the recording and reproduction apparatus are provided. The PDA includes a reception unit for perceiving a broadcast signal including program information, a communication unit for communicating with the recording and reproduction apparatus, which records/reproduces a broadcast signal, a display unit for displaying the program information and video information included in the broadcast signal, a storage unit for storing viewing history of a received and displayed video signal, and an operation unit for operating viewing in the apparatus. Based on viewing history stored in the storage unit, an order signal is sent to the recording and reproduction apparatus via the communication unit to order reproduction of information relating to the viewing history from among information stored in the recording and reproduction apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2004Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Makoto Katagishi, Yutaka Matsunobu
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Patent number: 7363000Abstract: A secondary satellite radio or broadcast channel is used to broadcast advertisement clips (e.g., audio clips) to a receiver for subsequent decoding and playback. The receiver is configured for different tiers of service, e.g., one that delivers substantially advertising-free content and another that delivers content that includes more significant amounts of advertising. The content delivered to both is the same content; however, for the service tier that includes more advertising, the advertisements broadcast on the secondary channel are interleaved into the content, preferably in such a way that the continuity of the content being delivered is not compromised.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2003Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Assignee: Agere Systems Inc.Inventors: David A. Fishman, Raymond K. Jones, Eric Zhong
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Patent number: 7356304Abstract: A system and method for providing subscription service notification at a mobile digital radio device is described. The method includes determining a digital radio subscription service expiration notice, communicating the subscription service expiration notice to a mobile digital radio receiver, storing a received expiration notice at the digital radio receiver, and providing the stored expiration notice to a user. A computer readable medium having computer readable code for determining a digital radio subscription service expiration notice is also provided. Computer readable code for directing the communication of the subscription service expiration notice to a mobile digital radio receiver, computer readable code for storing a received expiration notice at the digital radio receiver; and computer readable code for providing the stored expiration notice to a user are stored to the computer readable medium.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2003Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventor: Dennis L. Zoeckler
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Patent number: 7356341Abstract: Systems and techniques are disclosed relating to wireless communications. The systems and techniques involve wireless communications wherein a module or communications device is configured to select a plurality of terminal pairs each having a transmitting terminal and a corresponding receiving terminal, determine a target quality parameter for each of the receiving terminals, and schedule simultaneous signal transmissions from each of the transmitting terminals to its corresponding receiving terminal, the scheduling of the simultaneous transmissions including selecting a power level for each of the signal transmissions that satisfies the target quality parameter for each of the receiving terminals.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2003Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignee: QUALCOMM, IncorporatedInventor: Sanjiv Nanda
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Patent number: 7353016Abstract: A method for intercepting calls from a remote or mobile device for customer self-support detects when users or subscribers dial one or more predetermined numbers. If the number corresponds to one of the predetermined numbers (such as a customer support number), the phone may intercept the call and display a list of potential solutions to the subscriber's problems. Various other features and embodiments art disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2005Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: SNAPin Software Inc.Inventors: Brian Roundtree, Kevin Allan, Linda Beinikis, Keldon Rush
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Patent number: 7340212Abstract: A method and system for location-specific delivery of digital satellite broadcast data comprising determining a current service location, selecting a satellite radio band based on the determination, monitoring the selected satellite radio band for a data package, and initiating reception of the data package at the mobile device using the determined satellite radio band. A computer usable medium with suitable computer program code is employed for location-specific delivery of digital satellite broadcast data.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2004Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Hitan S. Kamdar, Russell A. Patenaude, Anthony J. Sumcad, Shpetim S. Veliu, Brad T. Reeser, Mingheng Wang
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Patent number: 7340258Abstract: A wireless telephony network provides satellite radio program information and content, in addition to conventional wireless telephony services, to eligible mobile stations of the wireless telephony network. The wireless telephony network receives satellite radio programming from a satellite radio service network, establishes one or more bearer channels (e.g., conventional voice channels or higher-bandwidth data links) and sends the programming to the one or more mobile stations via the one or more bearer channels. The wireless telephony network monitors and obtains billing information associated with integrated service delivery and coordinates the billing information with a satellite radio service provider. A controlling provider may be selected to control billing for the integrated services such that the customer receives a single statement.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2004Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.Inventors: David S Benco, Kevin J Overend, Baoling S Sheen, Sandra Lynn True, Kenneth J Voight
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Patent number: 7336925Abstract: A system for displaying a graphical indication of a proximately located device is disclosed. When a mobile terminal (e.g., a mobile telephone) equipped with short-range communications (e.g., Bluetooth or wi-fi) as well as conventional long-range communications capabilities comes within range of set top box (e.g., a digital broadcast receiver), the set top box (STB) overlays an icon over the broadcast screen image indicating that a mobile terminal is present that can be used as a back channel to the cable operator. The overlaid icon may be presented in differing colors to indicate various characteristics of the mobile terminal, e.g., a type of the mobile terminal (phone vs. PDA) or a capability of the mobile terminal (e.g., ability to establish a GPRS or other data connection). A user of the STB can then use interactive services offered by the cable operator, and deliver interactive selections and commands to the cable operator via the mobile terminal back channel.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2002Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Nokia CorporationInventor: Martin Zilliacus
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Publication number: 20080045139Abstract: A method for reusing wireless resources in a wireless network, includes determining the probability of a first communication with a first relay station experiencing interference from a second relay station. The method also includes, upon determining that the probability of experiencing interference from the second relay station is greater than an interference threshold: allocating a first wireless resource to the first relay station and the second relay station; designating the first wireless resource as a primary wireless resource for the first relay station; designating the first wireless resource as a secondary wireless resource for the second relay station; allocating a second wireless resource to the second relay station; and designating the second wireless resource as a primary wireless resource for the second relay station.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2006Publication date: February 21, 2008Inventors: Wei-Peng Chen, Chenxi Zhu, Ching-Fong Su, Jonathan R. Agre
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Patent number: 7328004Abstract: Advertisement system and method of advertising by using one or more advertiser devices, which each corresponds to an advertisement which is perceptible by a user of a consumer device. The advertiser device and the consumer device are equipped with a nearby radio control device, such as based on Bluetooth technology, and a controller connected thereto. Upon coming into each others range the radio devices establish a communication path through which a user of the consumer device is enabled to fetch an advertisement identification and additional information related to the advertisement. The user may communicate with the advertiser device to leave personal information, such as an address, to be contacted later by the advertiser. He may also fetch data, such as an URL, by which he can contact the advertiser later.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2000Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ)Inventors: Peggy Justina Antoinette Wolters, Peter Reginald Lewis
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Patent number: 7310496Abstract: In digital broadcast systems, it is common to broadcast besides main services additional services like news services. Typically, these additional services are regularly updated and broadcasted by a service provider (3) several times a day. In order to keep service data transmitted by the additional services up to date in a receiving device (1) receiving the services, a method of accessing services is given according to which a respective service information about the services provided by service providers (3) is extracted from a service presently received by the receiving device (1), and then at least one of the services about which service information was extracted according to the respective extracted service information might be accessed. Thus, the service data can automatically be updated by the receiving device (1) itself, even if transmission conditions of an additional service like update rates change over the time.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2001Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Sony Deutschland GmbHInventors: Dietmar Schill, Carsten Merkle, Markus Zumkeller
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Patent number: 7295804Abstract: The present invention concerns a system of receiving signals comprising a retransmission base to amplify signals captured at a point in a domestic environment and retransmit them at the same frequency to digital receivers of the said domestic environment. According to the invention, the retransmission base amplifies and retransmits up to N DVB-T channels the positions of which can be anywhere in the receive band and are chosen dynamically by the system users. Means are provided in the system to share the system's amplification resources between the system's various digital receivers.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2003Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Assignee: Thomson LicensingInventors: Olivier Mocquard, Jean-François Pintos, Jean-Luc Robert, Franck Thudor
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Patent number: 7263469Abstract: An RF multiple switching apparatus, such as one included in or coupled to a broadcast satellite signal receiver, having a plurality of multiple RF signal input ports for receiving respective ones of a plurality of RF signals, such as broadcast satellite television signals, utilizes a relative signal strength indicator, such as an automatic gain control signal, to determine the difference between the actual input signal that is present at one of the plurality of signal input ports and a false signal that appears to be present at another signal input port of the plurality of signal input ports due to the RF signal bleeding between the multiple signal input ports. During a setup configuration determination or routine, the switching apparatus steps through each RF signal input, extracts pertinent transmission network (such as a satellite transmission network) information, determines a relative signal strength indicator for the RF signal, and compares the obtained information.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2002Date of Patent: August 28, 2007Assignee: Thomson LicensingInventors: Brian David Bajgrowicz, John Joseph Curtis, III
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Patent number: 7242903Abstract: A digital audio receiver particularly beneficial to the sight-impaired and controlled by the broadcaster has means for separating and storing audio clips transmitted by the broadcaster to be reproduced either in response to user operations (e.g. “volume up”, “Radio 4 selected”) or in response to a subsequent broadcast signal identifying a clip to be played.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2004Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Adrian Martin Steel, Frank Tucker
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Patent number: 7231176Abstract: A real-time music information retrieval system and methods for providing desired music information via text message to radio or television stations listeners through wireless communication devices. Listeners could retrieve information for the song that is currently being played at the radio and television station, or the songs that have previously been played. A system and method is provided to automatically send an alert message the radio and television station listeners of upcoming music broadcasting events.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventor: Jeffrey Levy
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Patent number: 7224935Abstract: A method of showing approval or disapproval of an item overheard on an audio system. The method includes sending an item via radio waves to an audio system, listening to the item on the audio system and activating a button to indicate approval or disapproval of the item.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2000Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Andrew Albert Messina, Jack Harold King, Michael Chrysochoos, Philip Mark Bator, Richard Zerod, Taras O. Fedak
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Patent number: 7221903Abstract: In a terminal, a content reproduction section reproduces a video signal and an audio signal from a received transport stream. A telephony processing section performs processing necessary for voice communication. A status detection section detects a time point at which the status of voice communication changes. A control section writes the transport stream received by the content reproduction section in a content storage section when the status detection section detects start of voice communication, and reads and sends the transport stream stored in the content storage section to the content reproduction section according to a predetermined timing. The content reproduction section reproduces a video signal and an audio signal from the transport stream read by the control section.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2003Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Mami Kuramitsu
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Patent number: 7218611Abstract: A broadcast system BS includes a broadcast apparatus 1 and a reception apparatus 2. The broadcast apparatus 1 first receives and stores therein a proxy request PR including at least an identifier assigned to the reception apparatus 2 and a command to be transmitted to the reception apparatus 2. Moreover, the broadcast apparatus 1 extracts the set of the identifier of the reception apparatus 2 and the command for the reception apparatus 2 from the proxy request PR stored therein, and assembles a command packet from the set of the identifier and the command. Then, the broadcast apparatus 1 generates a stream in which the assembled command packet is multiplexed, and sends it out to a broadcast channel. The reception apparatus 2 separates the command packet from the stream sent out to the broadcast channel, and restores the set of the identifier and the command of the reception apparatus 2.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2002Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshihiro Mimura, Shigeaki Watanabe, Tadao Kusudo, Tomonori Nakamura
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Patent number: 7212783Abstract: A system and method for managing content between different client devices in various domains (such as vehicle, home, and person). The system and method include receiving an input from a user on the first client device to delay the content. After receiving the input, the first client device determines whether the first client device is connected to a wireless communication system. If the first client device is connected to the wireless communication system, the first client device sends a data message to a host system. In one embodiment, the host system will then obtain the content (in whole or in part) after receiving the data message to permit the user to resume playback of the content on the first client device or another client device.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2004Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventors: Michael T. Gaumond, Richard M. Clayton, Parvathy Bhaskaran
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Patent number: 7206591Abstract: The present invention is directed to indoor/outdoor wireless communication systems and methods. Communications between an indoor unit and outdoor unit do not require telemetry tones. The input DC voltage level from the indoor unit is reduced to a level below the normal operating range for the outdoor unit. This is recognized by the outdoor unit as a signal to start receiving telemetry data, which is sent from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit by modulating the transmit signal.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Xytrans, Inc.Inventors: Danny F. Ammar, Heung K. Tsang
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Patent number: 7200357Abstract: An automotive storage and playback device and method for using the same are described. The automotive storage and playback device is capable of being detachably coupled to an automobile. The device includes a wireless transceiver to receive compressed digital content automatically from a computer system via a wireless local area network based on user defined preferences input into the computer system. The wireless transceiver is communicably coupled to the wireless local area network when the wireless transceiver is a predetermined distance from a wireless local area network access point. The device also includes a decoder and converter to decompress and convert the digital content. The decompressed and converted digital content is sent to be played on an output device in the automobile.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2001Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Universal Electronics Inc.Inventors: Craig M. Janik, Nick Kalayjian, Bruce Edwards
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Patent number: 7177589Abstract: A satellite entertainment receiver system for receiving satellite broadcasts. The system includes a receiver for receiving the satellite broadcasts, a tuner for tuning the receiver to a satellite broadcast transmitted at a desired frequency, speakers for reproducing audio data within the satellite broadcast; a display screen for displaying information data within the satellite broadcast, the information data including identifying information related to the reproduced audio data; and a microprocessor connected to the tuner and satellite receiver, for processing and decoding the audio and information data within the received satellite broadcast, the microprocessor providing the audio data included within the satellite broadcast to the speaker and the decoded information data to the display screen.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2001Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventor: William H Lynch
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Patent number: 7177590Abstract: A method of and apparatus for implementing a radio retransmission bridge is disclosed. The method and apparatus includes devices and operations for creating a retransmission bridge software object with a base class application programming interface (API). The method and apparatus also includes devices and operations for creating waveforms with APIs inherited from the base class retransmission bridge API. The method and apparatus also includes devices and operations for identifying crossbanding waveforms being requested. Further, the method and apparatus include devices and operations for determining a location in a data stack in which to instantiate the retransmission bridge API, and instantiating the retransmission bridge API.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2002Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.Inventor: James A. Stevens
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Patent number: 7177592Abstract: A wireless communication system includes multiple wireless communication platforms carrying reflectors for providing spot beams. By using multiple platforms, the payload can be split. Each platform carries only a part of the reflectors needed to provide coverage for a certain geographic area. That allows the reflectors to be of larger size providing smaller spot beams. The multiple platforms of the wireless communication system are designed to be interchangeable. Therefore, only one standby platform is necessary for backup. By further providing an closed-loop pointing control method it is possible to keep multiple platforms pointed accurately relative to each other and relative to the user coverage area.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2003Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Keith Jarett
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Patent number: 7177638Abstract: An aircraft in-flight entertainment (IFE) system includes a headend unit, and a plurality of seat electronic boxes (SEBs) spaced throughout the aircraft. The headend unit includes a digital satellite radio receiver. A local area network (LAN) connects the digital satellite radio receiver for providing digital satellite radio signals to the SEBs. The IFE system further includes a plurality of passenger control units (PCUs) connected to the plurality of SEBs, with each PCU permitting passenger selection of the digital satellite radio signals.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Live TV, LLCInventors: Jason Funderburk, Scott D. Easterling, Robert M. Keen
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Patent number: 7174126Abstract: In a broadband communications system, e.g., a cable system, programming content can be readily reserved and accessed for viewing using an interactive program guide, a network home graphic user interface (GUI), Quick View Guide, etc., in accordance with the invention. Such programming content may include in-progress programs, future programs and previously broadcast programs which are recorded at a headend in the cable system, and which may or may not have overlapping broadcast times. In addition, the user may reserve programs at a set-top terminal, and may also do so remotely from the terminal through a communications network such as, the Internet, a public switched telephone network (PSTN), a wireless telephone network, etc.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2003Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Assignee: Time Warner Interactive Video Group Inc.Inventors: David McElhatten, Steven Johnson, Robert Benya, Robert B. Golden, James W. Kasanin
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Patent number: 7158753Abstract: This invention discloses a method and a system for communicating with a user including wirelessly broadcasting content which is accessible to a multiplicity of users and which includes at least some non-audio enabling a user to select a portion of the content responsive to a selection by the user, capturing at least part of the non-audio content, corresponding to the portion of the content selected by the user and employing at least part of the captured content to access a contact using a mobile communicator by initially establishing contact with a non product-specific communication facility and employing product-specific information contained in the non-audio content.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2001Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Nokia CorporationInventors: Michael L. Kagan, David Kamien, Ian Elkan Gamse, Charles Anthony Rose
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Patent number: 7158800Abstract: Content is distributed from a source to a sink only if the sink is within a predetemined distance from a source. In one embodiment, a control signal is sent over a limited range channel to the sink and the content is then sent only if the control signal is received properly by the sink. In another embodiment, the content is encrypted and the encryption key is sent over the limited range channel. The content is also sent to the sink, but the sink cannot decode the content unless it has a proper copy of the decoding key. The control signal can be sent over a wireless channel, an IR channel, or an AC line. The content is sent over the Internet, either using a standard wired channel or over a wireless channel.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.Inventors: Spencer Stephens, Alan Bell
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Patent number: 7149470Abstract: A direct broadcast system receiving a plurality of broadcast signals within a direct broadcast receiver having an outdoor unit (ODU) is provided. The ODU includes a first low noise block (LNB) and a second LNB. The first LNB has a housing and amplifies a first broadcast signal. The second LNB amplifies a second broadcast signal. The ODU is electrically coupled to an integrated receiver and decoder (IRD). The IRD transmits a selection signal to the ODU. The first LNB and the second LNB are electrically coupled to a plurality of selection switches within the housing. The plurality of selection switches switch between the first LNB and the second LNB in response to the selection signal. A method of receiving a plurality of broadcast signals within a direct broadcast receiver is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2002Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: The DirecTV Group, Inc.Inventors: Dipak M. Shah, James R. Butterworth
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Patent number: 7149471Abstract: Music data stored in a data card 101 is input into a portable cellular phone 110, and also a plurality of pieces of application software (131, 133) suitable for a music data format defined in connection with the music data is selected by a user and downloaded from a remote server 130. According to this configuration, the application software in association with the music data can be downloaded from the server in response to the user's selection.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2000Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Ryukou Arisawa, Hiroyuki Sasaki, Yuichi Fujii
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Patent number: 7146130Abstract: Method and apparatus for detection and selection of Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) service. A cellular network may provide an advertisement for a WLAN, such as in an overhead signaling message. The advertisement may identify the Access Point(s) by an Extended Service Set Identifier (ESSID). The remote station may then scan for the WLAN service automatically or manually.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2003Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: Qualcomm IncorporatedInventors: Raymond T. Hsu, Ragulan Sinnarajah
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Patent number: 7130633Abstract: The current invention provides a method and system for establishing communication to a mobile module. A plurality of call signals is initiated into the mobile module from a plurality of remote communication devices based on a timed sequence. Which of the plurality of call signals has established communication with the mobile module is determined. The call signals that have not established communication are terminated based on the determination. A computer usable medium with suitable computer program code is employed for establishing communication to a mobile module.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2003Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Hitan S. Kamdar, Russell A. Patenaude, Anthony J. Sumcad, Shpetim S. Veliu, Brad T. Reeser
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Patent number: 7130576Abstract: In a satellite receiving system, program channels are selected from one or more broadband signals and combined with other selected channels and transmitted from a first unit, for example an outdoor unit, to a second unit, for example a gateway, server, or set-top box, using a single cable. Channels can be selected by digitizing the broadband signal then digitally filtering to isolate the desired channels. The outputs of several LNBs can be selected and combined into one signal. Multiple set-top boxes can receive independent signals over a single cable from the outdoor unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2002Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Assignee: Entropic Communications, Inc.Inventors: Itzhak Gurantz, Ladd El Wardani, Michael Landry
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Patent number: 7113739Abstract: A digital broadcast receiver (mobile's receiver terminal) 1 for receiving a digital broadcast signal DS carrying many contents and also outputting the content based on thus received digital broadcast signal DS, including a content accumulation portion (database) 1c for accumulating received contents, a reception state detection portion for detecting whether the digital broadcast signal DS can be received normally, and a switch-over portion (reproduction/switch-over portion) 1b for switching from output of the content received to reproduction of the content accumulated in the content accumulation portion 1c if the reception state detection portion detects that the digital broadcast signal cannot be received normally.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2002Date of Patent: September 26, 2006Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Yukihiro Kawamata, Kimiya Yamaashi, Takaharu Ishida, Osamu Tomobe
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Patent number: 7113741Abstract: An optimized method for the transmission of multimedia contents between a multimedia content transmitter and a multimedia content receiver in a mobile radio network transmitting a multimedia content description vector from the transmitter to the receiver, calculating a pertinence score of the content from the description vector and as a function of a user profile associated with a user of the receiver, and recovering, at the explicit request of the receiver, a block or blocks of the content not received by the receiver, with a priority depending on the pertinence score associated with the content to which the missing block(s) belong(s).Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2003Date of Patent: September 26, 2006Assignee: AlcatelInventors: Nicolas Chuberre, Jean Farineau, Christophe Nussli
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Patent number: 7110720Abstract: In accordance with the invention, radio program content or other audio communications and music are transmitted as digital information through the Internet to an Internet radio receiver/transmitter device. The device converts received digital information to analog information and broadcasts the information in the radio frequency band at low power in a localized area for reception by ordinary FM or AM radios. The device is capable of receiving multiple streams of different digital information, and broadcasting each of these on separate radio frequencies, so that each person in a household may hear its own selected programming on its own preselected radio frequency. It is programmable as to at least broadcast commence time, frequency and end time, if desired. Moreover, it may store received information to play at a preprogrammed time, or on demand.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1999Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: Skyworks Solutions, INCInventor: P. Michael Henderson
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Patent number: 7103311Abstract: A broadband digital broadcast 1 network is described in which the cellular topology is dynamically configurable to maintain spectral efficiency. The reconfiguration of the topology occurs in response to changes in the demand for content. Thus, a single cell could be defined to cover an area in which the same content is being delivered to a substantial number of users. Conversely, a large number of cells could be defined to cover an area in which a substantial number of users are each having different content delivered to them.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2001Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Nokia CorporationInventors: Janne Aaltonen, Juha Salo, Rod Walsh, Kari Reponen, Stephen Wasko
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Patent number: 7099622Abstract: In a UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN), a method of switching from a current common channel to a dedicated channel for a UE. The method comprises estimating the round trip delay for data packets travelling between the UE and a peer node with which the UE is communicating. The product of the estimated round trip delay and the bandwidth of the common channel or the dedicated channel is determined and a threshold defined on the basis of that product. A switch from the common channel to a dedicated channel is initiated when the fill level of the RLC buffer(s) in the UTRAN for the UE reaches or exceeds said threshold.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2001Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ)Inventors: Michael Meyer, Joachim Sachs, Stefan Wager, Reijo Matinmikko, Toomas Wigell, Janne Peisa, Edwin Van Der Pol
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Patent number: 7088952Abstract: Program guide information of the program to be broadcast by the broadcast station 1 is reserved in the EPG server 15 of the center station 11. The EPG server 15 retrieves for each user, the program satisfying the conditions such as the category of the program registered in the personal information database 16, and then transmits the guide information of the retrieved programs to the portable telephone 14 of a user who has set the conditions, via the communication network 10. Thereby, even if the user is outside the home, if there is a program satisfying the conditions specified by the user, the user can obtain the information concerning the program by utilizing the portable telephone 14. Then, the user can instruct, with reference to the obtained program information, a recording operation from the portable telephone 14 to the VTR 6 in the home 12.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2000Date of Patent: August 8, 2006Assignees: NTT Advanced Technology Corporation, NTT DoCoMo, Inc.Inventors: Hiroji Saito, Tatsuji Nagaoka, Tomoko Matsuura, Mariko Wakaizumi
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Patent number: 7085529Abstract: The system and method described herein is used to determine the type of multi-switch connected to a direct-to-home satellite integrated receiver/decoder. The system looks for a predetermined marker pattern on the first port of a multi-switch using a first type of control signal (e.g., DiSEqC control signals) not knowing if this type of control signal will work, because the type of multi-switch is undetermined. If the marker is found on the first port, the system changes the control signal to address the third port of the multi-switch. If the marker is also acquired from the third port, and the second marker is the same as the first marker, then the multi-switch is ignoring the control signals and the process is repeated using a different pair of multi-switch ports (e.g., ports two and four) and/or a different type of control signal (e.g., tone control signals). However, if a different marker (or no marker) is found on the third port, then the multi-switch is responding to the control signals (e.g.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2001Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: The DirecTV Group, Inc.Inventors: Robert G. Arsenault, Robert J. Rothaus
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Patent number: 7079863Abstract: A digital broadcasting receiving apparatus has a fixed unit and a portable unit removably attached to the fixed unit. The fixed unit includes a tuner portion, a first memory, an audio decoder portion, an audio amplification/control portion and a first radio IF. The tuner portion receives digital broadcasting including encoded information. The first memory stores information included in the digital broadcasting. The audio decoder portion decodes audio information included in the digital broadcasting. The audio amplification/control portion outputs the audio information to a speaker. The first radio IF transmits information to the portable unit. The portable unit has a second radio IF, a second memory, a second CPU and a display/operation portion. The second radio IF receives information from the fixed unit. The second memory stores information. The second CPU decodes information. The display/operation portion displays the decoded information.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2002Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Fujitsu Ten LimitedInventor: Kouichi Chikaishi
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Patent number: 7076202Abstract: An electronic program guide for the radio (radio EPG) depicts radio programs available via the Internet or analog transmission. The radio EPG displays the programming available for a plurality of radio stations and time slots. The radio EPG is interactive in that a user may select a radio program for immediate playback or future recording. Radio programs are continuously received and cached by the Internet-enabled television system such that a user may be able to select and listen to an earlier-broadcast radio program listed in the radio EPG. The EPG is broadcast using a wireless technology so that mobile devices such as cellular phones, webpads, personal desktop assistants (PDA's), personal stereos, car stereos, and laptop computers with wireless network connections can receive and display the EPG.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2001Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Assignee: Digeo, Inc.Inventor: James A. Billmaier
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Patent number: 7062222Abstract: A method and system for users to select and participate in call-in broadcast programs are disclosed. A user speaks a station name into a mobile device, providing an indication that the request is for a broadcast channel, to tune the mobile device to that channel. The user initiates a request to contact a show by inputting an indication that the user would like to contact the show. The mobile device sends the request to a call server, which looks up the show's contact information based on the current channel being received by the mobile device, and forwards the request to a show representative. The show representative screens calls and provide automated responses. When the show's representative accepts a request to contact the show, the call server initiates a connection between the mobile device and a telephone or other device associated with the show. Once the connection has been established, the call server withdraws from the connection, allowing the user to communicate with the show representative.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2001Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: Nokia CorporationInventors: Peter Pal Boda, Petteri J. Saarinen
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Patent number: 7010263Abstract: A system and method for distributing music and data. The music or data is first transmitted to a consumer via a satellite radio network. The system includes a satellite radio receiver for the user which is capable of receiving the wireless transmission and providing an audio and/or visual output in response thereto. In addition, the receiver is adapted to receive an input (e.g., voice command) from the user by which the user is able to signal an interest in recording a selection of music or data being played and/or displayed. In response to this signal and a record-ability signal, an ID signal is stored on a removable media which identifies the selection being played and/or displayed. The ID signal may be a composite signal indicating the time and channel, a signal that identifies a selection by number, or other suitable ID signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1999Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Assignee: XM Satellite Radio, Inc.Inventor: Stellios J. Patsiokas
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Patent number: 6975836Abstract: A data broadcasting system of the present invention transmits contents used in a program and presentation control data specifying the manner of presentation of each content, in multiplex by assigning in arbitrary channels in each program. In this system, plural contents groups composed of at least one of real time reception type contents selectively received and reproduced in real time in the receiving terminal device, first store type contents reproduced after being stored as reception is started by selection, second store type contents read and reproduced when selected as being automatically received and stored, and parallel contents combining the real time reception type contents and the first or second storing type contents are provided a series of program.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2002Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Shigeru Tashiro, Osami Suzuki, Shuji Hirakawa, Tsutomu Kataoka
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Patent number: 6968154Abstract: The invention relates to the simultaneous operation of items of electrical apparatus, such as but not exclusively, a broadcast data receiver and a DECT telephone system. A problem with this type of apparatus is that the operating frequencies of the same can overlap and in turn cause interference in the operation of the respective items. The invention provides a method for identifying the overlap of the RF ranges of the apparatus, and having identified the same, adjusting the operating characteristics of one of the items to allow the interference to be avoided or minimized and the opportunity for the items of apparatus to be combined into one unit.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2002Date of Patent: November 22, 2005Assignee: Pace Micro Technology PlcInventors: Stephen Beales, Stuart Griffin
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Patent number: 6965770Abstract: A method and system for establishing a dynamic content delivery system (DCDS) is disclosed. In one embodiment, a Bluetooth enabled mobile communications unit is used to communicate with a server in order to make a request for the delivery of specific content, such as a song, video, or the like, to a separate output device, such as a loudspeaker, a display screen, or the like. In another embodiment the content is delivered back to the requesting mobile communications device. In some embodiments, hybrid networks may be used for requesting and delivering content. A narrowband, bi-directional, unicast network may be used for requesting content and acknowledging the requests, while a broadband, unidirectional, multicast network may be used to deliver the requested content to the requesting client device. The order in which the content is delivered may be modified by user requests according to a predetermined algorithm.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2001Date of Patent: November 15, 2005Assignee: Nokia CorporationInventors: Rod Walsh, Juha Häkkinen, Matti Hämäläinen, Mauri Väänänen, Ari Tähti, Kristiina Nevakivi