Method, computer-readable storage medium, reception apparatus, and information providing apparatus for indentifying available channels and/or services.

(54) Title: METHOD, COMPUTER READABLE STORAGE MEANS, RECEPTION APPARATUS, AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING INFORMATION TO IDENTIFY AVAILABLE CHANNELS AND / OR SERVICES.

(54) Title: METHOD, COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM, RECEPTION APPARATUS, AND INFORMATION PROVIDING APPARATUS FOR INDENTIFYING AVAILABLE CHANNELS AND / OR SERVICES.

(57) Summary

A method, computer-readable storage medium, receiving apparatus, and the information provided by an apparatus for generating a list of accessible channels. The method includes retrieving from a primary server of terrestrial broadcast channel information associated with a predetermined geographic region. The terrestrial broadcast channel information includes, for each broadcaster associated with the predetermined geographic region, one or a combination of a broadcast channel and a secondary server location associated with the respective broadcaster. The service information is retrieved, for each of at least one broadcaster associated with the predetermined geographic region, from a secondary server associated with the respective broadcaster based on the terrestrial broadcast channel information. The receiving apparatus determines, for each of at least one station associated with the predetermined geographic region, whether the broadcast channel associated with the respective broadcaster can be received by the receiving apparatus. The receiving apparatus generates the list of accessible channels based on the determination.

(57) Abstract

A method, computer-readable storage medium, reception apparatus, and information providing apparatus for generating a Iist of accessible channels. The method includes retrieving f rom a primary server terrestrial broadcast channel information associated with a predetermined geographical region. The terrestrial broadcast channel Information includes, for each broadcaster associated with the predetermined geographical region, one or a combination of a broadcast channel and a secondary server location associated with the respective broadcaster. Service information is retrieved, for each of at least one broadcaster associated with the predetermined geographical region, from a secondary server associated with the respective broadcaster based on the terrestrial broadcast channel Information. The reception apparatus determines, for each of the at least one broadcaster associated with the predetermined geographical region, whether the broadcast channel associated with the respective broadcaster is receivable by the reception apparatus. The reception apparatus general the list of accessible channels based on the determination.

<img file="MX347645B_D0001.tif" />

PATENT TITLE No. 347645

<td>Headlines):</td><td>SONY CORPORATION</td>

<td>Home:</td><td>1-7-1, Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-0075, JAPAN</td>

<td>Denomination:</td><td>METHOD, COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEANS, RECEPTION APPARATUS, AND APPARATUS TO PROVIDE INFORMATION TO IDENTIFY AVAILABLE CHANNELS AND / OR SERVICES.</td>

<td>Classification:</td><td>CIP: H04N5 / 445; H04N7 / 173; H04W4 / 02</td>

<td></td><td>CPC: H04N5 / 50; H04N21 / 4345; H04N21 / 4383; H04N21 / 4524; H04N21 / 4622; H04N21 / 6112; H04N21 / 41407; H04N21 / 44209</td>

<td>Inventor (s):</td><td>MARK EYER</td>

<td></td><td>REQUEST</td>

<td>Number</td><td>: ..... International filing date:</td>

<td colspan="2">MX / a / 2015/015077 February 21, 2014</td>

<td></td><td>...... PRIORITY</td>

<td>Country:</td><td>Date: Number:</td>

<td>US</td><td>June 3, 2013 61 / 830,500</td>

<td>US</td><td>July 3, 2013 13 / 934,615</td>

Validity: Twenty years

Expiration Date: February 21, 2034

Issue Date: May 8, 2017

The reference patent is granted based on the articles ^⁰, 2nd section V, 6 “section III, and 59 of the Industrial Property Law.

In accordance with article 23 of the Industrial Property Law, this patent is valid for twenty years, non-extendable from the date of presentation of the application and will be subject to the payment of the fee to keep the rights in force.

Whoever signs this title does only based on the provisions of articles 6^or Sections III and 7 'bs 2 of the' Industrial Property Law (Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) 06/27/1991, amended on 08/02/1994, 10/25/1996, 12/26/1997, 05/17/1999, 01/26/2004, 06/16/2005, 01/25/2006, 05/06/2009,06/01/2010,18/06/2010, 06/28/2010,27 / 01/2012 and 09/04/2012); articles 1 », 3^or fraction V part a), 4^or and 12th sections I and III of the Regulations of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (Dec 14, 1999, amended on 07/01/2002, 07/15/2004 07/28/2004 and 09/07 / 2007); items 1^or, 3^or, 4^or, 5^or fraction V subsection a), 46 sections I and III and 30 of the Organic Statute of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DOF 12/27/1999, amended on 10/10/2002, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007); 1 ', 3 “and 5 ° subsection a) of the Agreement that delegates powers to the Deputy General Directors, Coordinator, Divisional Directors, Heads of Regional Offices, Divisional Deputy Directors, Departmental Coordinators and other subordinates of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property. (DOF 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007) ,,,⁵

This document is signed with an advanced electronic signature (FIEL), based on articles 7 BIS 2 of the Industrial Property Law; 3 of its Regulations, and 1 section III, 2 section V, 26 BIS and 26 TER of the Agreement establishing the guidelines for the use of the Payment and Electronic Services Portal (PASE) of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property, in the procedures indicated.

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DIVISIONAL PATENT DIRECTOR NAHANNY CANAL REYES

Original string:

NAHANNY MARISOL CANAL REYES | 00001000000403252793 | Administration Service

Tax | 1695 || MX / 2017/38300 | MX / a / 2015/015077 | PCT patent title | 1220 | RRGO | Page (s) 1 | 56X7PVIfMk0x3VZoUK7 / mgvoydc =

Digital stamp:

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Arenal No 550. Ρκο 1, Pueblo Santa Mana Tepepan. Xochimilco. 16020, Mexico City: 55) 53340700 www.gob.rnx / impi

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METHOD, COMPUTER READABLE STORAGE MEDIA,

RECEPTION APPARATUS, AND APPARATUS TO PROVIDE INFORMATION

TO IDENTIFY AVAILABLE CHANNELS AND / OR SERVICES

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED REQUEST

This application claims the priority benefit of Provisional Application Serial No. 61 / 830,500, filed June 3, 2013, the full content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The modalities described in this document generally refer to a method, computer-readable storage medium, receiving apparatus, and information provided by an apparatus to facilitate the identification of available channels, services, programming information, etc. .

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A user setup feature that is typically required in traditional digital television receivers, and this feature involves a lengthy channel search process. During channel scanning, the receiver generally tunes to each broadcast frequency band, in sequence, to determine whether or not a digital signal is on that frequency.

For those frequencies

INSTITUTO MUICAN · M LA ΜΟΗΪΠΑΓ INDUSTRIAL that is found to have a broadcast signal, the receiver determines the services (for example, virtual channels) available within the digital multiplex that the modulated transmission signal is in.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments of the present disclosure are aimed at reducing the amount of time required to identify available channels and / or services. For example, certain embodiments are aimed at reducing the time required to perform the channel scan process of a digital television receiver. The embodiments of the present disclosure also improve receiver performance and adaptability to changes in the landscape of available reception services, and may allow a rover receiver to perform optimally as conditions change.

Although the present description is primarily described with respect to the scanning of television broadcast signals, the modalities may be applied to the identification of available channels and / or services provided through other delivery methods such as cable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete appreciation of the present application and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as it is better understood by reference to the

IMPI iNSTiTirr * MkiiUN € LA rtOP «> A & INWUTHUAL following detailed description when considered in connection with the attached drawings, where:

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary broadcasting system.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary receiving apparatus.

FIG. 3 is another block diagram of an exemplary receiving apparatus.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a method for generating a list of accessible channels.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of another method of generating a list of accessible channels.

FIG. 6 shows a table containing an instance of Broadcasting License Data File (DAC) broadcast.

FIG. 7A displays search results for items from a regional server.

FIG. 7B shows an exemplary detailed log from the regional server.

FIG. 7C shows an example of a service outline for a digital television (DTV) station in Washington state.

FIG. 8 shows exemplary minimum signal level requirements for certain channels to be tunable.

FIG. 9 is an example of service outlines for a plurality of broadcasters.

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FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary virtual channel table.

FIG. 11 shows an exemplary block diagram of a computer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While the present disclosure is capable of embodiments in many different ways, specific embodiments will be described in detail in the drawings and herein, with the understanding that the present disclosure of such embodiments is to be considered as an example of the principles. and it is not intended to limit the present description to the specific embodiments shown and described. In the following description, the same referenc e numerals are used to describe the same, similar or corresponding parts in the various views of the drawings.

The terms one or one, as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term plurality, as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term other, as used herein, is defined as at least one second or more. The terms including and / or having, as used herein, are defined as comprising (ie open language). The term coupled, as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The term program or ιΗΓΤΠνΤ · MLXKANO μ la nnjrwiml> INOUSTVAl computer programs or similar terms, as used herein, are defined as a sequence of instructions designed for execution on a computer system. A program, or computer program can include a subroutine, a program module, a script, a function, a procedure, an object method, an object implementation, an executable application, an applet, a servlet, a source code, an o bject code, a shared library / dynamically loaded library, and / or other sequence of instructions designed for execution on a computer system.

The term program, as used here, can also be used in a second context (the definition above being for first context). In the second context, the term is used in the sense of a television program. In this context, the term is used to mean any coherent sequence of audio / video content such as those that would be interpreted as and reported in an Electronic Program Guide (EPG) as a single television program, regardless of whether the content it is a movie, a sporting event, segment of a multi-part series, broadcast news, etc. The term can also be interpreted to encompass commercial spots and other program-like content that cannot be reported as a program on an EPG.

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Reference throughout this document to an embodiment, certain embodiments, a realization, an "implementat ion, an example, or similar terms means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment, is included in at least one embodiment. of this disclosure. Therefore, the occurrences of such phrases or in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all about the same modality. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments without limitation.

The term or as used herein is to be construed as inclusive or meaning any or any combination. Therefore, A, B or C means any of the following: A; B; C; A and B, A and C; B and C; A, B and C. An exception to this definition will only occur when a combination of elements, functions, measures or acts are in some way inherently exclusive.

There are certain aspects of the operation of the traditional terrestrial broadcasting system that are less than optimal. For example, the time required to perform a channel search, to determine the available channels, can be very long (eg several minutes). Accessing program guide information can be a time-consuming process as well, because the repetition rate for certain tables, especially those that describe further scheduled programming in the future, can be lengthy.

Also, an update to a channel map typically does not happen automatically. These updates are generally made only when a user requests the search for channels to be carried out. Thus, changes cannot be processed at the receiver in a timely manner. Also, every time the channel search is performed, the tuner must be used, therefore normal viewing or other use of the tuner, such as recording, can be impacted. Receivers not installed in a fixed location, such as those installed in vehicles or those that are portable, can also be challenging for designers because changing reception conditions and frequent and repeated channel scans can be uncomfortable and cumbersome for the operator. user.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to solve the problems noted above. For example, certain modalities described in this document reduce the time required to complete the task of acquiring a partial or complete description of the digital services available to a receiver.

In addition, certain modalities described here perform (background) automatic updates on the map of

<img file="MX347645B_D0005.tif" />

IMPI INSTITUTO MUICAN oe LA PWIUJAU fNDUmUAl channels / service without affecting the display or recording of functions on the receiver. In addition, certain modalities described here allow the receiver to obtain information from the program guide much faster, even so that programmed programs can be retransmitted in the future.

Moreover, different modulation modes can be used to transmit the carriers associated with a virtual channel. In the future, in a next generation broadcast transmission system (for example, as envisioned for the next generation broadcast system under development in the United States, called ATSC 3.0), certain new modulation parameters may be employed. . Certain embodiments of the present disclosure are provided to a receiver with one or more modulation parameters, which identify the modulation mode used, prior to tuning, to reduce the time required to access a channel.

Referring now to the drawings, Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an exemplary broadcasting system 2, including a plurality of content (or services) from providers 53A, 53B, a receiving apparatus 1 , a primary server 70, and a plurality of secondary servers 73a, 73B. The receiving apparatus 1 accesses the main server 70 and / or the plurality of secondary servers 73A, 73B through a network of

ΙΝ5ΤΓΠ / Τ · MLXICAN Γ »LA MílFIDAB imistiual communication, for example, the Internet 71.

In one embodiment, the main server 70 is managed, for example, by a governmental authority that manages the wireless spectrum of a particular region (for example, the Federal Communications Commission [FCC] in the United States). Such a server can also be referred to as a regional server in the present description. The main server 70 stores terrestrial broadcast channel information for one or more predetermined geographic regions (eg, all or part of a country's licensed terrestrial broadcast channels). The terrestrial broadcast channel information includes, for each broadcaster associated with a predetermined geographic region, one or a combination of a broadcast channel, the geographic area covered by a signal associated with the broadcast license, and a location (for eg URL) of a local server (BLS, eg secondary server 73A or 73B) broadcaster associated, or used by the respective broadcaster.

In one embodiment, a separate secondary server (eg, secondary servers 73A, 73B) is provided by, or otherwise associated with, each authorized broadcast station owner, and are known as BLSs. The URL of each of the BLSs is available within the metadata provided by the main server 70.

Please note that, for the purposes of this disclosure, a broadcaster could be considered to be the television service provider within a certain geographic service area, even if that entity does not operate a physical transmitter. The television services offered by the broadcaster could be provided by one or more Internet servers operated by that entity. The system described in this document associates that service provider with receivers within a certain geographic area. This can be useful for content licensing purposes, and to ensure that local advertising reaches only receivers in the local area served by that operator. Such a mode could be used, for example in conjunction with the authentication described below in which case the location of a receiver can be verified and certain content can be enabled for reception.

In embodiments, the main server 70 provides one or more files containing the Broadcast License Data (BLD) records. BLD records are an example of terrestrial broadcast channel information. Each registration corresponds to a broadcasting license. The broadcasting license corresponds to a physical transmission frequency in a certain area

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INSTITUTO MkXICAM F LA FROMItAt INBUSTtlA geographic. Each BLD record includes, but is not limited to, the broadcaster's call letters, the broadcaster's transmitter physical transmission frequency, and a location (for example, URL) of an associated secondary server (for example, 73rd secondary server or 73B). The secondary server can also be referred to as a BLS in the present description. Such secondary servers are servers managed by or otherwise associated with terrestrial broadcasters.

It is noted that in the case of advanced physical transmission systems, some additional parameters can be included in addition to the frequency. Such additional parameters can be added as needed to assist the receiving apparatus 1 to quickly access the transmit multiplex. Exemplary parameters include identification of an error-correcting coding layer, the modulation modes (eg, DVB-T2), which portions of the broadcast stream correspond to the services, etc.

FIG. 6 shows exemplary contents of a license broadcast data file (DAC) for zip code 98072, in the State of Washington, in accordance with certain modalities of this description. As illustrated in Fig. 6, the BLD file includes the call letters, RF channel, and a URL of the secondary server for each radio station included in the BLD file, which in this case are the stations that transmit content and / or services that can be charged by receivers located somewhere within the 98072 zip code area. In another embodiment, the BLD file includes the RF channel and / or a secondary server URL for each broadcaster, but does not include the call letters.

In certain embodiments, a BLD record may further include the service area of ​​the broadcast broadcast signal. When the service area of ​​the broadcaster's transmission signal is included, the service area can be represented in a variety of ways, for example, as a list of coordinates representing points on a closed curve, where the curve delimits the boundary. service area, or a list of postal codes or postal codes corresponding to the areas that are wholly or partially contained within the service area. The service area can be represented as the union of one or more geographic areas, each of which could be a circle or polygon. The service area can be represented as a list of county codes corresponding to the areas that are completely or partially contained within the service area. The service area can be represented as a list of city codes corresponding to the areas that are completely or partially contained within the

IMPI iNsrmrre muicano DL LA RRDMIDA »INDUSTRIAL service area.

<img file="MX347645B_D0006.tif" />

Service can also be represented by any combination of the above-mentioned representations.

Depending on the type of terrestrial broadcasting channel information available to the receiving set 1, the receiving set 1 may have to use its location information or service area information to determine which broadcast channels are estimated to be collectible or admissible. 1 receiver device. Alternatively, the receiving set 1 presents its location information with the primary server 70, which determines that broadcast channels are estimated to be receivable or allowable by the receiving set 1.

BLD records can be organized in a number of different ways. For example, BLD records for the entire country are provided within one file and each record includes a service area. Alternatively, BLD files are organized by states / regions and each record includes a service area. In this case, the receiving apparatus 1, knowing the code for the state / region in which the receiving apparatus 1 resides, downloads the BLD file associated with that state / region. The data within each file can include data associated with the radio stations of neighboring states, as well, because a receiver device 1 near the state border can access broadcast signals at

<img file="MX347645B_D0007.tif" />

across the status line.

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In another example, as mentioned, BLD records are organized by zip code. Each file contains all or part of the broadcasters whose signals can potentially be received by receivers located within a particular zip code. For example, each file includes BLD records for broadcasters whose service area intersects all or part of that file's code or zip code. Therefore, a receiver knowing that they are located in a particular area or zip code can expect to receive all or a portion of the broadcast signals listed, and not others. BLD records can also be organized by state and county code in a similar way. In the case of postal codes, a broadcaster may be required to report that the postal codes receive their broadcasts. Alternatively, this determination can be made by the managing authority.

In another example, BLD records are organized by latitude / longitude coordinates. In this case, the approximate latitude and longitude of a location of the receiving apparatus 1 is determined. Such determination can be carried out by translation of the residence address or by means of a Global Positioning System (GPS) function available to the receiver. Also, a location

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ΙΝΤΓΤΤυΤ · MWICAN · Μ THE approximate or exact inwithual of the receiver can be determined using the Internet Protocol address (IP address) of the receiving device 1, together with the information provided by the Internet Service Provider (ISP).

An exemplary detailed BLD record available from the FCC is illustrated in Figure 7B.

As illustrated in Figure 7B, the record includes a call sign (ie, KCTS-TV) and an RF channel. However, the registry does not include a secondary server URL. Therefore, in one embodiment, the BLD record is modified to also include secondary server location information. In another mode, the primary and second servers are combined in such a way that the location information of the secondary server is not needed. The BLD record is illustrated in FIG. 7B is discussed later. The BLD record can also be modified to include any other broadcast channel or terrestrial information service that is not currently included in the BLD record.

The secondary servers, 73a, 73B are servers managed by the content provider 53A, 53B, respectively. The secondary servers 73a, 73B are configured to provide service information for the receiving apparatus 1. In one embodiment, the service information is service data description (SDD), for

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For example, the SDD associated with a particular broadcaster includes one or a combination of a broadcast frequency; a description of one or more modulation modes employed by the broadcaster within the transmission reference (eg, the PHY layer data); metadata describing the transmission multiplex, including transport-related parameters, such as transmission signal identifier; a description of the service offerings available in the broadcasting multiplex (eg, analogous to VCT, the System Information Protocol and Program [PSIP] is specified in ATSC A / 65); data from the program guide; description of the Internet-related services offered by the broadcaster, such as non-real time (NRT) and streaming services; URL for each program in the broadcaster's schedule (eg, for each channel, when multiple channels are provided in the broadcast multiplex), where each URL can point to a location of interactive content as sociated with the given program; and a pointer to a website where the viewer is able to sign up for a service, such as pay-per-view subscription or subscription-based service and content offers. ATSC Standard A / 65 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

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In certain embodiments, the DDS includes some or all of the broadcast channel metadata. For example, the SDD includes one or a combination of a broadcast channel, one or more modulation modes, metadata describing a broadcast multiplex performed on the broadcast channel, a description of one or more services available within the multiplex of streaming, and program guide data associated with a respective content provider.

In one embodiment, the service files have the same content as the data provided in the broadcast signal, but can be provided over the Internet in the form of XML files (for example, PSIP data represented in XML format), compressed XML , or the like. Other formats are possible including binary formats. Note that an XML representation of the PSIP data is defined in the standard metadata programming communication protocol defined in the ATSC A / 76 standard, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Each of the content providers 53A, 53B includes a transmitting apparatus with a transmitter that is configured to transmit one or more content items and / or services to the receiving apparatus 1. In other embodiments, the transmission apparatus can be shared by a plurality of different content providers.

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In certain embodiments, each content or service is associated with a virtual channel, and is received by the receiving apparatus 1 through a first communication interface (eg, a digital television tuner). The receiving apparatus 1 is configured to receive the content and / or services from the content provider 53a, 53B through, for example, a terrestrial broadcaster.

The content provider 53a, 53B, in other embodiments, provide the content through at least one of a satellite broadcast, a cable television transmission, a terrestrial television broadcast, cellular network, and the communication network data, for example, a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), or the Internet 71. The connection to the local area network (LAN), the wide area network (WAN), or the Internet 71 can be wired or wireless.

The content provided by each of the content providers 53A, 53B includes, for example, one or more television programs, regardless of whether the content is a movie, a sporting event, segment of a multi-chapter series, broadcast news , etc. Furthermore, the content provided by each of the content provider 53A, 53B may also include advertisements, infomercials, and other program-content such as that which cannot be reported as a program in an electronic program guide (EPG). Services may include, but are not

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The receiver apparatus 1 uses a virtual channel table (VCT) to tune the content and / or service provided by each of the content providers 53A, 53B. An exemplary VCT is illustrated in Fig. 10.

In telecommunications, a virtual channel is a channel designation that may differ from the current physical transmission channel or the frequency at which a transport stream (TS) is modulated. The term is often applied in the television environment, where multiple Digital Television (DTV) channels can be present on the same physical 6 MHz channel. For example, a branded station like Channel 8 could actually use RF channel 32 for its transmitted signal, which a VCT allows viewers to tune in to the station to channel 8 on a digital television.

The virtual channel entry in the VCT therefore allows viewers to select the station by choosing the same channel number, even in cases where the physical transmission frequency of the broadcaster may be changed for some reason (such as when replay occurs). packing

<img file="MX347645B_D0008.tif" />

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RMSTmrr · muicanc • E THE PtOmiJíAD inwthual spectrum). The VCT accomplishes this by using defined parameters to link a channel number to content received from a terrestrial broadcast, cable television broadcast, satellite broadcast, etc. These defined parameters can include the highest number of channels, minor channel number, short name, type of service, one or more descriptors, etc.

In one embodiment, the VCT is in accordance with the VCT Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) defined by the ATSC A / 65 Program and System Information Protocol (PSIP). An exemplary VCT is described in US Patent Application No. 13 / 562,946, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

It should be noted that a broadcast channel associated with the virtual channel can include metadata such as channel descriptions and program guide data. In some embodiments, the channel is associated with data from the electronic program guide delivered by the A / 65 Information Event Table (IET), an Extended Table Text (ETT), or other means. In one embodiment, the metadata for a broadcast channel includes PSIP data included in a TS to be transmitted via terrestrial broadcast. The data includes one or a combination of (1) a Virtual Terrestrial Channel Table (TVCT) defining, for example, MPEG-2

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(2) a Master Directory Table (MGT) that defines the type, packet identifiers and versions for all other PSIP tables of the TS, except for the System Table (STT);

(3) a Region Evaluation Table (RRT) that define the parental television guide (information classification) reference system by no counseling content descriptor performed within the TS; and (4) a System Time Table (STT), defining a current date and time of day.

As described above, one or any combination of the above metadata can be included in the service information. In a further embodiment, one or any combination of the above metadata may, alternatively or additionally, be included in the terrestrial broadcast channel information.

The Internet 71 is accessed by the receiving apparatus 1 to connect to at least one of the primary server 70, secondary server 73a, and secondary access server 73B, for example, channel and / or service information.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary receiver apparatus 1. The receiver apparatus 1 is a home video processor, such as a personal computer or television receiver, or an information processor, such as a personal digital assistant (PDA), telephones smart, tablet,

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FROM THE FROMWAB ¿WÑA. , INDUSTRIAL —Desktop or portable music player, or home or portable game machine. Furthermore, the receiving apparatus 1 may be a stand-alone device or incorporated, for example, in a television set or other consumer electronics device. For example, in one embodiment, the receiving apparatus 1 is a digital television receiver device that can be incorporated into a television set or a set-top box.

The receiving apparatus 1 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 10, a memory 30, an audio interface 20, a display interface 40, a remote control receiver 60, a tuning interface 50 (for example, a first communication interface), and an interface network 70 (eg, a second communication interface).

The data is communicated via one or more buses 11. The audio and / or video streams that have been decoded by the tuner interface 50 are recovered. The decoded audio stream is sent to the audio interface 20 and the decoded video stream is sent to the display interface 40. The CPU 10 also receives data, and sends the data to the Internet 71 through the network interface 70. In addition, the CPU 10 executes commands received by the remote control receiver 60. These commands can be in the form of direct channel input via the remote control unit keypad or the control unit 61 inputs.

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ΙΗΤΤΓΠΓΓΟ MW »ICAN £ remote using a channel guide on the screen.

The memory 30 stores the data used by the receiving apparatus 1. The memory 30 within the receiving apparatus 1 can be implemented using a disk storage form, as well as other storage forms, such as non-transient storage devices including, for example network memory devices, magnetic storage elements, elements magneto-optical storage devices, flash memory, core memory and / or other permanent storage technologies. It should be noted that the use of the term non-transient is a limitation on the medium itself (i.e. tangible, not a signal) as opposed to a limitation on the persistence of data storage (i.e. RAM vs. ROM. ).

Memory 30 may provide NRT or Internet content delivered as Internet Protocol Television (IPTV). The memory 31 stores a navigation scheme that offers, for example, the channel on screen guide or an Electronic Program Guide (EPG), which allows the user to select the desired content accessible through one or more communication interfaces to the content sources, such as television broadcasting and the internet.

A VCT provides a channel map for CPU 10 to determine the content received by tuner interface 50 corresponds to a user selected channel.

<img file="MX347645B_D0009.tif" />

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Bi THE virtual nOPIfDAa 'NDUSTUAI entered through the remote control unit 61 or the navigation system 31.

Tuner interface 50 receives content and / or a service provided through any suitable supply source such as terrestrial broadcasting, cable transmission, satellite broadcasting, or the Internet. The content and / or service is provided by one or more content providers. In one embodiment, the content and / or service that is contained in a TS that includes one or more of data channels, APV data, etc.

A VCT provides a channel map for the CPU 10 to determine the content received by the tuner interface 50 corresponding to the selection of a virtual channel by a user who entered through the remote control unit 61 or the navigation system 31 .

Tuner interface 50 receives content and / or service provided through any suitable supply source such as terrestrial broadcast, cable broadcast, satellite broadcast, or the Internet. The content and / or service is provided by one or more content providers. In one embodiment, the content and / or service that is contained in a TS that includes one or more information channels, APV information, etc. The TS is received at the interface of tuner 50 and demultiplexed in demultiplexer 51 into audio, video and / or audio streams.

<img file="MX347645B_D0010.tif" />

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data. The audio and / or video streams are decoded in decoder 52 within the interface of tuner 50.

The data streams of the content provider 53 contain information such as the APV data corresponding to the channels provided by the content provider 53 of. This data provided by the content provider 53 is placed on the VCT 32 within the memory of the receiver apparatus 30 via the CPU 10. In certain embodiments, the VCT data is acquired from one or more secondary servers instead of the TS.

Receiving apparatus 1 generally operates under the control of a processor such as CPU 10 which may be interfaced with any one or a combination of memory 30, audio interface 20, display interface 40, and control receiver 60. remote via one or more buses 11. When the TS is demultiplexed in the demultiplexer 51, the audio and video data are sent to the decoder for decoding and sent to the audio interface 20 and the display interface 40, respectively. In addition to the audio and video data, the demultiplexer also receives APV data updated by the content provider 53 to the VCT 32 in memory 30. In certain embodiments, the VCT data is updated using the one or more secondary servers instead. of the TS.

In one embodiment the data in the VCT 32 is used

IMPI ^

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

M la nomnAn INDUSTRIAL -then to update the navigation scheme 31 available to the user with the respective content available from the TSs provided by the content provider 53. In addition to the content available from the content provider 53, the user can also access the Internet 71 through a network interface 70 with the Internet content being generated and displayed through a browser 34 or other corresponding application or player located in memory 30.

When the user enters a channel number with the remote control 61 or selects a channel number through the navigation scheme 31, as presented on screen 41, the CPU 10 will receive the desired virtual channel number and access VCT 32 to determine if there is a corresponding entry. If a match is found, then the CPU 10 will instruct the tuner interface to tune to the selected physical transmission channel and present the content associated with the channel through the display interface 40 and the audio interface 20, which are connected to screen 41 and a speaker 21, respectively.

FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment of the hardware components of the receiver apparatus 1. The receiving apparatus 1 includes a tuner / demodulator 202, which receives content and / or a service from one or more content sources, such

<img file="MX347645B_D0011.tif" />

IMPI Mexican institute

Dt THE INDUSTRIAL nOHEBAD as a terrestrial broadcast or a cable television transmission. The receiving apparatus 1 may also, or alternatively, receive the content of a satellite broadcast.

The tuner / demodulator 202 receives a TS, which is demultiplexed by the demultiplexer 206 into audio and video (A / V) data stream. Audio is decoded by an audio decoder 210 and video is decoded by a video decoder 214. Additionally, uncompressed A / V data can be received via an uncompressed A / V interface (eg HDMI interface) which can be used selectively.

In one embodiment, the TS includes auxiliary information such as one or more of the title data, PSIP data, various tables, etc. However, in other embodiments, the A / V content and / or a subset or all of the auxiliary information may be received via the Internet 30 and a network interface 226.

A storage memory 230 is provided to store NRT or Internet content delivered as Internet Protocol Television (IPTV). Stored content can be reproduced by demultiplexer 230 and content stored in storage memory by demultiplexer 206 in a manner similar to other content sources.

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INSTTTUTe M £ XJCA> * rw LA PtOfítDA> industry!

Receiving apparatus 1 generally operates under the control of at least one processor, such as CPU 238, which is coupled to work memory 240, program memory 242, and graphics subsystem 244 via one or more buses (for example, bus 250). CPU 238 receives caption data from demultiplexer 206, as well as any other information, such as EPGs used for graphics rendering, and passes the information to graphics subsystem 244. The graphics output by the graphics subsystem 244 are combined with video images by the composer and the video interface (composer) 260 to produce an output suitable for display on a video screen.

In addition, the CPU 238 operates to carry out the functions of the receiver apparatus 20 including the processing of the information of the terrestrial broadcasting channel, service information, determining the broadcasting channels that are estimated to be receivable, the identification of channels and / or available services, generating a list of available channels and / or services , processes for generating the VCT or other channel data, and / or browser operations. Browser operations, in one mode, include accessing the primary server 70 and / or secondary servers 73a, 73B to acquire channels and / or service information to facilitate the identification of channels and / or services mrrrruT mmcam m la ranntDA INDUSTRIAL

IMPI available. Processing of the broadcast channel and terrestrial service information may include the extraction of the predetermined parameters of interest.

Although certain embodiments of the present description are described using a VCT as an example of a list of available channels and / or ser vices, it should be noted that the present description is not so limited. Other modalities include, for example, generating a more simplified list of available candidates or channels and / or services or other channel maps or data structures. An example of another data structure describing a list of available services is the Map Service Table (SMT) defined in ATSC A / 153 Part 3, Section 7.3 ATSC A / 153 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In the television standards under development, complex service offers beyond simple audio / video (linear television service) are envisaged. These more complex offerings may combine audio / video / information broadcast sources with components of services provided by broadband routes (eg Internet). The characteristics of these more complex services can be delivered in the SDD, in a suitable structure that can be considered to be an extension of the current A / 65 VCT.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart of an exemplary method for generating a list of accessible channels (e.g.

<img file="MX347645B_D0012.tif" />

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INSTITUTO MÜXICAMj OS LA PkL »IUJAL iNownui example, a VCT) in the receiving apparatus 1. In step

3402, the receiving apparatus 1 begins the list generation process, the list generation process is started, for example, during an initial installation of the receiving apparatus 1 or in response to a request from a user of the receiving apparatus 1 to search for accessible channels. In the case of a rover receiver, the list generation process can be initiated based on changes in the receiver's location or the loss of a currently tuned signal.

Furthermore, in step S402, the receiving apparatus 1 optionally performs one or more initialization processes. For example, the receiving apparatus 1 checks whether or not a geographical location of the receiving apparatus 1 has changed. The receiving apparatuses 1 carry out this check, for example, if the GPS Coordinates control is available. In one embodiment, when the broadcast signals of one or more listed channels that had previously been acquired can no longer be acquired, the receiving apparatus determines that the geographical location of the receiving apparatus has changed.

Furthermore, the receiving apparatus 1 can check the list of channels stored in a memory of the receiving apparatus. For example, the receiver apparatus 1 determines whether a previously generated VCT is available in which the generation process can take into account the pre-existing list. The internet / network connection of the device

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INSTITUTO MLUCAN «• E LA non« Al · fNBUSTBEAL ___ receiver will also be

<img file="MX347645B_D0013.tif" />

evaluated by 1 receiver apparatus.

In step S404, the receiving apparatus 1 optionally determines a geographical location of the receiving apparatus 1. As described above, said determination can be made by translating a residential address or by a GPS function available to the receiving apparatus 1. Furthermore, an approximate or exact location of the receiver can be determined using the IP address of the receiving apparatus 1, together with the information provided by the ISP. In one embodiment, the receiving apparatus 1 selects the appropriate geographic region from a displayed list. In another embodiment, the location is entered manually by the user of the receiving apparatus 1 (eg, an address, zip code, etc.). It is noted that similar methods for locating an electronic device can be used as the scope of the current description is independent of how the location of the receiving apparatus is determined.

In step S406, the receiving apparatus 1 retrieves the terrestrial broadcast channel information (eg, one or more BLD records) from the main server 70. The receiving apparatus retrieves a location (eg, the URL) of a regional server (eg, primary server 70) from a memory of the receiving apparatus 1.

In one embodiment, the receiving apparatus 1 accesses the main server 70 depending on the country in which the receiving apparatus is operating. Country information can be determined or entered automatically by the user.

As described above, the location (eg URL) of the regional server for each region can be provided in advance. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the URL of the regional server (eg, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, etc.) may be built or pre-programmed into the memory of the receivers during the manufacturing process. Alternatively, the user can enter the URL for the regional server manually. Alternatively, the regional server location can be obtained from the manufacturer's server.

The receiving apparatus 1 uses the URL address to access the main server 70 and retrieve the terrestrial broadcast channel information associated with a predetermined geographic region. The predetermined geographical region may correspond to a country or it may be determined based on the geographical location of the receiving apparatus 1. In one embodiment, the receiving apparatus 1 obtains the terrestrial broadcast channel information associated with a predetermined geographic region (eg, a country) and locally

IMPI ΐΝΓτπντο Muucano

M LA PKOHBUAP INDUSTRIAL filters the obtained predetermined geographic region based on the geographic location of the receiving apparatus 1. In other embodiments, the filtering is carried out by the main server 70.

Examples include geographic region, but are not limited to, a continent, a country, a state, a city, an address or postal code, or any similar geographic area. Such information may include, for example, information regarding broadcasters operating in geographic regions such as one or a combination of call sign, broadcast frequency, virtual channel information, and the location of the broadcast server, as shown. described above.

The receiver apparatus 1 then downloads a complete database file, or accesses a pre-filtered file based on, for example, zip code, state code, county code, or similar information. As described above, the receiving apparatus 1 may have a user setup menu in which zip code and / or state information is entered. When downloading a filtered file, the receiving apparatus 1 optionally uses the geographical location of the receiving apparatus 1 determines in step S404.

In step S408, the receiving apparatus 1 identifies at least one broadcaster with a broadcast channel that is

<img file="MX347645B_D0014.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTO MWCANC Dt LA montDAC INDUSTRIAL estimates that within the scope of the apparatus 1 receiver of. For example, the receiving apparatus 1 processes the data in the file downloaded in step S406 to determine which broadcasters are potentially operating within their receiving range and which of the broadcasters are too far away (i.e., no reception possibility ) and thus can be ignored.

In another embodiment, the processing of the downloaded file is skipped and the at least one broadcaster includes all broadcasters in the terrestrial broadcast channel information.

In step S410, the receiving apparatus 1 retrieves, for each of at least one broadcaster, the service information (eg, SDD) from a secondary server associated with the respective broadcaster. For example, the receiving apparatus 1 uses the URL associated with a BLS to download the SDD associated with that broadcaster. In another embodiment, the receiver apparatus 1 downloads the service information from the main server 70 or from any other predetermined location.

In step S412, the receiving apparatus 1 determines, for each of at least one broadcaster, whether the broadcast channel associated with the respective broadcaster can be received by the receiving apparatus 1. For example, using the SDD, the receiving apparatus 1 identifies the

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IMPI WITUT · MIXICANF nt la fwiipac ,,,. . , 'N »USTHAI physical transmission frequency and modulated parameter (if any), and then tunes (and attempts to acquire the broadcast signal on) the designated broadcast channel.

For example, for each broadcast channel, the receiving apparatus 1 determines whether a characteristic of the terrestrial broadcast signal carried on the respective broadcast channel is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold. Exemplary characteristics include success or failure to block the digital carrier, signal level (eg, as illustrated in Fig. 8), signal-to-noise ratio, data error rate, and so on.

In step S414, the receiver apparatus 1 generates an accessible channel list that includes the determined broadcast channels that will be charged by the receiver apparatus 1. For example, if the acquisition of a broadcast signal is successful, the broadcast channel contained in the SDD is added to the list of accessible channels and the services listed in the SDD are added to the list (for example, on a VCD . If the acquisition fails, the SDD can be saved, but the channels and other data are not presented to the user. Any channel information included in the SDD broadcaster, or extracted from the broadcast channel, can also be added to the list of accessible channels. For example, data not available in the DDS is taken from the broadcast channel.

Note that the process of determining whether or not a viable signal is present on a given carrier frequency can be done relatively quickly. Because the information service, including potentially very detailed program guide information, has already been foreseen in the SDD, the digitization process can proceed without waiting for the same information to be provided in the broadcast, thus optimizing the process. Of configuration. While the same SDD information may be available in the broadcast broadcast, due to the bandwidth allocated to it and the repetition rate of the tables, a receiver may need to wait a significant amount of time to retrieve all of this.

In step S416, the process is completed. In one embodiment, steps S412, S414 are carried out separately for each broadcaster (or broadcast channel). In this case, steps S412, S414, and optionally S410, are carried out according to each broadcaster and repeated until all broadcast channels have been visited. In another embodiment, one or more of steps S410, S412, S414 is performed for all broadcasters before proceeding to a subsequent step. In another embodiment, these steps can be performed in parallel: access to the secondary servers (that is, the SDD servers) can be done at the same time the set-up of potential services is handled.

In certain embodiments, the receiving apparatus 1 omits

<img file="MX347645B_D0016.tif" />

IMPL iwrnruT · μ the kombdaf step S410. In this case, the receiving apparatus 1 performs the determination in step S412 based on the broadcast channel information (eg, the RE channel) identified in the service information. For example, the receiving set 1 skips step S410 for one or more broadcasters when the receiving set 1 does not have access to the Internet 71, a secondary server is not otherwise accessed by the receiving set 1, or the location of the information of the secondary server is not included in the terrestrial broadcast channel information.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart of another method of generating a list of accessible channels (eg, a VCT). In step S502, the receiving apparatus 1 starts the list generation process in a similar manner to step S402. Steps S504, S506 are analogous to Steps S404, S406. In step S508, the receiving apparatus 1 determines a set of terrestrial broadcasting channels that are within a receiving range of the receiving apparatus 1. For example, the receiving apparatus making the determination in a similar manner to step S408. Alternatively, the receiving apparatus 1 determines that all terrestrial broadcast channels included in the terrestrial broadcast channel information are initially within range.

In step S510, the receiving apparatus 1 generates the VCT

IMPI

ΓΜΤΠΤΓΠί MUlCANg H LA monwAi INDUSTRIAL based on the set of terrestrial broadcasting channels.

For example, the receiving apparatus generates the VCT by sequential tuning for each of the broadcast channels in the set to determine whether a digital television signal can be acquired. Alternatively, receiver apparatus 1 initially includes all broadcast channels in the VCT set and performs testing, and removal if necessary, at the time the channel is first tuned by a user.

In one embodiment, the VCT is generated in accordance with the ATSC A / 65 standard and populated with the data obtained when each broadcast channel is tuned to determine if a broadcast signal is receivable. In other embodiments, a part or all of the VCT is generated from data acquired from at least one of the primary and secondary servers.

In step S512, the receiver set 1 uses the generated VCT to tune the receiver set 1 without having to search or scan the frequencies for the different channels. In other embodiments, the broadcast channels listed on the VCT are tuned to acquire any information that may be missing from the VCT. In step S514, the process is completed.

As described above, in certain embodiments, the terrestrial broadcast channel information is

IMPI

INSTITUTO MUIGANw M LA FW ^ FISDAÍ INDUSTRIAL retrieves from a primary 70 server. For example, terrestrial broadcast channel information is retrieved from a database of licensed FCC broadcasting stations in the United States. This database is currently accessible on the International Internet Network (World Wide Web) at the following URL: fcc.gov/encyclopedia/tv-query-broadcast-station-search.

The FCC search page allows searches to be carried out based on various parameters, such as status, call sign, application file number, city, channel range, types of services (for example, the digital television, land mobile, etc.), and the types of registration (eg, station licenses, pending applications, and building permits). The receiving apparatus 1 is configured to query the FCC search page using one or more appropriate parameters to retrieve the information from the terrestrial broadcasting channel and to identify the relevant information by keywords, for example, or recognition of the structure of data from the search results.

FIG. 7A displays copy search results for digital television stations in Washington state. That example can be retrieved from the World Wide Web at the following URL:

Transition.ff.gov/fcc

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bin / tvq? state = WA &amp; call = &amp; arn = &amp; city = &amp; chan = &amp; chan2 = 69 &amp; serv = DT &amp; type =

0 &amp; facid = &amp; list = 2 &amp; dist = &amp; dlat = &amp; mlat = &amp; slat = &amp; dlon2 = &amp; mlon2 = &amp; slon2 = &amp; s ize = 9.

The database shows, for example, the transmitter's location (latitude / longitude), the height above mean ground level (HAAT), and the transmitted power. An exemplary detailed KCTS-TV log is illustrated in FIG. 7B. The detailed log links to additional information. For example, the detailed log contains a link to a Google map service outline, which results in displaying the information illustrated in Fig. 7C. This map was generated by clicking Maps: Outline Service on Google Map (36 dBu) in the KCTS-TV associated data log, Seattle WA. Any of these data can be used by the receiver apparatus 1 to determine the channels that are expected to be estimated or receivable by the receiver apparatus 1.

The outlines of the service are described in more detail on the World Wide Web at the following URL: Service transition.fcc.gov/Bureaus/MB/Databases/tvservicecontourdata/r eadme.html, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. For example, as described on this web page, television service outlines generally do not define the outer limit of service. A television station can still be received in

IMPI

INDUSTRIAL times also outside) the outlines of services listed in these files. Therefore, in certain embodiments, the receiving apparatus 1 uses this information, and can increase the radius by a predetermined or adaptable amount, when generating the list of accessible channels.

As described above, Fig. 8 illustrates exemplary signal levels necessary for reliable DTV reception (eg, according to ATSC A / 53, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). As illustrated in Fig. 8, the required signal level is frequency dependent. In the example, illustrated in Figure 7C, the channel was in the range 7-13 so 36 dBu was used as the limit. However, other signal level limits may be used and may vary depending on the type of transmission scheme used to transmit the DTV signal.

FIG. 9 illustrates exemplary service outlines for four Brl-Br4 broadcasters. A receiver apparatus 1 located in zone B, as shown in Fig. 9, is within the reception range for Brl-Br3 but is not in the reception range of Br4. Similarly, a receiver apparatus 1 located in zone C is within the reception range of Br2-Br3 but is not within the reception range for Brl and Br4. In this case, when a user enters the state of Nevada (NV) as_(ζ Mexican NSTmrro location of the receiving set 1, or in detecting the state of Nevada as a physical location, of the receiving set 1, the receiving set 1 accesses the primary server 70 and obtains the information about the channels whose signals can be accessible to the receivers located in Nevada.

Br2 and Br3 are being broadcast in the state of Nevada. Although Br4 and Brl are not physically located in the state of Nevada, they do cover some areas of Nevada (NV). Therefore, in certain embodiments, the terrestrial broadcast channel information for a state or other geographic region includes broadcasters that may not be physically located in the state or other geographic region, but transmit broadcast signals that are receivable in that state. or other geographic region.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a computer 1100 configured to function as, control of, one or a combination of receiving apparatus 1, content providers 53a, 53b, main server 70, and the secondary servers 73a, 73B.

As illustrated in Fig. 11, computer 1100 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 1102, read-only memory (ROM) 1104, and a random access memory (RAM) 1106 interconnected to each other through one or more more buses

1108.

One or more buses

1108 that is to say

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1110 I / O interface. The input / output interface 1110 is connected with an input part 1112 consisting of a keyboard, a mouse, a microphone, a remote control, etc. The input-output interface 1110 is also connected to an output portion 1114 formed by an audio interface, video interface, screen, speakers, etc. ; a part 1116 of the registry consisting of a hard disk, non-volatile memory, etc .; a communication part 818 consisting of a network interface, modem, USB interface, fire wire interface, etc .; and a unit 1120 for conducting removable media 1122 such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a semiconductor memory, etc.

In accordance with one embodiment, CPU 1102 loads a program stored in register portion 1116 into RAM 1106 via input-output interface 1110 and bus 1108, and then executes a program configured to provide the functionality, or control of the or combination of receiver apparatus 1, content providers 53a, 53b, primary server 70, and secondary servers 73a, 73B.

Although the embodiments of the present description have been described using digital terrestrial broadcasts as an example, it should be noted that the present description is not limited. The modalities described in this presentation could be used in other applications

IMPI * ^ W ^ eW &amp; pi inbustiual reduce the amount of time needed to search for available channels and / or services provided on analog radio stations, digital radio broadcasts, a cable television system, a satellite system, the Internet, etc. In one example, the Internet could substitute for an outgoing channel band (00B) used to transmit service information.

Furthermore, as described above, a receiving apparatus 1 receives terrestrial broadcast channel information (eg BLD) from a server 70 and the primary information service (eg SDD) from one or more secondary servers . However, as described above, the primary and at least one of the secondary servers can be implemented by the same server. In addition, although the broadcast channel and terrestrial service information have been described as incorporating certain data, it should be noted that the information of the terrestrial broadcast channel can be configured to include all or part of any of the data defined in service information and vice versa.

Furthermore, as described above, a receiving apparatus 1 retrieves the terrestrial broadcast channel information from a primary server 70. However, in another

<img file="MX347645B_D0019.tif" />

IMPI INSTITUTO MÍXÍCAMO modality, the service information is obtained from another source such as a portable memory or TS from a radio station. For example, in one embodiment, each broadcaster within a predetermined geographic area broadcasts service information. Therefore, even when the receiver apparatus 1 does not have access to the Internet, the receiver apparatus 1 can still reduce the time needed to identify the available channels and / or services after performing a channel search to identify a reduced number of channels. broadcast (for example a single broadcast channel).

On the other hand, in some cases, the information of the terrestrial broadcasting channel for a predetermined geographical area, or a list of broadcasting channels estimated to be candidates for charging by the receiving apparatus 1, includes multiple broadcasters associated with the same broadcasting channel. broadcasting. In one embodiment, the receiving apparatus 1 tunes to the broadcast channel first to determine which BLS to access. Alternatively, the receiving apparatus 1 acquires information directly from the tuned information broadcast channel without accessing the BLS.

In certain embodiments the receiving apparatus 1 stores the BLS locations associated with the broadcast channels it receives. Thus, the receiving apparatus 1 can retrieve the service information (for example, the information

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broadcasting channel) more^g po ·? · example, compared to extracting such information from a broadcast carousel.

Certain modalities described in the present application can be standardized, for example, by the Advanced Television Systems Committee (in the standards known as ATSC 3.0). Therefore, all upcoming television receivers deployed in United States markets are within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the embodiments of the present description can be adapted for international use with various ATSC standards. In order to achieve standardization, the structure and format of BLS and BLD files can be defined, as well as the protocols used to access BLS and BLD files. Furthermore, this standardization may include the development of best practices for broadcasters and receiver manufacturers.

The modalities described in the present description provide several advantages. For example, the receiving apparatus 1 is provided with an Internet-based server location operated by the local broadcaster. The URL may not only provide channels and / or information service to the receiving apparatus 1, but may also provide links to other resources that may enhance the viewer's enjoyment of the

<img file="MX347645B_D0021.tif" />

IMPI channel. Such links to other resources, incTH ^ 52 >> omÉ! ^ R INDUSfiÍLAL limited to, interactive content associated with the channel, a questionnaire that can be used to personalize the user experience of the channel, a link to the Internet start age of the broadcaster, and / or a link to a server the receiver apparatus 1 may use to report service usage information.

As a further advantage, the channel map provided by the broadcaster's web-based server (eg, secondary servers 73A, 73B) may also include references to services available only to receivers connected to the Internet. Such services can include NRT (non-real-time file-based) services, pay-per-view offers, and streaming video services that can be seamlessly integrated with the broadcast channel map.

Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the receiving apparatus 1 is a mobile receiver. For example, in a car or RV, or the portable meaning that is carried by the viewer. The rover receiver may be in a vehicle that is traveling across the country. If Internet access is available before or during the trip, the database for the entire country, or several nearby states, can be downloaded in advance to help the receiving set 1 maintain access to a large number of television stations. digital ♦ ΝΓΠΤΙΓΓΟ MEXICAN Λ

Μ THE FW1IDAD as the receiver apparatus 1 is being mo vi ¿Γδ^{, ιπ}'^ s ^' amefíT'e about the country. ¹¹¹

For example, the terrestrial broadcast channel information acquired from the primary server 70 and / or service information acquired from the secondary server 73A, 73B or can be used for hands-free operation when a mobile receiver leaves a broadcast range of one hour. currently tuned broadcasting channel. In this embodiment, the mobile receiver is configured to determine whether another broadcast channel that is related to the currently tuned broadcast channel is available based on at least one of the broadcast channel and terrestrial service information. At a minimum, the time required to search for channels when the rover goes out of broadcast range can be reduced.

It is also observed that the metadata describing the geographical area covered by the designated market area of ​​the broadcaster (DMA) can be authenticated, for example, by means of a signed certificate. If the physical location of the receiving apparatus 1 has also been authenticated, only receivers that actually reside within the boundaries of the DMA can be authorized to receive certain services.

The various processes described above do not have to be processed in chronological order and / or in the sequence described.

<img file="MX347645B_D0022.tif" />

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INSTITUTO MEXICANO as flow charts; the steps also (object-oriented mode, for example, in paral pin η) processed in parallel or individually.

Also, the programs may be processed by a single computer or by a plurality of computers in a distributed manner. Programs can also be transferred to a remote computer or equipment for execution.

Furthermore, in this specification, the term system means an aggregate of a plurality of component elements (apparatus, modules (parts), etc.). All the elements that compose it may or may not be housed in a single box. Therefore, a plurality of appliances each housed in a separate enclosure and connected through a network is considered a system, and a single appliance consisting of a plurality of modules housed in a single housing is also considered a system.

Also, it should be understood that this technology when embodied is not limited to the modalities described above and that various modifications, variations and alternatives may be made of this technology to the extent that they are within the spirit and scope thereof.

For example, this technology can be structured for cloud computing whereby a single function is shared and processed in collaboration between a plurality of devices over a network.

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Also, each of the steps explained with reference to the flowcharts described above can be executed not only by a single apparatus, but also by a plurality of apparatuses in a shared manner.

Furthermore, if a step includes a plurality of processes, these processes included in the step can be performed not only by a single apparatus, but also by a plurality of apparatuses in a shared manner.

Numerous modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings. Therefore, it should be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the present disclosure may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

The above description also covers the modalities indicated below.

(l) A method for generating a list of accessible channels on a receiving apparatus, the method comprising: retrieve from a primary server, through a communication network, the terrestrial broadcast channel information associated with a predetermined geographic region, the terrestrial broadcast channel information including, for each broadcaster associated with the predetermined geographic region, one or a combination of a broadcast channel and associated secondary server location

IMPI ^ with the respective broadcaster; retrieving, from at least one radio station associated with the predetermined geographic location, the service information from a secondary server associated with the respective station on the basis of the information of the terrestrial broadcasting channel; determining, for each of at least one broadcaster associated with the predetermined geographic region, whether the broadcast channel associated with the respective broadcaster can be received by the receiving apparatus; and generating the list of accessible channels that includes the broadcast channels determined to be received by the receiving apparatus.

(2) The method of function (1), further comprises the identification of at least one broadcaster based on the information of the terrestrial broadcasting channel and based on a geographical location of the receiving apparatus, each of at least one broadcaster being associated with a broadcasting channel it considers that it is admissible by the receiving apparatus.

(3) The method of feature (1) or (2), wherein the service information for each of at least one broadcaster includes one or a combination of the broadcast channel, one or more modulation modes, metadata that describe a broadcast multiplex carried on the broadcast channel, a description of one or more services available within the broadcast multiplex, and the data of

<img file="MX347645B_D0023.tif" />

program guide.

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INDUSTRIAL (4) The method of any of the charíwrt ^ ríy LlUdü (T? A (3), in which the broadcasting channel is a digital television broadcasting channel (5) The method of any of the characteristics (1) a (4), wherein the determination step comprises: tuning to each broadcast channel associated with one of the at least one broadcaster; and when the receiving apparatus is tuned to the respective broadcast channel, to determine whether a characteristic of a terrestrial broadcast signal carried on the respective broadcast channel is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value.

(6) The method of any of features (1) to (5), wherein the step of retrieving from the primary server comprises retrieving the terrestrial broadcast channel information associated with the predetermined geographic region based on one or a combination of country, state, city, province, zip code, and longitude-latitude.

(7) The method of any of the functions (1) to (6), further comprising periodically updating the list of accessible channels based on the new broadcast channels that are determined to be admissible by the receiving apparatus.

(8) The method of any of features (1) to (7), wherein the receiving apparatus is a mobile device.

(9) The method of any of the features (1) to (8), in which the main server is managed by a government entity that manages the wireless spectrum within the predetermined geographic region.

(10) A non-transient computer-readable storage medium storing a program that when executed by a computer, causes the computer to perform the method of any of the features (1) to (9).

(11) A receiving apparatus, comprising: circuits configured to retrieve from a primary server, through a communication network, the terrestrial broadcast channel information associated with a predetermined geographic region, the terrestrial broadcast channel information including, for each broadcaster associated with the predetermined geographic region, one or a combination of a broadcast channel and a secondary server location associated with the respective broadcaster, retrieve, for each of at least one broadcaster associated with the predetermined geographic region, service information from a secondary server associated with the respective broadcaster on the basis of the information of the terrestrial broadcasting channel, determine, for each of at least one associated broadcaster with the default geographic region, if the broadcast channel associated with the Mexican iMPI ^ á ινγγγπγγο Mexican

Df THE nWHEDA * V ^^ 3KLa INDUSTRIAL ^Mrespective broadcaster is admissible by receiving apparatus, and generating a list of accessible channels that includes the broadcasting channels determined to be admissible by the receiving apparatus.

(12) The receiving apparatus of the function (11), in which the circuit is further configured to identify at least one broadcaster based on the information of the terrestrial broadcasting channel and based on a geographic location of the receiving apparatus, each one of at least one broadcaster being associated with a broadcasting channel considers that it is admissible by the receiving apparatus.

(13) The receiving apparatus of the function (11) or (12), in which the service information for each of at least one broadcaster includes one or a combination of the broadcasting channel, one or more modulation modes , metadata describing a broadcast multiplex performed on the broadcast channel, a description of one or more services available within the broadcast multiplex, and the program guide data.

(14) The receiving apparatus of any of the characteristics (11) to (13), in which the broadcasting channel is a digital television broadcasting channel.

(15) The receiving apparatus of any of the characteristics (11) to (14), in which the circuit is

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M LA EMREDAD also configured to tune to cadT ^ anfl - oe broadcasting associated with at least one of lT''YdUl¿3UliUyuid, 'and when the receiver is tuned to the respective broadcasting channel, determine whether the respective broadcasting channel it is admissible by the receiving apparatus depending on whether a characteristic of a terrestrial broadcast signal carried on the respective broadcast channel is greater than or equal to a value of the predetermined threshold.

(16) The receiving apparatus of any of the features (11) to (15), wherein the circuitry is configured to retrieve the terrestrial broadcast channel information associated with the predetermined geographic region based on one or a combination of country , state, city, province, zip code, and longitude-latitude.

(17) The receiving apparatus of any of the features (11) to (16), wherein the circuit is further configured to periodically update the list of accessible channels based on the new broadcasting channels that are determined to be permissible by the receiving apparatus.

(18) The receiving apparatus of any of the characteristics (11) to (17), wherein the receiving apparatus is a mobile device.

(19) The receiving apparatus of any of the

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M LA FROhBM »'^ ¿SLJÍR characteristics of (11) to (17), in which the sefWW ^ r pMftenfio is managed by a government entity that wants to adiuiniaLiu the wireless spectrum within the predetermined geographic region.

(20) A device that provides information, comprising: a memory configured for warehouse service information associated with at least one radio broadcaster that broadcasts a digital television signal to a receiving apparatus, the service information including, for each of at least one broadcaster, one or a combination of a broadcast channel, one or more modulation modes, metadata describing a broadcast multiplex performed on the broadcast channel, a description of one or more services available within the broadcast multiplex, and a program guide; and circuitry configured to provide the service information to a receiving apparatus that is configured to generate a list of accessible channels based on the service information.

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