Systems, methods, and software for using markers on channel signals to operate electronic program guides and recording devices
US6832387B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 7, 2003 |
| Grant date | Dec 14, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 7, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N5/781
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Convergence systems, or PC-TV systems, provide the combined benefits of a computer system and a television. These systems typically include audio/video recorders, such as VCRs, for recording programs, as well as an electronic program guide (EPG) for presenting program information. The present invention provides methods and devices for detecting specific signals or markers associated with a program or channel signal, and then enabling a recording device or an EPG to perform an act, such as recording a program, based upon the detected signals or markers. In a preferred embodiment, the system receives a channel signal, detects a program start or stop marker within the signal, and controls the EPG or the recording device to perform acts corresponding to the detection of a start or stop instruction.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.