CN1273738A - Multimedia decoder and bi-directional broadcast communication system - Google Patents

Abstract

Translated fromChinese

一种解码设备(10,20),对按照不同数据格式编码并在公共物理通信链路上接收的输入视频数据解码。该解码器包括第一处理器(50),用于对以因特网协议兼容数据格式分组并在公共通信链路上接收的表示图像的数据解码。该解码器还包括第二处理器(75),用于对以因特网协议数据格式以外的MPEG兼容数据格式分组并在公共通信链路上接收的广播视频数据同时解码。第一和第二处理器分别产生第一和第二解码视频输出。此外,可动态地改变公共通信链路上传送的表示图像的数据相对于广播视频数据的比例。该解码器还包括显示处理器(55,80),用于从第一和第二解码视频输出形成显示图像。

A decoding device (10, 20) decodes input video data encoded in different data formats and received over a common physical communication link. The decoder includes a first processor (50) for decoding data representative of an image packetized in an internet protocol compatible data format and received over a common communication link. The decoder also includes a second processor (75) for simultaneously decoding broadcast video data packetized in an MPEG-compatible data format other than an Internet Protocol data format and received over a common communication link. The first and second processors generate first and second decoded video outputs, respectively. In addition, the proportion of data representing images relative to broadcast video data transmitted over the common communication link can be dynamically varied. The decoder also includes a display processor (55, 80) for forming a display image from the first and second decoded video outputs.

Description

Translated fromChinese

多媒体解码器和双向广播通信系统Multimedia decoder and two-way broadcast communication system

                     发明领域Field of Invention

本发明涉及广播系统中的交互式双向通信，尤其涉及多数据服务的解码和它们向用户的提供。The present invention relates to interactive two-way communication in broadcast systems, and in particular to the decoding of multiple data services and their provision to users.

                     发明背景Background of the Invention

结合个人计算机和电视功能(PC/TV功能)的家用娱乐机顶盒系统逐渐地变为普遍的、用户交互式的、多源和多目标的通信设备。要求此类系统响应用户请求在多种应用的多个位置之间以不同的数据格式通信。例如，机顶盒系统可以从人造卫星或者地面源接收数据，该地面源包含高精确度电视(HDTV)广播、多点微波分布式系统(MMDS)广播和数字视频广播(DVB)。机顶盒系统也可以通过电话(例如互联网)与同轴电缆线(例如有线电视)并从远程和本地源、比如数字视频盘(DVD)，CDROM、VHS和数字VHS(DVHS^TM)类型播放机、PC机以及许多其他类型的源接收和传送数据。Home entertainment set-top box systems combining personal computer and television functions (PC/TV functions) are gradually becoming ubiquitous, user-interactive, multi-source and multi-destination communication devices. Such systems are required to communicate in different data formats between multiple locations for multiple applications in response to user requests. For example, a set-top box system may receive data from satellite or terrestrial sources including High Definition Television (HDTV) broadcasts, Multipoint Microwave Distribution System (MMDS) broadcasts, and Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB). The set-top box system can also be connected by telephone (such as the Internet) and coaxial cable (such as cable television) and from remote and local sources, such as digital video disk (DVD), CDROM, VHS and digital VHS (DVHS^TM ) type players, PC computer and many other types of sources to receive and transmit data.

要求机顶盒系统能够支持双向通信和家庭控制功能，以及能够访问并解码来自多广播源的信息。还要求机顶盒系统能够无缝组合显示给用户的解码信息。获得这样一种系统存在许多问题。具体地，问题出现在从不同源有效地获得不同数据格式的信息并按优先次序排列信息的处理。用根据本发明的系统解决了这些问题。The set-top box system is required to support two-way communication and home control functions, as well as the ability to access and decode information from multiple broadcast sources. There is also a requirement for the STB system to be able to seamlessly assemble the decoded information displayed to the user. There are many problems in obtaining such a system. Specifically, problems arise in the process of efficiently obtaining and prioritizing information in different data formats from different sources. These problems are solved with the system according to the invention.

                      本发明综述Summary of the invention

本发明的目的是提供一种解码器系统，它有利结合单独的调谐器、解调器和处理路径，该处理路径用于并行处理和变比(动态可变比特率)处理和解码以不同的数据格式编码并在公共的物理通信链路上接收的表示广播图像的数据。该解码器系统还有利结合单独的返回信道通信路径，该返回信道通信路径允许在公共通信链路上与广播源的安全返回通信。It is an object of the present invention to provide a decoder system which advantageously combines separate tuners, demodulators and processing paths for parallel processing and variable ratio (dynamically variable bit rate) processing and decoding at different Data format encoded and received over a common physical communication link representing the broadcast image data. The decoder system also advantageously incorporates a separate return channel communication path that allows secure return communication with the broadcast source over a common communication link.

                    附图简要描述A brief description of the drawings

附图中：In the attached picture:

图1示出按照本发明的一种变比解码器系统，用于有效地与多个源通信并处理示范性TCP/IP和MPEG格式数据。Figure 1 illustrates a variable ratio decoder system for efficiently communicating with multiple sources and processing exemplary TCP/IP and MPEG format data in accordance with the present invention.

图2和3给出了在图1系统中描述的广播、数据和返回信道的示范性特性。2 and 3 show exemplary characteristics of the broadcast, data and return channels described in the system of FIG. 1 .

图4和5列出了通过图1上游信道和下游信道提供的服务的数据业务类型和示范性比特率分配。Figures 4 and 5 list data traffic types and exemplary bit rate allocations for services provided over the upstream and downstream channels of Figure 1 .

图6示出根据本发明的用于按优先次序排列广播和双向应用数据分组的处理的优先级排定系统。Figure 6 illustrates a prioritization system for prioritizing the processing of broadcast and bi-directional application data packets according to the present invention.

图7示出根据本发明的用于图6系统的按优先次序排列广播和数据分组的处理的方法的流程图。FIG. 7 shows a flowchart of a method for prioritizing broadcast and data packet processing for the system of FIG. 6 according to the present invention.

图8示出根据本发明的一种服务器分布集线器，用于从多个服务提供者分发广播数据到图1解码器和处理来自图1解码器的上游数据。FIG. 8 shows a server distribution hub for distributing broadcast data from multiple service providers to the decoder of FIG. 1 and processing upstream data from the decoder of FIG. 1 according to the present invention.

图9列出和描述根据本发明的在图8服务器系统中识别的示范性接口1-10)。FIG. 9 lists and describes exemplary interfaces 1-10) identified in the server system of FIG. 8 according to the present invention.

                      附图的详细描述Detailed description of attached drawings

图1示出根据本发明的一种解码器系统，提供与多个源有效通信。该解码器系统有利结合单独的调谐器、解调器和处理路径，用于同时处理和解码以不同的数据格式编码的数据。该解码器系统还有利结合单独的返回信道通信路径，该路径例如允许与广播源安全返回通信。图1的示范性实施例支持TCP/IP(发射控制协议/因特网协议)与MPEG(运动图像专案组)格式数据的解码，(例如19946月10日的MPEG2ISO/IEC13818-1，与19951月20日的ISO/IEC13818-2)。另外，图1的机顶盒系统与多媒体电缆网络系统(MCNS)初步要求一致。Figure 1 shows a decoder system according to the invention, providing efficient communication with multiple sources. The decoder system advantageously incorporates separate tuners, demodulators and processing paths for simultaneously processing and decoding data encoded in different data formats. The decoder system also advantageously incorporates a separate return channel communication path that allows for secure return communication with a broadcast source, for example. The exemplary embodiment of Fig. 1 supports the decoding of TCP/IP (Emission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) and MPEG (Motion Picture Task Force) format data, (such as MPEG2ISO/IEC13818-1 of June 10, 1994, and January 20, 1995 ISO/IEC13818-2). In addition, the set-top box system in Figure 1 is consistent with the preliminary requirements of the Multimedia Cable Network System (MCNS).

图1的结构允许变比(即动态可变的比特率)同时解码来自不同格式的单独源的表示图像的数据。如此，不同数据格式的数据可以用图1的变比解码器系统处理而不必按照拥有的更高层通信格式编码。从而，该解码器系统避免处理利用这样一种附加的通信格式分级编码的数据时涉及的开销和低效率。The structure of Figure 1 allows variable ratio (ie dynamically variable bit rate) simultaneous decoding of data representing images from separate sources in different formats. In this way, data of different data formats can be processed by the variable ratio decoder system of FIG. 1 without having to be encoded in an owned higher layer communication format. Thus, the decoder system avoids the overhead and inefficiencies involved in processing data hierarchically encoded using such an additional communication format.

例如，该解码器系统还结合一种调度器系统，用于按优先次序排列接收的数据以及到广播源的返回通信数据这两者的处理。根据如下特征为接收和返回数据分配所需的分级数据输出优先级，该特征包括，a)与该数据相关的功能，b)该数据的协议特性，或c)传输数据的物理通信信道。该解码器执行的典型功能包含，i)电子邮件ii)因特网网页浏览，iii)因特网电话服务iv)传统的电话服务，V)传真，vi)可视电话，vii)广播视频、音频和无线电处理以及viii)家庭控制功能。由优先级简表或映象导出所需分级数据输出优先级。优先级简表包含一数据库，将相对优先级分配给与单独的功能、协议特性、或通信信道相关的数据分组。优先级简表中的信息包含例如，预先存储的缺省信息、用户输入信息，或从服务提供者广播给解码器的信息。该简表还可包含由这些源中的一些导出的信息。For example, the decoder system also incorporates a scheduler system for prioritizing the processing of both received data and return communication data to the broadcast source. Assigning the required hierarchical data output priority to receiving and returning data based on characteristics including a) the function associated with the data, b) the protocol characteristics of the data, or c) the physical communication channel over which the data is transmitted. Typical functions performed by this decoder include, i) electronic mail ii) Internet web browsing, iii) Internet telephony service iv) traditional telephone service, v) facsimile, vi) video telephony, vii) broadcast video, audio and radio processing and viii) home control functions. The desired hierarchical data output priority is derived from the priority profile or map. The priority profile contains a database that assigns relative priorities to data packets associated with individual functions, protocol characteristics, or communication channels. The information in the priority profile includes, for example, pre-stored default information, user-entered information, or information broadcast to the decoder from the service provider. The profile may also contain information derived from some of these sources.

虽然解码器系统被描述为处理通过同轴电缆接收的MPEG与因特网协议兼容格式的数据，但这只是示范性的。该解码器系统处理支持包括电子邮件、因特网网页浏览、因特网电话服务、传统的电话服务、传真、可视电话、广播视频、音频以及无线电和家庭控制功能的数据。此外，本发明原理可应用于发射信道类型和通信协议可变化的系统，或编码和调制类型可变化的系统。这样的系统可包含，例如，采用非MPEG和非因特网兼容协议的人造卫星、地面、因特网和内部网广播和通信系统。此外，本发明原理应用于任何形式的数据比如电话消息、计算机程序、因特网数据或其他通信的处理。While the decoder system has been described as processing data in an MPEG and Internet Protocol compatible format received over coaxial cable, this is exemplary only. The decoder system processes data supporting functions including e-mail, Internet web browsing, Internet telephony, traditional telephone service, fax, videophone, broadcast video, audio, and radio and home control functions. Furthermore, the principles of the present invention are applicable to systems where the type of transmission channel and communication protocol may vary, or where the type of coding and modulation may vary. Such systems may include, for example, satellite, terrestrial, Internet and intranet broadcast and communication systems employing non-MPEG and non-Internet compatible protocols. Furthermore, the principles of the invention apply to the processing of any form of data such as telephone messages, computer programs, Internet data or other communications.

总之，在图1的机顶盒系统12中，例如，用广播视频数据调制的第一载波和用因特网数据如网页信息调制的第二载波，是用分离器/组合器单元25收到并用输入解码器13处理。单元13调谐到相应第一和第二载波并解调、前向纠错和区分接收数据的优先次序以提供解调数字数据由输出解码器20进一步处理。单元13还从接收数据导出模拟视频信号并提供该信号到单元20。单元20处理包括MPEG兼容的视频和音频数据以及因特网协议数据的数字数据，分别地由单元60和63显示和音频再现。在另一模式下，单元20还处理来自单元13的模拟视频数据，由设备60显示。In summary, in the set-top box system 12 of FIG. 1, for example, a first carrier wave modulated with broadcast video data and a second carrier wave modulated with Internet data, such as web page information, is received by splitter/combinerunit 25 and input decoder 13 processing. Unit 13 tunes to the respective first and second carriers and demodulates, FECs and prioritizes the received data to provide demodulated digital data for further processing byoutput decoder 20 . Unit 13 also derives an analog video signal from the received data and provides this signal tounit 20 .Unit 20 processes digital data including MPEG compatible video and audio data and Internet Protocol data for display and audio reproduction byunits 60 and 63, respectively. In another mode,unit 20 also processes analog video data from unit 13 for display bydevice 60 .

机顶盒用户利用遥控单元67通过屏幕菜单选择和光标命令选择将执行的功能，例如观看特别的节目或网页数据。单元15控制输入解码器13和输出解码器20的元件的操作，并利用双向数据和控制信号总线C响应遥控单元67的命令。控制器15通过用控制总线C设置这些元件内部的控制寄存器值控制单元13和20内部各个元件的功能。另外，单元15，联合单元13，启动并按优先次序排列在至服务提供者的同轴电缆链路上用于返回通信的消息的产生和发射。The user of the set-top box utilizes theremote control unit 67 to select a function to be performed, such as viewing a particular program or web page data, through on-screen menu selections and cursor commands.Unit 15 controls the operation of the elements of input decoder 13 andoutput decoder 20 and responds to commands fromremote control unit 67 by means of bi-directional data and control signal bus C. Thecontroller 15 controls the functions of the various elements inside theunits 13 and 20 by setting the control register values inside these elements using the control bus C. In addition,unit 15, federation unit 13, initiates and prioritizes the generation and transmission of messages for return communications on the coax link to the service provider.

详细地考虑图1，分离器/组合器25提供包括第一和第二正交幅度调制(QAM)载波的信号到调谐器30和65。第一和第二载波利用256或者64点的可选择的符号构象独立地进行QAM调制。调谐器30从频率多路复用信号导出用MPEG兼容的节目代表性音频、视频和相关数据调制的第一载波调谐器65从频分多路复用信号导出用因特网协议网页代表性数据调制的第二载波。调谐器30和65分别包含频分多路分解器、射频(RF)调谐器和中频(IF)混频器和下变频来自单元25的信号到低频带的放大级，以导出第一和第二载波。Considering FIG. 1 in detail, splitter/combiner 25 provides signals comprising first and second quadrature amplitude modulated (QAM) carriers totuners 30 and 65 . The first and second carriers are independently QAM modulated with a selectable symbol constellation of 256 or 64 points.Tuner 30 derives from the frequency multiplexed signal a first carrier modulated with MPEG compatible program representative audio, video and associated data. Tuner 65 derives from the frequency division multiplexed signal a first carrier modulated with Internet Protocol web page representative data. second carrier.Tuners 30 and 65 contain frequency division demultiplexers, radio frequency (RF) tuners and intermediate frequency (IF) mixers and amplification stages to down-convert the signal fromunit 25 to the low frequency band, respectively, to derive the first and second carrier.

调谐器30，会同控制器15，判定第一载波是包含数字MPEG兼容的视频数据还是包含模拟视频信号。数字视频数据代表性第一载波由调谐器30经由多路复用器(mux)35提供到解调器40，模拟视频信号经由mux35提供到输出解码器20中的显示处理器55。调谐器65提供第二载波到解调器70。在此示范性系统中，来自单元25的输入频分多路复用信号包含33个物理发射信道(PTC 0-32)。每一物理发射信道(PTC)分配有6MHz带宽并包含，例如，多达6个子信道，每个子信道具有唯一载波频率。Tuner 30, in conjunction withcontroller 15, determines whether the first carrier wave contains digital MPEG compatible video data or an analog video signal. Digital video data representative of the first carrier is provided bytuner 30 todemodulator 40 via multiplexer (mux) 35 , and the analog video signal is provided to displayprocessor 55 inoutput decoder 20 viamux 35 . Tuner 65 provides the second carrier todemodulator 70 . In this exemplary system, the input frequency division multiplexed signal fromunit 25 contains 33 physical transmit channels (PTC 0-32). Each Physical Transmission Channel (PTC) is allocated 6 MHz bandwidth and contains, for example, up to 6 sub-channels, each sub-channel having a unique carrier frequency.

为示范性目的，假定机顶盒用户利用遥控单元67选择一个子信道(SC)供观看。控制器15使用从遥控单元67经由接口69提供到输入解码器13的适当配置元件的选择信息接收PTC和选定的子信道SC的相应的载波频率。下变频之后，来自调谐器30的用于选定的PTC的第一载波输出信号具有6MHz的带宽和范围在54-806MHz的中心载波频率。在下列讨论中，RF信道或物理发射信道(PTC)是指分配的播送者发射信道频带，它拥有一个以上的子信道。For exemplary purposes, it is assumed that the user of the set top box utilizes theremote control unit 67 to select a subchannel (SC) for viewing. Thecontroller 15 receives the PTC and the corresponding carrier frequency of the selected subchannel SC using selection information supplied from theremote control unit 67 via theinterface 69 to the appropriate configuration element of the input decoder 13 . After downconversion, the first carrier output signal for the selected PTC fromtuner 30 has a bandwidth of 6 MHz and a center carrier frequency in the range of 54-806 MHz. In the following discussion, an RF channel or physical transmit channel (PTC) refers to an assigned broadcaster transmit channel frequency band, which has more than one sub-channel.

控制器15配置射频(RF)调谐器和中频(IF)混频器和调谐器30的放大级以接收选定的PTC第一载波频率。用单元40解调调谐器30经由mux35提供的用于选定的PTC的下变频第一载波频率输出。解调器40的主要功能是恢复和跟踪载波频率，恢复发射数据时钟频率，和恢复并前向纠错MPEG兼容的视频数据本身。单元40还恢复对应于发射机时钟并被用于定时调谐器30、解调器40和调度器43的操作的抽样和同步时钟。Controller 15 configures the radio frequency (RF) tuner and intermediate frequency (IF) mixer and amplifier stages oftuner 30 to receive the selected PTC first carrier frequency. The down-converted first carrier frequency output for the selected PTC provided bytuner 30 viamux 35 is demodulated withunit 40 . The primary functions ofdemodulator 40 are to recover and track the carrier frequency, recover the transmit data clock frequency, and recover and forward error correct the MPEG compatible video data itself.Unit 40 also recovers the sampling and synchronization clocks that correspond to the transmitter clocks and are used to time the operations oftuner 30 ,demodulator 40 andscheduler 43 .

单元40解调QAM调制的第一载波信号以提供解调数字输出数据。而且，在单元40中，解调数字输出数据被映射为字节长度分节，按照公知原理进行解交织和里德-所罗门纠错。另外，单元40提供前向纠错(FEC)有效性或锁定指示到控制器15。里德-所罗门纠错是公知类型前向纠错。该FEC锁定指示用信号报告里德-所罗门纠错与正被校正数据同步并提供有效的输出。会注意到单元30和40(以及单元65和70)实现的调谐、解调器以及解码器功能各自都是公知的并在例如Lee和Messerschmidt的参考文本“数字通信”(KluwerAcademic Press，Boston，MA，USA，1988)中描述。来自单元40的恢复输出为MPEG兼容的传输数据流的形式，该数据流包含节目代表性多路复用音频、视频和数据分量。此传输流被提供到调度器43。Unit 40 demodulates the QAM modulated first carrier signal to provide demodulated digital output data. Furthermore, inunit 40, the demodulated digital output data is mapped into byte-length segments, de-interleaved and Reed-Solomon error corrected according to known principles. In addition,unit 40 provides a forward error correction (FEC) validity or lock indication tocontroller 15 . Reed-Solomon error correction is a well known type of forward error correction. The FEC lock indication signals that Reed-Solomon error correction is in sync with the data being corrected and provides a valid output. It will be noted that the tuner, demodulator, and decoder functions implemented byunits 30 and 40 (andunits 65 and 70) are each well known and described, for example, in the reference text "Digital Communications" by Lee and Messerschmidt (Kluwer Academic Press, Boston, MA). , USA, 1988) described. The recovered output fromunit 40 is in the form of an MPEG compatible transport stream containing program representative multiplexed audio, video and data components. This transport stream is provided to thescheduler 43 .

用调谐器65导出用因特网协议网页代表性数据调制的第二载波，并用单元70解调和纠错。例如，调谐器65和解调器70分别地复制单元30和40的调谐器和解调器功能并有利提供独立的处理路径，该路径允许同时处理因特网协议数据和MPEG兼容的数据。调谐器65和解调器70按照先前结合相应的单元30和40描述的方式操作。调谐器65和解调器70以表示用户选定的网页的因特网协议格式提供数据到调度器43。A second carrier wave modulated with Internet Protocol web page representative data is derived bytuner 65 and demodulated and error corrected byunit 70. For example,tuner 65 anddemodulator 70 duplicate the tuner and demodulator functions ofunits 30 and 40, respectively, and advantageously provide independent processing paths that allow simultaneous processing of Internet protocol data and MPEG compliant data.Tuner 65 anddemodulator 70 operate in the manner previously described in connection withrespective units 30 and 40 .Tuner 65 anddemodulator 70 provide data toscheduler 43 in an Internet Protocol format representing the user-selected web page.

调度器43会同控制器15按优先序排列来自解调器70的因特网协议数据和来自解调器40的MPEG兼容的传输数据流，用输出解码器20的元件处理。例如，调度器43和控制器15还按优先序排列用于经由同轴电缆链路返回通信到广播源的数据。在单元15控制下，调度器43识别来自单元70的表示特定功能例如经由一个Web浏览器请求的网页信息的各个因特网协议分组。另外，在单元15控制下，调度器43识别表示特定节目例如选定的信道NBC^TM上的“Seinfeld^TM″和相关数据的各个MPEG兼容的分组。该相关数据包含分组标识和支持MPEG解码和节目恢复的组合信息并还包含用于显示的辅助分画面信息，比如节目指南数据。Thescheduler 43 , in conjunction with thecontroller 15 , prioritizes the Internet protocol data from thedemodulator 70 and the MPEG compatible transport stream from thedemodulator 40 for processing by the components of theoutput decoder 20 . For example,scheduler 43 andcontroller 15 also prioritize data for communication back to the broadcast source via the coax link. Under the control ofunit 15,dispatcher 43 recognizes individual Internet Protocol packets fromunit 70 representing information for a particular function, such as a web page requested via a web browser. Additionally, under the control ofunit 15,scheduler 43 identifies individual MPEG compatible packets representing a particular program, eg "Seinfeld(^TM )" on selected channel NBC(^TM) and related data. The associated data includes packet identification and combination information to support MPEG decoding and program recovery and also includes auxiliary split-picture information for display, such as program guide data.

调度器43包括一个多路分解器，用于匹配来自单元40的数据流中的传入MPEG分组的PID与由控制器15预先载入的单元43内部控制寄存器的PID值。同样地，调度器43匹配数据标识符、比如数据源和数据目标、数据类型、IP地址、以及来自单元70的因特网协议数据流中的通用资源定位器(URL)码，与控制器15预先载入单元43内部控制寄存器的值。此匹配过程用于识别功能和节目代表性因特网以及MPEG数据分组，以按优先序排列和进一步处理。最终识别的因特网和MPEG分组存储在存储器中并按照一个预定优先级简表(映象)按顺序访问，该简表使具有特殊的特性和功能的数据与所需优先级关联。从而，单元43提供缓存的按优先序排列的因特网协议数据，包括网页HTML^TM(超级文本标记语言Hyper Text Mark-up Language)和相关的Java^TM数据(和其他数据例如JPEG、GIF、TIF类型数据)到HTML^TM处理器75。单元43还分别地提供按优先序排列的MPEG视频、音频和分画面分组到MPEG视频解码器50，音频处理器61和分画面处理器80。稍后结合图6和7更详细地描述调度器43的方法和它的实现。Scheduler 43 includes a demultiplexer for matching the PIDs of incoming MPEG packets in the data stream fromunit 40 with the PID values ofunit 43 internal control registers preloaded bycontroller 15 . Likewise,dispatcher 43 matches data identifiers, such as data source and data destination, data type, IP address, and Universal Resource Locator (URL) codes in the Internet Protocol data stream fromunit 70, withcontroller 15 preloaded Input the value of the internal control register ofunit 43. This matching process is used to identify functional and program representative Internet and MPEG data packets for prioritization and further processing. The final identified Internet and MPEG packets are stored in memory and accessed sequentially according to a predetermined priority profile (map) which associates data with specific characteristics and functions with the required priority. Thus,unit 43 provides cached prioritized Internet Protocol data, including web page HTML^™ (Hyper Text Mark-up Language) and associated Java^™ data (and other data such as JPEG, GIF, TIF type data ) to the HTML^™ processor 75.Unit 43 also provides prioritized MPEG video, audio and split-picture packets toMPEG video decoder 50,audio processor 61 and split-picture processor 80, respectively. The method of thescheduler 43 and its implementation are described in more detail later in connection with FIGS. 6 and 7 .

MPEG解码器50解码和解压缩来自单元43的按优先序排列的MPEG兼容的分组化视频数据，和提供按优先序排列的解压缩节目代表性象素数据，以存储在显示处理器中的象素代表性存储器和NTSC编码器55中。音频处理器61解码来自单元43的按优先序排列分组化音频数据和提供与相关的解压缩视频数据同步的按优先序排列的解码和放大音频数据到用于音频再现的设备63。处理器75解码来自单元43的HTML^TM和Java^TM编码网信息并提供表示网页图像的象素数据以存储在分画面处理器80内部的存储器中。处理器75还解码以其他格式例如JPEG、TIF、GIF格式和其他标记语言例如SGML(标准广义标记语言Standard Generalized Mark-up Language)编码的数据并提供解码的数据到分画面处理器80，以作进一步处理。在控制器15指导下，处理器80格式化存储的网页图象象素数据，以存储为显示处理器55中所包含的表示象素的存储器中的重叠，由单元60作为合并的显示再现。另外，控制器15包括一个网页浏览程序，支持全套网页浏览器功能的执行。藉此单元15加之处理器75和处理器80，通过惯用网页浏览器或者标准浏览器比如可进行全部因特网访问的网景Navigator^TM的单元60提供显示。MPEG decoder 50 decodes and decompresses the prioritized MPEG compatible packetized video data fromunit 43, and provides the prioritized decompressed program representative pixel data for storage in the pixel display processor representative memory andNTSC encoder 55.Audio processor 61 decodes the prioritized packetized audio data fromunit 43 and provides prioritized decoded and amplified audio data synchronized with the associated decompressed video data todevice 63 for audio reproduction.Processor 75 decodes HTML^(TM) and Java^(TM) encoded web information fromunit 43 and provides pixel data representing web page images for storage in memory withinsplit screen processor 80.Processor 75 also decodes data encoded in other formats such as JPEG, TIF, GIF formats, and other markup languages such as SGML (Standard Generalized Mark-up Language) and provides the decoded data to split-screen processor 80 for further processing. Under the direction ofcontroller 15,processor 80 formats the stored web page image pixel data for storage as an overlay in memory representing pixels contained indisplay processor 55 for rendering byunit 60 as a merged display. In addition, thecontroller 15 includes a web browser program that supports the execution of a full set of web browser functions. By means ofunit 15, together withprocessor 75 andprocessor 80, the display is provided byunit 60 of a conventional web browser or a standard browser such as Netscape Navigator^(TM) with full Internet access.

分画面处理器80包括屏幕显示(OSD)文本和图形生成器，使用于解码与处理来自单元43的分画面数据。处理器80还使用内部的OSD生成器产生表示节目指南的象素映射数据、副标题、包括可选择的菜单选项的控制与信息菜单显示、以及其他辅助项。处理器80产生的文本和图形是在控制器15的指导下以重叠象素映象数据的形式产生的。在包含在显示处理器55的象素代表性存储器中将此重叠象素映象数据与来自MPEG解码器50的解压缩象素数据和来自处理器75的解码因特网协议网页数据组合和同步。来自单元50的表示子信道SC上视频节目的组合象素映象数据加之来自单元80的网页显示数据和相关的分画面文本消息数据由处理器55作为NTSC信号编码，由单元60作为合并显示输出以再现。在另一模式下单元55还将从调谐器30经由mux35提供的模拟视频信号编码为NTSC信号，由单元60输出和再现。Split-picture processor 80 includes an on-screen display (OSD) text and graphics generator for decoding and processing the split-picture data fromunit 43 .Processor 80 also uses an internal OSD generator to generate pixmap data representing the program guide, subtitles, control and information menu displays including selectable menu options, and other auxiliary items. Text and graphics generated byprocessor 80 are generated under the direction ofcontroller 15 in the form of overlaid pixmap data. This overlay pixmap data is combined and synchronized with the decompressed pixel data from theMPEG decoder 50 and the decoded Internet Protocol web page data from theprocessor 75 in pixel representative memory contained in thedisplay processor 55. The combined pixmap data fromunit 50 representing the video program on subchannel SC plus the web page display data and associated split-screen text message data fromunit 80 are encoded byprocessor 55 as an NTSC signal and output byunit 60 as a combined display to reproduce. In anothermode unit 55 also encodes the analog video signal supplied fromtuner 30 viamux 35 into an NTSC signal for output and reproduction byunit 60 .

除了所述示范性网浏览和MPEG视频处理功能，机顶盒系统12支持全套多媒体功能。这些多媒体功能包含，例如，电子邮件、因特网电话服务、传统的电话服务、传真、可视电话，无线电、广播音频、存储和家庭控制功能。在此处详细说明的解码和按优先序排列原理还应用于处理用于这样的多媒体功能的数据。例如，在处理因特网电话服务数据时，处理器75解压缩和解码以因特网协议格式编码并用单元43分配高级别、例如实时处理优先级的被压缩的音频数据。处理器75将解压缩音频数据提供到单元63进行音频再现。此外，处理器75包括按照不同的数据格式处理多媒体数据和用单元80、55、60、61和63以类似于先前所述的方式处理之后提供给用户的协议的功能。In addition to the exemplary web browsing and MPEG video processing functions described, the set-top box system 12 supports a full suite of multimedia functions. These multimedia functions include, for example, e-mail, Internet telephony service, traditional telephone service, fax, video telephony, radio, broadcast audio, storage and home control functions. The decoding and prioritization principles detailed herein also apply to processing data for such multimedia functions. For example, when processing Internet telephony service data,processor 75 decompresses and decodes compressed audio data encoded in Internet Protocol format and assigned by unit 43 a high level, eg, real-time processing priority.Processor 75 provides the decompressed audio data tounit 63 for audio reproduction. Furthermore, theprocessor 75 includes functions for processing multimedia data according to different data formats and processing the protocols then presented to the user with theunits 80, 55, 60, 61 and 63 in a manner similar to that previously described.

控制器15，会同调制器85和调度器43启动和实现经由分离器/组合器25在同轴电缆输入链路上与因特网或广播服务提供者的返回信道通信。通过单元60上显示的菜单选项的用户选定可启动例如，因特网网页信息的一则消息请求(或与另一功能相关的请求)。控制器15，会同单元85和调度器43生成、按优先序排列和编码经由单元25在同轴电缆链路上传输给服务提供者的网页请求消息。控制器15还判定请求的因特网访问是由条件访问还是由例如来自智能卡单元(为简化附图未示出)的智能卡用户权利信息授权。如果请求的因特网访问被授权，控制器15启动在返回信道上与服务提供者的通信。控制器15，会同单元43和85，利用预先存储的请求访问数据(比如电话号码，IP地址，URL码和条件访问数据)建立与服务提供者通信并生成网页请求消息数据。生成的请求消息数据为因特网协议格式并包括适当的源、目标并IP地址码。Controller 15, in conjunction withmodulator 85 andscheduler 43, initiates and effects return channel communication via splitter/combiner 25 on the coaxial cable input link with the Internet or broadcast service provider. User selection through a menu option displayed onunit 60 may initiate, for example, a message request for Internet web page information (or a request related to another function).Controller 15, in conjunction withunit 85 andscheduler 43, generates, prioritizes and encodes web page request messages for transmission viaunit 25 over the coax link to the service provider. Thecontroller 15 also determines whether the requested Internet access is conditional access or authorized by smart card user entitlement information, eg from a smart card unit (not shown for simplicity of the drawing). If the requested Internet access is authorized, thecontroller 15 initiates communication with the service provider on the return channel.Controller 15, in conjunction withunits 43 and 85, utilizes pre-stored access request data (such as phone number, IP address, URL code and conditional access data) to establish communication with the service provider and generate web page request message data. The generated request message data is in Internet Protocol format and includes the appropriate source, destination, and IP address codes.

调度器43在存储器中存储并缓存网页请求消息数据分组并按照一个预定优先级简表(映象)按顺序访问该分组，该简表使具有特殊的特性和功能的返回数据与所需优先级关联。从而，单元43提供缓存的按优先序排列网页请求消息数据到调制器85。调制器85利用QPSK(四相相移键控)调制前向纠错、交织和编码该请求消息数据。单元85还以一种安全数据格式可选择地加密该请求消息数据(在控制器15的指导下)并以所需优先级经由电缆链路和单元25传送编码数据给服务提供者。单元85也可以交替编码、加扰或交织请求信息(或其他返回数据)或使用其他保护技巧以增加数据安全性。这样的数据安全性在电子交易类型消息中特别重要，例如包括信用卡数据。另外，返回信道还可用于以下功能比如，a)包括仅表读取的遥感勘测，b)视频和报警监视，C)家庭环境监视，d)家用电器监视，e)商品定购以及f)节目条件访问和权利管理。稍后结合图6和7更详细地描述调度器43使用的按优先序排列接收和返回数据的方法。Scheduler 43 stores and caches web page request message data packets in memory and accesses the packets sequentially according to a predetermined priority profile (map) that aligns returned data with specific characteristics and functions with the desired priority associated. Accordingly,unit 43 provides cached prioritized web page request message data tomodulator 85 .Modulator 85 modulates forward error correction, interleaves, and encodes the request message data using QPSK (Quadrature Phase Shift Keying).Unit 85 also optionally encrypts the request message data (under direction of controller 15) in a secure data format and transmits the encoded data via cable link andunit 25 to the service provider with the desired priority.Unit 85 may also alternately encode, scramble or interleave the request information (or other return data) or use other protection techniques to increase data security. Such data security is particularly important in electronic transaction type messages, including, for example, credit card data. Additionally, the return channel can be used for functions such as a) telemetry including meter read only, b) video and alarm monitoring, c) home environment monitoring, d) home appliance monitoring, e) merchandise ordering, and f) program conditions Access and Rights Management. The method used byscheduler 43 to prioritize received and returned data is described in more detail later in connection with FIGS. 6 and 7 .

如前所述，图1机顶盒系统的结构能独立并行处理不同格式的和来自不同源的广播数据(例如来自广播源的MPEG节目数据和来自因特网服务提供者的因特网协议网页数据)。该结构是完全变比的并能够解码动态可划分的数据和两个下游(例如MPEG和因特网)处理路径之间的带宽。如此，该结构支持同时解码HBO电影和伴随的因特网网页数据的MPEG广播，例如。在本例子中，伴随的网页数据是间歇的，网页数据占有的带宽被动态重新分配给MPEG数据或其他补充的数据服务，如节目指南，电子邮件等。该结构还允许动态的划分返回信道路径与两个下游处理路径之间的带宽。As mentioned above, the structure of the set-top box system in FIG. 1 can independently and parallelly process broadcast data in different formats and from different sources (such as MPEG program data from broadcast sources and Internet Protocol web page data from Internet service providers). The architecture is fully scaleable and capable of decoding dynamically divisible data and bandwidth between two downstream (eg MPEG and Internet) processing paths. As such, the architecture supports simultaneous decoding of MPEG broadcasts of HBO movies and accompanying Internet web page data, for example. In this example, the accompanying webpage data is intermittent, and the bandwidth occupied by the webpage data is dynamically redistributed to MPEG data or other supplementary data services, such as program guides, e-mail, etc. The structure also allows dynamic partitioning of the bandwidth between the return channel path and the two downstream processing paths.

图2示出下游因特网协议数据与MPEG广播视频信道的示范性特性。虽然图2示出两下游信道的完全相同的特性，这仅仅是为示范性，每个信道可有不同的特性。图3示出上游返回通信信道的示范性特性。图4列出该数据业务类型和一用于通过图1下游信道提供的服务的示范性比特速率分配，图5列出该数据业务类型和用于经由图1上游信道提供的服务的一示范性比特速率分配。图1的机顶盒系统12的处理结构是完全变比而且能够适应性地处理在两个下游信道之间动态分配的数据。机顶盒系统12还能够适应性地处理占据在下游信道与返回信道之间动态可分配的带宽的数据。Figure 2 illustrates exemplary characteristics of downstream Internet Protocol data and MPEG broadcast video channels. Although Figure 2 shows identical characteristics for both downstream channels, this is merely exemplary and each channel may have different characteristics. Figure 3 illustrates exemplary characteristics of an upstream return communication channel. Figure 4 lists the data traffic type and an exemplary bit rate allocation for the service provided via the downstream channel of Figure 1, and Figure 5 lists the data traffic type and an exemplary bit rate allocation for the service provided via the upstream channel of Figure 1 Bit rate allocation. The processing architecture of the set-top box system 12 of FIG. 1 is fully variable ratio and capable of adaptively processing data that is dynamically allocated between the two downstream channels. The set-top box system 12 is also capable of adaptively processing data that occupies dynamically allocable bandwidth between the downstream channel and the return channel.

图6示出一种优先级排定系统，用于按优先序排列分别从单元40与70(图1)收到MPEG广播与因特网协议数据分组的处理。图6系统还用于按优先序排列经由单元85(图1)向服务提供者返回通信的数据的处理。在图6系统中，输入数据例如，MPEG，因特网协议TCP/IP或返回数据处于输入存储椎栈600中。网络接口610识别堆栈600中的接收数据的类型(例如MPEG，因特网协议或返回数据)并格式化它以由智能调度器620识别特性(属性)。在履行智能调度功能时调度器620响应来自控制器15(图1)的控制和同步消息615。FIG. 6 shows a prioritization system for prioritizing the processing of MPEG broadcast and Internet Protocol data packets received fromunits 40 and 70 (FIG. 1), respectively. The Figure 6 system is also used to prioritize the processing of data communicated back to the service provider via unit 85 (Figure 1). In the system of FIG. 6, input data such as MPEG, Internet Protocol TCP/IP or return data is in theinput storage stack 600.Network interface 610 identifies the type of received data in stack 600 (eg, MPEG, Internet Protocol, or return data) and formats it to identify characteristics (attributes) byintelligent scheduler 620 .Scheduler 620 responds to control andsynchronization messages 615 from controller 15 (FIG. 1) in performing intelligent scheduling functions.

调度器620(图6)检查来自接口610的格式化数据的功能、协议和通信信道属性，它们包含在内部DRAM存储器中存储的优先级简表640中。调度器620还比较接收数据的属性与优先级简表中的属性并根据此比较关系按照所需输出优先级整理接收的数据分组。调度器620根据所需输出优先级(例如关键的，高，中或低优先级-640)分配连续输出FIFO(先进先出)单元650中的存储并经由高速DMA(直接存储器访问)接口630提供整理的按优先序排列数据给FIFO650中的所分配存储单元。输出处理器660按顺序访问来自FIFO 650的按优先序排列的数据并格式化它，以由单元40，70和85(图1)进一步处理。Scheduler 620 (FIG. 6) examines formatted data frominterface 610 for function, protocol, and communication channel attributes contained inpriority profile 640 stored in internal DRAM memory. Thescheduler 620 also compares the attributes of the received data with the attributes in the priority profile and sorts the received data packets according to the desired output priority according to the comparison.Scheduler 620 allocates storage in sequential output FIFO (first in first out)unit 650 according to desired output priority (e.g. critical, high, medium or low priority - 640) and provides via high speed DMA (direct memory access)interface 630 The collated prioritized data is given to the allocated memory locations inFIFO 650.Output processor 660 sequentially accesses the prioritized data fromFIFO 650 and formats it for further processing byunits 40, 70 and 85 (FIG. 1).

图7示出详述适用于图6系统的按优先序排列输入MPEG广播数据、因特网协议数据和返回数据的处理的方法的流程图。在图7步骤705，起始于步骤700之后，调度器620(图6)接收输入数据而在步骤710从存储器检索优先级简表信息。该优先级简表分级地使特别需要的输出优先级与展现一种特别属性或属性的组合的输入数据关联。该优先级简表可从服务提供者传送，由用户输入或可包含预先存储缺省信息或可从这些源的组合导出。服务提供者能够提供不同等级的服务，各自通过下载优先级简表给用户机顶盒系统以相应的不同记帐速率为用户提供不同的数据访问时间。下载的优先级简表允许服务提供者控制用户对收到信息的访问。例如，通过下载(或预先安装)一优先级简表，因特网服务提供者可以每月$10每秒1k比特和每月$20每秒5k比特的最小数据率提供因特网访问。做为选择，用户可输入优先级简表信息来配置他的系统以按照所需次序或以所需优先权来处理和传递数据或消息。FIG. 7 shows a flowchart detailing a method of prioritizing the processing of incoming MPEG broadcast data, Internet Protocol data, and return data suitable for use with the system of FIG. 6. FIG. Atstep 705 of FIG. 7 , after starting atstep 700 , the scheduler 620 ( FIG. 6 ) receives input data and atstep 710 retrieves priority profile information from memory. The priority profile hierarchically associates specifically desired output priorities with input data exhibiting a particular attribute or combination of attributes. The priority profile may be transmitted from the service provider, entered by the user or may contain pre-stored default information or may be derived from a combination of these sources. Service providers can provide different grades of service, and each set-top box system provides users with different data access times at corresponding different billing rates by downloading a priority profile to the user. Downloaded priority profiles allow service providers to control user access to received information. For example, by downloading (or pre-installing) a priority profile, an Internet service provider can provide Internet access at a minimum data rate of 1 kbit per second for $10 per month and 5 kbit per second for $20 per month. Alternatively, the user can enter priority profile information to configure his system to process and deliver data or messages in a desired order or with a desired priority.

该优先级简表信息可被安全编码，例如，为了保护目的而加密、加扰或编码，以免未经许可使用高速和优惠费率数据访问级别的服务。在这种情况下，在使用以前，该优先级简表信息由控制器15(图1)会同调度器620(图6)解码(例如解密或解扰)。可在图1机顶盒系统12中的一种条件访问和权利管理系统(为保持附图清楚未示出)中，授权和实现此种解密或解扰。应注意到，优先级简表可传输到网络系统中的任何和所有的节点，比如因特网或内部网络，局域网或广域网等，以保证服务质量(QOS)。节点可包含网络设备，比如服务器(分布集线器)，网关，终端，路由器和交换器。优先级简表还可联合包括用于保留网络资源的数据优先级指示符的通信协议分配和使用，以保证整个网络通信路径或仅路径的部分的服务质量。此类通信协议包含，例如，1997年6月14日的资源保留协议(RSVP)因特网草案；1996年2月1日的实时传输协议(RTP)征求意见资料文件RFC1889，这两个文件都可用于因特网。优先级简表信息也可使用于按照定义多媒体网络和通信系统元件的标准操作的系统，比如国际远程通信联盟(ITU)开发1996年11月的H.323和H.324。The priority profile information may be securely encoded, eg, encrypted, scrambled, or encoded for protection against unauthorized use of high-speed and premium-rate data access levels of service. In this case, the priority profile information is decoded (eg, decrypted or descrambled) by controller 15 (FIG. 1) in conjunction with scheduler 620 (FIG. 6) prior to use. Such decryption or descrambling may be authorized and implemented in a conditional access and rights management system (not shown to preserve clarity of the drawing) in the set-top box system 12 of FIG. 1 . It should be noted that the priority profile can be transmitted to any and all nodes in the network system, such as the Internet or intranet, LAN or WAN, etc., to ensure quality of service (QOS). Nodes can contain network devices such as servers (distribution hubs), gateways, terminals, routers and switches. The priority profile may also be used in conjunction with communication protocol allocation and use including data priority indicators for reserving network resources to guarantee quality of service for the entire network communication path or only a portion of the path. Such communication protocols include, for example, the Resource Reservation Protocol (RSVP) Internet Draft of June 14, 1997; the Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP) Request for Comments document RFC1889 of February 1, 1996, both of which may be used in Internet. Priority profile information may also be used in systems operating in accordance with standards defining components of multimedia networks and communication systems, such as H.323 and H.324, November 1996, developed by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU).

在图7的步骤715中，调度器620识别在步骤705接收的数据的属性。识别的属性包含(i)协议特性，(ii)功能类型特性以及(iii)通信信道特性。Instep 715 of FIG. 7 ,scheduler 620 identifies attributes of the data received instep 705 . The identified attributes include (i) protocol properties, (ii) function type properties, and (iii) communication channel properties.

协议特性包含，例如，(a)数据源标识符，(b)数据目标标识符，(c)数据类型标识符，(d)数据优先级指示符，(e)数据误差指示符，(f)权利指示符，(g)因特网协议指示符，(h)MPEG兼容的指示符，以及(i)分组标识符。Protocol characteristics include, for example, (a) data source identifier, (b) data destination identifier, (c) data type identifier, (d) data priority indicator, (e) data error indicator, (f) rights indicator, (g) internet protocol indicator, (h) MPEG compatible indicator, and (i) packet identifier.

功能类型特性识别的功能包括例如，a)电子邮件，b)因特网网页浏览，c)因特网电话服务，d)传统的电话服务，e)传真，f)广播视频处理，g)可视电话处理，h)广播无线电处理，i)广播音频处理以及j)家庭控制功能，比如报警、遥感勘测、用具以及环境控制和监视。The functions identified by the function type characteristics include, for example, a) electronic mail, b) Internet web browsing, c) Internet telephony service, d) traditional telephony service, e) facsimile, f) broadcast video processing, g) video telephony processing, h) broadcast radio processing, i) broadcast audio processing and j) home control functions such as alarm, telemetry, appliance and environmental control and monitoring.

通信信道特性识别物理通信链路类型，例如电话线，地面、电缆或人造卫星链路，光纤链路，广域网(WAN)，局域网(LAN)，因特网，或内部网络。通信信道特性还标识相同类型的通信链路的不同信道，例如不同的电话线。The communication channel characteristics identify the type of physical communication link, such as telephone line, terrestrial, cable or satellite link, fiber optic link, wide area network (WAN), local area network (LAN), Internet, or intranet. Communication channel characteristics also identify different channels of the same type of communication link, such as different telephone lines.

在图7步骤720，调度器620比较步骤715中识别的属性与优先级简表中的属性，步骤725根据此比较按照所需输出优先级整理分组化输入数据。按照此方式使用优先级简表提供构造源自多个不同源的多种多样的数据的优先级的灵活手段。可用通信链路、协议或功能特性的任何组合方便地按优先序排列数据。从而特别功能的数据，或在特别链路上通信的数据，可按照源或目标或类型按优先序排列。例如，可根据源标识符按优先序排列电子邮件消息，即，可给来自某些源的电子邮件更高的优先级。同样地，至特殊的目标的返回消息(由目标标识符识别)可以更高的优先级分配和编码。此外，调度器620解释专用优先级指示符例如输入数据中的因特网协议数据类型(居先)指示符并为此数据分配适当的优先级。同样地，还可利用基于权利指示符，因特网协议指示符，MPEG兼容的指示符例如分组标识符的优先级简表分配分级处理优先级。Instep 720 of FIG. 7, thescheduler 620 compares the attributes identified instep 715 with the attributes in the priority profile, and step 725 sorts the packetized input data according to the desired output priority based on the comparison. Using priority profiles in this manner provides a flexible means of constructing priorities for a wide variety of data originating from a number of different sources. Data can be easily prioritized using any combination of communication links, protocols, or features. Thus data of a particular function, or data communicated over a particular link, can be prioritized by source or destination or type. For example, email messages may be prioritized according to source identifiers, ie, emails from certain sources may be given higher priority. Likewise, return messages to a particular destination (identified by the destination identifier) can be assigned and encoded with higher priority. In addition, thescheduler 620 interprets special priority indicators such as the Internet Protocol data type (precedence) indicator in incoming data and assigns the appropriate priority to this data. Likewise, priority profiles based on rights indicators, Internet protocol indicators, MPEG compatible indicators such as packet identifiers can also be used to assign hierarchical processing priorities.

在步骤730，调度器620根据所需输出优先级按照连续的输出FIFO(图6的先进先出单元650)分配存储单元并经高速DMA(直接存储器访问)提供整理的按优先序排列的数据到FIFO 650中分配的存储单元。在步骤733(图7)，以所需输出优先级从FIFO650输出整理的按优先序排列分组数据。在步骤735，处理整理的按优先序排列输出数据，以再现并提供至用户或返回传输至服务提供者。此类处理可包括为安全返回通信编码和加密数据，例如，使数据与其他机顶盒处理同步。在步骤740结束该处理。Instep 730, thescheduler 620 allocates storage units according to the required output priority according to the continuous output FIFO (first-in-first-outunit 650 of FIG. 6 ) and provides sorted prioritized data via high-speed DMA (direct memory access) to Allocated memory locations inFIFO 650. At step 733 (FIG. 7), the collated prioritized packet data is output fromFIFO 650 at the desired output priority. Atstep 735, the collated prioritized output data is processed for rendering and provision to the user or back transmission to the service provider. Such processing may include encoding and encrypting data for secure return communications, for example, synchronizing data with other set-top box processing. Atstep 740 the process ends.

图8示出本发明的一种服务器分布集线器102，用于分布广播数据和从一个或多个服务提供者109提供多媒体服务到机顶盒系统12(图1和8)和用于处理来自单元12的上游数据。QAM调制广播数据比如来自一个或多个服务提供者109(图8)的MPEG兼容的视频数据或模拟表现的视频数据经由光纤链路145信道135提供到mux125。单元125从包括来自信道135的接收广播数据、本地集线器生成数据137的源，和从来自电缆调制解调器终端150(经由上变频器134)的QAM调制数据提供多路复用的输出。来自mux125的多路复用输出被输出到光纤通信接口120。单元120通过经由光纤链路115、coax105和电连接到光变换器107在高频率信道110上传送下游QAM数据和接收上游QPSK(或QAM)数据与图1机顶盒系统12通信。FIG. 8 shows aserver distribution hub 102 of the present invention for distributing broadcast data and providing multimedia services from one ormore service providers 109 to the set-top box system 12 (FIGS. 1 and 8) and for processing data from theunit 12. upstream data. QAM modulated broadcast data such as MPEG compatible video data or analog rendered video data from one or more service providers 109 ( FIG. 8 ) is provided to mux 125 viafiber optic link 145channel 135 .Unit 125 provides a multiplexed output from sources including received broadcast data fromchannel 135, local hub generateddata 137, and from QAM modulated data from cable modem terminal 150 (via upconverter 134). The multiplexed output frommux 125 is output to fiberoptic communication interface 120 .Unit 120 communicates with settop box system 12 of FIG. 1 by transmitting downstream QAM data and receiving upstream QPSK (or QAM) data on high frequency channel 110 viafiber optic link 115, coax 105 and electrical connection tooptical transducer 107.

来自机顶盒系统12的上游数据被单元120经由信道110接收并经由分离器155和下变频器160确定路线到电缆调制解调器终端系统150。系统150解调来自变频器160的QPSK调制的上游数据并经由网络接口154、可选的集线器交换器140和光纤链路145提供解调上游数据给服务提供者109。做为选择，可选择的集线器交换器140可提供解调的上游数据到可选择的广域网设备130。系统150的单元154还经由交换器140从服务提供者109或广域网设备130接收下游数据。单元154格式化和处理来自交换器140下游数据并提供到单元152进行QAM调制和随后由变频器134上变频。来自变频器134的上变频数据如先前所述经由mux125传输至机顶盒系统12。Upstream data from settop box system 12 is received byunit 120 via channel 110 and routed viasplitter 155 anddownconverter 160 to cablemodem termination system 150 .System 150 demodulates the QPSK modulated upstream data fromfrequency converter 160 and provides the demodulated upstream data toservice provider 109 vianetwork interface 154 ,optional hub switch 140 andfiber optic link 145 . Alternatively,optional hub switch 140 may provide demodulated upstream data tooptional WAN device 130 .Unit 154 ofsystem 150 also receives downstream data fromservice provider 109 or widearea network device 130 viaswitch 140 .Unit 154 formats and processes data downstream fromswitch 140 and provides tounit 152 for QAM modulation and subsequent upconversion byfrequency converter 134 . The upconverted data fromfrequency converter 134 is transmitted to settop box system 12 viamux 125 as previously described.

图9列出和描述根据本发明的在图8服务器系统中识别的示范性接口1-10。FIG. 9 lists and describes exemplary interfaces 1-10 identified in the server system of FIG. 8 in accordance with the present invention.

图1、6和8的结构不是唯一的。可按照本发明原理导出实现相同目的其他结构。此外，图1系统12的元件的功能以及图7的处理步骤可全部或部分地在微处理器的编程指令内实现。The structures of Figures 1, 6 and 8 are not unique. Other structures to achieve the same purpose can be derived according to the principle of the present invention. Furthermore, the functions of the elements of thesystem 12 of FIG. 1 and the processing steps of FIG. 7 may be implemented in whole or in part within the programming instructions of the microprocessor.

Claims (19)

Translated fromChinese

1.一种视频解码器设备(10，20)，用于解码按照多个不同数据格式编码并在公共物理通信链路上接收的输入视频数据，该设备包括：1. A video decoder device (10, 20) for decoding input video data encoded according to a plurality of different data formats and received over a common physical communication link, the device comprising:第一处理器(50)，用于对以因特网协议兼容数据格式分组化并在公共通信链路上接收的表示图像的数据解码，以提供第一解码视频输出；a first processor (50) for decoding data representative of an image packetized in an internet protocol compatible data format and received over the common communication link to provide a first decoded video output;第二处理器(75)，用于对以因特网协议数据格式以外的MPEG兼容数据格式分组并在公共通信链路上接收的广播视频数据同时解码，以提供第二解码视频输出，其中可动态地改变公共通信链路上传送的表示图像的数据相对于广播视频数据的比例；以及A second processor (75) for simultaneously decoding broadcast video data packetized in an MPEG-compatible data format other than an Internet Protocol data format and received over the common communication link to provide a second decoded video output, wherein dynamically Alter the proportion of data representing images relative to broadcast video data transmitted over common communications links; and显示处理器(55，80)，用于从第一和第二解码视频输出形成显示图像。A display processor (55, 80) for forming a display image from the first and second decoded video outputs.2.如权利要求1所述的设备，其中包括：2. The device of claim 1, comprising:第一解调器40，用于解调以第一调制格式调制的数据，以提供所述表示图像的数据；以及a first demodulator 40 for demodulating data modulated in a first modulation format to provide said data representative of an image; and第二解调器70，用于解调以第二调制格式调制的数据，以提供所述表示图像的数据。The second demodulator 70 is configured to demodulate the data modulated in the second modulation format to provide the data representing the image.3.如权利要求2所述的设备，其中：3. The device of claim 2, wherein:所述第一和第二调制格式是相同的。Said first and second modulation formats are identical.4.如权利要求1所述的设备，其中包括：4. The device of claim 1, comprising:编码器(43，15)，用于对返回传递到广播源的数据编码；以及Encoders (43, 15) for encoding data returned to the broadcast source; and调制器(85)，用于调制返回调制格式下的编码数据，以经所述公共通信链路返回通信到广播源。A modulator (85) for modulating the encoded data in a return modulation format for return communication to the broadcast source via said common communication link.5.如权利要求4所述的设备，其中：5. The device of claim 4, wherein:所述编码器能够经所述返回信道发送消息，该返回信道支持从下列功能中选出的一个或多个功能，a)包括实用仪表读取的遥测，b)视频监视，c)报警功能，d)家庭环境监视，e)家用设备监视，f)商品订购以及g)节目条件访问和权利管理。The encoder is capable of sending messages via the return channel supporting one or more functions selected from a) telemetry including utility meter reading, b) video surveillance, c) alarm functions, d) home environment monitoring, e) home appliance monitoring, f) merchandise ordering, and g) program conditional access and rights management.6.如权利要求4所述的设备，其中：6. The device of claim 4, wherein:所述返回调制格式不同于接收调制格式。The return modulation format is different from the receive modulation format.7.如权利要求1所述的设备，其中：7. The device of claim 1, wherein:所述第一处理器能够经所述公共通信信道处理消息，该公共通信信道支持从下列功能中选出的一个或多个远程功能，a)录像机节目编排，b)电子交易，c)可视电话，d)因特网电话服务，e)本地社区节目编排，f)商品订购，g)有目标的广告，h)股票交易，以及i)家庭控制。The first processor is capable of processing messages via the common communication channel supporting one or more remote functions selected from a) video recorder programming, b) electronic transactions, c) visual telephone, d) Internet telephony service, e) local community programming, f) merchandise ordering, g) targeted advertising, h) stock trading, and i) home control.8.如权利要求1所述的设备，其中包括：8. The device of claim 1, comprising:识别和处理数据的装置，用于将在所述公共通信链路上接收的数据(15，35)识别为模拟广播格式数据并处理所述模拟广播格式数据以提供数据供显示。Means for identifying and processing data for identifying data (15, 35) received over said common communication link as analog broadcast format data and processing said analog broadcast format data to provide data for display.9.如权利要求1所述的设备，其中包括：9. The device of claim 1, comprising:用于识别在所述公共通信链路上接收的输入数据中的同步指示符(15)的装置，使所述第一解码视频输出与所述第二解码视频输出同步。Means for identifying a synchronization indicator (15) in input data received over said common communication link, for synchronizing said first decoded video output with said second decoded video output.10.一种用于对按照多个数据格式编码并在公共物理通信链路上接收的输入视频数据解码的视频解码器设备，包括：10. A video decoder device for decoding input video data encoded in a plurality of data formats and received over a common physical communication link, comprising:每一处理器(50)，用于对以因特网协议兼容数据格式分组化并在公共通信链路上接收的表示图像的数据解码，以提供第一解码视频输出；each processor (50) for decoding data representative of an image packetized in an internet protocol compatible data format and received over the common communication link to provide a first decoded video output;第二处理器(75)，用于对以因特网协议数据格式以外的MPEG兼容数据格式分组并在公共通信链路上接收的广播视频数据解码，以提供第二解码视频输出；a second processor (75) for decoding broadcast video data packetized in an MPEG-compatible data format other than an Internet Protocol data format and received over the common communication link to provide a second decoded video output;第三处理器(15，43，85)，用于调制返回调制格式的编码数据，以经所述公共通信链路返回传递到广播源；以及a third processor (15, 43, 85) for modulating the coded data in a return modulation format for delivery back to the broadcast source via said common communication link; and显示处理器(55，80)，用于从第一和第二解码视频输出形成显示图像。A display processor (55, 80) for forming a display image from the first and second decoded video outputs.11.如权利要求10所述的设备，其中：11. The device of claim 10, wherein:所述第三处理器整理支持从下列功能选出的一个以上的功能的信息，a)包括实用仪表读取的遥测，b)视频监视，c)报警功能，d)家庭环境监视，e)家用设备监视，f)商品订购，g)电子交易，h)节目条件访问和权利管理。The third processor collates information supporting one or more functions selected from a) telemetry including utility meter reading, b) video surveillance, c) alarm functions, d) home environment monitoring, e) home Device monitoring, f) merchandise ordering, g) electronic transactions, h) program conditional access and rights management.12.如权利要求10所述的设备，其中：12. The device of claim 10, wherein:所述第三处理器对安全数据格式的数据编码。The third processor encodes data in a secure data format.13.如权利要求12所述的设备，其中：13. The device of claim 12, wherein:所述安全数据格式是下列格式中的一个或多个，a)加密格式，b)编码格式，c)加扰格式和d)交织格式。The secure data format is one or more of a) encrypted format, b) encoded format, c) scrambled format and d) interleaved format.14.如权利要求10所述的设备，其中：14. The device of claim 10, wherein:通过点到点通信保证所述返回通信。The return communication is secured by point-to-point communication.15.如权利要求10所述的设备，其中：15. The device of claim 10, wherein:所述因特网协议数据格式包括以下列格式中的至少一种格式编码的数据，a)HTML^TM格式，b)Java^TM格式，以及c)ActiveX^TM格式。The Internet Protocol data format includes data encoded in at least one of the following formats: a) HTML^™ format, b) Java^™ format, and c) ActiveX^™ format.16.如权利要求10所述的设备，其中：16. The device of claim 10, wherein:所述第一处理器能够经所述公共通信信道处理消息，该公共通信信道支持从下列功能中选出的一个或多个远程功能，a)录像机节目编排，b)电子交易，c)可视电话，d)因特网电话服务，e)本地社团节目编排，f)商品订购，g)有目标的广告，h)股票交易，以及i)家庭控制。The first processor is capable of processing messages via the common communication channel supporting one or more remote functions selected from a) video recorder programming, b) electronic transactions, c) visual telephone, d) Internet telephony service, e) local community programming, f) merchandise ordering, g) targeted advertising, h) stock trading, and i) home control.17.一种用于对按照多个数据格式编码并在公共物理通信链路上接收的输入视频数据解码的视频解码器设备，包括：17. A video decoder device for decoding input video data encoded in a plurality of data formats and received over a common physical communication link, comprising:第一处理器(50)，用于对按照因特网协议数据格式分组化并在公共通信链路上接收的表示图像的数据解码；a first processor (50) configured to decode data representing images packetized according to an internet protocol data format and received over a common communication link;第二处理器(75)，用于对以因特网协议数据格式以外的MPEG兼容数据格式分组并在公共通信链路上接收的广播视频数据解码，以提供第二解码视频输出，其中可动态地改变公共通信链路上传送的表示图像的数据相对于广播视频数据的比例；A second processor (75) for decoding broadcast video data packetized in an MPEG-compatible data format other than an Internet Protocol data format and received over the common communication link to provide a second decoded video output, which may be dynamically changed The proportion of data representing images relative to broadcast video data transmitted over public communication links;第三处理器(15，43，85)，用于编码通过所述公共通信链路返回传递到广播源的数据；a third processor (15, 43, 85) for encoding data passed back to the broadcast source via said common communication link;同步装置(15，55，80)，用于使所述返回通信与所述公共通信链路上的接收数据同步；以及synchronizing means (15, 55, 80) for synchronizing said return communication with received data on said common communication link; and显示处理器(55，80)，用于从第一和第二解码视频输出形成显示图像。A display processor (55, 80) for forming a display image from the first and second decoded video outputs.18.如权利要求17所述的设备，其中包括：18. The device of claim 17, comprising:用于识别在所述公共通信链路上接收的输入数据中的同步指示符(15)的装置，使所述第一解码视频输出与所述第二解码视频输出同步。Means for identifying a synchronization indicator (15) in incoming data received over said common communication link, for synchronizing said first decoded video output with said second decoded video output.19.一种用于对按照多个数据格式编码并在公共物理通信链路上接收的输入视频数据解码的方法，包括下列步骤：19. A method for decoding input video data encoded in a plurality of data formats and received over a common physical communication link, comprising the steps of:对以因特网协议数据格式分组化并在公共通信链路上接收的表示图像的数据解码，以提供第一解码视频输出；decoding data representative of the image packetized in an internet protocol data format and received over the common communication link to provide a first decoded video output;对以因特网协议数据格式以外的MPEG兼容数据格式分组并在公共通信链路上接收的广播视频数据解码，以提供第二解码视频输出，其中可动态地改变公共通信链路上传送的表示图像的数据相对于广播视频数据的比例；以及decoding broadcast video data packetized in an MPEG-compatible data format other than an Internet Protocol data format and received over the common communication link to provide a second decoded video output, wherein the representation image conveyed over the common communication link can be dynamically changed Ratio of data relative to broadcast video data; and从第一和第二解码视频输出形成显示图像。A display image is formed from the first and second decoded video outputs.

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