WO2002015024A1 - Method and apparatus for interactively accessing multimedia information associated with a specific dvd - Google Patents

Method and apparatus for interactively accessing multimedia information associated with a specific dvd Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2002015024A1
WO2002015024A1 PCT/US2001/019452 US0119452W WO0215024A1 WO 2002015024 A1 WO2002015024 A1 WO 2002015024A1 US 0119452 W US0119452 W US 0119452W WO 0215024 A1 WO0215024 A1 WO 0215024A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
dvd
signature
information
transmitting
database
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2001/019452
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Eng Kiat Siah
Meng Yew Ching
Wei Wan Koh
Original Assignee
Idvdbox, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Idvdbox, Inc. filed Critical Idvdbox, Inc.
Priority to AU2001266997A priority Critical patent/AU2001266997A1/en
Publication of WO2002015024A1 publication Critical patent/WO2002015024A1/en

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Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G11INFORMATION STORAGE
    • G11BINFORMATION STORAGE BASED ON RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN RECORD CARRIER AND TRANSDUCER
    • G11B20/00Signal processing not specific to the method of recording or reproducing; Circuits therefor
    • G11B20/00086Circuits for prevention of unauthorised reproduction or copying, e.g. piracy
    • G11B20/00855Circuits for prevention of unauthorised reproduction or copying, e.g. piracy involving a step of exchanging information with a remote server
    • GPHYSICS
    • G11INFORMATION STORAGE
    • G11BINFORMATION STORAGE BASED ON RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN RECORD CARRIER AND TRANSDUCER
    • G11B20/00Signal processing not specific to the method of recording or reproducing; Circuits therefor
    • G11B20/00086Circuits for prevention of unauthorised reproduction or copying, e.g. piracy
    • GPHYSICS
    • G11INFORMATION STORAGE
    • G11BINFORMATION STORAGE BASED ON RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN RECORD CARRIER AND TRANSDUCER
    • G11B20/00Signal processing not specific to the method of recording or reproducing; Circuits therefor
    • G11B20/00086Circuits for prevention of unauthorised reproduction or copying, e.g. piracy
    • G11B20/00094Circuits for prevention of unauthorised reproduction or copying, e.g. piracy involving measures which result in a restriction to authorised record carriers
    • G11B20/00123Circuits for prevention of unauthorised reproduction or copying, e.g. piracy involving measures which result in a restriction to authorised record carriers the record carrier being identified by recognising some of its unique characteristics, e.g. a unique defect pattern serving as a physical signature of the record carrier
    • GPHYSICS
    • G11INFORMATION STORAGE
    • G11BINFORMATION STORAGE BASED ON RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN RECORD CARRIER AND TRANSDUCER
    • G11B27/00Editing; Indexing; Addressing; Timing or synchronising; Monitoring; Measuring tape travel
    • G11B27/10Indexing; Addressing; Timing or synchronising; Measuring tape travel
    • G11B27/102Programmed access in sequence to addressed parts of tracks of operating record carriers
    • G11B27/105Programmed access in sequence to addressed parts of tracks of operating record carriers of operating discs
    • GPHYSICS
    • G11INFORMATION STORAGE
    • G11BINFORMATION STORAGE BASED ON RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN RECORD CARRIER AND TRANSDUCER
    • G11B27/00Editing; Indexing; Addressing; Timing or synchronising; Monitoring; Measuring tape travel
    • G11B27/10Indexing; Addressing; Timing or synchronising; Measuring tape travel
    • G11B27/11Indexing; Addressing; Timing or synchronising; Measuring tape travel by using information not detectable on the record carrier
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L67/00Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
    • H04L67/01Protocols
    • H04L67/02Protocols based on web technology, e.g. hypertext transfer protocol [HTTP]
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L67/00Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
    • H04L67/50Network services
    • H04L67/535Tracking the activity of the user
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L69/00Network arrangements, protocols or services independent of the application payload and not provided for in the other groups of this subclass
    • H04L69/30Definitions, standards or architectural aspects of layered protocol stacks
    • H04L69/32Architecture of open systems interconnection [OSI] 7-layer type protocol stacks, e.g. the interfaces between the data link level and the physical level
    • H04L69/322Intralayer communication protocols among peer entities or protocol data unit [PDU] definitions
    • H04L69/329Intralayer communication protocols among peer entities or protocol data unit [PDU] definitions in the application layer [OSI layer 7]
    • GPHYSICS
    • G11INFORMATION STORAGE
    • G11BINFORMATION STORAGE BASED ON RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN RECORD CARRIER AND TRANSDUCER
    • G11B2220/00Record carriers by type
    • G11B2220/20Disc-shaped record carriers
    • G11B2220/25Disc-shaped record carriers characterised in that the disc is based on a specific recording technology
    • G11B2220/2537Optical discs
    • G11B2220/2562DVDs [digital versatile discs]; Digital video discs; MMCDs; HDCDs
    • GPHYSICS
    • G11INFORMATION STORAGE
    • G11BINFORMATION STORAGE BASED ON RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN RECORD CARRIER AND TRANSDUCER
    • G11B2220/00Record carriers by type
    • G11B2220/60Solid state media
    • G11B2220/65Solid state media wherein solid state memory is used for storing indexing information or metadata

Definitions

  • This invention pertains to interactive entertainment devices, software, and methods and, more particularly, to a networked interactive Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) based entertainment system.
  • DVD Digital Versatile Disk
  • Multimedia available over the Internet includes, but is not limited to, music audio files audio files in MP3 or .wav format, and movie or movie excerpt files in Motion Picture Expert Group (MPEG) format among others.
  • MPEG Motion Picture Expert Group
  • a DVD can provide a data output rate of 9.8 mega bytes per second which is sufficient to produce very high quality video playback.
  • a typical high speed Internet connection can only sustain a video stream at a rate of 1.5mega bytes per second. Which is insufficient to provide a high quality video.
  • a method for operating a DVD client device comprises steps of reading navigation information from a DVD, calculating a DVD signature from the navigation information, detecting user activation of an info link control, and transmitting the DVD signature to a DVD information server in response to detecting user activation of the info link control.
  • a DVD client device such a DVD drive equipped PC or DVD player executes a program which calculates a DVD signature from navigation information which is read from a DVD and stored in RAM.
  • the DVD signature is sent to a DVD information server and is used to identify particular web content that relates to the DVD.
  • the web content can include promotional material specific to the DVD or related products.
  • Statistical information on DVD vieworship can be collected by the DVD information server.
  • User's ID (email) can be stored for transmission of future promotional materials. Copyright checking and alerting can also be carried out by the DVD information server
  • a system and computer readable medium is disclosed for carrying out the above method. Brief Description of the Drawings The subject matter which is regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic of a computer systems according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a hardware block diagram of DVD player according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a hardware block diagram of a remote control according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 4 is a depiction of a GUI interface for a DVD player application according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a flo chart of a process carried out by the DVD player application or executed by a DVD player processor according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic of a computer systems according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a hardware block diagram of DVD player according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a hardware block diagram of a remote control according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 4 is a depiction of a GUI interface for a DVD player application according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 5
  • FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a first process carried out by a DVD information server according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a second process carried out by a DVD information server according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG.8 is a flowchart of a third process carried out by a DVD info ⁇ nation server according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a fourth process carried out by a DVD information server according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 10 is a flow chart of a process performed by the DVD information server in response to receiving a DVD signature from a DVD client FIG.
  • FIG. 12 is a second part of a flowchart of a sixth process carried out by a DVD information server according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 13 is a flow chart of a first process for calculating a DVD signature based on info ⁇ nation read from a DVD C-PBIT according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 14 is a flow chart of a second process for calculating a DVD signature based on information read from a DVD C-PBIT according to a prefe ⁇ ed embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic of the computer system 100 used in connection with the present invention.
  • a first DVD client device, a client computer 102 is connected to the Internet 104, through a first bidirectional data link 106.
  • the client computer may for example be an IBM compatible PC computer comprising a DVD drive 132, a DVD decoder card (not shown) for decoding recordings on a DVD read by DVD drive.
  • a first computer readable medium 108 is provided for loading software onto the client computer 102, for configuring it to carry out methods according to the present invention which are described below with reference to flow diagrams.
  • a first DVD 110 containing a recording is provided to be read by the DVD drive 132.
  • a second DVD client device, a DVD player 112 provided with a network interface is connected to the Internet 104 through a second bidirectional data link 114.
  • a second DVD 116 is provided for playing in the DVD player 112.
  • a remote control 118 is provided for accepting user inputs, and controlling functions of the DVD player.
  • the remote control 118 can alternatively take the physical form of a qwerty keyboard augmented with specialized function keys.
  • the remote control comprises a remote info link button 124.
  • the remote info link button could be replaced by another type of control, e.g. a switch or an on screen menu control.
  • the DVD player 112 comprises a player info link button 120.
  • the info link button 120 comprises an actual button.
  • the infor link button 120 comprises an area of a touch screen.
  • the DVD player 112 also comprises a receiver 122 for receiving signals from the remote control 118. Internal hardware schematics of the DVD player 112, and the remote control 112, are shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 respectively.
  • a DVD information server 126 is connected to the Internet 104 through a third bidirectional data link 128.
  • the DVD information server communicates with either the client computer 102, or the DVD player 112.
  • a second computer readable medium 130 is provided for configuring the DVD information server 126 to perform processes according to the teachings of the invention which are described below with reference to flow diagrams shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, and 12.
  • the bidirectional data links 106, 114, and 128 and can for example comprise digital subscriber lines (DSL),dedicated lines, or wireless links.
  • the communication protocol stacks used on the bidirectional data links 106, 114, and 128 preferably comprise Hypertext Transfer Protocol HTTP, over Transfer Control Protocol (TCP), over Internet Protocol (IP).
  • FIG. 2 is a hardware schematic of the DVD player 112.
  • the DVD player comprises a user interface panel 202.
  • the user interface panel includes a remote signal receiver/decoder 204 for receiving a signal generated by the remote control 118 in response to a user actuating the remote info link button 124.
  • the user interface panel further comprises a player info link button 120.
  • a modem 208 is provided for interfacing with the second bidirectional data link 114. The modem could be replaced by another type of network interface, such as an ethernet card. The type of network interface depends on the type of Internet connection.
  • a DVD drive 206 is provided for reading DVD 110, 116.
  • a DVD decoder 210 is provided for decoding signals read by the DVD drive 206.
  • An audio/visual module is provided for driving output devices, e.g., a television, based on decoded signals received from the DVD decoder 210.
  • a processor 218 is provided for controlling the function of the DVD player, and executing software according the present invention which is discussed below with reference to flow charts shown in FIGS. 5, 8, 13, 14.
  • a flash memory 216 is provided for storing software executed by the processor 218.
  • the flash memory 218 could be replaced by another type of memory medium, preferably a non volatile memory medium such as EPROM, or EEPROM.
  • a Random Access Memory (RAM) 214 is provided as a work space for use by the processor 218, in executing programs.
  • the RAM 214 is a volatile memory which stores information temporarily.
  • the RAM can also be used to store information from a DVD's Cell Playback Info ⁇ iiation Table (CBIT) while a DVD is being played.
  • CBIT Cell Playback Info ⁇ iiation Table
  • the intended use of this information is for controlling the playing of a recording on the DVD 110, 116.
  • the DVD decoder 210 and the processor 218 can in fact be partially or wholly integrated. For example the Pantera line of chips manufactured by National Semiconductor of Santa Clara, California combine the functions of the DVD decoder and the processor into one programmable chip. Other components of the DVD player 112 could also be integrated. For example by using Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC).
  • ASIC Application Specific Integrated Circuits
  • FIG. 3 is a hardware schematic of the remote control 118 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • the remote control comprises a key board switch matrix 302 including a info link button 304.
  • a key board encoder 306 scans the key board switch matrix in order to detect depression of a key, such as the info link button switch 304, and generates a signal identifying a depressed key.
  • the keyboard encoder 306 is coupled to a remote control signal bus 308.
  • a processor 310 is also coupled to the remote control signal bus 308.
  • a ROM 312 is also coupled to the remote control signal bus 308.
  • a signaling device drive 314 is also coupled to the remote control signal bus 308.
  • the signaling device drive 314 is drivingly coupled to a signaling device 316.
  • the keyboard encoder In response to detecting depression of the info link button switch 304, the keyboard encoder outputs a signal identifying the info link button switch.
  • the signal identifying the info link button switch is read by the processor 310.
  • the processor 310 looks up a signal code corresponding to the info link button 124 in ROM 312 and writes that signal to the signaling device drive 314.
  • the signaling device drive drives the signaling device 316 accordingly.
  • GUI 400 is a representation of a graphical user interface (GUI) device for controlling the playback of a DVD 110, 116 and for accepting user activation of a GUI info link button 402.
  • GUI graphical user interface
  • the GUI 400 comprises a number of other buttons for controlling the playback of a DVD 110, 116, including a play button 404, a stop button 406, a pause button 408, a fast forward button 410, a rewind button 412, a skip forward button 414, and a skip backward button 416.
  • the GUI 400 can be programmed in a variety of programming languages. Object oriented programming languages such as C++, and Java provide built in classes for constructing GUI.
  • FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a process 500 performed by DVD player software which can be run by the microprocessor (not shown) of the client computer 102, or by the processor 218 of the DVD player. In process block 502 the DVD drive 206 is started in response to insertion of the DVD 116.
  • software to accomplish process block 502 can be low level software embedded into the client computer's DVD drive.
  • disk navigation information preferably the Cell Playback Information Table (C-PBIT) is read from the DVD 116.
  • the disk navigation information preferably the C-PBIT is written to RAM 214.
  • a user's activation of an info link control 120, 304, 402 is detected.
  • a unique DVD signature for the for the DVD 110, 116 is calculated based on the disk navigation information.
  • the unique DVD signature is calculated based on information extracted from the C-PBIT.
  • the C-PBIT comprises the following items of information for each of a plurality of cells that comprise a DVD recording on the DVD 110, 116: Cell Playback Time (C-PBTM), Cell First Video Object Unit Start Address (C_FVOBU_SA), Cell Last Video Object Unit Start Address (C_LVOBU_SA), and Interleave Unit (ILU).
  • C-PBTM Cell Playback Time
  • C_FVOBU_SA Cell First Video Object Unit Start Address
  • C_LVOBU_SA Cell Last Video Object Unit Start Address
  • ILU Interleave Unit
  • the C-PBIT and other navigation information record on DVD is defined in the "DVD specifications for Read-Only Disc" published by the DVD consortium. Information from the C-PBIT is preferred because it is usually read out of DVD 110, 116 and stored in RAM 214 at the commencement of playback of the DVD 110, 116.
  • Storing the DVD signature in RAM would also obviate the necessity to interrupt playback in order to move a read head (not shown) in the DVD drive 206 in order to read information, preferably the CJPBIT, from which the DVD signature is calculated.
  • storing the signature as opposed to storing the navigation infonnation from which it is calculated, has the advantage of reducing a response time to the user's activation of the info link control, because the calculation steps which take a certain amount of time will already have been performed.
  • the DVD signature would then be read out of memory in response to detecting activation of the player info link button 120, the remote info link button 124, or the info link GUI button 402.
  • Other possible variations on process 500 and other processes discussed herein will be apparent to persons skilled in the programming art.
  • the DVD signature is formatted as clear text.
  • the unique DVD signature calculated in process block 510 is an integer.
  • the process 500 can include an optional process block between 510 and 512 to encrypt the DVD signature in order to protect the privacy of messages including the DVD signature. Encryption could be asymmetric encryption using public and private keys . However, encryption may be unnecessary as long as details of the calculation performed in process block 506 are maintained in secrecy.
  • process block 514 a user is prompted to decide whether they wish to receive promotional information related to the recording on the DVD 110, 116.
  • Process block 514 can be accomplished by a GUI screen comprising a message which solicits the user to elect to receive promotional information, and provides "YES" and "NO" GUI buttons for accepting the user's decision.
  • Process block 516 is a decision block, the outcome of which depends on whether the user elects to receive promotional information. If the user elects to receive promotional information, then the process 500 continues with process block 518 in which the DVD signature, and a user ID, preferably and email address, is appended to a URL which points to the DVD information server 126.
  • process 500 continues with process block 522. If the user elects not to receive promotional information then the process 500 continues with process block 520 in which the DVD signature is appended to a URL pointing to the DVD information server. Providing for user input in 514 rather than automatically transmitting a user ID serves the purpose of protecting the user's privacy.
  • a web client is instantiated.
  • the web client can be a separate web browser called by the DVD software.
  • a web client such as the Planetweb browser sold by Planetweb Inc. company, of Redwood, California can be used as the web browser for the DVD player 112.
  • a web client such as Netscape Navigator sold by America Online of Dulles, Virginia can be used for the client computer 102.
  • the web client can be started and made to access a particular URL by controlling it from the DVD player software, through it's API.
  • the details of each web clients API are made available to software developers.
  • an HTTP GET request with the URL with appended data is sent through the web client to the DVD information server 126.
  • Software residing on the DVD information server can comprise a CGI scripts for parsing the URL with appended data. Aspects of DVD information server software are described below with reference to flowcharts shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 9, 10, 11 ,12.
  • process block 526 a web page relating to a specific DVD 110, identified by the DVD signature is received in response to the HTTP GET request issued in process block 524.
  • FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of aprocess 600 performed by the DVD information server 126.
  • a DVD signature is received from a DVD client device 102, 112 via the Internet 104.
  • the DVD signature is used as a key to locate a record in a database containing one or more URL's related to a DVD identified by the DVD signature.
  • the one or more URL' s located in process block 604 are transmitted back to the DVD client device, 102, 112.
  • FIG. 600 is a flow diagram of aprocess 600 performed by the DVD information server 126.
  • a DVD signature is received from a DVD client device 102, 112 via the Internet 104.
  • the DVD signature is used as a key to locate a record in a database containing one or more URL's related to a DVD identified by the DVD signature.
  • the one or more URL' s located in process block 604 are transmitted back to the DVD client device, 102, 112.
  • process block 702 data including the DVD signature, and possibly including a user ID is received from a client device 102, 112.
  • the user ID preferably comprises an email address.
  • the DVD signature is used as a database key to locate a record containing a plurality of URL's associated with a disk identified by the DVD signature.
  • process block 706 a web page is generated which contains hyperlinks corresponding to the plurality of URL's. Note that the web page could also embed an video (MPEG) preview of an another film.
  • MPEG video
  • the web page can comprise among other things hyperlinks to a plurality of web based resources related to a film or other DVD content identified by the DVD signature.
  • Such web based content can include but is not limited to online stores selling film related memorabilia, chatrooms with film specific topics, web based discussion forums for discussing specific films, and web forms for accepting user feedback on specific films.
  • the web page generated in the preceding process block is transmitted to the client device 102, 112.
  • a database of statistical information related to the viewing of specific DVD titles is updated. The update can, for example, increment a count of viewers viewing the DVD disk 110, 116 identified by the DVD signature. The time could also be logged for the purpose of logging information of viewing habits.
  • Process block 712 is a decision block, in which it is ascertained if a user ID has been received. If not then the process 700 terminates. If a user ID has been received, then the process continues with process block 714, in which the user ID is stored in a record associated with a DVD title corresponding to the DVD signature in an advertising database.
  • Process block 716 is a delay period during which a new opportunity for targeted advertising related to a DVD identified by the DVD signature arises.
  • FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a process 800 performed by a client device 102, 112 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • a user's activation of an info link button 120, 304, 402 is detected.
  • DVD navigation information preferably, the C-PBIT is read, preferably, from RAM 214, alternatively from the DVD 110, 116.
  • a unique DVD signature for the DVD is calculated based on the DVD navigation infonnation, preferable the C-PBIT.
  • the unique DVD signature is used to search for a record corresponding to the DVD 110, 116 in a local database stored in the client device 102, 112.
  • the local database can be stored in the hard drive.
  • the local database can be stored in the flash memory 219 or in additional memory for example a hard drive (not shown).
  • Process block 81 is a decision block, the outcome of which depends on whether or not a record was found in process block 808. If a record was found then the in process block 812 information from the record is displayed to the user, after which the process 800 terminates.
  • Process block 814 is a decision block which depends on user input in response to process block 814. If the user decides not to update then the process 800 terminates. If the user decides to update, then in process block 818 a request to receive a database update is transmitted to the DVD information server, and in process block 820 the database update is received. The process 800 then loops back to process block 808.
  • FIG. 9 is a flow chart of a process 900 performed by the DVD information server 126 in response a request transmitted in process block 818.
  • a request for a database update is received from a DVD client device 102, 112.
  • an updated database is transmitted to the DVD client device 102, 112.
  • the updated database preferably comprises a plurality of records each including a URL field and a DVD signature key field.
  • FIG. 10 is a flow chart of a process 1000 performed by the DVD information server 126 in response to receiving a DVD signature from a DVD client 102, 112.
  • the DVD signature is received.
  • the DVD signature is used as a key to locate a record corresponding to the disk 116 from which the DVD signature was derived.
  • descriptive information pertaining to the disk 110, 116 is read from the record.
  • the descriptive information may for example comprise the title of the DVD 110, 116.
  • a web site of an E-commerce affiliate of the DVD info ⁇ nation server operator is accessed.
  • the operator of the DVD information server might have an E-commerce affiliate that sells books including books on films, or film memorabilia.
  • a search is executed in a database on the E-commerce affiliates web site using the descriptive information from the record in a search string.
  • a web page containing the results of the search is generated.
  • the E-commerce affiliates may provide URLs to their web sites that are related to the descriptive information in the record. All the URLs may be transmitted back to the DVD client device 102, 112 in the form of a web page.
  • FIG. 11 is a flow chart of a process 1100 performed by the DVD information server 126 in response to receiving a DVD signature from a DVD client 102, 112.
  • the DVD signature is received from a DVD client device 102, 112.
  • a DVD information database is searched for a record corresponding to the DVD signature.
  • Process block 1106 is a decision block, the outcome of which depends on whether a record was found in process block 1104. If a record was found, then in process block 1108 information (e.g., a URL) read from the record is sent to the client 102, 112.
  • process block 1110 in which a request for title information is sent to the the client device 102, 112.
  • title information is received from the client 102, 112.
  • the client device 102, 112 would be provided with a software routine that receives such requests, reads the title information either directly from the DVD 116 or from RAM 214, and sends the title information to the requesting DVD information receiver 126.
  • the client device 102, 112 woultjl prompt the user to input title information upon receipt of the request for title information.
  • process block 1114 the DVD information ⁇ database is searched for a record with matching title information.
  • Process block 1116 is a decision block, the outcome of which depends on whether a matching record was found in process block 1114. If a matching record was not found, then in process block 1118 the title information received in process block 1112, and the DVD signature received in process block 1102 is stored in a first temporary database.
  • the operator of the DVD info ⁇ nation server 126 can read the content of the first temporary database to obtain a list of DVD titles that are not cu ⁇ ently included in the DVD information database.
  • process block 1116 If it is determined in process block 1116 that the a record matching the title information was found in process block 1114, then the process continues with process block 1202 (FIG. 12), in which a record of the title information and DVD signature is entered into a second temporary database.
  • process block 1204 the record found in process block 1114 is checked to determine if a "DVD signature list complete" field is checked.
  • Each record in the DVD information database co ⁇ esponding to a single DVD title, can comprise more than one valid DVD signature.
  • More than one signature is called for because multiple DVDs of the same title are produced separately for specific regional markets and the different would have different disk signatures. Moreover for a given market different versions e.g. a directors cut, or a collectors version, with additional recordings may be released on different dates.
  • the DVD signature list complete field is checked for a given DVD title when information is received from a producer indicating that no more releases are forthcoming.
  • Process block 1206 is a decision block, the outcome of which depends on whether the "DVD signature list complete" is found to have been checked. If not then in process block 1212 information, e.g. a web page comprising a URL from the record located in process block 1114 is transmitted to the DVD client device 102, 112.
  • FIG. 13 is a flow chart of a first process 1300 for calculating a DVD signature based on information read from a DVD C-PBIT.
  • N is initialized to zero.
  • a sum is initialized to zero.
  • process block 1308 for the Nth cell the shifted C-PBTM is combined through a boolean OR operation with the Cell First Video Object Unit Start Address (C-FVOBU-SA) to obtain a cell sum.
  • process block 1310 the cell sum is added to the sum.
  • the counter N is incremented.
  • process block 1314 the counter is compared to a count maximum NMAX. If the counter N is less than the count maximum NMAX then the process 1300 loops back to process block 1306.
  • FIG. 14 is a flow chart of a second process 1400 for calculating a DVD signature based on information read from a DVD C-PBIT.
  • N is initialized to zero.
  • a sum is initialized to zero.
  • C-PBTM Cell Playback Time
  • process block 1408 for the Nth cell the Cell First Video Obj ect Unit Start Address (C- FVOBU-SA) is subtracted from the Cell Last Video Object Unit Start Address (C-LVOBU-SA) to obtain a cell difference.
  • the shifted C-PBTM is combined through a boolean OR operation with the cell difference to obtain a cell value.
  • process block 1412 the cell value is added to the sum.
  • the counter N is incremented.
  • process block 1316 the counter is compared to a count maximum NMAX. If the counter N is less than the count maximum NMAX then the process 1400 loops back to process block 1406.
  • NMAX is preferably equal to an integer between 5 and 99. More preferably NMAX is equal to an integer between 20 and 99.
  • a myriad of possible calculations including but not limited to other calculations based on boolean and arithmetic operations on navigation data, preferably C-PBIT data are possible.
  • the invention provides for integration of the high bandwidth capability of a local DVD client device which affords high quality video among other advantages, with the flexibility for E-commerce exploitation provided by Internet connectivity.
  • the invention teaches a method for calculating a DVD signature, which does not place a high computational burden on a DVD player, and does not necessitate interruption of DVD disk playback.
  • the DVD signature serves as a nexus between a specific DVD an Internet based content related to the specific DVD.
  • Industrial Applicability The present invention is useful with respect to DVD entertainment systems and software relative thereto. What is claimed is:

Abstract

A DVD client device (102, 112) such as DVD drive (206) equipped (PC 102) or DVD player (112) executes a program which calculates a DVD signature (step 510) from navigation information which is read from a DVD (110) and stored in RAM. The DVD signature is ent to a DVD information server (126) and is used to identify particular web content (step 604) that relates to the DVD. The web content can include promotional material specific to the DVD or related products. Statistical information on DVD viewership can be collected by the DVD information server (step 710). User's ID (email) (712) can be stored for transmission of future promotional materials. Copyright checking and alterting can also be carried out by the DVD information server.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INTERACTIVELY ACCESSING MULTIMEDIA INFORMATION ASSOCIATED WITH A SPECIFIC DVD Technical Field This invention pertains to interactive entertainment devices, software, and methods and, more particularly, to a networked interactive Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) based entertainment system. Background Art During the course of the last five years, the Internet has grown immensely. Although based on a system originally intended for military communication and scientific collaboration, the present day use is dominated by business and personal communication, and to a lesser extent entertainment applications. In regard to the latter applications, various forms of entertainment multimedia are available via the Internet. Multimedia available over the Internet includes, but is not limited to, music audio files audio files in MP3 or .wav format, and movie or movie excerpt files in Motion Picture Expert Group (MPEG) format among others. Unfortunately, in the case of movie files, the current bandwidth of a typical connection to the Internet, makes it impractical for the average user to download high quality full length movies. Thus there is still a need for transportable, readable memory media such as Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) to distribute recordings of movies and other commercial video products. A DVD can provide a data output rate of 9.8 mega bytes per second which is sufficient to produce very high quality video playback. A typical high speed Internet connection can only sustain a video stream at a rate of 1.5mega bytes per second. Which is insufficient to provide a high quality video. Unfortunately, by not using distribution through the Internet the flexibility for associating the recording with other complementary Internet based information that could be updated and revised as needed to achieve marketing and entertainment objectives associated with the recording is lost. For example it would be advantageous if a user' s DVD could be dynamically updated in response to the anticipated release of a new film release by a director who produced a movie recorded on the user's DVD, so that the user would see promotional related to the anticipated release. In the case of media such as audio recordings that can readily be distributed over the Internet, it is also possible to collect statistical information on an audience accessing the media, e.g., information similar to Nielson ratings, such as the frequency and timing of access. On the other hand, in the case of DVDs it is only possible to collect sales information. It is not possible to obtain average data corresponding to how many times a DVD recording is played. There is an issue of unauthorized DVD copying and sales. It is difficult control or even track the volume of such unauthorized activity. Accordingly what is needed is a system and method which seamlessly integrates the Internet, e.g., the Web, with a personal DVD disk player. Disclosure of the Invention A method for operating a DVD client device comprises steps of reading navigation information from a DVD, calculating a DVD signature from the navigation information, detecting user activation of an info link control, and transmitting the DVD signature to a DVD information server in response to detecting user activation of the info link control. A DVD client device such a DVD drive equipped PC or DVD player executes a program which calculates a DVD signature from navigation information which is read from a DVD and stored in RAM. The DVD signature is sent to a DVD information server and is used to identify particular web content that relates to the DVD. The web content can include promotional material specific to the DVD or related products. Statistical information on DVD vieworship can be collected by the DVD information server. User's ID (email) can be stored for transmission of future promotional materials. Copyright checking and alerting can also be carried out by the DVD information server According to another aspect of the invention a system and computer readable medium is disclosed for carrying out the above method. Brief Description of the Drawings The subject matter which is regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic of a computer systems according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 is a hardware block diagram of DVD player according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 3 is a hardware block diagram of a remote control according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 4 is a depiction of a GUI interface for a DVD player application according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 5 is a flo chart of a process carried out by the DVD player application or executed by a DVD player processor according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a first process carried out by a DVD information server according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a second process carried out by a DVD information server according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG.8 is a flowchart of a third process carried out by a DVD infoπnation server according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a fourth process carried out by a DVD information server according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 10 is a flow chart of a process performed by the DVD information server in response to receiving a DVD signature from a DVD client FIG. l l is a first part of a flowchart of a sixth process carried out by a DVD information server according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 12 is a second part of a flowchart of a sixth process carried out by a DVD information server according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 13 is a flow chart of a first process for calculating a DVD signature based on infoπnation read from a DVD C-PBIT according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 14 is a flow chart of a second process for calculating a DVD signature based on information read from a DVD C-PBIT according to a prefeπed embodiment of the invention. Detailed Description of Features of the Invention It should be understood that the embodiments described in detail hereinafter are only examples of the many advantageous uses of the innovative teachings herein. In general, statements made in the specification of the present application do not necessarily limit any of the various claimed inventions. Moreover, some statements may apply to some inventive features but not to others. In general, unless otherwise indicated, singular elements may be in the plural and visa versa with no loss of generality. FIG. 1 is a schematic of the computer system 100 used in connection with the present invention. A first DVD client device, a client computer 102 is connected to the Internet 104, through a first bidirectional data link 106. The client computer may for example be an IBM compatible PC computer comprising a DVD drive 132, a DVD decoder card (not shown) for decoding recordings on a DVD read by DVD drive. A first computer readable medium 108 is provided for loading software onto the client computer 102, for configuring it to carry out methods according to the present invention which are described below with reference to flow diagrams. A first DVD 110 containing a recording is provided to be read by the DVD drive 132. A second DVD client device, a DVD player 112 provided with a network interface , is connected to the Internet 104 through a second bidirectional data link 114. A second DVD 116 is provided for playing in the DVD player 112. A remote control 118 is provided for accepting user inputs, and controlling functions of the DVD player. Although shown as a one hand remote control, the remote control 118 can alternatively take the physical form of a qwerty keyboard augmented with specialized function keys. In either case, the remote control comprises a remote info link button 124. The remote info link button could be replaced by another type of control, e.g. a switch or an on screen menu control. The DVD player 112 comprises a player info link button 120. In one embodiment of the invention, the info link button 120, comprises an actual button. In another embodiment of the invention, the infor link button 120 comprises an area of a touch screen. The DVD player 112 also comprises a receiver 122 for receiving signals from the remote control 118. Internal hardware schematics of the DVD player 112, and the remote control 112, are shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 respectively. A DVD information server 126 is connected to the Internet 104 through a third bidirectional data link 128. The DVD information server, communicates with either the client computer 102, or the DVD player 112. A second computer readable medium 130 is provided for configuring the DVD information server 126 to perform processes according to the teachings of the invention which are described below with reference to flow diagrams shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, and 12. The bidirectional data links 106, 114, and 128 and can for example comprise digital subscriber lines (DSL),dedicated lines, or wireless links. The communication protocol stacks used on the bidirectional data links 106, 114, and 128 preferably comprise Hypertext Transfer Protocol HTTP, over Transfer Control Protocol (TCP), over Internet Protocol (IP). FIG. 2 is a hardware schematic of the DVD player 112. The DVD player comprises a user interface panel 202. The user interface panel includes a remote signal receiver/decoder 204 for receiving a signal generated by the remote control 118 in response to a user actuating the remote info link button 124. The user interface panel further comprises a player info link button 120. A modem 208 is provided for interfacing with the second bidirectional data link 114. The modem could be replaced by another type of network interface, such as an ethernet card. The type of network interface depends on the type of Internet connection. A DVD drive 206 is provided for reading DVD 110, 116. A DVD decoder 210 is provided for decoding signals read by the DVD drive 206. An audio/visual module is provided for driving output devices, e.g., a television, based on decoded signals received from the DVD decoder 210. A processor 218 is provided for controlling the function of the DVD player, and executing software according the present invention which is discussed below with reference to flow charts shown in FIGS. 5, 8, 13, 14. A flash memory 216 is provided for storing software executed by the processor 218. The flash memory 218 could be replaced by another type of memory medium, preferably a non volatile memory medium such as EPROM, or EEPROM. A Random Access Memory (RAM) 214 is provided as a work space for use by the processor 218, in executing programs. The RAM 214 is a volatile memory which stores information temporarily. The RAM can also be used to store information from a DVD's Cell Playback Infoπiiation Table (CBIT) while a DVD is being played. The intended use of this information is for controlling the playing of a recording on the DVD 110, 116. The DVD decoder 210 and the processor 218 can in fact be partially or wholly integrated. For example the Pantera line of chips manufactured by National Semiconductor of Santa Clara, California combine the functions of the DVD decoder and the processor into one programmable chip. Other components of the DVD player 112 could also be integrated. For example by using Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC). The DVD drive 206, modem 208, DVD decoder 210, audio visual module 212, RAM 214, flash memory 216, processor 218, and user interface panel 202 including the info link button 120 are coupled by a DVD player signal bus 220. FIG. 3 is a hardware schematic of the remote control 118 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. Referring to FIG. 3, the remote control comprises a key board switch matrix 302 including a info link button 304. A key board encoder 306 scans the key board switch matrix in order to detect depression of a key, such as the info link button switch 304, and generates a signal identifying a depressed key. The keyboard encoder 306 is coupled to a remote control signal bus 308. A processor 310 is also coupled to the remote control signal bus 308. A ROM 312 is also coupled to the remote control signal bus 308. A signaling device drive 314 is also coupled to the remote control signal bus 308. The signaling device drive 314 is drivingly coupled to a signaling device 316. In response to detecting depression of the info link button switch 304, the keyboard encoder outputs a signal identifying the info link button switch. The signal identifying the info link button switch is read by the processor 310. The processor 310 looks up a signal code corresponding to the info link button 124 in ROM 312 and writes that signal to the signaling device drive 314. The signaling device drive drives the signaling device 316 accordingly. FIG. 4 is a representation of a graphical user interface (GUI) device for controlling the playback of a DVD 110, 116 and for accepting user activation of a GUI info link button 402. In addition to the info link GUI button 402, the GUI 400 comprises a number of other buttons for controlling the playback of a DVD 110, 116, including a play button 404, a stop button 406, a pause button 408, a fast forward button 410, a rewind button 412, a skip forward button 414, and a skip backward button 416. The GUI 400 can be programmed in a variety of programming languages. Object oriented programming languages such as C++, and Java provide built in classes for constructing GUI. What is necessary for the invention is the info link GUI button 402 which can be used to accept user input. Process carried out in response to a user activating the info link button 402 are discussed below with reference to the flow diagrams. The player info link button 120, and the remote info link button 124, and the info link GUI button 402 are used to accept a user request to access Internet based information. FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a process 500 performed by DVD player software which can be run by the microprocessor (not shown) of the client computer 102, or by the processor 218 of the DVD player. In process block 502 the DVD drive 206 is started in response to insertion of the DVD 116. In the case of the client computer 102, software to accomplish process block 502 can be low level software embedded into the client computer's DVD drive. In process block 504, disk navigation information, preferably the Cell Playback Information Table (C-PBIT) is read from the DVD 116. In process block 506 the disk navigation information, preferably the C-PBIT is written to RAM 214. In process block 508 a user's activation of an info link control 120, 304, 402, is detected. In process block 510, a unique DVD signature for the for the DVD 110, 116 is calculated based on the disk navigation information. Preferably the unique DVD signature is calculated based on information extracted from the C-PBIT. The C-PBIT comprises the following items of information for each of a plurality of cells that comprise a DVD recording on the DVD 110, 116: Cell Playback Time (C-PBTM), Cell First Video Object Unit Start Address (C_FVOBU_SA), Cell Last Video Object Unit Start Address (C_LVOBU_SA), and Interleave Unit (ILU). The C-PBIT and other navigation information record on DVD is defined in the "DVD specifications for Read-Only Disc" published by the DVD consortium. Information from the C-PBIT is preferred because it is usually read out of DVD 110, 116 and stored in RAM 214 at the commencement of playback of the DVD 110, 116. Therefore, it would be unnecessary to stop playback of the recording in order to read specific information from the DVD 110, 116 in order to calculate a unique DVD signature. On the other hand, according to one embodiment of the invention, whatever information whether it be from the C PBIT or other navigation information can be read out of the DVD and stored in RAM 214 before a playback begins so that it can be read at any time during playback, in response to the user's activation of the info link control, without interrupting the playback. Note that the order of process blocks 508 and 510 can be reversed. That is the DVD signature can be generated in anticipation of the user activating the info link control 120, 304, 402. If process blocks 508 and 510 were reversed, it would be appropriate to store the DVD signature in RAM 214. Storing the DVD signature in RAM would also obviate the necessity to interrupt playback in order to move a read head (not shown) in the DVD drive 206 in order to read information, preferably the CJPBIT, from which the DVD signature is calculated. In fact storing the signature, as opposed to storing the navigation infonnation from which it is calculated, has the advantage of reducing a response time to the user's activation of the info link control, because the calculation steps which take a certain amount of time will already have been performed. The DVD signature would then be read out of memory in response to detecting activation of the player info link button 120, the remote info link button 124, or the info link GUI button 402. Other possible variations on process 500 and other processes discussed herein will be apparent to persons skilled in the programming art. In process block 512 the DVD signature is formatted as clear text. Preferably, the the unique DVD signature calculated in process block 510 is an integer. The process 500 can include an optional process block between 510 and 512 to encrypt the DVD signature in order to protect the privacy of messages including the DVD signature. Encryption could be asymmetric encryption using public and private keys . However, encryption may be unnecessary as long as details of the calculation performed in process block 506 are maintained in secrecy. In process block 514 a user is prompted to decide whether they wish to receive promotional information related to the recording on the DVD 110, 116. Process block 514 can be accomplished by a GUI screen comprising a message which solicits the user to elect to receive promotional information, and provides "YES" and "NO" GUI buttons for accepting the user's decision. Process block 516 is a decision block, the outcome of which depends on whether the user elects to receive promotional information. If the user elects to receive promotional information, then the process 500 continues with process block 518 in which the DVD signature, and a user ID, preferably and email address, is appended to a URL which points to the DVD information server 126. The conventions of HTTP for appending data to a URL can be used. According to those conventions, each value is preceded by a name and equal sign, and successive name=value strings are separated by ampersand characters. After process block 518 the process 500 continues with process block 522. If the user elects not to receive promotional information then the process 500 continues with process block 520 in which the DVD signature is appended to a URL pointing to the DVD information server. Providing for user input in 514 rather than automatically transmitting a user ID serves the purpose of protecting the user's privacy. In process block 522, a web client is instantiated. The web client can be a separate web browser called by the DVD software. A web client such as the Planetweb browser sold by Planetweb Inc. company, of Redwood, California can be used as the web browser for the DVD player 112. A web client such as Netscape Navigator sold by America Online of Dulles, Virginia can be used for the client computer 102. In either case the web client can be started and made to access a particular URL by controlling it from the DVD player software, through it's API. The details of each web clients API are made available to software developers. In process block 524, an HTTP GET request with the URL with appended data is sent through the web client to the DVD information server 126. Software residing on the DVD information server can comprise a CGI scripts for parsing the URL with appended data. Aspects of DVD information server software are described below with reference to flowcharts shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 9, 10, 11 ,12. In process block 526 a web page relating to a specific DVD 110, identified by the DVD signature is received in response to the HTTP GET request issued in process block 524. Although process 500 has been discussed in terms of HTTP, the invention can be used in connection with other existing and future communication protocols. Accordingly the message sent in process block 520 need not be based on a URL (an HTTP token) rather it can be formatted according to other communication protocols. FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of aprocess 600 performed by the DVD information server 126. In process block 602 a DVD signature is received from a DVD client device 102, 112 via the Internet 104. In process block 604 a the DVD signature is used as a key to locate a record in a database containing one or more URL's related to a DVD identified by the DVD signature. In process block 606 the one or more URL' s located in process block 604 are transmitted back to the DVD client device, 102, 112. FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of a process 700 performed by the DVD information server 126 in response to receiving the message sent in process block 520. In process block 702 data including the DVD signature, and possibly including a user ID is received from a client device 102, 112. The user ID preferably comprises an email address. In process block 704 the DVD signature is used as a database key to locate a record containing a plurality of URL's associated with a disk identified by the DVD signature. In process block 706, a web page is generated which contains hyperlinks corresponding to the plurality of URL's. Note that the web page could also embed an video (MPEG) preview of an another film. The web page can comprise among other things hyperlinks to a plurality of web based resources related to a film or other DVD content identified by the DVD signature. Such web based content can include but is not limited to online stores selling film related memorabilia, chatrooms with film specific topics, web based discussion forums for discussing specific films, and web forms for accepting user feedback on specific films. In process block 708 the web page generated in the preceding process block is transmitted to the client device 102, 112. In process block 710, a database of statistical information related to the viewing of specific DVD titles is updated. The update can, for example, increment a count of viewers viewing the DVD disk 110, 116 identified by the DVD signature. The time could also be logged for the purpose of logging information of viewing habits. The IP address of from which the DVD signature was received can be recorded. The latter can be correlated to a geographic area for the purpose of collecting geographic marking information. In the forgoing manner statistical information analogous to that gathered by the Nielsen rating service for television programming can be developed. Process block 712 is a decision block, in which it is ascertained if a user ID has been received. If not then the process 700 terminates. If a user ID has been received, then the process continues with process block 714, in which the user ID is stored in a record associated with a DVD title corresponding to the DVD signature in an advertising database. Process block 716 is a delay period during which a new opportunity for targeted advertising related to a DVD identified by the DVD signature arises. In process block 718 a user, identified by user ID (e.g., email) which was stored in the record associated with the DVD signature is sent an advertising message. For example, the message can comprise notice of the upcoming release of a sequel to the DVD identified by the DVD signature. FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a process 800 performed by a client device 102, 112 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. In process block 802 a user's activation of an info link button 120, 304, 402 is detected. In process block 804, in response to detecting the user' s activation of the info link button, DVD navigation information, preferably, the C-PBIT is read, preferably, from RAM 214, alternatively from the DVD 110, 116. In process block 806 a unique DVD signature for the DVD is calculated based on the DVD navigation infonnation, preferable the C-PBIT. In process block 808 the unique DVD signature is used to search for a record corresponding to the DVD 110, 116 in a local database stored in the client device 102, 112. In the case of client computer 102, the local database can be stored in the hard drive. In the case of the DVD player 112 the local database can be stored in the flash memory 219 or in additional memory for example a hard drive (not shown). Process block 81 is a decision block, the outcome of which depends on whether or not a record was found in process block 808. If a record was found then the in process block 812 information from the record is displayed to the user, after which the process 800 terminates. If a record was not found, then the process continues with process block 814, in which the user is prompted to decide whether to update the local database from the DVD information server 126. Process block 816 is a decision block which depends on user input in response to process block 814. If the user decides not to update then the process 800 terminates. If the user decides to update, then in process block 818 a request to receive a database update is transmitted to the DVD information server, and in process block 820 the database update is received. The process 800 then loops back to process block 808. FIG. 9 is a flow chart of a process 900 performed by the DVD information server 126 in response a request transmitted in process block 818. In process block 902 a request for a database update is received from a DVD client device 102, 112. In process block 904 an updated database is transmitted to the DVD client device 102, 112. The updated database preferably comprises a plurality of records each including a URL field and a DVD signature key field. FIG. 10 is a flow chart of a process 1000 performed by the DVD information server 126 in response to receiving a DVD signature from a DVD client 102, 112. In process block 1002 the DVD signature is received. In process block 1004 the DVD signature is used as a key to locate a record corresponding to the disk 116 from which the DVD signature was derived. In process block 1006 descriptive information pertaining to the disk 110, 116 is read from the record. The descriptive information may for example comprise the title of the DVD 110, 116. In process block 1008 a web site of an E-commerce affiliate of the DVD infoπnation server operator is accessed. For example, the operator of the DVD information server might have an E-commerce affiliate that sells books including books on films, or film memorabilia. In process block 1010a search is executed in a database on the E-commerce affiliates web site using the descriptive information from the record in a search string. In process block 1012 a web page containing the results of the search is generated. Alternatively, the E-commerce affiliates may provide URLs to their web sites that are related to the descriptive information in the record. All the URLs may be transmitted back to the DVD client device 102, 112 in the form of a web page. In process block 1014 the web page is transmitted to the DVD client device 102, 112 for which the DVD signature was received in process block 1002. FIG. 11 is a flow chart of a process 1100 performed by the DVD information server 126 in response to receiving a DVD signature from a DVD client 102, 112. In process block 1102, the DVD signature is received from a DVD client device 102, 112. In process block 1104 a DVD information database is searched for a record corresponding to the DVD signature. Process block 1106 is a decision block, the outcome of which depends on whether a record was found in process block 1104. If a record was found, then in process block 1108 information (e.g., a URL) read from the record is sent to the client 102, 112. If a record was not found, then the process continues with process block 1110 in which a request for title information is sent to the the client device 102, 112. In process block 1112 title information is received from the client 102, 112. The client device 102, 112 would be provided with a software routine that receives such requests, reads the title information either directly from the DVD 116 or from RAM 214, and sends the title information to the requesting DVD information receiver 126. Alternatively, the client device 102, 112 woultjl prompt the user to input title information upon receipt of the request for title information. In process block 1114 the DVD information \database is searched for a record with matching title information. The title information need not coπespond precisely to a title printed on the DVD 116, rather, it is the information contained in the primary volume descriptor recorded on the DVD 116. Process block 1116 is a decision block, the outcome of which depends on whether a matching record was found in process block 1114. If a matching record was not found, then in process block 1118 the title information received in process block 1112, and the DVD signature received in process block 1102 is stored in a first temporary database. The operator of the DVD infoπnation server 126, can read the content of the first temporary database to obtain a list of DVD titles that are not cuπently included in the DVD information database. Having this information, the operator could then approach the producer of the DVD, with evidence of interest on the part of purchasers of the DVD titles in question, in the services of the DVD information server. If it is determined in process block 1116 that the a record matching the title information was found in process block 1114, then the process continues with process block 1202 (FIG. 12), in which a record of the title information and DVD signature is entered into a second temporary database. In process block 1204 the record found in process block 1114 is checked to determine if a "DVD signature list complete" field is checked. Each record in the DVD information database coπesponding to a single DVD title, can comprise more than one valid DVD signature. More than one signature is called for because multiple DVDs of the same title are produced separately for specific regional markets and the different would have different disk signatures. Moreover for a given market different versions e.g. a directors cut, or a collectors version, with additional recordings may be released on different dates. The DVD signature list complete field is checked for a given DVD title when information is received from a producer indicating that no more releases are forthcoming. Process block 1206 is a decision block, the outcome of which depends on whether the "DVD signature list complete" is found to have been checked. If not then in process block 1212 information, e.g. a web page comprising a URL from the record located in process block 1114 is transmitted to the DVD client device 102, 112. If the "DVD signature list complete" field was checked, then in process block 1208 a message indicating that the disk is a pirated disk is sent the DVD client device 102, 112. The DVD player 112 can be provided with a software module for disabling playback of the DVD disk 116 in response to receiving the pirated disk message. In process block 1210, the DVD signature is stored in an illegal disk database. Entries from the illegal disk database can be provided to producers of coπesponding authentic DVDs. FIG. 13 is a flow chart of a first process 1300 for calculating a DVD signature based on information read from a DVD C-PBIT. In process block 1302 a counter, N is initialized to zero. In process block 1304 a sum is initialized to zero. In process block 1306, for the Nth cell (starting with N=l ) of a DVD the Cell Playback Time (C-PBTM) value is bit shifted by four bytes to the right to obtain an eight byte long shifted C-PBTM. In process block 1308 for the Nth cell the shifted C-PBTM is combined through a boolean OR operation with the Cell First Video Object Unit Start Address (C-FVOBU-SA) to obtain a cell sum. In process block 1310 the cell sum is added to the sum. In process block 1312 the counter N is incremented. In process block 1314 the counter is compared to a count maximum NMAX. If the counter N is less than the count maximum NMAX then the process 1300 loops back to process block 1306. If the NMAX is not less that the count maximum NMAX, then the process continues with process block 1316 in which the digital DVD signature is set equal to the sum. FIG. 14 is a flow chart of a second process 1400 for calculating a DVD signature based on information read from a DVD C-PBIT. In process block 1402 a counter, N is initialized to zero. In process block 1404 a sum is initialized to zero. In process block 1406, for the Nth cell (starting with N= 1 ) of a DVD the Cell Playback Time (C-PBTM) value is bit shifted by four bytes to the right to obtain an eight byte long shifted C-PBTM. In process block 1408 for the Nth cell the Cell First Video Obj ect Unit Start Address (C- FVOBU-SA) is subtracted from the Cell Last Video Object Unit Start Address (C-LVOBU-SA) to obtain a cell difference. In process block 1410 the the shifted C-PBTM is combined through a boolean OR operation with the cell difference to obtain a cell value. In process block 1412 the cell value is added to the sum. In process block 1414 the counter N is incremented. In process block 1316 the counter is compared to a count maximum NMAX. If the counter N is less than the count maximum NMAX then the process 1400 loops back to process block 1406. If the NMAX is not less that the count maximum NMAX, then the process continues with process block 1418 in which the digital DVD signature is set equal to the sum. NMAX is preferably equal to an integer between 5 and 99. More preferably NMAX is equal to an integer between 20 and 99. A myriad of possible calculations including but not limited to other calculations based on boolean and arithmetic operations on navigation data, preferably C-PBIT data are possible. The invention provides for integration of the high bandwidth capability of a local DVD client device which affords high quality video among other advantages, with the flexibility for E-commerce exploitation provided by Internet connectivity. The invention teaches a method for calculating a DVD signature, which does not place a high computational burden on a DVD player, and does not necessitate interruption of DVD disk playback. The DVD signature serves as a nexus between a specific DVD an Internet based content related to the specific DVD. Industrial Applicability The present invention is useful with respect to DVD entertainment systems and software relative thereto. What is claimed is:

Claims

Claims 1. A DVD player comprising: a DVD drive for reading navigation data from a DVD; a processor for calculating a DVD signature from the navigation data; and a network interface for transmitting the DVD signature and receiving information related to the DVD.
2. The DVD player according to claim 1 wherein the DVD drive comprises a DVD drive for reading information from a C-PBIT from the DVD and the processor comprises a processor for calculating a DVD signature from the information from the C-PBIT.
3. The DVD player according to claim 2 further comprising a memory for storing the navigation information.
4. The DVD player according to claim 2 further comprising a memory for storing the DVD signature.
5. The DVD player according to claim 3 further comprising a control for accepting a user' s request to access Internet based infoπnation.
6. The DVD player according to claim 4 further comprising a control for accepting a user' s request to access Internet based information.
7. The DVD player according to claim 3 further comprising a remote signal receiver decoder for receiving a signal generated by a remote control in response to a user actuating a remote control.
8. The DVD player according to claim 4 further comprising a remote signal receiver decoder for receiving a signal generated by a remote control in response to a user actuating a remote control.
9. A method for operating a DVD client device comprising steps of: reading navigation information from a DVD; calculating a DVD signature from the navigation information; detecting user activation of a control; and transmitting the DVD signature to a DVD information server in response to detecting user activation of the control.
10. The method according to claim 9 further comprising a step of transmitting a user ID to the to the DVD information server.
11. The method according to claim 9 further comprising steps of accepting a user decision to receive promotional information and transmitting a user ID to the DVD information server.
12. The method according to claim 9 further comprising a step of instantiating a web browser.
13. The method according to claim 9 wherein the step of transmitting the DVD signature comprises the step of: transmitting an HTTP GET request comprising a URL with the DVD signature appended to the URL to the DVD information server in response to detecting user activation of the control; detecting user activation of an info link control; and transmitting the DVD signature to a DVD information server in response to detecting user activation of the info link control.
14. The method of claim 9 wherein the step of reading navigation infoπnation comprises the sub step of reading a cell playback information table from the DVD.
15. The method of claim 9 wherein the step of calculating a DVD signature comprises the sub step of calculating a DVD signature based on information read from the cell playback information table.
16. The method of claim 9 wherein the step of calculating a DVD signature based on information read from the cell playback information table comprises the sub steps of: initializing a counter; initializing a sum; for each of a plurality of cells, performing the sub-steps of: bit shifting a cell playback time variable by four bytes to obtain a shifted cell playback time variable; combining the shifted cell playback time variable with a cell first video object unit start address using a boolean OR operation to obtain a cell number; and adding the cell number to a sum; and setting the DVD signature equal to the sum.
17. The method of claim 9 wherein the step of calculating a DVD signature based on information read from the cell playback information table comprises the sub steps of: initializing a counter; initializing a sum; for each of a plurality of cells performing the sub-steps of: bit shifting a cell playback time variable by four bytes to obtain a shifted cell playback time variable; subtracting a cell first video object unit start address from a cell last video object unit start address to obtain a cell difference; combining the shifted cell playback time variable with the cell difference using a boolean OR operation to obtain a cell number; and adding the cell number to a sum; and setting the DVD signature equal to the sum.
18. A method of operating a DVD client device comprising the steps of: detecting a user activation of a control; reading navigation data; calculating a DVD signature for a DVD based on the navigation data; and using the DVD signature to search for a record coπesponding to the DVD signature in a database stored in the client device.
19. The method according to claim 18 further comprising the steps of: prompting a user to decide whether to update the database; in the case that the user decides to update the database, transmitting a request to receive a database update to a DVD information server; and receiving the database update.
20. A method for operating a DVD information server comprising the steps of: receiving a DVD signature, calculated from navigational data of a DVD, from a DVD client device; using the DVD signature as a database key to locate a record containing one or more URL' s related to the DVD; and transmitting the one or more URL's related to the DVD to the DVD client device.
21. A method for operating a DVD information server comprising the steps of: receiving a request for a database update from a DVD client device; and transmitting an updated database including records, each record including a URL field and a DVD signature key field, to the DVD client device.
22. A method for operating a DVD information server comprising the steps of: receiving a DVD signature from a DVD client device; using the DVD signature as a database key to locate a record corresponding to the DVD signature; reading descriptive information from the record; and executing a search in an affiliates database.
23. A method for operating a DVD infonnation server comprising the steps of: receiving a DVD signature from a DVD client device; receiving title information from the DVD client device; determining whether a database contains a record coπesponding to the DVD signature; determining whether the database contains a record corresponding to the title information; and in the case that the database does not contain a record corresponding to the DVD signature, and does not contain a record corresponding to the title information, recording the title information and DVD signature in a temporary database.
24. The method according to claim 23 further comprising the step of determining that a field that indicates that a list of signatures coπesponding to the title information in the database is complete.
25. The method according to claim 24 further comprising the step of recording the DVD signature in a database of illegal signatures.
26. The method according to claim 24 further comprising the step of sending a pirated disk message to the DVD client device.
27. A computer readable medium containing programming instructions for operating a DVD client device including programming instructions for: reading navigation information from a DVD; calculating a DVD signature from the navigation information; detecting user activation of a control; and transmitting the DVD signature to a DVD information server in response to detecting user activation of the control.
28. The computer readable medium according to claim 27 further comprising programming instructions for transmitting a user ID to the to the DVD information server.
29. The computer readable medium according to claim 27 further comprising programming instructions for accepting a user decision to receive promotional information and transmitting a user ID to the DVD information server.
30. The computer readable medium according to claim 27 wherein the programming instructions for reading navigation information comprises programming instructions for reading a cell playback information table from the DVD.
31. The computer readable medium of claim 27 wherein the programming instructions for calculating a DVD signature comprise programming instructions for: calculating a DVD signature based on information read from the cell playback information table; detecting user activation of a control; and fransmitting the DVD signature to a DVD information server in response to detecting user activation of an info link control.
32. A method of operating a DVD player comprising, a DVD drive, a memory; a processor; and a network interface comprising the steps of: reading navigation information from a DVD; calculating a DVD signature from the navigation information; storing the DVD signature in the memory; detecting user activation of a control; and in response to detecting user activation of the control, reading the DVD signature from memory; and transmitting the DVD signature to a DVD information server in response to detecting user activation of the control.
33. The method according to claim 32 wherein the step of transmitting the DVD signature comprises a sub step of transmitting the DVD signature to a DVD information server in response to detecting user activation of an info link control.
34. A method of operating a DVD player comprising, a DVD drive, a memory; a processor; and a network interface comprising the steps of: reading navigation information from a DVD; storing the navigation information in the memory detecting user activation of a control in response to detecting user activation of the control, calculating a DVD signature from the navigation information; transmitting the DVD signature to a DVD information server in response to detecting user activation of the control.
35. The method according to claim 34 wherein the step of transmitting the DVD signature comprises a sub step of transmitting the DVD signature to a DVD information server in response to detecting user activation of an info link control.
PCT/US2001/019452 2000-08-16 2001-06-19 Method and apparatus for interactively accessing multimedia information associated with a specific dvd WO2002015024A1 (en)

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