WO2007105873A1 - System for transmitting channel recommendation data and channel recommendation method thereof - Google Patents

System for transmitting channel recommendation data and channel recommendation method thereof Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2007105873A1
WO2007105873A1 PCT/KR2007/001141 KR2007001141W WO2007105873A1 WO 2007105873 A1 WO2007105873 A1 WO 2007105873A1 KR 2007001141 W KR2007001141 W KR 2007001141W WO 2007105873 A1 WO2007105873 A1 WO 2007105873A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
channel
recipient
server
platform
recommendation data
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/KR2007/001141
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Young Zoo Rhee
Original Assignee
Alticast Co., Ltd.
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 Alticast Co., Ltd. filed Critical Alticast Co., Ltd.
Publication of WO2007105873A1 publication Critical patent/WO2007105873A1/en

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N7/00—Television systems
    • H04N7/16—Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
    • H04N7/173—Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems with two-way working, e.g. subscriber sending a programme selection signal
    • H04N7/17309—Transmission or handling of upstream communications
    • H04N7/17318—Direct or substantially direct transmission and handling of requests
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20—Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/25—Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/258—Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics, processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20—Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/25—Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/254—Management at additional data server, e.g. shopping server, rights management server
    • H04N21/2543—Billing, e.g. for subscription services
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/426—Internal components of the client ; Characteristics thereof
    • H04N21/42684—Client identification by a unique number or address, e.g. serial number, MAC address, socket ID
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/45—Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
    • H04N21/466—Learning process for intelligent management, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/4668—Learning process for intelligent management, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies for recommending content, e.g. movies
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/60—Network structure or processes for video distribution between server and client or between remote clients; Control signalling between clients, server and network components; Transmission of management data between server and client, e.g. sending from server to client commands for recording incoming content stream; Communication details between server and client 
    • H04N21/63—Control signaling related to video distribution between client, server and network components; Network processes for video distribution between server and clients or between remote clients, e.g. transmitting basic layer and enhancement layers over different transmission paths, setting up a peer-to-peer communication via Internet between remote STB's; Communication protocols; Addressing
    • H04N21/632—Control signaling related to video distribution between client, server and network components; Network processes for video distribution between server and clients or between remote clients, e.g. transmitting basic layer and enhancement layers over different transmission paths, setting up a peer-to-peer communication via Internet between remote STB's; Communication protocols; Addressing using a connection between clients on a wide area network, e.g. setting up a peer-to-peer communication via Internet for retrieving video segments from the hard-disk of other client devices

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a channel recommendation data transmitting system and channel recommendation method thereof.
  • the present invention is suitable for a wide scope of applications, it is particularly suitable for an originator receiving a digital broadcast to generate channel recommendation data in viewing a specific channel and transmit the generated data to a specific recipient.
  • an audio or video signal is modulated by an analog system and is then carried by a radio wave.
  • a receiving terminal demodulates the received signal to enable a broadcast program to be viewed.
  • digital broadcasting that transmits data resulting from modulating audio and video signals by a digital t system
  • audio and video of a program and various kinds of information for the program can be bi-directionally transmitted to a viewer. So, the viewer is able to obtain various kinds of the information according to the program while viewing the corresponding program.
  • a terminal capable of receiving digital broadcasts tends to turn into a personal computer that can share various kinds of information from a television receiver function capable of receiving conventional broadcasts only. Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem
  • the related art digital broadcasting system depends on such a method as a short message service (SMS) transmission of a normal or mobile phone in order for a user to recommend a specific channel for viewing to a specific person. And, a recipient having received channel recommendation information by the above method views a recommended channel through a key manipulation of a terminal. So, a user interface is very inconvenient to use despite the advantageous function.
  • SMS short message service
  • the present invention is directed to a channel recommendation data transmitting system and channel recommendation method thereof that substantially obviate one or more of the problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art.
  • An object of the present invention is to provide a channel recommendation data transmitting system and channel recommendation method thereof, by which a viewer in viewing a digital broadcast enables channel recommendation data to be transmitted from a viewer's terminal to another person.
  • a system for transmitting channel recommendation data which transfers data between terminals capable of digital broadcasting receptions and bi-directional communications, includes an originator terminal generating the channel r ecom- mendation data and transmitting the channel recommendation data to a specific recipient, a charging (SPI) server receiving the channel recommendation data generated by the originator terminal and storing a charging record, an originator platform return pass server receiving the channel recommendation data from the charging server, the originator platform return pass server deciding whether a recipient is a same platform user, the originator platform return pass server transmitting the channel recommendation data to a recipient terminal if the recipient is the same platform user, the originator platform return pass server transferring the channel recommendation data to a relay system server if the recipient is not the same platform user, the relay system server receiving the channel recommendation data from the originator platform return pass server if the recipient is not the same platform user, the relay system server transferring the channel recommendation data
  • the channel recommendation data includes a message classification code, an originator identification code, a recipient identification code, a channel recommendation time, a program identification code, a message, capture image information, and additional contents information.
  • the originator return pas server includes a data base server including information for a terminal or a client in a same platform area and a core server deciding whether a platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data is identical, the core server transferring the channel recommendation data to the recipient terminal by extracting the terminal or client information stored in the database server and recipient information mapped to recipient information included in the channel recommendation data if the platform identification code is identical, the core server transferring the channel recommendation data to the relay system server if the platform identification code is not identical.
  • the relay system server includes a web application server allowing a client's access via a web browser, a core server controlling a system of the relay system server, and a database server storing to manage channel data, program data, platform data, and channel information data, wherein the core server extracting a mapped platform identification code by comparing a platform identification code included in the platform identification code is identical to the platform data stored in the database server and then transfers the channel recommendation data to the corresponding recipient platform return pass server.
  • the relay system server compares and interprets originator channel recommendation data, recipient client data stored in the database server, and channel and program data. If recommended program or channel information transmitted by the originator does not exist in the recipient platform or terminal, the relay system server transmits a recommendation failure message to the originator terminal.
  • the additional contents information of the channel data includes at least one selected from the group consisting of bell sound, color ring, and contents data including product recommendation for home shopping.
  • a method of recommending a channel includes a channel recommendation data generating step of generating channel recommendation data under a control of a terminal control unit by an originator terminal key manipulation by an originator, a charging server transmitting and recording step of transmitting the generated channel recommendation data to a charging server to store a charging record, an originator platform return pass server transmitting step of transmitting the channel recommendation data to an originator platform return pass server from the charging server, a step of interpreting a platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data and then enabling the originator platform return pass server to transmit the channel recommendation data to a recipient terminal if a recipient is a user of a platform identical to that of the originator, and a step of displaying the channel recommendation data transmitted to the recipient terminal on a recipient terminal interface.
  • the channel recommendation data displaying step includes a recommended channel viewing checking step of querying whether the recipient wants to view a channel recommended program, and a recommended channel viewing step of if the recipient wants to view the channel recommended program, viewing the recommended channel by switching to a corresponding channel under a tuning control of a recipient terminal control unit.
  • the method further includes the step of transmitting reply data to the originator from the recipient having received the channel recommendation data in a same manner of transmitting the channel recommendation data.
  • the originator terminal is capable of transmitting the channel recommendation data to a plurality of recipient terminal simultaneously.
  • a method of recommending a channel includes a channel recommendation data generating step of generating channel recommendation data under a control of a terminal control unit by an originator terminal key manipulation by an originator, a charging server transmitting and recording step of transmitting the generated channel recommendation data to a charging server to store a charging record, an originator platform return pass server transmitting step of transmitting the channel recommendation data to an originator platform return pass server from the charging server, a relay system server transmitting step of interpreting a platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data and then enabling the originator platform return pass server to transmit the channel recommendation data to a relay system server if a recipient is a user of a platform different from that of the originator, a recipient platform return pass server transmitting step of enabling the relay system server to transmit the channel recommendation data to a recipient platform return pass server in a platform area of the recipient, a step of enabling the recipient platform return pass server to transmit the channel recommendation data to a recipient
  • the originator platform return pass server transmitting step it is decided whether the platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data is identical to that of the recipient.
  • the channel recommendation data is then transmitted to the recipient terminal by extracting the terminal or client information stored in the database server and recipient information mapped to recipient information included in the channel recommendation data if the platform identification code is identical.
  • the originator platform return pass server transmitting step it is decided whether the platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data is identical to that of the recipient.
  • the channel recommendation data is then transmitted to the relay system server if the platform identification code is not identical.
  • a channel identification code of a platform area corresponding to a program recommended by the originator in the channel recommendation data and the corresponding channel recommendation data is then transmitted to the recipient platform return pass server.
  • the platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data received from the originator platform return pass server is compared to the platform identification code of platform data stored in a database server of the relay system server, a mapped platform identification code is extracted, and the channel recommendation data is then transmitted to the recipient platform return pass server of the corresponding platform.
  • a core server of the relay system server compares and interprets recipient client data stored in a database server and channel and program data. If recommended program or channel information transmitted by the originator does not exist in the recipient platform or terminal, a recommendation failure message is transmitted to the originator terminal.
  • the channel recommendation data displaying step includes a recommended channel viewing checking step of querying whether the recipient wants to view a channel recommended program and a recommended channel viewing step of if the recipient wants to view the channel recommended program, viewing the recommended channel by switching to a corresponding channel under a tuning control of a recipient terminal control unit.
  • the method further includes the step of transmitting reply data to the originator from the recipient having received the channel recommendation data in a same manner of transmitting the channel recommendation data.
  • the originator terminal is capable of transmitting the channel recommendation data to a plurality of recipient terminal simultaneously.
  • FlG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a channel recommendation data transmitting system according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FlG. 2 is a schematic flowchart of a channel recommending method according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FlG. 3 is a diagram of data interoperating with all platform service providers and a relay system server according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FlG. 4 and FlG. 5 are diagrams of channel recommendation images according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FlG. 6 is a block diagram of a channel recommendation method in a same platform area according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FlG. 7 is a block diagram of a channel recommendation method between different platform areas according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention. Mode for the Invention
  • FlG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a channel recommendation data transmitting system according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • a channel recommendation data transmitting system includes an originator terminal 10, a charging (SPI) server 20, an originator platform return pass server 30, a relay system server 40, a recipient platform return pass server 50, and a recipient terminal 60.
  • any terminals capable of digital broadcasting receptions and bi-directional transmissions are usable as the originator terminal 10 and the recipient terminal 60.
  • each of the originator terminal 10 and the recipient terminal 60 includes a set-top box loaded TV, a DMB phone, or the like. Since the terminals are capable of bi-directional transmissions, the originator terminal 10 can become the recipient terminal 60, and vice versa.
  • the originator terminal 10 includes a terminal control unit (not shown in the drawing) having a microprocessor generating to transmit channel recommendation data to the charging (SPI) server 20 and a storage medium (not shown in the drawing) storing the generated channel recommendation data. And, application and management programs for controlling a system of the terminal control unit are inputted and stored in a separate ROM (not shown in the drawing).
  • the charging (SPI) server 20 is a server for charging for the channel recommendation data transmission. After the charge has been paid according to the transmitted data, a charging record is stored in a database server (not shown in the drawing) within the charging server 20.
  • the originator platform return pass server 30 includes a core server (not shown in the drawing) deciding whether the recipient terminal 60 is in the same platform area of the originator terminal 10 by interpreting the channel recommendation data transferred from the charging server 20 and a database server (not shown in the drawing) including same platform user information. If the recipient terminal 60 is in the same platform area, channel recommendation data is transmitted to a terminal corresponding to a recipient ID. Hence, the return pass server plays a role as a node for transferring data according to a path set by a router.
  • the channel recommendation data is transferred to the relay system server 40.
  • the relay system server 40 to which the channel recommendation data is transferred if the recipient terminal 60 is not in the same platform area, is the system via which a platform service provider provides programs and channel information in a web service format. Yet, the relay system server 40 of the present invention plays a role as a relay system transferring the channel recommendation data as well as a role in providing web services.
  • the relay system server 40 includes a web application server (WAS) 410 executing various applications by allowing a client's access via a web browser, a database (DB) server 430 storing and managing program data received from an EPG data providing server, channel data received from each platform service provider server, and channel information data interoperating between platform service provider information and channel information, and a core server 420 interpreting to store the channel recommendation data received from the originator platform return pass server 30 and transferring the interpreted data to the recipient platform return pass server 50 in a corresponding platform area.
  • WAS web application server
  • DB database
  • the program data include PPID, program ID, program title, program description, start time, end time, and other program associated information.
  • the PPID indicates an ID (identification code) of a program contents provider.
  • the program associated information may include all information associated with a program such as a program viewing allowable age, actors/actresses, director, story, and the like.
  • the channel data includes channel ID and PSIP/SI information.
  • the channel ID is an identification code for a channel and the PSI/SI information indicates EPG associated information.
  • the channel information data includes program data and channel data interoperating with each other.
  • the channel data is provided by each platform service provider. Since channel information provided by each platform service provider differs from another channel information, the channel information data is the data resulting from extracting channel information for each platform service provided with reference to the same program.
  • the relay system server 40 should interoperate with all platform return pass servers to transmit the channel recommendation data to all recipients in the platform area. And, the relay system server 40 needs to have platform data to discriminate each platform area. So, the platform data transferred from the platform service provider server is stored in the database server to be managed. In this case, the platform data includes a special number to discriminate the corresponding platform area.
  • the relay system server 40 plays a role as a router that sets a path to the recipient platform return pass server 50 in the corresponding platform area.
  • the relay system server 40 transfers the channel recommendation data to the recipient platform return pass server 50 in the recipient platform area.
  • a configuration of the recipient platform return pass server 50 is identical to that of the originator platform return pass server 30.
  • the originator platform return pass server 30 can become the recipient platform return pass server 50 in case of receiving channel recommendation data from another originator.
  • the recipient platform return pass server 50 can become the originator platform return pass server 30.
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic flowchart of a channel recommending method according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • an originator viewing a program generates channel recommendation data for channel recommendation (Sl 10).
  • the originator viewing the program captures an image under the control of a control unit of the originator terminal 10 using a specific key and then stores an image file.
  • the originator generates channel recommendation data by compressing additional contents information included in a channel into a data format and then stores the generated data in the storage medium.
  • the channel recommendation data includes such information as a message classification code, an originator identification code (hereinafter abbreviated ID), a recipient ID, a channel recommendation time, a program ID, a message, capture image information, additional contents, and the like.
  • the message classification code is used to discriminate a short message service (SMS), an image message (MMS), and a channel recommendation message (CRS) from each other.
  • SMS short message service
  • MMS image message
  • CRS channel recommendation message
  • the originator ID and the recipient ID are codes to discriminate an originator and a recipient.
  • the originator ID and the recipient ID are used to discriminate an area of a terminal platform service provider by giving a smart card ID in case of a set-top box or a phone number or a special number in case of a DMB phone.
  • the special number is the number uniquely given to each platform service provider to discriminate platform service providers.
  • the additional contents information may include various kinds of contents information such as bell sound, color ring, product recommendation for home shopping, and the like.
  • the platform service provider is the generic term for all service providers that provide information by establishing platforms. And, the platform service provider includes a terrestrial broadcasting station, a satellite broadcasting station, a cable broadcasting station, a mobile communication service provider, or the like.
  • the format of the channel recommendation data is XML, socket type DB connection, or the like.
  • the channel recommendation data is generated by the originator terminal 10, it is stored in the storage medium and then transmitted to the charging (SPI) server (S 120).
  • a charging method for a stored charging record is carried out in a manner of using a general postal bill, an on-line pay means via Internet, or an interactive television (I-IV) settling method used for digital broadcasting that allows a broadcast program to be viewed after the settlement of a prescribed charge in the course of a digital broadcast service.
  • I-IV interactive television
  • a charge is added to a telephone bill.
  • the channel recommendation data is transferred to the originator platform return pass (RP) server 30 (S 130).
  • the core server of the originator return pass server 30 extracts the recipient ID from the transferred channel recommendation data. Since the recipient ID includes the smart card ID, the phone number, or the special number to identify a platform, it is compared to check whether the recipient terminal 60 is in the same platform area of the originator terminal 10. If the recipient terminal 60 is in the same platform area, the channel recommendation data is transmitted to the recipient terminal 60 mapped to the recipient ID (S 140).
  • the channel recommendation data is transferred to the relay system server 40 (S 150).
  • the platform area means a service area provided by the platform service provider.
  • the platform area in particular, in case of digital broadcasting, the platform area means a service area provided by each service provider of terrestrial, satellite and cable broadcasting.
  • the platform area in case of a DMB phone, the platform area means a service area provided by each communication service provider.
  • the core server 420 of the relay system server 40 checks whether channel recommendation program information or channel information exists in the recipient platform area by interpreting the recipient ID of the channel recommendation data and the program data and the channel data stored in the database server.
  • FlG. 3 is a diagram of data interoperating with all platform service providers and a relay system server according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • the relay system server 40 receives program data from the EPG data providing server and channel data from the platform service provider server and then stores the received data in the database server 430.
  • channel information data extracted from channel organization information of each platform service provider mapped to the same channel is generated to be stored in the database server 430.
  • the program information included in the channel recommendation data is mapped to the channel information data and it is able to check whether the channel information for the program exists in the recipient platform area.
  • FlG. 3 when an originator recommends a program 'Dragon Ball' of a channel Tooniverse' to a recipient, if a recipient platform area is 'Kangnam Broadcasting', it can be observed that there exists 'Channel ID (100)' corresponding to 'Tooniverse'.
  • the channel recommendation data is stored in the database server 430.
  • the core server 410 of the relay system server 40 searches for the platform data stored in the database server 430 mapped to the recipient ID of the channel recommendation data, extracts the searched data, and then transfers the extracted data to the recipient platform return pass server 50 (S 160).
  • the core server 410 of the relay system server 40 inserts the channel information (channel
  • the recipient platform return pass server 50 extracts the recipient ID of the channel recommendation data received from the relay system server 40 and then transmits the channel recommendation data to the mapped recipient terminal 60 (S 170).
  • the channel recommendation data is transmitted by http/https, ftp, or
  • FIG. 4 and FlG. 5 are diagrams of channel recommendation images according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • a terminal control unit activates a data generating window for a channel recommendation data generation on an originator interface by a key manipulation made by an originator.
  • the data generating window can be controlled by a user interface (UI) to enable an input for a recipient, a recommended channel, a recommendation content (message), an execution of an image capture, or the like.
  • UI user interface
  • the terminal control unit If information for channel recommendation data is inputted to the data generating window, the terminal control unit generates the channel recommendation data and then transmits the generated data. [84] Meanwhile, if the channel recommendation data is transmitted to the recipient terminal, a data receiving window for displaying the channel recommendation data is activated on a recipient interface. [85] The data receiving window displays the channel recommendation data and can also generate an icon querying whether to store the channel recommendation data or whether to view the channel recommendation data. If the recipient attempts the viewing (select 'Viewing'), a control unit of the recipient terminal 60 switches a current channel to the corresponding channel via a tuning control. [86] The recipient having received the channel recommendation data is able to configure the user interface (UI) to enable a reply to be sent to the originator. If the originator attempts to send a reply, the originator composes message data through key inputs and then sends the message data to the recipient. In this case, the transmitting method is the same of the channel recommendation data transmitting method.
  • UI user interface
  • FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a channel recommendation method in a same platform area according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • an originator captures an image under the control of a terminal control unit using a specific key and then stores a corresponding image file.
  • the originator generates channel recommendation data in a data format by compressing additional contents information included in a channel.
  • the channel recommendation data includes a message classification code, an originator identification code, a recipient ID, a channel recommendation time, a program ID, a message, capture image information, additional contents, and the like.
  • '01' indicates a short message service (SMS) classification code
  • '001_230890245' indicates an originator ID
  • 1 OOl' indicates a special number given to a platform service provider
  • '230890245' indicates an originator smart card ID
  • '001_325690453' indicates a recipient ID
  • 1 OOl' indicates a special number
  • '325690453' indicates a recipient smart card ID
  • '200601161450' indicates a channel recommendation time
  • '2990' indicates a program ID
  • 'Doing favorite Tooniverse' indicates a message to be sent
  • 'img0005.JPG indicates captured image information
  • '#5000' indicates additional contents information.
  • the generated channel recommendation data is charged by the charging server 20 and is then transferred to the originator platform return pass (RP) server 30.
  • RP originator platform return pass
  • the originator platform return pass server 30 extracts the recipient ID from the received channel recommendation data and then checks whether the platform special number 001 is matched. In this case, as the special number 001 included in the recipient ID is identical to the platform special number 001, the originator platform return pass server transmits the channel recommendation data to the mapped smart card ID of the recipient terminal 60 with reference to the same platform user information stored in the database server (not shown in the drawing).
  • FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a channel recommendation method between different platform areas according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • a originator generates channel recommendation data under the control of a terminal control unit by a key manipulation.
  • information included in the channel recommendation data is identical to the former channel recom- mendation data shown in FlG. 6 but differs in that a recipient ID is 'Ol 10000000'.
  • the generated channel recommendation data is charged by the charging server 20 and is then transferred to the originator platform return pass server 30.
  • the originator platform return pass server 30 checks whether a recipient is in a same platform area.
  • the recipient ID included in the channel recommendation data is '0110000000' that is a recipient phone number and a corresponding platform area is a communication service provider area. So, it is checked that the recipient is a user of a different platform.
  • the originator platform return pass server 30 transfers the channel recommendation data to the relay system server 40.
  • the core server 410 of the relay system server 40 searches the recipient ID (011) of the channel recommendation data and the platform information stored in the database server and then extracts the mapped platform area (001 oo Telecom).
  • the platform information is the information for all platform service providers and includes a special number for discriminating a platform area.
  • the core server 410 transfers the channel recommendation data to an extracted recipient platform return pass server 50. Since the relay system server 40 stores channel information data interoperating with channel information for each of the platform service providers and program information, channel infuriation of the recipient for the program recommended by the originator is inserted in the channel recommendation data and the corresponding channel recommendation data can be transferred to the recipient platform return pass server 50.
  • the recipient platform return pass server 50 extracts the recipient ID (011-0000000) of the transferred channel recommendation data, searches for the same platform user information, and then transfers the channel recommendation data to the mapped recipient terminal 60 (0000000).
  • This embodiment relates to a method of transmitting channel recommendation data to a specific recipient. Yet, the originator is able to simultaneously transmit the channel recommendation data to a plurality of recipients.
  • control unit of the originator terminal generates a plurality of channel recommendation data differing in recipient IDs only and then transmits the channel recommendation data to a plurality of the recipients by the same method of the above-explained channel recommendation method.
  • the channel recommendation is described only. Yet, the embodiment enables recommendation data transmission of various contents such as bell sound, color ring, product recommendations in home shopping, and the like.
  • the generation and transmission of the recommendation data can be carried out by the method of the above-explained channel recommendation data generation and transmission.
  • the present invention enhances a user interface to maximize user's convenience.

Abstract

A channel recommendation data transmitting system and channel recommendation method thereof are disclosed. The present invention is suitable for an originator receiving a digital broadcast to generate channel recommendation data in viewing a specific channel and transmit the generated data to a specific recipient.

Description

Description
SYSTEM FOR TRANSMITTING CHANNEL RECOMMENDATION DATA AND CHANNEL RECOMMENDATION
METHOD THEREOF
Technical Field
[1] The present invention relates to a channel recommendation data transmitting system and channel recommendation method thereof. Although the present invention is suitable for a wide scope of applications, it is particularly suitable for an originator receiving a digital broadcast to generate channel recommendation data in viewing a specific channel and transmit the generated data to a specific recipient. Background Art
[2] Generally, in conventional television broadcasting, an audio or video signal is modulated by an analog system and is then carried by a radio wave. A receiving terminal demodulates the received signal to enable a broadcast program to be viewed. Yet, in digital broadcasting that transmits data resulting from modulating audio and video signals by a digital t system, audio and video of a program and various kinds of information for the program can be bi-directionally transmitted to a viewer. So, the viewer is able to obtain various kinds of the information according to the program while viewing the corresponding program.
[3] Accordingly, a terminal capable of receiving digital broadcasts tends to turn into a personal computer that can share various kinds of information from a television receiver function capable of receiving conventional broadcasts only. Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem
[4] However, despite the advantage of information sharing of digital broadcasting, the related art digital broadcasting system depends on such a method as a short message service (SMS) transmission of a normal or mobile phone in order for a user to recommend a specific channel for viewing to a specific person. And, a recipient having received channel recommendation information by the above method views a recommended channel through a key manipulation of a terminal. So, a user interface is very inconvenient to use despite the advantageous function. Technical Solution
[5] Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a channel recommendation data transmitting system and channel recommendation method thereof that substantially obviate one or more of the problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art.
[6] An object of the present invention is to provide a channel recommendation data transmitting system and channel recommendation method thereof, by which a viewer in viewing a digital broadcast enables channel recommendation data to be transmitted from a viewer's terminal to another person.
[7] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims thereof as well as the appended drawings.
[8] To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the present invention, as embodied and broadly described, a system for transmitting channel recommendation data, which transfers data between terminals capable of digital broadcasting receptions and bi-directional communications, according to the present invention includes an originator terminal generating the channel r ecom- mendation data and transmitting the channel recommendation data to a specific recipient, a charging (SPI) server receiving the channel recommendation data generated by the originator terminal and storing a charging record, an originator platform return pass server receiving the channel recommendation data from the charging server, the originator platform return pass server deciding whether a recipient is a same platform user, the originator platform return pass server transmitting the channel recommendation data to a recipient terminal if the recipient is the same platform user, the originator platform return pass server transferring the channel recommendation data to a relay system server if the recipient is not the same platform user, the relay system server receiving the channel recommendation data from the originator platform return pass server if the recipient is not the same platform user, the relay system server transferring the channel recommendation data to a return pass server of a corresponding platform of a user by interpreting the channel recommendation data, a recipient platform return pass server receiving the channel recommendation data from the relay system server if the recipient is not the same platform user, the recipient platform return pass server transmitting the received channel recommendation data to a recipient terminal, and the recipient terminal receiving the channel recommendation data from the originator platform return pass server or the relay system server.
[9] Preferably, the channel recommendation data includes a message classification code, an originator identification code, a recipient identification code, a channel recommendation time, a program identification code, a message, capture image information, and additional contents information. [10] Preferably, the originator return pas server includes a data base server including information for a terminal or a client in a same platform area and a core server deciding whether a platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data is identical, the core server transferring the channel recommendation data to the recipient terminal by extracting the terminal or client information stored in the database server and recipient information mapped to recipient information included in the channel recommendation data if the platform identification code is identical, the core server transferring the channel recommendation data to the relay system server if the platform identification code is not identical.
[11] Preferably, the relay system server includes a web application server allowing a client's access via a web browser, a core server controlling a system of the relay system server, and a database server storing to manage channel data, program data, platform data, and channel information data, wherein the core server extracting a mapped platform identification code by comparing a platform identification code included in the platform identification code is identical to the platform data stored in the database server and then transfers the channel recommendation data to the corresponding recipient platform return pass server.
[12] Preferably, the relay system server compares and interprets originator channel recommendation data, recipient client data stored in the database server, and channel and program data. If recommended program or channel information transmitted by the originator does not exist in the recipient platform or terminal, the relay system server transmits a recommendation failure message to the originator terminal.
[13] More preferably, the additional contents information of the channel data includes at least one selected from the group consisting of bell sound, color ring, and contents data including product recommendation for home shopping.
[14] To further achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the present invention, a method of recommending a channel includes a channel recommendation data generating step of generating channel recommendation data under a control of a terminal control unit by an originator terminal key manipulation by an originator, a charging server transmitting and recording step of transmitting the generated channel recommendation data to a charging server to store a charging record, an originator platform return pass server transmitting step of transmitting the channel recommendation data to an originator platform return pass server from the charging server, a step of interpreting a platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data and then enabling the originator platform return pass server to transmit the channel recommendation data to a recipient terminal if a recipient is a user of a platform identical to that of the originator, and a step of displaying the channel recommendation data transmitted to the recipient terminal on a recipient terminal interface.
[15] Preferably, the channel recommendation data displaying step includes a recommended channel viewing checking step of querying whether the recipient wants to view a channel recommended program, and a recommended channel viewing step of if the recipient wants to view the channel recommended program, viewing the recommended channel by switching to a corresponding channel under a tuning control of a recipient terminal control unit.
[16] Preferably, the method further includes the step of transmitting reply data to the originator from the recipient having received the channel recommendation data in a same manner of transmitting the channel recommendation data.
[17] Preferably, the originator terminal is capable of transmitting the channel recommendation data to a plurality of recipient terminal simultaneously.
[18] To further achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the present invention, a method of recommending a channel includes a channel recommendation data generating step of generating channel recommendation data under a control of a terminal control unit by an originator terminal key manipulation by an originator, a charging server transmitting and recording step of transmitting the generated channel recommendation data to a charging server to store a charging record, an originator platform return pass server transmitting step of transmitting the channel recommendation data to an originator platform return pass server from the charging server, a relay system server transmitting step of interpreting a platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data and then enabling the originator platform return pass server to transmit the channel recommendation data to a relay system server if a recipient is a user of a platform different from that of the originator, a recipient platform return pass server transmitting step of enabling the relay system server to transmit the channel recommendation data to a recipient platform return pass server in a platform area of the recipient, a step of enabling the recipient platform return pass server to transmit the channel recommendation data to a recipient terminal, and a step of displaying the channel recommendation data transmitted to the recipient terminal on a recipient terminal interface.
[19] Preferably, in the originator platform return pass server transmitting step, it is decided whether the platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data is identical to that of the recipient. The channel recommendation data is then transmitted to the recipient terminal by extracting the terminal or client information stored in the database server and recipient information mapped to recipient information included in the channel recommendation data if the platform identification code is identical.
[20] Preferably, in the originator platform return pass server transmitting step, it is decided whether the platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data is identical to that of the recipient. The channel recommendation data is then transmitted to the relay system server if the platform identification code is not identical.
[21] Preferably, in the recipient platform return pass server transmitting step, a channel identification code of a platform area corresponding to a program recommended by the originator in the channel recommendation data and the corresponding channel recommendation data is then transmitted to the recipient platform return pass server.
[22] Preferably, in the relay system server transmitting step, the platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data received from the originator platform return pass server is compared to the platform identification code of platform data stored in a database server of the relay system server, a mapped platform identification code is extracted, and the channel recommendation data is then transmitted to the recipient platform return pass server of the corresponding platform.
[23] Preferably, in the relay system server transmitting step, a core server of the relay system server compares and interprets recipient client data stored in a database server and channel and program data. If recommended program or channel information transmitted by the originator does not exist in the recipient platform or terminal, a recommendation failure message is transmitted to the originator terminal.
[24] Preferably, the channel recommendation data displaying step includes a recommended channel viewing checking step of querying whether the recipient wants to view a channel recommended program and a recommended channel viewing step of if the recipient wants to view the channel recommended program, viewing the recommended channel by switching to a corresponding channel under a tuning control of a recipient terminal control unit.
[25] Preferably, the method further includes the step of transmitting reply data to the originator from the recipient having received the channel recommendation data in a same manner of transmitting the channel recommendation data.
[26] Preferably, the originator terminal is capable of transmitting the channel recommendation data to a plurality of recipient terminal simultaneously.
[27] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. Advantageous Effects
[28] The present invention provides the following effects or advantages.
[29] First of all, a user interface is enhanced to maximize user's convenience.
Brief Description of the Drawings [30] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention.
[31] In the drawings :
[32] FlG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a channel recommendation data transmitting system according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[33] FlG. 2 is a schematic flowchart of a channel recommending method according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[34] FlG. 3 is a diagram of data interoperating with all platform service providers and a relay system server according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[35] FlG. 4 and FlG. 5 are diagrams of channel recommendation images according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[36] FlG. 6 is a block diagram of a channel recommendation method in a same platform area according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention; and
[37] FlG. 7 is a block diagram of a channel recommendation method between different platform areas according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention. Mode for the Invention
[38] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
[39] FlG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a channel recommendation data transmitting system according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[40] Referring to FlG. 1, a channel recommendation data transmitting system according to the present invention includes an originator terminal 10, a charging (SPI) server 20, an originator platform return pass server 30, a relay system server 40, a recipient platform return pass server 50, and a recipient terminal 60.
[41] Any terminals capable of digital broadcasting receptions and bi-directional transmissions are usable as the originator terminal 10 and the recipient terminal 60. In particular, each of the originator terminal 10 and the recipient terminal 60 includes a set-top box loaded TV, a DMB phone, or the like. Since the terminals are capable of bi-directional transmissions, the originator terminal 10 can become the recipient terminal 60, and vice versa.
[42] The originator terminal 10 includes a terminal control unit (not shown in the drawing) having a microprocessor generating to transmit channel recommendation data to the charging (SPI) server 20 and a storage medium (not shown in the drawing) storing the generated channel recommendation data. And, application and management programs for controlling a system of the terminal control unit are inputted and stored in a separate ROM (not shown in the drawing).
[43] Once the channel recommendation data has been generated from the originator terminal 10, it is stored in the storage medium and is then transmitted to the charging (SPI) server 20.
[44] The charging (SPI) server 20 is a server for charging for the channel recommendation data transmission. After the charge has been paid according to the transmitted data, a charging record is stored in a database server (not shown in the drawing) within the charging server 20.
[45] The channel recommendation data, of which charge is settled in the charging server
20, is transferred to the originator platform return pass server 30. The originator platform return pass server 30 includes a core server (not shown in the drawing) deciding whether the recipient terminal 60 is in the same platform area of the originator terminal 10 by interpreting the channel recommendation data transferred from the charging server 20 and a database server (not shown in the drawing) including same platform user information. If the recipient terminal 60 is in the same platform area, channel recommendation data is transmitted to a terminal corresponding to a recipient ID. Hence, the return pass server plays a role as a node for transferring data according to a path set by a router.
[46] Meanwhile, if the recipient terminal 60 is not in the same platform area, the channel recommendation data is transferred to the relay system server 40.
[47] The relay system server 40, to which the channel recommendation data is transferred if the recipient terminal 60 is not in the same platform area, is the system via which a platform service provider provides programs and channel information in a web service format. Yet, the relay system server 40 of the present invention plays a role as a relay system transferring the channel recommendation data as well as a role in providing web services.
[48] The relay system server 40 includes a web application server (WAS) 410 executing various applications by allowing a client's access via a web browser, a database (DB) server 430 storing and managing program data received from an EPG data providing server, channel data received from each platform service provider server, and channel information data interoperating between platform service provider information and channel information, and a core server 420 interpreting to store the channel recommendation data received from the originator platform return pass server 30 and transferring the interpreted data to the recipient platform return pass server 50 in a corresponding platform area.
[49] The program data include PPID, program ID, program title, program description, start time, end time, and other program associated information. In this case, the PPID indicates an ID (identification code) of a program contents provider. And, the program associated information may include all information associated with a program such as a program viewing allowable age, actors/actresses, director, story, and the like.
[50] The channel data includes channel ID and PSIP/SI information. In this case, the channel ID is an identification code for a channel and the PSI/SI information indicates EPG associated information.
[51] Meanwhile, the channel information data includes program data and channel data interoperating with each other. In this case, the channel data is provided by each platform service provider. Since channel information provided by each platform service provider differs from another channel information, the channel information data is the data resulting from extracting channel information for each platform service provided with reference to the same program.
[52] The relay system server 40 should interoperate with all platform return pass servers to transmit the channel recommendation data to all recipients in the platform area. And, the relay system server 40 needs to have platform data to discriminate each platform area. So, the platform data transferred from the platform service provider server is stored in the database server to be managed. In this case, the platform data includes a special number to discriminate the corresponding platform area.
[53] Hence, the relay system server 40 plays a role as a router that sets a path to the recipient platform return pass server 50 in the corresponding platform area.
[54] The relay system server 40 transfers the channel recommendation data to the recipient platform return pass server 50 in the recipient platform area. In this case, a configuration of the recipient platform return pass server 50 is identical to that of the originator platform return pass server 30.
[55] Since the terminal according to the present invention is capable of bi-directional transmissions, the originator platform return pass server 30 can become the recipient platform return pass server 50 in case of receiving channel recommendation data from another originator. Likewise, the recipient platform return pass server 50 can become the originator platform return pass server 30.
[56] FIG. 2 is a schematic flowchart of a channel recommending method according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[57] Referring to FIG. 2, an originator viewing a program generates channel recommendation data for channel recommendation (Sl 10).
[58] In order to make the channel recommendation to a specific recipient, the originator viewing the program captures an image under the control of a control unit of the originator terminal 10 using a specific key and then stores an image file. Alternatively, the originator generates channel recommendation data by compressing additional contents information included in a channel into a data format and then stores the generated data in the storage medium. [59] The channel recommendation data includes such information as a message classification code, an originator identification code (hereinafter abbreviated ID), a recipient ID, a channel recommendation time, a program ID, a message, capture image information, additional contents, and the like.
[60] In this case, the message classification code is used to discriminate a short message service (SMS), an image message (MMS), and a channel recommendation message (CRS) from each other. The originator ID and the recipient ID are codes to discriminate an originator and a recipient. The originator ID and the recipient ID are used to discriminate an area of a terminal platform service provider by giving a smart card ID in case of a set-top box or a phone number or a special number in case of a DMB phone. The special number is the number uniquely given to each platform service provider to discriminate platform service providers.
[61] The additional contents information may include various kinds of contents information such as bell sound, color ring, product recommendation for home shopping, and the like.
[62] The platform service provider is the generic term for all service providers that provide information by establishing platforms. And, the platform service provider includes a terrestrial broadcasting station, a satellite broadcasting station, a cable broadcasting station, a mobile communication service provider, or the like.
[63] For transmission, the format of the channel recommendation data is XML, socket type DB connection, or the like.
[64] Once the channel recommendation data is generated by the originator terminal 10, it is stored in the storage medium and then transmitted to the charging (SPI) server (S 120).
[65] In this case, a charging method for a stored charging record is carried out in a manner of using a general postal bill, an on-line pay means via Internet, or an interactive television (I-IV) settling method used for digital broadcasting that allows a broadcast program to be viewed after the settlement of a prescribed charge in the course of a digital broadcast service. In case of a mobile communication terminal, a charge is added to a telephone bill. Theses charging methods are enough to implement a means for settling the bill, which do not restrict a scope of the present invention.
[66] After the charging record has been stored in the database (not shown in the drawing) of the charging server 20, the channel recommendation data is transferred to the originator platform return pass (RP) server 30 (S 130).
[67] The core server of the originator return pass server 30 extracts the recipient ID from the transferred channel recommendation data. Since the recipient ID includes the smart card ID, the phone number, or the special number to identify a platform, it is compared to check whether the recipient terminal 60 is in the same platform area of the originator terminal 10. If the recipient terminal 60 is in the same platform area, the channel recommendation data is transmitted to the recipient terminal 60 mapped to the recipient ID (S 140).
[68] Meanwhile, if the recipient terminal 60 is not in the same platform area, the channel recommendation data is transferred to the relay system server 40 (S 150).
[69] In this case, the platform area means a service area provided by the platform service provider. In particular, in case of digital broadcasting, the platform area means a service area provided by each service provider of terrestrial, satellite and cable broadcasting. In case of a DMB phone, the platform area means a service area provided by each communication service provider.
[70] Once the channel recommendation data is transferred to the relay system server 40, the core server 420 of the relay system server 40 checks whether channel recommendation program information or channel information exists in the recipient platform area by interpreting the recipient ID of the channel recommendation data and the program data and the channel data stored in the database server.
[71] FlG. 3 is a diagram of data interoperating with all platform service providers and a relay system server according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[72] Referring to FlG. 3, the relay system server 40 receives program data from the EPG data providing server and channel data from the platform service provider server and then stores the received data in the database server 430. In this case, channel information data extracted from channel organization information of each platform service provider mapped to the same channel is generated to be stored in the database server 430.
[73] So, the program information included in the channel recommendation data is mapped to the channel information data and it is able to check whether the channel information for the program exists in the recipient platform area. As shown in FlG. 3, when an originator recommends a program 'Dragon Ball' of a channel Tooniverse' to a recipient, if a recipient platform area is 'Kangnam Broadcasting', it can be observed that there exists 'Channel ID (100)' corresponding to 'Tooniverse'.
[74] If the program information or the channel information does not exist in the recipient platform area, information indicating that the channel recommendation to the originator terminal 10 fails is transmitted to the originator. Despite this case, channel tuning is impossible even if a channel recommendation message is transmitted to the recipient.
[75] If the program information or the channel information exists in the recipient platform area, the channel recommendation data is stored in the database server 430. The core server 410 of the relay system server 40 searches for the platform data stored in the database server 430 mapped to the recipient ID of the channel recommendation data, extracts the searched data, and then transfers the extracted data to the recipient platform return pass server 50 (S 160). [76] In this case, since channel information differs between different platform areas, the core server 410 of the relay system server 40 inserts the channel information (channel
ID 100) of the recipient platform (Kangnam Broadcasting) stored in the database server into the channel recommendation data according to the channel recommendation program (Dragon Ball) of the originator and then transfers the data to the recipient platform return pass server 50. [77] The recipient platform return pass server 50 extracts the recipient ID of the channel recommendation data received from the relay system server 40 and then transmits the channel recommendation data to the mapped recipient terminal 60 (S 170). [78] In this case, the channel recommendation data is transmitted by http/https, ftp, or
TCP/IP socket. [79] Once the channel recommendation data is transmitted, the control unit of the recipient terminal 60 displays the transmitted channel recommendation data on an interface of the recipient terminal 60 (S 180). [80] FlG. 4 and FlG. 5 are diagrams of channel recommendation images according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention. [81] Referring to FlG. 4 and FlG. 5, a terminal control unit activates a data generating window for a channel recommendation data generation on an originator interface by a key manipulation made by an originator. [82] The data generating window can be controlled by a user interface (UI) to enable an input for a recipient, a recommended channel, a recommendation content (message), an execution of an image capture, or the like. [83] If information for channel recommendation data is inputted to the data generating window, the terminal control unit generates the channel recommendation data and then transmits the generated data. [84] Meanwhile, if the channel recommendation data is transmitted to the recipient terminal, a data receiving window for displaying the channel recommendation data is activated on a recipient interface. [85] The data receiving window displays the channel recommendation data and can also generate an icon querying whether to store the channel recommendation data or whether to view the channel recommendation data. If the recipient attempts the viewing (select 'Viewing'), a control unit of the recipient terminal 60 switches a current channel to the corresponding channel via a tuning control. [86] The recipient having received the channel recommendation data is able to configure the user interface (UI) to enable a reply to be sent to the originator. If the originator attempts to send a reply, the originator composes message data through key inputs and then sends the message data to the recipient. In this case, the transmitting method is the same of the channel recommendation data transmitting method.
[87] First Embodiment
[88] - Channel Recommendation Data Transmission in Same Platform Area
[89] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a channel recommendation method in a same platform area according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[90] Referring to FIG. 6, to recommend a channel to a specific recipient, an originator captures an image under the control of a terminal control unit using a specific key and then stores a corresponding image file. Alternatively, the originator generates channel recommendation data in a data format by compressing additional contents information included in a channel.
[91] The channel recommendation data includes a message classification code, an originator identification code, a recipient ID, a channel recommendation time, a program ID, a message, capture image information, additional contents, and the like.
[92] In FIG. 6, '01' indicates a short message service (SMS) classification code,
'001_230890245' indicates an originator ID, 1OOl' indicates a special number given to a platform service provider, '230890245' indicates an originator smart card ID, '001_325690453' indicates a recipient ID, 1OOl' indicates a special number, '325690453' indicates a recipient smart card ID, '200601161450' indicates a channel recommendation time, '2990' indicates a program ID, 'Doing favorite Tooniverse' indicates a message to be sent, 'img0005.JPG indicates captured image information, and '#5000' indicates additional contents information.
[93] The generated channel recommendation data is charged by the charging server 20 and is then transferred to the originator platform return pass (RP) server 30.
[94] The originator platform return pass server 30 extracts the recipient ID from the received channel recommendation data and then checks whether the platform special number 001 is matched. In this case, as the special number 001 included in the recipient ID is identical to the platform special number 001, the originator platform return pass server transmits the channel recommendation data to the mapped smart card ID of the recipient terminal 60 with reference to the same platform user information stored in the database server (not shown in the drawing).
[95] Second Embodiment
[96] - Channel Recommendation Data Transmission between Different Platform Areas
[97] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a channel recommendation method between different platform areas according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[98] Referring to FIG. 7, a originator generates channel recommendation data under the control of a terminal control unit by a key manipulation. In this case, information included in the channel recommendation data is identical to the former channel recom- mendation data shown in FlG. 6 but differs in that a recipient ID is 'Ol 10000000'.
[99] The generated channel recommendation data is charged by the charging server 20 and is then transferred to the originator platform return pass server 30.
[100] The originator platform return pass server 30 checks whether a recipient is in a same platform area. The recipient ID included in the channel recommendation data is '0110000000' that is a recipient phone number and a corresponding platform area is a communication service provider area. So, it is checked that the recipient is a user of a different platform.
[101] Once confirming that the recipient is not the same platform user, the originator platform return pass server 30 transfers the channel recommendation data to the relay system server 40.
[102] The core server 410 of the relay system server 40 searches the recipient ID (011) of the channel recommendation data and the platform information stored in the database server and then extracts the mapped platform area (001 oo Telecom).
[103] In this case, the platform information is the information for all platform service providers and includes a special number for discriminating a platform area.
[104] The core server 410 transfers the channel recommendation data to an extracted recipient platform return pass server 50. Since the relay system server 40 stores channel information data interoperating with channel information for each of the platform service providers and program information, channel infuriation of the recipient for the program recommended by the originator is inserted in the channel recommendation data and the corresponding channel recommendation data can be transferred to the recipient platform return pass server 50.
[105] The recipient platform return pass server 50 extracts the recipient ID (011-0000000) of the transferred channel recommendation data, searches for the same platform user information, and then transfers the channel recommendation data to the mapped recipient terminal 60 (0000000).
[106] This embodiment relates to a method of transmitting channel recommendation data to a specific recipient. Yet, the originator is able to simultaneously transmit the channel recommendation data to a plurality of recipients.
[107] In this case, the control unit of the originator terminal generates a plurality of channel recommendation data differing in recipient IDs only and then transmits the channel recommendation data to a plurality of the recipients by the same method of the above-explained channel recommendation method.
[108] In the embodiment, the channel recommendation is described only. Yet, the embodiment enables recommendation data transmission of various contents such as bell sound, color ring, product recommendations in home shopping, and the like.
[109] In this case, the generation and transmission of the recommendation data can be carried out by the method of the above-explained channel recommendation data generation and transmission.
Industrial Applicability
[110] Accordingly, the present invention enhances a user interface to maximize user's convenience.
[Ill] While the present invention has been described and illustrated herein with reference to the preferred embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications and variations of this invention that come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

Claims
[1] A system for transmitting channel recommendation data, the system transferring data between terminals capable of digital broadcasting receptions and bidirectional communications, the system comprising: an originator terminal generating the channel recommendation data and transmitting the channel recommendation data to a specific recipient; a charging (SPI) server receiving the channel recommendation data generated by the originator terminal and storing a charging record; an originator platform return pass server receiving the channel recommendation data from the charging server, the originator platform return pass server deciding whether a recipient is a same platform user, the originator platform return pass server transmitting the channel recommendation data to a recipient terminal if the recipient is the same platform user, the originator platform return pass server transferring the channel recommendation data to a relay system server if the recipient is not the same platform user; the relay system server receiving the channel recommendation data from the originator platform return pass server if the recipient is not the same platform user, the relay system server transferring the channel recommendation data to a return pass server of a corresponding platform of a user by interpreting the channel recommendation data; a recipient platform return pass server receiving the channel recommendation data from the relay system server if the recipient is not the same platform user, the recipient platform return pass server transmitting the received channel recommendation data to a recipient terminal; and the recipient terminal receiving the channel recommendation data from the originator platform return pass server or the relay system server.
[2] The system of claim 1, wherein the channel recommendation data includes a message classification code, an originator identification code, a recipient identification code, a channel recommendation time, a program identification code, a message, capture image information, and additional contents information.
[3] The system of claim 1, the originator return pas server comprising: a data base server including information for a terminal or a client in a same platform area; and a core server deciding whether a platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data is identical, the core server transferring the channel recommendation data to the recipient terminal by extracting the terminal or client information stored in the database server and recipient information mapped to recipient information included in the channel recommendation data if the platform identification code is identical, the core server transferring the channel recommendation data to the relay system server if the platform identification code is not identical.
[4] The system of claim 1, the relay system server comprising: a web application server allowing a client's access via a web browser; a core server controlling a system of the relay system server; and a database server storing to manage channel data, program data, platform data, and channel information data, wherein the core server extracting a mapped platform identification code by comparing a platform identification code included in the platform identification code is identical to the platform data stored in the database server and then transfers the channel recommendation data to the corresponding recipient platform return pass server.
[5] The system of claim 4, wherein the relay system server compares and interprets originator channel recommendation data, recipient client data stored in the database server, and channel and program data and wherein if recommended program or channel information transmitted by the originator does not exist in the recipient platform or terminal, the relay system server transmits a recommendation failure message to the originator terminal.
[6] The system of claim 2, wherein the additional contents information of the channel data includes at least one selected from the group consisting of bell sound, color ring, and contents data including product recommendation for home shopping.
[7] A method of recommending a channel, comprising: a channel recommendation data generating step of generating channel recommendation data under a control of a terminal control unit by an originator terminal key manipulation by an originator; a charging server transmitting and recording step of transmitting the generated channel recommendation data to a charging server to store a charging record; an originator platform return pass server transmitting step of transmitting the channel recommendation data to an originator platform return pass server from the charging server; a step of interpreting a platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data and then enabling the originator platform return pass server to transmit the channel recommendation data to a recipient terminal if a recipient is a user of a platform identical to that of the originator; and a step of displaying the channel recommendation data transmitted to the recipient terminal on a recipient terminal interface.
[8] The method of claim 7, the channel recommendation data displaying step comprising: a recommended channel viewing checking step of querying whether the recipient wants to view a channel recommended program; and a recommended channel viewing step of if the recipient wants to view the channel recommended program, viewing the recommended channel by switching to a corresponding channel under a tuning control of a recipient terminal control unit.
[9] The method of claim 7, further comprising the step of transmitting reply data to the originator from the recipient having received the channel recommendation data in a same manner of transmitting the channel recommendation data.
[10] The method of claim 7, wherein the originator terminal is capable of transmitting the channel recommendation data to a plurality of recipient terminal simultaneously.
[11] A method of recommending a channel, comprising: a channel recommendation data generating step of generating channel recommendation data under a control of a terminal control unit by an originator terminal key manipulation by an originator; a charging server transmitting and recording step of transmitting the generated channel recommendation data to a charging server to store a charging record; an originator platform return pass server transmitting step of transmitting the channel recommendation data to an originator platform return pass server from the charging server; a relay system server transmitting step of interpreting a platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data and then enabling the originator platform return pass server to transmit the channel recommendation data to a relay system server if a recipient is a user of a platform different from that of the originator; a recipient platform return pass server transmitting step of enabling the relay system server to transmit the channel recommendation data to a recipient platform return pass server in a platform area of the recipient; a step of enabling the recipient platform return pass server to transmit the channel recommendation data to a recipient terminal; and a step of displaying the channel recommendation data transmitted to the recipient terminal on a recipient terminal interface.
[12] The method of claim 11, wherein in the originator platform return pass server transmitting step, it is decided whether the platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data is identical to that of the recipient and wherein the channel recommendation data is transmitted to the recipient terminal by extracting the terminal or client information stored in the database server and recipient information mapped to recipient information included in the channel recommendation data if the platform identification code is identical.
[13] The method of claim 11 , wherein in the originator platform return pass server transmitting step, it is decided whether the platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data is identical to that of the recipient and wherein the channel recommendation data is transmitted to the relay system server if the platform identification code is not identical.
[14] The method of claim 11, wherein in the recipient platform return pass server transmitting step, a channel identification code of a platform area corresponding to a program recommended by the originator in the channel recommendation data and the corresponding channel recommendation data is then transmitted to the recipient platform return pass server.
[15] The method of claim 11, wherein in the relay system server transmitting step, the platform identification code included in the channel recommendation data received from the originator platform return pass server is compared to the platform identification code of platform data stored in a database server of the relay system server, a mapped platform identification code is extracted, and the channel recommendation data is then transmitted to the recipient platform return pass server of the corresponding platform.
[16] The method of claim 11, wherein in the relay system server transmitting step, a core server of the relay system server compares and interprets recipient client data stored in a database server and channel and program data and wherein if recommended program or channel information transmitted by the originator does not exist in the recipient platform or terminal, a recommendation failure message is transmitted to the originator terminal.
[17] The method of claim 11, the channel recommendation data displaying step comprising: a recommended channel viewing checking step of querying whether the recipient wants to view a channel recommended program; and a recommended channel viewing step of if the recipient wants to view the channel recommended program, viewing the recommended channel by switching to a corresponding channel under a tuning control of a recipient terminal control unit.
[ 18] The method of claim 11 , further comprising the step of transmitting reply data to the originator from the recipient having received the channel recommendation data in a same manner of transmitting the channel recommendation data. [19] The method of claim 11, wherein the originator terminal is capable of transmitting the channel recommendation data to a plurality of recipient terminal simultaneously.
PCT/KR2007/001141 2006-03-10 2007-03-08 System for transmitting channel recommendation data and channel recommendation method thereof WO2007105873A1 (en)

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