WO2015195464A1

WO2015195464A1 - Universal set top box client operative with multiple service providers

Info

Publication number: WO2015195464A1
Application number: PCT/US2015/035447
Authority: WO
Inventors: Henri Girard; Max W. Muterspaugh
Original assignee: Thomson Licensing
Priority date: 2014-06-19
Filing date: 2015-06-12
Publication date: 2015-12-23

Abstract

A system and method for delivering a plurality of different services to users is provided. A converter includes a plurality of input ports and a processor. Each of the plurality of input ports is configured to receive a respective input signal for one of the plurality of services. The processor converts each of the received input signals into a standardized common digital format. An Ethernet switch receives the converted input signals in the standardized common digital format, decodes and analyzes the received converted input signals, and provides the converted input signals to a respective set top box.

Description

UNIVERSAL SET TOP BOX CLIENT OPERATIVE WITH MULTIPLE SERVICE

PROVIDERS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the distribution of various consumer services and, in particular, to the distribution of various signals throughout a building independent from the source.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Existing methods of distributing various consumer services such as satellite TV, cable TV, etc. to receivers throughout a building rely on and are proprietary to each individual service provider. Some cable providers have a cable wired throughout the building via a gateway device. From the gateway, the information is distributed through the building with various proprietary schemes such as Multimedia Over Coaxial Alliance (MOCA). Some satellite providers distribute the signal from the satellite through single cable multi-switch type arrangements. A combination of control and multiple analog RF signals separating different programs through frequency multiplexing are transmitted along the cable. Because of the large differences in signal strength and frequencies of all the signals present, there are very complex sets of validation tests and implementation complexity necessary to separate by filtering all the signals present. Similar problems exist for cable systems that use multiple signals frequency multiplexed onto the cable present in the building. Over the air TV cannot be simultaneously present on cables used for the satellite or cable service providers because the same frequencies are used for these different services. FIG. 1 shows an exemplary block diagram of a conventional system for receiving a signal by an antenna. In particular, an antenna is provided for receiving signals from a service provider and multiplexing multiple received signals onto a coaxial cable wired throughout a building via a single wire multi- switching device. This type of system is used widely by providers such as DirecTV. The building could be any residential or commercial unit such as a house, apartment building, office building, condominium complex, or any edifice or structure that can include one or more possible users therein.

As shown in FIG. 1 , an antenna 102 receives microwave signals that are transmitted by a service provider. The signals received by the antenna 102 are gathered through multiple low-noise block downconverters (LNB) 104. The multiple LNBs 104 receive the microwave signals from the satellite that are collected by a dish of the antenna, amplify the signals, and downconvert the signal frequencies to a lower block of intermediate frequencies. This allows the microwave signals to be carried to the indoor satellite receiver using relatively cheap coaxial cable. If the signals remained at their microwave frequency, they would require an expensive and impractical waveguide line to carry the signals to the receiver. The microwave signals received by the antenna 102 and downconverted by the multiple LNBs 104 are able to travel via a multiconductor coaxial cable 106 to a single wire multiswitch 108. The single wire multiswitch 108 transmits the signals via a single coaxial cable 1 10 to a destination such as a building 1 12. A Single Wire Multiswitch (SWM) 108 allows the distribution of satellite and Over the Air (OTA) antenna signals along a single cable such that it is possible to combine Sat 1 , Sat 2, and OTA cables into one cable. Once inside the building 1 12, this single coaxial cable 1 10 is split into multiple segments, each segment connecting to an output port within the building 1 12 to provide the signal to a receiver connected thereto. Dedicated receivers connected to respective output ports receive, demodulate, and decode the signals on the cable and provide video and audio signals to a display for viewing by a user. FIG. 2 shows an evolution of FIG. 1 which would replace the single coaxial cable 1 10 to the building as shown in FIG. 1 with an Ethernet cable. Certain elements shown in FIG. 2 are similar to those of FIG. 1 and are identified by similar reference numbers. Conversion of the system for use with an Ethernet cable involves additional modifications including passing the received microwave signal through multiple LNBs and an Ethernet video packet generator. The video packet generator is capable of packetizing video and transmitting the video packets over an Ethernet cable to a destination.

As shown in FIG. 2, the antenna 102 receives microwave signals that are transmitted by a service provider. The antenna 102 includes multiple LNBs 104 and an Ethernet video packet generator 202 integrally connected together. The microwave signals are gathered through the LNBs 104. The multiple LNBs 104 receive the microwave signals from the satellite that are collected by a dish of the antenna, amplify the signals, and downconvert the signal frequencies to a lower block of intermediate frequencies. The downconverted signals are provided to the Ethernet video packet generator 202, which packetizes the signals for transmission over an Ethernet cable 206. Both the multiple LNBs 104 and Ethernet video packet generator 202 may be integrally connected within a single unit 204. Alternatively, the LNBs 104 and Ethernet video packet generator 202 may be individual elements positioned within the antenna structure 102 and in communication with each other. Once the signals are packetized by the Ethernet video packet generator 202, the Ethernet video packet generator 202 transmits the video packets via Ethernet cable 206 to a destination such as a building 1 12. Once inside the building 1 12, the Ethernet cable 206 is split into multiple segments, each segment connecting to an output port within the building 1 12 to provide the signal to a receiver. Dedicated receivers within the building and connected to respective output ports receive, demodulate, and decode the signals on the cable and provide the decoded video and audio signals to a display for viewing by a user. However, in this configuration, interference and heat between the LNBs 104 and Ethernet video packet generator 202 mounted at a focal point of the satellite receiver antenna 102 denigrate the signal received by the antenna thereby affecting display of the signal.

An alternative implementation to that of FIG. 2 is shown in FIG. 3. Certain elements shown in FIG. 3 are similar to those of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 and are identified by similar reference numbers. The embodiment shown in FIG. 3 is provided to address the problems associated with the system shown in FIG. 2. In this configuration, the Ethernet video packet generator 202 is located separate from the antenna and at a distance from the LNBs. In this system, Ethernet cable replaces the single coaxial cable 1 10 of FIG. 1 for transmitting the signals to the building.

As shown in FIG. 3, the antenna 102 receives microwave signals that are transmitted by a service provider. The microwave signals are gathered through the multiple LNBs 104. The multiple LNBs 104 receive the microwave signals from the satellite that are collected by a dish of the antenna, amplify the signals, and downconvert the signal frequencies to a lower block of intermediate frequencies. The downconverted signals are transmitted via a multiconductor coaxial cable 106 to an Ethernet video packet generator 202. The Ethernet video packet generator 202 packetizes the signals and transmits the packetized signals via Ethernet cable 206 to a destination such as a building 1 12. Once inside the building 1 12, the Ethernet cable 206 is split into multiple segments, each segment connecting to an output port within the building 1 12 to provide the signal to a receiver connected thereto. Dedicated receivers receive, demodulate, and decode the signals on the cable and provide video and audio signals to a display for viewing by a user. FIG. 4 shows a conventional system for providing cable TV and cable

Internet services by transmitting the respective signals through a coaxial cable.

As shown in FIG. 4, signals from a cable to a cable modem or cable TV set top box provider are transmitted through a coaxial cable 1 10. The services being received by one or more receivers in a destination such as a building 1 12 may comprise cable Internet and cable TV services. The cable Internet and cable TV services within the building 1 12 are provided through the use of both a cable modem 402 and cable TV set top box 404, respectively. Once inside the building 1 12, this single coaxial cable 1 10 is split into multiple segments, each segment connecting to an output port within the building 1 12 to provide the signal to a receiver connected thereto. Dedicated receivers receive, demodulate, and decode the signals on the cable and provide video and audio signals to a respective display for viewing by a user. Other conventional satellite communication systems include an interface device for distributing satellite signals received from an outdoor unit to a plurality of indoor units connected to a local area network at a particular site. The installation of indoor units is simplified and allows future satellite-based services to be added without requiring the installation of new cables between the outdoor and indoor units. However, these systems are limited to merely satellite reception. Only after this satellite reception can the satellite antenna or interface device convert the received satellite signal for delivery to the plurality of indoor units via a non-satellite connection.

The existing methods yield problems when a consumer wants to change service providers for a particular service. When a service provider is changed, the provider's corresponding electronics, such as set top boxes and wiring, may also need to be changed and a significant amount of work is required to reinstall network specific hardware at a destination such as a building. Thus, it is the object of this invention to obtain ease in the reception of consumer services associated with distributing a plurality of services throughout a destination such as a building despite changes in service providers and corresponding electronics. This is possible by converting signals received from any of multiple service providers to a standardized common digital packet format that can be interpreted by one or more set top boxes at a destination. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, a system for delivering a plurality of services to users is provided. A converter includes a plurality of input ports and a processor. Each of the plurality of input ports is configured to receive a respective input signal for one of the plurality of services. The processor converts each of the received input signals into a standardized common digital format. An Ethernet switch receives the converted input signals in the standardized common digital format, decodes and analyzes the received converted input signals, and provides the converted input signals to a respective set top box. In another embodiment, a set top box for delivering a plurality of services to users is provided. The set top box includes a plurality of input ports, a processor, and a plurality of output ports. Each of the plurality of input ports is configured to receive a respective input signal in a standardized common digital format from an Ethernet switch. The processor decodes each input signal and generates an output signal having a format similar to the format provided by a service provider. Each of the plurality of output ports is configured to transmit the output signal to a corresponding output device.

In another embodiment, a method for delivering a plurality of services to users is provided. Signals provided by respective ones of a plurality of service providers are received by a signal receiver. Each of the plurality of signals is converted into a standardized common digital format. Each of the plurality of converted signals is decoded by an Ethernet switch. The signals are transmitted to requesting universal set top boxes for output to a user. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will be described or made apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, which is to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings.

In the drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote similar elements throughout the views:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a conventional system for multiplexing multiple signals onto a single coaxial cable;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a further conventional system wherein a low noise block (LNB) function and Ethernet video packet generator are integrated into a single unit;

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a further conventional system wherein a low noise block (LNB) function and Ethernet video packet generator are separated from each other;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a conventional system for providing cable Internet and TV service to a building;

FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of a device connecting users to several different service providers according to invention principles;

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram illustrating connections for audio/video services to a building according to invention principles; FIG. 7 shows an exemplary block diagram illustrating connections for regular phone lines, pbx, or cable telephony services to a building according to invention principles;

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary block diagram illustrating connections for cell phone equipment such as LTE to a building according to invention principles;

FIG.9 shows an exemplary block diagram illustrating connections for television services to a set top box within a building according to invention principles;

FIG. 10 shows a connection diagram for a set top box according to invention principles; and

FIG. 1 1 illustrates a flow diagram describing the method of the system according to invention principles.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT The exemplifications set out herein illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

The system according to invention principles advantageously provides a method of distributing various services such as satellite TV, cable TV, etc. to multiple receivers in a building. The system utilizes a novel set top box and is compatible with any consumer service provider such that the signals of these various services may be received, processed, and distributed through a building independent of proprietary schemes of particular service providers. The structure that is proposed is similar to that which a telephone company already provides for the conventional analog phone service. The specific equipment of the service provider is installed in a convenient place within a building but not necessarily in prominent view unlike the current practice of providing set top boxes placed, for example, in the living room or close to the TV used for the service. The specific equipment of the service provider provides digital packets of video, audio, control, etc. to client units that are placed at the TV or other receiver locations. The connection from these clients to the service provider equipment would typically be through Ethernet or, when possible, a wireless connection. The wireless device performance on unlicensed bands depends on the location, so a low cost cable used for Ethernet could be an alternative solution. Ultimately, all audiovisual and entertainment services needed within a building could be accommodated in this manner using Ethernet cabling combined with wireless devices. Examples of these services include but are not limited to satellite service, cable service, over the air TV, phone service to IP phones, Internet, etc. A further advantage over existing personal video recorder (PVR) type units provided by many service providers is to use a network attached storage unit as storage for the specific equipment of the service provider. These storage units could be directed to record the program of interest by the person using the client units.

A set top box client unit may include an input that is either an Ethernet jack or a wireless WiFi antenna. The output may be an HDMI or other method to provide the audiovisual signal to a TV or other device. Each client may be connected to a high speed Ethernet switch located at a position convenient to the user. Service provider equipment authorizes each client in the building with a secure protocol and then sends the video information so that the end user can select the programs desired. The system according to invention principles provides a conventional user interface associated with a respective provider to which the user subscribes because each individual provider generates an interface with its own look and feel. This allows a familiar interface to be provided to each individual user based on the provider to which they subscribe. Once a channel or program selection is made, the program audio, video, and control packets are sent by the service provider to the service client unit so the user can watch or control the selected service. The same process may be repeated for all client units inside the building. Since the client units are not service specific, one user can watch a service provided by a satellite service provider, while another user can watch over-the-air signals. Other clients could possibly carry intercom, music distribution, or security system implementation.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a connection of different services to multiple users located within a structure such as a building according to invention principles. The different services are provided as data outputs in the form of serial streams of packets. Before these serial streams of packets are transmitted to the users, it is necessary for all the services to be converted to a standardized common digital packet format. Then, the packets are provided to an Ethernet switch that subsequently delivers the corresponding signals to the respective set top boxes.

Multiple services can be received in this system and may include free services as well as services from service providers. Free services could include broadcast radio 502 or broadcast TV 504. Service providers could provide services via cable 506, satellite 508, DSL through a DSL receiver 510 and a DSL entrance 512, fiber optic 514, and LTE or cellular transceiver 516. The signals received from these plurality of services are each converted to digital signals in a converter 518, converting the plurality of services to a standardized common digital packet format. The converter 518 may be a separate device, as shown in FIG. 5, or the converter 518 may be integrated into the particular equipment that provides the services. For example, an over the air broadcast television may have the tuner and packet converter 518 included in the same device. This approach enables each Ethernet output to be connected with a building's local area network. Each of these packets 522 in the standardized common digital packet format can contain any of but not limited to video data, audio data, control data, information, etc. Transmission of such packets 522 may be accomplished using any known method such as the DVB (digital video broadcasting) standard. The distribution systems of various DVB standards differ mainly in modulation schemes and error correcting codes used due to different technical constraints. Depending on the construction of packets 522, the exact positioning of bits, the length of packets 522, the content type, etc., encryption of packets 522 may be subject to multiple other standards such as the one used by some directv packets that are incompatible with the DVB standard. The converter 518 is normally placed in an accessible but not visible place such as hidden in a closet, garage, or basement and is shared by all users connected at the site. By using a converter 518 to convert the received signals to the standardized common digital format, the user is not required to purchase new or specialized client equipment when changing service providers. The new service will be connected to the centrally located converter 518.

The digital packets 522 generated by the converter 518 each include a header and a payload. The headers are provided to keep the data of the standardized digital packets 522 organized. The IP packet 522 headers provide an address to direct the packets 522 to the correct set top box 10. Extra header information such as length, type of service, and identification tags are added to the IP packets 522 to provide information for interacting with the set top box 10. The IP packets 522 converted to the standardized common digital format are transmitted via an Ethernet cable 206 to an Ethernet switch 524. The Ethernet switch 524 decodes the packets 522 and transmits the packets 522 to the proper set top box 10 via an Ethernet cable 526. The Ethernet cable 526 is split into multiple segments, each segment connecting to a set top box 10 within the building 1 12. Each one of the set top boxes 10 located throughout the building 1 12 is configured to analyze the standardized common digital format signal and generate the requested audio and video output to a user. Alternatively, the Ethernet switch may wirelessly transmit packets 522 to respective set top boxes 10.

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram for services providing audio and video. These service signals are transmitted to a converter that converts the received service signals into a standardized common digital format. From the packet converters, the signals are transported in streams of packets across an Ethernet cable to requesting set top boxes. Alternatively, the Ethernet switch may wirelessly transmit packets 522 to respective set top boxes 10.

Receivers 602 receive signals transmitted by a service provider. For receivers 602 that are required for a specific media, an adequate number of channels need to be provided so that if each user on the network selects a different channel, there are enough available receivers 602 to provide the requested channels to the users. The receivers 602 provide the signals to a packet converter 518 to be converted to a standardized common digital packet format. The digital packets 522 generated by the converter 518 each include a header and a payload. The headers are provided to keep the data of the digital packets 522 organized. The IP packet 522 headers provide an address to direct the packets 522 to the correct set top box 10. Extra header information such as, but not limited to, length, type of service, and identification tag may be added to the IP packets 522 to provide information for interacting with the set top box 10. Each of these packets 522 in the standardized common digital packet format can contain video data, audio data, control data, information, etc.

Transmission of such packets 522 may be accomplished using any known method such as the DVB standard. The transport stream of packets 522 meeting DVB standards for audio, video, and control is usually encrypted for high value services so an authentication tool 604 validates the identity of the end user per type of service. This authentication tool 604 may include either a smart card, which provides identification, authentication, data storage and application processing, a SIM (subscriber identification module) card that securely stores mobile subscriber identity and a key used to identify and authenticate subscribers on mobile telephony devices, or any other type of authentication tool.

The IP packets 522 converted to the standardized common digital format are transmitted via an Ethernet cable 206 to an Ethernet switch 524. The Ethernet switch 524 decodes and analyzes the packets 522 and transmits the packets 522 to the proper set top box 10 via an Ethernet cable 526. The Ethernet cable 526 is split into multiple segments, each segment connecting to a set top box 10 within the site or building 1 12. Each one of the set top boxes 10 located throughout the building 1 12 is configured to analyze the standardized common digital format signal and generate the requested audio and video output for a user. Alternatively, the Ethernet switch may wirelessly transmit packets 522 to respective set top boxes 10.

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary block diagram for the services providing audio and video, as shown in FIG. 6, specifically for different types of telephone service such as from regular phone lines, private branch exchange (PBX), cable telephone, or phone over IP. These telephone signals are transmitted to a converter that converts the received service signals into a standardized common digital format signal. From the packet converters, the signals are transported in streams of packets across an Ethernet cable to set top boxes at desired destinations. Alternatively, the Ethernet switch may wirelessly transmit packets 522 to respective set top boxes 10.

For this exemplary block diagram, the audio and video service provided to the user is for telephony 702 over at least any of but not limited to regular phone lines, PBX, cable telephone, or phone over IP. The service is transmitted through telephone equipment 704 that performs the packet conversion to a standardized common digital format. The digital packets 522 generated by the converter 704 each include a header and a payload. The headers are provided to keep the data of the digital packets 522 organized. The IP packet 522 headers provide an address to direct the packets 522 to the correct set top box 10. Extra header information such as length, type of service, and identification tag may be added to the IP packets 522 to provide information for interacting with the set top box 10. The IP packets 522 in the standardized common digital format are then sent via an Ethernet cable 206 to an Ethernet switch 524. The Ethernet switch 524 decodes the packets 522 and transmits the packets 522 to the proper set top box 10 either via an Ethernet cable 526 or wireless transmission. The Ethernet cable 526 is split into multiple segments, each segment connecting to a set top box 10 within the building 1 12. Each one of the set top boxes 10 located throughout the building 1 12 is configured to analyze the standardized common digital format signal and generate the requested output for a user. An extra service in this exemplary diagram provides shared, local cloud type storage service 706 among the multiple users of the site or building 1 12. The stored data is encrypted and may also be sent over the Ethernet connection 206 to the Ethernet switch 524. The local cloud storage service 706 allows for the storage of audio, video, etc. from any of the sources on the network. For example, if the user on a set top box 10 records a radio broadcast that is packetized, the local cloud storage service 706 of the set top box's 10 network may store the packets 522 of the radio broadcast. The local cloud storage service 706 may be a network accessible hard drive. The same or another set top box 10 on the network may then replay the recorded audio. The same process may be done with video from any of cable, satellite, over the air TV, etc. In the case where the set top box 10 is used as a conventional phone interface, the voice may be stored on the set top box 10. The stored data on the local cloud type storage service 706 may be encrypted for various reasons, e.g. billing purposes. A service provider may want to charge a different rate if multiple set top boxes 10 watch recorded programs. Encryption is also important to enforce copyright protection because if a recorded program is not encrypted, it could be shared on the Internet, thus violating owner copyrights.

Security type services 708 may also be provided to the individual users. Such security type services may include a camera or sensors at an entrance or within the site or building 1 12. The security service is connected to the set top box 10 via a packet interface 710 to the Ethernet switch 524. The security device is another source of packets in the system. Once the data from the security device are digitized and packetized, any set top box 10 may use the information provided therein. Data from the telephony device is digitized and packetized at the entrance of the building, the packets travel to set top boxes that want to use the phone, a regular phone is connected to one of the ports of the set top box 10 through a regular phone jack. All devices from the extra services 706 and 708 connected to the Ethernet switch 606 may be hidden in a closet, garage, or simply not in view while set top boxes 10 are located throughout the building 1 12 at locations desired by respective users.

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary block diagram for providing other services requiring audio and video, as shown in FIG. 6. More specifically, FIG. 8 is related to receipt of signals from cell phone equipment. Cell phone signals are transmitted to a converter that converts the received service signals into a standardized common digital format signal. From the packet converters, the signals are transported in streams of packets by Ethernet cable to set top boxes at desired destinations.

Additionally, the system may be programmed with an algorithm for use of the system with cell phone signals. The algorithm can control the system to automatically select the least expensive way to initiate and conduct a call, send a text message, transmit data, etc. as a function of time because there may be times of the day or month where the different services have different costs. This may be accomplished through a serial connection for calls into an Application Programming Interface (API) that can connect to a computer with a packet interface and convert the received service signals into the standardized common digital format.

An antenna 102 captures a cell phone signal and a serial cell phone connection 802 is established between the cell phone equipment 800 and a processor including a packet interface 804. The serial cell phone connection 802 provides a bidirectional channel for connection to the packet interface, to receive and transmit data, set up calls via the cell provider, send text messages, perform voice calls, etc. API enables multiple set top boxes 10 to share one cell phone connection 802. Since a user of a set top box 10 may have a regular phone or other device to dial and hold a conversation, the user cannot access the actual keyboard of the cell phone. The API on the cell phone is invoked by a device (not shown) that interprets the packets 522 coming from the set top box 10 into voice, dialing control, hang up, keystrokes, etc. into the commands required by the cell phone. Digital packets 522 are generated by the computer processor from cell phone signals received from equipment 800. The cell phone signals are converted in processor 804 into packets 522 in the standardized common digital format. Each packet 522 in the standardized common digital format includes a header and a payload. The headers are provided to keep the data of the standardized digital packets 522 organized. The IP packet 522 headers provide an address to direct the packets 522 to the correct set top box 10. Extra header information such as length, type of service, and identification tags may be added to the IP packets 522 to provide information for interacting with the set top box 10. The IP packets 522 in a standardized common digital format are then sent via an Ethernet cable 206 to an Ethernet switch 524. Each of these packets 522 may contain video data, audio data, control data, information, etc. The Ethernet switch 524 decodes the packets 522 and transmits the decoded packets 522 to the proper set top box 10 via an Ethernet cable 526. The Ethernet cable 526 is split into multiple segments, each segment connecting to a set top box 10 within the building 1 12. Each one of the set top boxes 10 located throughout the building 1 12 is configured to analyze the standardized common digital format signal and generate the requested output for a user. Alternatively, the Ethernet switch may wirelessly transmit packets 522 to respective set top boxes 10.

FIG. 9 shows a typical usage model for a set top box 10 with multiple connection ports 902 for receiving numerous different services. Signals of a standardized common digital format are transported in streams of packets 522 via Ethernet cable 206 to set top boxes 10 at the destinations that request the signals. One particular port connection is shown to illustrate the operation of a display device 904 in conjunction with a remote control device 906 that controls a user interface menu for service selection. Alternatively, the packets 522 may be sent through a wireless connection by the Ethernet switch 524 to set top boxes 10.

Digital packets 522 each include a header and a payload. The headers are provided to keep the data of the standardized digital packets 522 organized. The IP packet 522 headers provide an address to direct the packets 522 to the correct set top box 10. Extra header information such as length, type of service, and identification tags may be added to the IP packets 522 to provide information for interacting with the set top box 10. The information packets 522 could use any standards-based format such as DVB. The distribution systems of various DVB standards differ mainly in modulation schemes and error correcting codes used due to different technical constraints. The IP packets 522 in a standardized common digital format are then sent via an Ethernet cable 206 to an Ethernet switch 524. The Ethernet switch 524 decodes the packets 522 and transmits the packets 522 to the proper set top box 10 via an Ethernet cable 206. The Ethernet cable 526 connects the Ethernet switch 524 to a site or building. The Ethernet cable 526 is split into multiple segments at the site, each segment connecting to a set top box 10 within the building 1 12. Each one of the set top boxes 10 located throughout the building 1 12 is configured to analyze the standardized common digital format signal and generate the requested output for a user. Alternatively, the Ethernet switch may wirelessly transmit packets 522 to respective set top boxes 10.

The set top box 10 has multiple ports 902 for connecting devices that correspond to any number of available provided services. An output port may be connected to a display device 904 and controlled by a remote control device 906 used to display service selection, billing, etc. Service selection is done using menu driven screens 908 on the display device 904. The remote control device 906 may be used to select the type of service (phone, cable, satellite, DSL, fiber data, etc.) to connect with the set top box 10. The remote control device 906 can be embodied in many ways, such as but not limited to applications on smart phones, tablets, IR transmitters/receivers, etc. The remote control device 906 may also be capable of controlling billing for a particular service. Information headers contain the type of information (video, data, audio, voice, text, control), source and destination (cable modem #N to subscriber M), time ordination of the connection for billing purposes, prioritization information for non-time critical data, etc. Included in the IP packets 522 is the time duration of the connection. The set top box has a user interface that is displayed on the display device 904. This user interface may be controlled by a remote controller, which may select the services that the user desires. Therefore, it is possible to watch some cable program for an amount of time and other satellite programs for a different period of time. For example, the user may select satellite for an hour, a program on cable for the next hour, and a free over the air TV broadcast thereafter, where all three services are available on the packet interface. The system allows service providers to locally measure the service they provide. For example, the user may be billed per hour for each of the paid services instead of having to pay a monthly bill for each service. This type of billing adds new possibilities for services provided by service providers.

FIG. 10 provides a circuit diagram illustrating the possible intricacies of a universal set top box. The universal set top box has multiple ports. Each port is provided to connect with and receive signals from a respective service or service provider. The set top box is able to receive signals from any number of service providers and is not specific to any service provider. There is no tuner for satellite, cable, DSL, MOCA, telephone, broadcast TV antenna, broadcast radio antenna, or other services that use coaxial cable. No tuner is required because the set top box 10 accepts only packets 522 from devices that generate and receive packets 522 in the standardized common digital format. For cable, satellite, over the air service, etc., tuners are required in the respective boxes provided by the service provider for the particular media. The respective boxes provided by the service provider would typically have a packet format integrated in them so they connect directly to an Ethernet network. All inputs to the universal set top box are through an Ethernet interface connected to a local area network (LAN). An Ethernet interface is used because the set top box utilizes a stream of IP packets transported in a standardized common digital format. An Ethernet switch determines the set top box within a service area that receives the packetized signal.

Each one of the set top boxes 10 located throughout the service area is configured to analyze a standardized common digital format signal and generate the requested output to a user. The set top box 10 can be controlled through at least any of remote IR 12, WiFi 14, Bluetooth 16, Ethernet 18, etc. WiFi 14, Bluetooth 16, and Ethernet 18 ports can also be used to connect with other data type devices throughout the service area. WiFi can also be used to interface with compatible devices such as tablets or smart phones.

Other connections include a USB port 20, authentication tool port 22 such as for a SIM or Smart card, SD (Secure Digital) card port 24, and an analog audio port 26. The USB (universal serial bus) port allows a standard USB connection and communication between the universal set top box 10 and general computer peripherals such as, but not limited to, keyboards, digital cameras, printers, portable media players, disk drives, network adapters, personal computers, smartphones, video game consoles, etc. An authentication tool port 22 allows devices such as a smart card to provide identification, authentication, data storage and application processing and for receiving a SIM card to securely store mobile subscriber identity and a key used to identify and authenticate subscribers on mobile telephony devices. An SD card port 24 allows for receipt of a non-volatile memory card format for use in portable devices, such as mobile phones, digital cameras, GPS navigation devices, etc. Likewise, an analog audio port 26 located as part of the set top box 10 may be connected to an analog audio wire connector to provide an analog audio signal.

For digital video signals, HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) ports noted as HDMI IN 28 and HDMI OUT 30 can connect to a video device. Additionally, a DVD player with an HDMI output may be connected to the HDMI IN 28 while the HDMI video display device is connected to the HDMI OUT port 30. An analog video port 32 is also provided by the set top box in order to connect to a device that displays analog video. The set top box 10 may provide telecommunications or data service provided by a local or long distance carrier through the RJ standardized physical network interface. An example of such a connection on the set top box 10 would be the conventional RJ1 1 jack 36 for telephones 34.

The set top box 10 can also communicate with consumer audio equipment wherein the audio output is transmitted over reasonably short distances. Such an example is through an S/PDIF port 38 (Sony/Philips Digital Interface Format), commonly used for home stereo systems, home theatres, other digital high fidelity systems, etc.

The set top box 10 can communicate with external hard drives through the eSATA 40 (External Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) interface. An Internet connection to a building may be established through any one of DSL, cable, cellular, fiber, etc. Through eSATA 40, the local hard drive storage could be shared with anonymous users on the Internet. Through services such as emule, a large file can be reassembled from multiple files stored in multiple storage locations. For example, a small part of that file would be stored on one household network hard drive while another part is stored on a different hard drive. The application program would ensure privacy through encryption. This is similar to an eMule type of service where files are divided among many smaller chunks, encrypted, and the chunks are divided among multiple users' storage locations. An algorithm reassembles the chunks once a file is required. The eSATA interface 40 can also be used to share encrypted data with others on that network to generate revenue for that user. If there is a financial incentive to share files through eSATA 40, it would be possible to earn revenue through the user's local shared storage. The universal set top box 10 is not limited to the ports discussed above but is conducive to any service providing signals that can be converted into the standardized common digital format required by the set top box 10.

FIG. 1 1 illustrates a flow diagram describing the method according to invention principles. In Step 50, a signal receiver receives a signal provided by a service provider. In Step 60, this signal is transmitted to a converter which converts the signal into a stream of packets in a standardized common digital format. The digital packets generated by the converter each include a header and a payload. The headers are provided to keep the data of the standardized digital packets organized. The IP packet headers provide an address to direct the packets to a requesting set top box. Extra header information such as length, type of service, and identification tags may be added to the IP packets to provide information for interacting with the set top box. In step 70, the IP packets in the standardized common digital format are sent via an Ethernet cable to an Ethernet switch. Each of these packets in the standardized common digital format transmitted from the converter can contain any of, but not limited to, video data, audio data, control data, information, etc. In step 80, the Ethernet switch decodes the packets and transmits the decoded packets to the requesting set top box via any of an Ethernet cable or wireless transmission. The Ethernet cable connects the Ethernet switch to a site or building. The Ethernet cable is split into multiple segments at the site, each segment connecting to a set top box within the building. In step 90, the requested signal is outputted to a user on the signal output device connected to the universal set top box. The set top box is configured to analyze the standardized common digital format packets and generate the requested signal irrespective of the service provider or the form of the signal received.

It should be understood that the elements shown and discussed above, may be implemented in various forms of hardware, software, or combinations thereof. The present description illustrates the principles of the present disclosure. It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various arrangements that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the disclosure and are included within its scope. All examples and conditional language recited herein are intended for informational purposes to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the disclosure and the concepts contributed by the inventor to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the disclosure, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future, i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure. Thus, for example, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the block diagrams presented herewith represent conceptual views of illustrative circuitry embodying the principles of the disclosure. Similarly, it will be appreciated that any flow charts, flow diagrams, state transition diagrams, pseudo-code, and the like represent various processes which may be substantially represented in computer readable media and so executed by a computer or processor, whether or not such computer or processor is explicitly shown.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1 . A system for providing a plurality of services to users comprising a converter including a plurality of input ports, each of said plurality of input ports configured to receive a respective input signal for one of the plurality of services, and a processor operative to convert each of the received input signals into a standardized common digital format; and a switch operative to receive converted input signals in the standardized common digital format, decodes and analyzes the received converted input signals, and provides the converted input signals to a respective set top box.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of input ports is configured to receive at least one of broadcast radio, broadcast TV, cable, satellite, DSL, fiber optic, and cellular signals.

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the standardized common digital format includes signal packets, each signal packet including a header and content representative of the converted input signal.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the header includes data identifying an address of a set top box requesting the service.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the header further includes any of length, type of service, and identification tags to provide information for interacting with a set top box.

6. The system of claim 3 wherein the content of the packets include any of video data, audio data, control data, and information.

7. The system of claim 1 further comprising a cable connecting the switch to a respective set top box.

8. The system of claim 7 wherein the cable is split into multiple segments, each segment connecting to a respective set top box.

9. A set top box for providing a plurality of different services to users comprising a plurality of input ports, each of the plurality of input ports configured to receive a respective input signal in a standardized common digital format from a switch; a processor that decodes each input signal and generates an output signal having a format similar to the format provided by a service provider; and a plurality of output ports, each of said plurality of output ports configured to transmit the output signal to a corresponding output device.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the plurality of input ports of the set top box are each configured to receive at least one of SIM cards, smart cards, SD cards, and USB signals, WiFi signals, Bluetooth signals, or Ethernet signals.

1 1 . The system of claim 9, wherein the plurality of output ports are configured to transmit any of HDMI signals, analog video signals, and analog audio signals.

12. A method for providing a plurality of services to a user comprising receiving, by a signal receiver, signals provided by respective ones of a plurality of service providers; converting each of the plurality of signals into a standardized common digital format; decoding each of the plurality of converted signals by an Ethernet switch; and transmitting the signals to requesting universal set top boxes for output to a user.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein each of the input ports are configured to receive at least one of broadcast radio, broadcast TV, cable, satellite, DSL, fiber optic, and cellular signals.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the standardized common digital format includes signal packets, each signal packet including a header and content representative of the converted input signal.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein the header includes data identifying an address of a set top box requesting the service

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the header further includes any of length, type of service, and identification tags to provide information for interacting with a set top box.

17. The method of claim 12, wherein the content of the packets include any of video data, audio data, control data, and information.

18. The method of claim 12 further comprising an Ethernet cable connecting the Ethernet switch to a respective set top box.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the Ethernet cable is split into multiple segments, each segment connecting to a respective set top box.