Coach Media
Patents Awarded
"Innovation isn't just a good idea -- it's the law."
Our long track record of recognition for creativity and innovation speaks for itself -- but it's nice to see the Patent and Trademark Office agrees. We've filed eleven (11) patents in the US and EU over the past twenty years -- with more in the pipeline.
U.S. Patent #9071795
30 June 2015
Technique for effectively accessing programming listing information in an entertainment delivery system
Abstract
(Continued as #9462348) In a broadband communications system, e.g., a cable system, programming content can be readily reserved and accessed for viewing using an interactive program guide, a network home graphic user interface (GUI), Quick View Guide, etc., in accordance with the invention. Such programming content may include in-progress programs, future programs and previously broadcast programs which are recorded at a headend in the cable system, and which may or may not have overlapping broadcast times. In addition, the user may reserve programs at a set-top terminal, and may also do so remotely from the terminal through a communications network such as, the Internet, a public switched telephone network (PSTN), a wireless telephone network, etc.
U.S. Patent #8745685
3 June 2014
Methods and apparatus for upgrading set top box devices without the loss of stored content
Abstract
(Continued as #10356472) Methods and apparatus for smoothly and efficiently upgrading set top boxes, e.g., personal video recorders, which have customer selected content stored thereon are described. The described methods allow content stored on a set top box to be uploaded to a network storage device, e.g., automatically at a predetermined time prior to a scheduled upgrade, or in some cases, via manual control of the set top box to be upgraded. After stored content is uploaded to the network storage device, the set top box is replaced with a new set top box. The new set top box can be preloaded with the previously uploaded content or a content download can be triggered, e.g., by activating a hidden application and by supplying information identifying the set top box being replaced as part of the upgrade process.
U.S. Patent #7073189
4 July 2006
Program guide and reservation system for network based digital information and entertainment storage and delivery system
Abstract
A full service cable television system and method are provided. The system comprises a cable headend, at least one fiber transport, at least one distribution hub, at least one hybrid fiber coax plant, and a plurality of set-top terminals. The system delivers television programs, advanced cable services, and online services. Programs and services are transmitted to the set-top terminals in both digital and analog formats to maintain downward compatibility with existing systems. The set-top terminal includes a central processing unit, a unified memory architecture, a memory management unit, communications circuitry, I/O control circuitry, and audio and video output circuitry.
Abstract
In a broadband communications system, e.g., a cable system, programming content can be readily reserved and accessed for viewing using interactive program guides in accordance with the invention. Such programming content may include in-progress programs, future programs and previously broadcast programs which are recorded at a headend in the cable system, and which may or may not have overlapping broadcast times. In addition, the user may reserve programs at a set-top terminal, and may also do so remotely from the terminal through a communications network such as, the Internet, a public switched telephone network (PSTN), a wireless telephone network, etc.
U.S. Patent #6980972
27 December 2005
Method and system for controlling and auditing content/service systems
Abstract
An improved interactive network system is provided that allows the Network Operator to control the transfer of information to and from the network end users, the system preferably using triggers or markers embedded within the programming broadcast to users via the network. As a consequence of this system, the Network Operator is able to efficiently garner revenues from third parties transacting business over the network and to control the look and feel of programming offered to network users. Additionally the system can be used as a means of limiting network access, filtering programming, providing on-screen graphics or audible signals for particular programming types or providers, bookmarking programming, profiling network users, targeting advertising, and simplifying network transactions.
U.S. Patent #6049333
11 April 2000
System and method for providing an event database in a telecasting system
Abstract
A system and method are provided for presenting on a television, a combined display of information contained in an event database and television program video content. A set-top terminal receives as input, television program video content signals and information comprising an event database. The set-top terminal converts the information from the event database into a graphical format for display on a television with the television program video content. Updates to the event database are processed and displayed substantially in real-time. The event database may include information for televised events. The set-top terminal automatically tunes, at the viewer's request, to the event for which information is being displayed. Improved processes for combining television program video content and locally generated graphical images are also provided.
U.S. Patent #6772433
3 August 2004
Interactive program guide for designating information on an interactive program guide display
Abstract
A system and method are provided for providing a full service cable television system. The cable system incorporates a digital and analog transmission architecture capable of delivering a high number of high quality television programs, advanced cable services, and online services to a subscriber's home. The cable system comprises a cable headend, at least one fiber transport, at least one distribution hub, at least one hybrid fiber coax plant, and a plurality of set-top terminals. Programs and services are transmitted to the set-top terminals in both digital and analog formats to maintain downward compatibility with existing systems.
Abstract
A system and method are provided for providing a full service cable television system. The cable system incorporates a digital and analog transmission architecture capable of delivering a high number of high quality television programs, advanced cable services, and online services to a subscriber's home. The cable system comprises a cable headend, at least one fiber transport, at least one distribution hub, at least one hybrid fiber coax plant, and a plurality of set-top terminals. Programs and services are transmitted to the set-top terminals in both digital and analog formats to maintain downward compatibility with existing systems. The set-top terminal incorporates a central processing unit, a unified memory architecture, a memory management unit, communications circuitry, I/O control circuitry, and audio and video output circuitry.