Broadcast Frame Preamble for First Complete FEC Block Signaling

The patent segments the signaling information by introducing a mode field that divides the time interleaving signaling into different cases. When the mode indicates convolutional time interleaving, a specific start position field is used; otherwise, a different field is used. This segmentation allows the system to handle convolutional time interleaving with dedicated signaling structures, resolving the complexity issue by providing a clear, mode-dependent signaling path.

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining multiple signaling modes and their corresponding field structures. The mode field is set in advance to indicate whether convolutional time interleaving is used, and the appropriate start position field is prepared accordingly. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for complex runtime decisions about which signaling format to use, thereby reducing overall signaling complexity while maintaining improved time-interleaving performance.

The patent implements dynamics by making the preamble signaling structure adaptable based on the time interleaving mode. The frame structure dynamically selects which fields to include and how to interpret them, depending on whether convolutional time interleaving is employed. This dynamic approach allows the system to maintain multiplexing flexibility through detailed signaling when needed, while avoiding unnecessary complexity in cases where simpler signaling suffices.

The patent changes parameters by introducing a mode field that controls the interpretation of subsequent signaling parameters. When the mode parameter indicates convolutional time interleaving, specific parameter fields are activated with particular meanings; otherwise, different parameter interpretations apply. This parameter-based control mechanism enables multiplexing flexibility through detailed signaling structures while managing frame complexity through conditional parameter activation rather than always-including all possible fields.

The patent merges the advantages of simple time-based multiplexing with enhanced flexibility by integrating detailed signaling capabilities into the existing frame structure. The combiner merges core and enhanced layer signals with precise control over their positioning and characteristics through the signaling fields. This merging approach maintains the implementation simplicity of time-division approaches while adding the adaptability of configurable signal parameters, effectively combining the best aspects of simple and flexible multiplexing systems.

The patent applies universality by designing a multiplexing framework that can handle multiple services with different requirements through a unified signaling structure. The same frame structure and signaling mechanisms support various multiplexing scenarios including convolutional time interleaving, traditional TDM, and hybrid approaches. This multi-functional design allows the system to adapt to different service requirements without requiring separate implementation paths, thereby achieving both implementation simplicity and multiplexing flexibility through a universal framework.