Decoder Channel List Automation via ZIP Code Database
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in setting up digital television decoders due to the need for complex DVB parameter input, often requiring technician assistance or cumbersome user input, especially when multiple service providers and transmission mediums are involved.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses a user-friendly interface to receive a ZIP-code and language preference to automatically determine and arrange channel identifiers, allowing for efficient channel listing and decoder configuration, compatible with various operators and configurations, and capable of handling multiple service information tables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If automatic channel selection is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary database containing DVB parameters associated with geographic locations (ZIP codes). Instead of requiring users to manually input complex DVB parameters or perform manual channel scanning, the system automatically queries the database using the user's ZIP code to retrieve pre-configured parameters such as network ID, bouquet ID, and channel lists. This intermediary database acts as a mediator that simplifies the user interface while managing the complexity of DVB configuration internally.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automatic channel selection by allowing the decoder to autonomously determine its geographic location (via ZIP code input) and automatically retrieve and apply the appropriate DVB parameters from the database. The decoder performs self-configuration without requiring technician intervention or manual parameter entry, thereby improving ease of operation while the internal automation handles the complexity.
2Device complexity
If manual parameter input is required, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring DVB parameters in a database before the user needs them. Geographic locations (ZIP codes) are pre-associated with specific DVB parameters (network ID, bouquet ID, channel lists) during system setup. When a user installs the decoder, they simply input their ZIP code, and the system automatically retrieves the pre-prepared parameters, eliminating the need for users to manually find and input complex DVB technical parameters at the moment of installation.
3Reliability
If technician assistance is provided, then reliability is improved, but loss of time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces technician assistance with self-service automatic channel selection. The decoder autonomously queries the database using the user's ZIP code, retrieves the appropriate DVB parameters and channel lists, and performs automatic channel configuration. This eliminates the need for technician visits, reducing both time loss and installation costs while maintaining reliability through automated parameter retrieval and configuration.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple service information tables are handled, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a single database structure that can handle multiple service information tables (NIT, BAT, SST) and multiple DVB configurations within one system. The database is structured to store diverse parameters including network ID, bouquet ID, service information table identifiers, and channel lists for different geographic locations and service providers. This universal database approach allows the system to adapt to various configurations (different operators, transmission mediums, and service providers) without requiring separate handling mechanisms for each table type, thereby managing complexity while maintaining high adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
Described herein is a method for determining a list of channels to be displayed. The method is preferably performed by a decoder connected to a source of DVB signal. When a user enters his ZIP-code (913), the decoder looks for the parameter values corresponding to the ZIP-code (913) in a database 800 and then searches in the DVB signal for a set of service information tables corresponding to the parameter values. The list of channels is then read in at least one table in the set of service information tables.