Patent ID: 8776115
Filing Date: 2014-07-08
Classification: G11B,H04H,H04N

Abstract:
1. A method for use in connection with delivering assets to users of a broadcast network, said broadcast network primarily involving synchronized distribution of broadcast content to multiple users, said method comprising: generating a content stream including programming segments and at least a first asset insertion spot and first cue for use with a first level of network insertion systems of the broadcast network, wherein said first level network insertion systems comprise affiliates, said first level of network insertion systems being controlled by one or more first stakeholders authorized to control one or more first assets that are inserted in said first asset insertion spot, and at least a second asset insertion spot and second cue for use with a second level of network insertion systems of the broadcast network, wherein said second level network insertion systems are network operators that receive the modified content stream from affiliates, said second level of network insertion systems being controlled by one or more second stakeholders, different than said first stakeholders who are authorized to control one or more second assets that are inserted in said second asset insertion spot; providing a mechanism for securing access to at least one of said first cue and said second cue such that said first stakeholder controls insertion with respect to said first asset insertion spot and said second stakeholder controls insertion with respect to said second asset insertion spot; providing an authorization to at least one of said first and second stakeholders, in connection with acquiring rights to insert one or more assets in at least one of said first and second asset insertion spots, said authorization allowing use of at least one of said first and second cues; transmitting said content stream in said broadcast network such that said first level network insertion systems can control asset insertion for said first asset insertion spot and said second level network insertion systems can control asset insertion for said second asset insertion spot; providing at least two asset options for said first asset insertion spot of said content stream, wherein at least a portion of said first level network insertion systems is operative to: a) identify said first cue for use with said first level network insertion systems; and b) in response to said first cue, select one of said first assets for delivery in said first asset insertion spot; and providing at least two asset options for said second asset insertion spot of said content stream, wherein at least one of said second level network insertion systems is operative to: a) identify said second cue for use with said second level network insertion systems; b) select one of said second assets based on information specific to a particular subscriber of said broadcast network; and c) deliver said selected one of said second assets to said particular subscriber of said broadcast network.