UNIVERSAL MEDIA RATINGS SELECTOR

Abstract: A method for interacting with a user when establishing preferences for a media player that enables a user to quickly set his or her preferences by interacting with a graphical display. The media ratings system is converted to a numerical or ordered range so that the ratings are placed in a progressive order from least objectionable to most objectionable. One possible implementation is to associate a numerical value with each rating and then order the ratings in accordance with the numerical sequence. Once the ratings are ordered, the ratings are displayed to the user in a graphical fashion so that the user can select a position on the graph that represents the user's preferences without necessarily requiring the user to understand the underlying implications of the media ratings system.

Description: UNIVERSAL MEDIA RATINGS SELECTOR STATEMENT OF RELATED APPLICATION This application is a continuation-in-part of commonly assigned, copending U.S. Patent application no. 09/586,268, filed June 2, 2000 and entitled "Universal Television Broadcast Ratings Decoder." BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to methods and apparatuses for controlling the playing/viewing of media, and more particularly to a method and apparatus for controlling the playing/viewing of media by selection of ratings codes embedded in the media. Many parents worry as children and youngsters increasingly imitate misbehavior and violence seen on television programs or films. Some of these children in fact commit crimes. Ratings systems for films have prevented at least some (and perhaps many) young viewers from watching films that are not suitable for them. Until recently, however, there has been no equivalent system for television programs. Currently, in the United States, federal regulations require every television set to include a discretionary viewing control feature, more commonly called a "V- chip" function, which blocks television programs whose ratings exceed parents' specified levels. The "V-Chip" function provides parents the capability to prevent their children from viewing coded programs containing violence, sex and age- inappropriate language. The so-called "V-chip" monitors a code transmitted with the television signal and disables the television receiver when the code indicates forbidden program material, including scenes of violence, sex or other matter, which might be considered objectionable by some audiences or unsuitable for children. Various techniques relating to the discretionary control feature or the "V- chip" function are disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,485,518; 5,550,575; 5,583,576; 5,569,366; 5,737,479; 5,828,402; 6,037,969; and 6,020,882. For example, U.S. Patent No. 4,930,160 to Vogel discloses methods and apparatuses for automatically censoring video programs. If a classification code encoded in the video or audio portion of a video signal matches a stored classification code then an alternative video signal is displayed. U.S. Patent No. 4,554,584 to Elam discloses a circuit for blanking the audio and video portions of a video signal in response to digital code words transmitted in the video signal. The code words are transmitted as ASCII codes in line 21 of the video signal. The picture and sound are blanked whenever the received ASCII code matches or exceeds a value selected by the user. U.S. Patent No. 5,387,942 to Lemelson discloses a system that would allow • parents to block the reception of television programming which they consider to be inappropriate for their children. Lemelson discloses a video reception control unit. The control unit responds to 3 -digit binary codes embedded in a received video signal. The codes indicate respectively whether or not the program content of the received video signals includes violence, coarse language and nudity. A viewer can set the control unit to block transmission of the received video signal to a television whenever all, or selected ones, of the codes indicate the presence of adult subject matter. The control unit is lockable to prevent determined children from tampering with its settings. Other video blocking systems and related systems and methods are disclosed in the following U.S. Patents: 4,605,964 to Chard; 4,888,796 and 5,172,111 to Olivo, Jr.; 5,382,983 to Kwoh et al.; 5,485,418 to Hunter et al.; 5,477,262 to Banker et al; 4,930,158; 5,253,066; 5,446,488 and 5,371,795 to Vogel; 5,343,251 to Nafeh; 5,270,822 to Choi; 5,450,122 to Keene; 5,319,453 to Copriviza et al.; 5,410,344 to Graves et al.; 5,195,135 to Palmer; 5,053,884 to Kamijyo; 4,520,404 to Von Kohorn; 5,341,216 to Hoffart; 5,425,100 to Thomas et al.; 5,321,750 to Nadan; 5,386,240 to Hori; 5,333,091 to Iggulden et al.; 5,361,301 to Robertson et al.; 5,307,165 to Kawashima et al.; 5,373,557 Diehl et al.; 5,301,233 Coutrot et al.; 5,369,440 to Sussman; and 5,455,892 to Minot et al. In general, television program suppressing systems operate as follows. A broadcasting station transmits a television signal, which includes an encoded rating signal on line 21 of the 525 horizontal lines. A receiving circuit (or decoder) of a television (or set top box) extracts and decodes the encoded rating signal on horizontal line 21 to determine whether a rating of the decoded program lies within or outside a scope of a preset rating preference entered by users or parents. When the program rating lies outside the scope of the preset rating preference, the system suppresses the video, audio and text outputs so that the program cannot be viewed. On the contrary, when the program rating lies within the scope of the preset rating preferences, the program can be viewed. In the U.S. version of the "V-chip" system, the broadcaster rates each program according to four categories. The values for each category are then transmitted simultaneously as part of the extended data services (EDS) of the Closed Captioning (CC) system. The values are transmitted for as long as the program is on the air. Using an access control mechanism, a user (typically a parent) sets a threshold for each category. If a rating exceeds the pre-authorized value, the V-chip suppresses the video and audio signals. As the reaction of the V-chip decoder is near instantaneous, the system can easily handle channel hopping. Moreover, the parent does not have to worry about missing content warnings in TV guides or at the start of programs. The Electronic Industries Association (EIA) defines the four censorship categories and the number of data bits required to transmit the code: MPAA rating (equivalent to film classifications, e.g., 18, PG, etc.)~3 bits. Although no longer applicable, at one time there were provided additional bits for: violence content advisory level~2 bits (which allows for a scale of 0 to 3) sexual content advisory level~2 bits mature content advisory level~2 bits. The same principles apply to a system being field-tested in Canada but, at present, the two are not identical. In fact, in Canada there are at least four different ratings systems being employed. All American TV sets built after July 1993 had to include a closed- captioning decoder to provide subtitling. Current CC decoders (such as, the SAA5252 decoder sold by Philips Semiconductors) are capable of suppressing the TV picture when switched into full-text mode. They also have adequate display features to generate an OSD menu so that parents can program the censorship thresholds. Unlike teletext, closed captioning data can be recorded and reproduced by a VHS VCR during playback of a program. Thus, recorded and prerecorded tapes could also contain censorship data. In Europe, the question of implementing a V-chip type system is altogether more complex than North America. The broadcasters are not regulated by a single government, and cultural and language differences mean variance in acceptable moral standards. Then, there are the technical issues of coping with a 625-line TV system that has little spare capacity for extra data signals. One solution is to use the American system but this has some disadvantages. First, for broadcasters, the CC signal would occupy valuable teletext transmission capacity (one line would be peπnanently lost) and different encoding systems would be required. Secondly, it would be very expensive for broadcasters in terms of the duplicate transmission equipment and data bridges (in cable amplifiers) required for both teletext and CC signals. Thirdly, consumer electronics manufacturers would have additional overheads in providing teletext and CC decoding in every TV set and PC TV card. The concept of enabling a parent to control viewing of a television using information transmitted by the broadcaster is not new and was proposed in International Patent Application WO83/02208 published on Jun. 23, 1983, corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 4,605,964. In that document, it is proposed that a code be sent via the teletext signal transmitted with the television signal, the code being formed as a selected row number of a given teletext page. Thus, the page number and row number is transmitted in the field blanking period on the occurrence of a possibly offensive event. At the receiver, a teletext decoder is permanently set to look for the relevant page and identify the row number as and when transmitted. The particular row numbers indicated particular gradings of sound and vision events. Various other means to convey the code have been proposed which involve the use of PDC signals and wide-screen signaling signals as disclosed in U.K. Patent Application No. 9703192.6, corresponding to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/021,335, filed Feb. 10, 1998 (PHB34135). All these arrangements require a parent, or other responsible person, to enter the appropriate codes into the television receiver and/or video recorder. In a case in which a television is being used only by a child whose access to particular types of program is to be restricted, these codes can be entered and then no further action on the part of the parent becomes necessary. Where, however, different members of the family may be viewing the television set at different times of the day, the program classification appropriate for one member of the family may not be appropriate for other members of the family. This means that frequent entry of different classification codes may be required, and this imposes a considerable burden on the responsible person. For example, it may be necessary to reset the classification code to the lowest level every time the television set is switched off to ensure that material unsuitable for a child does not become inadvertently available. A consequence of this is that such a system may not be properly used unless the parent is extremely conscientious. Television viewers are faced with an increasingly diverse selection of programs to choose from. At the same time, our society is becoming more diverse. Some programs contain content that some viewers may consider to be offensive or inappropriate for viewing by their children. There is a need for an effective way to block offensive or inappropriate material from being viewed. As the number of available television channels increases it is becoming increasingly difficult for television viewers to locate and select programming that interests them from the many programs that may be completely uninteresting. There is a need for a system, which would allow a television viewer to limit the selection of programs available for viewing to those programs that match the viewer's preferences. While it may seem relatively simple for one to enter viewing preferences for different systems, when combined with programming one's VCR, setting up one's satellite dish system, selecting programs for viewing from hundreds potentially available, the task becomes daunting. The present invention is therefore directed to the problem of developing a user interface to a system for suppressing objectionable programming in any media by embedding ratings codes in the media itself and then blocking objectionable programming by comparing viewer preferences against the embedded codes, which user interface enables a user to easily input viewing preferences. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention solves these and other problems by converting user preferences entered in accordance with a universal ratings system into a particular ratings system according to which the media to be viewed or played by the user is rated. The media includes television (analog and digital), music, radio, Internet download, web television, computer games, video games, recorded media, broadcast media, etc. The present invention enables a user to set and activate a screening preference without necessarily understanding all of the intricacies of the underlying ratings system. Thus, the present invention enables a user to quickly and easily input a preference for blocking objectionable media. According to one embodiment of the universal ratings system, a bar graph is presented that represents the relative ratings of the ratings system and the user can select a position on the bar at which the user wishes to screen incoming programs. For example, if a user is completely comfortable with what is being broadcast, the user may select one extreme of the bar. If the user wants everything blocked except for general audience related programming, the user can select the other extreme of the bar. If the user wants to block some programming, but only the worst, the user can select a position on the bar that is about 10% of the relative screening. Alternatively, the user interface can include a rotatable knob, either a real knob or a computer visual simulation of a knob that allows a user to select a relative setting from one extreme to the other. Essentially, the user interface can consist of any visual representation that allows a user to establish a relative setting from one extreme to the other. Visual basic allows a programmer to easily implement slidable bars, rotatable knobs, colored thermographs, dials, fields into which numerical values can be entered, etc. For example, the placement of the bar or dial by the user can provide the output of the numerical value used to determine the actual ratings preference. Any of these can enable a user to enter his or her viewing preferences. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a user may select an affinity group whose judgment the user is willing to trust to determine the appropriate settings for the television decoder. Multiple affinity groups are provided, each of which establish user preferences based on the judgment of the affinity group as to that which is appropriate. The user then simply selects one of the several affinity groups and the decoder downloads the appropriate settings from the Internet or via broadcast in one of the data packets. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the relative ratings system described above can be used as a universal ratings system that transcends political, social and language boundaries. For example, the broadcasters can simply . rate, a program on a relative scale and transmit the relative ratings. Relative ratings are more easily understood by viewers, as compared to the current complex system of violence, sex, nudity, language, etc. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG 1 depicts a conversion of several ratings systems to a numerical value according to one aspect of the present invention. FIG 2 depicts an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for implementing the methods of the present invention. FIG 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a graphical user interface via which a user enters his or her preferences according to one aspect of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Any reference herein to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. While the present invention refers to viewing or playing of media, this includes any interaction of the user with the media. For example, viewing or playing of media includes playing audio media, viewing video or other forms of visual media, playing computer games, interacting with media via sensors or other feedback devices, receiving streaming audio or video over the Internet or any distributed network, etc. A media ratings system often includes many subcategories of ratings enabling a viewer to precisely control the level of television programming being viewed by the family. Many viewers do not care about the various levels of the programming because they either wish to view all programming or wish to block all programming not suitable for all audiences. Alternatively, some users wish to quickly set a preference rather than investing the time needed to understand the particulars of a given media ratings system. For example, some users may be in a new country only briefly and want a quick approximation of their preferences. An example of such a person might be a family on vacation in Disney World with teenagers, in which case the parents may wish to block certain media programming, but not all. Only by reading the complete description of the media ratings system in effect in that locality (or country) could the family understand how to select the appropriate ratings. Nevertheless, the parents may be happy to select some blocking even if not completely tailored to their needs. As most media ratings system provide a progression of ratings, such that the ratings progress from general audience to adult programming through various levels of ratings, the present invention converts the ratings levels in a given ratings system to a number on a numerical scale. This enables a graphical presentation of the ratings system and a selection of a user viewing preference by selecting a relative position on the numerical scale from one extreme to the other, which is representative of the user's preference. FIG 1 depicts a conversion from four possible media ratings systems to a universal media ratings system having a progression from one end of the scale to the other. To select a particular numerical value, a graphical user interface may be employed. For example, if the media ratings system is represented as a vertical bar, one extreme of which represents blocking all programs suitable for all audiences and another extreme of which represents no blocking, the user can specify his or her preferences by moving a selector on the bar, such as a slideable bar, which indicates the level of programming beyond which the user does not wish to be viewed or played. The decoder then employs this level when making blocking determinations. Such an example is depicted in FIG 3. A graphical user interface 30 provides a numerical scale 31 on which an adjustable bar 32 can be moved from one extreme 35 to the other extreme 46. A generic description 33, 34 for each extreme is provided to indicate the meaning of the extremes. Currently, the bar 32 is in a position that might be appropriate for pre- teenagers, for example. Exemplary Embodiment A method for interacting with a user when establishing viewing preferences for a media player, such as a television decoder, computer game apparatus, video game, VCR, radio, CD player, etc. enables a user to quickly set his or her preferences by interacting with a graphical display. The media ratings system is converted to a numerical or ordered range so that the ratings are placed in a progressive order from least objectionable to most objectionable. One possible implementation is to associate a numerical value with each rating and then order the ratings in accordance with the numerical sequence. Once the ratings are ordered, the ratings are displayed to the user in a graphical fashion so that the user can select a position on the graph that represents the user's preferences without necessarily requiring the user to understand the underlying implications of the media ratings system. Another possible implementation is to convert the ratings system to an age- appropriate standard. For example, 6-8-11-14-16-18 represents a progression of ages to which any ratings system can be converted. For example, "6" represents programming that would probably be suitable for a six year old, e.g., only general audience programming. The level "8" might allow programming with some violence, for example. The level "11" might allow programming with some more violence and bad language. The level "14" might allow programming with adult situations. Level "16" might permit programming with some nudity. Finally, level "18" might add all programming. Thus, ratings systems that employ the three categories of language, nudity or sex and violence would be progressively converted to age appropriate standards. One possible conversion could be to simply add the value for each of the three ratings categories, and convert to a scale from one to ten. For example, if violence was rated from one to five, sex from one to five and language from one to five. Adding the ratings for each category and converting to a scale from one to ten would provide a quick approximation for establishing a viewing preference. For example, programming that has ratings of "5" for at least one category will place in about 1/2 of the scale, even if the ratings are only "1" in the other two categories. While not perfect, this conversion provides a quick and ready approximation that can be later adjusted, if necessary. A sensitivity setting can be added that allows a user more control over the fine adjustments, if desired. The sensitivity setting would amplify the scale so it included additional granularity to enable a user to more precisely control the setting if the given granularity was insufficient. So, if a user had trouble accurately setting his preferences, the user could amplify the differences between settings using the sensitivity setting, thereby enabling the user to precisely select one setting in case the translation did not have enough granularity to permit selecting between two ratings settings. One possible implementation of the graph is a bar chart. For example, the bar can be either a vertical or horizontal bar. In addition, the graph may be a dial that can be rotated either graphically or manually. In addition, the graph may be a thermometer where color changes relate to changes in the underlying ratings system as it moves from one extreme to the other. Alternatively, the user could simply input a numerical value on a range from, for example, one to ten. Thus, entering a "4" would specify a viewing preference about middle of the range. The user could simply slide a bar on a bar graph thereby setting the user's media preference. Yet another alternative is enabling the user to click a point on the graph, which sets the preferences using a single mouse click. Alternative Embodiment To account for changes in ratings systems, the present invention provides the capability of downloading a ratings system conversion into the decoder. One possible implementation is to provide a dedicated web site and an Internet connection on the decoder, so that upon a push of a button on the decoder, the decoder could update itself by accessing the dedicated web site on the Internet and download any ratings system conversions provided on the web site. Alternatively, the decoder could receive this information via a broadcast, which updates the decoder's memory. Although any ratings system can be approximated by applying a numerical range across the system, this capability ensure more accurate conversion to a numerical score. Alternative Embodiment Another graphical implementation of the ratings system is to depict the ratings system as a two dimensional map, in which one dimension is associated with ratings moving from one extreme (such as general audience) to the other extreme (adult audiences only), and another dimension is associated with specific categories (such as violence, sex, language, nudity, etc.). In this embodiment, a user could select a point on each of the categories by clicking a mouse, and thereby input his viewing preferences. Alternative Embodiment Yet another possible implementation of a rapid user interface relies on the use of affinity group ratings settings. According to this possible implementation, a given user who desires to adjust the settings on the decoder does so by selecting a group whose ratings preferences the given user desires to follow. The decoder then looks up the ratings settings recommended by such a group and then adjusts the settings accordingly. For example, multiple affinity groups could provide recommendations as to the appropriate ratings settings for selectively blocking television programming. Examples of such groups include: The Christian Coalition, FCC, Motion Pictures Association, ACLU, ABA, AMA, NEA, etc. Each of the ratings settings recommendations would be stored on a web site, for example. Authorized officers from each of these groups would be provided an access identification and password via which they could edit the listed recommendations. When a given user selects a particular affinity group as the user's ratings settings, the decoder would access the web site and download the latest recommendations from the web. This allows the user to simply select an icon representing the affinity group whose recommendations he wishes to implement. Alternatively, the ratings recommendations for each group could be broadcast as part of the ratings systems in the line 21 data packet or equivalent data channel for television. In other media, the ratings recommendations could be embedded in the media signal in ways suitable for that media. In some cases, the rating system comes with an explanation about which level is recommended for certain age. For those levels that are not provided with this explicit recommendation, the system design will make a judgment. During downloading of the PRCC packet, the level legend will be downloaded to all decoders. For example, MPAA level legends are G, PG, PG-13, R, NC-17 and X. As soon as the last valid level legend is sent, an extra PRCC packet designated for the universal rating will be send. The first data in this packet defines the recommended age for level 1, the second data in this packet defines the recommended age for level 2. The third data in this packet defines the recommended age for level 3 and so on. The following is an exemplary embodiment of a PRCC packet format. ;SYNC PACKET 5C ;SIGNATURE 1 63 ;SIGNATURE 2 73 ;SYNC PACKET, SYSTEM 3 51 ;INDIVIDUAL BLOCK, CAT. 1 LEVEL 0 = "EXEMPT" NOT CONFIGURABLE, ADD SYSTEM ;EXPECT RATING SYSTEM 3 VERSION NO. = 20H, RATING SYSTEM 3 SECURITY = 0F37 3C ; 7C • 21 NERSION NUMBER (FROM 21H TO 7FH = 1 TO 95) 3B ;NO. OF WORDS EXCLUDING (OD, 05), (SIGNATURE 1, SIGNATURE 2), (OF, XSUM) 40 ;FOR MINI PRCC SYSTEM THIS IS "DO NOT CARE" 80 ;FRENCH 1ST SYSTEM PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 43 ;SYSTEM PACKET, SYSTEM 3 40 ;1 CAT., 1st SYSTEM PACKET AND MORE TO COME ;Codes ang. du Canada 43 ;C 6F;o 64 ;d 65 ;e -, 73 ;s 20 61 ;a 6E ;n 67 ;g 2E;. 80 ;FRENCH 2ND SYSTEM PACKET 5C ;SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 43 ;SYSTEM PACKET, SYSTEM 3 45 ;1 CAT., 2ND SYSTEM PACKET AND NO MORE TO COME 20 64 ;d 75 ;u 20 43 ;C 61 ;a 6E ;n 61 ;a 64 ;d 61 ;a 80 ;SPANISH 1ST SYSTEM PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 43 ;SYSTEM PACKET, SYSTEM 3 40 ;1 CAT., 1st SYSTEM PACKET AND MORE TO COME ;Ratings del ing. de Canada 52 ;R 61 ;a 74 ;t 69 ;i 6E ;n 67 ;g 73 ;s 20 64 ;d 65 ;e 80 ;SPANISH 2ND SYSTEM PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 43 ;SYSTEM PACKET, SYSTEM 3 41 ;1 CAT., 2ND SYSTEM PACKET AND MORE TO COME 6C ;1 20 49 ;I 6E ;n 67 ;g 2E ;. 20 64 ;d 65 ;e 20 80 ;SPANISH 2ND SYSTEM PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 43 ;SYSTEM PACKET, SYSTEM 3 46 ;1 CAT., 2ND SYSTEM PACKET AND NO MORE TO COME 43 ;C 61 ;a 6E ;n 61 ;a 64 ;d 61 ;a 80 ;ENGLISH 1ST SYSTEM PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 43 ;SYSTEM PACKET, SYSTEM 3 40 ;1 CAT., 1st SYSTEM PACKET AND MORE TO COME ;Cdn. English Ratings 43 ;C 64 ;d 6E ;n 2E ;. 20 45 ;E 6E ;n 67 ;g 6C ;1 69 ;i 80 ;ENGLISH 2ND SYSTEM PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 43 ;SYSTEM PACKET, SYSTEM 3 45 ;1 CAT., 2ND SYSTEM PACKET AND NO MORE TO COME 73 ;s 68 ;h 20 52 ;R 61 ;a 74 ;t 69 ;i 6E ;n 67 ;g 73 ;s 80 ;CATEGORY PACKET ■ 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 53 ;CAT PACKET, SYSTEM 3 46 ;CAT. 1, CAT. 1 HAS 7 LEVELS 4C ;CAT BIT MASK 2ND CH., 1st CAT. PACKET AND NO MORE TO COME 47 ;CATEGORY MASK 80 ;LEVEL 0 PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 63 ;LEVEL PACKET, SYSTEM 3 40 ;CAT 1. LEVEL 0 45 ;E 80 ;LEVEL 1 PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 63 ;LEVEL PACKET, SYSTEM 3 41 ;CAT 1. LEVEL 1 43 ;C 80 ;LEVEL 2 PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 63 ;LEVEL PACKET, SYSTEM 3 42 ;CAT 1. LEVEL 2 43 ;C 38 ;8 2B;+ 80 ;LEVEL 3 PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 63 ;LEVEL PACKET, SYSTEM 3 43;CAT1.LEVEL3 47 ;G 80 ;LEVEL 4 PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 63 ;LEVEL PACKET, SYSTEM 3 44;CAT1.LEVEL4 50 ;P 47 ;G 80 ;LEVEL 5 PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 63 ;LEVEL PACKET, SYSTEM 3 45 ;CAT 1. LEVEL 5 31 ;1 34 ;4 2B;+ 80 ;LEVEL 6 PACKET 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 63 ;LEVEL PACKET, SYSTEM 3 46;CAT1.LEVEL6 31 ;1 38 ;8 2B;+ 80 ;UNIVERSAL RATING DATA 5C SIGNATURE 1 63 SIGNATURE 2 63 ;LEVEL PACKET, SYSTEM 3 66;CAT1.LEVEL6 31 ;1 31 ;1 33 ;3 31 ;1 34 ;4 39 ;9 3D ;D 3E ;E 80 Apparatus An apparatus for interacting with a user to set viewing preferences for a television decoder includes a processor and a graphical user interface. The processor in the decoder converts a broadcast television ratings system into a progressive numerical ratings system. The graphical user interface is coupled to the processor and displays the broadcast television ratings system as a graph. Moreover, the graphical user interface enables the user to select a position on the graph and thereby indicate the user's viewing preference for selectively blocking television programming. The apparatus may include an Internet connection via which new ratings translations can be downloaded. In this embodiment, for example, a user may be new to a region or system that has different ratings systems. But, the user can simply connect a telephone line to an input provided on the set top box and press a button. This places a telephone call and accesses a predetermined site on the Internet. By detecting the local telephone number, the Internet site can identify the ratings system or systems in place at that locality and download the desired ratings translation or translations. Exemplary Embodiment of Apparatus Referring to FIG 2, shown therein is an exemplary embodiment 10 of an apparatus for implementing the above-mentioned methods of the present invention. An antenna receives a broadcast television signal and provides it to tuner 7. The tuner outputs a television signal to line-21 decoder 5. Output from the decoder 5 is the data included in the line 21 of the 525 lines. A microprocessor 4 compares the program ratings with that stored in memory 4 and outputs a blocking signal, if necessary, to CRT driver 8, which outputs a television image to the CRT or not, depending upon the blocking signal. A graphical user interface 1 enables the user to input preferences used in the blocking decision. The GUI 1 enables the user to specify his preferences in a relative manner, rather than in levels as specified by the ratings system in use. The microprocessor 3 converts the relative ratings preferences to specific ratings used in the comparison process based on the ratings system currently in use. However, if the ratings system changes, the user's preferences can be converted to the new ratings system without further input from the user. By simply recalculating the conversion using a new translation determined according to a stored translation algorithm in the microprocessor for a known ratings system, the microprocessor can simply adjust the ratings without even informing the user. If a new ratings system is being broadcast for the first time, a dedicated channel can include the translation algorithm, which can be downloaded into the receiver using the process described in U.S. Patent Application No. 5,828,402, which is hereby incorporated by reference, including the drawings, as if repeated herein in its entirety. The downloaded translation algorithm can then be used to convert user relative ratings preference information to actual ratings system preferences. Thus, the present invention allows a universal ratings system that can be implemented in any language and country. By allowing the user to select a ratings settings on a relative scale, the underlying ratings need not be specifically analyzed unless desired by the user. Thus, a given ratings system can even be converted to a scale from one extreme to the other. In fact, the relative ratings system can be used as the actual ratings system by the broadcasters, thereby simplifying the rating of television programs. In short, this provides a universal ratings system that could be implemented across all political, social and language boundaries. The universal ratings decoder of the present invention can be used in conjunction with any media, such as for example but without limitation, television, radio, digital television, high definition television, computer programs, Internet downloads, web sites, computer games, video games, films, recorded programs, recorded music, live broadcasts, hotel video programming, CD-ROMs, tapes, video taped programs, books on tape, electronic books, computer programs, video on demand, media streaming (both audio and video), holographic images, electronic mail, etc. By converting a user setting input in a graphical image, e.g., a bar chart, an electronic dial setting, a slideable bar, the system can easily enable one to block objectionable media. Moreover, by creating a universal ratings decoder, the present invention enables a single interface for a user that can be used over and over from one media to another. Furthermore, the present invention enables viewers to learn only one interface for inputting their viewing preferences, which then permits them to immediately control all forms of media to which they may be subjected. According to yet another embodiment, the present invention includes a central user viewing preference station that provides the user interface that enables the user to input viewing selection preferences. The station then broadcasts these preferences to all media in the vicinity (e.g., inside one's house), which enables a viewer to input viewing preferences for all forms of media and equipment in a single step. One possible implementation of this embodiment is a radio remote control that has a range of 50-100 feet, which would cover most normal sized residences. By using a radio signal, comparable to a cordless telephone, the station can transmit through walls in the house to all devices in the house, even those of which one may not be aware. Once the ratings are established, the station need not retransfer the information. However, to cover new devices that are being brought into the residence, even for a short duration, the station could periodically retransmit the ratings codes, perhaps every minute, ten minutes, twenty minutes, etc., on a short but periodic basis. By selecting a proper frequency, the antenna required to receive these signals need be relatively small, and given the short data signal, the receiver can be simple. Consequently, any media playback device could easily accommodate the ratings selection receiver. Although various embodiments are specifically illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated that modifications and variations of the invention are covered by the above teachings and within the purview of the appended claims without departing from the spirit and intended scope of the invention. For example, while several of the embodiments discuss the use of specific implementations of the user interface to establish relative viewing preferences, other user interfaces will suffice to enable the user to select the relative viewing preference. Moreover, while the above embodiments have been described with reference to broadcast television, the same techniques and inventions apply to direct television (DTV). In addition, while specific program and protocols are included, other protocols (including subsequently developed protocols) may be sufficient to implement the embodiments described herein, including but not limited to transmission of the format as data packets rather than bits. These examples should hot be interpreted to limit the modifications and variations of the invention covered by the claims but are merely illustrative of possible variations.

Claims: WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. A method for interacting with a user when establishing preferences for a playing media, comprising: converting a ratings system into a range of numerical values; and displaying the ratings system to a user as a numerical graph. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the numerical graph includes a bar chart. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the numerical graph includes a thermometer. 4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising enabling the user to input a preference by adjusting a setting on a numerical graph. 5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising inputting a user preference by sliding a bar on a bar graph. 6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising inputting a user preference by rotating a dial on a graphical user interface. 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the ratings system includes a plurality of categories, each of which has a plurality of levels. 8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of receiving a user preference based on a mouse click by a user on a position on the numerical graph. 9. A method for interacting with a user to establish user preferences for selectively blocking media playing comprising the steps of: converting a media ratings system into a numerical scale; and presenting the numerical scale to a user in a graphical display, wherein one extreme of the graphical display represents no blocking and another extreme of the graphical display represents blocking all programming except that suitable for all audiences. 10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising receiving from a user a preference for selectively blocking programming. 11. The method according to claim 9, further comprising enabling a user to select a preference by selecting a position on the graphical display. 12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising converting the position on the graphical display selected by the user into a ratings level associated with the media ratings system. 13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising blocking media having rraattiinnggss lleevveellss hhiigghheerr tthhaann tthhee rraattiinnjgs level corresponding to the position on the graphical display selected by the user. 14. The method according to claim 12, further comprising enabling playing of media having ratings levels lower than the ratings level corresponding to the position on the graphical display selected by the user. 15. The method according to claim 9, further comprising coupling a decoder to the Internet and downloading a translation of the media ratings system to a numerical range. 16. An apparatus for interacting with a user to set preferences for a media player comprising: a processor converting a media ratings system into a progressive numerical ratings system; and a graphical user interface coupled to the processor and displaying the media ratings system as a graph. 17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the graphical user ' interface enables the user to select a position on the graph and thereby indicate the user's preference for selectively blocking media playing. 18. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the graph includes a bar graph. 19. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the graph includes a dial. 20. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the graph includes a thermometer. 21. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the graph includes a slideable bar. 22. A method for inputting user preferences into a decoder for selectively blocking media playing comprising: providing a plurality of affinity group recommendations from which a user may select, each of which groups includes preferences for setting a decoder to selectively block media playing under a particular ratings system; and setting user preferences in the decoder in accordance with one of the plurality of affinity groups selected by the user. 23. The method according to claim 22, further comprising: providing a web site via which one or more affinity groups may enter ratings preferences for at least one media ratings system. 24. The method according to claim 23, further comprising accessing the web site from the decoder upon a user selecting one of the affinity groups. 25. The method according to claim 24, further comprising downloading from the web site into the decoder a ratings system recommendation from a selected one of the affinity groups. 26. A universal ratings system method for rating media, which ratings are then used in a decoder to selectively block or transmit the media for playing, comprising: rating each media program on a relative numeric scale from a first extreme to a second extreme in a gradually increasing manner from the first extreme to the second extreme; using the first extreme to rate a program suitable for all audiences and using the second extreme to rate a program suitable only for adult audiences desirous of viewing sexually explicit programming; and transmitting each relative rating along with a transmission signal for said each program. 27. The method according to claim 26, further comprising entering a user preference for selectively media programs by selecting a relative value on the numeric scale. 28. The method according to claim 27, further comprising blocking media programs whose ratings exceed the relative value selected by the user. 29. The method according to claim 28, further comprising enabling playing of media programs whose ratings are lower than the relative value selected by the user. 30. An apparatus for selectively blocking media playing comprising: a decoder decoding an embedded code in a media signal, wherein said embedded code includes a program rating from among a first ratings system for the media program included in the media signal; a memory storing user preferences in accordance with a second ratings system; and a processor converting user preferences in the second ratings system into user preferences for the first ratings system. 31. The apparatus according to claim 30, further comprising a processor comparing said converted preferences against said embedded code and outputting a blocking signal based on said comparison. 32. A method for playing a media program, comprising: entering user preferences in accordance with a universal ratings system; decoding a program rating inherent in the media according to which the media program is rated; translating the program rating to the universal ratings system; comparing the translated program rating to the user preferences; and blocking selectively playing of the media depending upon a result of the comparing.

Inventors: SIDDIQUI NAJMUL H, SIDDIQUI, NAJMUL, H.
Applicants: TRI VISION ELECTRONICS INC, TRI-VISION ELECTRONICS INC.
Application year: 2001
Main classification: H04N5
IPC codes: G06F12, G06F21, H04N5, H04N7