Abstract:
Described is a distributed, interactive broadcast system having a plurality of robotic modules coupled to a broadcast control center and data center, the control center and data center capable of pulling and pushing audio and visual information from and to each individual robotic module within the distributed, interactive broadcast system. The system being ideal for broadcasting live events from venues equipped with audio and video devices. Interactive applications are also facilitated by the system allowing for real-time interactivity between global remote viewers and with spectators at the venue.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The embodiments of the present invention relate to broadcast systems, more specifically, to a system and method of broadcasting live events to remote viewers. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    The broadcast of pre-recorded and live events is well-known. Most of these events are audio broadcasts or a combination of video and audio broadcasts utilizing radio, television, cable and/or satellite. There are limitations to these broadcast techniques. For example, radio broadcasts provide no visual representation of the action being described. Video broadcasts are restricted by availability of television, cable and/or satellite providers and signals. In some instances, the providers may not carry all events of interest. 
         [0003]    Thus, there exists a need for an interactive remote controlled environment capable of providing real-time electronic audio and video transmissions to remote viewers. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0004]    Accordingly, a first embodiment of the present invention discloses a robotic system for broadcasting an event from a venue comprising: broadcast equipment disposed about the venue, said broadcast equipment operable to capture audio and video data relative to a live event; at least one robotic module in communication with the broadcast equipment, the robotic module configured to receive said audio and video data from the broadcast equipment; a control center wherein said control center is configured to pull audio and video data from the robotic module; and means for transmitting said audio and video data to remote locations. 
         [0005]    Another embodiment discloses an integrated broadcast system comprising: a plurality of robotic modules; and a control center coupled to the plurality of robotic modules, the control center configured to pull audio and video data from the plurality of robotic modules. The control center is further configured to push audio and video data to the plurality of robotic modules. In one embodiment, a venue is associated with each robotic module. The control center can be further configured to pull a first audio and video data from a first robotic module at a first venue and push the first audio and video data to a second robotic module at a second venue. A plurality of visual displays and burners can be configured to receive audio and video data from the associated robotic module. The robotic module can also be configured to send audio and video data to the plurality of visual displays disposed about the associated venue. 
         [0006]    A method of providing audio and video content from a venue comprises: utilizing broadcast equipment disposed about the venue to capture audio and video data relative to a live event; configuring at least one robotic module in communication with the broadcast equipment to receive said audio and video data from the broadcast equipment; configuring a control center to pull audio and video data from the robotic module; and transmitting said audio and video data to remote locations. 
         [0007]    Other variations, embodiments and features of the present invention will become evident from the following detailed description, drawings and claims. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0008]      FIG. 1  is a block diagram illustrating an integrated broadcast system; 
           [0009]      FIG. 2  is a block diagram illustrating a distributed robotic system; 
           [0010]      FIG. 3  is a block diagram illustrating a method of placing an order through the integrated broadcast system; and 
           [0011]      FIGS. 4A-4B  are exemplary web pages of a web-based system for allowing customers to order live events pursuant to the embodiments of the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0012]    It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the invention can be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential character thereof. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. 
         [0013]      FIG. 1  is a block diagram illustrating an integrated broadcast system  10  according to the presently disclosed invention. The broadcast system  10  includes a plurality of robotic systems  20 , each being deployed at various venues and outlets. Each robotic system  20  is capable of bidirectional communication with a control center  30 , a data center  35  and with other robotic systems  20  distributed throughout the broadcast system  10 . The bi-directional communication network also allows multiple robotic systems  20  at a single venue to communicate with one another, robotic systems  20  at other venues and the control center  30  and data center  35 . Although each robotic system  20  can be controlled and operated locally at the venue or event, the bidirectional communication network also allows remote control and operation of each system  20  by the control center  30 . In other instances, the robotic systems  20 , control center  30  and data center  35  can be controlled and operated by a third party in communication with the network. 
         [0014]    The bi-directional communication network within the broadcast system  10  includes satellite uplink and pull-down capabilities. Information including audio/video and data transmissions can be pulled from or pushed to each robotic system  20  via the control center  30  or data center  35 . The push/pull bi-directional communication can also take place between robotic systems  20  such that audio/video and data transmissions can be pulled from or pushed to a first robotic system  20  via a second robotic system  20 , and vice versa. In other instances, the communication need not take place via satellite but can use broadband, high-speed Internet, telephone lines, fiber optic circuits and other suitable communication and network systems and methods. Additionally, streaming of audio/video and other live events can be pushed to or pulled from the robotic system  20 , control center  30  or data center  35 . The details of a robotic system  20  and its relationship and interaction with other robotic systems  20  and with the control center  30  and data center  35  will be discussed further below. 
         [0015]    The integrated broadcast system  10  also includes a content delivery network  40  having a globally distributed network of thousands of servers configured to deliver media content including audio/video media of live events as captured by each robotic system  20 . The content delivery network  40  can also deliver media content from the control center  30  or data center  35 . Whether pre-recorded or captured live, the media content can be uploaded to servers residing on the content delivery network  40 . The media content can also be uploaded or pushed to the control center  30 , data center  35  or stored on other suitable servers and databases within the broadcast system  10 . Although described as audio/video media of live events, the media content may also be pre-recorded news or entertainment programs. The media content can also be digital media including the likes of videos, movies, music, games, software and social media, as well as media from public broadcast affiliates, live webcasts, concerts and events, podcasts and any other sources of audio or video content. Further, the media content can come from storage devices such as CDs and DVDs or from a media library, which is a collection of media content stored on databases and servers within the content delivery network  40 . The media library can be programmed to provide digital distribution of audio/video media content of live events or pre-recorded programming stored on DVDs. Alternatively, the media content can be stored on other suitable databases and servers within the integrated broadcast system  10 . 
         [0016]    When an end user  50  places a request for a media content like a sporting event or live concert from a particular venue, the content delivery network  40  distributes such media content to one or more intermediary storage server clusters (not shown), which subsequently feed hundreds of specially configured servers at multiple content delivery locations around the world. The media content can then be delivered directly to the end user  50  through broadband Internet service providers (ISPs) or over the public Internet system as appropriate in other instances, the content delivery network  40  can be provided by a third party such as Limelight Networks®. 
         [0017]    The end user  50  can receive the media content or programming via any broadband enabled consumer displays including computer (PCs and Macs), television (including HDTV), TiVo, digital video recorder, iPod, Sony PlayStation Portable (PSP) and Apple TV. Furthermore, the end user  50  can also receive the on-demand streaming media using wireless, mobile or handheld devices such as mobile phones, PDAs, Blackberries, iPods or iPhones equipped with Windows and Media Player. The media content may also be provided in Adobe Flash, MP3 audio, QuickTime, Real Networks RealPlayer or other suitable format. In many instances, users  50  will access the live sporting events using a television or via the computer. In other instances, the media content may be broadcast at public venues such as bars, clubs, pubs or work places. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, end users  50  can access the programming from anywhere in the world using any suitable media delivery platform. 
         [0018]    The media programming can be viewed live or as video-on-demand on either wired or wireless devices. The programming can also be pay-per-view or subscription based, and can include a mobile subscription service in which audio and video clips may be downloaded or streamed onto the mobile or handheld devices previously described. The media content can also include broadcasting of live sporting events over broadband to the television or computer of the end user  50 . Live tournaments and special events including auctions, games and competitions can also take place wherein end users  50  utilize wireless devices such as cell phones or Blackberries to participate. These interactive participation activities can take place at a specific venue or globally via the Internet. 
         [0019]    With a venue event, surveys, questions and items for bidding are provided in real-time on a Jumbotron or other types of visual displays that are generally available at the venue. End users  50  can participate by answering questions with wireless devices like cell phones or with their home computers. During live events end users  50  can engage in live, interactive bidding with their cell phones or Blackberries. Real-time cumulative results are subsequently projected on a Jumbotron or visual display at the venue. With a global event via the Internet, surveys, questions and items for bidding can be hosted on a central server and displayed on the end user&#39;s  50  television, computer or handheld wireless device. Accordingly, the user  50  can participate by providing responses using similar wired or wireless devices described above. Real-time cumulative results are accordingly projected on user cell phones or computer screens. Although surveys, questions and items for bidding are disclosed, end users  50  can also partake in events including interactive voting and advertising. Various audio/video clips and other special events can also be provided to end users  50 . 
         [0020]    While various services and media contents are described above, an end user  50  can choose from more than one of these various services and media contents described above utilizing different devices for different content types. In other words, the integrated broadcast system  10  is capable of providing multiple events from multiple locations as captured by multiple robotic systems  20 , and controlling and distributing the media content to a global audience  50  via control center  30 , data center  35  and content delivery network  40 . 
         [0021]    The broadcast system  10  further includes an operating system, which enables communication between each component within the robotic system  20  and the control center  30 . The operating system can reside in each robotic system  20 , control center  30 , data center  35  or other suitable databases or servers within the broadcast system  10 . The operating system allows the control center  30  or data center  35  to remotely control the functions and interactions between each robotic system  20 , control center  30  and data center  35 . The operating system further enables communication, and audio/video and data exchange between two or more robotic systems  20  within the broadcast system  10 , whereby the communication and control may also be monitored by the control center  30  and data center  35 . It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the broadcast system  10  can incorporate additional electronic components including switches, digital video effects and video overlays, as well as other suitable devices and components necessary to carry out the audio/video broadcast as described. Further, although shown separate, the control center  30  and data center  35  can be integrated as a single unit. 
         [0022]      FIG. 2  is a block diagram illustrating the robotic system  20  previously disclosed. As shown in the figure, a robotic module  22  can be installed, temporarily or permanently, at a venue  24  including the likes of sports arenas, nightclubs, concert halls, schools and other outlets or facilities having special events. In one embodiment, there is pre-existing broadcast equipment including microphones and cameras  26  deployed throughout the venue  24 . This is especially true of sporting stadiums and arenas commonly known for hosting professional or college football, basketball, baseball, hockey and soccer games. The venues  24  may also have Jumbotrons, large screen televisions and various types of signages and displays  28 . Venues  24  lacking pre-installed or pre-existing broadcast equipment  26  or displays  28  as described above may be retrofitted with similar audio/visual devices  26 ,  28  at a later time. In some instances, the broadcast equipment  26  or display  28  can be provided by a mobile broadcasting truck. 
         [0023]    The robotic module  22  includes a software application for the production and management of matrix-style switching of audio/video input and output feeds, the input preferably being provided by the microphones, cameras and other broadcast equipment  26  deployed throughout the venue  24 . In one embodiment, the broadcast equipment  26  captures the event taking place within the venue  24  and feeds the captured signals to the robotic module  22  using BNC connectors, cable connectors, audio adaptors, video adaptors and other suitable encoders, connectors and adaptors. Alternatively, the input can also come from other types of audio/video devices. In one embodiment, the robotic module  22  includes four wired or wireless ports for audio/video selection and four input/output channels, and is capable of switching back and forth between four different cameras  26 . It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that there can be fewer or more ports and channels as needed. In other words, a venue  24  can have multiple microphones, cameras and broadcast equipment  26  and multiple robotic modules  22 . 
         [0024]    The robotic module  22  also includes a plurality of electronic input and output switches, receivers, encoders and other hardware devices and components to compliment the software application. Production control of media content utilizes a matrix-style switching that provides broadcasting in four channels. In other words, if there are four cameras  26  with corresponding microphones distributed throughout the stadium  24  at various locations, the robotic module  22  is capable of switching back and forth among the four different cameras  26  to provide different viewing angles of the event taking place within the venue  24 . Like above, there can be fewer or more channels as needed. Encoders and switches assist in the production control process by facilitating the switching between cameras and other broadcast equipment  26  throughout the venue  24 . In other instances, the switching can also be controlled by the control center  30  or data center  35  through the robotic module  22 . 
         [0025]    In other embodiments, the robotic module  22  can receive inputs from other audio/video switches and feeds that may be available at the venue  24  including audio/video inputs from broadcast trucks. The robotic module  22  can also receive audio/video inputs from CDs, DVDs or other storage devices. In other instances, the robotic module  22  can receive inputs from a text messaging data center, title generators or graphics generators that may be present at the venue  24 . Using the bidirectional input/output capability of the robotic module  22 , any audio/video inputs may be outputted to various devices including the Jumbotron or other types of video displays  28  at the venue  24 . Therefore, the audio/video may be outputted to Jumbotrons and visual displays  28  at the venue  24 , the visual displays  28  being text, audio, video or combinations thereof. Because of the communication between the robotic module  22  and the visual displays  28 , the system  20  allows bi-directional broadcasting in real-time. An end user  50  can send text or audio/video media to the robotic system  20 , which can incorporate the transmitted media and broadcast it on visual displays  28  at the venue  24  in real-time. This broadcast can also be transmitted to remote viewers via the integrated broadcast system  10 . 
         [0026]    In other embodiments, input/output feeds may be transmitted to and received from the control center  30  or data center  35 . Like above, the control center  30  can pull audio/video data from the robotic module  22  or push audio/video data to the robotic module  22  to be projected on Jumbotrons or other type of video displays  28  at the venue  24 . The control center  30  can also pull audio/video data from the data center  35  or push audio/video data to the data center  35 . Thus, the control center  30  can pull audio/video data from a first venue  24 , whether via the robotic module  22  or video display  28 , and project it on the video display  28  at a second venue  24 , and vice versa. Likewise, the control center  30  can pull audio/video data from the data center  35  and project it on any video display  28  at any venue  24 . The control center  30  can also broadcast the media content to remote viewers. The control center  30  can also cause the projection of the audio/video data, from either the robotic module  22  or the data center  35 , to multiple video displays  28  across multiple venues  24  via multiple robotic modules  22 . In other instances, advertising or promotional messages may be inserted into the programming and projected on the Jumbotrons or visual displays  28 , the advertising or promotional message being provided by the local venue  24 , robotic module  22 , control center  30 , data center  35  or a third party in communication with the robotic system  20 . Alternatively, the advertising or promotional message may also be provided on the media content and viewed by the end user  50 . Like above, because of the bidirectional capability and the ability to broadcasting in real-time, an end user  50  can send text or audio/video media for live broadcast on the visual displays  28  at the venue  24  or globally to remote viewers via the integrated broadcast system  10 . 
         [0027]    The robotic module  22  is capable of outputting feeds to the control center  30  and data center  35  via broadband communication including dish to satellite or point to point. The input/output signals may be transmitted between the robotic module  22 , control center  30  and data center  35  using NTSC/PAL or high-definition (HD) standards incorporating suitable encoders, decoders and converters. The input/output signals may also be fed to storage disk recorders  27  and to local multi-media DVD burners  29  for distribution. In other words, the live event taking place at the venue  24  may be burned onto CDs, VCDs or DVDs using suitable hardware burners  29  for local distribution at the venue  24  immediately after the conclusion of the event. The input/output signals may also be stored on storage devices  27  including SD cards, flash cards and any other suitable storage devices for delayed playback. The CD or DVD burners  29  can pull the desired data from the storage devices  27  as needed. Initially, the robotic module  22  captures the broadcast and stores it on a database or server (not shown) within the robotic system  20 . The robotic module  22  can also store the broadcast on hard drives or other suitable storage devices  27  within the robotic system  20 . Once the broadcast has been stored, it can be retrieved from storage at the conclusion of the event. The data is subsequently sent to hardware burners  29  to provide instant digital recording of the event at the venue  24  in DVD or other suitable format and made available to the public via the Internet or other sales streams. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that storing, recording, digitizing and burning of broadcast events may involve controllers and other hardware devices and software programs not described herein. 
         [0028]      FIG. 3  is a block diagram illustrating a method of ordering a media content through the integrated broadcast system  10 . An end user  50  initially decides whether to order an event  32  and if so which event including the likes of sporting events and concerts. As described above, the order can be placed through a plurality of wired or wireless devices. Once an order has been placed and verified  34 , it is transmitted to the control center  30 , data center  35  or robotic system  20 . If the order cannot be verified, the process is terminated  36  and the user  50  is contacted to decide whether to place another order for the same event or a different event. When a verified order is at the control center  30  or data center  35 , the control center  30  or data center  35  contacts the robotic system  20  related to the event and is readied to push/pull the necessary audio/video data. When a verified order is sent to the robotic system  20  directly  38  bypassing the control center  30  and data center  35 , the event is ready to be provided to the end user  50  via the robotic system  20  directly. Once the event commences, the live event feed is provided to the end user  50  via the content delivery network  40 . Alternatively, pre-recorded events may also be provided to the end user  50 . 
         [0029]      FIG. 4A  shows an exemplary web page  70  listing a schedule  72  of upcoming live events. The schedule  72  includes a column for the date  74 , division  76 , event  78 , location  80 , time  82 , home feed  84  and visitor feed  86 . As set forth on the web page  70 , in one embodiment, live events may be purchased  10 - 15  minutes prior to the event time. Therefore, many of the home feed  84  and visitor feed  86  columns indicate “Upcoming”  87 , indicating that the event is not yet ready for purchase or “Game Over”  89  indicating that the game is over and therefore no live coverage is available (recorded footage may be available). In other instances, when the event is ready to be purchased, the home feed  84  and visitor feed  86  column include active “Buy Now” links  88 ,  90 . Therefore, the customer  50  has the option to purchase the home team or visiting team feed. In most cases the customer  50  selects the feed of the team to which the customer  50  has pledged his or her loyalty. In response to clicking on one of the active Buy Now links  88 ,  90 , the customer  50  is linked to a secure purchase web page  92  as shown in  FIG. 4B . The customer is then able to enter requested information including account information  94 , viewing plan  96  and billing information  98 . Upon verification of the requested information, the customer is registered to receive the selected feed corresponding to the purchased live event. 
         [0030]    In one embodiment of the present invention non-major collegiate sporting events (e.g., lacrosse) and hockey games involving non-NHL teams are broadcast. However, any live events can be broadcast using the embodiments of the present invention. 
         [0031]    Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to several embodiments, additional variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of the invention as described and defined in the following claims.