Detecting and thwarting content signals originating from theatrical performances

• US 20060033017A1
• Filed: 10/07/2005
• Published: 02/16/2006
• Est. Priority Date: 11/14/2002
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: DigiMedia Tech, LLC (IP Investments Group LLC)
• Original Assignee: Auctnyc 19 LLC (Intellectual Ventures LLC)
• Inventors: Roberts, Jon L., Light, Elliott D.
• Granted Patent: US 7,326,911 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 250/221
• CPC Class Codes: H04N 2005/91392 using means for preventing making copies of projected video images
• CPC Class Codes: H04N 5/913 for scrambling ; for copy protection

Abstract

A system and method of detecting and thwarting the use of unauthorized imaging systems at theatrical performances. Sensors are deployed at a theatrical event to detect a focusing signal and/or the RF signal of an unauthorized imaging device. De-focusing signals are used to disrupt the auto focus system of imaging devices that do not use IR focusing systems. A thwarting signal comprising invisible light frequencies may be combined to produce a thwarting signal that is received by the CCD of an imaging device as white light thereby rendering the recorded image unusable. Emission signatures of imaging devices are stored in a datastore and distributed to users of thwarting systems via a network. Emission signatures are associated with thwarting signals to allow detection and thwarting systems to respond quickly to the use of an unauthorized imaging device.

Claims

1. A thwarting system for preventing the pirating of a theatrical experience comprising:

a processor;

a sensor installed proximate to a seat within a theatrical performance venue and connected to a network, wherein the sensor is adapted to;

detect RF noise emission data from the area proximate to the seat; and

send the noise emission data; and

wherein the processor is connected to the network and adapted to;

receive the noise emission data from the sensor;

determine if the noise emission data is indicative of the presence of an imaging device; and

if the emission data is are indicative of the presence of the imaging device, determining whether a content signal has been transmitted by the imaging device; and

if the content signal has been transmitted by the imaging device, transmitted a thwarting signal to thwart the content signal.