Multicasting method and apparatus
First Claim
1. A method for transmitting message packets over a communications network comprising the steps of:
- converting at least one stream of audio and/or visual information into at least one stream of addressed digital packets complying with the specifications of a network communication protocol,for each stream, routing such stream to one or more users,controlling the routing of the stream of packets in response to selection signals received from the users, andincluding in at least one stream of packets at least some advertising information that is varied depending on the identity of the user to whom the at least one stream of packets is delivered.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A scalable architecture is disclosed for delivery of real-time information over a communications network. Embedded into the architecture is a control mechanism that provides for the management and administration of users who are to receive the real-time information. In the preferred embodiment, the information being delivered is high-quality audio. However, it could also be video, graphics, text or any other type of information that can be transmitted over a digital network. Preferably, there are multiple channels of information available simultaneously to be delivered to users, each channel consisting of an independent stream of information. A user chooses to tune in or tune out a particular channel, but does not choose the time at which the channel distributes its information. Advantageously, interactive (two-way) information can be incorporated into the system, multiple streams of information can be integrated for delivery to a user, and certain portions of the information being delivered can be tailored to the individual user.
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Citations
30 Claims
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1. A method for transmitting message packets over a communications network comprising the steps of:
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converting at least one stream of audio and/or visual information into at least one stream of addressed digital packets complying with the specifications of a network communication protocol, for each stream, routing such stream to one or more users, controlling the routing of the stream of packets in response to selection signals received from the users, and including in at least one stream of packets at least some advertising information that is varied depending on the identity of the user to whom the at least one stream of packets is delivered. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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11. A method for transmitting at least one stream of audio and/or visual information over a communications network to one or more users comprising the steps of:
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controlling the routing of the stream of information through the network in response to selection signals received from the users, including in at least one stream of information at least some advertising information that is varied depending on the identity of the user to whom the advertising information is provided. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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21. A communication system comprising:
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means for converting at least one stream of audio and/or visual information into a stream of addressed digital packets complying with the specifications of a network communication protocol, means for routing such stream via a communication network to selected users, means for controlling the routing of the stream of packets in response to selection signals received from the users, and means for including in the stream of packets at least some advertising information that is varied depending on the identity of the user to whom the advertising information is sent. - View Dependent Claims (22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30)
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Specification