Interactive video distribution systems – Local video distribution system – Vehicle
Reexamination Certificate
1999-02-26
2001-07-24
Grant, Chris (Department: 2711)
Interactive video distribution systems
Local video distribution system
Vehicle
C725S024000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06266815
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to in-flight entertainment control systems, and specifically, to entertainment systems having back-channel capabilities for capturing and collecting passenger response information.
2. Background Information
Over the last few decades, commercial aircraft have become a necessary mode of transportation for personal and business reasons. In order to improve passenger comfort, many commercial airlines have in-flight entertainment systems (“IFES”) offering a variety of services including music, news, movies, video on demand, and telephone service to passengers right at the passengers' seats with the convenience of individualized control. However, such services are limited to individualized interaction, and do not provide for group interaction.
Moreover, airline companies or other common carriers typically hand out questionnaires requesting passenger comments regarding their travel experience including questions on service, food, comfort, etc. The responses to the questionnaires provide feedback to the airline companies and/or common carriers, and plays an important role in improving the quality of service provided. Consequently, it is desirable to provide a mechanism for facilitating the administration of surveys, and collection of responses in an efficient manner.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention comprises a control sequence and corresponding system for an in-flight entertainment system. In one embodiment, the control sequence includes transmitting a first command by a controller to a server, transmitting a video signal to the controller for displaying the video signal over a plurality of display units, and detecting, by each of a plurality of control units, passenger response data and transmitting the passenger response data to intermediate devices. The control sequence further includes transmitting a second command by the server to the controller for collection of data, transmitting a third command by the controller to the plurality of intermediate devices for the passenger response data, and transmitting the passenger response data collected from the intermediate devices to the server.
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patent: 6058288 (2000-05-01), Reed et al.
International Search Report, PCT/US00/04857,May 16, 2000, 5 pages.
Borras Peter
Do Ton M.
Shen Konwei
Blakely , Sokoloff, Taylor & Zafman LLP
Grant Chris
Sony Corporation
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