WO2002051076A1

WO2002051076A1 - Service management server

Info

Publication number: WO2002051076A1
Application number: PCT/SE2001/002835
Authority: WO
Inventors: Hans Bengtsson; Johannes Book; Per-Anders Nilsson
Original assignee: E. Bengtsson Ingenjörsfirma
Priority date: 2000-12-21
Filing date: 2001-12-20
Publication date: 2002-06-27
Also published as: AU2002217662A1

Abstract

A service management server (30,50), connectable to a communications network (20), which server (30) comprises receiving means (31) for detecting a service code (4,8) and a sender ID (16,19) in a received service request signal (17). The server also includes retrieving means for retrieving, from a database, first service type data (33) associated with said service code (4,8), and second service type data (36) associated with said sender ID (16,19). Means (38) for comparing said second service type data (36) with said first service type data (33) are further included, and said retrieving means are devised to select a service receiving service module (10,100) associated with said sender ID (16,19) as recipient of a service (44) associated said service code (4,8), dependent on said comparison.

Description

SERVICE MANAGEMENT SERVER

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a service management server for a communications network, comprising means for managing a service that can be delivered through said network. Particularly the invention relates to a service management server making it capable to use a simple control device for requesting a service to a service module, and wherein the type of service to be delivered, and the service module to receive it, is controlled in said server connected to the . communications network.

BACKGROUND During the last decade, numerous different networks have been constructed for the purpose of supplying different typed of services. One example is the POTS wire connected telephone network, which besides ordinary telephony, is often used for communication over the Internet via a modem and a computer. The future communications networks will be strictly digital, and so called broadband networks are currently being built up. These digital networks will bring about greatly enhanced capabilities of service and information delivery. The first step is a better and faster Internet connection, but the bandwidth of the broadband will in most cases provide much more than that, even simultaneously. Other services being prepared for distribution over the digital broadband network are: - Radio and television channels;

- Video on demand;

- IP-telephony;

- Control functions;

- Alarm services; - Games, etc.

In the home, the broadband network will show a connector in the form of a socket in the wall, much like the telephone socket. In order to receive any services, specially adapted hardware or service modules may be needed, devised to transfer the digital data adapted for broadband communication, to data which can be realised on a terminal. For digital television, the service module is a set top box, and for getting access to the Internet a computer is needed. It is expected that broadband users will begin to buy or subscribe to one or a few services, and progressively build up there own network in the home, a home Local Area Network LAN.

More and more aspects of the technical apparatuses normally present in the home, e.g. the television set, the telephone, and even the refrigerator, may well be broadband connected within a couple of years. A purpose of the broadband connection is of course that the amount of information and services that can be enjoyed is highly increased. However, with this increase, both in volume and complexity, comes the demand for an increased skill in network service management for the user, both regarding the LAN and the broadband network. Unless the capabilities of the broadband connection are also matched by the services being easy and safe to use, the resistance towards using the broadband services may grow beyond that of the beliefs of the service providers.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a solution for a communications network, for managing a service that can be delivered through said network. More particularly, the solution should provide means for requesting and delivering a network-based service in a safe and easy manner, without the need for a service user having to have extensive network management knowledge, or use complex control apparatuses.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In accordance with the present invention, the objects stated above are fulfilled by a service management server, connectable to a communications network. Said server comprises receiving means for detecting a service code and a sender ID in a received service request signal, and retrieving means for retrieving, from a database, first service type data associated with said service code, and second service type data associated with said sender ID. The server further comprises means for comparing said second service type data with said first service type data, in order to establish if there are any service modules associated with the sender ID that are capable of receiving and realising the first service type service. Retrieving means of the server is devised to select a service receiving service module associated with said sender ID as recipient of a service associated said service code, dependent on said comparison.

Hence, the user or equipment sending a service request signal need not possess nor comprise any information on which type of service that is to be requested. The service request signal only needs to include an identity code ID and the service code. In the server said service code refers to a specific service. The activation of the code is thus made in the service management server, and all data relating to the service is stored in one or more places in the network, and is delivered to the recipient service module upon request, if there is a service module associated with the sender ID that is capable of performing or presenting the service. Here, a service module being associated to the sender ID may mean, as will be described in more detail subsequently, a service module connected to a LAN to which said sender ID refers, or a service module connected to a LAN, to which LAN a sending service module is connected, said sender ID referring to the sending service module. Naturally, the sending and receiving service module may be the same, and is preferably so if the server has established that the sending service module is in fact capable of receiving and presenting or realising the service.

In one embodiment, said communications network comprises a broadband network, adapted for communication of a plurality of different services to homes. Examples of such services are television and radio, video-on-demand, IP telephony, Internet surfing capabilities, and so on. In such an embodiment, the LAN Is a home LAN, comprising the service modules and service terminals needed to perform the different services the household subscribes to or are capable of buying. In its easiest embodiment, the LAN may be only one service module, connected to or integrated with a service terminal.

Preferably the address to the service management server is stored in a memory of the sending service module. A control device, e.g. a remote control, is preferably communicatively connectable to the service module for transferring the service code thereto. As mentioned, the service module is an apparatus for receiving a network-based service, such as a set top box for digital television, and is devised to present or perform a received service through a service terminal, in this case a television set.

An effect of the system including a server according to the present invention is that essentially all service data and the intelligence for managing the service is located centrally in one or several servers in the network, i.e. accessible to the service provider. This means that the means for requesting the service can be made extremely simple, even partly disposable. In stead of having a control device with various data input means for managing the service, a single data input means, e.g. a button, can be used, devised to send a single code. The service action said code triggers is then defined by the service provider. The service provider can also arrange automatic re-configuration of the service action to which the code refers, upon the request and delivery of a first service action, to a second service action for subsequent transmissions of the unique code.

One field in which the invention may be used is in the art of individually adapted commercial transmission. Not only is a control device according to the present invention very simple, it can also be mass produced with little or no differences between the individual devices. This makes it possible to have a low production cost. Yet, the services that can be requested through the control devices may be highly adapted to each user, based upon e.g. geographic or demographic user data, or following user preferences, by means of the management server. This means that each control device can be efficiently used for sending information to those who want it, which of course is more desirable than the mass distribution of paper-based or electronic information directed to an unknown crowd. By storing a unique service code in every control device, the services the code refers to in the management server can be directed to single users. It is also possible to store exactly the same service code in a plurality of control devices. This enables a very simple manufacturing procedure. Yet the services delivered in response to the activation of a control device can be selected by the service provider dependent on the identity code associated with the LAN from which the service request is transmitted.

In a broader perspective, the present invention relates to a service management server, connectable to a communications network, which server comprises receiving means for detecting a service code in a received service request signal, and which server is connected to a database in which said service code is referred to a service action. The server is further devised to execute said service action in response to reception of said service request signal. The service action may thus be executed regardless of whether an identity code is received or not. This is particularly advantageous when the execution of the requested service is not restricted to the delivery of some service data to the user requesting the service. Such a service could be "stop delivering the previously requested service data", or "send predetermined data to predetermined recipient address". The latter example can e.g. be used for voting in elections or television contests or talk shows. In case each user has only one vote, it is important to register which user has voted. This information can be tied to the service code. However, it may not be important to know where the user is when the vote is placed. In the case of a televised contest, the user may of course vote through someone else's television service module.

In order to be able to execute sending of service data to others than the service request signal sender, said service management server comprises means for retrieving, from a database (not shown), service recipient data associated with said service code. The server is accordingly devised to execute sending of service action data associated with said service action, to a service recipient corresponding to said service recipient data. Needless to say, the recipient data may also include identity codes for specific service modules of the user's own LAN. In one embodiment, the service recipient data comprises a plurality of LANs or service modules, or all LANs or service modules known to the service management server, capable of receiving the service in question. The server may then also comprise means for detecting an identity code associated with said LAN, in a received service request signal. Furthermore, the service management server may comprise means for retrieving, from a database (not shown), data relating to service request signal sender criterions. In that case the server is devised to execute said service action dependent on if the combination of said first identity code and said service code is deemed to fulfil said criterions for requesting said service. This embodiment is useful for restricting the use of control devices. For example, it may be approved, and thus stated in said criterions, for a user to tune in to a favourite radio station with the users own control device, but on someone else's radio set. However, security related services, such as unlocking of doors or entering computer systems, should preferably be restricted, and thus stated in said criterions, to certain combinations of service module, or LAN, identity codes and control device service codes.

In one embodiment, the service management server is devised to execute sending of service action data associated with said service action, to a plurality of service recipients corresponding to said service recipient data. This may be used for transmitting a predefined message to more than one recipient, or e.g. to turn on all radio sets of a home at once. In one embodiment, the service management server is further devised to send different service action data, associated with the same service action, to different service recipients. This may be advantageous for a personal control device for controlling the home of the user. A single activation of the service module can thereby order the service management server to execute the lights to turn on, tuning of the radio, and the preparation of coffee, upon arrival at the home. In one embodiment, the control device is a personal controller, and the user may configure the action data and recipient data that the service code should refer to. This is preferably achieved through a network interface, such as a web site for the provider of the service management system.

The basic idea of the invention is to keep the means for ordering or requesting a service as simple as possible. By storing all data, that is relevant for executing the service, in server controlled databases in the communications network, the services can still be both complex and easily manageable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be described more closely below by way of examples of embodiments, with references to the accompanying drawings, of which: figure 1 schematically shows the components, and the interrelation of those components, of the system including a server according to an embodiment of the invention; figures 2a - 2c schematically show the signals sent in systems including a server according to three different embodiments of the present invention; figure 3 schematically shows examples of databases included in, or connected to, the servers of an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring now to figure 1, general components of an embodiment of a system including the present invention are schematically illustrated. A local area network (LAN) 90 comprises a limited number of network elements. The LAN is in one embodiment the local network of a home, connected to an external broadband for inward and outward communication of a plurality of different services. In the illustrated example the LAN comprises a service module 10 in the form of a set top box 10, connected to a television terminal, and a digital audio service module 100, connected to a radio set. Of course, these service modules may be integrated with the terminal to which they belong. They are merely illustrated separately for the purpose of easy understanding. As mentioned earlier, the LAN could also include e.g. an Internet computer or an IP telephone.

The LAN is connected to a communications network 20, external to the home, which network 20 includes a broadband communications network. Several definitions of broadband have been suggested, and will certainly be changed repeatedly over the years to come. However, one definition used to the present day is that a broadband network should be able to support bi-directional communication at a rate of at least 10 Mbit/s. The specific definition of the broadband capabilities is not important for the invention, however. In order to comprehend the essence of the invention the network 20 could be defined as a communications network capable of bi-directional data transmission for a plurality of different network services, i.e. services that demand different types of terminals for input, output of data, or presentation of service material.

According to the invention a service management server 30 is connected to the communications network 20. The service management server 30 is illustrated as a single server in the figure, but a person skilled in the art realises that a plurality of communicating servers could be used. A database 50 is connected to the service management server 30. Needless to say, this database 50, which will be more thoroughly described below, may be accessible for the service management server 30 through the network 20, instead of being directly connected to the service management server 30. Alternatively, the database 50 may be included in the service management server 30. In fact, the service management server 30 works with a plurality of different databases, included therein or connected thereto, as will be explained, and the illustrated database 50 is merely intended to show that the service management server 30 has access to data from one or more databases 50. A second server 60 may also be connected to the network 20, with an associated database 70. This second database will be referred to later.

A user will be referred to below. In the embodiment where the LAN is a home LAN, the user may be someone in the household of that home, or a visitor. In any case, the user is a person, or persons, that requests a service to the LAN using means 1,10,100 for sending a service request signal 17.

The service request signal 17 comprises a predetermined service code 4, and potentially a first identity code 16,19 associated with the LAN 90. Preferably, the service code is a predetermined, non re-programmable code. This code could be stored in a service module 10,100 of the LAN 90, which service module 10,100 is used for service request purposes. However, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the service code is pre-stored in a control device 1. The ontrol device 1 may be integrated with a service module 10,100, but is in a preferred embodiment a remote control, wirelessly connectable to a service module 10,100. The control unit is preferably a very simple device, capable only of transmission, not reception. In its simplest embodiment the control device 1 is merely capable of transmitting the predetermined service code 4. For this purpose the control device 1 comprises memory means 2 for service code 4 storage, and transmitting means 3 for transmitting a service code signal 5 including said service code 4. The control device 1 further comprises transmission activation means 6, connected to a key, button or the like. Upon activation of activation means 6 the service code stored in memory means 2 is automatically transmitted through transmitting means 3. In one embodiment, the activation means 6 is included in a simple processor, and the memory means 2 is the internal memory of the processor. The control device 1 may include additional activation means 7, making the control device 1 capable of transmitting more than one single code signal 5. Different activation means 6,7 may refer to different actions of the same service type, e.g. different aspects of controlling the television set, such as switching channel, adjusting sound volume, and so on. However, the different activation means 6,7 of the same control device may also refer to completely different service types. This is all controlled in the service management server 30. In the case of the control device 1 being integrated with a service module 10,100, the transmitting means 3 are preferably some sort of connector. When the control device 1 is a remote control, suitable transmitting means may be IR or bluetooth.

Preferably the service code 4 includes a code device number 8. In one embodiment this control device number 8 is a unique serial number, distinguishing one control device 1 from all other control devices. In another embodiment, the control device number 8 is a group number, common for a plurality of control devices 1. In case the control device 1 includes plural activation means, the service code 4 preferably also includes an action code 18, specific for one or all of the activation means 6,7 in the control device 1. Hence, the service code signal 5 includes the service code 4 and, on occasion, the action code 18.

Furthermore, the control device 1 comprises some form of power supply (not shown) for performing the transmission of the service code signal 5. The power supply may be a battery. In one embodiment, however, said power supply is only a capacitor, which is pre-charged. In such an embodiment, the control device will be useable only for a limited amount of service code 5 transmissions. From an environmental point of view, it is desirable to omit the battery, since batteries to this day often includes hazardous substances. There is also an increasing demand for manufacturers to take responsibility for the products they produce, when the products are no longer operable. Replacing the battery with a pre-charged capacitor makes it possible to make the control device environmentally advantageous, even disposable, depending on the other parts of the control device 1. In one embodiment, the capacitor is also re-chargeable. The invention thus includes means for sending a service request signal 17, in which means said control device 1 is included. As previously mentioned, the control device 1 may be separate from or connected to a service module 10,100, which service module 10,100 is also included in the means for sending a service request signal 17. The service module is an electronic apparatus constituting an interface for the use towards the broadband network 20 for different services. A typical example is the set top box for digital television. The set top box acts as a receiver for digital television data, and transforms it to analog data for the ordinary television set. Needless to say, the set top box, as it is known today, will probably disappear in the future. As long as analog CRT displays are superior to digital screens, there will still be a need for D/A conversion, though. In the example of figure 1, a first service module 10 is a set top box for a television set 80. A second service module 100 is exemplified as a receiver for digital radio transmission, connected to a radio receiver 110. Another example of a service module is an alarm module (not shown), connected to sensors in the home. The alarm module operates towards a central alarm server connected to the broadband network 20, making it possible for security companies to monitor homes in real time, or receive alarm signals instantaneously. In the system comprising the network service management server according to the present invention, the service modules 10,100 of the system preferably have there own identity codes 16. In one embodiment the identity code 16 is given to the service module 10,100 when the customer buys it, or signs a subscription for it. Alternatively, an already present identity code 16 in the service module is registered as being associated with the buyer or subscriber. In one embodiment the identity code of the service module also comprises a LAN ID 19, which LAN ID is common to all service modules 10,100 belonging to the same LAN 90. The identity code 16,19 may e.g. comprise a MAC, an IP address, or a predetermined unique code. The service module 10,100 comprises means 14 for receiving said delivered predetermined service. In the case of digital television, the first service module 10 comprises means for receiving a digital television service, such as a movie, a television game or a commercial. The first service module 10 also comprises means for processing the received service so that it can be viewed on the corresponding television terminal 80.

Further, the first service module 10 comprises memory means 11 for storing its identity code 16,19, i.e. the first identity code 16,19. The first service module also comprises service code receiving means 12, for receiving a service code signal 5 including said service code 4 from a control device 1. Dependent on if the control device 1 is connected to the service module 10, or if it is remotely connectable, the realisation of the service code receiving means 12 may differ. In any case, it is adapted to receive the service code signal 5 as transmitted by the transmission means 3 of the control device 1. Processing means 13 in the first service module 10 are connected to said service code receiving means 12, and said processing means are devised to detect which type of code a signal received by said service code receiving means 12 is. Therefore, the processing means 13 comprises means for determining if a received signal comprises a service code 4. In one embodiment the service code 5 is given a particular bit structure, so that it is easily recognisable. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the content of the service code 5 is not investigated at all by the receiving service module 10,100. However, once the received signal it has been recognised as a service code signal 5 the processing means 13 is devised to retrieve a server address, stored in the receiving service module 10,100, based upon said code type. The server address may be stored in a separate memory or in the same memory as the identity code of the service module 10,100. However, these memories are described herein as included in the same memory means 11. The processing means 13 is further devised to assemble the received service code 4 with the identity code of the receiving service module 10, into service request data. The receiving first service module 10 comprises network connection means 14 in the shape of appropriate data input and output interfaces, connected to said processing means 13 and communicatively connectable to said network 20. The processing means 13 are also devised to transmit a service request signal 17, including the service request data, to said server address through said network connection means 14.

According to the present invention the network service management system comprises a service management server 30, the network address to which is the server address that is stored in the service modules 10,100. The service management server 30 and its associated databases are schematically outlined in figure 3, to which reference will be made below. The service management server 30 comprises receiving means 31 for receiving a service request signal 17 sent from a service module 10,100. Connected to the receiving means 31 is a first retrieving means 32 for retrieving, from a first database 34, first service type data 33 associated with the service code 4 of the received service request signal 17. In one embodiment, illustrated in figure 3, the control device number 8 of the service code is detected by the first retrieving means 32, and used as an input parameter to the first database 34. The control device number 8 may be a unique serial number for the control device 1 initiating the service request, or a group number common to several control devices. In any case, every control device registered in the first database 34 is associated with a certain type of broadband service, i.e. the first service type, for example television, radio, e-commerce, etc. The first retrieving means is devised to collect information on which service type is associated with the detected control device number 8. The server 30 further comprises second retrieving means 35 for retrieving, from a second database 37, second service type data 36 associated with said first identity code 16,19. The identity code 16,19 of the transmitting means is detected in the received service request signal 17 by the second retrieving means 35. Said first identity code 16,19 is then used as an input parameter to the second database 37, for collecting information on which service type is associated with the detected first identity code 16,19.

In one embodiment of the invention, the first identity code 16,19 is a service module number 16. The second database 37 may, or may not, comprise information on a LAN ID 19, associated with the LAN 90 to which the service module 10 belongs. Further, or alternatively, the first identity code 16,19 may include the LAN ID 19. Dependent on which type of first identity code 16, 19 is used the server 30 will act slightly different. A few different cases are outlined here:

A. The first identity code comprises the service module ID 16, and the LAN ID 19 is not included in the first identity code, nor in the second database 37. Second retrieving means 35 then uses the service module ID 16 to enter the second database 37, in order to obtain second service type data 36, i.e. data on which service type the first service module 10 is adapted for, in this case television. Means 38, included in the server 30, for comparing said second service type data 36 with said first service type data 33, then checks if these service type data are the same, i.e. if the transmitting first service module 10 is capable of receiving and presenting the service, tlirough its terminal 80. If the comparison gives a positive result, meaning that the service types 33,36 correspond, means 39,64 for delivering the service will take action, as will be described subsequently. If not, the service request has failed. The procedure may be halted here, or a failure message may be returned to the transmitting first service module 10. B. The first identity code comprises the service module ID 16 but not the LAN ID 19, whereas the second database 37 comprises both the service module ID 16 and the LAN ID 19. Second retrieving means 35 then uses the received LAN ID 19 to enter the second database 37, in order to obtain second service type data 36 for all service modules 10,100 included in the LAN 90. Second retrieving means 35 will then search for a service module capable of receiving the service associated with said first service type data 33. If the transmitting first service module 10 is capable of receiving the service, the first service module 10 will be selected. If an other service module 100 in the LAN 90 is capable of receiving the service, and the first service module 10 is not, the service will subsequently be sent to that other service module 100^-, * v^{s ■}-₌, ., -

C. The first identity code comprises the LAN ID 19 but not the service module ID 16, whereas the second database 37 comprises both the service module ID 16 and the LAN ID 19. This scenario is the same as for B, except for the fact that the server 30 is not capable of determining which service module 10,100 transmitted the service request signal 17. Hence, the server 30 cannot favour the originating service module as recipient of the service.

D. The first identity code comprises the LAN ID 19 and the service module ID 16, as does the second database 37. This scenario will provide means for the same procedure as B.

In the example of figure 3 both the IDs 16 of all service modules of a home are listed in the second database 37, and the LAN IDs 19 for each home adapted for the service management system according to the invention. Naturally this does not exclude the other possibilities from the scope of the invention. In the event the control device 1 and the service module 10 are integrated, the step of checking out if the service module 10 is capable of receiving the service is most likely unnecessary. In such a case a service that cannot be received by the service module 10 would of probably not be tied to the service code 4 of the control device 1. The service management server 30 further comprises third retrieving means 40 for retrieving, from a third database 41, a service action reference 42 associated with said service code 4,8. Once it has been established that a service module 10,100 in the LAN 90 from which the service request signal 17 originated is capable of receiving the service type in question, the process of retrieving that service and sending it to the service module 10,100 proceeds. Assuming that the control device 1 is a simple apparatus capable of only transmitting one single code 4, only one reference 42 to a certain service action can be maintained at a time. If the control device has more than one transmission activation means 6,7, it is capable of transmitting two or more different service codes 4, by said service codes 4 comprising different action codes 18. In this case said third retrieving means 40 is devised to select a service action reference 42, from a plurality of service action references 42 stored in said third database 41, dependent on the action code 18 included in said service code 4.

The service action reference 42 is a reference to where the service action data 44 related to the requested service can be found. However, the service action data 44 may be stored on a database 45 included in or connected to the service management server 30, or in another database 63 included in or connected to an other server 60 belonging to a service provider. In the latter case, the service provider, for e.g. digital television, preferably will not have immediate access to information of the service capabilities of home LANs 90, stored in the service management server 30. For an embodiment where- the rservice action data 44 is stored in a database 45 associated with the service management server 30, said service management server 30 comprises fourth retrieving means 43, devised to retrieve service action data 44, to which a retrieved service action reference 42 refers, from said fourth database 45. Said fourth retrieving means 43 are then connected to said means 39 for delivering the service action data 44 to the selected service module ID 16 of the service requesting LAN90, over the broadband network 20. It should be noted that a service action may be "stop", e.g. stop sending video data. In such a case the service action executed in response to a service request signal 17 is not really the delivery of data to the user.

In an embodiment wherein the action data 44 is not stored in a database associated with the service management server 30, said service management server 30 comprises fifth retrieving means 46 devised to retrieve a service provider server address 47, to which a retrieved service action reference 42 refers, from a fifth database 48. The service management server 30 further comprises means 39 for sending the retrieved service action reference 42 to said service provider server address 47, along with information on whereto the service action data 44 is to be delivered, i.e. the selected service module ID 16. The service provider server 60 comprises sixth retrieving means 61 devised to retrieve action data 62, to which a retrieved service action reference 42 refers, from a sixth database 63. Said sixth retrieving means 61 are connected to said means 64 for delivering said service action data 44 to the selected service module ID 16 of the service requesting LAN90, over the broadband network 20.

In an embodiment of the invention, said service management server 30 comprises logging means 49 for logging each received service request signal 17 in a log database 51. The feature of keeping a log associated with each LAN ID 19 or service module ID 16, makes is possible to track which services have been requested by each user, or more correctly, from each LAN 90. Furthermore, this makes it possible to change the service action reference 42, when it has been noted that a certain service action 44 connected to a control device 1 has been delivered. In one embodiment the service action data 44 may be a short preview of a movie, which preview is adapted to be received by a set top box 10. Once said preview has been delivered and shown to the user, the service code 4 of the control device 1 may be arranged to refer to another service action reference 42, referring to an other service action data. The next time a service request signal 17 is initiated by the same control device 1, that other service action data, e.g. a commercial spot, will be delivered for presentation. For this purpose the service management server 30 comprises reference selecting means 52, connected to said logging means 49, for automatically selecting a service action reference 42 to which the service code 4,8 is to refer in said third database 41, dependent on logged data for said service code 4,8. Another feature, associated with an embodiment comprising said logging means 49, is to separate similar incoming signals. Assume that a service code signal 5 is picked up by two service modules 10,100. Then the server 30 will receive two service request signals 17 just after one another. By arranging the receiving means 31, or the logging means 49, to put a time stamp on all incoming service request signals 17, and logging said time stamps, this problem could be overcome. In one embodiment, the receiving means 31 or logging means 49 will put a default time window on the incoming service request signals 17, during which time window all subsequent service request signals 17 having the same service code 4 will be treated as accidental double clicks, and will thus be disregarded.

As mentioned earlier, the action service data 44 may be delivered to an other, second, service module 100 than the first service module 10 from which the service request signal 17 originated. This may be the case if the service type 33 associated with the number 8 for the initiating control device 1 does not correspond to the originating first service module 10, but does correspond to said second service module 100 of the same LAN 90. Obviously, said second service module 100 then comprises means 114 for receiving the delivered predetermined service. The service module 10,100 adapted to receive a requested service action 44 comprises terminal connection means 15, connected to the processing means 13 of the service module 10,100, said terminal connection means 15 being communicatively connectable to a service terminal 80, 110.

Referring now to figures 2a to 2c, the operative procedure of different embodiments of the present invention will be described. For the purpose of making the procedure easy to understand, the specific topic of a movie preview for digital television, or a music sample for digital radio, is exemplified. However, a person skilled in the art will realise that several other service types 33,36 will be treated in the same general manner by the service management system. Furthermore, in the examples of figures 2a to 2c, only the service module ID 16 is described to be delivered by the service module 10 to the service management server 30. The figures, though, also illustrate the possibilities of the LAN ID 19 to be transmitted from the service module 10. Other scenarios are feasible, though, in accordance with what has been outlined above. Figure 2a outlines the simplest case of an embodiment of the invention. A control device 1, being a simple, non re-programmable remote control, communicatively connectable to a service module 10, is activated by a key or button on the control device 1. A service control signal 5 is thereby transmitted, said service control signal including a service code 4, pre-stored in the control device 1. The service code 4 includes a control device number 8, which may or may not be unique. In case there are more than one keys on the. control device 1, the service code 4 will also include an action code 18, specific to the transmission activating key 6,7. The service control signal 5 is received by a first service module 10. In case the transmission is performed by IR, the first service module is most likely the one the control device 1 is pointed towards. If cable is used the receiving service module 10 is preferably the one directly connected to the control device 1 by said cable. If instead bluetooth is used, the receiving first service module 10 may be any service module within the range of the control device 1. Upon reception of the service control signal 5, the service module 10 recognises that it is in fact a signal to trigger a service request. However, the service module 10 does not have a clue as to which service data 44 the control signal 5 refers, nor does the control device 1. The service module retrieves a server address and an ID code 16, both of which are stored in the service module. The service module 10 thereby issues a service request signal 17, including the contents 4 of the control signal 5 and the ID code 16, and addresses the service request signal 17 to said server address. The service management server 30 receives the service request signal 17 and checks that the transmitting service module 10 is capable of receiving the service action data 44 associated with the control device 1. If so, said service action data 44 is retrieved and sent back to the LAN 90 from where the request came, addressed to the service module 10. If needed, the service module 10 processes the received action data 44 into terminal data 81, and transmits it to the terminal 80 associated with the service module 10. The requested service is thereby realised on the terminal 80, in this particular case the movie preview is displayed on the television set 80.

In figure 2b all steps up till the reception of the service request signal 17 are the same as for the procedure of figure 2a. However, figure 2b exemplifies the scenario when the actual service action data44 to which the control device 1 is associated, is not stored in or connected to the service management server 30. Therefore, the service reference 42 and the address to the service module 10 to which the service action is to be addressed, is sent to a service provider server 60. Herein the service action data 44 is retrieved, which is then transmitted to the service module 10 for subsequent realisation of the service in accordance with what was outlined in conjunction with figure 2a.

Also in figure 2c all steps up till the reception of the service request signal 17 are the same as for the procedure of figure 2a and 2b. However, in this case the service associated with the initiating control device is a music sample devised to be realised by a radio set 110. This does not correspond to the capabilities of the service module 10 from which the service request signal originated. In reality, the set top box 10 would probably be capable of receiving and presenting also a radio service. However, it is assumed here that this is not the case, merely for the purpose of explaining the procedure of selecting a different service module 100 as recipient of the requested service, than the service module 10 transmitting the service request signal 17. As illustrated by figure 1, terminal 110 is a radio set adapted for digital radio, supported by its service module 100. When it is detected by the service management server 30 that the service associated with the control device 1 is in fact a radio type service, the server 30 will select the radio service module 100 as recipient, if such a service module is included in the LAN 90. In the example of figure 2c, the service action data 44 is located in a service provider server 60, in accordance with figure 2b. A message is therefore sent to the service provider server 60, including the service action reference 42 and the address or ID code 16 for the selected service module 100 to receive the service action data 44. The service action data 44 is retrieved in the service provider server 60, and is then transmitted to the service module 100. If needed, the service module 100 processes the received action data 44 into terminal data 116, and transmits it to the terminal 110 associated with the service module 110. The requested service is thereby realised on the terminal 110, in this particular case the music sample is played on the radio set 110, or e.g. access to an otherwise blocked radio station is given for a predetermined duration.

The present invention supplies the possibility of providing a wide variety of services, which services may be more or less complex, to large groups of people without the users having to posses any service management skills. By service management skills is here meant e.g. how to order a specific service, and how to realise it in your home LAN 90. All service management is handled in the broadband network 20, preferably in the service management server 30. Furthermore, by tying the control devices 1 of the system to specific users or groups of users, by the control device number 8, services can be directed e.g. towards specific individuals, or to people living in a certain area. By logging the delivered services, new services can swiftly be assigned to the control device 1, thereby making it possible to achieve a more time efficient distribution of information or services. Distribution of control devices 1 is capable of replacing many types of commercial media. The specific commercial shown upon activation of the control device 1 may be changed every day, or e.g. automatically every week, showing the current special prices in a store near the home LAN 90. In one embodiment it is also possible for each user to assign one or several selected services to his or her own control device 1, by making the necessary preparations of the action references 42 associated with the control device 1. This way a personal control device can be configured in the service management server 30 to unlock your home upon activation, thereby communicating e.g. with a lock service module or a specific control service module of the home. At the same time, the service management serverθO may detect that also a certain radio channel is selected to be turned on upon unlocking of the home, and that a pre-selected set of lamps are to be turned on.

The present invention also refers to a method for managing a network-based service. In short, the method comprises the steps of: receiving, in the network server 30,50, the service request signal 17; detecting, in said service request signal 17, a service code 4,8 and a sender ID 16,19; retrieving, from a database, first service type data 33 associated with said service code 4,8, and second service type data 36 associated with said sender ID 16,19; comparing said second service type data 36 with said first service type data 33; and selecting a service receiving service module 10,100 associated with said sender ID 16,19 as recipient of a service 44 associated said service code 4,8, dependent on said comparison.

In one embodiment of the invention, the service management server 30, and if present, the service provider server 60, and their databases 50,70, comprise a data processing system for performing the method according to the invention. A data processing system comprises a number of real or virtual processing units 30,60, linked by means of a network system 20. Each processing unit 30,60 comprises a computer processor or a time shared part of such a processor, a non-volatile storage device and at least one component of a data control program which operates on the computer processor. A human user or an apparatus may interact with the data control program through a communications interface, which for example may be a standard input and/or output device such as a keyboard, a data screen, an A/D converter or the like. Application data or control data may be transferred to a first processing unit either via a related communications interface or a second processing unit connected to the network. The, in this text, described steps and means of the invention are performed or realised by means of this kind of data processing system, either as especially designed hardware units or in the shape of a computer program executing on a general purpose computer or data processing system. Hence, the present inventions refers to, in one embodiment, a computer program product, for use with a data processing and storage system 30,50,60,70, for managing a network- based service. Said computer program product comprises: a recording medium; means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to detect a service code 4,8 and a sender ID 16,19 in a service request signal 17 received by said data processing and storage system; means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to retrieve, from a database, first service type data 33 associated with said service code 4,8, and second service type data 36 associated with said sender ID 16,19; means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to compare said second service type data 36 with said first service type data 33; means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to select a service receiving service module 10,100 associated with said sender ID 16,19 as recipient of a service 44 associated said service code 4,8, dependent on said comparison. In one embodiment the database 41 is accessible for users of the server according to the invention, as previously described. Preferably the user has his or her own file in the server 30, wherein he or she may configure the action references for his or her control device or devices. This way the user may connect with the server 30, preferably through said network 20, and tailor one or several control devices for desired purposes as previously described. The service management server 30 keeping track on all incoming service requests, and also having full control, through database 41, of which services the user may request, makes it advantageous for a service manager, having control over the service management server 30, to perform billing, and also to provide statistics to service providers, and to charge them for such a service.

A person skilled in the art realises that the possibilities are numerous, thanks to the service configuration as well as service data being located in the broadband network 20. The scope of the invention is only limited by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A service management server (30,50), connectable to a communications network (20), which server (30) comprises receiving means (31) for detecting a service code (4,8) and a sender ID (16,19) in a received service request signal (17), retrieving means for retrieving, from a database, first service type data (33) associated with said service code (4,8), and second service type data (36) associated with said sender ID (16,19), means (38) for comparing said second service type data (36) with said first service type data (33), said retrieving means being devised to select a service receiving service module (10,100) associated with said sender ID (.16,19) as recipient of a service (44) associated said service code (4,8), dependent on said comparison.

2. The service management server as recited in claim 1, wherein said server is devised to detect a service requesting service module ID (16), included in said sender ID, for a service module (10) sending the service request signal (17).

3. The service management server as recited in claim 1, wherein said server is devised to detect a LAN ID (19), included in said sender ID, for a LAN (90) to which a service requesting service module (10) sending the service request signal (17) is connected.

4. The service management server as recited in claim 2, wherein said retrieving means is devised retrieve a LAN ID (19), from a database, for a LAN (90) to which the service requesting service module (10) is connected.

5. The service management server as recited in claim 3 or 4, wherein said retrieving means is further devised to select as the service receiving service module (10,100), a service module that is capable of receiving said first service type data (33), and that is also connected to said LAN (90).

6. The service management server as recited in any of the claims 2 - 5, wherein said retrieving is further devised to select said service requesting service module (10) as service receiving service module (10,100), if the service requesting service module (10) is capable of receiving said first service type data (33).

7. The service management server as recited in claim 1, wherein said retrieving means is devised to retrieve, from a database, a service action reference (42) associated with said service code (4,8).

8. The service management server as recited in claim 7, wherein said retrieving means is devised to select a service action reference, from a plurality of service action references (42) stored in said database, dependent on an action code (18) included in said service code (4).

9. The service management server as recited in claim 8, wherein said retrieving means is devised to retrieve service action data (44), to which a retrieved service action reference (42) refers, from a database (45).

10. The service management server as recited in claim 8, wherein said retrieving means is connected to means for delivering service action data (44) to said service receiving service module (10,100).

11. The service management server as recited in claim 7, wherein said retrieving means is devised to retrieve, from a database (48), a service provider server address (47), to which a retrieved service action reference (42) refers, said server comprising means (39) for sending the retrieved service action reference (42) to said service provider server address (47), for subsequent delivery therefrom of service action data (44), to which said retrieved service action reference (42) refers, to said service receiving service module (10,100).

12. The service management server as recited in claim 1, which further comprises logging means (49) for logging each received service request signal (17) in a log database (51).

13. The service management server as recited in claim 12, which further comprises reference selecting means (52), connected to said logging means (49), for automatically selecting the service action reference (42) to which the service code (4,8) is to refer, dependent on logged data for said service code (4,8).

14. A computer program product, for use with a data processing and storage system (30,50,60,70), for managing a network-based service, the computer program product comprising: - a recording medium;

- means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to detect a service code (4,8) and a sender ID (16,19) in a service request signal (17) received by said data processing and storage system;

- means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to retrieve, from a database, first service type data (33) associated with said service code (4,8), and second service type data (36) associated with said sender ID (16,19);

- means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to compare said second service type data (36) with said first service type data (33);

- means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to select a service receiving service module (10,100) associated with said sender ID (16,19) as recipient of a service (44) associated said service code (4,8), dependent on said comparison

15. The computer program product of claim 14, further comprising means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to detect a service requesting service module ID (16), included in said sender ID, for a service module (10) sending the service request signal (17).

16. The computer program product of claim 14, further comprising means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to detect a LAN ID (19), included in said sender ID, for a LAN (90) to which a service requesting service module (10) sending the service request signal (17) is connected.

17. The computer program product of claim 15, further comprising means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to retrieve a LAN ID (19), from a database (37), for a LAN (90) to which the service requesting service module (10) is connected.

18. The computer program product of claim 16 or 17, further comprising means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to select as the service receiving service module (10,100), a service module that is capable of receiving said first service type data (33), and that is also connected to said LAN (90).

19. The computer program product of claim 15 or 18, further comprising means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to select said service requesting service module (10) as service receiving service module (10,100), if the service requesting service module (10) is capable of receiving said first service type data (33).

20. The computer program product of claim 13, further comprising means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to retrieve, from a database (41), a service action reference (42) associated with said service code (4,8).

21. The computer program product of claim 20, further comprising means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to select a service action reference, from a plurality of service action references (42) stored in said database, dependent on an action code (18) included in said service code (4).

22. The computer program product of claim 21, further comprising means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to retrieve service action data (44), to which a retrieved service action reference (42) refers, from a database (45).

23. The computer program product of claim 21, further comprising means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to deliver service action data (44) to said service receiving service module (10,100).

24. The computer program product of claim 20, further comprising means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to retrieve, from a database (48), a service provider server address (47), to which a retrieved service action reference (42) refers, and means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to send the retrieved service action reference (42) to said service provider server address (47), for subsequent delivery therefrom of service action data (44), to which service action data said retrieved service action reference (42) refers, to said service receiving service module (10,100).

25. The computer program product of claim 14, further comprising means, recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to log each received service request signal (17) in a log database (51) of said data processing and storage system.

26. The computer program product of claim 25, further comprising means (52), recorded on the recording medium, for directing the data processing and storage system to automatically select the service action reference (42) to which the service code (4,8) is to refer, dependent on logged data for said service code (4,8).

27. A method for managing a network-based service, comprising the steps of:

- receiving, in a network server (30,50), a service request signal (17); - detecting, in said service request signal (17), a service code (4,8) and a sender ID (16,19);

- retrieving, from a database, first service type data (33) associated with said service code (4,8), and second service type data (36) associated with said sender ID (16,19);

- comparing said second service type data (36) with said first service type data (33); - selecting a service receiving service module (10,100) associated with said sender

ID (16,19) as recipient of a service (44) associated said service code (4,8), dependent on said comparison.

28. The method as recited in claim 27, further comprising the step of detecting a service requesting service module ID (16), included in said sender ID, for a service module (10) sending the service request signal (17).

29. The method as recited in claim 27, further comprising the step of detecting a LAN ID (19), included in said sender ID, for a LAN (90) to which a service requesting service module (10) sending the service request signal (17) is connected.

30. The method as recited in claim 28, further comprising the step of retrieving a LAN ID (19), from a database, for a LAN (90) to which the service requesting service module (10) is connected.

31. The method as recited in claim 29 or 30, further comprising the step of selecting as the service receiving service module (10,100), a service module that is capable of receiving said first service type data (33), and that is also connected to said LAN (90).

32. The method as recited in claim 28 or 31 , further comprising the step of selecting said service requesting service module (10) as service receiving service module (10,100), if the service requesting service module (10) is capable of receiving said first service type data (33).

33. The method as recited in claim 27, further comprising the step of retrieving, from a database, a service action reference (42) associated with said service code (4,8).

34. The method as recited in claim 33, further comprising the step of selecting a service action reference, from a plurality of service action references (42) stored in said database, dependent on an action code (18) included in said service code (4).

35. The method as recited in claim 34, further comprising the step of retrieving service action data (44), to which a retrieved service action reference (42) refers, from a database (45).

36. The method as recited in claim 34, further comprising the step of delivering service action data (44) to said service receiving service module

(10,100).

37. The method as recited in claim 33, further comprising the steps of

- retrieving, from a database (48), a service provider server address (47), to which a retrieved service action reference (42) refers;

- sending the retrieved service action reference (42) to said service provider server address (47), for subsequent delivery therefrom of service action data (44), to which said retrieved service action reference (42) refers, to said service receiving service module (10,100).

38. The method as recited in claim 27, further comprising the step of logging each received service request signal (17) in a log database (51).

39. The method as recited in claim 38, further comprising the step of automatically selecting the service action reference (42) to which the service code (4,8) is to refer, dependent on logged data for said service code (4,8).

40. A service management server (30,50), connectable to a communications network (20), which server (30) comprises receiving means (31) for detecting a service code (4,8) in a received service request signal (17), and which server (30) is connected to a database (41,45,63) in which said service code (4) is referred to a service action, said server (30) further being devised to execute said service action in response to reception of said service request signal (17).

41. The service management server as recited in claim 40, wherein said service management server (30) comprises means for retrieving, from a database, service recipient data associated with said service code (4), the server further being devised to execute sending of service action data (44,62) associated with said service action, to a service recipient (10,100) corresponding to said service recipient data.

42. The service management server as recited in claim 41, wherein said server (30) comprises means for detecting a first identity code (16,19), associated with a LAN (90) from which the service request signal (17) originates, included in a received service request signal (17)

43. The service management server as recited in claim 42, wherein said server (30) comprises means for retrieving, from a database, data relating to service request signal sender criterions, and wherein the server (30) is devised to execute said service action dependent on if the combination of said first identity code (16,19) and said service code (4). is deemed to fulfil said criterions for requesting said service.

44. The service management server as recited in claim 41, wherein said server (30) is devised to execute sending of service action data (44,62) associated with said service action, to a plurality of service recipients (10,100) corresponding to said service recipient data.

45. The service management server as recited in claim 44, wherein said server is devised to send different service action data (44,62), associated with the same service action, to different service recipients (10,100).