Abstract: A process that allows precise control of the tape position in consumer videotape devices, such as camcorders, for the purpose of video editing. The process involves the use of a software algorithm within the central processing unit of a computer to locate a specific video frame with digitized video. The process first involves storing an initial set of calculated scene detection data, including luminance and change of luminance values for each video frame. Then, at the time of the video editing, a second set of scene detection data from the videotape is taken at a reference point, near the location of the desired frame. The second set of scene detection data is compared to the first set of scene detection data to determine whether there is any offset between the expected location of the frame, as shown in the first set of scene detection data, and the actual location of the desired frame, as shown in the second set of scene detection data.

Abstract: A method for compositing a graphic image with a background image to produce translucent effects identifies a key signal for each portion of the graphic image. The key signal is varied according to the amount of translucency desired for the graphics image from completely transparent to completely opaque. When the graphic image is mixed with the background image, the key signal is used to define the ratio of the graphic image to the background image at each part of the graphic image to produce a mixed image output.