Abstract: A computing device is configured to provide over a network an ability to create variable data custom multi-media files. In one example, a computing device imports a data file including an array of output files over a network. The computing device provides a user interface for a requesting computing device to manipulate a video template with layers are associated with display of an output during. The computing device receives a request to assign columns from the array to layers of the timeline. The computing device processes the data file and the requests to render variable data custom multi-media files, and makes them available to the requesting computer device. The variable data custom multi-media files display output over the time periods associated with the timeline layers that is based on the assigned array of output files.

Abstract: A computing device is configured to provide over a network an ability to create a 2.5D full motion custom multi-media file. In one example, a computing device makes available to a user a plurality of stored video templates into which a user may insert custom video, photos, and/or text. The computing device provides a low resolution preview of the custom video to the user over the network connection. The user then has the ability to edit the custom video prior to finalization. The computing device receives signals indicating purchase or licensing credentials and in response to receiving such credentials, finalizes and delivers a 2.5D video for the user. So configured, a user can relatively cheaply and quickly create video content such as an advertisement having modern visual features such as 2.5D video in a cost efficient and timely manner.

Abstract: A computing device is configured to provide over a network an ability to create a 2.5D full motion custom multi-media file. In one example, a computing device makes available to a user a plurality of stored video templates into which a user may insert custom video, photos, and/or text. The computing device provides a low resolution preview of the custom video to the user over the network connection. The user then has the ability to edit the custom video prior to finalization. The computing device receives signals indicating purchase or licensing credentials and in response to receiving such credentials, finalizes and delivers a 2.5D video for the user. So configured, a user can relatively cheaply and quickly create video content such as an advertisement having modern visual features such as 2.5D video in a cost efficient and timely manner.

Abstract: A media managing system and method for controlling and distributing media output at a plurality of output devices includes at least one interface configured to provide to a user a visual graphical menu of a plurality of options to associate signals from media source(s) with the plurality of media output devices and effect signals to the media output devices. A computing device communicates with the interface(s) and the output devices and/or the media source to associate signals from the media source(s) with the plurality of output devices. The visual graphical menu provides a visual graphical display of the media source(s) and at least some of the output devices available for association to permit the user to select and associate the at least one media source with one or more of the plurality of media devices and distribute audio and/or video signals to user selected output devices.

Abstract: Methods and arrangements for signal substitution by set-top-boxes in response to event triggers conveyed by channels outside standard audio/video streams.

Abstract: A passive data monitor and collection apparatus, and associated method, for obtaining market research data from an automated checkout system of a retail establishment. The apparatus positively monitors all the communications on a communications network between a plurality of point-of-sale terminals in a store and the store controller controlling the terminals. The store communications are converted from a phase encoded protocol into a standard RS 232 protocol which is then assembled into SDLC frames by a processor. The SDLC frames are separated on the basis of a control field format before being parsed by terminal addresses to form separate transactions on a list. The transaction list is produced by a real time monitor routine which builds the list from the asynchronous frames received from each of the store loops.

Abstract: A shopping cart display system includes a cart mounted display that is responsive to unique trigger signals provided by respective transmitters associated with respective fixed locations. When the display receives a unique trigger signal, it displays advertising associated with the respective location. In one embodiment, the display includes a sensor for determining whether the information is displayed in the presence of a customer, and a memory for storing all trigger signals received during a given shopping trip. The stored data are transmitted to a polling transceiver located at a point of sale register for later analysis. Provision is made for the customer to request and receive information, such as deli numbers.

Abstract: A shopping cart display system is provided to present product advertisements to consumers who do not have this information. This shopping cart display system includes a cart mounted display that is responsive to unique trigger signals provided by respective transmitters associated with respective fixed locations. When the display receives a unique trigger signal, it displays advertising associated with the respective location. In one embodiment, the display includes a sensor determining whether the information is displayed in the presence of a customer, and a memory for storing all signals received during a given shopping trip and the times that those trigger signals were received. The stored trigger signals may then be used to analyze the path of the shopping cart. The stored data are transmitted to a polling transceiver located at a point of sale register for later analysis. Provision is made for the customer to request and receive information, such as deli numbers.

Abstract: A shopping cart display system includes a cart mounted display that is responsive to trigger signals provided by transmitters associated with a particular location. When the display receives a unique trigger signal, it displays advertising media associated with that location. In one embodiment, the display includes a sensor for determining whether the information is displayed in the presence of a consumer, and a memory for storing all trigger signals received during a given shopping trip. The stored data is transmitted to a polling transceiver located at a point of sale register for later analysis.

Abstract: A panelist response scanning system includes a plurality of product scanning units for location at respective stores, a targetable television system, a plurality of panelist identification means for identifying respective panelists, and a central processor for coupling to said product scanning units. The targetable television system head end transmits normal and substitute television program signals and signal substitution control signals to a plurality of panelist receiving stations. The control signals include panelist address signals corresponding to respective panelist identification means. Each panelist receiving station selectively substitutes substitute program signals in lieu of normal television program signals upon receipt of a respective panelist address signal. The product scanning units receive panelist identification from a purchaser of products from the respective store and receive product identification corresponding to such products and produce signals indicating the panelist and the product.