Abstract: A scalable architecture MPEG2 compliant digital video encoder system having an I-frame video encoder module with a Discrete Cosine Transform processor, a quantization unit, a variable length encoder, a FIFO buffer, and a compressed store interface, for generating an I-frame containing bitstream. The system also includes a second processor element with a reference memory interface, motion estimation and compensation capability, inverse quantization, and inverse discrete cosine transformation, and motion compensation means; and at least one third processor element for motion estimation. According to the invention, the difference data between the current macroblock and the reference macroblock is stored, which may be of different formats, is storted in memory in a common format by blocking bits in an address counter of the memory.

Abstract: A method of Discrete Cosine Transform compression of a digital video image. In the method the Field Variance and Frame Variance are calculated. When the Field Variance is less than the Frame Variance, Field Discrete Cosine Transform type compression is performed. Alternatively, when the Frame Variance is less than the Field Variance, then a Frame Discrete Cosine Transform compression is performed.

Abstract: A platform assembly is provided for use in combination with a vehicle including a vehicle seat having a seat bottom, seat back, and a head rest. The platform assembly is supported by the seat to carry articles for ready access by an occupant of the vehicle. The platform assembly includes a platform defining a flat slip-resistant surface area for supporting articles thereon, and for preventing substantial shifting of the articles while the vehicle is in motion. An adjustable attachment strap is secured to a back end of the platform, and extends upwardly from the platform adjacent to the seat back for removable attachment to the headrest. The attachment strap permits leveling adjustment of the platform, and unobstructed access by the vehicle occupant to the articles supported on the platform.

Abstract: A synchronous optical transmission system for interfacing SONET formatted channels to lower speed channels in either a SONET format or otherwise. The transmission system incorporates a fiber transmission system, terminal multiplexers and add/drop multiplexers that in turn incorporate a plurality of features, such as parallel scrambling circuitry, frame synchronization circuitry and the like.

Abstract: A centrifugal pump having a two member casing in which a first member with a circular peripheral inner wall incorporates a discharge branch and the other member is shaped in such a way as to determine the shape of the volute of the pump when the two members are brought together. The first casing member has a flange extending transversely from the peripheral wall. The second casing has a flat surface for abutment against the flange to seal the two members. The second casing member has a centrally raised section in which the radius of the section varies circumferentially so that the flow area of the volute of the pump varies circumferentially within the pump.

Abstract: A piston rotor and a chamber partitioning rotor are continuously rotated unidirectionally about fixed rotational axes intersecting at an acute angle within a spherical chamber enclosed by a housing. Simultaneous rotation of the rotors and relative angular movement therebetween occurs because of a pivotal joint interconnecting such rotors at the intersection of the rotational axes coinciding with the geometric center of the spherical chamber. Pressure cavities formed between the rotors within the spherical chamber are volumetrically varied in response to the relative movement of the rotors. For internal combustion engine operation, port controlling dome segments within the chamber are rotated at a reduction drive ratio to the chamber partitioning rotor through planetary gearing.