Abstract: A system and method for ITV data automation. A broadcast traffic and scheduling system generates a schedule of television programs to be broadcast in a day. A broadcast automation system translates the schedule of programs into an automation playlist. The playlist may also include the ITV events to be encoded into the broadcast program. The automation playlist is provided to an ITV automation unit which encodes ITV data associated with the ITV events into the broadcast signal in accordance with the playlist. Alternatively, the ITV automation unit may receive the ITV events/data directly from the broadcast traffic and scheduling system, independently of the automation playlist. In this manner, the ITV events need not be tied to the playlist of television programs, allowing the insertion of ITV events to be more flexible and dynamic.

Abstract: A strap device for retaining in coiled condition of a coiled length of slender flexible material, such as an electrical extension cord, and for hanging it for storage, comprises a length of flexible strap material attached to a buckle formed to receive opposite end portions of the strap such that a relatively large loop can be provided by one of the end portions of the strap to encircle the coiled length and a relatively small loop can be provided at a doubled back-on-itself part of the other of the end portions of the strap to receive and retain an end portion of the coiled length, a cinch slide member being variously provided for closing the loop tightly about such received end portion of the coiled length, and a suspension-hook-receiving member being provided in preferably the end portion of the strap that provides the relatively small loop.