Abstract: A client on a packet based network is provided with a stream of encoded video data. The system is maximizes the bit-rate of the video stream by adapting to fluctuations in network capacity. Adaptation of the bit-rate of the transmitted enclosed video data is timed to occur upon a scene change in the video sequence. In this way the interruption to the viewer when the perceived quality of the video sequence increases or decreases is minimized as it is ‘hidden’ in the scene change. The technique may be applied to hierarchically encoded video data and to other encoding technique which adapt to network conditions.

Abstract: Real-time data (e.g. video) is streamed over packet networks (e.g. the Internet). Streamed video is provided without the start-up delay by transmitting data from a video streamer to the video viewer more rapidly than the video viewer consumes the data and using the excess data to build a buffer at the video viewer. When a suitable sized buffer is built the transmission rate of data to the buffer may be reduced. In order to deliver the best quality material for the available bandwidth, the supply of video data may be switched to a higher bit-rate source when the reservoir is filled. Fluctuations in network throughput may be accommodated during the transmission of data on a fine scale by adjusting the transmission rate of the data and on a coarse scale by switching between data streams encoded at different bit-rates.

Abstract: An encoded video signal is to be processed so that the resulting display at a decoder is of shorter (or, as desired, longer) than envisaged at the time of encoding. The video signal contains one or more a timing parameters that, at a decoder, are to be determinative of the frame rate at which the signal is decoded. The method comprises buffering the incoming video signal, computing from the timing parameter(s) and the specified compression (or expansion) at least one modified parameter, and outputting the video signal with the modified timing parameter(s) in place of the received timing parameter. The parameters may include a parameter specifying a frame rate, at least one timestamp specifying a time at which a frame is to be decoded, and/or at least one timestamp specifying a time at which a frame is to be decoded.

Abstract: A technique is described for providing a client on a packet based network with a stream of encoded video data. The system is able to maximise the bit-rate of the video stream by adapting to fluctuations in network capacity. The technique is characterised in that adaptation of the bit-rate of the transmitted encoded video data is timed to occur upon a scene change in the video sequence. In this way the interruption to the viewer when the perceived quality of the video sequence increases or decreases is minimised as it is ‘hidden’ in the scene change. The technique is described as applied to hierarchically encoded video data but equally may be applied to other encoding techniques which adapt to network conditions.

Abstract: The invention concerns streaming real-time data (e.g. video) over packet networks (e.g. the Internet). Conventionally, in packet networks, in order to view streamed video data a reservoir of data is built up to reduce the effect of jitter, caused by variations in the inter-arrival times of packets of data. Consequently, a delay is experienced before the video material can be viewed as the reservoir is filled. The invention is concerned with providing streamed video without the start-up delay by transmitting data from a video streamer to the video viewer more rapidly than the video viewer consumes the data and using the excess data to build a buffer at the video viewer. When a suitable sized buffer is built the transmission rate of data to the buffer may be reduced. In order to deliver the best quality material for the available bandwidth, the supply of video data may be switched to a higher bit-rate source when the reservoir is filled.

Abstract: In a communications network, under conditions of congestion, a congestion field is set by a router in a packet conforming to a connectionless transport protocol. Control packets are transmitted back to the data sender from the data receiver to provide a return channel for the congestion notification.

Abstract: A picture hanger formed of a thin flat sheet of material of uniform thickness having integral means for supporting the wire which is secured to the picture. The sheet has support means spaced from each other formed of portions bent out an an angle from the planar surface of the sheet, these portions serving as wire support means and permitting adjustable positioning of the picture. The sheet also has outwardly bent portions with holes for mounting the hanger to a wall, as well as holes in the flat portion through which nails may be driven into the wall to mount the hanger, or other types of fasteners may be used to install the hanger.

Abstract: A lightweight infant stroller is provided for carrying an infant while walking or while walking, running or jogging at a faster than walking pace. The stroller includes three large diameter wheels arranged in a tricycle configuration, a lightweight foldable frame to which the wheels are attached and an infant holder made from a flexible material supported by the frame. The frame includes pivotally connected upper portion and a lower portions, whereby the portions may be folded against one another so the stroller occupies a minimum space during transport or storage. The rear wheels are removably attached to the frame; they may be removed completely for storage and, for use, the distance between the rear wheels may be selectively varied to enhance stability.

Abstract: A tool used for removal and installation of a fluid coupling retaining pin. The tool consists of long, narrow handle terminating in a body having a flat upper surface and an arcuately curved lower surface, one end of the upper surface being notched to fit under the loop of the retaining pin. The curved lower surface fits against the coupling, acting as a fulcrum for pulling the pin out of its groove. The tool also has sufficient mass so that it may be used to drive the pin into its groove as well.

Abstract: A traction device which is adapted to be mounted on a tire is provided which comprises at least one ribbed strap. The strap is mounted with the ribs facing outwardly, and provides greater traction in snow.

Abstract: An endless power transmission belt having a compression section, a load-carrying section and a tension section, comprising a plurality of layers of rubber-impregnated fabric having transverse corrugations molded therein to provide a belt having increased transverse rigidity.

Abstract: A method of curing a polymeric hose are provided wherein a hose to be cured is confined within a tubular preformed spiral confining wall of a mold structure to thereby provide optimum support for the exterior surface of such hose during curing which assures provision of a precision outside surface yet enables curing of a substantial length of hose in a comparatively compact volume.

Abstract: An endless power transmission belt having a compression section, a load-carrying section and a tension section comprising a plurality of transverse corrugations molded therein to provide a cool running belt.