Abstract: A system providing a user interface to allow a user to easily modify parameters of media presentations such as images and audio. The user selects first and second reference instances, such as images. The images are described by parameters and parameter values. Differences between the images' parameter/value characteristics are identified. The first and second reference images are placed at different points on a display screen. By moving a pointer relative to the positions of the first and second reference images, a current image is generated that is a combination, or function, of the identified parameter/value characteristics. Thus, the user is able to quickly, and intuitively, achieve many desired modifications to the media. A feature of the invention allows image content to be modified in a similar manner. First and second computer model positions, animations, bitmap images, etc., can be used and the same technique employed to create many derivations from the selected reference images.

Abstract: The system provides different ways for users to select an object and an action to be applied to the object in computer applications such as image processing or digital post-production. The user can select an object first and then an action, or vice versa. The user can also use gestural input to designate both an object and action virtually simultaneously. Multiple view, or windows, of an image can be independently sized, zoomed, panned, etc. Any effects performed on the image appear in all of the windows since each window shows (potentially) different portions of the same image content. A navigation window helps a user move within a large image or diagram that does not fit entirely on a single display screen. The navigation window includes an inner box that shows, in miniature, the principal objects in the screen display. A region outside of the screen display is shown in the navigation box, relative to the inner box. Active areas for multiple operations mark in/out points.

Abstract: A system for processing images, or clips, as, for example, in a movie or video post production system. The clips are associated with a flowgraph representation that visually depicts all of the operations used to generate the clips. Correspondence between the image and flowgraph representations is tightly maintained so that the user can conveniently switch between, and work among, the different representations. Efficient user interface mechanisms are provided to work with flowgraph items to construct nodes representing operations. Nodes can be joined in an automated, or assisted, manner. Flowgraphs can be automatically generated according to user inputs in other parts of the system. For example, layered effects can have flowgraphs that are automatically generated. A freehand drawing timing capture tool is provided. All operations that contribute to a single (or more) pixel's value can be listed and selectively activated or deactivated to detect a problem.

Abstract: A system providing a user interface to annotate different items in a media production system such as in a digital non-linear post production system. Parts of the production, such as clips, frames and layers, that have an associated annotation are provided with a visual annotation marker. The annotation marker can use shape, color or animation to convey source, urgency, status or other information. Annotations can be text, freehand drawing, audio, or other. Annotations can be automatically generated. Annotations can be compiled into records, searched and transferred. A state of an application program can be stored and transferred to a remote system. The remote system attempts to recreate the original state of the application program. If the remote system is unable to do so, an image of the state of the application program is obtained, instead. Assignment of control to various functions of an application program is achieved by associating a function (i.e.