Abstract: A system and methods for automatically determining the states of game object possession, including those of free, under contention and in possession, for sporting contests. The system uses the minimum necessary and sufficient data 100, including the predefined tracking layout 110, the current official game time-in versus time-out data 122, the current centroid location of each player matched with their identity data 124 and the current centroid location of the game object data 126 which is then converted deterministically into at least clock states 150, game object movement states 160, and optionally into game object location states 170 and game object heading direction states 180. The system and methods also disclose the further combining of these states 150, 160, 170 and 180 into the determination of the cycle of possession flow 200, including the events of gaming control 210, exchanging control 220 and relinquishing control 230.

Abstract: A jump safety system and method for monitoring a jump landing area is described. The system of examining a landing area associated with the jump includes a camera, a memory, a processor, an image processing module, and a light emitting output. The camera is positioned to generate a camera output that displays the landing area. The landing area has a declining slope angle that reduces a landing force in relation to the slope angle. The image processing module, which is controlled by the processor, determines a landing area clear status by analyzing the camera output and determining the landing area is clear of obstructions. A landing area obstruction status is determined by identifying that there is an obstruction in the landing area. The light emitting output communicates either the landing area clear status or the landing area obstruction status.

Abstract: Real-time segmentation of foreground from background layers in binocular video sequences may be provided by a segmentation process which may be based on one or more factors including likelihoods for stereo-matching, color, and optionally contrast, which may be fused to infer foreground and/or background layers accurately and efficiently. In one example, the stereo image may be segmented into foreground, background, and/or occluded regions using stereo disparities. The stereo-match likelihood may be fused with a contrast sensitive color model that is initialized or learned from training data. Segmentation may then be solved by an optimization algorithm such as dynamic programming or graph cut. In a second example, the stereo-match likelihood may be marginalized over foreground and background hypotheses, and fused with a contrast-sensitive color model that is initialized or learned from training data. Segmentation may then be solved by an optimization algorithm such as a binary graph cut.

Abstract: A device detects the location of patterned objects in an environment by receiving an optical image and converting the optical image of the lost object into a color digital image. The device employs software to perform an analysis of the color digital image to detect the location of the one or more patterned objects in the environment by using color characteristics of light reflected from a pattern on the one or more patterned objects. The software uses a range of the visible portion of the color space uniquely identified for the light reflected from the pattern on the object and identifies those pixels in the digital image that may be possible targets.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and program for computing a path, starting velocity, aim angle, and aim points for directing a putted golf ball from a point on a golf course to another point and incorporating such data into easily read charts or electronic media is provided. The invention also provides a means of determining the initial launch conditions and actual path a putted golf ball traveled on given its starting and ending ball positions.

Abstract: A system of apparatus arranged to display upon request video imagery stored in a video archive, the system comprising: (a) a plurality of cameras able to capture video images; (b) primary video compression means adapted to compress video images received from cameras (a); (c) video archiving programming means arranged to process video signals compressed by the compression means (b); (d) video archiving means arranged to store compressed said video signals; (e) secondary video compression means linked to the archiving means (d) and adapted to compress video imagery obtained from said archiving means (d) into a format selected from a mobile device format, web video format and TV video format; (f) server means adapted to said format and arranged to interrogate said archiving means (d), and capable of communication with (g) a remote mobile device, web browser or TV display controller and with (h) a gateway payment appropriate to said format, and in which archived video images are compressed and relayed to said ser

Abstract: A pipeline architecture for analyzing multiple streams of video is embodied, in part, in a layer of application program interfaces (APIs) to each stage of processing. Buffer queuing is used between some stages, which helps moderate the load on the CPU(s). Through the layer of APIs, innumerable video analysis applications can access and analyze video data flowing through the pipeline, and can annotate portions of the video data (e.g., frames and groups of frames), based on the analyses performed, with information that describes the frame or group. These annotated frames and groups flow through the pipeline to subsequent stages of processing, at which increasingly complex analyses can be performed. At each stage, portions of the video data that are of little or no interest are removed from the video data. Ultimately, “events” are constructed and stored in a database, from which cross-event and historical analyses may be performed and associations with, and among, events may be made.

Abstract: A system and method for camera navigation that provides a player with an unobstructed, non-disorienting view of a target is provided. The system includes a memory for storing a camera navigation/control model, a central processing unit for executing the camera navigation/control model to provide unobstructed and non-disorienting target character views, and a graphics processing unit configured to render the unobstructed views of the target in an image for display. In addition, the camera navigation/control model includes an object detection model, line-of-sight restoration models to restore a line-of-sight view of an obstructed target, and a camera navigation path model. In the method, a collision probe is sent on a straight line path between a camera and a target whereby line-of-sight obstructions are detected if the probe intersects with polygonal sides of an object. A line-of-sight restoration method is used to move the camera to provide an unobstructed view of the target.

Abstract: A system and method for providing content for access by a portable device at an event are provided. The system includes an interface to receive signals from a plurality of sources. The plurality of sources are located at an event and remote from the event. The signals define event content and non-event content. The system further includes a processor for processing the received signals to generate combined signals based upon the received signals from the plurality of sources. The system also includes a transmitter for transmitting to a plurality of portable devices at the event the combined signals. The combined signals are configured to allow a user to select content using the portable device receiving the combined signals.

Abstract: A server fulfills region and time of interest (RTI) requests for images from multiple users. The server includes a receiver for receiving a RTI request from a user, a processor for assembling a compressed image based on the RTI request, and a transmitter for transmitting the compressed image to the user. The processor is configured to extract a first portion of the compressed image from a local storage device. If the first portion is insufficient to fulfill the RTI request, the processor is configured to request a second portion of the compressed image from another server, and combine the first and second portions of the compressed image to fulfill the RTI request from the user. The compressed image includes an image compressed by a JPEG 2000 compressor.

Abstract: A video and data capturing system and method includes a mobile unit having an image sensor and motion sensing equipment connected to a microprocessor. The mobile unit is installed in an object for detecting visual images and motion data associated with the object. The mobile unit communicates with a base unit capable of analyzing the image and motion data and correcting the image data so it is level with the horizon. A foot unit may be used in conjunction with the mobile unit for detection of an athlete's foot acceleration for determining when the athlete's foot comes in contact with the ground. A field unit may be used in conjunction with the mobile unit and foot unit to determine the location of the foot unit on a playing surface to assist in determining whether an athlete is in or out of bounds, or their location on the playing surface.

Abstract: An electronic camera includes an imaging device. The imaging device has an imaging surface on which an object scene is captured and repeatedly outputs an object scene image. To the object scene, a plurality of evaluation groups are allocated. Moreover, each of the plurality of evaluation groups is formed by a plurality of evaluation areas. A CPU calculates an evaluation coefficient representing a motion of an object in each of the plurality of evaluation areas, based on the object scene image outputted from the imaging device. The CPU also specifies one of more evaluation groups to which an evaluation area corresponding to an evaluation coefficient exceeding a reference value belongs, and compares a pattern of the specified evaluation groups with a plurality of predetermined patterns. An imaging parameter is adjusted based on a comparison result.

Abstract: A system and method autonomously and precisely track objects moving along a known course. The objects include, for example, racing horses, other racing animals, or racing vehicles. The system and method utilize modern satellite navigation satellite systems, signal processing, radio communications systems and computer processing to acquire and analyze performance data of the moving objects during competitions and during training and practice. The data acquisition is performed continuously at a rate of at least 1 Hz during the competition, training or practice even in the presence of objects which affect the quality of the signals received from the satellite system.

Abstract: A method of generating an event log of game events associated with elements in a sporting event. The method includes tracking, within a sequence of video images, image features which correspond to respective elements in the sporting event and selecting, from the tracked image features, a first image feature which corresponds to one of the elements so as to designate that element as a selected element. The method further includes selecting a game event from an event list of possible game events for association with the selected element, and associating the selected game event with the selected element so as to generate the event log.

Abstract: Position information of equipment at an event, such as a ball, one or more players, or other items in a game or sporting event, is used in selecting camera, camera shot type, camera angle, audio signals, and/or other output data for providing a multimedia presentation of the event to a viewer. The position information is used to determine the desired viewer perspective. A network of feedback robotically controlled Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ), manually controlled cameras and stationary cameras work together with interpolation techniques to create a 2D video signal. The position information may also be used to access gaming rules and assist officiating of the event. The position information may be obtained through a transceiver(s), accelerometer(s), transponder(s), and/or RADAR detectable element(s) fitted into the ball, apparel or equipment of players, the players themselves, or other playing equipment associated with the game or sporting event.

Abstract: A system for video detection and enhancement of a sport object during a sport contest. The system includes the sport object configured to phosphoresce at a selected non-visible frequency; a video collection and separation apparatus configured to detect visible light from a scene that includes the sport object and to detect phosphorescence radiation emitted by the sport object at the selected non-visible frequency, configured to separate the detected visible light from the detected phosphorescence radiation, and configured to create a visible light signal from the detected visible light and to create a phosphorescent signal from the detected phosphorescence radiation; an enhancement module configured to receive and to enhance the phosphorescent signal, and a merge module configured to receive and to recombine a resulting enhanced-phosphorescent signal and the visible light signal into a recombined signal.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and systems for monitoring a venue. The system may comprise a central console operatively connected to, and configured to receive information from, a plurality of elements for monitoring a venue.

Abstract: A system for automatically capturing an event of interest in a venue is disclosed, comprising a plurality of cameras for capturing video images of the event; and at least one processor communicatively connected to said plurality of cameras and con figured to execute a plurality of modules, said modules comprising a rectification module for combining the video images to form a wide-angle view; at least one of a motion analysis module configured for tracking salient blobs that are not part of a background of the wide-angle view, an activity analysis module configured for extracting temporal and spatial patterns from the wide-angle view, and a shape and appearance module configured for selecting one or more objects in the wide-angle view based on descriptors that are scale and rotational invariant; and a region of interest selector for selecting a viewpoint from the wide-angle view based on output from at least one of the motion analysis module, the activity analysis module, and the shape and appearance module,

Abstract: There are described herein systems and methods for producing and distributing personalized photographic souvenirs for spectators of an event. Equipment well-known in the art is used to take photographs of performers at the event, and to scan images or take photos of items representative of the event, for example a ticket stub, advertisement, or team names and logos. In addition, at least one pan-and-tilt camera system, also well-known in the art, is used to take an orderly, indexed series of photos of the spectators such that substantially every spectator will appear in at least one spectator photo. The spectator photos are indexed according to a predetermined mapping algorithm, which maps a particular location of the venue to a virtual sector. Individual souvenirs are then created at the venue in a centralized processing location, by organizing and combining a spectator photo with the other photos and/or scanned images.

Abstract: An interactive media and game system creates a live event simulation that enables users to participate in a live event through a virtual participant controlled by the user. A game server receives user input controlling a position of a virtual participant in said live event, determines a position and orientation of the virtual participant based on said user input, and creates a simulated view of the event from the perspective of the virtual participant. To create the simulated view, the game server selects a video source from among a plurality of video sources based on the position of the virtual participant, determines a position and orientation of the selected video source, and transforms a video image supplied by the selected video source based on the position and orientation of the selected video source relative to the virtual participant. Transforming may entail interpolating between two or more video images from two of more different video sources.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automated camera control system (10). The automated camera control system (10) is a control management system for television broadcasting at a track based event, such as horse or motor racing. The automated camera control system (10) allows a single operator (54) to simultaneously control a plurality of cameras (16). The automated camera control system (10) improves the compositional quality of the footage. The operator (54) can simultaneously perform all the functions of a director including vision switching and camera setting for the outgoing television broadcast (86).

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for a unique camera experience, wherein the camera is placed in an in-ground position permitting recording or broadcast of a camera perspective that is along the surface of or above the surface of the ground. In an exemplary embodiment, the in-ground camera comprises high definition camera components utilizing a prism along the optical path. In another exemplary embodiment, the camera package is rotatable within its enclosure to effect adjustment of the image horizon. In another exemplary embodiment, the camera package includes an adjustable iris to effect adjustment of the exposure of the image.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for a unique camera experience, wherein the camera is placed in an in-ground position permitting recording or broadcast of a camera perspective that is along the surface of or above the surface of the ground. In an exemplary embodiment, the in-ground camera is secured within the surface of a racetrack.

Abstract: A telepresence server is for connection to a telecommunications network for providing access to a reality engine for a plurality of passive users. The reality engine can be controlled by an active user or a professional director through the network or by a local professional director. Active/passive mode displays can be used by the passive users in a passive mode and an active/passive mode display can be used by the active user in an active mode.

Abstract: An athletic training system (200) has a data recording system (202) and a data engine (204). The data recording system (202) is configured to record an athletic competition event. The event may have a first team of players competing against a second team of players. The data engine (204) is configured to receive data associated with the recorded athletic competition event. The data engine (204) processes the data and displays the data as a replay of the event in animated form.

Abstract: A system and method detects the intent and/or motivation of two or more persons or other animate objects in a video scene. In one embodiment, the system forms a blob of the two or more persons, draws a bounding box around said blob, calculates an entropy value for said blob, and compares that entropy value to a threshold to determine if the two or more persons are involved in a fight or other altercation.

Abstract: In one aspect, lines in image data of an event are automatically found and repaired. For example, the event may be a sporting event which is played on a field, and the line segment is a field line on the field which may be obscured by a player, game ball or other object. The line segment is automatically detected in a mask image, and a portion of the line segment which is occluded by the object is automatically determined, and the object is automatically removed. The line segment can also be repaired. Optionally, a virtual viewpoint of the event is provided from the image, with the line repaired and the object removed. In another aspect, an object in an image of an event is automatically located by detecting blobs in the image which meet at least one specified criterion, such as size, aspect ratio, density or color profile.

Abstract: System and method for graphically displaying a coin toss using sensors to detect the physical movement of a coin or instrumented coin, communication of sensor-derived data to remote graphical display system, display of a virtual coin that represents movement and orientation of the tossed coin. May utilize a sensor system, communication system and display system. Sensor system and part of a wireless communication system may be embedded in a coin shaped housing or may be external to coin. Display system and part of wireless communication system may include a remote or repeater station. Graphical coin movement and orientation may mimic the actual coin being tossed or may be represented as any avatar or other graphical object that represents the coin including celebrity pictures, videos, faces, logos or any other object that may represent a “head” or “tail”. May generate a random number that allows viewers to win a prize.

Abstract: A method of tracking objects on a plane within video images of the objects captured by a video camera. The method includes processing the captured video images so as to extract one or more image features from each object, detecting each of the objects from a relative position of the objects on the plane as viewed from the captured video images by comparing the one or more extracted image features associated with each object with sample image features from a predetermined set of possible example objects which the captured video images may contain; and generating object identification data for each object, from the comparing, which identifies the respective object on the plane. The method further includes generating a three dimensional model of the plane and logging, for each detected object, the object identification data for each object which identifies the respective object on the plane together with object path data.

Abstract: A system 1000, and its alternates 1002 through 1022, for automatically tracking and videoing the movements of multiple participants and objects during an event. System 1000 and its alternates comprise a scalable area tracking matrix of overhead tracking cameras 120c, whose individual field-of-views 120v combine to form a contiguous view 504m of the performance area where the event is being held. As participants 110, and all other necessary objects such as 103 (e.g. a puck in ice-hockey) and 104 (e.g. a stick in ice-hockey) move about during the event, computer 160 analyzes the images from contiguous view 504m to create a real-time tracking database at least including participant and object centroid locations respective to the performance area, and preferably including their identities matched to these ongoing locations.

Abstract: A representation of an object in an image of a live event is obtained by determining a color profile of the object. The color profile may be determined from the image in real time and compared to stored color profiles to determine a best match. For example, the color profile of the representation of the object can be obtained by classifying color data of the representation of the object into different bins of a color space, in a histogram of color data. The stored color profiles may be indexed to object identifiers, object viewpoints, or object orientations. Color data which is common to different objects or to a background color may be excluded. Further, a template can be used as an additional aid in identifying the representation of the object. The template can include, e.g., a model of the object or pixel data of the object from a prior image.

Abstract: Multiple visual perspectives in video of private and public activities including those in public areas such as entertainment venues captured by cameras located near the activities can be transmitted over data networks to a server where video-related data is processed and recorded for selective display by authorized, remote video display devices (e.g., HDTV, set-top boxes, computers, handheld devices) in wired/wireless communication with the server. Users can be registered and authorized to access the server to provide/access video captured by cameras at activities. Wireless handheld devices can selectively retrieve video-related data captured at activities for server storage and subsequent display by video display devices. Captured video/pictures can be organized in a server based on at least one of: activity title, activity time, activity date, activity place, wireless handheld device location at time of video recording, distance from location of interest.

Abstract: A baseball game spectating method is composed of input means (score maker system) such as a mobile terminal capable of electronically inputting states of a baseball game successively, the step of successively inputting motions of players and the other information using the input terminal and transmitting their real-time data, filming means for filming the states of the baseball game, the step of encoding and transmitting the states of the baseball game, means for digitizing the input data and recorded image and sound data, a recording medium such as a data server for storing the digitized real-time data therein, a recording medium such as an image server for storing the digitized image therein, a recording medium such as a sound server for storing the digitized sounds therein, a mobile net system such as PDC or/and PHS and gateway and internet for converting protocol, and a mobile terminal such as a cellular phone with high function and high performance.

Abstract: A handheld device in an audio and video system including a system for receiving and processing video and/or audio signals, a system for displaying a virtual image to a user, and a system for producing sounds audible to a user. The handheld device also incorporates a shroud to block ambient light when the handheld unit is engaged with the user's face. As a result, the user may hear sounds produced from the received audio signals. Further the user may see the virtual images produced from the received video signals when the handheld device is engaged with the users face.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an interactive digital system enabling viewers full and active participation in experiencing a live broadcast event. Particularly, the presentation of the live event is personalized for the viewer through the provision of various options, including multiple video streams, associated with different c125 amera angles, for example, and integrated audio and graphics segments. Further, information obtained from related Web sites can be integrated into the live program. Various video and audio streams are collected from a live event and forwarded to a central control studio. Graphics are created at the central studio on a personal computer or chyron device. After receiving the video, audio and graphics signals, the signals are digitized and compressed in digital compressors. These signals are then combined with special data codes into a “digital package,” and subsequently, transmitted over a cable distribution system.

Abstract: An image information processing apparatus which uses more than one wireless IC tag to detect the information concerning a present position of a target object to be shot and which senses an image of the object based on the position information is disclosed. This apparatus is operative in corporation with the wireless tag to display on a monitor screen the information as to the object position and output it in an audible form. Additionally, in the case of more than two target objects being present, the apparatus manages the priority orders thereof.

Abstract: A spectator sport system and method that displays different views of a sporting event and, in particular, uses a position selected by the spectator to assist in displaying a view from the selected position. The spectator, using an internet device, can zoom, pan, tilt and change the view, as well as change the view to another position, such as a finish line, goal, or a participant position (e.g. Driver of car #3 or Tiger Wood's position). The starting position can be specified, as well as the target position or orientation from the starting position. Vital information on the sporting event or a participant can be appended to the view. In some forms, augmented reality or any geographic referenced datasets can be used and combined, such as 3D imagery or 3D renderings, to enhance the experience.

Abstract: Non-intrusive peripheral systems and methods to track, identify various acting entities and capture the full motion of these entities in a sports event. The entities preferably include players belonging to teams. The motion capture of more than one player is implemented in real-time with image processing methods. Captured player body organ or joints location data can be used to generate a three-dimensional display of the real sporting event using computer games graphics.

Abstract: Systems and apparatuses for displaying a participant perspective on a monitor are disclosed. A mosaic video channel in accordance with the present invention has a plurality of individual video feeds, and comprises a plurality of video cells presenting at least video information, each video cell associated with one of the plurality of individual video feeds, a cursor, which can be moved between the plurality of video cells, for selecting at least one characteristic associated with a selected video cell, and a receiver, coupled to the monitor and receiving the mosaic video channel, wherein at least one of the individual video feeds being a video feed that is taken from a perspective of a participant in an event.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method, system, and program product includes a movement processing system for capturing a first three-dimensional movement of a user and capturing at least another three-dimensional movement of the user, wherein the three-dimensional movement is determined using at the at least one image capture device aimed at the body of the user. A projected movement system predicts a movement baseline based on the first three-dimensional movement of the user and predicts at least one subsequent movement range based on the at least another three-dimensional movement of the user. Based on a comparison of the movement baseline with the at least one subsequent movement, the projected movement systems predicts a projected movement of a user for tracking changes in a range of body movement of a user.

Abstract: According to one embodiment of the invention, a method of correlating objects in an event with a camera comprises determining at least a two-dimensional temporal location of an object. A statistical analysis based upon the at least a two-dimensional temporal location of the object is conducted, yielding semantics of the location of the object in relation to the event. A two-dimensional temporal spatial view of a camera is determined and when the semantics represent an item of interest, at least a portion of the at least a two-dimensional temporal spatial view of the camera is correlated with the at least a two-dimensional temporal location of the object to capture the item of interest.

Abstract: A real time video image of a person performing a physical activity is provided to the person performing the activity without interfering with their ability to perform the activity or the location where the activity is performed.

Abstract: A system for delivering to a wireless subscriber terminal multimedia content related to a spectator event comprises an event application server, a wireless network coupled to the event application server and a wireless subscriber terminal that interacts with the network. The event application server acquires, converts, and manages content related to a spectator event. The event application server (or its adjunct) also manages preferences and priorities established by subscribers for event-related content. When such content is available, the event application server reconciles available content with subscriber preferences and priorities to determine an optimal set of content to be delivered to the subscriber terminal, and requests that the wireless network establish a connection to the subscriber terminal for such content. Multiple streams of content, of various types of media, may be delivered simultaneously to the subscriber terminal.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a launch monitor system that measures flight characteristics of an object moving in a predetermined field-of-view. The system includes a support structure, a lighting unit, a camera unit disposed on the support structure, and a calibration assembly. The calibration assembly includes a calibration fixture and at least one telescoping member. A first end of the telescoping member is coupled to the support structure and a second end is contactable with or coupled to the fixture. In an extended position of the telescoping member, the calibration fixture is in the field-of-view of the camera unit. In a retracted position, the calibration fixture out of the field-of-view. The calibration fixture further includes contrasting markings. In another embodiment, the system includes a frame and the launch monitor is pivotally suspended from the frame so that it self-levels. The present invention further includes a method of calibrating a launch monitor having a calibration fixture.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and a method for graphically enhancing the visibility of an object/person on a video image used in broadcasting a sport event. For broadcasting the sport event, one or a plurality of video camera acquire video images of the event. The object/person of which the trajectory is of relative importance in the sport game is generally in the field of view of the video camera but may or may not be visible on the images. When the object/person travels, a monitoring module passively tracks the object/person and measures the 3D position of the object/person. As the event is being broadcast, a graphical representation of the object or of its trajectory is depicted on the image to enhance the visibility of the object/person on the broadcast image.

Abstract: The invention illustrates a system and method of processing an instrumentation data stream comprising: a sensor for generating an instrumentation data stream; a data collector configured for receiving the instrumentation data stream; and a normalization module configured for formatting portions of the instrumentation data stream into a common standard.

Abstract: An input device including a main device composed of a coordinate input device, an operating surface having input portions displayed thereon, and a switch device having switches connected in parallel, and a control device which selects one of a first mode in which an item signal is generated in accordance with an indication item at an input portion when the input portion is operated, and a second mode in which a position signal corresponding to an operating position on the operating surface is generated independently of the indication item at the input portion. The item signal is generated on the basis of an absolute coordinate signal output from the coordinate input device and a switch signal output from the switch device in the first mode, and the position signal is generated on the basis of a relative coordinate signal output from the coordinate input device in the second mode.

Abstract: A monitoring device, process and system use an image recording device for recording an image falling on the eyes of the user of the device. The monitoring device includes a display and a signal processor with which at least the image signals recorded by the image recording device can be evaluated. An input medium and a storage medium are used for storing and retrieving information about the topology of the building. An instantaneous position of the user of the device is determined by evaluating the image signals sent by the image recording device by pattern recognition.

Abstract: An imaging system and method which enables viewers and/or attendees of entertainment events, such as athletic events or concerts, to order and obtain photographic products that are associated with the event. The system and method offers attendees at the entertainment event a choice of imaging services, such as a photographic product or photopackage, that includes images of the participants at the entertainment event, as well as images of the attendee and his/her family or friends at the event, preferably at their seats, and preferably while enjoying the event.

Abstract: Summarization of video content including football.