Abstract: In an image processing apparatus, an image processor includes: a matrix switcher, wherein intersecting input and output lines are connected by crosspoint switches; a signal processing block connected to output lines on the upstream side, and input lines on the downstream side by reentry paths; and an output block connected to output lines on the upstream side. An external reentry settings unit sets a first and second port of the matrix switcher as external reentry output ports, the first port being a matrix switcher output port, and the second port being a matrix switcher input port. A reentry stage information generator generates reentry stage information, which indicates the stage of the internal signal processing path where a special function unit is logically positioned, and wherein the special function unit corresponds to the external reentry output ports of the signal processing block and the output block.

Abstract: An audio video system comprises a video production studio generating a video signal. A studio receives the video signal from the production studio for broadcast propagation, and the receiving studio generates voice control messages for coupling to the video production studio. A remote control panel is coupled via a network to control equipment within the video production studio and to control the voice control messages received by the video production studio from the receiving studio. The video production studio, the studio receiving and the remote control panel each have different geographic locations. The remote control panel is a graphic user interface displayed on a personal computer and generated responsive to an applet received from the equipment within the video production studio.

Abstract: A mobile studio for producing video and audio content includes a vehicle having a body mounted on a chassis. The body includes a studio chamber enclosure formed by a floor, a ceiling, spaced opposite outer side walls and spaced outer front and rear walls, and the floor includes a stage area. The mobile studio further includes at least one LED lighting assembly located in the studio chamber enclosure that is suitable for providing sufficient illumination for image capture such that a captured image is suitable for projection as a Pepper's Ghost image, at least one camera to capture an image of a subject on the stage area and generate the captured image, and a communications device to transmit the captured image.

Abstract: A system and method for determining a pixel characteristic of pixels in interpolated frames. Preceding and successive frames are evaluated to determine if there is a frame-wide change occurring to the pixels. To the extent there is a frame-wide change, the pixel characteristic in interpolated frames is accommodated by the frame-wide change. In one implementation, frame-wide changes in luminance, such as fade in and fade out, are detected and the pixel characteristic of pixels in the interpolated frame is determined based at least in part on fallback techniques rather than motion compensation interpolation.

Abstract: An Internet Protocol (IP) camera management system and method determines a MAC address of an IP camera corresponding to a communication channel, searches an IP address of the IP camera through the determined MAC address of the IP camera, then establishes connection between the IP camera management system and the IP camera through the searched IP address. Furthermore, video image data are acquired from the IP camera through the communication channel and are displayed on a display interface.

Abstract: A system comprising a network control room accessible by at least one control room operator via input-output equipment, for generating at least one audiovisual data stream for reception by at least one internet enabled viewing device over a network.

Abstract: A histogram has ranges, a value for each range, and a time value. A pattern is generated, having a zero value for each range having a zero value, and a one value for each range having a non-zero value. Any non-zero values of the ranges are compressed into a compressed value. The pattern and the time value match or do not match any given entry of a pattern table having a number of entries, each of which has an index value, a time range, and a pattern. Where the pattern and the time value do not match any given entry of the pattern table, a new entry is added to the pattern table, and is considered the given entry. An entry is then added to a histogram table. This entry has the time value, the index value of the given entry of the pattern table, and the compressed value.

Abstract: Techniques used for movie, video, or television production, including: generating production information about recorded data of one of: (1) audio sequence; (2) video sequence; and (3) audio and video sequences; tagging the generated production information with timing information; displaying the generated production information on a display; recording the tagged production information, wherein a clapstick of a slate is used to initiate the recording automatically; and associating the tagged production information with corresponding recorded data.

Abstract: A method to conduct a broadcast interview by producing in an area of restricted size in a realistic manner while minimizing perspective distortion and subject distortion a recording of an individual that produces the illusion that the individual is located in a larger area.

Abstract: A portable data storage device compatible with both standard and high definition digital video cameras is provided. The device includes at least one SDI I/O, and preferably at least one audio I/O and preferably at least one medium speed I/O interface. A device controller takes the high speed serial data, packetizes it, and then sends it out to a plurality of memory modules. Preferably each memory module includes four NAND clusters, each NAND cluster consisting of a flash memory controller and two NAND flash memories. Interposed between the device controller and the memory modules are a plurality of memory controllers, each memory controller controlling a group of memory modules. A user interface is coupled to the device controller, the interface including a display capable of at least two user-selectable orientations, record/playback controls and a four-way directional control pad.

Abstract: Reflective Photography produces prints that make the objects photographed completely unrecognizable. A thin sheet of undulating polyester film is photographed. The objects placed in front and indirectly photographed produce an impressionistic print.

Abstract: A method presents metadata that is used for determining the color correction processes to be performed on image data representing a sequence of moving images. Instructions in the metadata controls how many color corrections are to be performed and when such operations occur. The image data is then subjected to the specified color correction operations that are performed at specified times and in a determined order. The image data is then rendered as a series of images by a rendering device. Optionally, different regions of the image data may be subjected to different color correction operations.

Abstract: A method to produce in an area of restricted size in a realistic manner while minimizing perspective distortion and subject distortion a recording of an individual that produces the illusion that the individual is located in a larger area.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system, method and computer program for enabling a user receiving a broadcast program on a program receiver to download on his/her computer device time stamped captions and synchronization data related to the received broadcast program, and to autonomously generate and display on his/her computer device, a captions stream synchronized with the display of the broadcast program on the program receiver.

Abstract: Methods and systems are presented for broadcasting a modified live media feed of an event. In an embodiment, the method includes receiving a live media feed at a broadcast computer from one or more recording devices, wherein the live media feed includes real time occurrences of a live event. The live media feed is broadcast after a predetermined delay, and the method includes identifying, during monitoring of the live event, a portion of the live event that is suitable for application of a modification effect. The process also includes the broadcast computer applying the modification effect to a portion of the live media feed corresponding to the identified portion of the live event, and then broadcasting the modified live media feed.

Abstract: A surround visual field that has a characteristic or characteristics that relate to an audio/visual presentation is described. In one embodiment, the surround visual field is projected on an area partially surrounding or surrounding video content being displayed on a device. This surround visual field may be comprised of a plurality of elements that further enhance the visual effect of the content being displayed. For example, one embodiment of the invention provides for elements within the surround visual field to move in relation to motion within the video content being displayed. Other characteristics of the video content may also be supplemented by the surround visual field or the surround visual field may simply be authored to correspond to the content itself.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for modifying a television broadcast signal. In one embodiment, the system includes a memory that stores an alternate commercial signal, and a controller that is coupled to the memory and receives the broadcast signal. The broadcast signal includes a program signal and commercial signals. The controller substitutes the alternate commercial signal for one of the commercial signals upon determining that a first condition has been met, for example, upon the sensing two video/audio blank periods in the broadcast signal separated by a predetermined time period. In another embodiment, a broadcast signal including a series of screen signals alternating with a series of blanking signals is embedded, at an upstream location, with additional information relating to alternate commercials or commands during the blanking signals. At a downstream location, a controller processes the additional information and modifies the broadcast signal in response.

Abstract: As information to be processed at an object-based video or audio-visual (AV) terminal, an object-oriented bitstream includes objects, composition information, and scene demarcation information. Such bitstream structure allows on-line editing, e.g. cut and paste, insertion/deletion, grouping, and special effects. In the interest of ease of editing, AV objects and their composition information are transmitted or accessed on separate logical channels (LCs). Objects which have a lifetime in the decoder beyond their initial presentation time are cached for reuse until a selected expiration time. The system includes a de-multiplexer, a controller which controls the operation of the AV terminal, input buffers, AV objects decoders, buffers for decoded data, a composer, a display, and an object cache.

Abstract: A signal switching apparatus includes: a video reference input block; a plurality of synchronous signal generating blocks; a plurality of video signal input blocks; a signal processing block; a video signal output processing block; a switching block; and a control block.

Abstract: A studio booth is configured to produce the illusion that a customer is being photographed at a different locale remote from the studio booth. The studio booth includes an interior with a front wall, a rear wall, side walls extending between said front wall and rear wall, a floor, and a ceiling. The studio booth also includes an audio and video recorder to record at least one performance thereby making a recorded performance in the booth.

Abstract: Media content is received from at least one external device that is coupled to a set-top box. Subscriber channel content is generated based on the media content. The subscriber channel content is transferred to a cable network to produce a subscriber cable channel.

Abstract: A shock and vibration isolator for a movie or video camera has a vertical axis system including a base, an arm pivotably attached to the base, and at least one spring connected to the base and to the arm. One or more dampeners are connected to the base and to the arm. A horizontal axis system is supported by the vertical axis system. A leveling linkage connects the vertical and horizontal axis systems. The leveling linkage has adjustment features that allow for compensation of camera lens angulation caused by movement of the camera supported on a vehicle rolling over rough or uneven ground.

Abstract: A television production system affords simplification over the automation of a television program such as a news program by making use of State Memory Objects (S-MEMs), each defining one or more operations for execution by one or more production devices. The S-MEMS serve to control one or more actuators on a control panel so that each actuator on the control panel can control different function of different pieces of production equipment depending on the S-MEM selected, and the actuator manifests a status of the production device.

Abstract: A method of photographing an object (50,52) and associated photographic apparatus are disclosed. A camera (60), a light source (40) and a collapsible background unit (10,90) are provided, wherein the collapsible background unit (10,90) comprises an enclosure with an illuminating wall (18,95) that is translucent. The light source (40) and the background unit (10,90) are arranged relative to each other so that light from the light source (40) is directed into the interior of the enclosure, at least some of said light being transmitted to the exterior of the enclosure through the illuminating wall (18,95). The object (50,52) and the camera (60) are arranged externally of the enclosure such that the illuminating wall (18,95), or an additional translucent component (74) interposed between the illuminating wall (18,95) and the object (50,52), constitutes a background for the object (50,52). A photograph of the object (50,52) is then taken using the camera (60).

Abstract: Capturing motion using motion capture cameras comprises: coupling a plurality of markers to an actor; allowing a material to be positioned between the actor and the motion capture cameras, wherein the material is selected to allow the motion capture cameras to capture motion of the plurality of markers while the actor interacts with the material; and capturing the motion of the markers.

Abstract: According to various embodiments, an event production kit is provided that includes storage cases for storing production equipment, such as cameras, monitors, and microphones, and an electronic production equipment case for storing an audio mixer, a video switcher, and computers for encoding and distributing the production. In addition, in one embodiment, the electronic production equipment case includes a vertical panel that includes a plurality of ports that are pre-wired to the audio mixer, video switcher, and the computers for coupling the production equipment together. The storage cases and the pre-wired panel facilitate transporting the kit to the event location and reduce the amount of time and resources required for setting up the equipment prior to the event, according to various embodiments. In addition, the selection of the type of equipment included in the kit, according to one embodiment, provides for a high quality, lower cost production than is currently available.

Abstract: In a system and method for providing a television broadcast that displays different content for different viewers, a pool of content items, or particular items from a pool of content items, is integrated with a signal for a television program. The combined signal is transmitted or broadcast in any suitable way, such as by satellite, antenna, cable, or the like. Once the combined signal has been transmitted, or while the signal is being transmitted, different items from the pool of content items are displayed to different viewers. The items may be displayed to viewers during a broadcast of a pre-recorded television program. Rules may be integrated into the combined signal governing how and when items from the pool of content items are displayed. The rules may also govern which items from the pool of content items are displayed. A return channel may be provided so that a viewer may communicate to a content provider.

Abstract: A video signal transceiver has a triax port, a baseband port, a demodulator for converting a HF video signal received at said triax port into a baseband video signal for outputting at said baseband port and at least one modulator for converting a baseband control signal received at said baseband port into a HF control signal for outputting at said triax port, a fibre-optical port, an optical receiver for converting an optical video signal received at said fibre-optical port into a baseband video signal, a switch for connecting either an output of said demodulator or of said optical receiver to a video signal line of said baseband port, and an optical transmitter for transmitting, via said fibre-optical port, an optical control signal derived from said baseband control signal.

Abstract: An integrated station for recording and sending audio and video signals, apt to have remote access to telecommunication networks for carrying out information services and pre-arranged for implementing camera set-ups and for transmitting broadcast-quality audio and video signals. The station includes a temporary camera set-up for acquiring broadcast-quality audio/video signals and includes multiple wing panelling which may have a column-shaped structure with wings that may be opened to provide a background for television shooting.

Abstract: A system and method for removing background lighting variations from an image. The method includes capturing at least one first image including a first background and a subject wherein the at least one first image includes at least one background lighting variation, creating a virtual background model of the first background, creating a virtual background image that is substantially similar to the first background, and generating an output comprising at least one first image with at least one background lighting variation removed therefrom.

Abstract: A method and system for airing broadcast signals is disclosed. Preferably, the system includes a production truck interface panel receiving a broadcast signal. A transmission relay circuit relays the signal from the interface panel to a broadcast network, and preferably including a broadcast signal detection circuit, and a signal processing circuit. The detection circuit determines a signal type of the broadcast signal, and the signal processing circuit processes the determined signal type. The system preferably further includes an operations control station displaying the determined type of broadcast signal.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a modular apparatus for a mobile control room, realised in a flexible manner and such that to be advantageously assembled, continuously modified and provided according to needs and requirements of for example, a client. An important improvement for rendering the directing apparatus modular consists in that several modules are provided and there are inserted inside thereof almost the whole of the apparatuses which are needed for the control of the videocameras (or other functions in the case of different kind of modules); Therefore, the most of the investment is flexible since is moved and incorporated to the same modules.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus to detect blank images in a digital video broadcast signal are disclosed. An example method of detecting a blank image includes analyzing DC values of luminance blocks associated with a frame to determine a number of the luminance blocks having substantially the same DC value; and identifying the frame as a blank image if the number exceeds a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A method for information exchange, comprises the steps of producing information transmissions in a broadcast standard; sending the information live from a studio; digitizing the sent data and then transmitting the digitized data via satellite as IP multicast packets; receiving the data by a TV decoder and feeding them into a data and/or communications network; installing software on a data processing equipment, like PCs or workplace computers, in which the software, after the data processing device has been connected to the data and/or communications network, permits receiving of information transmissions and use of at least part of the functions furnished by the information transmission; dialing via a portal to access an information transmission; and using the functions furnished by the information transmission via communications connections between the data processing equipment and studio for an interactive information exchange.

Abstract: A method for auto channel assignment in a live television production system allows the user to assign physical play out channels to an auto pool of channels. The user need only create a single transition macro event (TME) template, which at the time of playout, causes the production system to assign an available channel from the auto pool of channels, without requiring any further user intervention.

Abstract: A video switcher includes: a video signal switching device for switching a video signal to be transmitted to a video display unit from a first video signal supplied from a first video input unit into a second video signal supplied from a second video input unit; and a synchronization signal switching device for switching a synchronization signal to be transmitted to the video display unit from a first synchronization signal supplied from the first video input unit into a second synchronization signal supplied from the second video input unit. The synchronization signal switching device starts transmission of the second synchronization signal to the video display unit after stops transmission of the first synchronization signal to the video display unit.

Abstract: A camera adapter support for supporting a camera in an orientation transverse to its traditional orientation includes a base member shaped and dimensioned for selective attachment to a head of a tripod. The base member includes a first end and a second end. A first upstanding member is secured to the first end of the base member. The first upstanding member includes a first end secured to the first end of the base member and a second end. The first upstanding member includes coupling structure which secures the base of the camera to the first upstanding member. A second upstanding member is secured to the second end of the base member, the second upstanding member including a first end secured to the first end of the base member for selective movement relative thereto and a second end. The second upstanding member includes a plate member and a second transverse plate coupled to the plate member.

Abstract: A device for recording records digitally encoded video information on a record carrier according to a predefined recording format, such as BD. The device has an input unit (91) for receiving a data stream comprising the video information and application data objects contained in messages, such as DVB-MHP. The device has a message unit (92, 94) for extracting the messages from the data stream. The messages are stored in a message file as a series of the messages for the program separate from the video information. The device also has a parsing unit (95) for generating application control information that includes accessing information for accessing the messages in the message file. The application control information is stored in a message info file.

Abstract: An electronic equipment is provided that includes a playlist with a plurality of media objects, each associated with a ranking from a hierarchy of rankings, ranging from a highest ranking to a lowest ranking. The electronic equipment includes a media player section configured to play the plurality of media objects. The media player section has a random play function, which is operable to randomly access media objects associated with the highest ranking for play by the media player section. The media player section also includes a tracking function to lower the ranking associated with the randomly accessed media objects from the highest ranking to a lower ranking. If there are no media objects associated with the highest ranking, the tracking function is operable to raise the ranking associated with each of the plurality of the media objects until at least one media object is associated with the highest ranking.

Abstract: The invention provides a video system comprising at least one input for receiving incoming video data and at least one output for delivering outgoing video data to a display device. The system further comprises at least one processor for converting the incoming video data into outgoing video data as a function at least of one item of information delivered by a detecting element. According to an embodiment of the invention, the detecting element is suitable for measuring at least one colorimetric characteristic of an image produced by the display device. According to another embodiment of the invention, the processor converts incoming video data into outgoing video data as a function at least of one item of information delivered by a user. In one embodiment of the invention, the information delivered by the user represents a desired calorimetric response for different incoming data.

Abstract: A video recording apparatus for continuously presenting a main program to a user without a break while presenting a commercial. A main program buffer records a main program of a video signal in accordance with a temporal position of at least the main program or commercials in the video signal, and a commercial buffer records the commercials. A controller determines whether a current time is in a period to display a commercial, on the basis of at least the temporal position of the main program or the commercials in the video signal. A mixer mixes the main program and the commercials such that the main program is temporally continuously displayed in a full screen area and such that a commercial is displayed in a small area in the bottom right corner of the screen during a period in which the commercial should be displayed.

Abstract: Information is provided to on-air personnel that is synchronized to a playlist executed by a broadcast automation system. A type is defined within a broadcast automation system and is associated with studio segments and non-studio segments that follow studio segments in a playlist. As the playlist is executed, the broadcast automation system provides a count until the next segment with the specified type. The count is monitored and if the count matches a predetermined value, then a trigger is generated based on the predetermined value and the playlist. Each trigger is associated with a particular action, such as the display of a message on certain display units. Once the trigger is generated, the action is performed. The invention can be used to automatically provide countdown information to on-camera personnel based on the playlist.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus to export tuning data collected in a receiving device are disclosed. An example method of collecting audience measurement data comprises collecting tuning data within a receiving device, and modulating an LED associated with the receiving device to export the collected tuning data from the receiving device.

Abstract: The prompting device has a frame, a plurality of reflective panes, and support members and may be used on a desktop by a home or small business user to read a script in a natural manner while speaking to a camera or other video capturing device. In the preferred embodiment, the frame has a user side and a camera side, and is lightweight and readily collapsible such that it may be easily stored when not in use. A collecting pane reflects an image onto a viewing pane, so as to create a displayed image which may be viewed by a user. The viewing pane is generally transparent allowing a user to be recorded or photographed through the viewing pane. In another embodiment the prompting device has an opaque cover. The support assemblies are adjustable in height and the panes have an adjustable angle. In another embodiment the support assemblies are hangers. In another embodiment the image is an image reflected from a computer monitor and may be scrolling text.

Abstract: A highlight detecting circuit for detecting a highlight segment within a video signal includes a pitch-tracking module for estimating a plurality of pitch values for an audio signal; a pitch difference detecting module coupled to the pitch-tracking module for computing a plurality of pitch difference values according to the pitch values; and a highlight detecting module coupled to the pitch difference detecting module for determining a starting point and a stopping point of the highlight segment according to the pitch difference values.

Abstract: An audio/video production system is implemented on a PC-based platform, preferably utilizing various forms of removable magnetic, optical, or magneto-optical storage media. Specially modified cameras or other sources provide digitally data-compressed audio and video program materials in two formats, a first format having a higher data-compression ratio and intended for use in off-line systems to develop edit decision lists, and a second format having a lower data-compression ratio and intended for use in on-line editing and to produce the final representations of the programs. Off-line editing decisions may thus be developed on a PC using removable storage media, and final representations of the programs may be produced on-line in accordance with stationary-head or rotary-head digital-tape-based formats, such as DAT, 6-mm or 8-mm tapes. In an alternative embodiment, automatic and unattended editing, or extended program playback of more than 40 hours duration of digital video, is available.

Abstract: An audio/video production system is implemented on a PC-based platform, preferably utilizing various forms of removable magnetic, optical, or magneto-optical storage media. Specially modified cameras or other sources provide digitally data-compressed audio and video program materials in two formats, a first format having a higher data-compression ratio and intended for use in off-line systems to develop edit decision lists, and a second format having a lower data-compression ratio and intended for use in on-line editing and to produce the final representations of the programs. Off-line editing decisions may thus be developed on a PC using removable storage media, and final representations of the programs may be produced on-line in accordance with stationary-head or rotary-head digital-tape-based formats, such as DAT, 6-mm or 8-mm tapes. In an alternative embodiment, automatic and unattended editing, or extended program playback of more than 40 hours duration of digital video, is available.

Abstract: An audio/video production system is implemented on a PC-based platform, preferably utilizing various forms of removable magnetic, optical, or magneto-optical storage media. Specially modified cameras or other sources provide digitally data-compressed audio and video program materials in two formats, a first format having a higher data-compression ratio and intended for use in off-line systems to develop edit decision lists, and a second format having a lower data-compression ratio and intended for use in on-line editing and to produce the final representations of the programs. Off-line editing decisions may thus be developed on a PC using removable storage media, and final representations of the programs may be produced on-line in accordance with stationary-head or rotary-head digital-tape-based formats, such as DAT, 6-mm or 8-mm tapes. In an alternative embodiment, automatic and unattended editing, or extended program playback of more than 40 hours duration of digital video, is available.

Abstract: An audio/video production system is implemented on a PC-based platform, preferably utilizing various forms of removable magnetic, optical, or magneto-optical storage media. Specially modified cameras or other sources provide digitally data-compressed audio and video program materials in two formats, a first format having a higher data-compression ratio and intended for use in off-line systems to develop edit decision lists, and a second format having a lower data-compression ratio and intended for use in on-line editing and to produce the final representations of the programs. Off-line editing decisions may thus be developed on a PC using removable storage media, and final representations of the programs may be produced on-line in accordance with stationary-head or rotary-head digital-tape-based formats, such as DAT, 6-mm or 8-mm tapes. In an alternative embodiment, automatic and unattended editing, or extended program playback of more than 40 hours duration of digital video, is available.

Abstract: An audio/video production system is implemented on a PC-based platform, preferably utilizing various forms of removable magnetic, optical, or magneto-optical storage media. Specially modified cameras or other sources provide digitally data-compressed audio and video program materials in two formats, a first format having a higher data-compression ratio and intended for use in off-line systems to develop edit decision lists, and a second format having a lower data-compression ratio and intended for use in on-line editing and to produce the final representations of the programs. Off-line editing decisions may thus be developed on a PC using removable storage media, and final representations of the programs may be produced on-line in accordance with stationary-head or rotary-head digital-tape-based formats, such as DAT, 6-mm or 8-mm tapes. In an alternative embodiment, automatic and unattended editing, or extended program playback of more than 40 hours duration of digital video, is available.