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: 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/are 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: This invention concerns a system for the distribution of films by electronic means, and in particular, for ensuring a director's intended rendition of the images is attained in differing viewing conditions and technologies. Thus master data enabling the luminance and chromaticity of every part of every frame as previously displayed in a first display environment to be determined may be modified to achieve a similar subjective effect in a second display environment, the modification depending for example on data characterizing the said second display environment.

Abstract: An interactive video compositing device includes a chroma-key mixer, video switcher and control circuitry. The chroma-key mixer generates a composite image by combining a real-time image, such as one captured by a video recorder, with a prerecorded video image, such as a movie. The composite image includes the modified real-time image superimposed, or overlaid, onto the prerecorded image. The video switcher automatically selects either the composite image or the prerecorded image to be output to a display. The control circuitry controls the video switcher and other outputted signals based on data file information that corresponds to content of the prerecorded image or media. For example, the data files may contain information relating to the presence (or absence) of a particular character in a movie scene, thus allowing for the output and display, at appropriate times, of the real-time composite image instead of the prerecorded image.

Abstract: A television production system 300 affords simplification over the automation of a television program such as a news program by parameterizing State Memory Objects (S-MEMs), each defining one or more operations for execution by one or more production devices. The S-MEMs are typically parameterized in accordance with the scenes they generate. Thus, the S-MEMs can be categorized by style, that is to say, by the “look” or appearance of the associated scene. In this way, a director can more easily select among available S-MEMs to choose those that maintain a particular appearance for a succession of scenes.

Abstract: An interactive video compositing device includes a chroma-key mixer, video switcher and control circuitry. The chroma-key mixer generates a composite image by combining a real-time image, such as one captured by a video recorder, with a prerecorded video image, such as a movie. The composite image includes the modified real-time image superimposed, or overlaid, onto the prerecorded image. The video switcher automatically selects either the composite image or the prerecorded image to be output to a display. The control circuitry controls the video switcher and other outputted signals based on data file information that corresponds to content of the prerecorded image or media. For example, the data files may contain information relating to the presence (or absence) of a particular character in a movie scene, thus allowing for the output and display, at appropriate times, of the real-time composite image instead of the prerecorded image.

Abstract: A support structure for supporting an image capture device generally comprises a base, a first vertically oriented, elongated support member supported by the base, a mechanism that provides tilting and panning of the device relative to the first support member, and elevation of the device along the first support member, and a second elongated support member disposed to stabilize the mechanism. Preferred bases include bases that are foldable and/or rotatable, and ones that have a leveling device coupled to the base. Preferred support members can be rotatable relative to the base.

Abstract: The present invention describes systems and methods for remote video production. In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a remote video production system including a first portal. The first portal includes a number of ports, the ports configured to receive taking place at a studio. Furthermore, the first portal includes a multiplexer configured to communication signals from equipment designed to capture a performance combine the communication signals into a transport stream. Additionally, the first portal includes at least one transmitter configured to transmit the transport stream to a location remote from the first portal.

Abstract: The present invention comprises an input part for inputting image data, a receiving part for receiving production information relating to production transmitted from another apparatus, a recording part for recording the production information received by the receiving part and image data input by the input part, a detection part for detecting a recording position on a recording medium at an editing point of image data recorded by the recording part, and a transmission part for transmitting information of the recording position detected by the detection part, whereby identification information for identifying image data and voice data is recorded in a recording medium or a recording device, this relieving a burden on a photographer and an editor and facilitating extraction of image data and voice data.

Abstract: The teleprompter described herein allows for rapid adjustment of the camera position and height, beam splitter mirror assembly height and angle, tripod mounting, as well as additional accessories including counter weights, shoulder pads, batteries and feedback monitors. Further, these adjustments do not require the use of tools. Additionally, the invention described herein provides a second, lower plane of contact for camera mounting which allows for the use of heavier cameras.

Abstract: A method, system, and device for video production, including adding a mixer to an Auxiliary Bus of a Video Production Switcher; adding one or more keyers to the Auxiliary Bus of the Video Production Switcher; and adding special effects to the Auxiliary Bus.

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 for controlling a device for the distribution and processing of video signals is proposed. The device has a number of inputs and outputs. Signal processing stages for processing the input signals can optionally be switched into the signal paths. The method according to the invention comprises the following steps: input signals are represented on a display with an input symbol. When common properties are present, the relevant input sources are assigned input symbols which have a common color property and/or graphical property. The relations between a specific input symbol and the assigned input signal and the relevant input are stored. An output of the device is assigned an output symbol, which represents the desired properties of the output signal in the same way as the input symbols represent the properties of the input signals. Finally, an output symbol is assigned to an input symbol, whereupon the relevant input is connected to the relevant output.

Abstract: A video system for a splicing device comprises a processor with a camera interface integrated on chip, a first and a second camera and also a selection device. The selection device has an interface output, which is coupled to the camera interface, and also a first interface input, which is coupled to the first camera, a second interface input, which is coupled to the second camera, and a control input for feeding in a selection signal. The first or the second interface input can be coupled to the interface output depending on the selection signal. Via the on-chip camera interface, it is possible both to receive image data and to output control signals for controlling functions of a camera respectively connected via the selection device.

Abstract: A transmitter includes: frequency conversion means for collectively frequency-converting terrestrial digital TV broadcast signals inputted such that the frequency of terrestrial digital TV broadcast signals of a viewing desired channel inputted by viewing desired channel input means, among the terrestrial digital TV broadcast signals inputted, are converted to a frequency of a specific unused channel of a predetermined VHF band; filter means for extracting only TV broadcast signals of the specific unused channel of the predetermined VHF band among the TV broadcast signals obtained by the frequency conversion means; and transmission means for amplifying and wirelessly transmitting the TV broadcast signals extracted by the filter means.

Abstract: An interactive video compositing device includes a chroma-key mixer, video switcher and control circuitry. The chroma-key mixer generates a composite image by combining a real-time image, such as one captured by a video recorder, with a prerecorded video image, such as a movie. The composite image includes the modified real-time image superimposed, or overlaid, onto the prerecorded image. The video switcher automatically selects either the composite image or the prerecorded image to be output to a display. The control circuitry controls the video switcher and other outputted signals based on data file information that corresponds to content of the prerecorded image or media. For example, the data files may contain information relating to the presence (or absence) of a particular character in a movie scene, thus allowing for the output and display, at appropriate times, of the real-time composite image instead of the prerecorded image.

Abstract: The present invention provides an image switching apparatus allowing a operator to easily operate a plurality of special effect apparatuses through different interfaces by using a common operation.

Abstract: A video mixer may be employed to form a transition between two video compositions, for example a fade or a wipe. A video storage device may be associated with the video mixer and plays out a video signal, the timing of which is controlled in dependence upon the progress of the transition made by the said video mixer.

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: The invention relates to a method for moving a camera that is disposed on a pan/tilt head along a given trajectory especially in a set or studio as well as an associated camera robot. In order to be able to move a camera with repeated accuracy along a given trajectory, an associated trajectory is determined for the spatial positions and orientations of a basic reference system of the pan/tilt head from the given trajectory for the camera, and associated control variables for shafts of a robot that can be moved in Cartesian coordinates are generated from the determined trajectory for the basic reference system of the pan/tilt head and are transmitted to the shafts, thus allowing camera movements to be made that are not possible with previously known systems.

Abstract: An interactive multimedia device that converts media content in real-time or near-real-time from a variety of input data formats to data formats accepted by a user's available output devices, and to output protocols that can communicate with the user's devices. The multimedia device can acquire content from remote sources and deliver it to the user. The multimedia device further supports interactive use and the generation of content by the user, as well as the purchase of media content on demand.

Abstract: A moving-picture processing apparatus includes an acquisition unit configured to acquire metadata including information about each temporal region in an input moving picture with a plurality of temporal regions, a decision unit configured to determine a cutout region corresponding to at least any one of the plurality of temporal regions on the basis of the metadata, and a cutting-out unit configured to cut out the cutout region from an image in each frame of the input moving picture.

Abstract: A television production system (300) 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 (302) so that each actuator on the control panel can control different function of different pieces of production equipment depending on the S-MEM selected.

Abstract: A method of customising an animation. A broadcast station renders first animated objects in response to locked graphic data and unlocked metadata. The metadata facilitates customisation, by including parameter interface information as well as actual parameter values, so that the first animation objects can be customised without reference to the locked graphic data. A distribution station receives signals from the broadcaster, and cumulatively renders second animated objects in response to second locked graphic data and second unlocked metadata, the latter of which is modified in response to distributor data. A television receives signals from the distributor, and cumulatively renders third animated objects in response to third locked graphic data and third unlocked metadata, which is modified in response to viewer data.

Abstract: A television production system 300 affords simplification over the automation of a television program such as a news program by parameterizing State Memory Objects (S-MEMs), each defining one or more operations for execution by one or more production devices. The S-MEMs are typically parameterized in accordance with the scenes they generate. Thus, the S-MEMs can be categorized by style, that is to say, by the “look” or appearance of the associated scene. In this way, a director can more easily select among available S-MEMs to choose those that maintain a particular appearance for a succession of scenes.

Abstract: An automated recording booth allowing a user to record a user multimedia file comprising an audio performance of the user in combination with a multimedia recording from a database, and to receive a computer-usable media with the user multimedia file. The recording booth comprises a door, ventilation means, a computer, screen, video camera and microphone. The recording booth comprises means for lighting and an automatic money box. The recording booth further comprises a database of multimedia files, earphones, a recording means for recording audio and multimedia on a computer usable media, and a processing unit, and labeling and packing means for labeling and packing the computer usable media. The processing unit comprises a graphical user interface (GUI), an audio processing application, a multimedia processing application, a control application.

Abstract: A system for inspecting rental vehicles includes an image capture booth coupled to a rental car computer. In one embodiment, the image capture booth includes a first camera mounted on a first tower, a second camera mounted on a second tower, and a path defined between the first tower and the second tower for the rental vehicle to pass through. When a rental vehicle travels down the path, the first camera and the second camera configured to capture images of the rental vehicle as it drives down the path. The rental car computer is configured to receive the images of the rental vehicle.

Abstract: An advantageous production system comprises at least a camera producing a raw digital signal and a processing circuit for generating a processed video signal from the raw digital signal. In a control area, at least a camera control interface is able to set at least a parameter in the processing circuit. The processing circuit is located in the control area. An image capturing system for such a production system is also presented.

Abstract: A method of design for creating a habitable structure containing architectural elements that collectively cause the habitable structure to resemble a fanciful structure portrayed in a motion picture or television show. The fantasy of the motion picture or television show is made more real by determining the dimensions of the architectural elements of a movie studio backlot facade and an interior stage set that were used during the filming of the motion picture or television show. Mismatches between architectural elements are resolved by establishing priorities to select between the conflicting architectural elements, or by using an architectural facade to incorporate both of the conflicting elements.

Abstract: A receiver includes a tuner and a circuit. The tuner receives an indication of a radio frequency signal from an antenna feedline in response to the radio frequency signal being provided to the antenna feedline by an amplifier. The circuit transmits a control signal to the antenna feedline to control a gain of the amplifier in response to a strength of the radio frequency signal.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for integrating data representing at least one weather parameter prevailing at at least a first geographic location into a television broadcast related to the first geographic location. An icon signal representing a weather parameter icon is generated in response to the weather parameter, and represents the weather parameter sensed at the first geographic location. Apparatus is provided for receiving the television broadcast related to the first geographic location, and for merging the television broadcast signal with the icon signal, producing an output television signal representing the weather parameter icon superimposed on the television broadcast.

Abstract: There is provided herein a system and method for adapting high resolution input material to display specifications of a particular display device, thereby ensuring that the high quality of the input material is preserved as best as possible in the final video work. The instant invention is an improvement over traditional media editing programs, in that controls are provided to ensure the quality of the final product. Additionally specific movement effects selectable when working with still images are also separately monitored by the instant invention to ensure an efficient application of these effects, thereby preserving the visual quality of the material.

Abstract: The present invention presents an information-outputting apparatus, an information-reporting method and an information-signal-supply-route-selecting method, which provide a digital-content utilization environment giving the user a high degree of freedom to make use of the apparatus and the methods. The information-outputting apparatus receives an isochronous packet transmitted by a source external apparatus by adoption of an isochronous communication method through a digital bus connecting the external apparatus to the information-outputting apparatus. In the information-outputting apparatus, an IEEE 1394 I/F circuit extracts information on the source electronic apparatus and information on the transmission format. A control unit supplies these pieces of information to an OSD-generating circuit for displaying them on a screen of a display unit employed in the information-outputting apparatus.

Abstract: A method for distributing a pre-edited, keyed video clip and matte produced using chroma key processing, the method comprising the steps of storing the keyed video clip and matte in an electronic repository and distributing the raw clip, keyed video clip, and matte in a lossless image compression format over the Internet.

Abstract: A video production facility system may produce closed caption data that includes text data and timing data. The system may receive script data for a video program. The system may then determine identifiers for individual programming events that make up the program. The system may then produce closed caption data for the program. The closed caption data may include text data corresponding to the script data, and timing data provided at locations that correspond to the beginning of each of the programming events. The timing data may comprise an identifier of the corresponding programming event. Further timing data may be provided that marks the ends of programming events, or that marks individual segments within a programming event. Related embodiments may pertain to systems that implement such processing. The closed caption data may be synchronized to a video signal based on the display of corresponding text by a teleprompter system that is used in the production of the video program.

Abstract: A technique for managing the production, post-production and distribution of audio-visual projects permits accurate management of production values and thereby allows accurate and measurable reproduction and control. Test signal data is used to assist the operator in insuring the levels are set to the intended display characteristics in the event that factors such as creative lighting or applied effects affect the desired look of the scene. The test signal data may encompass elements that determine resolution, white level, black level, grey steps, frequency response and linearity as well as sound parameters. Chroma channels may exhibit similar signals including a bar pattern that can be used to insure the best colorimetry is maintained. Standard signals may also improve compositing and cross media transfers for matching production values.

Abstract: The apparatus inserts a participant realistically into familiar background media to provide similar results to a completely original movie with multi-camera studio production and editing. An automated and simplified studio has multiple cameras and traditional studio devices such as teleprompters and controlled lighting presented to the consumer as an entertainment product. Previously produced, familiar media are modified to create the background video source and synchronous audio track. The participant is inserted via chroma key and the multiple cameras are used to create traditional establishing shots intercut with close-ups. These are controlled through a video switcher to create a real-time, finished recording that is stored on a digital server for later playback.

Abstract: A video signal processing apparatus 1 and a video processing parameter setting apparatus 2 comprise a video processing apparatus (visual mixer). A parameter value collectively specifying portion 3 specifies in accordance with the order stored in an arpeggiator pattern memory 7, sets of scene data which collectively specify values of a plurality of parameters stored in a scene data memory 6. A changing process portion 4 changes in a given length of time, the values of video processing parameters from the values currently set on the video signal processing apparatus 1 to the parameter values collectively specified as a set of scene data. The changing process is started at a timing corresponding to a change time and completed at a subsequent switch timing. As a result, the video processing apparatus allows for collective specification of parameters with simple operations and smooth switching between video images at the changing of parameter values.

Abstract: A low cost DTV translator, which translates an incoming signal on channel A to an outgoing signal on channel B, includes a transmitter pre-equalizer whose taps are configured with tap values that pre-distort a signal so as to negate distortion caused by a high power amplifier and emission mask filter at the output of the DTV translator. This pre-distortion is accomplished by using the transmitter of the DTV translator to provided a reference signal and to use the receiver of the DTV translator as a reference receiver for the reference signal to thereby avoid the use of a more expensive external reference receiver.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and computer program for editing recorded information having a format where both a video signal and an audio signal are recorded on a recording medium. When the recorded information is reproduced, a detection is conducted to determine a position where a predetermined condition is produced in the audio signal. Discriminating information indicative of an editing position is produced based on the position where the predetermined condition is detected and displayed on a screen of a display apparatus.

Abstract: A digital video mixer apparatus is designed for inputting a video signal representative of a picture from a plurality of input channels, then processing the video signal to apply a visual effect to the picture, and outputting the processed video signal to an output channel. In the apparatus, a parameter value setting section includes a plurality of operators manually operable to set a plurality of parameter values used for applying a desired visual effect to the picture. A sequence control section sequentially feeds the parameter values in accordance with time progress of processing the video signal in order to vary with time the visual effect applied to the picture. A video signal processing section processes the video signal inputted from at least one of the input channels according to either of the parameter values set by the operators or the parameter values fed from the sequence control section.

Abstract: An information processing device for setting a parameter about objective data, comprising an output unit for outputting the objective data, an operation unit for detecting an instruction of a user, an output control unit for altering the parameter value with time in order and instructing the output unit to output the objective data the parameter value of which is set, and a processing unit for defining the parameter value when the instruction is detected as the parameter value about the objective data.

Abstract: An improved cinematographic system and method for multiple compositing, within a virtual studio, of an image frame or image sequence of a real/action image of an action sequence of a puppet, with another image frame or image sequence of a real/action image of the same or another puppet, within a given virtual studio space. This system and method have application to the compositing of a master camera angle image and a close-up image of the same puppet character; and, to the compositing of a master camera angle image of one action puppet character with a second image from another camera angle of another puppet action character, so as to provide an interactive image sequence of each of the characters of each image within the same image frame.

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 (1), a controller (2) which controls the operation of the AV terminal, input buffers (3), AV objects decoders (4), buffers (4?) for decoded data, a composer (5), a display (6), and an object cache (7).

Abstract: An image processing system includes a frame store, a processing means and a monitor. The frame store stores a sequence of images from a film or video clip that will eventually be transferred to film for viewing in a theater. The image sequence is processed and possibly combined with other clips, resulting in changes to the color balance, intensity and contrast of the output clip. The image processing system, the monitor and the process of eventual transfer to film, have non-linear transfer characteristics, including gamma characteristics. These are combined in a single look-up table in a graphics card, so that images displayed on the monitor have an appearance matching that of the same images when viewed in the theater.

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for detecting commercials or other particular types of video content in a video signal. In an illustrative embodiment, color histograms are extracted from frames of the video signal. For each of at least a subset of the extracted color histograms, the extracted color histogram is compared to a family histogram. If the extracted color histogram falls within a specified range of the family histogram, the family histogram is updated to include the extracted color histogram as a new member. If the extracted color histogram does not fall within the specified range of the family histogram, the family histogram is considered complete and the extracted color histogram is utilized to generate a new family histogram for use in processing subsequent extracted color histograms. The resulting family histograms are utilized to detect commercials or other particular type of video content in the video signal.

Abstract: Projectors display a movie of a tourist resort, which is a background image, on screens, and video cameras take video by overlapping a subject walking on a treadmill with the background image. Therefore, the subject can be naturally combined in the background image, and also can enjoy a virtual experience such as strolling at the tourist resort during the video taking.

Abstract: A method is provided for picking up an image of an object with a camera mounted via a pan head on a moving pedestal. A reference position on a floor surface on which the moving pedestal moves and a reference angle of the moving pedestal are both set. A moving amount of the moving pedestal from the reference position and a rotation angle thereof from the reference angle are detected, and a position and an angle of the camera with respect to the object is found on the basis of the reference position, the reference angle, the moving amount and the rotation angle of the moving pedestal. Data of the position and the angle of the camera with respect to the object are transmitted to a computer for creating an image containing a real object image of the object taken with the camera.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for frame capture and redisplay in a stand-alone television. The method comprises: down-converting a television signal including a plurality of frames; selecting an accepted frame; capturing the selected frame; storing the captured frame; selecting a stored frame; and, displaying the selected frame. Some aspects of the method further comprise: storing auxiliary information with the stored frame, such as time, date, or channel. Then, displaying the frame includes displaying the frame with the auxiliary information. Other aspects of the method further comprise: accepting a remote capture and remote display signals from a television remote control. Down-converted frames are selected for storage, and stored frames are selected for display in response to the remote signals. In other aspects, stored frames are displayed as thumbnail displays. For example, a single thumbnail display, or a group of thumbnail displays can be presented overlying the down-converted television signal.

Abstract: The invention relates to a control panel for video apparatus. For realizing greater flexibility with such control panels there is proposed that the control panel comprises at least an operating module (31) and a control module (32), the control module (32) having a first interface (37) for connection to a control panel (2) and at least a second interface (35) for connection to the operating module (31), and the operating module (31) having at least an interface (34) for connection to the control module (32).