Abstract: A fan control system includes multiple fans and a control unit. The control unit has a controller and a storage device. The storage device stores therein a first fan activation data. According to the first fan activation data, the control unit sequentially controls multiple output pins to output multiple output signals. Each fan storage device stores therein a second fan activation data identical to the first fan activation data. According to the corresponding output signal, the fan controller compares with the second fan activation data to find out the second fan activation data matching the output signal, then the fan controller outputs a drive signal to control and activate the fan to operate.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for embedding critical data directly onboard a physical asset is disclosed. Since the critical data and the asset are never separated, accurate and timely data pertinent to the asset travels with it, and may be written, read, and updated. Accurate data collection ensures a digital model/twin of the asset reflects the true physical state of the asset. Data is embedding optically or magnetically and may be read or rewritten so that information about the life/usage of the asset is continually available, right up to the current state.

Abstract: A method of configuring a header compression or decompression algorithm in a packet network. The method comprises the steps of analyzing or receiving packet information associated with packet traffic, and determining a representative header length to consider as the header length for a plurality of packets. The method further comprises using the representative packet header length to configure one or more compression or decompression algorithms used in the network.

Abstract: A technique for film marking includes coding a print identifier into a binary-coded serial number; identifying particular frames (bit frames) that will be used to convey the bits (binary digits) of the binary-coded serial number and marking these bit frames in accordance with the particular bit values of the binary-coded serial number. The presence of a predefined mark on a bit frame is representative of a binary digit having a value of one, while the absence of the predefined mark on a bit frame is representative of a binary digit having a value of zero.

Abstract: A film exposer has a modulator which modulates light from a light source and projects it onto a light-sensitive film guided continuously past the modulator. The modulator comprises a two-dimensional arrangement of elements which each project a specific quantity of light onto the film. A pixel entering the projection area of the modulator of the film on one side integrates the light which is projected onto the pixel by elements arranged in a row in the transport direction of the film. The quantity of light integrated by the pixel depends on how many elements are switched on, that is to say project light onto the film, while the film passes through the projection area of the modulator. The total quantity of the light to be integrated can be adjusted for each pixel by appropriate control of the elements respectively lying in a row in the transport direction of the film.

Abstract: The invention regards a device for recording full picture frames onto a photosensitive material, comprising at least one light source, at least two full frame devices for modulating light from the light source, imaging optics for combining the modulated light from the light modulation devices and/or combining optics, and recording the modulated light onto the photosensitive material, thus exposing the photosensitive material frame by frame, a film transportation device adapted for exposing, section for section, sections of the photosensitive material to the modulated light. The invention also regards a device for simultaneous and synchronised recording of full picture frames and sound tracks onto a photosensitive material.

Abstract: Information is incorporated into motion picture film prints in the form of images or patterns that appear as unobtrusive defects or artifacts. The unique codes are used in association with the print number of the film and are reproduced in video copies of the film made by counterfeiters. This code can be read from the counterfeit copy and can be used to trace the source of the counterfeit. The digits of the print number are recorded in separate frames to increase the difficulty to counterfeiters in detecting and deleting them.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to inhibit the piracy of motion pictures in theaters by taking advantage of the frame rate discrepancies between film (or digital) display and video camcorders. By alternating specific image display intervals and, shuttering cadences, or with digital video projectors commanding a similar modified display via the digital projector's blanking and display capabilities, so that the projected images occur in a random and/or phase shifted manner, objectionable distortions are produced in an illicitly captured video image, while being invisible to theatrical viewers. In addition, various serrated, slit, multi-quadrant or spotted patterns may be used on mechanical shutters, or simulated on digital displays, to further degrade the quality of illicitly captured video by pirates in theaters.

Abstract: An image animation apparatus having a plurality of translucent images on the wall of a rotating cylinder and a pulsable light source emanating from the cylinder interior. The light source is pulsed in a synchronized manner so that said images are optically aligned in a viewing window in a predetermined order and thereby viewed in such order creating the desired animation effect. An electronic controller receiving cylinder position and velocity information commands the pulsable light source to emit light when the desired imaged has rotated into the viewable position inside the apparatus housing. The cylinder is rotatably driven by a small motor in circular fashion so that each of the images passes by a viewing window. However the viewer only sees the images when the pulsable light source is triggered by the controller. Thus the sequence of images viewed is determined by the controller's programming.

Abstract: A method for tracking a segment of an image-recording medium and an image-recording medium are provided. In a first aspect of the invention what is provided is a method for distributing an image-recording medium. In accordance with the method, an identifying mark is encoded within a recorded image area on the image-recording medium. A tracking memory is associated with the image-recording medium with the tracking memory having information stored therein. The image-recording medium is distributed to users of the image-recording medium and tracking information from the tracking memory is read and stored in a database that associates the users to whom the image-recording medium has been distributed with the identifying mark recorded in the image area.

Abstract: A system that determines a projector's true state in an automatic projection sequence. The system includes a projector in a primary display system, having a lamp for displaying visual information; and a sensor to determine the state of the lamp in the primary display system. Additionally, an interface to a secondary display system is included for sending an operational signal to the secondary display system, wherein the secondary display system operates subject to a predetermined state of the primary display system as determined by the state of the lamp in the primary display system.

Abstract: A projector automation system for controlling one or more controlled systems having functionality that is responsive at least in part to automation control signals. The automation system interacts with a digital projector having a control port and a film projector having a cue sensor that generates cue signals. A film-based cinema automation component receives the cue signals and generate at least some of the automation control signals to the one or more controlled systems. A second cinema automation component has a first interface coupled to the control port of the digital projector and the first cinema automation system. The second cinema automation component includes means for generating at least some of the automation control signals to the one or more controlled systems either autonomously, semi-autonomously, or in response to commands from an external scheduling system.

Abstract: A printing method and apparatus (100) for pre-exposing a digital watermark along a length of photosensitive medium at the time of manufacture is disclosed. The printing apparatus has an illumination source (60) for providing an exposure illumination, first and second LCD spatial light modulators (90a, 90b) for modulating the exposure illumination to form first and second exposure patterns according to image data, combining optics providing a single output path for directing both first and second exposure patterns onto the photosensitive medium and transport means for providing, during exposure, lengthwise displacement of the photosensitive medium with respect to the output path. The first and second exposure patterns form, lengthwise along the photosensitive medium, a latent image with modulated stripes having a predetermined intensity corresponding to the exposure patterns.

Abstract: A motion picture code evaluator evaluates a transmitted motion picture based on losses caused by a transmission means. The evaluator includes means for testing the frame header of the motion picture code and determining the presence/absence of an error in the frame header to calculate the frame loss ratio per predetermined time. The evaluator further includes means for extracting a motion picture coding parameter contained in the frame header and detecting a variation in the motion picture coding parameter in the predetermined time, and means for summing the motion picture coding parameter and the motion picture coding parameter weighted by the variation in a motion picture coding parameter in the predetermined time to calculate an ideal motion picture information amount in a predetermined time. The motion picture code evaluator thereby obtains an actual motion picture information amount by multiplying the ideal motion picture information amount by 1-frame loss ratio.

Abstract: A motion picture code evaluation apparatus for evaluating an amount of motion picture information after transmission, the apparatus has a header inspection unit for inspecting a frame header and determining that whether the frame header is abnormal or not to calculate frame loss ratio every predetermined time, an extracting unit for extracting motion picture coding parameter from the frame header and detecting variation of the motion picture coding parameter in the predetermined time, and an amount-of-motion-picture-information calculating unit for summing the motion picture coding parameter and weight, which is based on the variation of the motion picture coding parameter, to calculate an ideal amount of motion picture information every predetermined time, in which an actual amount of motion picture information is calculated by multiplying the ideal amount of motion picture information by (1−the frame loss ratio).

Abstract: A transport stream with embedded projector configuration data 208 being carried along with the video for use in digital cinema projector setup. The embedded configuration data consists of sub-packets 304 of setup data information for such parameters as gamma tables, color management system information, relative luminance level, format and range of the sampled data, 3D/2D presentation information, frame rate, image size, aspect ratio, font tables, and language provision. This approach assures that the projector 404 is setup properly and also permits on-the-fly changes to the projector's parameters, which may be used for artistic effects in the movie.

Abstract: A motion picture code evaluator evaluates a transmitted motion picture based on losses caused by a transmission means. The evaluator includes means for testing the frame header of the motion picture code and determining the presence/absence of an error in the frame header to calculate the frame loss ratio per predetermined time. The evaluator further includes means for extracting a motion picture coding parameter contained in the frame header and detecting a variation in the motion picture coding parameter in the predetermined time, and means for summing the motion picture coding parameter and the motion picture coding parameter weighted by the variation in a motion picture coding parameter in the predetermined time to calculate an ideal motion picture information amount in a predetermined time. The motion picture code evaluator thereby obtains an actual motion picture information amount by multiplying the ideal motion picture information amount by 1-frame loss ratio.

Abstract: A system for providing motion picture photographic film with encoded information, such as unique film footage and frame identification, which can be machine read prior to film processing. This system provides machine readable encoded information markings on the raw stock film which may be read in a camera or other photoprocessing device with a reader prior to or concurrent with the film image capture process. The machine readable encoded information markings may be easily converted into a “video image” for display in a real time video from a CCD imager in the film camera or other device. Furthermore this pre-processing machine readable encoded information may be used in conjunction with optical latent image recorded information which becomes machine or human readable after processing as presently provided by film manufacturer's according to industry standards.

Abstract: A system and method for registering the frames of film with respect to an aperture in a motion picture projector. A registration reference mark is applied to each frame corresponding to the location of the frame on the film. When the film is intermittently stopped in the projector's film gate, the registration reference mark is read to determine the location of that frame relative to the immediately preceding frame. If the frame in the gate is misregistered, the gate is moved to correctly register the frame prior to projection. By properly registering the frames, the “jitter” and “weave” associated with conventional projectors is eliminated and resolution of the projected film image is enhanced.

Abstract: A system and method for registering the frames of film with respect to an aperture in a motion picture projector. A registration reference mark is applied to each frame corresponding to the location of the frame on the film. When the film is intermittently stopped in the projector's film gate, the registration reference mark is read to determine the location of that frame relative to the immediately preceding frame. If the frame in the gate is misregistered, the gate is moved to correctly register the frame prior to projection. By properly registering the frames, the “jitter”and “weave” associated with conventional projectors is eliminated and resolution of the projected film image is enhanced.

Abstract: A motion picture code evaluation apparatus for evaluating an amount of motion picture information after transmission, the apparatus has a header inspection unit for inspecting a frame header and determining that whether the frame header is abnormal or not to calculate frame loss ratio every predetermined time, an extracting unit for extracting motion picture coding parameter from the frame header and detecting variation of the motion picture coding parameter in the predetermined time, and an amount-of-motion-picture-information calculating unit for summing the motion picture coding parameter and weight, which is based on the variation of the motion picture coding parameter, to calculate an ideal amount of motion picture information every predetermined time, in which an actual amount of motion picture information is calculated by multiplying the ideal amount of motion picture information by (1−the frame loss ratio).

Abstract: A method for monitoring the amount of unexposed photographic film remaining in a motion camera film magazine that includes the steps of: providing an unexposed motion picture film containing a support having at least one light sensitive image recording layer and a transparent magnetic recording layer; recording film length data on the transparent magnetic recording layer of the unexposed motion picture film; loading the unexposed motion picture film in a motion picture film magazine; and reading the film length data from the transparent magnetic recording layer as it is removed from the film supply magazine to provide an indication of the amount of unexposed film remaining in the motion picture film magazine. The amount of unexposed film remaining may be displayed in a read-out device associated with the film magazine or camera.

Abstract: A system for photographic film processing adapted to access stored information that is related to film processing. An electrically programmable read/write memory contained in a transponder is integrally attached to the film container used at each stage in the film processing chain. The transponder is capable of receiving a first RF frequency electromagnetic field and deriving power and address information from the first frequency, then generating a second RF frequency electromagnetic field in response, where the second electromagnetic field is characteristic of the data stored in memory. A transceiver is disposed within the processing apparatus, connected with an antenna and support components for polling each transponder. As instructed by a control logic processor, the transceiver communicates with the transponder to both read stored data from the transponder, such as manufacturing data for the film, and store usage and processing data to the transponder for storage in memory.

Abstract: In a film scanner comprising a device for scanning sprocket holes, a projection device is proposed, by means of which the images of two sprocket holes are projected on one sensor. This provides the possibility of scanning two facing sprocket holes with only one camera.

Abstract: A film position detection apparatus and a method for precisely detecting a film position are provided. An image film projection apparatus is also provided for correcting deflections of images through precisely detecting a film position and thereby projecting images recorded on the film in a good condition. A film position detection means has a ground electrode attached to a movable picture gate; detection electrodes placed in a fixed picture gate; and auxiliary electrodes placed around the detection electrodes. The auxiliary electrodes suppress erroneous variations in electrostatic capacitance generated between the ground electrode and the detection electrodes. As a result, accuracy in film position detection by the detection electrodes is improved for achieving precise detection.

Abstract: A data recording apparatus for a motion picture film for digitally recording data concerning an image of the motion picture film. The data recording apparatus includes a plurality of light emission units (LEDs) 4 lighted responsive to the data concerning an image, a light volume detection units 5 for detecting the light emission volume of each of the light emission unit, a reference value outputting unit 6 for outputting a reference output specifying a reference value of the light emission volume of the light emission unit and a control unit 8 for comparing the reference output value of the reference value outputting unit 6 to each detected output value from the light volume detection unit 5 for controlling the light emission of the LEDs 4 so that each detected output value will be equal to the reference output value.

Abstract: A film position detection apparatus and a method for precisely detecting a film position are provided. An image film projection apparatus is also provided for correcting deflections of images through precisely detecting a film position and thereby projecting images recorded on the film in a good condition. A film position detection means has a ground electrode attached to a movable picture gate; detection electrodes placed in a fixed picture gate; and auxiliary electrodes placed around the detection electrodes. The auxiliary electrodes suppress erroneous variations in electrostatic capacitance generated between the ground electrode and the detection electrodes. As a result, accuracy in film position detection by the detection electrodes is improved for achieving precise detection.

Abstract: An apparatus for intermittently feeding a movie film on a frame by frame basis to a film processing unit for processing thereat by inserting projections into openings formed on both sides of the movie film at predetermined pitches and driving the same by use of a driving device. The film processing apparatus may include a guiding device for guiding the film along a path which passes nearby the film processing unit so as to enable the film processing unit to capture an image from the film and to perform processing of the same. The film processing apparatus may further include a device for exerting pressure on the film by moving the guiding device so that a portion of the film which passes nearby the film processing unit is held in tension, and a restraining device for restraining the guiding means from moving.

Abstract: A microprocessor-based system for controlling the presentation of a motion picture film in a theater having sound, lens, masks, and light systems with controllers for switching between the various modes or settings of the systems. The microprocessor-based system receives, stores and outputs information relating to desired operational settings along with the various times at which these settings are to be adjusted as a function of time relative to the start of the film.

Abstract: An audiovisual filmstrip image display apparatus and method includes an image displayer, such as a viewer projector, television or computer screen or the like, together with an audio speaker and a converter including a player, capable of playing multiple sound programs or sequences stored on sound storage equipment either internal or separate and a signal detector for reading magnetic signals on a filmstrip to indicate to the player the sound program to be played in conjunction with each individual filmstrip image being viewed. Various forms of equipment which may be included in an apparatus according to the invention are disclosed.

Abstract: A digital time code is printed in an area of a motion picture film, between the normal analog optical sound track and the picture frames, that is exposed along with the sound track when a print is made. This area is partially redeveloped, and normally reserved to isolate the analog sound track from the picture frames. Digital audio for the motion picture is stored in a large capacity high integrity archival digital storage system. The time codes corresponding to known locations on the film are read as the film is played, and in an anticipatory pass the digital audio signals for these frames are transferred to a fast access data storage buffer which temporarily stores the data before it is converted to analog format for theater play. The time code is read with light that is absorbed by the film dyes produced when the film is developed.

Abstract: In a first guide unit the plural number of electrodes are provided facing the edge of a movie film containing a plurality of perforations formed along the longitudinal direction of the movie film, in a second guide unit a band shaped conducting material is provided facing the electrodes having the movie film between, and each stop position with respect to window holes is detected based on the amount of change of each electrostatic capacity changing depending on the displacement rate from each stop position of a plurality of condensers which are formed making each electrode and conducting material as a pole plate respectively and making the thickness of the movie film as the distance of pole plates. Therefore, a film position detection device, a film image display device and a movie film recording device capable of further improving the movie film position detection accuracy can be realized with the simple construction.

Abstract: The present invention overcomes the wear and tear problems caused by prior art methods by placing the digital information in the space reserved for analog soundtrack information, which traditionally is not touched by transport rollers or pressure plates. This invention describes a method by which digital information is simultaneously recorded with the analog track in the same area occupied by the present analog track by utilizing the techniques of spectral processing and digital bit manipulation. Thus, maximum separation and minimal interference can be achieved between the digital and analog tracks.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of applying variable, momentous production information to each frame of a continuous visual image medium at the instant of use or after use, without interfering with the formation or display of the normal visual image on the same frame. The recorded production information become absolute reference points on the continuous visual image medium, enabling fast and accurate identification and retrieval at a later date. The method addresses various needs in an ever increasing market ranging from major motion pictures to home videos. The present invention is also a system of recording or retrieving the production information on each frame of a continuous visual image medium. The system includes the actual hardware for the writing and reading of the index code, and the software necessary to decode the code and translate it into useful and user readable information.

Abstract: A supporting device to support a magnetic head in close proximity to a photographic film passage so that the track section of the magnetic head is brought in contact with a magnetic layer on the film, includes a supporting member, a fixing member on which the magnetic head is fixed, two supporting resilient arms one ends of which are fixed to the fixing member and the other ends are fixed to the supporting member. The two supporting arms are fixed in such manner that the two supporting arms are inclined relative to a surface of the fixing member and imaginary lines which are colinear with and extend from the two first supporting arms cross each other at an imaginary line which is colinear with and extends from a magnetic gap of the track section of the magnetic head.

Abstract: Dynamic range and passband problems in cinema sound transmission are solved by using a laser disk (9) read by a laser disk player (10, 11, 12) synchronized (14) with the original sound track of the film. Problems relating to splices in the film are solved by reading the sound in advance, in storing it in a memory (13), in reading it back subsequently from the memory, and, where necessary, in causing the memory read back system to jump (24) in order to avoid reproducing sound that corresponds to images that have been removed from the film.

Abstract: A magnetic head suspension apparatus for reading and/or recording information during photofinishing of photographic filmstrips comprises an elongated pivotally mounted follower bar having a pair of magnetic heads attached thereto in a predetermined orientation with the information tracks on the filmstrip. A pair of film edge followers are pivotally attached to the ends of the bar respectively. A spring is connected between the bar and a fixed support to bias the bar to urge the edge followers into engagement with the film edges of the filmstrip.

Abstract: An optical piece for a data imprinting device for a camera having beam incident and beam emerging areas. Beam incident and beam emerging areas have an effective aperture for passing a main beam of light and a peripheral beam refracting surface around and defining the effective aperture. This structure eliminates ghosts or flares generated by light rays passing through the peripheral portion of the optical piece. The peripheral beam refracting surface is equivalent to the surface of a lens having a negative index of refraction or one of the bilateral plane surfaces of a triangular prism with its apex pointing toward the optical axis of the optical piece. The lens geometry is controlled by a set of four inequalities. The effective aperture may use convex, planar or concave shapes.

Abstract: A method of recording information onto a photographic film provided with a magnetic recording layer comprises steps of reading once the information recorded on a predetermined track of the magnetic recording layer and recording it again onto the same track. In consequence, recording of the information can be conducted using a recording signal of high signal strength to improve the reliability of the information.

Abstract: A motion picture film monitor structured and operated in the film path of a film projector, having a plurality of film support rollers for supporting the film as it passes adjacent a plurality of sensors. The plurality of sensors includes at least one proximity sensor positioned preferably adjacent one of the guide rollers and when more than one proximity sensor is spaced closely to each other, a different frequency is used by each proximity sensor. In addition, an optical film presence detector including a light emitter and a light sensor is positioned adjacent another support roller such that when the film passes the film presence detector, it is supported by the roller. A film motion detector using a similar optical system is positioned adjacent one of the support rollers which supports the film in close proximity to the sensor. Electronic circuitry and connections therefore, are structured to allow for a logically configured and miniaturized monitor.

Abstract: A digital cue system for use with a motion picture projector permits activation of control functions in time synchronization with the passage through the projector of indicia or cues attached to the motion picture film. Each cue comprises one or more cue appliques arranged to form a digital code pattern which is detected to activate a control function associated therewith. In an exemplary embodiment, the cue appliques are metallic foils adhesively attached to the motion picture film. Passage of these appliques through the motion picture projector is detected by one or more non-contacting proximity detectors which generate signals indicative of the digital code patterns. Digital circuitry processes the signals output from the proximity detectors to determine the digital code corresponding to each pattern and a specific control function associated with that digital code is then activated.

Abstract: A signal conditioner is provided for the output of a digital sound source in a dual digital/analog motion picture theater sound system so that the digitally derived audio signal emulates the analog sound track signal. This allows the digital source to be easily integrated into the overall sound system, without displacing the existing analog sound track system. The theater sound playback mechanism is provided with the conditioned audio signal when the digital sound source is actuated, and receives the analog sound track signal at other times. The conditioning circuit includes an adjustable impedance to match the current from the digital sound source to the current from the analog sound track reader, a high frequency variable signal adjuster that is complimentary to a high frequency emphasis built into the theater playback system, and an optional subwoof output.

Abstract: A method of using only the audio track, for automatically implanting (in both forward and reverse printing) sequential identification film numbers as an integral part of the film, (both new and existing), with no change to the film or printing process and which is unnoticed by the viewer or listener. Any copy (direct print or broadcast) of such film will bear the exact same traceable identification number. The many applications comprise: proof of broadcast and cable transmission for programs and commercials; royalty data:movies, juke boxes, etc.; residuals data for musicians and actors; apprehension of illegal copiers.

Abstract: A magnetic head suspension system for use in a photofinishing operation comprises a fixed support and a pair of magentic head suspension assemblies each rotatably mounted on the support. The magnetic head suspension assemblies are biased towards each other to engage opposite edges of the film respectively. Each magnetic head suspension assembly is rotatable relative to the fixed support to compensate for film width variations and film edge irregularities to insure constant orientation of the magnetic heads with respect to the film edges.

Abstract: A head suspension system for use in a photofinishing operation comprises a movable support mounted for movement through an arc having a predetermined radius and a pair of magnetic head suspension assemblies each rotatably mounted on the movable support. The suspension assemblies are biased towards each other to cause surfaces of the magnetic head assemblies to engage opposite edges of a photographic film respectively. The entire system including the movable support is movable through an arc to adjust for angular variations of the film while each head suspension assembly is rotatable relative to the movable support to compensate for film width variations and film edge irregularities to insure constant orientation of the magnetic heads with respect to the film edges.

Abstract: A virtually transparent magnetic layer is included as an additional layer in a color negative film. Information exchange between various users of the film--such as (for example) the film manufacturer, the camera user, the dealer and photofinisher--is carried vai plural longitudinal magnetic tracks on the film that being and end within each individual frame. Each track is dedicated to the writing and reading of a predetermined set of parameters relating to the corresponding frame. The photofinisher-dedicated tracks fill the image-bearing area of each frame. The film has only a single film perforation along one edge for each frame. The camera-dedicated tracks lie along the edges of the film between the film perforations. Each track begins and ends within a single frame, and is divided into a plurality of fields.

Abstract: A still camera having a marking mechanism for forming a message or title along one edge of each picture taken by the camera. The marking mechanism is preferably a dot matrix printer synchronized with the motor that advances the film after each picture-taking event. During the film-advance period the printer mechanism operates automatically to form a message (title) on the previously-taken picture. A manual keyboard is provided to select (vary) the message.

Abstract: A magnetic head is mounted on a camera film platen which is supported for constrained movement relative to the camera body to maintain a precise relationship between an information track recorded on the film and a film edge. The magnetic head is pivotally mounted on the film platen. Means are provided to establish one angular orientation of the head to establish one angular orientation of the head with respect to the film during prewind to read information recorded by the film manufacturer and a second different angular orientation during transport of the film in the opposite direction during film exposure to record information relating to film exposure. This enables a camera to distinguish between information recorded by the manufacturer and information recorded by a camera to determine if mid-roll interrupt occurred and, if so, the location of the last frame exposed.

Abstract: A virtually transparent magnetic layer is included as an additional layer in a color negative film. Information exchange between various users of the film--such as (for example) the film manufacturer, the camera user, the dealer and photofinisher--is carried via plural longitudinal magnetic tracks on the film that begin and end in individual frames. Each track is dedicated to the writing and reading of a predetermined set of parameters related to the corresponding frame. All data is recorded as N-bit character where N is preferably six. Each track is preceeded by certain six-bit character called an ID sentinel. On-film magnetic data recording by the film manufacturer uses an ID sentinel different from that employed in the camera. The camera automatically prevents exposure of any frame bearing a camera ID sentinel, thus providing protection from double exposures.

Abstract: Unique encoding of each of a substantial number of distribution video copies of a program such as a motion picture is produced by altering the images slightly at several pre-selected locations in the program in a uniquely coded pattern. Suspected counterfeits can be compared with an unaltered master video to determine the encoded number for the copy which was counterfeited to enable tracking the source of the counterfeit. Preferably, each frame of several whole scenes is altered at each location by shifting an image so as to make the alterations largely undetectable by counterfeiters but easily detected by comparison with an unaltered master video. Artifacts are inserted in patterns representing a unique number for the program. These supplement the encoding by alteration of images and gives added means to aid in tracing counterfeit copies.