U.S. Robotics Access Corp.

The Grass Valley Group, Inc.

John J Proctor

Kwan Kin Truong

Craig H Richardson

David L Smith

Chris J Hodges

Philip Desjardins

Philip A DesJardins

Mark M Baldassari

A method and an apparatus for encoding an image signal. The apparatus includes an acquisition module disposed to receive the image signal. A first processor is coupled to the acquisition module. At least one encoder processor is coupled to the first processor. The at least one encoder processor produces an encoded image signal under control of the first processor. The method includes the steps of converting an input image signal into a predetermined digital format and transferring the digital format image signal to at least one encoder processor. The method further includes the step of applying, at the at least one encoder processor, a hierarchical vector quantization compression algorithm to the digitized image signal. At the next step, a resultant encoded bit stream generated by the application of the algorithm is collected. The method and apparatus of the present invention may be used in conjunction with an ordinary modem to transmit and/or receive audio, video sequences or still images.

Method for generating a compressed video signal

Method for adjusting the quality of a video coder

Video encoder/decoder system

A shaped video having an input key control signal associated therewith is processed by carrying out a first operation on the input key control signal to provide a first processed signal, carrying out a second operation on the first processed signal to provide a second processed signal, and combining the shaped video signal and the second processed signal to provide an output video signal. One of the first and second operations comprises translation. In this manner, a simulated shadow is added to the shaped video signal.

Method of and apparatus for processing a shaped video signal to add a

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Nevada City, CA, United States of America

John J Proctor