Apple Inc.

William D Atkinson

William F Lapson

A method for encoding compressed graphics video information and decoding such information. The method consists of enriching the video information in zeros through shifting and Exclusive ORing video image with itself. A number of methods are attempted in the shifting and Exclusive ORing process in order to determine the method which yields the optimum zero enriched image. The zero enriched image is then encoded and the encoded information stored. Upon retrieval, the information is decoded and an Exclusive OR and shifting process is done to obtain the original video information.

Video compression algorithm

A method for encoding compressed graphics video information and decoding such information. The method consists of enriching the video information in zeros through shifting and Exclusive ORing video with itself. A number of methods are attempted in the shifting and Exclusive ORing process in order to determine the method which yields the optimum zero enriched image. The zero enriched image is then encoded and the encoded information stored. Upon retrieval, the information is decoded and an Exclusive OR and shifting process is done to obtain the original video information.

A method and apparatus for removing a menu window from a menu bar on a display device in a computer controlled display system is described. The menu window is removed from the menu bar by positioning the cursor on a display device over a command option on the menu bar and then by manipulating a signal generating device to indicate to the computer display system that the user has selected the command option and then by manipulating a cursor control device to cause the cursor to cross a border of the menu window while the menu window is being displayed.

Method and apparatus for removable menu window

Apparatus and methods are disclosed which are most advantageously used in conjunction with a digital computer to provide improved graphics capability. These techniques permit the representation and manipulation of any arbitrarily shaped image in terms of 'inversion points'. Inversion points defining a region are sorted and stored such that the region shape may be regenerated at a later time from the inversion points. Means are provided to compare existing regions and new regions to be displayed, and region operators are provided to specify a precedence between the existing and new regions. Thus, new regions are appropriately 'clipped' such that only portions of a new region may actually be displayed to achieve the desired graphic representation.

Method and apparatus for image compression and manipulation

A cursor control device having particular application to a computer display system is disclosed. The cursor control includes a unitary frame, having a domed portion substantially surrounding and retaining a ball which is free to rotate. X-Y position indicating means are provided, such that rotation of the ball provides signals indicative of X-Y positions on the display system. The ball is free to 'float' in the vertical direction within the dome, and thereby maintain good surface contact. X-Y positions are established by movement of the control device over a surface. A display system and method is disclosed for use in conjunction with the cursor control device, which permits a user to select command options simply by movement of the displayed cursor over a 'pull-down' menu bar.

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Los Gatos, CA, United States of America

William D Atkinson