Technicolor Videocassette, Inc.

Technicolor Videocassette of Michigan Inc.

Wyman G Dunford

Miguel A Abaunza

James W Hussey

Michael A Sterling

Ion Vizireanu

Curtis Caloia

Michael J Kendra

James D Barrett

Alexander L Meszaros

A method and related system are disclosed which allow for a series of individualized audio segments to be recorded for subsequent, simultaneous insertion into the audio track(s) of a plurality of videotapes loaded into multiple videotape recorders (VTR's), respectively. In one embodiment, each audio segment recorded is uniquely associated with, and inserted into, an audio track of a respective prerecorded videotape such that each of the plurality of videotapes is personalized with its own unique message. A voice recording and data entry station is provided wherein each audio segment to be inserted is independently recorded, digitized, and stored on a data tape with related identifying information associated therewith. Audio segments from the digital data tape are then downloaded in groups into a production control center computer, incorporating software and interface circuitry to control the operation of the VTR's, in order to effect the insertion of each audio message segment into respective videotapes. The production control center may further cause labels to be printed which may subsequently be affixed to particular videotapes. Such labels may identify the ultimate recipient of a particular personalized videotape and the respective videotape within the plurality of VTR's into which that recipients individualized audio segment has been inserted.

Method and system for inserting individualized audio segments into

Picking apparatus for picking and dispensing plastic sheet wrapped videocassette packages onto a high speed product gathering conveyor comprises a package dispensing mechanism with a package feed magazine containing a replenishable stack of these packages stacked on a platform of the dispensing mechanism. The dispensing mechanism is controlled by a computer and has a pair of dispensing belts with cogs that engage the package at the bottom of the stack and dispense it at a prescribed time off the platform and onto the conveyor. A set of nozzles with a pressurized air supply is operated to forcibly direct air between adjacent packages in the stack in a sequential manner to reduce adhesion therebetween prior to their dispensing and a bumper operated by a controlled plunger timely bumps the package at the bottom of the stack to help free it from the one immediately above and start it in the dispensing direction. Both the air circulation and the bumper act to reduce the force required of the dispensing cogs to dispense the package onto the conveyor in a timely and assured manner.

Package dispensing apparatus

A videocassette overlay tray comprised of a sturdy plastic composition which is inexpensive and improves sorting and storage functions of videocassettes in the duplication and manufacturing environment. The videocassette tray permits the storage of a large number of videocassettes before or after the duplication process, and the walls and recesses of the overlay tray are constructed so that the trays may be stacked one upon another in interfitting relationship with the tray fully retaining and protecting the videocassettes placed in fixed positions within the tray below. The trays are further constructed whereby each recess helps form a support apex, thus allowing a tray when full to be stacked one on top of another while resting on a storage platform or cart, and also is capable of being nested when empty in one of two possible nesting configurations.

Videocassette tray

Growing community of inventors

Camarillo, CA, United States of America

Wyman G Dunford