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QUICKSCANŽ Indexed-Video: An image-based, broadband electronic
publishing system.
George L. Van Valkenburg
PO Box 385
Mangonui 0442, New Zealand
Phone: +64 (0)9 406-1018
Email: george@quickscan.org
website: www.quickscan.org
Abstract: VCR owners are induced to record QUICKSCANŽ-indexed images
delivered at up to 1500 per minute (PAL), and view them frame-by-frame
or as running video. This technique of alphanumeric indexing with
embedded menus brings varying levels of interactivity to existing
VCRs with no added equipment. Accessing is intuitively similar to
magazines and catalogues. European and global investment and development
opportunities require structured market tests over a wide range
of applications.
CONCEPTS:
1. A video image can emulate a computer screen for storage, transmission
and display purposes, within its resolution parameters.
2. All VCRs and video players are inherently interactive. Stop,
pause, play, rewind, fast-forward, all are interactive commands
we use without thinking. To make these functions useful for information
retrieval, requires a framework of position and heading." Where
am I now and where do I want to go?
In the video editing suite, this capability is provided by SMPTE/EBU
Timecode, both visible and machine-readable. But timecode is not
appropriate for the public or business user with a video device.
In fact, there are valid questions as to whether it was ever the
correct approach for its intended purposes.
3. Consumer VCRs have different levels of precision in locating
information. A few can display a single frame and step forward and
backwards; many more have a clear stillframe and frame-advance;
virtually all can show a visible picture during fast-forward and
rewind.
Therefore, closed-user groups can equip themselves with optimum
terminal devices, while public services must be designed with regard
to the assumed capabilities of the VCRs in the hands of the audience.
QUICKSCANŽ indexed-video electronic publishing, uses familiar alphanumeric
indexing information, not timecode, and usually includes embedded
menus or index pages in familiar locations, i.e., beginning, end,
at regular intervals, or between chapters. This technique closes
the loop, and makes each electronic publication self-contained and
self-teaching.
The visible mode is adaptable to all existing VCRs with no additional
hardware. It can be advertiser-supported, and can be designed to
survive standards conversation and other quality degredation with
no loss of accuracy in content.
The machine-readable mode requires an adapter, or a new reader-function
in the VCR. [OR DIGITAL VIDEO RECORDER] It is appropriate to a smaller
set of applications which are not offered free to the user.
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