×

Method and apparatus for masking the effects of latency in an interactive information distribution system

  • US 5,781,227 A
  • Filed: 10/25/1996
  • Issued: 07/14/1998
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/25/1996
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
Patent Images

1. In a set top terminal used for decoding and displaying imagery associated with information streams transmitted to said set top terminal via an information distribution system, a method for masking latency within said information distribution system, where said latency occurs while transitioning from a first information stream to a second information stream, said method comprising the steps of:

  • responding to a user command entered into said set top terminal and, simultaneously, sending an upstream data command to the information distribution system to implement said user command;

    recalling a predefined image from an image memory;

    fading at least a portion of imagery decoded from said first information stream into said predefined image;

    resetting a signal decoder within said set top terminal;

    fading from said predefined image into imagery decoded from said second information stream; and

    displaying said imagery from said second information stream.

View all claims
  • 4 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×