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Method and apparatus for modifying encoded digital video for improved channel utilization

  • US 5,956,088 A
  • Filed: 11/21/1995
  • Issued: 09/21/1999
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/21/1995
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A method of increasing utilization of a first channel when transmitting a multiplex of a set of one or more encoded program streams, each program stream in said set being decodeable by a corresponding decoder, each corresponding decoder including a corresponding decoder buffer, said decoder buffers having a maximum allowable size, said method comprising:

  • (a) selecting from at least one of said encoded program streams encoded pictures to be modified that use bidirectional prediction, said selecting being carried out according to a criterion;

    (b) modifing each said selected encoded picture by reducing prediction error data to form a corresponding modified encoded picture, said modified encoded picture having less data than said selected encoded picture; and

    (c) transmitting the corresponding modified encoded pictures through said first channel in place of the selected encoded pictures;

    wherein said criterion includes preventing any underflow of any decoder buffer.

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