Synthetic Movies Synthetic Movies

The introduction of digital video to the personal computer has generated interest in the integration of image sequences into the user interface. Traditional means of representing an image sequence lack the manipulability desired, requiring that an alternative approach be taken. Previous work in the eld of computer graphics and videodisc applications suggest synthetic movies as the solution. A synthetic movie is a movie which is composed as it is viewed, from a description of the movie. This thesis discusses synthetic movies and their application to the user interface of the personal workstation. An example application, Video Finger, is presented. Video Finger uses a synthetic movie to convey information about other people sharing the computer workspace. The work reported herein was funded in part by a contract from CPW Technologies. 2 Acknowledgements There is a small group of people without whose support, this thesis would probably never have been completed. I would like to thank: Pascal, who fed me, ooced me, and never let me take anything for granted. Andy, who allowed me the freedom to explore beyond VQ. Dee, who kept me company, even when the deadlines approached. Walter and Mike, for keeping the facts straight, the spelling correct and being ready sources of information and support. My family, for getting me here in the rst place. In addition, I must thank the inhabitants of the Garden, for providing a fun and challenging place to work.