| 摘要 |
<p>The present invention discloses methods and apparatus for providing VCR-like 'trick mode' functions, such as pause, fast-forward, and rewind, in a distributed, video-on-demand program environment. Trick modes are supported by locally altering the viewing speed for each user who requests such functions, without affecting the operation of the central data source in any way. The invention thus allows a virtually unlimited number of viewers to enjoy random access to video programming -- including virtually continuous trick mode functionality -- and does so in a manner that is operable with existing telephone and cable distribution infrastructure.</p> |
