An application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) : Scrip Coding

Just in case anyone is wondering what I mean when I use the expression "Script Coding" here is my explanation.

Script coding is an exceptionally efficient way of getting TV pictures, music and videos in front of the viewer.

When a viewer watches a TV picture the information rate to their brain is very low, well under 64 kbit/s. This compares with MPEG transmission rates of 600kbit/s to 10 Mbit/s. Just ask anyone who has watched a picture what they have seen. "I saw a dog running across a park". 280 bits compared with 6 Mbits, for 10 sec of video. If they can remember that the dog was black and white, that the park had green grass with a big tree on the right etc, then may be allow 2000 bits per 10 seconds.

Script coding is nothing like any existing method, like PAL, MPEG etc., as it does not attempt to transfer an image, music or text in the studio to the the viewers home. So you need to get some completely new ideas into your head.

In Script coding receivers all see different versions of the images, music or text according to their personal preferences, and the price of their receiving equipment. The 'quality' could vary from cartoon style images up to high definition 3D, all based on the same broadcast signal. The customers receive equipment converts a very brief summary of what is then turned into a low or high fidelity performance for the customer.

Think in terms of a toy puppet theatre. A number of puppets and scenery are built (once only) and available to the operator to place on the stage and move about to various positions and with movements, in accordance with a script, plus verbal dialogue. Script coding for the visual element works in a similar manner. Information is transmitted to the viewer, once only, comprising descriptions of the objects that comprise the content of the image. Taking some simple example, such as children' cartoon programme. The various character are initially described by their shapes, colours etc and this information is sent once only, at the start of the programme. During the programme the transmitted information comprises the location and movement of the character images.

Think in terms of a orchestral concert. Send out details of the instruments to be used, the style of the music, length of performance etc and let the customers receve equipment make up a suitable entertaining performance, takinh account of the customers preference, culture etc.

Think in terms of popular tunes, popular videos etc. Just send out a few key words, music style, rock, country etc and let the receiver gadget generate something to the owners liking.

Text for reading s the most simple application where all you need is a few key words, like 'politics, dispute, strikes' or 'crash, dead, hospital' or 'scam, police, millions, banks' and let the user gadget make up entertaining stories to keep the user amused.

More complex programs such as quiz shows, soap operas and studio interviews need an initial description sent with the geometry of the studio, colours, textures plus similar models of the performers. Height, head shape, clothing etc. During the broadcast all that needs sending is the positional and movement information.

Football matches can all be simulated and you only need send out names of teams, scores etc to generate hours of entertainment.

Note that the more the customer pays for their garget or TV set the more complex images, music and speech may be displayed or generated, using the same input data stream.

Advances are needed in artificial intelligence (AI) software and hardware to make the above happen, so it is really rather science fiction at this time, but maybe in 5, 10 or 25 years - who knows.

Page started 12 April 2012, amended 10 May 2015