Embedding supplemental data in a digital video signal

Abstract

An MPEG-encoded video signal includes groups of pictures (GOPs), each GOP having an intraframe coded (I) picture and a series of predictively encoded (P) pictures and bi-directionally predictively (B) pictures. Usually, the GOP structure IBBPBBP . . . is used. However, in order to embed a watermark in the MPEG-encoded video signal, the MPEG encoder is forced to produce a GOP structure which does not normally occur, e.g., a GOP including a BPP sequence. Different symbol values can be assigned to different positions of the BPP sequence in the GOP.

1 - 8 . (canceled)  
   
   
       9 . An encoded video signal with embedded supplemental data, comprising groups of intraframe (I), predictively (P) and bidirectionally predictively (B) coded pictures, characterized in that supplemental data values are represented by respective predetermined patterns of picture coding types (I, B and P) in a group of pictures.  
   
   
       10 . The signal as claimed in  claim 9 , wherein the supplemental data value is represented by the position of a BPP pattern in a group of pictures.  
   
   
       11 . A storage medium stored thereon an encoded video signal with embedded supplemental data as claimed in  claim 9 .  
   
   
       12 . A storage medium having stored thereon an encoded video signal with embedded supplemental data as claimed in  claim 10.