MPEG objects and systems and methods for using MPEG objects

Abstract

An MPEG object is an object-oriented data structure that may be used in the creation of interactive MPEG video stream. The MPEG object data structure includes an MPEG object interface defining data received by the MPEG object and data output by the MPEG object. The MPEG object data structure further includes either one or more MPEG video elements or an association to one or more MPEG video elements. The MPEG video elements are preferably defined as MPEG slices that include a plurality of encoded macroblocks. Additionally, the data structure may provide a method for receiving input through the MPEG object interface and in response to input from the client device outputting an MPEG video element. In certain configurations, the MPEG object contains a method that maintains state data for the MPEG object. The state data may be used to select between a plurality of MPEG elements to output. In other configurations, the MPEG object includes a method that provides for the control of streaming MPEG content from a source external to the MPEG object.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A tool for creating interactive MPEG content, the tool comprising:
 an editor having a scene window allowing a user to create a scene based upon placement of MPEG objects within the scene window;   an object tool bar allowing a user to add an MPEG object having at least one associated MPEG element and a corresponding method to the scene; and   a format processor for processing the scene into a format including display position information of each MPEG object so as to form a complete MPEG video frame.