How to Search Through Long Videos Using a Compressed Visual Timeline

A method for searching large collections of video or image data by condensing them into a single, scrollable visual strip that triggers automated searches as you move a slider.

What it covers

This patent describes a way to visualize long sequences of images or video frames by compressing each frame into a single line of pixels. These lines are placed side-by-side to create a 'slitscan graphic' that acts as a visual map of the entire content. When a user moves a slider along this map, the system displays a thumbnail of the actual video frame at that point and automatically runs a search query associated with that specific segment of the video. For example, if you are scrubbing through a long video of a meeting, the system could automatically pull up relevant documents or notes linked to the specific topic being discussed at that moment in the video.

What it doesn't cover

• —Does not cover standard video scrubbing interfaces that lack the automated query-execution feature.
• —Does not cover search methods that rely solely on metadata or text tags without the slit-compressed visual representation.
• —Does not cover systems that do not group the compressed images into segments for query association.

The clever bit

The innovation lies in using a 'slit-compressed' visual summary as both a navigation tool and a trigger for automated, context-aware database queries, effectively bridging the gap between visual browsing and text-based search.

Why it matters

Managing massive archives of video is a major challenge for industries like media production, legal discovery, and security. By turning hours of footage into a single, searchable visual strip, this technology makes it possible to quickly navigate and find relevant information without watching every second of a video file.

Real-world examples

• 1.Digital video asset management platforms
• 2.Legal discovery software for video evidence
• 3.Automated video indexing and archiving tools