Synchronization and Storage Models for Multimedia Objects

Abstract

Multimedia computer systems are required to store, retrieve, and communicate objects comprised of mixed data types including images, text, and voice. An important aspect of multimedia systems is the integration of elements retrieved from databases distributed across a network. Integration of object components requires consideration of the temporal characteristics of multimedia elements. We propose a technique for the formal specification and modeling of multimedia composition with respect to intermedia timing. The proposed model is based on the logic of temporal intervals, and Timed Petri Nets. A strategy is evinced for constructing a database schema to facilitate data storage and retrieval of media elements based on the temporal relationships established by the proposed modeling tool. We present an algorithm which allows the retrieval of media elements from the constructed database in a manner which preserves the temporal requirements of the initial specification. Through the proposed model, the synchronization requirements of complex structures of temporally related objects can be easily specified. © 1990 IEEE