System, apparatus, and method for preparing images for integration and combining images into an integrated image

Abstract

At least a first image, such as a motion video image, is prepared for integration with at least a second image, such as a motion video image and/or a still image. The first image may be a barker, and the second image may be a menu or programming guide. To prepare the first image for integration, a first compressed image is formed, restricted to a first region of a first image area by representing at least one segment of a first image within the first region with a reference to another segment of the first image within the first region. The second image may also be prepared for integration by forming a second compressed image. The second compressed image may be restricted to a second region of a second image area by representing at least one segment of the second image within the second region with a reference to another segment of the second image within the second region. The first and second images are combined by selecting a portion of the first compressed image, selecting a portion of the second compressed image, and combining the selected portions to form an integrated image.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.