The DPP has released two documents that extend the functionality of the Interoperable Master Format (IMF) through the development of an Auxiliary Image Sequence plug-in.
Recommendation DPP 006: IMF Plug-in for Auxiliary Image Sequences and the accompanying white paper DPP Auxiliary Image Sequence address the problem of managing sign language interpreted content in IMF, opening up new possibilities for content localisation and addressable advertising.
The component-based nature of IMF allows multiple versions of a programme to be created, managed and distributed more efficiently. However, SMPTE ST 2067-21:2016 is limited to a single concurrent video track in any composition, thereby restricting certain use cases.
Recommendation DPP 006 defines an Auxiliary Image Track to carry video, which can be composited onto the Main Image Sequence. This plug-in will benefit implementers throughout the IMF lifecycle by enabling storage, editing, re-positioning and processing of Auxiliary Image Sequences before compositing.
“It’s very important to ITV that we serve all our audiences with content that meets their needs,” said Kenny Toal, director of ITV Signpost. “By working with the DPP on developing the Auxiliary Image Track, we will in future be able to bring the operational efficiencies of IMF versioning to the production and distribution of sign-interpreted content.”
