RU2257686C2 - Device and method for decoding digital signals of image and sound - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: digital audio and video technologies.

SUBSTANCE: device for storing information is made with possible receipt of data carrier, decoder is made with possible receipt of compressed encoded signals from data carrier and transmitting signals to decrypter. Decrypter is made with possible decryption of compressed encoded data encrypted data and transmitting these to decompressor. Decompressor is made with possible receipt of compressed encoded signals from decrypter and decompression of compressed encoded signals to reproduce the image.

EFFECT: higher precision, higher efficiency.

3 cl, 17 dwg

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the encoding of digital images and sound. More specifically, the present invention relates to a device and method for decoding digital images and sound data in a digital cinema system. This invention also relates to encoding, compression, storage, encryption, decompression, decryption and controlled playback of electronic audiovisual programs coming from a central device to multiple projectors or presentation systems.

Description of the Related Art

For several decades, the delivery of creative film industry film material to cinemas geographically dispersed within a single country or around the world depended on the copying, distribution, and projection of celluloid film. To a large extent, the methods and mechanisms for the distribution of film materials have still remained relatively unchanged.

The process of copying and distribution of film materials is currently presented in figure 1. The process of copying cinema materials usually begins with the captured negative of the highest quality. At the end of the production process of the original film at film studio 50, film editor 52 releases a master copy of the film. From this master copy of the film, by means of the film copying device 54, what is called a distribution negative is produced, from which, in turn, the necessary prints are made for distribution (positives). Depending on the volume of release or the number of copies required to distribute the film, additional intermediate steps may be present or multiple copies may be made at each step. The positives of films are distributed by courier or other physical means to various cinemas, such as cinema 56. In cinema 56, a movie is shown by projecting images from a film onto a screen surface using a movie projector 58. In the above-described conventional system, a multi-track audio device 51 is created a sound program that is recorded along with the movie on film so that this sound track is reproduced by the sound systems 57 minutes cinema synchronously in time with the motion picture in a theater projection system.

Despite the fact that the distribution process depicted in FIG. 1 works well, it has some limitations. Due to the use of celluloid as a material for making a film and a limited frequency band of the film material, there are restrictions on the ability to provide a multi-channel audio program with high quality playback. Further, making a large number of copies of the film is a rather expensive operation, the cost of which can be expressed in hundreds of dollars for each copy of a full-length feature film. Also, cash costs, complexity and time delay are associated with the physical distribution of large containers of celluloid film over a large and growing number of cinemas. Also in the film industry, there is an increasing trend in the development of so-called "multi-screen" cinemas, in which multiple projection cinemas are located or concentrated together in a separate cinema. At the same time, in each of the projection cinemas, a movie picture can be shown that is different from the pictures shown in the rest of the cinema halls of the multiplex complex.

Due to the large number of copies made, it is becoming increasingly difficult to prevent illegal copying and theft of film material. The movie industry is estimated to lose billions of dollars in revenue each year as a result of piracy and theft. Moreover, copied film materials tend to degrade over time due to dust accumulation, wear, temperature changes and other known factors. Ultimately, management expenses and other costs are associated with the disposal of film material, which may contain regulated harmful substances.

Thanks to new and already obsolete technologies, it is possible to use alternative approaches to the above distribution problems. For example, satellite transmission methods are currently available, although they are not commercially viable for the distribution of high-quality audiovisual (AV) material. Due to the fact that the process of distribution of film programs is essentially a special type of broadcasting on a continental scale, the method of distribution via satellites with all its inherent advantages regarding broadcasting to such wide areas seems to be most suitable for the distribution of films. However, to transmit a high-quality AV signal in “real time”, the required data rate (in bits / s) in order of magnitude should be 1.5 billion bits per second. To transmit a separate program at such a high data rate requires a bandwidth equivalent to that of a single satellite, which is excessively expensive. Moreover, using alternative propagation technologies, it is not possible to achieve image quality and projection brightness provided by celluloid film. Competing technologies typically include recording audio-visual (AV) signals on various magnetic or optical media for display on video monitors, television or projection equipment. These technologies do not provide equivalent film quality due to the limited frequency band.

Moreover, the ability to transmit the required information via satellite implies that the information received must be displayed using a high-quality projector, which until now was not available. In addition, the implementation of a satellite-based transmission and reception system is very expensive and represents a radical change compared to the methods of distribution and display of films currently in use. It should be understood that such a radical change initially could not be acceptable from a commercial point of view.

Also, the success of digital technology has led to a revolutionary concept of distribution, according to which program material is stored electronically in digital format, and not on optical film media. Digitized images can be distributed on various magnetic media or optical compact discs. They can also be transmitted via wired, fiber optic, wireless or satellite communications systems. At the moment, there is a variety of formats for DCD-ROM (read-only memory on universal digital disk or DVD-ROM) data storage, while the capacity of one disk is in the range from about 4.5 gigabytes (GB) to about 18 GB. Data storage formats on a DVD-ROM with a capacity of more than 9 GB are implemented on two-sided drives. At the same time, to access the information located on the second side of the UCD-ROM disk with a large capacity, you must manually turn this disk over.

To store a movie with an average duration of two hours at an average bit rate of compressed images of 40 Mbit / s and an average bit rate of compressed audio and control information of 8 Mbit / s, approximately 45 GB of space is required on the storage medium. Thus, even when using UCD-ROM disks with a large capacity, several UCD-ROM disks are required to display a two-hour film to ensure adequate capacity.

Moreover, to play a two-hour movie of UCD-ROM, an information processing speed of more than 6 MB / s or more than 48 Mbit / s is required. Despite the fact that there are some UCD-ROM playback devices in which the declared information transfer rate is 8 MB / s, nothing can be said about the quality and reliability of these devices. Thus, there is no guarantee that the mentioned UCD-ROM devices can reliably provide an information transfer rate of 6 MB / s.

To reduce the information repetition rate required for stored high-quality digital images, data compression algorithms have been developed. One of the methods for dynamic compression of digital images, which provides significant compression while maintaining image quality, is based on the use of blocks and sub-blocks of data of adaptive size encoded by a discrete cosine transform (DCT). In the future, this method will be called the discrete cosine transform method with adaptive data block size (DKPARBD). The adaptive sizes of the data blocks are selected so as to exploit the information redundancy existing in the image data frame. This method is described in US Patent No. 5021891 to "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMPRESSING IMAGES WITH AN ADAPTIVE DATA BLOCK SIZE" assigned to the assignee of the present invention and incorporated herein by reference. The DCT method is also described in US Patent No. 5,107345 on "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMPRESSING IMAGES WITH AN ADAPTIVE DATA BLOCK SIZE", assigned to the assignee of the present invention and incorporated herein by reference. Further, the use of DKPARBD in combination with a discrete transform with a quadrant tree is described in US Pat. No. 5,452,104 to "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMPRESSING IMAGES WITH AN ADAPTIVE DATA BLOCK SIZE", assigned to the assignee of the present invention and incorporated herein by reference. The systems disclosed in these patents use inter-frame coding, in which each frame from a sequence of image frames is encoded without regard to the contents of any other frame.

The dissemination of movie information using digital electronic formats significantly increases the potential for fast copying at low cost without loss of quality. However, in addition to the ease of copying characteristic of digital technology, there are encryption methods that ensure that information is encrypted in a way that prevents the distribution of useful information by unauthorized parties.

Technologies similar to the DKPARBD method of data compression, modern projection equipment, and electronic encryption methods make it possible to implement a “digital cinema” system. According to the generally accepted definition, digital cinema refers to the electronic distribution and reproduction of high-quality film programs that have been converted to digital electronic format for storage, transmission and reproduction. With the digital cinema system, many of the limitations that are specific to the current distribution of films can be overcome. A digital cinema system will not be characterized by the degradation of quality over time that occurs with celluloid films. Further, with the help of a digital cinema system, the problem of theft and illegal copying of celluloid films is actually overcome and the possibility of implementing security measures in the digital cinema system itself is additionally provided. However, a fully completed digital cinema system has not yet been developed by the film industry or related fields of technology.

Some questions and problems still remain unresolved. New digital cinema systems require improved forms of protection to prevent theft from movie theaters. To obtain greater economic return, the number of cinema complexes with multiple cinema halls is steadily increasing, as a result of which the complexity of the presentation schedule increases, as well as the number of locations where this film is shown. This would require numerous additional electronic copies to be sent for presentation to theaters using current distribution methods, which entails complexity and overhead.

The channels and mechanisms of distribution are still determined by the old methods of copying and distribution of celluloid film, which were described previously. It is necessary that the new methods fully incorporate all the advantages of processing the data of the proposed digital cinema system in order to reduce copying volumes, ensure faster release of films on the market and update products at the box office, while guaranteeing improved planning and distribution flexibility at reasonable costs. At the same time, some film producers, studios or movie theater managers would like to have centralized management of production and distribution, while expanding their presence in new markets. For example, it is desirable to deliver films or some other audiovisual presentation with alternative soundtracks in order to meet the growing demand in markets with multilingual audiences or foreign audiences with more efficient spending.

Thus, the integration of a specific technology in a device and method for encoding, encrypting, storing and managing digital image and sound programs is relevant. The objectives of the present invention are achieved by the method described below.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The subject of the present invention is a device and a method according to which encrypted signals, which are a representation of an image and sent in a compressed and encrypted form to an information medium, are processed to provide image reproduction, this device including an information storage device configured to receive an information medium, and a decoder configured to receive encrypted and compressed signals from the storage medium. This decoder further includes a decoder configured to decrypt the encrypted and compressed signals, as well as a data decompression device configured to receive compressed data signals from the decoder and decompress the encrypted and compressed signals to reproduce the image, and this decompressor uses a data compression method, based on inverse discrete cosine transform with adaptive data block size. The method according to this invention is a method according to which encrypted signals, which are a representation of an image and sent in a compressed and encrypted form to an information medium, are processed to ensure image reproduction, and this method includes the steps of extracting compressed and encrypted signals from the medium information; decryption of compressed and encrypted data in order to provide decrypted compressed signals; decompression of compressed and encrypted signals in order to ensure image reproduction, and the decompression process uses a data compression method based on the inverse discrete cosine transform with an adaptive data block size.

Accordingly, the described device and method provide decoding, decryption and decompression of image and / or sound data, generally presented in the form of program material. At the central device or hub, the program material is digitally compressed, encrypted, and stored in a state of readiness for distribution to the large-screen display devices of this program in one or more cinema halls or movie theaters. The program material, in the General case, includes the image of films, sound programs synchronized with the image in time, and / or other relevant information, such as, for example, visual cues for audiences with low vision, subtitles for translation into foreign languages and / or for audiences with impaired hearing, as well as advertising and directorial tracks designed for multimedia data. The program material can have a long duration (for example, a full-length feature film) or a short duration (for example, an announcement of a motion picture or commercial advertisement), or be a still frame (for example, an advertisement or an announcement). Sound and other relevant programs need not be synchronized in time or stored along with the video image, as, for example, in the case of background sound programs and advertising.

At the central hub, program information is processed for distribution. The source data generator, located either in the central hub or elsewhere, can be used to generate electronic sound signals and images from analog or digital input data. The source data generator may include a television projection apparatus for generating an electronic image signal, and an audio information reader for generating an electronic sound signal. Alternatively, the electronic signal may come directly from a digital camera or other electronic source, such as, for example, a computer imaging system.

Then, the electronic image and sound signals are processed by the data compression / encryption device. The data compression / encryption device, again, can either be located in a central hub, or in the same place as the source data generator, for example, in a production studio. To record sound and image data onto a storage medium, the known technology of dynamic data compression can be used. As the data compression method, the DKPARBD method described in the patents Nos. 5452104, 5107345 and 5021891. You can use the information carrier can be any type from the following list: high-capacity electronic tape; magnetic or optical storage devices, such as compact discs, universal digital disks or hard drives; network storage device. Moreover, some information instead of storage can be transmitted via wired, fiber optic, wireless or satellite communication systems. The audio signal can be compressed using the methods described above or using the standard digital audio compression algorithm. Compressed audio data can be stored on the same media.

Encryption methods involve the use of time-variable values of electronic keys and / or a digital sequence of control words, which is fed to authorized receivers and projectors. Moreover, a digital signature or “watermark” can be added to the image and / or sound signal. A “watermark” is not perceived by an ordinary audience, but at the same time it serves to identify the source of an unauthorized copy of the program during non-real-time analysis or playback of a fixed frame. The decryption information needed to decrypt image and / or sound information is generated by separate decryption devices using unique keys of secret algorithms and protected information sent to the cinema. In general, image and sound signals are encrypted separately. By processing segments related to sound and image as separate programs, it is possible to combine different sound programs with different image programs, which may be necessary for several reasons, one of which may be different languages.

Compressed and encrypted signals are also stored on a storage medium or fed to a central hub for subsequent transmission. If there has been a transmission, then using the modulation / transmission method, you can add direct error correction information and modulate the data stream intended for transmission. Transmission can be via any type of wired or wireless message, for example, via a terrestrial cable, optical system, satellite, Internet, or other means.

The central hub further includes a network management device. The network management device, in turn, may include control processors designed to control the entire operation of both the encoder and the cinema subsystem, which includes storage, playback / display, general monitoring / control and network management functions. The network control device is able to function with centralized or distributed full automatic control, semi-automatic control, or with manual controls.

Under the control of the network management device, program material and additional management information are stored and transmitted to the cinema subsystem. The network management device also includes control methods for notifying the cinema subsystem of the identity of the transmitted programs. Moreover, a control method is provided for selectively managing the repository of the received program of each of the cinema subsystems.

In the cinema subsystem, the information storage device receives the information carrier (s) from the central hub. The playback module reads the information from the storage medium, tracks the recorded information for errors and requests the retransmission of information blocks containing errors. A cinema subsystem, such as a cinema control device, uses a communication path (from the cinema system to the central hub) to request retransmission. As a communication path, a telephone network, satellite channel, Internet or any other communication method can be used.

Under the control of the cinema control device, the cinema subsystem information storage device can be used as a local centralized storage of program material. An information storage device may include such storage media as DCD, removable hard drives or PMD module (simple disk array). On the information storage device, several programs can be recorded simultaneously. The information storage device can be connected to a local area network (LAN) (electronic or optical) in such a way that any program can be played and displayed on any authorized projector. Also, the same program can be played simultaneously on two or more projectors. The program material is sent from the information storage device to the specified cinema hall (s) through a local network (LAN), for the construction of which various network architectures can be involved. In the present description, it is intended to use a LAN with an architecture with a central network switch. However, for the considered subsystem, other types of LAN architectures can also be used.

After transferring the program material to the playback module, the decoder decompresses and decrypts (or descrambles) the program material. The decompression and decryption algorithms of the data depend on the corresponding data compression and encryption methods used at the central hub. The decompressed / decrypted information is displayed using a projector in the cinema, while the audio signal is reproduced through the electronic sound subsystem.

The cinema control device generally controls all aspects of the projection procedure, including storing received programs, decompressing and decrypting program material signals, and displaying program material. The cinema control device can also control the time period and / or the number of repeat plays allowed for each program. Alternatively, the presentation control process may be localized to a projector, a remote control unit, or may be controlled by a central hub or other centralized element. Moreover, the cinema control device can be configured to integrate playback procedures with other procedures in the cinema, such as discount agreement transactions, ticket sales, advertising, alarm, environmental control, lighting, sound system control, etc. . Also, each cinema subsystem can include multiple cinema halls that share a common storage and management functions for more flexible presentations while spending money.

Using digital encryption provides built-in security measures. Cryptographic methods are used to provide end-to-end transmission of encrypted data. In other words, image and / or sound data is encrypted on the source data generator and decrypted in the movie theater subsystem during playback. In addition to electronic security measures, physical security measures provide additional protection for program material.

Physical security measures can be especially important for protecting decompressed / decrypted signals from eavesdropping prior to projector playing in the movie theater subsystem. In an embodiment of the present invention, the data decompression / decryption device is mounted in a secure, enclosed enclosure that is physically attached to or integrated into the projector so that the enclosure cannot be removed without authorized access. This casing prevents sounding of the decrypted signal. Moreover, penetration into a protected environment or enclosure can initiate the process of destroying or erasing cryptographic information about electronic keys, as well as destroying or changing digital data available at the point of supply to the projector to prevent copying.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a device and method for decoding, decompressing and decrypting digital image and sound data, as well as a control function for monitoring and controlling such a device.

LIST OF DRAWINGS FIGURES

The signs, objectives and advantages of the present invention become more apparent with the detailed description below in conjunction with the drawings, which use end-to-end numbering of positions:

1 is a block diagram of a conventional movie distribution system.

Figure 2 shows an enlarged block diagram of an embodiment of a digital cinema device in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 3 shows a block diagram of a source data generator based on the use of film.

Figure 4 shows a block diagram of a data compression / encryption device.

Figure 5 shows a block diagram of a network management device.

Figure 6 shows the block diagram of the internal network of the hub and the redundancy of the central hub.

7a-7d are block diagrams of information storage devices.

Fig. 8 is a block diagram of an information storage module in which several disc players are connected in series and a playback device is used.

Figure 9 shows a block diagram of an information storage device that uses multiple disc players connected in parallel and a playback device.

Figure 10 shows a block diagram of an information storage device that uses a magnetic disk cassette and a playback device.

Figure 11 shows a block diagram of a movie theater subsystem in which a removable hard disk is used as an information storage device.

12 is a block diagram of a movie theater control device.

13 is a block diagram of a movie theater subsystem in which the PMD module is used as an information storage device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention includes an apparatus and method for electronically decoding, decompressing and decrypting audiovisual programs, such as motion pictures in movie theater systems, movie theaters, movie theater complexes and / or presentation systems, sometimes referred to as “digital cinema”.

Digital cinema combines innovations in image and sound compression, projection technology, encryption methodology and many other areas. Digital cinema is designed to replace the currently used method of physically distributing celluloid film to each location of its reproduction or projection, such as a movie theater or a remote cinema. Digital cinema eliminates the need to copy celluloid film and provides the potential for high-quality reproduction of audiovisual programs, as well as for built-in security measures. Programs can be transferred to movie theaters and stored on information storage devices, such as removable hard drives (SZD) or digital multilateral drives (UCD), for later playback.

Although the present invention can equally well be used to present visual and audio information for a variety of presentation venues, such as open cinemas, cinema complexes for motorists, public cinemas, schools, specialty restaurants, etc., in order to simplify the following presentation An approximate version of a cinema or cinema complex is used. It will not be difficult for those skilled in the art to understand how the present invention can be applied to other venues for presentations.

The digital movie device 100 of the present invention is shown in FIG. The digital cinema device 100 consists of two main systems: at least one central device or hub 102 and at least one cinema or presentation subsystem 104. The design of the hub 102 and the cinema subsystem 104 is similar to the design of the hub and the cinema subsystem described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 09/075152, filed May 8, 1998, assigned to the assignee of the present invention and incorporated herein by as a link.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, image and sound data are compressed, recorded on a storage medium, and distributed from a hub 102 to a movie theater subsystem 104. In general, to receive image and sound data in a network of presentation venues, a movie theater subsystem 104 is used at each movie theater or presentation venue and includes some centralized equipment as well as certain equipment used for each presentation hall.

At the central hub 102, the source data generator 108 receives the movie material and generates a digital version of the movie. Digital data is compressed and encrypted by a data compression / encryption (SDI) device 112 and recorded onto a storage medium by a hub information storage device 116. The network management device 120 monitors and transmits control information to the source data generator 108, the SDS 112, and stores data on the medium via the hub information storage device 116. The conditional access control device 124 provides information about specific electronic keys, as a result of which only specific cinemas become authorized to display specific programs.

In the movie theater subsystem 104, the movie theater control device 128 controls the movie theater control device 132. Based on the control information received from the cinema control device 132, the movie theater information storage device 136 transmits the compressed data stored on the storage medium to the reproducing module 140. The playback module 140 receives the compressed data from the movie theater information storage device 136 and prepares the compressed data for processing in accordance with a predetermined sequence, size and information speed (repetition rate). The playback module 140 outputs the compressed data to the decoder 144. The decoder 144 receives the compressed data from the playback module 140 and decrypts, decompresses and formats the data and provides the processed data to the projector 148 and the audio module 152. The projector 148 reproduces the data on screens, and the audio module 152 reproduces sound information through the speaker system, while both operate under control of the cinema hall control device 132.

In operation, the source data generator 108 supplies digitized electronic video and / or sound programs to the system. Typically, source data generator 108 receives film material and generates digitized information or data recorded on magnetic tape. To create a digitized version of a movie or some other program, the film is digitally scanned at a very high resolution. Usually, in the process of film-video conversion (converting an image from a film into a digital signal), image data is generated, the audio part of the program is formed by the well-known digital sound processing. Processed images do not have to be taken from film, but can be separate images, or images such as still frames, or a series of frames or images, including those shown as films of variable duration. These images can be presented in the form of a sequence or set in order to create what is commonly called video programs. Moreover, other material can be provided, such as tracks with visual cues for audiences with impaired vision, subtitles for translation into foreign languages and / or for audiences with impaired hearing, as well as director tracks designed for multimedia data. Similarly, separate sounds, sets of sounds or recordings are used to form the necessary sound programs.

Alternatively, digital image data may be obtained using a high-resolution digital camera or other known device or method for generating digital image data. Using a digital camera directly delivering digitized image data is especially effective for capturing live events for the purpose of almost instantaneous or simultaneous distribution. Computers or similar equipment can also be used to directly generate graphic images to be distributed.

Digital image data is supplied to a data compression / encryption device 112, which compresses the digital signal using a predetermined known format or process, thereby reducing the amount of digital data necessary for high-quality recreation of the original image. To compress the original image in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the DKPARBD method is used. The DCPARBD data compression method is described in the aforementioned US Patents Nos. 5021891, 5107345 and 5452104. Sound information can also be compressed using standard methods and synchronized in time with the compressed image information. The compressed image and sound information is then encrypted and / or scrambled using one or more secure electronic methods.

The network management device 120 monitors the state of the data compression / encryption device 112 and sends the compressed data from the data compression / encryption device 112 to the hub information storage device 116. The hub information storage device 116 includes one or more storage media (shown in FIG. 8). As described below, the storage medium (s) can be representative of any type of high-capacity data storage devices, such as a universal digital disk (DCD) or a removable hard disk (SZD). After writing the compressed data to the storage medium, this storage medium is physically transported to the cinema subsystem 104 and, in particular, to the theater information storage device 136.

In alternative embodiments of the present invention, the compressed image and sound information is stored separately (non-contiguously) and independently of each other. That is, a method is provided for compressing and storing audio programs associated with image information or video programs, but separated by time. When applying the present invention, no requirements are imposed on the simultaneous processing of sound and image. To associate the corresponding audio and video programs with each other, depending on the circumstances, a predetermined identifier is used, or an identification mechanism or mechanism. This allows, upon demand, to link one or more predefined sound programs with at least one video program during or during the presentation. In other words, in the absence of initial time synchronization with compressed image information, compressed audio data is linked and synchronized with image data during program presentation.

In addition, the separate storage of audio and video programs allows you to synchronize sound programs in different languages with a video program without the need to re-create a video program for each language. Moreover, separate storage of audio and video programs allows you to support multiple speaker configurations without the need for interleaving multiple audio tracks with a video program.

In addition to the video program and sound program, a separate advertising program can be added to the system. Typically, advertising material changes more often than an art program. Using a separate advertising program allows you to update advertising material without the need to update art programs. The advertising program includes such information as directly advertising (slides, sound, commercials, etc.) and movie announcements that will be shown in this cinema. Due to the large information capacity of storage media such as DCD or SZD, thousands of slides or other advertising elements can be recorded on them.

The use of large-capacity information storage volumes allows tuning in such a way that specific slides, advertisements or announcements can be shown in specific cinemas to specific customers.

Despite the fact that FIG. 2 shows the compressed data stored on the information storage device 116 and the physical transportation of the information carrier (s) to the cinema subsystem 104, it should be understood that the compressed information or its blocks can be transferred to the cinema information storage device 136 using any of a number of wired or wireless transmission methods. Transmission methods include satellite transmission, the well-known multi-site line, Internet access nodes, dedicated telephone lines, or point-to-point fiber optic networks.

The following is a description of embodiments of the data processing units of the central hub 102, which are shown in FIGS. 2-9. Figure 3 shows the generator 108 of the source data. 3, the source data generator 108 digitizes the original movie version 156, such as a feature film, shot on 35 mm film, after which the digitized version is recorded on magnetic tape. The source data generator 108 includes a movie-video converter or high-definition (HF) process 164, which is used to obtain the original movie option 156 and to generate digitized images from the original movie option 156. Cinema-video conversion is widely used in the film industry, and any of several available commercial services or devices can be used to implement this process. However, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, high-resolution movie-video conversion is used as currently available with equipment manufactured by CINTEL or Philips BTS and well known in the art. The resolution and specific choice of the equipment used is determined by the cost and other known factors taken into account when developing this service. Depending on the target audience, available projection equipment and location, as well as taking into account the wishes to reduce the data transfer rate for certain types of satellite transmission, alternative resolution values can be used.

If the original version of the movie 156 is an option in a standard 35 mm format, then image processing is performed using movie-video conversion at 24 frames per second. The digitized output of the movie-video conversion can be recorded on magnetic tape using a high-speed recorder or can be immediately compressed and / or encrypted using a slower tape recorder or using another known system or image storage medium.

Due to the fact that the movie-video converter can only process the image, a part of the initial data related to the sound is processed independently of the image. If in the original version the sound was recorded in analog format, then for digitization it is usually fed on magnetic tape 168 to the sound reading device 172. In a first embodiment of the present invention, multiplexer 176 combines up to twelve channels of digitized sound with a digitized image. The multiplexed signal is recorded along with the video program on a storage medium, such as a high-density digital video recorder 180 or a similar high-capacity digital information storage device. As an alternative, as mentioned above, the sound program can be stored and processed separately from the video program, while the time synchronization information necessary for the correct combination of the audio and video programs in the cinema playback system in time is included. Time synchronization information can be stored in a video program, sound program, or in a separate control program.

Although the source data generator 108 is depicted as part of a central hub 102, it should be understood that this generator may be located in a device other than the central hub 102. Other devices may be more suitable for generating a digitized signal from a tape, magnetic or optical medium . Alternatively, the source data generator 108 may include a digital camera with an integrated magnetic or optical information storage device or other digital imaging mechanism (such as that used for computer graphics and special effects) that directly generates the digital source material. The source data generator 108 may also include a still image digitization system, such as an optical scanner or image converter, used for 35 mm photographic slides or prints. Thus, ordinary and specialized studios, such as special effects studios, or other institutions involved in the preparation and presentation of a video program, form the necessary digitized material, which is then fed to a hub 102 for subsequent processing or transmission.

4 is a block diagram of a data compression / encryption device 112. Like the source data generator 108, the data compression / encryption device 112 may be part of a central hub 102 or located in a separate device. For example, data compression / encryption device 112 may be located in conjunction with a source data generator 108 in a movie and television production studio. Moreover, the compression process of either image data or audio data can be implemented as a variable speed process.

The data compression / encryption device 112 receives digital data provided by the source data generator 108. Before further processing, digital image and sound data may be recorded in a frame buffer (not shown).

A digital image signal is transmitted to an image compression device 184. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the image compression device 184 processes the digital image signal using the DKPARBD method described in the aforementioned US patents 5021891, 5107345 and 5452104.

According to the DKPARBD method, the input color signal is usually supplied in the YIQ format, where Y is the luminosity or luminance component, and I and Q are the saturation or luminance components. Other formats such as YUV or RGB can also be used. According to the DKPARBD method, due to the low spatial sensitivity of the eye to color, the color components (I and Q) are discretized by the number of fragments that is a multiple of two, both in the horizontal and vertical directions. Therefore, four luminosity components and two saturation components are used to represent each spatial segment of the input image.

Each of the luminosity and saturation components is supplied to a block interleaver. In the general case, a 16 × 16 data block is supplied to a block interleaver, which arranges image fragments in said 16 × 16 data blocks in order to form blocks and composite sub-blocks of data for analysis by means of a discrete cosine transform (DCT). The DCT operator is one way of converting a signal, sampled in time, into a frequency representation of the same signal. By converting to the frequency representation using the DCT method, very high levels of data compression are achieved, as a result of which the sampler can be designed to take full advantage of the characteristics of the frequency representation of the image. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, one 16 × 16 DCT is applied for the first ordering, four 8 × 8 DCTs are used for the second ordering, sixteen 4 × 4 DCTs are applied for the third ordering, and sixty-four 2 × 2 DCTs are used for the fourth ordering.

The DCT operation reduces the spatial redundancy characteristic of the original image. After performing DCT, most of the signal energy is concentrated in several DCT coefficients.

For a 16 × 16 data block and each data subunit, the converted coefficients are analyzed to determine the number of bits needed to encode each data block or subunit. Next, a data block or a combination of data subunits that require the smallest number of bits to encode is selected as a representation of the image segment. For example, to represent an image segment, you can select two 8 × 8 data subunits, six 4 × 4 data subunits, and eight 2 × 2 data subunits.

Then, the selected data block or combination of data subunits is properly ordered. In preparation for transmission, the values of DCT coefficients can undergo further transformations, such as frequency weighting, sampling, coding (for example, variable-length coding) using known methods, while these transformations are not limited to the above list. The compressed image signal is then supplied to at least one image encryption device 188.

A digital audio signal is typically provided to an audio data compression device 192. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the audio data compression device 192 processes multi-channel audio information using a standard digital audio compression algorithm. The compressed audio signal is supplied to at least one audio encryption device 196. Alternatively, it can be transmitted and used in an uncompressed, but nonetheless digital format.

The image encryption device 188 and the sound encryption device 196 encrypt, respectively, the compressed image and sound signals using any of a number of known encryption methods. Image and sound signals can be encrypted using the same or different encryption methods. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an encryption method is used, which includes scrambling digital sequences of both a video program and a real-time audio program.

On the image encryption device 188 and the sound encryption device 196, the program material is processed by a scrambling / encryption scheme using electronic key information that changes over time (usually it changes several times per second). The scrambled program information can be stored or transmitted, for example, through the air through a wireless communication channel, while not being available for decryption to those who do not have electronic key information involved in scrambling the program material or digital data.

Encryption typically involves scrambling digital sequences or directly encrypting a compressed signal. The concepts of “encryption” and “scrambling” are used interchangeably and denote any method of processing digital data streams coming from different sources using one of a number of cryptographic methods for scrambling, encoding or directly encrypting said digital data streams, using sequences generated using secret digital values ("keys") in such a way that it is extremely difficult to restore the original data sequence without knowing the values of the secret keys whose.

Each video program or sound program can use specific information about electronic keys, which is transmitted encrypted using information about electronic keys specific to the cinema or presentation room to the cinema or presentation room authorized to display this program. This function is performed by the conditional access control device (UUUD) 124. The encrypted program key required to decrypt the recorded information in the cinema is sent or otherwise delivered to authorized movie theaters before playing the program. It should be noted that the recorded program information can be transmitted or delivered several days or even months before the start of the authorized show period, or an encrypted video program or sound program can be transmitted or delivered right before the start of the authorized show period. An encrypted program key may be transmitted using a low-speed communication channel or a wearable information storage element, such as an information medium on a magnetic or optical disk, a smart card or other device with erasable contents of storage elements. An encrypted program key can be provided in such a way as to control the period of time during which a particular cinema complex or cinema hall is authorized to display this program.

Each cinema subsystem 104 that receives the encrypted program key decrypts the given value using a key specific to the cinema and stores the decrypted program key in a storage device or other secure information storage device.

When reproducing this program, electronic key information specific to the cinema or location is used, while it is preferable to use the symmetric algorithm used by the encryption device 112 in preparing the encrypted signal, which at the considered time is real-time descrambled / decrypted program information.

Returning to FIG. 4, it should be noted that in addition to scrambling, the image device 192 can add a “watermark” to the program information, which is inherently digital information. This implies the insertion into the program sequence of a visible identifier specific to a given location and / or for a given time period. That is, a watermark is created to indicate the authorized location and point in time for presentation in order to more effectively track the source of illegal copying, if necessary. The watermark can be programmed in such a way that it will appear through frequent, but pseudo-random periods of time during playback, and at the same time it will not be visible to the audience. When displaying a decompressed image in a mode called normal bit rate, the watermark is not noticeable in terms of perception.

However, this watermark becomes discernible when reproducing image or sound data at a speed significantly different from normal, such as a lower non-real-time speed or still frame playback speed. If an illegal copy of the program is received, then the authorities can read the digital information of the watermark and, thus, determine the cinema in which this illegal copy was made. A similar method of inserting a watermark can be used or used to identify sound programs.

The compressed and encrypted audio and image signals are jointly supplied to the multiplexer 200. At the multiplexer 200, the audio and image information are multiplexed with time synchronization information to enable time-synchronous reproduction of the streaming image and sound data in the movie theater subsystem 104. Next, the multiplexed signal is processed by the program packetizer 204, which packetizes the data to form a program stream. Using data packing or, in other words, forming data blocks, the program stream can be monitored for errors when receiving data blocks during data decompression. A request to retrieve error data blocks may be performed by the movie theater control device 128 or the movie theater subsystem 104. Accordingly, if an error occurs, only minor parts of the program are subject to replacement, and not the entire program. Requests for the repeated receipt of small data blocks can be sent over a wired or wireless communication channel. This provides increased reliability and efficiency.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, program segments related to image and sound are processed separately as different programs. Thus, instead of using the multiplexer 200 to multiplex the image and sound signals, separate packetization of the image signals is implemented. In this embodiment, the video program may be transported without a sound program and vice versa. In this case, the video program and the sound program are assembled into a single program only during playback. This allows you to combine different sound programs with video programs for several reasons, such as different languages, updating after the release or change of programs, the need to adhere to local social standards, etc. This feature, which allows flexible assignment of various multitrack sound programs for video programs, is very effective in reducing costs when changing programs that are already at the distribution stage and in satisfying the demand in markets with different cultures available for the modern film industry.

Data compression devices 184 and 192, data encryption devices 188 and 196, multiplexer 200 and program packaging device 204 can be implemented as a controller module 208 data compression / encryption (SDM), which is a software-controlled processor programmed to perform the above functions . In other words, the above devices can be implemented as equipment with generalized functions, including a number of programmable electronic devices or computers that operate under software or firmware. Alternatively, the above devices can be implemented using some other technology, for example, via SIMS (specialized integrated circuit) or through one or more circuit boards. In other words, these devices are implemented in the form of specialized equipment.

The data stream of the video program and sound program is sent to the hub information storage device 116. The SD controller 208 is primarily responsible for managing and monitoring the entire data compression / encryption device 112. To perform the required functions, the SD controller 208 can be implemented by programming general-purpose equipment or a computer, or by using specialized equipment. As described herein, the network management device 120 (FIG. 2) supplies network management data to the SDM controller 208 via a hub internal network. The WSD controller 208 communicates with and controls the operation of these elements with data compression devices 184 and 192, data encryption devices 188 and 196, a multiplexer 200, and a packetizer 204 using known digital interfaces. The WSD controller 208 can also control and monitor the module 116 for storing information and transmitting data between the above devices.

It turns out to be preferable that the information storage device 116 be one or more CDS, DCD or other large-capacity storage media disks, moreover, the design of this device is usually similar to that of the information storage device 116 in the movie theater subsystem 104 (FIG. 2). However, those skilled in the art will note the fact that other media can be used in a number of applications. During the data compression phase, the information storage device 116 receives the compressed and encrypted image, sound, and control data from the program packetizer 204. The SD controller 208 controls the operation of the information storage device 116.

5 shows a network management device 120. The network management device 120 monitors and controls the hub 102 and, optionally, the entire digital cinema system 100, including controlling and monitoring the components of one or more cinema subsystems 104. Management can be centralized so that the network management device 120 controls the entire operation of the system in question, including forwarding, playback / display, security, and general network management functions. Alternatively, you can implement a distributed control system in which processors in cinema or presentation systems control only some of the cinema's functions.

Network management device 120 includes at least one network management processor 212, which is a central controller or “brain” of digital cinema system 100. In general, the network management device 120 is based on a workstation of a standard platform or similar programmable data processing equipment. The network management processor 212 controls the planning and security aspects of the hub 102. Under the control of the network management device 120, control information or program updates can be transmitted from the hub 102 well in advance of the time the program is shown in the movie theater subsystem 104. The network management processor 212 also controls the transmission or transfer rate of program data to the movie theater subsystem 104. The data rate may be fixed or variable depending on the type of program and the structure of the channel or transmission path. For example, it may depend on data rates for a particular data channel. Also, the information coding rate during compression of program material may differ for different programs, providing a variable level of data compression quality.

The network management processor 212 communicates with other components of the hub through the internal network of the hub, which is typically implemented in accordance with a standard multi-drop network architecture. However, you can use other well-known models and types of network architectures, including optical communication channels. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the Ethernet hub 216 of the network management system 112 provides the internal network of the hub, as described with reference to FIG. 6.

The network management device 120 may also include a modem 220 that provides an interface to a cinema network via the Internet or a PSTN (public switched telephone network), and, in general, includes a set of modems designed to exchange data over a telephone line in establishing a connection upon request, cable or satellite modems, controllers TsSSKU (digital communication network with integrated services) or cellular channels or other well-known means. The modem 220 interacts with the network management processor 212 with the network in question through the server function of the modem. The modem 220 serves as a receiver of the feedback communication path from the movie theater to the central hub 102. For example, the movie theater control device 128 shown in FIG. 7 monitors the quality of the decompression process taking place in the movie theater subsystem 104 and provides a quality report to the control system 120 the network. The return path can be used by movie theaters to request the retransmission of program data blocks containing errors from the central hub 102. Moreover, additional program presentations, as well as changes or updates to program material using the aforementioned communication channel, can be requested. In alternative embodiments of the present invention, the return path may be implemented via a satellite channel, or another low speed communication method, or via the Internet. In this case, instead of the modem 220, other known means or devices are used to implement the interface, depending on the circumstances.

The user interface 224 allows the user to directly control the network management device 112 and, accordingly, the entire hub 102 and / or the movie theater subsystem 104. The user can monitor the status of the hub 102 and control the synchronization of the various modules of the hub 102. Moreover, the user interface 224 allows you to configure various embodiments of the information storage device 116, including the type of storage medium used, as well as a method that determines how and where to store programs on the storage media. User interface 224 is typically a personal computer with a monitor and keyboard.

Figure 6 shows a block diagram of an internal network 228 of the hub. The internal network 228 of the hub is the main communication line of the central hub 102. The internal network 228 of the hub can be internally expanded through a local area network (LAN) Ethernet standard operating under the Internet Protocol IP. Thus, the internal network 228 of the hub physically connects the network hub 232 to the data compression / encryption device 112, the information storage device 116, the network management device 120, the conditional access control device 124, and, as an optional addition, the movie theater control device 128 from the subsystem 104 movie theaters. In addition, the internal network 228 of the hub may have redundant or spare components, designed to meet the requirements of the system in case of failure of the main components. If this corresponds to a specific differentiation of functionality into local and remote functions, then, if desired, an external interface can be used to connect the main hub 102 to an external computer network or communication system.

As shown in FIG. 2, a movie theater subsystem 104 is built with at least one, and in general with several movie theater control devices 132 controlled by the movie theater control device 128. For example, in some shopping malls, cinemas are built in the form of cinema complexes consisting of several cinema halls under one roof, and this kind of complex is often called a Cineplex cinema or a multiplex cinema. The stored compressed information may be transmitted to one or more cinema control devices 132 in a single cinema complex.

The cinema hall control module 132 includes a movie theater information storage device 136, a playback module 140, a decoder 144, a projector 148, and a sound module 152. During operation, the storage medium of the movie theater information storage device 136 contains compressed information. 7 shows various embodiments of an information storage device 136. Typically, the storage medium is physically transported from the hub 102 to the movie theater subsystem 104, although it is assumed that only a portion of the information can be transferred from the hub 102 to the movie theater subsystem 104. The storage medium may be one or more UCD discs 236 (Fig. 7a and Fig. 7c), one or more removable hard drives 240 (Fig. 7b), an internal hard drive (VNR) 244 as part of the playback module (Fig. 7g) , composed of many storage elements, a simple disk array (PMD) 248 or a combination of the above.

In an embodiment using UCD as a medium, several UCD disks 236 can be used. This embodiment is shown in FIG. 7a. A typical two-hour movie, for which the bit rate of the compressed image is about 40 Mbit / s, and the bit rate of the audio data and control information is about 8 Mbit / s, requires approximately 45 GB of memory to store. Modern UCD-ROM storage formats provide from 4.5 GB to 18 GB. Volume exceeding 9 GB is achieved by using double-sided drives, which must be turned over to gain access to the second side. Therefore, even if high-capacity DCD-ROMs are used, providing adequate space for a two-hour movie requires the use of several DCD-ROMs.

As described above, it is preferable to separate the image data from the audio data. This embodiment is shown in FIG. The video program 252 is recorded on a separate storage medium other than that on which the sound program 256 is recorded. The media can be DCD or SZD disks. When using the present invention, it is not necessary to process the sound program simultaneously with the video program. Storing the sound program separately from the video program allows you to synchronize sound programs in different languages with this video program without the need to re-produce the video program for each of the languages. Moreover, separate storage of the sound program allows you to use various speaker configurations without the need to interleave multiple audio tracks with the video program.

In addition to the video program 252 and the sound program 256, a separate advertising program (commercial) 260 can be added to the system. The use of a separate advertising program 260 allows you to update the content of the advertisement without the need to create new art video programs 252. The advertising program 260 may contain the actual advertising, announcements of broadcasts or movies as well as management information and / or electronic key information for the cinema subsystem 104.

The use of a removable hard disk as a storage medium provides several advantages, namely: ease of copying and lower error rate. This embodiment is shown in FIG. The information stored on the hard disk 240 is easily duplicated by overwriting it on other disks in a personal computer (PC). In addition, due to the large information capacity of removable hard drives, a smaller number can be dispensed with. Compared to other storage media, the use of hard drives reduces the likelihood of errors due to improper handling of the media. Moreover, a removable hard drive is more likely to preserve data integrity in harsh conditions, such as improper handling during transportation, exposure to dust, dirt, noise or any other external impact.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 7c, in addition to other storage media, an internal hard drive (HDD) 244 and a modem 264 are used. Recording information to the HDD 244 via modem 264 allows direct transmission of information to the movie theater via existing communication systems such as via telephone lines, CSCCU (digital communication networks with integrated services), cable modems, or DSL lines (digital subscriber line). So, updates to advertising information and movie announcements can be sent over the telephone line and recorded on the All-Russian Railway 244. As an alternative, new slides can be shown in the theater directly from the All-Russian Railway 244, and not from a disk containing commercials. The transfer of updates to promotional materials and movie announcements through the connection via modem 264 leads to significant cost savings, as it avoids the costs associated with printing and distribution of additional discs with promotional materials.

Another function of VNZh 244 is to ensure data integrity. Before sending data to the playback module, VNZh 244 checks the information recorded on the storage medium for data integrity. The data integrity system verifies the electronic signature (signature) of each data block. If the check procedure of the CEC (cyclic redundancy check) of the block fails, or if the block is lost, the playback module uses a modem connection to request the retransmission of the erroneous data block. After the request is completed, the required data block is recorded on the VNR 244. When the playback module plays the program, then at the right time it calls the VNR 244. To achieve efficiency and for reasons of bit rate, access to a relatively small the number of blocks. If the error checking system detects that a large number of data blocks are damaged, then, having received an error notification, the user can decide how much lost data justifies the physical transportation of data disks.

Using VNZhD 244 and modem 264 is also beneficial for the dissemination of cryptographic information about electronic keys. The conditional access control device 124 sends cryptographic information about electronic keys and other control information to VNZh 244 either by physically sending data on a separate storage medium or by means of a modem 264. In turn, the operating status data can be sent to the conditional access control device 124, reports as well as other information. Despite the fact that the control information is transmitted from the main hub 102, and the cinema subsystem 104 is capable of receiving all the transmitted information, the cinema subsystem 104 selectively demodulates and stores only those received programs that are intended for this particular cinema module 104.

If there is a VNZh 244 of sufficient information capacity or if the PMD 384 is used, a video program, a sound program and / or commercials can be downloaded to the VNVD from the main information medium. Using the VNZh 244 allows the playback module to conduct dual movie sessions and play several programs on a schedule. In addition, by loading the program (s) onto several playback modules and reproducing these programs from the VNZh 244 of each of the playback modules, this movie can be shown on several screens.

In the alternative embodiment of FIG. 7d shown in FIG. 7d, the interface provided by the modem 264 of FIG. 7d is replaced by a local area network (LAN) interface 268. In addition to performing functions similar to the described interface provided by the modem 264, the LAN interface 268 can be connected to one or more playback modules and / or the cinema control device 128. A user interface (not shown) is connected to the LAN interface 268 and / or the cinema control device 128 so that the user can remotely control and monitor functions such as scheduling sessions, managing and tracking failures of each of the playback, decoding, image and sound. In addition, it is possible to connect the network management device 120 to the LAN interface 268. The LAN interface 268 also provides the ability to transfer programs between playback modules.

An embodiment of the present invention, in which several DCD discs 272a, 272b, ..., 272n are used as storage media and several DCD players 276a, 276b, ..., 276n are used, is shown in FIG. The single-disc DVD players 276a, 276b, ..., 276n are turned on one by one according to a predetermined sequence and reproduce the information recorded on the respective discs. Through the switch 280, the recorded information is supplied to the buffer 284, for example, to the OMT buffer (random access memory (FIFO)) of the OMT (random access memory) shown in FIG. The OMT RAM buffer 284 should have sufficient capacity so that the decoder 144 and, as a result, the projector 148 do not experience an excess or lack of information. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the OMT RAM buffer 284 has a capacity of 100 to 200 MB. The use of OMT RAM buffer 284 becomes especially important when sequentially reading DRC disks 272a, 272b, ..., 272n. When sequentially reading DRC disks at the time of switching from disk to disk, delays of several seconds may be observed.

Through the interface 288 of the optical fiber channel, the data is transmitted to the decoder 144. The switch 280, the buffer 284, and the interface of the optical fiber channel are controlled by a CPU (central processing unit) 292 of the playback module.

As shown in FIG. 9, a set of DCD discs 272a, 272b, ..., 272n can also be played in parallel. In parallel playback, a number of DLC players 276a, 276b, ..., 276n reproduce various pieces of compressed information, and then these fragments are re-combined in the reproduction unit 140. Fragments of the compressed information are received from the DLC of the players 276a, 276b, ..., 276n in the parallel reading / ordering mechanism 296, which arranges these parts of the compressed information in the correct order. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sequencing engine 296 is a software module to which the playback module 140 has access. As shown in FIG. 9, the CPU 292 of the playback module 140 has access to the sequencing mechanism 296. The sequencing engine 296 can be placed in the CPU 292. In order to ensure error-free playback, the sequencing engine 296 also performs the function of checking for errors. Fragments of compressed information may contain redundant information in case any parts of the disk cannot be read, or the integrity of the compressed information is compromised. In such cases, sequencing engine 296 may use redundant information to recover corrupted data. Redundant information and sequence data can be stored on a separate DCD and read in parallel with other disks 272a, 272b, ..., 272n containing the compressed information.

In an embodiment of the present invention, which is an alternative to the two embodiments of Figs. 8 and 9, instead of a set of single-disc DLC players, a DCD can be used. The DVD cartridge 300 shown in FIG. 10 is similar in its operation to the well-known CD cartridge cassettes (CDs). A disc cassette 300 disks UCD contains several disks. A software control module located in the information storage device 136, the playback module 140, or the CPU 292 ensures the correct installation of the disks and the sequence of access to them. Several discs are fed to a single DVD player. A switching mechanism 304, similar to that shown in FIG. 8, controls the order in which discs are inserted into the DCD player. In an embodiment of the present invention based on the use of a DVD cassette, it is possible to implement both sequential and parallel playback.

Figure 11 shows the operation of the cinema hall control module 132 using one or more removable hard disks (SZD) 308. For speed, capacity, and convenience reasons, it may be desirable to use more than one SZD 308. When sequentially reading data, some SZDs can perform proactive reading, which predicts the next read command based on the history of the read commands. This proactive reading is useful because it reduces the time required to read data from the disk sequentially. However, if SZD receives an unexpected read command, the time required to read inconsistent information from the disk may increase. In this case, the use of proactive reading in the SZD may lead to the filling of the SZD random access memory, which will cause an increase in the access time to the requested information.

Accordingly, the use of more than one SZD is beneficial in that a sequential data stream, such as a video program, can be read faster. In addition, access to the second set of information stored on a separate SJR, such as a sound program, movie announcements, control data or advertising, has its advantages, because receiving the same information from one SZD will require more time.

Thus, the compressed information is read from one or more SJD disks 308 to the buffer 284. The OMT RAM buffer 284 in the playback module 140 with a predetermined speed receives fragments of the compressed information from the information storage device 136. The OMT RAM buffer 284 should have sufficient capacity so that the decoder 144 and, as a result, the projector 148 do not experience an excess or lack of information. In a preferred embodiment, the capacity of the OMT RAM buffer 284 is from 100 to 200 MB. The use of OMT RAM buffer 284 becomes especially important since delays of several seconds may be observed when switching from disk to disk.

From the OMT RAM buffer, the pieces of compressed information are sent to a network interface 288, which supplies the compressed information to a decoder 144. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the network interface 288 is an optical fiber channel interface with arbitration logic.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the image of which is not separately shown, the network switch under the control of the cinema control device 128 receives the output from the playback module 140 and sends it to the given decoder 144. Using the network switch allows you to transfer programs coming from any existing playback module 140 to any given decoder 144.

When viewing the program, information is retrieved from the information storage device 136 and transmitted through the movie theater control device 128 to the movie theater control device 132. The decoder 144, using the secret key information that only authorized movie theaters have, decrypts the data received from the information storage device 136 and decompresses the stored information using a decompression algorithm inverse to the compression algorithm used by the source data generator 108. Decoder 144 converts the decompressed image data into a standard video format used in projection systems (which can be either analog or digital), after which the image is projected through an electronic projector 148. Sound information is also decompressed and fed to the movie theater sound system 152 for simultaneous playback with video program.

11 shows a block diagram of a decoder 144. Decoder 144 processes a compressed / encrypted program to visually project it onto a screen or other surface and reproduce sound using a sound system 152. Decoder 144 operates under its own controller 312 or movie theater control device 128 and comprises at least one packet decoding device 316, a controller or CPU 312, a buffer 314, an image decryption / decompression device 320, and a sound decryption / decompression device 324. For temporary storage of information, a buffer may be used for the packet decomposer 316. All of the above components can be implemented on one or more circuit boards. These circuit boards can be housed in a stand-alone housing mounted on or near the projector 148. In addition, a cryptographic smart card 328 can be used to provide an interface between the controller 312 and / or the image decryption / decompression device 320, which receives and stores the cryptographic smart card associated with the device. information about electronic keys.

The packet decoding device 316 determines and allocates individual control, image and sound packets that come from the playback module 140, the CPU 312, and / or the movie theater control device 128. The control packets can be sent to the cinema control device 128, and the image and sound packets can be sent to the image and sound decryption / decompression devices 320 and 324, respectively. Read and write operations tend to occur in the form of short intervals with intensive exchange.

Therefore, to ensure a uniform data stream from the device 316 packet decomposition directly to the projection equipment used buffer 314 high capacity.

The cinema control device 128 configures, monitors security, and controls and monitors the cinema subsystem 104. This subsystem includes external interfaces, image and sound decryption / decompression modules 320 and 324, a projector 148 and a sound module 152. Control information is received from the playback module 140, the CPU 312, the theater control device 128, the remote control port, or via locally input data, for example, from a control panel mounted on the housing or chassis of the cinema hall control module 132. The decoder CPU 312 can also control electronic keys assigned to each of the cinema room control units 132. The pre-selected electronic cryptographic keys assigned to each of the cinema room control modules 132 are used in conjunction with electronic cryptographic key information, which is part of the image and sound data and is used to decrypt the image and sound before decompression. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the decoder CPU 312 uses a standard microprocessor executing software embedded in each of the cinema hall control units 132 as a basic functional element or control element.

In addition to the above, in a preferred embodiment, the decoder controller 312 is configured to exchange data or work in conjunction with a cinema control device 128 to report on presentations held in each of the cinema halls. Then, the information on the presentations held becomes available for sending to the hub 102 using the reverse communication channel or, at predetermined time points, on a mobile storage medium.

The image decryption / decompression device 320 receives an image data stream from the packet decoding device 316, decrypts them, and restores the original image for display on the screen. As a result of this operation, standard analog RGB signals are usually obtained, which are fed to a digital movie projector 148. Typically, decryption and decompression are carried out in real time, which ensures program playback in real time.

The decryption and decompression actions of the image data stream performed by the image decryption / decompression device 320 are inverse to those operations performed by the image compression device 184 and the image encryption device 188 from the hub 102. Each of the cinema hall control units 132 can process and demonstrate a program that differs from the programs of other cinema control modules 132 of the same cinema subsystem 104, or several cinema control modules 132 can have one temporarily process and demonstrate the same program. As an additional option, the same program can be demonstrated by several projectors, and these several projectors work with a delay relative to each other.

In the process of decryption for image restoration, the previously provided electronic cryptographic information, unique for each device and changing from program to program, together with electronic keys embedded in the data stream, are applied. (The decryption process has been described previously with reference to FIG. 4). Each cinema subsystem 104 is provided with cryptographic key information necessary for each of the programs and for each cinema hall control module 132 in which the display of this program is allowed.

In order to allow the demonstration of a specific program in a specific system, a multi-level cryptographic key manager is used. A multi-level cryptographic key manager typically uses electronic key values that are unique to each authorized movie theater control device 128 for a particular video program and / or sound program, and / or a cryptographic key sequence that changes over time as part of a video program and / or sound program. A “cinema-specific” electronic key, typically 56 bits or more in length, is programmed in the cinema control module 132.

Such programming can be implemented using several methods of transmitting and providing information about electronic keys. For example, to transfer cryptographic information from the conditional access control device 124, the reverse link mentioned above can be used. Alternatively, you can use smart card technology, such as smart card 328, pre-programmed flash memory cards, as well as other well-known mobile storage media.

For example, you can design a smart card 328 so that the key value recorded on it cannot be read from its memory. Physical and electronic security measures are used to prevent and detect attempts to unauthorized use or retrieve information about electronic keys. The key is stored in such a way that it is erased when it detects an attempt of unauthorized use or hacking. The smart card scheme includes a microprocessor core with software, part of which is a software implementation of the encryption algorithm, usually according to the standard for data encryption (DES). The microprocessor card is capable of storing the values supplied to it, encrypting (or decrypting) these values using the built-in DES algorithm and a pre-recorded key identifying the cinema hall, and output the result. Alternatively, the smart card 328 can simply be used to transmit encrypted information about the electronic keys to the cinema subsystem circuit 104, which will then process this electronic key information for use by the image and sound decryption processes.

The video program data streams undergo dynamic image decompression using the inverse DKPARB algorithm or another image compression process symmetrical to the compression process used in the data compression / encryption device 112 of the central hub. If image compression is based on the DKPARB algorithm, the decompression process includes variable length decoding, weighting by value, inverse frequency, inverse differential transformation with a quadrant tree, indirect cosine transform (NKP), and reverse interleaving of discrete cosine transform (DKP) blocks . The processing elements used in decompression can be implemented using separate specialized hardware configured to perform this function, for example, in the form of a specialized integrated circuit (SIMS) or one or more circuit boards. As an alternative, decompression elements can be implemented using a standard element base or general-purpose hardware, including all kinds of digital signal processors or programmable electronic devices or computers running special software or firmware. To ensure high data rates of video programs, you can implement parallel image processing using several SIMS.

The decompressed image data undergoes digital-to-analog conversion, and analog signals are sent to the projector 148. Alternatively, a digital interface can be used to transmit the decompressed image data to the projector 148, eliminating the need for digital-to-analog conversion.

The sound decryption / decompression device 324 receives a stream of audio data from the packet decoding device 316, decrypts and restores the original sound for playback through the cinema speakers or the sound system 152. As a result of this operation, a standard linear level sound signal is supplied to the sound system 152.

Similar to the image decryption / decompression device 320, the sound decryption / decompression device 324 performs the opposite operation to that performed by the audio compression device 192 and the sound encryption device 196 from the hub 102. Using the electronic keys stored in the cryptographic smart card 392 together with the electronic keys integrated into the data stream, decryption device 324 decrypts the audio information. The decrypted audio data is then decompressed.

Sound decompression is performed using an algorithm that is symmetrical to that used to compress sound on the main hub 102. If there are several sound channels, then all of them are decompressed. The number of sound channels depends on the sound system of a particular cinema hall or presentation system. To improve the quality of the sound program, the main hub 102 can transmit additional audio channels that can serve the purposes of multilingual audio tracks and provide audio prompts for an audience with impaired vision. The system can transmit additional data tracks synchronized with the image to create special multimedia effects, subtitles, as well as special visual cues for an audience with impaired hearing.

As described above, audio and data tracks can be synchronized with video programs or can be played without direct time synchronization. A video program may be a single frame (i.e., a still image), a sequence of individual frames, or a series of short or long video clips.

If necessary, sound channels are supplied to the sound delay element, which introduces the delay necessary to synchronize the sound with the corresponding image frame. Each channel is then subjected to digital-to-analog conversion, as a result of which the sound system 152 receives signals, known as “linear” signals. That is, from the digital data, analog audio signals with an appropriate level or format are generated, which are used to control the corresponding sound system. The output connectors for linear audio are typically XLR or AES / EBU connectors, which are used in most movie theater sound systems.

Projector 148 shows an electronic representation of the program on the screen. High-quality projectors are manufactured using advanced technologies, such as optical or video processing methods based on liquid crystal optical valves (LCDs). Projector 148 receives the video signal from image decryption / decompression device 320, typically in the standard RGB (red-green-blue) format. Transmission of control and monitoring information to the projector 148 is typically performed from the controller 312 via a digital serial interface.

Returning to FIG. 11, the decoder 144 chassis incorporates a fiber optic interface 288, a packet decoding device 316, a sound decryption / decompression device 324, and a cryptographic smart card 328. The decoder 144 chassis is a secure, insulated chassis that also houses an interface 328 cryptographic smart card, indoor unit and / or power regulator, cooling fans (if necessary), local control panel, as well as external interfaces. In the local control panel, you can use all kinds of known input devices, such as a flat membrane keyboard with built-in LED indicators. The control panel usually represents or is located on the access hatch inside the chassis, which is used for repair or routine maintenance. To prevent unauthorized access, theft or unauthorized use of the system, this hatch is equipped with a reliable lock. During the installation, the smart card 328 containing cryptographic information about electronic keys (a unique cinema room key) is installed inside the chassis of decoder 144 and is protected by a lockable front panel. Access to the installation port of the cryptographic smart card is possible only from the inside of the lockable front panel. The RGB outputs of the image decryption / decompression device 320 are connected to the projector 148 inside the chassis of the decoder 144 so that if the chassis of the decoder 144 is incorrectly mounted on the projector cabinet, access to the RGB signals is not possible. To prevent the use of the decoder 144 in case of improper installation on the projector 148, lockable latches may be used.

The sound system 152 reproduces the sound portion of the program through the theater cinema speakers. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sound system 152 is capable of receiving from the audio decryption / decompression device 324 up to 12 audio channels in a standard format, whether digital or analog.

In another embodiment, the playback module 140 and the decoder 144 are combined into a single decoding and reproducing device 332. The combination of the playback module 140 and the decoder 144 leads to cost savings and reduced access time, since only one CPU (292 or 312) is needed to perform the functions of both the playback module 140 and the decoder 144. In addition, the combination of the playback module 140 and the decoder 144 eliminates the need for a fiber optic interface 288.

If you want to organize viewing in several places, the data contained in any of the information storage devices 136 are prepared for transmitting compressed data of one video program to various rooms with predetermined programmable shifts or delays in relation to each other. If the program should be displayed in several rooms at the same time, then the specified programmable shift is set to virtually zero, or very small. In other cases, to provide a very flexible presentation schedule, these shifts, depending on the configuration and capacity of the information storage devices, can be set in the range from several minutes to several hours. This allows the cinema complex to better follow the requirements of the market, for example, during a premiere demonstration.

13 shows another embodiment of the present invention. The user interface 344 provides direct control of the decoder 144 together with the projector 148 and the sound system 152. PMD (simple disk array) 348 consists of magnetic storage devices, such as a bank of hard drives, which contain encrypted / compressed encoded signals for holding scheduled presentations at designated cinema halls. To effectively meet the needs of each cinema in the storage of information, the PMD 348 design is scalable. In addition, in order to prevent the loss of recorded programs in the event of failures in the storage device, each PMD 348 contains built-in redundancy. PMD 348 can be a system of rack-mounted devices that can be expanded to meet the changing needs of each cinema in the amount of information stored. The use of PMD 348 allows the cinema control device 128 to dynamically switch the program displays between the various halls of the cinema complex and plan to receive programs in advance. Flexible implementation of the above serves to quickly respond to changing market demand.

In a preferred embodiment, each PMD 348 has a data volume sufficient to store programs intended for display in a given cinema. Thus, on the same day on the same screen you can show more than one feature film. In addition, sufficient volume is allocated for early recording of programs planned for display before the official release date for rental programs while storing programs that have already been released. This available free volume allows you to pre-record, for the purpose of showing, the programs that are allowed for future rental for the hours, days or weeks prior to the official release date without affecting the ability to rent current programs. According to the estimation in units of the digital data storage volume with such a device, about 120 GB of space is required for each cinema. The indicated volume was obtained assuming the use of modern compression and image processing technology, which may change in the near future and, thereby, lead to a reduction in these requirements.

Disk space for each of the programs loaded into the PMD 348 is allocated dynamically. This concept is acceptable for large cinemas with several cinemas, since the average duration for short and long programs is a certain nominal value, usually of the order of two hours. As a recommendation for single-screen movie theaters, the storage should be sufficient to record the longest program.

In addition, the PMD 348 works or is able to work in the "distributed recording" mode, in which the received information is distributed across an array of disks and temporarily recorded in the RAM buffer 349. That is, during the recording process, fragments of the received data are distributed across various disks of the array. One piece of data is sent to one drive, the next fragment is sent to another drive, and so on. After a sufficient time has passed for the disk to write data, this disk can again be queued for receiving input data. Thus, the received data is fragmented into blocks or segments of smaller size, which are recorded on different disks with maximum (or high) speed, which allows you to take advantage of input buffering in the input channel of the disk. This actually allows devices with a lower data rate to receive data in parallel and, thus, provide a very high data rate. In addition, this kind of information storage device provides redundancy necessary for error protection.

When writing data to disks or other information storage devices, parity information is used, which allows you to restore the program by extraction. That is, there is a method for linking program fragments during extraction or presentation.

In a preferred embodiment, each PMD 348 is based on an array of inexpensive redundant devices (RAID), which is able to completely restore the data file in the event of failure of one disk array. In order to troubleshoot and localize damage, the PMD 348 provides information on the status and failures. With this kind of device, it is possible to remotely control, interrogate the status and diagnose.

12 shows a cinema control device 128. The cinema control device 128 provides operation control and monitoring of the entire cinema subsystem 104 or one or more cinema control modules 132 of the cinema complex. To create sets of programs from one or more received video and audio programs that are scheduled for demonstration in the cinema system during the allowed interval, methods or mechanisms of program control can be used in the theater control device 128.

The cinema control device 128 includes a cinema control processor 336 and may further include at least one modem 340 or other device connected to the reverse communication channel for sending messages to the main hub 102. The cinema control device 128 may include a visual display unit, for example, a monitor , and a user interaction device, such as a keyboard. These elements can be placed in the office of the head of the cinema complex, ticket office or any other place convenient for the cinema.

The cinema control processor 336 is typically a commercial or business class computer. 12 and 2, a cinema control processor 336 is coupled to a network control device 120 and a conditional access control device 124. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a modem 340 is used to communicate with the main hub 102. Typically, the modem 340 is a standard modem for use in telephone networks that is located within or connected to the processor. For feedback from the main hub 102, this modem is connected to a standard two-wire telephone line. In alternative embodiments of the present invention, communication between the cinema control processor 336 and the main hub 102 may be accomplished using other low speed communication methods, such as the Internet, private or open data networks, wireless or satellite communication systems. To implement these alternatives, modem 340 is configured to provide an appropriate interface structure.

Returning to FIG. 2, the cinema control device 128 provides information exchange between each of the cinema control devices 132 and each of the information storage devices 132. The interface of the cinema control device may include a memory buffer designed to send information in the form of short intense periods of data exchange at high speed from the information storage device 132 via the control device interface 126, and then process it with other speed at other elements of the cinema control device 132.

Information exchanged between the cinema control device 128, the network control device 120, and / or the conditional access control device 124 includes requests for retransmission of pieces of information received by the cinema subsystem 104 that contain error bits that cannot be corrected, monitoring and control information, and reports on presentations and warnings, as well as information about cryptographic keys. For verification, authorization, and protection from listening, forwarded messages may be encrypted.

The cinema control device 128 can be configured to provide fully automatic presentation system operation, including playback / display control, security, and network management functions. The cinema control device 128 can also control the secondary functions of the cinema, such as booking and selling tickets, operations related to the discount on the price of tickets, and monitoring the indoor environment. Alternatively, in addition to controlling certain movie theater functions, manual control can be used. In addition, to control and adjust some of the above functions, the cinema control device 128 can be connected to other automatic control systems available in the cinema complex. The use of a particular system depends on the technology available and the needs of a particular cinema.

By controlling either the movie theater control device 128 or the network control device 120, the present invention generally provides for the simultaneous reproduction and display of recorded programs on multiple projectors. In addition, under the control of the cinema control device 128 or the network control device 120, it is possible to authorize multiple reproduction of a program, despite the fact that the cinema subsystem 104 receives the program once. The security management system may regulate the duration and / or number of rental sessions of each program.

By automatically controlling the cinema control device 128 from the side of the network control module 112, a means for automatically storing and presenting the programs is provided. In addition, using the control unit, it is possible to remotely control a certain set of network operations from a point remote from the location of the main premises using the control element. For example, a television studio or film studio can automate and control the distribution of films or other materials from a central location, such as a studio office, as well as make changes to programs almost instantly in order to respond to rapid changes in demand, take into account reviews of programs, or due to other available programs. areas of technology reasons.

Referring again to FIG. 2, a movie theater subsystem 104 can be connected to a movie theater control device 132 through a network interface 126. The network interface 126 of the cinema consists of a local network (electrical or optical), which provides local routing of programs within the cinema subsystem 104. Programs are stored on information storage devices 136 and sent via the network interface 126 of the cinema to one and / or several cinema control devices 132 from the cinema subsystem 104. The cinema network interface 126 can be implemented using an arbitrary number of standard local area network architectures that have sufficient data rates and provide connectivity and reliability requirements, such as, for example, a loop with arbitration logic, or networks built using switches or hubs.

Referring again to FIG. 2, each of the information storage devices 136 provides local storage of software material authorized for reproduction and display. In one embodiment of the present invention, a centralized information storage system is used in each individual cinema system. The cinema information storage device 136 provides the cinema subsystem 104 with the ability to create presentations for one or more cinema halls and is shared by several cinema halls simultaneously.

Depending on the capacity, the cinema information storage device 136 is capable of storing several programs at once. Using the local network, the movie theater information storage device 136 can be connected in such a way that any of these programs can be played and displayed on any of the authorized demonstration systems (i.e., projectors). In addition, the same program can be simultaneously shown on two or more presentation systems.

Thus, in this document, a device and method for decoding, decompressing and decrypting image data and / or sound. These device and method provide flexible scheduling of feature films and promotional materials, combining sound and image signals, and, among other distinctive features and advantages, simple implementation of protection and safety measures.

The above description of preferred embodiments is provided so that any person skilled in the art can reproduce or use the present invention. For those skilled in the art, various modifications to these embodiments will be apparent, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without the use of additional inventions. Thus, it is assumed that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, but represents the broadest scope of protection in accordance with the principles disclosed in the present description and new distinctive features.

Claims (100)

1. A device in which compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals representing a video program and a plurality of sound programs associated with a video program are processed to provide an image demonstration, said device comprising an information storage device configured to receive a plurality of storage media distributively storing said compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals in fragments; a decoder configured to receive fragments of said compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals from a plurality of storage media and to combine respective fragments of compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals, the decoder comprising a first decoder (data decryption device) configured to receive compressed encrypted encoded image signals from a variety of storage media and for decrypting compressed encrypted encoded image signals; a first decompressor (data decompression device) configured to receive compressed encoded image signals from the first decoder and to decompress compressed encoded image signals in order to demonstrate a video program; a second decoder configured to receive compressed encrypted encoded audio signals from a plurality of storage media and to decrypt compressed encrypted encoded audio signals; and a second decompressor configured to receive compressed encoded audio signals from the second decoder and to decompress compressed encoded audio signals in order to selectively play the selected one of the plurality of audio programs in synchronization with the associated video program. 2. The device according to claim 1, in which the decoder is configured to separately decrypt and decompress the encoded image signals and at least one sound program so that these two processes are independent of each other. 3. The device according to claim 1, in which at least one of the first or second decompressors is configured to decompress compressed encoded signals using compression technology using an inverse discrete cosine transform with an adaptive data block size. 4. The device according to claim 1, in which the second decompressor is configured to decompress a compressed encoded sound program with a variable speed. 5. The device according to claim 1, in which the encoded image signals are in the form of at least one video program, and further comprise an identifier used to associate one or more sound programs with at least one video program. 6. The device according to claim 1, in which the aforementioned image signals and audio signals are sent to a plurality of storage media in the form of data packets, and the aforementioned first and second decompressors further comprise a packet decoding device, which is configured to extract image signals and audio signals from the packets data. 7. The device according to claim 1, in which the information storage device is additionally configured to receive a key unique to the device, the first and second decoders are further configured to decrypt compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals according to conditions specified unique to this device key. 8. The device according to claim 7, in which the key, unique to this device, is stored on at least one key carrier separately from the encoded image signals and audio signals. 9. The device of claim 8, in which the key carrier is a smart card. 10. The device of claim 8, in which the key carrier is a magnetic disk. 11. The device according to claim 7, in which a key unique to this device is sent. 12. The device according to claim 7, additionally containing means for indicating the time interval during which the key unique to this device remains valid, and this mechanism serves to ensure that the key unique to this device is used exclusively during the specified interval. 13. The device according to item 12, in which the key, unique to this device, after the specified time interval is overwritten on the key carrier. 14. The device according to claim 1, in which the signals further comprise at least one “watermark”, said “watermark” being practically invisible during the demonstration of a video program or sound program, provided that the specified normal data transfer rate is observed, but becomes noticeable in the case of if the video program or the selected sound program are displayed at a speed significantly different from normal. 15. The device according to 14, in which the "watermark" is configured to identify information about the time and place of the presentation associated with the video program or sound program after decompression. 16. The device according to claim 1, further comprising a cinema control device, said cinema control device configured to transmit control information to an information storage device and a decoder and obtain status information from the information storage device and the decoder. 17. The device according to claim 1, made with the possibility of establishing a communication channel, and said communication channel is designed to transmit information outside and receive information from outside the device. 18. The device according to 17, in which the information includes management information and status information. 19. The device according to 17, in which the information includes updating the video program and / or sound program. 20. The device according to 17, in which the communication channel includes a dedicated data channel using a telephone line. 21. The device according to 17, in which the communication channel includes a data channel using a telephone line in the mode of establishing a connection upon request. 22. The device according to 17, in which the communication channel includes a packet data channel. 23. The device according to 17, in which the communication channel includes a communication channel using the Internet. 24. The device according to 17, in which the communication channel includes a wireless communication channel. 25. The device according to 17, in which the communication channel includes a satellite data channel. 26. The device according to claim 1, in which the storage medium includes at least one optical storage medium. 27. The device according to p. 26, in which the storage medium contains several optical storage media, and in which the image signals and sound programs are stored on several optical storage media inconsistently. 28. The device according to p, in which the audio signals are stored on an optical storage medium other than the one on which the image signals are stored. 29. The device according to p. 26, further containing encoded signals representing information of an advertising nature, and in which the said encoded signals representing information of an advertising nature, are stored on an optical storage medium other than those on which image signals and sound signals are stored . 30. The device according to p. 26, in which the optical storage medium contains at least one disk DCD. 31. The device according to claim 1, in which the storage medium contains at least one magnetic storage medium. 32. The device according to p, in which the storage medium contains many magnetic storage media, and in which the image signals and audio signals are stored on the set of magnetic storage media inconsistently. 33. The device according to p, in which the audio signals are stored on a magnetic storage medium other than the one on which the image signals are stored. 34. The device according to p. 31, additionally containing encoded signals representing information of an advertising nature, and in which said encoded signals representing information of an advertising nature are stored on a magnetic storage medium other than those on which image signals or audio signals are stored . 35. The device according to p, in which the magnetic storage medium contains at least one removable hard drive. 36. The device according to p, in which the magnetic storage medium contains at least one PMD module, and the PMD module contains at least one component for storing information. 37. The device according to claim 1, additionally containing a buffer that serves to synchronize the playback of the video program and the selected sound program. 38. The device according to claim 1, in which the information storage device includes means for using identification information in order to associate various pre-selected fragments of image signals or audio signals with various storage media. 39. The device according to claim 1, in which the information storage device further comprises means for parallel partitioning of information in such a way as to provide access to image signals or sound signals at the desired data rate and provide the degree of redundancy necessary for error protection. 40. The device according to claim 1, in which at least two information storage devices, decoders and decompressors are connected to each other via at least one LAN interface. 41. The device according to p, in which the network interface contains the Internet. 42. The device according to claim 1, in which the encoded image signals arrive in the form of at least one video program, said video program having the form of either a single still frame or a series of frames, shown as frames of a motion picture with a variable length. 43. The device according to claim 1, in which the image signals and sound signals recorded on the information storage device are copied to an additional storage medium, which makes it possible to conduct several presentations of encoded image signals and sound programs. 44. The device according to item 43, in which updates to the image signals and sound signals are stored on the specified additional storage medium. 45. The device according to item 44, in which the specified at least one additional storage medium is an internal hard drive. 46. The device according to claim 1, further comprising a means of archiving and storing a report on the playback of the video program and sound program. 47. The device according to claim 1, in which the storage medium stores encoded signals representing an assembly path, said assembly path defining program fragments in which information can be linked. 48. The device according to claim 1, further comprising a reproducing device, and this reproducing device is configured to propagate signals with pre-selected programmable time offsets relative to each other. 49. The apparatus of claim 48, wherein said pre-selected programmable time shifts are substantially zero so that, for the purpose of multiple demonstration, the video program occurs substantially simultaneously. 50. The device according to claim 1, further comprising a projector configured to demonstrate a video program represented by image signals. 51. The device according to claim 1, additionally containing a sound reproducing device configured to play the selected sound program in synchronization with the demonstration of the video program. 52. A method in which compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals representing a video program and a plurality of audio programs associated with a video program are processed to provide a demonstration of an image, said method including the steps of: extracting compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals in fragments from a variety of storage media; combining appropriate fragments of compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals; decrypting compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals to obtain compressed encoded image signals and audio signals; decompression of compressed encoded image signals and audio signals; and demonstrating the video program in synchronization with a selected one related plurality of sound programs. 53. The method according to paragraph 52, in which the steps of decryption and decompression of the image signals and at least one sound program occur separately and independently from each other. 54. The method according to paragraph 52, in which at the stage of decompression a compression method is applied using an inverse discrete cosine transform with an adaptive data block size. 55. The method according to paragraph 52, in which the stage of decompression is carried out with a variable speed. 56. The method according to paragraph 52, further comprising the following steps: grouping the image signals to the form of at least one video program; linking one or more sound programs with at least one video program. 57. The method of claim 52, wherein the image signals and audio signals are stored on a plurality of storage media in the form of data packets, the decompression step further comprising the step of extracting image signals and audio signals from the data packets. 58. The method according to paragraph 52, further comprising the step of extracting a unique key, and the decryption step is carried out according to the conditions specified by this unique key. 59. The method of claim 58, wherein said unique key is stored on the key carrier separately from image signals or sound signals. 60. The method according to § 59, in which the key carrier is a smart card. 61. The method according to § 59, in which the key carrier is a magnetic storage medium. 62. The method of claim 59, wherein the key medium is an optical information medium. 63. The method of claim 58, wherein the unique key is sent. 64. The method of claim 59, further comprising the step of indicating a time interval during which the unique key remains valid to ensure that the unique key is used exclusively during the specified interval. 65. The method according to item 64, further comprising the step of rewriting the unique key on the key carrier after the specified time interval. 66. The method according to paragraph 52, further comprising the step of providing at least one "watermark", and this "watermark" is practically invisible during the demonstration of a video program or sound program, subject to a given normal data rate, however, it becomes noticeable in case the video or sound program is demonstrated at a speed significantly different from normal. 67. The method according to p, in which the "watermark" identifies information about the time and place of the demonstration associated with the video program or sound program after decompression. 68. The method according to paragraph 52, further comprising the step of providing a cinema control device, wherein the cinema control device transmits and receives control information and status information related to the recording, decoding and decompression steps. 69. The method of claim 65, further comprising the step of establishing a communication channel for transmitting and receiving information. 70. The method according to p, in which the information contains information management and status information. 71. The method according to p, in which the information includes updating the video program and / or sound program. 72. The method according to p, in which the communication channel contains a dedicated data channel using a telephone line. 73. The method according to p, in which the communication channel contains a data channel using a telephone line with the establishment of a connection upon request. 74. The method according to p, in which the communication channel contains a packet data channel. 75. The method of claim 9, wherein the communication channel comprises a communication channel using the Internet. 76. The method of claim 69, wherein the communication channel comprises a wireless communication channel. 77. The method according to p, in which the communication channel contains a satellite data channel. 78. The method according to paragraph 52, in which the storage medium contains at least one magnetic storage medium. 79. The method of claim 78, wherein the storage medium comprises a plurality of magnetic storage media, the image signals and audio signals being stored in a plurality of magnetic storage media inconsistently. 80. The method of claim 78, wherein the audio signals are stored on a magnetic storage medium other than that on which the image signals are stored. 81. The method of claim 78, further comprising extracting encoded signals representing advertising information, the encoded signals representing advertising information being stored on a magnetic storage medium other than those on which image signals and audio signals are stored. 82. The method of claim 78, wherein the storage medium comprises at least one DCD. 83. The method according to p, in which the storage medium contains at least one removable hard drive. 84. The method according to p, in which the storage medium contains at least one PMD module. 85. The method of claim 78, further comprising the step of buffering the video programs and at least one audio program for synchronizing the video program and at least one audio program during playback. 86. The method according to paragraph 52, further comprising the step of linking various pre-selected fragments of image signals or audio signals with various storage media. 87. The method according to paragraph 52, further comprising the step of parallel partitioning of information into fragments in such a way as to allow access to image signals or an audio signal at a desired data rate and provide the degree of redundancy necessary for error protection. 88. The method according to paragraph 52, further comprising the step of providing at least one local network interface. 89. The method of claim 88, wherein the network interface includes the Internet. 90. The method according to p, in which the encoded image signals are provided in the form of at least one video program, and this video program has the form of either a single still frame or a series of frames, shown as frames of a motion picture with a variable length. 91. The method according to paragraph 52, further comprising the step of copying the image signals and sound programs to at least one additional storage medium, which allows several presentations of the video program and the selected sound programs. 92. The method according to p. 91, further comprising the step of saving updates to the encoded image signals and at least one sound program on an additional storage medium. 93. The method according to paragraph 52, further comprising the step of archiving and storing a report on the playback of the video program and at least one sound program. 94. The method according to paragraph 52, further configured to mark some fragment of the image signal or at least one sound program as a place in which information can be linked. 95. The method according to paragraph 52, further comprising the step of demonstrating encoded image signals representing a video program. 96. The method according to paragraph 52, further comprising the step of propagating signals with pre-selected programmable time offsets relative to each other. 97. The method according to p, in which the pre-selected programmable time shifts are essentially zero so that, for the purpose of multiple demonstration of a single video program occurred essentially simultaneously. 98. The method according to p. 95, further comprising the step of reproducing at least one sound program in synchronization with the demonstration of the video program. 99. The method of claim 52, wherein said compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals are decrypted and decompressed independently with respect to the image signals and audio signals. 100. A device in which compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals representing a video program and a plurality of sound programs associated with a video program are processed to display an image, said device including a means for receiving a plurality of storage media distributively storing compressed encrypted encoded signals images and sound signals in fragments; means for extracting compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals from a plurality of storage media; means for combining the corresponding fragments of compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals; decryption tool for compressed encrypted encoded image signals and audio signals; decompression means for compressed encoded image signals and audio signals in order to demonstrate the video program and the selected playback of the selected one of the plurality of audio programs in synchronization with the associated video program.

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