JP2000115694A - Image data recording method and device thereof, image data reproducing method and device thereof information recording medium and computer-readable recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To inexpensively record image data on a highly detailed still image, etc., while securing sufficient recording capacity by performing a 3rd process, etc., to continuously record the image data on plural recording images on an information recording medium with each of the divided images defined as a single frame. SOLUTION: In a 1st process, the recording images 2-4 of different resolutions are generated based on an original image 1. In a 2nd process, the images 5-7 which are divided into different number of divisions and have the same number of pixels are generated for each of images 2-4. In a 3rd process, the images 5-7 are continuously recorded as a single frame on an information recording medium 11. In this image data recording method, the images 2-4 are divided into the images 5-7, and the data on images 2-4 are recorded on the medium 11 with every divided image defined as a single frame. Thus, a highly detailed image can be recorded properly.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image data recording method and apparatus for recording high-resolution image data on an information recording medium, and an image for reproducing image data recorded on an information recording medium as high-resolution image data. Data reproduction method and reproduction apparatus, information recording medium on which image data is recorded by the image data recording method, computer-readable recording medium for causing a computer to execute the image data recording method, and the image data reproduction method The present invention relates to a computer-readable recording medium to be executed.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, with the spread of computers, digital still cameras that record images as digital image data have attracted attention as still image photographing devices. In this digital still camera, the definition of a recording image has been actively increased, and in recent years, a so-called megapixel camera having a recording pixel number exceeding one million has been provided.

[0003] Since this megapixel camera can capture a high-resolution still image close to a silver halide photograph, it is used as a substitute for photography used in silver halide photography, for example, for recording construction work and evidence of accidents in car insurance. I have. However, this megapixel camera uses a semiconductor memory having a capacity of about 16 MB as a recording medium, and has a problem that the recording capacity is small enough to record 40 to 80 images at a time. .

On the other hand, a digital video camera that captures a moving image and records it as digital data can record a moving image of, for example, two hours at a time using a magnetic tape as a recording medium.

[0005] Therefore, it is desired that a still image can be recorded by a digital video camera having a relatively large recording capacity as described above, and the current standard of consumer digital video (for example, a so-called DV by the HD Digital VCR Council).
A standard digital video camera has a still mode for photographing a still image in addition to a video mode for photographing a moving image.

[0006]

However, in the still mode of the digital video camera, a still image is recorded with the number of pixels of the NTSC level, so that a high-definition still image close to a silver halide photograph is recorded. Can not.

It is also conceivable to take a moving image using a digital video camera that always shoots a high-definition moving image, and use a part of the moving image as a high-definition still image. Not a target.

The present invention provides an image data recording method and an image data recording apparatus capable of recording high-definition still images and the like at low cost while securing a sufficient recording capacity. Provided is an image data reproducing method and an image data reproducing apparatus for reproducing image data recorded on an information recording medium by the data recording method and the image data recording apparatus, wherein the image data is recorded by the image data recording method and the image data recording apparatus. And a computer-readable recording medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute the image data recording method, and a computer storing a program for causing the computer to execute the image data reproducing method It is an object to provide a readable recording medium.

[0009]

In order to record image data of a high-definition image at a low cost while securing a sufficient recording capacity, for example, the D-1 standard, the D-2 standard, and the above-mentioned DV standard are used. According to the digital video standard, the image data of the high-definition image may be recorded in accordance with a standard for recording image data of an image having a lower resolution than the high-definition image.

In order to record the image data of the high-definition image in conformity with the standard for recording the image data of the low-resolution image, the image data of the high-definition image is converted into the image data of the low-resolution image. May be divided into the data amount of one frame, and each of the divided image data may be recorded as one frame.

An image data recording method according to the present invention has been created based on the above knowledge, and includes a first process for converting an original image into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions, respectively. A second process of dividing at least a part of the plurality of recording images by a different number of divisions and generating a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels for each of the plurality of recording images; It is characterized in that a third process of continuously recording image data on an information recording medium with each divided image as one frame is performed.

According to this image data recording method, in the first processing, the original image is converted into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions. That is, in the first process, a plurality of recording images having different resolutions are generated based on the original image.

According to this image data recording method, at least a part of the plurality of recording images obtained by the first processing is divided in the second processing by a different number of divisions, and the number of pixels is mutually different. Are generated for each recording image. That is, in the second processing, for example, a recording image having twice the predetermined number of pixels is divided into two divided images, and
The recording image having the pixel number four times the predetermined pixel number is 4
The image is divided into four divided images. As a result, a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels are generated for each recording image.

According to this image data recording method, the image data of the plurality of recording images having different resolutions is continuously recorded on the information recording medium in the third processing, with the divided image as one frame. Is done.

As described above, according to this image data recording method, the recording image is divided into a plurality of divided images, and the image data of the recording image is recorded on the information recording medium with each divided image as one frame. Therefore, high-definition images conform to the standard for recording low-resolution image data,
Can be properly recorded.

According to this image data recording method,
As described above, the image data of a plurality of recording images having different resolutions created based on the original image is continuously recorded on the information recording medium. Therefore, if the image data of the recording image having a desired resolution is read out at the time of reproduction, the original image can be reproduced as an image having a desired resolution.

In this image data recording method,
In the second process, the plurality of recording images are divided into a plurality of pixel blocks composed of a plurality of adjacent pixels for each recording image, and one or more pixels are extracted from each pixel block. It is desirable that the divided pixels be recombined to generate the divided image.

As described above, if a divided image of each recording image is generated, even if the divided image is displayed as it is, the displayed image is an image close to the recording image. .

Further, in this image data recording method,
In the third process, it is desirable that the image data of the plurality of recording images be continuously recorded in frames per unit second so that one original image is recorded on the information recording medium in units of seconds.

As described above, if the image data of a plurality of recording images is continuously recorded in frames per second, the image data of the recording image generated based on one original image can be obtained. The recording position can be recognized in units of seconds, and the convenience in handling image data can be improved.

In this image data recording method,
In the second process, 2 the plurality of recording image respectively ²ⁿ
It is desirable to divide by the number of divisions (n is an integer of 1 or more).

As described above, by dividing the plurality of recording images by the number of divisions of 2 ²ⁿ (n is an integer of 1 or more), the total sum of the image data amounts of the plurality of recording images can be obtained. Can be set to within 4/3 times the data amount of the image data of the recording image having the highest resolution among the plurality of recording images.

In this image data recording method,
In the third process, it is desirable to record each of the divided images of the plurality of recording images so as to overlap with a plurality of frames.

As described above, the reliability of the recorded image data can be improved by recording each of the divided images of the plurality of recording images in a plurality of frames.

Further, in this image data recording method,
In the third process, it is preferable that information indicating that the image data of the plurality of recording images is recorded for each of the divided images is recorded on the information recording medium together with the image data of the recording image.

As described above, the information indicating that the image data of the plurality of recording images is recorded for each of the divided images is recorded on the information recording medium together with the image data of the recording image. It is possible to easily identify that the image is a divided image.

Further, in this image data recording method,
When an arbitrary pixel in the pixel block is set as a first pixel and a frame in which a divided image including the first pixel is recorded is set as a first frame, in a third process, the first frame is The divided image recorded in the adjacent frame is
It is desirable that the image data of the image for recording be recorded on the information recording medium so as to include a pixel adjacent to the first pixel.

By recording the image data of the recording image on the information recording medium as described above, the image data recorded on the information recording medium can be prevented from shaking even when reproduced as a moving image. It will be reproduced without much discomfort.

Further, an image data recording apparatus according to the present invention has been devised based on the above findings,
The original image is converted into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions, and at least a part of the plurality of recording images is divided by a different number of divisions, and the divided images having the same number of pixels are divided into the plurality of recording images. It is characterized by comprising an image processing unit that generates a plurality of images for each image, and a recording unit that continuously records the image data of the plurality of recording images on an information recording medium with each divided image as one frame.

According to this image data recording apparatus, the image processing section first converts the original image into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions. That is, a plurality of recording images having different resolutions are generated based on the original image. Next, at least a part of the obtained plurality of recording images is divided by different numbers of divisions, and a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels are generated for each recording image. That is, for example, a recording image having twice the predetermined number of pixels is divided into two divided images, and a recording image having four times the predetermined number of pixels is divided into four divided images. The image is divided into four parts. As a result, a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels are generated for each recording image.

According to this image data recording apparatus, the image data of the plurality of recording images having different resolutions is continuously recorded on the information recording medium in the recording section with the divided image as one frame. .

As described above, according to this image data recording apparatus, the recording image is divided into a plurality of divided images, and the image data of the recording image is recorded on the information recording medium with each divided image as one frame. Therefore, high-definition images conform to the standard for recording low-resolution image data,
Can be properly recorded.

According to this image data recording apparatus,
As described above, the image data of a plurality of recording images having different resolutions created based on the original image is continuously recorded on the information recording medium. Therefore, if the image data of the recording image having a desired resolution is read out at the time of reproduction, the original image can be reproduced as an image having a desired resolution.

In this image data recording apparatus,
The image processing unit divides the plurality of recording images into a plurality of pixel blocks including a plurality of adjacent pixels for each recording image, and extracts one or more pixels from each pixel block. It is desirable that the divided pixels be recombined to generate the divided image.

As described above, if the image processing unit generates the divided images of the recording images, even if the divided images are displayed as they are, the displayed images are the same as the recording images. A close image is obtained.

In this image data recording apparatus,
The recording unit converts the image data of the plurality of recording images so that one original image is recorded on the information recording medium in units of seconds.
It is desirable to record continuously in frames per second.

As described above, if the recording section continuously records the image data of a plurality of recording images in frames per unit second, the recording image generated based on one original image can be obtained. The recording position of the image data can be recognized in units of seconds, and the convenience in handling the image data can be improved.

In this image data recording apparatus,
The image processing unit converts each of the plurality of recording images into two.
It is preferable to divide by ²ⁿ (n is an integer of 1 or more).

As described above, if the image processing section divides each of the plurality of recording images by a division number of 2 ²ⁿ (n is an integer of 1 or more), the image data of the plurality of recording images can be divided. The total of the data amount can be set to within 4/3 times the data amount of the image data of the recording image having the highest resolution among the plurality of recording images.

In this image data recording device,
The recording unit desirably records each of the divided images of the plurality of recording images in a plurality of frames.

As described above, the recording section records each of the divided images of the plurality of recording images so as to overlap each of the plurality of frames, so that the reliability of the recorded image data can be improved.

In this image data recording apparatus,
It is preferable that the recording unit records information indicating that the image data of the plurality of recording images is recorded for each of the divided images together with the image data of the recording image on the information recording medium.

As described above, the recording unit records the information indicating that the image data of the plurality of recording images is recorded for each of the divided images on the information recording medium together with the image data of the recording image. Accordingly, it is possible to easily identify that the image is a divided image.

In this image data recording device,
When an arbitrary pixel in the pixel block is a first pixel and a frame in which a divided image including the first pixel is recorded is a first frame, the recording unit is adjacent to the first frame. It is preferable that the image data of the recording image be recorded on the information recording medium so that the divided image recorded in the frame includes a pixel adjacent to the first pixel.

As described above, the recording section records the image data of the recording image on the information recording medium, so that the image data recorded on the information recording medium can be shaken even when reproduced as a moving image. It is suppressed and reproduced without much discomfort.

Further, the image data reproducing method according to the present invention has been devised based on the above findings,
The original image is converted into a plurality of playback images having different resolutions, at least a part of the plurality of playback images is divided into a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels, and the image data of the plurality of playback images is When reproducing the image data of the reproduction image from the information recording medium in which each divided image is continuously recorded as one frame, a plurality of divided images of the reproduction image having a desired resolution are selected from the information recording medium. And a second process of resynthesizing the reproduction image having the desired resolution from the plurality of divided images read by the first process and outputting the reconstructed image. I have.

According to this image data reproducing method, in the first processing, a reproduction image having a desired resolution is obtained from an information recording medium in which a plurality of reproduction images having different resolutions are recorded in the form of divided images. Are read out.

According to the image data reproducing method, in the second processing, a reproduced image having a desired resolution is recombined from the plurality of read divided images and output.

As described above, according to the image data reproducing method, the reproduction image divided into a plurality of divided images and recorded on the information recording medium is recombined and output. It is possible to reproduce a reproduction image recorded on an information recording medium as a high-definition image in a form conforming to a standard for recording the information.

According to this image data reproducing method,
Since a reproduction image having a desired resolution is recombined and output from a plurality of reproduction images having different resolutions recorded on an information recording medium, the original image can be reproduced as an image having a desired resolution. Become.

In this image data reproducing method,
In the second process, one or more pixels are extracted from each of the plurality of divided images read out in the first process, and a plurality of pixel blocks including a plurality of pixels are constructed. It is desirable to resynthesize the reproduction image having the desired resolution by combining the pixel blocks.

In this image data reproducing method,
In the first processing, it is desirable that information indicating that the reproduction image is recombined and reproduced from the plurality of divided images is read out from the information recording medium together with the plurality of divided images.

As described above, in the first processing, information indicating that the reproduction image is recombined from the plurality of divided images and reproduced is read out from the information recording medium together with the plurality of divided images. It is possible to easily identify a plurality of divided images read from the recording medium as an image that becomes a high-definition reproduction image by being recombined.

The image data reproducing apparatus according to the present invention has been created based on the above-mentioned knowledge,
The original image is converted into a plurality of playback images having different resolutions, at least a part of the plurality of playback images is divided into a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels, and the image data of the plurality of playback images is An image data reproducing apparatus for reproducing the image data of the reproduction image from an information recording medium in which each divided image is continuously recorded as one frame, wherein the reproduction image has a desired resolution from the information recording medium. A reading unit that selects and reads a plurality of divided images; and an image processing unit that recombines and outputs the reproduction image having the desired resolution from the plurality of divided images read by the reading unit. And

According to this image data reproducing apparatus, the reading unit reads the information recording medium in which a plurality of reproduction images having different resolutions are recorded in the form of divided images.
A plurality of divided images of a reproduction image having a desired resolution are read.

According to this image data reproducing apparatus, the image processing section resynthesizes a reproduction image having a desired resolution from the plurality of read-out divided images and outputs it.

As described above, according to this image data reproducing apparatus, the reproduction image divided into a plurality of divided images and recorded on the information recording medium is recombined and output. It is possible to reproduce a reproduction image recorded on an information recording medium as a high-definition image in a form conforming to a standard for recording the information.

According to this image data reproducing apparatus,
Since a reproduction image having a desired resolution is recombined and output from a plurality of reproduction images having different resolutions recorded on an information recording medium, the original image can be reproduced as an image having a desired resolution. Become.

In this image data reproducing apparatus,
The image processing unit extracts one or more pixels for each of the plurality of divided images read by the reading unit and constructs a plurality of pixel blocks including a plurality of pixels,
It is desirable to re-synthesize the reproduction image having the desired resolution by combining the plurality of pixel blocks.

In this image data reproducing apparatus,
It is desirable that the reading unit reads information indicating that the reproduction image is recombined and reproduced from the plurality of divided images together with the plurality of divided images from the information recording medium.

As described above, the reading section reads from the information recording medium together with the plurality of divided images, information indicating that the reproduction image is recombined and reproduced from the plurality of divided images. It is possible to easily identify that the plurality of divided images read out from the image to be a high-definition reproduction image by being recombined.

Further, the information recording medium according to the present invention is created based on the above-mentioned knowledge, and the original image is converted into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions, respectively.
At least a part of the plurality of recording images is divided into a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels, and image data of the plurality of recording images is continuously recorded with each divided image as one frame. It is characterized by:

Since a plurality of recording images having different resolutions recorded on this information recording medium are recorded in a state of being divided into a plurality of divided images, it is necessary to re-synthesize and reproduce the plurality of divided images. Accordingly, it is possible to reproduce a high-definition image.

Since a plurality of recording images having different resolutions obtained by converting the original image are recorded on the information recording medium, a recording image having a desired resolution is converted from the plurality of recording images. If selected and reproduced, the original image can be reproduced as an image having a desired resolution.

The divided images recorded on the information recording medium are obtained by dividing the plurality of recording images into a plurality of pixel blocks each composed of a plurality of adjacent pixels for each recording image. It is desirable that one or more pixels are extracted from each pixel block, and the extracted pixels are recombined.

In the information recording medium, when the above-described divided images are recorded, even if the divided images are reproduced as they are without being recombined, the reproduced image is recorded. The image is similar to the image for use.

A computer-readable recording medium according to the present invention is created based on the above-described knowledge, and includes a first process for converting an original image into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions. A second process of dividing at least a part of the plurality of recording images by a different number of divisions and generating a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels for each of the plurality of recording images; It is characterized in that a program for causing a computer to execute a third process of continuously recording image data of an image for use with each divided image as one frame on an information recording medium is recorded.

By causing the computer to perform the first, second, and third processes using this computer-readable recording medium, a plurality of recording images are divided into a plurality of divided images, and Since the divided image is recorded as one frame on the information recording medium, a high-definition image can be appropriately recorded in a form conforming to a standard for recording low-resolution image data.

Further, by causing the computer to perform the first, second and third processes using this computer-readable recording medium, a plurality of recordings having different resolutions obtained by converting the original image can be obtained. The image data of the image for
Since the data is continuously recorded on the information recording medium, the original image can be reproduced as an image having a desired resolution by reading out image data of a recording image having a desired resolution during reproduction.

Further, the computer-readable recording medium according to the present invention is created based on the above-mentioned knowledge, and the original image is converted into a plurality of reproduction images having different resolutions. At least a part of the reproduction image is divided into a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels, and the image data of the plurality of reproduction images is obtained from an information recording medium in which each divided image is continuously recorded as one frame. A computer-readable recording medium on which a program for causing a computer to execute processing for reproducing the image data of the reproduction image is recorded, and a plurality of divided images of the reproduction image having a desired resolution are selected from the information recording medium. First processing for reading and reading, and a reproduction image having the desired resolution from the plurality of divided images read by the first processing. Program for executing a second process for outputting the resynthesized computer is characterized in that it is recorded.

By using the computer-readable recording medium to cause the computer to perform the first and second processes, a reproduction image divided into a plurality of divided images and recorded on the information recording medium is obtained. Are recombined and output, so that the reproduction image recorded on the information recording medium can be reproduced as a high-definition image in conformity with the standard for recording low-resolution image data.

Further, by causing the computer to perform the first and second processes using this computer-readable recording medium, a plurality of reproduction images having different resolutions recorded on the information recording medium and having different resolutions can be obtained. Since an image for reproduction having a desired resolution is re-synthesized and output from the inside, the original image can be reproduced as an image having a desired resolution.

[0073]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Here, the so-called NTS
Rec. ITU-RB
T. 601-5 and Rec. ITU-R BT. 656
-3, among which 525-line, 60 field /
The case where digital video by the s system is used will be described as an example. That is, in the following description, the number of pixels of an image constituting one frame is 720 × 486 pixels, and the aspect ratio of the entire screen is 4: 3.

The present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the present invention employs a 625-line, 50 field / s system, Rec. ITU-R BT. It can also be realized by using digital video in which the aspect ratio of the entire screen of an image constituting one frame is 16: 9 in accordance with 1120.

In the following description, an original image to be recorded is referred to as a photographed image, and a plurality of images having different resolutions obtained by converting the photographed image to have a predetermined number of pixels are respectively used as recording images. , An image obtained by dividing the recording image is referred to as a divided image, an image obtained by recombining the divided images is referred to as a reproduction image, and an image obtained by converting the reproduction image to have a predetermined number of pixels. Is called a print image.

1. First, an image data recording method according to the present invention will be described.

FIG. 1 schematically shows the flow of processing by the image data recording method according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, in the image data recording method according to the present invention, first, an image conversion process is performed on a photographed image 1 photographed by a solid-state electronic image pickup device such as a CCD, and a plurality of images having different resolutions are obtained. Is generated. Each of these recording images has an integral number of pixels of an image (hereinafter, referred to as a unit image) constituting one frame of digital video.

In FIG. 1, a recording image 2 of the first resolution having four times the number of pixels of the unit image and a recording image 3 of the second resolution having a number of pixels of nine times the unit image.
And an example in which a recording image 4 of a third resolution having 16 times the number of pixels of the unit image is generated. The number of generated recording images and the number of pixels of each recording image are shown. Is of course not limited to this example.

The recording image 2 of the first resolution is an image obtained by converting the photographed image 1 to the first resolution, and has four times the number of pixels of the unit image as described above. Specifically, for example, when the unit image is composed of 486 pixels in the vertical direction and 720 pixels in the horizontal direction, the recording image 2 of the first resolution has twice the number of pixels in the vertical direction. It has 972 pixels and 1440 pixels which is twice the number of pixels of the unit image in the horizontal direction.

The recording image 3 of the second resolution is an image obtained by converting the photographed image 1 to the second resolution.
As described above, it has nine times the number of pixels of the unit image. Specifically, for example, when the unit image is composed of 486 pixels in the vertical direction and 720 pixels in the horizontal direction, the recording image 3 of the second resolution has three times the number of pixels in the vertical direction. 1
458 pixels, 2 which is 3 times the number of pixels in the unit image in the horizontal direction
It has 160 pixels.

The recording image 4 of the third resolution is an image obtained by converting the photographed image 1 to the third resolution.
As described above, it has 16 times the number of pixels of the unit image.
Specifically, for example, the unit image has 486 pixels in the vertical direction,
In the case of 720 pixels in the horizontal direction, the recording image 4 of the third resolution has 1944 pixels, which is four times the number of unit images in the vertical direction, and has four times the number of pixels in the horizontal direction. It has 2880 pixels.

Here, most of the existing digital video standards (for example, D-1 standard, D-2 standard, DV standard, etc.) have an aspect ratio of pixels other than 1: 1. Since the aspect ratio of one pixel is assumed to be 1: 1, it is necessary to pay attention to the aspect ratio of this pixel when converting the captured image 1 into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions. There is.

Specifically, Rec. ITU-R BT.
601-5 and Rec. ITU-RBT. In digital video based on 656-3, as shown in FIG. 2, since the aspect ratio of the pixel is 1: 0.9, when the aspect ratio of the pixel of the captured image 1 is 1: 1, The captured image 1 is converted into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions, taking into account the difference in the aspect ratio.

Here, the photographed image 1 is converted into a plurality of recording images such that the aspect ratio of the entire screen of each of the plurality of recording images is the same as the aspect ratio of the entire screen of the unit image. It is desirable to do.

More specifically, Rec. ITU-R BT.
601-5 and Rec. ITU-RBT. In digital video based on 656-3, the aspect ratio of the entire screen of the unit image is 3: 4, and thus the captured image is set so that the aspect ratio of the entire screen of the plurality of recording images becomes 3: 4. 1 is converted into a plurality of recording images.

As described above, by setting the aspect ratio of the entire screen of a plurality of recording images to be the same as the aspect ratio of the entire screen of the unit image, when a divided image is reproduced as a moving image by digital video, the distortion is reduced. Can be reduced.

When the aspect ratio of the entire screen of the captured image 1 is the same as the aspect ratio of the entire screen of the unit image, when the divided image is reproduced as a moving image by digital video, a screen with less distortion is displayed. It can be displayed.

The larger the ratio of the number of pixels of the recording image to the number of pixels of the unit image, the higher the quality of the reproduction image. Further, the magnification of the number of pixels of the recording image with respect to the number of pixels of the unit image may be different in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction.

To generate a plurality of recording images having different numbers of pixels from the photographed image 1, so-called image resolution conversion is required. Resolution conversion includes a zero-time hold method, a linear interpolation method, a spline interpolation method, a method using a digital filter, and the like.Among these methods, the linear or non-linear interpolation can be performed spatially from surrounding pixel values by the zero-time hold method. desirable.

However, it is not necessary to perform the above-described linear or non-linear interpolation in all cases of generating the plurality of recording images. For example, when the recording image 2 having the first resolution is generated by linear or non-linear interpolation, the recording image 4 having the third resolution uses pixel data of the recording image 2 having the first resolution. Thus, it can be generated without performing an interpolation operation. That is, in the recording image 4 of the third resolution, a group of four adjacent pixels corresponds to one pixel of the recording image 2 of the first resolution, and thus the recording image 4 of the third resolution is generated. In this case, if the pixel data of the recording image 2 having the first resolution is used, the recording image 4 having the third resolution can be generated without performing the interpolation operation. Even if there is, it can be appropriately generated with a small amount of calculation.

Next, the plurality of recording images are respectively divided into the number of divided images equal to the magnification of the pixel with respect to the unit image. Specifically, for example, the recording image 2 of the first resolution has four times the number of pixels of the unit image, and is thus divided into four divided images (hereinafter, referred to as first divided images 5). You. Further, the recording image 3 of the second resolution has nine times the number of pixels of the unit image.
This is referred to as a second divided image 6. ). Also, the third
Since the recording image 4 having the resolution of 16 has 16 times the number of pixels of the unit image, the recording image 4 is divided into 16 divided images (hereinafter, referred to as a third divided image 7).

As described above, the divided images are generated by dividing the recording image by the number of pixels equal to the pixel magnification of each unit image, so that all the generated divided images have the same number of pixels as the unit image. Is obtained.

Here, when a recording image having the same number of pixels as the unit image is generated in the above-described conversion processing of the photographed image 1, the recording image having the same number of pixels as the unit image is generated. The image for recording is directly treated as a divided image.

Here, a method of generating a divided image will be specifically described.

When a recording image is divided to generate a divided image, first, the recording image is divided into a plurality of pixel blocks composed of a plurality of adjacent pixels.

More specifically, for example, when dividing the recording image 2 of the first resolution having four times as many pixels as the unit image into four first divided images 5, the first resolution As shown in FIG. 3, the recording image 2 is divided into 486 × 720 pixel blocks 8, each of which is composed of four pixels, two in each of the vertical and horizontal directions.

For example, when the recording image 3 of the second resolution having nine times the number of pixels of the unit image is divided into nine second divided images 6, the recording image of the second resolution is used. 3
However, as shown in FIG. 4, a 486 × 720 pixel block 9 composed of nine pixels of three in each of the vertical and horizontal directions.
Is divided into

For example, when dividing the recording image 4 of the third resolution having 16 times the number of pixels of the unit image into 16 third divided images 7, the recording image of the third resolution is used. 5 is divided into 486 × 720 pixel blocks 10, each of which is composed of 16 pixels, four in both the vertical and horizontal directions, as shown in FIG.

Next, one pixel is extracted from each of the divided 486 × 720 pixel blocks, and the extracted pixels are recombined to generate a divided image.

More specifically, for example, when generating the first divided image 5 from the recording image 2 of the first resolution, 4
One pixel is extracted from each of the 486 × 720 pixel blocks 8 composed of a plurality of pixels, and the extracted pixels are recombined to generate four first divided images 5. Is done. Adjacent pixels in the first divided image 5 are pixels separated by two in the vertical or horizontal direction in the recording image 2 of the first resolution.

Further, for example, when the second divided image 6 is generated from the recording image 3 of the second resolution, each of the 486 × 720 pixel blocks 9 composed of nine pixels is converted into one pixel. Nine second divided images 6 are generated by extracting pixels individually and recombining the extracted pixels. Adjacent pixels in the second divided image 6 are pixels separated by three in the vertical or horizontal direction in the recording image 3 of the second resolution.

For example, when generating the third divided image 7 from the recording image 4 having the third resolution, a 486 × 720 pixel block 1 composed of 16 pixels is used.
From 0, one pixel is extracted from each pixel, and the extracted pixels are recombined to generate 16 third divided images 7. Adjacent pixels in the third divided image 7 are pixels separated by four in the vertical or horizontal direction in the recording image 4 of the third resolution.

In the above description, an example has been described in which one pixel is taken out from each of a plurality of divided pixel blocks, and these pixels are recombined to generate a divided image. Such an image data recording method is not limited to this example. A plurality of divided images are generated by extracting a plurality of pixels from each of a plurality of divided pixel blocks and recombining them. You may do so. In this case, the number of pixels constituting each pixel block is larger than the number of divided images.

As described above, the image data of each divided image generated by dividing a plurality of recording images having different resolutions so that one of each divided image becomes one digital video frame. , A recording medium 11 such as a digital video tape or a digital video disk,
It is sequentially recorded sequentially in the time direction.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, for example, the image data of four first divided images 5 and the image data of nine second divided images 6 are stored in the recording medium 11, as shown in FIG. The image data of the 16 third divided images 7 are sequentially and sequentially recorded in the time direction, with each one image data as one frame.

Here, for each of the divided images generated by dividing the plurality of recording images having different resolutions, one frame is assigned to each divided image, and the image data of one divided image is assigned. May be recorded in only one frame, but as shown in FIG. 7, a plurality of frames are allocated to one divided image,
The image data of one divided image may be recorded in a plurality of frames, respectively. Thus, 1
By recording the image data of the divided images in a plurality of frames, respectively, the error rate of the recorded image data can be reduced, and the reliability of the data can be improved.

When sequentially recording each of the divided images in the time direction, the order of recording in each of the divided images is determined in the vertical, horizontal, or oblique direction in the recording image that is the basis of the divided image to be recorded. It is desirable to set the order of pixels adjacent in the direction. In this way, by setting the order of recording in each divided image to the order of adjacent pixels in the recording image, a good reproduction image is displayed even when the divided image is reproduced as a moving image in digital video. can do. That is, since a plurality of divided images sequentially recorded in the time direction are generated by extracting different pixels of the recording image and recombining them,
When a plurality of divided images sequentially recorded in the time direction are reproduced as moving images by digital video, the images appear to vibrate. However, if the order of recording a plurality of divided images is the order of adjacent pixels in the recording image, the image changes smoothly, and the image vibration can be made inconspicuous.

In this case, of the plurality of divided images sequentially recorded in the time direction, pixels included in the first recorded divided image and pixels included in the last recorded divided image are also used for recording. If a plurality of divided images are recorded so as to be pixels that are adjacent in the vertical direction, the horizontal direction, or the oblique direction in the image, the change in the image can be made smoother.

As described above, in the image data recording method according to the present invention, the photographed image 1 is converted into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions, and each recording image is converted into a pixel equal to the unit image. Is divided into a plurality of divided images, and each divided image is recorded on the recording medium 11 as one frame, so that a high-definition image is appropriately recorded using digital video conforming to the existing digital video standard. can do.

According to this image data recording method,
The plurality of recording images are divided into a plurality of pixel blocks each including a plurality of adjacent pixels, one or more pixels are extracted from each pixel block, and the extracted pixels are recombined to form a plurality of divided images. Is generated, so that even when this divided image is displayed as a moving image, it is possible to display an image that is similar to the recording image and has a little uncomfortable feeling.

Further, according to this image data recording method,
Since a plurality of recording images having different resolutions are sequentially recorded on the recording medium 11 in the form of being divided into a plurality of divided images, it is possible to read out the divided images of the recording image having a desired resolution during reproduction. Thus, the original image can be reproduced as an image having a desired resolution.

By the way, in the image data recording method according to the present invention, the resolutions generated based on the captured images differ so that the image data of one captured image is recorded on the recording medium 11 in seconds. It is desirable that the image data of each divided image of the plurality of recording images be continuously recorded over a frame per unit second. As described above, an example in which the image data of each divided image of a plurality of recording images having different resolutions generated based on one captured image is continuously recorded over a frame per unit second is illustrated. FIG.

In the example shown in FIG. 8, in accordance with the digital video standard in which the number of frames per second is 30 frames, the image data of each divided image of a plurality of recording images having different resolutions is recorded on the recording medium 11. This is an example in which the recording image 2 of the first resolution is divided into four parts.
Nine second divided images 6 obtained by dividing the image data of the first divided image 5 and the recording image 3 having the second resolution
And the image data of 16 third divided images 7 obtained by dividing the recording image 4 of the third resolution are sequentially recorded in the time direction. In this example, the image data of the recording image (hereinafter, referred to as the unit recording image 12) converted to have the same number of pixels as the unit image in the conversion process of the captured image 1 is divided into one sheet. It is recorded on the recording medium 11 as image data corresponding to an image.

As described above, the image data of the four first divided images 5 obtained by dividing the recording image 2 having the first resolution and the recording image 3 having the second resolution are divided. 9
The image data of the second divided image 6, the image data of the 16 third divided images 7 obtained by dividing the recording image 4 of the third resolution, and the image data of the unit recorded image 12 Are continuously recorded in the time direction, so that image data of each of the divided images 5, 6, 7 and the unit recording image 12 generated based on one captured image (hereinafter, collectively referred to as Image data based on one captured image) is recorded on the recording medium 11 over 30 frames, which is the number of frames per second.

At this time, it is desirable that the image data based on one captured image be recorded from the 0th frame of any second on the time code.

As described above, image data based on one photographed image is converted to the 0th of any second on the time code.
If recording is performed continuously over frames per second in order from the frame, the user can recognize where the image data of the desired image is recorded on the recording medium 11 based on the time code. Can be.

For example, in a digital video compliant with the above-mentioned DV standard, this time code can be displayed together with a recorded video as shown in FIG. Therefore, the user can easily associate the displayed image with the time code. Of course, in digital video conforming to other digital video standards such as D-1 standard and D-2 standard,
Since a function of displaying a time code is provided, similarly, a displayed image can be easily associated with a time code.

The method of continuously recording image data based on one photographed image over a frame per unit second is not limited to the example shown in FIG. FIG. 1 shows another example in which image data based on one captured image is continuously recorded over a frame per second.
0, FIG. 11, and FIG.

FIG. 10 shows a first divided image 5 obtained by dividing the recording image 2 having the first resolution, and a second divided image 6 obtained by dividing the recording image 3 having the second resolution. , Third
A third divided image 7 obtained by dividing the recording image 4 having the first resolution and a fourth divided image 13 obtained by dividing the fourth resolution recording image having 25 times the number of pixels of the unit image.
And a fifth divided image 14 obtained by dividing the recording image of the fifth resolution having 36 times the number of pixels of the unit image,
An example in which recording is continuously performed over 90 frames, which is the number of frames per 3 seconds, is shown.

In this example, four first divided images 5 are recorded over four frames, nine second divided images 6 are recorded over nine frames, and sixteen third divided images are recorded. 7 is recorded over 16 frames, 25 fourth divided images 13 are recorded over 25 frames, 36 fifth divided images 14 are recorded over 36 frames, and one fifth over a total of 90 frames. Image data based on the captured image is recorded.

FIG. 11 shows a first divided image 5 obtained by dividing the recording image 2 having the first resolution and a second divided image obtained by dividing the recording image 3 having the second resolution. 6
And a third image obtained by dividing the recording image 4 having the third resolution.
Divided image 7, a fourth divided image 13 obtained by dividing a recording image of a fourth resolution having 25 times the number of pixels of the unit image, and a fifth divided image 13 having 36 times the number of pixels of the unit image Fifth divided image 14 obtained by dividing a recording image having a resolution
And an example in which the unit recording image 12 is continuously recorded over 120 frames which is the number of frames per 4 seconds.

In this example, the first divided image 5, the second divided image 6, and the third divided image 7 are recorded so as to overlap each other in two frames.
That is, in this example, the unit recording image 12 is recorded in one frame, four first divided images 5 are recorded over eight frames, and nine second divided images 6 are recorded over eighteen frames. The 16 third divided images 7 are 32
25 frames of the fourth divided image 13 recorded over the frame
Are recorded over 25 frames, 36 fifth divided images 14 are recorded over 36 frames, and image data based on one captured image is recorded over a total of 120 frames.

If the image data of the divided image is recorded in a plurality of frames as in this example, even if a part of the image data is broken, another image data , It is possible to reproduce the image data, and the reliability of the recorded image data can be improved.

FIG. 12 shows a first divided image 5 obtained by dividing the recording image 2 having the first resolution and a third divided image obtained by dividing the recording image 4 having the third resolution. 7
And a sixth divided image 15 obtained by dividing a recording image of a sixth resolution having 64 times the number of pixels of the unit image, and a unit recording image 12, which is the number of frames per 3 seconds 9
An example is shown in which recording is continuously performed over 0 frames.

In this example, the first divided image 5 and the unit recording image 12 are recorded so as to overlap each other in two frames per image. That is, in this example, the unit recording image 12 is recorded in two frames, four first divided images 5 are recorded in eight frames, and sixteen third divided images 7 are recorded in 16 frames. Then, 64 sixth divided images 15 are recorded over 64 frames, and image data based on one captured image is recorded over a total of 90 frames.

In this example, the recording image is divided into 2 ⁿ (n is an integer of 1 or more) divisions per side, that is, the divided image obtained by dividing the recording image into ^{22 n} divisions is recorded. The information is recorded on the medium 11. That is,
In this example, the recording image 2 of the first resolution is divided into two for each side, and the first divided image 5 divided into four parts in total and the recording image 4 of the third resolution are divided for each side. 4
Third divided image 7 divided into 16 parts in total
Then, the recording image having the sixth resolution is divided into eight for each side, and a sixth divided image 15 which is divided into 64 in total is recorded on the recording medium 11.

As described above, the recording image is 2 ²ⁿ , that is, the divided image divided by 4 ⁿ is the recording medium 11.
If the size of the image data of the largest recorded image to be recorded is V, the size of all the image data to be recorded is (V + V / 4 + V / 4 ² + V).
/ 4 ³ + ...) / V = 1 + 1/4 + １ ² +＋ １ ^{2 3}
+, That is, V of any size can be within 4/3 times V.

[0128] 2. Image Data Reproduction Method Next, the recording medium 11 is recorded by the above-described image data recording method.
The image data reproducing method according to the present invention for reproducing the image data recorded in the image data will be described.

FIG. 13 schematically shows the flow of processing by the image data reproducing method according to the present invention. In FIG. 13, four first divided images 5 obtained by dividing the recording image 2 having the first resolution into four and nine recording images 3 each having the second resolution are formed. Nine second divided images 6
An example is shown in which image data is reproduced from a recording medium 11 on which a third divided image 7 obtained by dividing the recording image 4 having the third resolution into 16 is recorded.

As shown in FIG. 13, in the image data recording method according to the present invention, first, a first divided image 5 and a second divided image are recorded from a recording medium 11 such as a digital video tape or a digital video disk. 6. Any one of the third divided images 7 is read out.

If one divided image is recorded in a plurality of frames in an overlapping manner, any one of the divided images may be read from the plurality of frames. It is preferable to read out all of the frames or a part of the plurality of frames, perform an averaging process for each pixel between the read out frames, and read out this as a divided image. In this case, as the averaging process, for example, a method of performing a weighted average, a method of taking an intermediate value,
A method of selecting the value with the largest number from among a plurality of values may be used. As described above, by reading out one divided image by performing the averaging process, it is possible to repair the loss of the image data generated during the storage in the recording medium 11 or the reproduction in the digital video.

Next, a reproduction image is recombined from the plurality of divided images read from the recording medium 11. That is, for example, when the first divided image 5 is read from the recording medium 11, the first divided image 5 that has been read has the first resolution having the same resolution as the recording image 2 having the first resolution. The reproduction image 20 is recombined. For example, when the second divided image 6 is read from the recording medium 11, the second divided image 6 having the same resolution as the recording image 3 having the second resolution is read from the second divided image 6 that is read. The reproduction image 21 is recombined. For example, when the third divided image 7 is read from the recording medium 11, the third divided image 7 having the same resolution as the recording image 4 having the third resolution is read from the read third divided image 7. The reproduction image 22 is recombined.

The resynthesis of the reproduction image is performed in the reverse procedure to the method of dividing the recording image into a plurality of divided images in the above-described image data recording method.

FIG. 14 shows an example of resynthesizing the first reproduction image 20. As shown in FIG. 14, when the first reproduction image 20 is recombined from a plurality of first divided images 5, first, one or more Each pixel is extracted, and a pixel block 8 similar to that obtained when the recording image 2 of the first resolution is divided into the first divided images 5 at the time of recording is constructed from the extracted pixels. Then, the first reproduction image 20 is recombined by combining the plurality of pixel blocks 8 constructed as described above in the same order as at the time of recording.

As described above, in the image data reproducing method according to the present invention, the recording image divided into a plurality of divided images and recorded on the recording medium 11 is recombined as the reproducing image and reproduced. Therefore, it is possible to reproduce a recording image recorded using digital video that conforms to the existing digital video standard as a high-definition reproduction image.

According to the image data reproducing method,
Since a read image is obtained by re-synthesizing a divided image selectively read out from a plurality of types of divided images obtained by dividing a recording image by a different number of divisions, a desired image according to the purpose is obtained. Can be reproduced.

In this image data reproducing method, after an image for reproduction is obtained, an image conversion process is performed on the image for reproduction to obtain a high-resolution image having the same resolution as the photographed image (hereinafter referred to as printing). Image 23) may be obtained. In this case, the print image 2
Conversion to 3 is performed in the above-described image data recording method.
What is necessary is just to perform in the procedure reverse to the method of converting the captured image 1 into the image for recording.

[0138] 3. Image Data Recording Apparatus Next, regarding the image data recording apparatus according to the present invention, the photographed image 1 is divided into a first divided image 5 and a second divided image 6
And the third divided image 7 and the recording medium 1
1 will be described as an example.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of an image data recording apparatus to which the present invention is applied. The image data recording device 30 shown in FIG. 15 is configured to receive the high-resolution still image signal S1, the high-resolution moving image signal S2, or the low-resolution moving image signal S3. The high-resolution moving image signal S2 is recorded on the recording medium 5 as still image data D1 composed of a plurality of divided images, and the input high-resolution moving image signal S2 or low-resolution moving image signal S3 is converted to low-resolution moving image data. It is configured so that it can be recorded on the recording medium 11 as D2. In the following description, high resolution refers to a resolution higher than the resolution of an image recorded based on a digital video standard to which the image data recording device 30 conforms, and low resolution refers to this image data recording device. 30 refers to the resolution of an image recorded based on a digital video standard to which it conforms.

The image data recording device 30 includes a video input section 31 to which the high resolution still picture signal S1, the high resolution moving picture signal S2 or the low resolution moving picture signal S3 is inputted, and a high resolution still picture signal supplied from the picture input section 31. A still image signal processing unit 32 that converts the image signal S1 or the high resolution moving image signal S2 into image data D1 of a still image composed of a plurality of divided images; and a high resolution moving image signal S2 or a low resolution supplied from the video input unit 31 The moving image signal S3 is converted to low-resolution moving image data D2.
Moving image signal processing unit 33 and still image signal processing unit 3
2 is subjected to a predetermined signal processing to the still image data D1 supplied from the second or the low-resolution moving image data D2 supplied from the moving image signal processing unit 33 to generate image data D3 in a format conforming to the DV standard. Generated recording signal processing unit 34
And the image data D3 supplied from the recording signal processing unit 34
And a signal recording unit 35 for recording the data on the recording medium 11.

The video input unit 31 includes a still image input unit 36 and a moving image input unit 37. The video input unit 31 has a function of selecting a necessary signal from a plurality of input signals.

The still image input unit 36 receives the high-resolution still image signal S1 or the high-resolution moving image signal S2 and supplies necessary images to the still image signal processing unit 32. That is, the input image is supplied to the still image signal processing unit 32 as the photographed image 1. On the other hand, the moving image input unit 37 outputs the high-resolution moving image signal S2
Alternatively, the low-resolution moving image signal S3 is input, and a required image is supplied to the moving image signal processing unit 33.

The still image signal processing unit 32 converts the photographed image 1 into the first divided image 5 via the first recording image 2, and converts the photographed image 1 to the second recorded image 3. Then, conversion to the second divided image 6 is performed, and conversion from the photographed image 1 to the third divided image 7 via the third recording image 4 is performed. That is, the still image signal processing unit 32 first converts the captured image 1 (the high-resolution still image signal S1 or the high-resolution moving image signal S2) supplied from the still image input unit 36 into the data format, the number of pixels of the image, and the like. By converting the color gamut and the like, the captured image 1 is converted into, for example, image data corresponding to the data format of the first recording image 2, image data corresponding to the data format of the second recording image 3, 3 is converted into image data corresponding to the data format of the recording image 4.

Thereafter, the still image signal processing section 32 converts the image data of the first image for recording 2 into image data D corresponding to the data format of the first divided image 5 based on the above-mentioned method.
1 and the image data of the second image for recording 3
Is converted into image data D1 corresponding to the data format of the divided image 6, and the image data of the third recording image 4 is converted into image data D1 corresponding to the data format of the third divided image 7. Then, the image data D1 of each still image composed of a plurality of divided images is supplied to the recording signal processing unit 34.

The moving picture signal processing section 33 converts the moving picture signal (high resolution moving picture signal S2 or low resolution moving picture signal S3) supplied from the moving picture input section 37 into the data format, the frame frequency of the image, the number of pixels and the color gamut. Then, the high-resolution moving image signal S2 or the low-resolution moving image signal S3 is converted into a signal format recordable as the low-resolution moving image data D2, and supplied to the recording signal processing unit.

The recording signal processing unit 34 performs a shuffling process on the still image data D 1 supplied from the still image signal processing unit 32 or the low resolution moving image data D 2 supplied from the moving image signal processing unit 33. By performing predetermined processing such as encoding processing, error correction processing, and recording encoding processing, the image data D1 of a still image or the image data D2 of a moving image is converted into image data D3 in a format conforming to the digital video standard. Further, in addition to the still image data D1 or the moving image data D2, the recording signal processing unit 34 includes an audio signal, additional information such as date and time and copyright information, and image data of a recording image. Information indicating that the image data is converted into image data D1 corresponding to the data format and recorded is also supplied.

The signal recording unit 35 synchronizes the recording signal processing unit 34 with a clock or the like, and converts the still image data D1 or the moving image data D3 into image data D3 of a format conforming to the digital video standard. D2 and audio signals, additional information, and information indicating that the image data of the image for recording is converted into image data D1 corresponding to the data format of the divided image and recorded on a digital video tape, a digital video disk, or the like. The information is recorded on the medium 11. At this time, for example, the signal recording unit 35 converts the image data of the first divided image 5, the image data of the second divided image 6, and the image data of the third divided image 7 into a frame per unit second. The still image data D1 converted into the image data D3 in a format conforming to the digital video standard is recorded on the recording medium 11 so as to be continuously recorded.

According to the image data recording device 30 configured as described above, the captured image 1 (high-resolution still image signal S1
Alternatively, the high-resolution moving image signal S2) is
Is converted into image data D1 corresponding to the data format of a plurality of divided images via a recording image. And
This image data D1 is stored in the recording signal processing unit 34.
Image data D3 in a format conforming to the digital video standard
Is converted to Then, the image data D3 is recorded on the recording medium 11 in the signal recording unit 35 with each divided image as one frame. Therefore, according to the image data recording device 30, a high-definition image can be appropriately recorded in accordance with the existing digital video standard.

Further, in the image data recording device 30, the still image signal processing section 32 divides the recording image into a plurality of pixel blocks composed of a plurality of adjacent pixels.
Since one or more pixels are extracted from each pixel block and the extracted pixels are recombined to generate a plurality of divided images, even if the divided images are displayed as a moving image, the recording image It is possible to display an image that is similar to the above and has a little uncomfortable feeling.

In the image data recording device 30, the still image signal processing section 32 converts the photographed image 1 into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions and divides each recording image into a plurality of divided images. Since the image data of these divided images are sequentially recorded on the recording medium 11 later, if the divided images of the recording image having the desired resolution are read at the time of reproduction, the original image having the desired resolution can be obtained. It can be reproduced as an image.

The above description is based on the high-resolution still image signal S1,
The high-resolution moving image signal S2 or the low-resolution moving image signal S3 is externally input, and the input high-resolution still image signal S1 or high-resolution moving image signal S2 is converted into still image data D1 including a plurality of divided images. Although the image data recording device 30 for recording the image data has been described as an example, the image data recording device according to the present invention is not limited to this example.
For example, the recording medium 11 includes a video image capturing unit that captures a subject, and converts the high-resolution still image signal S1 or the high-resolution moving image signal S2 generated by the video image capturing unit into still image data D1 including a plurality of divided images. May be recorded.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing an example of an image data recording apparatus having a video photographing section. The image data recording device 40 illustrated in FIG. 16 has the same configuration as the image data recording device 30 except that the image data recording device 40 includes a video photographing unit 41 instead of the video input unit 31 of the above-described image data recording device 30. The same components as those of the image data recording device 30 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description is omitted.

In the image data recording device 40, the video photographing section 41 is composed of an image pickup section 42 and an image pickup signal processing section 43, and picks up an image of a subject and outputs a high-resolution still image signal S1,
It has a function of outputting the high-resolution moving image signal S2 or the low-resolution moving image signal S3 as a video signal.

The image pickup section 42 is constituted by an optical system and an image pickup element, and supplies a signal picked up by an image pickup means such as a CCD image pickup element to the image pickup signal processing section 43. The imaging signal processing unit 43 converts the signal supplied from the imaging unit 42 into a high-resolution still image signal S1, a high-resolution moving image signal S2, or a low-resolution moving image signal S3. Then, the imaging signal processing unit 4
3 is a high resolution still image signal S1 or a high resolution moving image signal S
2 is supplied to the still image signal processing unit 32, and the high resolution moving image signal S2 or the low resolution moving image signal S3 is supplied to the moving image signal processing unit 33.

The high-resolution still image signal S1 or the high-resolution moving image signal S2 (captured image 1) supplied from the image signal processing unit 43 is supplied to the still image signal processing unit 42 in the same manner as in the case of the image data recording device 30 described above. Is converted from the photographed image 1 to the first divided image 5 via the first recording image 2, and from the photographed image 1 to the second divided image 6 via the second recording image 3 Is converted, and the captured image 1
Is converted into a third divided image 7 through the third recording image 4.

The recording signal processor 34 applies the image data D1 of the still image composed of the plurality of divided images to the recording signal processor 34.
Is subjected to predetermined processing, and is converted into image data D3 in a format conforming to the digital video standard. Then, the image data D3 is stored in the recording medium 1 by the recording unit 35 so that each divided image is continuously formed in frames per unit second.
1 is recorded.

Therefore, the image data recording device 40
According to the image data recording apparatus 30 described above,
High-definition images can be appropriately recorded in accordance with existing digital video standards.

In the image data recording device 40, similarly to the above-described image data recording device 30, the still image signal processing unit 32 converts the recording image into a plurality of pixel blocks composed of a plurality of adjacent pixels. Dividing, extracting one or more pixels from each pixel block, and re-synthesizing the extracted pixels to generate a plurality of divided images, even if this divided image is displayed as a moving image, It is possible to display an image that is similar to the image for recording and has little discomfort.

Further, in the image data recording device 40, similarly to the image data recording device 30 described above, the still image signal processing section 32 converts the photographed image 1 into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions. After each of the divided images is divided into a plurality of divided images, the image data of these divided images is sequentially recorded on the recording medium 11, so that during reproduction, the divided images of the recording image having a desired resolution are read. In this case, the original image can be reproduced as an image having a desired resolution.

[0160] 4. Image Data Reproducing Apparatus Next, in the image data reproducing apparatus according to the present invention, the photographed image 1 is divided into the first divided image 5 and the second divided image 6
And an image data reproducing apparatus configured to obtain a reproduced image from the recording medium 11 which has been converted into the third divided image 7 and recorded.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an example of an image data reproducing apparatus to which the present invention is applied. The image data reproducing device 50 shown in FIG. 17 can reproduce a high-resolution still image signal S1 or a low-resolution moving image signal S3 from image data D3 recorded on a recording medium 11 such as a digital video tape or a digital video disk. The configuration is possible.

The image data reproducing apparatus 50 includes a signal reading section 51 for reading image data D3 from the recording medium 11.
And performs predetermined signal processing on the image data D3 read by the signal reading unit 51 to generate still image data D1 or low-resolution moving image image data D2, audio signals, additional information, and the like. The recording signal processing unit 52 and the still image data D1 supplied from the recording signal processing unit 52
A still image signal processing unit 53 that converts the image data D2 into a high resolution still image signal S1, a moving image signal processing unit 54 that converts the low resolution moving image data D2 supplied from the recording signal processing unit 52 into a low resolution moving image signal S3, The high-resolution still image signal S1 or the moving image signal processing unit 5 supplied from the still image signal processing unit 53.
And a video output unit 55 that outputs the low-resolution moving image signal S3 supplied from the control unit 4.

The signal reading section 51 includes the recording signal processing section 5
Recording medium 11 such as a digital video tape or digital video disk while synchronizing with clock 2 and the like.
From the image data D3. At this time, the signal reading unit 51 outputs the image data D3 recorded on the recording medium 11.
, The image data of the divided image obtained by dividing the recording image having the desired resolution is selectively read.

The signal reading section 51 converts the audio data, additional information such as date and time and copyright information, and the image data of the reproduction image into image data D1 corresponding to the data format of the divided image together with the image data D3. From the recording medium 11, information indicating that the recording is performed.

The recording signal processing section 52 includes a signal reading section 5
1 is subjected to a shuffling process, an encoding process, an error correction process, a recording and encoding process, etc., to obtain still image data D1 or low-resolution moving image data D2. Generate

The still image signal processing unit 53 converts the still image data D1 (the selectively read divided image) generated by the recording signal processing unit 52 into a reproduction image. That is, the still image signal processing unit 53 converts the still image data D1 (a plurality of divided images composed of a plurality of frames) supplied from the recording signal processing unit 52 into a reproduction image based on the above-described method. Convert to image data corresponding to the data format. Then, the still image signal processing unit 53
The image data (high-resolution still image signal S1) of the image for reproduction is supplied to the video output unit 55.

The moving picture signal processing unit 54
The image data D2 of the low-resolution moving image is supplied to the low-resolution moving image data D2 by converting the data format, the frame frequency of the image, the number of pixels, and the color gamut.
2 is converted into a signal (low-resolution moving image signal S3) that can be output from the video output unit 55 and supplied to the video output unit 55.

The video output unit 55 includes a still image output unit 56 and a moving image output unit 57. The video output unit 55 outputs the high-resolution still image signal S supplied from the still image signal processing unit 53.
1 or a function of outputting the low-resolution moving image signal S3 supplied from the moving image signal processing unit 54 to an external device. That is, when the high-resolution still image signal S1 is supplied from the still image signal processing unit 53, the video output unit 55 outputs the high-resolution still image signal S1 to the outside, and When the low-resolution video signal S3 is supplied from the unit 54, the video output unit 57 outputs the low-resolution video signal S3 to the outside.

According to the image data reproducing apparatus 50 configured as described above, the reproduction image divided into a plurality of divided images and recorded on the recording medium 11 is processed by the still image signal processing section 53.
Are recombined and output from the still image output unit 56 to the outside. Therefore, according to the image data reproducing apparatus 50, it is possible to reproduce a reproduction image divided into divided images and recorded on the recording medium 11 in a format conforming to the existing DV standard as a high-definition image. .

According to the image data reproducing apparatus 50, a desired divided image is selectively read out from a plurality of types of divided images recorded on the recording medium 11 by dividing recording images having different resolutions. Since the read divided images are re-synthesized to obtain a reproduction image, a reproduction image having a desired resolution can be obtained.

[0171] 5. Image Data Recording / Reproducing Apparatus Next, an image data recording / reproducing apparatus to which the present invention is applied will be described.

FIG. 18 shows a detailed block diagram of an example of the image data recording / reproducing apparatus to which the present invention is applied. This FIG.
The image data recording / reproducing device 60 shown in (1) is configured to have the functions of the above-described image data recording device 30, image data recording device 40, and image data reproducing device 50 together.

That is, the image data recording / reproducing device 6
0 is a high-resolution still image signal S1 or a high-resolution moving image signal S1 obtained by capturing an image of a subject with a video image capturing unit.
2 is recorded on the recording medium 11 as a video signal of a still image composed of divided images, or the high-resolution still image signal S1 or the high-resolution moving image signal S2 input to the video input unit is a video signal of a still image composed of divided images. And the high-resolution moving image signal S2 or the low-resolution moving image signal S3 obtained by imaging the subject by the image pickup unit as a low-resolution moving image signal.
Or the function of recording the high-resolution moving image signal S2 or the low-resolution moving image signal S3 input to the image input unit as a low-resolution moving image signal on the recording medium 11.

Also, the image data recording / reproducing device 60
Has a function of reproducing the high-resolution still image signal S1 or the low-resolution moving image signal S3 from the video signal recorded on the recording medium 11.

Here, a method for recording / reproducing a low-resolution moving image signal, that is, a method according to the DV standard as a digital video system will be described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. Other digital video standards may be used.

In the image data recording / reproducing apparatus 60, the video image pickup section 61 includes an image pickup section 62 and an image pickup signal processing section 6
3 and has a function of imaging a subject and outputting a high-resolution still image signal S1, a high-resolution moving image signal S2, or a low-resolution moving image signal S3 as a video signal.

The imaging unit 62 includes an optical system including a zoom lens 64 and an iris 65, an optical system mechanism control unit 66,
It is constituted by an image pickup means 67 such as a CCD image pickup device and a detection section 68 for detecting a focus and an exposure amount. Then, the imaging unit 62 supplies a signal obtained by the imaging unit 67 imaging the subject to the imaging signal processing unit 63.

The imaging signal processing section 63 converts the signal supplied from the imaging means 67 into a high-resolution still image signal S1, a high-resolution moving image signal S2 or a low-resolution moving image signal S3, and supplies it to the video input section 69.

The video input section 69 is composed of a still picture input section 70 and a moving picture input section 71. The video input unit 69 has a function of selecting a necessary signal from a plurality of input signals.

The still image input unit 70 receives the high-resolution still image signal S1 or the high-resolution moving image signal S2 and supplies necessary images to the still image signal processing unit 72. That is, the input image is supplied to the still image signal processing unit 52 as the photographed image 1. On the other hand, the moving image input unit 71 outputs the high-resolution moving image signal S2
Alternatively, the low-resolution moving image signal S3 is input, and a required image is supplied to the still image signal processing unit 73.

At the time of recording, the still image signal processing section 72 converts the photographed image 1 into the first divided image 5 via the first recording image 2, and converts the photographed image 1 into the second recorded image. Is converted into the second divided image 6 through the image 3 for use,
In addition, conversion from the captured image 1 to the third divided image 7 via the third recording image 4 is performed. That is, the still image signal processing section 72 first converts the captured image 1 (high-resolution still image signal S1 or high-resolution moving image signal S2) supplied from the still image input By converting the color gamut and the like, the captured image 1 is converted into, for example, image data corresponding to the data format of the first recording image 2, image data corresponding to the data format of the second recording image 3, 3 is converted into image data corresponding to the data format of the recording image 4.

Thereafter, the still image signal processing section 72 converts the image data of the first recording image 2 into image data D corresponding to the data format of the first divided image 5 based on the above-described method.
1 and the image data of the second image for recording 3
Is converted into image data D1 corresponding to the data format of the divided image 6, and the image data of the third recording image 4 is converted into image data D1 corresponding to the data format of the third divided image 7.

Further, at the time of reproduction, the still image signal processing section 72 converts the still image data D1 (the selectively read divided image) generated by the recording signal processing section 74 into a reproduction image. I do. That is, the still image signal processing unit 72 converts the still image data D1 (a plurality of divided images composed of a plurality of frames) supplied from the recording signal processing unit 74 into a reproduction image based on the above-described method. Convert to image data corresponding to the data format. Then, the still image signal processing unit 72 supplies the image data (high-resolution still image signal S1) of the image for reproduction to the video output unit 75.

At the time of recording, the moving image signal processing unit 73
The video signal (high-resolution video signal S2 or low-resolution video signal S3) supplied from the video input unit 71 is converted into a data format, an image frame frequency, the number of pixels, a color gamut, etc. The signal S2 or the low-resolution moving image signal S3 is converted into a signal format recordable as image data D2 of a low-resolution moving image, and supplied to the recording signal processing unit 74.

At the time of reproduction, the moving picture signal processing section 73 converts the low resolution moving picture image data D2 supplied from the recording signal processing section 74 into a data format, an image frame frequency, the number of pixels, and a color gamut. By performing such conversion, the image data D2 of the low-resolution moving image is converted into a signal (low-resolution moving image signal S3) that can be output from the video output unit 75, and is supplied to the video output unit 75.

At the time of recording, the recording signal processing unit 74
Shuffling processing is performed on the still image data D1 supplied from the still image signal processing unit 72 or the low-resolution moving image data D2 supplied from the moving image signal processing unit 73,
A predetermined process such as an encoding process, an error correction process, and a recording encoding process is performed to convert the still image data D1 or the moving image data D2 into image data D3 in a format conforming to the DV standard.
Convert to Further, in addition to the still image data D1 or the moving image data D2, the recording signal processing unit 74 stores the audio signal, additional information such as date and time and copyright information, and the image data of the recording image 2 into divided image data. Information indicating that the image data is converted into image data D1 corresponding to the data format 3 and recorded is also supplied.

The recording signal processor 74 performs a shuffling process, an encoding process, an error correction process, a recording encoding process, and the like on the image data D3 read from the signal writing and reading unit 76 during reproduction. Then, the image data D1 of a still image or the image data D2 of a low-resolution moving image is generated.

In the image data recording / reproducing apparatus 60, a digital signal input / output unit 77 is connected to the recording signal processing unit 74, and a digital signal is input via the digital signal input / output unit 77, or May be output via the digital signal input / output unit 77.

The signal writing / reading unit 76 synchronizes the recording signal processing unit 74 with a clock or the like during recording, and outputs image data D in a format conforming to the DV standard.
3, the image data D1 of the still image or the image data D2 of the moving image and the audio signal, the additional information, and the image data D of the image for recording corresponding to the data format of the divided image.
1 and the like, indicating that the information is recorded and recorded on a recording medium 11 such as a digital video tape or a digital video disk. At this time, for example, the signal writing / reading unit 76 determines that the image data of the first divided image 5, the image data of the second divided image 6, and the image data of the third divided image 7 The image data D1 of the still image converted into the image data D3 of the format conforming to the DV standard is recorded on the recording medium 11 so as to be continuously recorded in the frame.

The signal writing / reading unit 76
Reads out the image data D3 from the recording medium 11 such as a digital video tape or a digital video disk while synchronizing the recording signal processing unit 74 with a clock or the like during reproduction. At this time, the signal writing / reading unit 76 selectively reads out the image data of the divided image obtained by dividing the recording image having the desired resolution from the image data D3 recorded on the recording medium 11.

The signal writing / reading section 76
Is information indicating that the audio data, additional information such as date and time, copyright information, and the like, together with the image data D3, and that the image data of the image for reproduction are converted into image data D1 corresponding to the data format of the divided image and recorded. Are read from the recording medium 11.

The video output section 75 is composed of a still picture output section 78 and a moving picture output section 79. The video output unit 75 outputs the high-resolution still image signal S supplied from the still image signal processing unit 72.
1 or a function of outputting the low-resolution moving image signal S3 supplied from the moving image signal processing unit 73 to an external device. That is, when the high-resolution still image signal S1 is supplied from the still image signal processing unit 72, the video output unit 75 outputs the high-resolution still image signal S1 to the outside, When the low-resolution video signal S3 is supplied from the unit 73, the video output unit 79 outputs the low-resolution video signal S3 to the outside.

According to the image data recording / reproducing apparatus 60 configured as described above, the captured image 1 (high-resolution still image signal S1 or high-resolution moving image signal S2) is recorded in the still image signal Is converted into image data D1 corresponding to the data format of a plurality of divided images. Then, the image data D1 is converted by the recording signal processing unit 74 into image data D3 in a format conforming to the DV standard. Then, the image data D3 is recorded on the recording medium 11 in the signal writing / reading unit 76 with each divided image as one frame. Therefore, according to the image data recording device 60, a high-definition image is
It can be recorded appropriately in accordance with the V standard.

Further, the image data recording / reproducing device 60
In the still image signal processing unit 72, the image for recording is divided into a plurality of pixel blocks composed of a plurality of adjacent pixels, one or more pixels are extracted from each pixel block, and the extracted pixels are recombined. Thus, even if the divided images are displayed as a moving image, it is possible to display an image that is similar to the recording image and has a little uncomfortable feeling.

The image data recording / reproducing device 60
Converts a captured image 1 into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions in a still image signal processing unit 72, divides each recording image into a plurality of divided images, and outputs image data of these divided images as a signal. Since the recording and reading unit 76 sequentially records the data on the recording medium 11,
At the time of reproduction, if the divided images of the recording image having the desired resolution are read, the original image can be reproduced as an image having the desired resolution.

According to the image data recording / reproducing apparatus 60, the reproduction image divided into a plurality of divided images and recorded on the recording medium 11 is re-synthesized in the still image signal processing section 72, and the still image output The signal is output from the unit 78 to the outside. Therefore, according to the image data recording / reproducing device 60, it is possible to reproduce a reproduction image divided into divided images and recorded on the recording medium 11 in a format conforming to the existing DV standard as a high-definition image. Become.

Further, according to the image data recording / reproducing device 60, desired images are selectively read out from a plurality of types of images divided into recording images having different resolutions and recorded on the recording medium 11. Since the read image is recombined to obtain a reproduction image, a reproduction image having a desired resolution can be obtained.

The image data recording / reproducing apparatus to which the present invention is applied can be realized by using a general-purpose computer.

FIG. 19 shows a detailed block diagram of an example of an image data recording / reproducing apparatus using a general-purpose computer. The image data recording / reproducing device 80 shown in FIG. 19 includes the image data recording device 30 and the image data reproducing device 50 described above.
It is configured to have both functions.

That is, the image data recording / reproducing device 8
0 indicates that the high-resolution still image signal S1 or the high-resolution moving image signal S2 input to the computer 81 is recorded on the recording medium 11 as a video signal of a still image composed of divided images, and the high-resolution moving image signal input to the computer 81. S
A function of recording the low-resolution moving image signal S3 on the recording medium 11 as a low-resolution moving image signal;
From the video signal recorded in the high-resolution still image signal S1
Or a function of reproducing the low-resolution moving image signal S3.

The image data recording / reproducing device 80
The functions of the video input unit 31 and the still image signal processing unit 32 in the image data recording device 30 and the functions of the still image signal processing unit 53 and the video output unit 55 in the image data reproducing device 50 described above are stored in the computer 81. The feature is that it is performed.

In this image data recording / reproducing apparatus 80, the CPU 82 of the computer 81 has a function of controlling and calculating the entire apparatus, and for example, Pentium (trademark) of Intel Corporation is used. This CP
The U82 can perform an image processing operation such as a conversion process between the captured image 1, the image for recording, and the image for reproduction.

The cache memory 83 is a high-speed storage unit that stores information in the memory 84 that is frequently accessed by the CPU 82. By directly transmitting and receiving information to and from the CPU 82, the speed of the system can be increased. .

The system controller 85 has a CPU # 8
And a circuit unit for adjusting the timing of a computer bus such as the cache memory 83, the memory 84, the host bus 86, the PCI bus 87, and the like.
RITON (430FX) (trademark) or the like is used.

The memory 84 is a storage portion for writing / reading information in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 82 or the system controller 85, and is, for example, a DRAM (Dyna).
micRandom Access Memory) is used. And
The memory 84 stores the C
The PU 82 is connected to various resources on the PCI bus 87,
Information can be stored. Of course, the memory 84 can also store image data.

The host bus 86 is a means for transmitting information directly connected to the CPU 82.
3. Information can be exchanged at high speed with the system controller 85 and the like.

The PCI bus 87 is a means for transmitting information separated from the host bus 86, and is connected to the system controller 85. The CPU 82 can access various resources connected to the PCI bus 87 via the system controller 85.

The video controller 88 is connected to the PCI bus 8
7 and a monitor 89, and draws information such as images, figures, and characters on a video memory in a video controller 88 based on instructions from the CPU 82 and the like, and outputs the contents to the monitor 89. Has become. Of course, the video memory in the video controller 88 can store image data. Also, a part of the signal line is used between the monitor 89 and the monitor 89 as in the VESA DDC (display data channel) standard.
Can also send and receive device characteristic information and the like stored in the device.

[0209] The monitor 89 comprises a video display device such as a CRT, PDP, liquid crystal display device, or projector, and displays information such as images, graphics, characters, etc., including high-resolution still image signals and low-resolution moving image signal images. be able to.

The external storage control unit 90 is connected between the PCI bus 87 and the external storage device 91, and based on the information access request via the PCI bus 87, the external storage control unit 90.
The control of writing / reading of information is performed for a predetermined area of. For this connection, for example, SCS
I, IEEE1394, etc. are used.

The external storage device 91 includes a magnetic disk device such as a hard disk and a floppy disk, and a CD-RO.
M, an optical disk device such as MD-DATA, a semiconductor memory device such as a flash memory, a magnetic tape device such as a DAT, and an information recording medium and its driving device. Information such as images, graphics, characters, programs and the like including the video of the resolution moving image signal S3 can be recorded and reproduced.

The still image input / output processing unit 92 is connected to the PCI bus 87, and is capable of inputting / outputting a high-resolution still image signal S1 or a high-resolution moving image signal S2 based on an instruction from the CPU 82 or the like. This still image input / output processing unit 9
2, for example, fetches image data captured by a digital still camera or the like into the memory 84 or the external storage device 91 through an interface such as an RS-232C or Centronics-compliant parallel signal or SCSI. Conversely, the still image input / output processing unit 92 can output image data stored in the memory 84 or the external storage device 91 to another computer, a printer, or the like.

The moving image input / output processing unit 93 is provided with the PCI bus 8
7, and is capable of inputting / outputting a high-resolution moving image signal S2 or a low-resolution moving image signal S3 based on an instruction from the CPU 82 or the like. This moving image input / output processing unit 93
For example, input / output processing such as selection and branching of a composite video signal compliant with NTSC, PAL, SECAM, or the like, an S-video signal or a component video signal in which a luminance signal and a chroma signal are separated, and level adjustment of the video signal are performed. it can. Also, the moving image input / output processing unit 93 can digitize a video signal into the memory 84 or the external storage device 91 and output the video signal stored in the memory 84 or the external storage device 91. it can.

[0214] The transmission / reception control unit 94 is connected to the PCI bus 87 and the digital signal input / output unit 95 outside the computer 81, and based on an information access request from the inside of the image data recording / reproducing device 80 and an information access request of the communication partner. Transmission and reception of information are controlled. For this connection, for example, SCSI, IEEE 1394, or the like is used.

[0215] The moving image signal processing section 96
The moving image signal (high-resolution moving image signal S2 or low-resolution moving image signal S3) supplied from the moving image input / output processing unit 93 of the computer 81 is converted into a data format, an image frame frequency, the number of pixels, a color gamut, and the like. Then, the high-resolution moving image signal S2 or the low-resolution moving image signal S3 is converted into a signal format recordable as the low-resolution moving image data D2, and supplied to the recording signal processing unit 97.

At the time of reproduction, the moving picture signal processing section 96 converts the low-resolution moving picture image data D2 supplied from the recording signal processing section 97 into a data format, an image frame frequency, the number of pixels, and a color gamut. After the conversion, the image data is supplied to the moving image input / output processing unit 93.

At the time of recording, the recording signal processing section 97
The low-resolution moving image data D2 supplied from the moving image signal processing unit 96 is subjected to predetermined processing such as shuffling processing, encoding processing, error correction processing, and recording / encoding processing to obtain still image data D1. Or moving image data D
2 is converted into image data D3 in a format conforming to the DV standard. In addition to the moving image data D2, the recording signal processing unit 97 is also supplied with additional information such as an audio signal, date and time, and copyright information.

The recording signal processing section 97 performs shuffling processing, encoding processing, error correction processing, recording encoding processing, and the like on the image data D3 read from the signal writing and reading section 98 during reproduction. Then, low-resolution moving image data D2, an audio signal, and additional information such as date and time and copyright information are generated.

The signal writing / reading section 98 synchronizes the recording signal processing section 97 with a clock or the like during recording, and outputs the image data D in a format conforming to the DV standard.
The image data D2 of the moving image, the audio signal, the additional information, and the like converted into 3 are recorded on a recording medium 5 such as a digital video tape or a digital video disk.

The signal writing / reading unit 98
Reads the image data D3 from the recording medium 11 such as a digital video tape or a digital video disk while synchronizing the recording signal processing unit 97 with a clock or the like during reproduction.

In the image data recording / reproducing device 80 configured as described above, the photographed image 1 is converted into a divided image via a recording image and recorded on the recording medium 11, and the divided image is read from the recording medium 11. For example, the process of resynthesizing and outputting the reproduction image is performed by reading the program from a recording medium on which a program for causing the computer 81 to perform these processes is recorded, and operating the CPU 82 according to the program. .

A program for causing the computer 81 to perform the above-described processing is written in the external storage device 91. The program written in the external storage device 91 is read from the external storage device 91 by the external storage control unit 90, and
It is supplied to the system controller 85 via the CI bus 87. The system controller 85 causes the CPU 82 to operate in accordance with the supplied program.
A process of converting the photographed image 1 into a divided image via a recording image and recording the divided image on the recording medium 11, and a process of extracting the divided image from the recording medium 11, re-synthesizing the reproduction image, and outputting the reproduced image are performed.

The image data recording / reproducing device 80 includes the functions of the video input unit 31 and the still image signal processing unit 32 in the image data recording device 30 described above, and the functions of the still image signal processing unit 53 and the still image signal processing unit 53 in the image data reproducing device 50 described above. The function of the video output unit 55 is performed by the computer 81. Therefore, the image data recording / reproducing device 80
As with the image data recording / reproducing apparatus 60 described above, a high-definition image can be appropriately recorded in accordance with the existing DV standard, and is recorded on the recording medium 11 in a format compliant with the existing DV standard. The reproduced image can be reproduced as a high-definition image.

Further, the image data recording / reproducing device 80
Since the main function is performed by the computer 81, the configuration is simplified.

[0225]

According to the image data recording method of the present invention, a recording image is divided into a plurality of divided images and each divided image is recorded as one frame on an information recording medium. Can be appropriately recorded in a form conforming to a standard for recording low-resolution image data having a lower resolution than the high-definition image. Therefore, according to this image data recording method, a high-definition image can be recorded at low cost while securing a sufficient recording capacity.

In this image data recording method, the original image is converted into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions, respectively.
Since each recording image is divided into a plurality of divided images and recorded on the information recording medium, if the divided images of the recording image having a desired resolution are read at the time of reproduction, the original image can be obtained. Can be reproduced as an image having a resolution of.

Further, according to the image data recording apparatus of the present invention, the recording image is divided into a plurality of divided images, and each divided image is recorded as one frame on the information recording medium. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately record in a form conforming to a standard for recording low-resolution image data having a lower resolution than the high-definition image. Therefore, according to this image data recording apparatus, it is possible to record a high-definition image at a low cost while securing a sufficient recording capacity.

This image data recording apparatus converts an original image into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions, respectively.
Since each recording image is divided into a plurality of divided images and recorded on the information recording medium, if the divided images of the recording image having a desired resolution are read at the time of reproduction, the original image can be obtained. Can be reproduced as an image having a resolution of.

According to the image data reproducing method of the present invention, the reproduction image divided into a plurality of divided images and recorded on the information recording medium is recombined and reproduced. It is possible to reproduce a reproduction image recorded on an information recording medium as a high-definition image in a form conforming to a standard for recording the information.

Further, according to the image data reproducing method of the present invention, a plurality of images for reproduction having different resolutions are divided from a plurality of types of divided images recorded on an information recording medium to reproduce a desired resolution. Since the divided images of the image are selectively read, and the read divided images are re-synthesized to obtain a reproduction image, the original image can be reproduced as a reproduction image having a desired resolution. Become.

Further, according to the image data reproducing apparatus of the present invention, since the reproduction image divided into a plurality of divided images and recorded on the information recording medium is recombined and reproduced, the low-resolution image data is reproduced. It is possible to reproduce a reproduction image recorded on an information recording medium as a high-definition image in a form conforming to a standard for recording the information.

Further, the image data reproducing apparatus according to the present invention provides a reproducing apparatus having a desired resolution from a plurality of divided images recorded on an information recording medium by dividing a plurality of reproducing images having different resolutions. Since the divided images of the image are selectively read, and the read divided images are re-synthesized to obtain a reproduction image, the original image can be reproduced as a reproduction image having a desired resolution. Become.

In the information recording medium according to the present invention, a plurality of divided images obtained by dividing a plurality of recording images having different resolutions is recorded as one frame. By recomposing and reproducing the image, it is possible to reproduce the image as a high-definition image. In addition, it is possible to selectively read out the divided images of the recording image having a desired resolution and recompose and reproduce them. Thereby, it is possible to reproduce an image having a desired resolution.

Further, by using the computer-readable recording medium according to the present invention to cause a computer to perform processing for recording a recording image to be recorded on an information recording medium, a plurality of recording images can be recorded. , And each divided image is recorded on the information recording medium as one frame, so that a high-definition image can be appropriately recorded in a form conforming to a standard for recording low-resolution image data. . Therefore, if this computer-readable recording medium is used to cause a computer to perform processing for recording a recording image on an information recording medium, a high-definition image can be produced at a low cost while securing a sufficient recording capacity. It becomes possible to record.

Further, if the recording medium is recorded on an information recording medium by a computer using this recording medium, the original image is converted into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions. Image is divided into a plurality of divided images and recorded on the information recording medium,
At the time of reproduction, if the divided images of the recording image having the desired resolution are read, the original image can be reproduced as an image having the desired resolution.

Further, by using the computer-readable recording medium according to the present invention to cause a computer to perform processing of reproducing a reproduction image to be reproduced from an information recording medium, a plurality of divided images can be obtained. The playback image recorded on the information recording medium is divided and recombined and played back. It can be reproduced as a simple image.

[0237] Further, by causing a computer to perform a process of reproducing a reproduction image using this recording medium,
From a plurality of types of divided images recorded on an information recording medium by dividing a plurality of reproduction images having different resolutions from each other,
A divided image of a reproduction image having a desired resolution is selectively read, and the read divided image is recombined to obtain a reproduction image. Therefore, the original image is reproduced as a reproduction image having a desired resolution. It is possible to do.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the flow of processing of an image data recording method according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image constituting one frame of the existing digital video standard.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a method of dividing a recording image.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of a method of dividing a recording image.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating still another example of a method of dividing a recording image.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a basic principle of a method for recording a divided image on a recording medium.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of recording one divided image in a plurality of frames in an overlapping manner.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram specifically illustrating an example of a method for recording a divided image on a recording medium.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a digital video.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram specifically explaining another example of a method of recording a divided image on a recording medium.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram specifically illustrating still another example of a method of recording a divided image on a recording medium.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram specifically illustrating still another example of a method of recording a divided image on a recording medium.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating a flow of processing of an image data reproducing method according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a method for resynthesizing a reproduction image.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image data recording device according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing another configuration example of the image data recording apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image data reproducing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image data recording / reproducing apparatus to which the present invention has been applied.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram illustrating another configuration example of an image data recording / reproducing apparatus to which the present invention has been applied.

[Explanation of symbols]

Reference Signs List 1 photographed image, recording image of first resolution, recording image of second resolution, recording image of third resolution, first divided image, sixth divided image, seventh divided image 3 divided images, 8, 9, 10 pixel blocks, 11 recording media, 12 unit recorded images, 13 fourth divided images, 1
4 fifth divided image, 20 first resolution image for reproduction, 21 second resolution image for reproduction, 22 third image for reproduction, 30, 40 image data recording device,
32 still image signal processing unit, 34 recording signal processing unit, 35
Signal recording unit, 50 image data reproducing device, 51 signal reading unit, 52 recording signal processing unit, 53 still image signal processing unit, 60, 80 image data recording / reproducing device, 72 still image signal processing unit, 74, 97 recording signal processing Part, 76,
98 signal writing and reading unit, 81 computer

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 5B057 CA16 CB16 CC02 CD05 CD10 CE08 5C053 FA03 FA06 FA08 FA13 FA17 FA22 FA23 GB01 GB06 GB07 GB15 GB21 GB22 HA22 HA40 JA22 KA01 KA24 LA01 LA06 5C076 AA19 AA21 AA22 AA14

Claims (35)

[Claims] 1. A first process for converting an original image into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions, and dividing at least a part of the plurality of recording images by a different number of divisions, each having an equal number of pixels. A second process of generating a plurality of divided images for each of the plurality of recording images; and a second process of continuously recording image data of the plurality of recording images on an information recording medium with each divided image as one frame. 3. An image data recording method, comprising: 2. In the second processing, the plurality of recording images are divided into a plurality of pixel blocks composed of a plurality of adjacent pixels for each recording image, and one or more 2. The image data recording method according to claim 1, wherein the extracted pixels are extracted, and the extracted pixels are recombined to generate the divided image. 3. In the third process, the image data of the plurality of recording images is continuously converted into frames per unit second so that one original image is recorded on the information recording medium in units of seconds. 2. The image data recording method according to claim 1, wherein the image data is recorded in the image data. 4. In the third process, image data of a plurality of recording images obtained by converting the one original image is continuously recorded from a zeroth frame of any second on a time code. 4. The image data recording method according to claim 3, wherein: 5. The image data recording method according to claim 1, wherein in the second processing, the plurality of recording images are divided by a division number of 2 ²ⁿ (n is an integer of 1 or more). . 6. The image data recording method according to claim 1, wherein in the third processing, each of the divided images of the plurality of recording images is recorded so as to overlap a plurality of frames. 7. In the third processing, information indicating that the image data of the plurality of recording images is recorded for each of the divided images is stored in the information recording medium together with the image data of the recording image. 2. The image data recording method according to claim 1, wherein the image data is recorded. 8. An arbitrary pixel in the pixel block is defined as a first pixel.
When a frame in which a divided image including the first pixel is recorded is a first frame, in the third processing, the divided image recorded in a frame adjacent to the first frame is 3. The image data of the recording image is recorded on the information recording medium so as to include a pixel adjacent to the first pixel.
The image data recording method described in the above. 9. An original image is converted into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions, and at least a part of the plurality of recording images is divided by a different number of divisions. An image processing unit that generates a plurality of images for each of a plurality of recording images; and image data of the plurality of recording images generated by the image processing unit, each divided image being one frame.
An image data recording apparatus, comprising: a recording unit that continuously records information on an information recording medium. 10. The image processing unit divides the plurality of recording images into a plurality of pixel blocks each including a plurality of adjacent pixels for each recording image, and includes one or more pixel blocks from each pixel block. 10. The image data recording apparatus according to claim 9, wherein pixels are extracted, and the extracted pixels are recombined to generate the divided image. 11. The recording unit continuously records image data of the plurality of recording images in frames per unit second so that one original image is recorded on the information recording medium in units of seconds. 10. The image data recording apparatus according to claim 9, wherein: 12. The recording unit according to claim 1, wherein the image data of the plurality of recording images obtained by converting the one original image is continuously recorded from a zeroth frame of any second on a time code. The image data recording device according to claim 11, wherein: 13. The image data recording apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the image processing unit divides each of the plurality of recording images by a division number of 2 ²ⁿ (n is an integer of 1 or more). . 14. The image data recording apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the recording unit records each of the divided images of the plurality of recording images so as to overlap a plurality of frames. 15. The recording unit records information indicating that image data of the plurality of recording images is recorded for each of the divided images together with the image data of the recording image on the information recording medium. 10. The image data recording device according to claim 9, wherein: 16. When an arbitrary pixel in the pixel block is a first pixel and a frame on which a divided image including the first pixel is recorded is a first frame, the recording unit The image data of the recording image is recorded on the information recording medium such that a divided image recorded in a frame adjacent to one frame includes a pixel adjacent to the first pixel. Item 11. The image data recording device according to Item 10. 17. An original image is converted into a plurality of reproduction images having different resolutions, and at least a part of the plurality of reproduction images is divided into a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels. When reproducing the image data of the reproduction image from the information recording medium in which the image data of the image is continuously recorded with each divided image as one frame, a plurality of reproduction images having a desired resolution from the information recording medium are read. A first process of selecting and reading the divided images of the above, and a second process of resynthesizing and outputting the reproduction image having the desired resolution from the plurality of divided images read by the first process. An image data reproducing method characterized by performing the following. 18. In the second processing, one of the plurality of divided images read by the first processing is provided for each divided image.
18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the pixels are extracted to construct a plurality of pixel blocks composed of a plurality of pixels, and the plurality of pixel blocks are combined to resynthesize the reproduction image having the desired resolution. Image data reproduction method. 19. Each of the divided images of the plurality of recording images is recorded so as to overlap with a plurality of frames. In the second processing, the divided image overlapped and recorded with the plurality of frames is provided. 18. The image data reproducing method according to claim 17, wherein one of the divided images is selected, and the reproduction image is recombined based on the selected divided image. 20. Each of the divided images of the plurality of recording images is recorded so as to overlap with a plurality of frames, and in the second processing, the divided images overlapped and recorded with the plurality of frames. 18. The image data reproducing method according to claim 17, wherein an averaging process is performed on the image, and the reproduction image is re-synthesized based on the image obtained by the averaging process. 21. The first processing, wherein information indicating that the reproduction image is recombined from the plurality of divided images and output is read from the information recording medium together with the plurality of divided images. 18. The image data reproducing method according to claim 17, wherein 22. A divided image recorded in an arbitrary frame among the plurality of divided images is defined as a first divided image, and a divided image recorded in a frame adjacent to the first divided image is defined as a second divided image. When an image is obtained, in the second processing, the pixels included in the first divided image and the pixels included in the second divided image are adjacent to each other in the pixel block so as to be adjacent pixels. 18. The image data reproducing method according to claim 17, wherein the reproducing image is re-synthesized. 23. An original image is converted into a plurality of playback images having different resolutions, and at least a part of the plurality of playback images is divided into a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels. An image data reproducing apparatus for reproducing image data of the image for reproduction from an information recording medium in which image data of an image is continuously recorded with each divided image as one frame, wherein a desired resolution is obtained from the information recording medium. A reading unit that selects and reads a plurality of divided images of the reproduction image, and an image processing unit that recombines and outputs the reproduction image with the desired resolution from the plurality of divided images read by the reading unit. An image data reproducing apparatus comprising: 24. The image processing unit extracts one or more pixels for each of the plurality of divided images read by the reading unit, and constructs a plurality of pixel blocks including a plurality of pixels. 24. The image data reproducing apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the reproduction image having the desired resolution is recombined by combining the plurality of pixel blocks. 25. Each of the divided images of the plurality of recording images is recorded so as to overlap a plurality of frames. 24. The image data reproducing apparatus according to claim 23, wherein one of the images is selected, and the reproduction image is recombined based on the selected divided image. 26. Each of the divided images of the plurality of recording images is recorded so as to overlap with a plurality of frames, respectively, and the image processing unit is configured to divide the divided images recorded so as to overlap with the plurality of frames. The image data reproducing apparatus according to claim 23, wherein an averaging process is performed on the image, and the reproduction image is re-synthesized based on the image obtained by the averaging process. 27. The information processing apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the reading unit reads information indicating that the reproduction image is recombined and output from the plurality of divided images together with the plurality of divided images from the information recording medium. Item 24. The image data reproducing device according to Item 23. 28. A divided image recorded in an arbitrary frame among the plurality of divided images is defined as a first divided image, and a divided image recorded in a frame adjacent to the first divided image is defined as a second divided image. When the image is processed, the image processing unit performs the reproduction so that pixels included in the first divided image and pixels included in the second divided image are adjacent pixels in the pixel block. 24. The image data reproducing apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the image for use is recombined. 29. An original image is converted into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions, and at least a part of the plurality of recording images is divided into a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels. An information recording medium characterized in that image data of an image is recorded continuously with each divided image as one frame. 30. The divided image, wherein the plurality of recording images are divided into a plurality of pixel blocks formed of a plurality of adjacent pixels for each recording image, and one or more pixels are separated from each pixel block. 30. The information recording medium according to claim 29, wherein the extracted pixels are recombined. 31. The information recording medium according to claim 29, wherein each of the divided images of the plurality of recording images is recorded so as to overlap a plurality of frames. 32. Information indicating that the image data of the plurality of recording images is recorded for each of the divided images is recorded together with the image data of the recording image. Information recording medium as described. 33. When an arbitrary pixel in the pixel block is a first pixel and a frame on which a divided image including the first pixel is recorded is a first frame, the pixel is adjacent to the first frame. The divided image recorded in the frame
31. The information recording medium according to claim 30, wherein the image data of the recording image is recorded so as to include a pixel adjacent to the first pixel. 34. A first process for converting an original image into a plurality of recording images having different resolutions, and dividing at least a part of the plurality of recording images into different numbers of divisions, each having the same number of pixels. A second process of generating a plurality of divided images for each of the plurality of recording images; and a second process of continuously recording image data of the plurality of recording images on an information recording medium with each divided image as one frame. 3. A computer-readable recording medium on which is recorded a program for causing a computer to execute the processes of 3). 35. An original image is converted into a plurality of reproduction images having different resolutions, and at least a part of the plurality of reproduction images is divided into a plurality of divided images having the same number of pixels. Computer-readable recording in which a program for causing a computer to execute a process of reproducing the image data of the image for reproduction from an information recording medium in which the image data of the image is continuously recorded with each divided image as one frame is recorded. A first process for selecting and reading a plurality of divided images of a reproduction image having a desired resolution from the information recording medium; and obtaining the desired image from the plurality of divided images read by the first process. A program for causing a computer to execute a second process of resynthesizing and outputting a reproduction image having a resolution of. Computer readable recording medium.