JP2002230872A - Automatic tape cassette selector - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an automatic tape cassette selector which facilitates mounting tape cassettes on a magnetic tape recording and/or reproducing machine and permits the effective utilization of the space efficiency of the device. SOLUTION: When the tape cassettes 1 are respectively housed in a plurality of cassette housing sections 13b disposed along the circumferential of a freely rotatable turntable 13 and the magnetic tape recording and/or reproducing machine 40 disposed near the turntable 13 is mounted with the desired tape cassette selected from a plurality of the tape cassettes, a cassette cap 6 of the tape cassette 1 is arranged toward the inner peripheral side of the turntable 13 and the magnetic tape recording and/or reproducing machine 40 opposite to the cassette cap 6 is arranged on the inner peripheral side of the turntable 13.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a tape cassette stored in a plurality of cassette storage sections provided along a circumference on a rotatable rotary table and selected from a plurality of tape cassettes. The present invention relates to an automatic tape cassette selecting device configured to mount a desired tape cassette on a magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device provided near a rotary table.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art With the advent of the age of digital multimedia, the digitization of television broadcasting has been accelerated.
CS digital broadcasting that has already been broadcast, BS
With the start of digital broadcasting and the like, a helical scan type magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus (VTR) capable of recording and / or reproducing a large amount of digital information signals on a magnetic tape for a long time has attracted attention. .

Here, a plurality of tape cassettes (hereinafter, referred to as a large number) containing magnetic tapes are used, and more digital information signals are recorded and reproduced on each magnetic tape in the multiple tape cassettes. For this purpose, a plurality of tape cassettes are radially mounted on a rotatable rotary table, and a desired tape cassette selected from the plurality of tape cassettes is provided near the rotary table. As an example of an automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus configured to be mounted on a reproducing apparatus, see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-28.
No. 2753 discloses a recording medium loading device.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a conventional recording medium loading apparatus. The conventional recording medium loading apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 17 is disclosed in the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-282753, and will be briefly described with reference to the same.

In FIG. 17, in a conventional recording medium loading apparatus 100, a fixed base 101 is supported above a floor surface by a plurality of legs 102. A rotating base 103 is rotatably provided on the fixed base 101. A number of holders 104 are radially formed along the circumference on the rotating base 103, and the tape cassettes 105 are stored in the respective holders 104.

A support base 107 is mounted above the rotary base 103 via a plurality of legs 106 planted on the fixed base 101.
Two recording / reproducing machines 108 and 109 are supported vertically on the right and left sides of 07. At this time, the recording / reproducing device 108, 1
Reference numeral 09 denotes a vertical state such that a tape cassette insertion slot (not shown) faces downward, and further, an opening 107 is formed in the support base 107 at a portion where the recording / reproducing machines 108 and 109 face.
a, 107b are drilled.

The support base 1 is fixed on the fixed base 101.
05, a tape cassette loading / unloading mechanism 11 is provided.
0, 111 (note that the tape cassette loading / unloading mechanism 111 is not visible in the figure).
109 is provided.

Here, when one desired tape cassette 105 is selected from a large number of tape cassettes 105 mounted on the rotating base 103, the rotating base 103
Is rotated and the desired tape cassette 105 is
08 or 109, and then the tape cassette loading / unloading mechanism 110 or 111 raises the desired tape cassette 105 from the inside of the holder 104, and places the desired tape cassette 105 in one of the recording / reproducing machines 108 or 109. I'm loading.

[0009]

In the above-described conventional recording medium loading apparatus 100, when a desired tape cassette 105 is selected from a large number of tape cassettes 105 mounted on a rotating base 103, The recording / reproducing device 108 or 10 in which the rotation base 103 rotates and the desired tape cassette 105 is set above the rotation base 103
9, a tape cassette loading / unloading mechanism 1
Although the recording medium is selectively loaded by 10 or 111, since the recording / reproducing machines 108 and 109 are above the rotating base 103, the recording medium loading apparatus 100 has a two-story structure, so that the cassette loading / unloading mechanism 110 , 11
Numeral 1 denotes that the tape cassette 105 must be lifted up to the upper recording / reproducing device 108, 109 against the gravity, and the driving load of the cassette loading / unloading mechanism 110, 111 when the tape cassette 105 is inserted into the recording / reproducing device 108, 109. And the height of the recording medium loading device 100 also increases.

Furthermore, in the conventional recording medium loading apparatus 100, there is no disclosure about a technique for efficiently exchanging the tape cassette 105.

Therefore, a large number of tape cassettes can be stored on a rotary table, and a desired tape cassette selected from the large number of tape cassettes can be easily mounted on a magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus. In addition, there is a demand for an automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus that can effectively utilize the space efficiency of the apparatus and can efficiently exchange tape cassettes.

[0012]

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and a first invention is to store a magnetic tape in a substantially rectangular cassette housing, and A tape cassette having a cassette lid for covering the magnetic tape exposed on the front opening side is supported by a pair of cassette lid support shafts on both sides of the cassette housing so as to be openable and closable. Each of the plurality of cassette storage units provided along the circumference on the rotary table is stored in a plurality of cassette storage units, and a desired tape cassette selected from the plurality of tape cassettes is provided near the rotary table. And / or a tape cassette automatic selection device configured to be mounted on a playback machine, wherein the tape cassette is placed in each cassette storage section on the rotary table. In the rotation center axis of the rotary table, a tape cassette automatic selection device being characterized in that substantially parallel with the pair of cassette lid support shaft.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the first aspect, the cassette lid is arranged toward an inner peripheral side of the rotary table and is opposed to the cassette lid. An automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus, wherein the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus is arranged on an inner peripheral side of the rotary table.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the second aspect of the present invention, the desired tape cassette is pushed to the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus by pushing a back surface of the desired tape cassette. A cassette insertion mechanism for inserting is arranged on the outer peripheral side of the rotary table, and the desired tape cassette discharged from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device is returned to a cassette storage section on the rotary table. An automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus, wherein a cassette discharging mechanism is attached to the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the first aspect, the cassette lid is arranged toward an outer peripheral side of the rotary table, and the cassette lid is opposed to the cassette lid. An automatic tape cassette selecting device, wherein a magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device is arranged on an outer peripheral side of the rotary table.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the desired tape cassette is pushed to the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus by pushing a back surface of the desired tape cassette. A cassette insertion mechanism for insertion is arranged on the inner peripheral side of the rotary table, and the desired tape cassette discharged from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus is returned to a cassette storage section on the rotary table. Wherein the cassette discharge mechanism is mounted on the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus.

In a sixth aspect of the present invention, a desired tape cassette selected from a plurality of tape cassettes stored in a storage section is mounted in a magnetic tape recording / reproducing machine, and the desired tape cassette is mounted in the magnetic tape recording / reproducing machine. In an automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus for recording and reproducing a digital information signal on a magnetic tape housed in a tape cassette, the magnetic tape recording and reproducing apparatus writes and writes a digital information signal continuously input at a low transfer rate. A transfer rate converter for intermittently outputting at a high transfer rate each block signal read out intermittently at a high transfer rate by dividing the digital information signal into input signals at predetermined intervals; and During the data transfer suspension period other than the period when each block signal is output intermittently at a high transfer rate, Stop the running of the tape, and run the magnetic tape during a period in which the block signals are intermittently output from the transfer rate conversion unit at a high transfer rate, so that the block signals rise to a high level on the magnetic tape. An automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus comprising: a magnetic tape recording / reproducing unit that records intermittently at a transfer rate and reproduces it.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the sixth aspect, a predetermined period for dividing the digital information signal of a low transfer rate into each of the block signals is TL, The recording period for recording each block signal at a high transfer rate is TH,
When the data transfer suspension period, which is set based on the maximum time required for exchanging the tape cassette and is not able to transfer the block signals from the transfer rate conversion unit to the magnetic tape recording / reproduction unit, is TC, An automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus, wherein the relational expression of TL ≧ TH + TC is established in order to exchange the tape cassette during the data transfer suspension period.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the sixth or seventh aspect, the magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus has a pre-recorded data recorded on the magnetic tape at a high transfer rate. Each of the block signals is intermittently reproduced at a high transfer rate and sent to the transfer rate conversion unit. The transfer rate conversion unit converts each of the high transfer rate block signals to a low transfer rate digital information signal and continuously converts the block information. A low transfer rate output mode for continuously outputting and a high transfer rate output mode for continuously reproducing recorded block signals recorded on the magnetic tape at a high transfer rate and outputting the block signals as they are at a high transfer rate. This is an automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus characterized in that the tape cassette automatic selecting apparatus is provided.

[0020]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS One embodiment of an automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the present invention will be described below in detail in the order of <first embodiment> and <second embodiment> with reference to FIGS. I do.

<First Embodiment> FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a tape cassette applied to an automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 2B is a view showing the lower half side of the tape cassette disassembled, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the entire configuration of the tape cassette automatic selection device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 4 is a side view showing the entire configuration of the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a view showing a plurality of tape cassette automatic selecting apparatuses according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a state where a rotary table is removed in a state in which a tape cassette is stored in a cassette storage unit, and FIG. 5 illustrates a cassette insertion mechanism in a tape cassette automatic selection device according to a first embodiment of the present invention; 5A is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the cassette insertion mechanism, FIG. 6B is a diagram for explaining each operation mode of a pusher of the cassette insertion mechanism, and FIG. 6 is FIG. FIG. 7 is a side view showing each operation mode of the pusher of the cassette insertion mechanism shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 shows a tape cassette automatic selection device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a side view for explaining the cassette discharging mechanism. FIG. 8 is a view showing the first and second light shielding pieces formed on the lower surface side of the rotary table in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure for explaining the relation with the 1st-3rd optical sensor, (a) is a perspective view showing the undersurface side of a turntable, and (b) is a partial enlarged undersurface side of the turntable. FIG. 3C is a perspective view, and FIG. 3C is a waveform diagram of the first to third optical sensors.

First, before describing an automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention, a tape cassette applied to this apparatus will be briefly described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 1, a tape cassette 1 applied to an automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention has a substantially rectangular shape in which an upper half and a lower half are assembled together with a lid. The cassette housing 2 is formed in a small size, and a magnetic tape 5 is wound around a supply reel 3 and a take-up reel 4 in the cassette housing 2. Further, a cassette lid 6 for covering the magnetic tape 5 exposed on the front opening 2a side of the cassette housing 2 is provided to be openable and closable. At this time, the cassette lid 6 has a pair of cassette lid support shafts 6b1 and 6c1 provided inside the side surfaces 6b and 6c perpendicular to the long front surface 6a and is provided substantially in parallel with the front surface 6a of the cassette lid 6. The pair of cassette lid support shafts 6b1 and 6c1 are
b, 2c, a pair of cassette lid support holes 2b1, 2b2
By being fitted to c1, the cassette lid 6 is supported in front of the front opening 2a of the cassette housing 2 so as to be openable and closable. The rear surface 2d side of the cassette housing 2 is closed, and a label or the like can be attached to the rear surface 2d.

Next, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus 10A according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
In this embodiment, a support shaft 12 is implanted on a first fixed base 11 serving as a base, and a large-diameter rotary table 13 is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise by the rotary table driving unit 20 around the support shaft 12. It is provided rotatably.

The rotary table drive section 20 serves as a drive source for the rotary table 13. A motor 21 is mounted on the first fixed base 11.
A small-diameter pulley 22 is fixed to the shaft. The rotation of the small-diameter pulley 22 fixed to the shaft of the motor 21 is transmitted to the large-diameter pulley 24 via the belt 23, and further, the outer peripheral portion of the lower surface of the rotary table 13 from the large-diameter pulley 24 via the reduction gear train 25. Large-diameter gear 13 integrally formed with
a.

The rotary table 13 has a large number of cassette storage sections 13b radially provided at substantially equal intervals along the circumference, and the tape cassette 1 is removably stored in each cassette storage section 13b. I have. Of course, an absolute address for indicating a storage number is assigned to each of the plurality of cassette storage sections 13b.

Here, when each of the tape cassettes 1 is stored in the plurality of cassette storage portions 13b provided on the rotary table 13, the cassette lid 6 of the tape cassette 1 is directed to the inner peripheral side of the rotary table 13. By inserting the tape cassette 1 into each cassette storage section 13b,
The rear surface 2 d of each tape cassette 1 is located on the outer peripheral side of the turntable 13. Then, when the rotary table 13 is removed in a state where the tape cassettes 1 are stored in the plurality of cassette storage sections 13b provided on the rotary table 13, the result is as shown in FIG.

Therefore, the cassette lid 6 of the tape cassette 1
Is turned upright on the rotary table 13 so that the pair of cassette lid support shafts 6b1 and 6c1 provided on both sides 6b and 6c of the cassette lid 6
3 is substantially parallel to the support shaft 12 serving as the rotation center axis.

Next, as the tape cassette 1 is stored on the rotary table 13, two cassette insertion mechanisms 30, 30 are provided on the outer peripheral side of the rotary table 13. On the other hand, on the inner peripheral side of the rotary table 13, two magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing machines 40, 40 having a cassette insertion opening (not shown) facing the cassette lid 6 of the tape cassette 1 are provided. In addition, cassette discharge mechanisms 50, 50 are attached to the side surfaces of the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing machines 40, 40, respectively.

In the embodiment, the cassette insertion mechanism 3
0, two magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing devices 40, and two cassette discharge mechanism units 50 are described below. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a method of arranging one each may be used.

The two cassette insertion mechanisms 30, 3
0 and 2 magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing machines 40, 4
0 is a support shaft 12 serving as a rotation center axis of the turntable 13.
Each cassette insertion mechanism 30 and each magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40 are provided as a pair (pair). And oppose each other via the turntable 13. Then, when one desired tape cassette 1 is selected from the large number of tape cassettes 1 stored in the large number of cassette storage sections 13b on the rotary table 13, the rotary table 13 is rotated and the desired tape cassette 1 is rotated. The tape cassette 1 is inserted into two cassette insertion mechanisms 3
0, the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40 is moved to one of the paired positions.

The two magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing machines 40, 40 are mounted on the back side of a second fixed base 14 (shown only in FIG. 2) fixed on the first fixed base 11, The second fixed base 14 is formed in a gate shape, extends from the inner peripheral side of the rotary table 13 to the outer peripheral side, and is fixed on the first fixed base 11.

Although the internal detailed description of the two magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing machines 40, 40 is omitted here, the magnetic tape 5 is pulled out from the tape cassette 1 inserted therein, and A function of recording and / or reproducing information signals by a magnetic head rotating integrally with the rotating drum by running the tape 5 while spirally winding the tape 5 around a fixed drum and a rotating drum at a predetermined angle (approximately 180 °). It has.

The above-mentioned cassette insertion mechanism 30 is mounted on the first fixed base 11 on the outer peripheral side of the rotary table 13 and at a slight distance from the back surface 2d of the tape cassette 1 on the rotary table 13. In addition, it has a function of inserting the tape cassette 1 stored in each cassette storage portion 13b of the rotary table 13 into the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40.

That is, as shown in FIG. 5 (a), in the cassette insertion mechanism 30, a pusher base 31 is suspended from the first fixed base 11, and the pusher base 3 is provided.
The pusher 32 is provided on the first base 1 substantially parallel to the first fixed base 11 and reciprocally movable in a horizontal direction (arrow direction).

The pusher 32 has projecting portions 32a and 32b formed on the upper and lower sides of the left side in the drawing, and these projecting portions 32a and 32b are provided for a desired tape cassette 1 selected from a large number of tape cassettes 1. A function of pressing a back surface 2d of a desired tape cassette 1 when the tape cassette 1 is inserted into a magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40;
At the time of ejection from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40, the rear surface 2d side of the desired tape cassette 1 is
And a stopper function for positioning the cartridge at a predetermined position in the third cassette storage portion 13b.

The upper and lower parts of the central part of the pusher 32
And two horizontal grooves 32c and 32d are formed.
By fitting the guide pins 33, 34 implanted on the pusher base 31 into the horizontal grooves 32c, 32d of the book,
The pusher 32 is guided movably in the horizontal direction.

A motor 35 serving as a drive source of the pusher 32 is mounted below the pusher base 31, and a worm 36 is fixed to a shaft of the motor 35. The worm 36 meshes with a reduction gear train 37 including a helical gear.
The final gear 7 meshes with a rack 32e formed below the pusher 32. Therefore, by rotating the motor 35 forward or backward, the pusher 32 can freely reciprocate in the horizontal direction.

Light shielding pieces 32f, 32g are formed at the left end side of the upper part of the pusher 32 in the figure so as to protrude in an L-shape with a slight gap therebetween, and these light shielding pieces 32f, 3g are formed.
Light sensor 3 on pusher base 31 facing 2g
8, 39 are attached. And pusher 32
By combining the detection results obtained by detecting the two light shielding pieces 32f and 32g with the two optical sensors 38 and 39 during the movement of, three modes can be detected as the movement mode of the pusher 32 as shown in FIG. As described later, in the mode 1, the stopped state (initial state) of the pusher 32 is detected, in the mode 2, the cassette inserted state of the pusher 32 is detected, and in the mode 3, the cassette discharged state of the pusher 32 is detected. The detection results of mode 1 to mode 3 are shown in FIG.
It corresponds to the state shown in FIGS.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 6A, the pusher 32 is stopped in the mode 1 (initial state) by the light shielding pieces 32f and 32g of the pusher 32 and the optical sensors 38 and 39. Is detected, the pusher 32
Are slightly separated from the back surface 2d of the tape cassette 1 stored in the cassette storage portion 13b of the rotary table 13, and the pusher 32 stops at this position. In this mode 1, the turntable 13 can be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise.

As shown in FIG. 6B, the mode 2
When the cassette insertion state of the pusher 32 is detected by
The rotary table 13 is stopped and the pusher 32
Moves toward the cassette accommodating portion 13b side of the turntable 13 and pushes the rear surface 2d of a desired tape cassette 1 selected from among a large number of tape cassettes 1 with the protruding portions 32a and 32b of the pusher 32. Is inserted into a magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40.

As shown in FIG. 6C, the mode 3
When the cassette ejection state of the pusher 32 is detected by
The rotary table 13 is stopped and the pusher 32
Moves very slightly toward the cassette accommodating portion 13b side of the turntable 13, and the protruding portions 32a,
32b is stopped at a position where it reaches the tape cassette back regulation position. Here, when the desired tape cassette 1 ejected from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40 is returned into the cassette accommodating portion 13b by the cassette ejecting mechanism 50 described later, the rear surface 2d of the desired tape cassette 1
Is pushed to a position where it contacts the protruding portions 32a, 32b of the pusher 32 so as not to protrude from the cassette housing portion 13b to the outer peripheral side.

Next, a magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 4
The cassette ejecting mechanism 50 attached to the side of the cartridge 0 has a function of returning the desired tape cassette 1 ejected from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40 into the cassette accommodating portion 13b provided on the rotary table 13. .

That is, as shown in FIG. 7, the cassette discharging mechanism 50 has a cassette discharging base 51 attached to a side surface of the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40.
A pair of first friction wheels 52A and 52B are connected to a drive source (not shown) on the cassette discharge base 51 and are mounted on the cassette discharge base 51 while contacting each other.
The shafts 53A and 53B are rotatable in opposite directions (arrow directions).

A pair of arms 54A, 54B are provided on the cassette discharge base 51 so as to be swingable about the second shafts 55A, 55B implanted in the cassette discharge base 51, and vertically. The second shaft 55A,
Second friction wheels 56A and 56B are journaled to 55B.
Further, third shafts 57A, 57B are implanted at the tips of the pair of arms 54A, 54B, and third friction wheels 58A, 58B are journaled to the third shafts 57A, 57B. Further, the second friction wheels 56A and 56B are in contact with the first friction wheels 52A and 52B,
The rotation of 6A, 56B is transmitted to third friction wheels 58A, 58B via belts 59A, 59B. The third friction wheels 58A, 58B attached to the ends of a pair of swingable arms 54A, 54B can freely come into contact with and separate from the side surfaces 2b, 2c of the tape cassette 1. When ejected from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40, the third friction wheels 58A, 58B abut on the side surfaces 2b, 2c of the desired tape cassette 1 and are brought into contact with the third friction wheels 58.
By rotating A, 58B in the direction of the arrow, the desired tape cassette 1 is stored in the cassette storage section 13 of the turntable 13.
b. At this time, the rear surface 2d of the desired tape cassette 1 is placed on the protrusions 32a, 32 of the pusher 32 as described above.
2b.

Next, the relationship between the first and second light shielding pieces formed on the lower surface side of the turntable 13 and the first to third optical sensors will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 (a) to 8 (c). .

As shown in FIGS. 8 (a) and 8 (b), the first and second light shielding pieces 13c and 13d are formed circumferentially below the large diameter teeth 13a formed on the outer peripheral portion of the lower surface of the turntable 13. Along and downwardly.

The first light shielding piece 13c is provided on the outer peripheral side, and the first light shielding piece 13c has a large number of concave portions corresponding to the number of the plurality of cassette storage portions 13b provided on the turntable 13. And the protruding portions are formed in the same width and are sequentially repeated at equal intervals along the circumference.

On the other hand, the second light shielding piece 13d is
The second light shielding piece 13d is provided on the inner peripheral side with respect to the light shielding piece 13c. The second light shielding piece 13d is divided into eight groups along the circumference, for example, to divide a large number of cassette storage portions 13b into eight groups. Each of the divided portions of the light shielding piece 13d is formed such that the group number can be set by sequentially changing the length in the order of dividing the width of the concave portion and the convex portion.

Further, two optical sensors 15 and 16 are provided so as to face the first light shielding piece 13c, and the waveforms from the optical sensors 15 and 16 are changed to the first light as shown in FIG. The optical sensors 15 and 16 are attached so that the phase is shifted by 1/4 cycle with respect to the uneven portion of the shielding piece 13c.

Further, an optical sensor 17 is provided so as to face the second light shielding piece 13d, and the waveform from the optical sensor 17 has the same phase as the waveform from the optical sensor 16 as shown in FIG. The concavo-convex shape of the second light shielding piece 13d is set so as to partially match.

The outputs of the optical sensors 15 are output at equal intervals corresponding to the number of the cassette accommodating sections 13b, and the desired tape cassette selected from the multiple tape cassettes 1 mounted on the rotary table 13 is output. The function of calculating the position of the tape cassette 1 and the function of indicating the absolute addresses of a large number of tape cassettes 1 placed on the turntable 13 in groups by combining the output of the optical sensor 17 are provided.

On the other hand, the output of the optical sensor 16 is
When the rotary table 13 is rotated by inputting the cassette number and rotating the rotary table 13, the tape cassette 1 selected according to the cassette number is reliably stopped at the cassette insertion position. .

In the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus 10A of the first embodiment configured as described above, a large number of cassette housings 13b are radially provided on the rotary table 13, and
A desired tape cassette 1 is selected from the tape cassettes 1 stored in the plurality of cassette storages 13b, and the rotary table 13 is rotated. When the desired tape cassette 1 reaches the cassette insertion position, the rotary table 13 is rotated.
Is stopped, and at this position, the back surface 2 d of the desired tape cassette 1 is pushed by the cassette insertion mechanism 30 provided on the outer peripheral side of the rotary table 13, and the desired tape cassette 1 is provided on the inner peripheral side of the rotary table 13. Tape recording and / or
Or, when the recording and / or reproducing operation on the magnetic tape 5 is completed in the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40, the desired tape cassette 1 is removed from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40. The tape is ejected, and the desired tape cassette 1 is returned to the original cassette accommodating portion 13b by the cassette ejecting mechanism 50 attached to the side of the tape recording and / or reproducing device 40.

Therefore, in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus 10A of the first embodiment, in particular, the desired tape cassette 1 selected from the rotary table 13 is inserted into the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40, and thereafter, the magnetic tape is selected. When returning the desired tape cassette 1 discharged from the tape recording and / or reproducing device 40 to the turntable 13, the tape cassette 1
While moving the tape cassette 1 against the conventional gravity.
The cassette insertion mechanism 30
In addition, the driving load on the cassette discharging mechanism 50 can be reduced.
In addition, space efficiency is improved by installing the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40 on the inner peripheral side of the turntable 13, and the height of the device 10A is increased because each component is arranged in a plane. Can be kept low.

In the first embodiment, the rotary table 13 is provided rotatably about the support shaft 12 planted on the fixed base 11, but the present invention is not limited to this.
May be formed in a donut shape so that the lower portion of the donut-shaped turntable 13 is rotatably supported by a guide member provided on the fixed base 11 without providing the support shaft 12 on the fixed base 11. Also in this case, the virtual rotation center axis of the rotary table 13 is substantially parallel to the pair of cassette lid support shafts 6b1 and 6c1 provided inside the both side surfaces 6b and 6c of the cassette lid 6. Further, when the rotating table 13 is formed in a donut shape, the magnetic tape recording and / or
Alternatively, the players 40, 40 can be directly mounted on the fixed base 11.

Next, the above-described magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus 40 is connected to the magnetic tape 5 except for a reproduction-only case.
The case where the recording / reproducing apparatus is configured for recording / reproducing data will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 10 is for explaining a data rate conversion operation in the HDD recording / reproducing section shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing each digital image compression signal on the time axis when a data rate conversion operation is performed in the HDD recording / reproducing section shown in FIG. 9, and FIG. 12 is a diagram showing each track on the magnetic tape. FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which an MIC (Memory In Cassete) is attached to the back of the tape cassette, and FIG. 14 is a data rate conversion in the HDD recording / reproducing unit shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a case where overlap recording is performed between digital image compression signals on a time axis when performing an operation.

As shown in FIG. 9, the magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus 40RP mounts a desired tape cassette 1 selected from a large number of tape cassettes 1 stored on the rotary table 13 (FIG. 2), and A digital information signal can be recorded and reproduced on a magnetic tape 5 housed in the recording medium 1.

The above-described magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus 40RP
Is an operation unit 41 for a user to perform an operation, a control unit 42 for performing overall control of this device, and a digital image signal input from an input terminal S2 to an MPEG (Moving Picture).
An image compression processing unit 43 that performs image compression processing in accordance with the Image Coding Experts Group (Digital Image Coding Experts Group) standard to obtain a digital image compression signal, and a digital image compression unit that records and reproduces a digital image compression signal on an HDD (hard disk) 44 A transfer rate conversion unit (hereinafter referred to as an HDD recording / reproducing unit) 45 for converting a transfer rate of a signal between an input time and an output time, and a digital image compression signal on a magnetic tape 5 stored in a tape cassette 1. A magnetic tape recording / reproducing unit 46 for recording / reproducing, and an image decompression process for performing an image decompression process complementary to the image compression process on the digital image compression signal, returning the digital image signal before compression to an output terminal S4 And a unit 47.

Since the HDD recording / reproducing section 45 has a memory function of storing a digital image compression signal, a well-known FIFO (First In Firs) is used instead.
t Out) A memory or the like may be used, and the HDD recording / reproducing unit 45 converts a low transfer rate digital image compression signal into a high transfer rate block signal as described later, and conversely, a high transfer rate. It has a transfer rate conversion function for converting a low-rate block signal into a low transfer rate digital image compression signal.

Here, when the user operates the operation unit 41 to send an operation command for this device to the control unit 42, the control unit 42 outputs a control signal corresponding to the operation command to the corresponding department.
Although not shown, the control unit 42 includes a CPU that performs overall control and a ROM that stores a control program.
(Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Acc
ess Memory), and processes generated by the operation are performed by each unit 4 according to a control program stored in the ROM.
3, 45, 46 and 47 are controlled.

On the other hand, a digital image signal transmitted and received from, for example, CS digital broadcast, BS digital broadcast, or the like is continuously input to the input terminal S2.

The digital image signal continuously input to the input terminal S2 is sent to the image compression processing section 43, where the digital image signal
It is obtained as a digital image compression signal of a low transfer rate R1 of, for example, 2.5 Mbps by PEG compression, and this digital image compression signal is continuously output to the HDD recording / reproducing unit 45 at a low transfer rate R1.

The above-mentioned HDD recording / reproducing section 45 is, for example, 2.5 Mbp transmitted continuously from the image compression processing section 43.
s of the digital image compression signal of the low transfer rate R1
D44, and writes the written digital image compression signal of the low transfer rate R1 in the input order for a predetermined period T.
L (FIG. 11), read out intermittently at a high speed, and for example, 1 lower than the low transfer rate R1 of 2.5 Mbps.
Each block signal of a high transfer rate R2 of 25 Mbps, which is about 0 times faster, is intermittently output to the magnetic tape recording / reproducing unit 46.

At this time, as shown in FIG.
In performing data transfer from the D44 side to the magnetic tape 5 side, the digital image compression signal is continuously written on the HDD 44 with a write clock corresponding to the low transfer rate R1, and the HDD 44 is read with a read clock corresponding to the high transfer rate R2. The data rate is converted by intermittently reading the compressed digital image signal from above. Of course, as described above, the
Even when the O memory is used, the data rate conversion operation may be performed using the same write clock and read clock as in the HDD 44.

Here, when the data rate conversion operation is performed in the HDD recording / reproducing unit 45, the state of the digital image compression signal on the time axis is, as shown in FIG.
.., AN, B1, B2,..., Which are divided in the input order into the digital image compression signals written at a low transfer rate R1 at predetermined intervals TL at a high transfer rate R2. .., DN, E1, E2,... Are intermittently sent to the magnetic tape recording / reproducing unit 46 at a high / low transfer rate R2, and the block signals D1, D2,. DN, E1,
E2,... Are recorded on the magnetic tape 5 for each recording period TH.

At this time, a high transfer rate R2 of 25 Mbps
Is 10 times faster than the low transfer rate R1 of 2.5 Mbps, a data transfer suspension period TC occurs during which data cannot be transferred from the HDD 44 to the magnetic tape 5.
By stopping the running of the magnetic tape 5 during the data transfer suspension period TC, as shown in FIG.
,..., N,... Have block signals D1, D2,.
2,... Are continuously recorded.

Since the high transfer rate R2 of 25 Mbps is set to be the same as the recording / reproducing data rate in the DV standard applied to a well-known consumer digital VTR, the magnetic tape recording / reproducing section 46 Cost reduction can be achieved by using the running system in the consumer digital VTR as it is.

Further, since the magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus 40RP is installed so as to face the plurality of tape cassettes 1 housed on the rotary table 13 (FIG. 2), the magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus 40RP is provided during the data transfer suspension period TC. By exchanging the tape cassette 1, signals from the HDD 44 can be continuously recorded on the magnetic tape 5 in the tape cassette 1 without interruption.

The above-mentioned data transfer suspension period TC is set based on the maximum time required for replacing the tape cassette 1 or more. That is, the maximum time required for replacing the tape cassette 1 is determined by the rotation table 13 (see FIG. 2) When the desired tape cassette 1 selected from above is located at the farthest position from the magnetic tape recording / reproducing device 40RP, the rotary table 13 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise from this position to rotate the magnetic tape recording / reproducing device 40RP. This is the time from when the tape cassette 1 is replaced to when the magnetic tape 5 is set in the standby state in the magnetic tape recording / reproducing device 40RP.

At this time, the block signals A1, A2,... AN, B1, B2,.
L, and is converted into a high transfer rate R2, and each block signal D1, D2,.
N, E1, E2,... Are recorded on the magnetic tape 5, but each block signal A1, A2,.
The length of the predetermined period TL for delimiting N, B1, B2,... Is set such that a relational expression of TL ≧ TH + TC is satisfied in consideration of the data transfer suspension period TC and the recording period TH. Thereby, in any case, the HDD 4
4 so as not to cause a signal loss.

Further, as shown in FIG. 12, on the magnetic tape 5, for example, from the block signal D1 to the block signal DN.
Are a single program file, and a file header is inserted at the beginning of the file, so that even if a new program starts from the middle of the track, it can be determined. Although not shown here, each block signal D1
.. DN are also added with header signals, and any of the block signals (D1 to DN) can be identified at any time. At this time, the content of the identification signal added to the header signal is (maker code) − (model code)
-(Cassette code in recording order)-(block number in cassette), etc., whereby a unique number is assigned to all data blocks to improve searchability and
It can also be used to prevent confusion after the tape cassette 1 is replaced and for copyright management.

Next, when reproducing the recorded magnetic tape 5 in the magnetic tape recording / reproducing section 46, the magnetic tape 5
Each of the recorded block signals recorded at the high transfer rate R2 is intermittently reproduced and sent to the HDD recording / reproducing unit 45.
A low transfer rate output mode in which each block signal of the high transfer rate R2 is converted into a digital image compressed signal of the low transfer rate R1 by the HDD recording / reproducing unit 45 and continuously output, and a high transfer rate R2 on the magnetic tape 5 is output. A high transfer rate output mode for continuously reproducing each of the recorded block signals recorded in step (1) and outputting the same as it is at a high transfer rate R2.
2 to the magnetic tape recording / reproducing unit 46.

First, at the time of intermittent reproduction to the recorded magnetic tape 5, each block signal D1, D2,... DN, E1, E2,. The data is sent to the HDD recording / reproducing unit 45 at a high transfer rate R2 of 25 Mbps. .., DN, E1, E2,... Transmitted here by a write clock corresponding to the high transfer rate R2, as shown in FIG. HDD44
.., DN, E1, E2,... Corresponding to the block signals D1, D2,. .., AN, B1, B2,... Are continuously read to convert the data rate, and the read block signals A1, A2,.
Are continuously output to the image decompression processing unit 47 at a low transfer rate R1.

At this time, a high transfer rate R2 of 25 Mbps
Is 10 times faster than the low transfer rate R1 of 2.5 Mbps, so that a data transfer suspension period TC during which data cannot be transferred from the magnetic tape 5 side to the HDD 44 side occurs in the same manner as during recording. The running of the magnetic tape 5 is stopped during the data transfer suspension period TC, and the tape cassette 1 can be replaced.

Thereafter, the image expansion processing section 47 performs image expansion processing complementary to the image compression processing on each of the block signals A1, A2,... AN, B1, B2,. The signal is returned to the image signal and output from the output terminal S4.

Next, during continuous reproduction on the recorded magnetic tape 5, the recorded block signals D1, D2,... DN, E1, E2,. By continuously reproducing the data at the rate R2 and outputting the data as it is from the output terminal S3, a high-speed transfer mode becomes possible, and high-speed digital copying to another magnetic tape becomes possible while protecting copyright protection. Until now,
High-speed transfer using consumer digital VTRs involved changes in tape speed, number of drum revolutions, and track angle, which were a major factor in complicating the mechanism and increasing costs.
According to the present invention, high-speed transfer can be realized without providing a special mechanism, and the traveling system in the consumer digital VTR can be applied as it is, thereby enabling a significant cost reduction.

When recording the block signals D1 to DN, E1 to... On the magnetic tape 5, the block signal A1 corresponding to the block signal D1 to be first recorded on the magnetic tape 5 is left on the HDD 44. ing. Further, in the case of recording over the next tape cassette 1, for example, the recording on the magnetic tape 5 in one tape cassette 1 ends with the block signal Dk, and the magnetic tape 5 in the next tape cassette 1 starts from the block signal Dk + 1. When recording is performed on the first tape cassette 1, a block signal Dk + 1 for starting recording on the next tape cassette 1 is recorded.
Is left on the HDD 44. Thereby, the block signal A1 is displayed on the HDD 44.
By keeping the block signal Ak + 1, the access time is improved and the continuity of data when replacing the tape cassette 1 is secured.

That is, when a certain program is called by an operation, first, the HDD 4
The block signal A1 (corresponding to the block signal D1) left on the HDD 4 is immediately reproduced, and the tape cassette 1 is replaced during the data transfer suspension period TC during this period.
At the same time as the reproduction of the block signal A1 remaining on the magnetic tape 5 is completed, the loading on the magnetic tape 5 is completed in the magnetic tape recording / reproducing section 46 and the magnetic tape 5 in the standby state
The next block signal D2 is called from above, and is continuously reproduced.

When the tape cassette 1 needs to be replaced during the reproduction of the magnetic tape 5, the block signal Dk is transmitted because the magnetic tape 5 is intermittently reproduced from the HDD 44.
At the time when the transfer from the magnetic tape 5 to the HDD 44 is completed,
The magnetic tape recording / reproducing unit 46 starts exchanging the tape cassette 1 containing the magnetic tape 5 on which the block signal Dk is recorded, and the block signal Ak + 1 left on the HDD 44 (corresponding to the block signal Dk + 1). During the reproduction of the tape cassette 1, the exchange work of the tape cassette 1 and the loading onto the magnetic tape 5 are completed, and thereafter, the reproduction is started from the block signal Dk + 2 recorded on the magnetic tape 5 in the exchanged tape cassette 1.

Thus, the user can instantly call up the desired program and does not have to be conscious of replacing the tape cassette 1 at all.

As described above, the identification numbers (block signal A1 and block signal Ak + 1) of the block signals left on the HDD 44 are, as shown in FIG. 13, the MIC (Memory In) attached to the back surface 2d of the tape cassette 1. Ca
ssette) 48, and when the tape cassette 1 is mounted on another VTR, it is checked whether or not the block signal of the identification number is left on the HDD 44. The corresponding block signals are automatically transferred from 1 to the HDD 44. Thus, the same processing as described above can be performed even when the tape cassette 1 is replaced with another VTR. Also,
The identification number of the block signal may be recorded on the magnetic tape 5 instead of the MIC 48.

When the program is recorded over two or more tape cassettes 1, the identification numbers of the blocks of the tape cassette 1 of the continuous partner are stored in the memory in the automatic tape cassette selecting device 10A and in the tape cassette 1
When the tape cassette 1 having the above identification number of the continuous partner block is not stored when the tape cassette 1 is attached to another VTR when the tape cassette 1 is attached to another VTR, as shown in FIG. By outputting a caution signal to warn the user, the occurrence of a problem is prevented.

When some of the consecutive tape cassettes 1 are erroneously taken out of the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus 10A, a warning can be similarly issued to the user. When the tape cassette 1 is newly mounted on the rotary table 13 (FIG. 2) or when the tape cassettes 1 are rearranged on the rotary table 13 by the user, the cassette storage portion 13b of the rotary table 13 (Fig. 2)
A mode is provided for confirming the storage address of the tape cassette 1 and the identification number of the tape cassette 1 stored therein, and automatically updating the contents of the memory in the tape cassette automatic selection device 10A when the data is different from the previous data. The mismatch of cassette 1 is prevented.

Further, the tape cassette 1 is attached to the rotary table 1
3, it is possible to select an exclusive mode for preventing other programs from being recorded on the tape cassette 1 if it is known in advance that the tape cassette 1 will be transferred to another device. Even
Other programs are not affected.

The above-described magnetic tape recording / reproducing device 4
By installing two 0RPs on the inner peripheral side of the turntable 13 as shown in FIG. 2, the exchange time of the tape cassette 1 is reduced, and the capacity required on the HDD 44 in the HDD recording / reproducing unit 45 is reduced. can do.

Further, the above-described magnetic tape recording / reproducing device 40
In the RP, when creating a data block in which the digital image compression signal is rate-converted from the low transfer rate R1 to the high transfer rate R2 in the HDD recording / reproducing unit 45, for example, the last part of the block signal A1 is written to the leading part of the block signal A2. By providing the overlap area in the block signal A2 as described above, it is possible to absorb a track alignment error generated in the tape running system in the magnetic tape recording / reproducing unit 46.

The above magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus 40R
By causing P to face a large number of tape cassettes 1 stored in the rotary table 13, the rotary table 13 can be rotated in a direction in which the replacement time of the tape cassette 1 is minimized. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a large number of tape cassettes 1 are stored in a row and / or a row in a rack (not shown), and a desired tape cassette 1 is selected from this rack to record a magnetic tape. Even when the tape cassette 1 is mounted on the reproducing device 40RP, the tape cassette 1 can be replaced during the data transfer suspension period TC.

By mounting the above-described magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus 40RP in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus 10A of the first embodiment, the tape cassette 1 can be replaced especially during the data transfer suspension period TC, and the tape cassette 1 can be replaced. Even if the cassette 1 is replaced, recording and reproduction can be continuously performed, so that the recording and reproduction time can be drastically increased.
Further, since each block signal of a high transfer rate is continuously recorded on the magnetic tape 5, efficient recording and reproduction can be performed, and fast-forwarding (FF) to the magnetic tape 5 in the magnetic tape recording / reproducing unit 46 is performed. / The number of rewinds (REW) can be reduced. At this time, since the running system in the conventional consumer digital VTR can be applied as it is, the cost of the magnetic tape recording / reproducing device 40RP is reduced, and accordingly, the automatic tape cassette selecting device 10A can be provided at low cost. Also, the magnetic tape recording / reproducing device 40RP can output each block signal recorded on the magnetic tape 5 at a high transfer rate at a low transfer rate or at a high transfer rate. This can contribute to an increase in the functions of the cassette automatic selection device 10A.

<Second Embodiment> FIG. 15 shows a second embodiment according to the present invention.
FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing the entire configuration of the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which the rotary table is removed and stored.

The automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus 10B of the second embodiment shown in FIG. 15 has the same configuration as that of the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus 10A of the first embodiment except for a part thereof. Here, for convenience of explanation, the same reference numerals are given to the constituent members shown above, and the description will be focused on points different from the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 15, also in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus 10B of the second embodiment, a support shaft 12 is implanted on a first fixed base 11 serving as a base. A rotary table 13 having a large diameter is rotatably provided in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction by a rotary table driving unit 20.

Here, the difference from the first embodiment will be described. When the tape cassettes 1 are stored in the plurality of cassette storage sections 13b provided on the rotary table 13, respectively.
When the cassette lid 6 of the tape cassette 1 is inserted into each cassette accommodating portion 13 b so as to face the outer peripheral side of the rotary table 13, the rear surface 2 d of each tape cassette 1 is located on the inner peripheral side of the rotary table 13. Also in the second embodiment, a pair of cassette lid support shafts 6b1 and 6c1 provided inside the both side surfaces 6b and 6c of the cassette lid 6 are substantially parallel to the support shaft 12 serving as a rotation center axis of the turntable 13. Then, when the rotary table 13 is removed in a state where the tape cassettes 1 are stored in the multiple cassette storage sections 13b provided on the rotary table 13, the result is as shown in FIG.

Next, as the tape cassette 1 is stored on the rotary table 13, two magnetic tapes are recorded and / or mounted on the outer peripheral side of the rotary table 13 in opposition to the cassette lid 6 of the tape cassette 1. Or, the reproducing devices 40, 40 are provided, and each magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 4 is provided.
Cassette ejecting mechanisms 50, 50 are attached to the side surfaces of 0, 40, respectively. On the other hand, on the inner peripheral side of the turntable 13, two cassette insertion mechanisms 30, 30 are provided.

Therefore, in the second embodiment, the two cassette insertion mechanisms 30, 30 and the two magnetic tape recording and / or
Alternatively, since the arrangement of the inner and outer peripheries of the regenerators 40 and 40 with respect to the rotary table 13 in the first embodiment is only reversed, selection from the rotary table 13 is performed as in the first embodiment. After inserting the desired tape cassette 1 into the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40, and then returning the desired tape cassette 1 discharged from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40 to the turntable 13, Since there is no operation of lifting the tape cassette 1 against the gravity as in the related art while the tape cassette 1 is moving, the cassette insertion mechanism 3
0 and the drive load of the cassette discharge mechanism 50 can be reduced. Further, by installing the cassette insertion mechanism 30 on the inner peripheral side of the rotary table 13, space efficiency is improved, and since each component is arranged in a plane, the apparatus 10B
Height dimension can be kept low.

In the second embodiment as well, the rotary table 13 is provided rotatably about the support shaft 12 planted on the fixed base 11, but the present invention is not limited to this.
May be formed in a donut shape so that the lower portion of the donut-shaped turntable 13 is rotatably supported by a guide member provided on the fixed base 11 without providing the support shaft 12 on the fixed base 11. Also in this case, the virtual rotation center axis of the rotary table 13 is substantially parallel to the pair of cassette lid support shafts 6b1 and 6c1 provided inside the both side surfaces 6b and 6c of the cassette lid 6. Further, when the rotary table 13 is formed in a donut shape, the cassette insertion mechanism 3 disposed on the inner peripheral side of the rotary table 13 may be used.
0 and 30 can be directly mounted on the fixed base 11.

Further, also in the second embodiment, the same effects as in the first embodiment can be obtained by attaching the magnetic tape recording / reproducing device 40RP described in the first embodiment.

[0099]

According to the tape cassette automatic selection device of the present invention described above, a desired tape cassette selected from a rotary table is inserted into a magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus, and thereafter, the magnetic tape recording is performed. And / or when returning the desired tape cassette ejected from the reproducing machine onto the rotary table, there is no operation of lifting the tape cassette against gravity as in the related art during the movement of the tape cassette.
The drive load on the cassette insertion mechanism and the cassette discharge mechanism can be reduced. In addition, by installing a magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device or a cassette insertion mechanism on the inner peripheral side of the rotary table, space efficiency is improved, and since each component is arranged in a plane, the height of the apparatus is increased. The size can be kept low.

In the tape cassette automatic selection device,
When a magnetic tape recording / reproducing machine that records and reproduces digital information signals on a magnetic tape is installed by converting the transfer rate of digital information signals differently between input and output, the transfer rates during input and output The tape cassette can be replaced during the data transfer suspension period that occurs due to the difference in data transfer, and recording and playback can be performed continuously even when the tape cassette is replaced. Furthermore, since each block signal of a high transfer rate is continuously recorded on the magnetic tape, efficient recording and reproduction can be performed, and fast-forwarding (FF) to the magnetic tape in the magnetic tape recording / reproducing unit is performed. ) / Rewind (RE
W) can be reduced. In this case, since the running system in the conventional consumer digital VTR can be applied as it is, the cost of the magnetic tape recording / reproducing device is reduced, and the tape cassette automatic selection device can be provided inexpensively. In addition, the magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus can output each block signal recorded on the magnetic tape at a high transfer rate at a low transfer rate or at a high transfer rate. This can contribute to an increase in the function of the selection device.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a tape cassette applied to an automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the entire configuration of the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a side view showing the entire configuration of the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention, in which the rotary table is removed in a state where tape cassettes are stored in a plurality of cassette storage sections provided on the rotary table. is there.

FIG. 5 is a view for explaining a cassette insertion mechanism in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

6 is a side view showing operation modes of a pusher of the cassette insertion mechanism shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a side view for explaining a cassette discharge mechanism in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates the relationship between first and second light shielding pieces formed on the lower surface side of the rotary table and first to third optical sensors in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

FIG. 9 is a configuration diagram showing a magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a data rate conversion operation in the HDD recording / reproducing unit shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing each digital image compression signal on a time axis when performing a data rate conversion operation in the HDD recording / reproducing unit shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing each block signal recorded on each track of the magnetic tape.

FIG. 13 shows MIC (Memory In) on the back of the tape cassette.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a state where a Cassete is mounted.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a case where overlap recording is performed between digital image compression signals on a time axis when performing a data rate conversion operation in the HDD recording / reproducing unit illustrated in FIG. 9;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing an overall configuration of a tape cassette automatic selection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing the tape cassette automatic selection device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, in which the rotary table is removed while the tape cassettes are stored in a plurality of cassette storage sections provided on the rotary table. is there.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a conventional recording medium loading device.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Tape cassette, 2 ... Cassette housing, 2a ... Front opening part, 2b, 2c ... Side surface, 2d ... Back surface, 5 ... Magnetic tape, 6 ... Cassette lid, 6b1, 6c1 ... A pair of cassette lid support shaft, 10A ... Automatic tape cassette selecting device of the first embodiment, 10B Automatic tape cassette selecting device of the second embodiment, 11 first fixed base, 12 support shaft, 13 rotary table 13a large-diameter gear, 13b many pieces Cassette storage unit, 14: second fixed base, 20: rotary table drive unit, 30: cassette insertion mechanism unit, 40: magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing machine, 40RP: magnetic tape recording / reproducing machine, 43: image compression processing Unit, 44 HDD (hard disk), 45 HDD recording / reproducing unit (transfer rate conversion unit), 46 magnetic tape recording / reproducing unit, 47 image expansion processing unit, 50 cassette discharge Mechanism.

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[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] October 19, 2001 (2001.10.
19)

[Procedure amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] Claims

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[Claims]

9. A magnetic tape cassette housing of substantially rectangular shape
In the cassette housing and on the front opening side of the cassette housing.
Put the cassette lid to cover the exposed magnetic tape
On both sides of the cassette housing, a pair of cassette lid support shafts
The tape cassette that can be opened and closed freely can be used as a fixed base
Provided along the circumference on a rotatable rotary table
Stored in multiple cassette storage sections,
Select the desired tape cassette selected from tape cassettes.
A magnetic tape recording and reading device provided near the rotary table.
And / or a tape cassette configured to be mounted on the player
In the automatic selection device, provided on the outer peripheral side or inner peripheral side of the rotary table,
The desired table selected from each cassette storage section of the turntable
Freely move the back of the tape cassette to the pusher base
Push the desired tape cassette forward with the provided pusher.
Insert the tape into the recording and / or playback device,
Before being discharged from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing machine
Storage position of desired tape cassette in cassette storage section
For positioning by a slight movement of the pusher.
A cassette insertion mechanism, a pair of the cassette insertion mechanism and the rotary table,
On the inner or outer circumference of the turntable.
A magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus, and
From the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device.
Put out the desired tape cassette on the rotary table
And a cassette discharge mechanism for returning to the cassette storage
The cassette insertion mechanism is configured such that a tip portion of the pusher is
Each table stored in each cassette storage section of the rotary table
In the initial state away from the back of the
Mode 1 in which the turntable is in a rotatable state;
The table is in a stopped state and the rotary table
Of the desired tape cassette selected from the set storage
Push the back surface at the tip of the pusher and press the desired tape.
Insert a cassette into the magnetic tape recording and / or playback machine
Mode 2 in which the rotary table is stopped and
Before being discharged from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing machine
Place the back of the desired tape cassette on the rotary table
The tip of the pusher to regulate the position in the set storage
The end part has moved slightly to the cassette
And a detecting means for detecting the third mode.
Automatic tape cassette selection device.

[Procedure amendment 2]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0014

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the second aspect of the present invention, the desired tape cassette is pushed to the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus by pushing a back surface of the desired tape cassette. A cassette insertion mechanism for inserting is arranged on the outer peripheral side of the rotary table, and the desired tape cassette discharged from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device is returned to a cassette storage section on the rotary table. a tape cassette automatic selection device, characterized in that the cassette eject mechanism digits set on the side surface side of the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus.

[Procedure amendment 3]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0016

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the desired tape cassette is pushed to the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus by pushing a back surface of the desired tape cassette. A cassette insertion mechanism for insertion is arranged on the inner peripheral side of the rotary table, and the desired tape cassette discharged from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus is returned to a cassette storage section on the rotary table. it is a cassette eject mechanism portion of the magnetic tape recording and / or tape cassette automatic selection apparatus characterized by digits set on the side surface side of the player.

[Procedure amendment 4]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0019

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to the sixth or seventh aspect, the magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus has a pre-recorded data recorded on the magnetic tape at a high transfer rate. Each of the block signals is intermittently reproduced at a high transfer rate and sent to the transfer rate conversion unit. The transfer rate conversion unit converts each of the high transfer rate block signals to a low transfer rate digital information signal and continuously converts the block information. A low transfer rate output mode for continuously outputting, and a high transfer rate output mode for continuously reproducing each of the recorded block signals recorded on the magnetic tape at a high transfer rate and outputting as it is at a high transfer rate. This is an automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus characterized in that the tape cassette automatic selecting apparatus is provided. Change
The ninth aspect of the present invention relates to a magnetic recording medium in a substantially rectangular cassette housing.
A front opening of the cassette housing for storing a tape.
A cassette lid to cover the magnetic tape exposed on the side
A pair of cassette lid support shafts on both sides of the cassette housing
The tape cassette that can be opened and closed freely by the
Set along a circumference on a rotary table
Stored in multiple cassette storage units,
Desired tape cassette selected from the
A magnetic tape recording device provided with a set near the rotary table.
Tape cartridge configured to be mounted on recording and / or playback equipment
In the automatic set selection device, the outer periphery of the rotary table
Side of the rotary table,
The back of the desired tape cassette selected from the
Push with the pusher movably provided on the pusher base
Insert the desired tape cassette into the magnetic tape recording and / or
Or, while inserted into the player, the magnetic tape recording and
And / or the desired tape cassette ejected from the player
The storage position of the pusher is slightly
A cassette insertion mechanism for positioning by movement,
The cassette insertion mechanism and the rotary table
On the inner or outer circumference of the turntable.
The magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus;
Provided on the side of the tape recording and / or playback device, and
One, ejected from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing machine
Insert the desired tape cassette into the cassette on the rotary table.
And a cassette discharge mechanism for returning to the cartridge storage section.
And the cassette insertion mechanism is located at the tip of the pusher.
The end part is stored in each cassette storage part of the rotary table.
In the initial state away from the back of each tape cassette
Mode 1 in which the rotary table is in a rotatable state;
The rotary table is stopped and the rotary table
The desired tape cartridge selected from each cassette storage
Push the back of the set with the tip of the pusher to
Recording and / or reproducing the magnetic tape on the magnetic tape cassette
Mode 2 for insertion into the machine, and the rotary table is stopped
And ejected from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing machine.
Place the back of the desired tape cassette
The pusher to regulate the position in the cassette
The tip of the shaft moves slightly toward the cassette
Detecting means for detecting the stopped mode 3 is provided.
This is an automatic tape cassette selecting device.

[Procedure amendment 5]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0039

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

Light shielding pieces 32f and 32g are formed at the left end side of the upper portion of the pusher 32 in the drawing to project in an L-shape with a slight gap therebetween, and are spaced from the light shielding piece 32g.
The light shielding piece 32h protrudes in an L-shape to the right end side in the figure with a distance.
Is formed. These three light shielding pieces 32f to 32h
Opposing two optical sensors 3 on the pusher for the base 31 and
8, 39 are attached. And pusher 32
The combination of the detection result of detecting either of two optical sensors 38 and 39 of the three light-shielding piece 32f ～32H when moving, the three modes as the movement behavior of the pusher 32 as shown in FIG. 5 (b) As described later, in mode 1, the stopped state (initial state) of the pusher 32 is detected, in mode 2, the cassette insertion state of the pusher 32 is detected, and in mode 3, the cassette discharge state of the pusher 32 is detected. . Note that the detection results of mode 1 to mode 3 are as follows:
6 (a) to 6 (c).

[Procedure amendment 6]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0040

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

More specifically, FIGS. 5B and 6
As shown in (a), in mode 1, the light of the pusher 32
Of the shielding pieces 32f to 32h, the light shielding piece 32f
The sensor 38 to the ON (1) state and the light shielding piece 32g
To set the optical sensor 39 to the OFF (0) state.
The initial state (= stop state) of the shear 32 is detected. This
In this case, the protruding portions 32a and 32b of the pusher 32 are slightly separated from the back surface 2d of the tape cassette 1 stored in the cassette storing portion 13b of the rotary table 13, and the pusher 32 stops at this position. In this mode 1, the turntable 13 can be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise.

[Procedure amendment 7]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0041

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

Further, as shown in FIG. 5 (b) and 6 (b), the mode 2, the light shielding piece of the pusher 32 32F～
Of the 32 h, the light shielding pieces 32 h use the optical sensors 38 and 39.
Are set to the ON (1, 1) state, the pusher 32
Is detected. At this time, the rotary table 13 is stopped, and the pusher 32 moves toward the cassette housing portion 13b of the rotary table 13, and the rear surface of the desired tape cassette 1 selected from the multiple tape cassettes 1 is selected. The desired tape cassette 1 is inserted into the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40 by pressing 2 d with the protruding portions 32 a and 32 b of the pusher 32.

[Procedure amendment 8]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0042

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

As shown in FIGS. 5 (b) and 6 (c), in mode 3, the light shielding pieces 32f to
In 32h, the optical sensor 38 is turned off by the light shielding piece 32f.
F (0) state, and the light sensor 3
By turning ON 9 (1), the pusher 32
Detects the discharge status. At this time, the rotary table 13 is stopped, and the pusher 32 moves very slightly toward the cassette housing portion 13b of the rotary table 13, so that the protruding portions 32a and 32b of the pusher 32 move to the tape cassette rear regulating position. Stopped at the position where Here, when the desired tape cassette 1 ejected from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device 40 is returned into the cassette accommodating section 13b by the cassette ejecting mechanism section 50 to be described later, the back surface 2d of the desired tape cassette 1 is placed in the cassette accommodating section. The pusher 32 is pushed to a position where it comes into contact with the protrusions 32a and 32b of the pusher 32 so as not to protrude from the inside of the pusher 13 to the outer peripheral side.

[Procedure amendment 9]

[Document name to be amended] Drawing

[Correction target item name] Fig. 5

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

FIG. 5

[Procedure amendment 10]

[Document name to be amended] Drawing

[Correction target item name] Fig. 6

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

FIG. 6

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 5B065 BA08 CA40 CE01 ZA04 5D044 AB07 BC01 CC03 DE03 GK05 GK10 5D057 AA02 BB06 BB28 BD10 CA11 CB06 CC02 CD02 EB13 5D101 AB11 AC05 AC30 AD20 AG14 JA05

Claims (8)

[Claims] 1. A cassette housing for accommodating a magnetic tape in a substantially rectangular cassette housing and covering the magnetic tape exposed on the front opening side of the cassette housing, on both sides of the cassette housing. The tape cassette, which is openably and closably supported by a pair of cassette lid support shafts on its side, is housed in a plurality of cassette housing sections provided along a circumference on a rotary table rotatable with respect to a fixed base, respectively. A tape cassette automatic selection device configured to mount a desired tape cassette selected from the plurality of tape cassettes on a magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device provided near the rotary table; When the rotary table is placed in each cassette storage section on the table, the rotation center axis of the rotary table is substantially parallel to the pair of cassette lid support axes. Tape cassette automatic selection device, characterized in that the placed. 2. The tape cassette automatic selection device according to claim 1, wherein the cassette lid is arranged toward an inner peripheral side of the rotary table, and the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing is performed in opposition to the cassette lid. An automatic tape cassette selecting device, wherein a machine is arranged on an inner peripheral side of the rotary table. 3. An automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said tape cassette is inserted into said magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus by pushing a back surface of said desired tape cassette. And a cassette discharge mechanism for returning the desired tape cassette discharged from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device to a cassette storage portion on the rotary table. An automatic tape cassette selecting device which is attached to a recording and / or reproducing device. 4. The tape cassette automatic selection device according to claim 1, wherein the cassette lid is arranged toward an outer peripheral side of the rotary table, and the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing device faces the cassette lid. Is disposed on the outer peripheral side of the rotary table. 5. The tape cassette automatic selection device according to claim 4, wherein a cassette insertion mechanism for pushing a back surface of the desired tape cassette and inserting the desired tape cassette into the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus. And a cassette ejecting mechanism for returning the desired tape cassette ejected from the magnetic tape recording and / or reproducing apparatus to a cassette storage section on the rotating table. An automatic tape cassette selecting device mounted on a tape recording and / or reproducing device. 6. A desired tape cassette selected from a plurality of tape cassettes stored in a storage section is mounted in a magnetic tape recording / reproducing machine, and stored in the desired tape cassette in the magnetic tape recording / reproducing machine. In a tape cassette automatic selection device for recording and reproducing a digital information signal on a magnetic tape, the magnetic tape recording / reproducing device writes a digital information signal continuously input at a low transfer rate, and writes the digital information signal to the written digital information signal. On the other hand, a transfer rate converter for intermittently outputting at a high transfer rate each block signal read out intermittently at a high transfer rate while being divided at predetermined intervals in the order of input; The running of the magnetic tape is stopped during the data transfer suspension period other than the period during which the data is output intermittently at the transfer rate. And running the magnetic tape during a period in which the block signals are output intermittently at a high transfer rate from the transfer rate conversion unit to intermittently output the block signals on the magnetic tape at a high transfer rate. An automatic tape cassette selecting device, comprising: a magnetic tape recording / reproducing unit for recording and reproducing the same. 7. The automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus according to claim 6, wherein a predetermined period for dividing said digital information signal of a low transfer rate into said block signals is TL, and said block signals are set to a high level on said magnetic tape. The recording period for recording at the transfer rate is TH, which is set based on the maximum time required for exchanging the tape cassette, and wherein the block data cannot be transferred from the transfer rate converter to the magnetic tape recording / reproducing unit. An automatic tape cassette selecting apparatus, wherein when the transfer suspension period is set to TC, in order to exchange the tape cassette during the data transfer suspension period, a relational expression of TL ≧ TH + TC is set. 8. The tape cassette automatic selection device according to claim 6, wherein the magnetic tape recording / reproducing device transfers the recorded block signals recorded on the magnetic tape at a high transfer rate at a high transfer rate. A low transfer rate that intermittently reproduces data at a rate and sends it to the transfer rate converter, and the transfer rate converter converts each of the high transfer rate block signals to a low transfer rate digital information signal and continuously outputs the digital information signal. An output mode, and a high transfer rate output mode for continuously reproducing each block signal recorded on the magnetic tape at a high transfer rate and outputting the block signal as it is at a high transfer rate. Tape cassette automatic selection device.