JP2005093057A - Enhanced navigation system using digital information medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To add a new navigation function to a conventional DVD video. <P>SOLUTION: A player part 100 reproduces recorded contents including video contents 10 and ENAV contents 30 relating to contents (menu, chapter) of the video contents 10 from a DVD video disk. The video contents 10 out of recorded contents of the DVD disk is reproduced by a video reproduction engine 200. The ENV contents 30 out of recorded contents of the DVD disk is reproduced by an ENAV engine 300. The ENV engine 300 is constituted so that reproduction of the ENV contents 30 and reproduction of the video contents 10 are cooperated, linked, or synchronized according to the contents of the reproduced ENAV contents 30. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an enhanced navigation system using a digital information medium compliant with the DVD video standard or the like.

  In particular, the present invention relates to a DVD video playback system that acquires navigation information from the recorded contents of a DVD video disc and / or the Internet, etc., and can reproduce more variety than the conventional DVD video by this navigation information.

  Currently, DVD video is rapidly spreading as a digital video package media. This DVD video is standardized by “DVD Specifications for Read-Only Disc: Part 3: VIDEO SPECIFICATIONS: Version 1.0” issued in August 1996 by the DVD Forum.

  In the DVD video standard, presentation data in which actual video / audio data is recorded and navigation data for managing the presentation data are defined. In this standard, presentation data (reproduction information) including video (moving image / still image) data, audio (sound) data, sub-picture (sub-picture) data, etc., is a program stream (2048 bytes) defined by MPEG2. It is multiplexed according to the specifications. The navigation data (management information) describes a program chain (PGC) and a cell (Cell) for setting the time structure and playback order of video / audio data to be played back, and includes multi-angle playback, multi-story playback, It implements functions such as parental management (viewing restriction management for young people).

  However, the conventional DVD video player based on the DVD video standard (version 1.0) can only reproduce the MPEG2 program stream recorded on the DVD video disc (information recording medium). Therefore, even if information other than the MPEG2 program stream is recorded on the DVD video disc, the conventional DVD video player cannot reproduce information other than the MPEG2 program stream.

  As a conventional technique capable of storing information (hypertext information / HTML, program, script macro, etc.) other than the MPEG2 program stream (DVD video content) in a storage medium such as a DVD and reproducing information other than the MPEG2 program stream, for example, There is a “storage medium data storage method and interactive video reproduction apparatus” disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-136314. This publication discloses an interactive video reproduction method and apparatus for reproducing multimedia information from a package medium such as an optical disk and a network medium such as a network server. In this publication, specific condition reproduction data (program, script macro, etc.) is stored in a recording medium.

  However, this publication does not specifically disclose how information (HTML, scripts, etc.) other than the current DVD video standard should be incorporated into the data structure of the current DVD video standard (version 1.0). There is no guarantee that DVD discs incorporating the technology of this publication will be compatible with the current DVD video standard. (This publication merely mentions the name of the DVD as an example of the recording medium, and no consideration is given regarding compatibility with the current DVD video standard.) However, the current DVD video standard (version 1.0) ) Can be ignored, the above-mentioned problem that “information other than the MPEG2 program stream cannot be reproduced with a conventional DVD video player” can be solved. That is, a conventional personal computer with a DVD-ROM / DVD-RAM drive can reproduce information other than the MPEG2 program stream, for example, a computer program (not MPEG-encoded) recorded on a DVD-ROM. ing.

  In the current DVD video standard (version 1.0), interactivity with the user, such as multi-angle playback and multi-story playback, is secured to some extent. However, the interactivity is fixed to a certain extent after the content production of the DVD video disc, and it is difficult to add more variety of interactivity to the DVD video disc on which the content has been produced.

  As a method of adding more variety of interactivity after content production, information for adding interactivity from the Internet etc. (reproduction control information such as markup language and script language, data referred to by this reproduction control information, etc.) ) Can be taken into the DVD video player. A thing close to this idea is also disclosed in the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-136314 (this publication describes an interactive video reproduction method for reproducing multimedia information from network media).

  However, in the case where multimedia information is acquired from a network medium and a variety of interactivity is added by the DVD video disc playback method, the invention of this publication is compatible with the current DVD video standard (version 1.0). Since there is no specific consideration of the nature, the actual DVD video disc (not the DVD-ROM on which computer data etc. are recorded) is interactively controlled using the information imported from the Internet or the like. How to control the playback content (video content) of a video disc cannot be specifically grasped.

  As another publication related to the above patent publication, there is a "multi-media data synchronized playback apparatus" disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-98467. In this publication, necessary images from the Internet are stored in the internal storage unit, and based on the timing data and layout signals stored in the images and the internal disk, the external media information is synchronized with the disk information and displayed. ing.

  In the invention of this publication, the information on the internal disk and the information acquired from the Internet can be displayed in synchronization, but only the disk information is displayed, only the Internet acquired information is displayed, or both are displayed at different timings. It does not have a function of selecting and executing various display methods as appropriate. In particular, this Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-98467 has no disclosure about controlling Internet acquisition information in accordance with the playback state of a DVD disc. Further, it does not have a function of giving the switching timing of these various display methods by a user instruction or reproduction control information recorded in advance on a disc (or reproduction control information taken from the Internet).

  Further, since the invention of this publication does not have any specific consideration of compatibility with the current DVD video standard (version 1.0), when controlling an actual DVD video disc using information taken from the Internet or the like, It is not known how to control the actual playback content (video content) of a DVD video disc (specifically, what control signal should be given from where to what timing).

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide a variety of interactive features for reproducing video content after production while ensuring compatibility (at least upward compatibility) with the current DVD video standard. It is to provide an enhanced navigation system that can add.

  An information medium according to an embodiment of the present invention constituting the system has a lead-in area, a volume space, and a lead-out area, and the volume / file structure information area, the video area, and the like in the volume space. Recording area. In this information medium (1 in FIG. 30), the video area includes video content (10) conforming to the DVD video standard, and the other recording area is related to the content (menu, chapter) of the video content (10). (FIGS. 5 and 9) can include reproducible navigation content (30). The navigation content (30) has contents that link, link, or synchronize the playback of the video content (10) and the playback of the navigation content (30).

  Alternatively, an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention which constitutes the system described above can be used for a video content (10) from a digital video disc (1 in FIG. 30 or FIG. 31) having a volume space compliant with the DVD video standard, and A player unit (100) for reproducing recorded content including reproducible navigation content (30) in relation to the reproduction contents (menu, chapter) of the video content (10) (FIGS. 5 and 9), and the digital video A video playback engine (200) for playing back the video content (10) of the recorded content of the disc (1) and a navigation engine (300) are provided. The navigation engine (300) reproduces the navigation content (30) among the recorded contents of the digital video disc (1), and reproduces the navigation content (30) according to the content of the navigation content (30). And the playback of the video content (10).

  Alternatively, in an apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention which constitutes the above system, the navigation engine (300) converts the navigation content (30) into a digital video disc having a volume space conforming to the DVD video standard ( The first interface (400) received from 1) and the second interface (400W) for obtaining another navigation content (30W) from the communication line (Internet). Here, a state in which the digital video disc (1) is loaded in the player unit (100) and the second interface (400W) is disconnected from the communication line (net disconnection) is set in an offline mode (FIG. 25). M1), and the digital video disc (1) is ejected from the player unit (100) and the second interface (400W) is connected to the communication line (network connection). In FIG. 25, M2), the player unit (100) is loaded with the digital video disc (1) and the second interface (400W) is connected to the communication line (network connection). When the mode (M3 in FIG. 25) is selected, a predetermined switching trigger (disc insertion / ejection or net When triggered by connection / disconnection; corresponding to mode switching events E01 to E06), mode transition is automatically performed between the offline mode, online mode, and mixed mode according to a predetermined transition rule (for example, FIG. 29). Done.

  Alternatively, in the method according to the embodiment of the present invention constituting the above system, the video content (10) and the navigation content from the digital video disc (1 in FIG. 30 or FIG. 31) having a volume space compliant with the DVD video standard. The recorded content including (30) is reproduced. In this method, the video content (10) is acquired from the recorded content reproduced from the digital video disc (1) (ST40 in FIG. 10, ST180 in FIG. 22, etc.) and reproduced from the digital video disc (1). Among the recorded contents, the navigation content (30) is acquired (ST50 in FIG. 10, ST210 in FIG. 22, etc.). The content of the acquired navigation content (30) according to a predetermined event (the output of ST46 in FIG. 10, the output of ST182 in FIG. 22, etc.) corresponding to the content of the acquired video content (10). Are executed (ST62 in FIG. 10, ST194 to ST220 in FIG. 22).

  Alternatively, in the method according to another embodiment of the present invention constituting the above system, a digital video disc (1 in FIG. 30 or FIG. 31) having a volume space compliant with the DVD video standard is used by using the player unit (100). ), At least one of the video content (10) and the navigation content (30) is acquired, and another navigation content (30W) is acquired from the communication line (Internet) using the communication interface (400W). In this method, the player unit (100) is loaded with the digital video disc (1) and the communication interface (400W) is disconnected from the communication line (net disconnection). M1), and the digital video disc (1) is ejected from the player unit (100) and the communication interface (400W) is connected to the communication line (network connection) is in online mode (FIG. 25). M2), and the player unit (100) is loaded with the digital video disc (1) and the communication interface (400W) is connected to the communication line (network connection) (mixed mode) (FIG. 25). M3), loading / discharging of the digital video disc (1) Or, when a trigger (corresponding to mode switching events E01 to E06) by connection / disconnection of the communication line is applied, according to a predetermined transition rule (FIG. 29), between the offline mode, online mode, and mixed mode ( The mode transition is automatically performed (automatically) (ST530 to ST538 in FIG. 28).

  More variety of interactivity can be added to the reproduction of DVD video content.

  Hereinafter, "enhanced navigation system using a digital information medium" according to various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Here, the description will be given on the assumption that this system is applied to a DVD video disc playback apparatus and playback method compliant with the DVD video standard.

  First, the data structure of a disc considering compatibility with the existing DVD video standard (version 1.0) will be described.

  FIG. 30 shows an example of the data structure of the DVD video disc 1 that can be played back by the DVD video player 100 shown in FIG. In this example, a DVD video content 10 (having an MPEG2 program stream structure) having the same data structure as that of the conventional DVD video standard (version 1.0) is stored in the DVD video area. In another recording area, the enhanced navigation (hereinafter abbreviated as ENAV) content 30 that can reproduce the video content 10 in a variety of ways can be recorded.

  Here, the contents of the DVD video area are conventionally known (for those skilled in the art such as the manufacturer of the DVD video player), but the contents will be briefly described.

  That is, the recording area of the DVD video disc 1 includes a lead-in area, a volume space, and a lead-out area in order from the inner periphery. The volume space includes a volume / file structure information area and a DVD video area (DVD video zone), and can optionally include another recording area (DVD other zone).

  The volume / file structure information area is an area allocated for a UDF (Universal Disk Format) bridge structure. A volume in the UDF bridge format is recognized in accordance with Part 2 of ISO / IEC13346. The space for recognizing this volume consists of continuous sectors and starts from the first logical sector of the volume space in FIG. The first 16 logical sectors are reserved for system use as defined by ISO9660. In order to ensure compatibility with the existing DVD video standard (version 1.0), a volume / file structure information area having such contents is required.

  In the DVD video area, management information called video manager VMG and one or more video contents called video title sets VTS (VTS # 1 to VTS # n) are recorded. The VMG is management information for all VTSs existing in the DVD video area, and includes control data VMGI, VMMG menu data VMGM_VOBS (option), and VMG backup data (not shown). Each VTS includes control data VTSI for the VTS, VTS menu data VTSM_VOBS (option), data VTSTT_VOBS for the contents (movies, etc.) of the VTS (title), and backup data for the VTSI, although not shown. . In order to ensure compatibility with the existing DVD video standard (version 1.0), a DVD video area having such contents is also required.

  The playback selection menu of each title (VTS # 1 to VTS # n) is given in advance by the provider (producer of the DVD video disc 1) using VMG, and playback chapter selection within a specific title (for example, VTS # 1) Menus, recorded content (cell) playback procedures, and the like are given in advance by the provider using VTSI. Accordingly, the viewer of the disc 1 (DVD video player user) enjoys the recorded contents of the disc 1 in accordance with the VMG / VTSI menu prepared by the provider in advance and the playback control information (program chain information PGCI) in the VTSI. Can do. However, in the conventional DVD video standard (version 1.0), the viewer (user) cannot reproduce the contents (movies and music) of the VTS by a method different from the VMG / VTSI prepared by the provider.

  Prepared for the mechanism to play VTS contents (movies and music) in a different way from the VMG / VTSI provided by the provider, or to add and play contents different from the VMG / VTSI provided by the provider Is the ENAV content 30 of FIG. The ENAV content 30 cannot be accessed by a DVD video player manufactured based on the conventional DVD video standard (version 1.0) (the content cannot be used even if it can be accessed), but the DVD according to the embodiment of the present invention. A video player (such as the player 100 in FIG. 1) can access and use the playback content.

  ENAV content 30 can be logically divided into ENAV playback information and data body of ENAV content. The data body of the ENAV content is configured to include data such as sound, still image, text, and moving image. The ENAV playback information includes a markup language, a script language, and the like that describe the ENAV content data main body and / or the playback method (display method, playback procedure, playback switching procedure, playback target selection, etc.) of the DVD video content 10. Configured as follows.

  For example, as a language used for reproduction control information, a markup language such as HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language) / XHTML (eXtensible Hyper Text Markup Language) or SMIL (Synchronized Multimedia Integration Language), or ECMA (European Computer Manufacturers Association) Script And script languages such as JavaScript can be used in combination. The description contents of the ENAV reproduction information described in these languages are parsed by an ENAV interpretation unit 330 in FIG. 1 to be described later, and the analysis contents are interpreted.

  More specifically, the ENAV playback information includes file information of ENAV contents (information of a file to be referred to, and a playback device having a function of decoding the file even when the file to be referenced does not exist or exists. If not, the information of the file to be referred instead), the arrangement information (coordinates on the display screen of the object to be displayed, and the information indicating the context when overlapping with other objects), the size information (displayed) Information indicating the size of each object), synchronization information (information for linking or linking DVD video content playback and ENAV content playback with each other at a predetermined timing), duration information (from what time to what time ENAV content is Which timing is displayed or from what timing It can be configured to include information) indicating whether displayed until timing.

  Using the ENAV playback information, for example, a menu, video, and / or audio output method included in the video content 10 or ENAV content 30 can be described (examples of menu output methods are described later with reference to FIG. 8 and FIG. 11; see FIG. 2, FIG. 3 and FIG. 12 to be described later as examples of the video output method; see FIG. 4 to be described later as an example of the audio output method).

  The DVD video disc 1 shown in FIG. 30 complies with the current DVD video standard (version 1.0) except for other recording areas. Therefore, even if a conventional DVD video player is used, the video content recorded in the DVD video area. 10 can be played (that is, compatible with the past).

  The ENAV content 30 recorded in the other recording area cannot be reproduced (or cannot be used) by the conventional DVD video player, but can be reproduced and used by the DVD video player (FIG. 1) according to the embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, if the ENAV content 30 is played back using the DVD video player according to the embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to play a video with more variety without being limited to the contents of the VMG / VTSI prepared in advance by the provider. (A specific example of this variety of video playback will be described later with reference to FIGS. 1 to 29 as appropriate).

  In the configuration of FIG. 30, the above-described ENAV playback information can be physically recorded on the disc 1 together with the data body of the ENAV content, or can be recorded individually.

  As the former method, for example, an ENAV dedicated pack ENV_PCK is provided at the head of the access unit (equivalent to the video object unit VOBU in the current DVD video standard) (or after the navigation pack NV_PCK at the head in the VOBU), and ENAV playback is performed on this ENV_PCK. There is a method of recording information in small portions.

  As the latter method, there is a method in which, for example, a VMG (or VTSI) in a DVD video area is provided with an area different from the data body of the ENAV content, and ENAV reproduction information is recorded in this separate area. In this method, it is desirable that the DVD video player (FIG. 1) according to the embodiment of the present invention is configured to read ENAV playback information before the data body of the ENAV content (the ENAV playback control method is read in advance). If the data is stored in the memory, the processing can be started without delay when the data body of the ENAV content is subsequently read).

  In summary, the disk 1 in FIG. 30 can be said to be an information medium configured as follows. In other words, this information medium has a lead-in area, a volume space, and a lead-out area, and the volume space conforms to the DVD video standard, a volume / file structure information area, a video area, and other recording media. Including areas. The video area includes video content 10 compliant with the DVD video standard, and the other recording area is related to the content (menu, chapter, etc.) of the video content 10 (see FIGS. 5 and 9 to be described later). ) Contents including navigation content 30 that can be played back, and the navigation content 30 links, links, or synchronizes playback of the video content 10 and playback of the navigation content 30 (see broken line arrows in FIGS. 21 to 23). have.

  FIG. 31 shows another example of the data structure of the DVD video disc 1 that can be played back by the DVD video player 100 shown in FIG. In this example, DVD video content 10 (having an MPEG2 program stream structure) having the same data structure as the conventional DVD video standard (version 1.0) is stored in the DVD video area, and the end side (video content) of this DVD video area is stored. The ENAV content 30 that can reproduce the video content 10 in a variety of ways can be recorded after the recording end position of 10).

  Alternatively, although not shown, a conventional DVD player cannot access between one video title set (VTS # i) and another video title set (VTS # j ≠ VTS # i), but the DVD according to the embodiment of the present invention. The player may be configured to record the ENAV content 30 that can be accessed. Examples of specific methods for preventing access by a conventional DVD player include commands not defined in the conventional DVD video standard (version 1.0) (jump commands having special operation codes, go-to commands, etc.) ) Only allows access to the ENAV content 30.

  If the VMG or VTSI described above with reference to FIG. 30 refers to only the recording area (address) of the DVD video content 10, the conventional DVD video player accesses the ENAV content 30 by VMG or VTSI. There is nothing. On the other hand, in the DVD video player (FIG. 1) according to the embodiment of the present invention, an ENAV mode for activating ENAV can be provided so that the end of the DVD video area can be accessed in this ENAV mode. Then, the DVD video player according to the embodiment of the present invention can access the ENAV content 30 recorded on the tail side of the DVD video area and use the content.

  In summary, the disk 1 of FIG. 31 can be said to be an information medium configured as follows. That is, this information medium has a lead-in area, a volume space, and a lead-out area, and includes a volume / file structure information area and a video area in the volume space. The video area includes video content 10 compliant with the DVD video standard, and navigation content 30 that can be played back in relation to the content (menu, chapter, etc.) of the video content 10. The video content 10 and the navigation content 30 are linked, linked, or synchronized.

  As a specific method for reproducing the ENAV content 30 recorded on the disc 1 in FIG. 30 or FIG. 31, for example, a selection button for the ENAV content 30 is provided on a DVD menu (VMG menu or VTS menu). A method in which the user selects an ENAV content button by operating a cursor key and an enter key on the remote control, and a method in which the ENAV content 30 is automatically accessed by an internal command of the DVD video player (a navigation command such as a GoTo command or a Jump command); There is.

  In the case of using the former selection button, for example, the following may be performed. That is, by selecting (selecting) a menu-displayed button (here, ENAV content selection button) and determining (action), the content corresponding to the button (here, ENAV content 30) is reproduced. This method is similar to the method employed in existing DVD video players.

  When the latter internal command is used, for example, the GoTo command includes an operation code, a reserved area, and a GoTo operand. Although the structure of this command is left as it is in order to maintain compatibility with the conventional DVD video standard (version 1.0), the contents of the operation code and operand can be changed according to the implementation of the present invention. For example, since the operation codes “0000h” to “0003h” are already defined in the DVD video standard (version 1.0), in the implementation of the present invention, the operation code that moves to the ENAV content 30 as the operation code of the GoTo command “0004h” is newly defined. Then, information indicating the recording position of the ENAV content 30 may be written in the operand of the GoTo command.

  The Jump command includes an operation code, a Jump operand, and a reserved area. Although the structure of this command is left as it is in order to maintain compatibility with the conventional DVD video standard (version 1.0), the contents of the operation code and operand can be changed according to the implementation of the present invention. For example, since the operation codes “3001h” to “3008h” are already defined in the DVD video standard (version 1.0), in the embodiment of the present invention, an operation code that jumps to the ENAV content 30 as an operation code of the Jump command. “3009h” is newly defined. Then, information indicating the recording position of the ENAV content 30 may be written in the operand of the Jump command.

  The DVD video content 10 of the DVD video disc 1 illustrated in FIG. 30 or FIG. 31 is not limited to a movie, a multi-story development drama, a music program with a multi-angle video, and the like. Software that requires higher interactivity can also be included.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of a “DVD video player 100 incorporating an enhanced navigation system (ENAV system)” according to an embodiment of the present invention. This DVD video player 100 is recorded from the enhanced DVD video disc 1 "compatible with the conventional DVD video standard (version 1.0)" as shown in FIG. The ENAV content 30) is reproduced and processed, and the ENAV content (a kind of Web content) 30W is acquired from a communication line such as the Internet and processed.

  In the block configuration of FIG. 1, the DVD playback control unit 220, the user event control unit 310, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320, the ENAV interpretation unit 330, and the like are each configured by an embedded program (firmware) (not shown). It can be realized by a microcomputer (and / or hardware logic) that performs the function of the configuration. Specifically, the processes in FIG. 6 and other flowcharts to be described later can be executed by a microcomputer (not shown) that executes the firmware. A work area used when executing the firmware can be obtained by using a semiconductor memory (not shown) in each block configuration (and a hard disk if necessary).

  1 includes a DVD video content 10 having an MPEG2 program stream structure and information other than the MPEG2 program stream structure (video information such as moving images, still images, animations, audio information, text information). Etc.) is recorded. In addition, Web content such as video information, audio information, and text information acquired from the Internet or the like is taken into the player 100 as ENAV content 30W.

  Here, all video / audio / text information other than the MPEG2 program stream recorded on the disc 1 is referred to as “ENAV content (Enhanced Navigation contents)”. In addition to the video / audio / text information, the ENAV content includes information (ENAV playback information) for reproducing the information in synchronization with (or in cooperation with) the DVD video content 10.

  The DVD video player 100 of FIG. 1 plays back a DVD video playback engine 200 for playing back and processing an MPEG2 program stream (DVD video content 10) recorded on the disc 1, and an ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W). An ENAV engine 300 is provided for processing. The player 100 further includes a disk unit (usually configured as a DVD disk drive: which can be configured by conventional technology, and a specific configuration thereof) for reading the DVD video content 10 and / or ENAV content 30 recorded on the disk 1 , A user operation unit for transmitting an input (user operation / user operation 40) by a user of the player 100 (operation panel and / or remote controller of the player 100: illustration of a specific configuration thereof is omitted), And an Internet connection unit for connecting to a communication line such as the Internet.

  The DVD video playback engine 200 is a device for playing back the DVD video content 10 based on the existing DVD video standard (version 1.0). The decoder unit 210 decodes the DVD video content 10 read from the disc unit. And a DVD video playback control unit 220 that controls playback of the DVD video content 10.

  The decoder unit 210 has a function of decoding video data, audio data, and sub-video data based on the existing DVD video standard, and outputting decoded video / audio data D210. As a result, the DVD video playback engine 200 has the same function as the playback engine of a normal DVD video player manufactured based on the existing DVD video standard (version 1.0). In other words, the player 100 in FIG. 1 can reproduce video, audio, and the like having an MPEG2 program stream structure in the same manner as a normal DVD video player. Disc) can be played.

  In addition to this, the DVD video playback control unit 220 is configured to control playback of the DVD video content 10 in accordance with a “DVD control signal” output from the ENAV engine 300. Specifically, the DVD video playback control unit 220 indicates the playback status of the DVD video content 10 to the ENAV engine 300 when a certain event (for example, menu call or title jump) occurs during DVD video playback. A “DVD event signal” can be output. At that time (at the same time as the output of the DVD event signal or at an appropriate timing before and after the DVD event signal), the DVD video playback control unit 220 sets the property information of the DVD video player 100 (for example, the audio language and sub-picture set in the player 100). The “DVD status signal” indicating the subtitle language, the reproduction operation, the reproduction position information, the time information, the contents of the disc 1, etc.) can be output to the ENAV engine 300.

  The ENAV engine 300 includes a user event control unit 310, an event generation / command / property processing unit 320, an ENAV interpretation unit 330, an element decoder 340, and a video / audio output unit 350.

  The user event control unit 310 is for performing control based on the user operation 40, and receives user events corresponding to user operations (menu call, title jump, playback start, playback stop, playback pause, etc.) from the user operation unit. Or receiving a user event control signal from the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 to generate user events (A) to (C) corresponding to the contents of the user operation or the user event control signal. Yes.

In the configuration of FIG. 1, the user event control unit 310 receives the user event signal transmitted by the user operation 40 based on the “user event control signal” output from the event generation / command / property processing unit 320.
[01] It is transmitted to the DVD video playback control unit 220 of the DVD video playback engine 200 (user event signal (A)),
[02] Prohibit transmission ("x") (user event signal (B)),
[03] Event generation / command / property processing unit 320 (user event signal (C)).

  At this time, the following control is performed for the transmission of the user event signal.

  [11] When the video D210 of the DVD video playback engine 200 is output (full video mode), the user event signal (A) is directly output to the DVD video playback engine 220. This is because the user operation 40 in the full video mode is the same as that during normal DVD video playback.

  [12] When outputting the video D340 of the ENAV engine 300 (full ENAV mode), or when synthesizing and outputting the video D210 of the DVD video playback engine 200 and the video D340 of the ENAV engine 300 (mixed frame mode) The following control is performed.

  [121] When a user event signal is output to the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 (user event signal (C)), the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 responds to the event (menu call or the like). The function call to be output to the DVD video playback control unit 220 of the DVD video playback engine 200 as a DVD control signal.

  [122] A user event is simultaneously output to both the DVD video playback engine 200 and the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 (user event signal (A) and user event signal (C)).

  [123] DVD video playback not intended by the system (for example, a playback method that cannot be supported by the currently operating DVD video playback engine 200, or operation is prohibited by the user operation control UOP defined by the current DVD standard) If the user event signal is likely to occur, the transmission of the user event signal is blocked (prohibited or blocked) ("X" in the user event signal (B)).

  Note that the contents of the user event signal (C) transmitted to the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 are appropriately sent to the ENAV interpretation unit 330 in the form of an ENAV event (and / or ENAV property). You can also Then, the ENAV interpretation unit 330 can create a layout control signal with reference to the contents of the user event signal (C).

  For example, in FIG. 3C described later, when the user performs an operation of changing the window size of the content 10 or 30 or shifting the display position with a cursor key of a remote controller (not shown), this operation is indicated by a user event signal (C ) From the user event control unit 310 to the event generation / command / property processing unit 320, and the corresponding ENAV event (window size change event, etc.) and / or ENAV property (variable / parameter indicating the window size after the change, etc.) ), Converted into a corresponding layout control signal, and sent to the video output control unit 352.

  In addition, user event signals (A) to (C) will be described later with reference to the flowcharts of FIG.

  The event generation / command / property processing unit 320 transmits / receives a DVD status signal, a DVD event signal and / or a DVD control signal to / from the DVD video playback control unit 220, or a user to / from the user event control unit 310. Send and receive events and / or user event control signals. The event generation / command / property processing unit 320 is further configured to transmit and receive ENAV events, ENAV properties, and / or ENAV commands to and from the ENAV interpretation unit 330. In other words, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 outputs the input DVD status signal as an ENAV property, outputs the input DVD event signal as an ENAV event signal, or outputs the input ENAV command to the corresponding DVD. It is configured to play a role of an interface between the DVD video playback engine 200 and the ENAV engine 300 by converting to a control signal and outputting it. Then, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 receives the DVD status signal and DVD event signal from the DVD video control unit 220, the user event from the user event control unit 310, and / or the ENAV command from the ENAV interpretation unit 330. A signal for controlling the output state of video and / or audio is sent to the video / audio output unit 350 according to the contents.

  In other words, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 communicates with the DVD video playback control unit 220 based on the content (command) interpreted by the ENAV interpretation unit 330 or the user event from the input device. The first signal (DVD control signal, DVD event signal, DVD status signal) relating to the playback status of the DVD video disc 1 is exchanged and the content of the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) with the ENAV interpreter 330 ( The second signal (ENAV event, ENAV command, ENAV property) related to the script) is exchanged, and the signal by the video / audio output unit 350 based on at least one of the exchanged first signal and second signal It can also be said that it controls the output state.

In other words, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 interprets the ENAV content 30 (30 W) and then converts control signals and the like between the DVD video playback engine 200 and the ENAV engine 300. . Specifically, the processing unit 320 performs, for example, the following signal output / signal conversion:
<A> After interpreting the ENAV contents 30 (30W), (a) “user event control signal” for controlling a user event corresponding to the user operation 40 input from the user operation unit, and (b) DVD video. “DVD control signal” for controlling reproduction of the DVD video content 10 in the reproduction engine 200 and / or (c) switching between video / audio output from the DVD video reproduction engine 200 and video / audio output from the ENAV engine 300 Outputs “video / audio output control signal”. Also,
<B> Interpretation of the content of the “DVD event signal” (menu call, title jump, etc.) indicating the playback status of the DVD video content 10 sent from the DVD video playback engine 200, and the interpreted DVD event signal Is converted into a corresponding event signal defined in ENAV contents 30 (30W) (for example, a DVD event signal of a menu call is converted into an event signal of a menu call in ENAV).

  <C> Interpret the contents of the "DVD status signal" indicating the properties of the DVD video player 100 sent from the DVD video playback engine 200 (what language is the audio language, whether the disc is currently being played back, etc.) The property is converted into a corresponding property signal defined in ENAV contents 30 (30W) (for example, a DVD status signal indicating that the audio language currently in use is Japanese, and the language used in ENAV is designated as Japanese) Signal).

  Generally speaking, the ENAV interpreter 330 parses the playback control information (ENAV playback information) included in the ENAV content 30 obtained from the DVD video disc 1 or the ENAV content 30W obtained from the Internet or the like and interprets it. And has a function of moving the ENAV engine 300. As the script language used for the ENAV reproduction information, the above-described markup language such as HTML / XHTML or SMIL may be used, or a script language such as ECMAScript may be used together with the above-described markup language.

  The specific method for parsing and interpreting markup and script may be the same as the parsing / interpretation in known technologies such as HTML / XHTML, SMIL, ECMAScript, JavaScript, etc. The microcomputer described at the beginning of the description of FIG. However, the commands and variables described in the script are different because the control targets are different. In the ENAV reproduction information used when implementing the present invention, specific commands and variables related to reproduction of DVD video discs and / or ENAV contents are used. For example, a command for switching the playback content of DVD video or ENAV content in response to a certain event is specific to markup or script in ENAV playback information.

  As another example of commands and variables specific to markup and script in ENAV playback information, the size of the video from the DVD video playback engine 200 and / or ENAV engine 300 is changed (a command to change the size and the size after the change). Variable to specify the display position, a command to change the display position, a variable to specify the coordinates after the change, etc .: the display target is a screen as shown in FIG. When overlapping, there is also a variable that specifies the vertical position relationship of the overlap). Alternatively, the audio level from the DVD video playback engine 200 and / or ENAV engine 300 is changed (a command for changing the audio level and a variable for specifying the changed audio level), or the audio language to be used is selected (use There is also a command for instructing to change the voice language and a variable for specifying the type of language after the change. In addition, there is a user event control unit 310 that controls a user event (switching between a user event signal (A), a user event signal (B), and a user event signal (C)).

  Based on the ENAV playback information markup and script commands / variables as exemplified above, the layout on the screen of the video (video data D352) to be displayed on an external monitor device (not shown), the size of the video, the video The “layout control signal” for controlling the output timing, the video output time, and / or the volume level of audio (audio data D354) to be reproduced from an external speaker (not shown), the audio output timing, and the audio output time is ENAV interpretation. The unit 330 is sent to the video / audio output unit 350.

  The element decoder 340 decodes data such as audio, still image, text, and moving image included in the ENAV content, and includes an audio decoder, a still image decoder, a text decoder, and a moving image decoder corresponding to the decoding target. . For example, audio data in ENAV content encoded by MPEG1 is decoded by an audio decoder and converted into uncompressed audio data. Still image data encoded by MPEG or JPEG is decoded by a still image decoder and converted into uncompressed image data. Similarly, for example, moving image data encoded by MPEG2 is decoded by a moving image decoder and converted into uncompressed moving image data. The text data included in the ENAV content is decoded by a text decoder and converted into text image data that can be superimposed on a moving image or a still image. Video / audio data D340 appropriately including the decoded audio data, image data, moving image data, and text image data is sent from the element decoder 340 to the video / audio output unit 350.

  The video / audio output unit 350 selects the video / audio data D340 decoded by the element decoder 340 and the video / audio data D210 output from the DVD video playback engine 200, or selects both (D340 and D210) as appropriate. The video output control unit 352 and the audio output control unit 354 are included.

  The video output control unit 352 has a function of selecting a video from the DVD video playback engine 200 (video portion of D210) or a video from the ENAV engine 300 (video portion of D340), and the size of each video (D210 and D340). It has a function of changing the size and / or moving the arrangement and outputting both videos (D210 and D340) simultaneously (as video data D352). Specifically, a digital video mixer / switcher or the like can be used.

  The video output control unit 352 in the ENAV engine 300 receives the “video / audio output control signal” output from the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 and / or the “layout control signal” output from the ENAV interpretation unit 330. Based on this, the video D210 from the DVD video playback engine 200 is output (full video mode), the video D340 from the ENAV engine 300 is output (full ENAV mode), or the video D210 from the DVD video playback engine 200 is output. Either the video D340 from the ENAV engine 300 is synthesized and output (mixed frame mode).

  Further, the video output control unit 352 (1) when the video D210 is output only from the DVD video playback engine 200 and the video D340 of the ENAV engine 300 is not output, the video output D210 of the DVD video playback engine 200 is output to the DVD video player. If the video D340 is output only from the ENAV engine 300 and the video D210 of the DVD video playback engine 200 is not output, the video output D340 of the ENAV engine 300 is output from the DVD video player 100. The video D352 is selected, or (3) the video output D210 of the DVD video playback engine 200 and / or the video output D340 of the ENAV engine 300 is switched and selected according to the output method selected by the user from the user operation unit. Function also has.

  Furthermore, with the layout control signal, video output is started / finished at a specified timing, video output is continued for a specified time, or video is output from a specified position (for example, chapter number or time information). Can be output.

  FIG. 32 shows an example in which a video of DVD video content composed of three chapters is output according to ENAV playback information of ENAV content based on a layout control signal. In this example, a part of the video of chapter 1 is reproduced first, then a part of the video of chapter 3 is reproduced, and a video, still image and / or text of ENAV content is reproduced, and finally the chapter is reproduced. The video of 2 and the animation of the ENAV content are synthesized and reproduced.

  The audio output control unit 354 selects the audio from the DVD video playback engine 200 (audio part of D210) or the audio from the ENAV engine 300 (audio part of D340), and the volume of each audio (D210 and D340). It has a function of performing level change and / or mixing, and outputting a combination of both sounds (D210 and D340) (as audio data D354). Specifically, it can be constituted by a digital audio mixer / switcher or the like.

  The audio output control unit 354 in the ENAV engine 300 includes a “video / audio output control signal” output from the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 and / or a “layout control signal” output from the ENAV interpretation unit 330. , The audio output D210 from the DVD video playback engine 200, the audio output D340 from the ENAV engine 300, or both the audio D210 from the DVD video playback engine 200 and the audio D340 from the ENAV engine 300 are synthesized and output. Configured to do either. For example, when the audio output control unit 354 synthesizes and outputs both the audio D210 from the DVD video playback engine 200 and the audio D340 from the ENAV engine 300, the audio output control unit 354 follows the description of the ENAV content 30 (30W) as shown in FIG. As will be described later, the levels of the respective voices (the voice data portion of D210 and the voice data portion of D340) are adjusted and mixed to output the voice data D354.

  Also, the audio output control unit 354 (1) when the audio D210 is output only from the DVD video playback engine 200 and the audio D340 of the ENAV engine 300 is not output, the audio output D210 of the DVD video playback engine 200 is output to the DVD video player. 100 audio data D354, or (2) when the audio D340 is output only from the ENAV engine 300 and the audio D210 of the DVD video playback engine 200 is not output, the audio output D340 of the ENAV engine 300 is used as the DVD video player 100 Or the audio output D210 of the DVD video playback engine 200 and / or the audio output D340 of the ENAV engine 300 according to the output method selected by the user from the user operation unit. The ability to place selection also has.

  Furthermore, with the layout control signal, audio output is started / finished at the specified timing, audio output is continued for the specified time, or audio is output from the specified position (eg chapter number or time information). Can be output.

  FIG. 33 shows an example in which the audio of the DVD video content composed of one chapter is output according to the ENAV playback information of the ENAV content based on the layout control signal. In this example, a part of the voice of chapter 1 is reproduced first, then after the silent section exists, a part of the voice of chapter 1 and the voice of the ENAV content are synthesized and reproduced, and then the ENAV content is reproduced. Playing sound.

  The ENAV engine 300 in the DVD video player 100 of FIG. 1 includes an interface 400 for sending ENAV playback information in the ENAV content 30 read from the DVD video disc 1 to the ENAV interpreter 330, and the read ENAV content. 30 is provided with an interface 400 * for sending the data body (sound data, still image data, text data, moving image data, etc.) in the element decoder 340. These interfaces 400 and 400 * constitute an interface (first interface) different from the interface connection unit in FIG.

  1 receives the ENAV content 30W from a communication line such as the Internet, and the interface 400W for sending ENAV reproduction information in the received content 30W to the ENAV interpreter 330, and the received ENAV content 30W. An interface 400W * for sending the main data body (audio data, still image data, text data, moving image data, etc.) to the element decoder 340 is provided. These interfaces 400W and 400W * constitute the interface connection part (second interface) of FIG.

The components of the ENAV engine 300 in FIG. 1 can be summarized as follows when the expression is changed. That is, ENAV engine 300
A language interpretation unit (ENAV interpretation unit) 330 that parses and interprets the content of the playback control information (ENAV playback information) included in the ENAV content 30 (or 30W);
An information processing unit (event generation / command / property processing unit) 320 that executes syntax analysis by the ENAV interpretation unit 330 and executes a command (ENAV command) included in the interpreted reproduction control information (ENAV reproduction information);
An element decoder 340 that generates video / audio data D340 corresponding to other content (data such as audio, still image, text, and video) included in the ENAV content 30 (or 30W);
* Based on the execution result of the ENAV command in the information processing unit 320, the video / audio data D340 generated by the element decoder 340 is combined with the video / audio data D210 played back by the DVD video playback engine 200 and output, or An output unit (video / audio output unit) 350 for selecting and outputting one of the video / audio data D210 and the video / audio data D340;
A user event control unit 310 that generates a user event corresponding to a user operation (user operation) 40 of the DVD video playback apparatus.

  Here, the information processing unit 320 is configured to execute processing corresponding to the user event generated by the user event control unit 310 (for example, ST92 to ST116 in FIG. 14 described later). Then, the output unit 350 combines the video / audio data D340 generated by the element decoder 340 with the video / audio data D210 reproduced by the DVD video reproduction engine 200 based on the execution result of the process corresponding to the user event. Or one of the video / audio data D210 and the video / audio data D340 is selected and output.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a display example when the playback video on the DVD video content side and the playback video on the ENAV content side are output in multiframe in the configuration of FIG.

  The decoder unit 210 in the DVD video playback engine 200 in FIG. 1 decodes information such as moving images, audio, sub-pictures, etc. in the DVD video content 10 from the DVD video disc 1 in the same manner as the decoder unit in the conventional DVD video player. Has a mechanism to output. FIG. 2A illustrates a moving image and / or sub-picture portion (D210) in the DVD video content 10.

  Further, the element decoder 340 in the ENAV engine 300 is included in the ENAV content 30 recorded on the DVD video disc 1 in FIG. 30 (or FIG. 31) and / or the ENAV content (Web content) 30W acquired from the Internet or the like. It has a function to decode and output information such as video (including animation), still images, audio, and text. FIG. 2B illustrates a plurality of moving image and / or still image portions 30A to 30C (D340) included in the ENAV content 30 (or 30W).

  When the DVD video content image 10 in FIG. 2A and the ENAV content images 30A to 30C in FIG. 2B are combined and output, the video output control unit 352 in FIG. And the screen size of the DVD video content 10 is adjusted (reduced here) based on the received layout control signal. Specifically, the pixels of the DVD video content 10 in FIG. 2A may be thinned out so as to fit in the vertical and horizontal pixel size of the blank area in FIG. 2B (the area without the ENAV contents 30A to 30C).

  If the video output control unit 352 performs an operation (video mixing) of fitting the content 10 after adjusting (reducing) the screen size of the DVD video content 10 into the margin area of FIG. As shown, a multi-frame video output D352 in which a DVD video content playback image and an ENAV content playback image are combined is obtained.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a display example when the playback video on the DVD video content side and the playback video on the ENAV content side are output in a multi-window (overlapping window) in the configuration of FIG.

  The method of outputting both the video D210 from the DVD video playback engine 200 and the video D340 from the ENAV engine 300 is shown in FIG. 2C according to the description of the ENAV playback information in the ENAV content 30 (or 30W). The present invention is not limited to one that outputs multiple frames on a divided screen by adjusting the image size. According to the description of the ENAV playback information, the size of each image of the DVD video content 10 (FIG. 3A) and the ENAV content 30 (FIG. 3B) is adjusted, and as illustrated in FIG. It is also possible to output each of the size-adjusted contents 10 and 30 as an overlapping window (multi-window). Such overlapping window (multi-window) display can be realized by using a well-known technique in a personal computer.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example in which the playback audio on the DVD video content side and the playback audio on the ENAV content side are synthesized (mixed) in the configuration of FIG.

  Now, when the audio output D210 from the DVD video playback engine 200 has an analog waveform as shown in FIG. 4A, the audio output D340 from the ENAV engine 300 has an analog waveform as shown in FIG. 4C. It shall have a waveform as shown in In this case, since the volume level of the DVD video audio D210 and the volume level of the ENAV audio D340 are different, if the two are synthesized as they are, it becomes difficult to hear the side with the lower volume level. Therefore, the volume level adjustment is performed in the audio output control unit 354 of FIG. 1 so that, for example, the average volume level of the DVD video sound D210 and the average volume level of the ENAV sound D340 are approximately the same (when performing in the digital domain). The level can be adjusted by bit shift of the audio data, and when the level adjustment is performed in the analog area, it can be performed by using a known automatic volume adjustment circuit in an analog tape recorder or the like).

  As a result of the volume level adjustment, the audio output D210 in FIG. 4A becomes as shown in FIG. 4B, and the audio output D340 in FIG. 4C becomes as shown in FIG. 4D. When the DVD video playback sound (FIG. 4 (b)) and the ENAV content playback sound (FIG. 4 (d)) with the same volume level are synthesized, the audio output D354 having a waveform as shown in FIG. 4 (e). It becomes.

  In the example of FIG. 4, there is an application example in which when one of the synthesized voices (for example, D210) is reading without music, the other voice (D340) is set as background music (BGM).

  Note that the volume level adjustment of the DVD video playback sound D210 in FIG. 4A may be multiplied by a predetermined attenuation coefficient ATT-1 (= 0 to 1), and ENAV content playback in FIG. 4C. To adjust the volume level of the sound D340, a predetermined attenuation coefficient ATT-2 (between 0 and 1) may be multiplied. These attenuation coefficients ATT-1 and / or ATT-2 may be given as variables of the “volume change command” defined in the ENAV playback information.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of how the DVD video playback output (DVD video menu) and ENAV playback output (ENAV menu) change according to an internal command. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an example of DVD video playback engine processing and ENAV engine processing regarding a menu call by a command. Further, FIG. 7 shows an example of menu display on the video content side (full video mode), FIG. 8 shows an example of menu display on the ENAV content side (full ENAV mode), and FIG. 11 shows a composite menu of video content and ENAV content. A display example (mixed frame mode (mixed mode)) is shown.

  Assume that execution of a menu call is set as a post command at the end of a title (for example, VTS # 1 in FIG. 30 or FIG. 31) included in the DVD video content 10. In this case, the DVD video playback engine 200 executes a menu call at the end of the title playback, and also executes a menu call to the ENAV engine 300 (or that the menu call has been executed). Output as. At this time, when receiving the DVD event signal sent from the DVD video playback engine 200, the ENAV engine 300 in the standby state performs ENAV engine operation according to the ENAV playback information in the ENAV content 30.

  The ENAV playback information described above includes, for example, ENAV contents (ENAV menu) to be executed when a DVD event signal indicating menu call execution is sent, and the mode at this time (full frame mode / full video mode, full (ENAV mode or mixed frame mode) switching is described.

  Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 5 to 8 and FIG. 11, an example of an operation related to a menu call (by an internal command of the DVD video player) in the DVD video player 100 of FIG. 1 will be described in detail. Here, a case where a menu call is executed by an internal command (pre-command, post-command, etc.) of the player 100 will be described as an example.

  On the DVD video playback engine 200 side, title playback is performed (No in steps ST10 and ST12; corresponding to “DVD video playback” in the top row in FIG. 5). When the title reproduction is completed (Yes in step ST12), a menu call is executed by a post command (internal command of the player 100) (step ST14; corresponding to the “downward arrow” at the top in FIG. 5). Then, a DVD event signal indicating a menu call is sent from the DVD video playback control unit 220 to the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 (step ST16), and the video data of the menu is sent from the video output control unit 352 to a TV monitor (not shown). D352 is sent and menu display as shown in FIG. 7, for example, is performed on the display screen of the TV monitor (step ST18; corresponding to “DVD video menu display” at the top in FIG. 5).

  On the other hand, on the ENAV engine 300 side, after the ENAV interpretation unit 330 takes in the ENAV content 30 (step ST20) and is ready to exchange commands / events / properties with the event generation / command / property processing unit 320, Waiting for an event to occur (No in steps ST22 and ST24; corresponding to “waiting for event” in the second row in FIG. 5). Here, when a “DVD event signal indicating a menu call” is output in step ST16 and the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 receives this DVD event signal (Yes in step ST24; ENAV interpreting unit 330 checks whether or not the ENAV menu content exists in the imported ENAV content 30.

  If the ENAV menu content does not exist in the ENAV content 30 (No in step ST26), the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 is “full indicating that the video and audio of the DVD video playback engine are output. As the “video mode”, a video / audio output control signal is output (step ST28). Then, the video / audio output unit 350 outputs the video / audio of the DVD video playback engine 200 as video / audio output (D352, D354). ENAV engine 300 then returns to a standby state waiting for an event (step ST30).

  On the other hand, when the ENAV menu content exists in the ENAV content 30 (Yes in step ST26), the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 executes the ENAV menu processing according to the ENAV command from the ENAV interpretation unit 330. (Step ST32). At this time, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 outputs a video / audio output control signal as “full ENAV mode meaning that video and audio of the ENAV engine are output” (step ST34). Then, the video / audio output unit 350 outputs the video (ENAV menu) / audio of the ENAV engine 300 as video / audio output (D352, D354).

  As shown in FIG. 8, for example, the ENAV menu in the ENAV content 30 includes data such as a moving image (including animation), a still image, sound, and text. Each data is sent to each corresponding decoder in the element decoder 340 and decoded. The data is sent as video data D352 to a monitor TV (not shown) and displayed as an ENAV menu on the display screen of the monitor TV. (Step ST36; corresponding to “ENAV menu display” in the second row in FIG. 5). ENAV engine 300 then returns to the standby state again (step ST30).

Note that when the DVD video playback engine 200 outputs the DVD video menu data D210 and the ENAV engine 300 outputs the ENAV menu data D340, the video generated from the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 When video output switching is performed by an audio output control signal (corresponding to the “downward arrow” in the third row in FIG. 5), the ENAV engine 300 performs any of the following settings of the device, user operation, ENAV playback information: Etc. (see the lower part of FIG. 5):
(1) DVD video playback in full video mode to ENAV menu display in full ENAV mode, or (2) DVD video playback in full video mode to DVD video menu display in full video mode.

  When the DVD video playback engine 200 outputs the DVD video menu data D210 and the ENAV engine 300 outputs the ENAV menu data D340, the DVD video content (moving image) is processed in steps ST32 to ST36. Etc.) A menu composed of both 10 and ENAV content (moving image etc.) 30 may be displayed in the mixed frame mode. A display example in that case is shown in FIG.

  Even if only one moving image can be displayed in the DVD video menu (FIG. 7), the ENAV menu (FIG. 8) can use moving images (including animation) for the menu screen and the selection buttons. Furthermore, using the video output D210 by the DVD video playback engine 200 and the video output D340 by the ENAV engine 300, it is possible to display an ENAV menu (FIG. 11) including not only the video of the DVD video content 10 but also the video of the ENAV content. It becomes.

  The process of FIG. 6 can be summarized as follows. That is, in the case where a recorded content including the DVD video content 10 and the ENAV content 30 is reproduced from a DVD video disc (1 in FIG. 30 or FIG. 31) having a volume space compliant with the DVD video standard, it is reproduced from the DVD video disc 1. DVD video content 10 is acquired from the recorded content (step ST10), ENAV content 30 is acquired from the recorded content reproduced from the DVD video disc 1 (step ST20), and the content of the acquired DVD video content 10 is obtained. The content of the acquired ENAV content 30 is executed in response to a corresponding predetermined event (step ST16) (step ST32).

Here, modes (video mode using DVD video content and interactive mode using DVD content and / or ENAV content) and display mode used in the system configuration of FIG. 1 will be described. The display mode in the video mode is only the full video mode (FIG. 7, etc.), but the display mode in the interactive mode is a full video mode (FIG. 7, etc.), a full ENAV mode (FIG. 8, etc.), and a mixed frame mode (FIG. 7). 11 etc.). These display methods can be properly used as follows, for example. That is,
When only DVD video playback is performed in the video mode, the full video mode is used.

  On the other hand, in the interactive mode, when only the DVD video is displayed (but the ENAV engine is operating behind it), the full video mode is used. When ENAV content is displayed (but DVD video playback is also performed behind the ENAV content), the full ENAV mode (full navigation mode) is used. Furthermore, in the case where DVD video playback is performed while the ENAV engine is running, the mixed frame mode (mixed mode) is used when the DVD video playback image and the playback image of the ENAV content are displayed together.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of how the DVD video playback output (DVD video chapter playback) and ENAV playback output (ENAV content playback) change according to internal commands. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of DVD video playback engine processing and ENAV engine processing regarding chapter playback. Furthermore, FIG. 12 shows a display example (mixed frame mode) of a composite video of video content and ENAV content.

  As a post command at the end of chapter A of the DVD video content 10 (for example, a part of title PTT included in any of VTS # 1 to VTS # n in FIG. 30 or FIG. 31 is used as this chapter A). Assume that title jump execution has been set. In this case, the DVD video playback engine 200 executes a title jump to another chapter X at the end of the playback of chapter A, and also executes a title jump to the ENAV engine 300 (or title jump is executed). Is output as a DVD event signal. At this time, when receiving the DVD event signal sent from the DVD video playback engine 200, the ENAV engine 300 in the standby state performs ENAV engine operation according to the ENAV playback information in the ENAV content 30.

  In the ENAV playback information, for example, a description of ENAV contents to be executed when a DVD event signal indicating title jump execution to chapter X is sent, and the mode at this time (full frame mode / full video mode) , Full ENAV mode or mixed frame mode) is described.

  Hereinafter, an example of an operation related to title jump / chapter switching (by an internal command of the DVD video player 100) in the DVD video player 100 of FIG. 1 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. Here, a case where a title jump is executed by an internal command (pre-command, post-command, etc.) of the player 100 will be described as an example.

  On the DVD video playback engine 200 side, playback of chapter A in a certain title is executed (No in steps ST40 and ST42; corresponding to “DVD video playback (chapter A)” in the top row in FIG. 9). When playback of chapter A of the title is completed (Yes in step ST42), a title jump is executed by a post command (internal command of player 100) (step ST44; corresponding to the “downward arrow” at the top in FIG. 9). . Then, a DVD event signal indicating a title jump is sent from the DVD video playback control unit 220 to the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 (step ST46), and a jump destination title is sent from the video output control unit 352 to a TV monitor (not shown). The video data D352 of the chapter X is sent, and the video of the chapter X is performed on the display of the TV monitor (step ST48; corresponding to “DVD video reproduction (chapter X)” at the top in FIG. 9).

  On the other hand, on the ENAV engine 300 side, after the ENAV interpretation unit 330 takes in the ENAV content 30 (step ST50) and is ready to exchange commands / events / properties with the event generation / command / property processing unit 320, Waiting for an event to occur (No in steps ST52 and ST54; corresponding to “waiting for event” in the second row in FIG. 9). When “DVD event signal indicating title jump” is output in step ST46, and the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 receives this DVD event signal (Yes in step ST54; ENAV interpreting unit 330 checks whether or not the ENAV menu content exists in the imported ENAV content 30.

  If there is no content corresponding to “title jump” in the ENAV content 30 (No in step ST56), the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 outputs “video and audio of the DVD video playback engine”. The video / audio output control signal is output as “full video mode” (step ST58). Then, the video / audio output unit 350 outputs the video / audio of chapter X from the DVD video playback engine 200 as video / audio output (D352, D354). ENAV engine 300 then returns to a standby state waiting for an event (step ST60).

  On the other hand, when content corresponding to “title jump” exists in the ENAV content 30 (Yes in step ST56), the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 follows the “ENAV command from the ENAV interpretation unit 330 in accordance with the“ ENAV command ”. Processing of the content corresponding to “Title Jump” (for example, processing of displaying the script text of the scene when chapter X is a scene with drama) is executed (step ST62). At this time, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 outputs the video / audio output control signal as “full ENAV mode meaning that the video and audio of the ENAV engine are output” (step ST64). Then, the video / audio output unit 350 outputs video / audio output (D352, D354) as video / audio of the ENAV engine 300 (eg, script text in the above example) / audio (eg, commentary audio from the director or screenwriter who produced the drama). Etc.) is output.

  As shown in FIG. 12, for example, each data in the ENAV contents 30 includes movie information (text, still image, moving image, or animation) 30A, storyboard (still image) 30B, screenplay (text) 30C, and others (audio). Etc.). Then, each data is sent to each corresponding decoder in the element decoder 340 and decoded, and is sent as video data D352 to a monitor TV (not shown), and as ENAV contents 30A to 30C on the display screen of the monitor TV. Is displayed (step ST66; corresponding to “ENAV content playback” in the second row in FIG. 9). Then, ENAV engine 300 returns to the standby state again (step ST60).

When the DVD video playback engine 200 outputs the DVD video chapter X playback data D210 and the ENAV engine 300 outputs the ENAV content playback data D340, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 When the video output switching is performed by the video / audio output control signal (corresponding to the “downward arrow” in the third row in FIG. 9), the ENAV engine 300 performs any of the following settings of the device, user operation, Switching can be selected according to ENAV playback information or the like (see the lower part of FIG. 9):
(1) DVD video (chapter A) playback in full video mode to ENAV content playback in full ENAV mode, or (2) DVD video (chapter A) playback in full video mode to DVD video in full video mode ( Chapter X) Playback.

  When the DVD video playback engine 200 outputs the DVD video (chapter X) playback data D210 and the ENAV engine 300 outputs the ENAV content playback data D340 (corresponding to the chapter X), the step is performed. In the processing of ST62 to ST66, a display screen composed of both the DVD video content (moving image or the like) 10 and the ENAV content (text or still image or the like) 30 may be displayed in the mixed frame mode. A display example in that case is shown in FIG. Here, a DVD video playback image (movie or drama one scene) 10A is displayed at a position corresponding to the DVD video content 10 in FIG. 2C, and corresponds to the ENAV contents 30A to 30C in FIG. Movie information 30A, storyboard 30B and screenplay 30C are displayed as various ENAV contents at each position.

  In the mixed frame mode display (mixed mode) in FIG. 12, while a movie or drama scene is played back as the DVD video content 10, it is synchronized (or interlocked) with the content change (switching of each scene) of the DVD video content 10. In other words, information such as a script, storyboard, movie information, and performer information is switched and displayed as ENAV contents 30. These pieces of information (information such as scripts that are synchronized with, or linked to, or linked to the playback video of the DVD video) include not only the ENAV content 30 recorded on the DVD video disc 1, but also the ENAV acquired from the outside using the Internet or the like. The content 30W can also be used.

  In other words, ENAV contents that can be changed in various ways linked to / linked / synchronized with the content playback of the DVD-Video disc 1 are not limited to the ENAV content 30 played back from the same disc 1, but acquired from the outside (such as the Internet). The ENAV content (Web content) 30W can be used. Furthermore, ENAV content 30 from the disc 1 and / or ENAV content 30W acquired from the outside can be used together as appropriate, and various changes can be brought about by the playback method of the DVD video content 10.

  If the menu process of FIG. 6 and the title jump process of FIG. 10 are combined, in step ST64 of FIG. 10, a DVD video / ENAV mixed menu as shown in FIG. Display area of the video content 10A).

  The ENAV content 30 corresponding to the title jump described with reference to FIG. 10 can be composed of data such as a moving image (including animation), a still image, audio, and text, and each data is associated with each element decoder 340. It is sent to the decoder and decoded. Then, the decoded contents are displayed as ENAV contents on a display screen of a monitor TV (not shown).

  At this time, if the ENAV playback information in the ENAV content 30 includes a description that forms a screen by the DVD video content 10 and the ENAV content 30, for example, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 displays the video / audio. The video / audio output control signal is output to the output unit 350 as a mixed frame mode. Then, from the video output control unit 352 and the audio output control unit 354, video data D352 and audio data D354 obtained by mixing the video / audio D210 from the DVD video playback engine 200 and the video / audio D340 from the ENAV engine 300, respectively. Is output. At that time, the video output control unit 352 adjusts the screen size / position of each of the video data D210 and D340 in accordance with the ENAV playback information of the ENAV content 30, and outputs it as a multiframe (FIG. 2 (c) or FIG. 12). Or output as a multi-window (FIG. 3C). Also, the audio output control unit 354 adjusts the levels of the audio data D210 and D340, and then mixes and outputs them as appropriate.

  The process of FIG. 10 can be summarized as follows. That is, in the case where a recorded content including the DVD video content 10 and the ENAV content 30 is reproduced from a DVD video disc (1 in FIG. 30 or FIG. 31) having a volume space compliant with the DVD video standard, it is reproduced from the DVD video disc 1. DVD video content 10 is acquired from the recorded content (step ST40), ENAV content 30 is acquired from the recorded content reproduced from the DVD video disc 1 (step ST50), and the content of the acquired DVD video content 10) is acquired. The content of the acquired ENAV content 30 is executed in response to a predetermined event (step STST46) corresponding to the above (step ST62).

  FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of how the DVD video playback output (DVD video menu) and ENAV playback output (ENAV menu) change according to a user operation (user event). FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining an example of DVD video playback engine processing and ENAV engine processing regarding a menu call by the user.

  Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 13 to FIG. 14, an operation related to a menu call (due to a request from the user) in the DVD video player 100 of FIG. 1 will be described. Here, the user of the DVD video player 100 in FIG. 1 presses the menu button from a remote controller (not shown) or from a front panel (not shown) of the DVD video player 100 to display the menu, and then presses the menu button again to resume playback (DVD video). Example of processing in which video playback is interrupted when the menu button is pressed during playback of disc 1, and the operation is automatically resumed from the playback interrupt location of disc 1 when the menu operation is completed Indicates.

  On the DVD video playback engine 200 side, for example, title playback of a movie is executed (No in step ST70 and step ST72; corresponding to “first DVD video playback” in the top and third stages in FIG. 13). When a menu call is made by the user during the title reproduction, the user event signal (A) is sent to the DVD video reproduction control unit 220 (Yes in step ST72; corresponding to the “first downward arrow” at the top in FIG. 13). . Then, the DVD video playback control unit 220 temporarily stores the playback time (or address) information of the title playback location interrupted by this menu call, and then performs processing corresponding to this menu call (step ST74). As a result, for example, a DVD video menu (not shown) including an audio selection button and a subtitle language selection button is displayed on the screen of the monitor TV (not shown) (step ST76; FIG. "Video menu playback"). This menu display continues until the user performs the next operation (selection of audio / subtitles, selection of a main part playback button, etc.) (No in step ST78).

  Assume that the user selects, for example, English voice and Japanese subtitles from the displayed menu using a remote controller (not shown) at hand, and presses the menu button on the remote control (or the main part playback button in the displayed menu) again. Then, a user event signal (A) corresponding to this user operation is sent to the DVD video playback control unit 220 (Yes in step ST78; corresponding to the “second downward arrow” in the top row in FIG. 13). Then, in response to this user event, the DVD video playback control unit 220 executes resume based on the temporarily stored playback time information (or address information) (step ST80). As a result, the playback of the DVD-Video disc 1 is automatically resumed from the scene immediately before the menu call of the title that was interrupted until then (step ST82; “second” in the top and third stages in FIG. 13). "DVD video playback").

  On the other hand, on the ENAV engine 300 side, after the ENAV interpretation unit 330 takes in the ENAV content 30 and is ready to exchange commands / events / properties with the event generation / command / property processing unit 320, some event occurs. (No in step ST92, step ST94; corresponding to “waiting for first event” in the second row in FIG. 13).

  Here, when the user presses a menu button of a remote controller (not shown) at hand (YES in step ST94; corresponding to the “first downward arrow” in the second row in FIG. 13), the user event control unit 310 Menu call user event signals (A) and (C) are output (step ST96). As a result, the DVD video playback control unit 220 receives the user event signal (A) of the menu call (Yes in step ST72), and the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 receives the user event signal (C) of the menu call.

  When the ENAV menu does not exist in the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) captured before step ST92 (No in step ST98), the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 reads “Video of DVD video playback engine”. The video / audio output control signal is output as a “full video mode” which means that audio is output (step ST100). Then, the video / audio output unit 350 outputs the video / audio of the DVD video playback engine 200 as video / audio output (D352, D354). ENAV engine 300 then returns to a standby state waiting for an event (step ST102).

  On the other hand, when ENAV menu content exists in ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) (Yes in step ST98), event generation / command / property processing unit 320 performs ENAV according to the ENAV command from ENAV interpretation unit 330. Menu processing is executed (step ST104). At this time, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 outputs a video / audio output control signal as “full ENAV mode meaning that video and audio of the ENAV engine are output” (step ST106). Then, the video / audio output unit 350 outputs the video (ENAV menu) / audio of the ENAV engine 300 as video / audio output (D352, D354).

  The ENAV menu in the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) is composed of data such as moving images (including animation), still images, audio, and text, as shown in FIG. 8, for example. Each data is sent to each corresponding decoder in the element decoder 340 and decoded. The data is sent as video data D352 to a monitor TV (not shown) and displayed as an ENAV menu on the display screen of the monitor TV. (Step ST108; corresponding to “ENAV menu playback” in the second and third stages in FIG. 13). ENAV engine 300 then returns to the standby state again (step ST102). In this state, ENAV engine 300 is waiting for the next event (in this case, the user's remote control operation, etc.) (No in step ST110; corresponding to “second event wait” in the second row in FIG. 13).

  Here, for example, when the user presses a menu button of a remote controller (not shown) at hand (Yes in step ST110; corresponding to the second downward arrow in FIG. 13), the user event control unit 310 Resume user event signals (A) and (C) are output (step ST112). Thereby, the DVD video playback control unit 220 receives the resume user event signal (A) (Yes in step ST78), and the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 receives the resume user event signal (C).

  Then, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 outputs a video / audio output control signal as a “full video mode meaning that video and audio of the DVD video playback engine are output” (step ST114). Then, the video / audio output unit 350 outputs the video / audio of the DVD video playback engine 200 as the video / audio output (D352, D354) (the process is step ST82; the second “second” in FIG. 13). "DVD video playback").

  The main points of the processing of FIG. 14 are summarized as follows. That is, when the user presses the menu button on the user operation unit (remote control or front panel of the DVD video player 100 (not shown)) during playback of the title of the DVD video content 10 (step ST70), the ENAV engine. In step 300, the user event control unit 310 receives the menu button operation signal 300 (Yes in step ST72). The user event control unit 310 outputs this signal to the DVD video playback control unit 220 of the DVD video playback engine 200 as a user event signal (A), and the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 outputs a user event signal ( C) and output (step ST96).

  Thereby, the DVD video playback engine 200 receives the user event signal (A) indicating a menu call and plays back the DVD video menu (step ST76).

  On the other hand, when ENAV engine 300 that has been in a standby state (step ST92) receives a user event signal (C) that represents a menu call (step ST96), markup or ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) The operation is performed according to playback control information such as a script. This playback control information includes, for example, “ENAV content (ENAV menu)” executed when a user event (C) signal indicating execution of a menu call is sent, and “mode (full frame mode) at this time / Full ENAV mode or mixed frame mode) ".

  The ENAV menu in the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) is composed of moving images (including animation), still images, audio, text, and the like, and each data is sent to each decoder of the element decoder 340. Decoded and displayed as an ENAV menu (step ST108). At this time, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 outputs the video / audio output control signal in the full ENAV mode, which means that the video / audio of the ENAV engine is output. Then, the video / audio output unit 350 outputs the video / audio (D340) of the ENAV engine 300 as the video / audio output (D352, D354). If the ENAV menu content does not exist in the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) (No in step ST98), the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 is full indicating that the video of the DVD video playback engine is output. The video / audio output control signal is output as the video mode, and the video / audio output unit 350 outputs the video / audio (D210) of the DVD video playback engine as the video / audio output (D352, D354). At this time, the ENAV engine returns to the standby state again (step ST102).

  Subsequently, during menu playback (steps ST76 and ST108; the DVD video menu is displayed in the full video mode and the ENAV menu is displayed in the full ENAV mode), the user operates the user operation unit (remote control or DVD video player). When the menu button on the front panel 100 is pressed (Yes in step ST110), the ENAV engine 300 receives this signal at the user event control unit 310. The user event control unit 310 outputs this signal as a user event signal (A) to the DVD video playback control unit 220 of the DVD video playback engine 200, and the user event signal (C) to the event generation / command / property processing unit 320. (Step ST112).

  Thereby, the DVD video playback engine 200 receives the user event signal (A) indicating resume, and returns to the DVD video title that was played back earlier (steps ST80 to ST82).

  On the other hand, when the ENAV engine 300 executing the ENAV menu receives a user event signal (C) indicating resume, an event is generated according to reproduction control information such as markup or script in the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W). The command / property processing unit 320 outputs the video / audio output control signal as the full video mode, and the video / audio output unit 350 outputs the video / audio (D210) of the DVD video playback engine 200 as the video / audio output ( Step ST114). At this time, ENAV engine 300 itself returns to the standby state (step ST116). That is, the DVD video player 100 that has executed the ENAV menu returns to the playback of the DVD video title (resume).

  FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining an example of how the DVD video playback output (DVD video menu or playback pause) and ENAV playback output (ENAV menu) change according to a user operation (user event). FIGS. 16 and 17 are flowcharts for explaining an example of processing of the DVD video playback engine and processing of the ENAV engine regarding the menu call or playback pause by the user.

  Hereinafter, another example of the operation related to the menu call (due to a request from the user) in the DVD video player 100 of FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, the user of the DVD video player 100 in FIG. 1 presses the menu button from a remote controller (not shown) or from a front panel (not shown) of the DVD video player 100 to display the menu, and then presses the menu button again to resume playback (DVD video). When the menu button is pressed during the playback of the disc 1, the video playback is paused, and the operation is automatically resumed from the paused location on the disc 1 when the menu operation is completed. An example is shown.

  On the DVD video playback engine 200 side, for example, title playback of a certain movie is executed (No in steps ST120 and ST122 in FIG. 16; corresponding to “first DVD video playback” in the top and third stages in FIG. 15). ). When the user performs a menu call operation during the title reproduction, a DVD control signal corresponding to the operation is sent from the ENAV engine 300 to the DVD video reproduction control unit 220 (Yes in step ST122; Corresponds to the "down arrow"). Then, the DVD video playback control unit 220 suspends title playback by a DVD control signal indicating menu call or pause / on, and then performs processing corresponding to the menu call or pause / on (step ST124). . As a result, a DVD video menu (not shown) is displayed on the screen of the monitor TV (not shown), or a still image at the moment when playback is paused is still played on the screen (step of FIG. 17). ST126: Corresponds to “DVD video playback <pause or menu>” at the top in FIG. This menu display or still playback continues until the user performs the next operation (menu button operation, pause button operation, etc.) (No in step ST128).

  Here, when the user presses the menu button with a remote controller (not shown), a DVD control signal corresponding to this user operation is sent from the ENAV engine 300 to the DVD video playback control unit 220 (Yes in step ST128; Corresponds to the second downward arrow). Then, the DVD video playback control unit 220 responds to this user event with a DVD control signal (resume when the menu is executed in step ST124, or pause / off when the pause on is executed in step ST124). ) To release the pause (reproduction paused state) or resume as described above with reference to FIG. 14 (step ST130). As a result, the playback of the DVD video disc 1 is automatically restarted from the scene where the playback has been paused until now (step ST132; “second DVD video playback” in the uppermost and third stages in FIG. 15). Corresponding).

  On the other hand, on the ENAV engine 300 side, after the ENAV interpretation unit 330 takes in the ENAV content 30 and is ready to exchange commands / events / properties with the event generation / command / property processing unit 320, some event occurs. (No in steps ST142 and ST144 in FIG. 16; corresponding to “waiting for first event” in the second row in FIG. 15).

  Here, when the user presses, for example, a menu button on a remote controller (not shown) at hand (YES in step ST144; corresponding to the “first downward arrow” in the second row in FIG. 15), the ENAV interpreter 330 reads the ENAV content 30. It is checked whether a script corresponding to the menu call is included in the ENAV playback information (and / or 30W) (step ST146). When the script corresponding to the menu call is not included in the ENAV reproduction information (No in step ST146), ENAV interpretation unit 330 notifies event generation / command / property processing unit 320 to that effect. Then, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 further notifies the user event control unit 310 to that effect. Then, the user event control unit 310 outputs a user event signal (B) that blocks (blocks) the user event at that time (when there is no menu call compatible script in the ENAV playback information) (user event control in FIG. 1). "X" signal output from unit 310; step ST148), the process returns to the event waiting state.

  On the other hand, if the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) includes a script corresponding to the menu call in the ENAV playback information (Yes in step ST146), the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 performs the ENAV interpretation. The ENAV command (command corresponding to menu call in ENAV playback information) received from unit 330 is converted into a DVD control signal for moving from menu call to pause on / menu display (step ST150). The DVD control signal for “pause on / menu” obtained in this way is output from the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 to the DVD video playback control unit 220 (step ST152).

  At this time, if the ENAV menu does not exist in the ENAV contents 30 (and / or 30W) captured before step ST142 (No in step ST154), the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 reads “DVD video”. The video / audio output control signal is output as “full video mode” which means that video and audio of the reproduction engine are output (step ST156). Then, the video / audio output unit 350 outputs the video / audio of the DVD video playback engine 200 as video / audio output (D352, D354). ENAV engine 300 then returns to a standby state waiting for an event (step ST158 in FIG. 17).

  On the other hand, when ENAV menu content exists in ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) (Yes in step ST154 in FIG. 16), event generation / command / property processing unit 320 receives an ENAV command from ENAV interpretation unit 330. Accordingly, the ENAV menu process is executed (step ST160). At this time, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 outputs a video / audio output control signal as “full ENAV mode meaning that video and audio of the ENAV engine are output” (step ST162). Then, the video / audio output unit 350 outputs the video (ENAV menu) / audio of the ENAV engine 300 as video / audio output (D352, D354).

  As described above, the ENAV menu in the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) includes data such as moving images (including animation), still images, audio, and text. Each data is sent to each corresponding decoder in the element decoder 340 and decoded. The data is sent as video data D352 to a monitor TV (not shown) and displayed as an ENAV menu on the display screen of the monitor TV. (Step ST164 in FIG. 17; corresponding to “ENAV menu playback” in the second and third stages in FIG. 15). ENAV engine 300 then returns to the standby state again (step ST158). In this state, ENAV engine 300 is waiting for the next event (in this case, the user's remote control operation or the like) (No in step ST166; corresponding to “second event wait” in FIG. 15).

  Here, for example, when the user presses the second menu button from the remote controller (not shown) at hand (YES in step ST166; corresponding to the “second downward arrow” in FIG. 15), the ENAV interpretation unit 330 checks whether the ENAV playback information of ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) includes a script corresponding to the resume (step ST168). When the script corresponding to the resume is not included in the ENAV reproduction information (No in step ST168), the ENAV interpretation unit 330 notifies the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 to that effect, and the event generation / command / The property processing unit 320 further notifies the user event control unit 310 to that effect. Then, the user event control unit 310 outputs a user event signal (B) that blocks (blocks) the user event at that time (when there is no resume-compatible script in the ENAV playback information) (user event control in FIG. 1). "X" signal output from unit 310; step ST170) and returns to the event waiting state.

  On the other hand, when the script corresponding to the resume is included in the ENAV playback information of ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) (Yes in step ST168), event generation / command / property processing unit 320 uses ENAV interpretation unit 330. The ENAV command (resume corresponding command in ENAV playback information) received from is converted into a DVD control signal for shifting from the previous menu call state to pause-off / resume playback (step ST172). The DVD control signal for “pause off / resume playback” obtained in this way is output from the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 to the DVD video playback control unit 220 (step ST174).

  At this time, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 outputs a video / audio output control signal as “full video mode meaning that video and audio of the DVD video playback engine are output” (step ST176). Then, the video / audio output unit 350 outputs the video / audio of the DVD video playback engine 200 as video / audio output (D352, D354). ENAV engine 300 then returns to a standby state waiting for an event (step ST178).

  The main points of the processing of FIGS. 16 and 17 are summarized as follows. That is, when the user presses the menu button on the user operation unit (remote control or the front panel of the DVD video player 100) during playback of the DVD video content 10 title (step ST120), the ENAV engine 300 The user event control unit 310 receives this signal. The user event control unit 310 outputs this signal to the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 as a user event signal (C). At this time, when a user operation 40 that is not expected as a user event is executed in the user operation unit (No in step ST146), the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 indicates that “the user corresponding to the user operation at that time” A user event control signal (user event signal (B)) for “blocking the event” is output (step ST148). By doing so, the user event control unit 310 can prohibit “a specific event is transmitted according to a script described in the ENAV content”.

  That is, by providing processing as in step ST148 in FIG. 16 or step ST170 in FIG. 17 as appropriate, even if the ENAV playback information in the ENAV contents 30 (or 30W) is correct, the script description is “ When contents (commands, parameters, etc.) that cannot be handled by the “currently operating” DVD-Video playback engine 200 are included, an event corresponding to the script description can be blocked (blocked).

  The script includes, for example, ENAV contents (ENAV menu) to be executed when a user event signal (C) indicating execution of a menu call is sent, and the mode (full frame mode / full ENAV mode or (Mixed frame mode) switching and outputting a “pause on” (or “menu”) command as a DVD control signal to the DVD video playback control unit 220 of the DVD video playback engine 200 can be described.

  As described above, the ENAV menu in the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) is composed of moving images (including animation), still images, audio, text, and the like, and each data is stored in each element decoder 340. It is sent to the decoder, decoded, and displayed as an ENAV menu. At this time, the video / audio output control signal from the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 is output as a full ENAV mode meaning that the video of the ENAV engine 300 is output, and the video / audio output from the video / audio output unit 350 is output. Video / audio (D340) of ENAV engine 300 is output as output (D352, D354) (step ST162). If the ENAV menu content does not exist in the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) (No in step ST154), the video / audio output control signal is output and the video of the DVD video playback engine 200 is output. The video / audio (D210) of the DVD video playback engine 200 is output as the video / audio output (D352, D354) (step ST156). At this time, ENAV engine 300 returns to the standby state again (step ST158).

On the other hand, the DVD video playback engine 200 that has received the “pause on” (or “menu”) command as a DVD control signal (Yes in step ST122) starts the playback temporarily from the playback state of the DVD video content 10 (step ST120). Stop is executed (step ST124). (When the “menu” command is received in step ST122, DVD video menu display is executed in step ST124.)
Subsequently, during menu playback (steps ST126 and ST164; the DVD video menu is displayed in the full video mode, and the ENAV menu is displayed in the full ENAV mode), the user operates the user operation unit (remote control or DVD video player 100). When the menu button on the front panel is pressed again (Yes in step ST166), the ENAV engine 300 receives this signal at the user event control unit 310. Then, the user event control unit 310 outputs this signal to the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 as a user event signal (C).

  Here, the script in the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) includes, for example, “when the user event signal (C) meaning resume is sent, the ENAV engine 300 returns to the standby state”, The mode (full frame mode / full ENAV mode or mixed frame mode) is switched at this time, and a “pause off” command (“menu” command is output to the DVD video playback control unit 220 of the DVD video playback engine 200. In the case where the “resume” command) is output as a DVD control signal.

  That is, by receiving the user event signal (C) indicating resume, the ENAV engine 300 can stop the execution of the menu and enter a standby state (step ST178), while the DVD video playback engine 200 receives the title. Playback can be resumed (step ST132). Further, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 outputs a video / audio output control signal indicating the full video mode, so that the video / audio (D352, D354) of the DVD video playback engine 200 is output as video / audio output (D352, D354). D210) is output.

  FIG. 18 shows that when the DVD video playback engine plays back chapters 1 to 4 continuously, ENAV content 1 is played before chapter 1 playback, and ENAV content 2 is played back in synchronization with playback of chapters 1 and 2. It is a figure explaining the case where ENAV content 3 is reproduced | regenerated in synchronization with reproduction | regeneration of chapter 3 and chapter 4. FIG. Hereinafter, an example of how the reproduction of the ENAV content 30 (or 30 W) and the reproduction of the video content (chapter) are synchronized (or linked or linked) will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, a system model of an apparatus (DVD video player 100) in which the above is performed will be briefly described.

<System model>
The interactive DVD video player 100 described above with reference to FIG. 1 includes a DVD video playback engine 200 that plays back DVD video content 10 and an ENAV engine 300 that plays back ENAV content 30 (and / or 30 W). Yes. In order to notify an event or property in the DVD video playback engine 200, the DVD playback engine 200 sends an “DVD event” and “DVD status” signal to an event / command handler (event generation / command / (Corresponding to the property processing unit) 320.

  The event / command handler 320 in the ENAV engine 300 sends “ENAV event” and “ENAV property” to the ENAV engine in the ENAV engine in order to notify the event and property in response to “DVD event” and “DVD status”. The data is output to an interpreter (corresponding to an ENAV interpretation unit) 330.

  The ENAV interpreter 330 outputs an “ENAV command” to the event / command handler 320 in order to control a part of the ENAV engine 300 (video / audio output unit 350 and the like) and DVD video reproduction. When the “ENAV command” is a command for DVD video playback control, the event / command handler 320 outputs a “DVD control” signal to the DVD video playback engine 200 in order to control DVD video playback. .

<Premise>
In this example, it is assumed that the DVD video playback engine 200 continuously plays back chapter 1, chapter 2, chapter 3, and chapter 4 (from the DVD video disc 1). On the other hand, ENAV content 30 (30 W) is assumed to be composed of ENAV content 1, ENAV content 2, and ENAV content 3. Note that chapters created by video content providers are handled as part of title (Part of TiTle: PTT for short) in DVD video.

  Under this assumption, in this example, the ENAV engine 300 plays the ENAV content 1 before playing the chapter 1 (FIG. 18A), and the ENAV content 2 is played in synchronization with the playing of the chapter 1 and the chapter 2. The ENAV content 3 is reproduced in synchronization with the reproduction of the chapter 3 and the chapter 4 (FIG. 18C).

  That is, in this example, ENAV content 1 has an event description that jumps to ENAV content 2 at the start of chapter 1 (see t10, t11, and t14 in FIG. 19). ENAV content 2 has an event description that jumps to ENAV content 3 at the start of chapter 3 (see t30, t31, and t34 in FIG. 19). However, ENAV content 3 does not have an event description.

  On the other hand, the “DVD event” signal from the DVD video playback engine 200 is held in the event / command handler 320 until the ENAV interpreter 330 checks the corresponding ENAV event. If the ENAV playback information in the ENAV content includes an event description, the ENAV interpreter 330 periodically checks this kind of event (see t15 to t17 and t25 to t26 in FIG. 19).

When the ENAV interpreter 330 checks for an ENAV event, if the corresponding event is held in the event / command handler 320, the ENAV interpreter 330 reads the event as an “ENAV event”. Then, the event in the event / command handler 320 is cleared (deleted or deleted) by the ENAV interpreter 330.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining a case (case 1) where the DVD video playback engine outputs a PTT event with a chapter number as a DVD event at the beginning of each chapter, and the ENAV engine starts playback of the corresponding ENAV content. .

<Case 1>
In this case, the DVD video playback engine 200 uses a PTT event (PTT Event (1) to PTT Event (4)) with a chapter number as a DVD event at the start of each chapter (t10, t20, t30, t40,...). ) Is output. Upon receiving this DVD event, the event / command handler 320 holds an event with a chapter number as an ENAV event. Then, ENAV interpreter 330 checks the ENAV event for PTT (chapter) and the number held in event / command handler 320 (t11, t21, t31,...). If the checked number is “1” or “3”, the ENAV engine 300 corresponds to that number (the “correspondence” here does not necessarily mean that the numbers match) ENAV content (example in FIG. 19) Then, playback of ENAV content 2 and ENAV content 3) is started (t14, t34), and the event (held in event / command handler 320) is cleared.

  In FIG. 19, playback of ENAV content 2 is started at PTT Event (1), playback of ENAV content 2 is continued at PTT Event (2), playback of ENAV content 3 is started at PTT Event (3), The case where the playback of the ENAV content 3 is continued in PTT Event (4) (the playback of the ENAV content 4 is not started) is illustrated, but this is merely an example for explanation. There are various ways in which the ENAV content m is reproduced in response to the PTT Event (n).

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of the DVD video playback engine, the event generation / command / property processing unit, and the ENAV interpretation unit corresponding to the case of FIG. 19 (case 1).

  In the DVD video player 100 of FIG. 1 in which the DVD video disc 1 having the configuration illustrated in FIG. 30 or FIG. 31 is loaded, the DVD video playback engine 200 has a video title set (VTS) recorded in the DVD video area. It is assumed that reproduction of chapter n in () is started (initially n = 1) (step ST180). Then, the DVD-Video playback engine 200 outputs a PTT event (1) to the event / command handler 320 at the beginning t10 of chapter 1 (PTT Event (n) = PTT Event (1); step ST182), and playback of chapter 1 Is started (step ST184). In the meantime, the event / command handler 320 is waiting in an event waiting state (No in steps ST192 and ST194). Here, the PTT event (1) is one argument (argument) describing the chapter number “1”.

  The event / command handler (event generation / command / property processing unit) 320 that has been waiting in the event waiting state (NO in steps ST192 and ST194) receives the PTT event (1) (Yes in step ST194). The PTT event (ENAVPTT event) with the chapter number “1” is held as the ENAV event (step ST196). The event / command handler 320 maintains this event holding state while the ENAV interpreter 330 is not reading an event (No in step ST198).

  Here, when the ENAVPTT event with the chapter number “1” is held in the event / command handler 320 (t11 in FIG. 19), the ENAV interpreter 330 can read the event as an ENAV event (described later). Step ST216). When ENAV interpreter 330 reads an event (Yes in step ST198), event / command handler 320 clears the held event (step ST200) and returns to a standby state waiting for an event (step ST202).

  On the other hand, when the ENAV interpreter (ENAV interpreter) 330 is playing a certain ENAV content m (for example, ENAV content m = 2 in FIG. 19) (step ST210), periodically (for example, t15 and t16 in FIG. 19). , T17,...), The event holding contents (ENTT event for PTT and its chapter number) of the event / command handler 320 are checked (step ST212). If the event / command handler 320 does not hold an event at the time of this event check (No in step ST214), the periodic event check is repeated as it is.

  Returning to t10 in FIG. 19, after ENAV interpreter 330 reads event (ENAVPTT event “1”) (t11), ENAV engine 300 starts playback of the corresponding ENAV content (here, ENAV content 2). (T14 ~).

  On the other hand, the DVD playback engine 200 continues playback of chapter 1 (n = 1) (No in step ST184 and step ST186). When the reproduction of chapter 1 (n = 1) is completed (Yes in step ST186), the reproduction of chapter 2 (n + 1 = 2) is started (step ST188). Thereby, the process of the DVD video playback engine 200 (except that the chapter number n is incremented by 1) returns to the process of step ST180.

  DVD playback engine 200 outputs PTT event (2) at the beginning of chapter 2 (t20 in FIG. 19) (step ST182). Then, ENAV interpreter 330 reads the ENAVPTT event with the number “2” from event / command handler 320 (t21; step ST216). However, in this example, ENAV content 2 has no description of any event with respect to chapter 2, and therefore ENAV interpreter 330 ignores the event (the ENAVPTT event with the number “2”) (this is included in the NO process of step ST198). )

  DVD playback engine 200 outputs PTT event (3) at the beginning of chapter 3 (t30 in FIG. 19) (step ST182). Then, ENAV interpreter 330 reads an ENAVPTT event of number “3” from event / command handler 320 (t31; step ST216). In this example, since ENAV content 3 has an event description regarding chapter 3, ENAV interpreter 330 starts reproduction of the event (ENAVPTT event of number “3”) (step ST220).

  DVD playback engine 200 outputs PTT event (4) at the beginning of chapter 4 (t40 in FIG. 19) (step ST182). Event / command handler 320 then holds the ENAVPTT event with the number “4” (step ST196). However, in this example, it is assumed that there is no event description in ENAV content 3, so ENAV interpreter 330 does not perform an event check (this is because the processing of ENAV interpreter 330 stops in the no loop of step ST214). Included).

  Generally speaking, if an event is held in event / command handler 320 at the time of event check (Yes in step ST214), the event (ENAVPTT event with number “n”) is read (step ST216). At this time, if ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) does not have ENAV content “m + 1” corresponding to the event (ENAVPTT event “n”) (No in step ST218), the process returns to the event check (step ST212). In the meantime, the content reproduced by the ENAV engine 300 is ENAV content “m” in this example. On the other hand, if the ENAV content “m + 1” is described in the script in the ENAV playback information when the ENAVPTT event “n” is read (Yes in step ST218), the ENAV content “m + 1” is played back (step ST218). ST220).

  The process of FIG. 22 can be summarized as follows. That is, in the process of reproducing recorded content including the DVD video content 10 and the ENAV content 30 from the DVD video disc 1 having a volume space compliant with the DVD video standard, DVD video content among the recorded content reproduced from the DVD video disc 1 10 (step ST180), ENAV content 30 is acquired from the recorded content reproduced from the DVD video disc 1 (step ST210), and a predetermined event corresponding to the content of the acquired DVD video content 10 (step ST182). ), The acquired ENAV content 30 is executed (steps ST194 to ST220).

  Here, the ENAV engine 300 reproduces the ENAV content 30 among the recorded contents of the DVD video disc 1, and links the reproduction of the ENAV content 30 and the reproduction of the DVD video content 10 according to the contents of the ENAV content 30. (Broken arrows in FIG. 22). The ENAV engine 300 changes the content of the ENAV content 30 in conjunction with, in cooperation with, or in synchronization with the change in the playback status of the DVD video content 10 in the volume space compliant with the DVD video standard (in FIG. 19 to FIG. The ENAV contents 1 to 3 are changed in conjunction with the change of the video chapters 1 to 3; if the expression is changed, the DVD video reproduction and the ENAV contents are synchronized).

  FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining a case where the event / status is exchanged between the DVD video playback engine and the ENAV engine, and the ENAV engine reproduces ENAV content based on the result of the exchange (case 2). is there.

<Case 2>
In this case, the DVD video playback engine 200 outputs a PTT event to the event / command handler 320 at the start of each chapter (t10, t20, t30, t40). After receiving the PTT event, the event / command handler 320 holds this event as an ENAV event for PTT. The ENAV interpreter 330 checks this ENAV event (ENAVPTT event) held in the event / command handler 320. If the ENAV event is a corresponding event (to the ENAV content that can be played at that time), the ENAV interpreter 330 reads the event and clears the event (held in the event / command handler 320). .

  Thereafter, the ENAV interpreter 330 outputs an ENAV read status as an ENAV command in accordance with the description in the ENAV content (corresponding to the event) (t12, t22, t32). Then, in order to know the chapter number at the time of reproduction, the event / command handler 320 outputs a read status as a DVD control signal (t12, t22, t32).

  Upon receiving the DVD control signal, the DVD video playback engine 200 returns a chapter number as a return status to the event / command handler 320 (t13, t23, t33). Then, the event / command handler 320 returns the returned chapter number to the ENAV interpreter 330 as an ENAV return status (t13, t23, t33).

  In the example of FIG. 20, if the chapter number in the ENAV return status is “1” or “3”, the ENAV engine 300 reproduces the corresponding ENAV content (ENAV content 2 or ENAV content 3 in the example of FIG. 20). Start (t14, t34). If the chapter number in the ENAV return status is not “1” or “3”, the ENAV engine 300 does not start playback of another ENAV content (in the example of FIG. 20, if the ENAV content currently being played is “ If “2”, playback of the ENAV content 2 is continued).

  In the configuration of FIG. 1, the DVD video playback engine 200 controls the playback of the DVD video disc 1 and can include a DVD video playback control unit 220 configured as follows. ing. In other words, the DVD video playback control unit 220 outputs a DVD event signal related to the playback status (menu call, title jump, chapter jump, etc.) of the DVD video disc 1 to the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 and DVD video. DVD status signals related to the properties of the disc 1 (audio language, sub-picture subtitle language set in the player section, playback operation (playing, stopping, paused, fast-forwarding, fast-rewinding, etc.), disc contents, etc.) The event generation / command / property processing unit 320 is configured to output the event.

  Here, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 controls the video / audio output unit 350 based on the ENAV playback information included in the ENAV content (30 or 30 W) and the DVD event signal (from the DVD video playback control unit 220). For example, it can be executed in response to a PTT event at t10 in FIG. 20 and / or a DVD status signal (for example, a return status at t13 in FIG. 20).

  The ENAV content (30 or 30W) includes the first navigation content (30) reproduced from the DVD video disc 1 and the second navigation content (30W) acquired from the outside via a communication line (Internet or the like). Can be included.

  In this case, the control by the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 according to the DVD event signal and / or the DVD status signal is the same as the control by the first and second navigation contents (30, 30W). Can be executed.

  The DVD event signal includes a menu call for calling a menu recorded on the DVD video disk 1, a title jump for switching a title to be reproduced from the DVD video disk 1, or a chapter (PTT) jump for switching a chapter to be reproduced from the DVD video disk 1. Can be configured to be generated in response to

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of the DVD video playback engine, the event generation / command / property processing unit, and the ENAV interpretation unit corresponding to the case of FIG. 20 (case 2).

  In the DVD video player 100 of FIG. 1 in which the DVD video disc 1 having the configuration illustrated in FIG. 30 or FIG. 31 is loaded, the DVD video playback engine 200 has a video title set (VTS) recorded in the DVD video area. It is assumed that the reproduction of chapter n in () is started (initially n = 1) (step ST230). Then, DVD-Video playback engine 200 outputs a PTT event to event / command handler 320 at the beginning t10 of chapter 1 (step ST232), and starts playback of chapter 1 (step ST234). In the meantime, the event / command handler 320 is waiting in the event waiting state (No in steps ST252 and ST254).

  When receiving the PTT event (Yes in step ST254), the event / command handler 320 holds the PTT event as an ENAV event (step ST256). Meanwhile, ENAV interpreter 330 reproduces ENAV content m (step ST280).

  The ENAV interpreter 330 periodically checks the ENAV event for PTT (ENAVPTT event) during playback of the ENAV content m (the illustration before t10 is omitted, but t15, t16, and t17 in FIG. 20). Etc .; No in steps ST282 and ST284). When the ENAVPTT event is held in the event / command handler 320 (Yes in step ST284), the ENAV interpreter 330 reads the held ENAVPTT event as an ENAV event (t10 to t11, t20 to t21, t30 to t31, etc .; step ST286).

  The event / command handler 320 is waiting for the ENAV interpreter 330 to read the held ENAVPTT event (No in step ST258). When the ENAVPTT event held by ENAV interpreter 330 is read (t11, t21, t31, etc .; YES in step ST258), the event held in event / command handler 320 is cleared (step ST260).

  After reading the ENAVPTT event, ENAV interpreter 330 outputs an ENAV read status as an ENAV command (t12, t22, t32, etc .; step ST288).

  The event / command handler 320 is waiting for the ENAV command of the read status to be output from the ENAV interpreter 330 (No in step ST262). Upon receiving the read status ENAV command from the ENAV interpreter 330 (Yes in step ST262), the event / command handler 320 outputs the read status command as a DVD control signal (t12, t22, t32, etc .; step ST264).

  When the DVD video playback engine 200 receives the read status command (DVD control signal) (Yes in step ST236), it reads the chapter number n (in this case, n = 1) currently being played in accordance with the read status command (step ST238). ), The chapter number “1” is returned as the return status to the event / command handler 320 (t13, t23, t33, etc .; step ST240). When the read status command has not been sent (No in step ST236), the processes in steps ST238 and ST240 are skipped.

  After outputting the read status command, the event / command handler 320 waits for a return status from the DVD video playback engine 200 (No in steps ST266 and ST268). When a return status is sent from the DVD video playback engine 200 (t13, t23, t33, etc .; YES in step ST268), the event / command handler 320 returns the chapter number “1” to the ENAV interpreter 330 as the ENAV return status. (Here, t13; step ST270), the next event waiting state is entered (step ST272).

  After outputting the ENAV read status, ENAV interpreter 330 waits for the ENAV return status from event / command handler 320 (NO in steps ST290 and ST292). When the ENAV return status is sent from the event / command handler 320 (t13, t23, t33, etc .; YES in step ST292), the ENAV interpreter 330 plays back the current DVD video playback engine 200 from the sent return status. The chapter number n being processed (here, n = 1) is read (here, t13; step ST294). Then, ENAV interpreter 330 adds ENAV content “m + 1” corresponding to the event (ENAVPTT event) read in step ST286 to ENAV playback information currently being executed (when ENAV content m currently being played is “m = 1”). “M + 1” checks whether there is a script of 2) (step ST296).

  In the example of FIG. 20, it is assumed that ENAV content 1 currently being reproduced has an event description for the PTT event of chapter 1 (Yes in step ST296). With this event description, ENAV engine 300 starts playback of ENAV content 2 (t14; step ST298).

  On the other hand, the DVD video playback engine 200 does not output the read status from the event / command handler 320 (No in step ST236) or after the read status is output from the event / command handler 320 (Yes in step ST236). When the return status is output to the command handler 320 (step ST240), the processes of steps ST234 to ST240 are continued until the reproduction of the chapter n currently being reproduced (initially n = 1) is completed (No in step ST242). When playback of the chapter n (= 1) is completed (Yes in step ST236), the DVD video playback engine 200 starts playback of the next chapter n + 1 (= 2) (t20; step ST244).

  After playback of chapter 1 is finished, DVD video playback engine 200 outputs a PTT event at start t20 of chapter 2 (step ST232). Event / command handler 320 then holds the PTT event as an ENAV event (step ST256). Then, ENAV interpreter 330 checks this PTT ENAV event (step ST282), reads it as an ENAV event (t21; step ST286), and then clears the event held in event / command handler 320 (step ST282). ST260).

  The ENAV interpreter 330 sends a command (ENAV read status) to the DVD video playback engine 200 in order to read the chapter number (currently being played back) via the ENAV command and the DVD control signal (t22; step ST288). Then, ENAV interpreter 330 reads number “2” (which is the number of the chapter currently being played back) from DVD video playback engine 200 via the DVD status signal and ENAV property (t23; step ST294). Here, when ENAV content 2 does not include an event description for chapter 2 (No in step ST296), ENAV interpreter 330 continues to play ENAV content 2 (t23 to t34). Meanwhile, the DVD video playback engine 200 continues to play back chapter 2 (t20 to t30).

  After playback of chapter 2 is finished, DVD video playback engine 200 outputs a PTT event at start t20 of chapter 3 (step ST232). Event / command handler 320 then holds the PTT event as an ENAV event (step ST256). Then, ENAV interpreter 330 checks this PTT ENAV event (step ST282), reads it as an ENAV event (t21; step ST286), and then clears the event held in event / command handler 320 (step ST282). ST260).

  ENAV interpreter 330 sends a command (ENAV read status) to DVD video playback engine 200 to read the chapter number (currently being played back) via the ENAV command and the DVD control signal (t32; step ST288). Then, ENAV interpreter 330 reads number “3” (which is the number of the chapter currently being played back) from DVD video playback engine 200 via the DVD status signal and ENAV property (t33; step ST294). Here, since ENAV content 2 includes an event description for chapter 3, ENAV interpreter 330 starts reproduction of ENAV content 3 (t34; step ST298).

  After playback of chapter 3 is finished, DVD video playback engine 200 outputs a PTT event at start t40 of chapter 4 (step ST232). Event / command handler 320 then holds the PTT event as an ENAV event (step ST256). Here, if there is no event description in ENAV content 3 (No in step ST284), ENAV interpreter 330 does not perform event check (step ST282) (or processing in response to the check result even if checked in form) Not performed). As a result, the event / command handler 320 maintains the previous event holding (step ST256) (No in step ST258).

  The process of FIG. 23 can be summarized as follows. That is, in the process of reproducing recorded content including the DVD video content 10 and the ENAV content 30 from the DVD video disc 1 having a volume space compliant with the DVD video standard, DVD video content among the recorded content reproduced from the DVD video disc 1 10 (step ST230), ENAV content 30 is acquired from the recorded content reproduced from the DVD video disc 1 (step ST280), and a predetermined event corresponding to the content of the acquired DVD video content 10 (step ST232). ), The content of the acquired ENAV content 30 is executed (steps ST254 to ST298).

  Here, the ENAV engine 300 reproduces the ENAV content 30 among the recorded contents of the DVD video disc 1, and links the reproduction of the ENAV content 30 and the reproduction of the DVD video content 10 according to the contents of the ENAV content 30. (A broken line arrow in FIG. 23). The ENAV engine 300 changes the content of the ENAV content 30 in conjunction with, in cooperation with, or in synchronization with the change in the playback status of the DVD video content 10 in the volume space compliant with the DVD video standard (in FIG. 19 to FIG. The ENAV contents 1 to 3 are changed in conjunction with the change of the video chapters 1 to 3; if the expression is changed, the DVD video reproduction and the ENAV contents are synchronized).

  FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining another case (case 3) in which the DVD video playback engine outputs a PTT event with a chapter number as a DVD event at the beginning of each chapter and the ENAV engine starts playback of the corresponding ENAV content. It is.

<Case 3>
In this case, ENAV interpreter 330 outputs an enable PTT number for the PTT event to event / command handler 320 in advance (t01 in FIG. 21). This requires that only the corresponding ENAVPTT event is output (to the enable PTT number output in advance).

  The DVD video playback engine 200 outputs a PTT event with a chapter number as a DVD event signal at the start of each chapter (t10, t20, t30, t40). The event / command handler 320 checks whether the PTT DVD event signal is for the requested chapter (by the enable PTT number output in advance). If this DVD event signal is requested, the event / command handler 320 holds an ENAVPTT event with that chapter number (t11, t31, etc.). Otherwise, this PTT DVD event signal is not held in the event / command handler 320.

  The ENAV interpreter 330 checks the ENAV event held in the event / command handler 320 (t11, t15, t16, t17,...). When the checked ENAV event is a corresponding event (for example, the check result at t11) (for example, the check result at t11), the ENAV interpreter 330 has the event (for example, the number “1” attached). ENAVPTT event) is read, and then the event held in the event / command handler 320 is cleared. Then, the ENAV engine 300 starts playback of the corresponding ENAV content (ENAV content 2 in the example of FIG. 21) (t14).

  Note that the selection of the requested PTT event (corresponding to the enable PTT number output in advance) described above can be performed on the DVD video playback engine 200 side. In such a case, the “requested PTT event” can be sent only from the DVD video playback engine 200 to the event / command handler 320.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of the DVD video playback engine, the event generation / command / property processing unit, and the ENAV interpretation unit corresponding to the case of FIG. 21 (Case 3).

  In the DVD video player 100 of FIG. 1 in which the DVD video disc 1 having the configuration illustrated in FIG. 30 or FIG. 31 is loaded, the DVD video playback engine 200 has a video title set (VTS) recorded in the DVD video area. ) Within () is started to be reproduced (initially n = 1) (step ST300). Then, DVD video playback engine 200 outputs a PTT event (n = 1) to event / command handler 320 at the beginning t10 of chapter 1 (step ST302), and starts playback of chapter 1 (step ST304). This chapter reproduction is continued until the reproduction of the chapter (n = 1) is completed. When the reproduction of the chapter (n = 1) is completed (t20; YES in step ST306), the reproduction of the next chapter (n + 1 = 2) is started (step ST308).

  Meanwhile, the event / command handler 320 is waiting in an event waiting state (NO in steps ST312 and ST318). During this time, the ENAV interpreter 330 reproduces the ENAV content m (initially m = 1) (step ST330), and the event request description appears in the ENAV reproduction information in the ENAV content m. Waiting (No in step ST332).

  When the event request is described in ENAV (Yes in step ST332), ENAV interpreter 330 outputs an enable PTT event with an enable PTT number “1” for the PTT event to event / command handler 320 at an appropriate timing. (T01; step ST334). This timing is preferably output before the DVD video playback engine 200 generates the PTT event (1). When an event with this enable PTT number is requested (Yes in step ST314), this event request (enable PTT event (1)) is held in the event / command handler 320 (step ST316). Then, the event / command handler 320 waits until a PTT event is sent from the DVD video playback engine 200.

  DVD video playback engine 200 outputs PTT event (1) to event / command handler 320 at start t10 of chapter 1 (step ST302). Here, the PTT event (1) is one argument (argument) describing the chapter number “1”.

  When the event / command handler 320 receives the PTT event (1) (Yes in step ST318), it is the “requested PTT event (enable PTT event (1))” (yes in step ST320). A PTT event with a chapter number “1” is held as an event (step ST322).

  ENAV interpreter 330 checks the ENAV event for PTT and its chapter number (step ST336). At this time, since the event / command handler 320 holds the ENAVPTT event (1) with the chapter number “1” (Yes in step ST338), the ENAV interpreter 330 reads the event as an ENAV event (step ST340). When the ENAVPTT event (1) is read into the ENAV interpreter 330 (Yes in step ST324), the event / command handler 320 clears the held event (step ST326) and waits in a state of waiting for the next event (step ST326). ST328).

  When ENAV interpreter 330 reads ENAVPTT event (1) (step ST340), ENAV content (m + 1 = 2) corresponding to the read event (here, ENAVPTT event (1)) is included in the ENAV playback information at that time. If yes (YES in step ST342), playback of the ENAV content 2 is started (t14; step ST344).

  Similarly, ENAV interpreter 330 outputs enable PTT number “3” for the PTT event to event / command handler 320 (t03; step ST334).

  After completion of playback of chapter 1 (Yes in step ST306), at the start t20 of chapter 2, DVD video playback engine 200 outputs a PTT event (2) to event / command handler 320 (step ST302). However, in this example, since the ENAV interpreter 330 does not request the ENAVPTT event with the chapter number “2” (No in step ST320), the event / command handler 320 does not hold the event (PTT event (2)).

  After playback of chapter 2 is completed (Yes in step ST306), DVD video playback engine 200 outputs a PTT event (3) to event / command handler 320 at the start of playback of chapter 3 (t30; step ST308) (step ST302). The event / command handler 320 holds the PTT event with the chapter number “3” (step ST322). Then, ENAV interpreter 330 checks the PTT ENAV event and its number (step ST336). Thereafter, ENAV interpreter 330 reads the (checked) event as an ENAV event (step ST340). After reading this event (Yes in step ST324), the event held in the event / command handler 320 is cleared (step ST326). If the ENAV content (here, ENAV content 3) corresponding to the read event is described in the ENAV playback information (Yes in step ST342), the ENAV engine 300 starts playback of the ENAV content 3 (t34; Step ST344).

  After playback of chapter 3 is completed (Yes in step ST306), at the start of playback of chapter 4 (t40; step ST308), DVD video playback engine 200 outputs a PTT event (4) to event / command handler 320 (step ST302). . However, the event / command handler 320 does not hold the PTT event with the chapter number “4”. This is because, in this example, ENAV interpreter 330 does not request an ENAVPTT event of chapter number “4” (No in step ST320).

  The process of FIG. 24 can be summarized as follows. That is, in the process of reproducing recorded content including the DVD video content 10 and the ENAV content 30 from the DVD video disc 1 having a volume space compliant with the DVD video standard, DVD video content among the recorded content reproduced from the DVD video disc 1 10 (step ST300), ENAV content 30 is obtained from the recorded content reproduced from the DVD video disc 1 (step ST330), and a predetermined event corresponding to the content of the acquired DVD video content 10 (step ST302). The acquired ENAV content 30 is executed in accordance with the output (steps ST314 to ST344).

  Here, the ENAV engine 300 reproduces the ENAV content 30 among the recorded contents of the DVD video disc 1, and links the reproduction of the ENAV content 30 and the reproduction of the DVD video content 10 according to the contents of the ENAV content 30. (A broken line arrow in FIG. 24). The ENAV engine 300 changes the content of the ENAV content 30 in conjunction with, in cooperation with, or in synchronization with the change in the playback status of the DVD video content 10 in the volume space compliant with the DVD video standard (in FIG. 19 to FIG. The ENAV contents 1 to 3 are changed in conjunction with the change of the video chapters 1 to 3; if the expression is changed, the DVD video reproduction and the ENAV contents are synchronized).

  The DVD video player 100 of FIG. 1 having the functions / configuration described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 24 can have the following operation mode and display mode. That is, the player 100 has a video mode (stopping ENAV engine 300 or waiting for an event) and an interactive mode (enabling state of ENAV engine 300) regarding its operation, and a full video mode (such as FIG. 7) and full regarding its display. It has a navigation mode (FIG. 8, etc.) and a mixed mode (FIGS. 2, 3, 11, 12, etc.).

  When the DVD video playback engine 200 plays back the DVD video content 10 in the video mode (for example, ST10 to ST18 in FIG. 6 or ST40 to ST48 in FIG. 10), the full video mode is displayed to display the playback video. Is used.

  In the interactive mode, when the ENAV engine 300 reproduces the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) (for example, ST20 to ST36 in FIG. 6), the full navigation mode is used to display the reproduced video (FIG. 6). 6 ST34 to ST36).

  Alternatively, in the interactive mode, when the DVD video playback engine 200 plays the DVD video content 10 and the ENAV engine 300 plays the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30 W) (for example, ST50 to ST66 in FIG. 10), the DVD video content The mixed mode is used to display 10 playback videos and playback video of ENAV content 30 (and / or 30 W) (ST64 to ST66 in FIG. 10).

  In the mixed mode, the video content of the DVD video content 10 and the video content of the ENAV content 30 (and / or 30W) can be mixed and displayed (FIGS. 2, 3, 11, and 12).

  Furthermore, in the interactive mode, when the DVD video playback engine 200 plays the DVD video content 10 (for example, ST10 to ST18 in FIG. 6 or ST40 to ST48 in FIG. 10), the full video mode is displayed to display the playback video. Is used.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, a new content providing method is realized by fusing packaged media such as DVD video and online media using the Internet or the like. This “new content providing method” particularly relates to switching of start / end operations of synchronization (or linkage or cooperation) between offline content and online content.

  The state in which offline content and online content are displayed on the user interface (on the display screen) can be broadly divided into the following three types.

(1) Offline mode for displaying in a layout dedicated to offline content;
(2) Online mode that displays in a dedicated online content layout;
(3) A mixed mode in which both are displayed in a mixed layout.

  Furthermore, since there are a normal display state and an abnormal display state in each mode, the states are classified as follows.

(1) In offline mode,
[1-1] Normal display;
[1-2] Abnormal display: When offline content data is not entered due to an illegal or some transmission problem.

(2) In online mode,
[2-1] Normal display;
[2-2] Abnormal display: Online content data is not entered due to fraud or some transmission failure.

(3) In mixed mode,
[3-1] Normal display (synchronous or simultaneous display);
[3-2] Abnormal display: Off or when online content data is not entered due to fraud or some transmission failure.

Here, for example, offline content can not be displayed well,
[1-2-1] The disc is not loaded correctly.
[1-2-2] The information written on the disc cannot be read correctly due to defects, etc.
This is the case.

Also, the reason why online content cannot be displayed well is that
[2-2-1] Not online (not connected to the internet)
[2-2-2] Online information cannot be received successfully due to communication failure.
This is the case.

  In addition, the abnormality at the time of mixing offline and online depends on the combination of individual causes.

  FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating paths that can be transitioned between a plurality of modes (offline mode, online mode, mixed mode) in the system configuration of FIG. Here, the outline processing in each mode of the offline mode, online mode, and mixed mode and transition between modes will be described.

  The actual transition in the transitionable path as exemplified in FIG. 25 can be performed by user setting. For example, in the offline mode M1, when the DVD video disc 1 is ejected from a disc drive (not shown) installed in the DVD video player 100 of FIG. 1 (switching event E02), the online mode is displayed and the online information is displayed. can do. Alternatively, in the offline mode M1, display information (on-screen display (OSD for short) for setting operation parameters of the player itself) or the like which the player 100 has inside independently from the disc 1 or the net (communication line). ) Can also be displayed.

  When in the online mode M2, it is possible to detect that the disc 1 has been loaded (switching event E01 or E03) and shift to the offline mode M2 or shift to the mixed mode M3. If such a mode transition function is disabled (by user operation via the player's own OSD, etc.), even when the above switching event occurs, it is possible to continue the display in the online mode M2. It is.

  In general, since the information reading speed from the DVD video disk 1 loaded in the DVD video player 100 is faster than the exchange of information over the Internet or the like, offline content playback (DVD video playback) is the display image. The quality can be improved (information can be read at a speed of 10 Mbps or more in DVD video playback).

  In the interactive mode (M3) of FIG. 25, display as illustrated in FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 11 or FIG. 12 is possible, but the ENAV content at that time is taken not only from the disc 1 but also from the Internet. You can also

If it is possible to freely go back and forth between various modes as shown in FIG. 25, the entire content can be obtained by combining offline content (DVD video content 10) and the latest information (Web content 30W) placed on the net. Can enhance the attraction. (A specific example in which the appeal of the entire content is enhanced by the mixed mode M3 is an online battle game.)
For this reason, it is advantageous for the user to change from the online mode M2 to the mixed mode M3 when the disc 1 is loaded (switching event E03). The same applies to the case where the offline mode M1 is changed to the mixed mode M3 by the network connection (switching event E05). On the contrary, when the disk 1 is ejected in the mixed mode M3 (switching event E04), it is possible to shift to the online mode M2, and the processing is performed in the processing routine determined in the mixed mode M3. It is also possible to continue. Further, when the net is disconnected while in the mixed mode M3 (switching event E06), it is possible to automatically return to the offline mode M1.

  The mode transition described above can follow a method predetermined by the player 100 (for example, transition rule 1 in FIG. 29 described later) or can be performed as requested by the user.

  Since the mode transition takes a certain amount of time, there is a problem of how to display the screen during that time. Here, when each mode transition is performed, the above-described problem can be dealt with by performing the following process until the screen display of the transition destination is ready. That is, a still image (entered in a video RAM (not shown) in the video output control unit 352 in FIG. 1) immediately before the transition of the video (whether it is a moving image or a still image) displayed on the screen until then. ) Freeze and display on screen. When the transition destination screen display is ready, the screen is seamlessly switched from the freeze image (still image) that has been displayed on the screen to the transition destination screen display image. Alternatively, when each mode transition is performed, a blue-back video (which may include an OSD image of the player as appropriate) is displayed on the screen until preparation for screen display of the transition destination is completed. When the transition destination screen display is ready, the screen is switched from the blue background video that has been previously displayed on the screen to the transition destination screen display image.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart for explaining an example of which of the plurality of modes shown in FIG. 25 is set first. The processing of this flowchart can be written in a program ROM (not shown) as an initial setting program (part of firmware) of the DVD video player 100 of FIG. When the user presses a setup menu button (not shown) of a remote controller (not shown), for example, an on-screen display (OSD) is displayed on a display screen of an external monitor TV (not shown) connected to the video output control unit 352, for example. As a result, a mode selection menu is displayed (step ST400).

  Although not shown, this mode selection menu includes a selection button for offline mode M1, a selection button for online mode M2, a selection button for mixed mode M3, and a determination button. When the user selects a selection button of the offline mode M1, the online mode M2, or the mixed mode M3 by operating the cursor and the determination key on the remote controller (not shown) and presses the determination key (Yes in step ST410), the selected mode is selected. (For example, the mixed mode M3) is set for the player 100 of FIG. 1 (step ST420). For example, when the offline mode M1 is the default mode, if the user does not make any selection (No in step ST410), the default mode (offline mode M1 in this example) is set in the player 100 of FIG. (Step ST430). When the mode setting (step ST500) is completed by the user selection or the default selection, the process of FIG. 26 ends, and the player 100 of FIG. 1 is in a state where it can operate in the set mode (step ST440).

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart for explaining an example of processing contents in the current mode (default mode or user selection mode set in step ST500 of FIG. 26) in any of the plurality of modes shown in FIG. The processing of this flowchart can also be written in a program ROM (not shown) as an initial setting program of the DVD video player 100 of FIG.

  First, it is checked whether or not the mode (M1, M2, or M3) set by the mode setting process (step ST500) in FIG. 26 can be processed in the current mode (step ST510). If the process is possible (for example, normal DVD video disk playback in the online mode / interactive mode M2) (Yes in step ST510), the process is executed (step ST520). During the processing, the processing program in FIG. 27 performs status checks (disc 1 loading status, disc 1 playback operating status, connection status of communication lines such as the Internet, switching between modes M1 to M3, etc.). Step ST530). For example, if the user performs a remote control operation for switching from mode M2 to mode M3, the mode is switched (step ST540). Alternatively, if the user changes the chapter of the DVD video work currently being played back, the chapter is switched in response to the user event and, for example, ENAV content playback as shown in steps ST194 to ST220 in FIG. Switching can be performed (step ST540).

  If the process cannot be performed in the current mode (No in step ST510), an abnormal process is started (step ST550). For example, if the disc tray (not shown) of the player 100 is not closed when the user presses a playback start button on a remote controller (not shown) in mode M2, the disc tray is closed (step ST550, step ST560). No), the process proceeds to a state where normal processing is possible in the current mode M2 (Yes in step ST510). If the disc 1 loaded in the disc tray has a large scratch and the lead-in area, volume / file structure information area, or management information (such as VMG in FIG. 30) cannot be read (No in step ST510), Since the abnormal processing limit is exceeded (Yes in step ST560), the system of the player 100 ends abnormally (step ST570).

  The above is the description in the online mode / interactive mode M2, but the processing flow in FIG. 27 is the same regardless of whether each mode in FIG. 27 is the offline mode / video mode M1 or the mixed mode / interactive mode M3 (the processing contents are different). Only). For example, when the connection partner on the network disconnects the communication connection in mode M3 (this can be determined by checking in step ST530), the process ends abnormally (step ST570).

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart for explaining the contents of the status check (step ST530) in the process of FIG. Here, depending on whether or not the DVD disk 1 is inserted in the DVD video player 100 and whether or not the Internet connection unit (400W, 400W *) is connected to the Internet or the like, a mode different from the current mode is automatically set. An example of processing when transitioning to will be described. The processing of this flowchart can also be written in a program ROM (not shown) as an initial setting program of the DVD video player 100 of FIG.

  When this state check process (step ST530) is entered, the loading state of the disk 1 is first checked (step ST532). In this check, whether or not the disc tray of the disc drive (not shown) is open, if it is closed, whether or not the disc is correctly set on the disc tray, and if the disc is set correctly, the disc is Whether or not the disc is readable (whether the disc conforms to the DVD standard or the disc that conforms to the DVD standard), and even if the disc conforms to the DVD standard, scratches, warpage, and / or cracks, etc. It is possible to include a check as to whether the disk is defective.

  If an unrepairable problem such as disk inability to be read is found in this check, the process ends abnormally (step ST570 in FIG. 27). However, a defect that can be repaired (normal disk 1 is set but the disk tray is closed). If not, the process (step ST550 in FIG. 27) is performed, and then the state check process (step ST530) returns.

  When the loading status check of the disk 1 is completed, the connection status of the communication line such as the Internet is checked (step ST534). In this check, whether the Internet connection unit (400W, 400W *) in FIG. 1 is normally connected physically or logically to a communication modem (not shown), modem hardware or TCP / IP software It is possible to include checks such as whether or not the software has an operation abnormality and whether or not a net connection with the communication partner has been established (net connection / disconnection check).

  If an unrepairable problem such as a communication modem failure is found in this check, the process ends abnormally (step ST570 in FIG. 27). On the other hand, if the temporary problem that can be repaired (external modem power was off at the time of check, but the modem power was turned on later, etc.), the modem is logically connected to the Internet connection in FIG. After processing such as connection (step ST550 in FIG. 27), the process returns to the state check processing (step ST530).

  When the disk 1 loading state check (step ST532) and the net connection state check (step ST534) are completed, the check result (for example, corresponding to one of the switching events E01 to E06 in FIG. 25) is followed by a predetermined transition rule. Based on this, the mode transition destination is determined (step ST536). Then, the check result of the loaded state of the disk 1 (step ST532) and the net connection state (step ST534) is temporarily stored in a memory (not shown), and then the processing jumps to the processing of the determined mode (the processing content is FIG. 27) ( Step ST538).

  Note that the mode transition by the jump in step ST538 can follow a method (transition rule) determined in advance by the system side of the player 100, or can be performed as requested by the user. As a method performed according to the user's request, for example, a menu button of a remote controller (not shown) is pressed to enter a mode selection process (step ST400) in FIG. 26, and a mode desired by the user is shifted to in step ST420. On the other hand, as a method that follows a method (transition rule) predetermined on the system side of the player 100, there is the following.

  FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of a transition rule (transition rule 1) referred to in mode transition destination determination in the process of FIG. Here, it is assumed that the modes that can be shifted to each other are the modes M1 to M3 shown in FIG. That is, the current mode is M1, M2, or M3, and there is a unique switching event for each mode, and the transition destination mode is determined according to the switching event. Yes.

  Specifically, when the current mode is the offline mode (video mode) M1, if there is a switching event E02 (disc ejection), it is specified to transition to the online mode (interactive mode) M2, and the switching event E05 (net If there is a connection), it is specified to transition to the mixed mode (interactive mode) M3. When two switching events E02 and E05 occur at the same time, priority is given to switching event E05 (net connection) in this example (priority is E05> E02). Regardless of this priority, when the switching event E02 occurs earlier than the switching event E05, a transition to the mode corresponding to the event that occurred first is performed (corresponding to the event that occurred later). Mode transition to be performed thereafter).

  In addition, when the current mode is the online mode (interactive mode) M2, if there is a switching event E01 (disc insertion / loading), the transition to the offline mode (video mode) M1 is specified, and the switching event E03 (disc insertion) / Load) is designated to transition to the mixed mode (interactive mode) M3. The two switching events E01 and E03 are switching triggers caused by the same cause (disc insertion / loading), but in this example, the switching event E03 is prioritized (priority is E03> E01). This priority can be changed to the reverse (priority is E03 <E01) by user setting. Alternatively, one of the switching events E01 and E03 can be set invalid in advance.

  If it is desired to switch from mode M2 to mode M1 by a switching trigger of disc insertion / loading, there is a method in which the user selects mode M1 in step ST420 of FIG. At this time, this user selection has a higher priority than the transition rule 1 in FIG.

  Similarly, when the current mode is the mixed mode (interactive mode) M3, if there is a switching event E06 (net disconnection), it is specified to transition to the offline mode (video mode) M1, and the switching event E04 (disc ejection). If there is, it is designated to transition to the online mode (interactive mode) M2. When two switching events E06 and E04 occur simultaneously, priority is given to switching event E06 (net disconnection) in this example (priority is E06> E04). Regardless of the priority, when the switching event E04 occurs earlier than the switching event E06, a transition to the mode corresponding to the event that occurred first is performed (corresponding to the event that occurred later). Mode transition to be performed thereafter).

  FIG. 29 is an example of the transition rule 1 when the mode is automatically changed from one mode to another mode, but there may be a plurality of types of transition rules used in this case. For example, as the migration rule 2 that is appropriately used together with the migration rule 1 of FIG. 29, the second migration rule such as ““ Event generated by the system when an abnormal situation occurs ”>“ User event ”>“ ENAV event ”is applied. It is also possible.

  Here, as an example of the occurrence of the abnormal situation, a computer virus was found when an error occurred during execution of the system program that controls the operation of the entire apparatus of FIG. 1 or when downloading Web content from the Internet. There are cases.

  The relationship between the mode transition and the DVD video player 100 described with reference to FIG. 1 is summarized as follows. That is, the ENAV engine 300 in FIG. 1 includes a first interface (400, 400 *) for receiving ENAV content 30 from a DVD video disc 1 having a volume space compliant with the DVD video standard, and another ENAV content (Web content 30W). ) From a communication line (Internet). The second interface (400W, 400W *) is provided.

  Here, the DVD video player 1 is loaded in the DVD video player 100 and the second interface (400W, 400W *) is disconnected from the communication line (net disconnected) is set to the offline mode M1, and DVD video is recorded. A state in which the DVD video disc 1 is ejected from the player 100 and the second interface (400W, 400W *) is disconnected from the communication line (net disconnection) is set to the online mode M2, and the DVD video player 100 receives the DVD video. When the state in which the disk 1 is loaded and the second interface (400W, 400W *) is connected to the communication line (network connection) is set to the mixed mode M3, the switching trigger (disk insertion / ejection or Trigger by net connection / disconnection; When the event E01 to E06 is applied), mode transition is automatically performed between the offline mode M1, the online mode M2, and the mixed mode M3 (in accordance with a predetermined transition rule as illustrated in FIG. 29). .

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention in the current or future implementation stage based on the technology available at that time. Is possible. In addition, the embodiments may be implemented in appropriate combination as much as possible, and in that case, the effect of the combination can be obtained.

  For example, the ENAV engine of the present invention is compatible with a high-definition DVD video system (a quasi-high-definition system using a 650 nm laser or a full-scale high-definition system using a 405 nm laser) that will be realized in the near future without breaking the compatibility of the system. Can be incorporated.

  The player function shown in FIG. 1 can also be realized by software in a personal computer equipped with a DVD disk drive and a high-speed CPU / MPU. In other words, the DVD player 100 corresponding to FIG. 1 can be virtually created on a high-performance personal computer (the virtual DVD player on such a personal computer is a personal computer or a part of game machines currently on the market). Is realized). In this case, the present invention can be implemented in the form of new software that uses existing hardware called a personal computer and is installed therein.

  Further, the above embodiments include inventions at various stages, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriately combining a plurality of constituent elements disclosed in this application. For example, even if one or more constituent requirements are deleted from all the constituent requirements shown in the embodiment, when at least one of the effects of the present invention or the effects of implementing the present invention is obtained, The deleted configuration can be extracted as an invention.

<Summary of the embodiments>
<01> ENAV content 30 is recorded on the disc 1 including a configuration according to the existing DVD video standard as a mechanism that enables video reproduction with more variety while maintaining compatibility with the existing DVD video standard. . The ENAV content 30 may not be played back by a DVD video player according to the existing DVD video standard, but is configured to be played back by the DVD video player 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention (see FIGS. 30 and 31). See embodiment).

  <02> In the DVD video player 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, in addition to the ENAV content 30 recorded on the disc 1, a similar ENAV content (Web content) 30W can be used from a communication line such as the Internet (see FIG. 1 embodiment).

  <03> AV information included in the DVD video content 10 recorded on the disc 1 and AV information included in the ENAV content 30 (and / or ENAV content 30W) are stored in a predetermined procedure (ENAV described in markup or script). In accordance with (reproduction information), it is possible to reproduce in synchronization with each other, in conjunction with each other, or in cooperation with each other (see the embodiment in FIGS. 2 to 24).

  <04> An offline mode (a mode for reproducing DVD video as it is) M1 and an online mode (via the Internet or the like) so that playback of the DVD video content 10 and / or playback of the ENAV content 30 (Web content 30W) can be freely switched. A mode in which video playback with increased interactivity through communication is performed) M2 and a mode in which an online mode and an offline mode are mixed (a mode in which DVD video playback and high interactive playback using the Internet or the like are possible) M3 Can be used as appropriate (see the embodiment of FIGS. 25 to 28).

  <12> Mode transition can be automatically performed according to a predetermined rule between a plurality of modes such as the online mode M1, the offline mode M2, and the mixed mode M3 (see the embodiment in FIG. 29).

  <13> In the DVD video player 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the event generation / command / property processing unit 320 receives the DVD event signal and / or the DVD status signal from the DVD video reproduction control unit 220 and operates. Yes. Therefore, unlike the configuration in which only the DVD control signal is sent from the processing unit 320 to the control unit 220, ENAV control corresponding to the reproduction (event / status) of the DVD disc is possible (see the embodiments in FIGS. 1 and 20). ).

  According to the present invention, compatibility with the current DVD video standard (version 1.0) (at least upward compatibility) can be ensured, and more variety of interactivity can be added to the playback of DVD video content. .

The figure explaining the structural example of the "DVD video player in which the enhanced navigation system (ENAV system) was integrated" concerning one embodiment of this invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a display example when a playback video on the DVD video content side and a playback video on the ENAV content side are output in multiframe in the configuration of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a display example when a playback video on the DVD video content side and a playback video on the ENAV content side are output in a multi-window (overlapping window) in the configuration of FIG. 1. The figure explaining the example in case the reproduction | regeneration audio | voice by the side of a DVD video content and the reproduction | regeneration audio | voice by the side of an ENAV content are synthesize | combined (mixing) in the structure of FIG. The figure explaining the example of how a DVD video reproduction output (DVD video menu) and ENAV reproduction output (ENAV menu) change with an internal command. The flowchart figure explaining the example of a process of a DVD video reproduction engine and a process of an ENAV engine regarding the menu call by a command. The figure explaining the example of a menu display (full video mode) by the side of video contents. The figure explaining the example menu display (full ENAV mode) of the ENAV content side. The figure explaining the example of how DVD video reproduction output (DVD video chapter reproduction) and ENAV reproduction output (ENAV content reproduction) change with an internal command. The flowchart figure explaining the example of a process of a DVD video reproduction engine and an ENAV engine regarding a chapter reproduction | regeneration. The figure explaining the example of a display (mixed frame mode) of the synthetic | combination menu of a video content and ENAV content. The figure explaining the example of a display (mixed frame mode) of the synthetic | combination video of a video content and ENAV content. The figure explaining the example of how DVD video reproduction output (DVD video menu) and ENAV reproduction output (ENAV menu) change with user operation (user event). The flowchart figure explaining the example of a process of a DVD video reproduction engine and a process of an ENAV engine regarding the menu call by a user. The figure explaining the example of how DVD video reproduction output (DVD video menu or reproduction pause) and ENAV reproduction output (ENAV menu) change with user operation (user event). The flowchart figure explaining the example (1st half) of the process of a DVD video reproduction engine and the process of an ENAV engine regarding the menu call or reproduction | regeneration pause by a user. The flowchart figure explaining the example (second half) of the process of a DVD video reproduction engine and the process of an ENAV engine regarding the menu call or reproduction | regeneration pause by a user. In the case where the DVD video playback engine plays back chapters 1 to 4 continuously, ENAV content 1 is played before chapter 1 playback, and ENAV content 2 is played back in synchronization with playback of chapters 1 and 2. Figure. The figure explaining the case where the DVD video playback engine outputs a PTT event with a chapter number as a DVD event at the beginning of each chapter and the ENAV engine starts playback of the corresponding ENAV content (case 1). The figure explaining the case where event / status exchange is performed between a DVD video reproduction engine and an ENAV engine, and an ENAV engine reproduces ENAV content based on the result of this exchange (case 2). The figure explaining the other case (case 3) where the DVD video playback engine outputs a PTT event with a chapter number as a DVD event at the beginning of each chapter and the ENAV engine starts playback of the corresponding ENAV content. FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of a DVD video playback engine, an event generation / command / property processing unit, and an ENAV interpretation unit corresponding to the case of FIG. 19 (case 1). FIG. 21 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of a DVD video playback engine, an event generation / command / property processing unit, and an ENAV interpretation unit corresponding to the case of FIG. 20 (case 2). FIG. 22 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of a DVD video playback engine, an event generation / command / property processing unit, and an ENAV interpretation unit corresponding to the case of FIG. 21 (case 3). The figure explaining the path | route which can be changed between multiple modes (offline mode, online mode, mixed mode) in the system configuration | structure of FIG. FIG. 26 is a flowchart for explaining an example of which of a plurality of modes shown in FIG. 25 is set first. The flowchart figure explaining an example of the processing content in the present mode in either of the multiple modes shown in FIG. In the status check in the process of FIG. 27, a mode different from the current mode is automatically selected depending on whether a DVD disc is inserted in the DVD video player and whether the Internet connection unit is connected to the Internet. The flowchart figure explaining the process example in the case of changing. The figure explaining an example of the transfer rule referred in the mode transition destination determination in the process of FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of a DVD video disc that can be played back by the DVD video player in FIG. 1, in which ENAV content 30 is stored outside the DVD video area. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example when the ENAV content 30 is stored in a DVD video area, which is a DVD video disc that can be played back by the DVD video player of FIG. 1. The figure explaining an example of what a video output result becomes based on the layout control signal of FIG. The figure explaining an example of what an audio | voice output result becomes based on the layout control signal of FIG.

Explanation of symbols

1 ... enhanced DVD video disc (a disc on which ENAV contents having a structure compatible with a conventional DVD video disc and recorded / playable by the DVD player of FIG. 1 which is a higher version as viewed from the conventional DVD player) 10 ... DVD video content (DVD disc part); 30 ... Enhanced navigation content (ENAV content recorded on a DVD video disc); 30, 30A to 30C ... Enhanced navigation content (ENAV content / Web content); 40 ... user operation (user operation unit); 100 ... DVD video player; 200 ... DVD video playback engine; 210 ... DVD video player decoder unit (MPEG-encoded) (Moving picture decoder, compressed audio decoder, sub-picture decoder, etc.); 220 ... DVD video playback control unit (microcomputer); 300 ... enhanced navigation engine (ENAV engine); 310 ... user event control unit (microcomputer); Command / property processing unit (microcomputer); 330... ENAV interpretation unit (language interpretation unit: microcomputer); 340... Element decoder (decoder for audio, still image, text, video, etc. included in ENAV contents); Video / audio output unit: 352 ... Video output control unit (digital video mixer, video DAC, etc.); 354 ... Audio output control unit (digital audio mixer, audio DAC, etc.); 400, 400 * ... ENAV engine is EN from DVD disc Interface receives a V content; 400W, 400W * ... ENAV engine interface to receive the ENAV content (Web content) from the Internet.

Claims (10)

A player unit for playing back recorded content from a digital video disc including video content and navigation content that can be played back in relation to the playback content of the video content;
A video playback engine for playing back the video content of the recorded content of the digital video disc;
A navigation engine configured to play back the navigation content of the recorded content of the digital video disc, and to link the playback of the navigation content and the playback of the video content in accordance with the content of the navigation content. Equipment. The navigation engine has a first interface for receiving the navigation content from the digital video disc and a second interface for obtaining another navigation content from a communication line;
The state in which the digital video disc is loaded in the player unit and the second interface is disconnected from the communication line is set as an offline mode, and the digital video disc is ejected from the player unit and the second unit is disconnected. When the interface is connected to the communication line, the online mode is set, and when the digital video disc is loaded in the player unit and the second interface is connected to the communication line, the mixed mode is set. In addition,
The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a mode transition is automatically performed between the offline mode, the online mode, and the mixed mode when a switching trigger is applied.   The navigation engine is configured to have a first interface for receiving the navigation content from the digital video disc, and a second interface for obtaining another navigation content having the same type of content as the navigation content from the Internet. The apparatus of Claim 1 or Claim 2. The device has a video mode and an interactive mode for operation, a full video mode, a full navigation mode and a mixed mode for display,
The video mode is a mode for playing back the video content, and the interactive mode is a mode for playing back the video content and / or the navigation content.
When the video playback engine plays back the video content in the interactive mode, the full video mode is used to display the playback video,
When the navigation engine reproduces the navigation content in the interactive mode, the full navigation mode is used to display the reproduced video, or
When the video playback engine plays the video content and the navigation engine plays the navigation content in the interactive mode, the mixed mode is used to display the playback video of the video content and the playback video of the navigation content. Used,
The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the video content of the video content and the video content of the navigation content are mixedly displayed in the mixed mode. A player unit for playing back recorded content including digital content from the digital video disc and navigation content including playback control information configured in a markup language and / or script language and other content;
A video playback engine that is included in the player unit and plays back first video / audio data corresponding to the video content of the recorded content of the digital video disc;
A connection unit with a communication line, which is included in the player unit and is used to capture another navigation content including another reproduction control information;
Of the playback control information included in the player unit and included in the navigation control content included in the navigation content of the recorded content of the digital video disc or in another navigation content captured from the communication line. In a device comprising a navigation engine for controlling the playback output of the player unit according to the contents,
The navigation engine is
A language interpreter that interprets the content of the playback control information included in the navigation content;
An information processing unit that executes a command included in the reproduction control information interpreted by the language interpretation unit;
An element decoder for generating second video / audio data corresponding to the other content included in the navigation content;
Based on the reproduction information interpreted by the language interpretation unit and / or the execution result of the command in the information processing unit, the second video / audio data generated by the element decoder is reproduced by the video reproduction engine. And an output unit for selecting and outputting one of the first video / audio data and the second video / audio data. Digital video playback device. A player unit for reproducing recorded content including video content and navigation content including reproduction control information and other content from a digital video disc;
A video playback engine that is included in the player unit and plays back first video / audio data corresponding to the video content of the recorded content of the digital video disc;
A connection unit with a communication line, which is included in the player unit and is used to capture another navigation content including another reproduction control information;
Of the playback control information included in the player unit and included in the navigation control content included in the navigation content of the recorded content of the digital video disc or in another navigation content captured from the communication line. A navigation engine that controls the playback output of the player unit according to the contents,
The navigation engine interprets the content of the reproduction control information included in the navigation content; an information processing unit that executes a command included in the reproduction control information interpreted by the language interpretation unit; An element decoder that generates second video / audio data corresponding to the other content included in the navigation content; and the second decoder generated by the element decoder based on the execution result of the command in the information processing unit. Are combined with the first video / audio data reproduced by the video reproduction engine and output, or one of the first video / audio data and the second video / audio data is output. It consists of an output part that selects and outputs,
The video playback engine controls playback of the digital video disc, outputs an event signal related to the playback status of the digital video disc to the information processing unit, and outputs a status signal related to properties of the digital video disc. A video playback control unit configured to output to the information processing unit,
The information processing unit is configured to execute control of the output unit according to the playback control information included in the navigation content according to the event signal and / or the status signal from the video playback control unit. Digital video playback device. The navigation content includes first navigation content reproduced from the digital video disc and second navigation content acquired from the outside via the communication line,
The control by the information processing unit according to the event signal and / or the status signal is configured to be executed for any of the controls by the first and second navigation contents. Equipment.   The event signal is generated in response to a menu call for calling a menu recorded on the digital video disc, a title jump for switching a title to be reproduced from the digital video disc, or a chapter jump for switching a chapter to be reproduced from the digital video disc. 8. An apparatus according to claim 6 or claim 7 configured to be configured. The navigation engine further includes a user event control unit that generates a user event corresponding to a user operation of the digital video playback device,
The information processing unit is configured to execute processing corresponding to a user event generated by the user event control unit,
The output unit reproduces the second video / audio data generated by the element decoder based on the execution result of the process corresponding to the user event, and the first video / audio reproduced by the video playback engine. 9. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the data is synthesized and output, or one of the first video / audio data and the second video / audio data is selected and output. The device according to item. Using the player unit to acquire at least one of video content and navigation content from a digital video disc, and to acquire another navigation content from a communication line using a communication interface,
The state in which the digital video disc is loaded in the player unit and the communication interface is disconnected from the communication line is set to an offline mode, and the digital video disc is ejected from the player unit and the communication interface is connected to the communication unit. When the state connected to the line is an online mode, and when the digital video disc is loaded in the player unit and the communication interface is connected to the communication line, the mixed mode is set.
When triggered by loading / discharging of the digital video disc or connection / disconnection of the communication line, mode transition is performed between the offline mode, online mode, and mixed mode according to a predetermined transition rule. Method.

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