JP2007221544A - Device and method of recording and reproducing program, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a device and a method of recording programs, and a device and a method of reproducing programs which can achieve user's comfortable operability based on, for example, a properly inserted chapter, and a computer program for causing a computer to operate as such a program recording device or a program reproducing device. <P>SOLUTION: The program recording device (10) comprises: (i) a recording means (HDD or the like) for recording dynamic image information or voice information which holds a broadcast program; (ii) an insertion means (23) for inserting a chapter to logically delimit frame information; (iii) a determination means (CPU) for determining whether or not a correlation is similar between one frame and the other frame included in the frame information; and (iv) a control means (CPU) for controlling the insertion means so that the chapter is inserted into at least either one frame or the other frame during recording, when it is determined that the correlation is similar. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention belongs to the technical field of a program recording apparatus and method such as a DVD recorder, a program reproduction apparatus and method, and a computer program that causes a computer to function as such a program recording apparatus or program reproduction apparatus.

  For example, in media broadcasting such as television broadcasting, a short period of time such as several seconds before commercial broadcasting (Commercial: hereinafter referred to as “CM” as appropriate) is started and after the CM is ended. In addition, broadcast content having exactly the same content (hereinafter referred to as “same scene” where appropriate) is often broadcast. In particular, in a wide show program, a variety program, an animation program, etc., it is common that repeated broadcasts of the same scene appear prominently. Alternatively, for example, repeated broadcasts of the same scene generally appear prominently at the end of the first episode and the start of the second episode of broadcast content such as a series drama. In response to this, for example, a user of a program recording apparatus such as a viewer has a desire to omit repeated playback of broadcast content in the same scene.

  Therefore, for example, in a general program recording apparatus such as a DVD recorder, a function for inserting chapters is prepared in order to realize reproduction of contents in a regular order or random order, so-called random reproduction. . Here, the “chapter” according to the present invention means, for example, delimiter information for logically delimiting broadcast content such as the same scene or CM, so-called sign information. As a method for automatically inserting chapters, a method for inserting them at regular time intervals has been devised. Alternatively, a method has been devised in which a CM is detected, and a chapter is automatically inserted based on analysis of the content of the broadcast program such as the start point and end point of the detected CM or, for example, scene switching.

  Furthermore, as another method for inserting chapters, a method for inserting chapters manually authored (edited) by a user has been devised. Alternatively, as described in Patent Document 1 and the like, a method of inserting chapters using biological information such as a viewer's laughing voice has been proposed. Since the method of inserting chapters manually by such a user or using biometric information can reflect the preferences of individual users, chapters can be set at appropriate positions.

JP 2003-178078 A

  However, the above-described method of inserting a chapter manually by a user or using biometric information, as described above, inserts a chapter through human elements (such as an input operation or a real voice), and therefore an operation error. Or a technical problem that the timing of inserting chapters is delayed.

  Alternatively, in the method of automatically inserting chapters at regular time intervals as described above, it becomes difficult to reflect the preferences of individual users, so that chapters are placed at appropriate positions desired by the users. It becomes difficult to set.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described conventional problems, for example, and a program recording apparatus and method that can realize a comfortable operability for a user based on, for example, an appropriately inserted chapter. It is an object of the present invention to provide a program reproduction apparatus and method, and a computer program that causes a computer to function as such a program recording apparatus or program reproduction apparatus.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, a program recording apparatus according to claim 1, recording means for recording frame information (moving image information or audio information) holding a broadcast program (broadcast content), and the frame information Determination of whether or not the correlation between one frame included in the frame information and another frame is similar (or equivalent) to insertion means for inserting chapters (separation information) for logical division When the correlation is determined to be similar to that of the determination unit that performs the recording, the chapter is inserted in at least one of the one frame and the other frame simultaneously with or before or after the recording. Control means for controlling the insertion means.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, a program playback apparatus according to claim 13 includes a playback unit that plays back frame information (moving image information or audio information) that holds a broadcast program (broadcast content), and the frame information. Determination of whether or not the correlation between one frame included in the frame information and another frame is similar (or equivalent) to insertion means for inserting chapters (separation information) for logical division When the correlation is determined to be similar to the determination unit that performs the above, the chapter is inserted in at least one of the one frame and the other frame simultaneously with or in succession to the reproduction. Control means for controlling the insertion means.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, a program recording method according to claim 14 is a recording step of recording frame information (moving image information or audio information) holding a broadcast program (broadcast content); Insertion step of inserting chapters (separation information) for logical division and determination of whether or not the correlation between one frame and other frames included in the frame information is similar (or equivalent) If the correlation is determined to be similar to the determination step, the chapter is inserted in at least one of the one frame and the other frame simultaneously with or before or after the recording. A control step for controlling the insertion step.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, a program playback method according to claim 15 includes a playback step of playing back frame information (moving image information or audio information) holding a broadcast program (broadcast content), and the frame information. Insertion step of inserting chapters (separation information) for logical division and determination of whether or not the correlation between one frame and other frames included in the frame information is similar (or equivalent) If the correlation is determined to be similar to the determination step, the chapter is inserted in at least one of the one frame and the other frame simultaneously with or in succession to the reproduction. A control step for controlling the insertion step.

  In order to solve the above problems, a recording control computer program according to claim 16 is a recording control computer program for controlling a computer provided in the program recording apparatus according to claim 1, A computer is caused to function as at least part of the recording unit, the insertion unit, the determination unit, and the control unit.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, a computer program for playback control according to claim 17 is a computer program for recording control for controlling a computer provided in the program playback device according to claim 13, A computer is caused to function as at least a part of the reproduction unit, the insertion unit, the determination unit, and the control unit.

  The operation and other advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the embodiments described below.

  Hereinafter, a program recording apparatus and method, a program reproducing apparatus and method, and a computer program according to an embodiment of the present invention as the best mode for carrying out the invention will be described in order.

(Embodiment of program recording device)
Hereinafter, an information recording apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  An embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention includes a recording means for recording frame information (moving image information or audio information) holding a broadcast program (broadcast content), and a chapter for logically dividing the frame information. Inserting means for inserting (separation information), determining means for determining whether or not the correlation between one frame and other frames included in the frame information is similar (or equivalent), When it is determined that the correlation is similar, the inserting means inserts the chapter in at least one of the one frame and the other frame simultaneously with or before or after the recording. And control means for controlling.

  According to the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention, recording is performed under the control of a control means such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) included in a program recording apparatus such as a DVD recorder having a tuner or an external input terminal. The means records, for example, frame information including moving image information and audio information holding a broadcast program (broadcast content) in a storage means such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

  In particular, according to the present embodiment, when the determination unit determines that the correlation between one frame and another frame included in the frame information is similar, the insertion unit is controlled under the control of the control unit. Thus, chapters are inserted in at least one of one frame and another frame. Here, “similar” according to the present invention means that one frame and another frame are almost or completely identical or equivalent based on human visual or physical characteristics. It may mean. Alternatively, it may mean that one frame and another frame are almost or completely identical or equivalent based on a predetermined tolerance.

  As a result, the user can enjoy the following convenience. That is, when a chapter is inserted into another frame, the user skips to a chapter after playing one moving image including one frame when viewing a broadcast program recorded in the program recording device. By operating, for example, viewing of other moving images including other frames having the same scene can be omitted. Alternatively, in other words, when a chapter is inserted into one frame, the user skips to a chapter after playing another moving image including another frame when viewing a broadcast program recorded in the program recording device. By operating in this way, for example, viewing of one moving image including one frame having the same scene can be omitted.

  As a result, an operation for viewing the content desired by the user can be performed quickly and easily, and a comfortable operability for the user can be realized.

  In one aspect of the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention, the program recording apparatus further includes moving image storage means for storing moving image information included in the frame information, and the determination means includes: The determination is performed.

  According to this aspect, the determination unit can appropriately and quickly determine whether or not the correlation between one frame and another frame is similar based on the stored moving image information. Is possible.

  In another aspect of the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention, the program recording apparatus further includes a voice storage unit that stores the voice information included in the frame information, and the determination unit is configured based on the stored voice information. Make a decision.

  According to this aspect, the determination unit can appropriately and quickly determine whether or not the correlation between one frame and another frame is similar based on the stored audio information. It is.

  In another aspect of the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention, the frame information includes (i) a first moving image (scene “C”) having the one frame, and (ii) the first moving image. And the second moving image (scene “Cx”) having the other frame and the control means determines that the correlation is similar, The insertion means is controlled to insert the chapter at a start end or an end end of at least one of the moving image and the second moving image.

  According to this aspect, the user can enjoy the following convenience. That is, when the chapter is inserted at the end of the second moving image including another frame, the user can view the first moving image including one frame when viewing the broadcast program recorded on the program recording device. By performing an operation to skip to a chapter after reproduction, for example, viewing of a second moving image having the same scene can be omitted. Alternatively, in other words, when a chapter is inserted at the start of the second moving image, the user skips to the chapter instead of playing the first moving image when viewing the broadcast program recorded in the program recording device. By operating in such a manner, for example, viewing of the first moving image having the same scene can be omitted.

  In this aspect, when it is determined that the correlation is similar, an erasure that erases one of the first moving image and the second moving image simultaneously with or before or after the recording. You may comprise so that a means may further be provided.

  If comprised in this way, storage means, such as HDD which a program recording device has, for example by erasing any one of the 1st moving image and the 2nd moving image which have the same scene, for example The recording capacity can be saved and used efficiently.

  In another aspect of the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention, the program recording apparatus further includes an encoding unit that encodes the frame information, and the determination unit includes the encoding unit before or after the encoding of the frame information. The determination is performed based on the characteristic value (SN ratio) of the frame information.

  According to this aspect, the determination unit is configured to correlate one frame with another frame based on a characteristic value (for example, SN ratio) of the frame information before or after the frame information is encoded. Can be determined appropriately and quickly.

  In another aspect of the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention, the information processing apparatus further includes a smoothing unit that smoothes (averages) the information amount of the frame information, and the determination unit includes the smoothed frame information. On the other hand, the determination is performed.

  According to this aspect, the determination means quickly determines whether or not the correlation between one frame and another frame is similar to the smoothed (or averaged) frame information. Can be done.

  In another aspect of the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention, the program recording apparatus further comprises comparison means for comparing the characteristic value (such as SN ratio) of the one frame with the characteristic value of the other frame, The means performs the determination based on the comparison.

  According to this aspect, the determination means has a similar correlation between one frame and another frame based on a comparison between the characteristic value (such as SN ratio) of the one frame and the characteristic value of the other frame. It is possible to appropriately and quickly determine whether or not.

  In the aspect according to the comparison means, the comparison means further includes storage means capable of storing a predetermined amount of the frame information, and the comparison means stores the frame stored most recently on the time axis among the stored frame information. You may comprise so that the said comparison may be performed from information.

  With this configuration, the comparison means performs comparison from the most recently stored frame information on the time axis, and the characteristic value of one frame and the characteristic value of another frame exceed a predetermined threshold value. In this case, since the comparison only needs to be completed, the determination unit can quickly determine whether or not the correlation between one frame and another frame is similar.

  In another aspect of the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention, the frame information is (i) located on the time axis before a CM (Commercial) included in the broadcast program, and the one frame is A first moving image (scene “C”) having (ii) a position that is located after the CM on the time axis, is similar in correlation to the first moving image, and has the other frames. 2 moving images (scene “Cx”).

  According to this aspect, when the chapter is inserted in the second moving image, for example, at the start end, when the user views the broadcast program recorded in the program recording device, the user can view the chapter after the reproduction of the first moving image. It is possible to omit viewing of the CM by performing an operation so as to be skipped.

  Alternatively, when the chapter is inserted in the first moving image, for example, at the end, the user can view the CM quickly and easily when viewing the broadcast program recorded in the program recording device. is there.

  In another aspect of the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention, the control means controls the recording means to record the frame information in which the chapter is inserted.

  According to this aspect, the control means can insert a chapter during the recording of the frame information in real time.

  In another aspect of the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention, the recording unit includes a storage unit (HDD) capable of storing the frame information, and the control unit is configured to store the frame information. The insertion means is controlled to insert the chapter.

  According to this aspect, the control unit can insert a chapter after the frame information is recorded in a storage unit such as an HDD.

(Embodiment of program playback device)
Hereinafter, a program reproducing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  An embodiment according to the program reproducing apparatus of the present invention includes a reproducing means for reproducing frame information (moving image information or audio information) holding a broadcast program (broadcast content), and a chapter for logically dividing the frame information. Inserting means for inserting (separation information), determining means for determining whether or not the correlation between one frame and other frames included in the frame information is similar (or equivalent), When it is determined that the correlation is similar, the insertion means inserts the chapter in at least one of the one frame and the other frame simultaneously with or before or after the reproduction. And control means for controlling.

  According to the embodiment of the program playback apparatus of the present invention, playback is performed under the control of a control means such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) included in a program playback apparatus such as a DVD recorder having a tuner, an external input terminal, and the like. For example, the means reproduces frame information having moving image information or audio information holding a broadcast program (broadcast content).

  In particular, according to the present embodiment, when the determination unit determines that the correlation between one frame and another frame included in the frame information is similar, the insertion unit is controlled under the control of the control unit. Thus, chapters are inserted in at least one of one frame and another frame.

  As a result, the user can enjoy the following convenience. That is, when a chapter is inserted into another frame, the user operates to skip to a chapter after playing one moving image including one frame when viewing the broadcast program reproduced by the reproducing means. Thus, for example, viewing of other moving images including other frames having the same scene can be omitted. Alternatively, in other words, when a chapter is inserted into one frame, the user skips to a chapter after playing another moving image including another frame when viewing the broadcast program reproduced by the reproducing means. For example, viewing of one moving image including one frame having the same scene can be omitted.

  As a result, an operation for viewing the content desired by the user can be performed quickly and easily, and a comfortable operability for the user can be realized.

  Incidentally, in response to the various aspects of the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention described above, the embodiment of the program reproduction apparatus of the present invention can also adopt various aspects.

(Embodiment of program recording method)
Hereinafter, a program recording method according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  An embodiment according to the program recording method of the present invention includes a recording step of recording frame information (moving image information or audio information) holding a broadcast program (broadcast content), and a chapter for logically dividing the frame information. An insertion step of inserting (separation information), a determination step of determining whether a correlation between one frame and another frame included in the frame information is similar (or equivalent), and When the correlation is determined to be similar, the insertion step is performed so that the chapter is inserted in at least one of the one frame and the other frame simultaneously with or before or after the recording. And a control step for controlling.

  According to the embodiment of the program recording method of the present invention, it is possible to receive various benefits of the above-described embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention.

  Incidentally, in response to the various aspects of the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention described above, the embodiment of the program recording method of the present invention can also adopt various aspects.

(Embodiment of Program Reproduction Method)
Hereinafter, a program reproduction method according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  An embodiment according to the program playback method of the present invention includes a playback step of playing back frame information (moving image information or audio information) holding a broadcast program (broadcast content), and a chapter for logically dividing the frame information. An insertion step of inserting (separation information), a determination step of determining whether a correlation between one frame and another frame included in the frame information is similar (or equivalent), and When the correlation is determined to be similar, the insertion step is performed so that the chapter is inserted in at least one of the one frame and the other frame simultaneously with or before or after the reproduction. And a control step for controlling.

  According to the embodiment of the program playback method of the present invention, it is possible to receive various benefits of the above-described embodiment of the program playback device of the present invention.

  Incidentally, in response to the various aspects of the above-described embodiment of the program reproducing apparatus of the present invention, the embodiment of the program reproducing method of the present invention can also adopt various aspects.

(Embodiment of computer program)
Hereinafter, a computer program according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The computer program for recording control of the present invention is a computer program for recording control for controlling a computer provided in the embodiment (including various aspects thereof) according to the above-described program recording apparatus of the present invention. The computer is caused to function as at least a part of the recording unit, the insertion unit, the determination unit, and the control unit.

  The computer program for playback control of the present invention is a computer program for playback control for controlling a computer provided in the above-described embodiment of the program playback device of the present invention (including various aspects thereof), The computer is caused to function as at least a part of the reproduction unit, the insertion unit, the determination unit, and the control unit.

  According to the embodiment of the computer program according to the present invention, the computer program is read from a recording medium such as a ROM, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, and a hard disk that stores the computer program, and is executed. If the computer program is downloaded to a computer via communication means and executed, the above-described embodiments of the program recording apparatus and the program reproduction apparatus of the present invention can be realized relatively easily.

  Incidentally, in response to the various aspects of the above-described embodiments of the program recording apparatus and the program playback apparatus of the present invention, the embodiments of the computer program of the present invention can also adopt various aspects.

  Such an operation and other advantages of the present embodiment will be clarified from examples described below.

  As described above, according to the embodiment of the program recording apparatus and method of the present invention, the recording means and process, the inserting means and process, the determining means and process, and the control means and process are provided. As a result, it is possible to quickly and easily perform an operation for viewing the content desired by the user based on the inserted chapter, and it is possible to realize comfortable operability for the user.

  In addition, according to the embodiment of the program reproducing apparatus and method of the present invention, it comprises a reproducing means and process, an inserting means and process, a determining means and process, and a control means and process. As a result, it is possible to quickly and easily perform an operation for viewing the content desired by the user based on the inserted chapter, and it is possible to realize comfortable operability for the user.

  Furthermore, according to the embodiment of the computer program of the present invention, the computer is caused to function as the embodiment of the above-described program recording apparatus and program playback apparatus of the present invention. It is possible to quickly and easily perform an operation for viewing the content desired by the user based on the inserted chapter, and to realize a comfortable operability for the user. .

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

(1) Embodiment of Program Recording Device of the Present Invention Next, an embodiment of the program recording device of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

(1-1) Basic Configuration First, the basic configuration of an embodiment according to the program recording apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the basic configuration of the embodiment of the program recording apparatus of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the program recording apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment includes a tuner 11, an external video input terminal 12, an external audio input terminal 13, selectors S1 and S2, video A / D as recording components. Converter (Analog to Digital Converter) 14, audio A / D converter 15, video comparison unit 16, comparison video data storage buffer 17, audio comparison unit 18, comparison audio data storage buffer 19, video MPEG-2 encoding unit 20 , An audio AC3 encoding unit 21, a video audio multiplexing unit 22, a chapter insertion unit 23, a selector S3, a DVD drive, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and a CPU. On the other hand, as playback components, a selector S4, an AV (Audio Video) separation / decoding unit 24, a video D / A converter (Digital to Analog Converter) 25, an audio D / A converter 26, an external video output terminal 27, An external audio output terminal 28 is provided.

(1-1-1) Recording component The tuner 11 receives an RF signal such as VHF or BS, converts the received signal wave in synchronization with the selected reception band, and converts it into an IF signal. Demodulated into a video signal and an audio signal and output to the selector S1.

  The selector S 1 selectively switches between the signal output from the tuner 11 and the signal from the external video input terminal 12, and outputs the video signal to the video A / D converter 14.

  The selector S 2 selectively switches between the signal output from the tuner 11 and the signal from the external audio input terminal 13, and outputs the audio signal to the audio A / D converter 15.

  The video A / D converter 14 converts the TV analog signal selected by the selector S1 into a digital signal and outputs the digital signal to the video comparison unit 16 and the comparison video data storage buffer 17.

  The audio A / D converter 15 converts the analog audio signal selected by the selector S2 into a digital audio signal and outputs the digital audio signal to the audio comparison unit 18 and the comparison audio data storage buffer 19.

  A specific example of the comparison means according to the present invention is configured by the video comparison unit 16 or the audio comparison unit 18. Further, one specific example of the storage means according to the present invention is constituted by the comparison video data storage buffer 17 or the comparison audio data storage buffer 19. These detailed operating principles will be described later.

  The video MPEG-2 encoding unit 20 converts the video signal input from the video comparison unit 16 into MPEG format video data, and outputs the video data to the video audio multiplexing unit 22.

  The audio AC3 encoding unit 21 converts the audio signal input from the audio comparison unit 18 into AC-3 format audio data, and outputs the audio data to the video audio multiplexing unit 22.

  The video audio multiplexing unit 22 generates a program stream based on the input video data and audio data, and outputs the program stream to the chapter insertion unit 23.

  The chapter insertion unit 23 constitutes a specific example of the insertion means of the present invention, and inserts chapters into video data under the control of the CPU. The chapter insertion method will be described later.

  The selector S3 is connected to a drive interface conforming to a standard such as ATAPI, and can switch the video data recording destination to an HDD or a DVD drive.

(1-1-2) Component for Playback The selector S4 switches the input source under the control of the CPU, and outputs it to the AV separation / decoding unit 24.

  The AV separation / decoding unit 24 separates and decodes the video data having the MPEG format and the audio data having the AC-3 format from the program stream selected by the selector S4, and separates and decodes the video data. And the audio data are output to the video D / A converter 25 or the audio D / A converter 26, respectively.

  The video D / A converter 25 converts the input digital video signal into an analog signal and outputs it to the outside via the external video output terminal 27.

  The audio D / A converter 26 converts the input digital audio signal into an analog signal and outputs it to the outside via the external audio output terminal 28.

  The CPU includes various input / output ports such as a key input port and a display unit output port, and comprehensively controls general functions for HDD playback and recording or DVD playback and recording processing. The system CPU reads the control program stored in the memory and executes each process when reproducing and recording the HDD or reproducing and recording the DVD, and temporarily holds the data being processed in the memory. It is like that.

(1-2) Chapter Insertion Method Next, referring to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, as an operation principle of the program recording apparatus for broadcast programs according to the embodiment of the present invention, for example, broadcast of the same scene, CM, etc. A method of inserting chapters (a specific example of chapters according to the present invention) for logically dividing content (or video data) will be described. Here, FIG. 2 schematically shows, as a general example, a broadcast program including another moving image having a correlation similar to that of one moving image with a CM interposed therebetween along the time axis. It is a schematic diagram. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a method for inserting chapters at the start and end of another moving image having a similar correlation with one moving image by the program recording apparatus for a broadcast program according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is the schematic diagram shown.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a general broadcast program is organized so that, for example, two moving images having similar correlations of the same scene or the like are broadcast across a CM (Commercial). Yes. Specifically, scene “A”, scene “B”, and scene “C” are broadcast before CM “1” to CM “3” on the time axis. Then, on the time axis, after this CM “1” to CM “3”, the scene “Cx” and the scene “D”, which are the same scene as the scene “C”, are broadcast. In this way, when a general broadcast program is recorded in the program recording device as it is, the user of the program recording device such as a viewer has a similar correlation with one moving image such as the same scene. In order to omit viewing of other moving images, button operations such as fast-forward operation and skip operation and remote control operations must be performed manually in a disorderly manner, so that wasted time is required for the user to view the desired content. As a result, it becomes difficult to realize user-friendly operability.

  On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, (i) on the time axis, the start end and end of the scene “C” located before CM “1” to CM “3” At least one of the ends, and (ii) at least one of the start end and the end end of the scene “Cx” that is located after CM “1” to CM “3” on the time axis and that is the same as the scene “C” On the other hand, a chapter (Chapter, ie, a specific example of a chapter according to the present invention) for logically dividing an image (frame image) is inserted. Specifically, the chapter “1” is set to be inserted in the moving image located at the start end of the scene “C” on the time axis. At the same time, the chapter “3” is set to be inserted into the moving image located at the start end of the scene “Cx” on the time axis. Alternatively, the chapter “2” is set to be inserted in the moving image located at the end of the scene “C” on the time axis. At the same time, the chapter “4” is set to be inserted in the moving image located at the end of the scene “Cx” on the time axis.

  As a result, the user can enjoy the following three types of convenience. That is, in the first type, when chapter “4” is inserted, the user skips to chapter “4” after playback of scene “C” when viewing a broadcast program recorded in the program recording device. By operating in this way, viewing of CM (CM “1” to “3”) and the same scene “Cx” can be omitted. In the second type, when chapter “3” is inserted, the user skips to chapter “3” after playback of scene “C” when viewing a broadcast program recorded on the program recording device. By operating, viewing of CMs (CMs “1” to “3”) can be omitted. In the third type, when the chapter “2” is inserted, the user can quickly and easily view the CM (CM “1” to “3”) when viewing the broadcast program recorded in the program recording device. Can be done.

  As a result, an operation for viewing the content desired by the user can be performed quickly and easily, and a comfortable operability for the user can be realized. In addition, it is possible to efficiently and quickly create a moving image of a digest of a broadcast program, that is, a summary video in terms of data processing.

(1-3) Operating Principle-Chapter Insertion Processing-
Next, referring to FIG. 4 to FIG. 7, as an operation principle of the program recording apparatus for broadcast programs according to the embodiment of the present invention, for example, the same scene or a chapter for logically dividing a CM (Chapter) An explanation will be given of an insertion process of a specific example of a chapter according to the present invention. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the chapter insertion process by the broadcast program recording apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a similar image detection process which is a subroutine in the chapter insertion process of FIG. FIG. 6 schematically shows a method of inserting a chapter at the start end of another moving image having a similar correlation with one moving image by the program recording apparatus for the broadcast program according to the embodiment of the present invention. And FIG. 6 (a) and FIG. 6 (b). FIG. 7 schematically shows a method of inserting a chapter at the end of another moving image having a similar correlation with one moving image, by the program recording apparatus for the broadcast program according to the embodiment of the present invention. And FIG. 7 (a) and FIG. 7 (b).

  As shown in FIG. 4, a TV signal (broadcast signal) holding broadcast content (that is, a specific example of frame information according to the present invention) is input to the program recording apparatus according to the present embodiment (step S101). ).

  Next, under the control of a CPU (Central Processing Unit: one specific example of the control means according to the present invention), an image (frame image) including a still image or a moving image held by the input broadcast signal is provisional. Therefore, it is stored in a comparison video data storage buffer (hereinafter referred to as “video buffer” where appropriate) 17. The video buffer 17 constitutes a specific example of moving image storage means according to the present invention. Specifically, for example, when the moving image is at the SD (Standard-definition television) level and in the “4: 2: 0” format, the storage capacity of the video buffer 17 is 720 × 480 × 1.5 (Bytes). There may be. In this embodiment, for example, a chapter is inserted at the start end or end end of the same scene identified based on moving image information such as video data. In addition, a chapter is inserted at the start or end of the same scene identified based on audio information such as audio data using the storage means such as the comparison audio data storage buffer described above. You may do it.

  In particular, an input and stored image can be specified in the video buffer 17 by an image identification number (Nid). As will be described later, this identification number “Nid” is a variable that is incremented by 1 every time only one frame is input to the program recording apparatus, and is incremented to measure the number of times, a so-called counter variable. is there.

  Next, under the control of the CPU, for example, another moving image (other frame) having a similar correlation with one moving image (one frame group), such as a repeated scene of one moving image (one frame group). It is determined whether or not the flag information S_flag indicating whether or not the (frame group) is input to the program recording apparatus is “OFF” (step S103). In particular, the flag information S_flag being “OFF” may mean that another moving image having a similar correlation with one moving image has not yet been input to the program recording apparatus. On the other hand, the flag information S_flag being “ON” may mean that another moving image having a similar correlation with one moving image is input to the program recording apparatus. Here, when the flag information S_flag is “OFF” (step S103: Yes), a similar image detection process is performed (step S104).

  Here, a similar image detection process will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

(1-3-1) Similar image detection processing
First, as shown in FIG. 5, under the control of the CPU, “0” is input to the variable “i” (step S201).

  Next, the most recently input image “Nid” is compared with the image “Si” stored in the video buffer 17 and specified by the variable “i”, and the similarity of the correlation between these images is compared. Analysis is performed (step S202). In particular, when comparing the image “Nid” with the image “Si” stored in the video buffer 17, for example, among the images stored in the video buffer 17, the most recently stored on the time axis ( It is preferable to compare from the input image. As a result, it is possible to efficiently and quickly detect an image (frame image) having the highest degree of correlation with the image “Nid”.

  Next, under the control of the CPU, it is determined whether or not the image “Si” stored in the video buffer 17 is an image having the highest level of similarity with the image “Nid”. (Step S203). Here, when it is determined that the degree of similarity between the image “Si” and the image “Nid” is not the highest level image (step S203: No), the variable “Si” is controlled under the control of the CPU. i ”is incremented by“ 1 ”(step S206).

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S203, when it is determined that the image “Si” is the image having the highest degree of correlation with the image “Nid” (step S203: Yes), the CPU Under the control, the image “Si” is set as the image “Sid” specified by the identification number “Sid” (step S204).

  Next, a correlation value “Sv” indicating a degree of similarity between the image “Nid” and the image “Si” stored in the video buffer 17 is determined (step S205).

  Next, as described above, the variable “i” is incremented by “1” under the control of the CPU (step S206).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the variable “i” is larger than the maximum value “S_MAX” under the control of the CPU (step S207). The maximum value “S_MAX” is the maximum number of frames for analyzing whether one frame and another frame have a similar correlation. Specifically, for example, when analyzing whether or not a 5-minute moving image has a similar correlation, the maximum value “S_MAX” is “9000”. This value can be calculated because the moving image is transmitted at 30 frames per second for 5 minutes.

  As a result of the determination in step S207, when the variable “i” is larger than the maximum value “S_MAX” (step S207: Yes), a series of similar image detection processes are ended. On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S207, if the variable “i” is not larger than the maximum value “S_MAX” (step S207: No), as described above, the image “Nid” and the video buffer 17 are stored. The image “Si” is compared, and the similarity of the correlation between these images is analyzed (step S202).

(1-3) Operating Principle-Chapter Insertion Processing (Continued)-
Returning to FIG. 4 again, under the control of the CPU, it is determined whether or not the correlation value “Sv” described above is greater than the correlation standard value “Std” (step S105). Here, when the correlation value “Sv” described above is not larger than the correlation standard value “Std”, that is, it is determined that the correlation value “Sv” is smaller (step S105: No), the input broadcast signal is held under the control of the CPU. An image including a still image or a moving image to be performed is definitely stored in the video buffer 17 as the identification number “Nid” (step S106). In this case, another moving image having a similar correlation with the one moving image, such as a repeated scene of the one moving image, has not yet been input to the program recording apparatus. That is, as shown in FIG. 6A, scenes “A” to “C” and CMs “1” to CM “3” are being input to the program recording apparatus.

  Next, again through the above-described steps S101 to S104, it is determined whether or not the correlation value “Sv” in the most recently input image “Nid” is greater than the correlation standard value “Std” (step S105). . Here, when it is determined that the correlation value “Sv” is larger than the correlation standard value “Std” (step S105: Yes), under the control of the CPU, (i) the most recently input image “Nid”. And (ii) an image (frame image) in which the image “Sid” having the highest degree of similarity in correlation stored in the video buffer 17 detected in the above-described step S204 is inserted into a chapter. ) Is set. That is, as shown in FIG. 6B, a moving image located at the start end of the scene “Cx” that is a moving image similar to the scene “C” on the time axis is input to the program recording apparatus. State. In particular, more specifically, it is set such that chapter “3” is inserted in the moving image corresponding to the image “Nid” and located on the time axis at the start end of the scene “Cx”. At the same time, the chapter “1” is set to be inserted into the moving image stored in the video buffer 17 corresponding to the image “Sid” and located on the time axis at the start end of the scene “C”. The

  Next, under the control of the CPU, the flag information S_flag is set to “ON”, which means that another moving image having a similar correlation with one moving image is input to the program recording device ( Step S108).

  Next, “1” is assigned to the counter variable “k” under the control of the CPU (step S109).

  Next, as described above, the input image is definitely stored in the video buffer 17 as the identification number “Nid” under the control of the CPU (step S106).

  Next, through steps S101 and S102 described above, it is determined whether or not the flag information S_flag is “OFF” under the control of the CPU (step S103). Here, since “ON” is set in step S108 described above, the image “Nid” is compared with the image “Sid + k” stored in the video buffer 17 under the control of the CPU. The similarity of the correlation between the images is analyzed (step S110). In particular, this image “Sid + k” is an image positioned backward on the time axis by the number of frames of the counter variable “k” from the image “Sid” stored in the video buffer 17 described above.

  Next, a correlation value “Sv” indicating the degree of similarity between the image “Nid” and the image “Sid + k” stored in the video buffer 17 is determined (step S111).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the correlation value “Sv” between the most recently input image “Nid” and the image “Sid + k” is greater than the correlation standard value “Std” (step S112). If it is determined that the correlation value “Sv” is greater than the correlation standard value “Std” (step S112: Yes), the counter variable “k” is incremented by “1” under the control of the CPU. (Step S113). That is, as shown in FIG. 7A, scenes “A” to “C”, CM “1” to CM “3”, and a scene “Cx” that is a moving image similar to the scene “C”. This is a state in which a part is input to the program recording device.

  Next, as described above, the input image is definitely stored in the video buffer 17 as the identification number “Nid” under the control of the CPU (step S106).

  Next, again, through the above-described steps S101 to S103, S110, and S111, it is determined whether or not the correlation value “Sv” in the most recently input image “Nid” is greater than the correlation standard value “Std”. (Step S112). Here, when it is determined that the correlation value “Sv” is not greater than or smaller than the correlation standard value “Std” (step S112: No), under the control of the CPU, (i) the latest input is performed. The image “Nid” and (ii) the image “Sid + k” stored in the video buffer 17 specified by the counter variable “k” in step S113 described above are set as the images (frame images) into which chapters are inserted. (Step S114). That is, as shown in FIG. 7B, a moving image located at the end of the scene “Cx” on the time axis is being input to the program recording apparatus. In particular, more specifically, the chapter “4” is set to be inserted in the moving image located at the end of the scene “Cx” on the time axis corresponding to the image “Nid”. At the same time, the chapter “2” is set to be inserted into the moving image stored in the video buffer 17 corresponding to the image “Sid + k” and positioned at the end of the scene “C” on the time axis. The

  Next, under the control of the CPU, the flag information S_flag is set to “OFF”, which means that no other moving image having a similar correlation with the one moving image is input to the program recording device ( Step S115).

  Next, as described above, the input image is definitely stored in the video buffer 17 as the identification number “Nid” under the control of the CPU (step S106).

  On the other hand, for example, it is determined whether or not an end instruction is given by the user under the control of the CPU simultaneously with or in succession to the above-described steps S101 to S115 (step S116). Here, for example, when it is determined that an end instruction has been given by the user, a series of chapter insertion processes is ended (step S116: Yes). On the other hand, for example, when it is not determined that an end instruction has been given by the user, a series of chapter insertion processing is continued (step S116: No).

(2) Another method for inserting chapters according to the program recording apparatus of the present invention
Next, referring to FIG. 8, as an operation principle of the program recording apparatus for broadcast programs according to the embodiment of the present invention, for example, another chapter for logically dividing the same scene or broadcast content such as CM The insertion method will be described. Here, FIG. 8 shows that a chapter is inserted at the start end and the end end of another moving image having a similar correlation with one moving image, by the program recording apparatus for the broadcast program according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is the schematic diagram (FIG.8 (a)) which showed the other technique typically, and the schematic diagram (FIG.8 (b)) which showed the order of reproduction | regeneration of the moving image in which the chapter was inserted schematically.

  As shown in FIG. 8A, (i) on the time axis, at least one of a start end and an end end of a scene “C” positioned before CM “1” to CM “3”, and ( ii) A chapter for logically dividing an image (frame image) is inserted in at least one of the start end and the end end of CM “1” to CM “3” on the time axis. Specifically, the chapter “1” is set to be inserted in the moving image located at the start end of the scene “C” on the time axis. At the same time, the chapter “2” is set to be inserted in the moving image located at the end of the scene “C” on the time axis. At the same time, it is set so that chapter “3” is inserted in the moving image located at the end of CM “1” to CM “3” on the time axis.

  In particular, the same scene “Cx” as the scene “C” may be deleted under the control of a control means such as a CPU. In addition, for example, when a user such as a viewer wants to view the broadcast content in an organization in which the broadcast program is actually broadcast, as shown in FIG. 8B, the scene “A”, the scene “B”, After viewing the scenes “C” and CMs “1” to “3”, the scene “D” may be viewed again via the scene “C”. Specifically, first, scenes “A”, “B”, “C”, and CMs “1” to “3” are reproduced under the control of a control unit such as a CPU (step S10). Next, skip from CM “3” to chapter “1” (step S20). Next, the scene “C” is reproduced. Next, the chapter “2” is skipped to the chapter “3” (step S30). Next, the scene “D” is reproduced.

  As a result, according to another chapter insertion method, an operation for viewing a content desired by a user can be performed quickly and easily, and a comfortable operability for the user can be realized. is there. In addition, it is possible to efficiently use the program recording apparatus while saving the recording capacity of a storage means such as an HDD.

  In the above-described embodiment, a DVD recorder (or player) with an HDD has been described as an example of a program recording device. However, the present invention is not limited to a magnetic disk or an optical disk recorder (or player). The present invention can also be applied to other various recording media and their recorders (or players).

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be changed as appropriate without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention that can be read from the claims and the entire specification. A method, a program playback apparatus and method, and a computer program for recording control or playback control are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

It is the block diagram which showed the basic composition of the Example which concerns on the program recording device of this invention typically. As a general example, it is a schematic diagram schematically showing a broadcast program including another moving image having a similar correlation with one moving image with a CM interposed therebetween along the time axis. FIG. FIG. 5 schematically shows a method of inserting chapters at the start end and the end end of another moving image that is similar in correlation to one moving image by the program recording apparatus for the broadcast program according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram. It is the flowchart which showed the insertion process of the chapter by the program recording apparatus of the broadcast program based on the Example of this invention. 5 is a flowchart showing a similar image detection process which is a subroutine in the chapter insertion process of FIG. 4. One and the other schematically showing a method of inserting a chapter at the start end of another moving image having a similar correlation with one moving image by the program recording apparatus for the broadcast program according to the embodiment of the present invention FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram (FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B). One and the other schematically showing a method of inserting a chapter at the end of another moving image having a correlation similar to that of the one moving image by the program recording apparatus for the broadcast program according to the embodiment of the present invention FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram (FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B). Schematically, another method of inserting chapters at the start and end of other moving images that are similar in correlation with one moving image by the program recording device for the broadcast program according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram (FIG. 8A) and a schematic diagram (FIG. 8B) schematically showing the order of reproduction of a moving image in which chapters are inserted.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Program recording device 16 Video comparison part 17 Comparison video data storage buffer 18 Audio comparison part 19 Comparison audio data storage buffer 23 Chapter insertion part CPU Central Processing Unit

Claims (17)

Recording means for recording frame information for holding a broadcast program;
Inserting means for inserting a chapter for logically dividing the frame information;
Determination means for determining whether or not the correlation between one frame and another frame included in the frame information is similar;
When the correlation is determined to be similar, the insertion is performed so that the chapter is inserted in at least one of the one frame and the other frame simultaneously with or before or after the recording. A program recording apparatus comprising: control means for controlling the means. A moving image storage means for storing moving image information included in the frame information;
The program recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit performs the determination on the stored moving image information. Voice storage means for storing voice information included in the frame information;
3. The program recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit performs the determination based on the stored audio information. The frame information includes (i) a first moving image having the one frame, and (ii) a second moving image having a similar correlation to the first moving image and having the other frame. ,
When it is determined that the correlation is similar, the control unit inserts the chapter at a start end or an end end of at least one of the first moving image and the second moving image. The program recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the insertion unit is controlled.   When it is determined that the correlation is similar, the image processing apparatus further includes an erasing unit that erases one of the first moving image and the second moving image simultaneously with or before or after the recording. The program recording apparatus according to claim 4, wherein: Encoding means for encoding the frame information;
6. The determination unit according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit performs the determination based on a characteristic value of the frame information before or after the frame information is encoded. The program recording device described. Smoothing means for smoothing the information amount of the frame information;
The program recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit performs the determination on the smoothed frame information. Comparing means for comparing the characteristic value of the one frame with the characteristic value of the other frame,
The program recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit performs the determination based on the comparison. A storage unit capable of storing a predetermined amount of the frame information;
9. The program recording apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the comparison means performs the comparison from the frame information stored most recently on the time axis among the stored frame information.   The frame information includes (i) a first moving image that is positioned before the CM (Commercial) included in the broadcast program on the time axis, and (ii) the CM on the time axis. And a second moving image having a similar correlation with the first moving image and having the other frame. The program recording device described in 1.   11. The program recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the recording unit to record the frame information in which the chapter is inserted. The recording means includes storage means capable of storing the frame information,
12. The program recording according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the insertion unit to insert the chapter into the stored frame information. apparatus. Playback means for playing back frame information holding a broadcast program;
Inserting means for inserting a chapter for logically dividing the frame information;
Determination means for determining whether or not the correlation between one frame and another frame included in the frame information is similar;
When it is determined that the correlation is similar, the insertion is performed so that the chapter is inserted in at least one of the one frame and the other frame simultaneously with or before or after the reproduction. And a control means for controlling the means. A recording process for recording frame information holding a broadcast program;
An insertion step of inserting a chapter for logically dividing the frame information;
A determination step for determining whether or not the correlation between one frame and another frame included in the frame information is similar;
When the correlation is determined to be similar, the insertion is performed so that the chapter is inserted in at least one of the one frame and the other frame simultaneously with or before or after the recording. A program recording method comprising: a control process for controlling the process. A playback process for playing back the frame information holding the broadcast program;
An insertion step of inserting a chapter for logically dividing the frame information;
A determination step for determining whether or not the correlation between one frame and another frame included in the frame information is similar;
When it is determined that the correlation is similar, the insertion is performed so that the chapter is inserted in at least one of the one frame and the other frame simultaneously with or before or after the reproduction. And a control process for controlling the process.   A computer program for recording control for controlling a computer provided in the program recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the computer is at least one of the recording unit, the insertion unit, the determination unit, and the control unit. A computer program characterized by functioning as a part.   14. A computer program for recording control for controlling a computer provided in the program playback device according to claim 13, wherein the computer is at least one of the playback means, the insertion means, the determination means, and the control means. A computer program characterized by functioning as a part.

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