JPS60209962A - Automatic tape cassette supply selective reproducer - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To secure a sufficient time to replace and load a tape cassette among plural reproducers by deciding the next reproduction starting order of each of those reproducers based on the storage contents of a memory at a time point when the reproduction is through with the tape cassette. CONSTITUTION:A memory means 25A stores the data on both the reproduction start and end time points of a tape cassette 7 of each transmission number based on a list. Memory means 251-254 store the reproduction end time points of numbers 1-4 of VTR81-84 respectively. The data on the reproduction end time points read out of those means 251-254 are supplied to a reproduction starting order deciding means 51 for VTR81-84. Then the priority is lowered for those VTRs in the order of earlier reproduction end time points. Then the reproduction starting order of these VTRs is stored to a memory means 25B, and the VTR column of a transmission list is filled. Thus it is possible to secure the sufficient time to replace and load the cassette 7 among VTR81-84.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an automatic tape cassette supply selection and playback device.

BACKGROUND TECHNOLOGY AND PROBLEMS The present applicant previously proposed a tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback device described below. The outline of this device is as follows. A shelf device including a plurality of shelves is provided, and tape cassettes on which video signals are recorded are stored in the plurality of shelves.

A bar code is attached to the back of this tape cassette to indicate identification data related to the contents recorded on the tape. Then, the tape cassettes stored in this shelf device are transported and loaded into a plurality of VTRs by an elevator, and
The tape cassette taken out from the VTR is transported to a shelf device by an elevator and returned to the shelf. This elevator is provided with means for reading bar codes of tape cassettes stored in the shelf device. The reproduced signals from the plurality of VTRs are then selectively sent out by the selective sending means.

Furthermore, a microcomputer is provided, and is connected to a double shelf system, a plurality of VTRs, an elevator, a selection sending means, and the like. Further, identification data read from the barcode of the tape cassette stored in the shelf device is stored in the storage means of the microcomputer. Then, the microcomputer controls a plurality of VTRs, elevators, selective sending means, etc., to reproduce and send out the recorded contents of the tape cassettes stored in the shelf device in a predetermined order based on the sending list.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a shelf device including a plurality of shelves, a plurality of playback devices, an elevating and lowering conveying means for transferring tape cassettes between the shelf device and the plurality of playback devices, and a transport system for transferring tape cassettes from the plurality of playback devices. In the tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback device, which has selective sending means for selectively sending out playback signals, and main control means for controlling a plurality of playback devices, an elevating and conveying means, and a selective sending means, a plurality of tape cassettes are The purpose is to propose a device that can sufficiently increase the time required to replace and load a playback device.

Summary of the Invention The present invention provides a shelf device including a plurality of shelves, a plurality of playback devices, an elevating/lowering IU conveying means for transferring tape cassettes between the shelf device and the plurality of playback devices, and a plurality of playback devices. In the tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback device, which has a selective sending means for selectively sending out playback signals, and a main control means for controlling the plurality of playback devices, the elevating and conveying means, and the selective sending means, The present invention includes a storage means for storing the playback end time of the loaded tape cassette, and a playback start order determining means for determining the next playback start order of the plurality of VTRs based on the stored contents of the storage means. This is a characteristic feature.

According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain a tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback device of this type that can take a sufficient amount of time to replace and load tape cassettes into a plurality of playback devices.

EXAMPLE An example of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows the tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine M as a whole. In FIG. 1, one tape cassette automatic supply selection reproducing machine M is explained, but in actual use, in addition to the case where one tape cassette automatic supply selection reproduction machine M is used, the same tape cassette automatic supply selection reproduction machine M is used. A plurality of tape cassette automatic supply, selection and playback machines M are used, and these are controlled by a common microcomputer (described later) and used selectively or interchangeably.

In Fig. 1, (1) shows a shelf device, (11) to (
1n) is a plurality of shelves, for example, 40 shelves.

Reference numeral (2) denotes an elevator as an elevating and lowering transportation means, which is driven and controlled by an elevating and lowering drive means (4) and is raised and lowered along a guide (3). This elevator (2) is provided with two shelves (5) and (6), and the upper shelf (5) is provided with two shelves (5) and (6).
) are tape cassettes (7) from shelves (11) to (in)
(Fig. 2) and returns it to its original shelf or passes it to, for example, four VTRs (81 ((81) to (84)), and the lower shelf (6) The tape cassette (7) received from TR+8) is placed on the shelves (11) to (1).
It is a shelf for returning to either of (n). (9) and αω are motors that drive actuators (not shown) for moving the tape cassettes (7) of the upper shelves (51, (61) of the elevator (11), respectively.

Further, (12) is a bar code (12) that is provided on the upper shelf (5) and is attached to, for example, the back of the tape cassette (7) as shown in FIG.
11) is a photodetector as a detection means for detecting. A detection signal from this photodetector (12) is supplied to a microcomputer (14) via an A/D converter (13). (14M>, (14K) are a monitor receiver connected to the microcomputer (14) and an auxiliary controller (equipped with a keyboard) capable of being a wired or wireless remote controller.

In addition, indicators (15) such as LEDs ((151) to (15n)) are attached to each side of the shelves (11) to (in), and these indicators (15) are connected to the microcomputer (14). tape cassette 7 connected to and stored on the shelf.
When the 1-+71 barcode (11) is correctly read, the display corresponding to that shelf is turned on.

The contents of the identification data based on the barcode (11) attached to the tape cassette (7) include, for example, as shown in FIG. Sending number (stack)
title number) b, Title of tape recording content for 14 characters C% Tape playback start time for B characters (hours, minutes, seconds, and frames (1/30 seconds)) d, Tape playback time for 6 characters (time , minutes, seconds and frames) e
and a checksum g for one character. There are various barcode patterns for one character, but in this example, there are two barcode patterns as shown in No. 411A.
A 2 of 5 interleaving method is adopted. In other words, a barcode for one character is constructed from three black bars with a width of 1 and two black bars with a width of 3.
The total width of the black bars is 9.

A barcode is also formed by the spacing between these bars, and another barcode for one character is formed from the three white bars each having a width of 1 and the two own bars each having a width of 3.

Next, we will explain how to read barcodes. For example, consider detecting a barcode consisting of black bars.

The barcode detection signal detected by the detection means (12) in FIG. 1 becomes a sine wave whose period varies depending on the width of the black bar, as shown in FIG. 4B. By shaping this waveform, an identification data signal having a time width corresponding to each black bar as shown in FIG. 4C is obtained. 1st to 5th
The pulse width of the data of the th black bar is tt +ff3, respectively.
+ts, tv+ts, and the pulse width of the own bar data between them is t2. Let L4+t6+j8. Thus, when a one-character barcode signal is reproduced, each pulse width L1 . By summing j31 j5 + L7 + t9, dividing this by 9, and multiplying it by 1.5 to obtain a threshold value, and comparing this with the pulse width of the data corresponding to each black bar, the black bar of the barcode can be determined. The size of the barcode is detected, and the barcode for one character is read. The same is true for the white bar in °C.

First, one to a plurality (n or less) of tape cassettes H7 necessary for a certain unit broadcast time are placed on the shelves (11) to (In).
) is stored manually.

Then, the barcode (11) of the tape cassette (7) stored in each column is read and stored in the microcomputer (14).This will be explained with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 shows a microcomputer (14) for reading this barcode (11).
) functions are shown in blocks. The elevator (2) is provided with the above-mentioned detection means (12) and A/D converter (13), and the detection output of the detection means (12) is supplied to the A/D converter (13) and converted into a digital signal. be converted into This digitized detection signal is then supplied to a time width detection means (16), where the digitized detection signal is counted by the clock signal from the clock signal generator (17) with a sufficiently high frequency, and Width detected. Then, the threshold value described above is calculated in the threshold calculation means (18). Then, °ζ, the output of the time width detection means (16) is detected by the comparison means (19).
), and is compared with the threshold value from the threshold calculation means (18), and data based on the thickness of the black bar (or the own bar) is detected. The output of this comparing means (19) is the data time width size code converting means (
20), its output is further supplied to a 2-of-5 code conversion means (21), its output is further supplied to an ASCII code conversion means (22), and its output is further supplied to a data creation unit V! It is supplied to Jt(23). The barcode data obtained from the data creation means (23) is supplied to the main control means (24). In addition, this main control means (2
4) is provided with storage means (25).

From the main control means (24), a display control means (26) that controls the display on the display (15), and an actuator control that controls an actuator (not shown) for moving the tape cassette in the upper stage of the elevator (2). Means (27
), an elevator control means (28) that controls the elevator (2) via the lift drive means (4), and a drive means (plunger) for the detection means (12) that changes the angle of the detection means (12) (34), which will be described later. ) are respectively supplied with control signals to the drive control means (29) of the detection means.

In addition, the display control means (26) is a display device (15) ((15
z) to (15n)) to ensure that the barcode (11) is read during the reciprocating movement of the tape cassette (7) on the shelf (5) between the elevator (2); Corresponding display (15) (('15'z
) to (15n) ) are lit. The actuator control means (27) control the motor (9) which drives the actuator of the upper shelf of the elevator (2).

FIG. 6 shows that when the barcode (11) of the tape cassette (7) described above is detected back and forth by the detection means (12), if the barcode (11) is not detected at all, the Change the angle of the means (12) and change the ′ζ barcode (
11) Detection means (12) for varying the detection position in the width direction
(7a) is the back of the cassette case of the tape cassette (7), (11') is the bar code (11).
The label is affixed to its back (7a). The detection means (12) is attached to the holder (30) and is movable around the central axis (31). A lever (32) is provided extending from the holder (30), and is pivoted clockwise by a spring (33). On the other hand, (34) indicates a plunger, and in the normal state, the plunger (34) is not energized, and the lever (32) is pulled by the spring (33) in the non-energized state of the plunger (34), so that the detection means ( 12) is at the position of the broken line. When the plunger (34) is energized by the control output of the control means (29), the actuator of the plunger (34) moves as shown in the figure.
Moving to the right, the lever (32) rotates counterclockwise against the elastic force of the spring (33), and the detection means (12) comes to a position as shown by the solid line. At the end, enter the barcode (
11) at different positions in the width direction of the barcode (11).
) can be detected.

Next, the functions of the computer (14) shown in FIG.
This will be explained with reference to the flowchart shown in the figure.

As shown in FIG. 1, the elevator (2) has a shelf (5) thereon in a position where tape cassettes stored in, for example, a shelf (14) of the shelf device (11) can be delivered.

When the motor (9) is controlled by the control means (27) and the °ζ actuator (not shown) is driven, the shelf (14)
A tape cassette (7) (not shown) stored in the elevator (2) is moved to a shelf (5) above the elevator (2).

At this time, the barcode (11) is read by the barcode detection means (12). This barcode detection means (
The detection output of 12), that is, the digitized detection output from the A/D converter (13), is supplied to the data width detection means (16) to detect the data width, and the detection output is sent to the width comparison means (19). is supplied to the threshold calculation means (
18). The output of the width comparison means (19) is the data width code conversion means (20) - 2 of 5 code conversion means (2).
1) The barcode data is supplied to the data creation means (23) through the ASCII code conversion means (22) to create barcode data. Also, by driving the actuator, the tape cassette (7) is moved to the shelf (5) above the elevator (2).
At the time of returning to the ninth shelf (14), the barcode (11) is read again and the same signal processing as before is performed. Then, in the main control means (24), it is determined whether or not the barcode (11) has been read in a reciprocating manner, and if it is determined that the barcode (11) has been read in a reciprocating manner, then the barcode data is read by reciprocating reading of the barcode data. It is determined whether or not the data has been reliably read.

When it is found that the barcode data cannot be read properly, the drive control means (29) of the detection means is controlled to change the angle of the detection means (12) as shown in FIG. By again transferring the tape cassette (7) from the shelf (14) to the shelf (5) above the elevator (2) and returning it to the original shelf (14), the barcode (11) is removed.
The reciprocating reading is performed in the same manner as described above at different positions in the width direction.

When it is determined that the barcode has been read as correct data, the display (154) of the shelf (14) where the tape cassette (7) was stored is turned on, and the elevator control is turned on. The drive means (4) is controlled to start the elevator (2), raise or lower the elevator (2), and stop the elevator at the next shelf.

Then, at °C, perform the same operation as described above.

If the barcode is read correctly, the content of the barcode of the tape cassette (7) is stored in the storage means (25) together with the shelf number, and the monitor receiver (14)
Display it on the meat surface of M). By repeating this, the identification data related to the tape recording contents of all the tape cassettes (7) stored in the shelves (11) to (1n) are read, and this is stored in the storage means (25) along with the shelf number. and can be displayed on the screen of the monitor receiver (14M).

Next, referring to FIG. 8, the means (40) for selectively transmitting reproduced video signals from the VTRs (8t) to (84) in the tape cassette automatic supply selection and reproduction machine M shown in FIG. 1 will be explained. . The reproduced video signals from the VTRs (81) to (84) are selected by the selection means (microcomputer (1) in FIG.
(41) and is separately supplied to any of the output terminals (42A) to (42D). Video signals of channels A to D from output terminals (42A) to (420) are switched by switching means (with built-in special effect generator) (43) controlled by the microcomputer (14) shown in Figure 1. Then, the reproduced video signal from the selected one VTR is outputted to an output terminal (43') and supplied to a broadcasting device (not shown).

Next, a method of selectively transmitting reproduced video signals from a VTR will be explained. First, create a sending list. This may be created using the microcomputer (14) shown in FIG. 1, or may be created separately. This sending list is printed on paper. This transmission list is stored in the storage means (25) of the microcomputer (14) (Fig. 1), and is read out and displayed on the monitor receiver (14).
M) will be displayed on the screen shown in Figure 1.

Items in the transmission list include, for example, ■ transmission number, ■ mode identification number, ■ title, and ■ tape playback start time (
hours, minutes, seconds), ■Tape playback time (hours, minutes, seconds), ■
Tape playback cumulative time (hours, minutes, seconds), ■Tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine (indicated by number, etc., if there is only one unit, this item can be omitted), ■Shelf (shelf (11)
- Number corresponding to (1n)), ■Channel (one of A-D), ([0IVTR (VTR (8t) -
(84) -+any one of 1 to 4), etc. Note that the order of the items is arbitrary.

Among the items ■ to [phase] in the sending list, initially, for example, the item ■
~■tllil (some of the other items except ■ can be omitted)
are filled with data, and the remaining item columns are filled with data obtained by taking into consideration the data read from the barcode (11) of the tape cassette (7) and the data of other items.

Of the items ■ to [phase] in the sending list, the column for the initial item ■ is filled with data, and the remaining columns are filled with data read from the barcode (11) of the tape cassette (7). It is also possible to fill in the information with data obtained by taking into consideration the data of other items.

Between each of the above-mentioned transmission numbers, there is a blank period for playback and transmission, such as when images of objects in the studio (for example, anallancers, performers, etc., chart panels, etc.), live (relay) images, etc. are being broadcast. There are cases. During this blank period, for example, enter rBRBAKJ or l' B in the sending number column of item ■.
K J is displayed, and its content (title) is displayed in the title column of item ■. Then, each time a blank period is inserted between transmission numbers, the channel is sequentially changed, and the VTR is also changed accordingly. In this way, special effects such as fade-in and fade-out can be generated by inserting a blank period (switching period) of zero time or minute time between transmission numbers. Note that this blank period is also included in the cumulative tape playback time.

For example, when using this tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine M for broadcasting news, news shows, advertisements, etc. in a certain time period, the number of tape cassettes (7) required is one tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback. Machine M shelf (11
) to (In), it is necessary to use a plurality of tape cassette automatic supply/selection playback machines M1 to Mk and distribute the tape cassettes (7) to each of them.

Next, how to sort tape cassettes (7) using the computer (14) will be explained with reference to the functional block diagram of FIG. 9 and the flowchart of FIG. 1O. In Figure 9, (44) is tape cassette 7) (7
1 shows the distribution means of No. 1 as a whole. That is, the storage means (25
) is read out and supplied to the C1 blank period position detection means (45), and the data of the transmission number immediately before the blank period is stored in the storage means (25). Then, the data on the position of the blank period stored in the storage means (25) is given to the calculation means (46) for calculating the appropriate number of tape cassettes, and the sending number is set to n (for example, 40) in the appropriate blank period. The tape cassettes (7) are divided into blocks of sending numbers, that is, blocks (groups) of tape cassettes (7), by dividing the tape into units of numbers as close to n as possible.

Then C1 the data of the calculation result of this calculation means (46),
Sending number and tape cassette automatic supply selection playback machine Ml~M
k to the specification means (47), the data of the specification result is stored in the storage means (25), and the data of the specification result is automatically used to automatically select the tape cassette of item (■) on the inner surface of the monitor image ta (14M). You can fill in the column for the supply selection regenerator.

For example, in the case of spot advertisement broadcasting, it is assumed that there are a total of 1 to 140 transmission numbers. For example, between transmission numbers 35 and 36, between 66 and 67, between 77 and 78, and between 9
It is assumed that blank periods are provided between 0 and 91 and between 112 and 113, respectively. Thus, 35 sending numbers 1 to 35.31 sending numbers 36 to 66.24 sending numbers 67 to 90.22 sending numbers 91 to 112.
and 28 transmission numbers 113 to 140, blocks with the first to fifth transmission numbers, that is, tape cassettes (
7) blocks (groups) are constructed.

The tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine M can be used, for example, by alternately (or cyclically if there are three or more) two (or more) tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machines M1 and M2. It is sufficient to replace the tape cassettes (7) on the shelves (11) to (1n) of the tape cassette automatic supply selection reproducing machine that is in use and is in a dormant state.

Thus, the number of tape cassettes (7) to be used is 1 on the shelf (11) of the tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine M.
When the number of stages (in) is greater than n, the tape cassettes (7) can be efficiently and easily allocated to a plurality of tape cassette automatic supply and selection playback machines M1 to Mk.

Also, the tape cassette (7) stored in the shelves (11) to (1n) of one or more tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machines M is read from the barcode (11) of the tape cassette (7) stored in the shelf (11) to (1n). The identification data of 7) is stored in the storage means (25
) and each time the tape cassettes (7) stored in the shelves (11) to (1n) are replaced, the identification data stored in the storage means (25) is updated. , As a result, the blanks in each item of the above-mentioned sending list are filled in or corrected, and the monitor reception@! Machine (14M)
will be displayed on the screen.

In the following description, for the sake of simplicity, an example will be explained in which one tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine M shown in FIG. 1 is used. Next, the above-mentioned sending list (monitor receiver (
A simple example of what was displayed on the screen of 14M) is shown below (at the time of youth broadcast).

<Table 1> Next, the contents of Table 1 will be explained. Every time there is a blank period between transmission numbers, the channels are sequentially changed to A-4B-4.
It is switched cyclically from 0-+D-4A.

The VTR is switched to a different VTR each time the transmission number changes, but there is no correspondence between VTR numbers 1 to 4 and channels A to D. However, when the channel is switched, the VT
Switch R as well. Note that although the time or time data actually includes hours, minutes, seconds, and frames, frames are omitted for simplicity.

The dispatch numbers are not necessarily in numerical order; the numbers may be skipped or the order of the numbers may be reversed due to insertion of a dispatch number, etc.

There are cases in which reproduced video signals from tape cassettes with different transmission numbers belonging to different channels are simultaneously reproduced by different VTRs, and the reproduced video signals of one channel are selectively transmitted by the switching means (43) (FIG. 8). The video signals of tape cassettes with adjacent transmission numbers are partially duplicated and reproduced at the time of transition, and may be faded in or faded out, for example, by the special effect generating device of the switching means (43).

The tape force cent automatic supply selection playback IIM in Figure 1 is VT
It is equipped with four VTs as shown in Table 1 above.
All R(81) to (84) are used, but part 1
Normally, the remaining three VTRs are used, and when one of the remaining VTRs breaks down or there is an interruption (insertion) of a transmission number, the spare VTR is used.
can be made to use.

111chi, 1st wA (7) VTR (8z) ~ (84
) is controlled by the main control means (24) (FIG. 5) of the computer (14), as shown in FIG.

For example, if the VTR (84) is designated as a backup VTR, the VTR (84)
TR (8z) to (8'3) is a commonly used VTR, and the VTR (84) is a spare VTR as a storage means (non-volatile storage means such as semiconductor memory or flonbi disk) (50) (Storage means (25) is also possible). Of the commonly used VTRs (8z) to (83),
For example, when the VTR (83) breaks down, the control means (2
4), the VTR (83) becomes the standby VTR (84).
) and this state is stored in the storage means (50) (the storage means (25) can also be used). In addition, when the transmission number is interrupted (inserted), the spare VTR (84) temporarily or continuously becomes the VTR for use, and this state is stored in the storage means (
50) (storage means (25) is also possible). In addition, V
Even if all of the TRs (81) to (84) are used as regular VTRs, this state also applies to the storage means (50) (storage means (2)
5) is also stored in rjJ).

This storage means (50) (or storage means (25)
)), that is, the usage status of the VTRs (8s) to (84) are stored in the storage means (25) (Fig. 5),
Based on this, the column of the VTR item in the above-mentioned transmission list is filled in or corrected.

In this way, even if there is a failure in some of the multiple VTRs, the failure can be quickly compensated for by the spare VTR, so the VTR
There is no trace of the transmission of reproduced video signals from the TR.

Furthermore, it is possible to interrupt or add a transmission number to the transmission list, that is, to quickly reproduce the tape cassette on the VTR as the transmission list is changed.

Next, a method for determining the order in which VTRs are used will be explained. Based on the above transmission list, VTR (85) to (8
Of 4), when the tape cassette (7) loaded in a certain VTR finishes playing, that tape cassette (7)
) are carried by elevator (2) to shelves (11) to (
At the same time, the tape cassette (7) stored in the other shelf is carried by the elevator (2) and loaded into the VTR again. By repeating this, the tape cassettes stored in the shelves (11) to (1n) are sequentially loaded into the VTRs (8z) to (84) based on the sending list.
will be played.

In this case, among the VTRs (81) to (84), the earlier the reproduction start time, the higher the priority. Then, the VT
The order in which R is used is determined by calculation by the computer (14). If some of the VTRs (81) to (84) are reserved, the same determination is made for the remaining VTRs.

This will be explained with reference to the functional block diagram in FIG. 12, the flowchart in FIG. 13, and Table 2 below.

<Table 2> In Figure 12, (25A), (25B), (25
t) to (254) indicate some storage areas of the storage means (25) in FIG. 5, and these will also be referred to as storage means. The storage means (25A) stores data on the playback start time and playback end time of the tape cassette of each sending number based on a list as shown in Table 2, for example. The storage means (251) to (254) are stored in the VTRs (81) to (254), respectively.
84) Store the reproduction end time of (numbers 1 to 4). Then, the playback end time data read from the storage means (25s) to (254) are stored in the VTRs (81) to (84).
) (Supplied to the D reproduction start order determining means (51),
For example, as shown in Table 2, the priority order is lowered in descending order of the playback end time, and the playback start order of VTRs (8t) to (84) is stored in the storage means (25B''). [Phase] VTR column is filled in. If the transmission number is inserted or changed, this operation is performed again.

By doing so, it is possible to take enough time to replace and load the tape cassette (7) into the VTRs (81) to (84).

Next, the auxiliary control shown in Figure 1! (14K), 14th
This will be explained with reference to the figures. (60^)~(600) are display marks corresponding to channels A-D, (61A)~(
610) are normal playback control operators (operation buttons) for the VTR corresponding to channels A-D, (62A) to (62
D) are still image playback control operators (operation buttons) for the VTR corresponding to channels A to D, (63A) to (63
D) is a control button (operation button) that returns the VTR to a playback ready state, corresponding to channels A to D; (64) is a power switch control (slide successor);
) is placed on top.

To explain the operation of the auxiliary controller (14K), when the power controller (64) is on, the controllers (61A) to
(63D) (which also serves as a display element), the control means (63D) of the microcomputer (14) is operated.
24), the V of the corresponding channel is
As the TR is controlled, its operator turns on. When the operation of the controlled function recorded on the VTR of that channel is completed, the lighting state of that operator is canceled under the control of the control means (24).

In addition, the operators (61^) ~ (61D), (62A) ~ (
62D) and (63^) to (63D) may be common operators for each channel A to D, respectively, and a separate channel selection operator (also serving as a display element) may be provided.

By employing such an auxiliary controller (14K), in combination with the selection means (41) and the switching means (43), control over the plurality of VTRs (8z) to (84) can be performed on channel A.
-D, it becomes easy to control a plurality of VTRs.

Next, the operation of the tape power cent automatic supply selection reproducing machine M which sequentially transmits reproduced video signals from a VTR based on the above-mentioned transmission list will be explained.

Since the sending list is stored in the storage means (25) of the microcomputer (14), the elevator (2) is controlled by the microcomputer (14) in accordance with the sending list, and the elevator (2) controls the shelf device (1). Tape cassettes (7) are taken out one by one from the shelves (11) to (In), transported one by one to a predetermined one of the VTRs ('81) to (84), and loaded by horizontal loading. Also, a VTR tape cassette that has finished playing (7)
is taken out from the VTR by horizontal unloading, and the elevator (2) returns the ordinary shelves (11) to (1n) to the previously designated return-only shelf.

While the tape cartridge automatic supply selection generator M is in operation, l-PLAYJ is displayed in the playout list on the screen of the monitor receiver (14M) if the corresponding VTR is playing.
If it is in the playback preparation state, rcUEUPJ is displayed.

Also, multiple tape cassette automatic supply selection playback machines M1 to M
When using tape cassette k, when all the tape cassettes (7) on the shelves (11) to (1n) of the - tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine have been played, the tape cassettes (7) on the shelves (11) to (1n) are
A new tape cassette (7) is manually stored in the tape cassette, and the other tape cassette automatic supply selection/playback machine is operated.

Now, while the tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine M is operating the tape cassette automatic supply selection reproduction machine M in accordance with the sending list, it may be necessary to change the sending list. Regarding this, the functional blocks of the computer (14) will be explained below with reference to FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 without showing the flowchart 1.

First, a case will be described in which a tape cassette (7) is already loaded in the VTR and is replaced with another tape cassette (7). That is, it is assumed that all the VTRs (8z) to (84) are loaded with tape cassettes 7). In Figure 15, (70) is a VTR with low priority.
When a transmission number insertion command is given to this detection means from an input terminal (71), the VTR having the lowest priority at that time is detected. This detected VTR data is given to a detection means (72) that detects whether or not the VTR is playing, and if it is playing,
The detection data is given to the detection means (70), and the VTR with the lowest priority at that time is detected again. If the detection means (72) detects that the VTR detected by the detection means (70) is not playing, the detected data is supplied to the control means (73).

The control means (73) controls the elevating drive means (4), and the elevator (2) is driven and controlled by the elevating drive means (4), and the tape cassettes (7) of the detected VTR are moved from the shelves (11) to ( ln) and return it to one of the shelves (11
) to (1n) is taken out and loaded into the detected VTR. Then, when it is the detected VTR's turn to play, the tape cassette (
7) is played.

For example, in Table 2, the tape cassette with sending number 1 (7
) when the stored VTR (83) (number 3) is playing, the VTR with the lowest priority is the VTR (82) loaded with the tape cassette (7) with output number 4 (number 3).
(No. 2). If the VTR (82) is not playing, the tape cassette (7) loaded in the VTR (82)
) is replaced with the tape cassette 7) with the sending number 1o or the sending number 125, for example. Also, the VTR (83) (number 3) loaded with the tape cassette (7) with the sending number 1 and the VTR (82) (number 2) loaded with the tape cassette (7) with the sending number 4 are both playing. If so, the VTR with the next lowest priority is the VTR (83) (number 3) in which the tape cassette (7) with the sending number 7 is loaded. Therefore, the tape cassette (7) loaded in this VTR (83) may be replaced with a tape cassette/nod (7) having the sending number IO or sending number 125, for example. The tape cassette (7) with delivery number 10 is stored in advance on one of the shelves (11) to (1n).
The sending order has changed, and the tape cassette (7) with sending number 125 is the tape cassette automatic supply selection reproducing machine M.
is stored in one of the shelves (11) to (1n) after the tape cassette starts its feeding operation (in this case, the shelf is designated and the photodetector (12) of the elevator (2) detects the tape cassette ( It is necessary to read the barcode (11) of 7), or the shelves (11) to (In) must be read as a spare.
It is stored in one of the following.

In this way, when a sending number is inserted, the playback start time of the tape cassette (7) of the subsequent sending number is delayed by the calculation of the control means (24) of the computer (14), and the inserted The revised transmission list including the transmission number section is displayed on the monitor receiver (14M).

Incidentally, the sending number may be inserted at the same time for multiple fli+.

For example, in the case of 2 biases, the tape cassette (7) loaded in the third and fourth priority VTRs among the VTRs (8z) to (84) is loaded into the other two tape cassettes (7). ) can be replaced with

In this way, it is possible to easily and reliably insert a desired transmission number, that is, a reproduction signal from a desired tape cassette (7) into the transmission list.

Note that it is also possible to delete part of the sending list.

Also, during the sending operation of the tape cassette automatic supply selection playback machine M, a blank period (VTR
By inserting a switching period), the channel after the blank period is inserted is changed, different VTRs are played back before and after the blank period, and fade-in, fade-out, etc. are performed during the blank period. enables the generation of special effects. In this case, the channel in which the blank period was inserted and the next channel are taken into consideration, and the channel after the blank period is changed to a channel different from both the channel in which the blank period was inserted and the next channel.

This will be explained below with reference to FIG. 17 showing the functional blocks of the computer (14) and FIG. 18 showing the flowchart thereof.

Reference numeral (80) is a detecting means for detecting a channel in which a blank period has been inserted, and when a blank period insertion command is given to this from an input terminal (81), a channel in which a blank period has been inserted is detected. This channel detection means (8
0), when a channel into which a blank period has been inserted is detected, the detection data is given to the channel detection means (82) for detecting the next channel, and the next channel is detected. Then, the detection data of both channel detection means (8, (82)) is transferred to the channel change means (8).
83), the channel after the blank period of the channel into which the blank period has been inserted is changed to a channel other than both channels detected by the both channel detection means (80) and (82), and the storage means (25).

In the transmission list of Table 1 above, for example, if a blank period (time is zero) is inserted between transmission numbers l and 2, transmission numbers 2 and 30 channels both change from A to C (or D is also possible). be done. However, the channel with transmission number l remains A.

In this way, the overall order of channels is not changed, the change in the order of channels is partially stopped, and by inserting a new blank period, other already existing blank periods (especially zero or very small There is no longer a risk that the time period) will disappear and the generation of the ζ special effect will become impossible.

Note that blank periods can also be deleted. In that case,
The channel after the blank period is changed to be the same as the channel before the blank period.

In Table 1 above, if the blank period between transmission numbers 3 and 4 is deleted, the channels of transmission numbers 4 to 6 are changed from B to A. If the blank period between transmission numbers 3 and 4 is zero or a minute time, the generation of special effects will be stopped.

Next, if the elevator (2) in the tape cassette automatic supply selection reproduction fiM breaks down, the tape cassette 7) < 7
) may not be able to read the barcode (II), so as shown in Figure 19, an auxiliary barcode league (
manual barcode league) <85) to the elevator (2
) (can also be installed separately).

This barcode league (85) has a tape cassette (
7) A photodetector (
12') is provided, and this light detection! A detection signal from (12') is supplied to the above-mentioned microcomputer (14) via an A/D converter (13').

If the elevator (2) breaks down, the tape cassette (7)
on the auxiliary barcode reader (85) and manually move the tape cassette (7) back and forth to detect the photodetector (12').
), that is, the identification data of the tape cassette (7), is stored in the storage means (25) of the microcomputer (14). After that, this tape cassette (7) is loaded into an empty VTR with a lower priority among the VTRs (81) to (84), and when the turn for playback arrives as usual, the tape cassette (7) is loaded into the empty VTR with the lowest priority among the VTRs (81) to (84). Reproduce.

Pre-made sending list (for example, consisting of sending numbers 1 to 35) Follow-up ζ tape cassette automatic supply selection playback machine M
The operation when the elevator (2) breaks down while the elevator (2) is in operation will be described with reference to FIG. 20, which shows the transmission list displayed on the screen of the monitor receiver (14M). Second
The meanings of the symbols for each item and content in Figure 0 are as follows.

NO: Sending number MD; Mode identification number TTL: Title STT: Tape playback start time DRT j Tape playback time ACT: Tape playback cumulative time M: Cassette supply machine BN = Shelf CH; Channel VT: VTR VTM: VTR mode FLY: Playing CUE + Preparing for playback As shown in Figure 20A, transmission number 15.16 is playing,
Assume that the elevator breaks down while transmission number 17 is in preparation for reproduction. Note that since there is a possibility that the VTR number may change due to insertion of a transmission number, etc., the number of the VTR that is 1 below the transmission number that is being prepared for playback is not displayed.

As a result, the display in the shelf BN column and the display in the rows with sending numbers 18 and below disappear, and a horizontally elongated frame is displayed below the sending number (17). So, while looking at the hard copy sending list, search for the tape cassette (7) with sending number 18 from the shelves (11) to (1r+), hang it on the auxiliary barcode league (85), and read the barcode (11). After reading, if you load it into an empty VTR (81) (number 1),
After the fields of each item except the shelf item are filled in and displayed within the frame, the frame is filled in with the sending number (1) as shown in Figure 20C.
8) Move to the next line. In the state shown in FIG. 20C, transmission numbers 16 and 17 are being reproduced, and transmission number 18 is in a reproduction preparation state. From then on, repeat this operation.

In this way, even if the elevator (2) is out of order, the tape cassette (7) can be manually played back and selectively sent out by the VTR.

In addition to the VTR, audio tape recorders, data tape recorders, etc. can also be used as playback devices.

Further, instead of a bar code, identification data may be attached to the back of the tape cassette by magnetic recording or optical recording.

Effects of the Invention According to the present invention described above, a shelf device including a plurality of shelves;
A plurality of playback devices, a lifting and lowering means for transferring tape cassettes between the shelf device and the plurality of playback devices, a selective sending device for selectively sending out playback signals from the plurality of playback devices, and a plurality of playback devices; A tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback device having an elevating and lowering conveyance means and a main control means for controlling a selection sending means, which can sufficiently increase the time required to load and replace tape cassettes in a plurality of playback devices. can be obtained.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a layout diagram of an example of a tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine according to the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a tape cassette used in the tape cassette automatic supply selection playback machine of FIG. 1, and FIG. The figure is a pattern diagram showing an example of the format of the bar code attached to the tape cassette in Figure 2, and the pattern diagram shown in Figure 4.
The figure shows an example of the barcode pattern for one character of the barcode attached to the tape cassette in Figure 2, and the pattern and waveform diagram showing the waveform of the read signal. Figure 5 shows the tape cassette automatic supply selection in Figure 1. Figure 6 is a block diagram showing one function of the microcomputer of the playback machine.
Fig. 7 is a flowchart explaining the functional blocks of Fig. 5, and Fig. 8 is a tape cassette automatic feed selection and playback of Fig. 1. 9 is a block diagram showing other functions of the microcomputer of the tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine of FIG. 1; FIG. 1θ is a block diagram showing the functions of FIG. 9. Flowcharts for explaining the blocks, Figures 11 and 12 are shown in Figure 1.
A block diagram showing other functions of the microcomputer of the tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine shown in the figure, FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the functional blocks of FIG. 12,
FIG. 14 is a plan view showing an example of the auxiliary controller of the microcomputer of the tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. A block diagram showing the functions, FIG. 16 is a flowchart explaining the functional blocks in FIG. 15, and FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing other functions of the microcomputer of the tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine shown in FIG. , FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the functional blocks of FIG. 17, FIG. 19 is a layout diagram showing another part of the tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine of FIG. 1, and FIG. FIG. 3 is a pattern diagram showing a screen of a monitor receiver for explaining the apparatus. M is a tape cassette automatic supply selection playback machine, (11 is a shelf device, (11) to (in) are the plurality of shelves, (2) is a lowering conveyance means (elevator), +51, (6) is the top of the elevator -1 shelf, (7) is tape force cent, (81+
(81) to (84)) are VTRs, (11) are barcodes attached to tape force centers, (12) and (12') are barcode detectors, (14) are microcomputers, (
14M) is the monitor receiver, (14K) is the auxiliary controller, (
24) is the main control means, (25), (258), (25B
), (251) to (254) are storage means, (40) is selection sending means, (41) is selection means, (43) is switching means, (44) is distribution means, and (45) is blank period. (46) is a calculation means for calculating the number of tape force cents, (47) is a means for specifying correspondence between the sending number and the tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback machine, (5o) is a storage means, (51)
is playback start order determining means, (618) to (61D) are normal playback control operators, (62^) to (62D) are still image playback control operators, and (63A) to (63D) are for preparing the VTR for playback. The operator to return to the state, (7o) is a VT with low priority
(72) is a detection means for detecting whether or not the VTR is playing; (73) is a control means; (80) is a detection means for detecting a channel in which a blank period is inserted;
(82) is a detection means for detecting the next channel;
) is a channel change means, and (85) is an auxiliary barcode league. Figure 1 Figure 8 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 1 Figure 8 Figure n Figure 9 Figure 10 Figure 14 Inner H Figure 16

Claims (1)

[Claims] A shelving device having a plurality of shelves, a plurality of playback devices, an elevating conveyance means for transferring tape cassettes between the shelf device and the plurality of playback devices, and playback signals from the plurality of playback devices are selected. In the tape cassette automatic supply selection and playback apparatus, which has a selection sending means for sending out tape cassettes, and a main control means for controlling the plurality of playback devices, the elevating and conveying means, and the selection and sending means, the tape cassettes are loaded into the plurality of playback devices, respectively. and a reproduction start order determining means for determining the next reproduction start order of the plurality of VTRs based on the stored contents of the storage means. A tape cassette automatic supply selection playback device featuring: