KR100310789B1 - Still frame video in index - Google Patents

Abstract

The frame 42b recorded on or already recorded on the tape 42 is collected and stored for use when displaying a directory of the program 33a stored on the tape 42.

Description

Still frame image in index {STILL FRAME VIDEO IN INDEX}

As described in detail in US application Ser. No. 08 / 176,852, a directory in text is a home recorded (HR) tape and dictionary to facilitate selection and playback of programs recorded on tape. It is provided for pre-recorded (PR) tapes. Indexing VCRs are provided to search directories from either tapes (especially PR tapes) or RAMs (especially HR tapes) within the VCR.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to means and methods that facilitate management, storage, and retrieval of video programs on magnetic tape. In another aspect, the present invention relates to maintaining current information about a program recorded on a magnetic tape, and more particularly to a magnetic tape reader / recorder, eventually a magnetic tape cassette. Use to maintain current information about these tapes.

1 provides an index of a recording program for home recordable tapes, pre-recorded tapes, and retroactively indexed tapes, and includes a directory controller, a bus interface, and an output interface. diagram of an indexed image cassette recorder using a mixed indexing system having an interface to implement the present invention.

FIG. 2 schematically illustrates the structure of data stored in RAM of the directory controller of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the structure of an in-use directory in the data structure of FIG. 2 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

4 is a graphical representation of the format of information recorded on a magnetic tape in the cassette of FIG. 1 with markers and directories in a control track;

5 is a graphical representation of the format of information recorded on a magnetic tape in the cassette of FIG. 1 with a marker in the control track and a directory in the image frame field;

6 is a block diagram of the microprocessor and its interface of FIG. 1 for implementing an embodiment of the invention.

7 is a block diagram of the microprocessor controller of FIG. 1 and its interface for implementing another embodiment of the microprocessor controller.

FIG. 8 shows a VBI decoder that decodes both broadcast signals and recorded signals. FIG.

9 illustrates an embodiment of storing a tape identification number and address using a file mark plus asynchronous sprinkling address system.

10 illustrates a data format for a directory recorded on a pre-recordable tape.

11 illustrates a data packet format for a tape identification number (TID).

12 illustrates a format in another embodiment of a TID for an HR tape.

13 illustrates a format in another embodiment of a TID for a PR tape.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating the operational flow of an indexing VCR using an FMAS addressing system that writes a tape identification number, address, and directory to a home recordable tape (HR tape) during recording or ejection.

15 and 16 are flow charts illustrating the operational flow of an indexing VCR using the FMAS addressing system when a tape is inserted.

FIG. 17 shows a directory and SVF picture and description on an HR tape.

18 shows a directory and SVF picture and description on a PR tape.

19 shows a directory and an SVF image and description on the same PR tape when another program is selected.

20 shows a directory and SVF picture and description on another PR tape.

The frame of the image program recorded on the tape is selected to be displayed with the directory in text form for one or more recorded programs. By adding pictures to the text content, the appearance and usefulness of the directory is improved.

While recording a program on the HR tape, still video frames for the program are captured and stored in RAM. While receiving a program, an alert is generated by the VCR at the location or timing of the selected frame stored by a flag, such as a control packet in a vertical blanking interval (VBI). . This packet may be included in the EDS field and line data or carried by any other line that may be identified by a pointer to one of the normally used lines, such as, for example, the EDS line. Can be. In a PR tape, a still image frame image is stored at the beginning of the tape for each program having a still image frame image. When a PR tape is purchased and becomes part of a library, rented, or used in various ways, the tape on which the still picture frame is normally recorded because the directory with the still frame picture is stored in the RAM of the VCR. There is no need to go back to the beginning.

The present invention provides a method and apparatus for maintaining a directory of a recording program containing still picture frame images in a magnetic tape cassette reader / writer. The program directory is useful to greatly facilitate the operation of the tape cassette reader / writer.

In another embodiment of the present invention is disclosed herein for storing the directory and still image frame image. According to one embodiment of the present invention, directory information and still picture frame images are recorded on the tape itself.

In this embodiment, the directory information is recorded on the image track of the tape in the vertical retrace section of the recorded image signal, and the still image frame image is stored at the beginning of the tape. In a different manner, still picture frame pictures are stored in RAM in the VCR.

In another embodiment of the invention, the directory information of the tape is stored in the same RAM or other random access memory located in the VCR with associated still picture frames for the programs recorded on the tape, which are stored in the area of the random access memory. do. An identification label (e.g., a volume label) is written on the tape, whereby corresponding directory information can be retrieved from the random access memory when the tape is loaded into the VCR. Also, the still picture frame image for the selected recorded program is retrieved from the memory and displayed on the screen.

Index information is provided on the tape to locate the program recorded on the tape and to easily position the tape to the location of the selected program.

In another embodiment, a library containing a directory having still image frame images of a plurality of selected tapes is stored in the VCR. Libraries are useful for easily finding programs among multiple tapes.

In a preferred embodiment, the hybrid VCR system can identify the type of tape by detecting the address and tape identification number (TID) from either the control track or the VBI of the imaging tape. The tape of the first type is a home recordable tape (HR tape), whose directory is stored in RAM, and the TID and address are stored in the control track in the first embodiment and in the VBI in the second embodiment. The second type of tape is a tape (PR tape) pre-recorded by a supplier, the directory of the tape is stored in the VBI, the address is stored in a similar manner to the HR tape, and the still image frame picture is stored at the beginning of the tape. do.

An indexing VCR is shown in FIG. 1 that can restore and store a selected picture frame as a still picture on a RAM or magnetic tape associated with the VCR to enhance a text directory.

As described in the background in US Application No. 08 / 176,852, the VBI decoder 60a in the indexing VCR scans 10-25 VBI lines on both the first and second fields. Lines 1 through 9 are typically used for vertical synchronization and equalization and are therefore not used for data transmission. Closed captioning and text mode data are typically transmitted at 480 bits per second (VPS) over VBI line 21 of the first field of the standard NTSC video signal. Extended data service (EDS) is transmitted on VBI line 21 of the second field.

Data in the vertical blanking period may be described by a waveform, i.e., the coding and data packet of the waveform. The closed caption data waveform has a running clock, which is followed by a frame code and data. The coding of the data is non-return-to-zero (NRZ) 7-bit odd parity.

As a recommendation for line 21 data services, the Electronics Industries Association (EIA) issued the EIA-608 standard (draft dated October 12, 1992 and June 17, 1993). -608 ', the main content of which is referred to herein as part of the present invention) and in the Extended Data Service (EDS) environment, additional data is provided at line 21 of the second field of the vertical blanking interval. . Requirements include two caption fields, two text mode fields, and extended data services. Table I of US Application No. 08 / 176,852 illustrates the classification of data, class control code, and type code. Extended data includes program name, program length, length into show, channel number, network affiliation, station call letter, universal coordinated time (UCT), among other information. ), Time zone, and daylight saving time. When upstream from the network, the network inserts the program name, show length, length to show, network subscription, and UCT time. On downstream from the subscriber, the subscriber inserts the channel number, time zone, daylight standard time and program name. The network inserts the same data for other subscribers.

Data is sent in packets. (1) a 'current' class representing the program currently being transmitted, (2) a 'future' class representing a program to be transferred later, and (3) a non-program specific for the channel being transmitted. Transmits data or messages of public service characteristics such as 'channel information' class representing information, (4) 'miscelaneous' class representing other information, and (5) National Weather Service Warnings and messages. Six types of packages are proposed in EIA-608: 'public service' classes, and (6) 'reserved' classes reserved for future definition.

When recording a broadcast program (at home, including satellites, by wire, or by fiber) at home, video frames from the broadcast program must be recorded as part of the directory for the program recorded on the tape. The packet is included in the EDS to inform the VCR. The packet contains data that identifies as a flag for reconstructing the selected picture frame for storage as a still picture frame picture used as part of the directory. The packet may be located on a different line of the VBI without having a pointer in the EDS data or with a decoder checking each line of the VBI. This flag alerts the VCR that the selected frame will start after a certain horizontal sync pulse. Other methods can be used to identify the selection frame to be used as the still picture frame picture.

Tape Indexing System Overview

A feature of the present invention is that an indexing VCR uses a directory as described below. By using such a directory, a program can be selected by a still image frame image, and a title, type can be used to find a specific tape on which the selected program is recorded. The search may be performed from the user's image tape library by category, key word, or the like. In addition, a directory of a particular tape can likewise be searched to place a program on the tape. The tape can also automatically advance to where the selected program is located. Indexing is used herein to describe searching, creation of such directories, and other similar tasks.

The directory contains information related to the program, such as information related to the identification number of the tape, the program and time length recorded on the tape, program type, and address (also referred to as location) on the tape. The directory may be written to different locations on the tape in other embodiments described in the parent application of the present invention. In one embodiment described herein, the tape directory is written to random access memory (RAM) in a home recordable tape and to the tape itself in a vertical blanking interval in a prerecorded tape.

Indexing VCR

1 is a block of an indexing VCR system 10 including a conventional video tape cassette 40, a video display 50, and a video cassette reader / writer (VCR) 1 having a directory controller 30. FIG. It is also. The VCR 1 is an image reader / writer device and uses any one of many different recording technologies such as BETA, VHS, Super VHS, 8mm, VHS-C or other conventional techniques. In particular, VHS-C indexed tapes can be played directly with full indexing capabilities even on VHS indexed VCRs. The cassette 40 carries a magnetic tape 42 packaged in a cartridge 40a or cassette housing (referred to herein as a cassette) and conveyed between a feeding spindle 40b and a takeup spindle 40c. It is a conventional video cassette having. Although the size and design of the housing varies with the recording technology, the basic information placed on the tape itself is similar. The technique and operation of the VCR is well understood in the art.

The VCR 1 includes a control including LOAD 3a, PLAY 3b, STOP 3c, RECORD 3d, and EJECT 3e to control its operation. And a button control panel 3 with buttons. The load button 3a is not used in the machine which performs an automatic load as an option. The VCR control logic circuit 21 receives a control signal from the button control panel 3 to control the motor and machine control logic of the VCR 1 as well as the microprocessor controller 31 of the image display 50 and the directory controller 30. To the circuit 5, the image logic circuit 7, the position logic and counter circuit 9, and the control and audio track head logic circuit 11 to control the operation of the VCR 1 as a whole. .

The motor and machine control logic 5 controls the loading and ejection of the cassette 40, and also the image in the image cassette 40 during recording, reading (playback), fast forward, and rewind. The movement of the tape 42 is controlled. The image logic circuit 7 controls the operation of the image read / write head drum 13 when reading the image signal from the tape 42 or recording the image signal to the tape 42. The electrical signal is magnetically connected using a winding 14 between the imaging logic circuit 7 and the imaging head drum 13. The position logic and counter circuit 9 monitors the tape movement through the cassette tape movement sensor 22 and generates a signal indicating the tape position. The control and voice track head logic circuit 11 writes, reads, and erases signals on the control or voice track of the tape 42 via the write head 19, the read head 17, and the erase head 15. To control.

Directory controller 30 includes microprocessor controller 31, random access memory (RAM) 33, and directory input / output display and control panel 32. The microprocessor controller 31 includes a program store 31a, such as a read only memory (ROM), which stores an integrated circuit microprocessor, a control program implementing the method of the present invention, and a clock signal for a timing function. It is preferred to include a clock 31b that generates and provides time. The time can be set using the directory input / output display and control panel 32 in a manner known in the art. (Otherwise, the VCR 1 can keep time.) The microprocessor controller 31 controls the sequence and operation of the directory controller 30, reads and updates the directory, and also It is connected to the VCR control logic circuit 21 to implement the necessary function of writing. The microprocessor controller 31 of the indexing VCR 10 performs all indexing functions and human interfaces, and translates (tabs, indents, screen formats, attributes). Etc.) and display auxiliary information.

The RAM 33 is a conventional random access semiconductor memory that is directly connected with the microprocessor controller 31. The RAM 33 is preferably nonvolatile. Alternatively, the RAM 33 is backed up by the battery. The battery backup must maintain the contents of the memory for a predetermined time, for example seven days, even after the power supply is cut off. The retention time may be shorter when the indexing VCR automatically backs up the memory on the image tape as described below. RAM area 33 illustrated as system data 33b may be used to store system software of microprocessor controller 31. Another area 33c of the RAM is used to store still image frame images. This region as well as other regions may be separate memories. Another area of the RAM 33 is used as temporary memory for storing a part of the directory read from the pre-writable tape. The size of the RAM 33 may vary depending on the producer. However, it is preferable that the RAM 33 can store at least 400 directories of tapes. Display 32e is a conventional liquid crystal display or other form of display that displays a directory or other information stored in RAM 33. Alternatively, an on-screen display 50a can be used, as described below. Directory information stored in the RAM 33 is processed by the microprocessor controller 31.

The VCR 1 further includes a character generator circuit 23 connected to the VCR control logic circuit 21 and a character generator read only memory (ROM) 25. Character generators are well known in the art. Typically, data tables representing pixels or bit patterns are stored for a number of alphanumeric characters, such as Roman alphabets and Arabic numerals. According to commands by the VCR control logic circuit 21 and the character generator circuit 23, the image of the character generator ROM 25 is read and determined by the coordinates generated by the microprocessor controller 31. It is placed in the signal output to the video display at a location on the display. As a result, alphanumeric characters are visually displayed on the screen of the display. Character generators are well known for channel displays and television title equipment for television receivers.

Still picture frames are also read for the selected program and displayed on display 50.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the VBI signal decoder 60a is connected to the output of a tuner 61 typically included in the majority of consumer VCRs for off-the-air recording. The tuner 61 receives a TV broadcast signal from an antenna 63, a wired TV signal source 64, or a satellite receiver system. The tuner 61 down converts a broadcast video signal received from one of several video channels into a television channel, typically channel 3 or 4, which is not commonly used. The tuner 61 is a VBI decoder 60a for decoding the data recorded on the VBI of the received video signal, and a VBI encoder 60b for encoding the data on the VBI of the video signal to be recorded onto the image tape 42. And the down-converted image signal to the image logic circuit 14. VBI decoder 60a may decode at least lines 10-25 of both fields of the VBI. Decoder 60 a may also decode the VBI signal using a copy protection pulse inserted between the VBI signals, such as a Macrovision copy protection system.

The data encoded in the VBI is provided to the directory controller to automatically generate a program title corresponding to the directory of the program to be retrieved and recorded by the VBI decoder 60a. In addition, the decoder 60a retrieves a flag packet and flags the flag with the VCR control logic circuit 21 which collects and stores the selected image frame as an image to be used as a description port of the image program to be recorded. to provide. The decoded signal line 65 is connected from the decoder to the VCR control logic circuit 21 for transferring the decoded VBI data to the control logic circuit. The VCR control logic circuit 21 transfers the data decoded by the command of the microprocessor controller 31 to the directory 33a, and collects and stores the selected image frame under the control of the program stored in the RAM 33. In addition, the program generates VBI information to be stored on the display 50 together with the still image frame image of the selected stored program and stored as the program title in the directory.

Memory structure

Hereinafter, a memory structure of the RAM 33 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3 conceptually illustrating a typical structure of data stored in the RAM 33 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment, library 1023 is also provided in RAM 33. The library 1023 stores a directory of tapes stored by the VCR 1 user. Each directory stored in the library contains substantially the same information as the directory in use. If the library exists, the library pointer 1015 is provided to point to the library 1023.

Directory pointer 1018 is also provided to point to the directory 1021 in use which stores the directory of the currently inserted tape. This directory pointer 1018 may actually point to a location in the library where the directory of the tape is located.

The area 1010 also stores a tape or volume number field (VOLNO) 1016 that stores a counter value indicating the number of tape directories already stored in the library 1023. Other flags can be added as needed.

Referring to FIG. 3 conceptually showing the structure of a directory in use in the data structure of FIG. 2, the directory 1021 in use stores a directory of a cassette tape currently inserted in the VCR 1. For each program recorded on the cassette tape, the corresponding entry 1041 is set in the directory 1021 in use. For simplicity, an entry 1041 corresponding to the first program is illustrated in FIG. 3. However, each program has an entry similar to entry 1041. Each entry 1041 may include a title or program name (PROGRAM) 1042; A program address (LOC) 1043 that stores an absolute tape counter value at program start; A still picture frame (SVF) address 1056; A description of the program or an address 1057 for this description; A program length value (LENGTH) that stores the length of the recorded program that appears as a function of time measured from a fixed reference point, such as the difference between the address of the next program and the address of the recorded program, record, or tape. 1044); A selection program type field (TYPE) 1045 for storing the type of recorded program; An optional program viewer field (AUDIENCE) 1046 that stores a recommended audience for the program; And a selective recording speed (SPEED) 1047 for storing the speed at which the program is recorded.

The current position of the tape (CURRENT LOC) 1049 is also a directory to indicate the absolute position from the beginning of the tape 42 within the cassette 40 where the valid data is located or the tape counter value when the tape is ejected. Stored within. This field is used to set the tape counter when the tape is reloaded in the VCR 1.

Field 1051 is a pointer to the address of the first entry of directory 1021 displayed in FIG. 3 by an arrow pointing to program name (PROGRAM) 1042. Each entry also has a field 1048 that stores the address of the next entry in the directory displayed in FIG. 3 by the arrow pointing to the second program. This field is used to provide a link from one entry to the next, and to facilitate navigation, deletion, and addition of entries. In a preferred embodiment, directory information is not stored on tape 42 but retrieved from library 1023. In this embodiment, the volume label VOLNO 1050 is provided in the directory 1021 in use. This field is used to retrieve directory information of the tape from the library 1023 stored in the RAM 33.

Tape format

The format of the tape 42 is described below. 4 and 5 show, by way of example, the information content of video tapes for the BETA and VHS formats, both using the same conventional tape layout. The tape 42 is divided into three regions. A narrow strip continuous along the upper edge of the tape 42 is the audio track 42a containing the audio signal. The second narrow strip, which is continuous along the lower edge of the tape, is the control track 42c containing a synchronization control signal. The middle region 42b is a pair of parallel fields placed vertically so as to be slightly inclined in the tape width direction for recording video signals. Markers 110, 112, 114 can be used.

The image head drum 13 is provided with two read / write heads 180 degrees apart so that even-numbered lines make up one field and odd-numbered lines make up another field. In order to reduce the flicker on the imaging screen, these fields are radiated onto the surface of the cathode ray tube (CRT) screen 50a of the imaging display 50 at alternating intervals.

Decrypt VBI Information

Referring to FIG. 1, the microprocessor controller 31 controls the sequence and operation of the directory controller 30, and implements VCR control logic circuits to implement the necessary functions to read, update, and also write directories. 21). In a particular embodiment, the microprocessor controller 31 is a microcomputer chip that is part number UPD78234 of the NEC Corporation having the logical block diagram shown in FIG. Preferably such microcomputer chip is a microprogrammed processor capable of accessing up to 1 megabyte of data memory. Connection to various components of the VCR 1, such as motor and machine control logic circuits 5, image logic circuits 7, position logic and counter circuits 9, and control and voice track logic circuits 11; Multiple input / output ports (P0-P7) are provided for this purpose. Asynchronous communication between the microcomputer chip and the components is achieved by supplying a number of interrupt inputs INPT0-INPT5.

7 illustrates a block diagram of a microprocessor controller 31 according to another particular embodiment. The VBI signal processor 701 performs vertical and horizontal synchronous separation of the VBI lines. The VBI signal processor 701 also splits and encodes the VBI line. This controller performs the functions of the VBI encoder 60b and the buffer 62 (see FIG. 5). The controller 702 controls the RAM 33 and corrects and decrypts errors on some types of data coming from the VBI signal processor 701. The controller 702 also provides an interface with the serial link (I-LINK) and an interface with the VCR control logic circuit 21. The controller 702 also controls the RAM 33. The microprocessor controller 31 of the indexing VCR 10 performs all indexing functions and human interfaces, translates (tabs, indents, screen formats, attributes, etc.) and also displays auxiliary information. The microcontroller also normally performs all of the indexing VCR 10 functions.

In this embodiment, the interface between the controller 702 and the VCR control logic circuit 21 is two pieces of hardware selectable by a 2/3 pin mode signal which is an input signal to the controller 702. Or a clock serial bus by three I / O lines. The interrupt through the interrupt signal line allows the VCR control logic circuit 21 to monitor the state of the controller 702. In a two-pin configuration, the data I / O signal line acts as a bidirectional signal path between the VCR control logic circuit 21 and the controller 702. In a three pin configuration, the controller 702 provides data through a data output signal line. In addition, in a three-pin configuration, the VCR control logic circuit 21 transmits data to the controller 702 via the data 'I' line. The controller 702 can communicate with the external RAM 73 via an external link enable signal. The MSB / LSB select signal sets the MSB to be sent first over the serial bus.

Indexing Overview

The VCR uses the directory described with reference to Figs. 2 and 3 to perform a user's tape library search to find the tape on which the selected program is recorded. The directory of a particular tape can be searched using key words, or title information, to locate the program on the tape. The tape can also be moved towards the selected program. Regarding indexing, this specification describes all of the above searching, creation of the directory, and related functions.

Indexing The VCR 10 provides a blending method of indexing a recorded program recorded on one of three types of tapes, such as a home recordable tape, a prerecorded tape, and a retrospective indexed tape. A home recordable tape (HR tape) is a tape recorded by a user in real time, by programming a timer of his or her VCR, or by recording using a VCR PLUS + ^™ programming system or by broadcasting or wired. The index is created at the time recorded by the VCR. The second type of tape is commercially available tapes such as Raquel Welch work-out tapes, karaoke tapes, songs, lectures or speeches that can contain many titles or only one program on the tape. to be. Such a tape cannot be rewritten. The index is stored on the tape by the image publisher at the time of recording. The third type of tape is a retro-indexed tape (RI tape), in which a user adds an index retroactively, which was previously recorded without an index. In this type of tape, the index is added by the VCR retroactively. In the HR tape and RI tape created by the home VCR, both directories reside in the RAM 33 of the indexing VCR 10.

The TID refers to the tape for the corresponding directory stored in RAM 33. When either the HR tape or the RI tape is inserted into the VCR, the VCR locates, reads the tape identification number, and then retrieves the directory from the RAM 33. This operation is preferably independent of the tape insertion point and thus can effectively create random access on the tape. On the other hand, in a PR tape created by an image issuer, the directory is repeatedly recorded on the VBI line and preferably stored on the tape. When a PR tape is inserted into an indexing VCR, the indexing VCR 10 quickly positions and reads a copy of the directory from the VBI line, regardless of the tape insertion point. Thus, the PR tape can also be read by random access.

The VCR 1 receives digital data such as a tape label (e.g., volume number), a directory, and / or an address from the microprocessor controller 31, and the VBI area of the video signal recorded on the cassette tape 40 And a VBI encoder 60b connected by information to a video logic circuit 7 encoding the data recorded therein. In the case of line 21 of the second field, the digital data stored in the register is output and recorded on the video track as described above.

The VBI encoder 60b may be implemented in a manner similar to that already exists in the art, for example, an encoder that encodes closed caption data into the VBI region of the video signal. An exemplary embodiment for the VBI encoder 60b is shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B of US Application No. 08 / 176,852.

As shown in FIG. 9C, the VBI decoder 60a is either one of a broadcast signal (Video In) from the tuner 61 or a write signal (PB Signal) read by the video logic circuit 7 from the tape 42. Can be used with different time durations to decode. When the VCR 1 records a program, the VBI decoder 60a operates to decode the information in the VBI of the broadcast signal. When the VCR 1 reproduces a program from the cassette tape 40, the VBI decoder 60a can operate to decode information stored in the VBI of a recording signal (for example, previously recorded directory information).

Note that although in the embodiment decoder 60a is used both to decode the broadcast signal and the record signal, it will be appreciated that a separate decoder may be provided for each operation. In addition, although decoder 60a and encoder 60b are illustrated and described in two units, they may be integrated into a single semiconductor chip or implemented by separate logic components. In the implementation of FIG. 11, the VBI signal processor 701 processes the VBI signal.

Pre-recordable tape

As noted above, pre-writable tapes (PR tapes) are produced by a tape publisher and include a program with a number of different titles. Program directories or directories or records on tape that contain information about the name and location of each program are stored on the tape. In addition, the image frame selected for each recorded program is preferably stored on the tape at the beginning of the tape in the image track. In one particular embodiment, a label (eg volume number or name) for the tape is also recorded.

One of the image frame 42b or the control track 42c (see FIGS. 8 and 9) can be used to store the program directory. In one embodiment, the program directory is an odd and / or even number that is a pair of spaced apart image fields in the control track 42c by the VCR control logic circuit 21 under the control of the microprocessor controller 31. It is stored as either a full video frame or a VBI in a field labeled with.

Directory

In the HR tape, the directory is stored in RAM 33 and referenced by the TID repeatedly recorded on line 19 of the VBI for HR tape. The PR tape also has a TID recorded on the VBI throughout the tape.

When a PR tape is inserted into the indexing VCR 10, the indexing VCR 10 stops after reading the VBI to quickly determine the TID and program number (and in some embodiments, absolute address). When the user presses the index button, the indexing VCR 10 determines from the TID that the tape is not an HR tape. The indexing VCR 10 then proceeds to the PLAY mode to read the directory from VBI line 20 and display it on the screen.

Addressing system

9 illustrates an embodiment of storing tape identification numbers and addresses using a file mark plus asynchronous sprinkling address system. In a preferred embodiment, the address system is a file mark and asynchronous sprinkling (FMAS) address system. Such a system writes an absolute address in the form of an address packet on control track 42c (see FIGS. 8 and 9). Some copy protection is provided because control track data is not easily copied from one VCR to another. These packets are recorded in two types of locations. The first form (first form) is recorded at the beginning of each program and at the end of the last program on the tape. The main function of these packets is to serve as a 'file mark' for searching the beginning of the program. Packets of the second type (second type) are recorded asynchronously as often as possible between packets of the first type and the packets. The main function of this packet serves as a 'road mark' which allows the current position of the tape to be quickly determined when the cassette 40 is inserted into the VCR 1.

In summary, when an indexed tape is inserted into the VCR 1, the VCR quickly determines the correct current position of the tape from the surrounding second type address packet. To retrieve the starting point of some other program, the VCR 1 performs either fast forward or rewind and monitors the control track of the correct destination address packet. When this packet is located, the VCR 1 stops and returns to the reproduction speed so as to be exactly placed in the destination address packet. With the FMAS system, the asynchronous sprinkling address makes the determination of the current position faster. The search for the starting point of the program is achieved because the VCR 1 monitors the control track 42c while performing the fast forward or rewind, and also because the destination address packet is recorded exactly at the beginning of the program like a file mark. It is done correctly.

In the FMAS address system, an absolute address is recorded on the control track 42c of the tape 42 in the form of an address packet using the data encoding and decoding described above with respect to Figs. 13A to 13I. The absolute address is a measure of the distance from the beginning of the tape. This distance is preferably determined by counting control track pulses. For example, the address at one point of the tape may be the time (seconds) from the beginning of the tape to the point in SLP mode. Thus, E-120 tapes have an address range from 0 to 21600 (120 minutes x 60 seconds). For example, address 1140 refers to the point where the distance from the start of the tape takes 1,140 seconds in SLP mode. When the VCR mode is recorded or reproduced from the start in the SP mode, the address becomes 1140 after 380 seconds (1140 seconds ÷ 3). If there is a blank space between two programs, the address system considers it. For example, if the first program is recorded in SLP mode and the address at the end of the program is 1,000, the tape travels some distance before the second program starts. Since there is no video signal between the end of the first program and the start of the second program, there is no control track pulse for storing the moved distance. In this case, the rotation count of the takeup spool spindle can be used for interpolate. For example, the winding spool spindle may count one for thirty control track pulses, one address count at the end of the first program. At the start of the second program, the winding spool may count two for thirty control track pulses, one address count at the start of the second program. Thus, on average the winding spool counts 1.5 for one address count in 30 control track pulses, ie, the gap between the first program and the second program. If the winding spindle counts 150 counts of blanks, it is assumed that the control track counts 3,000 control track pulses (150 ÷ 1.5 x 30), ie 100 addresses. The start address of the second program is 1,000 (end address of the first program) + 100 (length of the blank area) = 1,100. The absolute address is written once at the beginning of each program and at the end of the last program. In HR tapes and PR tapes, the address is repeated as often as possible between the beginning and the end of every program. In RI tapes, addresses are repeated as often as possible for some programs described in detail below.

Other address systems may be used as described in US Application No. 08 / 176,852.

To explore the starting point of some other program, the process for HR tapes and PR tapes is as follows. The VCR knows the destination absolute address as well as the current absolute address. While monitoring the winding spool spindle rotation count, the VCR typically fast forwards or rewinds to a location within 5 seconds of the destination, then proceeds at playback speed to read the VBI and stop at the correct address. The first part of the discovery process on the RI tape is the same as on the HR and PR tapes. Knowing the current absolute address and the absolute address of the destination, the VCR can fast forward or rewind to near the destination while monitoring the winding spool spindle rotation count. The VCR also proceeds at playback speed to read the control track and stop at the correct address mark.

When a tape is inserted into an indexing VCR to perform a search on HR and PR tapes, the current position of the tape can be known from the absolute address on the VBI line. From this address, the current program number can be known from the RAM 33 on the HR tape and the directory restored from the VBI on the PR tape so as to correspond to the TID. For example, if the current program is a third program and the command is a progression to the sixth program, the VCR should perform fast forward so that it is located at a third indexing mark such as VISS or VASS from the current position. Since the VCR can read the control track while performing the fast forward or rewind, it is possible to read the marks stored in the control track. If the third mark is searched during fast forward, the VCR switches to stop and then rewinds because the third mark has passed. The VCR can then switch to playback to read the absolute address and then 'soft-land' on the selected address. The process is the same once the program number is found on the RI tape.

In summary, when an HR or PR tape is inserted into the indexing VCR 10, the indexing VCR 10 scans the VBI for a predetermined time, for example 2 seconds, and then the TID and current of the tape from the surrounding TP data packets. Determine the program number quickly. When the user presses the index button, the indexing VCR 10 retrieves the directory from the RAM 33 and displays it together with the still picture frame image corresponding to the program identified by the cursor or some other means. If the user requires the indexing VCR 10 to move to the beginning of another program, the indexing VCR 10 performs either fast forward or rewind the tape while counting the number of VISS marks in the control track to the destination. Search.

In summary, Table 1 illustrates a directory and address system for two types of tape.

TABLE 1

Tape form Directory Address system

RAM 33 in the HR indexing VCR 10 VISS + TP

VBI VISS + TP on PR Tape

Data format

In the data packet described below in connection with FIGS. 10-14, the byte is a 7-bit data symbol in which the eighth bit is reserved as a parity bit.

10 illustrates a data format for a directory recorded on a pre-writable tape. The data packet 9100 begins with a start code 9101 having a length of 1 byte. The start sign 9101 preferably has a 01 hex value. The type code is 1 byte in length. The value of the form code 9102 is 0X01. The next two bytes are the number of title symbols 9103. The number of title symbols 9103 indicates a binary number encoded in 7-bit ASCII for the number of titles in the directory. In a preferred embodiment, only '0' through '9' and 'A' through 'Z' of ASCII symbols are used. For example, the ASCII string '1F' represents the number 1FX. Since two ASCII characters are used, the maximum number of titles is FF hex (256). After the number of title symbols 9103, the first program entry 9104, the second program entry 9905, and the Nth program 9106 include information related to the N programs (in Fig. 24, for simplicity and clarity). Only the first, second and Nth program entries are illustrated). Each program entry has a fixed length and contains a collection of symbols 37 bytes long. The first four bytes represent a 7-bit ASCII encoded binary address in a similar manner as described above for the number of title symbols 9103. For example, the ASCII character string '3F1A' represents a 3F1A hex address. Since 4 ASCII characters are used, the largest number is FFFF hex (65535). The fifth byte of the program entry indicates the recording mode. The 0X00 value is in Standard Play (SP) mode, the 0X01 value is in Long Play (LP) mode, the 0X10 value is in Super Long Play (SLP) mode, and the 0X11 to 0X7F values are described above. It is for the address of a still picture frame image for a program. The remaining 32 bytes of the program entry represent the program title code. The program title code is preferably encoded in 7-bit ASCII. An end code 9107, which is a one byte long symbol, follows the Nth program entry 9106. End code 9107 preferably has a 03 hex value. The data packet 9100 ends with a checksum 9108, which is a symbol of one byte in length. The checksum 9108 causes the modulo 128 of the entire data packet to be zero. That is, the modulo 128 of (start code 9201 + form code 9102 + number of titles 9103 + program entries 9104, 9105, 9106 + end code 9307 + checksum 9108) is zero. do. In pre-writable tapes, directories are repeated as often as space in the VBI allows. Typically this means once every 3 or 4 seconds.

11 illustrates a data packet format for a tape identification number (TID). In a PR tape, tape I.D is repeatedly recorded on one line of the VBI. In HR and RI tapes, the TID is recorded on the control track after the address mark at the beginning and end of each program. In HR tapes, the TID is also repeated as often as possible, preferably once every 3 or 4 seconds.

TID is a 48-bit number in HR and RI tapes. This number is a header, random machine identification, and tape number. Thus, the risk that the tape has the same identification number will be minimized. In a PR tape, the TID corresponds to the tape's UPC code (12 digits). A municipal library, tape rental store or retail store in this manner can adopt all of the indexing system's TIDs. TID data packet 9120 has a length of 12 bytes. In a TID data packet, a byte refers to a 7-bit data symbol in which the eighth bit is reserved as a parity bit. The data packet 9120 begins with a start sign 9121 having a length of one byte. The start sign 9121 preferably has a 01 hex value. The start code 9121 is followed by the form code 9222 with a one byte length symbol and preferably with a value of 0X04. Tape I.D 9123 follows form code 9922 and is 8 bytes long. As mentioned above, the tape I.D 9123 is determined differently depending on the tape type. Tape I.D 9123 in a PR tape is a 12 digit UPC code whose most significant bit is a 48 bit number less than 0F0 hex. In the HR tape, the tape identification number 9123 is made up of details. The first part is an 8-bit header in the MSB with a 0FF hex value. The next 24 bits are an identification number generated by a random number sequence generated for each VCR with less likelihood of overlap. The 24-bit machine I.D is generated as an arbitrary number generated by some condition that makes it as different as possible between users. In the first implementation, 24 bits begin with two 12-bit numbers. When the VCR is first powered up, the counter starts with a counting pulse that is less than a 0.25 millisecond duration. The counter is stopped by the user pressing the first and second keys using a remote controller. These two 12-bit random numbers are combined to form a machine identification number. Because the counter is so fast and the keys pressed by the user are highly random, the machine identification number must be sufficiently random so that only two-sixteenth of the likelihood that two VCRs will have the same machine I.D. The 16-bit tape number follows the machine I.D, which considers 65536 tapes in one VCR. The terminator 9224 follows the tape I.D 9223 and is one byte long. End code 9224 preferably has a 03 hex value. The checksum 9225 follows the terminator 9224 and is one byte long. The checksum 9225 causes the modulo 128 of the entire directory packet to be zero. That is, the modulo 128 of (start code 9121 + form code 9122 + tape I.D 9223 + end code 9224 + checksum 9225) becomes zero.

In another embodiment, the 48-bit machine identification number region of tape I.D 9123 can be Julian days, hours, minutes when the VCR is first used.

12 illustrates a TID for an HR tape. TID 2604 is a five byte number. Bit 39 and bits 38 through 31 are zero. Bits 30 through 16 are machine IDs. Bits 15 through 0 are tape numbers. As mentioned above, the 15-bit machine ID is an arbitrary number generated by the indexing VCR 10 when it is first powered up. This results in a 1 in 32,768 chance that two indexing VCRs will have the same machine ID. The 16-bit tape number allows each of the indexing VCRs 10 to have 65,536 tapes stored in RAM 33. Alternatively, the tape number may consist of other bits.

13 illustrates a TID for a PR tape. Like the TID for HR tapes, the TID for PR tapes is a 5-byte number. Bit 39 is 1 and bits 38 through 0 are 11 digit UPC numbers represented in binary form without parity digits. By using UPC numbers, businesses such as libraries, tape rental shops, and retail outlets can adopt TIDs. Thus, the use of PR tapes can be monitored and analyzed. If the TID is stored in RAM 33, 5 bytes are preferred. However, if only 4 bytes are written, bits 0 through 30 and bit 39 are stored in RAM 33.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating the steps used in the operation of an indexing VCR using the FMAS addressing system for recording a tape identification number, address, and directory on a home recordable tape (HR tape) during recording or ejection. If the tape is in the VCR and the directory controller 30 knows the current tape identification number and the current address, the VCR prepares to write on or eject the tape (step 9200). The microprocessor controller 31 reads out the TID and address from the control track 42c. For the current HR tape, the TID and address are read from control track 42c. For a new blank tape, the microprocessor controller 31 assigns the TID to the tape and resets the address to zero. The microprocessor controller 31 waits for either the write signal or the eject command. When a write signal is received (step 9201), the microprocessor controller 31 reads the program identification number from the VBI of the signal to be recorded (step 9202). It is assumed that the microprocessor controller 31 already searches the directory for the inserted tape if the inserted tape is a current HR tape. For a new blank tape, the microprocessor controller 31 creates a new directory in the RAM 33 with the still picture frame image stored as part of the directory. During this writing, the microprocessor controller 31 initializes the address, title, and tape speed in the RAM 33 and initializes a flag sensor in the VCR control logic 21. If the title is not read from the VBI (step 9202), the microprocessor controller 31 uses a date time stamp as the title (step 9203). The microprocessor controller 31 then instructs the VCR control logic circuit 21, followed by the control and voice track head logic circuit 11, to write the TID and address on the control track 42c (step 9204). The microprocessor controller 31 continues to record the date and address on the control track 42c until a command is received to stop recording (step 9206). During recording, the VCR control logic circuit 21 receives a packet informing the logic circuit 21 of the position of the video frame which is collected and stored as a still picture frame image for the program. Upon completing the program recording, the microprocessor controller 31 returns to the ready state and waits for further commands (step 9200).

On the other hand, when a command to eject the tape is received (step 9207), the microprocessor controller 31 refers to the current tape position (current LOC) flag indicating the absolute address of the position with reference to the beginning of the tape when the tape is ejected. The directory stored in the RAM 33 is updated, including 1049 (see FIG. 3). If the tape is a blank tape, the microprocessor controller 31 displays the number of the tape on the image display 50a so that the user can display the housing of the cassette 40 with a new number for the next identification. The VCR control logic circuit 21 then instructs the motor and machine control circuit 5 to eject the tape (step 9212).

Tape Identification and Directory Restore Behavior

15 and 16 are flowcharts illustrating the steps used in the operation of an indexing VCR using the FMAS addressing system when a tape is inserted. If the tape is inserted into the VCR (step 9240), the microprocessor controller 31 instructs the VCR control logic circuit 21 to play the tape for N seconds and read the TID and address from the control track (step 9241; The step is referred to as step [A] in later steps of FIGS. 15 and 16). N is preferably between 3 and 5 seconds. (If the tape was previously ejected, the indexing VCR may rewind the tape for a predetermined time interval, eg, 5 seconds of playback time, to quickly retrieve the TID.) After reading the TID and address from the tape, the microprocessor The controller 31 instructs the VCR control logic circuit 21 to stop playback of the tape. The microprocessor controller 31 waits until the INDEX button on the remote controller is pressed (step 9243). If the index button is pressed and the TID and address are read in step 9241 (step 9244), then the microprocessor controller 31 determines that the tape is (1) home-recorded (HR) tape, (2) pre-recorded (PR) tape, Or (3) It is determined from the TID whether or not it is a home recorder (HR) loaner (step 9246).

If the tape is an HR tape in step 9246 (step 9247), the microprocessor controller 31 restores the directory 33a corresponding to the tape having the TID from the RAM 33 (step 9248). The microprocessor controller 31 then displays the restored directory on the image display 50a (step 9249). The user moves the cursor or selects the program of interest. Thereafter, the microprocessor controller 31 restores a still picture frame (SVF) picture and description corresponding to the program (step 9283). The SVF picture and description are displayed with the directory as illustrated in FIG. 17 (step 9284). The microprocessor controller 31 then enters the ready mode (step 9251). In the preparation step, the microprocessor controller 31 knows the current address of the selected program and the TID of the tape.

If it is determined in step 9246 that the tape is a pre-writable tape (step 9252), the microprocessor controller 31 reads the directory containing the SVF picture and description to determine if the TID is stored in the RAM 33. (Step 9253). If the TID is in RAM 33, microprocessor controller 31 restores the directory from RAM 33 as described in step 9248. On the other hand, when the TID is not in the RAM 33, the microprocessor controller 31 instructs the VCR control logic circuit 21 to play back the tape so that the microprocessor controller 31 reads a directory from the VBI on the tape ( Step 9254) Display the read directory on the screen (step 9285).

The program in the directory selected by the user using a cursor or the like is displayed, and the SVF picture and description for this program is restored from the beginning of the tape (BOT) or SRAM (step 9286). The SVF picture and description are displayed with the directory as illustrated in FIGS. 18-20 (step 9287).

Referring to FIG. 17, the display for the home recordable tape, HR tape number 2 400, in this example includes a list and length of program titles recorded on the cassette. The cursor 402 brightly displays the second recorded program, 'ABC Nightline 12/22', and also displays a still image frame image 406 and a description of the program.

SVF pictures and descriptions are located at the top of the screen, and text directories are located at the bottom of the screen. The upper background is colored such as blue to enhance the display.

18 and 19 display a program recorded on the same PR tape. In FIG. 18, the cursor 502 brightly displays a program title, in this case a song with the word 'singing along'. The SVF picture 506 is displayed with the description 514. The description displays the story of the song, as well as the names of composers and singers.

In FIG. 19 another song or program is displayed brightly such that another SVF picture 606 appears on the screen.

20, another PR tape titled 'Let's Play Baseball' is displayed. A portion of the introduction 802 is displayed brightly, and an SVF picture 806 is associated with this portion of the description.

The function code for the control logic 21 is described in US Application No. 08 / 176,852. The function codes issued by the VCR logic 21 control the collection and storage of each selected from the image.

As described above, certain values and representations are used to easily explain and understand the present invention. In addition, although the values of the electrical components have been illustrated for the circuits shown in some figures, such values are intended to facilitate the implementation of the invention so that the functionality of each circuit may be achieved by different values or even by other components. It will be understood that it can. Therefore, the above description should not be understood as being specific to a specific structure and technology, but rather should be understood to be consistent with and supported by the following claims, which have the most complete and appropriate scope.

The present invention facilitates program retrieval by managing, storing, and updating current information about a program recorded on a magnetic tape, and can randomly access a program on a tape regardless of the insertion point of the tape.

Claims (6)

A method of selecting a program recorded on a video tape for playing on a VCR, the method comprising: Recording an image program on an image tape, wherein each image program consists of a sequence of still frame images; A directory of programs recorded on the video tape, wherein the directory includes a still frame image of the video program, a title of the video program, and a start address of the video program on the tape for each of the recorded programs. Storing in memory; Inserting the image tape into a VCR; Searching a memory to display a list of titles of programs recorded on the inserted image tape; Displaying the list of retrieved titles in a first area of a screen; Marking one of the displayed titles; Searching a memory to display a still frame image corresponding to a program of the displayed title; Displaying the retrieved still frame image in a second area of the screen; And Selecting to play one of the displayed titles Program selection method comprising a. The method of claim 1, And the storing step stores the directory in RAM. The method of claim 1, And the storing step saves the directory on the inserted image tape. The method of claim 1, Storing a program description for each recorded program in memory as part of a directory of the program recorded on the image tape; Searching a memory to display a program description of the displayed title; And Displaying the retrieved description in a third area of the screen Program selection method further comprising a. The method of claim 1, The step of storing a directory of a program recorded on the image tape in a memory includes storing a directory of a pre-recorded tape on the tape itself and a directory of a home recorded tape in RAM. Storing in the; Searching the memory to display a list of titles of programs recorded on the inserted image tape comprises detecting whether the inserted tape is a pre-recorded or home-recorded tape; Retrieving a directory from the tape if detected, and retrieving a directory from the RAM if a home recordable tape is detected. How to choose a program. The method of claim 1, Retrieving a start address of a program of the selected title from a directory in memory; Positioning the image tape at the retrieved address; And Playing the program of the selected title Program selection method further comprising a.