MXPA99008184A - Still frame video in index - Google Patents

Abstract

A frame (42b) of the video being recorded or previously recorded on tape (42) is captured and stored for use at the time of displaying the directory of programs (33a) stored on the tape (42).

Description

FIXED VIDEO PICTURE IN INDEX FIELD OF THE INVENTION In one aspect, this invention relates to a means and method for facilitating the handling, storage and retrieval of video programs on magnetic tape. In another aspect, this invention relates to the maintenance of current information about programs recorded on a magnetic tape and more particularly to maintain current information about such a tape using a magnetic tape reader / recorder, and tape cassette for magnetic tape. same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION As fully explained in the application serial number 08 / 176,852, directories are provided in the text for tapes recorded at home (HR) or pre-recorded tapes (PR) to facilitate the selection and reproduction of programs recorded on a tape. Indexing of the VCR is provided to recover the directory of any tape (particularly for PR tapes) or from RAM on the VCR (particularly for HR tapes).

REF .: 31281 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION A frame of a video program that is recorded on the tape is selected to be displayed with the directory in text form for one or more of the recorded programs.

This improves the appearance and usefulness of the directory when adding an image to the text. The fixed video frame for the program is captured and stored in RAM while the program is being recorded on the HR tape. The VCR is warned of the position or synchronization of the selected frame that will be stored by a flag, such as a control package in the VBI, during the reception of the program. The packet can be included in the data of the EDS field online or it can be transported by any other line that can be identified by a pointer in one of the lines normally used, such as the EDS line, for example. For PR tapes, the fixed frame video image for each program has a fixed frame video image that is stored at the beginning of the tape. When the PR tape is purchased and becomes part of the library or is rented or borrowed and used many times, the directory with the fixed frame video is stored in the VCR RAM to eliminate the need to return to the beginning of the tape where the fixed video frame is typically recorded.

The invention provides, in a magnetic tape reader / writer, a method and apparatus for maintaining a directory of recorded programs that includes an image of a fixed video frame. The availability of the program directory can greatly facilitate the operation of the tape cassette reader / writer. In the specification, different embodiments of the present invention are described for storing the directory and the fixed frame video image. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the directory information and the fixed frame video images are recorded on the tape itself. In an implementation of this mode, the directory information is written on the video track of the tape in the vertical white intervals (VBI) of the recorded video signals and the fixed frame video image is stored at the beginning of the tape. . Alternatively, the fixed frame video images are stored in the RAM, in the VCR. In still another embodiment of the present invention, the directory information of the tape is stored in a random access memory located in the VCR with the associated fixed video frames for the programs recorded on the tape which are also stored in a portion of the same RAM or in a different random access memory. An identification (eg, a volume label) is written to the tape so that the corresponding directory information of the random access memory can be retrieved when the tape is loaded into the VCR. In addition, the fixed frame video image for a recorded program selected from memory is recovered and displayed on the screen. Index information is provided on the tape to facilitate the search of programs recorded on it and the placement of the same to the selected programs. In another modality, a library containing the directories with the images of fixed video frames of a plurality of selected tapes is stored in the VCR. The availability of the library facilitates the search of programs in the plurality of tapes. In a preferred embodiment, a hybrid VCR system is capable of detecting the address and tape identification number (TID) of either the VBI control view of a videotape and the identification of tape type therefrom. A first type of tape is a tape recorded at home (HR tape) in which the directory of the same is stored in a RAM and the TID, and the address is stored in the control track in a first mode, and in the VBI in a second modality. A second type of tape is a pre-recorded tape (PR tape) from a provider in which the directory is stored in the VBI and the addresses are stored in a manner similar to that of the HR tapes, and the fixed-frame video images they are stored at the beginning of the tape.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the development of an index for a video cassette recorder, using a hybrid index-making system that provides for the production of an index of recorded programs for tapes recorded at home, tapes recorded previously and tapes in which an index can be developed retroactively, and a standard video cassette format, and having a directory controller, a common link interface and an output interface and constituting the invention. Figure 2 is a schematic conceptually illustrating a data structure stored in the RAM of the directory controller of Figure 1 according to a specific implementation of the present invention. Figure 3 is a schematic illustrating a conceptual structure of a directory in use in the data structure of Figure 2 according to a specific implementation of the present invention. Figure 4 is a graphic representation of the format of the information recorded on the magnetic tape in the cassette of Figure 1 with markers and directories in the control track. Figure 5 is a graphic representation of the format of the information recorded on the magnetic tape in the cassette of Figure 1 with markers on the control track and in the directories in the fields of the video frames. Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating the microprocessor controller of Figure 1 and its interfaces to implement a specific embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 is a block diagram illustrating the microprocessor controller of Figure 1 and its interfaces to implement another specific implementation of the microprocessor controller. Figure 8 illustrates a VBI decoder for both broadcast signals and recorded signals. Fig. 9 is a schematic view of a mode for storing tape identification numbers and addresses using a file mark plus an asynchronous spreading address system. Figure 10 is a schematic view showing the data format for the directory recorded in previously recorded tapes.

Figure 11 is a schematic view showing the format of data packets for the identification number (TID) of identification of tapes. Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the format for another mode of a TID for an HR tape. Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the format for another mode of a TID for a PR tape. Figure 14 shows a flow diagram showing the steps used in the operation of a VCR that builds an index using a PMAS addressing system to write a tape identification number, address and directory on a tape set at home ( HR tape) during recording or ejection. Figures 15 and 16 are flow charts showing the steps used in the operation of making an index with the VCR using an FMAS addressing system when the tape is inserted therein. Figure 17 is a directory display and an SVF image and the description for an HR tape. Figure 18 is a directory display and the SVF image as well as the description for a PR tape. Figure 19 is a directory display and the SVF image as well as the description for the same PR tape, with a different program selected.

Figure 20 is a directory display and the SVF image, as well as the description for another PR tape.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION In Figure 1, a VCR that elaborates indexes is illustrated by the block diagram, which has the ability to recover and store selected video frames as still images to improve the directory text in either a RAM associated with the VCR or in a Magnetic tape. By way of background, as described in the application serial number 08/176, 852, decoder 60a of VBIs in the VCR that elaborates indices, explores VBI lines 10-25 of both fields 1 and 2. Lines 1 to 9 are typically used for synchronization and vertical equalization and, therefore, do not they are used to transmit data. The closed caption function and data in text mode are usually transmitted in VBI line 21, field 1 of the standard NTSC video signal, at a rate of 480 bits per second. The extended data services (RS) data is transmitted in VBI line 21, field 2. The data in the vertical blanking interval can be described in terms of waveform, its coding and the data packets. The waveform of the closed caption data has a clock in operation followed by a frame code, followed by the data. The coding of the data is odd parity of 7 bits without return to zero (NRZ). Under the extended data services (EDS) proposed in the Recommended Practice for Line 21 Data Service Electronics Industries Association, EIA-608 (papers of October 12, 1992 and June 17, 1993) (hereinafter referred to as the "EIA-608" standard) "), the subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference, the additional data is provided on line 21, field 2 of the vertical blanking interval. This requirement includes two closed captioning fields, two text mode fields and extended data services. Table I of the application serial number 08 / 176,852 shows the data classification, the class control code and the type code. Extended data includes, among other information, program name, program length, length on display, channel number, network membership, station call letters, UCT time (universal coordinate time), time zone and time of day saving. Upstream in the network, the network inserts the program name, the length of the display, the length within the display, the network membership and the UCT time. Downstream in the affiliate, the affiliate inserts the channel number, the time zone, the standard daytime time and the program names. The network inserts data that does not differ for different affiliates. The data is transmitted in packages. Six classes of packages are proposed in the EIA-608 standard that include: (1) a "current" class to describe a program that is being transmitted at that time; (2) a "future" class to describe a program that will be transmitted later; (3) a class of "channel information" to describe specific information that is not program about the transmitter channel; (4) a "different" class to describe other information; (5) a "public service" class to transmit data or messages of a public service nature such as warnings and messages from the national climate service; and (6) a "reserved" class that is saved for future definition. For home broadcasting of broadcasts (in the air, including satellite, cable or fiber optic) of programs, a packet is included in the EDS to inform the VCR that a video form of the broadcast program should be recorded as part of the program. of the directory for programs recorded on the tape. The package includes data that identifies it as a flag for retrieval of the selected video frame for storage as a fixed frame video image for use as part of the directory. The packet can be loaded on a line different from the VBIs with a pointer which is in the EDS data or without a pointer where the decoder searches for each line of the VBIs. The flag warns the VCR that the selected frame will start a certain number of horizontal synchronous pulses later. Other ways can be used to identify the selected frame to be used as the fixed frame video image.Generalities of the index elaboration system on the tape A feature of this invention is that the VCR with index uses a directory as described below to help select a program by using fixed-frame video images, performing searches by title, category, keywords or the like of users from the video tape library to find the particular tape that is presented in a selected program. In addition, a directory of the particular tape can be additionally searched to locate a program on the tape. The tape can then be automatically advanced to the selected program. Indexing is used in the present to describe the searches, the generation of these directories and the like. The directory contains information related to the identification number of a tape, the programs recorded in it and information related to these programs, such as the length of time, type of program and address (also called as position) on the tape.

The directory can be recorded at different positions on the tape for different modes as described in the original or parental patent application. In one embodiment described herein, the tape directory is recorded in a random access memory (RAM) for tapes recorded at home and recorded on the tape itself in the vertical blanking interval for previously recorded tapes.

The VCR with index Figure 1 is a block diagram of a VCR system 10 with index that includes a video cassette recorder / writer (VCR) 1 with a cassette 40 of conventional videotape, a video screen 50 and a video controller 30 directory. The VCR 1 is a video reading / recording device and uses any of many different recording technologies such as BETA, VHS, super VHS, 8 mm, VHS-C or any other popular technology. In particular, VHS-C indexed tapes can be played directly on a VCR with VHS index, with full operation of the index. The cassette 40 is a conventional video cassette having a magnetic tape 42 packaged in a cartridge 40a or in a cassette housing (hereinafter referred to as a cassette) and which is transported between the feed pin 40b and the pick pin 40c. Although the size and design of the accommodation is different for the various types of recording technology, the basic information found on the tape itself is similar. The technology and operation of a VCR is well understood in the art. The VCR 1 has a 3 button control panel with control buttons, which include the LOAD 3a, PLAY 3b, STOP 3c, RECORD 3d, and EJECT 3e buttons , to control the operation of the VCR 1. The LOAD button 3e is optional and is not used in machines which perform the load automatically. The logic control circuit 21 of the VCR receives control signals from the button control panel 3 and controls the overall operation of the VCR 1 by sending control signals to a motor and a mechanical control circuit 5, a logic circuit 7 of video, a position logic circuit and a counter circuit 9, and a logic control circuit 11 and audio track head of the VCR 1, as well as the video screen 50 and the microprocessor controller 31 of the controller 30 of directory. The motor and the mechanical control logic circuit 5 control the loading and ejection of the cassette 40 and also control the movement of the video tape 42 within the video cassette 40 during recording, reading (playback), advance and rewind. The video logic circuit 7 controls the operation of the drum 13 of the video read / write head in reading from, or the recording of video signals to the tape 42. The electrical signals are magnetically coupled between the video logic circuit 7 and the video head drum 13 using a winding 14. The position logic circuit and the counter circuit 9 monitor the movement of the tape through the cassette tape motion sensor 22 and generate signals representing the position of the tape. . Control and logic track 11 audio track control the writing, reading and erasing signals on the control or audio track of the tape 42 through the writing head 19, the read head 17 and the erasing head 15. The directory controller 30 includes a microprocessor controller 31, a random access memory (RAM) 33 and a directory input / output screen and a control panel 32. Preferably, the microprocessor controller 31 comprises an integrated circuit microprocessor, a program storage 31a such as a read-only memory (ROM), for storing a control program for implementing methods of the invention, and a clock 31b for generating a Clock signal to synchronize functions and provide time. The time can be set using a directory entry / exit screen and a control panel 32 in a manner known in the art. (Alternatively, the VCR • 1 can keep time).

The microprocessor controller 31 controls the sequence and operation of the directory controller 30 and the interfaces with the VCR control logic circuit 21 to implement the functional capabilities necessary for reading, updating and recording the directory. The microcontroller processor 31 in the index VCR 10 performs all the index processing functions and the human interconnection interprets (eg, label, indentation, screen format, attributes) and processes the auxiliary information screen. The RAM 33 is a conventional random access semiconductor memory which interconnects directly with the microprocessor controller 31. The RAM 33 is preferably non-volatile. Alternatively, RAM 33 is supported with battery. The battery holder must maintain the contents of the memory for a predetermined time, for example 7 days, after the loss of power. The retention time may be shorter, if the index VCR uses an automatic support of the memory on the videotape, as described below. A portion of the RAM 33, shown as the system data 33b, is also used to store the programming elements (software) of the system of the microprocessor controller 31. Another portion of RAM 33c is used to store fixed frame video images. This portion as well as each of the others can be a separate memory. Another additional portion of RAM 33 is used as a temporary memory for storing the directory read from the previously recorded tape. The size of the RAM 33 depends on the decision of the manufacturer. However, RAM 33 can preferably store the directory of at least 400 tapes. A display 32e is a conventional liquid crystal or other display to display the directory or other information stored in RAM 33. Alternatively, as discussed in the following, a display 50a may be used on the screen. The directory information stored in the RAM 33 is processed by the microprocessor controller 31. The VCR 1 additionally comprises a character generating circuit 23 coupled to the VCR control logic circuit 21 and to a character-generating read-only memory (ROM). Character generators are well known in the art. Typically, character generating ROM 25 stores a table of data displaying pixel patterns or bits of a plurality of alphanumeric characters, such as the Roman alphabet and Arabic numerals. Upon instructions by the VCR control logic circuit 21 and the character generator circuit 23, the data in the character generating ROM 25 is read and placed on an output signal to the video screen at a position in the screen determined by coordinates generated by the controller 31 of the microprocessor. The final result is a visual display of alphanumeric characters on the screen. Character generators are well known for displaying channels on television receivers, and for use in professional titling equipment. The fixed video frame is also read and displayed on the screen 50 for a selected program. As shown in Figure 1, an input of a VBI signal decoder 60a is coupled to the output of the tuner 61, which is generally included in most VCRs for consumer for off-air recording. The tuner 61 receives a broadcast TV signal from an antenna 63, a cable TV signal source 64, or a satellite receiver system. The tuner 61 converts the broadcast video signal that is received from one of several different video channels into a common unused TV channel, typically channel 3 or 4. The tuner 61 provides the converted video signals to a VBI decoder 60a which decodes data recorded in the VBI of the received video signal, a VBI encoder 60b which encodes data on the VBI of the video signal to be recorded on the video tape 42, and the video logic circuit 14. The decoder 60a VBI can decode the last lines 10-25 of both cases of the VBI. The decoder 60a can also decode VBI signals using copy protection pulses inserted between them, such as the Macrovision copy protection system. The data encoded in the VBIs are retrieved by the VBI decoder 60a and are provided to the directory controller for automatic generation of the program title for the program directory that is recorded. Additionally, the decoder 60a retrieves the flag packet and provides the flag to the VCR control logic circuit 21 to capture and store the selected video frame as an image to be used as a port for the description of a video program which is recorded. A decoding signal line 65 of the decoder is coupled to the VCR control logic circuit 21 for transporting the decoded VBI data to the control logic circuit. The VCR control logic circuit 21 is instructed by the microprocessor controller 31 to pass the decoded data to the directory 33a and capture and store the selected video frames under the control of a program stored in the RAM 33. The program then causes the VBI information is stored as a program title in the directory and displayed on the screen 50 together with the fixed frame video image of the selected stored program. memory structure Now we describe the structure of the memory of the RAM 33 with reference to Figures 2 and 3 which is a schematic conceptually illustrating a typical structure of the data stored in the RAM 33 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, a library 1023 is also provided in RAM 33. Library 1023 stores tape directories which have been archived by users of VCR 1. Each directory stored in the library contains substantially the same information as in a directory in use. If a library is present, a pointer 1015 is provided to point to library 1023. A directory pointer 1018 is also provided to point to a directory 1021 in use, which stores the directory of the currently inserted tape. This directory pointer 1018 can actually point to a position in the library where the directory of the tape is located. In addition, area 1010 also stores a tape or volume number field (VOLNO) 1016 which stores a counter value representing the number of tape directories already stored in library 1023. Other flags can be added as necessary. With reference to figure 3, which schematically illustrates a conceptual structure of the directory 1021 in use in the data structure of figure 2, the directory 1021 in use stores the directory of the cassette tape currently inserted in the VCR 1. For Each program recorded in the cassette tape, a corresponding entry 1041 is established in the directory 1021 in use. For purposes of illustration, Figure 3 shows entry 1041 only for program 1. However, each program similarly has an entry 1041. Each entry 1041 stores a title or program name (PROGRAM) 1042; a program address (LOC) 1043, which stores the absolute tape counter value at the start of the program; an address 1056 of fixed video frame (SVF); a description of the program or an address for this description 1057; a program length value (LENGTH) 1044 which stores the length of the recorded program, represented as a function of the difference between its address from the address of the next program or recording, or a measure of time from a fixed reference point, for example at the beginning of the tape; a field 1045 of optional program type (TYPE) which stores the category of the recorded program; an optional program hearing field 1046 (AUDIENCE) which stores the program's recommended audience; and an optional recording speed 1047 (SPEED) which stores the speed at which the program is recorded. A current tape position 1049 (CURRENT LOC) is also stored in the directory to indicate the absolute position from the start of the tape 42 in the cassette 40 where the valid directory is located, or the value of the tape counter when it is ejected. tape. This field is used to adjust the tape counter when the tape is reloaded in VCR 1. A field 1051 is a pointer pointing to the address of the first entry in directory 1021 represented in FIG. 3 by an arrow that points to the name of the program 1042 (PROGRAM). Each entry also has a field 1048 that stores the address of the next entry in the directory also represented in Figure 3 by an arrow pointing to program 2. These fields provide a link from an entry to the next entry and are used to facilitate search, deletion and addition of entries. In the preferred embodiment, the directory information is not stored on the tape 42, but is retrieved from the library 1023. In this mode, a volume label 1050 (VOLNO) is provided in the directory 1021 in use. This field is used to retrieve the directory information from the tape from library 1023 stored in RAM 33.

Tape format By way of background, the format of the tape 42 is now described. Figures 4 and 5 illustrate the information content of a video tape example for both BETA and VHS formats which both use the same general tape distribution. The tape 42 is divided into three areas. A narrow strip running along the upper edge of the tape 42 is an audio track 42a which contains audio signals. A second narrow strip running along the lower edge of the tape is a control track 42c which contains synchronization control signals ("sync"). The average area 42b is for video signals which are recorded in pairs of parallel fields advancing up and down the width of the tape at an inclined angle. Markers 110, 112 and 114 can be used. The video head drum 13 is placed with two read / write heads 180 degrees apart so that the even number lines constitute one field and the odd number lines constitute the other countryside. To reduce the fluctuation in the video screen, these fields are projected onto the face of the screen 50a of the cathode ray tube (CRT) 50a of the video screen 50 at alternating intervals.

Decoding the VBI information Referring again to Figure 1, the microprocessor control 31 controls the sequence and operation of the directory controller 30 and the interfaces with the VCR control logic circuit 21 to implement the functional capabilities necessary for reading, updating and recording the directory. The microprocessor controller 31, according to a specific embodiment, is a microcomputer chip with a part number of NEC Corporation UPD78234, a logic block diagram of which is illustrated in Figure 6. This microcomputer chip preferably is a microprogrammed processor capable of accessing data memory of up to one megabyte. A plurality of input / output ports P0-P7 are provided for coupling to various components of the VCR1 such as the motor and the mechanical control logic circuit 5, the video logic circuit 7, the position logic circuit and the circuit 9. counter, as well as a logical control circuit 11 and audio track head. The asynchronous communication between the microcomputer chip and these components is obtained by providing a plurality of INPTO-INPT5 interrupt inputs. Figure 7 shows a flow chart that is of another specific implementation of the microprocessor controller 31. A VBI signal processor 701 performs the vertical and horizontal synchronization separation of the VBI lines. The VBI signal processor 701 also cuts and encodes the VBI lines. This controller performs the functions of the VBI encoder 60b, and the buffer 62 (see FIG. 5). A controller 702 controls the RAM 33 and performs error correction and decoding for certain data types that come from the VBI signal processor 701. The controller 702 also provides an interconnection or interface with the serial link (I-LINK) and an interface with the logic control circuit 21 of the VCR. The controller 702 also controls the RAM 33. The microcontroller processor 31 in the VCR _ 10 with index performs all the functions of index processing and human interconnection, interprets (eg, label, indenta, screen format, attributes) and processes the auxiliary information screen. The microcontroller also performs all the normal functions of the VCR 10 with index. In this embodiment, the interface between the controller 702 and the logic control circuit 21 of the VCR is a common serial link synchronized by means of 2 or 3 I / O lines. (input / output) which is selectable by physical elements (hardware) by a 2/3-leg mode input signal to the controller 702. The interruption signal line allows the VCR control logic circuit 21 to monitor the state of the 702 contributor by interruption. In a two-leg configuration, the data I / O signal line functions as a two-way signal path between the VCR control logic circuit 21 and the controller 702. In the three-leg configuration, the controller 702 provides data on the line of data output signal. Further, in the three leg configuration, the VCR control logic circuit 21 sends data on the "I" line of data to the controller 702. The external length enable signal allows the controller 702 to communicate with the RAM 73 external The selection signal MSB / LSB establishes the common link to MSB first.

Overview of the elaboration of the index The VCR uses the directory described earlier in Figures 2 and 3 to perform searches of the user's tape library to find the tape of the selected program and so on. The directory of the particular tape can be searched using keywords, or title information, to locate a program on the tape. The tape can then be advanced to the selected program. The elaboration of the index is used in the present to describe these searches, the generation of these directories and all the related functions.

The VCR 10 with index provides a hybrid method for producing indexes of recorded programs, which are recorded on one of three types of tape: tapes recorded at home, tapes previously recorded and tapes on which indexes are developed retroactively. A tape recorded at home (HR tape) is a tape on which the user has made recordings of broadcasts or information by cable either in real time recording, programming the clock of his VCR or using a VCR PLUS + programming system MR. The index is generated at the time of recording by the VCR. The second type of tape is the previously recorded tape (PR tape) which is a tape that is purchased commercially, such as the physical exercise tape of Raquel elch, a karaoke tape, songs, readings or lectures that contain many titles in the same or that may only contain one program. These tapes are not expected to be recorded again. The index is stored on the tape by the video production company at the time of recording. The third type of tape is a tape in which an index (Rl tape) is retroactively produced which is a recorded tape that previously has no index, in which the user retroactively adds an index. For this type of tape, the index is added by the VCR at the time of making the index retroactively. For HR tapes and Rl tapes which are both produced by home VCR, all directories are in RAM 33 VCR 10 with index. The reference of the TIDs of the tape to a corresponding directory stored in RAM 33. When an HR tape or an Rl tape is inserted into the VCR, the VCR locates and reads the identification of the tape and then retrieves the corresponding directory from the tape. RAM 33. This operation is preferably independent of the tape insertion point so it effectively generates a random access capability for selections on the tape. On the other hand, for PR tapes which are produced by a video production company, the directory is stored on the tape preferably by writing it repeatedly on the VBI line. When the PR tape is inserted into a VCR with index, the VCR 10 with index regardless of the tape insertion point can quickly locate and read a copy of the directory from the VBI line. Therefore, the PR tape can also be read for random access. The VCR 1 includes a VBI encoder 60b coupled to the video logical circuit 7 so that the information, which receives digital data, such as the label of the tape (for example a volume number), directory and / or addresses of the controller 31 of the microprocessor and encodes such data for its registration in the VBI portion of the video signals which are to be recorded in the cassette tape 40. When line 21 field 2 is found, the digital data stored in the registers is transmitted so that it can be written on the video track as described above. The VBI encoder 60b can be implemented in a similar manner as one of those already existing in the art, for example encoders for encoding closed-caption data within the VBI portions of video signals. An exemplary implementation of the VBI encoder 60b is illustrated in Figures 12a and 12b of the application serial number 08/176, 852. As illustrated in Figure 9c, the VBI decoder 60a can be used with different time durations to decode either broadcast signals (video input) of the tuner 61 or recorded signals (signal PB) read by the logic circuit 7 of video from the tape 42. When the VCR 1 is recording a program, the VBI decoder 6Qa operates to decode information in the VBIs of the broadcast signals. When the VCR 1 is playing a program from the cassette tape 40, the VBI decoder 60a can operate to decode information stored in the VBIs of the recorded signals (eg, previously recorded directory information). It should be noted that although the decoder 60a in the mode is used both to decode broadcast signals and recorded signals, it will be understood that a separate decoder can be provided for each operation. In addition, although the decoder 60a and the encoder 60b are shown and described as two units, they can be incorporated into a single semiconductor chip or they can be implemented as discrete logic components. In the implementation of Figure 11, the VBI signal processor 701 performs processing of the VBI signal.

Previously recorded tape As described above, the previously recorded tapes (PR tape) are manufactured by a video production company and contain a plurality of different programs with titles in it. A directory or program directories containing information about the names and positions of each program or recording are stored on the tape. In addition, a selected video frame for each program recorded preferably at the beginning of the tape in the video track is stored on the tape. In one of the specific modes, the label is also recorded (for example, a volume number or a name) for the tape. Any of the video frames 42b or control track 42c (see FIGS. 8-9) can be used to store the directory or program directories. In one embodiment, the program directory is stored, by the logic circuit 21 of control of the VCR under the control of the microprocessor controller 31, in the control track 42c, and in another mode in fields numbered as odd and / or pairs of separate pairs of video fields, either as a complete video frame or within the VBI. directory For HR tapes, the directories are stored in RAM 33 and referenced by the TIDs which are written repeatedly on line 19 of the VBIs for the HR tapes.

The PR tapes also have a TID described on the VBIs throughout the tape. When a PR tape is inserted into a VCR 10 with index, the VCR 10 with index reads line 19 of the VBIs to quickly determine the TID and the program number (and, in some modes, an absolute address) and then stops . When the user presses the index button (Index) the VCR 10 with index determines from the TID that the tape is not an HR tape. The VCR 10 with index then advances to PLAY mode and reads the directory of VBI line 20 and displays them on the screen.

Addressing system Figure 9 is a schematic view of an embodiment for storing tape identification numbers and addresses using a file mark plus an asynchronous plus mark broadcast address system. In the preferred embodiment, the address system is an asynchronous mark plus file management (FMAS) address system. This system writes an absolute address in the control track 42c (see FIGS. 8-9) in the form of address packets. Since control track data is not easily copied from one VCR to another, some copy protection is provided. These packages are written in two types of positions. The first type (type 1) is written at the beginning of each program and at the end of the last program on the tape. The main function of these packages is to serve as "file marks" for search of program start points. The second type of packet (type 2) is asynchronously recorded as frequently as possible between the type 1 packets. The main function of these packets is to serve as "road markings" so that when the cassette 40 is inserted into the VCR 1, you can quickly determine the position of the current ribbon. As a generality, when a tape with index is inserted inside the VCR 1, the VCR quickly determines from the surrounding type 2 the address packets and the exact position of the tape at that moment. To analyze the starting point of some other program, the VCR advances or rewinds and monitors the control track of the correct destination address packet. Once this packet is located, the VCR 1 stops and rewinds at playback speed to arrive exactly at the destination address packet. With the FMAS system, the determination of the current position is faster due to the asynchronous dispersion of addresses. The search for the start point of a program is carried out since the VCR 1 monitors the control track 42c while advancing or rewinding and also does so precisely since the destination address packets are written exactly at the start of the program as a file mark. In the FMAS management system, the absolute address is written in the control view 42c of the agent 42 in the form of an address packet using data coding and decoding described above in relation to figures 13a-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, a direction to a point on the tape can be the number of seconds in SLP mode from the beginning of the tape to that point. Therefore, an E-120 tape has an address range from 0 to 21600 (120 minutes x 60 seconds). An address of 1140, for example, defines a point whose distance from the beginning of the tape can be covered in 1,140 seconds in the SLP mode. If the VCR mode records or plays in SP mode from the start, after 380 seconds, (1140 seconds 4-3), the address is also 1140. If there is a blank space between two programs, the address system Take it into account. For example, if program 1 is recorded in SLP mode and has an address of 1000, at the end of the program, the tape then moves some distance before it starts program 2. Since there is no video signal between the end of program 1 and the beginning of program 2 { There are no control tracking pulses to keep track of the distance displaced. In this case, the revolutions accounts of the use of the pick-up coils can be used for interpolation. For example, using the pickup coil you can count an account for 30 control track pulses, that is, an address count at the end of program 1. At the beginning of program 2, the pickup coil can be counted in two accounts for 30 control track pulses, that is, an address count at the beginning of program 2. Thus, on average, the pick-up coil counts 1.5 accounts per 30 control track pulses, that is, an address account for the blank space between program 1 and program 2. If the pick-up coil counts 150 accounts in the blank space, it assumes that the control track will have counted 3,000 pulses of control track (150 - 1.5 x 30), it is say, 100 address accounts. The starting address of program 2 is 1,000 (end of program direction 1) + 100 (length of blank area) = 1,100. The absolute address is written once at the beginning of each program and at the end of the last program. For HR tapes and PR tapes, the address is repeated as often as possible (in the order of once every few seconds) between the beginning and the end of each program. For Rl tapes, the address is repeated as frequently as is possible for some programs, as will be described in detail in the following. Other steering systems may be used, as described in the application Serial No. 08 / 176,852. For the search of the starting point of some other program, the process for the HR tapes and PR tapes is as follows. The VCR knows the current absolute address as well as the absolute destination address. While the rev count of the pickup coil usage is monitored, the machine rapidly advances or rewinds to the vicinity, typically within 5 seconds of the destination, and then slows down to the playback speed to read the VBIs and stop at the address correct For Rl tapes, the first part of the search process is identical to that of the HR and PR tapes. By knowing the current absolute address and the absolute address of destination and while monitoring the revolutions account of the use of the pickup coil, the machine can fast forward or rewind to the vicinity of the destination. Then the speed decreases to the playback speed to read the control track and stop at the correct direction mark. To perform a search, for HR and PR tapes, when the tape is inserted into the VCR that puts indexes, the current position of the tape is known from the absolute address on the VBI line. From this address and from the directory retrieved from RAM 33 for HR tapes or from VBIs for PR tapes that correspond to the TID, the current program number is known. For example, if the current program is program 3 and the instruction is to advance to program 6, the VCR must advance until it reaches the third index mark, for example with a VISS or VASS mark from the current position. Since the VCR can read the control track during forward or rewind, it can read marks stored in the control track. When the third mark is observed during the advance, the VCR stops and then rewinds since the third mark has been passed. Then the VCR switches to playback to read the absolute address and can then "smoothly" reach the selected address. For Rl tapes, once the program number is found, the process is the same.

As a generality, when an HR or PR tape is inserted into the VCR 10 that produces indices, the VCR 10 that builds indexes explores the VBIs for a predetermined time, for example 2 seconds, and quickly determines from the data packets Surround TP in TID of the tape and the current program number. When the user presses the button. of INDEX (INDEX), the VCR 10 that produces indexes retrieves the directory of RAM 33 and displays it together with the fixed frame video image for the program identified by a cursor or some other means. When the user requests that the VCR 10 indexes to move to the starting point of another program, the VCR 10 that elaborates indexes performs a search either by preempting or rewinding the tape while counting the number of VISS marks on the control track to the position of destiny. In summary, table I shows the directory and address systems for the two types of tape. Table I Data Formats For the data packets described below in conjunction with Figures 10-14, an octet refers to 7 bit data symbols plus an eighth bit the value is reserved for a parity bit. Fig. 10 is a schematic view showing the data format for the directory recorded on previously recorded tapes. A data packet 9100 begins with the start code 9101 which has a length of one octet. The start code 9101 preferably has a value of 01 hex. A type code 9102 follows the start code 9101. The type code has a length of one octet. The type code 9102 preferably has a value 0X01. The next two octets are the 9103 symbols of the number of titles. The symbol 9103 of number of titles represents the binary number coded in ASCII of 7 bits for the number of titles in the directory. In the preferred embodiment, only ASCII symbols' 0 '-' 9 'and' A '-' Z1 are used. For example, the ASCII sequence '1F' represents the number 1FX. Since two ASCII characters are used, the largest number of titles is FF hex (256). After the symbol number 9103 of titles, there is a first program entry 9104, a second program entry 9105 and a nth program 9106 containing the information related to N programs (figure 24 shows only the first, second program entries and umpteenth for simplicity). Each program entry is of a fixed length and contains a group of symbols 37 bytes long. The first 4 octets represent the binary address coded in ASCII of 7 bits, in a similar way to the one described above, for the symbol number 9103 of titles. For example, the sequence of characters ASCII ^ FIA "" represents the address 3F1A hex. Since 4 ASCII characters are used, the largest number is FFFF hex (65535). The fifth octet of the program input represents the recording mode. A value of 0X00 is the standard reproduction mode (SLP), a value of 0X01 is the long-term mode (LP), a value of 0X10 is the super-long duration mode (SLP), and the values 0X11-0X7F of the image of fixed video frame for that 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 that has a one octet symbol long follows the nth program entry 9106. The end code 9107 preferably has a value of 3 hex. The data packet 9100 ends with a sum check 9108 which is a one octet long symbol. The sum check 9108 causes the module 128 to add the data packet quality equal to zero, ie the module 128 (start code 9101 + code 9102 of type + number of titles 9103 + program inputs 9104, 9105, 9106 + end code 9107 + sum verification 9108) equal to zero. For pre-recorded tapes, the directory is repeated as frequently as the space in the VBI allows. Typically, that means once every few seconds. Figure 11 is a schematic view showing the data packet format for the tape identification number (TID). For PR tapes, the I.D. of tape is written repeatedly in the VBI line. For HR and Rl tapes, the TID is written on the control track after the address mark at the start of each program and at the end of the last program. For HR tapes, the TID is also repeated as frequently as possible on the tape, preferably once every few seconds. The TID is a 48-bit number for HR and IR tapes. This number is composed of a header, a random machine identification number, and a tape number. Consequently, the damage of tapes that have the same identification will be minimized. For PR tapes, the TID corresponds to the UPC code of the tape (a 12-digit number). In this way the city libraries, the rental or retail stores of tapes can adopt the TID of the index elaboration system.

A 9120 TID data packet is 12 octets long. For the TID data packet, an octet refers to a data symbol of 7 bits plus an eighth bit which is reserved as a parity bit. The data packet 9120 begins with a start code 9121 having a length of one octet. This start code 9121 preferably has a value 01 hex. After the start code 9121, a code 9122 of type having a symbol of one octet long and preferably having a value of 0X04. An I.D. of tape 9123 follows code 9122 of type and is 8 octets long. As indicated above, the I.D. 9123 of tape is determined differently for the type of tape. For a PR tape, the I.D. 9123 tape is a 12-digit UPC code which contains a 48-bit number with the most significant bit (MSB) of less than 0F0 hex. For HR tapes, identification 9123 of tape is made up of 3 parts. The first part is an 8-bit header on the MSB which is equal to 0FF hex. The next 24 bits are an identification generated by a random number sequence to generate a high probability of unique condition for each VCR. The ID of the 24-bit machine is generated as a random number which is sown by some condition that is very likely to be different between users. In a first implementation, the 24 bits are decomposed into 12-bit numbers. When the VCR is turned on for the first time, the counter is initialized with count pulses less than 0.25 milliseconds in duration. The counter stops when the user presses the first and second keys on the remote control. These two random 12-bit numbers are then combined to form the identification of the machine. Because the counter is very fast and the buttons pressed by the user are very random, the identification of the machine is sufficiently random so that two VCRs will have an opportunity of approximately 1 in 16 million having an I.D. of identical machines. A 16-bit tape number follows I.D. of the machine, which allows 65536 tapes in a VCR. An end code 9124 follows the I.D. 9123 of tape and is one octet long. The end code 9124 preferably has a value of 3 hex. A sum check 9125 follows the end code 9124 and is one octet long. The summation check 9125 constitutes the module 128 of sum of the entire directory packet at zero, ie the module 128 of (start code 9121 + code 9122 of type + ID 9123 of tape + code 9124 of end + verification of sum 9125) is equal to zero. In an alternative embodiment, the identification portion of the 48-bit machine of the I.D. 9123 of the tape can be the day, hour and minute Julian when the VCR starts for the first time.

Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the TID for a HR tape. The TID 2604 is a number of 5 octets. Bit 39 and bits 38-31 are zero. The bits 30-16 are the I.D. of the machine. The bits 15-0 are the tape number. As described above, the 15-bit machine ID is a random number generated by the VCR 10 with index when it is turned on for the first time. This gives a probability of 1 in 32,768 that two indexed CRCs have identical machine IDs. A 16-bit tape number allows each indexed VCR 10 to have 65,536 tapes stored in RAM 33. Alternatively, the number of tapes can be made up of a different number of bits. Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the TID for a PR tape. As with the TID for the HR tape, the TID for a PR tape is a number of five octets. Bit 39 is one, bits 38-0 are a UPC number of 11 digits presented in binary form without the parity digit. By using the UPC number, businesses, such as libraries, tape rental stores and retail stores, can adopt the TID. Consequently, the use of PR tapes can be monitored and analyzed. When the TID is stored in RAM 33, 5 octets are preferred. However, if only 4 octets are registered, bits 0-30 and bit 39 are stored in RAM 33.

Fig. 14 is a flow chart showing the steps used in the operation of a VCR with index that uses an FMAS addressing system to write a tape identification number, an address and a directory to a tape recorded at home (tape HR) during engraving or ejection. When the tape is in the VCR and the directory controller 30 knows the identification number of the current tape and the current address, the VCR is ready to record on the tape or eject the tape (step 9200). The microprocessor controller 31 reads the TID in the direction of the control track 42c. For existing HR tapes, the TID and addresses are read from the control track 42c. For a new blank tape, the microprocessor controller 31 assigns a TID to the tape and resets the address to zero. The microprocessor controller 31 waits for a recording signal or an ejection instruction. If a recording signal is received (step 9201), the microprocessor controller 31 reads the program identification number from the VBIs of the signal to be recorded (step 9202). It is assumed that the microprocessor controller 31 has already recovered the directory for the inserted tape if the inserted tape is an existing HR tape. For a new blank tape, the microprocessor controller 31 generates a new directory in RAM 33 with fixed frame video images stored as part of the directory. For this recording, the microprocessor controller 31 initializes the address, the title and the tape speed in the RAM 33 and the flag sensor in the VCR control logic circuit 21. If a title is not read from VBI (step 9202), the microprocessor controller 31 uses a date and time stamp as the title (step 9203). The microprocessor controller 31 then instructs the logic control circuit 21 of the VCR and subsequently the logic control circuit 11 and the audio track head to write the TID and the address on the control track 42c (step 9204). The microprocessor controller 31 continues to write the date and address on the control track 42c until an instruction to stop recording is received (step 9206). During recording, the VCR control logic circuit 21 receives the packet which informs the logic circuit 21 of the position of the video frame to be captured and stored as the fixed frame video image for the program. At the end of the recording of the program, the microprocessor control 31 then returns to a ready state where it waits for an additional instruction in step 9200. On the other hand, if an instruction is received to eject the tape (step 9207), the controller 31 of microprocessor updates the directory that is stored in RAM 33, which includes the current tape position flag 1049 (current LOC) (see figure 3) which indicates the absolute direction of the tape position when the tape is ejected with reference to the start of the tape. If the tape is a new blank tape (step 9209), the microprocessor controller 31 displays on the video screen 50a the tape number of the tape so that the user can mark the cassette housing 40 with its new number for subsequent identification. The VCR control logic circuit 21 is then instructed to motor control circuit 5 and mechanical control to eject the tape (step 9212).

Operation of Identification of the Tape and Recovery of the Directory Figures 15 and 16 are flow diagrams showing the steps used in the operation of the VCR with index using an FMAS addressing system when the tape is inserted therein. When the tape is inserted into the VCR (step 9240), the microprocessor controller 31 instructs the logic control circuit 21 of the VCR to play the tape for N seconds and read the control track for the TID and one direction (step 9241: this step is referred to as step [A] in the subsequent steps in figures 15 and 16). Preferably, N is between 3 and 5 seconds (when the tape has been ejected previously, the VCR with index can rewind the tape for a predetermined time interval, for example 5 seconds of playback time, to perform faster TID recovery) . After reading a TID and a tape address, the microprocessor controller 31 instructs the VCR control logic circuit 21 to stop tape playback (step 9242). The microprocessor controller 31 waits until the INDEX (INDEX) button on the remote controller is pressed (step 9243). When the INDEX button (INDEX) is pressed, if a TID and an address are read in step 9241 (step 9244), the microprocessor controller 31 determines from TID whether the tape is: (1) a tape recorded in house (HR), (2) a previously recorded tape (PR), or (3) a rental film recorded at home (HR) (stage 9246). If in step 9246 the tape is an HR tape (step 9247), the microprocessor controller 31 retrieves the directory 33a corresponding to the tape with the TID of the RAM 33 (step 9248). The microprocessor controller 31 then displays the retrieved directory on a video screen 50a (step 9249). The user moves the cursor or selects the program of interest in some other way. The microprocessor controller 31 then retrieves the fixed frame video image (SVF) for this program and the description (step 9283).

The SVF image and the description are displayed with the directory (step 9284) as shown in FIG. 17. The microprocessor controller 31 then enters the ready mode (step 9251). The ready mode is a mode in which the microprocessor controller 31 knows the current address of the selected program and the TID of the tape. If in step 9246 it is determined that the tape is a pre-recorded tape (step 9252), the microprocessor controller 31 reads the directory, which includes the SVF image and the description, to determine if the TDI is stored in a RAM 33 (stage 9253). If it is in RAM 33, the microprocessor controller 31 retrieves the directory of RAM 33 as described in the above in step 9248. On the other hand, if the TID is not RAM 33, the microprocessor controller 31 instructs the logic control circuit 21 of the VCR to reproduce the tape so that the microprocessor controller 31 can read the VBI directory on the tape (step 9254) and then display the directory read on the screen, in step 9285. The program in the directory selected by the user, for example by means of a cursor, is indicated and the SVF image and the description of this program are retrieved from the start of the tape (BOT) or from the SRAM (step 9286). The SVF image and the description are displayed with the directory (step 9287) as shown in figures 18-20. With reference to Figure 17, the display for a tape recorded at home, in this example, the HR tape number 2 (400) contains a list of the titles and lengths of the programs recorded on the cassette. A cursor 402 highlights the second program in the list, ABC 12/22 night line and the screen additionally contains a fixed frame video image 406 for this program and a description of the program 414. The SVF image and the description are placed in the top of the screen with the text directory at the bottom of the screen. The upper part has a colored background, for example blue, to highlight the exhibition. Figures 18 and 19 are screens for programs recorded on the same PR tape. The cursor 502 in Figure 18 is to highlight the title of a program, in this case, a song with words to sing together. The SVF image 506 is displayed along with the description 514. The description establishes the names of the composer and the performer as well as the particular story in which the song occurs. In figure 19 a different song or program is highlighted so that a different SVF 606 image appears on the screen. Figure 20 shows the display of another PR tape entitled Juguemos Béisbol. The introduction 802 is highlighted and the SVF image 806 is related to the introduction. The function codes for the logic control circuit 21 are described in the application Serial No. 08 / 176,852. A function code supplied by the VCR logic circuit 21 controls the capture and storage of each selected video. In the following, certain values and representations are used to facilitate the description and understanding of the invention. In addition, the values of the electrical components are shown for circuits illustrated in some of the figures, it will be understood that such values are shown to facilitate the implementation of the invention and the functions of the circuits can be carried out by other values or even by other components. Therefore, the above description should not be read as belonging only to the precise structures and techniques described, but rather should be read consistent with, and supported by the following claims, which have their fullest and clearest scope. It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known to the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is the conventional one for the manufacture of the objects or products to which it refers.

Claims (6)

CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property

1. A method for selecting the reproduction in a VCR of a program recorded on a videotape, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: recording video program on a videotape, each program being constituted of a fixed frame image sequence; store in the memory a directory of the programs recorded on the videotape, the directory comprises for each recorded program a fixed frame image of the program, a program title and a program start address on the tape; insert the video tape into a VCR; retrieve from the memory for display a list of the titles of the programs recorded on the inserted videotape; display the retrieved list of titles in a first area of a screen; mark one of the titles displayed; recover from memory for display the fixed frame image for the program of the marked title; displaying the fixed frame image recovered in a second area of the screen; and select the reproduction of one of the titles displayed. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that in the storage step it stores the directory in a RAM. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the storage step stores the directory in the inserted video tape. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally comprises the steps of: storing in the memory as part of the directory of the programs recorded on the videotape for each recorded program, a description of the program; recover from the memory for exhibition the description of the program, of the marked title; and display the recovered description in a third area of the screen. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the step of storing in the memory a directory of programs recorded on the videotape comprises storing the directories of the tapes previously recorded on the tape itself and storing the directories of the tapes. recorded at home in a RAM, and the step of recovering from memory for display a list of the titles of the programs recorded on the inserted videotape comprising detecting whether the inserted tape is a previously recorded tape or a tape recorded at home , recover the directory of the tape if a previously recorded tape is detected, recover the directory of the RAM if a tape recorded at home is detected. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally comprises the steps of: recovering from the directory in the memory the address of the start of the program of the selected title; place the videotape in the recovered direction; and play the program of the selected title.