JP2000021130A - Information processing apparatus and method, recording medium, and providing medium - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [Problem] To enable easy and quick editing of data. SOLUTION: A STREAM composed of substantial data is used as a channel.
Manage one-to-one with UNK and manage any number of CHUNK with CHUNKGROUP. Let TITLE manage a predetermined range of CHUNKGROUP. Let PROGRAM manage a predetermined range of TITLE.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus and method, and a providing medium, and more particularly, to an information processing apparatus and method and a providing medium that can be edited more easily.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art If video data and audio data are recorded on a disk, for example, it becomes possible to edit the data as appropriate. By this editing, for example, a part of one video data can be combined with another video data, or a part of the video data can be deleted.

[0003]

However, conventionally,
When performing such editing, since the data itself is combined or deleted, there is a problem that it takes time and effort to perform the editing (including the case of re-editing the edited once). Was.

[0004] The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and is intended to enable editing to be performed easily and in a short time.

[0005]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing apparatus for managing a plurality of data on a one-to-one basis and an arbitrary number of the first management means. A second management means and a third management means for managing an arbitrary range of the second management means.
Management means.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing method, a first management step of managing a plurality of data on a one-to-one basis;
Management of an arbitrary number of management states in the management step of the second
And a third management step of managing a management state in an arbitrary range in the second management step.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the providing medium, wherein the first management step manages a plurality of data on a one-to-one basis, and the second management manages an arbitrary number of management states in the first management step. A program for causing an information processing apparatus to execute a process including a step and a third management step of managing a management state in an arbitrary range in the second management step is provided.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the recording medium, the management information is a first management means for managing a plurality of data on a one-to-one basis, and a second management means for managing an arbitrary number of the first management means. And a third management means for managing an arbitrary range of the second management means.

In the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, an arbitrary range of the second management means for managing the first management means for managing a plurality of data on a one-to-one basis is determined by the third management means. Be managed.

[0010] In the information processing method according to the fifth aspect and the providing medium according to the sixth aspect, an arbitrary number of management states in the first management step are managed in the second management step. The management state in an arbitrary range in the second management step is managed in the third management step.

In the recording medium according to the present invention, the first management means, the second management means, and the third management means are recorded as management information for managing information.

[0012]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. In order to clarify the correspondence between each means of the invention described in the claims and the following embodiments, each means is described. When the features of the present invention are described by adding the corresponding embodiment (however, an example) in parentheses after the parentheses, the result is as follows. However, of course, this description does not mean that each means is limited to those described.

The information processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention includes a first management means (eg, CHUNK _ %%%%. ABST in FIG. 24) for managing a plurality of data on a one-to-one basis. The second management means for managing the first management means (for example, CHUNKG in FIG. 21)
ROUP _ ###. CGIT) and third management means (for example, TITLE _ ###. VD in FIG. 15) for managing an arbitrary range of the second management means.
R).

First, the file arrangement on a recording medium on which information is recorded or reproduced in the present invention will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the following seven types of files are recorded on the medium. VOLUME.TOC ALBUM.STR PROGRAM _ $$$. PGI TITLE _ ###. VDR CHUNKGROUP _ ＠＠＠. CGIT CHUNK _ %%%%. ABST CHUNK _ %%%%. MPEG2

In the root directory, VOLUME. T
OC and ALBUM.STR are placed. The directory "PROGRAM" immediately below the root directory contains "PROGRAM _ $$
$ .PGI "(where" $$$ "represents the program number). Similarly, the directory" TITLE "immediately below the root directory contains" TITLE _ ###. VDR "(where"###"Represents the title number), the directory" CHUNKGROUP "contains" CHUNKGROUP _ @@@. CGIT "(where" @@@ "represents the chunk group number), but the directory" CHUNK "contains" CH
UNK _ %%%%. ABST "(where" %%%% "represents the chunk number)
Are placed respectively.

In the MPEGAV directory immediately below the root directory, one or more subdirectories are further created, under which "CHUNK _ %%%%. MPEG2" (where %%%% represents a chunk number). Is placed.

The file of VOLUME.TOC is stored on the media as
There is usually one. However, there may be a plurality of media having a special structure such as a media having a hybrid structure of ROM and RAM. This file is used to indicate the overall nature of the media.

The structure of VOLUME.TOC is as shown in FIG. The file_type_id is placed at the head, which indicates that the file is VOLUME.TOC. Then volu
me_information () follows, followed by text_block ().

FIG. 3 shows the structure of volume_information (). This is volume_attribute (), resume (), vo
lume_rating (), write_protect (), play_protect (), re
Contains cording_timer ().

Volume_attribute () is an area for recording an attribute of a logical volume, and its detailed structure is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG.
playback_mode_flag, program_playback_mode_flag, etc. are included.

Resume () is executed when the media is reinserted.
This is an area for recording information for restoring the state immediately before t, and its detailed structure is shown in FIG.

Volume_rating () in FIG. 3 is an area for recording information for realizing the viewing age restriction for the entire volume according to the age and the category, and its detailed structure is as follows.
This is shown in FIG.

The write_protect () in FIG. 3 is an area for recording information for restricting a change or erasing operation on the title and program recorded in the volume, and its detailed structure is shown in FIG. I have.

Play_protect () in FIG. 3 is an area for recording information for setting permission / non-permission of the title and program recorded in the volume or for limiting the number of times of reproduction, and its detailed structure is as follows. , Shown in FIG.

Recording_timer () in FIG. 3 is an area for recording information for controlling the recording time, and its detailed structure is shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 shows the detailed structure of text_block () of VOLUME.TOC in FIG. In this text_block (),
language_set () and text_item are included, and their detailed structures are shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, respectively.

The ALBUM.STR file shown in FIG. 1 usually has one file on a medium. However, there may be a plurality of media having a special structure such as a media having a hybrid structure of ROM and RAM. This file is used to combine a plurality of media into a configuration as if it were one media.

The structure of ALBUM.STR is as shown in FIG. A file_type_id is placed at the beginning to indicate that the file is ALBUM.STR. Next is album (), followed by text_block ().

"Album ()" is an area for recording information for treating a plurality of volumes (a plurality of media) as one unit, and its detailed structure is shown in FIG.

There are TITLE _ ###. VDR files in FIG. 1 as many as the number of titles. The title is, for example, compact
One song on a disc or one program on a television broadcast. The structure of this information is as shown in FIG.
The file_type_id is placed at the head, which indicates that the file is TITLE _ ###. VDR. Then title_inf
o () follows, followed by text_block (). ### is a character string indicating the title number.

Title_info () is a chunkgroup
This is an area for recording the start point, end point of title, and other attributes related to title, and its detailed structure is shown in FIG.

The number of PROGRAM _ $$$. PGI files in FIG. 1 is equal to the number of programs. The program is composed of a plurality of cuts specifying a part (or all) of the title, and each cut is reproduced in a specified order. The structure of this information is shown in FIG. File_typ at the beginning
e_id is placed to indicate that the file is PROGRAM _ $$$. PGI. Next is program (), and finally text_bloc
k () follows. $$$ is a character string indicating the title number.

The program () is an area for recording information necessary for collecting and reproducing a necessary part of a title without irreversibly editing the material. The detailed structure is shown in FIG. It is shown at 18.

The program () in FIG. 18 has one play_list. Details of this play_list () are shown in FIG.

The play_list includes a plurality of play_item (). The details of play_item () are shown in FIG.

The number of files of CHUNKGROUP _ @@@. CGIT in FIG. 1 is equal to the number of chunk groups. A chunk group is a data structure for arranging bit streams. This file is not recognized by the user as long as the user normally operates a device for recording and reproducing media, such as a VDR (Video Disc Recorder).

The structure of this information is as shown in FIG. File_type_id is placed at the beginning, and the file
Indicates that it is CHUNKGROUP _ @@@. CGIT. Then chunk
group_time_base_flags and chunkgroup_time_base_offset
, Then chunk_connection_info (), and finally text_bl
ock () follows.

Chunkgroup_time_base_flags is chunkgro
Indicates the flag related to the up counter, chunkgroup_tim
e_base_offset indicates the start time of the reference time axis in the chunkgroup. This is a value to be set in a counter that counts up at 90 kHz and has a size of 32 bits. chunk_connection_info () is used for switching points of video, vi
This is an area for storing information of a unique point such as synchronization of deo and audio, and its detailed structure is shown in FIG.

This chunk_connection_info () contains chunk_arrangem for the number of chunks belonging to the chunk group.
A loop of ent_info () is placed. FIG. 23 shows this chunk_ar
The details of rangement_info () are shown.

The files of CHUNK _ %%%%. ABST in FIG. 1 exist as many as the number of chunks. A chunk is an information file corresponding to one stream file. The structure of this information is as shown in FIG. File_type_id at the beginning
Is placed, and the file is changed to CHUNK _ %%%%. ABS
T is shown.

The file of CHUNK _ %%%%. MPEG2 in FIG. 1 is a stream file. This file stores an MPEG bit stream, which is different from other files that record only information.

FIG. 25 shows an example of the configuration of an optical disk apparatus for recording or reproducing information on or from an optical disk as a medium having the above-mentioned files. In this optical disk device, one system of optical head 2 is provided for one rewritable optical disk 1, and this optical head 2 is shared for both reading and writing of data.

The bit stream read from the optical disk 1 by the optical head 2 is demodulated by the RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3, error-corrected by the ECC circuit 4, and read via the switch 5 to determine the read rate and It is sent to the read channel buffer 6 for absorbing the difference from the decoding processing rate. The output of the read channel buffer 6 is supplied to a decoder 7. The read channel buffer 6 is configured so that the system controller 13 can read and write.

The bit stream output from the read channel buffer 6 is decoded by the decoder 7,
The video signal and the audio signal are output therefrom. The video signal output from the decoder 7 is input to the synthesizing circuit 8 and synthesized with the video signal output from the 0SD (On Screen Display) control circuit 9, and then output from the output terminal P 1 to a display (not shown) to be displayed. Is done. The audio signal output from the decoder 7 is sent from an output terminal P2 to a speaker (not shown) and reproduced.

On the other hand, the video signal input from the input terminal P3 and the audio signal input from the input terminal P4 are encoded by the encoder 10 and then written to absorb the difference between the encoding processing rate and the writing rate. The data is sent to the channel buffer 11. This write channel buffer 11 is also used by the system controller 1.
3 can be read and written.

The data stored in the write channel buffer 11 is read out from the write channel buffer 11, input to the ECC circuit 4 via the switch 5, added with an error correction code, and then applied to RF and demodulation / demodulation. The signal is modulated by the modulation circuit 3. A signal (RF signal) output from the RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3 is written on the optical disk 1 by the optical head 2.

The address detection circuit 12 detects address information of a track to be recorded or reproduced on the optical disc 1. The system controller 13 controls the operation of each unit of the optical disk device, and performs various controls.
It has a CPU 21, a ROM 22 storing processing programs to be executed by the CPU 21, a RAM 23 for temporarily storing data and the like generated during the processing, and a RAM 24 for storing various information files to be recorded on or reproduced from the optical disc 1. are doing. The CPU 21 finely adjusts the position of the optical head 2 based on the detection result of the address detection circuit 12. CPU
Reference numeral 21 also controls switching of the switch 5. The input unit 14 including various switches and buttons is operated by the user when inputting various commands.

Next, a basic information file reading operation will be described. For example, when reading the "VOLUME.TOC" information file, the system controller 13
The CPU 21 determines the physical address on the optical disk 1 where "VOLUME.TOC" is recorded and the length of the physical address by using a file system operation instruction previously incorporated in the processing program. Subsequently, the CPU 21 sets the "VOLUME.TOC"
The optical head 2 is moved to the reading position on the basis of the address information. Then, the CPU 21 sets the optical head 2, the RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3, and the ECC circuit 4 to the read mode, switches the switch 5 to the read channel buffer 6, and further fine-tunes the position of the optical head 2. Thereafter, reading by the optical head 2 is started. As a result, the contents of “VOLUME.TOC” are read by the optical head 2, demodulated by the RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3, error-corrected by the ECC circuit 4, and then stored in the read channel buffer 6. You.

When the amount of data stored in the read channel buffer 6 becomes equal to or larger than the size of "VOLUME.TOC", the CPU 21 stops reading. Thereafter, the CPU 21 reads the corresponding data from the read channel buffer 6 and stores the data in the RAM 24.

Next, a basic operation of writing an information file will be described by taking as an example a case where a "VOLUME.TOC" information file is written. The CPU 21 uses a file system operation instruction incorporated in the processing program in advance,
In the file system (optical disc 1), a free area having a size equal to or larger than "VOLUME.TOC" to be written is searched for, and its address is determined.

Next, the CPU 21 transfers “VOLUME.TOC” to be newly written, which is prepared in the RAM 24, to the write channel buffer 11. Subsequently, the CPU 21
The optical head 2 is moved to the writing position based on the address information of the empty area. Then, the CPU 21 controls the optical head 2,
The RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3 and the ECC circuit 4 are set to the write mode, the switch 5 is switched to the write channel buffer 11, and the position of the optical head 2 is finely adjusted. Let it.

As a result, the newly prepared "VOLUME.TOC" is read from the write channel buffer 11, input to the ECC circuit 4 via the switch 5, and added with an error correction code. And modulated by the demodulation / modulation circuit 3. The signal output from the RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3 is recorded on the optical disk 1 by the optical head 2. The amount of data read from the write channel buffer 11 and recorded on the optical disc 1 is "VOLUME.TO
At the time when the size becomes equal to the size of C ", the CPU 21 stops the writing operation.

Finally, the CPU 21 uses a file system operation instruction previously incorporated in the processing program, and reads “VOLUME.TO” in the file system (optical disc 1).
The pointer indicating "C" is rewritten so as to indicate the newly written position.

Next, the basic stream reproduction operation will be described by taking as an example the case where the stream CHUNK_0001.MPEG2 in FIG. 1 is reproduced. The CPU 21 determines the physical address on the optical disc 1 where “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2” is recorded and the length of the physical address by using a file system operation instruction incorporated in the processing program in advance. Subsequently, the CPU 21 moves the optical head 2 to the reading position based on the address information of “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2”.
Then, the optical head 2, the RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3, and the ECC circuit 4 are set to the read mode, the switch 5 is switched to the read channel buffer 6, and the position of the optical head 2 is finely adjusted. 2 is started.

"CHUNK_000" read by the optical head 2
1. The content of MPEG2 is RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3, ECC
The data is accumulated in the read channel buffer 6 via the circuit 4 and the switch 5. The data stored in the read channel buffer 6 is output to the decoder 7 and subjected to a decoding process to output a video signal and an audio signal. The audio signal is output from the output terminal P2, and the video signal is output from the output terminal P1 via the synthesizing circuit 8.

The data is read from the optical disc 1, decoded,
When the displayed data amount becomes equal to the size of “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2”, or when the stop of the reading operation is designated from the input unit 14, the CPU 21 stops the reading and decoding processing.

Next, the basic stream recording operation is described as "C
HUNK_0001.MPEG2 "An example of writing an information file will be described. The CPU 21 uses a file system operation instruction incorporated in the processing program in advance, and writes" CHUNK_0001.MPEG2 "in the file system (optical disc 1). A free area having a size equal to or larger than MPEG2 "is searched for, and its address is determined.

A video signal input from the input terminal P3,
And the audio signal input from the input terminal P4
After being encoded by the encoder 10, it is stored in the write channel buffer 11. Subsequently, the CPU 21
Moves the optical head 2 to the writing position based on the address information of the empty area. Then, the CPU 21 sets the optical head 2, the RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3, and the ECC circuit 4 to the write mode, and switches the switch 5 to the write channel buffer 11 side.
After fine adjustment of the position, writing by the optical head 2 is started. With this, the newly prepared "CHUNK_0001.MPEG
2 "is read from the write channel buffer 11 and input to the optical head 2 via the switch 5, the ECC circuit 4, the RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3, and the optical disk 1
Will be recorded.

When the amount of data read from the write channel buffer 11 and recorded on the optical disk 1 becomes equal to a preset value, or when the input unit 14 instructs to stop the write operation, the CPU 21 Stop the write operation. Finally, the CPU 21 rewrites the pointer pointing to "CHUNK_0001.MPEG2" in the file system (optical disc 1) so as to point to the newly written position, using a file system operation instruction previously incorporated in the processing program. .

Now, it is assumed that an information file and a stream file as shown in FIG. 26 are recorded on the optical disc 1. In this example, a file of one program named “PROGRAM_001.PGI” is included. Also, this optical disc 1 includes “TITLE_001.VDR”, “TITLE_
002.VDR "and three title files named" TITLE_003.VDR ".

Further, this optical disc 1 has "CHUNKGR
OUP_001.CGIT ”and files of two chunk groups“ CHUNKGROUP_002.CGIT ”are included in the optical disc 1.“ CHUNK_0001.MPEG2 ”and“ CHUNK_0011.
In addition to three stream files named "MPEG2" and "CHUNK_0012.MPEG2", information corresponding to each of them is "CHUNK_0001.ABST" and "CHUNK_0012".
0011.ABST "and three information files" CHUNK_0012.ABST ".

The logical structure of the optical disk 1 having the information file and the stream file shown in FIG. 26 is as shown in FIG. In this example, the chunk information file "C
HUNK_0001.ABST "is the stream file" CHUNK_0001.M
PEG2 "and the chunk information file" CHUNK_0011.ABST "
Specifies the stream file "CHUNK_0011.MPEG2", and the chunk information file "CHUNK_0012.ABST" specifies the stream file "CHUNK_0012.MPEG2". Specifically, in FIG. 24, CHUNK _ %%%%.
The file ID of the stream is specified in a field called hunk_file_id.

Further, in this example, the chunk group information file "CHUNKGROUP_001.CGIT" is a chunk information file "CHUNK_0001.ABST", and the chunk group information file "CHUNKGROUP_002.CGIT" is a chunk information file "CHUNK_0011.ABST". And "CHUNK_0012.ABST" are specified respectively. Specifically, the chunk_arrang in FIG.
The file ID of chunk information is specified in a field called chunk_info_file_id in ement_info (). This chun
k_arrangement_info () exists in the chunk group information file and has a data structure in which the number of chunks belonging to the corresponding chunk group exists (chun in FIG. 23).
k_arrangement_info () corresponds to chunk_connection_i in FIG.
This chunk_connection_info () is described in nfo ()
Is described in CHUNKGROUP _ ###. CGIT in FIG. 21).

CHUNKGROUP_001 contains chunk_arrangement_
There is only one info (), and the chunk_info_file_id in it is
CHUNK_0001 is specified. CHUNKGROUP_002 contains chun
There are two k_arrangement_info (), in each of which
CHUNK_0011 and CHUNK_0012 are specified. For such a case, the chunk group can specify a reproduction order of a plurality of chunks.

Specifically, first, CHUNKGROUP_ # in FIG.
The initial value of the clock in the corresponding chunk group is determined by chunkgroup_time_base_offset in ##. CGIT. Next, when registering each chunk, the chunk_arrangemen in FIG.
presentation_start_cg_count and presentationatio of t_info ()
n_end_cg_time_count is specified.

For example, as shown in FIG.
Is the length (time) of A and B is the length (time) of CHUNK_0012. The presentation_start_cg_count of CHUNK_0011 is chunk
equal to group_time_base_offset, presentation_end_c
g_count is equal to "chunk_group_time_base_offset + A". Also, the presentation_start_cg_count of CHUNK_0012 is c
hunkgroup_time_base_offset + A, presentation
_end_cg_count is "chunk_group_time_base_offset + A + B"
be equivalent to. With this setting, CHUNKGROUP_002
CHUNK_0011 and CHUNK_0012 are defined as being continuously reproduced.

If the reproduction times of CHUNK_0011 and CHUNK_0012 overlap, the time can be designated by shifting the times. Also, chunk_arrangement_in in FIG.
By describing the transition_info () in the fo (), a special effect (fade-in, fade-out, wipe, etc.) can be specified in the transition between two streams.

In the example shown in FIG. 26 (FIG. 27), the title information files "TITLE_001.VDR" and "TITLE_002.VDR" correspond to the chunk group information file "CHUNKGROUP_001.CGIT", and the title information file "TITLE_003.VDR" corresponds to the title information file. Each chunk group information file "CHUNKGROUP_002.CGIT" is specified. Specifically, in the title_info () of FIG. 16, a file ID of the chunk group is specified in a field called cgit_file_id, and further, title_start_ch
unk_group_time_stamp and title_end_chunk_group_time_s
The tamp field specifies the time range within which the title is defined in the chunk group.

For example, in the example of FIG. 27, CHUNKGROUP_001
TITLE_001 indicates the first half, and TITLE_002 indicates the second half. Note that this division is performed at the request of the user, and the position is arbitrary for the user and cannot be determined in advance. Where TITLE_
It is assumed that the position of division by 001 and TITLE_002 is set to a position separated by A from the head of CHUNKGROUP_001.

TITLE_001 is CHUNK as a chunk group
Specify GROUP_001 and set CHUNK as the start time of the title.
Specify the start time of GROUP_001 and the time of the point specified by the user as the end time of the title.

That is, title_start_chunk_gro of TITLE_001
chunkgroup_ti of CHUNKGROUP_001 as up_time_stamp
me_base_offset (start position) is set and TITLE_001
CHUNKGRO as title_end_chunk_group_time_stamp
A value obtained by adding the length of A to chunkgroup_time_base_offset of UP_001 is set.

Further, TITLE_002 designates CHUNKGROUP_001 as a chunk group, designates the time of a point designated by the user as the start time of the title, and designates the end time of CHUNKGROUP_001 as the end time of the title.

That is, title_start_chunk_gro of TITLE_002
chunkgroup_ti of CHUNKGROUP_001 as up_time_stamp
A value obtained by adding the length of A to me_base_offset (start position) is set, and title_end_chunk_group_time_ of TITLE_002 is set.
As stamp, chunkgroup_time_base_ of CHUNKGROUP_001
The value obtained by adding the length of CHUNKGROUP_001 to offset is set.

Further, TITLE_003 specifies CHUNKGROUP_002 as the chunk group, specifies the start time of CHUNKGROUP_002 as the start time of the title, and specifies the end time of CHUNKGROUP_002 as the end time of the title.

That is, title_start_chunk_gro of TITLE_003
chunkgroup_ti of CHUNKGROUP_002 as up_time_stamp
me_base_offset is set and title_end_chu of TITLE_003
chunkgr of CHUNKGROUP_002 as nk_group_time_stamp
oup_time_base_offset is added to the length of CHUNKGROUP_002.

Further, in this example, the program information file “PROGRAM_001.PGI” includes a part of TITLE_001 and TITLE_00
Part 3 is specified to be played in this order.
Specifically, one cut is extracted by specifying a title by title_number in play_item () in FIG. 20 and defining a start point and an end point at the time defined by each title. A program is constructed by collecting a plurality of such cuts.

Next, an operation for additionally recording (append recording) new information on the optical disk 1 will be described.
This recording is, for example, by timer recording,
Alternatively, the recording is performed by the user operating the input unit 14 to instruct the optical disc apparatus to perform recording in real time. In the latter case, the recording end time cannot be predicted when the recording button is pressed, but when the button of the one-touch recording function (a function that performs recording for a certain period of time after operation) is pressed. , The end time can be predicted.

Here, a description will be given taking timer recording as an example. In this case, it is assumed that the user of the optical disk device has previously specified the recording start time, the recording end time, the bit rate of the bit stream, the channel on which recording is performed, and the like. It is also assumed that at the time when the recording is reserved, it is previously confirmed that the optical disc 1 has a free space corresponding to the bit rate and the recording time.

If further recording is performed on the optical disc 1 between the time of recording reservation and the time of execution of the reserved recording, the currently reserved program is recorded at the designated bit rate. In some cases, it may not be possible to secure sufficient capacity. In such a case, the CPU 21 lowers the bit rate from the specified value and records the information for the reserved time, or records only the recordable time while keeping the bit rate as it is. To do it.
At this time, the CPU 21 performs further recording, and when a problem occurs in the reserved recording, it goes without saying that the CPU 21 issues a message notifying the user to that effect.

When the scheduled recording start time approaches, the CPU 21 uses the built-in timer and clock to
The mode is automatically returned from the sleep mode to the operation mode. Then, the CPU 21 uses a file system operation instruction incorporated in the processing program in advance,
The area on the optical disc 1 where only reserved programs can be recorded
Secure on top. That is, the value obtained by multiplying the result (recording time) obtained by subtracting the start time from the end time of the scheduled recording by the bit rate is the size of the area necessary for recording the reserved program, and the CPU 21 First, secure an area. In addition, when an information file needs to be recorded in addition to the stream file at the time of recording, for example, when a title information file or the like is required to register as a new title, a capacity sufficient for recording the information file is required. Must be secured on the optical disc 1. If it is not possible to secure a necessary area, the above-mentioned method (method of changing the bit rate, recording only within the recordable time, etc.) is taken.

At this time, since a new title is recorded, the user gives a file name of a new stream file as a new stream file in a new stream directory. Here, this is \ MPEGAV \ STRE
MS_003 \ CHUNK_0031. That is, as shown in FIG. 29, the file is named CHUNK_0031.MPEG2 under the STREAM_003 directory under the MPEGAV directory under the root directory.

The CPU 21 instructs each unit to execute the recording mode. For example, a video signal input to the input terminal P3 from a tuner (not shown) and an audio signal input to the input terminal P4 are encoded by the encoder 10 and then stored in the write channel buffer 11. Subsequently, the CPU 21 moves the optical head 2 to the writing position based on the address information of the previously secured area. Then, the CPU 21 sets the optical head 2, the RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3, and the ECC circuit 4 to the write mode, switches the switch 5 to the write channel buffer 11, and finely adjusts the position of the optical head 2. Then, writing by the optical head 2 is started. As a result, the content of the newly prepared "CHUNK_0031.MPEG2" is read from the write channel buffer 11, and is passed through the switch 5, the ECC circuit 4, the RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3, and the optical head 2, and the optical disk 1 Will be recorded.

The CPU 21 stops the write operation when any of the following conditions occurs after continuing the above write operation. 1) When the end time of the reserved recording is reached 2) When recording on the optical disc 1 becomes impossible due to lack of capacity or other causes 3) When stop of the recording operation is instructed

Next, the CPU 21 rewrites the pointer indicating "CHUNK_0031.MPEG2" in the file system to a value indicating the newly written position by using a file system operation instruction previously incorporated in the processing program. Further, the CPU 21 prepares each file of the chunk information, the chunk group information, and the title information, and records them with an appropriate name. At the time of recording or reservation, it is necessary to secure enough free space on the optical disc 1 for recording these files.

In this way, a new information file is created, for example, as shown in FIG. In the figure,
The file name with an asterisk (*) on the right shoulder is
This is a newly created file.

FIG. 31 shows the relationship between newly created information files. TITLE_004 is CHUNKGROUP_
003, CHUNKGROUP_003 specifies CHUNK_0031, C
HUNK_0031 specifies STREAM_0031.

That is, the new stream is TITLE_004
Is registered in the information file. The user can confirm TITLE_00
4 can be known, and TITLE_004 can be reproduced.

Next, an operation for overwriting and recording on the optical disc 1 as illustrated in FIG. 26 (FIG. 27) will be described. Overwrite recording refers to an operation of recording a new program on a previously recorded program (erasing the program), as in the case of recording a signal on a video tape.

In the overwrite recording, the position where the overwrite recording is started is important. For example, suppose that the user specifies to start overwrite recording from the beginning of TITLE_001. At this time, the overwrite recording is performed while rewriting TITLE_001, TITLE_002, and TITLE_003 in order. If the recording operation is not completed even after rewriting to the end of TITLE_003, a new area is secured in a free area on the optical disc 1 and recording is continued. For example, when TITLE_002 is set as the recording start position, TITLE_001 is located before the recording start position, and is not rewritten by the current recording operation.

Now, it is assumed that timer recording starts over the beginning of TITLE_003. In this case, it is assumed that the user of the optical disk device has previously specified the recording start time, the end time, the bit rate of the bit stream, the channel on which recording is performed, and the like. In the overwrite recording, it is assumed that an important recording start position is designated as the head of TITLE_003.
Also in this case, it is assumed that it is confirmed in advance that the capacity corresponding to the bit rate and the recording time exists on the optical disc 1 at the time of making the recording reservation. In the case of overwriting, the sum of the total capacity of a plurality of titles that can be overwritten from the designated position and the free capacity of the optical disc 1 is the recordable capacity. In other words, in this case, the stream STREAM_0011 managed by TITLE_003 is
The sum of the total capacity of STREAM_0012 and the free space on the optical disc 1 is the recordable capacity.

In the overwrite recording, there are several options in which order the actual recording should be performed for the recordable capacity. First, a method that can be considered first is a method of recording in the order of the stream specified by the title. In other words, in this case, first, STREAM
Start recording from the beginning of STREAM_0011, and continue recording from the beginning of STREAM_0012.
After recording until the end of TREAM_0012, this is a method of recording in an empty area. Another method is a method in which recording is first performed in an empty area, and when the empty area is exhausted, recording is performed on an existing stream.

The former method is superior in emulating a video tape. In other words, the operation is similar to that of a video tape, and has a feature that the user can easily understand the operation. The latter method has a feature that it is excellent in protection of recorded data because erasure of the already recorded data stream is postponed.

[0093] If further recording is performed on the optical disk 1 between the time of recording reservation and the time of execution of the reserved recording, the program reserved this time is recorded at the designated bit rate. In some cases, it is not possible to secure enough capacity. In such a case, as in the case described above, the bit rate is automatically reduced at the time of execution of the reservation, and all the recording is performed for the reserved time, or the recordable time is kept while the bit rate is kept as it is. Only recording is done.

When the start time of the scheduled recording approaches, the optical disk device returns from the sleep mode to the operation mode. The CPU 21 secures all free space on the optical disc 1. Of course, there is a method of not securing the free space at this time but securing it when it becomes necessary. However, here, for the sake of explanation, it is assumed that a necessary area is secured before the start of recording.

Since the start time, end time, and bit rate are specified in timer recording or the like, if the size of the necessary area is known in advance, only the necessary amount (or some The capacity may be ensured (by an amount corresponding to the addition of the margin). When an information file needs to be recorded at the time of this recording, for example, when a title information file or the like is required to be registered as a new title, it is necessary to leave a sufficient capacity for recording such an information file. is there.

Here, the file name of the new stream file is given as a new stream file in the new stream directory. In other words, here, the file name is \ MPEGAV \ STREMS_002 \ CHUNK_0031
And That is, as shown in FIG. 32, a file named CHUNK_0031.MPEG2 under the STREAM_002 directory under the MPEGAV directory under the root directory is created.

The video signal input to the input terminal P3 and the audio signal input to the input terminal P4 are encoded by the encoder 10 and then stored in the write channel buffer 11. Subsequently, the CPU 21
Based on the address information of the previously secured area, the optical head 2
Is moved to the writing position. Then, the CPU 21 sets the optical head 2, the RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3, and the ECC circuit 4 to the write mode, switches the switch 5 to the write channel buffer 11, and finely adjusts the position of the optical head 2. Then, writing by the optical head 2 is started. As a result, "CHUNK_0031.
The contents of “MPEG2” are read from the write channel buffer 11 and recorded on the optical disk 1 via the switch 5, the ECC circuit 4, the RF and demodulation / modulation circuit 3, and the optical head 2.

At this time, first, the stream file "CHUNK
_0011.MPEG2 "is rewritten, and" CHUNK_0011.MP
After recording to the end of "EG2", then "CHUNK_0012.
The recording is advanced to "MPEG2", and further, "CHUNK_0031.MPEG2"
Recording is advanced to.

The above operation is continued and, as in the case described above, when any of the three conditions occurs, the CPU 21
Stops the write operation.

Next, the CPU 21 updates the stream file, the chunk information, the chunk group information, and the title information by using the file system operation instruction previously incorporated in the processing program.

Incidentally, the structure of the file changes depending on the timing at which the writing is completed. For example, CHUNK_
After the overwriting of two streams of 0011.MPEG2 and CHUNK_0012.MPEG2 is completed, and further recording is performed on CHUNK_0031.MPEG2, the file configuration of the optical disc 1 is as shown in FIG.
It becomes as shown in. An asterisk on the right shoulder of the file name
The files with (*) are the newly created files.

FIG. 34 shows the relationship between the newly created files (the files in FIG. 33). As is apparent from comparison with FIG. 31, TITLE_003
As CHUNK included in CHUNKGROUP_002 specified by C
HUNK_0031 is increasing, and CHUNK_0031 specifies STREAM_0031.

On the other hand, when the overwrite recording is completed during the overwriting of the existing stream, for example, when the overwriting recording is completed during the recording of CHUNK_0011, the stream of CHUNK_0031 reserved for overwriting is opened because it was not overwritten. Is done. In this case, a special title process is performed. That is, overwrite recording is started from the beginning of TITLE_003, and when recording is completed halfway, the title is divided there. That is, as shown in FIG. 35, a portion from the overwrite recording start position to the end position is set as a new TITLE_003, and subsequent portions (the rest of the original TITLE_003) are TITLE_003.
_004.

Next, the operation of reproducing a title will be described. Now, it is assumed that the optical disk 1 having a file as shown in FIG. 26 is inserted into the optical disk device and the title is reproduced. First, when the optical disk 1 is inserted, the CPU 2
1 reads the information file from the optical disc 1 and stores
24. This operation is performed by repeating the above-described basic information file reading operation.

The CPU 21 first sets VOLUME.TOC and ALBUM.STR
Is read. Next, the CPU 21 checks how many files having the extension “.VDR” exist under the directory “TITLE”. A file having this extension is a file having title information, and the number of files is the number of titles. In the example of FIG. 26, the number of titles is three.
Next, the CPU 21 reads the three title information files and stores them in the RAM 24.

The CPU 21 controls the OSD control circuit 9 to generate character information indicating the information of the title recorded on the optical disk 1, and to combine the character information with the video signal by the combining circuit 8, and from the output terminal P1 to the display Output and display. In this case, there are three titles, and the length and attributes (name, recorded date and time, etc.) of each of the three titles are displayed.

Here, it is assumed that the user has designated reproduction of, for example, TITLE_002. In the information file of TITLE_002 (in cgit_file_id in title_info () in FIG. 16), CHUN
File ID that specifies KGROUP_001 is recorded and CP
U21 memorizes this and stores CHUNKGROUP_001 in RAM.
24.

Next, the CPU 21 determines the start time and the end time of TITLE_002 (title_start_chun in title_info () in FIG. 16).
k_group_time_stamp and title_end_chunk_group_time_sta
mp) to find out which CHUNK it corresponds to. This is CHU
From the information of NKGROUP, information in which each CHUNK is registered (pres in chunk_arrangement_info () in FIG. 23)
entation_start_cg_time_count and presentation_end_cg_
time_count). In this case, the start time of TITLE_002 is CHU as shown in FIG.
You can see that it is in the middle of NK_0001. In other words, TIT
To play LE_002 from the beginning, use stream file "C
HUNK_0001.MPEG2 "indicates that it is sufficient to start the reproduction.

Next, the CPU 21 checks where the head of TITLE_002 is in the stream. That is, TITLE_
The start time of 002 is calculated as the offset time (time stamp) in the stream.
Next, the reproduction start point immediately before the start time is specified using the feature point information in the CHUNK file. This allows
This means that the offset distance from the beginning of the file at the playback start point has been determined.

Next, the CPU 21 uses the file system operation instruction previously incorporated in the processing program, and uses the optical disk 1 on which “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2” is recorded.
Determine the above physical address and its length. Further, the offset address of the reproduction start point obtained earlier is added to this address, and the address of the reproduction start point of TITLE_002 is finally determined.

Subsequently, the CPU 21 sets the "CHUNK_0001.MPE"
The CPU 21 moves the optical head 2 to the reading position based on the address information of “G2”.
In addition, the demodulation / modulation circuit 3 and the ECC circuit 4 are set to the read mode, the switch 5 is switched to the read channel buffer 6, and the position of the optical head 2 is finely adjusted. .
As a result, the content of “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2” is accumulated in the read channel buffer 6.

The data stored in the read channel buffer 6 is output to the decoder 7, where the data is decoded, and the video signal and the audio signal are output. When the amount of data read, decoded, and displayed from the optical disc 1 becomes equal to the size of “CHUNK_0001.MPEG2”, the CPU 21 shifts to reproduction of TITLE_003. The playback operation of TITLE_003 is similar to the playback operation of TITLE_002.

When the reproduction of the registered title is completed, or when the stop of the reading operation is instructed,
The reading and decoding processing is stopped.

When a new disk is inserted into the optical disk device as the optical disk 1 or when a disk of a different format is inserted, the CPU 2
1, when the disc is inserted, VOLUME.TOC and ALBUM.
An attempt is made to read the STR, but no such file exists on these disks. In such a case, that is, when the VOLUME.TOC and ALBUM.STR cannot be read, the CPU 21 outputs a message and requests an instruction from the user. The user instructs the CPU 21 to eject the optical disc 1 (for example, when the disc is of a different format) or to initialize the optical disc 1 (for example, for a new disc of the same format).
Alternatively, the data is recovered by some method (for example, when the disks are of the same format but the data is destroyed).

Next, the title will be further described.
As shown in FIG. 15, TITLE _ ###. VDR is a file for storing title information. Information about one title is recorded in one title_info (). TITLE _ ###. VDR
The number of title_info () existing in is one. Therefore,
There are TITLE _ ###. VDRs in the volume as many as the titles.

The title number is not defined in title_info () in FIG. 16, but is determined by the file name or file id. Therefore, the positive integer ### of TITLE _ ###. VDR is title numb
represents er. The title is not a structure but a part of the range from the title index representing the starting point to the title index representing the beginning of the next title, or the range from the title index representing the beginning of the next title to the end point of the chunkgroup.

File_type_id of TITLE _ ###. VDR in FIG.
Is a fi in which title_info () is recorded as shown in FIG.
An id indicating le, which is represented by a character string having a length of 16. text_block () is an area for storing various texts, and its use is allowed in the text_block ()
Only text items are described.

Title_info () is, as shown in FIG.
This is an area on the unkgroup where the start and end points of the title and other attributes related to the title are written. Also tit
le_info () can have a flag indicating whether seamless playback can be guaranteed between titles when played back in title number order. From the flag, it is possible to know in advance whether or not seamless playback between titles can be performed by the optical disc device, and it is also possible to know whether or not the arrangement needs to be changed at the time of merging.

Although seamless playback is guaranteed in a title and a chunk group, the title boundary is
Since there may be a boundary between files, seamless playback may not be guaranteed between titles. However, by performing rearrangement or the like as a function of the optical disk device, it is possible to make a state in which seamless reproduction is generally performed.

Title_info_len in title_info () in FIG.
gth represents the length of title_info () in byte units. In the flags_for_title, the write attribute (change permission), the number of reproduction times, the rating level, and the like of the corresponding title are recorded. cgit_file_id contains the base of the corresponding title
Chunkgroup information file (CHUNKGROUP _ ##
# .CGIT) file_id is recorded.

[0121] In the title_start_chunk_group_time_stamp, the time of the reproduction start point of the title on the local time axis defined by the chunkgroup is recorded. That t
The display time of the picture indicated by the titleindex of itle is this value. title_end_chunk_group_stamp contains chunk
its titl on the local time axis defined by group
The time at the playback end point of e is recorded. This value is the chunkgr
This is the same as the value indicated by titleindex indicating the playback end point of oup or the start point of the title located immediately after on the time axis.

Title_playback_time () contains the playback time (time code value, frame or field) of the title.
Is recorded. number_of_marks contains the title
The total number (excluding titleindex) of all marks set in is recorded. In mark_type, as shown in FIG. 37, the type of mark attached to an arbitrary position in the title is recorded. The mark is also used as a random access point in the title. In the mark_chunk_group_time_stamp, the time stamp of the place where the mark is set on the time axis of the chunk group is recorded in ascending order of the value. same time st as start and end of title
An index with amp may be present. In stuffing_bytes, bytes to be stuffed are recorded, and the length is 8 × nb.
it (n> = 0).

Next, the chunkgro shown in FIGS.
Up and chunk will be further explained. CHUNKGROUP _ ###. CG
IT defines the time axis of the title, and the composition of the chunk, titl
This is a file that describes the processing of discontinuous points included in e.

The title is composed of various bitstreams, and may be a stream without video or a bitstream of DV (digital video). In the DV format, the time axis is specified for each frame, and the
If the STC (System Time Clock) of 2 video is used as a reference, the format is different, so that the DV bitstream cannot be managed.

Thus, a local time axis is set in the title. This time axis does not depend on the streams that make up the title. Title boundaries are set independently of chunk boundaries. Therefore, the local time axis is chunk (bitstr
It is more appropriate to set for a set of chunks including a plurality (arbitrary number) of titles, rather than for each title (corresponding to eam on a one-to-one basis) or for each title. The set of chunks is a chunkgroup.

In chunkgroup, a single time axis is defined,
The display time of the chunk is determined by pasting the chunk on top of it. In other words, bitstream fi
chunk with the contents of le (byte string) expanded on the time axis
Are lined up. All chuns contained in one bitstream file
The arrangement of k on the time axis is called a path. Multiple paths can be arranged in a chunkgroup. ch in path
The path that defines the playback start time and end time of the unkgroup is ma
The other paths are called sub paths. The sub path is mainly the audio c recorded later.
hunk etc.

Since the connection point of the chunk does not always coincide with the boundary of the title, it is not an attribute of the title. But chunk
Inclusion of the relationship between the attributes of each chunk causes a hierarchical inconsistency. Such discontinuity point information is located between the chunk and the title, and it is considered appropriate to place it in the chunkgroup hierarchy.

In summary, the information held by the chunkgroup is based on the arrangement of the chunks on the time axis, the reproduction order of the chunks, and the discontinuity generated at the connection point between the end of the chunk and the start of the chunk to be reproduced next. Points.

[0129] Note that CHUNKGROUP has STRE
It is also possible to specify AM. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 38, TITLE_001 specifies CHUNKGROUP_001, and CIT
HUNKGROUP_001 specifies CHUNK_0001 and CHUNK_0002. STREAM_0001 specified by CHUNK_0001 and CHUNK_000
The STREAM_0002 specified in 2 is assumed to be reproduced at least partially at the same time on the time axis.

FIG. 39 shows an example in which such a CHUNKGROUP occurs. In this example, BITSTREA
CHUNK A to manage MA and CHUNK B to manage BITSTREAM B
Is synthesized, and CHUNKGROUP becomes CHUNK A as the main path.
, And CHUNK B as a sub path. BITSTREAM A and BITSTREAM B are reproduced at least partially at the same time.

The file_type of CHUNKGROUP _ ###. CGIT in FIG.
_id indicates that the file is CHUNKGROU, as shown in FIG.
P _ ###. CGIT is an identifier indicating that the file is a 16-character string according to ISO 646. chunkgroup_time_
base_flags contains fl for the reference counter of chunkgroup
ag is recorded. chunkgroup_time_base_offset is c
The start time of the reference time axis in the hunkgroup is recorded. This value is a value set in a counter that counts up a 90 kHz clock, and is represented by 64 bits. tex
t_block () is an area for storing various texts, and text ites that are allowed to use in the text_block ()
Only m is described.

As shown in FIG. 22, chunk_connection_i
nfo () is information about a unique point (video switching point, video
This file is used to record the synchronization status between the chunk and the audio. At the singular point like the joint between chunks created by editing, GO
It is necessary to change chunks in the middle of P. Information near such an edit point is described here. A chunk does not belong to more than one chunkgroup.

The chunk_connection_info_length contains chun
A value representing the length of k_connection_info () in byte units is recorded. In number_of_chunks, the total number of chunks used in the chunkgroup is recorded. chunk_sync_play_f
As shown in FIG. 41, lag indicates two or more chunks at the same time.
Is a flag indicating whether or not it is necessary to reproduce the chunk, and its value 0 means reproduction of one chunk, and its value 1
Means simultaneous playback of a plurality of chunks.

In chunk_arrangement_info () of FIG. 23, chunk_arrangement_info_length represents the length of information about each chunk in bytes (chunk_arra).
transition_info () from the first byte of ngement_info_length
(Including the length up to the last byte). chunk_in
fo_file_id is the file_id of the target chunk_info_file
Is recorded.

The chunk_switch_stream_id has two chuns
When k is connected, the stream_id of the stream to be continuously reproduced is recorded. As the id, for example, an id for identifying a video or audio recorded in an MPEG2 packet header is used. presentation_start_cg_time_cou
In nt, a time count value representing the display start time of the corresponding chunk by the time in the chunk group is recorded. The display start time of chunk is global time s defined in chunkgroup
Expressed by tamp. The display of the corresponding chunk is started from this time in the chunkgroup. presentation_end
_cg_time_count indicates the display end time of the corresponding chunk, chu
The time count value represented by the time in the nkgroup is recorded. c
hunk display end time is glob defined in chunkgroup
It is represented by an al time stamp.

As shown in FIG. 42, original_time_coun
In t_type, the type of time count used inside the stream is recorded. For example, in the case of an MPEG2 video stream, original_time_count_type is set to '0000'. number_of_start_original_time_count_extension
When a plurality of time counts are required, the number of time counts indicating a newly required start time is recorded in. number_of_
end_original_time_count_extension contains multiple time
When count is needed, time that represents the new required end time
The count number is recorded. presentation_start_original
_time_count is presentation_start_cg_time_count
, The time or the counter value inside the stream is recorded. presentation_end_original_time_cou
In nt, corresponding to presentation_end_cg_time_count,
The time or counter value in the stream is recorded.

[0137] In tc_ext_attributes, time_count_exte
Attributes for nsion are recorded. This time_count_exte
In the nsion, for example, information such as which stream is applied can be entered. start_original_time_count_
In the extension, a start time or a start counter value required for switching the chunk is recorded. This is optional and is used when multiple times or counter values need to be recorded. end_original_time_count_extension
Records the end time or end counter value required for chunk switching. This is also optional and is used when multiple times or counter values need to be recorded. transition_info () records the information needed to apply special effects by switching chunks. For example, designation of chunk, switching time, type of special effect, and the like are described here.

As shown in FIG. 24, CHUNK _ %%%%. ABST
Is a file in which the feature points extracted from the bitstreams constituting the chunk of sub_file number %%%% are recorded. This file contains
A start byte position, a length, an attribute, and the like are described for each unit constituting a bitstream such as a GOP and an audio frame. GOP information and Audio frame information are grouped as one CHUNK _ %%%%. ABST for each chunk (sub-file).

As shown in FIG. 43, f of CHUNK _ %%%%. ABST
ile_type_id is the file where stream_info () is recorded
Is recorded as a character string of 16 characters according to ISO 646.

As shown in FIG. 44, the type of stream_info that follows in FIG. 24 is recorded in info_type. Here, the type of stream is specified. number_of_prog
In rams, pro included in TS (Transport Stream) of MPEG2
The number of gram is recorded. To find this number, use PSI (Progra
m Specific Information). At times other than TS, this value is 1. number_of_streams
Records the number of streams used in the program. In the case of TS, this value is different from the PID (packet
ntification). In the case of an MPEG stream other than TS, the number of streams having different stream ids is recorded here.

The stream_identifier records a stream id or an extension of the stream id. In the case of TS, PID is used as stream id.

As shown in FIG. 45, in the slot_unit_type, how the stream is divided at certain intervals is recorded. If the index of the delimiter is a time, such as each frame or field, a time stamp value is used. sl
In ot_time_length, a time corresponding to one slot is recorded. This value is represented by a time stamp value using a counter that counts a 90 kHz clock. number_of_sl
In ots, slot_info () written in CHUNK _ %%%%. ABST
Is recorded. In number_of_I_pictures_in_a_slot, the number of I-pictures included in the slot is recorded. This value is an integer of 1 or more and a value of 15 or less. However, GO
The number of I-pictures included in the slot located immediately before the slot starting with Pheader may be smaller than this value. G
This value is used when setting a slot starting with the picture header of the I-picture that is not immediately after the OPheader.

Next, the program shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 will be further described. PROGRAM _ $$$. PGI contains program
There is only one (). P as many as the number of programs in volume
ROGRAM _ $$$. PGI exists. program number is program ()
Is not defined in, but is specified by file name or file id.

As shown in FIG. 46, PROGRAM _ $$ in FIG.
$ .PGI file_type_id is the file where program () is recorded
Is recorded as a character string having a length of 16. In text_block (), areas for storing various texts are formed. Here is the text_block ()
Only text items that are allowed to be used in are described.

Various flags relating to the program are recorded in flags_for_program of program () in FIG. For example, the write attribute (change permission) of this program, the number of times of reproduction, the rating level, and the like are recorded.

As shown in FIG. 47, the attribute of program is recorded in program_status. The setting of this field is op
option, but if not set, it must be "none".

[0147] In program_playback_time (), the progr
am playback time is recorded. number_of_play_sequences
Records the number of play_sequences used in the program. However, in this format example, the value is fixed to 1. That is, in this format example, 1 p
rogram = 1 channel (channel) playback, so 2
In order to realize the simultaneous reproduction of ch, it is only necessary to enable the simultaneous reproduction of two programs. If there is no restriction of 1 program = 1ch reproduction, 2ch simultaneous reproduction is possible with 1 program. mul
When playing two play sequences at the same time using tichannel I / O,
The assignment to l is determined by the optical disk device.

In the number_of_play_lists, this play seq
The number of play_list used in uence is recorded. In this example, the value is 1. play_list_start_time_stamp
For _offset, ti starting from the start time of the play sequence
The time in the play sequence counted by mer is recorded. This value is the start time of the playlist. program
Then, only one play list must exist in the play sequence. The unit system of time is 90 kHz (1/90
000 seconds is the minimum unit of time). In stuffing_bytes, stuffing bytes are recorded. Its length is 8 × n
bit (n> = 0).

Next, a title editing process for dividing or moving a title will be described. In the title division, an existing title is divided at a position designated by a user to obtain a new title. In addition, moving the title means changing the order of the titles. The title information file having the format structure described above has such a structure that these divisions and movements can be easily executed. That is, in this format, a structure (chunk group) in which bit stream files are put together and a structure (title) recognized by the user as a title are divided, whereby the title can be divided or moved. Even so, there is no need to change the information below the chunk group.

Next, the title division processing will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. First, in step S1, the user specifies a division point. For example, it is assumed that a predetermined position of TITLE_002 shown in FIG. 27 is designated as a division point. At this time, in step S2, the CPU 21 sets the start point of the title to be divided (in this case, TITLE_002) as the start point, as shown in FIG.
A first title information file (TITLE_002.VDR) having the division point as an end point is created.

Next, in step S3, the CPU 21
Creates a second title information file (TITLE_003.VDR) with the division point of the title to be divided (TITLE_002 before division) as the start point and the end point as the end point.

Next, in step S4, the CPU 21
Changes the name of the title after the title to be divided. That is, as shown in FIG. 49, in FIG.
What used to be TITLE_003 is now TITLE_004.

As described above, even if the division processing is performed, the CHUNKG
ROUP, CHUNK, STREAM are not changed at all.

FIG. 50 shows a title exchange process. In this example, TITLE_002 shown in FIG.
_003 shall be replaced.

In this case, in step S11, the CPU
Reference numeral 21 changes the name of the original title (TITLE_002) of the number 002 to the title (TITLE_X) of the number X. Next, step S
In 12, the CPU 21 determines the title (TITLE
_003) to the title of number 002 (TITLE_002). Further, in step S13, the CPU 21 replaces the title (TITLE_X) of the number X with the title (TITLE_00) of the number 003.
Change to 3).

As described above, the title (TITLE_00
2) After once changing the title (TITLE_X) of the number X to the title (TITLE_003) of the number 003, the title (TITLE_002) of the number 002 is changed to the title (TITLE_0) of the number 003.
03), the same number at that time
This is in order to avoid a situation in which two titles (TITLE_003) of 003 are generated.

Thus, as shown in FIG. 51, the title (TITLE_002) of the number 002 and the title (TITLE_0) of the number 003
03) has been replaced.

FIG. 52 is a flow chart for explaining the title deleting process. In step S21, when the user specifies a title to be deleted, in step S22, the CPU 21 determines that the specified title corresponds to the CHUNKGRO
It is determined whether UP, CHUNK, and STREAM are supported by other titles. If it is not supported by another title, the process proceeds to step S23, and the CPU 21
CHUNKGROUP, CHUNK,
And remove STREAM.

In step S22, the CHUNKGROUP, CHUNK, and STREAM corresponding to the title designated to be deleted.
If it is determined that the title is also supported by another title, delete it and the CHU
NKGROUP, CHUNK, and STREAM will no longer exist. Therefore, in this case, step S23
Is skipped.

After the processing in step S23, or in step S22, the title designated to be deleted corresponds to the C
If it is determined that HUNKGROUP, CHUNK, and STREAM are also supported by other titles, the process proceeds to step S24, and the CPU 21 processes the information file that remains without being deleted. That is, since the title has been deleted, a process of moving up the titles of numbers after that one by one is executed. However, deletion is designated in step S22.
CHUNKGROUP, CHUNK, and STREA to which title corresponds
If it is determined that M is compatible with other titles, the message is not substantially deleted, and a message indicating that the deletion has not been substantially performed is output from the OSD control circuit 9. Is displayed.

In this way, as shown in FIG.
If you delete TLE_002, the previous TITLE_003 becomes TITLE_00
It is set to 2, and TITLE_004 up to that point is set to TITLE_003.
Similarly, the previous CHUNKGROUP_001 is replaced by CHUNKGROUP_001
And CHUNKGROUP_002 divided into CHUNKGROUP_0
02 is set to CHUNKGROUP_003. STRE until then
AM_001 is divided into STREAM_001 and STREAM_002.

In the above, an example has been shown in which a STREAM is deleted and a free area is increased when a title is deleted. On the other hand, there is a method in which only title information as management information is deleted, and STREAM as an entity is not deleted. In this case, even if the title is deleted, no change is made to CHUNKGROUP, CHUNK, and STREAM.

Next, the process of merging titles will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In this case, in step S31, the user
Specify e. For example, TITLE_002 and TITLE_ shown in FIG.
If 003 is specified as a merge, step S32
In, the CPU 21 creates a title whose start point is the start point of the title (TITLE_002) on the front side and whose end point is the end point of the title (TITLE_003) on the rear side. In this case, this t
itle is set to TITLE_002.

Next, the process proceeds to a step S33, wherein the old title
Is deleted. That is, in this case, the original TITLE_002 and TITLE_003 are deleted. Further, in step S34, the CPU 21
Process the title information file. That is, in the case of this example, TITLE_004 in FIG. 49 is changed to TITLE_003. In this way, a title as shown in FIG. 27 is obtained.

In the above example, two titles belong to the same CHUNKGROUP and are adjacent to each other. However, the CHUNKGROUP and CHUN exclusive to the two titles are used.
K and STREAM are arranged in the order to be merged and one CHUNK
It is also possible to merge to form a GROUP.

Next, the program will be described. program
Reproduction means that necessary parts of the title are collected and reproduced without irreversible editing of the material (stream). The structure for realizing this is pr
ogram. This program reproduction is also called pointer reproduction.

A program is composed of a plurality of play sequences, and each play sequence is composed of a plurality of play lists. One play sequence is one output channel
Control. Output chann of optical disk device
Which of el is assigned the play sequence is determined by the specifications of the optical disk device.

The play list constituting the play sequence is pl
This is to express the temporal overlap of decoding or display between ay items. In the play list, play items are arranged so that their processes do not overlap in time. Therefore, within the playlist, p
The lay item will be processed.

However, in this format example, program
Is composed of one play sequence.
Is composed of one play list.

[0170] The play list is a pla with no overlap in display time.
It consists of a sequence of y items. The program has a set of an in point and an out point indicating a region in a title as a play item. At the joint of play items, seamless playback may be possible, but not always. That is, seamless reproduction is not guaranteed.

Next, the program reproduction setting process will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. Now, assume that another PROGRAM_002 is generated in a state where the PROGRAM_001 exists as shown in FIG. 27, for example.

First, in step S41, the user specifies a title to be reproduced by a program and its in point and out point. For example, as shown in FIG.
A predetermined first position of E_003 is specified as an in point, and a predetermined second point is specified as an out point.

Next, the process proceeds to step S42, where the CPU 21
Is pl of play_list () (FIG. 19) of program () (FIG. 18).
Step S4 is added to title_number of ay_item () (FIG. 20).
The title (in this case, TITLE_003) specified in 1 is set, the in point specified in step S41 is set in item_start_time_stamp, and the out point specified in step S41 is set in item_end_time_stamp.

Next, at step S43, the CPU 21
Records a file including program () on the optical disc 1 as PROGRAM _ $$$. PGI. Here, $$$ is p
rogram number. That is, in this case, $$$ is 0
02.

As described above, as shown in FIG.
PROGRAM_002 is created.

Next, the program reproducing process will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. The user
When the optical disc 1 on which information as shown in FIG. 27 or FIG. 56 is recorded is mounted on the optical disc device, in step S51, the CPU 21 performs the above-described “basic information file reading operation” on the optical disc 1. The information file is repeatedly read and stored in the RAM 24.

That is, first, the CPU 21 executes the VOLUME.TO
C and ALBUM.STR are read, and then the file system is inquired about the number of files having the extension “.PGI” under the directory “program”. A file with this extension is a file that has information on the program playback file, and the number of files is progra.
This is the number of m plays. In the example of FIG. 27, this number is 1, and in the example of FIG. 56, this number is 2.

Next, the process proceeds to a step S52, where the CPU 21
Controls the OSD control circuit 9 to read the number, length, attributes, and the like of program reproduction from the RAM 24 and display them on the display. Here, the attribute is, for example, a name, a recorded date and time, and the like.

Next, in step S53, the user specifies a program to be reproduced. For example, in the example of FIG. 56, there are two programs, and the user operates the input unit 14 to specify which of them is to be reproduced. When the user specifies a program to be reproduced, in step S54, the CPU 21 executes a process of reproducing the specified program.

In step S54, when the program reproduction is executed, reproduction is performed from the position specified by the IN point to the position specified by the OUT point. For example, FIG.
In the example shown in, when playing back PROGRAM_001, TITLE_001
The range from the in point to the out point of, and the range from the in point to the out point of TITLE_003 are reproduced. PROGRAM_002
Is reproduced, the range from the in point to the out point of TITLE_003 is reproduced.

In step S55, the CPU 21
It is determined whether or not the reproduction of the program has been completed. If the reproduction has not been completed, the process returns to step S54, and the subsequent processing is repeatedly executed. If it is determined in step S55 that the reproduction of the program has ended, the process proceeds to step S55.
Proceeding to 56, the CPU 21 determines whether there is another program to be reproduced, and if so, returns to step S53 and repeatedly executes the subsequent processing.
If it is determined in step S56 that all programs have been reproduced, the processing is terminated.

A program, a play sequence, and a play item (play it)
FIG. 58 to FIG. 60 show the relationship of (em).

That is, as shown in FIG. 58, the program is configured by combining a plurality of play sequences in a predetermined order. Each play sequence is composed of an arbitrary number of play lists as shown in FIG. In this play list, an arbitrary number of play items are described corresponding to a predetermined time (time stamp).

In the example of FIG. 59, playlist 1
, Play item 1, play item 2, play item 3, play item 6, and play item 7
Are described so as to be sequentially reproduced. The play list 2 describes the play item 4 at the timing when the reproduction is started from the middle of the play item 2 and the reproduction is completed in the middle of the play item 3. Further, the play item 3 includes the play item 5
It is described that playback is started in the middle of play item 4 and playback is ended in the middle of play item 6. Therefore, when this play sequence is played, play item 1, play item 2, play item 3, play item 6, and play item 7 are successively played back in succession, and play item 4 is played back.
Play item 2 is played back from the middle of play item 3 to play item 3 at the same time. Also, while play item 3 and play item 4 are being played, play item 5 also starts playing at the same time, and play item 6 is played halfway. Is continued.

FIG. 60 shows the relationship between the program, the play sequence, and the play item collectively. That is, the program is composed of an arbitrary number of play sequences, and the play sequences are
It consists of an arbitrary number of playlists. Each playlist is composed of an arbitrary number of play items.

In the above, the case where the present invention is applied to an optical disk device has been described as an example. However, the present invention can also be applied to a case where information is recorded or reproduced on another recording medium.

[0187] As a providing medium for providing a user with a computer program for performing the above-described processing,
In addition to recording media such as magnetic disks, CD-ROMs, and solid-state memories, communication media such as networks and satellites can be used.

[0188]

As described above, according to the information processing apparatus of the first aspect, an arbitrary range of the second management means for managing an arbitrary number of the first management means is determined by the third management means. I managed it. According to the information processing method of the fifth aspect and the providing medium of the sixth aspect, an arbitrary number of management states in the second management step for managing an arbitrary number of management states in the first management step The management state of the range is managed in a third management step. Further, according to the recording medium of the present invention, the first to third management means are recorded on the recording medium as management information for managing information. Therefore, in any case, the editing process can be executed easily and in a short time.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a directory.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating VOLUME.TOC.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating volume_information ().

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating volume_attribute ().

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating resume ().

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating volume_rating ().

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating write_protect ().

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining play_protect ().

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining recording_timer ().

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating text_block ().

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating language_set ().

FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining text_item ().

FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining ALBUM.STR.

FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining album ().

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating TITLE _ ###. VDR.

FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining title_info ().

FIG. 17 is a view for explaining PROGRAM _ $$$. PGI.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating program ().

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating play_list ().

FIG. 20 is a diagram for describing play_item ().

FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining CHUNKGROUP _ ###. CGIT.

FIG. 22 is a diagram for describing chunk_connection_info ().

FIG. 23 is a view for explaining chunk_arrangement_info ().

FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining CHUNK _ %%%%. ABST.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an optical disc device to which the present invention has been applied.

FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a directory.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a logical structure of a directory.

FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating offset.

FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a directory.

FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a directory.

FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating a logical structure of a directory.

FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a directory.

FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a directory.

FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating a logical structure of a directory.

FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating a logical structure of a directory.

FIG. 36 is a view for explaining file_type_id.

FIG. 37 is a view for explaining mark_type.

FIG. 38 is a diagram for explaining CHUNKGROUP.

FIG. 39 is a diagram for explaining CHUNKGROUP.

FIG. 40 is a view for explaining file_type_id.

FIG. 41 is a view for explaining chunk_sync_play_flag.

FIG. 42 is a view for explaining original_time_count_type.

FIG. 43 is a view for explaining file_type_id.

FIG. 44 is a view for explaining info_type.

FIG. 45 is a view for explaining slot_unit_type.

FIG. 46 is a view for explaining file_type_id.

FIG. 47 is a view for explaining program_status.

FIG. 48 is a flowchart illustrating title division processing.

FIG. 49: PROGRAM, TITLE, CHUNKGROUP, CHUNK, STREA
It is a figure explaining the hierarchy of M.

FIG. 50 is a flowchart illustrating title replacement processing.

FIG. 51: PROGRAM, TITLE, CHUNKGROUP, CHUNK, STREA
It is a figure explaining the hierarchy of M.

FIG. 52 is a flowchart illustrating a title deletion process.

FIG. 53 is a diagram illustrating title deletion processing.

FIG. 54 is a flowchart illustrating a process of merging titles.

FIG. 55 is a flowchart for explaining a program reproduction setting process;

FIG. 56: PROGRAM, TITLE, CHUNKGROUP, CHUNK, STREA
It is a figure explaining the hierarchy of M.

FIG. 57 is a flowchart illustrating a program reproduction process.

FIG. 58 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a program.

FIG. 59 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a play sequence.

FIG. 60 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a program, a play sequence, and a play item.

[Explanation of symbols]

Reference Signs List 1 optical disk, 2 optical head, 3 RF and demodulation / modulation circuit, 4 ECC circuit, 6 buffer for read channel, 7 decoder, 8 synthesis circuit, 9
OSD control circuit, 10 encoder, 11 buffer for write channel, 12 address detection circuit, 1
3 system controller, 14 input units, 21 CP
U, 22 ROM, 23, 24 RAM

────────────────────────────────────────────────── ───

[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] October 23, 1998 (1998.10.
23)

[Procedure amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0041

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

The file of CHUNK _ %%%%. MPEG2 in FIG. 1 is a stream file. This file stores a bit stream of MPEG, it is different as its other files are recorded only information.

[Procedure amendment 2]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0177

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

That is, first, the CPU 21 executes the VOLUME.TO
C and ALBUM.STR are read, and then the file system is inquired about the number of files having the extension “.PGI” under the directory “program”. A file having this extension is a file having information on program reproduction , and the number of files is the number of program reproduction. In the case of the example of FIG. 27, this number is 1, and FIG.
In the example of 6, this number is 2.

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (31) Priority claim number Japanese Patent Application No. 10-46858 (32) Priority date February 27, 1998 (Feb. 27, 1998) (33) Priority claim country Japan (JP) (31) Priority claim number Japanese Patent Application No. 10-120391 (32) Priority date April 30, 1998 (1998.4.30) (33) Priority claim country Japan (JP) (31) Priority claim number Japanese Patent Application No. 10-120389 (32) Priority date April 30, 1998 (April 30, 1998) (33) Countries claiming priority Japan (JP)

Claims (7)

[Claims] A first management unit that manages a plurality of data on a one-to-one basis; a second management unit that manages an arbitrary number of the first management units; and an optional one of the second management units. An information processing apparatus, comprising: third management means for managing a range of the information. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the second management means reproduces an arbitrary number of the first management means so that at least a part of the data managed by the first management means overlaps on a time axis. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information is managed so as to be managed. 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first management unit is a unit of the data, and the third management unit is a unit of the data as viewed from a user. apparatus. 4. The second management means or the third management means.
2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the data can be seamlessly reproduced within a range of the management means. 5. A first management step of managing a plurality of data on a one-to-one basis; a second management step of managing an arbitrary number of management states in the first management step; And a third management step of managing a management state in an arbitrary range in the management step. 6. A first management step of managing a plurality of data on a one-to-one basis; a second management step of managing an arbitrary number of management states in the first management step; A providing medium for providing a program for causing an information processing apparatus to execute a process including a third management step of managing an arbitrary range of management states in the management step. 7. A recording medium on which information and management information for managing the information are recorded, wherein the management information comprises: first management means for managing a plurality of data on a one-to-one basis; A recording medium comprising: a second management unit that manages the first management unit; and a third management unit that manages an arbitrary range of the second management unit.