U.S. patent application number 11/146161 was filed with the patent office on 2005-10-20 for information record medium and apparatus for reproducing the same.
This patent application is currently assigned to PIONEER ELECTRONIC CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Ema, Shozo, Hasegawa, Yoshinori, Ishii, Hidehiro, Sawabe, Takao, Takahashi, Tokihiro, Yamamoto, Kaoru.
Application Number | 20050232111 11/146161 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 14680003 |
Filed Date | 2005-10-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050232111 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sawabe, Takao ; et
al. |
October 20, 2005 |
Information record medium and apparatus for reproducing the
same
Abstract
An information record medium (1) is provided with: an audio
information recording area on which a plurality of audio
information (210) which are different in recording method are
recorded; and a control information recording area on which control
information (211) required to reproduce the plurality of audio
information recorded on the audio information recording area is
recorded. The control information recorded on the control
information recording area includes a plurality of first division
information for identifying first division units (260) respectively
so as to divide each of the plurality of audio information recorded
on the audio information recording area by the first division units
respectively. The first division information, which indicates that
the audio information divided by the first division units belongs
to a same first division unit, is provided for each of the
plurality of audio information same in content and different in
recording method. The plurality of audio information same in
content and different in recording method, which are identified by
the first division information, are recorded on recording positions
different from each other in the audio information recording
area.
Inventors: |
Sawabe, Takao; (Tokyo-to,
JP) ; Yamamoto, Kaoru; (Tsurugashima-shi, JP)
; Ishii, Hidehiro; (Tokorozawa-shi, JP) ; Ema,
Shozo; (Tokorozawa-shi, JP) ; Takahashi,
Tokihiro; (Kawagoe-shi, JP) ; Hasegawa,
Yoshinori; (Tokyo-to, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DRINKER BIDDLE & REATH LLP
Suite 1100
1500 K Street, N.W.
Washington
DC
20005
US
|
Assignee: |
PIONEER ELECTRONIC
CORPORATION
|
Family ID: |
14680003 |
Appl. No.: |
11/146161 |
Filed: |
June 7, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11146161 |
Jun 7, 2005 |
|
|
|
09288643 |
Apr 9, 1999 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
369/59.25 ;
386/263; 386/353; G9B/20.014; G9B/27.019; G9B/27.033;
G9B/27.05 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G11B 27/329 20130101;
G11B 20/00992 20130101; G11B 2220/211 20130101; G11B 2220/2583
20130101; G11B 2020/10546 20130101; G11B 20/10527 20130101; G11B
2020/10601 20130101; G11B 20/1262 20130101; G11B 27/3027 20130101;
G11B 2220/2562 20130101; G11B 27/105 20130101; G11B 2020/10592
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
369/059.25 ;
386/096 |
International
Class: |
G11B 005/09; H04N
005/91 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 10, 1998 |
JP |
P10-116150 |
Claims
1-17. (canceled)
18. An information record medium comprising: an audio information
recording area on which a plurality of audio information are
recorded; and a control information recording area on which control
information to reproduce the audio information is recorded, wherein
the control information includes first division information for
identifying a first division unit, second division information for
identifying a plurality of second division units by dividing a
plurality of audio information as a reproduction unit, and
management information for correlating the first division unit and
the plurality of second division units with each other so that the
plurality of second division units are associated with the first
division unit, wherein each of the second division units associated
with one first division unit is recorded in a lump, and the
respective second division units are kept separate from each other,
and wherein the information record medium further comprises
reproduction control information for indicating a position of each
of the second division units.
19. An information recording medium according to claim 18, wherein
the management information is provided for each of the second
division units.
20. An information reproduction apparatus for reproducing an
information record medium comprising: an audio information
recording area on which a plurality of audio information are
recorded; and a control information recording area on which control
information to reproduce the audio information is recorded, wherein
the control information includes first division information for
identifying a first division unit, second division information for
identifying a plurality of second division units by dividing a
plurality of audio information as a reproduction unit, and
management information for correlating the first division unit and
the plurality of second division units with each other so that the
plurality of second division units are associated with the first
division unit, wherein each of the second division units associated
with one first division unit is recorded in a lump, and the
respective second division units are kept separate from each other,
and wherein the information record medium further comprises
reproduction control information for indicating a position of each
of the second division units, the apparatus comprising: a reading
device which reads record information from the record medium; a
reproduction device which reproduces the audio information; and a
controller which controls the reading device and the reproducing
device, wherein the controller selects one of the plurality of
second division units and controls the reading device and the
reproduction device so that the selected second division unit is
reproduced based on the reproduction control information
corresponding with the selected second division unit.
21. An information reproduction apparatus according to claim 20,
wherein the controller selects the one of the plurality of second
division units based on an ability to reproduce the audio
information in the information reproduction apparatus.
22. An information reproduction apparatus according to claim 20,
wherein the controller selects the one of the plurality of second
division units recorded with a recording method to reproduce the
audio information in the information reproduction apparatus.
23. An information reproduction apparatus according to claim 20,
further comprising: a input device which inputs a reproduction
condition, wherein the controller controls the reproduction device
based on the reproduction condition.
24. An information reproduction apparatus according to claim 23,
wherein the reproduction condition indicates a recording method to
be reproduced.
25. An information reproduction apparatus according to claim 20,
wherein the management information is provided for each of the
second division units.
26. An information reproduction method of reproducing an
information record medium comprising: an audio information
recording area on which a plurality of audio information are
recorded; and a control information recording area on which control
information to reproduce the audio information is recorded, wherein
the control information includes first division information for
identifying a first division unit, second division information for
identifying a plurality of second division units by dividing a
plurality of audio information as a reproduction unit, and
management information for correlating the first division unit and
the plurality of second division units with each other so that the
plurality of second division units are associated with the first
division unit, wherein each of the second division units associated
with one first division unit is recorded in a lump, and the
respective second division units are kept separate from each other,
and wherein the information record medium further comprises
reproduction control information for indicating a position of each
of the second division units, the method comprising the processes
of: reading record information from the record medium; reproducing
the audio information; and controlling the process of reading and
the process of reproducing, wherein the process of controlling
selects one of the plurality of second division units and controls
the reading device and the reproduction device so that the selected
second division unit is reproduced based on the reproduction
control information corresponding with the selected second division
unit.
27. An information reproduction method according to claim 26,
wherein the process of controlling selects the one of the plurality
of second division units based on an ability to reproduce the audio
information in the information reproduction apparatus.
28. An information reproduction method according to claim 26,
wherein the process of controlling selects the one of the plurality
of second division units recorded with a recording method to
reproduce the audio information in the information reproduction
apparatus.
29. An information reproduction method according to claim 26,
further comprising the processes of: inputting a reproduction
condition, wherein the processes of controlling controls the
process of reproducing based on the reproduction condition.
30. An information reproduction method according to claim 29,
wherein the reproduction condition indicates a recording method to
be reproduced.
31. An information reproduction method according to claim 26,
wherein the management information is provided for each of the
second division units.
32. An information recording apparatus comprising: an audio
information recording device which records audio information on an
audio information recording area by dividing the audio information
into a plurality of division units; and a control information
recording device which records management information and control
information on a control information recording area, the management
information being information for managing the plurality of
division units by correlating the plurality of division units with
a management unit, the control information being information for
performing a reproduction control of the division units for the
management unit, wherein the audio information recording device
records the division units so that the respective division units
are kept separate from each other, and wherein the control
information recording device records a position information on the
control information recording area, the position information being
information for indicating a position of each of the division
units.
33. An information recording apparatus according to claim 32, the
control information recording device records the control
information and the position information for each of the division
units on the control information recording area.
34. An information recording method comprising the processes of:
recording audio information on an audio information recording area
by dividing the audio information into a plurality of division
units; and recording management information and control information
on a control information recording area, the management information
being information for managing the plurality of division units by
correlating the plurality of division units with a management unit,
the control information being information for performing a
reproduction control of the division units for the management unit,
wherein the process of recording audio information records the
division units so that the respective division units are kept
separate from each other, and wherein the process of recording
control information records a position information on the control
information recording area, the position information being
information for indicating a position of each of the division
units.
35. An information recording method according to claim 34, the
process of recording control information records the control
information and the position information for each of the division
units on the control information recording area.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to an information record
medium such as a DVD disc, on which audio information of music and
the like which are different in the recording methods or encoding
methods are recorded, and a reproducing apparatus for reproducing
the audio information and the like.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] There is a video DVD (which is a disc conformable to a
DVD-Video standard) as a recording medium for recording video
information such as a movie and the like. The video DVD is used as
a recording medium for recording the movie and the like, since it
has a large capacity.
[0005] There is an audio DVD (which a disc conformable to a
DVD-Audio standard) to record only the audio information such as a
music and the like but not the video information such as the movie
and the like. In a case of this audio DVD, the audio information
corresponding to a plurality of CDs (Compact Discs) can be recorded
on a single audio DVD, because of its large capacity as the DVD. In
addition to the video information such as the movie and the like,
the audio DVD can also record the audio information corresponding
to a music CD that is a sound track version of that movie.
[0006] It is intended that the audio DVD mainly records the audio
information such as a music and the like, and also enables the
reproduction of unprecedented multi-channel. Moreover, it is
intended that the audio DVD enables the reproduction of
unprecedented high quality even as not only the multi-channel but
also a two-channel stereo.
[0007] In such a DVD audio disc, if only the audio information of
the multi-channel is recorded, this results in such a problem that
a user having the two-channel reproducing apparatus can listen to
only a part of the sound thereof, or the reproduction cannot be
performed at all.
[0008] So, it is necessary to record the audio information for the
two-channel reproduction together with the audio information for
the multi-channel reproduction on the disc, in order for even the
user having only the reproducing apparatus dedicated to the
two-channel to enjoy this disc.
[0009] However, in this case, these two kinds of audio information
are duly the same title and the same song. Thus, recording these
two kinds of audio information as they are on the disc leads to the
existence of the two kinds of titles having the same name and songs
having the same name. Hence, this results in a first problem that
the user is confused. This first problem is similarly brought about
not only in a case when a reproducing manner of the channel and the
like is different, but also in a case when a recording manner such
as a binaurally recording operation and the like is different, in a
case when an encoding method such as an AC-3 and the like is
different and in a case when a combination of the reproducing
manner, the recording manner or the encoding method is
different.
[0010] Next, in an already-standardized DVD video format, a
plurality of audio information can be recorded together with video
information, at the same time. For example, it is possible to
switch between a voice of an original language and a voice dubbed
in Japanese, for a certain movie. Similarly, it is also possible to
switch between an LPCM stereo voice and an AC-3 multi-channel
voice, under the same title. Thus, the plurality of audio
information can be treated as the same title and the same song.
Hence, it is possible to change an audio stream to thereby change
the kind of audio information to be reproduced.
[0011] On the other hand, it is desired to record the video
information even on the audio DVD, so as to record the video
information such as a menu and additional information. In this
case, if an image is recorded by using a method different from the
DVD video format, this cannot attain the compatibility with the
video format. It is desirable to reproduce a portion where the
image is attached on the audio disc, even for a video player which
is presently marketed.
[0012] Thus, from these viewpoints, it is desirable that the
structure to record the substantial information containing the
image is similar to that of the DVD video format.
[0013] However, in order to achieve that structure, it is necessary
to multiplex a plurality of kinds of audio information and then
record them on the disc as one object. Also, in order to manage a
plurality of streams, it is necessary that management information
is included in the data. Thus, the case of having the same
structure as the video format reduces the process necessary for the
switching operation of the reproducing apparatus at the time of the
reproduction. However, this case brings about such a trouble that
the process at the time of the recording becomes complex.
[0014] The performance for the recording operation and the
conformity with a presently-used studio unit are significant, and
the non-complex process in the recording operation are desired for
the audio format. In particular, the structure that the management
information is not included in the data is desired.
[0015] Thus, there are two kinds of structures i.e., a structure
peculiar to the DVD audio format in the case of recording only the
audio information and a structure conformable to the DVD video
format containing the image. When only the audio information is
reproduced for the data having the two kinds of structures, there
are the two kinds of formats, which are completely different from
each other, in the reproduction control information, unless the
logical structures are common. Hence, the process in the
reproducing apparatus becomes heavy, which cannot provide a unified
operation. Therefore, this results in a second problem that the
user is confused.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] The present invention is proposed in view of the above
mentioned problems. It is therefore a first subject of the present
invention to provide an information record medium, from which
respective audio information can be properly reproduced without
introducing a confusion to a user even if a plurality of audio
information different in recording methods, reproducing manners
and/or encoding methods are recorded on the information record
medium, and an information reproducing apparatus, which can
properly reproduce the respective audio information from the
information record medium.
[0017] Moreover, it is a second object of the present invention to
provide an information record medium, which can offer an
environment to select a plurality of kinds of audio information by
using a unified operation without the consciousness of a structural
difference between two information record mediums even if one of
them has a structure peculiar to the DVD audio format for recording
only audio information and the other of them has a structure
conformable to the DVD video format containing an image, and
further a reproducing apparatus which can properly reproduce
it.
[0018] 1) The above first object of the present invention can be
achieved by a first information record medium such as an DVD
provided with: an audio information recording area on which a
plurality of audio information (e.g., AOB #1, AOB #2, . . . ) which
are different in recording method are recorded; and a control
information recording area on which control information (e.g.,
ATSI) required to reproduce the plurality of audio information
recorded on the audio information recording area is recorded. The
control information recorded on the control information recording
area includes a plurality of first division information (e.g.,
track number or ATS title number in one title) for identifying
first division units (e.g., tracks or ATS titles) respectively so
as to divide each of the plurality of audio information recorded on
the audio information recording area by the first division units
respectively. The first division information, which indicates that
the audio information divided by the first division units belongs
to a same first division unit, is provided for each of the
plurality of audio information same in content and different in
recording method. The plurality of audio information same in
content and different in recording method, which are identified by
the first division information, are recorded on recording positions
different from each other in the audio information recording
area.
[0019] According to the first information record medium, the first
division information as one portion of the control information
recorded on the control information recording area is read out by
an information reproducing apparatus. Then, the first division unit
to which a desirable audio information belongs is searched, and a
reproduction of the audio information belonging to the searched
first division unit is performed. Therefore, since the plurality of
audio information same in content and different in recording method
are recorded on the recording positions different from each other
in the audio information recording area, it is necessary to search
the first division unit for respective one of the plurality of
audio information recorded on those different recording positions.
However, the first division information, which indicates that the
audio information divided by the first division units belong to a
same first division unit, is provided for each of the plurality of
audio information same in content and different in recording
method. Namely, the plurality of audio information indicated by the
same first division information are different in recording method,
belong to the same first division unit and are same in content.
Consequently, as a designation for such audio information, a
designation corresponding to a single first division information is
enough. And that, since this single first division information is
respectively provided for the plurality of audio information
different in recording method and same in content, such a fact that
the desired audio information corresponds to the plurality of audio
information of such type (i.e., which are different in recording
method and same in content) is recognized by the information
reproducing apparatus when reading the first division information.
Then, after recognizing this fact, one of the plurality of audio
information in a particular recording method corresponding to a
processing capability of the pertinent information reproducing
apparatus for example, among the plurality of audio information
belonging to the single first division unit indicated by the
pertinent single first division information is searched from the
above mentioned different recording positions in the audio
information recording area. Then, the reproduction of the searched
audio information is performed. In this manner, since the plurality
of audio information different in recording method and same in
content can be managed under the content thereof, it is not
necessary for a user to designate the audio information for each of
the plurality of audio information even in the presence of the
plurality of audio information different in recording method and
same in content. Thus, it is possible to give no confusion or mess
in the operation to the user.
[0020] 2) In one aspect of the first information record medium of
the present invention, the control information (ATSI) further
includes: a plurality of second division information (e.g., program
number) for identifying second division units (e.g., programs)
respectively so as to divide each of the plurality of audio
information recorded on the recording positions different from each
other in the audio information recording area by the second
division units as a single reproduction unit; and a plurality of
management information for correlating the plurality of second
division information and the plurality of first division
information with each other so that the audio information divided
by the first division units are composed of one or a plurality of
the audio information divided by the second division units. The
management information is provided for each of the plurality of
audio information so as to respectively correlate the second
division information, which identifies a same second division unit
to which the plurality of audio information same in content and
different in recording method belong, with the first division
information for identifying the same first division unit to which
the plurality of audio information same in content and different in
recording method belong, for each of the plurality of audio
information same in content and different in recording method.
[0021] According to this aspect, the first division information as
one portion of the control information recorded on the control
information recording area is read out by an information
reproducing apparatus, and the first division unit to which a
desirable audio information belongs is searched. Then, the
management information corresponding to the first division
information indicating the searched first division unit is read
out, and the second division information correlated with this first
division information is read out. By this second division
information, with respect to the audio information in the
previously searched first division unit, the search for the second
division unit us further performed, and the audio information is
reproduced for each reproduction unit. Alternatively, if a
designation of the second division unit is directly performed by a
user, the search for this second division unit designated by the
user is performed in the same procedure, and only the audio
information in the designated second division unit is
reproduced.
[0022] The plurality of audio information same in content and
different in recording method are recorded on the recording
positions different from each other in the audio information
recording area. The first division information, which indicates
that the audio information divided by the first division units
belong to a same first division unit, is provided for each of the
plurality of audio information same in content and different in
recording method. Further, with respect to this first division
information, the second division information is correlated by the
management information for each of the plurality of audio
information same in content and different in recording method. The
second division information gives a same second division unit to
which the plurality of audio information same in content and
different in recording method belong. As mentioned above, although
the first division information is provided for each of the
plurality of audio information same in content and different in
recording method, since the content thereof is the same, the single
first division information is given. The second division
information is provided for each of the plurality of audio
information same in content and different in recording method,
since the content thereof is the same, the single second division
information is given. Therefore, in case of reproducing the audio
information different in recording method recorded on the different
recording positions in the audio recording area, the processes of
searching for the first division unit and the second division unit
are the same for the plurality of audio information different in
recording method. Thus, it is possible to perform a continuous
reproduction of the second division units or a reproduction of the
designated second division unit by a single process under a single
designation. In this manner, since the plurality of audio
information different in recording method and same in content can
be managed under the content thereof and for each of the
reproduction units, it is not necessary for a user to designate the
audio information for each of the plurality of audio information
even in the presence of the plurality of audio information
different in recording method and same in content. Thus, it is
possible to give no confusion or mess in the operation to the user.
Therefore, even the audio information recorded in the DVD video
format can be reproduced in accordance with the control information
of the DVD audio format.
[0023] 3) In this aspect, the management information may
respectively correlate the second division information for
identifying the second division units, the numbers and orders
(e.g., the number of programs and the order of programs) of which
are same to each other, with the first division information for
each of the plurality of audio information same in content and
different in recording method.
[0024] Accordingly, even if the second division information
correlated to the first division information for each of the
plurality of audio information same in content and different in
recording method indicates a plurality of second division units,
since the numbers and the orders of the second division units are
to each other for each of the plurality of audio information same
in content and different in recording method, the procedure to
perform the search for and the reproduction of the n.sup.th second
division unit, which divides the first division unit, can be made
same to each other for each of plurality of audio information same
in content and different in recording method, so that the
simplification of the processes can be improved. This leads to the
commonness of the processes in the information reproducing
apparatus and further the commonness of the operations by the user,
so that it is possible to give no confusion or mess in the
operation to the user even more certainly.
[0025] 4) In this case, the audio information divided by the second
division units in accordance with the second division information,
which is respectively correlated with the first division
information for each of the plurality of audio information same in
content and different in recording method, may be recorded on the
audio information recording area as the audio information, whose
reproduction time is substantially same for each of the plurality
of audio information same in content and different in recording
method.
[0026] Accordingly, even if the second division information
correlated with the first division information for each of the
plurality of audio information same in content and different in
recording method indicates a plurality of second division units,
the audio information is recorded such that the reproduction time
of the audio information divided by the second division units is
substantially same for each of the plurality of audio information
same in content and different in recording method. Therefore, even
in case of reproducing the audio information by respective one of
the recording methods, it is possible to give agreeableness to the
user, so that it is possible to give no confusion or mess in the
operation to the user even more certainly.
[0027] 5) In another aspect of the first information record medium
of the present invention, the control information includes
information indicative of the recording method as information to
select one of the plurality of audio information same in content
and different in recording method to be reproduced.
[0028] According to this aspect, if a desired audio information is
recognized by the information reproducing apparatus as the
plurality of audio information same in content and different in
recording method, one of the plurality of audio information same in
content and different in recording method, which is the audio
information in a desirable recording method, is easily selected on
the basis of the information indicative of the recording method
included in the control information. Also, if the information
reproducing apparatus to reproduce the pertinent information record
medium has no capability of performing the process based on the
desired recording method, it is possible to easily warn that the
designation of the desired recording method by the user is invalid
for example.
[0029] 6) In another aspect of the first information record medium
of the present invention, the recording method is at least one of a
recording form, a reproducing form and an encoding method.
[0030] According to this aspect, since the plurality of audio
information same in content whose recording method is a recording
form, a reproducing form or an encoding method, or combinations of
those are recorded, an appropriate reproduction of the audio
information corresponding to the request by the user or
corresponding to the capability of the information reproducing
apparatus to reproduce the pertinent information record medium can
be performed with giving no confusion or mess to the user.
[0031] 7) The above second object of the present invention can be
also achieved by a second information record medium such as an DVD
provided with: a video area on which information including mainly
video information and audio information associated with the video
information is recorded; and an audio area on which audio
information is mainly recorded. Control information (e.g., ATSI,
VTSI), which is required to search and reproduce the video
information and the audio information, is recorded on the
information record medium, and includes a plurality of first
division information (e.g., track number or ATS title number in one
title) for identifying first division units (e.g., tracks or ATS
titles) respectively so as to divide each of a plurality of audio
information (e.g., AOB #1, AOB #2, . . . ) recorded on the video
area or audio area by the first division units respectively. The
first division information, which indicates that the audio
information divided by the first division units belongs to a same
first division unit, is provided for each of the plurality of audio
information same in content and different in recording method. On
the audio area, the plurality of audio information same in content
and different in recording method, which are identified by the
first division information, are recorded on recording positions
different from each other in the audio area. On the video area, the
plurality of audio information same in content and different in
recording method are multiplexed and recorded within a same record
unit in the video area.
[0032] According to the second information record medium, the first
division information as one portion of the control information is
read out by an information reproducing apparatus. Then, the first
division unit to which a desirable audio information belongs is
searched, and a reproduction of the audio information belonging to
the searched first division unit is performed. Therefore, in case
that the plurality of audio information same in content and
different in recording method are multiplexed and recorded within
the same record unit in the video area or in case that the
plurality of audio information same in content and different in
recording method are recorded on the recording positions different
from each other in the audio area, it is necessary to search the
first division unit for respective one of the plurality of audio
information different in recording method. However, the first
division information, which indicates that the audio information
divided by the first division units belong to a same first division
unit, is provided for each of the plurality of audio information
same in content and different in recording method. Namely, the
plurality of audio information indicated by the same first division
information are different in recording method, belong to the same
first division unit and are same in content. Consequently, as a
designation for such audio information, a designation corresponding
to a single first division information is enough with respect to
either the audio information recorded in the video area or the
audio information recorded in the audio area. And that, since this
single first division information is respectively provided for the
plurality of audio information different in recording method and
same in content, such a fact that the desired audio information
corresponds to the plurality of audio information of such type
(i.e., which are different in recording method and same in content)
is recognized by the information reproducing apparatus when reading
the first division information. Then, after recognizing this fact,
one of the plurality of audio information in a particular recording
method corresponding to a processing capability of the pertinent
information reproducing apparatus for example, among the plurality
of audio information belonging to the single first division unit
indicated by the pertinent single first division information is
searched from the video area or the audio area. Then, the
reproduction of the searched audio information is performed. In
this manner, since the plurality of audio information different in
recording method and same in content can be managed under the
content thereof, it is not necessary for a user to designate the
audio information for each of the plurality of audio information
even in the presence of the plurality of audio information
different in recording method and same in content. Thus, it is
possible to give no confusion or mess in the operation to the
user.
[0033] On the video area, since the plurality of audio information
same in content and different in recording method are multiplexed
and recorded within the same record unit in the video area, it is
possible to record not only the audio information but also the
video information within the pertinent record unit. Further, since
the audio information read out from the predetermined record unit
includes the multiplexed audio information different in record
method, it is possible to construct such that the recording area
for the pertinent audio information has the control information for
the pertinent audio information. Therefore, if the control
information is provided only in this recording area for the audio
information, it is not possible for the control information, which
is to control the audio information in the audio area having no
control information of such kind in the recording area for the
audio information, to perform any reproduction control. In fact,
according to the present invention, as mentioned above, the first
division information as one portion of the control information is
commonly provided for the video area, for each of the plurality of
audio information different in recording method. Thus, the control
information required to reproduce the audio information, which is
recorded in the record unit in the video area, can be held by the
layer of this first division information, so that it is possible to
reproduce the audio information different in recording, which is
recorded in the video area, by using the control information to
control the audio information in the audio area. In this manner,
according to the present invention, since the united process can be
performed regardless of the area where the audio information is
recorded, it is possible to give no confusion or mess to the
user.
[0034] 8) The above objects of the present invention can be
achieved by a first information reproducing apparatus for
reproducing the above described first information record medium of
the present invention. The first information reproducing apparatus
for reproducing the audio information in accordance with the
control information is provided with: a reading device for reading
record information which is recorded on the information record
medium and includes the audio information and the control
information; an inputting device for inputting designation
information to designate a condition to reproduce the information
record medium; a selecting device for selecting the recording
method, the audio information in which is to be reproduced, on the
basis of the designation information or set information stored in a
memory device; and a reproducing device for reproducing the audio
information in the recording method, which is selected by the
selecting device from among the plurality of audio information same
in content and different in recording method, on the basis of the
control information and the record information read by the reading
device.
[0035] According to the first information reproducing apparatus,
when a user designates a desired audio information, the designation
information is inputted by the inputting device. Then, the control
information corresponding to the designation information inputted
in this manner is read out from the information record medium by
the reading device. The recording method, which is designated by
the user or corresponding to the capability of the information
reproducing apparatus, is selected by the selecting device, on the
basis of the inputted designation information or the set
information which is set and stored in the memory device in
advance. Then, the audio information in the recording method
selected by the selecting device from among the plurality of audio
information same in content and different in recording method is
reproduced by the reproducing device on the basis of the control
information and the record information read by the reading device.
Therefore, even if the plurality of audio information different in
recording method are recorded on the different recording positions
in the audio area, the search and the reproduction of the audio
information of the desired recording method can be performed just
by performing the designation corresponding to the content of the
desired audio information by the user. In this manner, it is
possible to appropriately reproduce the plurality of audio
information same in content and different in recording method,
which are recorded on the information record medium, with giving no
confusion or mess to the user.
[0036] 9) In one aspect of the first information reproducing
apparatus of the present invention, the apparatus is further
provided with: an extracting device for extracting information
indicating the recording method of each of the plurality of audio
information recorded on the information record medium from the
control information; and a displaying device for displaying the
extracted information.
[0037] According to this aspect, the information indicating the
recording method is extracted from the control information by the
extracting device. Then, the extracted information is displayed by
the displaying device. Therefore, the user can designate the
recording method, the audio information in which is to be
reproduced, with referring to the displayed recording method, so
that it is possible to perform an appropriate reproduction in
accordance with the request of the user.
[0038] 10) In another aspect of the first information reproducing
apparatus of the present invention, the inputting device is set to
receive an input of the designation information regardless of an
operation condition of the information reproducing apparatus, and
the selecting device or the reproducing device is set to perform,
when a content of the designation information inputted by the
inputting device is changed, respective process on the basis of the
changed designation information.
[0039] According to this aspect, even while the information
reproducing apparatus is reproducing or stopping, the inputting
device receives the input of the designation information of the
audio information by the user. Then, if the content of the
designation information inputted in this manner is changed, the
respective process is performed by the selecting device or the
reproducing device, on the basis of the changed designation
information. Therefore, since the request such as the change of the
reproducing method from the user can be reflected to the
reproduction of the audio information in a real time manner, it is
possible to perform an even more appropriate reproduction in line
with the request from the user.
[0040] 11) In another aspect of the first information reproducing
apparatus of the present invention, the apparatus is further
provided with a re-writing device for re-writing a content of set
information stored in the memory device.
[0041] According to this aspect, when the user instructs re-writing
of the set information by the re-writing device, the content of the
set information stored in the memory device is re-written.
Therefore, since the recording method suitable for the usage
condition of the information reproducing apparatus etc., can be
stored in advance in line with the request from the user, it is
possible to provided an appropriate usage environment for the
information reproducing apparatus.
[0042] 12) In another aspect of the first information reproducing
apparatus of the present invention, the apparatus is further
provided with a warning display device for performing an warning
display if the recording method selected by the selecting device on
the basis of the designation information or the set information
cannot be processed by the information reproducing apparatus.
[0043] According to this aspect, if the recording method selected
by the selecting device on the basis of the designation information
or the set information cannot be processed by the pertinent
information reproducing apparatus, the warning display is performed
by the warning display device. Therefore, it is possible for the
user to set or re-write an appropriate recording method in
accordance with the capability of the pertinent information
reproducing apparatus.
[0044] 13) In another aspect of the first information reproducing
apparatus of the present invention, in the initial setting
condition, the selection of the recording method by the selecting
device is performed on the basis of the initial set information,
which is set in advance and is stored in the memory device.
Therefore, it is possible to give no trouble to the user, and it is
possible to perform an appropriate reproduction by means of the
recording method suitable for the information reproducing
apparatus.
[0045] 14) In another aspect of the first information reproducing
apparatus of the present invention, the apparatus is further
provided with: a re-writing device for re-writing a content of set
information stored in the memory device; and a warning display
device for performing an warning display if the recording method
selected by the selecting device on the basis of the designation
information or the set information cannot be processed by the
information reproducing apparatus. The selecting device selects the
recording method, on the basis of (i) designation information
inputted by the inputting device, (ii) set information re-written
by the re-writing device and (iii) initial set information stored
in the memory device in an initial setting condition, in this
priority order, as long as the warning display is not performed by
the warning display device.
[0046] According to this aspect, the recording method is selected,
on the basis of either one of the (i) the designation information
which is designated by the user in a real time manner, (ii) the set
information which is re-written by the user in advance and (iii)
the initial set information. The priority order is given to this
selecting process. This priority order corresponds to the order of
the capability of the information reproducing apparatus itself, the
real time designation by the user and the initial setting.
Therefore, since the capability of the information reproducing
apparatus itself has the highest priority, it is possible to avoid
the selection which is not suitable for the information reproducing
apparatus. Further, if the designation or the re-writing is not
performed by the user, an appropriate recording method is selected
by the initial set information. However, this information can be
appropriately re-written in accordance with the request from the
user. Furthermore, even if such a re-writing is performed, since it
is possible to designate the recording method in the real time
manner, it is possible to perform an appropriate reproduction to
which the request from the user is efficiently reflected while the
recording method suitable for the information reproducing apparatus
is performed.
[0047] 15) In another aspect of the information reproducing
apparatus of the present invention, the apparatus is further
provided with a detecting device for detecting an insertion
condition of a headphone plug with respect to a headphone jack. The
reproducing device reproduces the audio information which is
binaural-recorded if the detecting device detects that the
headphone plug is inserted in the head phone jack.
[0048] In this aspect, when the user inserts the headphone plug
into the headphone jack, this insertion is detected by the
detecting device. Thus, in case that the audio information which is
binaural-recorded is recorded on the information record medium to
be reproduced, even if the designation to designate this
binaural-recorded audio information is not performed, the
binaural-recorded audio information suitable for the headphone
reproduction is reproduced. Therefore, while it is not necessary
for the user to perform a bothersome operation, it is possible to
perform an appropriate reproduction in accordance with the usage
condition.
[0049] 16) The above objects of the present invention can be also
achieved by a second information reproducing apparatus for
reproducing the above described one aspect of the first information
record medium in which the control information further includes the
second division information and the management information. The
second information reproducing apparatus for reproducing the audio
information in accordance with the control information is provided
with: a reproduction time processing device for calculating and
storing, while reproducing the audio information divided by the
first division units, (i) the second division information which
identifies the second division unit which is currently being
reproduced and (ii) an elapsed time from a lead of the calculated
second division unit or an elapsed time from a lead of the first
division unit which is currently being reproduced; an audio
information switching device for switching a reproduction of the
audio information divided by the second division units, which are
identified by the second division information correlated by the
management information with the same first division information and
which are different in recording method, for each of the audio
information divided by the second division units; and a
reproduction control device for starting the reproduction from a
point, which corresponds to the same second division information as
that identifies the second division unit to which the previously
reproduced audio information belongs and the same elapsed time
stored by the reproduction time processing device when the audio
information switching device switches the reproduction.
[0050] According to the second information reproducing apparatus,
during the reproduction of the audio information divided by the
first division units, (i) the second division information which
identifies the second division unit which is currently being
reproduced and (ii) an elapsed time from a lead of the calculated
second division unit or an elapsed time from a lead of the first
division unit which is currently being reproduced are calculated
and stored by the reproduction time processing device. When the
user issues the designation to switch the plurality of audio
information same in content and different in recording method from
one to another as the audio information to be reproduced by use of
the inputting device, the audio information to be reproduced is
switched from one to another by the audio information switching
device in accordance with the designation information from the
inputting device. At this time of switching, the reproduction is
started by the reproduction control device from a point, which
corresponds to the same second division information as that
identifies the second division unit to which the previously
reproduced audio information belongs and the same elapsed time
stored by the reproduction time processing device. Therefore, at
the time of switching the audio information from one to another
which are same in content and different in recording method, since
the content of the reproduced audio information is not shifted in
time axis, it is possible to give agreeableness to the user.
[0051] 17) In one aspect of the second information reproducing
apparatus of the present invention, the apparatus is further
provided with an audio information processing device for reading
out the audio information corresponding to a time duration required
for switching the reproduction of the audio information when the
audio information switching device switches the reproduction of the
audio information, wherein, (i) while switching the audio
information, the audio information switching device reproduces the
audio information divided by the second division unit to which the
previously reproduced audio information belongs and (ii) when
staring the reproduction of the audio information divided by the
second division unit after switching, the audio information
switching device reads out the audio information at a point
corresponding to the elapsed time of the audio information divided
by the second division unit, which is currently being reproduced
and is identified by the same second division information as that
identifies the second division unit to which the audio information
before switching belongs, and actually switches the reproduction of
the audio information from the point corresponding to the elapsed
time.
[0052] According to this aspect, when the reproduction of the audio
information is switched by the audio information switching device,
the audio information corresponding to the time duration required
for switching the reproduction of the audio information is read out
and stored by the audio information processing device. Then, while
switching the audio information, the audio information divided by
the second division unit to which the previously reproduced audio
information belongs is reproduced. Then, when staring the
reproduction of the audio information divided by the second
division unit after switching, the audio information at a point
corresponding to the elapsed time of the audio information divided
by the second division unit, which is currently being reproduced
and is identified by the same second division information as that
identifies the second division unit to which the audio information
before switching belongs, is read out, and the reproduction of the
audio information is actually switched from this point. Therefore,
it is possible to absorb the time duration required for switching,
so that it is possible to prevent the time shift upon switching
even more certainly.
[0053] The nature, utility, and further features of this invention
will be more clearly apparent from the following detailed
description with respect to preferred embodiments of the invention
when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings briefly
described below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0054] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a physical structure (physical
format) of a video DVD;
[0055] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a logical structure (logical
format) of the video DVD;
[0056] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a physical structure (physical
format) of an audio DVD;
[0057] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a logical structure (logical
format) of the audio DVD;
[0058] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a plurality of kinds of the
DVDs;
[0059] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of an audio/video
common DVD;
[0060] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a concept of a double management
of the same object;
[0061] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of navigation
information prescribed for the audio/video common DVD of FIG.
6;
[0062] FIG. 9A is one diagram showing information to be recorded to
an ATS;
[0063] FIG. 9B is another diagram showing the information to be
recorded on the ATS;
[0064] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a relation between substantial
information, navigation information and a user's recognition at a
time of reproducing an audio title;
[0065] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a relation between substantial
information, navigation information and a user recognition at a
time of reproducing a title commonly used for video and audio;
[0066] FIG. 12A is one diagram showing information to be recorded
to an ATSI of a DVD disc recorded in the audio format;
[0067] FIG. 12B is another diagram showing the information to be
recorded to the ATSI of the DVD disc recorded in the audio
format;
[0068] FIG. 13A is one diagram showing information to be recorded
to an ATSI of a DVD disc recorded in the audio format and the video
format;
[0069] FIG. 13B is another diagram showing the information to be
recorded to the ATSI of a DVD disc recorded in the audio format and
the video format;
[0070] FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration
of a video DVD player;
[0071] FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration
of an audio DVD player;
[0072] FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an
audio decoder in the audio DVD player of FIG. 15;
[0073] FIG. 17A is a diagram showing a sound field generated in a
case of reproducing music information reproduced by an ordinary
stereo with a headphone;
[0074] FIG. 17B is a diagram showing a sound field generated in a
case of reproducing music information binaurally reproduced with a
head phone;
[0075] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing multiplexed audio packs, each
of which is two-channel-recorded by a stereo method, and audio
packs, each of which is two-channel-recorded by a binaural
method;
[0076] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a circuit
configuration of a headphone jack;
[0077] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of a process of
selecting PGC from information indicative of an encoding method;
and
[0078] FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of a process of
selecting PGC from information in which an encoding method and a
reproducing manner are combined.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0079] Referring to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the
present invention will be now explained.
[0080] (1) Format of Video DVD
[0081] First of all, a record format on a video DVD of video
information and audio information (which includes music
information, hereinbelow) is explained.
[0082] (1.A) Physical Format of Video DVD
[0083] A physical format of the record format on the video DVD is
explained with reference to FIG. 1.
[0084] As shown in FIG. 1, a video DVD 1 is provided with a lead in
area LI at its most inner circumferential portion and a lead out
area LO at its most outer circumferential portion, between which
video information and audio information are recorded such that they
are divided into a plurality of VTSs (Video Title Sets) 4, each of
which has a unique ID (Identification) number (i.e. VTS#1 to
VTS#n). Here, the VTS 4 is a set (bundle) of titles (each of which
is one production or one work which an author or producer intends
to offer to the audience), which are related to each other (e.g.,
attributes, such as the number, the specification, the
corresponding languages etc. of the audio information and the video
information included therein are the same to each other). At an
immediate outer circumferential side of the lead in area LI, there
is recorded a UDF (Universal Disc Format) 2 including information
to manage a format of a file recorded within the pertinent disc.
Following the UDF 2, a VMG (Video Manager) 3 is recorded. As the
information recorded in the video manager 3, for example,
information related to the whole video and audio information
recorded on the video DVD 1, such as a menu for showing a name of
each title, information for preventing an illegal copy, an access
table for directly accessing each title and so on, is recorded.
[0085] One VTS 4 is recorded such that it is divided into a
plurality of VOBs (Video Objects) 10, each of which has an ID
number (VOB ID#1, VOB ID#2, . . . ), and VTSI (Video Title Set
Information) 11 disposed ahead of the VOBs 10. Here, a data portion
constructed by a plurality of VOBs 10 is defined as a VOB set
(VOBS) as shown in FIG. 1.
[0086] In the VTSI 11 recorded at the head of the VTS 4,
information such as PGCI (ProGram Chain Information), which is
various information related to a program chain as a logical
division obtained by combining a plurality of cells (the "cell"
will be described later in detail), is recorded. In each VOB 10,
the substantial portion of the video and audio information (i.e.
the video and audio information itself other than control
information) besides the control information are recorded.
[0087] Further, one VOB 10 is constructed of a plurality of cells
20, each of which has an ID number (cell ID#1, cell ID#2, . . . ).
One cell 20 is constructed of a plurality of VOB units (VOBUs) 30,
each of which has an ID number (VOBU#1, VOBU#2, . . . ). Here, the
VOB unit 30 is an information unit, each of which includes the
video information, the audio information and sub picture
information (which is defined as information of a sub picture such
as a subtitle of a movie etc.), or only includes a navi-pack which
is described layer.
[0088] One VOB unit 30 is provided with: a navi-pack (a navigation
pack) 41 for storing various control data whose control object is
the video information etc. included in the VOBU 30; a video pack 42
for storing video data as the video information; an audio pack 43
for storing audio data as the audio information; and a sub picture
pack 44 for sub picture data as the sub picture information. Here,
in the video pack 42, only the video information is recorded. In
the audio pack 43, only the audio data is recorded. Further, in the
sub picture pack 44, only the sub picture data which are graphic
data such as a character and a diagram as the sub picture is
recorded.
[0089] In a pack header recorded at the head of each pack P, a
reading-start time information so-called as a SCR (System Clock
reference), which indicates a reading-start time on a reproduction
time axis to start reading the data included in each pack P from a
track buffer of a reproducing apparatus described layer and
inputting it into respective one of buffers, a start code
indicating a start of each pack P and the like are recorded.
[0090] Finally, the navi-pack 41 is provided with: a DSI (Data
Search Information) packet 51 including search information to
search a video image or an audio sound desired to be displayed or
sound-outputted (concretely, search information such as an address,
where the video or audio to be displayed or sound-outputted is
recorded, on the DVD 1); and a PCI (Presentation Control
Information) packet 50 including information related to a display
control at a time of displaying the video image or outputting the
audio sound, which is searched on the basis of the information of
the DSI packet 51.
[0091] Each video pack 42 included in one VOB unit 30 consist of at
least one GOP (Group Of Pictures). The GOP is a minimum picture
unit, which can be independently reproduced and which is determined
by a standard based on the MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) 2
method. The MPEG 2 method is a picture compression method adopted
at a time of recording the video information onto the DVD 1 in the
present embodiment.
[0092] In the above explained record format having a hierarchical
structure as shown in FIG. 1, each division can be freely set
according to the author's intention, so as to perform recording on
the basis of these set divisions. By performing the reproduction on
the basis of a later described logical structure for each of these
divisions, the variegated reproduction can be performed.
[0093] (1-B) Logical Format
[0094] Nextly, a logical format (logical structure) constructed by
combining the information recorded by the physical divisions shown
in FIG. 1 is explained with reference to FIG. 2. The information is
not actually recorded on the DVD 1 in the logical structure of FIG.
2. Instead, information (e.g. access information or time
information) to reproduce each data shown in FIG. 1 by combining
them (especially combining the cells 20) in the logical structure
shown in FIG. 2, is recorded on the DVD 1, especially in the VTSI
11.
[0095] To make the explanation clear, the following explanation is
made from the lower hierarchical layer in FIG. 2. One program 60 is
logically constructed on the basis of the author's intention by
selecting and combining a plurality of cells 20 among the physical
structures explained by use of FIG. 1. It is also possible for the
author to define a gathering of one or more programs 60 as a
minimum unit, which can be freely selected to be watched or
listened to by the audience and which is referred to as a PTT (ParT
of Title).
[0096] Here, as for the number of each cell 20, at a time of
treating the cell 20 on the physical format shown in FIG. 1, the
number is treated as the cell ID number (which is indicated by cell
ID # in FIG. 1). On the other hand, at a time of treating the cell
20 on the logical format shown in FIG. 2, the number is treated as
the cell number in the order of description in the PGCI described
later.
[0097] Next, by combining a plurality of programs 60, one PGC
(Program Chain) 61 is logically constructed. The aforementioned
PGCI (ProGram Chain Information) is defined by a unit of the PGC
61. The PGCI includes information indicating: the reproduction
order of the cells 20 for each program 60 at a time of reproducing
each program 60 (by this reproduction order, a unique program
number (#1, #2, . . . ) is assigned to each program 60); an address
which is a record position of each cell 20 on the DVD 1; the number
of the cell 20 positioned at the head of one program 60 to be
firstly reproduced; and so on.
[0098] In one PGC 61, the substantial video and audio data etc. are
included as a combination of the programs 60 (in other words, the
combination of the cells 20) other than the above mentioned
PGCI.
[0099] Then, one title 62 is logically constructed of one or a
plurality of PGCs 61 (PGC #1, PGC#2, . . . ) as shown in FIG. 2.
The title 62 is, for example, a unit corresponding to one movie,
and is completed information which the author would like to offer
to the audience of the DVD 1.
[0100] Finally, one VTS 63 is logically constructed of one or a
plurality of titles 62 (title #1, title #2, . . . ) as shown in
FIG. 2. The information included in one VTS 63 shown in FIG. 2
corresponds to information included in one VTS 4 shown in FIG. 1.
Namely, all information included in the logical VTS 63 shown in
FIG. 2 is recorded as one VTS 4 in the DVD 1 shown in FIG. 1.
[0101] As the author specifies the information divided in the
physical structure on the DVD 1 in conformity to the above
described logical format, the video image and/or the music for the
audience to watch and/or listen to is to be formed.
[0102] (2) Format of Audio DVD
[0103] Next, a record format on an audio DVD of audio information
(which includes music and voice information, hereinbelow) is
explained.
[0104] (2-A) Physical Format of Audio DVD
[0105] A physical format of the record format on the audio DVD is
explained with reference to FIG. 3.
[0106] As shown in FIG. 3, an audio DVD 200 as an embodiment is
provided with the lead in area LI at its most inner circumferential
portion and the lead out area LO at its most outer circumferential
portion, between which one volume space is recorded. Within the
volume space, an audio zone is always recorded. In this audio zone,
the audio information is recorded such that it is divided into a
plurality of ATSs (Audio Title Sets) 203, each of which has a
unique ID (Identification) number (i.e. ATS#1 to ATS#n). At a head
of the audio zone, there is recorded a SAPPT (Simple Audio Play
Pointer Table) 204 as reproduction control information to perform a
simple reproduction (such as a two channel reproduction). The SAPPT
204 is recorded on each of DVDs having the audio zone. The SAPPT
204 may be recorded in the lead in area LI or in an AMG 202
described later.
[0107] At the outer circumference side of the lead in area LI, a
UDF (User Disc Format) 201 for managing the format of the file
recorded on the audio DVD 200 is recorded, and, next to it, the
SAPPT 204 is recorded, and further next to it, the AMG (Audio
Manager) 202 is recorded. However, the order of the positions of
the UDF 201, the SAPPT 204 and other files is not limited to this
order shown in FIG. 3.
[0108] As the information recorded in the SAPPT 204, information to
reproduce the LPCM data by 2 channels, for example. As the
information recorded in the AMG 202, for example, management
information related to the whole audio information recorded on the
audio DVD 200, such as a menu for showing a name of each item,
information for preventing an illegal copy, an access table for
directly accessing each title and so on, is recorded.
[0109] One ATS 203 is recorded such that it is divided into a
plurality of AOBs (Audio Objects) 210, each of which has an ID
number (AOB ID#1, AOB ID#2, . . . ), and ATSI (Audio Title Set
Information) 211 disposed ahead of the AOBs 210.
[0110] Here, a data portion constructed by a plurality of AOBs 210
is defined as an AOB set (AOBS) as shown in FIG. 3. The AOB set is
the substantial portion of the audio information.
[0111] In the ATSI 211 recorded at the head of the ATS 203,
information such as APGCI (Audio ProGram Chain Information) as
reproduction control information, which is various information
related to a program chain as a logical division obtained by
combining a plurality of cells (the "cell" will be described later
in detail), is recorded. In each AOB 210, the substantial portion
of the audio information (i.e. the audio information itself other
than control information) is recorded. One AOB 210 includes a
plurality of cells 220 each having an ID number (CELL ID #1, CELL
ID #2, . . . ) respectively.
[0112] One cell 220 consists of a plurality of audio packs 230 each
of which has been packed, or an audio pack 230 and real time
information pack 231. The audio pack 230 is a data pack into which
the audio information to be recorded onto the audio DVD has been
packed by each predetermined size, and includes audio information
digitized by a linear PCM for example. In the real time information
pack 231, text information, BPM (Beat Per Minutes) information,
hand clap information and the like are included.
[0113] In the above explained record format having a hierarchical
structure as shown in FIG. 3, each division can be freely set
according to the author's intention, so as to perform recording the
record information onto the audio DVD 200 on the basis of these set
divisions. By performing the reproduction on the basis of a later
described logical structure for each of these divisions, the
variegated reproduction can be performed.
[0114] (2-B) Logical Format
[0115] Nextly, a logical format (logical structure) constructed by
combining the information recorded by the physical divisions shown
in FIG. 3 is explained with reference to FIG. 4.
[0116] The information is not actually recorded on the audio DVD
200 in the logical structure of FIG. 4. Instead, the audio
information is recorded on the audio DVD in the physical format
shown in FIG. 3, and the information to reproduce the audio
information is recorded in the aforementioned SAPPT 204, AMG 202
and ATSI 211 in the logical format shown in FIG. 4.
[0117] To make the explanation clear, the following explanation is
made from the lower hierarchical layer in FIG. 4. An index 259 is
constructed by selecting and combining one cell 220 or a plurality
of cells 220 among the physical structure explained with reference
to FIG. 3. The index 259 can be used as the music number, and is
the minimum unit which can be accessed by the user.
[0118] By one or a plurality of indexes 259, one track 260 is
logically constructed. The track 260 is an information unit
corresponding to one music composition. The user can select an
arbitrary track (music composition) and directly access it.
[0119] Here, as for the number of each cell 220, at a time of
treating the cell 220 on the physical format shown in FIG. 3, the
number is treated as the cell ID number (which is indicated by cell
ID # in FIG. 3). On the other hand, at a time of treating the cell
220 on the logical format shown in FIG. 4, the number is treated as
the cell number in the order of description in the APGCI described
later.
[0120] The track (music composition) 260 is an information unit
including a plurality of cells, and is a group of cells having
certain common attributes to each other. Namely, the attributes of
all of the cells in one track 260 are the same to each other.
Further, all of the cells included in the track 260 are recorded
adjacent to each other within the same object.
[0121] One title 261 is logically constructed of one track 260 or a
plurality of tracks 260. However, the title 261 itself is not
recognized as a unit of access by the user. Therefore, it is not
possible to access an arbitrary title by specifying the title
number.
[0122] In case of the audio DVD, the attribute of each track 260
constructing the title 261 can be defined independently within 8
patterns at the maximum. Namely, the attribute as the audio
information such as the channel number, the quantization method,
the sampling frequency and the like may be changed for each track
(i.e., each music composition).
[0123] The aforementioned APGCI is defined by the unit of this
title 261. In the APGCI, the attribute of each track 260, the
reproduction order of the cells 220 in each track 260 when
reproducing each track 260, the address which is the recording
position of each cell 220 on the audio DVD 220, the number of the
cell 220 at the head to be reproduced on one track 260, the
reproducing method of each track 260 and various commands are
included.
[0124] In one title 261, the substantial audio information is
included as the combination of the tracks 260 (i.e., the
combination of the cells 220) other than the above mentioned
APGCI.
[0125] One title group 262 is logically constructed by one or a
plurality of titles 261. The title group 262 is the maximum unit
which the user can access, and can be defined up to 9 groups at the
maximum within one volume. This title group 262 is constructed by
one or a plurality of titles 261 which are collected on the basis
of a certain relationship, and all of the titles 261 within the
title group 262 are continuously reproduced. For example, it is
possible to collect as one title group the music compositions of a
particular singer, a particular composer or the like.
[0126] One volume 262 is logically constructed by one or a
plurality of title groups 262. The volume 262 is an information
unit corresponding to one album (DVD).
[0127] The actual audio information included in one title shown in
FIG. 4 is recorded within one ATS 203 shown in FIG. 3 on the audio
DVD.
[0128] As the author specifies the information divided in the
physical structure on the audio DVD 200 in conformity to the above
described logical format, the music for the audience to listen to
is to be formed.
[0129] (3) Kinds of DVDs
[0130] Next, the kinds of the DVDs will be explained with reference
to FIG. 5. In the explanation below, as for the information
recorded on the DVD, the information including both of video and
audio such as a movie may be called as "AV information" while the
information thereof only related to the video portion may be simply
called as "video information", and the information thereof only
related to the audio portion as well as the pure audio information
such as music may be simply called as "audio information".
[0131] As a DVD player for reproducing the DVDs of various kinds,
there are 4 kinds i.e., a video DVD player capable of reproducing
the AV information in conformity to the DVD video format
(hereinbelow, it is referred to as a "video player"), an audio DVD
player for reproducing the audio information in conformity to the
DVD audio format in various reproduction manners (hereinbelow, it
is referred to as an "audio player"), a simple audio DVD player for
reproducing the LPCM audio information in conformity to the DVD
audio format by 2 channels (hereinbelow, it is referred to as a
"simple audio player"), and a compatible DVD player capable of
reproducing the AV information in conformity to the DVD video
format and the audio information in conformity to the DVD audio
format (hereinbelow, it is referred to as a "compatible player").
Each of those DVD players will be described later in detail.
[0132] At the present, there exist 4 kinds of discs as the DVD on
which the AV information or the audio information is recorded.
Namely, there are {circle over (1)} a video DVD, {circle over (2)}
a video DVD provided with audio navigation, {circle over (3)} an
audio only DVD and {circle over (4)} audio and video DVD. FIG. 5
schematically shows the physical formats of these 4 kinds of the
DVDs.
[0133] Incidentally, the disc shapes and the information recording
methods (e.g., the modulation methods, the track pitches, the pit
sizes etc.) are the same to each other between there 4 kinds of
discs, and only the contents of these 4 kinds of discs are
different from each other.
[0134] (3.1) Video DVD
[0135] The video DVD is shown at the top stage of FIG. 5. On this
video DVD, the video information and the audio information to be
simultaneously reproduced such as a movie in conformity to the DVD
video format (i.e., the AV information) are recorded. Therefore, on
the recording area between the lead in area LI and the lead out
area LO, the video information and the audio information within a
plurality of the VTSs are recorded other than the management
information, and that the VMG including the managing/controlling
information for these VTSs is also recorded. As explained before
with reference to FIG. 1, the video information is recorded as the
video pack and the audio information is recorded as the audio
pack.
[0136] This video DVD is reproduced by the video player and the
compatible player on the basis of the navigation information (which
is the information for prescribing the control information for the
reproduction and will be described later in detail) included in the
management information recorded in the VMG. However, since the
navigation information in conformity to the DVD audio format is not
recorded, it cannot be reproduced by the audio player.
[0137] (3.2) Video DVD Provided with Audio Navigation
[0138] The video DVD provided with audio navigation as one kind of
video discs is shown at the second top stage of FIG. 5. The video
DVD provided with audio navigation enables a reproduction of the
video information (including the audio information accompanying it)
such as a movie in conformity to the DVD video format in the same
manner as the mere video DVD by the video player, and also enables
the reproduction of only the audio information in the AV
information of the VOB within the VTS by the audio DVD player since
the navigation information in conformity to the DVD audio format is
recorded. This one portion of the AV information from which only
the audio information can be reproduced by the audio DVD player is
called as an "audio play part".
[0139] As for the recording format of the video DVD provided with
audio navigation, the AV information is recorded within the video
zone in the form of a plurality of VTSs in conformity to the video
DVD shown in FIG. 1. In addition to it, on the video DVD provided
with the audio navigation, the ATSI including the reproduction
control information to reproduce only the audio information within
the VTS is recorded as the ATS in the audio zone forward of the
video zone in conformity to the DVD audio format. The AMG is
recorded as the management information for the ATS. In the ATS, the
AOB which is the substantial portion of the audio information is
not recorded. Namely, in these AMG and ATSI, the navigation
information for the audio player to reproduce the audio information
(more concretely, the audio pack for the audio play part within
each VOB (refer to FIG. 1)) included in each VTS within the video
DVD provided with the audio navigation is recorded.
[0140] At a head of the audio zone, there is recorded the SAPPT. In
this SAPPT, the navigation information to reproduce the LPCM audio
information included in the VTS by the 2 channels is described.
[0141] This video DVD provided with audio navigation is reproduced
by the video player and the compatible player on the basis of the
navigation information recorded in the VMG. Further, the audio
information of the audio play part of this video DVD provided with
audio navigation is reproduced in various manners on the basis of
the navigation information recorded in the AMG by the audio player
depending upon the capability of the pertinent audio player.
Furthermore, the LPCM information of the audio play part of this
video DVD provided with audio navigation is reproduced by the 2
channels on the basis of the navigation information recorded in the
SAPPT by the simple audio player.
[0142] (3.3) Audio Only DVD
[0143] The audio only DVD is shown at the third top stage of FIG.
5. On this disc, only the audio information except for a little
amount of still pictures and/or text information is recorded.
Therefore, in the record area between the lead in area LI and the
lead out area LO, only the audio zone exists, the ATSI and the AOB
are recorded as a plurality of ATSs, and the AMG including the
management information for these ATSs is also recorded. Further,
the SAPPT is recorded in the lead in area LI or the audio zone.
[0144] On the other hand, one or a plurality of AOBs as the
substantial portion of the audio information are included in each
ATS.
[0145] From this audio only DVD, the audio information within the
audio zone is reproduced in various manners by the audio player and
the compatible player depending upon the capability of the
pertinent player, on the basis of the navigation information
recorded in the AMG. Further, the LPCM information within the audio
zone of this audio only DVD is reproduced by the 2 channels on the
basis of the navigation information recorded in the SAPPT by the
simple audio player. However, since the navigation information in
conformity to the DVD video format is not recorded, it cannot be
reproduced by the video player.
[0146] (3.4) Audio and Video DVD
[0147] The audio and video DVD is shown at the bottom stage of FIG.
5. On this disc, in the record area between the lead in area LI and
the lead out area LO, the audio zone and the video zone exist. In
the video zone, the VMG and the VTS including the AV information
(VOB) as the substantial information and the reproduction control
information are recorded, in conformity to the DVD video format in
the same manner as the video DVD. Further, the SAPPT is recorded in
the lead in area LI or the audio zone.
[0148] In the audio zone, the SAPPT, the AMG and a plurality of
ATSs including the audio information as the substantial information
and the reproduction control information (i.e., ATS #1, ATS #2 in
FIG. 5) are recorded, in conformity to the DVD audio format in the
same manner as the audio only DVD. Further, the ATS including only
the reproduction control information to reproduce only the audio
information of the VOB within the VTS in the video zone is
recorded. Namely, in the audio and video DVD, the AV information in
conformity to the DVD video format and the audio information in
conformity to the DVD audio format are recorded in areas different
from each other.
[0149] In case of the audio and video DVD, the AMG includes not
only the management information for all of the ATSs within the
audio zone but also the management information for all of the ATSs
and the VTSs within the audio zone and the video zone collectively.
Further, the SAPPT includes the management information for all of
the ATSs and the VTSs within the audio zone and the video zone
collectively. But, the management information of the SAPPT is only
related to the LPCM data in those zones reproducible by the 2
channels.
[0150] Here, the audio and video DVD is different from the video
DVD provided with audio navigation and the audio only DVD in that
the record area is divided into the audio zone and the video zone,
the AV information in conformity to the DVD video format and the
audio information in conformity to the DVD audio format are
recorded in these zones respectively, and that the AMG and the
SAPPT recorded in the audio zone include the management information
for all of the ATSs and the VTSs in the disc collectively.
[0151] In more detail, in case of the video DVD provided with the
audio navigation, the audio information is recorded such that it is
multiplexed with the video information by the unit of pack in the
VOB in conformity to the DVD video format. The ATS is constituted
such that the APGCI which is the reproduction control information
to reproduce the audio information recorded in the VOB is set as
the ATS, so that only those ATSs are managed by the AMG. In the
AMG, the management information for the title in the video zone is
not recorded. In the same manner, the navigation information
related to the audio play part of the video zone is described in
the SAPPT.
[0152] In contrast to this, in the audio and video DVD, there are
the audio zone to which the audio information is recorded in
conformity to the audio DVD format, and the video zone to which the
video is recorded in conformity to the video DVD format. Within the
audio zone, the substantial portion of the audio information is
recorded by the format based on the audio DVD shown in FIG. 3, as a
plurality of AOBs in each of the ATSs. Further, there are recorded
two kinds of ATSs i.e., (i) the ATS in which the APGCI as the
reproduction control information for the audio information in each
ATS is recorded and (ii) the ATS in which the APGCI as the
reproduction control information for the audio information recorded
in the VOB in the VTS in the video zone is recorded in the ATSI (as
the ATS, only the ATSI which is the navigation information exists
while the audio substantial information is within the video zone).
Namely, regardless of the zones, the reproduction control
information related to the reproduction of the audio zone is
managed by the AMG. Further, information related to the track
reproducible by the 2 channels among the reproduction control
information related to the reproduction of the LPCM audio
information recorded in all of the ATSs and VTSs is recorded in the
SAPPT.
[0153] On the other hand, in the video area, the AV information is
recorded as a plurality of VTSs. The reproduction control
information for the AV information in each VTS is recorded in the
VTSI, and all of the VTSs are managed by the VMG. On the other
hand, all of the reproduction control information related to the
reproduction of the AV information in the video zone is also
managed by the AMG.
[0154] Actually, the AGM is comprehensive management information,
in case of the audio only DVD and the audio and video DVD. The VMG
is mainly management information in case of the video DVD. In case
of the video DVD provided with audio navigation, the AGM manages
only the reproduction of the audio information within the VOB by
the audio player, and does not manage the video title.
[0155] In case of the audio only DVD and the audio and video DVD,
the SAPPT is comprehensive management information to reproduce the
LPCM audio information by, for example, the simple type, the
portable type of audio player and the like, by the two channels. In
case of the video DVD, since it does not have the SAPPT, even if it
is recorded by the LPCM, the reproduction of only the audio
information by the simple player cannot be performed. In case of
the video DVD provided with audio navigation, the SAPPT manages
only the reproduction of the LPCM audio information (e.g. the audio
only title) of the audio play part within the VOB by the simple
audio player, and does not manage the video title.
[0156] The above described structure enables the optimum
reproduction in accordance with the capability of the reproducing
apparatus, and also achieves the conformable compatibility between
each disc and each reproducing apparatus.
[0157] (4) Reproduction Control for the Title
[0158] The reproduction control for the title will be explained
below in detail. Here, the title implies a series of works
(presentation), which is constituted by the AV information recorded
on the DVD, the substantial information such as the audio
information and the like, and the reproduction control information
indicative of a procedure of the reproduction and is common in the
reproduction manner, or a part of the work. As mentioned in the
physical and logical formats of the audio DVD, the user does not
instruct the player to directly select the title and then start the
reproduction. The user selects a title group constituted by one or
a plurality of titles, and then starts the reproduction. However,
the player judges from which title the instructed title group is
constituted, from the navigation information within the AMG and the
ATSI, and by continuously reproducing the respective titles, the
reproduction of the title group is performed. Thus, the
reproduction of the titles is basic in the DVD player. So, the
title and the reproduction control for the title in conformity to
the DVD audio format are explained with the audio and video disc as
an example.
[0159] (4.1) Kind of Title
[0160] At first, the titles in the DVD audio format (titles 261 in
FIG. 4) are classified into an audio title constituted by
reproducing the audio information within the audio area (hereafter,
it is also referred to as an "AOTT (Audio Only TiTle)") and a video
title constituted by reproducing the AV information within the
video area. Moreover, the video titles are classified into two
kinds i.e., an AV title (hereafter, it is also referred to as an
"AVTT (Audio Video TiTle)") and an AV/audio only common title
(hereafter, it is also referred to as an "AVTT/AOTT (Audio Video
TiTle/Audio Only TiTle)". Incidentally, there is only the AV title,
in case of the DVD video format.
[0161] The AOTT is a title in which only the audio information is
reproduced. Its substantial information is composed of the audio
information recorded in the AOB within the audio zone.
[0162] The AVTT is a title in which the audio information is always
reproduced together with the video information. Its substantial
information is composed of the AV information recorded in the VOB
within the video zone. The reproduction of only the audio
information is not admitted in the AVTT so that it is essential to
reproduce the audio information together with the video
information.
[0163] The AVTT/AOTT is a title in which only the audio information
can be reproduced and further the audio information together with
the video information can be reproduced as the AV information (that
is, it can be said that this is a commonly usable title). In either
case, its substantial information is composed of the AV information
recorded in the VOB within the video zone.
[0164] Whether this AVTT/AOTT is reproduced as the AV information
or the audio information depends on the capability of the
reproducing apparatus. That is, the reproducing apparatus without
the function of reproducing the AV information (e.g., the audio
player) reproduces only the audio information for the AVTT/AOTT.
The reproducing apparatus with the function of reproducing the AV
information (e.g., the video player and the compatible player)
reproduces the audio information together with the video
information for the AVTT/AOTT.
[0165] By the way, two navigation information i.e., navigation
information for the audio player and navigation information for the
compatible player are separately recorded on the AMG. The
navigation information for the audio player is an audio only title
search pointer which describes the navigation information to
reproduce the audio title (AOTT) composed of the audio information
within the AOB in the audio zone and only the audio information of
the commonly-used title composed of the AV information within the
VOB of the video zone. This audio only title search pointer is
recorded on an audio only title search pointer table (AOTT_SR). On
the other hand, an audio title search pointer that is the
navigation information for the compatible player which can
reproduce all kinds of titles is recorded on an audio title search
pointer table (ATT_SR). These navigation information will be
further detailed in the explanation of FIG. 8.
[0166] If this audio and video DVD is reproduced by the video
player, the AV information within each VTS is reproduced in
accordance with the navigation information for the video player
recorded in the VMG and the VTSI within the video zone.
[0167] If this audio and video DVD is reproduced by the audio
player, the audio information is reproduced in accordance with the
reproduction control information for the audio player recorded in
the ATSI, by referring to the AOTT_SR within the AMG in the audio
zone. There are two cases as the case of reproducing the audio
information by using the audio player. Namely, in one case, the
audio information within the AOB is reproduced in accordance with
the ATSI and the APGCI which are the navigation information within
the AMG and the ATS in the audio zone. In the other case, the audio
information recorded in the VTS within the video zone is reproduced
in accordance with the AMG, the ATSI and the APGCI similarly to the
video DVD provided with audio navigation. In the latter case, for
the same object, it is reproduced as the AV information
accompanying the image by the video player, and only the audio
information is reproduced by the audio player.
[0168] Moreover, if this audio and video DVD is reproduced by the
compatible player, the audio information in the audio zone and the
AV information in the video zone are unitedly reproduced in
accordance with the reproduction control information recorded on
the ATSI and the VTSI, by referring to ATT_SR which is the
navigation information for the compatible player within the AMG in
the audio zone.
[0169] The titles in the audio and video DVD are all managed by the
AMG. They are classified into any one of the above-mentioned three
kinds of titles with regard to the DVD audio format, respectively.
Now, it is assumed that the audio and video DVD having the example
of the logical format shown in FIG. 6 is reproduced by using the
compatible player having the function of reproducing both of the
DVD audio format and the DVD video format. Moreover, in this audio
and video DVD, it is also assumed that a volume is composed of 7
title groups #1 to #7, and each title group is composed of a single
title. One or a plurality of tracks are included in the single
title. In FIG. 6, the left column shows an image of the navigation
information for the compatible player (ATT_SR), the central column
shows an image of the navigation information for the video player
(TT_SR), and the right column shows an image of the navigation
information for the audio player (AOTT_SR).
[0170] Since the titles #2 and #5 are the AOTTs, only the audio
information recorded in the AOB within the audio zone of the audio
and video DVD is reproduced when those titles are reproduced.
[0171] Since the titles #4, #6 and #7 are the AVTTs, the AV
information is reproduced which is recorded in the VOB within the
video zone of the audio and video DVD. Thus, the video and the
audio are always reproduced.
[0172] Since the titles #1 and #3 are the AVTT/AOTTs, the
compatible player reproduces both of the video and the audio, in
accordance with the video and audio information recorded in the VOB
within the video zone of the audio and video DVD. In addition, if
using the audio player without the function of reproducing the
video information, only the audio information recorded in the VOB
within the video zone of the audio and video DVD is reproduced in
the titles #1 and #3 (refer to the right column of FIG. 6). That
is, the AVTT/AOTT title is designed so as to enable the
reproduction of the record information, in accordance with the
capability of the reproducing apparatus by which the DVD disc is
reproduced, with the maximum utilization of the capability.
[0173] Incidentally, it is promised that the AVTT cannot constitute
the title group with other kind of title (e.g., the AOTT and the
AVTT/AOTT), in order to prevent the confusion at the time of
reproducing the title group.
[0174] (4.2) Double Management of VOB
[0175] The concepts of the PGCI and the APGCI prescribed with
regard to the VOB within the video zone of the audio and video DVD
will be explained below. The video information and the audio
information are recorded in the VOB, in a multiplexed form. If the
VOB is reproduced as the AV information, it is reproduced in
accordance with the PGCI. This concept is similar to that of the
video DVD. The compatibility with the video player can be kept
since the method of recording and reproducing the AV information in
the audio DVD is in conformity to the video format as mentioned
above. On the contrary, if only the audio information in the VOB is
reproduced, it is reproduced in accordance with the APGCI. However,
this APGCI is prescribed independently of the PGCI. This point is
explained with reference to FIG. 7.
[0176] FIG. 7 shows a concepts of a program in case that a certain
VOB is reproduced as the AV information in accordance with the PGCI
and in case that it is reproduced as only the audio information in
accordance with the APGCI. In FIG. 7, the VOB includes the video
data, the sub picture data and the audio data. If this VOB is
reproduced as the AV information, the reproduction control is
carried out in accordance with the PGCI. In the PGCI, the VOB is
divided into 6 video cells #1 to #6. Then, the video cell #1
constitutes a video program #1, the video cells #2 to #4 constitute
a video program #2, and the video cell #6 constitutes a video
program #3. The reproduction is carried out in accordance with such
PGCI, if the AV information is reproduced by the video player or
the compatible player, as in the case of the AVTT/AOTT.
[0177] On the other hand, if the audio player reproduces only the
audio information from the same VOB, the reproduction is carried
out in accordance with the APGCI. Audio programs prescribed by the
APGCI are constituted by one or more audio cells, respectively.
Here, even for the same object (VOB), the audio cell can be
prescribed differently from (independently of) the video cell (of
course, it can be prescribed identically). That is, a start
position of each audio cell, an end position and the like can be
prescribed independently of any video cell. Moreover, the order of
reproducing the audio cells prescribed by the APGCI can be
independent of the order of reproducing the video cells prescribed
by the PGCI.
[0178] In the example in FIG. 7, an audio program #1 is constituted
by the audio cells #1 and #2, and an audio program #2 is
constituted by the audio cell #3. The APGCI includes the
information, such as a recording position, a reproducing order and
the like of the audio cells included in these audio programs, so
that the audio information is reproduced in accordance with this
information.
[0179] The reason why the audio cell can be prescribed
independently of the video cell as mentioned above is that the
audio information is managed independently of the AV information.
Accordingly, a time management and the like can be done
independently of the AV information, if reproducing only the audio
information in the VOB. Moreover, only a meaningful part can be
reproduced even if only the audio information is reproduced, in the
audio information included in the AV information. Of course, it may
be defined as the same cell.
[0180] (4.3) Title Search Pointer
[0181] The above-mentioned reproduction of each title by using a
title search pointer in the audio and video DVD will be explained
below with reference to FIGS. 6 and 8.
[0182] FIG. 8 shows an example of the navigation information for
the audio and video DVD. As mentioned above, the audio and video
DVD has the video zone based on the DVD video format and the audio
zone based on the DVD audio format. The information that can be
reproduced from the audio and video DVD is the AV information
(i.e., video information with the audio information) such as a
movie and the like, and the audio information. Then, when the
respective information is reproduced by each of the various
players, the navigation information to prevent confusion and
conflict is separately recorded on the audio and video DVD, in
response to each of the various players.
[0183] (4.3.1) AMG, ATSI and Title Search Pointer Table
[0184] In FIG. 8, the audio and video DVD has the audio zone and
the video zone. The audio zone is constituted by the AMG 202, and
an ATS #1, an ATS #2 and an ATS #3. The ATSI #1 is constituted by
an ATSI 211 and an AOB 210, and the ATS #3 is constituted by only
an ATSI 212. Moreover, the video zone is constituted by a VMG 3, a
VTS #1 and a VTS #2. The VTS #1 is constituted by a VTSI 11 and a
VOB 10.
[0185] The AMG 202 includes an AMGI (AMG Information) 240 that is
the substantial information of the navigation information. The AMGI
240 includes: an AMGI management table (AMGI_MAT) 241 containing
information such as a file size, a record address etc., of the AMGI
240; an ATT search pointer table (ATT_SRPT) 242 and an AOTT search
pointer table (AOTT_SRPT) 243. Here, the ATT is a generic name of
the audio only title (AOTT) composed of only the audio information,
the AV title (AVTT) composed of the AV information and the AV/audio
only common title (AVTT/AOTT) composed of the AV information.
[0186] Here, the search pointer is a pointer indicating a recording
position on the DVD of the reproduction control information (here,
this implies the APGCI and the PGCI) for each title. As mentioned
above, each title is provided with the substantial information such
as the audio information and the AV information, and the
reproduction control information to combine these substantial
information and then reproduce it. This reproduction control
information is recorded in the ATSI in the ATS or the VTSI in the
VTS. The search pointer is a pointer indicating a recording
position within the ATSI or the VTSI of the reproduction control
information for each title. In addition, the navigation information
is information to manage the reproduction of each title, and also a
concept including the above-mentioned search pointer in this
embodiment.
[0187] The ATT search pointer table 242 is a table describing the
navigation information in case that each title of the audio and
video DVD is reproduced by the compatible player. On the other
hand, the AOTT search pointer table 243 is a table describing the
navigation information in case that each title of the audio and
video DVD is reproduced by the audio player. Also, the ATT search
pointer table 242 and the AOTT search pointer table 243 correspond
to each other, in a one-to-one relation. The number of search
pointers described within the ATT search pointer table 242
coincides with the number of all the titles included in the audio
and video DVD. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, if a total of 7
titles is included in the audio and video DVD, the search pointers
corresponding to the 7 titles are described within the ATT search
pointer table 242. Irrespectively of the kind of title, frames to
describe the 7 search pointers are also prepared in the AOTT search
pointer table 243. Then, the frames of the respective tables
correspond to each other, in a one-to-one relation.
[0188] (4.3.1.1) ATT_SRP
[0189] An audio title search pointer (ATT_SRP) is the navigation
information when the audio and video DVD is reproduced by the
compatible player. Thus, when the audio and video DVD is set, the
compatible player refers to this ATT_SRP and thereby reproduces
each title.
[0190] The example of the navigation information shown in FIG. 8
corresponds to the example of the audio and video DVD shown in FIG.
6. The titles #1 and #3 are the AV/audio only common title
(AVTT/AOTT), the titles #2 and #5 are the audio only title (AOTT),
and the titles #4, #6 and #7 are the AV title (AVTT).
[0191] As mentioned above, the three kinds of titles (the AOTT, the
AVTT/AOTT and the AVTT) can be recorded on the audio and video DVD.
Thus, in the audio and video DVD, the search pointers with regard
to all the three kinds of titles (the AOTT, the AVTT/AOTT and the
AVTT) are described in the ATT search pointer table 242 of the
AMG.
[0192] However, the title search pointer 245 actually written in
the ATT search pointer table 242 of FIG. 8 is only the audio only
title search pointer (AOTT_SRP) or the AV title search pointer
(AVTT_SRP), such that the title search pointer with regard to the
AV/audio only common title (AVTT/AOTT) is described as the AV title
search pointer (AVTT_SRP) (the actual description is indicated in a
parenthesis in the table of FIG. 8). This is because the compatible
player need not discriminate between the AV/audio only common title
(AVTT/AOTT) and the AV title (AVTT). That is, the compatible player
has the function of reproducing the DVD video format, and then
reproduces all the AV/audio only common titles as the AV
information. Hence, it is not necessary for the compatible player
to discriminate the title search pointer with regard to the
AV/audio only common title (AVTT/AOTT) from the video search
pointer (AVTT_SRP) even on the navigation information. Therefore,
the titles involving the reproduction of the video are all
described in a common format as the AV title search pointer
(AVTT_SRP).
[0193] Thus, as can be understood by comparing the left column of
FIG. 6 with the audio title search pointer table 245 of FIG. 8, the
AV title search pointer (AVTT_SRP) is described for the AV titles
(e.g., the titles #4, #6 and #7) and the AV/audio only common
titles (e.g., the titles #1 and #3), and the AOTT search pointer
(AOTT_SRP) is described for the audio only titles (the titles #2
and #5), in the ATT search pointer table 242 describing the
navigation information for the compatible player. The compatible
player refers to this table 242, and as shown in the left column of
FIG. 6, reproduces the titles #1, #3, #4, #6 and #7 as the AV
information, and further reproduces the titles #2 and #5 as the
audio information.
[0194] (4.3.1.2) AOTT_SRP
[0195] On the other hand, the navigation information for the audio
player is described in the AOTT search pointer table 243. So, when
the audio and video DVD is set, the audio player refers to this
AOTT search pointer table 243, and thereby carries out the
reproduction.
[0196] The search pointer with regard to the audio title (AOTT) and
the AV/audio only common title (AVTT/AOTT) is described in this
table. Since the audio player does not have the function of
reproducing the AV information, it is not necessary to describe the
search pointer in relation to the AV title (AVTT). However, a
search pointer actually written to this table is only the AOTT
search pointer (AOTT_SRP). It is enough for the audio player to
have the information as to whether or not it is a title by which
only the audio can be reproduced, while it is not necessary for the
audio player to discriminate between the audio title (AOTT) and the
AV/audio only common title (AVTT/AOTT). Thus, the discrimination
between the audio title (AOTT) and the AV/audio only common title
(AVTT/AOTT) is not carried out on the audio only title search
pointer table (AOTT_SRPT) 243, such that all of these titles are
written under a common format as the AOTT search pointer
(AOTT_SRP).
[0197] Thus, as for the AV/audio only common title (AVTT/AOTT), the
AV title search pointer (AVTT_SRP) is described within the ATT
search pointer table 242. However, the audio only title search
pointer (AOTT_SRP) is described within the AOTT search pointer
table 243.
[0198] In addition, as for the AV title (AVTT), although only the
frame to write the title search pointer is prepared, the
substantial information is not described, or a fact that this title
does not have the AOTT_SRP (i.e., that fact that the reproduction
of only the audio cannot be performed) is described. This is
because the AOTT search pointer table 243 describes the navigation
information for the audio player and thereby the audio player
cannot reproduce the AV information. Hence, the audio player judges
that it cannot reproduce this title and then ignores this
description.
[0199] The audio player refers to the above-described AOTT title
search pointer table 243, and thereby carries out the reproduction
shown in the right column of FIG. 6. That is, it ignores the AV
titles #4, #6 and #7, and then reproduces the AV information for
the titles #1, #2, #3 and #5.
[0200] (4.3.2) VMG, VTSI and Title Search Pointer
[0201] The VMG 3 includes VMG I (VMG Information) that is the
actual portion of the navigation information. The VMGI includes: an
VMGI management table 250 containing information such as a file
size, a record address etc., of the VMGI; and a title search
pointer table (TT_SRPT) 251. The title search pointer table 251 is
a table describing the navigation information in relation to the
video player. Thus, the video player refers to this title search
pointer table (TT_SRPT) 251, and thereby reproduces the title in
accordance with a procedure determined in a conventional video
format. Hence, there are the two kinds of titles i.e., the AV/audio
only common title (AVTT/AOTT) and the AV title (AVTT), in the
presently-exemplified title. However, they are all described in the
title search pointer table (TT_SRPT) as the TT_SRP without
discriminating between these two kinds.
[0202] As mentioned above, the audio and video DVD prepares the
navigation information optimum for each of the audio player, the
video player and the compatible player, and then records as the
three separate title search pointer tables. Accordingly, the
optimum reproduction can be performed in accordance with the
capability of each reproducing apparatus.
[0203] (4.4) Structure of Search Pointer Table
[0204] The structure of the search pointer table will be described
below in further detail.
[0205] (4.4.1) ATT_SRP, AOTT_SRP and TT_SRP
[0206] The ATT search pointer table (ATT_SRPT) 242 includes: an ATT
search pointer information (ATT_SRPTI) 244 containing information
of the number of ATT search pointers and the like; and a plurality
of ATT search pointers (ATT_SRPs) 245. In addition, in FIG. 8, the
kind of search pointer actually written as the search pointer is
indicated in a parenthesis of each ATT search pointer 245. As
mentioned above, the search pointer written to the ATT search
pointer table 242 is either one of the AOTT_SRP and the
AVTT_SRP.
[0207] The AOTT search pointer table 243 similarly includes: an ATT
search pointer information (AOTT_SRPTI) 246 containing information
of the number of AOTT search pointers and the like; and a plurality
of AOTT search pointers (AOTT_SRPs) 247. In FIG. 8, the kind of
search pointer actually written as the search pointer is also
indicated in a parenthesis of each AOTT search pointer 247. As
mentioned above, all the search pointers written to the AOTT search
pointer table 243 are the AOTT_SRP.
[0208] The positions on the respective search pointer table of the
ATT search pointer and the AOTT search pointer which specify the
same title must be identical to each other. That is, the ATT search
pointer on the ATT search pointer table 242 and the AOTT search
pointer on the AOTT search pointer table 243 correspond to each
other, in a one-to-one relation. The ATT_SRP #1 and the AOTT_SRP #1
specify the same title.
[0209] A TT search pointer table (TT_SRPT) 251 similarly includes:
a TT search pointer information (TT_SRPTI) 252 containing the
number of TT search pointers and the like; and a plurality of TT
search pointers (TT_SRPs) 254.
[0210] Although the ATT search pointer 245 and the AOTT search
pointer 247 correspond to each other in a one-to-one relation, the
one-to-one correspondence relation is not always present between
both of them and the TT search pointer. However, the TT search
pointer is similar to the ATT search pointer and the AOTT search
pointer in that the TT search pointer indicates the PGC which
logically constitutes a targeted title and thereby indicates the
procedure of reproducing it.
[0211] (4.5) Method of Respectively Reproducing Titles
[0212] A method of respectively reproducing the three kinds of
titles which can be recorded on the audio and video DVD will be
described below with classifying these titles for each reproducible
player, with reference to FIGS. 6 and 8.
[0213] (4.5.1) Method of Reproducing Audio Only Title (AOTT)
[0214] It is the audio player and the compatible player that can
reproduce the AOTT. The AOTT is the title to reproduce the audio
information. Moreover, the followings are the main manners
(functions) of reproducing the audio only title which the present
invention tries to achieve or has relation to. However, an
achievable reproducing manner in the reproduction of the audio
player for the AV/audio only common title (AVTT/AOTT) is also
included.
[0215] {circle over (1)} Multi-Channel Reproduction:
[0216] In the DVD audio format, the LPCM audio information of the
video zone has a maximum of 8 channels. It has a maximum of 6
channels as discrete multi-channesl. In this case, it is possible
to set 24 patterns which is the sum of 11 patterns resulting from a
combination of forward 3 channels+backward 2 channels+a sub woofer
for each channel and 13 patterns resulting from a combination of
the portion of the discrete multi-channel and a signal for the
two-channel reproduction. The LPCM audio information of the audio
zone has a maximum of 6 channels. It is possible to set 21 patterns
from the combination of the forward 3 channels+the backward 2
channels+the sub woofer for each channel.
[0217] {circle over (2)} Two-Channel Reproduction:
[0218] The LPCM audio information having two channels or less is
reproduced as it is. In the multi-channel LPCM audio information of
the video zone, only two channels of CH0 and CH1 are reproduced.
The multi-channel LPCM audio information of the audio zone is
down-mixed to two channels in accordance with a down-mix
coefficient that is separately defined by a unit of a track, and is
reproduced as two channels.
[0219] {circle over (3)} Audio Selection:
[0220] In the DVD, two audio information which are different in the
reproducing manner can be defined as a single title, and one of
them can be selected by a user. This function is called as an audio
selection. Actually, the user can select between the different
reproducing manners of the two-channel and the multi-channel, for
the same song. Moreover, as a selection other than the two-channel
and the multi-channel, the user can select between the audio
information recorded by the LPCM method and the audio information
recorded by another coding method (e.g., the compression voice, the
one bit audio and the like), for the same song.
[0221] {circle over (4)} Audio Coding Mode (Linear PCM, Dolby AC3,
MPEG Audio, DTS, SDDS):
[0222] This indicates the kinds of encoding methods when the audio
information is recorded. The LPCM also used in the CD is well
known. The other methods are one of compression encoding
methods.
[0223] {circle over (5)} Multi-Channel Type:
[0224] This indicates the kinds of multi-channel records of the
LPCM, in the DVD audio format. In a case of the type 1, it can be
set up to a maximum of 6 channels. As for the relation between
respective arrangements of speakers and channels, it can be set
from the combination of the forward 3 channels+the backward 2
channels+the sub woofer.
[0225] {circle over (6)} Channel Assignment (the Number of
Channels, Arrangement of Speakers)
[0226] This indicates the number of channels, the relation between
respective arrangements of output speakers and channels and the
relation between channel group and each channel. For example, if a
three-channel signal is recorded, this indicates such a relation
that CH0 is a signal outputted from a left front (Left Front
Speaker) and is included in a channel group 1, CH1 is a signal
outputted from a right front (Right Front Speaker) and is included
in the channel group 1, and CH2 is a signal outputted from a rear
speaker (Surround Speaker) and is included in a channel group 2. As
mentioned above, if the multi-channel type is the type 1, the 21
patterns can be set from the combination of the forward 3
channels+the backward 2 channels+the sub woofer. Thus, the channel
assignment information indicates which one of combinations of these
21 patterns is employed.
[0227] {circle over (7)} Multi-Stream
[0228] The substantial information of the audio information
recorded in the audio area in the DVD audio format is recorded as
only one audio stream in the AOB. However, the substantial
information of the audio information recorded in the video area is
multiplexed and recorded for each pack, together with a stream of
the image, in the VOB. Moreover, with the VOB, a plurality of audio
streams can be multiplexed, if they belong to a range of a limited
transfer rate. For example, it is possible to multiplex the
2-channel/LPCM audio stream and the multi-channel/LPCM audio stream
with the VOB and also possible to multiplex the two-channel/LPCM
audio stream and the AC-3 compression voice stream with the VOB.
One of these two audio streams which are different in the
reproducing manner can be selected by the user who specifies the
value of the audio selection.
[0229] (4.5.1.1) Case of Audio Player
[0230] At first, a method by which the audio player reproduces the
AOTT is explained. As mentioned above, the audio player refers to
only the AOTT_SRPT 243 as the navigation information. Thus, when
reproducing the title #2, the audio player refers to the AOTT_SRP
#2 and then reads out the ATS number, in which the title is
included (in this case, the ATS #1), and the title number within
the pertinent ATS (refer to a path indicated by "P2A(1)" of FIG.
8). Next, the audio player refers to the ATSI 211 of the
corresponding ATS #1 (refer to a path indicated by "P2A(2)" of FIG.
8) and then reads out the A (Audio) PGCI to which the title
corresponds, from the title number within the ATS. Hence, the audio
information is reproduced by reproducing the audio pack 43 within
the AOB 210, in accordance with the APGCI specified by the AOTT_SRP
#2 at the time of the reproduction (refer to a path indicated by
"P2A(3)" of FIG. 8).
[0231] (4.5.1.2) Case of Compatible Player
[0232] Next, a method by which the compatible player reproduces the
AOTT is explained. The compatible player refers to the ATT_SRPT 242
as the navigation information. Thus, when reproducing the title #2,
the compatible player refers to the ATT_SRP #2. Since it is the
AOTT_SRP, the compatible player recognizes that the title is the
AOTT. After that, similarly to the audio player, the compatible
player reads out the ATS number in which the title is included (in
this case, the ATS #1) and the title number within the pertinent
ATS (refer to a path indicated by "P2C(1)" of FIG. 8). Next, the
audio player refers to the ATSI 211 of the corresponding ATS #1
(refer to a path indicated by "P2C(2)" of FIG. 8) and then reads
out the APGCI to which the title corresponds, from the title number
within the ATS. Hence, the audio information can be reproduced by
reproducing the audio pack 43 within the AOB 210, in accordance
with the APGCI specified by the ATT_SRP #2 at the time of the
reproduction (refer to a path indicated by "P2C(3)" of FIG. 8).
[0233] (4.5.2) AV title (AVTT)
[0234] The path for the reproduction of the AV title will be
explained below. The AV title can be reproduced by the video player
and the compatible player.
[0235] (4.5.2.1) Case of Video Player
[0236] The video player refers to the TT_SRPT (title search pointer
table) 251 as the navigation information, and then carries out the
process in accordance with the procedure of reproducing the video
format. Thus, the video player firstly refers to the title search
pointer table 251 in the VMG 3. Here, it is allowable that the
description positions of the search pointers on the respective
title search pointer tables 242 and 243 of the titles corresponding
on the audio navigation do not correspond to the description
position of the title search pointer on the title search pointer
table 251 in the VMG 3, in a one-to-one relation. That is, in the
ATT search pointer table 242 in the AMGI 242 of the AMG and the TT
search pointer table 251 of the VMGI, the contents and the orders
can be defined independently from each other. However, the
description is done by filling the frame on the TT search pointer
table as a rule, if there is not the corresponding title in the
TT_SRP 254 of the VMGI, within the title search pointer table 251,
in order to avoid the confusion. Hence, the title number may be
different, as shown in FIG. 8. That is, although there are 7 titles
on the audio and video DVD of the example shown in FIG. 6, since
the video player does not reproduce the titles #2 and #5 that are
the AOTT, the TT_SRP with regard to the remaining five titles
(e.g., the titles #1, #3, #4, #6 and #7) except the titles #2 and
#5 are described within the title search pointer table 251.
Therefore, the TT_SRPs #1 to #5 within the title search pointer
table 251 correspond to the respective titles #1, #3, #4, #6 and #7
shown in FIG. 6, respectively.
[0237] The TT_SRP 254 indicates the PGC logically constituting the
targeted title. Thus, the video player reads out the VTS number in
which the title is included (in this case, the VTS #1), from this
search pointer, and the title number within the pertinent VTS
(refer to a path indicated by "P3V(1)" of FIG. 8). Next, the video
player refers to the VTSI 11 of the corresponding VTS #1 (refer to
a path indicated by "P3V(2)" of FIG. 8), and then reads out the
PGCI to which the title corresponds, from the title number within
the VTS. Hence, the video player obtains this PGCI, and then uses
the video pack, the audio pack etc., within the VOB, and further
reproduces the title as the AV information (refer to a path
indicated by "P3V(3)" of FIG. 8).
[0238] (4.5.2.2) Case of Compatible Player
[0239] Next, a path when the compatible player reproduces the AV
title (AVTT) is explained. The compatible player refers to only the
ATT_SRPT 242 as the navigation information. Thus, the compatible
player refers to this ATT_SRP #4. Since it is the AVTT_SRP, the
compatible player recognizes that the title is the AV title. As
mentioned above, it does not agree with the title number in the
video player. However, after that, similarly to the case that the
video player reads out from the TT_SRPT, the compatible player
reads out the VTS number in which the title is included (in this
case, the VTS #1), from the ATT_SRP 245, and the title number
within the pertinent VTS (refer to a path indicated by "P4C(2)" of
FIG. 8). Next, the compatible player refers to the VTSI 11 of the
corresponding VTS #1 (refer to a path indicated by "P4C(2)" of FIG.
8), and then reads out the PGCI to which the title corresponds,
from the title number within the VTS. Hence, the compatible player
also obtains this PGCI, and then uses the video pack, the audio
pack etc., within the VOB, and further reproduces the title as the
AV information (refer to a path indicated by "P4C(3)" of FIG.
8).
[0240] (4.5.2.3) Case of Audio Player
[0241] Next, the case of the audio player is explained. The audio
player refers to only the AOTT_SRPT 243 as the navigation
information. Thus, although the audio player reads out the AOTT_SPR
#4, since an absence of the corresponding AOTT is written therein,
the reproduction is stopped.
[0242] (4.5.3) Case of AV/Audio Only Common Title (AVTT/AOTT)
[0243] The AV/audio only common title is reproduced by all of the
audio player, the video player and the compatible player. So, the
explanation is done in this order.
[0244] (4.5.3.1) Case of Audio Player
[0245] At first, a method by which the audio player reproduces the
AV/audio only common title is explained. The audio player refers to
only the AOTT_SRPT 243 as the navigation information. Thus, the
audio player refers to the AOTT_SRP #1 and then reads out the ATS
number in which the title is included (in this case, the ATS #3)
and the title number within the pertinent ATS (refer to a path
indicated by "P1A(1)" of FIG. 8). Next, the audio player refers to
the ATSI 212 of the corresponding ATS #3 (refer to a path indicated
by "P1A(2)" of FIG. 8) and then reads out the APGCI to which the
title corresponds, from the title number within the ATS. However,
this ATS #3 does not include the substantial audio data. So, this
APGCI indicates the reproducing procedure to the VOB 10 in the VTS
#1. Hence, only the audio information is reproduced by reproducing
only the audio pack 43 within the VOB 10, in accordance with this
APGCI at the time of the reproduction (refer to a path indicated by
"P1A(3)" of FIG. 8).
[0246] (4.5.3.2) Case of Video Player
[0247] Next, a method by which the video player reproduces the
AV/audio only common title is explained. As mentioned above, the
video player carries out the process in accordance with the
procedure of reproducing the video format, irrespectively of the
kinds of discs. Thus, the video player firstly refers to the title
search pointer table 251 in the VMG 3. Since the title number at
this time is #1, it agrees with the title number on the audio
navigation. After that, the paths are similar to those in the case
of (5.2.1). Hence, the explanation thereof is omitted (refer to the
paths indicated by "P1V(1), (2) and (3)" of FIG. 8).
[0248] (4.5.3.3) Case of Compatible Player
[0249] Next, a method by which the compatible player reproduces the
AV/audio only common title. The compatible player refers to only
the ATT_SRPT 242 as the navigation information. Thus, the
compatible player refers to this ATT_SRP #1, and thereby recognizes
that it is the AVTT. After that, similarly to the case that the
video player reads out from the TT_SRPT 251, the compatible player
reads out the VTS number in which the title is included (also in
this case, the VTS #1), from the ATT_SRP 245 and the title number
within the pertinent VTS (refer to a path indicated by "P1C(1)" of
FIG. 8). After that, the paths are similar to those in the case of
the video player. Hence, the explanation thereof is omitted (refer
to the paths indicated by "P1C(2) and (3)").
[0250] As mentioned above, by having not only the navigation
information for the video and the navigation information for the
audio, but also the information of uniting them with each other and
the information of correlating them with each other, it is possible
to solve the conflict and the confusion when the various titles
that are different in the reproduction manner are reproduced by the
various players that are different in reproduction
capabilities.
[0251] (5) Management Information of Title
[0252] As mentioned above, the user selects a desired title group
or a track included therein, and then instructs the reproduction.
The reproducing apparatus automatically selects the title
constituting the instructed title group or the title in which the
instructed track is included, in accordance with the capability of
the reproducing apparatus, and then starts the reproduction.
[0253] Moreover, the DVD audio format has the logical structure of
selecting the audio information, when the audio title (AOTT) or the
AV/audio only common title (AVTT/AOTT) is reproduced by the audio
player. As for the structure to achieve this function, the
navigation information thereof is firstly explained with reference
to FIGS. 9A and 9B. FIGS. 9A and 9B are block diagrams showing in
detail the structure of the ATS 203 shown in FIG. 3 or 8.
[0254] (5.1) ATSI
[0255] As mentioned above, the ATS 203 is provided with: the ATSI
211 serving as the navigation information; the AOTT_AOBS 10'
serving as the audio substantial information (AOTT_AOB 210); and
the ATSI_BUP 213 serving as the backup for the ATSI 211.
[0256] As shown in FIG. 9A, the ATSI 211 is composed of an ATSI_MAT
270 serving as the management information and an ATS_PGCIT 271 that
is a table of the reproduction control information.
[0257] (5.1.1) ATSI_MAT
[0258] Address information of the various tables, attribute
information with regard to the audio substantial information, the
down-mix coefficient etc., are described in the ATSI_MAT 270 of the
management information.
[0259] (5.1.1) Attribute Information
[0260] As for the AOTT_AOB 210 included in the AOTT_AOBS 210', for
each AOTT_AOB 210, the encoding method, the sampling frequency, the
quantizing bit number, the number of channels, the multi-channel
type, the channel assignment and so on are described in the
attribute information. If the AOTT_AOBS 210' is present in the ATS
203 as mentioned above, a plurality of kinds of audio information
are individually divided and recorded in the AOTT_AOBS 210' as
another AOTT_AOB 210. Moreover, some of ATS 203 may not have the
AOTT_AOBS 210'. In this case, the attribute information with regard
to the audio stream of the VOB (e.g., the AOTT_VOB and the
AVTT_VOB) 10 recorded in the video zone is described. Thus, if the
plurality of kinds of audio information are recorded in the VOB 10
as a plurality of streams, the stream number thereof and the
attribute information thereof are described for each stream.
[0261] (5.1.2) ATS_PGCIT
[0262] The ATS_PGCIT 271 is composed of an ATS_PGCIT 272 for
describing the information with regard to the reproduction control
information as a whole, a table 275 of a search pointer
(ATS_PGCI_SRP) 275 to search the reproduction control information
corresponding to a title, and a table 274 of a reproduction control
information (ATS_PGCI) 276 itself.
[0263] (5.1.2.1) ATS_PGCI_SRP
[0264] The present invention records on the disc a plurality of
audio information which are different in kind, and also treats the
audio information, which are common in record target, as the same
work and the same music composition, as a rule. Thus, as shown in
FIGS. 10 and 11, the present invention introduces a PGC 300 as the
management information, and correlates the plurality of audio
information, which are different in kind, with a single title 261.
The method of managing the audio information by using this PGC 300
will be explained later in detail. The present invention has a
logical structure of making the PGC 300 to a block, when
correlating the plurality of audio information, which are different
in kind, with the single title 261.
[0265] Then, the reproduction control information of the audio
substantial information managed by this PGC 300 is an ATS_PGCI 276.
The information to search the ATS_PGCI 276 corresponding to each
title 621 is described in the ATS_PGCI_SRP 275. For example, for
each ATS_PGCI 276, whether or not its PGC 300 is an entry is
described therein. The entry is information indicative of the PGC
300 representing a PGC block. Moreover, the title number within the
ATS 203, the presence or absence of a formation of the PGC block,
the relation in the PGC block (a lead, a middle and an end of the
PGC block), the type of a block, the number of channels, the
encoding method, the start address of the ATS_PGCI 276 and so on
are described in the ATS_PGCI_SRP 275.
[0266] As mentioned above, the corresponding ATS_PGCI 276 is
obtained with the ATS title number and the ATSI number in the
AOTT_SRP 247 in the AMG 202, at the time of the title reproduction.
The confirmation of the ATS_PGCI_SRP 275 in the ATS 203 of the
corresponding number can search a position at which the ATS_PGCI
276 corresponding to the ATS title number is recorded.
[0267] Moreover, the case in which a plurality of audio information
correspond to a single title implies the existence of a plurality
of ATS_PGCI_SRP 275 having the same ATS title number. In this case,
it is judged by also considering other information (e.g., the type
of the block, the number of channels and the encoding method).
Accordingly, the optimum PGC 300 is selected, and then the
reproduction is started.
[0268] (1.2.2) ATS_PGCI
[0269] ATS_PGCIs 276 serving as the reproduction control
information corresponding to the respective titles are arranged
following the table of the search pointer, and constitute the
table.
[0270] The present invention uses division information of a program
301, as shown in FIG. 10 or 11, in order to manage the audio
substantial information in accordance with the PGC 300. The program
301 is information of dividing the above-mentioned cell 220 by a
reproduction unit of a single song or the like, and information
corresponding to a track 260. Thus, the PGC 300 corresponding to a
title 261 manages one or a plurality of programs 301. This
information is described in the ATS_PGCI 276.
[0271] The single ATS_PGCI 276 is provided with: an information
(ATS_PGC_GI) 290 with regard to the PGC 300 as a whole; a table
ATS_PGCIT 291 in which the information with regard to the
respective programs 301 constituting the PGC 300 is collected; and
a table ATS_C_PBIT 292 in which the information with regard to the
respective cell 200 constituting the program 301 is collected.
[0272] (5.1.2.2.1) ATS_PGC_GI
[0273] The number of programs, the number of cells, the PGC
reproduction time, start addresses of the respective tables
following this information and the like are described in the
ATS_PGC_GI 290, as the information with regard to the PGC 300 as a
whole.
[0274] (5.1.2.2.2) ATS_PGIT
[0275] Information ATS_PGI with regard to the programs 301
constituting the PGC 300 are arranged following the ATS_PGC_GI 290,
by the number of programs in the reproducing order, and then
constitute a table ATS_PGIT 291. Information for a continuous
reproduction, information to specify an attribute of audio
substantial information (AOB) reproduced by the program,
information to specify a down-mix coefficient, a cell number
corresponding to a head or lead of the program, a start PTS, a
program reproduction time and the like are described in a single
ATS_PGI.
[0276] As for the information to specify the attribute of this
ATS_PGI, the attribute information of the audio substantial
information actually written in the above-mentioned ATSI_MAT 270 is
specified as an attribute number, and then both of them are
correlated with each other, so that the detailed attribute
information of the program can be obtained. Since it is a structure
of defining this attribute number for each program, the DVD audio
format has a structure of changing the attribute for each song.
[0277] However, there is information with regard to an attribute
even in the ATS_PGCI_SRP 275. The attribute information described
in the ATS_PGCI_SRP 275 is the information to select the audio
substantial information that are different in kind, and describes
only the attribute information common among the respective programs
301. Conversely speaking, the encoding method must be common even
if the attribute can be freely set by the unit of program.
Moreover, if assembling the PGC blocks, it is necessary that all
the programs 301 within the PGC 300 conform to a limitation in
which the number of channels is also unified at two channels or
less, or unified at three channels or more.
[0278] Moreover, the cell 220 to which the program 301 corresponds
can be known in accordance with the cell number corresponding to
the lead of the program.
[0279] (5.1.2.2.3) ATS_C_PBIT
[0280] Information ATS_C_PBI with regard to the cells constituting
the PGC 300 are arranged following the ATS_PGIT 291, by the number
of cells in the reproducing order, and then constitute a table
ATS_C_PBIT 292. An index number, a cell type, a start address, an
end address and the like are recorded in a single ATS_C_PBI. An
address on the disc of the audio substantial information
corresponding to the title 261 is known by the ATS_C_PBI at this
time.
[0281] For example, it is assumed that a user instructs a third
song of a certain title group 262. Moreover, it is assumed that
this title group 262 is constituted by a single title 261. The
ATS_PGCI corresponding to the title 261 is obtained as mentioned
above. Since it is the third song, a third ATS_PGIT 291
corresponding to the program #3 is read out to then obtain a lead
cell number #n in it. Since it is recognized that the program 301
(#3) begins at the cell 220 (#n), the n.sup.th ATS_C_PBI is read
out, and a start address described therein is obtained. Then, it
jumps to the start address, and starts the reproduction of the
third song.
[0282] (5.2) Method of Recording Audio Information
[0283] How to record a plurality of audio information, which are
different in kind, in this embodiment will be described.
[0284] The AOB 210 as the audio substantial information and the VOB
10 as the AV substantial information are respectively included in
the ATS 203 and the VTS 3, as mentioned in the explanation of the
physical structure of each audio disc. Moreover, the substantial
information to be reproduced as the audio title are also referred
to as the AOTT_AOB and the AOTT_VOB, respectively. A single set in
which a plurality of AOTT_AOBs are unified is referred to as the
AOTT_AOBS, and a single set in which a plurality of AOTT_VOBs are
unified is referred to as the AOTT_VOBS, respectively.
[0285] A plurality of audio information which are different in kind
are actually classified into three kinds, as described below.
[0286] (a) A plurality of audio information which are different in
recording condition (for example, a normal recording and a binaural
recording, a recording at a front portion in a hall and a recording
at an S seat, a one-point recording and a recording by a
multi-microphone and the like)
[0287] (b) A plurality of audio information which are different in
encoding method (for example, the LPCM and the MPEG, the Dolby
AC-3, the SDDS, the DTS and so on)
[0288] (c) A plurality of audio information which are different in
reproducing manner (the number of channels is two or less, or three
or more)
[0289] The recording condition, the encoding method and the
reproducing manner can be determined independently of each other.
However, the plurality of audio information, which are presently
targeted and different in kind, are audio information which are
common in recording target as a rule, and should be treated as the
same work (title) and the same song (track). These plurality of
audio information which are different in kind are recorded on the
disc by using two different methods.
[0290] (5.2.1) AOTT_VOBS Having Plurality of Audio Streams
[0291] Even in the DVD audio format, the method of recording the
audio information containing the video information is identical to
that of the DVD video format, for the sake of the compatibility
with the DVD video format. Then, if recording a plurality of audio
information which are different in kind together with the video
information, they are multiplexed and recorded with the same
substantial information (AOTT_VOB) as another stream. As mentioned
in the explanation of the video format, the video information, the
audio information and the sub picture information are defined as
respectively different streams in the VOB 10. Each of them is
divided into a pack unit (2048 Bytes), is multiplexed by this unit
and is recorded on the disc as a single system stream.
[0292] Here, the audio information can be defined up to a maximum
of 8 kinds. Thus, a plurality of audio information which are
different in kind can be recorded as different streams having
stream numbers different from each other. The case in which such a
recording method is used can have the compatibility with the DVD
video format. Moreover, this also has a merit that the kind of
audio information can be easily changed just by changing the stream
processed by the reproducing apparatus at the time of the
reproduction. Moreover, if regarding it as the video title, it is
recorded as the single substantial information, and thereby it can
be naturally treated as the same title and the same track. Thus, a
plurality of audio information which are different in the number of
channels and the like can be properly recorded without introducing
confusion to a user.
[0293] However, such a manner of multiplexing the streams is not
suitable for the audio format. The DVD has the limitation that the
sum of data transfer rates of all the streams must be equal to or
less than 10.08 Mbps. Thus, it is impossible to multiplex two
streams shown in a following TABLE 1.
1 TABLE 1 Audio Number coding of mode fs Qb channels Bit Rate
Stream #1 LPCM 96k 24bits 2ch 4.608 Mbps Stream #2 LPCM 48k 16bits
8ch 6.144 Mbps Total 10.742 Mbps
[0294] It is required to always record a non-compressed LPCM audio
onto the audio DVD. Thus, if the sampling frequency is high, or if
the number of channels is large, the required data transfer rate
becomes high. Hence, it can be said that this method of
multiplexing the streams is not suitable for the case of mainly
recording a plurality of non-compressed LPCM audio sounds with the
audio information as a main body of the record information.
[0295] The audio format is required to emphasize the recording
function and the conformation to the presently-used studio unit,
and especially required to simply carry out the recording
operation. If it has a structure of multiplexing a plurality of
variable rates of streams as well as the video streams such as the
DVD video format, the management information must be included in
the data. Moreover, this management information has a structure of
describing the address information with regard to data before and
after several minutes. So, if regarding as the recording unit, data
cannot be recorded on the disc, unless the data before and after
the several minutes is completely collected. Thus, this results in
a problem that the simple recorder cannot be constituted. Moreover,
this results in a problem that a new authoring unit is required in
addition to the present studio units.
[0296] (5.2.2) Plurality of Block AOTT_AOBS
[0297] If only the audio information is recorded, the settlement of
the above-mentioned problems is considered to be more important to
thereby employ the structure required as the audio format. So, it
is determined that only one kind of audio stream is recorded in a
single substantial information (AOTT_AOB) and that if a plurality
of audio information which are different in kind are recorded, they
are separated and recorded in separate areas on the disc as another
substantial information (AOTT_AOB). Such a structure enables any
number of audio information to be recorded, as long as a data
transfer rate of a single audio information is equal to or less
than 10.08 Mbps. Moreover, since the only one kind of audio stream
is recorded, if the audio information thereof is a fixed rate of
data such as the non-compressed LPCM, it is not necessary that the
management information is included in the data. Hence, the
recording process becomes also simple.
[0298] It is not necessary to simultaneously record the two-channel
audio information and the multi-channel audio information.
Moreover, it is not so necessary to quickly switch them over. Thus,
in the case of separating them into different substantial
information and recording them, the process associated with the
switching operation at the time of the reproduction becomes
relatively complex. However, it can be said that it is not a
serious problem.
[0299] However, in this case, a mechanism of treating the plurality
of substantial information as the same titl is required. Moreover,
it is necessary to unitedly treat the audio information which are
recorded in the AOTT_VOB as the plurality of streams, under the
same mechanism.
[0300] (5.3) Audio Selection
[0301] As mentioned above, there are roughly two methods as the
method of recording a plurality of audio information which are
different in kind. However, the two methods have the problems,
respectively. So, in the present invention, the reproduction
control information has the logical structure described below to
thereby solve the problems in the respective methods and enable the
proper audio selection. Here, the audio selection implies the
operation of switching between the plurality of audio information,
which are different in kind, are required to be treated as the same
title and are recorded in different areas on the disc.
[0302] At first, if employing the method of separating a plurality
of audio information, which are different in kind, into different
areas as different substantial information (AOTT_AOB) and then
recording them, the cell 220 constituting each AOB 210 is divided
into a unit of a program 301 as a second division unit, with
respect to the reproduction of a plurality of respective audio
substantial information (in this case, since they are the audio
titles, AOTT_AOB 210 (AOB #1 and AOB #2)) which are different in
method of recording the audio substantial information (in the case
of FIG. 10, the recording manner of the two-channel and the
multi-channel), as shown in FIG. 10. Moreover, the respective
programs 301 are identified in accordance with program numbers (#1,
#2, #3, . . . ) as the second division information. This program
301 is a reproduction unit corresponding to the track 260, and
correspond to, for example, a single song. Thus, although the
respective audio substantial information (AOTT_AOB 210 (AOB #1 and
AOB #2) are different in recording method, since the contents
thereof are the same to each other, the number and the order of
programs 301 with regard to the respective audio substantial
information become equal to each other. respectively. In the case
of FIG. 10, they are constituted by the programs #1, #2 and #3,
respectively.
[0303] Next, the respective programs 301 (the programs #1, #2 and
#3) are unified by respective different PGCs 300 (PGC #1 and PGC
#2) constituted into blocks as the management information. Then,
the programs 301 (the programs #1, #2 and #3) including the audio
substantial information which are respectively different in
recording method are correlated with the same track 261 (#1), by
making these PGCs 300 (the PGC #1 and the PGC #2) correspond to the
same track 261 (the track #1, in the case of FIG. 10). That is, the
present invention correlates the audio substantial information of
the program unit identified in accordance with the program number
as the second division information, which are respectively
different in recording method, with the track 261 which serves as
the first division unit identified in accordance with the track
numbers (#1, #2, #3, . . . ) as the first division information and
has the same track number, by using the different PGC 300
constituted into the block as the management information.
[0304] By the above-mentioned configuration, even if employing the
method of separating the plurality of audio information, which are
different in kind, into different areas on the disc as different
substantial information (AOTT_AOB) and then recording them, the
plurality of audio substantial information which are different in
kind can be unitedly treated, by selecting the PGC 300 for managing
the audio substantial information of the recording method which is
suitable for the capability of the pertinent reproducing apparatus
or the instruction of the user, so that it is recognized as the
same title and the same song by the user.
[0305] Next, if employing the method of recording the audio
substantial information, which are different in recording method,
in the recording area of the video format by using the stream
multiplexing method, as shown in FIG. 11, the audio substantial
information AOTT_VOB 10 (VOB #1, in the case of FIG. 11) is
correlated with the same track 261 (the track #1, in the case of
FIG. 11), by using different PGCs 300 (the PGC #1 and the PGC #2,
in the case of FIG. 11) which are constituted into blocks and
prepared for each recording method (the recording manners of the
two-channel and the multi-channel, in the case of FIG. 11). In
addition, the fact that the respective PGCs 300 manage the programs
301 (the programs #1, #2 and #3, in the case of FIG. 11) is similar
to the case of FIG. 10.
[0306] The employment of the above-mentioned logical structure
enables the method of recording the respective audio substantial
information to be managed by the respective PGCs 300. Thus, the
audio information based on the desired recording method can be
properly reproduced just by selecting the PGC 300 based on the
recording method, without directly referring to the navigation
information within the audio stream. In short, according to the
present invention, the audio information recorded in the video
format can be managed in accordance with the control information of
the audio format. Of course, even in this case, it is recognized as
the same title and the same song by the user. Hence, the plurality
of audio information which are different in kind can be unitedly
treated by selecting the PGC suitable for the capability of the
pertinent reproducing apparatus or the instruction of the user.
[0307] As mentioned above, according to the present invention, the
audio selection can be carried out by using the same mechanism,
even if the audio information is recorded on the AOTT_AOB (in case
of reproducing the audio title) or even if it is recorded on the
AOTT_VOB (in case of reproducing the AV/audio only common title).
Thus, the present invention is effective when the audio title
(AOTT) or the AV/audio only common title (AVTT/AOTT) is reproduced
by the audio player.
[0308] Moreover, how this audio selection is carried out is
explained by using the actual example with reference to FIGS. 12A,
12B, 13A and 13B.
[0309] (5.3.1) Audio Selection in Audio Title
[0310] At first, the case is explained in which the audio title is
reproduced by the audio player or the compatible player. Here, it
is assumed that all the title groups are constituted under a single
title. It is also assumed that the reproducing apparatus is
dedicated to the two-channel or the user sets to select the
two-channel reproduction, and that the user instructs the
reproduction of a title group 262 (#j).
[0311] As mentioned above, the ATS title number and the ATS number
of the title corresponding to the title group 262 are obtained by
referring to the AOTT_SRP 247 (refer to FIG. 8). As a result, it is
assumed that the ATS number is #2 and the ATS title number is #3.
The flow until here is as explained in (4.5.1.1) the case of the
audio player and in (4.5.1.2) case of the compatible player.
[0312] Next, the ATSI 211 of the ATS #2 is read out to then store
the attribute information written in the ATSI_MAT 270 (refer to a
path indicated by "P12(1)" of FIG. 12). The attribute of each track
of the title to be reproduced cannot be specified at this stage.
All the attribute information are stored as a temporary
measure.
[0313] In succession, the ATS_PGCIT 271 is read out to then read
out the PGCI search pointer (ATS_PGCI_SRP) 273 in it (refer to a
path indicated by "P12(2)" of FIG. 12). The ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 in
which the ATS title number (ATS_TTN) is #3 is searched in this
table. In this case, it is recognized that there are two
ATS_PGCI_SRPs 273 (#3 and #4) in which the ATS title number as the
first division information is #3 and that they constitute the PGC
block. Then, it is judged which one of the PGCs 300 is to be
selected. In this case, the item of a block type is referred to
since the reproducing apparatus is dedicated to the two-channel or
the user sets to select the two-channel reproduction. Here, the
fact that the PGC block is assembled in accordance with the
difference of the number of channels is written in the item. Thus,
an item 284 of Audio Channels (refer to FIGS. 9, 12A and 12B) is
observed to select the PGC 300 in which Two-Channel Or Less is
written. Then, an address in which the reproduction control
information ATS_PGCI 276 of the selected PGC 300 is written is
obtained (16384, in this case) to then jump to this address and
read out the reproduction control information therefrom and further
store it (refer to a path indicated by "P12(3)" of FIG. 12).
[0314] There are an information table with regard to the cell 220
and an information table with regard to the program 301
corresponding to the track 260, in the reproduction control
information. If starting from a lead or head of the title, the
ATS_PGI of the program #1 is referred to so that the information
specifying the attribute of the program #1 and the
previously-stored attribute information are used to thereby specify
the attribute of the program #1. The audio decoder is set in
accordance with this attribute. Next, the lead cell number of the
program #1 is read out from the ATS_PGCI (in this case, since the
target to be reproduced is the program #1, the lead cell number
thereof is duly #1). Then, the address at which the cell 220 is
recorded is read out from the ATS_C_PBI corresponding to the number
to then jump to this address and start the reproduction therefrom
(refer to a path indicated by "P12(4)" of FIG. 12).
[0315] In the case of the normal reproduction, the reproduction of
the cell is continued by using the ATS_C_PBI stored in the memory
which is being reproduced, until a next program. When the
reproduction of the program is ended, the attribute information and
the ATS_PGI in the memory at this time are also used to carry out a
series of processes for reproducing the next program. Then, the
reproduction is started. This operation is repeated until the end
of the title. Thus, it is required to store all the reproduction
control information ATS_PGCI and the attribute information within
the management information as mentioned above.
[0316] Next, it is assumed that the reproducing apparatus
corresponds to the multi-channel reproduction and that a user sets
to select the multi-channel reproduction, and that the user
instructs the reproduction of the title group 262 (#j).
[0317] An ATS title number #3 and an ATS number #2 of the title
corresponding to the title group 262 are obtained to then read out
an ATSI 211 of the ATS #2. The processes until here are identical
to the case of selecting the two-channel reproduction (refer to a
path indicated by "P1M(1)" of FIG. 12). Moreover, the attribute
information written in the ATSI_MAT 270 of the ATSI 211 is stored,
and the ATS_PGCIT 271 is read out to then read out the ATS_PGC
search pointer 273 in it (refer to a path indicated by "P1M(2)" of
FIG. 12). The processes until here are also identical to the case
of selecting the two-channel reproduction.
[0318] The ATS_PGC_SRP 273 in which the ATS title number (ATS_TTN)
is #3 is searched in this table. In this case, it is recognized
that there are two ATS_PGCI_SRPs (#3 and #4) in which the ATS title
number is #3 and that they constitute the PGC block. Then, it is
judged which one of the PGCs 300 is to be selected. In this case,
the item of the block type is referred to since the reproducing
apparatus corresponds to the multi-channel reproduction and further
the user sets to select the multi-channel reproduction. The fact
that the PGC block is assembled in accordance with the difference
of the number of channels is written in the item. Then, the item
284 of Audio Channels is referred to so that the PGC 300 in which
Three-Channel Or More is written is selected. Then, the address in
which the reproduction control information ATS_PGCI 276 of the
selected PGC 300 is written is obtained (24576, in this case) to
then jump to this address and read out the reproduction control
information therefrom and further store it (refer to a path
indicated by "P1M(3)" of FIG. 12).
[0319] The processes after this stage are basically identical to
the case of selecting the two-channel reproduction except that the
PGC 300 to be processed is different and the substantial
information to be reproduced is different. The ATS_PGI of the
program #1 is referred to in the information table with regard to
the program, in the reproduction control information to then
specify the attribute of the program #1 to further set the audio
decoder. Next, the ATS_C_PBI of the lead cell number #1 of the
program #1 is read out from the ATS_PGI to then read out the
address, at which the cell #1 is recorded, and further jump to this
address and then start the reproduction (refer to a path indicated
by "P1M(4)" of FIG. 12).
[0320] (5.3.2) Audio Selection in AV/Audio Only Common Title
[0321] The case is explained in which the AV/audio only common
title is reproduced by the audio player. Here, it is assumed that
all the title groups 262 are constituted under a single title, the
reproducing apparatus is dedicated to the LPCM or a user sets to
select the reproduction of the LPCM, and that the user instructs
the reproduction of the title group 262 (#j).
[0322] As mentioned above, the ATS title number and the ATS number
of the title 261 corresponding to the title group 262 are obtained
by referring to the AOTT_SRP 247. As a result, it is assumed that
the ATS number is #2 and the ATS title number is #4. The flow until
here is as explained in the (4.5.3.1) case of the audio player.
[0323] Next, the ATSI 211 of the ATS #2 is read out to then store
the attribute information written in the ATSI_MAT 270 (refer to a
path indicated by "P2L(1)" of FIG. 13). The attribute of each track
of the title to be reproduced cannot be specified at this stage.
All the attribute information are stored as a temporary measure.
Also, since the AV/audio only common title is to be reproduced, the
corresponding ATS 203 is the ATS having only the navigation
information without the substantial information.
[0324] In succession, the ATS_PGCIT 271 is read out to then read
out the PGCI search pointer 273 among it (refer to a path indicated
by "P2L(2)" of FIG. 13). The ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 in which the ATS
title number (ATS_TTN) is #4 is searched in this table. In this
case, it is recognized that there are two ATS_PGCI_SRPs 273 (#4 and
#5) in which the ATS title number is #4 and that they constitute
the PGC block. Then, it is judged which one of the PGCs 300 is to
be selected.
[0325] In this case, the item of the block type is referred to
since the reproducing apparatus is dedicated to the LPCM or the
user sets to select the LPCM reproduction. Here, the fact that the
PGC block is assembled in accordance with the difference of the
numbers of channels and the encoding method is written in the item.
Thus, the item 285 of Audio Coding Mode is referred to so that the
PGC 300 in which the LPCM is written is selected.
[0326] Next, an address in which the reproduction control
information ATS_PGCI 276 of the selected PGC is written is obtained
(24576, in this case) to jump to this address and then read out the
reproduction control information and further store it (refer to a
path indicated by "P2L(3)" of FIG. 13).
[0327] There are the information table with regard to the cell 220
and the information table with regard to the program 301
corresponding to the track 260, in the reproduction control
information. If starting from the lead of the title, the ATS_PGI of
the program #1 is referred to so that the information specifying
the attribute of the program #1 and the previously-stored attribute
information is used to thereby specify the attribute of the program
#1. The audio decoder is set in accordance with this attribute.
Next, the lead cell number of the program #1 is read out from the
ATS_PGCI (in this case, since the target to be reproduced is the
program #1, the lead cell number thereof is duly #1). Then, an
address at which the cell is recorded is read out from the
ATS_C_PBI corresponding to the number to then jump to the address
and start the reproduction (refer to a path indicated by "P2L(4)"
of FIG. 13).
[0328] In the case of the normal reproduction, the reproduction of
the cell is continued by using the ATS_C_PBI stored in the memory
which is being reproduced, until the next program. When the
reproduction of the program is ended, the attribute information and
the ATS_PGI in the memory at this time are also used to carry out a
series of processes for reproducing the next program. Then, the
reproduction is started. This operation is repeated until the end
of the title. Thus, all the attribute information and the
reproduction control information ATS_PGCI within the management
information must be stored as mentioned above.
[0329] Next, it is assumed that the reproducing apparatus
corresponds to the multi-channel and the AC-3 (one kind of encoding
method: Dolby Digital) and that a user sets to select the
reproduction of the AC-3, and that the user instructs the
reproduction of the title group 262 (#j).
[0330] The ATS title number #4 and the ATS number #2 of the title
261 corresponding to the title group 262 are obtained to then read
out the ATSI 211 of the ATS #2. The processes until here are
identical to the case of selecting the LPCM reproduction (refer to
a path indicated by "P2A(1)" of FIG. 13). Moreover, The attribute
information written in the ATS_MAT 270 of the ATSI 211 is stored to
then read out the ATS_PGCIT 271 and further read out the ATS_PGC
search pointer 273 in it (refer to a path indicated by "P2A(2)" of
FIG. 13). The processes until here are also identical to the case
of selecting the LPCM reproduction.
[0331] The PGC 300 in which the ATS title number (ATS_TTN) is #4 is
searched in this table. In this case, it is recognized that there
are two PGCs in which the ATS title number is #4 and that they
constitute the PGC block. Then, it is determined which one of the
PGCs 300 is to be selected.
[0332] In this case, the item of the block type is referred to
since the reproducing apparatus corresponds to the multi-channel
reproduction and the AC-3 and further a user sets to select the
AC-3 reproduction. The fact that the PGC block is assembled in
accordance with the difference of the numbers of channels and the
encoding method is written in the item. Then, the item 285 of Audio
Coding Mode is referred to so that the PGC 300 in which the AC-3 is
written is selected. Then, an address in which the reproduction
control information ATS_PGCI 276 of the selected PGC is written is
obtained (32768, in this case) to jump to this address and then
read out the reproduction control information therefrom and further
store it (refer to a path indicated by "P2A(3)" of FIG. 13).
[0333] The processes after this stage are basically identical to
the case of selecting the LPCM reproduction except that the PGC to
be processed is different and the stream to be reproduced is
different. The ATS_PGI of the program #1 is referred to in the
information table with regard to the program, in the reproduction
control information to then specify the attribute of the PG #1 to
further set the audio decoder. Next, the ATS_C_PBI of the lead cell
number #1 of the program #1 is read out from the ATS_PGI to then
read out an address at which the cell #1 is recorded, and further
jump to this address and then start the reproduction (refer to a
path indicated by "P2A(4)" of FIG. 13). However, since the
substantial information (AOTT VOB) to be reproduced in this case is
the same, an address of a jumping destination is also identical to
the case of selecting the reproduction of the LPCM.
[0334] (6) Reproducing Apparatus
[0335] (6.1) Video DVD Player
[0336] As shown in FIG. 14, a video DVD player as the present
embodiment is provided with: an optical pickup 80; a demodulate and
correct unit 81; stream switches 82 and 84; a track buffer 83; a
system buffer 85; a demultiplexer 86; a VBV (Video Buffer Verifier)
buffer 87; a video decoder 88; a sub picture buffer 89; a sub
picture decoder 90; a mixer 91; an audio buffer 92; an audio
decoder 93; an input unit 98; a display unit 99; a system
controller 100; a drive controller 101; a spindle motor 102; and a
slider motor 103. The construction shown in FIG. 14 only
illustrates the portions related to the video and audio
reproduction of the video DVD player. The description and the
detailed explanation as for servo circuits to servo-control the
optical pickup 80, the spindle motor 102, the slider motor 103 and
the like are omitted since they are constructed in the same manner
as the conventional arts.
[0337] Nextly, an overall operation of the present embodiment is
explained.
[0338] The optical pickup 80 includes a laser diode, a polarization
beam splitter, an objective lens, a photo-detector and the like not
illustrated, and irradiates a light beam B as a reproduction light
with respect to the DVD 1. The optical pickup 80 receives a
reflection light of the light beam B from the DVD 1, and outputs a
detection signal Sp corresponding to information pits formed on the
DVD 1. At this time, the tracking servo control and the focus servo
control are operated with respect to the objective lens etc. of the
optical pickup 80 in the same manner as the conventional art so
that the light beam B can be irradiated precisely onto the
information track of the DVD 1 and that the light beam B can be
focused on the information record surface of the DVD 1.
[0339] The detection signal Sp outputted from the optical pickup 80
is inputted to the demodulate and correct unit 81, where a signal
demodulation process and an error correct process are applied to it
to generate a demodulation signal Sdm, which is outputted to the
stream switch 82 and the system buffer 85.
[0340] The opening and closing operation of the stream switch 82,
to which the demodulation signal Sdm is inputted, is controlled by
a switch signal Ssw1 from the drive controller 101. When it is
closed, the stream switch 82 passes therethrough the inputted
demodulation signal Sdm as it is to the track buffer 83. When it is
opened, the demodulation signal Sdm is not outputted therethrough,
so that unnecessary or useless information (signal) is not inputted
to the track buffer 83.
[0341] The track buffer 83, to which the demodulation signal Sdm is
inputted, consists of a FIFO (First In First Out) memory, for
example. The track buffer 83 temporarily stores the inputted
demodulation signal Sdm, and continuously outputs the stored
demodulation signal Sdm when the stream switch 84 is closed.
[0342] The opening and closing operation of the stream switch 84,
to which the demodulation signal Sdm is continuously inputted, is
controlled by a switch signal Ssw2 from the system controller 100
such that the various buffers at its posterior stage may not be
over-flown or, on the contrary, may not become empty to stop the
decoding process, in the separating process by the demultiplexer
86.
[0343] On the other hand, the system buffer 85, to which the
demodulation signal Sdm is inputted in parallel with the track
buffer 83, accumulates the management information (e.g. the VMG 2
etc.) or the VTSI 11 of each VTS 3 which are detected firstly upon
loading the DVD 1 and which are related to the whole information
recorded on the DVD 1. Then, the system buffer 85 outputs the
accumulated data as a control information Sc to the system
controller 100, and temporarily stores the DSI data 51 for each
navi-pack 41 during the reproduction, to output it also as the
control information Sc to the system controller 100.
[0344] The demultiplexer 86, to which the demodulation signal Sdm
is continuously inputted through the stream switch 84, separates
the video data, the audio data, the sub picture data and the PCI
data for each navi-pack 41 respectively from the inputted
demodulation signal Sdm, and outputs them as a video signal Sv, a
sub picture signal Ssp, an audio signal Sad and a PCI signal Spc
respectively to the VBV buffer 87, the sub picture buffer 89 and
the audio buffer 92.
[0345] The demultiplexer 86 extracts the pack header, the packet
header and the like from each pack (including the audio pack 43),
and each packet, and outputs the information included in them as
the header signal Shd to the system controller 100.
[0346] The VBV buffer 87, to which the video signal Sv is inputted,
consists of a FIFO memory, for example. The VBV buffer 87
temporarily stores the video signal Sv and outputs it to the video
decoder 88. The VBV buffer 87 compensates the difference or
fluctuation in the data amount between respective pictures of the
video signal Sv compressed by the MPEG 2 method. Then, the video
signal Sv in which the differences in the data amount are
compensated, is outputted to the video decoder 88, and is decoded
by the MPEG 2 method to be outputted as a decoded video signal Svd
to the mixer 91.
[0347] On the other hand, the sub picture buffer 89, to which the
sub picture signal Ssp is inputted, temporarily stores the inputted
sub picture signal Ssp, and outputs it to the sub picture decoder
90. The sub picture buffer 89 is to synchronize the sub picture
information included in the sub picture signal Ssp with the video
information corresponding to the sub picture information, and to
output it. Then, the sub picture signal Ssp synchronized with the
video information is inputted to the sub picture decoder 90 and is
decoded to be outputted as a decoded sub picture signal Sspd to the
mixer 91.
[0348] The decoded video signal Svd outputted from the video
decoder 88 and the decoded sub picture signal Sspd outputted from
the sub picture decoder 90 (which is in synchronization with the
corresponding decoded video signal Svd) are mixed together by the
mixer 91, and are outputted as a final video signal Svp to be
displayed to a display device such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube)
device not illustrated.
[0349] The audio buffer 92, to which the audio signal Sad is
inputted, consists of a FIFO memory, for example. The audio buffer
92 temporarily stores the audio signal Sad and outputs it to the
audio decoder 93. The audio buffer 92 is to synchronize the audio
signal Sad with the video signal Sv or the sub picture signal Ssp
including the corresponding video information, on the basis of the
header control signal Shc outputted from the system controller 100,
and delays the audio signal Sad in accordance with the output
condition of the corresponding video information. Then, the audio
signal Sad, which is time-adjusted to synchronize with the
corresponding video information, is outputted to the audio decoder
93. Then, a reproducing process based on the linear PCM method is
applied thereat to the audio signal Sad on the basis of the header
control signal Shc, and it is outputted as a decoded audio signal
Sadd to a speaker etc. not illustrated. Incidentally, in the audio
DVD including only the audio information, the process of
synchronizing the audio information with the video information is
not required.
[0350] (6.2) Audio DVD Player
[0351] Next, the aforementioned audio DVD player is explained with
reference to FIG. 15. In FIG. 15, the same constitutional elements
as those in FIG. 14 carry the same reference numerals, and the
explanations thereof are omitted.
[0352] As shown in FIG. 15, the structure at the later stage of the
demultiplexer 86 of the audio DVD player is different from that of
the video DVD player in FIG. 14. However, the structure other than
that of the audio DVD player in FIG. 15 is the same as that of the
video DVD player in FIG. 14. Accordingly, the structure at the
later stage of the demultiplexer 86 is explained here.
[0353] In FIG. 15, the demultiplexer 86, to which the demodulation
signal Sdm is continuously inputted through the stream switch 84,
extracts the audio information for each pack from the demodulation
signal Sdm, and outputs it to the audio buffer 92 as the audio
signal Sad.
[0354] The audio buffer 92, to which the audio signal Sad is
inputted, consists of a FIFO memory, for example. The audio buffer
92 temporarily stores the audio signal Sad and outputs it to the
audio decoder 93. Then, a reproducing process based on the linear
PCM method is applied thereat to the audio signal Sad on the basis
of the header control signal Shc, and it is outputted as a decoded
audio signal Sadd to a speaker etc. not illustrated.
[0355] The real time information such as the real time text etc.,
is outputted from the demultiplexer 86 to the RTI buffer 95. The
data temporarily stored in the RTI buffer 95 is outputted to the
RTI decoder 96 on the basis of the control signal Shc outputted
from the system controller 100, so that the lyrics etc., of the
song is displayed on the display device which is not
illustrated.
[0356] If a necessity to temporarily stop the audio sound (i.e., to
pause) during the reproduction immediately after the access to a
desired information etc., is detected, a pause signal Sca is
outputted from the system controller 100 to the audio decoder 93.
Then, the audio decoder 93 temporarily stops the output of the
demodulated audio signal Sadd.
[0357] FIG. 16 shows a configuration of an audio decoder 93. As
shown in FIG. 16, the audio decoder 93 is provided with a signal
processor 120 containing a digital filter and the like, a D/A
converter 121, an analog output circuit 122 containing an amplifier
and the like, a digital output circuit 123, a system microcomputer
124 containing an RAM 124a and a clock circuit 125.
[0358] The system microcomputer 124 communicates a control signal
Sca with the system controller 100, and then controls the
operations of the clock circuit 125, the signal processor 120, the
D/A converter 121 and the analog output circuit 122. The system
microcomputer 124 has the RAM 124a therein. The RAM 124a
temporarily stores audio attribute information sent from the system
controller 100 as the control signal Sca. The system microcomputer
124 refers to the audio attribute information stored in the RAM
124a, and then sends the content thereof to the clock circuit 125
and the signal processor 120. More concretely, the system
microcomputer 124 sends sampling frequency information in the audio
attribute information to the clock circuit 125. The clock circuit
125 has an oscillator, and then sends to the signal processor 120 a
clock signal fs corresponding to the instructed sampling frequency.
Also, the system microcomputer 124 sends the information indicative
of a sampling frequency, a quantizing bit number, the number of
channels, and the presence or absence of an emphasis in the audio
attribute information, to the signal processor 120, and also sends
the channel number information to the D/A converter 121. Moreover,
the system microcomputer 124 sends information, such as an
amplification degree in a signal of each channel and the like, to
the analog output circuit 122. The information of the amplification
degree for each channel can be sent by the system controller 100
while the information thereof is included in the audio attribute
information.
[0359] The signal processor 120 uses the clock signal fs from the
clock circuit 125, and then carries out the processes, such as a
decoding operation of the audio signal sent from the audio buffer
92, a band limitation and the like, in accordance with the
information, such as the encoding method (e.g., the linear PCM, the
Dolby AC-3 and the like), the sampling frequency (fs), the
quantizing bit number (Qb) and the like, which is obtained from the
system microcomputer 124, and carries out a de-emphasizing process
in accordance with the information of the presence or absence of
emphasis, to output it to the D/A converter 121. The D/A converter
121 divides the inputted signal for each channel, in accordance
with the channel information obtained from the system microcomputer
124, and further outputs them to the analog output circuit 122 as
an analog signal for each channel. Moreover, the signal processor
120 sends the digital audio signal Sadd through the digital output
circuit 123 to external portion.
[0360] (6.3) Compatible DVD Player
[0361] The compatible DVD player is constituted such that the VBV
buffer 87, the video decoder 88, the sub picture buffer 89, the sub
picture decoder 90 and the mixer 91 in the video DVD palyer shown
in FIG. 14 in addition to the structure of the audio DVD player
shown in FIG. 15, and that the system controller 100 is configured
so as to enable the reproduction of both of the video format and
the audio format.
[0362] (7) Audio Selection in Reproducing Apparatus
[0363] The audio selection in the reproducing apparatus implies the
operation of switching between kinds of audio information to be
reproduced, when the audio player reproduces the audio title or the
AV/audio only common title.
[0364] The audio information is mainly classified into the
following three kinds, which are explained in (5.2) the method of
recording the audio information.
[0365] (a) Recording Condition
[0366] (b) Encoding Method
[0367] (c) Reproducing Manner
[0368] (7.1) Case of Assembling Block Based on Recording Condition
(Binaural)
[0369] If the recording condition is different, the switching
operation may be always done in accordance with the taste of a
user, irrespectively of the capability of the apparatus. Thus, it
is not necessary to carry out an initial setting and the like.
Moreover, in a case of the binaural recording, the reproducing
apparatus can also perform the following switching manner.
[0370] Here, the binaural recording to achieve the binaural
reproduction is explained in detail.
[0371] At first, suppose that a normal stereo signal is reproduced
by a headphone. For example, as shown in FIG. 17A, two microphones
1002 are arranged at predetermined positions in a concert hall
1001, and these outputs of the microphones 1002 are reproduced
through amplifiers 1004 and 1005 by a headphone 1006. In this case,
reproduction sound field is generated at a rear head portion of a
listener, as shown by the slanted lines in FIG. 17A. This reason is
as follows. That is, in the normal stereo reproduction signal sound
field using a speaker, a sound image is perfectly fixed in one
speaker. Thus, it is necessary that a level difference between a
left speaker and a right speaker is approximately 25 dB. On the
contrary, in a case of a headphone listening, a sound image is
perfectly fixed in one ear at a level difference of approximately
10 dB. In this way, if the user listens to a music, on which the
normal stereo recording is performed, with the headphone, this
results in a problem that stereo feeling becomes excessively strong
and natural presence is not attained.
[0372] On the contrary, a dummy head having the acoustic impedance
and performance substantially equal to those of an actual human is
prepared in the binaural reproduction, and microphones are set
around external auditory miatuses of both ears of this dummy head.
As shown in FIG. 17B, for example, a dummy head 1003 is placed in a
guest box of the concert hall 1001, and then the outputs of the
microphones 1002 within the dummy head 1003 are reproduced through
the amplifier 1004 and 1005 by the headphone 1006. If such a
binaural reproduction is done, the sound field generated around a
head of the listener belongs to a range shown by the slanted lines
of FIG. 17B. Thus, the further natural presence can be attained in
the listening operation with the headphone, an ear phone or the
like.
[0373] It is the binaural recording that uses the above-mentioned
dummy head to then record music, in order to attain such a binaural
reproduction. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, it is possible to
multiplex and record both of a work recorded binaurally as
mentioned above and a stereo-recorded work on the DVD disc to
thereby carry out the proper reproduction in accordance with the
listening manner. In addition, the recording method is not limited
to the multiplexing method. The stereo-recorded audio substantial
information and the binaurally-recorded audio substantial
information may be respectively recorded in different AOB 210.
[0374] The judgment as to whether or not the binaural reproduction
is carried out is done by mounting, for example, a headphone jack
400 shown by a dashed line in FIG. 15, in the reproducing apparatus
and then checking whether or not a plug of the headphone is
inserted into this headphone jack 400.
[0375] This headphone jack 400 has, for example, a circuit
configuration shown in FIG. 19. Switches 401 which are pushed up by
the contact with the plug of the headphone are mounted in both of
the top and the bottom of the plug. Then, when these switches 401
are pushed up by the insertion of the plug, the switches 401 become
in an open state, which enables the insertion of the plug to be
detected.
[0376] By such a configuration, when the plug of the headphone is
inserted into the headphone jack 400 and then a certain song is
specified by a user, the PGC for managing the binaurally-recorded
audio substantial information is selected in accordance with the
above-mentioned procedure, and the binaurally-recorded audio
substantial information is automatically reproduced.
[0377] Thus, the user can listen to a binaurally-recorded desirable
song by merely inserting the plug of the headphone into the
headphone jack 400.
[0378] In addition, the detection as to whether or not the plug of
the headphone is inserted into the headphone jack 400 is done at a
proper timing, such as a time of starting the reproduction, a
middle of the reproduction and the like. Moreover, it is not always
necessary to select the binaurally-recorded audio substantial
information when the plug of the headphone is inserted into the
headphone jack 400. Instead, it is allowable to design a
configuration in which the user sets a priority order by using a
setting operation of the input unit 98 shown in FIG. 15. For
example, when setting a higher priority order for the reproduction
of the stereo recording, the user can listen to the stereo-recorded
audio substantial information with the headphone.
[0379] (7.2) Case of Assembling by Encoding Method
[0380] If the encoding method is different, a user cannot listen to
a sound unless the reproducing apparatus corresponds to the
encoding method of the audio information recorded on the disc
(unless it has the corresponding decoder). Such a situation causes
the user to be confused. Thus, it is established that the audio
information of the LPCM is recorded on all the discs and all the
reproducing apparatuses can reproduce the LPCM. Hence, the user can
reproduce at least the LPCM-recorded audio information even if any
audio DVD disc is used.
[0381] On the other hand, various encoding methods are presently
put to practical use. Most of them are a compressed encoding
method. They have the characteristic that data can be effectively
utilized, especially if the multi-channel is recorded. When there
are audio information recorded by the various encoding methods
based on such a purpose, only if the reproducing apparatus has the
corresponding decoder, it is possible to select and reproduce them.
In this case, the reproducing apparatus judges from the information
indicative of the encoding method written in the item 285 of Audio
Coding Mode in the already-explained ATS_PGCI_SRP 273, in
accordance with a temporary setting of the user, an initial setting
of the user and a setting of the reproducing apparatus, and then
selects the optimum audio information in accordance with a
flowchart shown in FIG. 20, and further carries out the
reproduction.
[0382] In addition, each setting process may be done by the input
unit 98 shown in FIG. 14 or 15. Moreover, the set information may
be adapted so as to be stored in a memory within the system
controller 100.
[0383] Moreover, the following configuration may be possible. That
is, when the DVD disc is set in the reproducing apparatus or the
reproduction is started, the system controller 100 reads out the
control information recorded on the DVD disc as mentioned above,
and then displays the recording manner, the reproducing manner or
the encoding method of the audio substantial information recorded
on the DVD disc, on the display 99. By such a configuration, the
user can properly know the setting that can be selected in the DVD
disc, and can carry out the proper selection operation.
[0384] An example of a process of selecting the PGC from the
information indicative of the encoding method will be described
below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 20.
[0385] At first, when the selecting process is started (Step S1),
the ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 is read out (Step S2) to then read out the
encoding method written in the item 285 of Audio Coding Mode
described in the ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 (Step S3). Next, it is judged
whether or not the reproducing apparatus has the function of
carrying out the reproduction in accordance with the read out
encoding method (Step S4). As a result, if the reproducing
apparatus does not have the function of carrying out the
reproduction in accordance with the read out encoding method (Step
S4; NO), the processes beginning from the operation of reading out
the ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 are again repeated (from the step S2). On the
other hand, if the reproducing apparatus has the function of
carrying out the reproduction based on the read out encoding method
(Step S4; YES), it is judged whether or not a user selects the read
out encoding method as a temporary setting (Step S5). This setting
is done when the reproduction is started or during the
reproduction, for example, by using a remote controller and the
like. For example, as for a particular song, it is done if
reproducing in accordance with the encoding method different from
the existing setting. As a result of the judgment, if the user
selects the read out encoding method as the temporary setting (Step
S5; YES), the selecting process is ended. Then, the PGC 300
indicated by the ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 is selected to start the
reproduction (Step S8).
[0386] However, if the user does not select the read out encoding
method as the temporary setting (Step S5; NO), it is judged whether
or not the user selects the read out encoding method as the initial
setting (Step S6). In this initial setting, the basic encoding
method of the reproducing apparatus is done in accordance with the
taste of the user itself and the like. Thus, if this initial
setting is done, all the songs are reproduced in accordance with
the initially set encoding method, unless the above mentioned
temporary setting is done. In short, if the user selects the read
out encoding method as the initial setting (Step S6; YES), the
selecting process is ended. Then, the PGC 300 indicated by the
ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 is selected to start the reproduction (Step
S8).
[0387] If the user does not select the read out encoding method as
the initial setting (Step S6; NO), it is judged whether or not the
read out encoding method is selected as the setting of the
reproducing apparatus (Step S7). This setting is done at a stage
when the reproducing apparatus is manufactured. So, unless the user
carries out the above-mentioned various settings, all the songs are
reproduced in accordance with this set encoding method. In short,
if the read out encoding method is selected as the setting of the
reproducing apparatus (Step S7; YES), the selecting process is
ended. Then, the PGC 300 indicated by the ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 is
selected to start the reproduction (Step S8).
[0388] In addition, if the read out encoding method is not selected
as the setting of the reproducing apparatus either, because of
error of the read out data and other reasons (Step S7; NO), the
processes beginning from the operation of reading the ATS_PGCI_SRP
273 are again repeated (from the step S2).
[0389] (7.2) Case of Assembling Based on Reproducing Manner
[0390] The selection of the reproducing manner at this time implies
the selection as to whether the two-channel (stereo) reproduction
is done or the multi-channel reproduction is done. If the
reproducing apparatus corresponds to the multi-channel, it is
possible to select and reproduce the audio information of the
multi-channel record. However, only if the user has a system that
can reproduce the multi-channel (e.g., a plurality of amplifiers
and speakers) and further the reproducing apparatus is connected to
the system, the reproduction can be performed as the multi-channel.
Thus, also in this case, the reproducing apparatus judges the
reproducing manner from the information indicative of the number of
channels written in the item 284 of Audio Channels described in the
already-explained ATS_PGCI_SRP 273, in accordance with the
temporary setting of the user, the initial setting of the user and
the setting of the reproducing apparatus, and then selects the
optimum audio information in accordance with the flow similar to
the already-explained flowchart, and further carries out the
reproduction.
[0391] (7.3) Case of Assembling Block Based on Encoding Method And
Reproducing Manner
[0392] As shown in the example of FIGS. 12A and 12B, there is a
case that the kind of audio information within the block is
different in both of the encoding method and the reproducing
manner. Such a case needs the following processes.
[0393] Namely, a priority order is set for all the combinations of
the respective encoding methods and the respective reproducing
manners that can be processed by the reproducing apparatus. An
example is shown in TABLE 2. It is constructed such that the
setting in this manner can be done in each of the temporary setting
of the user, the initial setting of the user and the setting of the
reproducing apparatus, as the occasion demands.
2TABLE 2 ** Priority order to All Combination of Encoding method
And Reproducing Manner LPCM Encoding method A Encoding method B
Two-channel 4 5 6 Reproduction Multi-channel 1 3 2 Reproduction
[0394] In addition, TABLE 2 implies that the smaller the value in
the table, the higher the priority order.
[0395] The optimum audio information is selected to carry out the
reproduction, as in the flowchart shown in FIG. 21, in accordance
with this setting of the priority order. An example of a process
for selecting the optimum audio information and then carrying out
the reproduction will be described below, in accordance with the
flowchart shown in FIG. 21.
[0396] At first, when the selecting process is started (Step S10),
the ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 is obtained (Step S2) to then read out the
encoding method written in the item 285 of Audio Coding Mode and
the reproducing manner described in the item 284 of Audio Channels
in the ATS_PGCI_SRP 273, in accordance with the block type (Step
S12). Next, it is judged whether or not the reproducing apparatus
has the function of carrying out the reproduction based on the
combination of the read out encoding method and reproducing manner
(Step S13). As a result, if the reproducing apparatus does not have
the function of carrying out the reproduction based on the
combination of the read out encoding method and reproducing manner
(Step S13; NO), the processes beginning from the operation of
reading out the ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 are again repeated (from the step
S11). On the other hand, if the reproducing apparatus has the
function of carrying out the reproduction based on the combination
of the read out encoding method and reproducing manner (Step S13;
YES), it is judged whether or not a priority order is set for the
selection as the temporary setting of the user, for the combination
of the read out encoding method and reproducing manner (Step S14).
If the priority order is set (Step S14; YES), the priority order is
set for the selection as the temporary setting of the user, as a
priority order number, for the combination of the read out encoding
method and reproducing manner (Step S15). Then, it is judged
whether or not this set priority order is the smallest within the
block (Step S19). If it is the smallest (Step S19; YES), the
selecting process is ended. Then, the PGC 300 indicated by the
ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 is selected to start the reproduction (Step
S20).
[0397] On the other hand, if the set priority order number is not
the smallest number within the block (Step S19; NO), the processes
beginning from the operation of obtaining the next ATS_PGCI_SRP 273
of the block are repeated (from the step S11). Then, as for the
combination of the next encoding method and reproducing manner, as
mentioned above, it is judged whether or not the reproducing
apparatus has the reproducing function, and it is also judged
whether or not the priority order is set as the temporary setting
of the user. Accordingly, the processes based on the result of the
judgment are carried out (Steps S13, S14 and S15).
[0398] On the other hand, if the priority order is not set as the
temporary setting of the user, for the combination of the next
encoding method and reproducing manner (Step S14; NO), it is judged
whether or not the priority order is set as the initial setting of
the user, for the combination (Step S16). If the priority order is
set (Step S16; YES), the priority order as the initial setting of
the user is set as the priority order number, for the combination
of the read out encoding method and reproducing manner (Step S17).
Then, it is judged whether or not this set priority order number is
the smallest within the block (Step S19). If it is the smallest
(Step S19; YES), the selecting process is ended. Then, the PGC 300
indicated by the ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 is selected to start the
reproduction (Step S20).
[0399] On the other hand, if the set priority order number is not
the smallest number within the block (Step S19; NO), the processes
beginning from the operation of obtaining the next ATS_PGCI_SRP 273
of the block are repeated (from the step S11). Then, for the
combination of the next encoding method and reproducing manner, as
mentioned above, it is judged whether or not the reproducing
apparatus has the reproducing function, and it is also judged
whether or not the priority order is set as the temporary setting
of the user, and it is further judged whether or not the priority
order is set as the initial set of the user. Accordingly, the
processes based on the result of the judgment are carried out
(Steps S13, S14, S15, S16 and S17).
[0400] On the other hand, if the priority order is not set as the
initial setting of the user, for the combination of the next
encoding method and reproducing manner (Step S16; NO), the priority
order of the initial setting from the beginning of the reproducing
apparatus with regard to the combination is set as the priority
order number (Step S18). Then, it is judged whether or not this set
priority order number is the smallest within the block (Step S19).
If it is the smallest (Step S19; YES), the selecting process is
ended. Then, the PGC 300 indicated by the ATS_PGCI_SRP 273 is
selected to start the reproduction (Step S20).
[0401] As mentioned above, if the priority order is set for the
combination of the encoding method and the reproducing manner, the
selection of the PGC 300 based on the combination and the
reproduction based on the combination are done, as the setting
situation of the smallest number in the set priority order.
[0402] As explained above, by constituting such that the priority
order can be determined by each of the temporary setting of the
user, the initial setting of the user and the setting of the
reproducing apparatus, as the occasion demands, for the combination
of the respective encoding methods and the respective reproducing
manners, even if a plurality of audio information which are
different in kind are recorded, the optimum audio information can
be selected and reproduced without the necessity that the user
selects its kind, one by one.
[0403] In addition, if the instruction which does not fit the
reproducing capability of the reproducing apparatus or does not
select any setting is carried out in the example explained by using
FIGS. 20 and 21, it may be constituted such that an alarm display
is carried out by a displaying unit, such as a display 99 and the
like.
[0404] The invention may be embodied in other specific forms
without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics
thereof. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered in
all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the
invention being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the
foregoing description and all changes which come within the meaning
and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be
embraced therein.
[0405] The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No.
Hei. 10-116150 filed Apr. 10, 1998 including the specification,
claims, drawings and summary is incorporated herein by reference in
its entirety.
* * * * *