U.S. patent application number 11/285165 was filed with the patent office on 2006-04-13 for digital broadcasting system and digital video recording/reproducing apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Naoya Takao.
Application Number | 20060078296 11/285165 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 15850750 |
Filed Date | 2006-04-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060078296 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Takao; Naoya |
April 13, 2006 |
Digital broadcasting system and digital video recording/reproducing
apparatus
Abstract
An apparatus that does not cause inconsistency between an
original picture and an image for performing operations under a
special playback mode. A transport stream from a receiver is
supplied to a converter. The converter generates a data stream for
normal playback. If a desired service contains control data for an
interactive operation, a data stream for normal playback containing
the control data is generated. Packets required for performing the
special playback are selected to generate a data stream for the
special playback. None of the control data is contained in the
special playback stream. The normal playback stream and the special
playback stream are recorded on a recording medium. In the normal
playback mode, reproduction under an interactive manner is
performed in accordance with the control data for the interactive
operation. No inconsistency is produced between the original
picture and the image for performing the operations because none of
the image for the interactive operation is displayed.
Inventors: |
Takao; Naoya; (Osaka,
JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GREENBLUM & BERNSTEIN, P.L.C.
1950 ROLAND CLARKE PLACE
RESTON
VA
20191
US
|
Assignee: |
Matsushita Electric Industrial Co.,
Ltd.
Osaka
JP
|
Family ID: |
15850750 |
Appl. No.: |
11/285165 |
Filed: |
November 23, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
09593368 |
Jun 14, 2000 |
7000246 |
|
|
11285165 |
Nov 23, 2005 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
386/343 ;
348/E5.005; 348/E5.108; 348/E7.054; 386/E5.052 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 21/4722 20130101;
H04N 7/16 20130101; H04N 5/78263 20130101; H04N 21/8545 20130101;
H04N 5/4401 20130101; H04N 5/783 20130101; H04N 21/478 20130101;
H04N 21/426 20130101; H04N 21/4334 20130101; H04N 21/4542 20130101;
H04N 21/4147 20130101; H04N 9/8227 20130101; H04N 21/42204
20130101; H04N 21/434 20130101; H04N 21/440281 20130101; H04N
21/4331 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
386/068 |
International
Class: |
H04N 5/783 20060101
H04N005/783 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 14, 1999 |
JP |
HEI 11-167495(P) |
Claims
1. A digital transmitting apparatus that transmits a transport
stream containing control data for realizing interactive
operations, comprising: a transmitter that transmits the transport
stream with a special stream for special playback.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the special stream contains a
control command that performs interactive operations.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the special stream does not
contain a control command that performs interactive operations.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the special stream does not
contain an image for interactive operations.
5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the special stream contains an
image for interactive operations.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the special stream for special
playback does not contain a control command to perform an
interactive operation.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the special stream for special
playback does not contain an image for interactive operations.
8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the special stream for special
playback contains the control command that performs interactive
operations.
9. A digital transmitting apparatus that transmits a transport
stream containing control data for realizing interactive
operations, comprising: a transmitter that transmits the transport
stream so as to contain a special stream for special playback
containing a control command for performing interactive operations
in addition to a normal stream for normal playback.
10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the special stream contains
control data for performing interactive operations equivalent to
that of the normal stream, the special stream for special playback
also containing control data for performing interactive operations
equivalent to that of the normal stream.
11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the special stream contains
control data for performing interactive operations equivalent to
that of the normal stream, the special stream for special playback
containing control data for performing interactive operations in
which a part of the control data is omitted.
12. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the special stream contains
control data in which a part of the control data included in the
normal stream is omitted, the special stream for special playback
containing control data in which a part of the control data
included in the normal stream is omitted.
13. A digital transmitting apparatus, comprising: a transmitter
that transmits a transport stream containing control data for
realizing interactive operations, wherein the transmitted transport
stream contains information as to whether to allow a special
playback.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a divisional of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/593,368 filed on Jun. 14, 2000, which
claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. HEI 11-167495
filed on Jun. 14, 1999, the subject matter of which is expressly
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates digital video
recording/reproducing apparatuses capable of performing playback in
cue, review and other operations as well as handling digital
broadcasting realizing interactive communications.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] 1. Outline of satellite broadcasting system
[0006] 1.1. State of sending radio waves in satellite
broadcasting
[0007] FIG. 1 is a simplified conceptual view showing a state of
sending radio waves in satellite broadcasting. Radio waves from a
ground station 2 are sent to a plurality of ground receivers (not
shown) via a broadcasting satellite 4. The broadcasting satellite 4
sends out a plural numbers of transport streams TS1, TS2, TS3 and
TS4. Each transport stream is distinguished from the others by its
frequency, plane of polarization and other factors.
[0008] A plurality of services analogous to channels in terrestrial
broadcasting SVI1, SV12, SV13 and SV14 being packetized are
multiplexed in the transport stream TS1 under a time sharing
manner. Similarly, services SV21, SV22, SV23 and SV24, and services
SV31, SV32, SV33 and SV34 are multiplexed respectively in the
transport streams TS2 and TS3. Various control data representing
indicative of program information, that of current time, control
data needed for packetization and the like in addition to video
data and audio data of each of the services are sent out to each of
the transport streams. While, FIG. 1 shows only three transport
streams, mamma more transport streams may be sent out. Furthermore,
while FIG. 1 shows a total of four services multiplexed in each
transport stream, in actuality many more services may be
multiplexed therein.
[0009] 1.2. Configuration of the transmitter
[0010] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a transmitter for
generating and transmitting the transport streams described above.
While, FIG. 2 shows only the transport stream TS 1 for simplicity,
other transport streams TS2 and TS3 are generated thereby in the
same manner.
[0011] Video/audio data ES1, ES12, ES13 and ES14 of the services
SV11, SV12, SV13 and SV14 are provided to a video/audio data
management part 7. The Video/audio data Es1, ES12, ES13 and ES14
are compressed by the video/audio data management part 7, and the
resulting data are provided to a multiplex control part 9.
[0012] A multiplexing data management part 15 manages multiplexing
of services such that which service should be multiplexed to other.
The multiplex control part 9 provides services to be multiplexed to
a multiplexing part 11 under the control of the multiplexing data
management part 15. A control data generating part 6 generates a
plurality of control data such as control data for multiplexing
packets, that indicative of program information, that indicative of
current time. The control data for multiplexing packets are
assigned for correctly identifying a video/audio data of a
plurality of services being packetized under a time-sharing manner
and other purposes.
[0013] The multiplexing part 11 outputs the control data and the
video/audio data ES11, ES12, ES13, and ES14 under a time-sharing
manner, each consisting of packetized data having a fixed
length.
[0014] A scrambler 12 scrambles the outputted packets using a
scramble-key provided by a scramble-key control part 16. The
transport stream TS1 being scrambled is modulated with a modulating
part 14 and sent out to audiences via the broadcasting satellite
4.
[0015] The scramble-key used at the scrambler 12 is encrypted with
the control data generating part and made to be Entitlement Control
(hereinafter referred to as ECM) data. In other words, ECM data
further encrypting the key used for de-scrambling is generated. The
multiplexing part 11 carries out packetization including the ECM
data.
[0016] 1.3. Structure of the transport streams
[0017] As shown in FIG. 3, video data ES (V) 1 and audio data ES
(A) 1 of the service SV11, video data ES (V) 2 and audio data ES
(A) 1 of the service SV12, video data ES (V) 3 and audio data ES
(A) 3 of the service SV13, and video data ES (V) 4 and audio data
ES (A) 4 of the service SV 14 are multiplexed in the transport
stream TS 1 generated by the transmitter depicted in FIG. 2.
[0018] In addition, control data NIT, PAT, PMT1, PMT2, PMT3 and
PMT4 are further multiplexed therein. Audio data and video data of
the service SV11, SV12, SV13 and SV14 can be separated respectively
by using these control data.
[0019] Further, control data for the scramble-key CCM1, ECM2, ECM3
and ECM4, control data indicative of program information EIT1,
EIT2, EIT3 and EIT4, and control data for current time TDT and the
like are multiplexed therein. Although, none of them are shown in
the drawing, more control data are multiplexed in the transport
stream.
[0020] Packetization of the control data, is carried out in the
sequence of a line 18a depicted in FIG. 3. In other words,
packetization of these control data is carried out by the following
sequence: the control data NIT, PIT, PMTs EITs, ECMs, video data
ESs (V) and audio data ESs (A). Upon completing the first round
ends at the audio data ES (A) 4, further rounds of packetization
are carried out repeatedly (see a line 18b).
[0021] A basic structure of the packetized data is depicted in FIG.
4. Both the control data and the video/audio data being packetized
have the structure as depicted in FIG. 4. PIDs are assigned to the
forefront of each packetized data. PIDs are the references, which
are uniquely assigned to each of the packetized data to distinguish
each packetized data from other packetized data. The data
representing contents are object data being packetized (e.g. the
control data, video/audio data and the like).
[0022] A relationship among the control data PAT, PMT1, PMT2, PMT3,
PMT4 and video/audio data ESs in each of the services is depicted
in FIG. 5. For example, a PID 502 is assigned to video/audio data
500 being packetized, and the video/audio data 50 in the service
SV12 being encrypted. Although, Just one packet is illustrated in
the drawing as a typical illustration thereof, the video/audio data
500 is sent in a plurality of packets as a result of carrying out
time sharing processing. Similarly, a PID 506 is assigned to ECM
data 504 being packetized for generating a descramble-key, which
descrambles the scramble on the video/audio data 500.
[0023] The packet ID of the video/audio data 500 in the service
SV12 and that of the ECM data 504 are recorded in the control data
PMT2. In view of this, the packet IDs of the video/audio data 500
in the service SV12 and the ECM data 504 can be identified by
obtaining the contents of the control data PMT2. A PID 512 is
assigned to the control data PMT2 being packetized as well.
Although, just one packet is illustrated in the drawing as a
typical illustration thereof, the control data PMT2 is also sent in
a plurality of packets as a result of carrying out time sharing
processing.
[0024] A packet ID of the control data PMT2 is recorded in the
control data PAT. In this way, the packet ID of the control data
PMT2 in the service SV12 can be identified by obtaining the
contents of the control data PAT. A PID 522 is assigned to the
control data PAT being packetized as well. Packet IDs of the
control data PMT1, PMT2, PMT3 and PMT4 in the services SV11, SV12,
SV13 and SV14 multiplexed in the transport stream TS1 are recorded
in the control data PAT.
[0025] Control data, video/audio data, each packetized and related
one another are sent through transport streams. It is therefore,
necessary to obtain the control data PAT in order to identify the
services multiplexed in the transport streams. In this way, the
packet ID of the control data PAT is previously set at a fixed
value such as (0X0000).
[0026] Information such as transmission parameters of the transport
streams TS1, TS2 and TS3 (their frequencies or the like) and which
of the services being multiplexed into which of the transport
stream is recorded in the control data NIT (see FIG. 6). In this
way, it is possible to identify a specific service is multiplexed
into which of the service(s). Packet ID of the control data NIT is
recorded in the control data PAT.
[0027] 1.4. Configuration of the receiver
[0028] FIG. 8 outlines configuration of a receiver. In the
receiver, a desired transport stream is selected by a tuner 22 and
scrambled transport stream is descrambled with a descrambler 24,
then data concerned with the desired service contained in the
descrambled transport stream is separated therefrom with a
transport decoder 26. The microprocessor (hereinafter referred to
as MPU) 28 sends an ECM obtained to an IC card 30 and receives the
a scramble-key restored by the IC card30. The MPU 28 then sets the
scramble-key in the descrambler 24. The video/audio data ES can
thereby de descrambled.
[0029] The MPU 28 sets the packet ID of the video/audio data ES in
the desired service into the transport decoder 26. The transport
decoder 26 thereby outputs the video/audio data ES of the service.
When the packet ID of the control data is set in the transport
decoder 26, the control data thus separated is supplied to the MPU
28.
[0030] An operation of the receiver, which currently receives the
service SV33, contained in the transport stream TS3, and receives a
command to switch it to the service SV12 included in the transport
stream TS1 will be described herein. The MPU 28 controls the
transport decoder 26 to obtain the control data NIT (i.e., by
setting a PID of the control data NIT into the transport decoder
26). The description in the control data tells that the service SV
12 is multiplexed in the transport streamTS1 (see FIG. 6).
[0031] In response to the description, the MPU 28 controls the
tuner 22 to receive the transport stream TS1. Further, the receiver
acquires the PAT and PMT 2 by controlling the transport decoder 26,
and the packet IDs of both the video data ES (V) 2 and the audio
data ES (A) 2 in the desired service SV12, and packet IDs of their
ECMs (see an arrows .alpha. and .beta. in FIG. 5).
[0032] Next, the video data ES (V) 2 and the audio data ES (A) 2 of
the desired service SV12 are outputted from the transport decoder
26 by setting these packet IDs in the transport decoder 26. In
parallel with this, the MPU 28 acquires the scramble-key by sending
the ECM obtained from the transport decoder 26 to the IC card 30
and sets this in the descrambler 24. Descrambled video data ES (V)
2 and audio data ES (A) 2 can thereby be obtained. Changeover of
the received service is performed as described above.
[0033] 2. Outline of satellite broadcasting system realizing
interactive operations
[0034] 2.1. Outline of the system
[0035] Next, the outline of the satellite broadcasting system
realizing interactive operations will be described. Here, a system,
which is realized and is proposed by the applicant, is described as
an example.
[0036] The layout of the transmitter is the same as that of shown
in FIG. 2. However, it differs in that control data generating part
6 also generates navigation data, to be described.
[0037] FIG. 8 shows the data structure of a transport stream that
is sent from the transmitter in the broadcasting system realizing
interactive operations. In the drawing depicts the video data ES
(V) 11, ES (V) 12 and ES (A) 11, ES (A) 12 in the service 11, the
video data of other services and audio elementary streams for audio
data are omitted. The difference from the data structure of FIG. 3
is that two (2) video/audio ESs are contained in a single service
SV 11. Interactive changeover of these two (2) video/audio ESs can
be performed by operation of the operator in accordance with the
navigation data NVT1 and NVT 2 both forming control data for
realizing interactive operations. The receiver is designed so as to
alter the auxiliary display in an interactive manner by using the
navigation data NVT1 and NVT2.
[0038] FIG. 9 shows the contents of control data PMT1 in the
service SV11. The control data PMT1 describes the packet ID of each
content (vide, audio, navigation data) and the packet ID of the ECM
data for obtaining the key for descrambling the contents.
Furthermore, since all of the video, audio, and navigation data
have a plurality of contents, the content that is to be initially
outputted is given as entry-contents. The packet ID of this control
data PMT itself is in "0X0011".
[0039] FIG. 10 shows contents of the control data PAT. In the
control data PAT, there are given the packet IDs of the PMTs
relating to the services SV 11, SV 12, SV 13 and SV14 these are
multiplexed on the transport stream TS1. In this way, it is
possible to identify the packet ID of the service SV 11 is in
"0X0011". It should be noted that the packet ID of the control data
PAT itself is fixed as "0X0000".
[0040] FIGS. 11, and 12 show contents that are recorded in the
navigation data NVT1 and NVT2. The same contents of this set of
navigation data NVT1 and NVT2 are repeatedly sent at predetermined
intervals. Interactive alteration of the service contents is
performed as shown in FIGS. 13 through 16 in response to the
operation of operator using the navigation data NVT1 and NVT2.
[0041] An image depicted in FIG. 14 is displayed when the operator
presses a key to move the cursor downward under the display shown
in FIG. 13. In other words, the reference part on the display
"Order to Osaka center" shifts to the display "Tokyo center".
Further depress of the downward key will shift the reference part
on the display to "Go to the clothing store" as depicted in FIG.
15. The contents of the service is changed into a Tele-shopping
offering clothing items as depicted in FIG. 16 when the operator
presses a selection button under the condition.
[0042] Such interactive operations described above are realized in
accordance with the navigation data forming control data for
interactive operations.
[0043] Although, the services in moving pictures are selected in
accordance with the navigation data in the above-described
operations, services in still images can also be selected. In that
case, a desired still image is displayed as a result of selection
performed in accidence with the control of the navigation data so
as to select the desired still image out of a plurality of still
images being sent repeatedly as one complete service.
[0044] 3. Outline of digital video recording/reproduction
apparatus
[0045] In the contrary, digital video recording/reproduction
apparatuses recording satellite broadcasting as digital data have
been proposed (in Japanese patent application No. H10-367155 and
related applications filed invented by the applicant of this
application). Other recording/reproduction apparatuses capable of
performing cue and review in accordance with data for special
playback stored separately from data for normal playback have also
been proposed (disclosed in Japanese Laid Open Publication No.
H06-284378 and H08-214261).
[0046] However, the prior art even not aware problems laid between
the interactive operations performed in digital broadcasting and
the digital video recording/reproduction apparatus for recording
thereof.
[0047] The applicant has already proposed a technique by which
recording and reproduction are performed while maintaining
interactive capability thereof. The technique is superior in a view
of solving the problems occur when the interactive operations
performed in receiving digital broadcasting are also carried out
during the recording and reproduction. The technique, however,
neither pointing out the problems in the interactive operations
occurred by confusion therein nor solving the problems.
[0048] Generally, bandwidth for recording data for special playback
is limited, therefore, it is expected that one of no data for
interactive operations are recorded as the data for special
playback and only a small amount of data are recorded even data
recording is allowed. Under the circumstances, the following
problems are observed when digital data for realizing interactive
operations are recorded and reproduced.
[0049] For example, the problems will be described using a service
having an interactive capability depicted in FIG. 17. In the
drawing, time travels on the left to the right hand side thereof. A
display of "Quiz regarding to lions" forming an image for
performing operations is displayed when an image of a lion is
displayed on the screen. A quiz on lions is displayed on the screen
in accordance with the navigation data (the control data for
interactive operations) when the operator selects the display of
"Quiz regarding to lions" with buttons on the remote controller or
the like.
[0050] Similar operations can be carried out upon displaying a
display of "Quiz regarding to elephants" forming an image for
performing operations as a result of revising its version of the
navigation data so as to display an image of an elephant. Such
operations can be realized not only when the apparatus receives
data but also at the time of performing normal playback. Carrying
out recording so as to contain the navigation data does this.
[0051] However, the display of "Quiz regarding to lions" forming
the image for performing operations undesirably remains on the
screen regardless of sudden change of images when playback is
performed in cue because no control data for realizing interactive
operations are obtained. In other words, countermeasures for
preventing such undesirable display need to be taken in
consideration of performing playback in cue. Similar problems occur
during the special playback such as review or the like.
[0052] Other problems described below arise when a service capable
of selectively displaying a plurality of still images under
interactive basis. In such service, the creator of the service may
control still images in accordance with the control data for
performing interactive operations, the still images being displayed
on the screen responding to inputs of the operator. For example, in
a service by which provide quiz, a control in which a certain still
image is displayed can be carried out only when correct answers to
the quiz are inputted.
[0053] Images containing still images indicative of the correct
answer, however, are unexpectedly displayed when special playback
such as cue and the like is performed because no interactive
control (or insufficient interactive operation) is carried out.
These problems need to be solved in order to record and reproduce
services for performing interactive operations in view of
considering special playback.
[0054] Further, there is a high probability of causing the
undesirable display as a result of performing only control commands
in the interactive command regardless of suspension of the image
for performing operations when playback is in pause during the
reproduction of a service for performing interactive operations.
This happens especially on commands performed depending on the
time. On the contrary, there are some commands preferably
continuing even in pause such as communication command between the
apparatus and external apparatus(es). In such a view, problems
described above for recording/reproduction of the services for
performing interactive operations need to be solved in view of
considering pause of the playback.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0055] It is an object of the present invention to overcome the
above mentioned problems and to provide a technique not causing the
problems described above even in the special playback mode such as
performing playback in cue and the like when data for performing
interactive operations are recorded and reproduced.
[0056] In order to overcome the problems described above, the
object of the present invention is to provide the means for solving
the above problems with considerations of not only a process in the
playback but also processes in the recording and receiving as well
as the process in the transmitting side.
[0057] (1) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention outputs an image for performing operations in accordance
with control data for interactive operation in the stream when the
apparatus is in receiving and normal playback modes, carries out
the interactive operation changing a signal representing contents
of the services being outputted in accordance with an input of the
operator, and not carries out the interactive operation when the
apparatus is in a special playback mode.
[0058] Therefore, no inconsistency can be produced between the
original image and the image for performing the operations in
accordance with control data for performing interactive operations
under the special playback mode.
[0059] (2) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention records a data stream for playback including the normal
and special playback stream, reproduces the signals representing
contents of the services reproduced under the normal playback mode
in accordance with the data stream for normal playback when the
apparatus is in the normal playback mode, and reproduces the
signals representing contents of the services reproduced under the
special playback mode in accordance with the data stream for the
special playback when the apparatus is in the special playback
mode.
[0060] Therefore, the process load can be reduced during the
special playback mode.
[0061] (4) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention generates a data stream for special playback containing
the image for performing operations and not contains a control
command, both of the image and the command being used for
performing interactive operations, and displays the image for
performing operations when the apparatus is in the special playback
mode.
[0062] Thus, any inconsistencies with the picture are avoidable
while displaying the image for performing operations when the
apparatus is in a special playback mode. During the service without
any pictures, it can be avoided any possibility to black out the
picture in the special playback and give the viewers the feeling of
insecurity caused by the blackouts.
[0063] (5) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized by further including data for detecting
whether or not a version of control data for performing the
interactive operations is upgraded into the data stream for special
playback and suspending display of the image for performing
operations when upgrade of the control data is detected according
to the detecting data during the special playback mode.
[0064] Therefore, inconsistency between the picture and the image
for performing the operations produced by the change of the version
can be avoided.
[0065] (6) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized by outputting a signal for notifying the
suspension to the operator when display of the image is suspended
thereby.
[0066] Therefore, it can be apparent to the operator that the
suspension of the display of the image for performing operations is
caused by the operation of the apparatus.
[0067] (7) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized by switching whether or not displaying
the image for performing operations in accordance with input of the
operator when the apparatus is in the special playback mode.
[0068] Thus, the display conditions during the special playback
mode can be selected by operator's desire.
[0069] (12) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus generates a data
stream for reproduction containing a data stream for the normal
playback and not containing a data stream for the special playback,
reproduces signals representing contents of services reproduced
under the normal playback mode in accordance with the data stream
for the normal playback when the apparatus is in the normal
playback mode, and reproduces signals representing contents of
services reproduced under the special playback mode in accordance
with the data stream for the special playback when the apparatus is
in the special playback mode.
[0070] Thus, since the data stream for the special playback does
not need to be generated during the recording, the process load can
be reduced during the recording.
[0071] (13) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus generates a
service contents signal for special playback not containing an
image and a control command when the apparatus is in a special
playback mode, both of the image and the command being used for
performing interactive operations, and not displays the image for
performing the interactive operations.
[0072] Therefore, no inconsistency can be produced between the
original picture and the image for performing the operations in
accordance with control data for performing interactive operations
under the special playback mode.
[0073] (14) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus generates a
service contents signal for special playback containing an image
for interactive operations and not containing a control command for
interactive operations when the apparatus is in the special
playback mode and displays the image.
[0074] Thus, any inconsistencies with the picture are avoidable
while displaying the image for performing operations when the
apparatus is in a special playback mode. During the service without
any pictures, it can be avoided any possibility to black out the
picture in the special playback and give the viewers the feeling of
insecurity caused by the blackouts.
[0075] (15) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus detects whether or
not control data for performing interactive operations is upgraded
in the data stream for special playback, and suspends display of
the image for performing the interactive operations when upgrade of
the control data is detected.
[0076] Therefore, inconsistency between the picture and the image
for performing the operations produced by the change of the version
can be avoided.
[0077] (16) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus outputs a signal
for notifying the suspension to the operator when display of the
image is suspended thereby.
[0078] Therefore, it can be apparent to the operator that the
suspension of the display of the image for performing operations is
caused by the operation of the apparatus.
[0079] (17)-(19) A digital transmitting apparatus and a
recording/reproducing apparatus of the present invention transmits
the transport stream so as to contain a special stream for special
playback, generates and records a data stream for special playback
in accordance with the special stream.
[0080] Therefore, the process load to generate a data stream for
special playback on the receiving apparatus can be reduced.
[0081] (27) A digital video reproduction apparatus of the present
invention outputs an image for performing operations in accordance
with control data for performing interactive operations contained
in the stream for reproduction; performs interactive operations so
as to change a signal representing contents of the services
responding to an input of the operator when the apparatus is in a
normal playback mode; and not performs the interactive operations
when the apparatus is in a special playback mode.
[0082] Therefore, no inconsistency can be produced between the
original picture and the image for performing the operations in
accordance with control data for performing interactive operations
under the special playback mode.
[0083] (29) A digital video reproduction apparatus of the present
invention is characterized by displaying the image for performing
operations when the apparatus is in the special playback mode.
[0084] Thus, during the service without any pictures, it can be
avoided any possibility to black out the picture in the special
playback and give the viewers the feeling of insecurity caused by
the blackouts.
[0085] (30) A digital video reproduction apparatus of the present
invention is characterized by suspending display of the image for
performing operations when upgrade of the control data is detected
during the special playback mode.
[0086] Therefore, inconsistency between the picture and the image
for performing the operations produced by the change of the version
can be avoided.
[0087] (31) A digital video reproduction apparatus of the present
invention is characterized by outputting a signal for notifying the
suspension to the operator when display of the image is suspended
thereby.
[0088] Therefore, it can be apparent to the operator that the
suspension of the display of the image for performing operations is
caused by the operation of the apparatus.
[0089] (33) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention carries out an interactive operation in which the
reproducing means outputs an image for performing operations in
accordance with control data contained in the transport stream
being received and changes the signal representing contents of the
services being outputted in accordance with input of the operator
when the apparatus is in the receive mode, the normal and the
special playback modes.
[0090] Therefore, the present invention is arranged to carry out
the interactive operation actively to make no inconsistency between
the original picture and the image for performing the operations in
accordance with control data for performing interactive operations,
even though it is in the special playback mode.
[0091] (34) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention records a data stream for reproduction containing a data
stream for the normal and the special playback; reproduces signals
representing contents of services reproduced under the normal
playback mode in accordance with the data stream for the normal
playback when the apparatus is in the normal playback mode; and
reproduces signals representing contents of services reproduced
under the special playback mode in accordance with the data stream
for the special playback when the apparatus is in the special
playback mode.
[0092] Therefore, the process load in the special playback can be
reduced.
[0093] (35) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention records control data for performing interactive
operations equivalent to the data stream for the normal playback so
as to include into the data stream for the special playback
[0094] Thus, the interactive operations equivalent to the normal
playback mode can be carried out under the special playback
mode.
[0095] (36) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention generates and records the data stream for the special
playback by omitting a part of the control data for performing
interactive operations.
[0096] Thus, the interactive operations different from the normal
playback mode can be carried out under the special playback
mode.
[0097] (41) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized by generating and recording a data
stream for reproduction containing a data stream for the normal
playback and not containing a data stream for the special playback;
and reproducing signals representing contents of services
reproduced under the special playback mode in accordance with the
data stream for the normal playback when the apparatus is in the
special playback mode.
[0098] Therefore, since the process load in the recording is
reduced, and the data stream for the special playback is not
recorded, the recording volume of the medium can be effectively
used.
[0099] (42) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention carries out an interactive operation equivalent to that
carried out in the normal playback mode.
[0100] Therefore, no inconsistency can be produced between the
original picture and the image for performing the operations in the
special and normal playback modes.
[0101] (43) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention carries out an interactive operation different from that
carried out in the normal playback mode when the apparatus is in
the special playback mode.
[0102] Thus, only the interactive operation having appropriate
contents for the special playback mode can be carried out.
[0103] (44)-(46) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention transmits the transport stream so as to contain a special
stream for special playback, generates and records a data stream
for special playback in accordance with the special stream. In
addition, the special stream contains control data for performing
interactive operations.
[0104] Therefore, the process load to generate a data stream for
special playback on the receiving apparatus can be reduced.
[0105] (47)(48) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the special stream contains
control data for performing interactive operations equivalent to
that of the normal stream.
[0106] Thus, the interactive operations equivalent to that in the
normal playback can be performed in the special playback on the
receiving side by recording as it is. When the data stream for
special playback is generated, the contents of interactive
operations in the special playback can be different from that in
the normal playback by omitting a part of control data for
performing the interactive operations. In either case, since the
special stream is provided, the data stream for special playback
can be generated easily.
[0107] (49) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the special stream contains
control data in which a part of the control data included in the
normal stream is omitted.
[0108] Thus, the interactive operations equivalent to that in the
normal playback can be performed in the special playback on the
receiving side by recording as it is. Since the special stream is
provided, the data stream for special playback can be generated
easily.
[0109] (53) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus not uses control
data for interactive operations obtained at beginning of a special
playback mode in a normal playback mode after carrying out the
special playback mode if a service identifier at beginning of the
special playback mode and a service identifier at end of the
special playback mode are not coincide with each other when
playback modes are switched to in a sequence of the normal playback
mode, the special playback mode and the normal playback mode.
[0110] Thus, disorders of the interactive operation are avoidable
when the playback mode is switched back to the normal playback mode
from the special playback mode.
[0111] (54) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus does not use
control data for interactive operations obtained at beginning of a
special playback mode in a normal playback mode after carrying out
the special playback mode if a version of the control data at
beginning of the special playback mode and a version of the control
data at end of the special playback mode are not coincide with each
other when playback modes are switched to in a sequence of the
normal playback mode, the special playback mode and the normal
playback mode.
[0112] Thus, disorders of the interactive operation can be
prevented when the playback mode is switched back to the normal
playback mode from the special playback mode.
[0113] (55)(56) A digital transmitting apparatus and a
recording/reproducing apparatus of the present invention is
characterized in that the apparatus transmits the transport stream
from the transmitting side so as to contain special playback
advisability information indicating whether or not allowing special
playback, and when the special playback advisability information
bans to carry out special playback, the data stream for special
playback may not be generated on the receiving side and may be
banned to record on the recording medium even the data stream being
generated.
[0114] Therefore, the transmitting side can decide whether the
special playback is allowed or not, in reference to its contents.
By means set forth, in the broadcasting that transmits static
images and control data for interactive operation repeatedly, the
static image that cannot be viewed when predetermined operation is
not given can be prevented from being played in the special
playback.
[0115] (57)(61) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus do not carry out
special playback of a part of the service where the special
playback advisability information indicates not allowing special
playback.
[0116] Therefore, same effect as described above can be
obtained.
[0117] (64) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus stop carrying out
the interactive operation when the apparatus is in the pause
mode.
[0118] Thus, any chance to raise the disorders of the interactive
operation is avoidable during the pausing.
[0119] (66) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus suspends display
of the image when the apparatus is in the pause mode.
[0120] Thus, any chance of operator making operational inputs can
be prevented during the pausing.
[0121] (67) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus keeps displaying
the image when the apparatus is in the pause mode.
[0122] Thus, confirmation of the image for operation can be made
during the pausing.
[0123] (68) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus restarts the
interactive operations when the pause mode is released.
[0124] Thus, the interactive operation can be continued after the
release of the pausing without any disorders.
[0125] (69)(71) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus carries out the
interactive operation even when the apparatus is in the pause
mode.
[0126] Therefore, the change of the image can be achieved in
response to the inputs of the operator even when the apparatus is
in the pause mode.
[0127] (72) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus completes the
operations under the control data being carried out at beginning of
the pause mode and not accepts further inputs when the apparatus is
in the pause mode.
[0128] Thus, disorders raised from the accepting of new inputs can
be prevented.
[0129] (73) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus does not carry out
the operation under the control data depending on time when the
apparatus is in the pause mode.
[0130] Thus, disorders of the interactive operation from the
pausing can be prevented.
[0131] (74) A recording/reproducing apparatus of the present
invention is characterized in that the apparatus carries out
processes for external communications when the apparatus is in the
pause mode.
[0132] Therefore, external communication processes can be
implemented without raising any disorders to the interactive
operation.
[0133] A term of "receiving means" is referred to as the means
having a functionality of receiving the transport stream and is a
concept of things receiving transmissions applied to not only to a
radio transmission but also a wired transmission. In the
embodiments of the invention, a receiver 22 is corresponding to
that part.
[0134] A term of "reproducing means" is referred to as the means
for reproducing the contents of the services in accordance with the
transport stream received or the converted stream played back. In
the embodiments of the invention, a CPU36, a nonvolatile memory 52,
a de-scrambler 58, an IC card 56, a memory 54, a TS decoder and an
AV decoder 32 are corresponding to that part.
[0135] A term of "converting means" is referred to as the means for
converting the transport stream into the conversion stream. In the
embodiments of the invention, the means such as a TS decoder 50, a
conversion stream generator 62 and CPU 58 (especially, in the Step
S24 and S25) are corresponding.
[0136] A term of "stream for playback" is referred to as the stream
applied some process to the transport stream for recording and is a
concept of data streams including not only a stream recorded in the
final stage but also a stream generated intermediately. In the
embodiments of the invention, the streams include the selected
streams such as output from the terminals 50a and 50c of the
transport decoder 50. In addition, both streams for normal playback
and special playback are the streams for playback.
[0137] A term of "recording means" is referred to as means for
recording on a recording medium. In the embodiments of the
invention, a record readout part 66 is corresponding to that
part.
[0138] A term of "readout means" is referred to as means for
reading from the recording medium. In the embodiments of the
invention, a record readout part 66 is corresponding to that
part.
[0139] A term of "special playback" is referred to as the playback
carried out with the speed and direction different from the normal
playback and is a concept including such as fast-forward, rewind
and single frame step.
[0140] A term "having an interactivity" is referred to as the
characteristic changing the image display and the audio outputs in
accordance with the operations of the operator and is a concept
including the interactivities not only in the case illustrated in
FIG. 13 through 16 but also in the electronic program guide.
[0141] A term of "control data for interactive operation" is
referred to as the data for realizing the interactivity and is a
concept including a control command and an image for performing
operations. In the embodiments of the invention, the navigation
data is corresponding to that part.
[0142] A term of "recording medium recorded a program" is referred
to as the recording media recorded the programs such as ROMs, RAMs,
flexible disks, CD-ROMs, memory cards and hard disks. It is also a
concept including the communication media such as telephone
circuits and carrier lines. The concept also includes the recording
medium not only the hard disk connected to the CPU and in which the
recorded program is directly executed, but also the CD-ROM
recording the program being executed after an installation in the
hard disk. In addition to the programs described herein, it
includes not only directly executable programs but also programs
such as source programs, compressed programs and encrypted
programs.
[0143] In the present invention, the term "receiving means"
represents means for receiving a transport stream and is not
restricted to wireless transmissions but is a concept including
reception of wired transmissions, a receiver 22 corresponds to the
receiving means.
[0144] The term "reproducing means" represents means for
reproducing contents of services in accordance with one of a
transport stream being received and a converted stream. In the
embodiment, a CPU 36, a nonvolatile memory 52, a descrambler 58, an
IC card 56, a memory 54, a TS decoder 26 and an AV decoder 32
correspond to the reproducing means.
[0145] The term "converting means" represents means for converting
the transport stream to a converted transport stream. In the
embodiment, a TS decoder 50, a converted stream generator 62 and a
CPU (steps performed thereby, in particular, steps S24 and S25)
correspond to the converting means, for instance.
[0146] The term "data stream for reproduction" represents a concept
including a stream being processed in some ways to the transport
stream for recording purposes and not restricted to a stream
finally recorded but including a stream generated in intermediate
phases. For example, in the embodiment, a selected stream outputted
from terminals 50a, 50c of the transport decoder 50 is included in
the data stream for reproduction. Both a data stream for normal
playback and a data stream for special playback correspond to the
data stream for reproduction.
[0147] The term "recording means" represents means for recording
information on a recording medium. In the embodiment, a reader 66
corresponds to the recording means.
[0148] The term "special playback" represents a playback method
different from normal playback in its speed and its directions.
[0149] The phrase "for realizing interactive operations or having
interactive capabilities" represents capabilities by which displays
on the screen and sounds being outputted are varied in response to
inputs of the operator, not only the images depicted FIGS. 13
through 16 but including interactive capabilities in an electric
program guidance and similar activities.
[0150] The term "data for realizing interactive operations"
represents data for realizing interactive capabilities and that
also represents a concept including a control command, an image for
performing operations. In the embodiment, navigation data
correspond to the data.
[0151] The term "program storage medium" represents a recording
medium such as a ROM, RAM, a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, a memory
card, hard disk and the like on which a program(s) is stored. Also,
it is a concept including communication media such as telephone
lines, carrier channels. It is a concept including not merely
recording media such a as hard disk connected to a CPU whereby the
program(s) recorded is directly executed, but also recording media
such as CD-ROMs on which is recorded a program(s) that is executed
after first installing it on the hard disk etc. Also, term
"program(s)" as referred to herein represents not just a program(s)
that is directly executable but also a program(s) in a source form,
or a program(s) that has been subjected to compression processing
or an encrypted program and the like. Further, "navigation data" in
the embodiment include the concept of the term "program(s)".
[0152] Other objects and features of the present invention will be
more apparent to those skilled in the art on consideration of the
accompanying drawings and following specification wherein are
disclosed several exemplary embodiments of the invention with the
understanding that such variations, modifications and elimination
of parts may be made therein as fall within the scope of the
appended claims without departing from the spirit of the
invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0153] FIG. 1 is a conceptual view showing a state of sending radio
waves in satellite broadcasting.
[0154] FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating the layout of a
transmitter.
[0155] FIG. 3 is a view showing the layout of the packetized
data.
[0156] FIG. 4 shows a data structure of packetized data.
[0157] FIG. 5 is a view illustrating relationships among packetized
data.
[0158] FIG. 6 is a view showing the contents of control data
NIT.
[0159] FIG. 7 is a schematic view illustrating the layout of a
receiver.
[0160] FIG. 8 is a view showing an arrangement of packetized data
contained in a transport stream.
[0161] FIG. 9 is a view showing the contents of control data
PMT1.
[0162] FIG. 10 is a view showing the contents of control data
PAT.
[0163] FIG. 11 is a view showing the contents of navigation data
NVT1.
[0164] FIG. 12 is a view showing the contents of navigation data
NVT2.
[0165] FIG. 13 is a view showing an image of tele-shopping
displayed on a screen.
[0166] FIG. 14 is another view showing an image of tele-shopping
displayed on the screen.
[0167] FIG. 15 is another view showing an image of tele-shopping
displayed on the screen.
[0168] FIG. 16 is another view showing an image of tele-shopping
displayed on the screen.
[0169] FIG. 17 is a view illustrating an example of a service in
which displayed images are changed by passage of time.
[0170] FIG. 18 is a view illustrating inconsistency between an
image generated by special playback and an image for performing
operations.
[0171] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram illustrating the overall
structure of a recording/reproducing apparatus according to the
first embodiment.
[0172] FIG. 20 is a schematic view illustrating hardware structure
of the recording/reproducing apparatus according to the first
embodiment.
[0173] FIG. 21 is a flowchart of a program executed in a receive
mode.
[0174] FIG. 22 is a flowchart of a program for interrupting and
executing the navigation data.
[0175] FIG. 23 is a detailed schematic view illustrating of an AV
decoder 52.
[0176] FIG. 24 is a view showing the external appearance of a
remote controller.
[0177] FIG. 25 is a view showing the contents of a communication
log.
[0178] FIG. 26 is a flowchart of a program executed in a record
mode.
[0179] FIG. 27 is a view showing the contents of a conversion PMT
for normal playback.
[0180] FIG. 28 is a view showing the contents of a conversion
PAT.
[0181] FIG. 29 is a view showing a data stream for normal playback
in diagrammatic form.
[0182] FIG. 30 is a view showing the contents of a conversion PMT
for special playback.
[0183] FIG. 31 is a view showing a data stream for special playback
in diagrammatic form.
[0184] FIG. 32 is a view illustrating a state of a data stream for
reproduction being recorded
[0185] FIG. 33 is a view illustrating a state of control data DIT
being recorded.
[0186] FIG. 34 is a flowchart of a program for executing a normal
playback mode.
[0187] FIG. 35 is a flowchart of a program for executing a special
playback mode.
[0188] FIG. 36 is a view showing the contents of a conversion PMT
for special playback.
[0189] FIG. 37 is a view showing a data stream for special playback
in diagrammatic form.
[0190] FIG. 38 is a view showing an arrangement of a transport
stream containing a special stream.
[0191] FIG. 39 is a view showing the contents of the control data
PMT1.
[0192] FIG. 40 is a schematic view illustrating hardware structure
of the recording/reproducing apparatus according to the second
embodiment.
[0193] FIG. 41 is a view showing the contents of a conversion PMT
for special playback.
[0194] FIG. 42 is a view showing a data stream for special playback
in diagrammatic form.
[0195] FIG. 43 is a schematic view illustrating hardware structure
of the recording/reproducing apparatus according to the fourth
embodiment.
[0196] FIGS. 44A through 44C are views illustrating data of a
normal playback mode interposing that of a special playback mode
therebetween.
[0197] FIG. 45 is a view illustrating an arrangement of Video/Audio
data ES for still images.
[0198] FIG. 46 is a flowchart of a program executed in the record
mode.
[0199] FIG. 47 is a flowchart of a program executed in the special
playback mode.
[0200] FIG. 48 is a flowchart of a program executed in a pause
mode.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0201] Contents
[0202] 4. First embodiment [0203] 4.1. Recording/reproducing
apparatus [0204] 4.2. Hardware structure of recording/reproducing
apparatus and functions thereof [0205] 4.2.1 Receive mode [0206]
4.2.2 record mode [0207] 4.2.3 Normal playback mode [0208] 4.2.4
Special playback mode [0209] 4.3. Other embodiments [0210] 4.3.1
Displaying image for operations as it is [0211] 4.3.2 Including
image for operations in data stream for special playback
[0212] 5. Second embodiment [0213] 5.1. Structure and functions of
transmitter [0214] 5.2. Structure and functions of
recording/reproducing apparatus [0215] 5.3. Other embodiments
[0216] 6. Third embodiment
[0217] 7. Fourth embodiment
[0218] 8. Fifth embodiment [0219] 8.1 Other embodiments
[0220] 9. Sixth embodiment
[0221] 10. Seventh embodiment [0222] 10.1. Structure and functions
of transmitter [0223] 10.2. Structure and functions of
recording/reproducing apparatus [0224] 10.3. Other embodiments
[0225] 11. Eighth embodiment [0226] 11.1. Structure and functions
of recording/reproducing apparatus [0227] 11.2. Other
embodiments
[0228] 12. Others
[0229] 4. First embodiment
[0230] FIG. 9 shows the overall structure of a
recording/reproducing apparatus 32 according to an embodiment of
the present invention. The radio waves captured with an antenna 20
are demodulated as a single transport stream by a receiving means
34. In a receive mode, a transport stream from the receiving means
34 is supplied to reproducing means 40. The reproducing means 40
selects packets as to a desired service out of the transport stream
and reproduces and outputs signals representing contents of
services (for example, composite signals such as in NTSC) in
accordance with the contents of the selected packets. A video/audio
output means 46 receives the signals representing contents of
services and outputs video/images.
[0231] In a record mode, the transport stream from the receiving
means 34 is supplied to converting means 36. The converting means
36 converts the transport stream to a packetized data stream being
multiplexed suitable for recording and generates a data stream for
normal playback. The converting means 36 generates a data stream
for normal playback by selecting packets as to a desired service
out of the transport stream and, of these packets, selecting the
packets that are needed for reproduction. A data stream for normal
playback containing navigation data is generated when the desired
service contains the navigation data.
[0232] Similarly, the converting means 36 also generates a data
stream for special playback by selecting packets that are needed
for special playback. The converting means 36 outputs the data
stream for normal playback and the data stream for special playback
as a data stream for reproduction. Recording means 38 records the
data stream for reproduction on a recording medium 44. In this
embodiment, navigation data is not contained in the data stream for
special playback even when the desired service contains the
navigation data.
[0233] In a normal playback mode, the data stream for normal
playback is read out from the recording medium 44 with read out
means 42. The data stream thus read out is supplied to the
reproducing means 40. The reproducing means 40 reproduces and
outputs signals representing contents of services (for example,
composite signals such as in NTSC) in accordance with the data
stream thus supplied. The video/audio output means 46 outputs
video/images upon receipt of the signals representing contents of
services.
[0234] Further, the reproducing means 40 changes the signals
representing contents of services being outputted so as to carry
out interactive operations based on inputs made through operations
handling means 54 in accordance with the navigation data.
[0235] In a special playback mode, the data stream for normal
playback is read out from the recording medium 44 with read out
means 42. The data stream thus read out is supplied to the
reproducing means 40. The reproducing means 40 reproduces and
outputs signals representing contents of services (for example,
composite signals such as in NTSC) in accordance with the data
stream thus supplied. The video/audio output means 46 outputs
video/images upon receipt of the signals representing contents of
services.
[0236] No data processing for interactive operations is carried out
in the special playback mode. In addition, the image for operation
displayed just before the start of the special playback mode is
disappeared with the initiation of the special playback mode.
[0237] 4.2. Hardware structure of recording/reproducing apparatus
and functions thereof
[0238] FIG. 20 shows a block diagram of the recording/reproducing
apparatus 32 depicted in FIG. 19 by using a CPU. The apparatus 32
comprises a receiving part 68, a recording/reproduction part 70.
The CPU 58 controls other parts in accordance with a program stored
in a memory 60.
[0239] The apparatus can be switched into one of a receive mode, a
record mode, a normal playback mode, a special playback mode.
Details of each of these modes will be described hereunder.
[0240] 4.2.1 Receive mode
[0241] Here, assuming that a transport stream depicted in FIG. 8 is
currently being sent. Further assumption is made that video data ES
(V) 11, ES (V) 12, audio data ES (A) 11, ES (A) 12 are contained in
a service SVI1, and that the video data ES (V) 11 and the audio
data ES (A) 11 represents contents of a tele-shopping offering
daily necessities, and that that the video data ES (V) 12 and the
audio data ES (A) 12 represents contents of a tele-shopping
offering clothing. FIG. 21 is a flowchart of a program stored in
the memory 60.
[0242] Operations of the CPU 58 upon receipt of a command for
switching the service currently received to the service SVI1 in the
transport stream TS1 will be described under an assumption that the
service SV 13 in the transport stream TS 1 is currently received.
The command to the CPU 58 is provided through an operation panel or
a remote controller. An operation inputting part 54 is a
photo-sensing part for receiving the command from one of the
operation panel and the remote controller.
[0243] Initially, the CPU 58 sets a packet ID of a PAT in a
register (not shown) for separation of control data of a transport
decoder (TS decoder) 50. The packet ID of the PAT is determined in
fixed manner as "0X0000. The TS decoder 50 thereby records (step
S11) the contents of the PAT, which is thus separated in the memory
60. The PAT contains a table of the services that are multiplexed
on the transport stream TS1 that is currently being received (see
FIG. 10). In this way, it is possible for the CPU 58 to realize
that desired service SV II is multiplexed on the transport TS1 that
is currently being received. That is, the processing of the CPU 28
proceeds to step S18 from step S12.
[0244] In step S18, the packet ID of the PMT in the desired service
SV11 is acquired using the PAT being obtained. In this case,
"0X0011" is acquired (see FIG. 10). Next, the CPU 58 sets the
packet ID "0x11" of the PMT in the register of the TS decoder 50
that is used for separating the control data. In this way, control
data PMT1 in the service SV 11 can thereby be separated and its
contents is extracted into the memory 60 (step S19).
[0245] Details of the control data PMT1 in the service SV11 is
depicted in FIG. 9. The CPU 58 judges whether or not the service
SV11 contains the navigation data NVTs (in other words, whether or
not the service is capable of performing interactive operations) in
accordance with the control data PMT1 (step S191). The contents of
the service currently received are outputted when no NVTs are
contained therein (steps S20, S21 and S22).
[0246] The CPU 58 recognizes packet IDs of video, audio and the
navigation data these form entry-contents as well as that of ECMs
for those data when the service contains the NVTs as depicted in
FIG. 9 (step S192). Here, packet ID "0x0096" of the video data ES
(V) 11, packet ID "0x0098" of the audio data ES (A) 11, packet ID
"0x0092" of the navigation data NVT 1 and packet ID "0x0082" of ECM
data for these data are recognized.
[0247] Next, the CPU 58 obtains ECM data by setting the packet ID
"0x0082" of ECM data in the register of the TS decoder. Further,
the ECM data thus obtained is supplied to the IC card 56 and a
scramble key reproduced thereby is sent back. The scramble key thus
obtained is set to the descrambler 48 (step S193). In this way, the
packets of the video data ES (V) 11, ES (V) 12, the audio data ES
(A) 11, ES (A) 12 and the navigation data NVT1, NVT2 are thereby
put into descrambled condition.
[0248] Also, the CPU 58 sets the packet IDs "0x0096" and "0x0098"
of the video data ES (V) 11 and the audio data ES (A) 11 in a
register (no shown) of the TS decoder that is used for separation
of ESs (step S194). As a result, the TS decoder outputs the video
data ES (V) 11 and the audio data ES (A) 11 both being separated to
an AV decoder 52.
[0249] Upon receipt of the separated data, the AV decoder performs
decompression (uncompress) of the compressed data and performs D/A
(Digital to analog) conversion to generate a video composite
signal. The signal thus generated is supplied to a TV set 46 and
that is reproduced as video and audio thereby. Here, assuming that
moving images for performing a tele-shopping offering daily
necessities depicted in FIG. 13 are displayed on the screen.
Buttons B0, B1 and B3 positioned at lower right of the screen are
displayed in accordance with navigation described below, and no
data for displaying such buttons is contained in the video data ES
(V) 11 and the audio data ES (A) 11.
[0250] The CPU 58 sets the packet ID "0x0092" of the navigation
data NVT1 in a register (no shown) of the TS decoder that is used
for separation of control data in step S194. As a result, the
navigation data NVT1 is stored in the memory 60 under the temporary
basis. Assuming that the navigation data NVT1 depicted in FIG. 11
is stored therein.
[0251] Successively, the navigation data thus stored is interpreted
and executed accordingly (step S195).
[0252] FIG. 22 shows a flowchart of a program for interpreting and
executing the navigation data, the program being stored in the
memory 60.
[0253] At first, the CPU 58 reads out information having "0" in
object index number from an object table of the navigation data
NVT1 depicted in FIG. 11, and displays a button according to the
information listed in the table (step S1001). In other words,
bitmap data indicated in the bitmap table is displayed at a
position of X co-ordinate "500" and Y co-ordinate "200". This is
pre-set so as to display a bitmap of the focus condition in regard
to the object of index number "0". Consequently, it is controlled
so as to display the data having bitmap index number "1"
(highlighted display: "place an order to Osaka center").
[0254] In practice, the CPU 58 supplies the data having bitmap
index number "1" (highlighted display: "Place an order to Osaka
center") to a video synthesize unit 52c of the AV decoder 52. In
this way, the video synthesize unit 52c generates image data in
which the highlighted display "place an order to Osaka center" is
superimposed on the video data of ES (V) 11. Consequently, the
button B0 is displayed on the screen of the TV set 46 as depicted
in FIG. 13.
[0255] Similarly, the button B1 in FIG. 13 is displayed in
accordance with the information of index "1" listed on the object
table of the navigation data NVT1 depicted in FIG. 11. In this
case, however, data of the bitmap index in the normal condition is
displayed for object indexes other than object index "0". In other
words, the display processing of "Place an order to Tokyo center",
which is not highlighted, is performed (step S1002).
[0256] Furthermore, the display processing of the button B2 "Go to
the clothing shop" (unhighlighted display) depicted in FIG. 13 is
performed in accordance with the information of index "2" on the
object table (step S1002).
[0257] By performing a plurality of processing described above, a
display superimposing the buttons B0, B1 and B2 which correspond to
the moving images for describing merchandise is obtained. As
apparent from the screen, the display is effected in a condition
with the button B0 "Place an order to Osaka Center" selected. In
response to the display, the CPU 58 stores the information that
objects index "0" is the currently selected object.
[0258] Next, if a key 82 of the remote controller 78 that moves the
cursor downwardly is depressed, an operation inputting part 54
receives the command and notifies the command to the CPU 58. The
CPU 58 identifies the input via the operation inputting part (step
S1003) and proceeds the process to step S1004 if the input is the
"key to move the cursor downwardly".
[0259] In step S1004, the number of the currently selected object
is incremented in accordance with the object table in the
navigation data NVT1 so that the object index "1" is put into the
selected condition. In other words, the bitmap shown in the focus
condition column is displayed in respect of the object index "1",
while displaying the bitmap indicating the normal condition for the
other object indexes "0" and "2".
[0260] In this way, the screen of the TV set 46 is changes as
depicted in FIG. 14. That is, the button B1 "Place an order to
Tokyo center" is put in the selected condition.
[0261] Furthermore, the screen display is put into a condition in
which the button B2 "Go to the clothing shop" is selected when the
operator depresses the key that moves the cursor downwardly as
depicted in FIG. 15. Also, the screen display returns to the
condition depicted in FIG. 14 from the condition depicted in FIG.
15 when a key 80 that moves the cursor upwardly is depressed.
[0262] Although, only operation of the keys 80 and 82 for moving
the cursor is illustrated in the above embodiment, control of keys
86 and 88 for moving the cursor to the left and right directions
can be performed as well if the object indexes are arranged
two-dimensional manner.
[0263] The CPU 58 proceeds the process to step S1005 from step
S1003 when the selection button 78 is depressed under the condition
depicted in FIG. 15. At step S1005, the CPU 58 acquires a handler
index that is given to the handler column of the object index which
is currently in the selected condition by referring the navigation
data NVT1. Here, it acquires the handler index "2" of the handler
column because object index "2" is selected.
[0264] Furthermore, the CPU 58 acquires the script corresponding to
the handler "2" and executes accordingly (step S1006). Here, it
acquires a command "Go to contents (index 1)". The command "Go to
contents ( )" is a command to change over the contents having thew
index number within the brackets ( ) displayed in the hyper link
table. Consequently, changeover to the contents (tele-shopping for
clothing) of hyper link index "1" displayed in the hyper link table
is performed.
[0265] The video, audio and navigation data each forming link
target, packet IDs "0X0097", "0X0099" and "0X0093" of these data
are respectively assigned to the hyper link index "1" of the hyper
link table. The CPU 58 sets the packet IDs "0X0097" and "0x0099" in
the register of the TS decoder that are used for ES separation and
sets the packet ID "0x0093" in the register thereof for control
data separation.
[0266] In this way, the TS decoder 50 outputs video data ES (V) 12
and audio data (A) 12 to the AV decoder. As a consequence, the TV
set 46 displays the video of tele-shopping for clothing depicted in
FIG. 16 and outputs the audio thereof.
[0267] Also, the navigation data NVT2 depicted in FIG. 12 is
separated with the TS decoder 50 and stored in the memory 60 in
place of the navigation data NVT1. The processing depicted in FIG.
22 is performed in regard to the navigation data NVT 2, with the
result that buttons B10, B11 and B12 are displayed as depicted in
FIG. 16.
[0268] An order placement for a merchandise displayed on the screen
can be made when the operator presses the selection button 84 (see
FIG. 24) under the condition with the button B10 "Place an order to
Osaka center" being selected depicted in FIG. 16. The processing
for the operation will be described below.
[0269] The CPU 58 proceeds the process to step S1005 from step
S1003 when the selection button 84 is depressed. At step S1005, the
CPU 58 acquires a handler index that is given to the handler column
of the object index which is currently in the selected condition by
referring the object table of the navigation data NVT1. Here, it
acquires the handler index "0" of the handler column because object
index "0" is selected.
[0270] Next, the CPU 58 executes the script corresponding to the
handler index "0" in a handler definition table. In other words, it
executes "send_string (index 1, index2)". "send_string (A,B) is a
command for make a phone call the phone number of index "A" of a
string able and to transmit the string of index "B". Consequently,
the CPU 58 acquires a phone number "06-636-XXXX" corresponding to
string index "0" in the string table and makes a phone call to the
number "06-6368-XXXX" by controlling a communication line control
unit 76 depicted in FIG. 10. The phone number is the number of the
Osaka handling center for this tele-shopping. The CPU 58 sends data
indicative of "product code: B-133" corresponding to the string
index "2" in the string table when the line is connected. At time
that time, the CPU 58 acquires ID(s) for specifying the purchaser
from the IC card or the memory 60 and sends the ID(s) as well.
[0271] The CPU 58 records whether or not the above communications
successfully done in the form of an online log in the memory 60. An
example of such record is depicted in FIG. 25. An indication "0" is
recorded if the communications successfully done, another
indication "X" is written if not. The CPU 58 records the time at
which communications took place by acquiring control data TDT
contained in the transport stream and/or its own calendar or clock
or the like.
[0272] It is possible to realize whether or not an order placement
from the purchaser has successfully been performed by displaying
the log.
[0273] Processing in the receive mode is executed as described
above. Although, not described in the above, the merchandise that
are described in video are designed to be changed with time in this
embodiment. Consequently, it is designed to transmit navigation
data of different contents corresponding thereto (for example, with
different product code at index "2" of the string table).
[0274] 4.2.2 Record mode
[0275] FIG. 26 shows a program for record mode which is recorded in
the memory 60, in the form of a flowchart. Steps S11 through S22
and steps S192 through S195 are the same as in the case of the
receive mode. FIG. 26 shows processing in the case where a service
is recorded that contains navigation data i.e. that recording
processing that is performed in parallel with step S195. In FIG.
26, processing proceeds utilizing the information (packet ID) that
was acquired in the receive mode. However, it is necessary to
acquire the PID of the desired service and that of control data or
the like by processing identical with that of the receive mode when
the record mode is executed independently from the received
mode.
[0276] At step S23, the CPU 58 sets the packet IDs of the ES, that
of the navigation data NVT, that of the NIT, that of the PAT and
that of the PMT in the service that is desired to be recorded in
the register (not shown) of the TS decoder 50 which is used for
separation of recorded data. In the case of recording the service
SV11, the respective packet IDs depicted in FIGS. 25, 26, and 7 are
set. For the video data, audio data and navigation data, the packet
IDs for both a tele-shopping for daily necessities and that for
clothing are set.
[0277] In this way, the TS decoder 50 outputs the video and audio
data ES (V) 11, ES (V) 12, ES (A) 11, ES (A) 12, the PAT, PMT1 and
NIT directly in the packetized condition to the a converted stream
generator 62.
[0278] The CPU 58 generates a converted PMT1 for normal playback
(step S24) by acquiring the converted PMT1 that is recorded in the
memory 60 and selecting, of the information that is given there,
only relating to the desired service SV11. For example, the packet
ID of the ECM out of the information contained in the converted
PMT1 is not needed during reproduction so that the packet ID is
eliminated. As a result, the converted PMT1 eliminating unrelated
information for recording/reproduction of the desired service SV11
is obtained out of the information contained in the PMT1. FIG. 27
shows the converted PMT for normal playback that is thus
obtained.
[0279] Next, the CPU 58 generates control data SIT describing
information of the services and events (programs) contained in the
converted stream being recorded (step S25).
[0280] The CPU 58 supplies the PMT1 and the control data SIT thus
generated to an MPU 64. The MPU 64 supplies these data to the
converted stream generator 62 which generates a converted
stream.
[0281] The converted stream generator 62 receives the PAT from the
TS decoder 50 and thereby generates a converted PAT containing only
information related to the desired service SV 11, and replaces the
PAT by this converted PAT. At that time, the packet ID of the NIT
contained in the PAT is converted to the packet ID of the SIT. The
converted PAT is shown in FIG. 28. Also, the PMT from the TS
decoder 50 is replaced with the converted PMT received from the MPU
64. Furthermore, the NIT from the TS decoder 50 is substituted by
the SIT received from the MPU 64.
[0282] In this way, a converted stream is obtained in which are
packet-multiplexed the desired service ES, navigation data NVT,
SIT, converted PAT and converted PMT. FIG. 29 shows the stream for
the normal playback thus obtained in diagrammatic form.
[0283] Next, the process for generating a data stream for special
playback will be described. The CPU 58 generates a converted PMT1
for special playback (step S261) by acquiring the converted PMT1
that is recorded in the memory 60 and further selecting, of the
information that is given there, only relating to the desired
service SV11. For example, packet IDs of audio that of navigation
data and the like contained in the PMT1 are eliminated in this
embodiment.
[0284] As a result, the converted PMT1 eliminating unrelated
information for recording/reproduction of the desired service SV11
is obtained out of the information contained in the PMT1. FIG. 30
shows a converted PMT for special playback that is thus
obtained.
[0285] No packet ID of the navigation data is recorded in the
conversion PMT for special playback because no interactive control
is carried out during the special playback. Similarly, only a
packet ID of audio is recorded since no audio is reproduced during
the special playback.
[0286] The CPU 58 supplies the conversion PMT for special playback
thus generated as described above to the MPU 64 (step S262). The
MPU 64 supplies the PMT to a converted stream generator 63 for
special playback which generates a converted stream for special
playback.
[0287] The converted stream generator 63 receives a conversion PMT
for normal playback. The generator 63 extracts only packets
representing video (0x0096, 0x0097) out of the packets contained in
the conversion PMT for normal playback and selects data so called
"I picture" (data capable of reproducing images in a complete form
under independent manner) out of the video packets. The generator
63 further selects packets out of the I picture so as to enable the
special playback such as cue and review by adjusting the number of
the packets for the playback speed thereof.
[0288] The generator 63 eliminates unnecessary packets for carrying
out special playback (audio data, most of the video data,
navigation data and the like) contained in the data stream for
normal playback. In addition, the generator 63 replaces the PMT for
normal playback with the PMT for special playback.
[0289] In this way, a converted stream for special playback is
obtained in which ES of video for special playback, SIT, converted
PAT and converted PMT are packet-multiplexed. FIG. 31 shows the
stream for special playback thus obtained in diagrammatic form.
[0290] Next, the CPU 58 supplies a command for recording to the MPU
64 (step S27). Upon receipt of the command, the MPU 64 records the
data stream for normal playback and the data stream for special
playback on a magnetic tape 44 by controlling a recording/readout
part 66.
[0291] FIG. 32 is a view illustrating a state of a data stream for
reproduction being recorded. The recording/readout part 66 records
the stream for normal playback on a track TC. The recording/readout
part 66 is controlled for sequentially recording the stream for
special playback on a region TTC extending so as to across a
plurality of the track TC. The stream recorded on the region TTC is
a stream for cue mode. Similarly, a stream for review mode is
recorded on a region TTB.
[0292] When a command for suspending recording is provided from the
operation inputting part 54, the CPU 58 supplies the command to the
MPU 64 (steps S28 and S29). Upon receipt of the command, the MPU 64
suspends recording performed by the recording/readout part 66.
[0293] Control data and navigation data contained in the stream for
special playback being recorded on the magnetic tape 44 are
repeatedly packetized and multiplexed even the contents of which
are identical with these data being unprocessed. As a consequence,
reproduction of the magnetic tape can be performed even starting at
a mid-way thereof.
[0294] If another service is selected during the recording of the
service currently received, the service selected latter is recorded
after the selection. In that case, the generator 62 and the
generator 63 generate control data DIT (Discontinuity Information
Table) indicative of the boundary for discontinuity of information
as a result of detecting discontinuity of the service (information)
by themselves or in accordance with a command from the CPU 58. The
control data DIT thus generated is allocated at the head of the
service latter selected and is packet-multiplexed as depicted in
FIG. 33. Similarly, DIT is allocated at the head of when totally
new recording is started. DIT is also allocated when different
program is recorded even in the same service.
[0295] All of the video, audio, navigation data contained in the
service SV11 are recorded in the stream for normal playback
regardless of the change in display of the received data (change
depicted if FIGS. 29 through 32) performed in accordance with the
navigation data NVT1 and NVT2.
[0296] Although, the generator 62 and the generator 63 are provided
in the recording/reproducing part 70 in this embodiment, these
generators can be provided in the receiving part 68. By doing that,
the recording/reproducing part 70 may simply record a conversion
stream outputted from the receiving part 68 as it is.
[0297] 4.2.3 Normal playback mode
[0298] FIG. 34 shows a program for a normal playback mode which is
recorded in the memory 60, in the form of a flowchart. When a
command for performing normal playback is provided, the apparatus
is turned into the normal playback mode. Description in below is
made under an assumption that data recorded during the record mode
described above are reproduced.
[0299] Initially, the CPU 58 supplies a command for performing
normal playback to the MPU 64. Upon receipt of the command, the MPU
64 controls the recording/readout part 66 so as to read out a
stream for normal playback from the magnetic tape. The stream thus
read out is provided to the TS decoder 50.
[0300] Subsequently, the CPU 58 sets a packet ID "0x0000" of a
conversion PAT in a register for separation of control data of TS
decoder 50, and the converted PAT in the converted stream is
thereby separated and stored in the memory 60 (step S32). The
packet ID of the converted PMT is recognized from the description
of thereof given in this converted PAT (step S33).
[0301] Further, the packet ID "0x0001" of the converted PMT is set
in the register for separation of control data of the TS decoder
50, and the converted PMT is thereby separated from the converted
stream and stored in the memory 60 (step S34). The description of
the converted PMT is used to judge whether or not the navigation
data NVT is contained in the service that is to be reproduced (step
S341).
[0302] Processing proceeds to step S342 if the navigation data NVT
is contained therein. In step S342, the description of the
converted PMT is used to recognize the packet ID of the
entry-contents. The packet ID s "0x0096", "0x0098" and "0x0092" of
the video data ES (V) 11, audio data ES (A) 11 and thew navigation
data NVT1 are then recognized (step S342).
[0303] Next, the CPU 58 sets the packet ID s of the video data ES
(V) 11 and audio data ES (A) 11 in the register for ES separation
of the TS decoder 50, and sets the packet ID of the navigation data
NVT 1 in the register for control data separation.
[0304] In this way, the TS decoder 50 separates the video data ES
(V) 11 and the audio data ES (A) 11 from the converted stream. The
separated video data ES (V) 11 and the separated audio data ES (A)
11 are then outputted to the AV decoder 52 (step S343).
[0305] Upon receipt of the separated data, the AV decoder 52
performs decompression (uncompress) of the compressed data and
performs D/A (Digital to analog) conversion to generate a video
composite signal. The signal thus generated is supplied to the TV
set 46 and that is reproduced as video and audio thereby. In this
way, video depicted in FIG. 13 can be obtained.
[0306] Also, the TS decoder 50 separates the navigation data NVT 1
from the converted stream and the navigation data NVT 1 is stored
in the memory 60 under the temporary basis (step S343). The
navigation data NVT1 is then interpreted and executed accordingly
(step S345). This partial processing is the same as that performed
in the flowchart shown in FIG. 22. Consequently, the buttons B0, B1
and B2 are displayed on the screen, with the selected condition as
depicted in FIG. 13.
[0307] Subsequently, the selected button is altered as depicted in
FIGS. 13, 14 and 15 when the buttons 80 and 82 that move the
cursor. Also, as shown in FIG. 16, the contents is altered to the
contents of the tele-shopping for clothing when the selection
button 84 is depressed under the condition depicted in FIG. 15.
Further, a phone call is made to the Osaka center when the
selection button 84 is depressed in the condition where the button
BIO depicted in FIG. 16 is selected, and an order placement for a
merchandise is carried out. An online log storing the success or
incomplete communication is also stored in the memory 60 as
depicted in FIG. 25.
[0308] It should be noted that the distinction between
communications made at the receive mode and that made at the
playback mode is recorded in the "mode" column.
[0309] A described above, the contents can be interactively altered
under the control performed by the operator even in the playback
mode, just as in the receive mode.
[0310] If, the CPU 58 discovers the presence of a DIT in the
converted stream during the playback, the process returns to step
S32, and performs the following processing of the converted PAT
(step S37). This is because the DIT indicates a point of
discontinuity of the recorded data. The process also stops the
display of the image (the button B0 and the like) for control
purposes that was displayed in accordance with the navigation data
and ensures that interactive processing based on the currently
stored navigation data is not performed.
[0311] When a command for suspending playback is provided from the
operation inputting part 54, the CPU 58 supplies the command to the
MPU 64 (steps S38 and S39). Upon receipt of the command, the MPU 64
suspends readout of the stream for normal playback from the
magnetic tape 44 performed by the recording/readout part 66 as a
result of control there of.
[0312] 4.2.4 Special playback mode
[0313] FIG. 35 shows a program for executing a special playback
mode which is recorded in the memory 60, in the form of a
flowchart. When a command for performing normal playback is
provided, the apparatus is turned into the normal playback mode.
Description in below is made under an assumption that data recorded
during the record mode described above are reproduced.
[0314] The CPU 58 supplies the command performing normal playback
to the MPU 64. Upon receipt of the command, the MPU 64 controls the
recording/readout part 66 so as to read out a stream for special
playback from the magnetic tape 44. The stream thus read out is
provided to the TS decoder 50.
[0315] Subsequently, the CPU 58 sets the packet ID "0x0000" of a
conversion PAT in the register for separation of control data of TS
decoder 50, and the converted PAT in the converted stream is
thereby separated and stored in the memory 60 (step S340). The
packet ID "0x0011" of the converted PMT for special playback is
recognized in accordance with description of the converted PAT
(step S330).
[0316] Further, the packet ID "0x0011" of the converted PMT is set
in the register for separation of control data of the TS decoder
50, and the converted PMT is thereby separated from the converted
stream and stored in the memory 60 (step S340). The description of
the converted PMT is used to judge whether or not two (2) or more
contents (ES) that to be reproduced in special playback are
contained in accordance with the description of the converted PMT
(step S350). Here, the process proceeds to step S360 because there
are two (2) of ESs in the PMT as depicted in FIG. 30.
[0317] In step 360, the contents being reproduced under normal
playback mode at right before the current special playback mode is
selected. For example, if the ES (V) 12 (clothing store) was
reproduced under normal playback mode, the ES (V) 12 (clothing
store) is selected.
[0318] Any contents may be selected if no contents were reproduced
under normal playback mode at the right before the current
playback.
[0319] Also, if just one content is contained in the PMT, the
content is selected.
[0320] Subsequently, the CPU 58 sets the packet ID of the video
data ES (V) 12 in the register for ES separation of the TS decoder
50. As a result, the TS decoder 50 separates the video data ES (V)
12 from the converted stream. The separated video data ES (V) 12 is
then outputted to the AV decoder 52 (step S370).
[0321] Upon receipt of the separated data, the AV decoder 52
performs decompression (uncompress) of the compressed data and
performs D/A (Digital to analog) conversion to generate a video
composite signal. The signal thus generated is supplied to the TV
set 46 and that is reproduced as video and audio thereby as video
for special playback (cue, review).
[0322] As described above, neither of interactive operations nor
display of the image for performing operation are carried out in
this embodiment. This leads that the image displayed during normal
playback mode disappears at the time the apparatus is in special
playback mode without any given notice. In this embodiment,
however, a command for displaying a notice of disappearance of the
image is outputted to the AV decoder 52 for displaying the notice.
For example, a notice "No image for performing operation is
displayed in cue mode" is displayed on the screen.
[0323] When a command for ending playback is provided from the
operation inputting part 54, the CPU 58 supplies the command to the
MPU 64 (steps S390 and S400). Upon receipt of the command, the MPU
64 suspends readout of the stream for special playback from the
magnetic tape 44 performed by the recording/readout part 66 as a
result of control there of.
[0324] In this embodiment, the same packets IDs are used for
contents corresponding to one another in both normal playback and
special playback. In this way, linearity of contents in the case of
changing playback mode from normal playback mode to special
playback mode even when not two (2) or more contents are
contained.
[0325] 4.3. Other embodiments
[0326] 4.3.1 Displaying image for operations as it is
[0327] In the above-described embodiment, the image for interactive
operation is disappeared with the initiation of the special
playback mode. However, the image for performing operations in
normal playback mode may be displayed continuously even in special
playback mode by storing the image in the video synthesize unit 52c
of the AV decoder 52.
[0328] If continuous display is performed as described above, there
might be a possibility of causing inconsistencies between images
displayed according to special playback and the image for
performing operations. The following countermeasure should be taken
in order to avoid the inconsistencies.
[0329] A version upgrade flag (version upgrade information) is
included in the data stream for special playback at when upgrade of
the navigation data is detected in the record mode. For example,
the flag is written in the conversion PAT and the conversion
PMT.
[0330] In the special playback mode, the image for performing
operations in the normal playback is displayed as it is, and
display of the image is suspended if upgrade of the navigation data
is detected as a result of observing the presence of the flag in
the conversion PAT and the conversion PMT. In this way, the
inconsistencies between images displayed according to special
playback and the image for performing operations can be
avoided.
[0331] Upgrade of the navigation data may also be detected by
recognizing history of the version on the navigation data being
recorded instead of the version upgrade flag.
[0332] 4.3.2 Including image for operations in data stream for
special playback
[0333] In the embodiment described above, none of the image for
performing operations is contained in the stream for special
playback. However, data NV1 and NV2 indicative of the image for
performing operations may be included in the stream for special
playback as depicted in FIGS. 36 and 37. As depicted in FIG. 36,
packet IDs of the image for performing operations are designed to
be the same to that of the navigation data defining the image. This
is to the same as the reason for using the same packet IDs for
contents corresponding to one another in both normal playback and
special playback in the special playback mode.
[0334] In the special playback mode, an image for performing
operations corresponding to video currently displayed is displayed
in accordance with the stream for special playback. In this way,
the inconsistencies between images displayed according to special
playback and the image for performing operations can be
avoided.
[0335] During the service without any pictures such as satellite
digital audio broadcast, no Images are displayed on the screen when
the image for operations is disappeared. Under the circumstances so
called blackout, the viewers feels insecure from a probability that
the apparatus might be out of order. It is advantageous to display
the image for performing operations even in the case.
[0336] In this embodiment, no input for operation is handled during
the special playback mode. In order to clarify this, a warning
notice such as "No interactive operations can be performed during
the playback is in cue" may be displayed on the screen.
[0337] 5. Second embodiment
[0338] 5.1. Structure and functions of transmitter
[0339] The layout of a transmitter according to the second
embodiment of the present invention is the same as that of shown in
FIG. 2. However, it differs in that the video/audio data management
part 7 generates data for the special playback in respect to each
of the services. The data for the special playback is converted
into a special stream and is contained in the transport stream with
a data multiplexing part 10.
[0340] FIG. 38 shows the transport stream thus generated. FIG. 39
is a view showing the contents of the control data PMT1. Special
playback ES (V) 11 and ES (V) 12 represent streams for special
playback respectively generated in accordance with ES (V) 11 and ES
(V) 12. In this embodiment, the streams are formed in the form
further selecting packets from the picture. Also, the data NV1 and
the NV2 are images for performing operations respectively contained
in the navigation data NVT1 and NVT2.
[0341] 5.2. Structure and functions of recording/reproducing
apparatus
[0342] FIG. 40 is a schematic view illustrating hardware structure
of the recording/reproducing apparatus according to the second
embodiment. In this embodiment, the apparatus is designed so as to
fetch the special stream from the terminal 50c of the transport
decoder 50. The generator 63 generates the stream for special
playback upon receipt of the special stream.
[0343] The load for the generator 63 can be decreased relative to
that in the first embodiment because the special steam contains
video further selected for the special playback. As a consequence,
processing of the special stream can be carried out quickly. The
special stream to be recorded is the same as that depicted in FIG.
37. It is, therefore, the image for performing operations is
displayed even in the special playback.
[0344] 5.3. Other embodiments
[0345] Although, the image for operations is contained in the
special stream in the above embodiments, the image may not be
contained therein. In that case, the image is not contained in the
stream for special playback generated with the
recording/reproducing apparatus.
[0346] Also, it is possible to design the apparatus to select
whether or not containing the image for operations into the special
stream.
[0347] Furthermore, it is possible for the apparatus to generate
the image for operations and makes the image to contain into the
special stream while making the image not to contain into the
special stream.
[0348] 6. Third embodiment
[0349] Hardware structure of the recording/reproducing apparatus
according to the present invention is the same as that of shown in
FIG. 20. In this embodiment, the stream for special playback is
generated so as to contain the navigation data NVT1 and NVT2 as
depicted in FIGS. 41 and 42. In other words, the generator 63
carries out the following processing; thinning video streams,
discarding audio streams, and remaining navigation data.
[0350] In this way, interactive operation corresponding to the
inputs through the operation inputting part 54 can be realized even
in the special playback mode.
[0351] The navigation data to be recorded in the stream for special
playback may be the same as that to be recorded in the stream for
normal playback. However, partial recording of the navigation data
may also be carried out if the width of the memory area for special
playback is in small.
[0352] In this embodiment, control with interactive manner can be
carried out even in the special playback mode because control
commands in the navigation data are recorded in the stream for
special playback.
[0353] 7. Fourth embodiment
[0354] FIG. 43 is a schematic view illustrating hardware structure
of the recording/reproducing apparatus according to the fourth
embodiment. In this embodiment, only the stream for normal playback
is recorded on the tape 44 and none of the stream for special
playback is generated nor recorded thereon.
[0355] In the normal playback mode, a series of processing is
carried out for the normal playback; reading out the stream for
normal stream recorded on the tape, providing the stream to the TS
decoder 50 under the as-is condition. In the special playback mode,
the stream for normal playback thus read out is supplied to the
generator 63 through switching of switches 63a, 63b. The generator
63 generates streams required for performing special playback and
provides the resultant streams to the TS decoder 50.
[0356] As described above, the streams required for performing the
special playback are generated during the playback in this
embodiment. Consequently, the recording volume of the medium can be
effectively used while performing the special playback because only
the stream for normal playback is recorded on the recording
medium.
[0357] Also, the special playback can be carried out even with a
recording medium which records only the streams for normal
playback.
[0358] Furthermore, several alternatives such as whether or not
containing the image for operations into the special stream,
whether or not performing interactive control in the special
playback and whether or not displaying the image for performing
operations, similar to that of the first through the third
embodiment may be prepared.
[0359] 8. Fifth embodiment
[0360] The layout of the transmitter is the same as that of shown
in FIG. 2. However, it differs in that the video/audio data
management part 7 generates data for the special playback in
respect to each of the services. The data for the special playback
is converted into a special stream and is contained in the
transport stream with the data multiplexing part 10 similar to the
second embodiment.
[0361] Although, the transmitter described in the second embodiment
not contains control data in the navigation data into the transport
stream, the transmitter according to this embodiment does contain
the control data therein.
[0362] The hardware structure of the recording/reproducing
apparatus according to the fifth embodiment is similar to that
depicted in FIG. 40. In this embodiment, the apparatus is designed
so as to fetch the special stream from the terminal 50c of the
transport decoder 50. The generator 63 generates the stream for
special playback upon receipt of the special stream.
[0363] The stream for special playback to be recorded is the same
as that depicted in FIG. 42. Consequently, the image for operations
is displayed even in the special playback.
[0364] 8.1 Other embodiments
[0365] In all the embodiments described above, navigation data
(control data) to be contained in the special stream may be the
same navigation data to be contained in the normal stream. However,
only a part of the navigation data may be contained in the special
stream.
[0366] Also, it is possible to design the apparatus to select
whether or not containing the control data into the stream for
special playback generated by the apparatus while containing the
navigation data (control data) into the special stream.
[0367] 9. Sixth embodiment
[0368] Various controls for navigation and display of the image for
operations in the special playback have been discussed in the
embodiment described above. There are some other problems to be
soled when the normal playback is performed before and after
execution of the special playback as depicted in FIGS. 44A to 44C.
That is, there is a probability causing inconsistencies in the
control of the apparatus if the navigation data obtained at a
starting point a of special playback (the ending point of the
previous normal playback) is used at the ending point a of the
special playback (the staring point of the latter normal
playback).
[0369] In order to solve the problem, a service ID at the point
.alpha. is (see stored, and matching between the service ID at the
point a and a service ID at the point .beta. is carried out. The
navigation data obtained at the point .alpha. is used at the point
.beta. If both are matched (see FIG. 44B). If they are not matched,
a new navigation data is obtained at the point .beta. because the
service has been changed to another during the special playback
(see FIG. 44).
[0370] Although, decision is made depending upon the service IDs in
the embodiment described in above, the decision may be made under
version of the navigation data itself and the like.
[0371] 10. Seventh embodiment
[0372] 10.1. Structure and functions of transmitter
[0373] The layout of a transmitter according to the seventh
embodiment of the present invention is the same as that of shown in
FIG. 2. However, it differs in that the video/audio data management
part 7 makes each of the service so as to contain a version upgrade
flag (version upgrade information) whether or not allowing the
special playback therein. The flag may be written in the PMT.
[0374] A type of broadcasting in which a plurality of still images
are repeatedly transmitted, and controlling which of the images is
displayed according to the navigation data, and performing the
display in an interactive manner in response to inputs made by the
operator, is available. With the broadcasting, a quiz program in
which asking questions to the operator(s) and make him/her to
select the answer, and another questions is displayed only the case
if the answer to the question is correct, can be realized.
[0375] In such a program, it is not desirable for the operator to
display the still images in a random manner. In other words, images
should be displayed after carrying out predetermined processes are
undesirably displayed without carrying out the predetermined
processes during the special playback.
[0376] Such undesirable display can be banned as to the service (or
the event) if a flag for banning the special playback.
[0377] 10.2. Structure and functions of recording/reproducing
apparatus
[0378] Hardware structure of the recording/reproducing apparatus
according to the seventh embodiment is the same as that shown in
FIG. 20. FIG. 46 is a flowchart of a program executed in the record
mode. In step S 263, the CPU 58 judges whether or not a flag(s) for
special playback written in the PMT is in "permit" or "ban". If the
flag is in "permit", a data stream for special playback is
generated and the stream is recorded on the recording medium. In
the contrary, data stream for special playback is not recorded on
the recording medium when the flag is in "ban". As a consequence,
only the stream for normal playback is recorded on the tape 44 when
the flag is in "ban". The flag is recorded under the as-is
condition into a converted PMT of the stream for normal
playback.
[0379] FIG. 47 is a flowchart of a program executed in the special
playback mode. When the special playback is selected, the converted
PMT of the stream for normal playback is obtained at step S301.
Subsequently, the CPU 58 judges whether or not the flag(s) for
special playback written in the PMT is in "permit" or "ban" (step
S302). If the flag is in "permit", the process proceeds to step
S310 in which processing for special playback is performed. In the
contrary, a display indicative that the special playback is in ban
and end the process if the flag is in "ban".
[0380] 10.3. Other embodiments
[0381] Although, the flag for special playback is written to all
the services and the events, the flag may be written based on a
predetermined period within the event for describing detailed
information.
[0382] Though, none of the stream for special playback is recorded
on the tape when the flag is in "ban" in the above embodiment, the
stream may be recorded on the tape even when the flag is in "ban"
unless the special playback is performed in the playback mode
[0383] In addition, in the case of recording only the stream for
normal playback and then generates a stream for special playback,
the special playback may not be performed when the flag is in
"ban".
[0384] 11. Eighth embodiment
[0385] 11.1. Structure and functions of recording/reproducing
apparatus
[0386] Hardware structure of the recording/reproducing apparatus
according to the eighth embodiment is the same as that shown in
FIGS. 20, 40 and 43. Consequently, one of these structures may be
applied to the apparatus in this embodiment.
[0387] FIG. 48 is a flowchart of a program executed in a pause
mode. The CPU 58 controls the AV decoder 52 to maintain the
contents currently displaying as it is (step S2001). If the image
for operation is displayed on the contents, the display of the
image is maintained as well.
[0388] Subsequently, the program for interpreting and executing the
navigation data depicted in FIG. 22 obtains a command currently
being executed (step S2002). The CPU 58 then judges whether or not
the command (for example, the command of "send_string" in FIG. 11)
is a command for carrying out communications to the outside (step
S2003). If the command is not for carrying out the communication,
the CPU 58 suspends the execution of the program (step S2005). The
CPU 58 also suspends the execution of the program (step S2005),
after executing the program if the judgement at step S2003 is YES
(step S2004).
[0389] In this embodiment, only commands for carrying out
communications to the outside except for that causing any
inconveniences are executed during the suspension period. It is
preferred that execution of the command should be hold even passing
for five (5) seconds during the suspension period.
[0390] When the mode turned into the normal mode as a result of
releasing the suspension, execution of the command in the
navigation data is restarted.
[0391] 11.2. Other embodiments
[0392] Although, the apparatus is designed so as to remain the
image for operations even in the pause mode in the embodiment
described in above, the image may be disappeared.
[0393] Alternatively, the apparatus is designed so as to execute
the communication commands even in the pause mode in the embodiment
described in above. It is possible to design the apparatus to
suspend the execution of all the commands.
[0394] 12. Others
[0395] In all of the above embodiments, some or all the functions
implemented using the CPU could be implemented by means of
hardware. Also, in all of the above embodiments, some or all of the
functions implemented using hardware could be implemented by using
the CPU.
[0396] Also, while, in the above embodiments, an example was
described in which magnetic tape capable of being recorded to
sequentially was employed as the recording medium for recording the
converted stream, it would be possible to employ a recording medium
such as a magnetic disk, magneto optic disk, hard disk, flexible
disk, DVD or CD-R.
[0397] All the above embodiments can be interchangeably applied one
another.
[0398] Throughout the above-embodiments, the present invention is
applied to digital satellite broadcasting, however, the present
invention may also be applied to other type of broadcasting methods
such as digital terrestrial broadcasting, wire broadcasting. In
addition, the present invention may be applied to a technique for
recording and reproducing digital contents in data stream not even
in broadcasting.
[0399] While the embodiments of the present invention, as disclosed
herein, constitute preferred forms, it is to be understood that
each term was used as illustrative and not restrictive, and can be
changed within the scope of the claims without departing from the
scope and spirit of the invention.
* * * * *