U.S. patent number RE37,881 [Application Number 09/721,789] was granted by the patent office on 2002-10-15 for single deck dual tape path vcr system.
This patent grant is currently assigned to ReplayTV. Invention is credited to Curtis D. Haines.
United States Patent |
RE37,881 |
Haines |
October 15, 2002 |
Single deck dual tape path VCR system
Abstract
A single deck dual tape path videocassette recorder/playback
system enabling near simultaneous multiple functions with respect
to a broadcast or cable communicated television signal. The system
consists of standard elements which allow the receipt of a
videocassette, the extracting and return of video tape from and to
the videocassette, and the recording of a broadcast or cable
communicated signal. The system also consists of two tape path
assemblies and a videotape compartment consisting of a tape feed
channel, a storage assembly, and a vacuum system. All elements are
included within a single housing utilizing a common power supply,
tuner, controls, and switching and control circuitry enabling
simultaneous multiple functions using both tape paths, as well as
additional function selections.
Inventors: |
Haines; Curtis D. (Houston,
TX) |
Assignee: |
ReplayTV (Mountain View,
CA)
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Family
ID: |
22585885 |
Appl.
No.: |
09/721,789 |
Filed: |
November 22, 2000 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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162500 |
Dec 3, 1993 |
5479302 |
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Reissue of: |
577833 |
Dec 22, 1995 |
05841940 |
Nov 24, 1998 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
386/237; 360/69;
386/358 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G11B
5/86 (20130101); G11B 15/00 (20130101); G11B
15/026 (20130101); G11B 15/58 (20130101); G11B
15/6653 (20130101); G11B 15/6656 (20130101); G11B
27/024 (20130101); G11B 27/36 (20130101); H04N
5/76 (20130101); H04N 5/77 (20130101); H04N
5/7755 (20130101); G11B 2220/455 (20130101); G11B
2220/90 (20130101); G11B 2220/91 (20130101); H04N
5/765 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
G11B
15/00 (20060101); G11B 27/022 (20060101); G11B
27/36 (20060101); G11B 27/024 (20060101); G11B
15/02 (20060101); G11B 15/665 (20060101); G11B
15/58 (20060101); G11B 5/86 (20060101); H04N
5/775 (20060101); H04N 5/76 (20060101); H04N
5/77 (20060101); H04N 5/765 (20060101); H04N
005/92 (); H04N 005/761 (); G11B 015/18 () |
Field of
Search: |
;386/92,46,81,83,95,52,55,4,1 ;360/32,15,13,69 ;369/83,84 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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62-184652 |
|
Aug 1987 |
|
JP |
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63-201953 |
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Aug 1988 |
|
JP |
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Primary Examiner: Chevalier; Robert
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Blakely Sokoloff Taylor &
Zafman
Parent Case Text
This is a continuation of application Ser. No. 08/162,500, filed
Dec. 3, 1993 now U.S. Pat. No. 5,479,302.
Claims
I claim:
1. A VCR system for near simultaneous multifunction operations of
at least one broadcast or cable communicated television signal,
comprising: (a) means for receiving a videocassette, for extracting
videotape therefrom, and for returning the videotape thereto; (b)
means for receiving the at least one broadcast or cable
communicated television signal; (c) first tape path assembly for
performing any of a first set of functions including recording the
at least one broadcast or cable communicated television signal on a
portion of the videotape extracted from the videocassette, playing
back a prerecorded signal from a portion of the videotape extracted
from the videocassette; and rewinding, pausing, and fast forwarding
a portion of the videotape extracted from the videocassette; (d)
videotape storage compartment defined by walls forming an enclosure
suitable for receiving and storing a quantity of the videotape
extracted from the videocassette after performing any of the first
set of functions in the first tape path; (e) means for storing a
portion of the videotape extracted from the videocassette in the
videotape storage compartment; (f) means for extracting a portion
of the videotape stored in the videotape storage compartment; and
(g) second tape path assembly for performing any of a second set of
functions including recording a second broadcast or cable
communicated television signal on a portion of the videotape
extracted from the videotape storage compartment; playing back the
first or second television signal from a portion of the videotape
extracted from the videotape storage compartment; and rewinding,
pausing, and fast forwarding a portion of the videotape extracted
from the videotape storage compartment at substantially the same
time that the first tape path assembly is performing any one of the
first set of functions.
2. The VCR system of claim 1, wherein the videotape storage
compartment comprises: (a) tape feed channel, having means for
transferring the videotape from the first tape path assembly into a
tape storage enclosure and means for transferring the videotape
between the second tape path and the tape storage enclosure, (b)
the tape storage enclosure having a first dimension approximately
equal to a width of the videotape.
3. The VCR system of claim 1, wherein the videotape storage
compartment further comprises a vacuum system, wherein the vacuum
system draws the extracted videotape into the videotape storage
compartment in random fashion.
4. The VCR system of claim 3, wherein the videotape storage
compartment comprises: (a) tape feed channel, having means for
transferring the videotape from the first tape path assembly into a
tape storage enclosure and having means for transferring the
videotape between the second tape path and the tape storage
enclosure; (b) the tape storage enclosure having a first dimension
approximately equal to a width of the videotape, the tape storage
enclosure being disposed in communication with the tape feed
channel and having at least one wall through which a vacuum may be
drawn; and (c) vacuum enclosure, disposed in communication with the
tape storage enclosure through the wall,
wherein the vacuum system draws air from the tape storage enclosure
thereby drawing the videotape from the tape feed channel into the
tape storage enclosure, and wherein the vacuum system permits
removal of the videotape from the tape storage enclosure through
the tape feed channel to the second tape path.
5. The VCR system of claim 1 further comprising a microprocessor
for controlling the first tape path assembly, the second tape path
assembly, and the videotape storage compartment, the microprocessor
being adapted to determine a quantity of videotape passed through
the first and second tape paths and adapted to compare the quantity
of videotape passed through the first and second tape paths to
determine a quantity of the videotape stored in the videotape
storage compartment.
6. A method for near simultaneous recording and multifunction
operations of a first broadcast or cable communicated television
signal by a VCR system having a videotape storage compartment
defined by walls forming an enclosure suitable for receiving and
storing a quantity of extracted videotape, comprising the steps of:
(a) receiving a videocassette into the VCR system; (b) extracting
videotape from the videocassette into the VCR system; (c) receiving
the first television signal; (d) recording the first television
signal on a portion of the videotape extracted from the
videocassette by way of a first tape path assembly within the VCR
system; (e) storing a quantity of the extracted and recorded
videotape in the videotape storage compartment; (f) extracting a
quantity of the portion of the videotape stored in the videotape
storage compartment into a second path assembly; (g) performing any
of a set of functions including recording a second broadcast or
cable communicated television signal on a portion of the quantity
of the videotape extracted from the videotape storage compartment;
playing back the first or second television signal from a portion
of the quantity of the videotape extracted from the videotape
storage compartment; and rewinding, pausing, and fast forwarding a
portion of the quantity of the videotape extracted from the
videotape storage compartment by way of the second tape path
assembly at substantially the same time that the first tape path
assembly is recording the first television signal; and (h)
returning the videotape from the second tape path assembly to the
videocassette,
wherein a time delay, controlled by a user of the VCR system
through control of the step of performing any of the set of
functions of the videotape, occurs between the step of storing the
videotape and the step of performing any of the set of functions of
the videotape.
7. The method of claim .[.7.]. .Iadd.6 .Iaddend.further comprising
.[.the steps of.]. : .[.(a).]. rewinding the extracted and recorded
videotape from the videocassette through the second tape path and
into the tape storage compartment; .[.(b).]. replaying the first or
second television signal from the rewound videotape in the tape
storage compartment by way of the second tape path assembly; and
.[.(c).]. returning the replayed videotape from the second tape
path assembly to the videocassette, wherein .[.the step of.].
recording the first or second television signal by way of the first
tape path and .[.the step of.]. storing the extracted and recorded
videotape in the tape storage compartment may occur substantially
simultaneous to .[.the step of.]. rewinding the extracted and
recorded videotape through the second tape path and may progress
independently thereof.
8. The method of claim .[.7.]. .Iadd.6.Iaddend., further comprising
.[.the steps of.]. : .[.(a).]. fast forwarding the extracted and
recorded videotape from the tape storage compartment, through the
second tape path, to the videocassette; .[.(b).]. resuming play of
the extracted and recorded videotape from the tape storage
compartment, through the second tape path, to the videocassette,
wherein .[.the step of.]. recording the first or second television
signal by way of the first tape path and .[.the step of.]. storing
the extracted and recorded videotape in the tape storage
compartment may occur substantially simultaneous to .[.the step
of.]. fast forwarding the extracted and recorded videotape from the
tape storage compartment through the second tape path and may
progress independently thereof. .Iadd.
9. A method for near simultaneous recording and multifunction
operations of video signal by a recording system comprising:
viewing and recording a first video signal on a recording media;
and simultaneously with viewing and recording the first video
signal, recording a second video signal on the recording
media..Iaddend..Iadd.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the first video signal comprises
a broadcast television signal..Iaddend..Iadd.
11. The method of claim 9, wherein the first video signal comprises
a cable communicated television signal..Iaddend..Iadd.
12. The method of claim 9, wherein the second video signal
comprises a broadcast television signal..Iaddend..Iadd.
13. The method of claim 9, wherein the second video signal
comprises a cable communicated television
signal..Iaddend..Iadd.
14. The method of claim 9, wherein the recording media comprises a
tape media..Iaddend..Iadd.
15. The method of claim 9, wherein the recording media comprises a
removable recording media..Iaddend..Iadd.
16. The method of claim 9, wherein the first video signal is
recorded to a first portion of the recording media, and the second
video signal is recorded to a second portion of the recording
media..Iaddend..Iadd.
17. A method for providing pass through or capture of continuous
streams of information in various formats while providing the
appearance of a locally stored stream, comprising: providing at
least one media cache for copying blocks of data from the
continuous streams of information, wherein data in said media cache
can be viewed as a snapshot of said continuous streams of
information; and providing a playback pointer, wherein a playback
pointer position selects a portion of said media cache that is to
be accessed to provide functions including any of pause, rewind,
fast forward, play, play faster, play slower, and play in
reverse..Iaddend..Iadd.
18. An apparatus to near simultaneous record and to perform
multifunction operations of video signal comprising: to view and to
record a first video signal on a recording media; and to
simultaneously with viewing and recording the first video signal,
to record a second video signal on the recording
media..Iaddend..Iadd.
19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the first video signal
comprises a broadcast television signal..Iaddend..Iadd.
20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the first video signal
comprises a cable communicated television
signal..Iaddend..Iadd.
21. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the second video signal
comprises a broadcast television signal..Iaddend..Iadd.
22. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the second video signal
comprises a cable communicated television
signal..Iaddend..Iadd.
23. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the recording media
comprises a tape media..Iaddend..Iadd.
24. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the recording media
comprises a removable recording media..Iaddend..Iadd.
25. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the first video signal is
recorded to a first portion of the recording media, and the second
video signal is recorded to a second portion of the recording
media..Iaddend..Iadd.
26. An apparatus to provide pass through or capture of continuous
streams of information in various formats while providing the
appearance of a locally stored stream comprising: a media cache for
copying blocks of data from the continuous streams of information,
wherein data in said media cache can be viewed as a snapshot of
said continuous streams of information, and a playback pointer,
wherein the playback pointer position selects a portion of said
media cache that is to be accessed to provide functions including
any of pause, rewind, fast forward, play, play faster, play slower,
and play in reverse..Iaddend.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of The Invention
This invention pertains to videocassette recorder ("VCR") systems,
and more particularly to a single deck dual tape path videocassette
recorder ("VCR") system that enables utilization of two tape paths
for selective simultaneous functions. The present invention
provides an integrated (single chassis, single videocassette
platform, single tuner, single power supply, single control set,)
dual tape path VCR system usable with a fully featured television
set or with one or more components of a video system (e.g. antenna,
monitor, tuner) enabling recording of an off-the-air broadcast or a
cable transmitted signal to a videocassette tape from one tape path
of the dual tape path VCR system, while allowing near simultaneous
playback of the same videocassette tape from the other tape path to
an associated television set or monitor.
2. Background Information
Video cassette recorders (VCR) are currently in widespread use and
have several operable modes. In a record mode, the VCR is operable
for recording a television broadcast on a suitable videocassette
tape. In a playback mode, the VCR is operable for transmitting a
previously recorded television broadcast to a conventional
television receiver where it may be played back at the convenience
of the viewer. The use of VCRs has therefore provided a means for
viewers of television broadcasts to control their viewing habits
by, for example, recording a television program at the time of its
broadcast and then viewing the recorded program at some point in
time after the broadcast.
Viewing a recorded program through the VCR enables the viewer to
take full advantage of many useful VCR functions, including pause,
fast-forward, and rewind. The pause function enables the user to
stop the prerecorded program and resume viewing the program at any
time. The viewer can rewind selective scenes and, more importantly,
fast-forward through any unwanted commercials.
Several prior inventions have provided an additional degree of
viewer convenience over and above the standard VCR functions
described above. One such class of inventions automatically
eliminates commercials from the recorded program. Most of these
systems ("commercial killers") focus on the detection of certain
signals, fades, or pauses in the original broadcast. As a result
the recorded programs can be subsequently viewed on playback
without commercials.
Other prior disclosures describe means for enabling the viewer to
record two broadcast programs simultaneously through the use of
dual recording decks. One advantage of such a system is that the
viewer can record two programs at the same time while viewing a
third program on a TV monitor. The circuitry for dual simultaneous
recording and playing was disclosed in detail in U.S. Pat. No.
4,124,807, issued Jun. 23, 1992, to Dunlap et al. The Dunlap
invention enables simultaneous recording/playback onto two separate
video cassette tapes.
Setting or programming the recording time for a broadcast has also
been made easy with the invention of user friendly on-screen
commands and with the new "VCR Plus" codes. In many cases the user
has only to input a few numbers to program the VCR. Many other
inventions have also enhanced the overall quality and usefulness of
the standard VCR.
Viewing recorded programs through a VCR enables the user to have
near total viewing control of the transmitted program. Even though
the viewing of recorded programs through a VCR has so many
advantages, it still appears that most people watch the majority of
their broadcast programs as the program is being transmitted. Why,
for example, should a viewer sit through lengthy commercials when
they can record a program and then subsequently watch the program
on playback without commercials? One major reason, and the biggest
disadvantage of prior art, is the time it takes to record and
subsequently playback the desired program. There is no system
described that allows the user to playback a program during
recording. If the viewer wants to utilize the VCR playback
functions while viewing a recorded program, the viewer must wait
until the program has finished and the VCR has stopped recording.
Only then can the recorded program be played back.
Applicant's invention addresses the need for a VCR system that
provides the user with near simultaneous recording and playback of
a broadcast or cable communicated television signal in addition to
all of the standard controls of existing videotape systems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is a videocassette recorder/playback system
enabling near simultaneous recording and playback of a broadcast or
cable communicated television signal. The system consists of
standard elements which allow the receipt of a videocassette, the
extracting and return of video tape from and to the videocassette,
and the recording of a broadcast or cable communicated signal. The
system, however, also consists of two tape path assemblies and a
videotape compartment consisting of a tape feed channel, a storage
assembly, and a vacuum system. The first tape path is for recording
a television signal or for playing a recorded television signal and
the second tape path is for playback of a recorded television
signal from videotape extracted from the storage assembly or for
recording a television signal on videotape extracted from the
storage assembly.
The system of the present invention minimizes the time delay
between recording a program and subsequently playing back the
recorded program, allowing near simultaneous playback of a
transmitting broadcast program. The unique simultaneous
record/playback feature of the present invention allows the viewer
to take full advantage of the many useful VCR functions without
interrupting the recording of the program.
It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to overcome
the prior-art drawbacks associated with standard recording and
subsequent playback techniques and apparatus. The system of the
present invention minimizes the time delay between recording a
broadcast program and subsequent playback of the recorded program.
The present invention allows the viewer near simultaneous record
and playback of a broadcast program as it is transmitting.
It is also an object of Applicant's invention to provide a VCR
system which, by incorporating dual tape paths and a storage
assembly permits the simultaneous recording of two programs on a
single videocassette.
Another object of Applicant's invention is to provide an enhanced
videocassette recorder (VCR) system which, by incorporating a
variety of record, playback, and videotape storage features, allows
commercial free viewing as well as replay viewing during
simultaneous recording and playback. Every program can now be
viewed commercial free. The viewer may fastforward through an
unwanted commercials. Sporting events may be viewed in a whole new
manner with the viewer having total control over the creation and
viewing of instant replays. The user, for example, may rewind,
pause, or slow motion his favorite football play without
interrupting the recording of the broadcasting program.
In addition, the present invention is an ideal "safety net" for
viewing all programs. If the present invention is consistently
used, the viewer will never miss parts of a broadcast program due
to personal interruptions. If the viewer is interrupted during the
program or needs to take a break from the program and cannot wait
until a commercial appears, the viewer can, through Applicant's
invention, simply hit the pause button, attend to the interruption
and then begin viewing the program again without interrupting the
recording and without missing any part of the transmitting
broadcast program. The present invention enables the viewer near
instant playback of the recording broadcast program through the
VCR.
It is a further object of Applicant's invention to provide a low
cost, mass-market single deck, duel taping system videocassette
recorder unit which is easy to understand and use, adaptable with
current and future circuitry, reliable and multi-functional, with a
range of useful operations available for entertainment, educational
and/or business purposes. The system of the present invention can
be adapted to most VCRs manufactured today, as well as new
developments currently in progress with minimal modifications and
cost to the manufacturers. Because of the flexibility of the
storage assembly's shape, the present invention can be custom
designed to fit into almost any type of VCR system. Most of the
standard VCR parts will not require modification thus minimizing
manufacturing costs.
Further objects and advantages of the present invention will become
apparent from the following description in light of the attached
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a front view of the control panel and housing of a single
deck dual tape path VCR system utilizing features of the present
invention, according to a preferred embodiment thereof;
FIG. 2 is a circuit block diagram of a dual tape path VCR system of
the present invention which can be associated with the FIG. 1
control panel and housing;
FIG. 3 is a diagram of a standard tape path of VCR systems well
known in the art;
FIG. 4 is a detailed view of the dual tape path of the present
invention which can be associated with the FIG. 1 control panel and
housing; and
FIG. 5 is a diagram of the dual tape path and storage assembly of
the preferred embodiment of the present invention which can be
associated with the FIG. 1 control panel and housing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1, the
housing (7) and front panel (8) of a single deck dual tape path
videocassette system (9) providing broadcast recording and playback
control and utilizing playback features hereinafter described is
shown. System (9) is contained within a single housing (7) and, as
will be described, includes a dual tape path arrangement for
receiving a conventional videocassette tape therein.
Tape path-A (10) and tape path-B (11) are connected to built in
storage assembly (18) and single access port (16). "Tape path" as
used herein comprises hubs, for engaging drive wheels of the
videocassette, motor means for driving one or both hubs, motor
controls and electromagnetic, electrostatic, and/or optical
transducer heads for exchange of control signals and information
with the videotape medium of the videocassette. Built-in storage
assembly (18) and its connection to tape path-A (10) and tape
path-B (11) are described in conjunction with FIG. 4. Control panel
(21) is used to control tape path-A (10), specifically for
recording/playing-back a videocassette tape located-in access port
(16). Thus, control panel (21) enables the user of the present
invention to rewind, fast forward, stop, pause, play, record, and
eject a videocassette tape located in access port (16). In turn,
control panel (23) is used to control tape path-B (11),
specifically for recording/playing-back video tape located in
storage assembly (1). Likewise, control panel (23) enables the user
of the present invention to rewind, fast forward, stop, pause, play
and record video tape located in storage assembly (18).
Control panels (21) and (23) may be operated simultaneously. LCD
time display (26) and optical sensors (not shown) in conjunction
with a standard microprocessor well known in the art determine
which functions on control panel (21) can operate simultaneously
with the functions on control panel (23) by keeping track of the
location of the video tape in path-A (10) and path-B (11) and the
amount of tape, if any, in storage assembly (18). For example, the
fast forward, playback and record functions of control panel (23)
will only operate if there is video tape in storage assembly (18)
and will automatically stop operating once storage assembly (18) is
empty.
Input selection switches (20) and (22) are located on the front of
housing (7) below port (16). Input selection switch (20) is
provided for selecting the input signal line from which a program
will be recorded onto a blank videocassette tape that has been
inserted into access port (16). Input selection switch (22) is
provided for selecting the input signal line from which a program
will be recorded onto video tape in storage assembly (18). Output
selection switch (24) is located on the front of housing (7) below
and to the right of port (16) and, as will be described, selects a
signal line which will be connected to the video monitor (not
shown) for viewing. Input selection switches (20) and (22), output
selection switch (24), and other VCR functions, i.e., play, record,
rewind, fast forward, could also be operated from a remote control
device (not shown).
Referring now to FIG. 2, the single deck dual tape path
videocassette system (9) (shown in FIG. 1) according to the
preferred embodiment therefor is schematically illustrated and in
this connection it is understood that the electrical components, as
illustrated in block diagram form, are composed of conventional
circuitry well known in the art except as otherwise specified
herein. As shown in FIG. 2, electrical inputs into system (9)
(shown in FIG. 1) include a TV antenna signal or cable TV input
(29) that is directed through TV tuner (28), video input (31) that
is directed through isolation amplifier (30), and camera video
input (32). Port (16) provides video cassette tape access to path-A
(10) and path-B (11), both of which have VCR play and record
capabilities. Switch positions 1-3 of selector switch (20) direct
the signals from inputs (29), (31), and (32) into VCR tape path-A
(10). Therefore, position #1 on selector switch (20) directs the
signal from the TV tuner (28) into path-A (10). Position #2 on
switch (20) directs the signal from isolation amplifier (30) into
path-A (10), and switch position #3 directs the signal from camera
video (32) into path-A (10). Selector switch (22) and switch
positions 1-3 therefor are disposed in parallel relation with
respect to switch (20) and the switch positions thereof and direct
the signals from inputs (29), (31), and (32) into VCR tape path-B
(11). Thus, the input signal from TV tuner (28) is directed to
path-B (11) through switch position #1 on selection switch (22),
while the signal from isolation amplifier (30) is directed to
path-B (11) through switch position #2 on selection switch (22),
and switch position #3 on selection switch (22) directs the signal
from camera video (32) to path-B (11). In addition, the output of
tape path-A (10) is directed to path-B (11) through witch position
#4 on selection switch (22). Thus, a broadcast program recorded
through path-A (10) can be played back, before the completion of
the transmitting broadcast, through path-B (11) by moving selection
switch (22) to position #4.
The input signals may also be directed to TV monitor (not shown)
for video display thereon. For this purpose, output selection
switch (24) through the switch positions 1-7 thereof is moved to
the appropriate position for selecting the desired signal among the
seven outputs for connection to the TV monitor. As shown in FIG. 2,
TV tuner (28) is connected directly to the TV monitor through
switch position #1 on selection switch (24). A video line through
isolation amplifier (30) is also connected to the TV monitor
through switch position #2 of selection switch (24). If the
videocassette tape located in access port (16) has been
prerecorded, and it is desired to view this tape information on the
TV monitor, selection switch (24) is moved to switch position #6.
If the video tape located in storage assembly (18) (shown in FIG.
1) has been prerecorded, and it is desired to view this tape
information on the TV monitor, selection switch (24) is moved to
switch position #7.
The combination of input selection switches (20) and (22) and
output selection switch (24) enables a versatility of operations
that was not available in the previously known single and dual deck
VCR systems of the prior art. The operations available through the
combinations of input selection switches (20) and (22) and by
output selection switch (24) are illustrated below:
SWITCHES 20 22 24 CAPABILITIES To record a transmitting broadcast
program through path-A onto videocassette tape located in access
port. 2 To dub a recorded program located in another VCR through
path-A onto videocassette tape located in access port. 3 To record
a camera video signal through path-A onto videocassette tape
located in access port. 1 To record a transmitting broadcast
program through path-B onto video tape located in storage assembly
2 To dub a recorded program located in another VCR through path-B
onto video tape located in storage assembly. 3 To record a camera
video signal through path-B onto video tape located in storage
assembly. 1 1 To record a transmitting broadcast program through
path-A onto videocassette tape located in access port while
recording another transmitting broadcast program through path_B
onto video tape located in storage assembly. 1 2 To record a
transmitting broadcast program thought path-A onto videocassette
tape located in access port while dubbing a recorded program
located in another VCR through path-B onto video tape located in
storage assembly. 1 3 To record a transmitting broadcast program
through path-A onto videocassette tape located in access port while
recording a camera video signal through path-B onto video tape
located in storage assembly. 2 1 To dub a recorded program located
in another VCR through path-A onto port while recording a
transmitting broadcast program through path-B onto video tape
located in storage assembly. 2 3 To dub a recorded program located
in another VCR through path-A onto videocassette tape located in
access port while recording a camera video signal through path-B
onto video tape located in storage assembly. 3 1 To record a camera
video signal through path-A onto videocassette tape located in
access port while recording a transmitting broadcast program
through path-B onto video tape located in storage assembly. 3 2 To
record a camera video signal through path-A onto videocassette tape
located in access port while dubbing a recorded program located in
another VCR through path-B onto video tape located in storage
assembly. 1 To watch a transmitting broadcast program on a TV
monitor. 1 1 To watch a transmitting broadcast program on a TC
monitor while recording a transmitting broadcast program through
path-A onto videocassette tape located in access port. 2 1 To watch
a transmitting broadcast program on a TV monitor while dubbing a
recorded program located in another VCR through path-A onto
videocassette tape located in access port 3 1 To watch a
transmitting broadcast program on a TV monitor while recording a
camera video signal through path-A onto videocassette tape located
in access port. 1 1 To watch a transmitting broadcast program on a
TV monitor while recording a transmitting broadcast program through
path-B onto video tape located in storage assembly. 2 1 To watch a
transmitting broadcast program on a TV monitor while dubbing a
recorded program located in another VCR through path-B onto video
tape located in storage assembly. 3 1 To watch a transmitting
broadcast program on a TV monitor while recording a camera video
signal through path-B onto video tape located in storage. 1 2 To
watch a recorded program from another VCR through a vide lone on a
TV monitor while recording a transmitting broadcast program through
path-B onto video tape located in storage assembly. 2 2 To watch a
recorded program from another VCR through a video line on a TV
monitor while recording a camera video signal through path-B onto
video tape located in storage assembly. 1 1 2 To watch a recorded
program from another VCR through a video line on a TV monitor while
recording a transmitting broadcast program through path-A onto
videocassette tape located in access port and while recording
another transmitting broadcast program through path-B onto video
tape located in storage assembly. 1 2 2 To watch a recorded program
from another VCR through a video line on a TV monitor while
recording a transmitting broadcast program through path-A onto
videocassette tape located in access port and while dubbing a
recorded program located in another VCR through path-B onto video
tape located in storage assembly. 1 3 2 To watch a recorded program
from another VCR through a video line on a TV monitor while
recording a transmitting broadcast program through path-A onto
videocassette tape located in access port and while recording a
camera video signal through path-B onto video tape located in
storage assembly. 2 1 2 To watch a recorded program from another
VCR through a video line on a TC monitor while dubbing a recorded
program located in another VCR through path-A onto videocassette
tape located in access port and while recording a transmitting
broadcast program through path-B onto video tape located in storage
assembly. 2 3 2 To watch a recorded program from another VCR
through a video line on a TV monitor while dubbing a recorded
program located in another VCR through path-A onto videocassette
tape located in access port and while recording a camera video
signal onto video tape located in storage assembly. 3 1 2 To watch
a recorded program from another VCR through a video line on a TV
monitor while recording a camera video signal through path-A onto
videocassette tape located in access port and while recording a
transmitting broadcast program through path-B onto video tape
located in Storage assembly. 3 2 2 To watch a recorded program from
another VCR through a video line on a TV monitor while recording a
camera video signal through path-A onto videocassette tape located
in access port and while dubbing a recorded program located in
another VCR through path-B onto video tape located in storage
assembly. 3 To watch a camera video signal on a TV 1 3 To watch a
camera video signal on a TV monitor while recording a transmitting
broadcast program through path-A onto videocassette tape located in
access port. 2 3 To watch a camera video signal on a TV monitor
while dubbing a recorded program located in another VCR through
path-A onto videocassette tape located in access port. 3 3 To watch
a camera video signal on a TV monitor while recording a camera
video signal through path-A onto videocassette tape located in
access port. 1 3 To watch a camera video signal on a TV monitor
while recording a transmitting broadcast program through path-B
onto video tape located in storage assembly. 2 3 To watch a camera
video signal on a TV monitor while dubbing a recorded program
located in another VCR through path-B onto video tape located in
storage assembly. 3 3 To watch a camera video signal on a TV
monitor while recording a camera video signal through path-B onto
video tape located in storage assembly. 1 1 3 To watch a camera
video signal on a TV monitor while recording a transmitting
broadcast program through path-A onto videocassette tape located in
access port and while recording another transmitting broadcast
program through path-B onto video tape located in storage assembly.
1 2 3 To watch a camera video signal on a TV monitor while
recording a transmitting broadcast program through path-A onto
videocassette tape located in access port and while dubbing a
recorded program located in another VCR through path-B onto video
tape located in storage assembly. 1 3 3 To watch a camera video
signal on a TV monitor while recording a transmitting broadcast
program through path-A onto videocassette tape located in access
port and while recording a camera video signal through path-B onto
video tape located in storage assembly. 2 1 3 To watch a camera
video signal on a TV monitor while dubbing a recorded program
located in another VCR through path-A onto videocassette tape
located in access port and while recording a transmitting broadcast
program through path-B onto video tape located in storage assembly.
2 3 3 To watch a camera video signal on a TV monitor while dubbing
a recorded program located in another VCR through path-A onto
videocassette tape located in access port and while recording a
camera video signal through path-B onto video tape located in
storage assembly. 3 1 3 To watch a camera vide signal on a TV
monitor while recording a camera video signal onto videocassette
tape located in access port and while recording a transmitting
broadcast program through path-B onto video tape located in storage
assembly. 3 2 3 To watch a camera video signal on a TV monitor
while recording a camera video signal through path-A onto
videocassette tape located in access port and while dubbing a
recorded program located in another VCR through path-B onto video
tape located in storage assembly. 6 To watch/playback on a TV
monitor a recorded program located in videocassette tape that is
inserted in access port. 1 6 To watch/playback on a TV monitor a
recorded program located in
videocassette tape that is inserted in access port while recording
a transmitting broadcast program through path-B onto video tape
located in storage assembly. 2 6 To watch/playback on a TV monitor
a recorded program located in videocassette tape that is inserted
in access port while dubbing a recorded program located in another
VCR through path-B onto video tape located in storage assembly. 3 6
To watch/playback on a TV monitor a recorded program located in
videocassette tape that is inserted in access port while recording
a camera video signal through path-B onto video tape locate in
storage assembly. 1 7 TV watch/playback on a TV monitor a recorded
program located on video tape that is in storage assembly while
recording a transmitting broadcast program through path-A onto
videocassette tape located in access port. 2 7 To watch/playback on
a TV monitor a recorded program located on video tape that is in
storage assembly while dubbing a recorded program located in
another VCR through path-A onto videocassette tape located in
access port. 3 7 To watch/playback on a TV monitor a recorded
program located on video tape that is in storage assembly while
recording a camera video signal onto videocassette tape located in
access port. 1 4 7 To record a transmitting broadcast program onto
videocassette tape located in access port while playing back the
same videocassette tape on a TV monitor 3 4 7 To record a camera
video signal onto videocassette tape located in access port while
playing back the same videocassette tape on a monitor.
By utilizing the single deck dual tape path VCR system of the
present invention, it is now possible by use of selection switches
(20) and (22) to record a TV program through TV tuner (28) that is
connected to switch position #1 of selection switch (20), while at
the same time playing back the recording program on a TV monitor
from tape path-B (11) through switch position #4 of selection
switch (22) by activating record function on control panel (21)
(shown in FIG. 1) and the play function on control panel (23)
(shown in FIG. 1) and movement of output switch (24) to position
#7.
Referring once again to FIG. 1, the system (9) can also be used for
simultaneously recording from a broadcast or auxiliary input to the
video tapes in both tape path-A (10) and tape path-B (11). This is
accomplished by feeding enough blank tape into storage assembly
(18) while maintaining adequate blank tape on the videocassette for
the recording of the two desired programs.
Referring now to FIG. 3, a typical prior art path taken by tape
(37) as it moves from supply reel table assembly (36) located in
video cassette (34) to take-up reel table assembly (100) located in
video cassette (34) is illustrated. Tape (37) is extracted from
cassette (34) and passes supply tension regulator arm assembly (38)
and (40). Supply tension regulator arm assembly (38) and (40)
changes the forward direction of tape (37) toward drum (42). Tape
(37) then passes full-width erase head (44). Tape (37) runs
approximately 180 degrees around drum (42) where rotary video heads
(not shown) make contact with it during record and playback. Tape
(37), having passed drum (42), passes ACE (Audio, CTL and Erase)
head (50). Tape (37) is squeezed between capstan assembly (52) and
pinch roller assembly (54). Capstan assembly (52) rotates at a
constant speed, advancing tape (37) at a fixed rate into take-up
reel (100) located in cassette (34). The present invention utilizes
this basic standard tape path arrangement with minor modifications
when combining tape path-A (10) (shown in FIG. 1) with a second
tape path, tape path-B (11) (shown in FIG. 1).
FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic plan view of Applicant's invention. It is
understood that the mechanical components illustrated in FIG. 4 and
in FIG. 5 are composed of conventional mechanical components well
known in the art except as otherwise specified herein. It is
further understood that the electrical components in FIGS. 4 and 5
are composed of conventional circuitry well known in the art except
as otherwise specified herein. According to the present invention,
tape path-A (10) and tape path-B (11) are identical to one another,
except where noted, and are connected by means of built-in storage
assembly device (18), which will be described in detail later.
Tape path-A (10), tape path-B (11) and storage assembly (18) are
contained in single housing VCR unit (7) (shown in FIG. 1). Video
tape (37), by way of tape path-A (10), moves from supply reel table
assembly (36) located in video cassette (34) to storage assembly
(18).
Tape (37) is extracted out of cassette (34) and passes supply
tension regulator arm assembly (38) and (40) of tape path-A (10).
Supply tension regulator arm assembly (38) and (40) changes the
forward direction of tape (37) toward drum (42). Tape (37) then
passes full-width erase head (44). Tape (37) runs approximately 180
degrees around drum (42) where rotary video heads (not shown) make
contact with it during record and playback. Tape (37), having
passed drum (42), passes ACE (Audio, CTL and Erase) head (50). Tape
(37) is squeezed between capstan assembly (54) and pinch roller
assembly (52). Capstan assembly (54) rotates at a constant speed,
advancing tape (37) at a fixed rate through Path-A (10) and into
storage assembly (18). If desired, a standard prior art tape path
could be followed, tape (37) bypassing storage assembly (18) being
directly fed into take-up reel (100) located in cassette (34) by
way of capstan assembly (92) and pinch roller assembly (94).
Video tape (37) by way of tape path-B (11) moves from storage
assembly (18) to take-up reel table assembly (100) located in
videocassette (34). Specifically, tape (37) is extracted from
storage assembly (18), and is passed between capstan assembly (77)
and pinch roller (76) to supply tension regulator arm assembly (78)
and (80) of tape path-B (11). Supply tension regulator arm assembly
(78) and (80) change the forward direction of tape (37) toward drum
(82). Tape (37) then passes full-width erase head (84). Tape (37)
runs approximately 180 degrees around drum (82) where rotary video
heads (not shown) make contact with it during record and playback.
Tape (37), having passed drum (82), passes ACE (Audio, CTL and
Erase) head (90). Tape (37) is squeezed between capstan assembly
(92) and pinch roller assembly (94). Capstan assembly (92) rotates
at a constant speed, advancing tape (37) at a fixed rate out of
storage assembly (18), through path-B (11), and into take-up reel
(100) located in cassette (34).
Capstan assembly (54) and pinch roller (52) feed tape (37) through
tape path-A (10) into and out of storage assembly (18) and cassette
(34), Capstan assembly (77) and pinch roller (76) draw tape (37)
through path-B (11), into storage assembly (18) and cassette (34),
while capstan assembly (92) and pinch roller (94) draw tape (37)
through path-B (11) out of storage assembly (18) and into cassette
(34). Capstan assemblies (54) and (92) direct tape (37) through a
tape path during record/playback at a constant fixed speed thus
enabling the recording of a program through Path-A (10) and the
play back of the same recorded program through Path-B (11).
Since the standard tape path is only slightly modified, prior art
threading techniques can be utilized in the present invention and
therefore is not described in detail herein. The following patents
are illustrative of tape threading and guiding arrangements that
could be adapted to the present invention: U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,164,868, issued Nov. 17, 1992, to Mosher et al.; and 5,144,505,
issued Sep. 1, 1992, to Kaneko et al.
FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic plan view of the preferred embodiment of
the present invention. Storage assembly (18) consists of floor
(55), ceiling (not shown), and surrounding walls (57), (58), (59),
(60), (61), (62), (63), and (64). The height of storage assembly
(18), the distance between floor (55) and the ceiling of storage
assembly (18), is slightly greater than the width of tape (37)
preventing tape damage and tape entanglement. The size of storage
assembly (18) enables two hours of video tape (recorded at EP
speed) to be stored. When digital videocassette recording becomes
standardized and available to the general public, the size of
storage assembly (18) could be reduced in half since digital
videocassette tape will be half the length and width as standard
videocassette tape.
Once tape (37) is fed in storage assembly (18), by capstan assembly
(54) and/or capstan assembly (77), optical sensors (not shown)
operating in conjunction with a microprocessor (51) activate vacuum
system (56). Vacuum systems such as that utilized in Applicant's
invention are well known in the art and are thus not disclosed in
detail here.
Vacuum system (56) draws air through perforated walls (61a), (62a),
(63a), and (64a) causing tape (37) to be drawn against perforated
walls (61a), (62a), (63a), and (64a). The perforations in walls
(61a), (62a), (63a), and (64a) are a fraction above and below the
edges of the width of tape (37), thus preventing tape (37) from
blocking vacuum system (56). As tape (37) forms slack in storage
assembly (18), vacuum system (56) draws tape (37), in a controlled
random manner, towards walls (61a), (62a), (63a), and (64a) thus
effectively utilizing storage space. Roller guides (66), (68), (71)
and (73) constantly rotate in a clockwise direction, while roller
guides (67), (69), (70), and (72) constantly rotate in a counter
clockwise direction, preventing tape (37) from prematurely storing
between walls (57), (58), (59), and (60). Vacuum system (56) is
deactivated by means of sensors (not shown) operating in
conjunction with a microprocessor once all of tape (37) is
extracted from storage assembly (18).
It will now be apparent to those skilled in the art that other
embodiments, improvements, details, and uses can be made consistent
with the letter and spirit of the foregoing disclosure and within
the scope of this patent, which is limited only by the following
claims, construed in accordance with the patent law, including the
doctrine of equivalents.
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