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.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of The InventionThis 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 InformationVideo cassette recorders (VCR) are currently in widespread use and have several operab...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

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.

Problems solved by technology

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.

Images