KR20090104141A - Information recording medium, recording apparatus, reproduction apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

An information recording medium (100) is provided, which comprises a plurality of recording layers (104, 102) and a first disc information area (111) for storing parameters relating to access to the plurality of recording layers and formats relating to the plurality of recording layer. The first disc information area is provided in a first recording layer (104) which is one of the plurality of recording layers.

Description

Information recording medium, recording apparatus, reproduction apparatus TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an information recording medium comprising at least two recording layers, a method and apparatus for recording information on this medium, and a method and apparatus for reproducing information from the medium.

In recent years, various information recording media have been developed that can record / reproduce a large amount of information. Among these are optical disks. One of the large capacity optical disks is a double-sided optical disk including two optical disks attached together, in which information can be recorded / reproduced. However, there is a need for high capacity, single-sided and random access discs that do not need to flip up and down in some applications, such as computers, games, etc., where random accesses are frequently required.

To meet such demands (high capacity, random access, and cross section), a single optical disc comprises at least two recording layers (such an optical disc is referred to as a multilayer optical disc), where the information is recorded in that cross section. You may want to consider playing. FIG. 7 shows the configuration of an optical disc 700 including two recording layers on one surface thereof.

The optical disc 700 includes a first recording layer 704, a first substrate 705, an adhesive resin 703, a second substrate 701, and a second recording layer 702. Each substrate is provided with a clamp hole 706. The second recording layer 702 includes a disc information area 707 and a data area 710. The first recording layer 704 includes a disc information area 711 and a data area 714.

The first substrate 705 and the second substrate 701 are made of polycarbonate resin or the like and are used to protect the first recording layer 704 and the second recording layer 702, respectively. The disc information area 707 is a reproduction only area in which information such as power of laser light for irradiating the second recording layer 702 or the like is loaded. The disc information area 711 is also a reproduction-only area in which information such as power of laser light for irradiating the first recording layer 704 is loaded.

For example, in the optical disc 700, the reproduction is first performed on the first recording layer 704, and immediately afterwards, the reproduction on the second recording layer 702 is performed. In this case, playback operations are performed in the following order. That is, information indicating laser optical power for irradiating the first recording layer 704 is reproduced from the disc information area 711; Playback is performed in the data area 714; Information indicative of laser light power for irradiating the second recording layer 702 is reproduced from the disc information area 707; Playback is performed on the data area 710. Alternatively, the reproduction operations are performed in this order on the disc information area 711, the disc information area 707, the data area 714, and the data area 710. Thus, in the optical disc 700, information must be reproduced from two disc information areas. Therefore, it takes a long time to reproduce the information of the parameters and formats of the optical disc 700, such as the power of laser light or the like.

According to one aspect of the present invention, an information recording medium comprises: a plurality of recording layers; And a first disc information area for storing parameters relating to access to the plurality of recording layers and formats relating to the plurality of recording layers. The first disc information area is provided in a first recording layer which is one of the plurality of recording layers.

In one embodiment of the present invention, an address is assigned to the first recording layer. The parameters include first irradiation power information indicating a power value of laser light used to irradiate the first recording layer, and a second value indicating power value of laser light used to irradiate another recording layer among the plurality of recording layers. We include 2 investigation power information. An address assigned to an area in the first disc information area in which the first irradiation power information is stored is smaller than an address assigned to an area in the first disc information area in which the second irradiation power information is stored.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus further includes a second disc information area for storing the same information as the information of the first disc information area. The second disc information area is another one of the plurality of recording layers. Two recording layers are provided.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the first recording layer is a predetermined one of the plurality of recording layers as a reference layer.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of recording layers are recording layers capable of recording information. The information recording medium further includes a plurality of adjustment areas for adjusting the recording power of the laser light. Each of the plurality of recording layers includes a corresponding one adjustment area of the plurality of adjustment areas.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the second recording layer, which is one of the plurality of recording layers, includes a buffer area. The buffer area is continuous to one of the plurality of adjustment areas included in the second recording layer.

In one embodiment of the present invention, each of the plurality of adjustment areas is provided at a different radial position on the information recording medium.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the information recording medium is a write-once-read-many information recording medium once.

In one embodiment of the present invention, an address is assigned to the first recording layer. The parameter includes a first parameter relating to access to the first recording layer and a second parameter relating to another one of the plurality of recording layers. An address assigned to an area within the first disk information area where the first parameter is stored is smaller than an address assigned to an area within the first disk information area where the second parameter is stored.

In one embodiment of the present invention, an address is assigned to the first recording layer. The format includes a first format for the first recording layer and a second format for another one of the plurality of recording layers. An address assigned to an area within the first disc information area where the first format is stored is smaller than an address assigned to an area within the first disc information area where the second format is stored.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the information recording medium further includes a data area for recording user data provided in the plurality of recording layers. Grooves are provided in the plurality of recording layers. The second recording layer, which is one of the plurality of recording layers, includes an area at the same radial position as the first disc information area and an area in which a portion of the data area is provided. The type of the groove shape provided in the area at the same radial position as the first disc information area is the same as the type of the shape of the groove provided in the area provided in the portion of the data area.

In one embodiment of the present invention, grooves are provided in at least some of the plurality of recording layers. The second recording layer, which is one of the plurality of recording layers, has no groove in the area which is part of the second recording layer at the same radial position as the first disc information area.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a groove is provided in the plurality of recording layers. The type of the groove shape in the second recording layer, which is one of the plurality of recording layers, is constant.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a groove is provided in the first recording layer. The type of the groove shape in the first disc information area is different from the type of the groove shape in the area which is part of the first recording layer and is continuous to the first disc information area.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a groove is provided in the first recording layer. The groove in the first disc information area is a portion of the first recording layer and continues in the groove in the area continuous to the first disc information area.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the parameter and the format include a first parameter and a first format for the first recording layer. The parameter and the format include a second parameter and a second format relating to a second recording layer which is another one of the plurality of recording layers. An area length of the first disc information area storing the first parameter and the first format is equal to an area length of the first disc information area storing the second parameter and the second format.

In one embodiment of the present invention, said parameter comprises a first parameter relating to access to said first recording layer. The format includes a first format for the first recording layer. The setting of the first parameter and the first format are repeated repeatedly and stored in the first disc information area.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the parameter includes a second parameter relating to access to a second recording layer which is another one of the plurality of recording layers. The format includes a second format for the second recording layer. The setting of the second parameter and the second format are repeated repeatedly and stored in the first disc information area.

In one embodiment of the invention, the disc information area stores a plurality of settings of the parameter and the format.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the information recording medium further includes a dummy area. The plurality of settings includes a first setting and a second setting. The dummy area is provided between a first area provided with the first setting and a second area provided with the second setting, the first area being a portion of the first disc information area, and the second area being Another part of the first disc information area.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the length of the dummy area is an integer multiple of the area length storing the setting of the parameter and the format.

In one embodiment of the present invention, an address is assigned to the first recording layer. The parameter includes a first parameter relating to access to the first recording layer and a second parameter relating to another one of the plurality of recording layers. The first parameter and the second parameter are stored in an area having the same address as the address assigned in the first disc information area.

In one embodiment of the present invention, an address is assigned to the first recording layer. The format includes a first format for access to the first recording layer and a second format for another one of the plurality of recording layers. The first format and the second format are stored in an area having the same address as the address assigned in the first disc information area.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a recording apparatus for recording information on an information recording medium is provided. The information recording medium includes a plurality of recording layers; And a disc information area for storing parameters relating to access to the plurality of recording layers and formats relating to the plurality of recording layers. A disc information area is provided in a first recording layer which is one of the plurality of recording layers. The recording apparatus includes an optical head capable of optically recording the information on the information recording medium; And a control section for controlling recording using the optical head. The recording comprises reproducing the parameter and the format stored in the disc information area; And recording the information on the information recording medium based on the reproduced parameter and format.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a reproducing apparatus for reproducing information from an information recording medium is provided. The information recording medium includes a plurality of recording layers; And a disc information area for storing parameters relating to access to the plurality of recording layers and formats relating to the plurality of recording layers. A disc information area is provided in a first recording layer which is one of the plurality of recording layers. The reproduction apparatus includes an optical head capable of optically reading the information from the information recording medium; And a control section for controlling playback using the optical head. The reproducing comprises: reproducing the parameter and the format stored in the disc information area; And reproducing the information from the information recording medium based on the reproduced parameter and format.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a recording method for recording information on an information recording medium is provided. The information recording medium includes a plurality of recording layers; And a disc information area for storing parameters relating to access to the plurality of recording layers and formats relating to the plurality of recording layers. A disc information area is provided in a first recording layer which is one of the plurality of recording layers. The recording method includes reproducing the parameter and the format stored in the disc information area; And recording the information on the information recording medium based on the reproduced parameter and format.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a reproduction method for reproducing information from an information recording medium is provided. The information recording medium includes a plurality of recording layers; And a disc information area for storing parameters relating to access to the plurality of recording layers and formats relating to the plurality of recording layers. A disc information area is provided in a first recording layer which is one of the plurality of recording layers. The reproducing method includes reproducing the parameter and the format stored in the disc information area; And reproducing the information from the information recording medium based on the reproduced parameter and format.

Accordingly, the present invention described herein has the advantage of providing an information recording medium comprising at least two recording layers, a method and apparatus for recording information on the medium, and a method and apparatus for reproducing information from the medium. The time required for reproducing information from the disc information area is reduced.

These and other advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The invention is now described through examples illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 shows a recordable optical disc 100 comprising two recording layers in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

The optical disc 100 includes a first recording layer 104, a first substrate 105, an adhesive resin 103, a second substrate 101, and a second recording layer 102. Each of these substrates and recording layers is provided with a clamp hole 106. The optical disc 100 has a data area 115 for recording user data. The data area 115 is provided on the first recording layer 104 and the second recording layer 102. The data area 115 includes a data area 110 provided on the second recording layer 102 and a data area 114 provided on the first recording layer 104.

The second recording layer 102 includes a disc information area 107, a defect list area 108, a spare area 109, and a data area 110. The first recording layer 104 includes a disc information area 111, a defect list area 112, a spare area 113, and a data area 114. The first recording layer 104 and the second recording layer 102 are provided on one surface of the optical disc 100.

 Disc information area 107, defect list area 108, spare area 109, data area 110, disc information area 111, defect list area 112, spare area 113, and data area ( 114 is provided with a plurality of spiral or concentric tracks. Each track includes a plurality of sectors.

Here, the defect list area 108, the spare area 109, the data area 110, the defect list area 112, the spare area 113, and the data area 114 are recordable areas, in which tracks are defined. It is meandered into selected cycles. Referring to Fig. 2B, address information and the like can be recorded on a track by placing a high frequency component on the track. Alternatively, referring to FIG. 2C, address information and the like may be recorded in the track by replacing a segment corresponding to an integer multiple of a predetermined cycle with segments having different frequencies. Alternatively, referring to FIG. 2D, a segment corresponding to an integer multiple of a predetermined cycle may be replaced with a segment having a partially modulated pattern or a segment having a combination of frequencies. By forming the type of the shape of the track as shown in Figs. 2C and 2D, it is possible to obtain the continuity of the phase of the part which is a predetermined cycle, thereby making it easy to perform clock extraction.

The first substrate 105 and the second substrate 101 are made of polycarbonate resin or the like and are used to protect each of the first recording layer 104 and the second recording layer 102. The disc information area 107 is a reproduction only area, in which the parameters for accessing the first recording layer 104 and the second recording layer 102 and the first recording layer 104 and the second recording layer 102 are located. ) Formats. The disc information area 111 is also a reproduction only area, in which the parameters for accessing the first recording layer 104 and the second recording layer 102 and the first recording layer 104 and the second recording layer ( 102). The disc information area 111 records the same information as the disc information area 107. The optical disc 100 may have a disc information area 107 and a disc information area 111, or may have a disc information area 107 or a disc information area 111. The parameters stored in the disc information area 107 include second irradiation power information indicating the irradiation power of laser light suitable for the second recording layer 102 when the information is recorded / reproduced in the second recording layer 102, and the information includes: First irradiation power information indicating the irradiation power of laser light suitable for the first recording layer 104 when recorded / reproduced on the first recording layer 104. Parameters stored in the disc information area 111 are second irradiation power information indicating the irradiation power of the laser light suitable for the second recording layer 102 when the information is recorded / reproduced on the second recording layer 102, and the information. Is first irradiation power information indicating the irradiation power of laser light suitable for the first recording layer 104 when is recorded / reproduced on the first recording layer 104. The information is recorded on the medium by modulating the track radially in each cycle or every double cycle. An example of track modulation is shown in FIG. 2A.

In this embodiment, different types of track shapes can be read-only areas (e.g., disc information area 107, disc information area 111, etc.) and recordable areas (e.g., defect list area 108). ), Spare area 109, data area 110, defect list area 1121, spare area 113, data area 114, and the like. Accordingly, the optical disc recording / reproducing apparatus can determine whether or not the region in which the reproduction is currently performed is the disc information region before reproducing the address recorded in the track.

In multi-layer discs, the irradiation power of the laser light, which is used to reproduce the information from the layer furthest from the disk surface from which the information is read, may be greater than the irradiation power of the laser light used for the single-layer discs. Therefore, the irradiation power of laser light on single layer disks may be insufficient for reproducing an address from the optical disk 100. However, it may be sufficient to recognize the disc information based on the waveform of the tracking signal derived from the shape of the track groove.

3 shows a recording / reproducing apparatus 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The recording / reproducing apparatus 300 includes a spindle motor 302, an optical head 303, a laser light control circuit 304, a servo circuit 305, a reproduction binary circuit 306, a digital signal processing circuit 307, and a recording. Compensation circuit 308 and CPU 309.

The optical disc 100 (FIG. 1) is loaded into the recording / reproducing apparatus 300. FIG. The recording / reproducing apparatus 300 transmits the information to the host PC 310 and receives the information from the host PC.

The CPU 309 serving as a control section controls all operations in the recording / reproducing apparatus 300 in accordance with the built-in control program. As will be described later, the optical head 303 optically records information on one side of the optical disk 100. In addition, the optical head 303 can optically read information from the optical disk 100. The CPU 309 uses the optical head 303 to control recording and reproduction operations. The recording operation reproduces the parameters and formats stored in the disc information area, and includes recording user data to the optical disc 100 based on the reproduced parameters and formats. The reproducing operations include reproducing parameters and formats stored in the disc information area, and reproducing user data stored in the optical disc 100 based on the reproduced parameters and formats. The operation of the recording / reproducing apparatus 300 will now be described in detail.

The optical disc 100 has a configuration as described above with reference to FIG. 1. The spindle motor 302 is a motor for rotating the optical disk 100. The optical head 303 not only irradiates the optical disc 100 with laser light, but also converts the laser light 311 reflected from the optical disc 100 into an electronic signal and outputs a reproduction signal. The laser light control circuit 304 controls the power of the laser light output from the optical disk 303. These controls are performed in accordance with instructions from the CPU 309. The servo circuit 305 controls the position, focusing, tracking, and rotation of the spindle motor 302 of the optical head 303. The reproduction binary circuit 306 amplifies and binaries the reproduction signal acquired by the optical head 303 to generate a binary (data information is an additional signal, and information related to a disc information area or address is a subtraction signal). An internal PLL (not shown) is used to generate clocks synchronized with the binary signal.

The digital signal processing circuit 307 causes the binary signal to be a predetermined defense process or error correction process. When recording data, the recorded data is subjected to error correction code addition processing and predetermined demodulation processing to produce modulated data. The write compensation circuit 308 converts the modulated data into optically modulated data including a pulse train, and also converts the optically modulated data or data previously stored in the CPU 309 based on the reproduction signal of the disc information area. The pulse width and the like are adjusted to generate a write pulse signal suitable for pit formation. The CPU 309 controls all operations in the recording / reproducing apparatus 300. The host PC 310 includes a computer (not shown), an application (not shown), an operating system (not shown), and the like, and requests the recording / reproducing apparatus 300 to record or reproduce information. .

When the optical disc 100 is loaded into the recording / reproducing apparatus 300, the information is transmitted to the optical head 303 having a predetermined irradiation power in accordance with signals from the laser light control circuit 304 and the servo circuit 305. Is reproduced from the disc information area 111 using. In this case, the reproduced information is irradiation power information used to record the information (user data) on the first recording layer, the second recording layer and the like. When requested by the host PC 310, the CPU 309 sets the recording power in the laser light control circuit 304 to write information to the first recording layer 104, and sets the information in the data area 114. The optical head 303 is controlled for recording. Next, the CPU 309 sets the recording power for recording the information into the second recording layer 102 to the laser light control circuit 304, and the optical head 303 to record the information into the data area 110. ).

The disc information area 111 of the optical disc 100 includes parameters and formats (such as irradiation power information for recording) of the first recording layer 104 and the second recording layer 102, and thus the information. Is played back only once from the disc information area. Therefore, the time required for accessing the disc information area can be reduced compared to when the information is reproduced from the disc information area 107 to record the data to the second recording layer 102, while the information is stored in the data. It is reproduced from the disc information area 111 for recording in the first recording layer 104.

In this embodiment, the parameters and formats are recorded in the disc information area 107 and the disc information area 111, making it possible to obtain irradiation power information and the like from the laser. Therefore, even when information is reproduced from a layer different from the predetermined recording layer due to the irregular thickness of the adhesive resin 103 or the disturbance in the focusing control of the servo circuit 305, the information required for recording is reproduced and obtained from the layer. Can be.

In this embodiment, irradiation power information and the like are recorded in the disc information area 107 and the disc information area 111. Therefore, the time required before recording data is reduced, for example, by reproducing the information from the disc information area 111 or writing the data into the data area 110 when data is first recorded into the data area 114. It can be reduced by reproducing the information from the disc information area 107 when recording first.

In this embodiment, the optical disc 100 has two lasers, that is, the first recording layer 104 and the second recording layer 102. Alternatively, the optical disc 100 may have three or more recordable recording layers. In this embodiment, the recording formats of the information recorded in the disc information area 107 and the disc information area 111 are such that the track's manding pattern is modulated radially for each basic cycle and every double cycle. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 2B, information may be recorded in track manding in predetermined cycles by putting a high frequency component on the track. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 2C and 2D, information may be recorded in track manding in selected cycles by replacing one segment of the track with a segment having a different frequency or pattern. In particular, by using the same type of shape of the track groove, it is possible to produce the substrate more easily.

In this embodiment, the disc information area 107 and the disc information area 111 each have a plurality of spiral or concentric tracks. The information can be recorded in the form of pits and lands in the disc information area 107 and the disc information area 111. The information may be recorded in the disc information area in such a manner as to record it in the data area before shipment from the factory.

The disc information area 107 and the disc information area 111 are the defect list area 108, the space area 109, the data area 110, the defect list area 112, the spare area 113, and the data area ( 114) (or pit pitch in the radial direction) and a track pitch (or pit pitch in the radial direction) that is different. By expanding the track in the disc information area, the influence of the adjacent tracks can be reduced.

By extending the track pitch or pit pitch in the disc information area larger than the track pitch or pit pitch of the recordable area such as the data area, etc., information is reproduced from the disc information area even when using an optical disk device having an optical head of long laser wavelength. It is possible to. In this case, minimal information can be returned to the user. In other words, by extending the compatibility of the disc information area between different types of optical disc devices even when the information cannot be recorded due to the device specification, it can be clear why the recording cannot be performed.

When the spot of laser light is moved vertically from one layer to another, it is difficult to place the spot at the same radial position due to misalignment of the substrates attached together, misalignment of the clamp holes of the substrates, and the like. For example, when a movement is attempted from the 1000th track from the inner circumference of the first recording layer 104 to the 1000th track from the inner circumference of the second recording layer 102, an error of about ± 50 occurs. Therefore, when the spot of the laser light moves between layers successively at the boundary between the reproduction-only track and the recordable track, if the track of the target layer is discontinuous, the reproduction or recording operation becomes unstable and cannot be performed quickly.

Therefore, the track pitches of the disc information area 107 and the disc information area 111 are the defect list area 108, the spare area 109, the data area 110, the defect list area 112, and the spare area 113. And the track grooves of the disc information area 107 are continuously linked to the track grooves of the disc information area 107 subsequent to the disc information area 107, even when the track pitch of the data area 114 is different from the track pitch. (For example, the disc information area 107 is the defect list area 108 in the example of FIG. 1; the area may be the spare area 109 or the data area 110). Similarly, the track grooves of the disc information area 111 are successively linked to the track grooves of the area continuous to the disc information area 111 (for example, this area is the defect list area 112 in the example of FIG. 1). This area may be the spare area 113 or the data area 114). The transition of the track pitch is preferably completed within about 100 tracks in light of the data capacity. However, the pitches are preferably varied as smoothly as possible. In light of servo, the difference between the track pitch of the disc information area and the track pitch of the defect list area, the spare area or the data area is desirable in order to perform the reproduction quickly when the spot of the laser light is moved to the track of any layer. About 10% and up to about 15%.

In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2A, the disc information is recorded in the disc information area by modulating the track in the radial direction during each basic cycle and every double cycle. As shown in Figs. 2B, 2C, and 2D, the address information and the like can be obtained from the defect list area, the spare area by partially frequency-modulating the track mandrel at predetermined cycles, or by placing a high frequency component on the track. , And in the data area. In all or part of the variation area of the track pitches, the tracks may be formed in a modulation scheme not used in the disc information area, the defect list area, the spare area, and the data area, and may not be modulated or mandated. .

Thus, by changing the type of shape between the modulation method or the transition region of the track pitches and their continuous regions before and after this transition region, the recording / reproducing apparatus 300 can quickly recognize the transition region.

As mentioned above, discontinuities are removed from the boundary between regions with different track pitches. Therefore, it is possible to quickly start the processing in the target area in the optical disc having the discontinuous position, as compared with when the spot of the laser light is moved from the start position to the target area substantially spaced in the radial direction from the discontinuous portion (start position). Do.

In this embodiment, the disc information area is provided in the innermost circumference of the disc. Alternatively, the disc information area may be provided on the outermost periphery of the disc, or on the inner and outer peripheries of the disc.

In this embodiment, the disc information area 107 and the disc information area 111 include irradiation power information and the like for the first recording layer and the second recording layer, respectively. If the layer (s) on which playback is performed is specified, not all layers contain irradiation power information or the like for all the layers in the disc information areas.

As a reference layer, a recording layer of the optical disk 100 disposed from the disk surface of the optical disk 100 on which information is read out at a distance equal to the distance from the disk surface of the optical disk including a single recording layer on which information is read out is used. do. At least this reference layer may comprise a disc information area. Therefore, disc information for any layer of the optical disc 100 can be obtained using a recording / reproducing apparatus for performing recording and reproduction on the optical disc including a single recording layer, and thus recording / reproducing It is possible to simplify the structure of the device. The recording layer as the reference layer (e.g., the first recording layer 104) is predetermined from a plurality of recording layers.

It can be seen that the deterioration in the reproduction signal due to the slope increases with increasing distance from the disk surface. Therefore, the reference layer is arranged at a distance between the disk surface and the distance between the layers of the single-layer disk from the disk surface, and preferably the reference layer is the layer furthest from the disk surface. In this case, when the type of the shape of the area which is part of the recording layer other than the reference layer and is disposed at the same radial position as the radial position of the disc information area of the reference layer is the same as the type of the shape of the data area in which the user data is recorded, Can be the same regardless of the radial position. Therefore, no special detecting means for reproducing the information from the disc information area of the reference layer is required, so that the configuration of the recording / reproducing apparatus is simplified and it is easier to create a recording layer.

In particular, in a multi-layer disc including a plurality of recording layers, the type of grooves in the recording layer (s) other than the reference layer is the same as the type of grooves in the data area (only one type of shape of the grooves is used). Therefore, the production of the substrate is simplified.

When the reference layer includes a disc information area, the recording layer other than the reference layer is provided by providing an area that is part of a recording layer other than the reference layer and is disposed at the same radial position as the disc information area of the groove-free (ie flat structure) reference layer. It is possible to reduce the scattering of light in Therefore, the quality of the reproduction signal from the reference layer can be improved.

By providing the disc information area only in the reference layer, it is easy to reproduce the area around the radial position where the disc information area of the optical disc is provided to determine whether the recording layer currently being reproduced is the reference layer.

The disc information area is optimal for irradiation power information recommended for reproduction, irradiation power information recommended for recording, maximum irradiation power information, pulse width at recording, ratio between a plurality of combined irradiation powers at recording, and recording. Parameters related to a plurality of recording layers, such as a margin constant used to determine phosphorus irradiation power, may be stored.

The disc information area includes the disc name, disc size, version information, disc type of any layer (ie, an identifier indicating whether one layer is a recordable / playback layer or a play-only layer), and the number of all recordable layers. Formats associated with a plurality of recording layers, such as the number of all reproduction-only layers, and the number of all layers. The disc information area also includes an identifier indicating whether information in any laser can be copied, a clock information, an identifier indicating whether a burst cutting area (BCA) is provided for providing specific information after creation of the disc, physical Formats associated with a plurality of recording layers such as an address start number, a physical address end number, a logical address start number, a logical address end number, a shortest length, a writing speed, and the like.

By setting the parameters required for recording and reproduction in each recording layer, the degree of freedom in designing the disks can be improved. For example, when a plurality of recording layers are used to perform high density recording, variations in reflection in at least the layers through which light is transmitted should be considered. Therefore, a higher degree of precision design is required than when recording is performed in only one recording layer. In this case, for example, if the first recording layer 104 and the second recording layer 102 should be generated with the same irradiation power, it means that the optical disc 100 has difficulty in designing the recording layers. For example, the recording performance of the second recording layer 102 should be guaranteed under high transmission conditions. To avoid this, the irradiation power for reproduction is not limited, and instead, the irradiation power information is recorded in the disc information area. Therefore, the irradiation power can be increased when the reproduction is performed in the first recording layer 104. The degree of freedom in designing the recording film of the second recording layer 102 can be increased.

By recording the parameters required for recording and reproduction performed in any layer into the disc information area of the at least one recording layer, it is possible to quickly obtain a control method that is optimal for the entire disc.

The BCA is used to further classify discs having the same contents of the disc information areas. The classification is recorded in the form of a bar code after creating the discs. The BCA is provided in at least one layer, preferably in a reference layer. In this case, by providing a layer that does not include a BCA having a groove shape different from that of the reference layer, it is easy to recognize the reference layer by performing regeneration within the radius range of the reference layer to which the BCA is provided. In particular, in a recording layer other than the reference layer, a flat structure without a groove is provided in the radius range in which the BCA is provided, and thus it is possible to reduce light scattering in other layers. Moreover, the quality of the reproduction signal from the BCA can be improved and the generation of the substrate is facilitated.

Recording the information into the BCA requires irradiation with a laser having a power much higher than the power required when performing recording on the recordable area. Therefore, the characteristics of the recording film of the recordable area such as the defect list area, spare area, data area, etc. are likely to be impaired. Therefore, it is preferable that the recordable areas are free of variations of the recordable positions as well as not including the BCA. If the recordable area continues to the area where the BCA is provided, it is desirable to provide a buffer area in which the intended use is limited between these areas. In this case, the net volume of the recordable area is reduced.

In accordance with the above-described aspect, it is typically desirable to provide one area in which the BCA is provided at the end in the radial direction. It is not advisable to provide a BCA on the outskirts, because the information in the BCA is required not only in terms of capacity but also when operating. As shown in Fig. 8A, it is preferable to provide the BCA more inward than the disc information area. As described above, the disc is irradiated with high laser power when recording information to the BCA, and it is likely to damage data already recorded in the read only area. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 8B, for example, a portion of the buffer to which dummy data such as '0' is provided can be provided in the inner circumference of the disk information area (disk information area 801A), and in fact, the data can be provided on its circumference. It is recorded in the disc information area 801B.

In this embodiment, the disc information is recorded in the disc information area by modulating the tracks in the radial direction during each basic cycle and every double cycle. Alternatively, a modulation method different from the disc information area may be used in the area where the BCA is provided. Conversely, the tracks can be straight grooves without modulation or can be mandered in a predetermined cycle. Moreover, the track pitch can be different between the area where the BCA is provided and the disc information area. In this case, since the track groove may be damaged as the information is recorded in the BCA, the area including the BCA preferably has a larger track pitch.

As described above, it is possible to quickly distinguish the area where the BCA is provided from the disc information area by changing the track modulation method and the type of the shape of the track in the recording / reproducing apparatus.

In general, when the spot of laser light moves vertically from one layer to another, it is difficult to place the spot at the same radial position due to misalignment of the substrates attached together, misalignment of the clamp holes of the substrates, and the like. For example, when attempting to move from the 1000th track from the inner circumference of the first recording layer 104 to the 1000th track from the inner circumference of the second recording layer 102, an error of about ± 50 tracks occurs. Therefore, when the spot of the laser light is moved between layers in the vicinity of the boundary between the reproduction-only track and the recordable track, if the track on the target layer is discontinuous, the reproduction operation becomes unstable and cannot be performed quickly. Therefore, even when the area where the BCA is provided and the disc information area have different track pitches, it is preferable that these areas be linked together continuously. Moreover, the track pitches are preferably changed appropriately.

It is preferable that the irradiation power information for reproduction precedes the irradiation power information for recording. In this case, if the request from the host PC is reproduction, data can be reproduced quickly if the irradiation power information for recording is not reproduced.

The parameters and formats recorded in the disc information area required for performing recording and playback on the analyzer are determined from the defect list area 108, the spare area 109, the data area 110, the decision list area 112, and the spare. It can be recorded in tracks in the region 113 and the data region 114. Since such information is recorded on any track, for example, when a request for reproduction is received from the host PC 310, the minimum required information for reproduction such as irradiation power or the like is at the irradiation power for reproduction. The data is reproduced from the disc information area which does not have the risk of deleting user data. Next, the remaining information, for example irradiation power information for the recording, which is expected to be used for the next time a request for recording is received, etc., is reproduced from the tracks in the data area during the rotation waiting time. This makes it possible to reproduce the data quickly.

The parameters and formats can be reproduced by the same method used for reproducing address information into each area or by a method different from the method for reproducing address information.

The parameters and formats recorded in the disc information area include the defect list area 108, the spare area 109, the data area 110, the decision list area 112, the spare area 113, the data area 114, and the like. Not all can be recorded. For example, when the parameters and formats are not recorded in the data area 114, the recording / reproducing apparatus has the same track shape as that of the other areas because the parameter or format does not exist. In addition, the data area 114 can be recognized as the data area.

Parameters and formats for all layers are in the tracks of the defect list area 108, the spare area 109, the data area 110, the decision list area 112, the spare area 113 and the data area 114. It may not be recorded. Each layer may contain only its own parameters and formats. Each layer may further contain the minimum necessary information for the other layers in addition to their own parameters and formats. Since information for other layers is not recorded, for example, more copies of the address information can be recorded. The disk substrate can be easily created by including information on the other layers to be combined inwardly.

Next, the address numbers will be described with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4D and 5A to 5D. 4A to 4D show examples of tracks, recording / playback directions and address numbers. 4A shows a pattern of spiral grooves of the first recording layer 104. 4B shows a pattern of spiral grooves of the second recording layer 102. 4C shows the recording / reproducing directions of the optical disc 100. 4D shows the assignment of address numbers. When the optical disc 100 is rotated, the optical header 303 is moved outward along the track 401 or 402 in the inner circumference. When data is recorded sequentially, for example, recording is performed from the innermost to outermost circumference of the data area 114, and then to the outermost to outermost circumference of the data area 110. Physical address numbers 403 and logical address numbers 404 in each recording layer are incremented in the recording / reproducing directions. The physical address number 403 may not start from zero and may not be continuous at the boundary between the first and second layers.

For example, layer numbers may be included in physical address number 403 and may be located on top of physical address number 403. An ever increasing logical address number 404 is assigned to all data areas on the disk. In the data area 114 of the first layer, the logical address number 404 is zero in the innermost circumference and incremented by one toward the outermost circumference. In the data area 110 of the second layer, the logical address number 404 starts at the maximum number of first layers plus one, and increases by one from the innermost to the outer periphery. Reference numerals 405 and 406 denote the lead-out areas (not shown in FIG. 1), which means that the optical header 303 may track the track even if the optical header 303 overruns the data area. Is provided to follow.

As shown in FIGS. 4A-4D, it is easier to produce substrates with the same spiral direction than substrates with different spiral directions.

5A to 5D show tracks, recording / reproducing directions, and address numbers. 5A shows a pattern of spiral grooves of the first recording layer 104. 5B shows a pattern of spiral grooves of the second recording layer 102. 5C shows the recording / reproducing directions of the optical disc 100. 5D shows the assignment of address numbers. When the optical disc 100 is rotated, the optical header 303 is moved from the inner circumference on the first recording layer 104 to the outer circumference along the track 502, and the track 501 on the outer circumference on the second recording layer 102. Will be moved inward. When data is recorded sequentially, for example, recording is performed from the innermost to outermost circumference of the data area 114, and then to the outermost to innermost circumference of the data area 110. Physical address numbers 503 and logical address numbers 504 in each recording layer are incremented in the recording / reproducing directions. Note that the second layer spiral has a direction opposite to that of the first layer spiral. Thus, the relationship between the address number and the radius is reversed. Within the data area 114 of the first layer, the logical address number 504 is zero in the innermost and incremented by one toward the outer circumference. In the data area 110 of the second layer, the logical address number 504 is incremented by one from the outermost circumference to the inner circumference, starting at the maximum number of first layers plus one. Reference numerals 505 and 506 denote lead-out areas (not shown in FIG. 1), which are provided to follow the track even when the optical head 303 overruns the data area.

As shown in Figs. 5A to 5D, especially when recording is performed from the innermost to outermost circumference of the data area 114, and then to the outermost circumference of the data area 110, especially all recording layers- When specific parameters and format information are recorded together in a single disc information area, the optical head 303 does not need to return to the disc information area of the outermost circumference.

Similarly, also, when reproduction is performed only from the innermost to outermost circumference of the data area 114 and then to the outermost circumference of the data area 110, in particular, all recordings are performed. If the layer-specific parameter format information is recorded together in a single disc information area, the optical head 303 does not need to return to the disc information area of the outermost circumference.

6A shows the layout of the recording layer-specific parameters in the disc information areas 107 and 111. In FIG. 6A, # 1 indicates at least one parameter and format for the first recording layer 104, and # 2 indicates at least one parameter and format for the second recording layer 102. In FIG. FIG. 6A shows the layout of the disc information areas 601 to 603 and 609 in a two-layer disc. The disc information areas 601 to 603 and 609 correspond to the disc information areas 107 and 111. The information layout of the disc information area 604 is a single-layer disc. Note that the layout rules of the disc information areas 601 to 603 and 609 in the two-layer disc can be applied to the multilayer disc.

In the disc information areas 601 to 603 and 609, a plurality of settings of the recording layer-specific parameter and format information are recorded. Thus, by recording a plurality of settings, even if playback cannot be performed on one area due to graininess or dust, desired information can be reproduced and obtained from another area.

The area length in which the parameters and formats are recorded is preferably the same regardless of the layer to which the parameters and formats are related. In this case, the starting position of the information can be designated, thereby reducing the waiting time, or making it unnecessary to search the starting position for each recording layer for each setting. Therefore, the configuration of the recording / reproducing apparatus can be simplified. For example, in the disc information area, the area length in which the parameters and formats for the first recording layer 104 are stored is equal to the area length in which the parameters and formats for the second recording layer 102 are stored.

In the disc information area 601, setting of parameters and format information for all recording layers is repeated four times. For example, data "0" is recorded in the remaining area 605 in the disc information area 601. If recording and reproduction are performed from the inner circumference to the outer circumference by recording the parameters and formats for the first recording layer 104 as the reference layer (for example, the reference layer as the innermost layer), the parameters for the layer to be reproduced first And formats can be obtained quickly, and it is possible to quickly correct the irradiation power if the irradiation power is inadequate for the layer to be reproduced first, storing parameters and formats relating to the first recording layer 104 in the disc information area. The address assigned to the area is smaller than the address assigned to the area storing parameters and formats relating to the second recording layer 102 in the disc information area, in this case to the first recording layer 104 in the disc format area. An address assigned to an area for storing the irradiation power information relating to the irradiation power information stores the irradiation power information for the second recording layer 102 in the disc information area. It is smaller than an address assigned to the area. This feature, for example, it is possible to minimize excessive altitude data corruption due to the irradiation power.

Similarly, by recording information on the recording layer to be reproduced first in the outermost circumference, when the reproduction is performed from the outer circumference to the inner circumference, it is possible to quickly correct the irradiation power if the irradiation power is inappropriate for the layer to be reproduced first. Moreover, it is possible to quickly reproduce information from all recording layers as compared with 602 described below.

When the amount of information of the parameters and formats with respect to the first recording layer 104 and the second recording layer 102 is small, the parameters and formats with respect to the first recording layer 104 and the second recording layer 102 are reduced. Relevant parameters and formats may be stored in an area with the same address assigned to the disc information area 107. It is assumed that addresses are assigned in the first recording layer 104 along the circumferential direction from the inner circumference to the outer circumference of the optical disc 100. In this case, the area in which the parameters and formats for the first recording layer 104 are in the area with the same address assigned in the disc information area 107 is the disc for the parameters and formats for the second recording layer 102. It is provided in the inner circumference larger than the area in the area having the same address assigned in the information area 107. Alternatively, it is assumed that an address is assigned in the first recording layer 104 along the circumferential direction from the outer circumference to the inner circumference of the optical disc 100. In this case, the area in which the parameters and formats for the first recording layer 104 are in the area with the same address assigned in the disc information area 107 is the disc for the parameters and formats for the second recording layer 102. It is provided on the outer periphery larger than the area in the area with the same address assigned in the information area 107.

The second recording layer 102 is included in the disc information area 107, and an address assigned to an area in which parameters and formats relating to the second recording layer 102 are stored is a parameter relating to the first recording layer 104. And formats may be smaller than the address assigned to the area where it is stored. Thus, even if the reproduction is performed on the second recording layer 102 earlier than on the first recording layer 104, Parameters and formats relating to the second recording layer 102 can be obtained quickly. As a result, even when the irradiation power of the laser light irradiated to the second recording layer 102 is inappropriate, the irradiation power can be corrected quickly.

Information indicating the amount of net data in the disc information area 601 excluding the area 605 (for example, expressed in byte units) may be recorded near the innermost circumference of the disc information area 601. Thus, the recording / reproducing apparatus can quickly perform subsequent processing without reproducing unnecessary data. The net data amount can vary depending on the recording layer. Alternatively, the net data amount can be recorded near the innermost circumference of the disc information area of each recording layer.

In the disc information area 601, the setting of information for all recording layers is repeated four times. The present invention is not limited thereto. Information indicating the number of repetitions can be recorded near the innermost circumference of the disc information area 601. Thereby, the recording / reproducing apparatus can quickly perform subsequent processing without reproducing unnecessary data.

In the disc information area 602, setting of parameters and format information for each recording layer is repeated four times. For example, data "0" is recorded in the remaining area 606 in the disc information area 601. In this case, by recording the information on the recording layer to be reproduced first in the inner circumference, it is possible to quickly correct the irradiation power if the irradiation power is unsuitable for the layer to be reproduced first. In this case, an address assigned to an area storing parameters and formats relating to the first recording layer 104 in the disc information area is an area storing parameters and formats relating to the second recording layer 102 in the disc information area. It is smaller than the address assigned to. Since the layout of the information in the disc information area 604 which is a single layer disc is the same as the layout of the information in the inner circumference of the disc information area 602, the optical disc having the same form as that added to the single layer optical disc is reproduced. It is possible to play the disc 100. Thus, it is possible to simplify the reproduction / recording apparatus.

Information representing the amount of net data in the disc information area 602 excluding the area 606 (for example, expressed in byte units) may be recorded near the innermost circumference of the disc information area 602. Thus, the recording / reproducing apparatus can quickly perform subsequent processing without reproducing unnecessary data. The net data amount can vary depending on the recording layer. Alternatively, the net data amount can be recorded near the innermost circumference of the disc information area of each recording layer.

In the disc information area 603, setting of information for each recording layer is repeated four times. The present invention is not limited thereto. Information indicating the number of repetitions can be recorded near the innermost circumference of the disc information area 602. Thereby, the recording / reproducing apparatus can quickly perform subsequent processing without reproducing unnecessary data. The number of repetitions can vary depending on the recording layer. The number of repetitions of setting of information for each recording layer can be recorded in the vicinity of the innermost circumference of the disc information area 602.

In the disc information area 603, parameter and format information for recording and reproduction are divided into respective elements. Each specific element is collected for all recording layers. Such collection is recorded as a set of information. As for the method for repeating, as in the disc information area 601, the setting of the information in which the complete setting of the elements is arranged is repeated a plurality of times, or alternatively, as in the disc information area 602, the element is After being written a plurality of times, another element is recorded a plurality of times.

Data "0" is recorded in the remaining area 607 in the disc information area 603. By recording the information on the recording layer to be reproduced first in the innermost circumference, it is possible to quickly correct the irradiation power if the irradiation power is unsuitable for the layer to be reproduced first.

Information indicating the amount of net data in the disc information area 603 excluding the area 607 (for example, expressed in byte units) may be recorded near the innermost circumference of the disc information area 603. Thus, the recording / reproducing apparatus can quickly perform subsequent processing without reproducing unnecessary data.

When the optical head 203 is moved to the disc information area by the servo circuit 205 by recording predetermined data in the remaining part of the disc information areas 601 to 604 on which parameters and format information are recorded, the disc information area Can be quickly recognized by playing back predetermined data.

In the disc information areas 601 to 603, as shown in Figs. 4D and 5D, information for each recording layer is recorded in the direction in which address numbers are increased. For example, as shown in Fig. 5, when the spiral directions are opposite to each other, the physical arrangement of information is reversed between the first recording layer and the second recording layer. For example, recording is performed on the first recording layer from the innermost part of the disc information area, while recording is performed on the second recording layer from the outermost part of the disc information area. The present invention is not limited thereto. Alternatively, recording is performed in both the first recording layer and the second recording layer from the innermost part of the disc.

In the disc information areas 601 to 603, parameter and format information or disc information common to the recording layers can be recorded before recording specific information for each layer. According to such a method, parameters and formats are recorded in the disc information area 609. By using a single setting of common items, the disc information area can be reduced in proportion as the number of layers is increased. As in Fig. 6A, by recording common items a plurality of times similar to information # 1 and # 2, information can be reproduced and obtained from another area even if predetermined information is not reproduced from the area due to graininess or dust. .

The area length for recording the common items of the recording layers is preferably a multiple of the area length for recording the information of each recording layer. Thus, even if the number of layers or the amount of common items change, the recording / reproducing apparatus is easy to predict the starting position of the information, thereby reducing the waiting time and simplifying the configuration of the reproducing / recording apparatus.

6B shows an example of modification of the disc information area 601, such as the disc information areas 1101, 1102, 1103 and 1104. As shown in FIG. The disk information regions 1101, 1102, 1103, and 1104 include a plurality of dummy regions 1100.

In the disc information area 1101, settings of parameters and format information for all recording layers are repeatedly recorded, and a dummy area is provided between each areas in which the setting of information is recorded. Therefore, by detecting the dummy area, it can be recognized that the information # 1 is recorded in the area immediately after the dummy area, or the information # 2 is recorded in the area immediately before the dummy area. Therefore, it is no longer necessary to provide an identifier indicating information # 1 or # 2, whereby the configuration of the recording / reproducing apparatus can be simplified and the processing time can be reduced.

Within the dummy area, the same contents as those recorded in the remaining area 1105 in the disc information area (eg, data "0") may be recorded, or alternatively, different contents may be recorded. By recording different contents, it can be clearly recognized that information # 1 can be recorded in the area immediately before the dummy area, or information # 2 can be recorded immediately before the dummy area. Even when the same contents are recorded, the dummy can be clearly distinguished from the area 1105 causing the same effect by changing the recording length.

By recording information common to the information # 1 and # 2 in the dummy area shown in the disc information area 609, the information # 1 is recorded in the area immediately before the dummy area, or the information # 2 is recorded immediately before the dummy area. Can be clearly recognized and common information is easily obtained.

As shown in the disc information area 1102, the dummy area 1100 may be continuous to the area 1106, thereby recognizing that information # 2 is recorded in at least one area immediately before the dummy area 1100. have. Note that only the final dummy area in the disc information area 1102 can include recorded contents different from the contents of other dummy areas. In this case, the end of the recording repetition can be clarified.

The length of the dummy area may be an integer multiple of the area length in which the settings of the information # 1 and the information # 2 are recorded as shown in the disc information area 1103. Thus, even if the number of layers is different, it is possible to easily predict the starting position of the information in each recording layer, thereby reducing the waiting time and simplifying the configuration of the reproduction apparatus.

As shown in the disc information area 1104, the dummy area 1100 can be recorded before the area in which information # 1 and information # 2 are recorded first. Therefore, it can be recognized that information # 1 is recorded in at least one area immediately after the dummy area. Note that only the first dummy area in the disc information area 1104 may have different contents from those of other dummy areas. Thus, the start of recording repetition can be made clear.

The setting of the second dummy area is not limited to the above-described method as long as the disc information area can be distinguished from the area immediately before the disc information area. For example, the area immediately before the disc information area may be recognized based on a method for overlaying information over the track shape or on the difference in track shape.

Note that the dummy data shown in FIG. 6B which causes substantially the same effect as that applied to the disc information area 601 can be used in the disc information area 602.

As described above, the time required for recording and reproducing data from a plurality of layers by recording recording layer-specific parameter and format information required for performing recording and reproduction on each recording layer in a single disc information area. Can be reduced as compared with when information is reproduced from a plurality of disc information areas provided in the plurality of layers.

In this embodiment, the disc information area is mainly described. In addition, when the defect list area and the spare area are recorded, the same effect is obtained by recording the information for each recording layer in a single layer.

In this embodiment, information layer-specific parameters and format information required for performing recording and reproduction on each recording layer are recorded in a single disc information area. Alternatively, all such information may not be recorded in a single disc information area, but may be dividedly recorded in a plurality of disc information areas. Alternatively, the predetermined essential information item (s) for each recording layer may be recorded in a single disc information area, while other items may be recorded in the disc information area of each layer.

The parameters and formats recorded in the disc information area are determined according to the layouts shown in Figs. 6A and 6B, the defect list area 108, the spare area 109, the data area 110, the decision list area 112, and the spare. Note that the area 113 and the data area 114 can be recorded.

Next, a rewritable optical disc 900 according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

The optical disc 900 of FIG. 9 includes a first substrate 905, a first recording layer 904, an adhesive resin 903, a second recording layer 902, and a second substrate 901. Each substrate and each recording layer is provided with a clamp hole 906. The optical disc 900 includes a data area 920 for recording user data. The data area 920 is provided in both the first recording layer 904 and the second recording layer 902. The data area 912, which is part of the data area 920, is provided in the second recording layer 902, and the data area 918, which is another part of the data area 920, is provided in the first recording layer 904. .

The second recording layer 902 includes a disc information area 907, a first defect list area 908, a test recording layer 909, a second defect list area 910, a spare area 911, and a data area 912. ).

The first recording layer 904 includes a disc information area 913, a first defect list area 914, a test recording layer 915, a second defect list area 916, a spare area 917, and a data area 918. ).

The first recording layer 904 and the second recording layer 902 are provided on the cross section of the optical disk 900.

The same data is preferably recorded in the first defect list area and the second defect list area in each recording layer. The same data can be recorded in the defect list area in all recording layers. Thereby, during recording or reproduction, when a spot of laser light is moved between recording layers, the time required for reproduction of the defect list area in the destination layer can be saved.

The test recording area 909 functions as an adjustment area for performing test recording to adjust the recording power of laser light for recording information in the data area 912. Similarly, the test recording area 915 functions as an adjusting area for performing test recording to adjust the recording power of laser light for recording information in the data area 918. As in this embodiment, by providing a test recording area in each recording layer, it is possible to determine appropriate recording conditions for each recording layer.

If the spot of laser light is shifted vertically from one layer to another, it is difficult to place the spot at the same radial position due to misalignment of the substrates attached together, misalignment of the clamp holes of the substrates, and the like. For example, attempts to move from the 1000th track from the inner circumference of the first recording layer 904 to the 1000th track from the inner circumference of the second recording layer 902 result in errors of about ± 50 tracks.

In the test write area, write states are determined by performing test write under unstable servo write states. In this case, there is a risk of tracking that is displaced during writing, or the danger of laser light coming into focus over an unintentional layer. In order to avoid these risks, a buffer area not intended to be used is preferably provided continuously before and after the test recording area of each recording layer. Further, as shown in Fig. 9, a plurality of defect list areas are preferably provided before and after the test recording layer. By providing the defect list areas before and after the test recording area of each recording layer, the risk of damaging all the data in the defect list area can be reduced even if the tracking is displaced while recording the data. In addition, if the focus is displaced during recording of information for a specific recording layer, the risk of damaging all data in the defect list area of another recording layer can be reduced.

In this embodiment, the defect list area is provided only in the inner circumferential portion of each recording layer. From the same point of view, a defect list area may be provided in the outer circumferential portion. By providing the outer circumferential portion, it is possible to prevent the data in the defect list area due to the test recording from being damaged.

Note that parameter and format information specific to each recording layer can be recorded together in a single disc information area. Alternatively, each recording layer may include parameter and format information separately.

Test recording areas in each recording layer may be spaced at different radial positions shown in FIG. 10 shows an optical disk 100, which is a modification of the optical disk 900, which includes a first substrate 1005, a first recording layer 1004, an adhesive layer 1003, a second recording layer 1002, and The second substrate 1001 is included.

The second substrate 1001, the second recording layer 1002, the adhesive layer 1003, the first recording layer 1004, and the first substrate 1005 include the second substrate 901, the second recording layer 902, Corresponds to the adhesive layer 903, the first recording layer 904, and the first substrate 905, respectively. The second recording layer 1002 and the first recording layer 1004 have the same components as the components of the second recording layer 902 and the first recording layer 904 except that the test recording areas are in different positions. Each of them is provided. The second recording layer 1002 includes a test recording area 1008. The first recording layer 1004 includes a test recording area 1007.

Reference numeral 1009 denotes incident light. Reference numeral 1010 denotes light reflected from the second recording layer 1002. Reference numeral 1011 denotes light transmitted through the second recording layer. Reference numeral 1012 denotes light reflected from the first recording layer 1004. Reference numeral 1013 denotes light transmitted through the second recording layer 1002. These order numbers represent the paths of the laser light. When reproduction is performed on the second recording layer 1002, the reflected light 1010 is the main reproduction light and the transmitted light 1013 is unnecessary scattered light. When reproduction is performed on the first recording layer 1004, the transmitted light 1013 is the main reproduction light and the reflected light 1010 is unnecessary scattered light.

Assume that a test recording area for determining the irradiation power of laser light for recording data in the recording layer 1004 is provided at the position of the area 1006. In this case, if the test recording area 1008 is deteriorated or damaged (for example, due to recording repetition), the transmission coefficient or reflection coefficient of the second recording layer 1002 is changed to transmit the transmitted light 1011, reflected Causes changes in light 1010 and transmitted light 1013. Therefore, unlike when the test recording area 1008 is normal, the value of the irradiation light obtained by using the test recording area 1006 is out of the correct irradiation power.

As shown in FIG. 10, by providing the test recording area 1007 and the test recording area 1008 at different radial positions of the optical disc 1000, the first recording even if the test recording area 1008 is deteriorated or damaged. It is possible to accurately determine the value of the irradiation power of the laser light suitable for the layer 1004.

As described above, the arrangement of test recording areas of each recording layer at different radial positions is a write-once-read-many optical disc that can be written once by the optical disc 100 only once. In particular, it is very effective when the optical disk has an irreversible recording film whose optical properties are changed by recording. The present invention is applied to the optical disk which can be written once.

In the present invention, test recording areas in each recording layer are provided at different radial positions. Alternatively, in addition to the test recording area, for example, an area for managing a list of all data recorded in the optical disc, in which a predetermined number of times larger than the number of repetitions of the recording in the area where regular user data is recorded is repeatedly recorded, and the like. May be located at different radial positions in each recording layer. By providing such regions at different positions, it is possible to prevent deterioration of the region in one layer from affecting the region in another layer, whereby recording and playback can be performed on the region in another layer.

In this embodiment, the test recording area 1007 is provided on the outer circumferential side with respect to the radial direction. Alternatively, the test recording area 1008 may be provided on the outer circumferential side with respect to the radial direction. For example, in the case of the recording / reproducing directions as shown in Fig. 5C, the test recording area 1007 can be used from the inner circumferential side, while the recording area 1008 can be used from the outer circumferential side. In this case, when the test recording area 1008 is used, the probability that the outermost circumference side of the test recording area 1007 is not used is higher than when it is used. Therefore, the influence of the deterioration of the test recording area 1007 on the test recording area 1008 can be further reduced. The effect on an optical disc that can be written only once is very large.

In this embodiment, the test recording area is provided only on the inner circumferential side. Alternatively, it may be provided on the outer circumferential side.

The present invention is not limited to the optical disc having a recordable recording layer. When the optical disc having a plurality of reproduction-only recording layers has a disc information area, the same effect according to the present invention can be obtained.

In this embodiment, recording is performed on two layers, namely, the first recording layer and the second recording layer. When the present invention can be applied to a single layer disc, the same effect can be obtained.

In this embodiment, a rewritable optical disc has been mainly described. The present invention can be applied to a recordable optical disc in which recording can be performed once or several times and the same effect can be obtained.

According to the optical disc of the present invention, parameters and formats specific to each recording layer required for performing recording and reproduction on the recording layer are recorded together in a single disc information area. With this feature, the parameters and formats for each recording layer can be reproduced from a single disc information area, thereby making it possible to reduce the time required for recording and reproducing data for a plurality of recording layers.

Various other modifications are apparent to those skilled in the art, and such modifications can be readily made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited to the description set forth herein, but rather is to be construed broadly.

1 illustrates an optical disk according to an embodiment of the present invention.

2A illustrates a track provided on a recording layer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

2B illustrates a track provided in a recording layer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

2C illustrates a track provided in a recording layer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2D illustrates a track provided in a recording layer according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

3 shows a recording / reproducing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention;

4A illustrates a track in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

4B illustrates a track according to one embodiment of the present invention.

4C illustrates a recording / reproducing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

4D is a diagram showing designation of an address number in a recording layer according to one embodiment of the present invention;

5A illustrates a track according to one embodiment of the present invention.

5B illustrates a track according to one embodiment of the present invention.

5C is a diagram showing a recording / reproducing direction according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5D illustrates assigning an address number to a recording layer according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

6A is a diagram showing an information layout of a disc information area.

Fig. 6B is a diagram showing the information layout of the disc information area.

7 illustrates an optical disc.

8A illustrates an optical disk according to an embodiment of the present invention.

8B illustrates an optical disc according to one embodiment of the present invention.

9 illustrates an optical disk according to an embodiment of the present invention.

10 illustrates an optical disk according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Claims (4)

An information recording medium having a plurality of recording layers, Each of the plurality of recording layers has a first area including a disc information area in which disc information is stored, and a second area including a data area for recording user data, The first track pitch in the first region and the second track pitch in the second region are different, Each of the plurality of recording layers further has a track pitch variation region between a first track in the first area and a second track in the second area. A reproduction apparatus for reproducing the information recording medium according to claim 1. A recording apparatus for recording on the information recording medium according to claim 1. A manufacturing method for manufacturing the information recording medium according to claim 1, a program for executing the manufacturing method, a manufacturing facility for realizing the manufacturing method, or a storage medium for storing the program.

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