Encoding/decoding fields of predetermined field polarity apparatus and method

摘要

A moving picture is encoded into groups of video image pictures with each frame composed of fields of different field polarities including a predetermined field polarity. The polarity of the first field of a series of frames to be encoded into a respective group of image pictures is set to the predetermined field polarity. Alternatively, the polarity of the first field of the series of frames may be identified by data transmitted with the encoded moving picture. The encoded moving picture is decoded at a decode start time designated when the first field in each respective group of image pictures is of the predetermined field polarity. Alternatively, the decode start time is generated on the basis of the data designating the field polarity of the first field. A computer-readable medium provides a medium on which the encoded moving picture is recorded and directs a computer to decode the encoded moving picture when the first image picture in each respective group of image pictures is an encoded field of the predetermined field polarity or, alternatively, when the field read from the medium is the first field as designated by designating data. <IMAGE>