U.S. patent application number 11/951227 was filed with the patent office on 2008-04-24 for personal digital assistant apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to Hitachi, Ltd.. Invention is credited to Makoto Katagishi, Yutaka Matsunobu.
Application Number | 20080095516 11/951227 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35062042 |
Filed Date | 2008-04-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080095516 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Katagishi; Makoto ; et
al. |
April 24, 2008 |
Personal Digital Assistant Apparatus
Abstract
A personal digital assistant (PDA) apparatus and a recording and
reproduction apparatus improved in convenience in use by reflecting
the viewing situation in the PDA into the recording and
reproduction apparatus are provided. The PDA includes a reception
unit for perceiving a broadcast signal including program
information, a communication unit for communicating with the
recording and reproduction apparatus, which records/reproduces a
broadcast signal, a display unit for displaying the program
information and video information included in the broadcast signal,
a storage unit for storing viewing history of a received and
displayed video signal, and an operation unit for operating viewing
in the apparatus. Based on viewing history stored in the storage
unit, an order signal is sent to the recording and reproduction
apparatus via the communication unit to order reproduction of
information relating to the viewing history from among information
stored in the recording and reproduction apparatus.
Inventors: |
Katagishi; Makoto;
(Chigasaki, JP) ; Matsunobu; Yutaka; (Hitachiota,
JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
TOWNSEND AND TOWNSEND AND CREW, LLP
TWO EMBARCADERO CENTER
EIGHTH FLOOR
SAN FRANCISCO
CA
94111-3834
US
|
Assignee: |
Hitachi, Ltd.
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
35062042 |
Appl. No.: |
11/951227 |
Filed: |
December 5, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10892907 |
Jul 15, 2004 |
|
|
|
11951227 |
Dec 5, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
386/291 ;
348/E5.093; 348/E5.103; 348/E5.105; 348/E5.108; 386/299;
386/E5.001 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 5/38 20130101; H04N
5/76 20130101; H04N 5/44582 20130101; H04N 21/4135 20130101; H04N
21/42228 20130101; H04N 21/43637 20130101; H04N 2005/4441 20130101;
H04N 21/47 20130101; H04N 21/4126 20130101; H04N 21/44204 20130101;
H04N 21/41407 20130101; H04N 21/42204 20130101; H04N 5/4401
20130101; H04N 21/426 20130101; H04N 5/44543 20130101; H04N
21/47214 20130101; H04N 5/4403 20130101; H04N 5/765 20130101; H04N
21/4331 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
386/095 |
International
Class: |
H04N 5/91 20060101
H04N005/91 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 30, 2004 |
JP |
2004-100170 |
Claims
1. A video processing device able to communicate with a portable
terminal, comprising: a receiver which receives specification
information and time information from the portable terminal, the
specification information specifies video information and the time
information indicates a time when the portable terminal displayed
the video information; a acquisition unit which acquires video
information related to the specification information received by
the receiver; a reproducer which reproduces the video information
acquired by the acquisition unit; an output unit which outputs the
video information reproduced by the reproducer to an external
display apparatus; a controller which controls the external display
apparatus so as to display log information indicating the time when
the portable terminal displayed the video information in addition
to a time frame representing a time ranging from a start of the
video information and a end of the video information.
2. The video processing device according to claim 1, wherein the
video information is a program content.
3. The video processing device according to claim 1, wherein the
log information is displayed on the time frame with a color being
changed.
4. The video processing device according to claim 1, further
comprising a memory which stores a plurality of video information,
wherein the acquisition unit acquires the video information related
to the specification information from the memory.
5. A video processing device able to communicate with a portable
terminal, comprising: a receiver which receives specification
information and time information from the portable terminal, the
specification information specifies a program content and the time
information indicates a time when a user viewed the program content
on the portable terminal; an acquisition unit which acquires
program content related to the specification information received
by the receiver; a reproducer which reproduces the program content
acquired by the acquisition unit; an output unit which outputs the
program content reproduced by the reproducer to an external display
apparatus; a controller which controls the external display
apparatus so as to display log information indicating the time when
the user viewed the program content on the portable terminal in
addition to a time frame representing a time ranging from a start
of the program content and an end of the program content.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a personal digital
assistant (PDA) apparatus or a portable information terminal
apparatus and a recording and reproduction apparatus. In
particular, the present invention relates to a personal digital
assistant apparatus or a portable information terminal apparatus
used by the user to listen to information and a recording and
reproduction apparatus that can communicate with the personal
digital assistant apparatus.
[0002] For example, in JP-A-2003-348510, a mobile terminal having a
video recording and reproduction function capable of recording
broadcast contents even during talking and later reproducing the
recorded contents in the mobile terminal is disclosed.
[0003] In JP-A-2002-57953, a remote setting system in a television
broadcast receiver capable of conducting various kinds of setting
in the television broadcast receiver installed in one's house by
using a terminal in a remote place is disclosed.
[0004] In JP-A-2003-304477, a video and audio reproducer capable of
automatically reproducing a continuation of the same program even
in a device other than a device (PDA) that is currently reproducing
contents by delivering a memory card having history information
recorded thereon from the PDA to an HDD recording and reproduction
apparatus is disclosed.
[0005] Typically, in the case where a TV (television) broadcast is
viewed, the user's taste for viewing differs depending upon whether
a personal digital assistant apparatus is used or a TV receiver or
a video recording and reproducing apparatus installed in one's own
home is used. For example, when viewing a program on a personal
digital assistant apparatus while one is out, there is a limit in
size of a display screen because of a casing size determined by
considering the portability, and consequently promptly reporting
programs such as news and sports relay broadcasts are viewed rather
than detailed forceful programs in many cases. On the other hand,
as for viewing using an indoor TV receiver or video recording and
reproduction apparatus, there is no limit in screen size and there
is a degree of freedom in installation, and consequently clear
forceful images and voices are enjoyed on a large screen in many
cases.
[0006] Spread of TV broadcast viewing using a personal digital
assistant causes a desire to view a program one viewed while being
out, again on a large screen after coming home, or a desire to view
a part of a program during spare time while one is out and view a
continuation of the program, parts located before and after the
viewed part, or the whole program by using an indoor video
recording and reproduction apparatus after coming home.
[0007] By the way, in general, the situation of viewing conducted
by using a personal digital assistant is not reflected in a TV
receiver or a video recording and reproduction apparatus installed
indoors (in one's house). As for information as to how far one
viewed a program, i.e., from which scene in the program one desires
to view, therefore, the user must rely on the user's own
memory.
[0008] In JP-A-2003-348510 and JP-A-2002-57953, a method of viewing
and conducting video recording and reproducing by using a mobile
terminal alone is shown. However, a technique for improving the
convenience in use in cooperation with an external device such as a
video recording and reproducing apparatus is not disclosed. A
terminal for conducting remote control on video recording setting
in the video recording and reproduction apparatus and setting
alteration in a TV receiver is described. However, convenience in
use in the case where a TV broadcast or the like is received by a
terminal is not described.
[0009] In JP-A-2003-304477, delivery of the viewing history
conducted via a memory card is described. In operating a video and
voice reproducer, however, an operation section of the video and
voice reproducer must be used. In other words, it is demanded to
become skillful in operation of devices of two kinds (PDA and video
recording and reproduction apparatus). Therefore, improvement of
the convenience in use cannot be anticipated.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention has been achieved in order to solve
these problems.
[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide a personal
digital assistant apparatus and a video recording and reproduction
apparatus improved in convenience in use by reflecting the
situation of viewing conducted by means of the personal digital
assistant apparatus into operation of the video recording and
reproduction apparatus.
[0012] In order to achieve the object, a personal digital assistant
apparatus according to the present invention includes a reception
unit for perceiving a broadcast signal including program
information, a communication unit for conducting communication with
a recording and reproduction apparatus, which records and
reproduces a broadcast signal, a display unit for displaying the
program information and video information included in the broadcast
signal, a storage unit for storing a viewing history of a received
and displayed video signal, and an operation unit for operating
viewing in the apparatus. On the basis of a viewing history stored
in the storage unit, the personal digital assistant apparatus sends
an order signal to the recording and reproduction apparatus via the
communication unit to order recording or reproduction of
information relating to the viewing history.
[0013] Owing to the configuration, the present invention can
provide a personal digital assistant apparatus and a video
recording and reproduction apparatus improved in convenience in
use.
[0014] Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will
become apparent from the following description of the embodiments
of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a recording and reproduction
system according to a first embodiment of the present
invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing details of a broadcast
signal;
[0017] FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams showing examples of display
information displayed in a display unit of a personal digital
assistant apparatus when starting viewing;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a recording method of a viewing
log in a personal digital assistant apparatus;
[0019] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing details of a viewing log;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a program viewing form of a
user;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing processing for reproducing a
program recorded in a recording and reproducing apparatus by using
a viewing log;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example on a display
section in a personal digital assistant apparatus;
[0023] FIGS. 9A and 9B are diagrams showing display examples on a
display apparatus obtained on the basis of an output of a recording
and reproduction apparatus;
[0024] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a video recording order of a
program issued to a recording and reproduction apparatus by a
personal digital assistant apparatus;
[0025] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a third embodiment of the
present invention;
[0026] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a fourth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0027] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a fifth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0028] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a sixth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0029] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a seventh embodiment of the
present invention;
[0030] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an eighth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0031] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a ninth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0032] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a tenth embodiment of the
present invention; and
[0033] FIGS. 19A, 19B and 19C are diagrams showing other examples
of a configuration of a recording and reproduction apparatus.
DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0034] Hereafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention
will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG.
1 is a diagram showing a recording and reproduction system
according to a first embodiment of the present invention. When a TV
broadcast is viewed on a personal digital assistant apparatus or a
portable information terminal apparatus, viewing history is stored
in the personal digital assistant apparatus. In addition, the
stored history information is transmitted to a recording and
reproduction apparatus to control the recording and reproduction
apparatus. A reproduced signal in the recording and reproduction
apparatus is displayed. In this way, viewing convenience is
improved in this example. By the way, in ensuing drawings, a like
reference character denotes the same component or the same
step.
[0035] In FIG. 1, numeral 1 denotes a personal digital assistant or
a portable information terminal apparatus having a function of
receiving a TV broadcast. Numeral 2 denotes a recording and
reproduction apparatus having a function of receiving a TV
broadcast including program information. Numeral 3 denotes a
broadcasting station for broadcasting a TV signal.
[0036] The personal digital assistant 1 includes a broadcast
reception unit 11 for receiving a broadcast signal broadcasted by
the broadcasting station 3, a communication unit 12 for
communicating with an external device, a display unit 13 for
displaying broadcast contents, an operation unit 14 operated by the
user, a storage unit 15 for storing various data, and a control
unit 16 for controlling these components. When receiving a TV
broadcast, a broadcast signal received by using the broadcast
reception unit 11 is displayed on the display unit 13 by the
control unit 16. Numeral 17 denotes an account information reading
unit for reading account information stored in an account card or
the like. The account information reading unit 17 has a slot for
inserting the account card therein.
[0037] When receiving a charged broadcast, an account card (for
example, B-CAS (registered trademark)) or the like is inserted into
a slot for account card in the personal digital assistant 1.
Deciphering and accounting for the broadcast signal can be
conducted on the basis of information stored on the card.
Furthermore, by operating the recording and reproduction apparatus
2 by using the personal digital assistant 1 having the account card
inserted therein, a signal recorded in the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2 can be deciphered and reproduced. The
amount of account money can be varied according to whether
reproduction is conducted by the personal digital assistant
(reproduction on a small screen) or conducted by the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2 (reproduction on a large screen). When
operating the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 by using the
personal digital assistant 1 having the account card inserted
therein, it is desirable to be able to decipher the recorded signal
even if the card is not inserted into the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2.
[0038] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing details of a broadcast signal.
As shown in FIG. 2, the broadcast signal includes video information
(video signal and audio signal) and program information added to
the video information. The program information is information
concerning a program to be broadcasted. For example, the program
information is information for specifying a program (program
specification information), information for specifying a scene of a
program (program scene specification information), program table
information for representing scheduled programs of respective
channels in a table form, or information obtained by combining
them.
[0039] The program specification information is information, for
example, such as a program ID, a program title name, a broadcast
channel name, a broadcasting time zone, performers or program
contents. The program specification information may be any
information as long as it can specify a program. The program scene
specification information is, for example, the time elapsed from
the program start. If video information is divided into sections,
the program scene specification information is a section number.
The program scene specification information may be any information
as long as it can specify one scene in the program.
[0040] In FIG. 1, the recording and reproduction apparatus 2
includes a recording unit 23 for recording a broadcast signal input
from a broadcast reception apparatus 4, a program information
acquisition unit 21 for acquiring program information, a
communication unit 22 for communicating with an external device,
and a control unit 24 for controlling them.
[0041] The broadcast signal recorded in the recording unit 23 is
transmitted to a display apparatus 5 via the control unit 24, and
displayed on the display unit 5. The communication units 12 and 22
are provided to conduct communication between the personal digital
assistant 1 and the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 directly
or via a network. The communication units 12 and 22 may be, for
example, devices that can be wireless-connected directly to an
external device, such as infrared ray communication ports or
wireless LAN systems (ARIB (Incorporated Association, Radio Wave
Industry Association) STD-T66). Each of the communication units 12
and 22 may also be a mobile telephone connected to a line network
via a base station. As a result, information exchange becomes
possible without wired connection between devices, and the degree
of freedom in utilization place can be increased.
[0042] FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams showing example of display
information displayed on the display unit 13 in the personal
digital assistant 1 when viewing is started. FIG. 3A shows a
display example appearing at the time of selection of a broadcast
program. FIG. 3B shows a display example appearing after a
broadcast program has been selected.
[0043] In FIG. 3A, A101 denotes video information obtained by
displaying information of programs that can be viewed, such as a
program table, on the display unit 13. A program frame within the
program table is selected by operating up, down, left and right
cursors (A102) on the operation unit 15. As shown in A103, a
broadcast channel, a program name, date and so on of the selected
program may be displayed. Furthermore, as shown in A204, a program
view acquired from the broadcast reception unit 11 may be reduced,
and a part of a program view may also be displayed together. In
this case, program contents can be discriminated simply.
[0044] If a "Determine" button A 105 on the operation unit A105 is
operated in a state in which an arbitrary program has been
selected, then the selected program is displayed on the display
unit as shown in FIG. 3B. By the way, the channel and program
selection method is not limited to this. For example, a channel
number may also be input directly from the operation unit 15 in the
same way as an ordinary TV receiver, or a channel number alteration
order may be issued from the operation unit 15. In the case where
false operation has been conducted, a "cancel" button A106 on the
operation unit 15 may be operated to cancel the operation conducted
immediately before.
[0045] Furthermore, as means for giving notice of the operation
situation in the personal digital assistant 1, it is possible to
display the received radio wave strength in the communication unit
12 as represented by A107 or display the residual quantity in the
battery as represented by A108. Not only the reception state of the
communication unit 12 is displayed as represented by A107, but also
the radio wave strength may be displayed in the case where the
personal digital assistant 1 has a communication function of a
mobile telephone.
[0046] After a broadcast program is selected and a shift to the
view shown in FIG. 3B is conducted, contents of the selected
program (or broadcast channel) are displayed as represented by
A109. At this time, program information such as the program name
and scene, and information such as the current time or the time
elapsed from the program start may also be displayed as represented
by A110 and A112. Furthermore, an operation guide to the effect
that the volume is adjustable in the operation unit 15 may be
displayed as represented by A112, and an operation guide to the
effect that a shift to a view of a program table is possible may be
displayed as represented by A113.
[0047] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a recording method of a viewing
log in the personal digital assistant 1. First, upon accepting a
broadcast reception start order input generated by operating the
operation unit 14, the control unit 16 receives broadcast contents
by using the broadcast reception unit 11, and displays the received
contents on the display unit 13. The control unit 16 extracts
program information from the received signal, creates a viewing
start log by using the extracted program information, and stores
the created viewing start log in the storage unit 15 (step 101).
Subsequently, upon accepting a broadcast reception end order input
generated by operating the operation unit 14, the control unit 16
stops the broadcast reception using the broadcast reception unit 11
(step 102). When the broadcast reception has been finished, the
control unit 16 creates a viewing end log by using the program
information received until then, and stores the created viewing end
log I the storage unit 15 (step 103).
[0048] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing details of a viewing log. As
shown in FIG. 5, the viewing log stored in the storage unit 15
includes, for example, a broadcast channel under reception, viewing
start time, and viewing end time. Furthermore, by storing the
program information together, reproduction request processing on
the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 described later becomes
possible. By the way, the above-described viewing log can be
recorded every viewed channel or every viewing (from viewing start
time to viewing end time).
[0049] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a program viewing form of the
user. The user's viewing forms are diversified. For example, there
are a case where the user starts viewing before a program starts
and suspends the viewing in the middle of the program (FIG. 6(a)),
a case where the viewer starts viewing in the middle of a program
(FIG. 6(b)), and a case where the viewer interrupts viewing in the
middle of a program (FIG. 6(c)).
[0050] The viewing log may be created by storing a viewing start
log simultaneously with the viewing start and generating and
storing a viewing end log simultaneously with the viewing end. In
this case, the viewing log creation can be executed by the
processing shown in FIG. 4.
[0051] Furthermore, if viewing is interrupted during a program and
viewing time is shorter than a predetermined value (for example, in
the case where the user searches for a program the user desires to
view while changing the broadcast channel) as shown in FIG. 6(c),
control may be exercised so as to prevent its storage in a viewing
log. In this case, information that is not necessary for the
viewing log can be excluded. As a result, the amount used in the
storage unit 15 is reduced and the convenience in use at the time
when the user utilizes the viewing log is improved.
[0052] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing processing for reproducing a
program recorded in the recording and reproducing apparatus by
using the viewing log. With reference to FIG. 7, operation for
using a viewing log stored in the personal digital assistant 1 to
display a program related to the viewing log and included in
programs recorded in the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 on
the display apparatus 5 connected to the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2.
[0053] It is now supposed that the user of the personal digital
assistant 1 is present near the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2 and operates the personal digital assistant 1. Upon an
input to the operation unit 14 in the personal digital assistant 1
from the user, the communication unit 12 in the personal digital
assistant 1 establishes a communication link with the communication
unit 22 in the recording and reproduction apparatus 2. After the
communication link has been established, the communication unit 12
in the personal digital assistant 1 sends the viewing log stored in
the storage unit 15 in the personal digital assistant 1 to the
recording and reproduction apparatus 2 automatically or in response
to specific operation (step 105).
[0054] The recording unit 23 in the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2 records a broadcast signal (program information, a
video signal and an audio signal) received by the broadcast
reception apparatus 4 previously according to the user's taste.
Upon receiving the viewing log from the personal digital assistant
1, the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 compares program
information included in the received viewing log with the program
information stored in the recording unit 23 (step 106), makes a
search to determine whether video-recorded information (such as a
program, a part of a program, or a scene in a program) relating to
the received viewing log is present, and displays its result on the
display apparatus 5 (step 108). If it is found as a result of the
search that video-recorded relating information is present, then
the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 conducts processing to
reproduce the video-recorded information obtained by the search
(steps 110 and 111). If video-recorded information is not present
as a result of the search, then the reproduction processing is not
conducted. By the way, the viewing log used for the search can be
displayed in reproducing the video-recorded information.
[0055] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example on the display
section 13 in the personal digital assistant 1. An example
displayed when selecting a reproduction subject after a
communication link between the personal digital assistant 1 and the
recording and reproduction apparatus 2 is established is shown (it
corresponds to the display in the step 105 shown in FIG. 7).
[0056] In the example shown in FIG. 8, it is indicated by a message
or a figure as represented by A115 or A116 that the communication
link has been established, so as to make possible visual
ascertainment. Furthermore, a reproduction subject is selected by
operating scroll buttons A119 on the operation unit 14. If the
display contents on the operation view at the time when viewing is
started on the personal digital assistant 1 are maintained as
represented, for example, by A117 and A118, then the user can make
a decision quickly and accurately when selecting the reproduction
subject. If a "Reproduce" button A120 on the operation unit 14 is
pressed, then the selected program information is transmitted to
the recording and reproduction apparatus 2.
[0057] Owing to the processing heretofore described, for example,
program information of a program viewed by the user during spare
time in movement can be recorded in the personal digital assistant
1 as the viewing log, and after coming home, the user can search
programs stored in the recording and reproduction apparatus 2
installed indoors for information relating to the viewing log, and
reproduce the information. At this time, it is not necessary for
the user to purposely search a large number of programs stored in
the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 for a pertinent program.
It is possible to search for and view a desired program by
conducting simple operation of operating the scroll buttons A119
and thereby selecting a reproduction subject from among displayed
search results. As a result, the convenience in use is
improved.
[0058] FIGS. 9A and 9B show display examples on a display apparatus
obtained on the basis of an output of a recording and reproduction
apparatus. The control unit 24 in the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2 receives viewing log information sent from the personal
digital assistant 1, via the communication unit 22. Upon judging
that a video-recorded program relating to the viewing log is
present in previously video-recorded information, the control unit
24 reproduces the program and displays the viewing log of the
personal digital assistant 1 (111 in FIG. 7).
[0059] In the example shown in FIG. 9A, a video-recorded program
(A201), a time frame of the program (A202), information
representing the current reproduced scene (A203) and the viewing
log information (A204 and A205) are displayed on the display
apparatus 5. The viewing log information is displayed so as to be
superposed on the time frame A202, which represents the time
ranging from the start of the program to the end of the program, by
representing, for example, the viewing start with a downward arrow
and the viewing end with an upward arrow. In this case, the user
can grasp clearly which part of the program the user already
viewed. Furthermore, the user can visually appreciate the degree of
time over which the user already viewed the program on the personal
digital assistant 1, as compared with the whole of the program.
Even if the viewing log information is displayed so as to be
superposed on the time frame A202 with a color or shape being
changed for a part between the viewing start and the viewing end, a
similar effect can be obtained. By searching for a scene or head by
using these kinds of display information, the user's operation can
be simplified. In addition, by using the user's memory and the
viewing log information displayed on the display apparatus 5, it
becomes possible to search for and view unviewed scenes with higher
certainty and efficiency.
[0060] The selection of a scene to be reproduced in the recording
and reproduction apparatus 2 may also be conducted by direct
operation on the main body of the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2 or by using a remote controller. At this time, it is
desirable for the control unit 24 to exercise control so as to
display an operation guide A 205 on the display apparatus 5. The
scene to be reproduced in the recording and reproduction apparatus
2 may also be selected by using the personal digital assistant
1.
[0061] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the
present invention. In the first embodiment, a program recorded in
the personal digital assistant 1 is previously stored in the
recording and reproduction apparatus 2. However, it is conceivable
that the program recorded in the personal digital assistant 1 is
not stored in the recording and reproduction apparatus 2. In the
present embodiment, the personal digital assistant 1 orders in such
a case the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 to conduct video
recording of the program.
[0062] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a program video recording order
issued to the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 by the
personal digital assistant 1. First, upon detecting a viewing
cutoff condition described below while the personal digital
assistant 1 is receiving a TV broadcast, the control unit 16
extracts program information from a broadcast signal, which is
being received via the broadcast reception unit 11, and transmits
the extracted program information and a video recording ordering
command for conducting video recording of the program to the
recording and reproduction apparatus 2 (step 114). By the way, the
above-described viewing cutoff condition is satisfied, for example,
when the received radio wave strength in the broadcast reception
unit 11 in the personal digital assistant 1 becomes less than an
arbitrary threshold and consequently the control unit 16 judges
that viewing has become impossible, when the residual quantity in
the battery provided in the personal digital assistant 1 has
lowered, or when the communication unit 12 has detected call
incoming of a talking signal. It is also conceivable that the
user's schedule is stored in the storage unit 15. In the case where
viewing becomes difficult due to execution of the schedule, arrival
of start time of the schedule or arrival of time that precedes the
start time by a predetermined time may also be set as a viewing
cutoff condition. Owing to such control, the user of the personal
digital assistant 1 can transmit a video recording ordering command
to the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 without conducting
particular operation. Furthermore, if these viewing cutoff
conditions and whether the video recording order is issued to the
recording and reproduction apparatus 2 are made selectable
according to the user's operation and stored in the storage unit
15, then the convenience is further improved.
[0063] The control unit 24 in the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2 receives the video recording ordering command. On the
basis of the received video recording ordering command and program
information, the control unit 24 in the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2 starts video recording of the pertinent program (step
115). On the basis of the program information, the control unit 24
in the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 conducts processing
so as to automatically terminate the video recording when the
program has finished. As a result, it becomes unnecessary for the
user to order video recording termination.
[0064] By the way, upon starting the video recording, the recording
and reproduction apparatus 2 may send a video recording setting
signal of the program to the personal digital assistant 1 (step
116). Upon receiving the video recording setting signal, the
personal digital assistant 1 displays contents of video recording
setting of the pertinent program, such as the fact that video
recording has been started, program information for which a video
recording request has been issued, or how long recording can still
be done, on the display unit 15 (step 117).
[0065] In this way, when program viewing is cutoff by the personal
digital assistant 1, video recording can be set in the recording
and reproduction apparatus 2 installed indoors. Therefore, it is
possible to prevent inconvenience that video recording information
is not present in the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 when
the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 is requested by using
the personal digital assistant 1 to reproduce a program.
Furthermore, since the personal digital assistant 1 is notified of
the contents of the video recording setting, it becomes unnecessary
to be anxious as to whether video recording is being conducted
properly. Furthermore, since a video recording order is issued to
the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 by using program
information recorded in the personal digital assistant 1 during
reception, inputting for the video recording order can be
omitted.
[0066] In an alternative configuration, the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2 notifies the personal digital assistant 1
of the video recording setting signal of the program for which a
video recording order has been issued, before starting the video
recording. Upon receiving the video recording setting signal, the
personal digital assistant 1 displays contents of the video
recording setting of the pertinent program on the display unit 15
and prompts the user to select whether to conduct the video
recording. In this case, the user can watch the contents of the
video recording setting and select whether to conduct the video
recording, before the video recording is started. For example, even
if the user issued a video recording order, the user can reconsider
and cancel the video recording, resulting in convenience in
use.
[0067] Furthermore, in an alternative configuration, the user
orders suspension of video recording via the personal digital
assistant 1, and forcibly suspends the video recording operation in
the recording and reproduction apparatus 2. Upon receiving a video
recording suspension signal in this case, the control unit 24
forcibly terminates the video recording of the program.
[0068] As for the form of the video recording order, for example,
video recording is conducted until a predetermined time elapses or
a predetermined information content is obtained since the video
recording order is issued, according to setting. Or the video
recording may also be set in the form: from xx minutes past xx to
xx minutes past xx.
[0069] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a third embodiment of the
present invention. In the second embodiment, the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2 starts video recording from a video
recording request moment (viewing cutoff condition satisfaction
moment) during program viewing. Therefore, the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2 cannot conduct video recording of the
program from its beginning. In the present embodiment, a search is
made to determine a rebroadcast of the program that is being viewed
is present soon (for example, in one month). If a rebroadcast is
present, video recording reservation of the rebroadcast is
conducted. As a result, the recording and reproduction apparatus 2
can conduct video recording of the program from its beginning.
[0070] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a program video recording order
issued to the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 by the
personal digital assistant 1. In FIG. 11, processing of steps 112
to 115 is the same as the processing of steps 112 to 115 in FIG.
10.
[0071] Upon starting the video recording at the step 115, the
control unit 24 in the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 makes
a search to determine whether a rebroadcast is scheduled in the
near future on the basis of program information (such as a program
ID or a table of programs scheduled to be broadcasted soon) of the
program for which a video recording request has been issued (step
118). As means by which the control unit 24 searches for
rebroadcast information, it is possible to provide an external
search server 8 for making a search to determine whether the
rebroadcast is scheduled, transmit program information from the
recording and reproduction apparatus 2 to the external search
server 8, and receive a result of the search from the external
search server 8. As a result, it is possible to reduce the
processing burden on the recording and reproduction apparatus 2,
save the power consumption, and acquire the result of fast search
from the external server. Program information received from a
broadcasting station or the like may also be used.
[0072] If there is a rebroadcast as a result of the search, then
the control unit 24 sets a video recording reservation (step 120).
If there is not a rebroadcast, then the control unit 24 does not
set a video recording reservation (step 121).
[0073] Upon setting a video recording reservation, the recording
and reproduction apparatus 2 sends a video recording setting signal
and a rebroadcast video recording reservation signal of the set
program to the personal digital assistant 1 (step 122). Upon
receiving the video recording setting signal and the rebroadcast
video recording reservation signal, the personal digital assistant
1 stores the video recording setting signal and a rebroadcast video
recording reservation setting signal in the storage unit 15, and
displays contents of the video recording setting signal and the
rebroadcast video recording reservation signal on the display unit
15 (step 123).
[0074] If the rebroadcast is not present, then display to the
effect is conducted. When reproducing a program obtained by video
recording of a rebroadcast, the control unit 16 in the personal
digital assistant 1 handles the rebroadcast video recording
reservation signal stored in the storage unit 15 as program
information, and transmits it to the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2 as represented by the step 105 in FIG. 7. Upon
receiving this signal (rebroadcast video recording reservation
signal), the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 displays the
video-recorded signal of the rebroadcast stored in the recording
unit 23, on the display apparatus 5.
[0075] In this way, it is possible to search for a rebroadcast and
make a video recording reservation with simple operation, and the
user can view the program from its beginning.
[0076] By the way, before starting the video recording, the
recording and reproduction apparatus 2 can send the video recording
setting signal of the program to the personal digital assistant 1.
With reference to contents of the video recording setting signal
and rebroadcast video recording reservation signal displayed on the
display unit 15 in the personal digital assistant 1, the user can
select whether to conduct video recording immediately, make a
rebroadcast video recording reservation, or not to conduct video
recording. Heretofore, an example in which the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2 searches for rebroadcast information has
been described. However, the personal digital assistant 1 may
search for rebroadcast information and transmit a result of the
search to the recording and reproduction apparatus 2.
[0077] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a fourth embodiment of the
present invention. If a rebroadcast is video-recorded in the third
embodiment, then video information (post-recording-request video
information), which began to be recorded when the video recording
ordering command was received from the personal digital assistant 1
at the step 114, and video information (rebroadcast video
information) obtained by video recording of the rebroadcast at the
step 120 are present in the recording and reproduction apparatus 2.
In this case, the program information acquired by the user in the
video recording request (step 114) is information concerning the
post-recording-request video information, and it is not information
concerning the rebroadcast video information. Therefore, the user
cannot view a broadcast by using program information acquired in
the video recording request (step 114).
[0078] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing processing of storing the video
recording setting signal (personal digital assistant side program
information) transmitted from the personal digital assistant 1 and
rebroadcast information so as to associate them with each other.
First, if there is a rebroadcast as a result of the search for the
rebroadcast program at the step 118, then the control unit 24 sets
a video recording reservation (step 120). Subsequently, the control
unit 24 sets so as to store the video recording setting signal
transmitted from the personal digital assistant 1 and rebroadcast
information while associating them with each other (step 124). On
the other hand, if there is not a rebroadcast, then the control
unit 24 does not make a video recording reservation (step 121) and
sets so as to store only the video recording setting signal
transmitted from the personal digital assistant 1 (step 125).
[0079] In the case where the post-recording-request video
information and the rebroadcast video information are recorded in
the recording and reproduction apparatus 2, therefore, the video
recording setting signal and the rebroadcast information are stored
so as to be associated with each other. When an order for
reproducing the post-recording-request video information is
transmitted from the personal digital assistant 1, therefore, the
recording and reproduction apparatus 2 can search for the
rebroadcast video information and display it on the display
apparatus 5. As a result, the user can easily reproduce the
rebroadcast video information by using the program information
stored at the time of video recording request.
[0080] Furthermore, it is also possible to select and reproduce the
post-recording-request video information or the rebroadcast video
information. In such a configuration, the user can select whether
to view the program from a continuation of the scene for which
video recording was requested or view the rebroadcast from its
beginning. Except the steps 124 and 125, steps shown in FIG. 12 are
the same as those shown in FIG. 11, and consequently description of
them will be omitted.
[0081] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a fifth embodiment of the
present invention. In the second, third and fourth embodiments, a
program video recording order is issued to the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2 when the control unit 16 in the personal
digital assistant 1 has detected a viewing cutoff condition.
However, various utilization formats of the personal digital
assistant 1 are conceivable. For example, if viewing is started in
the middle of a program as shown in FIG. 6(b), a program
view-recording order cannot be issued to the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2 in the prescribed embodiments.
[0082] In the present embodiment, a program view-recording order
can be issued when viewing is started. First, if the user operates
the personal digital assistant 1 and starts broadcast reception,
the control unit 16 extracts program information from a broadcast
signal that is being received by the broadcast reception unit 11,
and transmits the extracted program information and a video
recording ordering command for conducting video recording of the
program to the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 (step 114).
Subsequent processing is the same as that in the second embodiment
(FIG. 10), and consequently its description will be omitted.
[0083] By the way, in the case where a search for a rebroadcast is
made, it can be implemented by making the processing subsequent to
the step 115 the same as that in FIG. 11 or 12. Owing to such
control, the user can transmit the video recording ordering command
to the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 without conducting
particular operation. Furthermore, if whether to issue the video
recording order is made selectable according to the user's
operation on the operation unit 14 in the personal digital
assistant 1 and a result of the selection is stored in the storage
unit 15, then the convenience in use according to the use situation
and the user's taste is improved.
[0084] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a sixth embodiment of the
present invention, and it is a diagram showing a configuration
example of a recording and reproduction system. In this example,
the communication units 12 and 22 respectively included in the
portable digital assistant 1 and the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2 can establish a communication link via an external line
network or a network. For example, if the communication
transmission path is the above described second generation small
power data communication system/wireless LAN system, the wireless
base stations 61 and 62 called access points are installed outdoors
or indoors, and they can be connected to each other via an external
network (Internet).
[0085] When the personal digital assistant 1 and the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2 are indoors, they can communicate
directly. If the user carries out the personal digital assistant 1
to the outdoors, then they can communicate with each other via the
external network. Therefore, it is effective in the case where the
personal digital assistant 1 issues a video recording request to
the recording and reproduction apparatus 2. Furthermore, since it
also becomes possible to access the external server 8 and acquire
program relating information other than information that can be
extracted from a broadcast signal, the user's convenience is
improved.
[0086] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a seventh embodiment of the
present invention, and it is a diagram showing another
configuration example of a recording and reproduction system. In
this example, second communication units 17 and 25 are provided in
the personal digital assistant 1 and the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2, respectively. Unlike the sixth embodiment (FIG. 14),
the communication units 12 and 22 are used when the personal
digital assistant 1 and the recording and reproduction apparatus 2
conduct direct communication, whereas the second communication
units 17 and 25 are used when the personal digital assistant 1 and
the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 conduct direct
communication via the external network 7. This example is also
effective to the case where the personal digital assistant 1 issues
a video recording request to the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2. Furthermore, since it also becomes possible to access
the external server 8 and acquire program relating information
other than information that can be extracted from a broadcast
signal, the user's convenience is improved.
[0087] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an eighth embodiment of the
present invention, and it is a diagram showing processing of
reproducing a program recorded in the recording and reproduction
apparatus. Processing conducted in the case where a video-recorded
record is not present when a reproduction request is issued from
the personal digital assistant 1 to the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2 in the first embodiment (FIG. 7) will now be
described.
[0088] If video-recorded relating information is found as a result
of the search at the step 106, the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2 conducts processing so as to reproduce the obtained
video-recorded information (steps 110 and 111). If it is found that
video-recorded information is not present as a result of the
search, then the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 connects
itself to the external server 8 shown in FIG. 14 or 15, and
requests the external server 8 to acquire program relating
information of a program for which a reproduction request has been
issued (step 126). Upon receiving the acquisition request, the
external server 8 searches for program relating information and
transmits a result of the search to the recording and reproduction
apparatus 2 (step 127). By the way, the program relating
information may also be broadcast content recording data,
rebroadcast information of the program, program introduction home
page, information of performers in the program, and outline of the
program. Upon acquiring the program relating information from the
external server 8, the recording and reproduction apparatus 2
temporarily stores the program relating information in the storage
unit 23 and then reproduces it on the display apparatus 5.
[0089] Since the user can acquire various kinds of program relating
information from the server 8 without conducting search operation
by using the recording and reproduction apparatus 2, the
convenience in use is favorable. By the way, the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2 may conduct the reproduction in such a
streaming form as to successively display a reproduced view on the
display apparatus 5 while receiving broadcast content recording
data from the server 8. In the present embodiment, it is possible
to acquire various kinds of program relating information from the
external server 8 and display it according to a reproduction
request from the personal digital assistant 1, even if
video-recorded information is not stored in the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2.
[0090] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a ninth embodiment of the
present invention, and it is a diagram showing processing of
limiting TV broadcast viewing according to the user's schedule.
[0091] The user's schedule information is stored in the storage
unit 15 in the personal digital assistant 1 by operation on the
operation unit 14. By the way, this schedule information may be
transferred from an external device, which is not illustrated, via
the communication unit 12 and stored in the storage unit 15.
[0092] If viewing is started, then the control unit 16 searches for
a schedule stored in the storage unit 15 (step 129). The schedule
search subject interval can be set in, for example, an arbitrary
time interval with respect to the current time. If the control unit
16 has judged that there is a schedule as a result of the search,
then the control unit 16 displays that the TV broadcast viewing is
impossible, by using the display unit 13. If schedule contents are
displayed at this time, then the user can easily understand the
reason why the viewing is impossible and it is possible to remind
the user of the schedule. As for the notice that viewing is
impossible, means such as voice, vibration and light may also be
used besides the notice using the display unit 13. The user may
select a notice method suitable for the place of use.
[0093] On the other hand, if the control unit 16 has judged that
there is not a schedule, then the control unit 16 displays
broadcast contents supplied from the broadcast reception unit 11 on
the display unit 13. Owing to the processing heretofore described,
it is possible to prevent the user from forgetting a schedule and
starting the viewing.
[0094] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a tenth embodiment of the
present invention, and it is a diagram showing another example of
processing of limiting TV broadcast viewing according to the user's
schedule.
[0095] If viewing is started, then the control unit 16 searches for
a schedule stored in the storage unit 15 (step 129). The schedule
search subject interval needs only, for example, cover a schedule
nearest the current time. The control unit 16 compares the search
result with the current time, and permits viewing until time
between the current time and a schedule (spare time) becomes a
predetermined value or less (steps 133 and 134). If the spare time
has become the predetermined value or less, then display to the
effect that viewing is impossible is conducted on the display unit
13. If schedule contents are displayed when conducting display to
the effect that viewing is impossible, then the user can easily
understand the reason why the viewing is impossible and it is
possible to remind the user of the schedule. Furthermore, it is
possible to prevent viewing from being interrupted because of the
next schedule soon after the viewing is started, resulting in
improved convenience in use.
[0096] FIGS. 19A, 19B and 19C are diagrams showing other
configuration examples of the recording and reproduction apparatus.
Heretofore, an example in which the broadcast reception apparatus 4
or the display apparatus 5 is provided outside the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2 has been described. However, this
configuration is not restrictive. For example, the broadcast
reception apparatus 4 or the display apparatus 5 may be provided
within the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 respectively as
shown in FIG. 19A or 19B. Both the broadcast reception apparatus 4
and the display apparatus 5 may be provided within the recording
and reproduction apparatus 2 as shown in FIG. 19C.
[0097] A broadcast signal is broadcasted in some cases with
limiting information for limiting reproduction or duplication of
video information added to the data format shown in FIG. 2 (charged
broadcast). In such a case as well, the video information can be
duplicated or reproduced by using the above-described account card
or the like. By the way, the limiting information may be, for
example, information for completely prohibiting reproduction or
duplication of contents such as video information, information for
permitting reproduction or duplication only a predetermined number
of times or only for a predetermined time, or information for
prohibiting transmission of the contents attached to mail.
[0098] By the way, when canceling the limiting information for
limiting the reproduction or duplication, an account information
reading unit for reading account information stored in an account
card is provided in the broadcast reception apparatus or the
recording and reproducing apparatus. This reading unit has a slot
for inserting, for example, an account card. When canceling the
limiting information and receiving contents, an account card or the
like is inserted in the slot for account card, and the broadcast
signal is deciphered and accounting is conducted on the basis of
information stored on the card. In the case where an account
information reading unit for reading account information stored on
an account card is thus provided in the broadcast reception
apparatus or the recording and reception apparatus, it is possible
to cancel the limiting information and conduct duplication or
reproduction even if an account card is not inserted in the
personal digital assistant.
[0099] According to the present embodiment, the situation of
viewing conducted by using the personal digital assistant can be
reflected in the recording and reproduction apparatus as heretofore
described. As a result, it is possible to provide a personal
digital assistant apparatus and a recording and reproduction
apparatus improved in convenience in use. Furthermore, it is
possible to share viewing information when viewing a personal
digital assistant, an indoor TV receiver, and a recording and
reproduction apparatus. As a result, convenience in use of a
broadcast recording and reproduction system can be improved.
[0100] Furthermore, by controlling whether viewing is possible
according to the schedule of the user of the personal digital
assistant, it is possible to prevent the user of personal digital
assistant 1 from forgetting a schedule and starting viewing. In
addition, it is possible to prevent viewing from being discontinued
by the next schedule soon after the start of the viewing and
prevent viewing from being continued by forgetting a schedule.
[0101] Furthermore, since the personal digital assistant 1 and the
recording and reproduction apparatus 2 can be operated by using
only one terminal (personal digital assistant 1), operation
performance is improved. In addition, operation (such as video
recording order) for the recording and reproduction apparatus 2 can
be conducted remotely. Furthermore, since the recording and
reproduction apparatus 2 can search for, for example, a rebroadcast
program and record it, the operation performance is improved.
[0102] It should be further understood by those skilled in the art
that although the foregoing description has been made on
embodiments of the invention, the invention is not limited thereto
and various changes and modifications may be made without departing
from the spirit of the invention and the scope of the appended
claims.
* * * * *