U.S. patent application number 14/366981 was filed with the patent office on 2015-01-01 for display apparatus, display control method, and portable terminal apparatus, and program.
The applicant listed for this patent is Sony Corporation. Invention is credited to Masao Kondo, Fumiya Matsuoka, Hirotaka Tako, Ken Yano.
Application Number | 20150002380 14/366981 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48697125 |
Filed Date | 2015-01-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150002380 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kondo; Masao ; et
al. |
January 1, 2015 |
DISPLAY APPARATUS, DISPLAY CONTROL METHOD, AND PORTABLE TERMINAL
APPARATUS, AND PROGRAM
Abstract
The present technology relates to a display apparatus, a display
control method, a portable terminal apparatus, and a program
capable of representing various states of an apparatus in a limited
region. A television receiver includes a display unit that displays
a predetermined image, a communication unit that performs
communication of image data with another image display apparatus,
an indicator unit that is disposed at at least a part of
surroundings of the display unit and includes an indicator which is
turned on with predetermined luminance, and a control unit that
turns on the indicator so as to correspond to a transmission
operation of the image data in another image display apparatus. The
present invention is applicable to, for example, a display
apparatus such as a television receiver.
Inventors: |
Kondo; Masao; (Kanagawa,
JP) ; Matsuoka; Fumiya; (Kanagawa, JP) ; Yano;
Ken; (Tokyo, JP) ; Tako; Hirotaka; (Kanagawa,
JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Sony Corporation |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Family ID: |
48697125 |
Appl. No.: |
14/366981 |
Filed: |
December 13, 2012 |
PCT Filed: |
December 13, 2012 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2012/082379 |
371 Date: |
June 19, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
345/82 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G09G 5/003 20130101;
G09G 2340/12 20130101; G09G 2340/14 20130101; G06F 11/325 20130101;
H04N 21/426 20130101; G06F 3/1423 20130101; G09G 2320/08 20130101;
H04N 21/485 20130101; H04N 21/4788 20130101; G09G 3/3406 20130101;
H04N 21/47214 20130101; H04N 5/64 20130101; H04N 21/4882
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
345/82 |
International
Class: |
G09G 3/34 20060101
G09G003/34 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 28, 2011 |
JP |
2011-288091 |
Claims
1. A display apparatus comprising: a display unit that displays a
predetermined image; a communication unit that performs
communication of image data with another image display apparatus;
an indicator unit that is disposed at at least a part of
surroundings of the display unit and includes an indicator which is
turned on with predetermined luminance; and a control unit that
turns on the indicator so as to correspond to a transmission
operation of the image data in another image display apparatus.
2. The display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
indicator is turned on under the control of the control unit when
the display apparatus is selected as an output destination of the
image data in another image display apparatus.
3. The display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
indicator is turned on under the control of the control unit during
transmission of the image data with another image display
apparatus.
4. The display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
indicator performs turning-on cooperative with another image
display apparatus under the control of the control unit so that
light transitions so as to correspond to movement of the image data
with another image display apparatus.
5. The display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
communication unit receives the image data from another image
display apparatus, and wherein the control unit performs control
for display in which an image corresponding to the received image
data is expelled from the indicator unit, and turns on the
indicator in synchronization or interlocking with the display in
which the image is expelled from the indicator unit.
6. The display apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising:
a proximity communication unit that detects that another image
display apparatus is at least brought close to the indicator unit,
wherein the communication unit communicates with another image
display apparatus which is brought close to the display apparatus
by a user as a transmission operation of the image data.
7. A display control method for a display apparatus including a
display unit that displays a predetermined image, a communication
unit that performs communication of image data with another image
display apparatus, an indicator unit that is disposed at at least a
part of surroundings of the display unit and includes an indicator
which is turned on with predetermined luminance, and a control unit
that controls turning-on of the indicator, the method comprising:
causing the control unit to turn on the indicator so as to
correspond to a transmission operation of the image data in another
image display apparatus.
8. A program causing a computer which controls a display apparatus,
to perform the process of: turning on an indicator so as to
correspond to a transmission operation of image data in another
image display apparatus, wherein the display apparatus includes a
display unit that displays a predetermined image; a communication
unit that performs communication of image data with another image
display apparatus; and an indicator unit that is disposed at at
least a part of surroundings of the display unit and includes the
indicator which is turned on with predetermined luminance.
9. A portable terminal apparatus comprising: a communication unit
that performs transmission of image data with an image display
apparatus; a display unit that displays an instruction image for
instructing a transmission operation of the image data; and a
control unit that changes a turning-on state of an indicator of the
image display apparatus so as to correspond to a user's
transmission operation of the image data based on the instruction
image.
10. A display apparatus comprising: a display unit that displays a
predetermined image; a communication unit that performs
communication of image data with another image display apparatus;
an indicator unit that is disposed at at least a part of
surroundings of the display unit and includes an indicator which is
turned on with predetermined luminance; and a control unit that
turns on the indicator during communication of the image data with
another image display apparatus, wherein the control unit turns on
the indicator of the indicator unit only during a predetermined
period before or after an indicator of another image display
apparatus is turned on only during a predetermined period.
11. The display apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, of the
indicators of another image display apparatus and the display
apparatus, an indicator of an apparatus which is a transmission
source of the image data is first turned on only during a
predetermined period, and then an indicator of an apparatus which
is a transmission destination of the image data is turned on only
during a predetermined period.
12. The display apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the
indicator of the indicator unit is turned on only during a
predetermined period before or after an image in which a region
near the indicator of the indicator unit has high luminance in the
display unit is displayed.
13. The display apparatus according to claim 10, further
comprising: a proximity communication unit that detects that
another image display apparatus is at least brought close to the
indicator unit, wherein the indicator of the indicator unit is
further turned on in synchronization with turning-on of the
indicator of another image display apparatus when proximity of
another image display apparatus is detected by the proximity
communication unit.
14. A display control method for a display apparatus including a
display unit that displays a predetermined image, a communication
unit that performs communication of image data with another image
display apparatus, an indicator unit that is disposed at at least a
part of surroundings of the display unit and includes an indicator
which is turned on with predetermined luminance, and a control unit
that turns on the indicator during communication of the image data
with another image display apparatus, the method comprising:
causing the control unit to turn on the indicator of the indicator
unit only during a predetermined period before or after an
indicator of another image display apparatus is turned on only
during a predetermined period.
15. A program causing a computer which controls a display
apparatus, to perform the process of: turning on an indicator of an
indicator unit only during a predetermined period before or after
an indicator of another image display apparatus is turned on only
during a predetermined period while communication of image data
with another image display apparatus is performed, wherein the
display apparatus includes a display unit that displays a
predetermined image; a communication unit that performs
communication of the image data with another image display
apparatus; and an indicator unit that is disposed at at least a
part of surroundings of the display unit and includes the indicator
which is turned on with predetermined luminance.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present technology relates to a display apparatus, a
display control method, and a portable terminal apparatus, and a
program, and particularly to a display apparatus, a display control
method, and a portable terminal apparatus, and a program capable of
representing various states of an apparatus in a limited
region.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] In recent years, in a television receiver, a frame part in
the vicinity of a panel which displays an image has been gradually
narrowed (narrowing of a frame). In the related art, for example, a
light reception part of a remote controller, an indicator (lamp)
indicating power-on, standby, and the like, operation buttons for
setting operations of a main body, and the like are disposed at the
frame part (for example, refer to Patent Literature 1).
CITATION LIST
Patent Literature
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Technical Problem
[0003] However, a region for disposing an indicator indicating an
operation or a state of a display apparatus is restricted due to
narrowing of the frame part, and thus a new method of representing
an operation or the like of the display apparatus is desirable.
[0004] The present technology has been made in consideration of
these circumstances, and enables various states of an apparatus to
be represented in a limited region.
Solution to Problem
[0005] According to a first aspect of the present technology, there
is provided a display apparatus including a display unit that
displays a predetermined image; a communication unit that performs
communication of image data with another image display apparatus;
an indicator unit that is disposed at at least a part of
surroundings of the display unit and includes an indicator which is
turned on with predetermined luminance; and a control unit that
turns on the indicator so as to correspond to a transmission
operation of the image data in another image display apparatus.
[0006] According to the first aspect of the present technology,
there is provided a display control method for a display apparatus
including a display unit that displays a predetermined image, a
communication unit that performs communication of image data with
another image display apparatus, an indicator unit that is disposed
at at least a part of surroundings of the display unit and includes
an indicator which is turned on with predetermined luminance, and a
control unit that controls turning-on of the indicator, the method
including causing the control unit to turn on the indicator so as
to correspond to a transmission operation of the image data in
another image display apparatus.
[0007] According to the first aspect of the present technology,
there is provided a program causing a computer which controls a
display apparatus, to perform the process of turning on an
indicator so as to correspond to a transmission operation of image
data in another image display apparatus, in which the display
apparatus includes a display unit that displays a predetermined
image; a communication unit that performs communication of image
data with another image display apparatus; and an indicator unit
that is disposed at at least a part of surroundings of the display
unit and includes the indicator which is turned on with
predetermined luminance.
[0008] In the first aspect of the present technology, the indicator
is controlled to be turned on so as to correspond to a transmission
operation of image data in another image display apparatus.
[0009] According to a second aspect of the present technology,
there is provided a portable terminal apparatus including a
communication unit that performs transmission of image data with an
image display apparatus; a display unit that displays an
instruction image for instructing a transmission operation of the
image data; and a control unit that changes a turning-on state of
an indicator of the image display apparatus so as to correspond to
a user's transmission operation of the image data based on the
instruction image.
[0010] In the second aspect of the present technology, a turning-on
state of the indicator of the image display apparatus is controlled
to be changed so as to correspond to a user's transmission
operation based on the instruction image for instructing a
transmission operation of the image data, displayed on the display
unit.
[0011] According to a third aspect of the present technology, there
is provided a display apparatus including a display unit that
displays a predetermined image; a communication unit that performs
communication of image data with another image display apparatus;
an indicator unit that is disposed at at least a part of
surroundings of the display unit and includes an indicator which is
turned on with predetermined luminance; and a control unit that
turns on the indicator during communication of the image data with
another image display apparatus, in which the control unit turns on
the indicator of the indicator unit only during a predetermined
period before or after an indicator of another image display
apparatus is turned on only during a predetermined period.
[0012] According to the third aspect of the present technology,
there is provided a display control method for a display apparatus
including a display unit that displays a predetermined image, a
communication unit that performs communication of image data with
another image display apparatus, an indicator unit that is disposed
at at least a part of surroundings of the display unit and includes
an indicator which is turned on with predetermined luminance, and a
control unit that turns on the indicator during communication of
the image data with another image display apparatus, the method
including causing the control unit to turn on the indicator of the
indicator unit only during a predetermined period before or after
an indicator of another image display apparatus is turned on only
during a predetermined period.
[0013] According to the third aspect of the present technology,
there is provided a program causing a computer which controls a
display apparatus, to perform the process of turning on an
indicator of an indicator unit only during a predetermined period
before or after an indicator of another image display apparatus is
turned on only during a predetermined period while communication of
image data with another image display apparatus is performed, in
which the display apparatus includes a display unit that displays a
predetermined image; a communication unit that performs
communication of the image data with another image display
apparatus; and an indicator unit that is disposed at at least a
part of surroundings of the display unit and includes the indicator
which is turned on with predetermined luminance.
[0014] In the third aspect of the present technology, control is
performed so that the indicator of the indicator unit is turned on
only during a predetermined period before or after an indicator of
another image display apparatus is turned on only during a
predetermined period while communication of image data with another
image display apparatus is performed.
[0015] The display apparatus may be a standalone apparatus, and may
be an internal block which forms a single apparatus.
Advantageous Effects of Invention
[0016] According to the first to third aspects of the present
technology, it is possible to represent various states of an
apparatus in a limited region.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a television receiver as an
embodiment of a display apparatus to which the present technology
is applied.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an LED
indicator of a smart unit.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the LED
indicator of the smart unit.
[0020] FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of a TV.
[0021] FIG. 5 is a more detailed functional block diagram of a
control section of the TV.
[0022] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a basic turning-on example
of the LED indicator.
[0023] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a basic turning-on example
of the LED indicator.
[0024] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a basic turning-on example
of the LED indicator.
[0025] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a basic turning-on example
of the LED indicator.
[0026] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a sequence turning-on
example of the LED indicator.
[0027] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a turning-on example of
the LED indicator cooperating with image display.
[0028] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of turning-on
representation corresponding to power-on and power-off
operations.
[0029] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating turning-on representation
of the LED indicator when a predetermined button is pressed.
[0030] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a setting screen example
when a timer is set.
[0031] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation when a timer setting operation is performed.
[0032] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an operation of the TV
when a screen display button is operated.
[0033] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating turning-on colors of the
LED indicator.
[0034] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
turning-on representation corresponding to an upper key
operation.
[0035] FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
turning-on representation corresponding to a lower key
operation.
[0036] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
turning-on representation corresponding to a downward drag
operation.
[0037] FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
turning-on representation corresponding to an upward drag
operation.
[0038] FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
turning-on representation in an image erasure operation.
[0039] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating screen transition when a
video chatting function is used.
[0040] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
turning-on representation in electronic POP.
[0041] FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an example of information
representation of the LED indicator corresponding to a turning-on
position.
[0042] FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of information
representation of the LED indicator corresponding to a turning-on
position.
[0043] FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of information
representation of the LED indicator corresponding to a turning-on
cycle.
[0044] FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of information
representation of the LED indicator corresponding to a turning-on
color.
[0045] FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation corresponding to a touch operation on the smart
unit.
[0046] FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation corresponding to a touch operation on the smart
unit.
[0047] FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation corresponding to an NFC approximate operation to the
smart unit.
[0048] FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation corresponding to an NFC approximate operation to the
smart unit.
[0049] FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation corresponding to data transmission.
[0050] FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation corresponding to a gesture operation.
[0051] FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation corresponding to a pairing operation of a BT
apparatus.
[0052] FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation with a Wi-Fi apparatus.
[0053] FIG. 37 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation with the Wi-Fi apparatus.
[0054] FIG. 38 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation with the Wi-Fi apparatus.
[0055] FIG. 39 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation with the Wi-Fi apparatus.
[0056] FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation with the Wi-Fi apparatus.
[0057] FIG. 41 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation with the Wi-Fi apparatus.
[0058] FIG. 42 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation with the Wi-Fi apparatus.
[0059] FIG. 43 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation with the Wi-Fi apparatus.
[0060] FIG. 44 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation with the Wi-Fi apparatus.
[0061] FIG. 45 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation with the Wi-Fi apparatus.
[0062] FIG. 46 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooperative
representation with the Wi-Fi apparatus.
[0063] FIG. 47 is a flowchart illustrating a process of realizing
cooperative representation.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0064] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present technology will be
described. In addition, the description will be made in the
following order.
[0065] 1. Exterior configuration example of display apparatus
[0066] 2. Control block diagram
[0067] 3. Basic turning-on example of LED indicator
[0068] 4. Sequence turning-on example of LED indicator
[0069] 5. Cooperative turning-on example with image display
[0070] 6. Turning-on representation of LED indicator corresponding
to TV operation
[0071] 7. Cooperative turning-on representation in image erasure
operation
[0072] 8. Cooperation between video chatting screen and LED
indicator
[0073] 9. Information representation of LED indicator based on
image viewing experience
[0074] 10. Cooperative representation corresponding to user's
operation performed on smart unit
[0075] 11. Flowchart for realizing cooperative representation
[0076] [1. Exterior Configuration Example of Display Apparatus]
[0077] FIG. 1 illustrates an exterior configuration example of a
television receiver as an embodiment of a display apparatus to
which the present technology is applied.
[0078] A television receiver (hereinafter, referred to as a TV) 1
of FIG. 1 includes a display main body 11, a smart unit 12, and a
stand 13. The display main body 11 includes a display 14 which
displays a predetermined image such as an image of a received
broadcast program, and a frame part 15 disposed at a surrounding
part thereof.
[0079] The smart unit 12 is an indicator unit which includes at
least a light emitting diode (LED) indicator 84 (FIG. 4) as a
turning-on part which represents an operation or a state of the TV
1 through illumination. A camera 93 is provided on a front surface
of the smart unit 12.
[0080] In addition, the smart unit 12 is disposed at the frame part
15 on the lower side of the display main body 11 in FIG. 1, but the
smart unit 12 may be disposed at the frame part 15 on any of the
upper side, the left side, and the right side of the display main
body 11. In other words, the smart unit 12 may be disposed at at
least a part of the vicinity of the display 14.
[0081] With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, a configuration of the LED
indicator 84 of the smart unit 12 will be described.
[0082] FIG. 2 is an enlarged side view of the vicinity of the smart
unit 12 for illustrating the LED indicator 84 of the smart unit 12,
FIG. 3A is a front view of the smart unit 12, and FIG. 3B is a
diagram illustrating an arrangement of the LED indicator 84 when
the smart unit 12 is viewed from the top. In addition, in FIGS. 2
and 3, a scale of the smart unit 12, an arrangement of respective
parts of the smart unit 12, and the like are changed for better
understanding of description.
[0083] The LED indicator 84 includes, as illustrated in FIG. 3B, a
single white LED 21W, and two color LED 21L and LED 21R. The white
LED 21W is disposed at a center of the smart unit 12 in the
horizontal direction, and is disposed slightly toward the front
side in the front and rear directions. The color LED 21L is
disposed on the rear side and left side of the white LED 21W, and
the color LED 21R is disposed on the rear side and the right side
of the white LED 21W. The white LED 21W is a single white LED, and
emits white light. The color LEDs 21L and 21R are constituted by
three LEDs such as red (R), green (G), and blue (B), and can emit
light in predetermined colors.
[0084] Light from the white LED 21W is output from an output part
23 (FIG. 3A) on the front side of the smart unit 12 via a
lightguide plate (not illustrated). Light from the color LED 21L
and the color LED 21L is output from the output part 23 (FIG. 3A)
on the front side of the smart unit 12 and an output part 23 (not
illustrated) on the lower side of the smart unit 12 via the
lightguide plate (not illustrated).
[0085] As illustrated in FIG. 2, an electrode pad which is a part
of a touch sensor 85 (FIG. 4) and a film antenna 22 including an
antenna for NFC communication are buried around the bottom of the
smart unit 12. Accordingly, as will be described later, it is
possible to detect contact or proximity (becoming close at a
distance within several tens of millimeters) of a user's hand,
finger, and the like, and proximity of an NFC communication
apparatus to the smart unit 12.
[0086] In the following description, the white LED 21W, the color
LED 21L, and the color LED 21R are also simply referred to as an
LED 21W, an LED 21L, and an LED 21R. In addition, in a case where
the LED 21W, the LED 21L, and the LED 21R are not required to be
differentiated from each other, they are also simply referred to as
LEDs 21.
[0087] [2. Control Block Diagram]
[0088] FIG. 4 illustrates a control block diagram of the TV 1.
[0089] First, a configuration of the display main body 11 of the TV
1 will be described.
[0090] A power supply section 51 is connected to an external AC
power source, and coverts received AC power into DC power with a
predetermined voltage which is then supplied to a DC/DC converter
52. The DC/DC converter 52 converts a first power source voltage
supplied from the power supply section 51 into a second power
source voltage which is then supplied to respective parts such as a
panel driving section 53, a control section 66, and the smart unit
12. In addition, the power source voltage supplied to the
respective parts may be the same or different.
[0091] The panel driving section 53 drives a panel 54 and a
backlight 55 on the basis of an image signal supplied from the
control section 66, so as to display an image. The panel 54 and the
backlight 55 correspond to the display 14 of FIG. 1. The panel 54
controls an aperture of a liquid crystal of each pixel on the basis
of driving control by the panel driving section 53.
The backlight 55 emits light with predetermined luminance on the
basis of driving control by the panel driving section 53. In other
words, the display 14 of FIG. 1 is a liquid crystal display (LCD),
and the backlight 55 is disposed on a rear surface side of the
panel 54.
[0092] Each of HDMI terminals 55.sub.1 to 55.sub.3 transmits and
receives a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) signal to
and from an external apparatus which is a connection destination of
each terminal. An HDMI switch 56 appropriately switches HDMI
terminals 55.sub.1 to 55.sub.3 on the basis of an HDMI control
signal, and thus relays an HDMI signal which is transmitted and
received between external apparatuses connected to the HDMI
terminals 55.sub.1 to 55.sub.3 and the control section 66.
[0093] An analog AV input terminal 57 receives an analog audio and
visual (AV) signal from an external apparatus, and supplies the
signal to the control section 66.
[0094] A PC input terminal 58 is formed by, for example, mini D-Sub
15-pin terminals, and receives an analog image signal among AV
signals output from a personal computer so as to supply the signal
to the control section 66.
[0095] An analog audio output terminal 59 outputs an analog audio
signal which is supplied from the control section 66, to an
external apparatus which is a connection destination. An optical
digital sound output terminal 60 outputs an optical digital signal
of sounds supplied from the control section 66, to an external
apparatus which is a connection destination.
[0096] A LAN terminal 61 is constituted by, for example, 10
BASE-T/100 BASE-TX connector or the like, and is connected to a
predetermined network such as a home network or the Internet.
[0097] A tuner 62 is connected to an antenna (not illustrated) via
an antenna terminal 63, and acquires a broadcast signal of a
predetermined channel from electric waves received by the antenna
so as to supply the signal to the control section 66. In addition,
in the present embodiment, electric waves which are received by the
tuner 62 are assumed to be, for example, a broadcast signal of
terrestrial digital broadcast.
[0098] A B-CAS (registered trademark) card 65 which stores an
encryption key for descrambling terrestrial digital broadcast is
inserted into a CAS card I/F 64. The CAS card I/F 64 reads the
encryption key stored in the B-CAS (registered trademark) card 65
so as to supply the encryption key to the control section 66.
[0099] The control section 66 controls the entire TV 1 on the basis
of a control program stored in an internal memory 66A including a
read only memory (ROM) and the like. The control section 66
performs, for example, an A/D (analog to digital) conversion
process or a D/A (digital to analog) conversion process of an image
signal or an audio signal, a descramble process a decoding process
of a broadcast signal, and the like. In addition, the control
section 66 also performs control based on a brightness signal, an
IR signal, a touch sensor signal, and a USB I/F signal from the
smart unit 12 described later or LED control of the LED indicator
84. The control section 66 may be constituted by a system on a chip
(SoC) in which a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing
unit (MPU), a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and the like are
integrated into a single chip.
[0100] The control program stored in the internal memory 66A may be
installed via a USB memory or a hard disk device connected to a USB
terminal input part 90 described later, or via a wired or wireless
transmission medium such as a home network or the Internet.
[0101] An audio amplifier 67 amplifies an analog audio signal
supplied from the control section 66 so as to supply the amplified
signal to a speaker 68. The speaker 68 outputs sounds corresponding
to the analog audio signal from the audio amplifier 67.
[0102] Next, a configuration of the smart unit 12 of the TV 1 will
be described.
[0103] Power supplied from the display main body 11 is supplied to
the respective parts of the smart unit 12 via a relay section 81.
In addition, a brightness signal, an IR signal, an LED control
signal, a touch sensor signal, and a USB I/F signal described later
are also transmitted and received between the display main body 11
and the control section 66 of the smart unit 12 via the relay
section 81.
[0104] A brightness sensor 82 detects brightness of surroundings of
the TV 1 (for example, brightness of a room where the TV 1 is
installed), and supplies a detection result to the control section
66 as a brightness signal.
[0105] An IR reception section 83 receives, for example, an IR
signal which is emitted from a remote controller and corresponds to
a user's operation when the user operates the remote controller
(not illustrated), and supplies the IR signal to the control
section 66.
[0106] The LED indicator 84 turns on or turns off the LEDs on the
basis of an LED control signal from the control section 66.
[0107] The touch sensor 85 includes, for example, a plurality of
electrodes whose capacitances vary according to proximity of a
human finger or the like. The touch sensor 85 detects a proximity
operation and a contact operation of a user on the basis of
variations in capacitances of the plurality of electrodes, and
supplies a detection result thereof to the control section 66 as a
touch sensor signal.
[0108] A USB control section 86 is connected to the relay section
81, a Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) communication section 87, a near
field communication (NFC) communication section 88, Bluetooth
(registered trademark; BT) communication section 89, universal
serial bus (USB) terminal input sections 90 and 91, and an encoder
92.
[0109] The USB control section 86 acquires a USB I/F signal
conforming to a USB standard, supplied from each of the Wi-Fi
communication section 87, the NFC communication section 88, the BT
communication section 89, the USB terminal input section 90, the
USB terminal input section 91, and the encoder 92, and outputs the
signal to the control section 66. In addition, the USB control
section 86 appropriately distributes a USB I/F signal which is
supplied from the control section 66 via the relay section 81, to
the Wi-Fi communication section 87, the NFC communication section
88, the BT communication section 89, the USB terminal input section
90, the USB terminal input section 91, or the encoder 92.
[0110] The Wi-Fi communication section 87 transmits data supplied
from the USB control section 86 as a USB I/F signal, to other
communication apparatuses such as a mobile phone through wireless
communication using a Wi-Fi communication method. In addition, the
Wi-Fi communication section 87 receives data which is transmitted
from other communication apparatuses (Wi-Fi apparatuses) through
Wi-Fi wireless communication, and supplies the data to the USB
control section 86 as a USB I/F signal.
[0111] The NFC communication section 88 transmits data supplied
from the USB control section 86 as a USB I/F signal, to other
communication apparatuses (NFC apparatuses) such as a mobile phone
through near field communication using NFC defined in ISO/IEC
18092. In addition, the NFC communication section 88 receives data
which is transmitted from other communication apparatuses through
near field communication, and supplies the data to the USB control
section 86 as a USB I/F signal.
[0112] The BT communication section 89 transmits data supplied from
the USB control section 86 as a USB I/F signal, to other
communication apparatuses such as a mobile phone through wireless
communication (BT communication) using Bluetooth (registered
trademark). In addition, the BT communication section 89 receives
data which is transmitted from other communication apparatuses (BT
apparatuses) through BT communication, and supplies the data to the
USB control section 86 as a USB I/F signal.
[0113] The USB terminal input section 90 and the USB terminal input
section 91 are connectors to which a USB terminal is connected. For
example, a USB memory, a hard disk storage device as an external
storage device is connected to the USB terminal input section 90 or
the USB terminal input section 91. The USB terminal input section
90 and the USB terminal input section 91 are provided so as to
oppose each other, for example, on both side surfaces of a casing
of the smart unit 12.
[0114] The encoder 92 is connected to the camera 93 and a
microphone 94. The camera 93 is constituted by an imaging element
such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal
oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor, and supplies an image
signal obtained through imaging to the encoder 92. The microphone
94 supplies an audio signal obtained through collection of sounds
to the encoder 92. The encoder 92 performs signal processes such as
an A/D conversion process and encoding process of an image signal
and an audio signal, and supplies a processed signal to the USB
control section 86 as a USB I/F signal.
[0115] FIG. 6 illustrates a more detailed functional block diagram
of the control section 66.
[0116] In the control section 66, the control program stored in the
internal memory 66A is executed, and thus at least an AV signal
processing portion 101, a communication control portion 102, an LED
control portion 103, and a sensor control portion 104 are
realized.
[0117] The AV signal processing portion 101 performs control for
displaying a predetermined image on the display 14. For example,
the AV signal processing portion 101 performs input and output
processes, an A/D (analog to digital) conversion process and a D/A
(digital to analog) conversion process of an image signal and an
audio signal, a descramble process of a broadcast signal, a
decoding process, and the like.
[0118] The communication control portion 102 performs control of
communication with a network connected via the LAN terminal 61,
Wi-Fi communication, NFC communication, BT (Bluetooth (registered
trademark)) communication, and the like.
[0119] The LED control portion 103 performs LED control of the LED
indicator 84. Specifically, the LED control portion 103 controls a
current supplied to the LED through pulse width modulation (PWM)
control so as to control emission luminance. The PWM control is a
method in which an On-state and an Off-state of a current are
changed through switching so that a ratio (duty ratio) of the
On-state and Off-state is varied, and thus an average current is
controlled.
[0120] The sensor control portion 104 acquires a brightness signal
from the brightness sensor 82, an IR signal from the IR reception
section 83, an imaging signal obtained by the camera 93, or the
like, and performs control according to the acquired signal. The
sensor control portion 104 also controls the AV signal processing
portion 101, the communication control portion 102, and the LED
control portion 103 according to the acquired signal.
[0121] In the TV 1 configured as mentioned above, illumination
(representation using light) for allowing a user to intuitively
recognize an operation or a state of the TV 1, or an operation
performed on the TV 1 by the user, is performed through cooperation
between a display image of the display 14 and turning-on of the LED
indicator 84 of the smart unit 12. Hereinafter, a description will
be made of various representations using a display image of the
display 14 and turning-on of the LED indicator 84 of the smart unit
12.
[0122] [3. Basic Turning-on Example of LED Indicator 84]
[0123] First, a description will be made of the simplest turning-on
method of the LED indicator 84 of the smart unit 12.
[0124] FIG. 6A illustrates a display example in a case where only
the central LED 21W is turned on in the LED indicator 84, and FIG.
6B illustrates a display example in a case where the three LEDs 21
are turned on in white.
[0125] In addition, in FIG. 6 and the subsequent drawings, for
better understanding of a turning-on representation, each
constituent element of the smart unit 12 is omitted, and turning-on
or turning-off of the LED indicator 84 of the smart unit 12 is
illustrated in a predetermined appropriate density. Further, in the
following description, turning-on or turning-off of the LED
indicator 84 is also referred to as turning-on or turning-off of
the smart unit 12.
[0126] As described with reference to FIG. 2, the light from the
LED 21W is output from only (the output part 23 on) the front side
of the smart unit 12. Therefore, in a case where only the LED 21W
is turned on, as illustrated in FIG. 6A, only the front surface of
the smart unit 12 emits light in a linear shape.
[0127] The light from the LED 21L and the LED 21R is output from
(the output parts 23 on) the front side and the lower side of the
smart unit 12. Therefore, in a case where the three LEDs 21 are
turned on, as illustrated in FIG. 6B, hemispherical light is formed
in the vertical downward direction from the smart unit 12 in
addition to the light emission of the front surface of the smart
unit 12.
[0128] FIG. 7 illustrates an arrangement of the three LEDs 21 when
the smart unit 12 is viewed from the top and a turning-on example
of the front side of the smart unit 12.
[0129] In a case where only the LED 21W is turned on, the LED 21W
is disposed on the central front side of the smart unit 12, and
thus only the center of the linear smart unit 12 emits light in a
dot shape as illustrated in the left part of FIG. 7.
[0130] On the other hand, in a case where the two LEDs 21L and 21R
disposed on the left and right rear sides are turned on along with
the central LED 21W, the smart unit 12 emits light in a linear
shape as illustrated in the right part of FIG. 7.
[0131] As mentioned above, two types of emission states including a
dot representation and a line representation are used separately
with the LED indicator 84, and thus it is possible to represent,
for example, a difference in a state such as a power-on state and a
standby state of the TV 1.
[0132] In a case where two types of emission states including a dot
representation and a line representation are represented, a user
can recognize a difference in the two types of states of the TV 1
even if a color is not discriminated. In a case where such a
representation is performed, the two color LEDs 21L and 21R may be
turned on in white, and thus the representation can be realized
even if the two color LEDs 21L and 21R are white LEDs.
[0133] In addition, in the present embodiment, the LED indicator 84
is constituted by the three LEDs 21, but, for example, as
illustrated in FIG. 8, two types of emission states including a dot
representation and a line representation can be represented even by
using two LEDs 21 disposed on front and rear sides. Further, for
example, as illustrated in FIG. 9, two types of emission states
including a dot representation and a line representation can be
represented even in a case where three LEDs 21 are disposed so as
to be arranged in the horizontal direction.
[0134] In other words, in the present embodiment, the LED indicator
84 is formed by a single LED 21 disposed on the central front side,
and the two LEDs 21 disposed on the left and right rear sides, but
the number of LEDs 21 forming the LED indicator 84 may be two or
more, and an arrangement of the LEDs 21 may also be determined as
appropriate.
[0135] In addition, for convenience of description, FIGS. 6 to 9
illustrate that light is not emitted from both ends of the smart
unit 12, but, in practice, the LED indicator 84 can emit light up
to both ends of the smart unit 12.
[0136] [4. Sequence Turning-on Example of LED Indicator 84]
[0137] The example described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9 is a
turning-on example in a case where one or more LEDs 21 are turned
on and off with predetermined emission luminance.
[0138] FIG. 10 illustrates a turning-on example in a case where
emission luminance of one or more LEDs 21 is continuously varied
through PWM control.
[0139] If the LED control portion 103 performs control so as to
first turn on the white LED 21W on the central front side, then
gradually reduce light and also gradually turn on the color LEDs
21L and 21R on the left and right rear sides in white, and then
reduce light, a turning-on representation as illustrated in FIG.
10A is possible. In other words, a turning-on representation
becomes possible in which the central part of the linear smart unit
12 emits light, and the light moves and flows in the horizontal
direction.
[0140] In addition, if control reverse to the turning-on control of
FIG. 10A is performed, a turning-on representation as illustrated
in FIG. 10B becomes possible. In other words, a turning-on
representation becomes possible in which both ends of the linear
smart unit 12 emit light, and the light moves and flows toward the
central part.
[0141] Such a turning-on representation for varying a turning-on
position and luminance with the passage of time may be employed as
a representation for indicating a continuous operation of the TV 1.
For example, the turning-on representation may be a representation
indicating an operation in a case where the TV 1 is connected to an
external apparatus such as a remote controller, a personal computer
(PC), or a mobile phone (smart phone). In a case where the
turning-on representation of FIG. 10A is performed, a user can
recognize an operation in which data is output (transmitted) from
the TV 1 to an external apparatus by using the smart unit 12 as a
core or an input and output portion of the TV 1. In a case where
the turning-on representation of FIG. 10B is performed, the user
can recognize an operation in which data is input to the TV 1 from
the external apparatus.
[0142] [5. Cooperative Turning-on Example with Image Display]
[0143] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a cooperative turning-on
representation in which image display of the display 14 is
additionally combined with the turning-on representation of the LED
indicator 84 illustrated in FIG. 10. In addition, in FIG. 11, for
better understanding of a turning-on representation of the smart
unit 12, a width of the smart unit 12 is illustrated so as to be
the same as a width of the display main body 11.
[0144] FIG. 11A illustrates an example of a turning-on
representation in which turning-on by the single white LED 21W is
combined with image display of the display 14, and an example of a
turning-on representation for allowing a user to recognize data
output in the same manner as in FIG. 10A.
[0145] In FIG. 11A, first, an image in which white light is
disposed at a screen center is displayed on the display 14. In
addition, the light displayed at the screen center gradually moves
in the downward direction of the screen toward the smart unit 12.
In addition, if the light on the display 14 disappears, the white
LED 21W of the smart unit 12 is turned on, and is then turned
off.
[0146] FIG. 11B illustrates an example of a turning-on
representation in which turning-on by the single white LED 21W is
combined with image display of the display 14, and an example of a
turning-on representation for allowing the user to recognize data
input in the same manner as in FIG. 10B.
[0147] In FIG. 11B, first, the white LED 21W is turned on at the
center of the smart unit 12, and is then turned off. Along with the
turning-off of the white LED 21W, an image in which white light
appears around the smart unit 12 in the screen is displayed on the
display 14. In addition, an image in which the white light
displayed on the screen gradually moves in the upward direction of
the screen and disappears at the screen center is displayed on the
display 14.
[0148] FIG. 11C illustrates an example of a turning-on
representation in which turning-on by the three LEDs 21 is combined
with image display of the display 14, and an example of a
turning-on representation for allowing a user to recognize data
output.
[0149] In FIG. 11C, first, an image in which white light is
disposed at a screen center is displayed on the display 14, and the
light displayed at the screen center gradually moves in the
downward direction of the screen toward the smart unit 12. In
addition, along with disappearance of the light on the display 14,
a turning-on representation is performed in which the white LED 21W
disposed at the center of the smart unit 12 is turned on, and then
the light at the center of the smart unit 12 moves and flows to the
left and right sides.
[0150] FIG. 11D illustrates an example of a turning-on
representation in which turning-on by the three LEDs 21 is combined
with image display of the display 14, and an example of a
turning-on representation for allowing the user to recognize data
input.
[0151] In FIG. 11D, first, the color LEDs 21L and 21R are turned on
in white at both ends of the smart unit 12, and are then turned
off. Along with the turning-off of the color LEDs 21L and 21R, the
white LED 21W is gradually turned on and is then turned off.
Accordingly, a turning-on representation becomes possible in which
both ends of the smart unit 12 emits light, and the light moves and
flows toward the central part in the same manner as in FIG. 10B. In
addition, along with the turning-off of the white LED 21W, an image
in which white light appears around the smart unit 12 in the screen
is displayed on the display 14. Further, an image in which the
white light displayed on the screen gradually moves in the upward
direction of the screen and disappears at the screen center is
displayed on the display 14.
[0152] As mentioned above, a turning-on representation by the LED
indicator 84 is combined with image display in which white light is
absorbed by the smart unit 12 or is expelled from the smart unit
12, and thus input and output of data can be recognized by the
user.
[0153] [6. Turning-on Representation of LED Indicator 84
Corresponding to TV Operation]
[0154] Next, a turning-on representation of the LED indicator 84
corresponding to an operation on the TV 1 will be described.
[0155] [6.1 Power-on and Power-Off Operations]
[0156] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of turning-on representations
a starting operation from a standby state (power off) to a starting
state (power on) and a standby operation from the starting state to
a standby state in the TV 1.
[0157] In a case where the TV 1 is in the standby state, the LED
control portion 103 controls the color LEDs 21L and 21R so as to
emit light with luminance at 50% of the maximal luminance (MAX),
for example, as illustrated in FIG. 12A. In addition, in the
following description, for example, LED control for causing light
to be emitted with luminance at 50% of the maximal luminance is
referred to as turning-on or the like with 50% luminance.
[0158] In addition, the user presses a power-on button or the like
of the remote controller so as to perform a starting operation for
turning the TV 1 from the standby state to the starting state. In
response to the user's operation, the LED control portion 103 turns
on the color LEDs 21L and 21R with 100% luminance as illustrated in
FIG. 12B. Further, a predetermined logo ("SOMY") is displayed on
the display 14 in a moment.
[0159] FIG. 12C illustrates a control sequence of luminance of the
three LEDs 21 when the starting operation is detected. The LED
control portion 103 performs control so that the color LEDs 21L and
21R are turned on with 100% luminance and are then turned off with
0% luminance at a predetermined time. In addition, the LED control
portion 103 performs control so that the white LED 21W with 0%
luminance is gradually turned on after a predetermined time has
elapsed from the starting operation, and reaches 50% luminance at a
predetermined time from the starting operation.
[0160] On the other hand, if the user performs a standby operation
for turning the TV 1 from the starting state to the standby state,
the LED control portion 103 performs LED control illustrated in
FIG. 12D. In other words, the LED control portion 103 performs
control so that an output level of the color LEDs 21L and 21R is
gradually increased from 0% luminance to 50% luminance, and an
output level of the white LED 21W is gradually reduced from 50%
luminance to 0% luminance.
[0161] [6.2 Button Operation]
[0162] FIG. 13 illustrates a turning-on representation of the LED
indicator 84 in a case where a predetermined button such as a
channel button or a program table button of the remote controller
of the TV 1 is pressed.
[0163] In a television receiver of the related art, typically, an
LED lamp flashes only for a moment when a button operation is
detected. In this case, when a line of sight of a user deviates
from a screen even slightly, turning-on of the LED lamp is missed,
and thus it is hard to recognize whether or not the button
operation is detected.
[0164] Therefore, for example, as indicated by a solid line of FIG.
13A, the LED control portion 103 performs control so that an output
level of the three LEDs 21 reaches 90% luminance from 0% luminance
when a button is operated in a short time (for example, 0.1
seconds), and is then gradually reduced to 0% luminance for a
predetermined time (for example, 0.9 seconds).
[0165] In addition, for example, in a case where an initial state
is a state in which light is emitted at a predetermined output
level (for example, 50% luminance), as indicated by a solid line of
FIG. 13B, the LED control portion 103 performs control so that an
output level is temporarily increased to the maximal luminance, and
is then returned to an original output level.
[0166] As mentioned above, since a turning-on representation is
performed which leaves the user with an allusive feeling by varying
luminance with the passage of time as operation feedback
corresponding to the user's button operation, turning-on can be
recognized even if a line of sight of the user slightly deviated
from a screen or the turning-on is missed in a moment, and thus
visibility is improved.
[0167] In addition, the turning-on representation which leaves the
user with an allusive feeling may be performed by control reverse
to the above-described luminance control as indicated by a broken
line in FIGS. 13A and 13B. In other words, the control indicated by
the solid line of FIG. 13 is performed so that first luminance is
set, and is then reduced to second luminance lower than the first
luminance, but, conversely, control may be performed so that first
luminance is set, and is then increased to second luminance higher
than the first luminance. In addition, the control value of
emission luminance in the above-described examples is only an
example, and it is needless to say that a control value is not
limited to the exemplified numerical value and can be set to any
value (this is the same for other examples).
[0168] [6.3 Timer Operation]
[0169] Next, a description will be made of a turning-on
representation of the LED indicator 84 corresponding to a user's
operation for performing a predetermined function. Here, a
description will be made of an example of a timer function of
turning on or off power of the TV 1 at a predetermined set time
point as the predetermined function.
[0170] FIG. 14 illustrates a setting screen when timer setting is
performed in the TV 1.
[0171] The setting screen includes "On Timer" which is an item for
designating "power-on" or "power-off" at a designated time point,
"Day" which is an item for designating the date, "Time" which is an
item for designating a time point, "Channel" which is an item for
designating a channel, "Volume" which is an item for designating
sound volume, and the like.
[0172] In the setting screen, the above-described respective items
are displayed on a background image which vaguely flashes in a
predetermined color in a circular shape with a screen center as a
starting point on a black background. Here, a color of the circle
which vaguely shines is a color which is assigned to the timer
function in advance, and is, for example, an orange color.
[0173] A user sets each item of the setting screen to a desired
value, and then presses, for example, a determination button of a
remote controller as an operation for fixing (registering) the set
content. If the determination button is pressed by the user, the TV
1 performs a cooperative representation in which image display of
the display 14 is combined with turning-on of the LED indicator 84
of the smart unit 12 as illustrated in FIG. 15.
[0174] In other words, in the same manner as in the turning-on
representation illustrated in FIG. 11A, the circle of the orange
color light of the setting screen gradually moves in the downward
direction of the screen toward the smart unit 12. In addition, the
LED indicator 84 is turned on in synchronization or interlocking
with disappearance of the circle of the orange color light of the
setting screen. For example, if the circular light on the setting
screen disappears, the color LEDs 21L and 21R of the smart unit 12
gradually emit light in an orange color until reaching the maximal
luminance, then reduce light, and are then turned on with constant
luminance (for example, 20% luminance) at all times.
[0175] A state in which the LED indicator 84 of the smart unit 12
is turned on with constant luminance (for example, 20% luminance)
at all times indicates that a function corresponding to an emitted
light color is currently operated in the TV 1. In the example here,
since the orange color is assigned to the time function, the LED
indicator 84 is turned on in the orange color with constant
luminance, which indicates that the timer function is currently
operated.
[0176] In a case where the smart unit 12 is turned on with constant
luminance (for example, 20% luminance) at all times, this indicates
that a predetermined function is operated in the TV 1, and the user
can confirm what kind of function is currently operated by pressing
a screen display button of the remote controller.
[0177] FIG. 16 illustrates an operation of the TV 1 when the screen
display button of the remote controller is pressed in a case where
the timer function is currently operated, and the user is viewing a
predetermined broadcast program.
[0178] The leftmost figure of FIG. 16 illustrates that the smart
unit 12 is turned on with constant luminance (for example, 20%
luminance) in the orange color indicating that the timer function
is currently operated.
[0179] If the screen display button of the remote controller is
pressed, a display image of the display 14 and turning-on of the
smart unit 12 are changed in an order indicated by the arrows with
the passage of time. In other words, in the display 14, a
sub-screen indicating the set content of the currently operated
timer function is displayed in a region of the display image on the
upper side of the smart unit 12 in a superimposition manner, and is
erased after a predetermined time elapses. At this time, an extent
of superimposition of the sub-screen on the broadcast program image
which is a main screen is increased with the passage of time, and
is then decreased with the passage of time. In addition, emission
luminance of the orange color of the smart unit 12 is also
increased with the passage of time in synchronization with the
extent of superimposition of the sub-screen, and is then decreased.
The sub-screen indicating the set content of the timer function has
the meaning as supplementary information for supplementing a
currently operated function (a function corresponding to a
turning-on color of the smart unit 12).
[0180] In addition, for example, in a case where the TV 1 has a
recording function of programs broadcast on different channels, and
the TV 1 is in a recording operation, the smart unit 12 is turned
on in red during the recording operation. Further, if the screen
display button of the remote controller is pressed, as illustrated
in FIG. 17B, in the TV 1, a channel name, a program title, and a
broadcast program image, and the like during the recording
operation, are displayed by the sub-screen, and the smart unit 12
is turned on with luminance synchronized with the superimposition
display of the sub-screen, and in red.
[0181] In addition, for example, in a state in which the user uses
a video chatting function via the Internet, and a video chatting
screen (also referred to as a video chatting image) is not
displayed and a program image is displayed in a full screen, the
smart unit 12 emits yellow light corresponding to the video
chatting function. Further, if the screen display button of the
remote controller is pressed, as illustrated in FIG. 17C, the
display 14 displays a video chatting screen on a sub-screen, and
the smart unit 12 is turned on with luminance synchronized with
superimposition display of the sub-screen, and in yellow.
[0182] As mentioned above, when the user presses the screen display
button of the remote controller, the display 14 displays
supplementary information on the sub-screen, and the smart unit 12
is turned on with luminance synchronized with the sub-screen, and
in a color corresponding to the type of supplementary
information.
[0183] Accordingly, the user can understand what kind of function
is operated in the TV 1 if the user only has to view a state in
which the smart unit 12 is turned on in a predetermined color at
all times. In other words, the user can intuitively recognize an
operation or a set state of a predetermined function of the TV 1.
In addition, supplementary information of a currently operated
function may be displayed by using a sub-screen as necessary.
[0184] [6.4 Other Operations]
[0185] With reference to FIGS. 18 to 21, a description will be made
of an example of a cooperative turning-on representation,
corresponding to other operations, in which image display of the
display 14 is combined with a turning-on representation of the LED
indicator 84.
[0186] In addition, in FIGS. 18 to 21, "A" displayed on a circle of
light in a display image of the display 14 indicates a
predetermined function whose operation (upper and lower key
operations, or a drag operation) is currently performed by the
user.
[0187] FIG. 18 illustrates a cooperative turning-on representation
when an upper key is pressed among direction keys of four
directions including the upper key, a lower key, a right key, and a
left key of the remote controller.
[0188] In a case where the upper key is pressed, a cooperative
turning-on representation is performed so that emitted light moves
in the upward direction corresponding to the upper key.
Specifically, first, the smart unit 12 is turned on. Then, an image
in which light displayed near the smart unit 12 moves so as to rise
to the screen center is displayed on the display 14 in
synchronization with a state in which the light of the smart unit
12 gradually disappears.
[0189] FIG. 19 illustrates a cooperative turning-on representation
when the lower key of the remote controller is pressed.
[0190] In a case where the lower key is pressed, a cooperative
turning-on representation is performed so that emitted light moves
in the downward direction corresponding to the lower key.
Specifically, first, an image having circular light at the screen
center is displayed on the display 14. In addition, an image in
which the circular light at the screen center moves in the downward
direction of the screen toward the smart unit 12 is displayed on
the display 14. Next, the smart unit 12 is turned on and is then
turned off in synchronization with disappearance of the light on
the display 14.
[0191] FIG. 20 illustrates a cooperative turning-on representation
when the user touches the display 14 with the finger and performs a
dragging operation in the downward direction toward the smart unit
12 in a case where the display 14 of the TV 1 is a touch panel. In
this case, the TV 1 performs the same image display and turning-on
as when the lower key of the remote controller is pressed,
described in FIG. 19.
[0192] FIG. 21 illustrates a cooperative turning-on representation
when the user touches the display 14 with the finger and performs a
dragging operation in the upward direction of the screen from the
vicinity of the smart unit 12 in a case where the display 14 of the
TV 1 is a touch panel. In this case, the TV 1 performs the same
image display and turning-on as when the upper key of the remote
controller is pressed, described in FIG. 18.
[0193] As mentioned above, when a predetermined setting operation
is performed on the TV 1, a cooperative turning-on representation
is performed so that the circular light is absorbed by the smart
unit 12, or the circular light is expelled from the smart unit 12.
In addition, the cooperative turning-on representation is not
limited to the "circular shape", and may employ any color and
shape. Further, instead of the "circular light", a predetermined
character, or graphic, or a combination thereof may be
employed.
[0194] When the smart unit 12 is turned on or blinks with
predetermined luminance and in a predetermined color, the user
performs the above-described predefined operation, and thus can
immediately and simply confirm content (meaning) indicated by the
turning-on or blinking of the smart unit 12.
[0195] [7. Cooperative Turning-on Representation in Image Erasure
Operation]
[0196] The TV 1 is provided with the camera 93 in the smart unit
12, and the camera 93 can detect the user on the front side of the
TV 1 on the basis of an image captured by the camera 93. In
addition, the TV 1 has an image erasure function of not displaying
an image for saving power if a state in which the user is not
present in front of the TV 1 for a predetermined time is
detected.
[0197] FIG. 22A illustrates a cooperative representation in which
image display of the display 14 is combined with turning-on of the
smart unit 12 in a case where the TV 1 transitions to an image
erasure mode.
[0198] In a case where the transition to the image erasure mode is
performed, the control section 66 controls image display of the
display 14 so that an image to be erased is absorbed by the smart
unit 12 disposed on the lower side of the display 14 as illustrated
in FIG. 22A. In other words, in the image displayed on the display
14, an image to be erased is absorbed by the smart unit 12, and
thus emission luminance around the smart unit 12 increases. In
addition, as the image displayed on the display 14 is absorbed by
the smart unit 12, the smart unit 12 is turned on so as to become
brighter (luminance increases). In other words, the control section
66 controls the display of the display 14 and the turning-on of the
smart unit 12 so that a display ratio of the image on the display
14 is inversely proportional to emission luminance of the smart
unit 12.
[0199] FIG. 22B illustrates a cooperative representation in which
image display of the display 14 is combined with turning-on of the
smart unit 12 in a case where returning to a normal mode (display
mode) from the image erasure mode is performed.
[0200] In a case where the returning to a normal mode, the control
section 66 control a display image so that an image to be displayed
is expelled from the smart unit 12 as illustrated in FIG. 22B. In
other words, the image is displayed with high luminance on the
display 14 around the smart unit 12, and then the image to be
displayed is expanded to a full screen. The smart unit 12 is
gradually changed to low luminance as the image to be displayed is
displayed on the display 14. In other words, emission luminance of
the smart unit 12 is reduced in inverse proportion to a display
ratio of the image to be displayed on the display 14.
[0201] As mentioned above, the control section 66 performs a
cooperative representation between the display 14 and the smart
unit 12 so that an image to be erased is absorbed by the smart unit
12, and an image to be displayed is expelled from the smart unit
12. It is possible to allow the user to recognize the smart unit 12
as a core of the TV 1.
[0202] [8. Cooperation Between Video Chatting Screen and LED
Indicator 84]
[0203] FIG. 23 illustrates screen transition when a video chatting
function is used via the Internet in the TV 1.
[0204] As in an image 201, when the user views a predetermined
broadcast program on the TV 1, if there is an incoming call of
video chatting from another user via a network such as the
Internet, the TV 1 turns on the smart unit 12 in synchronization
with a sound indicating the incoming call of the video chatting as
in an image 202. Here, the turning-on synchronized with a sound
indicating the incoming call of the video chatting indicates that
emission luminance of the LED indicator 84 is changed depending on
an interval or volume of the sound indicating the incoming call of
the video chatting. As described with reference to FIG. 17C, since
an emission color of the LED indicator 84 is correlated with a
predetermined function, the user can recognize an incoming call of
video chatting by visually recognizing a turning-on color of the
LED indicator 84 even if a sound indicating the incoming call of
video chatting is not made.
[0205] The user responds to the incoming call of video chatting by
pressing a predetermined button of the remote controller, or the
like. Then, as illustrated in images 203 and 204, the control
section 66 of the TV 1 displays a video chatting screen in a
cooperative representation in which image display of the display 14
is combined with turning-on of the smart unit 12 as described with
reference to FIG. 22B. In other words, the control section 66
controls turning-on of the smart unit 12 and a display image of the
display 14 so that a video chatting image is expelled from the
smart unit 12 on a broadcast program image which is currently
viewed.
[0206] In a case where the user finishes the video chatting, as
illustrated in images 206 to 209, the control section 66 of the TV
1 erases the video chatting image in a cooperative representation
in which image data of the display 14 is combined with turning-on
of the smart unit 12 as described with reference to FIG. 22A. In
other words, the control section 66 controls turning-on of the
smart unit 12 and a display image of the display 14 so that the
video chatting image is absorbed by the smart unit 12 disposed on
the lower side of the display 14.
[0207] In addition, in video chatting, the chatting may be
performed only with a voice conversation without displaying a video
chatting image on the display 14. In a voice conversation mode of
performing chatting only with a voice conversation, as illustrated
in images 210 and 211, a video chatting image is erased, and the
smart unit 12 is turned on in synchronization with a voice (sound)
of a communication partner.
[0208] The above-described example has described an example in
which a video chatting image is displayed on a currently displayed
broadcast program image. However, also in a case where other images
are displayed or erased, such a representation in which image
display of the display 14 is combined with turning-on of the smart
unit 12 may be employed.
[0209] FIG. 24 illustrates an example in which a representation in
which image display of the display 14 is combined with turning-on
of the smart unit 12 is applied to electronic point of purchase
advertising (POP).
[0210] In addition, for example, also in a case where an individual
user is recognized on the basis of a user image captured by the
camera 93 of the smart unit 12, and an information providing screen
for providing optimal information to the recognized user is
displayed and erased, such a representation in which image display
of the display 14 is combined with turning-on of the smart unit 12
may be employed. Content of information provided to a user in the
information providing screen may be changed depending on not only a
recognized individual user but also a time point, the data,
weather, and the like. For example, in a case where a certain user
is recognized in the weekday morning, traffic information
(congestion information) or the like such as a train route or a
road which is registered in advance may be presented to the user by
using the information providing screen.
[0211] As mentioned above, when a second image which is another
image is superimposed and disposed on a first image which is
currently displayed on the display 14, or is erased, a cooperative
representation in which the second image is absorbed by the smart
unit 12 or is expelled from the smart unit 12 may be employed.
[0212] [9. Information Representation of LED Indicator 84 Based on
Image Viewing Experience]
[0213] Next, a description will be made of an example in which a
user recognizes predetermined information (state) through an
information explanation image displayed on the display 14 and
predetermined turning-on performed by the LED indicator 84 of the
smart unit 12.
[0214] [9.1 Correspondence to Turning-on Position]
[0215] With reference to FIG. 25, a description will be made of an
example in which the user recognizes predetermined information in
accordance with an information explanation image and a turning-on
position of the LED indicator 84.
[0216] As described above, since three LEDs 21 are disposed so as
to be arranged in the horizontal direction in the LED indicator 84,
each of the three LEDs is turned on separately, and thus three
positions including the left side, the center, and the right side
can be identified by the user.
[0217] Therefore, first, as illustrated in the upper part of FIG.
25, explanation images for explaining predetermined information are
displayed by the control section 66 at positions corresponding to
the three LEDs 21 on the left side, the center, and the right side
on the display 14. In the example of the upper part of FIG. 25, an
image for explaining "information A" corresponding to the left LED
21L, an image for explaining "information B" corresponding to the
central LED 21W, and an image for explaining "information C"
corresponding to the right LED 21R are displayed.
[0218] In addition, the control section 66 sequentially turns on
the three LEDs 21 one by one while the explanation images for
explaining the "information A", the "information B", and the
"information C" are displayed, so as to allow the user to recognize
respective correspondence relationships between the information A,
the information B, and the information C, and the LEDs 21.
[0219] Next, as in the lower part of FIG. 25, the image displayed
on the display 14 is changed, and thus the explanation images are
erased. In the example of the lower part of FIG. 25, an image
reflecting a mountain therein is displayed on the display 14 of the
TV 1, but this merely means that the image has no relation to
turning-on of the smart unit 12, and the image itself has no
meaning.
[0220] If the left LED 21L is turned on during display of the
mountain image on the display 14, the user viewing the turning-on
can recognize the "information A". If the central LED 21W is turned
on, the user viewing the turning-on can recognize the "information
B". If the right LED 21R is turned on, the user viewing the
turning-on can recognize the "information C". As mentioned above,
in a case where predetermined information is indicated, the control
section 66 turns on the LED 21 at a position corresponding to the
information.
[0221] A specific example will be described. For example, a scene
is assumed in which the user simultaneously performs video chatting
together with three partners. In this case, the control section 66
displays a captured image of a user A as the "information A" of an
explanation image displayed on the display 14, a captured image of
a user B as the "information B", and a captured image of a user C
as the "information C", and then changes the images on the display
14 to a broadcast program image. In addition, the control section
66 turns on the left LED 21L when the user A is in a calling state,
turns on the central LED 21W when the user B is in a calling state,
and turns on the right LED 21R when the user C is in a calling
state. The user in front of the TV 1 can easily recognize which
user is in a calling state if the user only has to view a
turning-on position of the LED indicator 84.
[0222] In addition, in the above-described example, instead of the
captured images of the user A, the user B, and the user C, an image
may be displayed in which an explanation such as "this position
corresponds to the user A" is written.
[0223] FIG. 26 illustrates another example in which the user
recognizes predetermined information in accordance with a
turning-on position of the LED indicator 84.
[0224] In the example of FIG. 26, the control section 66 displays
explanation images in the same manner as in FIG. 25, and moves an
image for explaining the "information B" in the downward direction
of the screen. In addition, the image for explaining the
"information B" disappears, and the central LED 21W corresponding
to the "information B" is also turned on, thereby allowing the user
to recognize a correspondence relationship between the
predetermined information and the LED 21. Accordingly, in a case
where the central LED 21W is turned on even after an image is
changed, the user viewing the turning-on can recognize the
"information B".
[0225] [9.2 Correspondence to Turning-on Cycle]
[0226] With reference to FIG. 27, a description will be made of an
example in which the user recognizes predetermined information in
accordance with an information explanation image and a turning-on
cycle (blinking pattern) of the LED indicator 84.
[0227] In the example of FIG. 27, the number of described
information pieces is six including "information A" to "information
F".
[0228] First, as illustrated in the upper part of FIG. 27, the
control section 66 displays explanation images of the "information
A" to the "information F" on the display 14, and sequentially
displays the explanation images of the "information A" to the
"information F" in different blinking patterns. In addition, at
this time, the LED 21W of the LED indicator 84 is also turned on in
brightness synchronized with the blinking patterns of the
images.
[0229] Next, after the image on the display 14 is changed, the
smart unit 12 is turned on in any one of the blinking patterns of
the "information A" to the "information F" presented in the
previous explanation images. For example, as illustrated in FIG.
27, it is assumed that the LED 21W of the smart unit 12 is turned
on (blinks) in the blinking pattern of the "information A". In this
case, the user can recognize the "information A" even in a case
where an unrelated image is displayed on the display 14.
[0230] [9.3 Correspondence to Turning-on Color]
[0231] Next, with reference to FIG. 28, a description will be made
of an example in which the user recognizes predetermined
information in accordance with an information explanation image and
a turning-on color of the LED indicator 84.
[0232] First, in the same manner as in the example illustrated in
FIG. 25, the control section 66 displays explanation images for
explaining the "information A", the "information B", and the
"information C" on the display 14. However, in FIG. 28, there is a
difference in that the explanation images for explaining the
"information A", the "information B", and the "information C" are
represented in different colors. For example, the "information A"
is displayed red, the "information B" is displayed blue, and the
"information C" is displayed green.
[0233] Next, if the images on the display 14 are changed so that
the explanation images are erased, and the color LED 21L is turned
on in red as illustrated in the left part of FIG. 28, the user
viewing the turning-on can recognize the "information A".
[0234] In addition, if the horizontal direction of the smart unit
12 is defined as a time axis, and LEDs of a plurality of colors are
arranged in the time axis direction and are turned on, content of
information and ordering thereof can also be recognized as
turning-on of the smart unit 12. In the right example of FIG. 28,
since the color LED 21L is displayed green, and the color LED 21R
is displayed red, the user can recognize the "information C" and
the "information A" in an order of green and red.
[0235] [10. Cooperative Representation Corresponding to User's
Operation Performed on Smart Unit 12]
[0236] The smart unit 12 is provided with the touch sensor 85 as
described above, and thus can detect contact or proximity of a
user's hand or finger. In addition, the smart unit 12 is provided
with the NFC communication section 88 and the BT communication
section 89 and thus can communicate with other NFC apparatuses or
BT apparatuses. Further, the smart unit 12 is provided with the
camera 93, and thus can detect an operation of a user. The TV 1 can
perform a predetermined cooperative representation by using
turning-on of the LED indicator 84 and image display of the display
14 so as to correspond to a user's various operations on the smart
unit 12.
[0237] [10.0 Cooperative Representation Corresponding to Touch
Operation on Smart Unit 12]
[0238] FIG. 29 illustrates an example of a cooperative
representation corresponding to a touch operation on the smart unit
12.
[0239] The above-described example of FIG. 16 has described an
example in which, when the timer function is currently operated in
the TV 1, the smart unit 12 is turned on in an orange color which
is an emission color corresponding to the timer function, and, if
the screen display button of the remote controller is pressed,
supplementary information is displayed by a sub-screen.
[0240] In the example of FIG. 29, instead of pressing the screen
display button in the example of FIG. 16, a similar cooperative
representation is performed in a case where a touch operation on
the smart unit 12 is detected.
[0241] In a case where the timer function is currently operated in
the TV 1, the smart unit 12 is turned on in an orange color which
is an emission color corresponding to the timer function. The user
touches the smart unit 12 which is turned on in an orange color,
with the hand. If the user's touch operation on the smart unit 12
is detected, the control section 66 of the TV 1 displays a
sub-screen as supplementary information in a superimposition manner
and causes (the LED indicator 84 of) the smart unit 12 to emit
light in a color corresponding to the function in synchronization
with the sub-screen as illustrated in FIG. 16.
[0242] The user can understand what kind of function of the TV 1 is
operated if the user only has to view a state in which the smart
unit 12 is turned on in a predetermined color at all times. In
other words, the user can intuitively recognize an operation or a
set state of a predetermined function of the TV 1. In addition,
through a simple operation such as touch on the smart unit 12, it
is possible to display supplementary information of a currently
operated function by using a sub-screen, and thus to call content
thereof.
[0243] FIG. 29 illustrates an example of a case where a
predetermined image such as a broadcast program image is displayed
on a main screen in the same manner as in the case of FIG. 16
described above, but FIG. 30 illustrates an example of a case where
a touch operation on the smart unit 12 is detected when an image is
not displayed in a standby state of the TV 1.
[0244] Also in the same manner for this case, if a user's touch
operation on the smart unit 12 is detected, the TV 1 displays
supplementary information on the display 14 around the smart unit
12, and causes the LED indicator 84 of the smart unit 12 to emit
light in a color corresponding to a function in synchronization
with the display of the supplementary information.
[0245] [10.2 Cooperative Representation Corresponding to NFC
Proximity Operation to Smart Unit 12]
[0246] FIG. 31 illustrates an example of a cooperative
representation corresponding to an NFC proximity operation to the
smart unit 12.
[0247] In the example of FIG. 31, the user grasps a portable
terminal (a smart phone or the like) 221 having an NFC
communication function, and brings not the user's hand but the
portable terminal close to the smart unit 12.
[0248] If the TV 1 detects the proximity of the portable terminal
221 to the smart unit 12, the smart unit 12 performs turning-on
indicating that the proximity is detected. For example, the LED
indicator 84 is turned on in synchronization or interlocking with
an LED lamp of the portable terminal 221.
[0249] Then, the TV 1 performs a cooperative representation in the
same manner as in FIG. 29. In other words, the TV 1 displays a
sub-screen as supplementary information in a superimposition manner
and causes the LED indicator 84 to emit light in a color
corresponding to the function in synchronization with the
sub-screen as illustrated in FIG. 16.
[0250] FIG. 32 illustrates an example of a case where proximity of
the portable terminal 221 to the smart unit 12 is detected in a
standby state of the TV 1.
[0251] Also in the same manner for this case, if the TV detects the
proximity of the portable terminal 221 to the smart unit 12, the
smart unit 12 performs turning-on indicating that the proximity is
detected. Next, supplementary information is displayed on the
display 14 around the smart unit 12, and the LED indicator 84 emits
light in a color corresponding to a function in synchronization
with the display of the supplementary information.
[0252] [10.3 Cooperative Representation Corresponding to Data
Transmission Between Portable Terminal and TV 1]
[0253] FIG. 33 illustrates an example of a cooperative
representation corresponding to data transmission performed between
the proximate portable terminal 221 and the smart unit 12.
[0254] FIG. 33A illustrates a cooperative representation example in
a case where data is transmitted from the portable terminal 221 to
the TV 1.
[0255] The user brings the portable terminal 221 close to the smart
unit 12 of the TV 1. If the proximity of the portable terminal 221
to the smart unit 12 is detected, the control section 66 of the TV
1 turns on the smart unit 12 in synchronization with the LED lamp
of the portable terminal 221. In other words, the LED indicator 84
of the smart unit 12 and the LED lamp of the portable terminal 221
emit light at the same timing and are turned on at all times, or
are repeatedly turned on and off in the same blinking pattern.
[0256] Next, data transmission starts from the portable terminal
221 to the TV 1 through NFC communication. The control section 66
of the TV 1 starts acquiring predetermined data from the portable
terminal 221 through the NFC communication.
[0257] During the data transmission operation, the control section
66 of the TV 1 performs a turning-on representation indicating data
input, combined with turning-on of the LED lamp of the portable
terminal 221. Specifically, first, the LED lamp of the portable
terminal 221 is turned on with predetermined luminance. In
addition, the control section 66 of the TV 1 performs the
turning-on representation in which the LED indicator 84 and the
image display of the display 14 are combined with each other in
FIG. 11B or FIG. 11D, so as to correspond to a turning-off
operation (reduction in luminance) of the LED lamp of the portable
terminal 221. FIG. 32A illustrates an example in which the TV 1
performs the turning-on representation of FIG. 11B.
[0258] FIG. 33B illustrates a cooperative representation example in
a case where data is transmitted from the TV 1 to the portable
terminal 221.
[0259] FIG. 33A illustrates a turning-on representation when the TV
1 (the smart unit 12 thereof) and the portable terminal 221 as NFC
communication apparatuses detect a communication partner.
[0260] When data starts being transmitted from the TV 1 to the
portable terminal 221, the control section 66 of the TV 1 performs
a turning-on representation indicating data output, combined with
turning-on of the LED lamp of the portable terminal 221.
Specifically, first, the control section 66 of the TV 1 performs
the turning-on representation in which the LED indicator 84 and the
image display of the display 14 are combined with each other in
FIG. 11A or FIG. 11C. In addition, in the portable terminal 221,
the LED lamp of the portable terminal 221 is gradually turned on,
and is then turned off, so as to correspond to a turning-off
operation (reduction in luminance) of the LED indicator 84. FIG.
33B illustrates an example in which the TV 1 performs the
turning-on representation of FIG. 11A.
[0261] As mentioned above, the TV 1 performs a turning-on
representation cooperating (synchronized or interlocking) with a
display part (LED lamp) of an external apparatus which is a
communication partner of NFC communication by using the LED
indicator 84, thereby indicating that the communication partner is
detected.
[0262] In addition, the TV 1 makes the cooperative representation
in which turning-on of the LED indicator 84 is combined with image
display (image representation) further cooperate with turning-on of
an LED lamp of an external apparatus which is a communication
partner of NFC communication, thereby indicating input and output
operations of data.
[0263] [10.4 Cooperative Representation Corresponding to Gesture
Operation on Smart Unit 12]
[0264] The TV 1 has a gesture input mode in which a predetermined
command is given or predetermined information is input to the TV 1
through a gesture operation.
[0265] In a case where the hand of the user is detected or a
gesture is recognized in the gesture input mode, the control
section 66 of the TV 1 performs control so that the LED indicator
84 is turned on as illustrated in FIG. 34.
[0266] In other words, the user in front of the TV 1 turns the
user's palm toward the TV 1 (the camera 93 thereof). If the user's
hand is detected on the basis of an image captured by the camera
93, the control section 66 turns on the LED indicator 84 with first
luminance (for example, 40% luminance).
[0267] If the user performs a predetermined gesture set in advance,
and the control section 66 of the TV 1 recognizes the gesture on
the basis of an image captured by the camera 93, luminance is
instantaneously increased from the first luminance to second
luminance (for example, 100% luminance). Next, the control section
66 gradually reduces luminance so that the second luminance becomes
the first luminance.
[0268] If a gesture is recognized again on the basis of an image
captured by the camera 93, the control section 66 performs control
so that luminance is instantaneously increased from the first
luminance to the second luminance, and is then returned to the
first luminance. On the other hand, if the user puts the user's
hand down and thus the user's palm which is a recognition target
cannot be recognized, the control section 66 turns off the LED
indicator 84.
[0269] As above, the control section 66 controls the LED indicator
84 so as to perform a turning-on representation which leaves the
user with an allusive feeling by changing luminance from the first
luminance to the second luminance with the passage of time when a
gesture is recognized. By performing such turning-on, it is
possible to easily understand whether or not the TV 1 side which
receives a predetermined command or information receives an
instruction from the user.
[0270] [10.5 Cooperative Representation Corresponding to Pairing
Operation of BT Apparatus]
[0271] FIG. 35 illustrates an example of a cooperative
representation corresponding to a pairing operation of a BT
apparatus.
[0272] A headphone 241 illustrated in FIG. 35 is a BT apparatus
which receives an audio signal of a broadcast program or the like
from the TV 1 through BT communication, and outputs sounds. The
headphone 241 is provided with an LED lamp 242 which emits
predetermined light according to a power supply state or a
communication state.
[0273] As illustrated in FIG. 35A, before the TV 1 and the
headphone 241 which are BT apparatuses are paired with each other,
the LED indicator 84 of the TV 1 and the LED lamp 242 of the
headphone 241 are all turned off.
[0274] The user performs a pairing operation of the TV 1 and the
headphone 241. In other words, the user performs a predetermined
operation set in advance on the headphone 241, and thus a mode of
the headphone 241 is changed to a pairing mode. In addition, a mode
of the TV 1 is changed to a pairing mode, and the control section
66 of the TV 1 retrieves BT apparatuses in a range in which
communication can be performed, so as to detect the headphone
241.
[0275] The control section 66 of the TV 1 performs a pairing
operation with the detected headphone 241. Accordingly, the TV 1
and the headphone 241 share the same passcode (PIN code).
[0276] If the pairing is completed, the TV 1 performs a cooperative
representation in which turning-on of the LED indicator 84 is
combined with image display (image representation) so as to
indicate the completion of the pairing as illustrated in FIG. 35B.
In other words, the TV 1 causes the LED indicator 84 to emit light
with first luminance (for example, 100% luminance) and also
displays an image of hemispherical light centering on the smart
unit 12 on the display 14. The text "Pairing with Headphone!" is
displayed in the image displayed on the display 14. The turning-on
of the LED indicator 84 and the image display are controlled so as
to be the same as a blinking pattern of the LED lamp 242 of the
headphone 241 in synchronization with each other. In addition, the
turning-on of the LED indicator 84 and the image display may be
performed so as to interlock with a blinking pattern of the LED
lamp 242 of the headphone 241 while maintaining a predetermined
time difference therewith.
[0277] In the second and subsequent connections between the TV 1
and the headphone 241 in which the pairing is set, the synchronous
turning-on control is also performed as in FIG. 35B when the mutual
BT apparatuses are detected. In addition, in a case where the TV 1
is currently connected to the headphone 241 through BT
communication, the LED indicator 84 of the smart unit 12 and the
LED lamp 242 of the headphone 241 are turned on with second
luminance (for example, 40% luminance) lower than the first
luminance.
[0278] [10.6 Cooperative Representation with Wi-Fi Apparatus in
Home Network]
[0279] The TV 1 turns on the smart unit 12 in accordance with a
communication state with other communication apparatuses connected
to a home network in a wired or wireless manner.
[0280] The TV 1 is, for example, a DLNA correspondence apparatus
which corresponds to a digital living network alliance (DLNA)
standard, and can acquire content from other DLNA correspondence
apparatuses conforming to the DLNA standard so as to display an
image of the acquired content on the display 14.
[0281] An operation of outputting content (an image thereof) which
is reproduced and displayed on a first DLNA correspondence
apparatus from the first DLNA correspondence apparatus to a second
DLNA correspondence apparatus is referred to as throw. Conversely,
an operation of inputting content (an image thereof) which is
reproduced and displayed on the second DLNA correspondence
apparatus to the first DLNA correspondence apparatus is referred to
as catch.
[0282] FIG. 36 illustrates an example of a cooperative
representation of the TV 1 and a portable terminal 261 when content
is thrown from the portable terminal 261 which is a first DLNA
correspondence apparatus to the TV 1 which is a second DLNA
correspondence apparatus.
[0283] First, the user selects a throw process of content which is
currently reproduced and displayed on the portable terminal 261.
Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 36A, through apparatus icons
281 and 282 which are icons of DLNA correspondence apparatuses
connected to the home network as throw destination candidates are
displayed on a display 262 of the portable terminal 261. In this
example, it is assumed that the throw apparatus icon 281
corresponds to the TV 1, and the throw apparatus icon 282
corresponds to a personal computer (not illustrated) connected to
the home network. Hereinafter, the throw apparatus icon 281 is also
referred to as a TV icon 281, and the throw apparatus icon 282 is
also referred to as a PC icon 282.
[0284] The user drags a content icon 283 using a thumbnail of
content which is reproduced and displayed with the finger, and
moves the icon to the throw apparatus icon 281 or 282 to which the
content is desired to be thrown.
[0285] Assuming that the TV 1 is selected as a throw destination,
the user releases the finger which drags the icon, from the display
262 on the TV icon 281.
[0286] When the finger which drags the icon is released on the TV
icon 281, the content icon 283 disappears as if the content icon
appears to be absorbed by the TV icon 281 as illustrated in FIG.
36C, which finally leads to a state as in FIG. 36D. Whereas the
content icon 283 is absorbed by the TV icon 281 and disappears, as
illustrated in FIG. 36C, the LED indicator 84 of the smart unit 12
is gradually brightened from first luminance (50% luminance) and is
increased to second luminance (100% luminance). In addition, as
illustrated in FIG. 36D, the LED indicator 84 is gradually turned
off from the second luminance, and thus the image of the content
which is reproduced and displayed on the portable terminal 261 is
displayed on the display 14 of the TV 1.
[0287] FIG. 37 illustrates a state in which the content image 291
which is reproduced and displayed on the display 262 of the
portable terminal 261 is gradually displayed on the TV 1. The
content image 291 which is currently reproduced in the portable
terminal 261 is displayed on the TV 1 in an order of FIG. 37A, FIG.
37B, FIG. 37C, FIG. 37D, and FIG. 37E.
[0288] [Various Operations of Catch and Throw]
[0289] With reference to FIGS. 38 to 44, a description will be made
of cooperative communication of catch or throw, and a cooperative
representation between the display 14 and the LED indicator 84 of
the TV 1 corresponding thereto.
[0290] First, the home network connected to the TV 1 is connected
to the TV 1, a tablet terminal 301, and a portable terminal 302
called a smart phone as illustrated in FIG. 38.
[0291] The tablet terminal 301 includes a display 311, an LED lamp
312, a control unit (not illustrated) which controls the
above-described elements, and a wireless communication unit (not
illustrated) which performs wireless communication such as Wi-Fi
communication, NFC communication, and BT communication. A
predetermined content image 313 is displayed on the display 311 of
the tablet terminal 301. The portable terminal 302 also includes a
display 321, an LED lamp 322, a control unit (not illustrated)
which controls the above-described elements, and a wireless
communication unit (not illustrated). A predetermined content image
323 is displayed on the display 321 of the portable terminal 302. A
content image 331 of a broadcast program or the like is displayed
on the display 14 of the TV 1.
[0292] If the user performs a predetermined operation set in
advance such as tapping the display 321 in the portable terminal
302, a throw/catch instruction screen illustrated in FIG. 39A is
displayed on the display 321. A throw selection icon 341 which is
operated when a throw process is performed, and a catch selection
icon 342 which is operated when a catch process is performed, are
displayed on the throw/catch instruction screen.
[0293] In a case where the content image 323 which is reproduced
and displayed on the portable terminal 302 is thrown, the user taps
(selects) the throw selection icon 341 displayed on the display
321.
[0294] If the throw selection icon 341 is tapped, and thus a throw
(process) is selected, as illustrated in FIG. 39B, a TV icon 343
corresponding to the TV 1 and a tablet icon 344 corresponding to
the tablet terminal 301 are displayed on the display 321 of the
portable terminal 302 as throw destination candidates.
[0295] The user taps and selects either the TV icon 343 or the
tablet icon 344 displayed on the portable terminal 302 as a throw
destination, and thus the content image 323 which reproduced and
displayed on the portable terminal 302 is thrown to the TV 1 or the
tablet terminal 301.
[0296] In addition, in a state in which a throw destination
selection screen is displayed on the display 321 of the portable
terminal 302 as illustrated in FIG. 39B, the user brings the
grasped portable terminal 302 close to the smart unit 12 of the TV
1 as a throw destination as illustrated in FIG. 40. Then, the TV 1
and the portable terminal 302 detect mutual proximity through NFC
communication, so that the TV 1 is selected as a throw destination,
and the content image 323 reproduced and displayed on the portable
terminal 302 is thrown to the TV 1.
[0297] In the throw process, the cooperative representation between
the display 14 and the LED indicator 84 of the TV 1, described with
reference to FIG. 37, is performed between the TV 1 as a throw
destination and the portable terminal 302.
[0298] On the other hand, in the throw/catch instruction screen
illustrated in FIG. 39A, also in a case where the catch selection
icon 342 is tapped, and thus a catch (process) is selected, a catch
destination selection screen as in FIG. 39B is displayed on the
display 321 of the portable terminal 302. In addition, a DLNA
correspondence apparatus which is a catch target is designated due
to tapping of the TV icon 343 or the tablet icon 344, or proximity
of the portable terminal 302. As a result, a content image is input
from the designated DLNA correspondence apparatus and is displayed
on the display 321 of the portable terminal 302.
[0299] FIGS. 41 and 42 are diagrams illustrating another operation
method of cooperative communication.
[0300] In the portable terminal 302, in the state in which the
throw destination selection screen of FIG. 39B is displayed, the TV
1 or the portable terminal 302 can be designated as a throw
destination by performing an operation in which the content image
323 displayed on the display 321 is dragged in the upward direction
of the figure, and the finger is released on the TV icon 343 or the
tablet icon 344.
[0301] At this time, as illustrated in FIG. 41, if a content image
323A to which the content image 323 is reduced due to the dragging
is in a state of overlapping the TV icon 343, the LED indicator 84
of the smart unit 12 of the TV 1 corresponding to the TV icon 343
is turned on in a predetermined cycle. In other words, the portable
terminal 302 causes the LED indicator 84 of the smart unit 12 to be
turned on in a predetermined cycle by transmitting a control signal
indicating that the TV is selected, to the TV 1 which is selected
as a throw destination in a state in which the content image 323A
overlaps the TV icon 343.
[0302] At this time, as illustrated in FIG. 42, if a content image
323A to which the content image 323 is reduced due to the dragging
is in a state of overlapping the tablet icon 344, the LED lamp 312
of the tablet terminal 301 corresponding to the tablet icon 344 is
turned on in a predetermined cycle. In other words, the portable
terminal 302 causes the LED indicator 84 of the smart unit 12 to be
turned on in a predetermined cycle by transmitting a control signal
indicating that the tablet terminal is selected, to the tablet
terminal 301 which is selected as a throw destination in a state in
which the content image 323A overlaps the tablet icon 344.
[0303] As mentioned above, the TV 1 and the tablet terminal 301 are
turned on in a predetermined cycle in a case where the TV and the
tablet terminal are selected as an output destination of the
content image 323 in the portable terminal 302. Accordingly, the
user can easily recognize an apparatus which is a throw destination
(an output destination of content data).
[0304] FIG. 43 is a diagram illustrating still another operation
method of cooperative communication.
[0305] In the state in which the content image 323 is reproduced
and displayed on the portable terminal 302, illustrated in FIG. 38,
the user performs a dragging operation on the display 321 of the
portable terminal 302 in the upward direction of the figure as
illustrated in FIG. 43A. If the user's upward dragging operation is
detected, the portable terminal 302 recognizes that a throw command
is instructed, and a throw icon 361 indicating a throw operation is
displayed on the display 321 in a superimposition manner. Next, the
same throw destination selection screen as that in FIG. 39B is
displayed on the display 321.
[0306] On the other hand, as illustrated in FIG. 43B, the user
performs a dragging operation on the display 321 of the portable
terminal 302 in the downward direction of the figure. If the user's
downward dragging operation is detected, the portable terminal 302
recognizes that a catch command is instructed, and a catch icon 362
indicating a catch operation is displayed on the display 321 in a
superimposition manner. Next, the same catch destination selection
screen as that in FIG. 39B is displayed on the display 321.
[0307] An operation after the throw destination or catch
destination selection screen is displayed is the same as in the
above-described example, and description thereof will not be
repeated.
[0308] FIG. 44 is a diagram illustrating still another operation
method of cooperative communication.
[0309] In a state in which the content image 323 is reproduced and
displayed on the portable terminal 302, illustrated in FIG. 38, the
user brings the grasped portable terminal 302 close to the smart
unit 12 of the TV 1 as a cooperative communication destination as
illustrated in FIG. 44. Then, the TV 1 and the portable terminal
302 detect mutual proximity through NFC communication. In addition,
the LED indicator 84 of the smart unit 12 of the TV 1 and the LED
lamp 322 of the portable terminal 302 are turned on in
synchronization with each other.
[0310] Simultaneously, the portable terminal 302 displays the same
cooperative communication selection screen as that of FIG. 39A on
the display 321. In the cooperative communication selection screen,
in a case where the throw selection icon 341 is tapped (selected),
the content image 323 which is reproduced and displayed on the
portable terminal 302 is thrown to the TV 1. On the other hand, in
the cooperative communication selection screen, in a case where the
catch selection icon 342 is tapped (selected), the content image
331 which is reproduced and displayed on the TV 1 is caught by the
portable terminal 302 from the TV 1, and is displayed on the
display 321 of the portable terminal 302.
[0311] Two communication apparatuses 401 (401A and 401B) of FIGS.
45 and 46 have the same function as that of the above-described TV
1, tablet terminal 301, and the portable terminal 302, and include
LED indicators 411 (411A and 411B).
[0312] In a case where the two communication apparatuses 401A and
401B are brought close to each other, and cooperative communication
such as catch and throw starts between the communication
apparatuses 401A and 401B, as illustrated in FIG. 45, first, if the
LED indicator 411A of the communication apparatuses 401A and the
LED indicator 411B of the communication apparatuses 401B are left
flashing, it is possible for the user to can easily understand
favorable parts which are brought close to each other.
[0313] In addition, if the user brings the vicinity of the flashing
LED indicator 411A of the communication apparatus 401A and the
vicinity of the flashing LED indicator 411B of the communication
apparatus 401B close to each other, the communication apparatus
401A and the communication apparatus 401B mutually detect
(recognize) partners. In a case where the communication apparatus
401A and the communication apparatus 401B detect partners, they are
turned on in the same turning-on manner as the partners. For
example, the LED indicator 411A of the communication apparatus 401A
and the LED indicator 411B of the communication apparatus 401B
simultaneously blink. Accordingly, the user can easily recognize
that the communication apparatus 401A and the communication
apparatus 401B mutually recognize partners. Instead of changing
emission luminance, a flashing color may be changed, or a shape of
a flashing part may be changed.
[0314] In addition, during data communication, as illustrated in
FIG. 46, turning-on of the LED indicator 411A of the communication
apparatus 401A and the LED indicator 411B of the communication
apparatus 401B is controlled so that light transitions so as to
correspond to data movement. In other words, control may be
repeatedly performed in the predetermined data unit so that the LED
indicator 411A of the communication apparatus 401A which is a data
transmission source is turned on with high luminance at first, and
the LED indicator 411B of the communication apparatus 401B is
turned on with high luminance in accordance with turning-off of the
LED indicator 411A. Accordingly, the user can intuitively recognize
that transmission and reception of data are performed between the
communication apparatuses 401A and 401B. Alternatively, the LED
indicator 411A of the communication apparatus 401A and the LED
indicator 411B of the communication apparatus 401B may be turned on
so that turning-on and turning-off are repeated at the same
timing.
[0315] [11. Flowchart for Realizing Cooperative Representation]
[0316] FIG. 47 is a flowchart illustrating a process for realizing
the above-described cooperative representation between image
display of the display 14 and turning-on of the LED indicator 84 of
the TV 1.
[0317] In this process, first, in step S1, the control section 66
of the TV 1 determines whether or not a user's operation or the
like is detected as a trigger for performing the cooperative
representation. The user's operation or the like corresponds to
various operations or apparatus states such as a button operation
of the remote controller, a user's operation such as a gesture,
proximity of other communication apparatuses to the smart unit 12,
and reception of a message requesting cooperative
communication.
[0318] The process in step S1 is repeatedly performed until it is
determined that a user's operation is detected, and if it is
determined that a user's operation or the like is detected in step
S1, the process proceeds to step S2. In addition, in step S2, the
control section 66 of the TV 1 performs the above-described
cooperative representation in which image display of the display 14
is cooperative with turning-on of the LED indicator 84.
[0319] In the above-described examples, a cooperative
representation performed by the TV 1 has been mainly described, but
the present technology is applicable to not only a television
receiver but also general display apparatuses, such as a portable
terminal including a smart phone, or a tablet terminal, provided
with an image display unit such as an LCD or an electroluminescence
(EL) display, and an indicator (a turning-on unit) such as an LED
which indicates a predetermined operation or state with
illumination.
[0320] Embodiments of the present technology are not limited to the
above-described embodiments, and may have various modifications
within the scope without departing from the spirit of the present
technology.
[0321] In addition, the present technology may have the following
configurations.
[0322] (1) A display apparatus including a display unit that
displays a predetermined image; a communication unit that performs
communication of image data with another image display apparatus;
an indicator unit that is disposed at at least a part of
surroundings of the display unit and includes an indicator which is
turned on with predetermined luminance; and a control unit that
turns on the indicator so as to correspond to a transmission
operation of the image data in another image display apparatus.
[0323] (2) The display apparatus according to the above (1), in
which the indicator is turned on under the control of the control
unit when the display apparatus is selected as an output
destination of the image data in another image display
apparatus.
[0324] (3) The display apparatus according to the above (1) or (2),
in which the indicator is turned on under the control of the
control unit during transmission of the image data with another
image display apparatus.
[0325] (4) The display apparatus according to any one of the above
(1) to (3), in which the indicator performs turning-on cooperative
with another image display apparatus under the control of the
control unit so that light transitions so as to correspond to
movement of the image data with another image display
apparatus.
[0326] (5) The display apparatus according to any one of the above
(1) to (4), in which the communication unit receives the image data
from another image display apparatus, and in which the control unit
performs control for display in which an image corresponding to the
received image data is expelled from the indicator unit, and turns
on the indicator in synchronization or interlocking with the
display in which the image is expelled from the indicator unit.
[0327] (6) The display apparatus according to any one of the above
(1) to (5), further including a proximity communication unit that
detects that another image display apparatus is at least brought
close to the indicator unit, in which the communication unit
communicates with another image display apparatus which is brought
close to the display apparatus by a user as a transmission
operation of the image data.
[0328] (7) A display control method for a display apparatus
including a display unit that displays a predetermined image, a
communication unit that performs communication of image data with
another image display apparatus, an indicator unit that is disposed
at at least a part of surroundings of the display unit and includes
an indicator which is turned on with predetermined luminance, and a
control unit that controls turning-on of the indicator, the method
including causing the control unit to turn on the indicator so as
to correspond to a transmission operation of the image data in
another image display apparatus.
[0329] (8) A program causing a computer which controls a display
apparatus, to perform the process of turning on an indicator so as
to correspond to a transmission operation of image data in another
image display apparatus, in which the display apparatus includes a
display unit that displays a predetermined image; a communication
unit that performs communication of image data with another image
display apparatus; and an indicator unit that is disposed at at
least a part of surroundings of the display unit and includes the
indicator which is turned on with predetermined luminance.
[0330] (9) A portable terminal apparatus including a communication
unit that performs transmission of image data with an image display
apparatus; a display unit that displays an instruction image for
instructing a transmission operation of the image data; and a
control unit that changes a turning-on state of an indicator of the
image display apparatus so as to correspond to a user's
transmission operation of the image data based on the instruction
image.
[0331] (10) A display apparatus including a display unit that
displays a predetermined image; a communication unit that performs
communication of image data with another image display apparatus;
an indicator unit that is disposed at at least a part of
surroundings of the display unit and includes an indicator which is
turned on with predetermined luminance; and a control unit that
turns on the indicator during communication of the image data with
another image display apparatus, in which the control unit turns on
the indicator of the indicator unit only during a predetermined
period before or after an indicator of another image display
apparatus is turned on only during a predetermined period.
[0332] (11) The display apparatus according to the above (10), in
which, of the indicators of another image display apparatus and the
display apparatus, an indicator of an apparatus which is a
transmission source of the image data is first turned on only
during a predetermined period, and then an indicator of an
apparatus which is a transmission destination of the image data is
turned on only during a predetermined period.
[0333] (12) The display apparatus according to the above (10) or
(11), in which the indicator of the indicator unit is turned on
only during a predetermined period before or after an image in
which a region near the indicator of the indicator unit has high
luminance in the display unit is displayed.
[0334] (13) The display apparatus according to any one of the above
(10) to (12), further including a proximity communication unit that
detects that another image display apparatus is at least brought
close to the indicator unit, in which the indicator of the
indicator unit is further turned on in synchronization with
turning-on of the indicator of another image display apparatus when
proximity of another image display apparatus is detected by the
proximity communication unit.
[0335] (14) A display control method for a display apparatus
including a display unit that displays a predetermined image, a
communication unit that performs communication of image data with
another image display apparatus, an indicator unit that is disposed
at at least a part of surroundings of the display unit and includes
an indicator which is turned on with predetermined luminance, and a
control unit that turns on the indicator during communication of
the image data with another image display apparatus, the method
including causing the control unit to turn on the indicator of the
indicator unit only during a predetermined period before or after
an indicator of another image display apparatus is turned on only
during a predetermined period.
[0336] (15) A program causing a computer which controls a display
apparatus, to perform the process of turning on an indicator of an
indicator unit only during a predetermined period before or after
an indicator of another image display apparatus is turned on only
during a predetermined period while communication of image data
with another image display apparatus is performed, in which the
display apparatus includes a display unit that displays a
predetermined image; a communication unit that performs
communication of the image data with another image display
apparatus; and an indicator unit that is disposed at at least a
part of surroundings of the display unit and includes the indicator
which is turned on with predetermined luminance.
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST
[0337] 1 TELEVISION RECEIVER, 11 DISPLAY MAIN BODY, 12 SMART UNIT,
14 DISPLAY, 15 FRAME PART, 66 CONTROL SECTION, 84 LED INDICATOR, 85
TOUCH SENSOR, 87 WI-FI COMMUNICATION SECTION, 88 NFC COMMUNICATION
SECTION, 89 BT COMMUNICATION SECTION, 93 CAMERA, 101 AV SIGNAL
PROCESSING PORTION, 102 COMMUNICATION CONTROL PORTION, 103 LED
CONTROL PORTION, 104 CAMERA CONTROL PORTION
* * * * *