U.S. patent application number 17/032487 was filed with the patent office on 2021-01-14 for information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program.
This patent application is currently assigned to SONY CORPORATION. The applicant listed for this patent is SONY CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Satoshi ASAI, Koji FUJITA, Takuma HIGO, Minako KAWATA, Hisanori NAGATA, Takashi ONOHARA, Ryo SOKABE, Kenichiro TAKYU, Naohiro URIYA, Naoki YUASA.
Application Number | 20210011617 17/032487 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005107773 |
Filed Date | 2021-01-14 |
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20210011617 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
FUJITA; Koji ; et
al. |
January 14, 2021 |
INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD,
AND PROGRAM
Abstract
An information processing apparatus includes a detection unit,
an acceptance unit, and an image control unit. The detection unit
is capable of detecting whether or not each of a plurality of
reproduction apparatuses constitutes a group related to
reproduction of content, each of the plurality of reproduction
apparatuses being connected to a network, each of the plurality of
reproduction apparatuses being capable of reproducing the content.
The acceptance unit accepts a user operation related to
constitution of the group. The image control unit outputs a group
state image based on a detection result by the detection unit, the
group state image representing a constitution state of the group,
the group state image including an image of each of the plurality
of reproduction apparatuses, and controls the group state image in
response to the accepted user operation related to constitution of
the group.
Inventors: |
FUJITA; Koji; (Tokyo,
JP) ; ASAI; Satoshi; (Saitama, JP) ; URIYA;
Naohiro; (Kanagawa, JP) ; TAKYU; Kenichiro;
(Tokyo, JP) ; KAWATA; Minako; (Tokyo, JP) ;
NAGATA; Hisanori; (Tokyo, JP) ; ONOHARA; Takashi;
(Tokyo, JP) ; SOKABE; Ryo; (Saitama, JP) ;
YUASA; Naoki; (Chiba, JP) ; HIGO; Takuma;
(Tokyo, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SONY CORPORATION |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
SONY CORPORATION
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
1000005107773 |
Appl. No.: |
17/032487 |
Filed: |
September 25, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15526508 |
May 12, 2017 |
10809903 |
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PCT/JP2015/005362 |
Oct 26, 2015 |
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17032487 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 13/00 20130101;
H04L 41/22 20130101; G06F 3/0486 20130101; G06F 3/0482 20130101;
G06F 3/04847 20130101; H04Q 9/00 20130101; G06F 3/04886 20130101;
G06F 3/04815 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06F 3/0484 20060101
G06F003/0484; G06F 3/0486 20060101 G06F003/0486; G06F 13/00
20060101 G06F013/00; H04Q 9/00 20060101 H04Q009/00; G06F 3/0481
20060101 G06F003/0481; G06F 3/0482 20060101 G06F003/0482; G06F
3/0488 20060101 G06F003/0488; H04L 12/24 20060101 H04L012/24 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 26, 2014 |
JP |
2014-264590 |
Claims
1. An information processing apparatus, comprising: a detection
unit that is capable of detecting whether or not each of a
plurality of reproduction apparatuses constitutes a group related
to reproduction of content, each of the plurality of reproduction
apparatuses being connected to a network, each of the plurality of
reproduction apparatuses being capable of reproducing the content;
an acceptance unit that accepts a user operation related to
constitution of the group; and an image control unit that outputs a
group state image on the basis of a detection result by the
detection unit, the group state image representing a constitution
state of the group, the group state image including an image of
each of the plurality of reproduction apparatuses, and controls the
group state image in response to the accepted user operation
related to constitution of the group.
2-16. (canceled)
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present technology relates to an information processing
apparatus, an information processing method, and a program for
controlling a reproduction apparatus connected to a network.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] A system in which a home network is established in a house
and content such as music and video is reproduced by a plurality of
AV (Audio & Visual) apparatuses connected thereto has been
known. For example, in Patent Literature 1, a system in which a
plurality of AV apparatuses placed in a plurality of rooms are
connected to an IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers) 1394 network is disclosed. In this system, groups are
defined corresponding to the rooms in which the AV apparatuses are
placed, and the corresponding AV apparatus is displayed for each
group on a display screen of an IR (Infrared) remote controller.
Accordingly, the selection work of the AV apparatus is made more
efficient (e.g., paragraphs 0033 to 0035 of the specification of
Patent Literature 1).
CITATION LIST
Patent Literature
[0003] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-open
No. 2002-199474
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
Technical Problem
[0004] In the above-mentioned system, a technology that is capable
of controlling reproduction of content by a plurality of
reproduction apparatuses connected to a network with a good
operability is desired.
[0005] In view of the circumstances as described above, it is an
object of the present technology to provide an information
processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a
program that are capable of controlling reproduction of content by
a plurality of reproduction apparatuses connected to a network with
a good operability.
Solution to Problem
[0006] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, an
information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the
present technology includes a detection unit, an acceptance unit,
and an image control unit.
[0007] The detection unit is capable of detecting whether or not
each of a plurality of reproduction apparatuses constitutes a group
related to reproduction of content, each of the plurality of
reproduction apparatuses being connected to a network, each of the
plurality of reproduction apparatuses being capable of reproducing
the content.
[0008] The acceptance unit accepts a user operation related to
constitution of the group.
[0009] The image control unit outputs a group state image on the
basis of a detection result by the detection unit, the group state
image representing a constitution state of the group, the group
state image including an image of each of the plurality of
reproduction apparatuses, and controls the group state image in
response to the accepted user operation related to constitution of
the group.
[0010] In this information processing apparatus, whether or not
each of a plurality of reproduction apparatuses connected to a
network constitutes a group is detected. A group state image
including an image of each of the plurality of reproduction
apparatuses is output on the basis of a detection result, and the
group state image is controlled in response to a user operation.
Accordingly, the user is capable of controlling reproduction of
content with a good operability while watching the group state
image.
[0011] The image control unit may display, when a reproduction
apparatus constituting the group is detected, an image of the group
including the reproduction apparatus in the group state image.
[0012] Accordingly, it is possible to easily know whether or not a
group is established at present.
[0013] The group may be a group that is capable of reproducing the
same content at the same time.
[0014] By using the present technology, it is possible to control
simultaneous reproduction of content by the group with a good
operability.
[0015] The acceptance unit may accept a first operation of
selecting an image of one of the plurality of reproduction
apparatuses. In this case, the image control unit may emphatically
display an image of a reproduction apparatus that is capable of
constituting the group, in response to the first operation.
[0016] Accordingly, it is possible to easily know an apparatus that
is capable of constituting a group and perform creation of a group
and the like with a good operability.
[0017] The acceptance unit may accept a second operation of causing
an image of a non-constitution apparatus that is capable of
constituting the group to move in the group state image while
selecting the image of the non-constitution apparatus, the
non-constitution apparatus being a reproduction apparatus that does
not constitute the group. In this case, the image control unit may
display, when a destination of the second operation is an image of
the reproduction apparatus that is capable of constituting the
group, an image of a group that is newly constituted of the
selected non-constitution apparatus and the reproduction apparatus
as the destination.
[0018] Accordingly, it is possible to create a group with a simple
operation.
[0019] The image control unit may display, when a destination of
the second operation is an image of a group that is already
established, an image of a group that is newly constituted of the
selected non-constitution apparatus and the reproduction apparatus
included in the group as the destination.
[0020] Accordingly, it is possible to add the non-constitution
apparatus to a group with a simple operation.
[0021] The image control unit may cause, when a destination of the
second operation is a position where there is no image of another
reproduction apparatus, an image of the selected non-constitution
apparatus to move to the position.
[0022] Accordingly, it is possible to cause a reproduction
apparatus to move in the group state image with a simple
operation.
[0023] The image control unit may return, when a destination of the
second operation is an image of a reproduction apparatus that is
not capable of constituting the group, an image of the selected
non-constitution apparatus to its original position.
[0024] Accordingly, it is possible to easily know that a group
cannot be created and the like, and improve the operability.
[0025] The acceptance unit may accept a third operation of causing
an image of a group apparatus to move in the group state image
while selecting the image of the group apparatus, the group
apparatus being a reproduction apparatus that constitutes the
group. In this case, the image control unit may display, when a
destination of the third operation is a position that is away from
an image of the group including the selected group apparatus, an
image where the group apparatus is withdrawn from the group.
[0026] Accordingly, it is possible to cause the group apparatus to
withdraw from the group with a simple operation.
[0027] The image control unit may identifiably display one of a
plurality of group apparatuses included in the group as a master
apparatus, and display, when an image of the master apparatus is
selected and moved to the position that is away from the image of
the group by the third operation, an image where the group is
dissolved.
[0028] Accordingly, it is possible to dissolve the group with a
simple operation.
[0029] The acceptance unit may accept a fourth operation of
selecting an image of the group. In this case, the image control
unit may output a reproduction information image including
information related to reproduction of the content by a plurality
of group apparatuses included in the group, in response to the
fourth operation.
[0030] Accordingly, it is possible to perform reproduction setting
and the like for each group with a simple operation.
[0031] The reproduction information image may include information
on content that the plurality of group apparatuses are capable of
reproducing at the same time.
[0032] Accordingly, it is easily know content that can be
reproduced for each group.
[0033] The image control unit may display meta-information related
to content that is being reproduced by the plurality of group
apparatuses in the group state image.
[0034] Accordingly, it is possible to know information of
content.
[0035] The acceptance unit may be a touch panel. In this case, the
group state image may be displayed on the touch panel.
[0036] It is possible to control reproduction of content with a
good operability by using the touch panel.
[0037] An information processing method according to an embodiment
of the present technology includes detecting whether or not each of
a plurality of reproduction apparatuses constitutes a group related
to reproduction of content, each of the plurality of reproduction
apparatuses being connected to a network, each of the plurality of
reproduction apparatuses being capable of reproducing the
content.
[0038] A user operation related to constitution of the group is
accepted.
[0039] A group state image is controlled on the basis of a
detection result by the detection unit, the group state image
representing a constitution state of the group, the group state
image including an image of each of the plurality of reproduction
apparatuses, and controlling the group state image in response to
the accepted user operation related to constitution of the
group.
[0040] A program according to an embodiment of the present
technology causes a computer to execute the following steps of:
[0041] detecting whether or not each of a plurality of reproduction
apparatuses constitutes a group related to reproduction of content,
each of the plurality of reproduction apparatuses being connected
to a network, each of the plurality of reproduction apparatuses
being capable of reproducing the content;
[0042] accepting a user operation related to constitution of the
group; and
[0043] outputting a group state image on the basis of a detection
result by the detection unit, the group state image representing a
constitution state of the group, the group state image including an
image of each of the plurality of reproduction apparatuses, and
controlling the group state image in response to the accepted user
operation related to constitution of the group.
Advantageous Effects of Invention
[0044] As described above, in accordance with the present
technology, it is possible to control reproduction of content by a
plurality of reproduction apparatuses connected to a network with a
good operability. It should be noted that the effect described here
is not necessarily limitative and may be any effect described in
the present disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0045] FIG. 1 A schematic diagram showing a configuration example
of a network system according to an embodiment.
[0046] FIG. 2 A block diagram showing a configuration example of
the portable terminal shown in FIG. 1.
[0047] FIG. 3 A sequence diagram showing an operational example to
when a group state image is output.
[0048] FIG. 4 A diagram showing a configuration example of the
group state image in the case where a group is not established.
[0049] FIG. 5 A diagram showing a configuration example of the
group state image in the case where a group is established.
[0050] FIG. 6 A diagram showing a configuration example of the
group state image in the case where a first operation is input.
[0051] FIG. 7 A diagram showing a configuration example of the
group state image in the case where a group is newly created.
[0052] FIG. 8 A sequence diagram showing an example of an operation
of newly creating a group.
[0053] FIG. 9 A diagram showing a configuration example of the
group state image in the case where an operation of a new addition
to a group is input.
[0054] FIG. 10 A diagram showing a configuration example of the
group state image in the case where an operation of a new addition
to a group is input.
[0055] FIG. 11 A sequence diagram showing an example of an
operation of a new addition to a group.
[0056] FIG. 12 A diagram showing a configuration example of the
group state image in the case where an operation of dissolving a
group is input.
[0057] FIG. 13 A diagram showing a configuration example of the
group state image in the case where an operation of dissolving a
group is input.
[0058] FIG. 14 A diagram showing a configuration example of the
group state image in the case where an operation of dissolving a
group is input.
[0059] FIG. 15 A sequence diagram showing an example of an
operation of dissolving a group.
[0060] FIG. 16 A sequence diagram showing an example of an
operation of withdrawing from a group.
[0061] FIG. 17 A diagram showing a configuration example of the
group state image on which meta-information related to content is
displayed.
[0062] FIG. 18 A diagram showing an example of a reproduction
information image.
[0063] FIG. 19 A diagram showing an example of a reproduction
information image.
MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0064] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present technology
will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0065] [Network System]
[0066] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration
example of a network system according to an embodiment of the
present technology. A network system 500 includes a home network 1
established in a house, a plurality of reproduction apparatuses 10
connected thereto, a server apparatus 20 that provides content, and
a portable terminal 30 that functions as an information processing
apparatus according to this embodiment.
[0067] As the home network 1, for example, a network conforming to
the DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) standard is used. In
this case, the plurality of reproduction apparatuses 10 each
function as a DMR (Digital Media Renderer), and the server
apparatus 20 functions as a DMS (Digital Media Server). Further,
the portable terminal 30 functions as a DMC (Digital Media
Controller). However, it is not limited to this configuration, and
a network using another protocol may be used, for example.
[0068] The plurality of reproduction apparatuses 10, the server
apparatus 20, and the portable terminal 30 are connected to the
home network 1 via, for example, an access point (not shown)
through wireless communication such as WiFi. However, the method of
connecting to the home network 1 is not limited, and wired
communication via a LAN cable or the like may be used.
[0069] As shown in FIG. 1, the plurality of reproduction
apparatuses 10 are placed in rooms of a living room 2, a hobby room
3, and a bed room 4. By operating the portable terminal 30, a user
5 is capable of instructing the respective reproduction apparatuses
10 placed in the rooms to reproduce content in the server apparatus
20. In this embodiment, music content is reproduced by the
plurality of reproduction apparatuses 10. However, the present
technology is not limited to the reproduction of music content, and
can be applied to reproduction of various kinds of content such as
video. Note that the number of reproduction apparatuses 10 is not
limited.
[0070] As each of the reproduction apparatuses 10, one that is
capable of operating as a DMP (Digital Media Player) may be placed.
In this case, by operating a UI (User Interface) of the respective
reproduction apparatuses 10, it is possible to reproduce content in
the server apparatus 20.
[0071] As each of the reproduction apparatuses 10, for example, a
television receiver, a PC (Personal computer), an audio video
receiver, a video monitor, a home video game machine, or the like
is used. As the server apparatus 20, for example, a PC, a
network-ready HDD (NAS) or the like is used. As the portable
terminal 30, typically, a smartphone is used. However, it is not
limited thereto, and various PDAs (Personal Digital Assistant) such
as a tablet terminal and a game machine.
[0072] Note that in this embodiment, a reproduction apparatus that
is not connected to the home network 1 (hereinafter, referred to as
non-network apparatus) 13 is placed in the bed room 4 in FIG. 1.
The non-network apparatus 13 does not function as a DMR, and
reproduces a CD, content read via a USB (Universal Serial Bus), or
content acquired from another global network or the like. In this
embodiment, it is possible to control the operation of the
non-network apparatus 13 by the portable terminal 30 through near
field communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark).
[0073] [Configuration of Portable Terminal]
[0074] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of
the portable terminal 30. The portable terminal 30 includes a CPU
(Central Processing Unit) 31, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 32, a RAM
(Random Access Memory) 33, a display 34, and a touch panel 35.
Further, the portable terminal 30 includes a communication unit 36,
an external I/F (interface) 37, a key/switch 38, and an imaging
unit 39.
[0075] The CPU 31 exchanges signals with respective blocks of the
portable terminal 30 to perform various kinds of operations, and
collectively controls various kinds of processing performed in the
portable terminal 30 such as instruction for the reproduction
apparatuses 10 to reproduce content and display of an image on the
display 34 (the touch panel 35).
[0076] The ROM 32 stores various kinds of data processed by the CPU
31 such as various kinds of image data and metadata, and various
programs such as an application. The RAM 32 is used as a working
area of the CPU 31. When a program such as an application is
executed, various kinds of data necessary for the execution are
loaded into the RAM 32.
[0077] Instead or in addition to the ROM 32, an HDD (Hard Disk
Drive), a flash memory, or another non-volatile memory such as a
solid-state memory may be provided. Then, in these storage devices,
the above-mentioned various kinds of data or programs may be
stored.
[0078] The display 34 is a display device using a liquid crystal,
an EL (Electro-Luminescence), or the like. As shown in FIG. 2, the
display 34 is integrally formed with the touch panel 35. Therefore,
various GUIs (Graphical User Interface) are displayed on the touch
panel 35, and a touch operation can be input with respect to the
GUI. The touch panel 35 functions as an acceptance unit in this
embodiment.
[0079] The communication unit 36 is an interface for connecting the
portable terminal 30 to the home network 1 or the non-network
apparatus 13. For example, as the communication unit 36, a wireless
LAN module such as WiFi or short-distance wireless module such as
Bluetooth (registered trademark) is provided.
[0080] The external I/F 37 is an interface for connecting to an
external apparatus on the basis of the standards such as a USB and
an HDMI (registered trademark) (High-Definition Multimedia
Interface). In addition, an interface for connecting to various
memory cards such as a memory stick may be configured.
[0081] The key switch unit 38 accepts, particularly, an operation
performed by the user 5, which cannot be input via the touch panel
35, such as a power supply switch and a short cut key. The imaging
unit 39 includes, for example, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide
Semiconductor) or CCD (Charge Coupled Devices) sensor, and
generates a digital image of an object.
[0082] The information processing performed by the portable
terminal 30 having the above-mentioned hardware configuration is
achieved by cooperation of software stored in the ROM 32 or the
like and a hardware resource of the portable terminal 30. For
example, by the CPU 31 loading the program (application) according
to the present technology stored in the ROM 32 or the like into the
RAM 33 to execute it, the information processing method according
to the present technology is achieved. At this time, as shown in
FIG. 2, the CPU 31 functions as a detection unit 40, an image
control unit 41, and a group control unit 42. In order to achieve
these blocks, dedicated hardware may be appropriately used.
[0083] The program such as an application is installed in the
portable terminal 30 from, for example, a global network.
Alternatively, the program may be installed in the portable
terminal 30 via a recording medium.
[0084] [Multi-Room Reproduction]
[0085] As the operation of the portable terminal 30 according to
this embodiment, multi-room reproduction of content will be
described. The multi-room reproduction is a reproduction method in
which a group is constituted of two or more reproduction
apparatuses 10 connected to the home network 1 and the group
simultaneously reproduces the same content.
[0086] For example, by causing the plurality of reproduction
apparatuses 10 in the same room to reproduce the same content, it
is possible to enjoy music in the entire room at a high volume.
Alternatively, for example, in the case where many friends are
invited and a party is held, it is possible to liven up the party
by causing the reproduction apparatuses 10 placed in the rooms to
reproduce the same content and simultaneously controlling the
operations.
[0087] In this embodiment, one of the two or more reproduction
apparatuses 10 constituting the group is set as a master apparatus,
and other reproduction apparatuses 10 are set as slave apparatuses.
When the multi-room reproduction is performed, the instruction is
transmitted to the master apparatus. The master apparatus downloads
content from the server apparatus 20, and simultaneously performs
streaming distribution on the slave apparatus. Accordingly, the
multi-room reproduction of content is achieved. Note that the
method of achieving the multi-room reproduction is not limited, and
an arbitrary technology related to, for example, synchronous
reproduction, may be appropriately used.
[0088] In the present technology, as will be described later, the
current constitution state of the group is perspectively displayed
on the touch panel 35 of the portable terminal 30. Then, on the
basis of the image, it is possible to newly create a group,
dissolve the group, make a new addition to the group, or withdraw
from the group with a good operability. Therefore, it is possible
to control the multi-room reproduction of content with a good
operability.
[0089] FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing an operational example
to when a group state image showing the constitution state of a
group is output. In FIG. 3, as the reproduction apparatus connected
to the home network 1, three reproduction apparatuses A to C are
shown, in order to make the figure simple.
[0090] When an application is activated by the user 5, the
detection unit 40 of the portable terminal 30 generates a search
request for finding the reproduction apparatus 10, and the search
request is transmitted on the home network 1 by broadcast (Step
101). The reproduction apparatuses A to C each transmit a response
to the search request to the portable terminal 30 (Step 102). The
response includes information that represents whether or not it is
a multi-room-ready apparatus.
[0091] The multi-room-ready apparatus is the reproduction apparatus
10 that is capable of constituting a group and performing the
multi-room reproduction. The reproduction apparatus 10 that cannot
perform the multi-room reproduction is a non-ready apparatus.
Specifically, in Step 102, information on whether or not it is
capable of constituting a group is transmitted to the portable
terminal 30.
[0092] The detection unit 40 makes an inquiry about the group state
to the multi-room-ready apparatus (reproduction apparatuses A to C
in this example) (Step 103). The group state is information that
represents whether or not it constitutes a group or it is a master
apparatus or slave apparatus in the case where it constitutes a
group.
[0093] With the search request in Step 101 and the inquiry about
the group state in Step 103, the detection unit 40 of the portable
terminal 30 is capable of detecting whether or not each of the
plurality of reproduction apparatuses 10 that are connected to the
home network 1 and capable of reproducing content constitutes a
group for the multi-room reproduction. Note that a control message
or the like of, for example, UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) for
this detection is transmitted on the home network 1. It goes
without saying that it is not limited thereto, and another
arbitrary technology may be used to perform the detection.
[0094] The detection unit 40 makes an inquiry about checking a list
of the group apparatus to the master apparatus (reproduction
apparatus A in this example) (In Step 104). The group apparatus is
the reproduction apparatus 10 constituting a group. The master
apparatus transmits a list of the slave apparatus that belongs to
the group in response to the inquiry (Step 105).
[0095] The detection unit 40 is capable of determining the current
group constitution state on the basis of the acquired information.
The image control unit 41 outputs a group state image on the basis
of the determination result. Note that a unique ID is set on each
reproduction apparatus, and thus, the reproduction apparatus can be
identified.
[0096] FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are each a diagram showing a configuration
example of a group state image 50 displayed on the touch panel 35.
FIG. 3 shows a group state image 50A in which a group is not
established, and FIG. 4 shows a group state image 50B in which a
group is established.
[0097] As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the group state image 50
includes icon images 51 of the plurality of reproduction
apparatuses 10 connected to the home network 1. On the icon images
51, respective images depending on the kind of the reproduction
apparatus are displayed. Icon images 51a to 51d shown in FIG. 4 and
FIG. 5 respectively correspond to reproduction apparatuses 10a to
10d shown in FIG. 1.
[0098] Each icon image 51 includes a text image 52 that represents
a name, for example. Accordingly, it is possible to know the
correspondence with the actual reproduction apparatus 10 placed in
each room. Further, on each icon image 51, a network mark 53 (WiFi
mark in this example) that represents the connection form with the
portable terminal 30 and an individual communication mark 54
(Bluetooth (registered trademark) mark in this example) are placed.
The network mark 53 is actively displayed on the reproduction
apparatus 10 connected to the home network 1.
[0099] The group state image 50 includes an icon image 55 of the
non-network apparatus 13 that is not connected to the home network
1. Also on the icon image 55, the text image 52, the network mark
53, and the individual communication mark 54 are placed. The
individual communication mark 54 is actively displayed on the
non-network apparatus 13. Alternatively, information indicating
that it is the non-network apparatus 13 may be displayed.
[0100] For example, by selecting a plus mark 59 or the like in the
group state image 50, detection of the non-network apparatus 13 is
performed and the icon image 55 thereof is displayed in the case
where it is detected. The detection of the non-network apparatus 13
may be automatically performed.
[0101] In this embodiment, it is possible to collectively display
the reproduction apparatuses 10 and 13 in the surrounding
environment on the touch panel 35. Accordingly, it is possible to
control reproduction of content with a good operability. Note that
the non-network apparatus 13 cannot perform the multi-room
reproduction.
[0102] As shown in FIG. 5, in the case where a group is already
established, i.e., a group apparatus is detected, a group image 56
of a group including the group apparatus is displayed. The group
image 56 is a circular image, and the icon images 51 of the group
apparatuses that belong to the group are displayed on the periphery
of the group image 56. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the
reproduction apparatuses 10b and 10d shown in FIG. 1 are detected
as the group apparatus, and the icon images 51b and 51e thereof are
placed in the periphery of the group image 56.
[0103] When the group image 56 is displayed, the icon image 51
(icon image 51e in this example) of the reproduction apparatus 10
as the master apparatus is emphatically displayed so that the
master apparatus can be identified. The method of emphatically
displaying the icon image 51 is not limited, and the text image 52
is largely displayed, for example, as shown in FIG. 5. It goes
without saying that it is not limited thereto, and an arbitrary
display method such as emphasizing the color of the icon image 51
and blinking the icon image 51 may be employed. Note that
information indicating that it is the master apparatus may be newly
added.
[0104] As shown in FIG. 5, display of the network mark 54 or the
like of the icon image 51 placed in the periphery of the group
image 56 may be omitted because it is obvious that it is connected
to the home network 1. Note that in the case where a plurality of
groups are established, a plurality of group images 56
corresponding to the groups are displayed.
[0105] The method and technology of generating the group state
image 50 are not limited, and an arbitrary method and technology
may be used. For example, in Steps 102, 103, or the like in FIG. 3,
device information including the above-mentioned information
related to the group constitution and information for generating
the group state image 50 is acquired. The device information may
include the icon image of each reproduction apparatus 10, and the
icon image 51 may be used. Information on the name or the like is
extracted from the device information, and the text image 52 is
generated on the basis of the information.
[0106] Alternatively, the icon images 51 is stored on the side of
the portable terminal 30, and the optimal icon image 51 may be
selected on the basis of the acquired device information.
Alternatively, via a global network such as the Internet, an image
or information for generating the group state image 50 such as the
icon image 51 may be acquired.
[0107] The design or the like of the icon image 51 or the group
image 56 and the layout of the group state image 50 are not limited
to those shown in FIG. 4, FIG. 5 and the like, and may be
appropriately set.
[0108] The user 5 is capable of inputting various operations
related to the constitution of a group to the group state image 50
displayed on the touch panel 35. The image control unit 41 controls
the group state image 50 in response to the operation accepted by
the touch panel 35.
[0109] For example, in the case where an operation of newly
creating a group, making new addition, or the like is input, the
group control unit 42 shown in FIG. 2 transmits a request or
instruction depending on the operation to the master apparatus. The
master apparatus operates in response to the request or the like,
and returns the result to the group control unit 42. The image
control unit 41 controls the group state image 50 on the basis of
the information.
[0110] The detection unit 40 may make an inquiry about the group
state at predetermined timing (timing after the operation of the
master apparatus or the like) or periodically. Then, on the basis
of the result of the inquiry, the group state image 50 may be
controlled.
[0111] [Emphatic Display of Multi-Room-Ready Apparatus]
[0112] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a
group state image 50C in the case where a first operation is input.
The first operation is an operation of selecting the icon image 51
of the reproduction apparatus 10 in the group state image 50C by
the user 5. The image control unit 41 emphatically displays the
icon images 51 of the reproduction apparatuses 10 that are capable
of constituting the group (the icon 51b, an icon 51c, and the icon
51e in this example), of the icon images 51 in the group state
image 50C, in response to the first operation. Specifically, the
multi-room-ready apparatus is emphatically displayed.
[0113] The method of emphasizing the icon image 51 is not limited.
In this embodiment, while the user 5 selects the icon image 51,
animation in which the size of the icon image 51 of the
multi-room-ready apparatus is dynamically changed is displayed.
Specifically, the icon image 51 of the multi-room-ready apparatus
is enlarged or reduced. Alternatively, animation whose color is
changed with time or animation in which the icon image blinks may
be displayed. Hereinafter, animation is referred to simply as an
image in some cases.
[0114] By emphatically displaying the icon image 51 of the
multi-room-ready apparatus, it is possible to easily know the
multi-room-ready apparatus and perform creation of a group and the
like with a good operability. Note that in this embodiment, the
icon image 51 of the multi-room-ready apparatus is emphatically
displayed even in the case where any one of the icon images 51 in
the group state image 50C is selected. Instead of this, the
emphatic display of the icon image 51 of the multi-room-ready
apparatus may be performed only in the case where the icon image 51
of the multi-room-ready apparatus is selected. Further, in the case
where the icon image 55 of the non-network apparatus 13 is
selected, the indication thereof may be displayed.
[0115] [New Creation of Group]
[0116] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing configuration example of a group
state image 50D in the case where new creation of a group is input.
When a group is newly created, the user 5 inputs a second
operation. The second operation is an operation of moving the icon
image 51 (icon image 51b in this example) of the reproduction
apparatus 10 that does not constitute a group (hereinafter,
referred to as the non-constitution apparatus) and is the
multi-room-ready apparatus in the group state image 50 while
selecting the icon image 51.
[0117] As shown in FIG. 7, in the case where the destination of the
second operation is the icon image 51e of the multi-room-ready
apparatus and the selection is released on the icon image 51e, the
selected non-constitution apparatus and the multi-room-ready
apparatus as the destination newly constitute a group, and the
group image 56 thereof is displayed. As a result, the image
transits from the group state image 50D shown in FIG. 7 to the
group state image 50B.
[0118] At this time, for example, an image where two images of the
icon image 51b and the icon image 51e are apart from each other by
a predetermined distance, an image where the circular shape of the
group image 56 expands from a dotted shape to a predetermined size,
an image where a color is added to the group image 56, and the like
are displayed. Accordingly, it is possible to easily recognize that
a group is established. As described above, it is possible to
easily create a group only by dragging and dropping the icon image
51 of the non-constitution apparatus that is capable of performing
the multi-room reproduction on the icon image 51 of another
multi-room-ready apparatus.
[0119] Note that the image control unit 41 may automatically adjust
the position or size of each image so that the icon image 51 and
the group image 56 do not overlap each other. For example, in the
case where a plurality of group images 56 are displayed, the size
of the circular shape of each group image 56 is appropriately
reduced and displayed. Accordingly, it is possible to simply
display the group constitution image 50.
[0120] FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram showing an example of an
operation of newly creating a group. The group control unit 42
acquires the network state of the reproduction apparatuses A to C
as targets of group constitution (Step 201). The network state is
information that represents the connection state with the home
network 1, e.g., information on the network strength. This
processing may be performed when the operation of newly creating a
group shown in FIG. 7 is input or periodically.
[0121] On the basis of the acquired information on the network
state, any one of multi-room-ready apparatuses is set as the master
apparatus (Step 202). For example, the reproduction apparatus 10
having a higher network strength is set as the master apparatus.
The method of determining the master apparatus is not limited, and
the user may select the master apparatus.
[0122] The group control unit 42 transmits a group creation request
to the master apparatus (reproduction apparatus A in this example)
(Step 203). The request includes an ID of the reproduction
apparatus as the slave apparatus (reproduction apparatuses B and C
in this example). The master apparatus that receives the creation
request transmits a request for participating in the group to the
reproduction apparatuses B and C as the slave apparatuses (Step
204). Accordingly, the group is established, and the reproduction
apparatuses A to C are in the group state (Step 205).
[0123] Note that in the example shown in FIG. 8, there are a
plurality of reproduction apparatuses as the slave apparatuses. It
goes without saying that in the case where the operation shown in
FIG. 7 is input, any one of the reproduction apparatuses 10b and
10e is set as the master apparatus, and the group participation
request is transmitted to the other reproduction apparatus 10. In
the case where the touch panel 35 supports the multi-touch
operation performed by a plurality of fingers, two non-constitution
apparatuses are moved onto another multi-room-ready apparatus in
some cases. In this case, as shown in FIG. 8, the participation
request is transmitted to the plurality of reproduction
apparatuses.
[0124] [New Addition to Group]
[0125] FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 are diagrams showing configuration
examples of group state images 50E and 50F, respectively, in the
case where an operation of new addition to a group is input. As
shown in FIG. 9, in the case where the destination of the second
operation is the group image 56 of a group that is already
established, the selected non-constitution apparatus and the group
apparatus included in the group as the destination newly constitute
a group. Then, as shown in FIG. 10, a group image 56' is displayed
as the image that represents the group. The icon image 51c of the
selected non-constitution apparatus and the icon image 51b and the
icon image 51e of the group apparatuses included in the group are
placed in the periphery of the group image 56'.
[0126] At this time, animation may be appropriately displayed with
respect to the position of each icon image 51 and the size or color
of the circular shape of the group image 56'. As described above,
only by dragging and dropping the multi-room-ready non-constitution
apparatus on the group image 56, it is possible to easily make a
new addition to the group.
[0127] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of an
operation of a new addition to a group. The group control unit 42
transmits a request for adding a slave apparatus to the master
apparatus (reproduction apparatus A in this example) (Step 301).
The master apparatus transmits a request for participating in the
group to the reproduction apparatus to be added (reproduction
apparatus C in this example) on the basis of the ID included in the
addition request (Step 302). Accordingly, the reproduction
apparatus C is added to the group as the slave apparatus (Step
303).
[0128] [Movement of Icon Image]
[0129] In the case where the destination of the second operation is
a position where there is no icon image 51 of another reproduction
apparatus in the group state image 50, the image control unit 42
causes the selected icon image 51 to move to the position.
Accordingly, it is possible to cause the icon image 51 to move with
a simple operation, and change the positional relationship between
the icon images 51.
[0130] For example, it is possible to easily arrange the icon
images 51 in the group state image 50 in the arrangement
relationship similar to the actual position of the reproduction
apparatus 10 placed in each room. Accordingly, the user 5 is
capable of instinctively knowing the actual position of the
reproduction apparatus 10. In addition, it is also possible to
arrange the icon images 51 by classifying them for each type of the
reproduction apparatus 10 to improve the operability. It goes
without saying that it is not limited thereto.
[0131] In the case where the destination of the second operation is
on the icon images 51 and 55 of the non-ready apparatus and the
non-network apparatus 13, the image control unit 42 returns the
selected icon image 51 to the original position. Accordingly, it is
possible to easily know that it cannot constitute a group, for
example.
[0132] [Dissolving of Group]
[0133] FIG. 12 to FIG. 14 are diagrams showing configuration
examples of group state images 50G, 50H, and 50I, respectively, in
the case where an operation of dissolving a group is input. When a
group is dissolved, the user 5 inputs a third operation. The third
operation is an operation of moving the icon image 51 of the group
apparatus that constitutes a group in the group state image 50
while selecting the icon image 51.
[0134] As shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, assumption is made that the
icon image 51e of the master apparatus is selected, and moved to a
position that is away from the group image 56 of the group
including the master apparatus. As a result, the group is
dissolved, and the group image 56 is deleted as shown in FIG. 14.
Further, the icon image 51e of the reproduction apparatus that has
been the master apparatus is moved to the position where the
selection is released.
[0135] As described above, only by dragging and dropping the icon
image 51 of the master apparatus on a position that is away from
the group image 56, it is possible to simply dissolve the group.
Note that as the image where the group is dissolved, an arbitrary
image may be displayed as long as the indication of the dissolving
can be understood. Further, the indication that the group is
dissolved may be displayed by a text image or the like.
[0136] The position that is away from the group image 56 is
typically a position outside of the group image 56. However, it is
not limited thereto, and the inside or the like of the group image
56 can be the position that is away from the group image 56,
depending on the shape or the like of the group image 56. Further,
in the case where a predetermined area in the group state image 50
is defined as a group withdrawal area or dissolving area, the
inside of the area is the position that is away from the group
image 56.
[0137] FIG. 15 is a sequence diagram showing an example of an
operation of dissolving a group. The group control unit 42
transmits a request for dissolving a group to the master apparatus
(reproduction apparatus A in this example) (Step 401). The master
apparatus that receives the dissolving request transmits a request
for withdrawing from a group to all the slave apparatuses that
belong to the group (reproduction apparatuses B and C in this
example) (step 402). When all the slave apparatuses are withdrawn,
the group is dissolved (Step 403). Note that the dissolving of the
group may be performed by another method.
[0138] [Withdrawal from Group]
[0139] Assumption is made that the icon images 51b and 51c of the
slave apparatuses of the group apparatuses are selected, and moved
to a position that is away from the group image 56 of the group
including the slave apparatuses. In this case, the withdrawal of
the selected slave apparatuses from the group is performed, and the
image thereof is displayed (e.g., transition from the group state
image 50E in FIG. 9 to the group state image 50B in FIG. 5). As
described above, it is possible to easily withdraw the icon image
51 of the slave apparatus from the group only by dragging and
dropping the icon image 51 on the position that is away from the
group image 56.
[0140] FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram showing an example of an
operation of withdrawing from a group. The group control unit 42
transmits a request for withdrawal of the slave apparatus to the
master apparatus (reproduction apparatus A in this example) (Step
501). The master apparatus transmits the withdrawal request to the
reproduction apparatus to be withdrawn (reproduction apparatus C in
this example) on the basis of the ID included in the withdrawal
request (Step 502). Accordingly, the reproduction apparatus C is
withdrawn from the group, and the group constitution including the
remaining reproduction apparatuses is left (Step 503).
[0141] Note that in the present disclosure, the withdrawal
represents getting out of the state where it constitutes a group,
i.e., the state where the belonging to the group is eliminated.
When the group is dissolved, the belonging to the group is
inevitably eliminated. Therefore, in the present disclosure, the
image where the group is dissolved is included in the image where
the group apparatus is withdrawn from the group (image where the
belonging to the group is eliminated).
[0142] As described above, in the portable terminal 30 according to
this embodiment, whether or not each of the plurality of
reproduction apparatuses 10 connected to the home network 1
constitutes a group is detected. The group state image 50 including
the icon image 51 of each reproduction apparatus 10 is output on
the basis of the detection result, and the group state image 50 is
controlled in response to the operation performed by the user 5.
Accordingly, the user 5 is capable of inputting various operations
such as new creation of a group and new addition to a group while
watching the group state image 50 on one screen. As a result, it is
possible to control reproduction of content with a good
operability.
[0143] The operation that can be input to the group state image 50
is not limited to those described above. For example, the icon
images 51 and 55 of the non-ready apparatus that does not support
the multi-room reproduction and the non-network apparatus 13 can be
selected and moved to a position where there is no icon image 51 of
another reproduction apparatus 10. In the case where the
destination is on another reproduction apparatus 10, the icon
images 51 and 55 are returned to the respective original
positions.
[0144] In the case where the icon image 51 of the group apparatus
is dragged and dropped on the icon image 51 of another group-ready
apparatus located at a position that is away from the group image
56, a new group including the group apparatus and the group-ready
apparatus as the destination may be established, and the group
image 56 thereof may be displayed. Further, in the case where the
destination of the icon image 51 of the group apparatus is another
group image 56, the group image 56 in which the group apparatus is
added to the group may be displayed. In the case where the
destination is on the icon images 51 and 55 of the non-ready
apparatus and the non-network apparatus 13, the icon image 51 is
returned to the periphery of the group image 56 (not withdrawn from
the group).
[0145] Further, in the case where the icon image 51 of the master
apparatus is moved to a position that is away from the group image
56, the group does not necessarily need to be dissolved, the group
may continue with any one of the remaining slave apparatuses as the
master apparatus, and the group image 56 thereof may be displayed.
In addition, various operations can be input.
Other Embodiments
[0146] The present technology is not limited to the embodiment
described above, and other various embodiments can be achieved.
[0147] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a
group state image 50J in which meta-information related to content
is displayed. For example, meta-information 60 related to content
reproduced by a plurality of group apparatuses included in the same
group may be displayed in the group state image 50J. In the example
shown in FIG. 17, a content name 61 and an artist image 62 are
displayed as the meta-information. However, it is not limited
thereto.
[0148] For example, in the above-mentioned embodiment, content
supplied from the server apparatus 20 on the home network 1 is
described as an example of content on which the multi-room
reproduction is performed. However, it is not limited thereto, and
content read by the group-ready apparatus via a CD or USB or
content acquired by the group-ready apparatus from predetermined
service such as the Internet may be reproduced. In such a case, as
the meta-information 60, information 63 that represents the
acquisition destination of content (location of content) may be
displayed.
[0149] Note that the meta-information may be displayed also in the
case where normal reproduction that is not the multi-room
reproduction is performed. In FIG. 17, the content name 61, the
artist image 62, and the acquisition destination (network service
on the Internet) information 63 of content reproduced by a
non-ready apparatus 10a corresponding to an icon image 51a are
displayed.
[0150] In addition, as the meta-information related to content,
Internet information related to content may be displayed. The
Internet information is the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) of a
website related to content, the link to an SNS (Social Networking
Service) related to content, or the like. Further, advertisement
related to content, TV program information, and the like may be
displayed. By display the meta-information, it is possible to
acquire detailed information related to content and enjoy the
reproduction of content more.
[0151] Further, as shown in FIG. 17, the image control unit 41 may
output a reproduction information image when a fourth operation in
which the user 5 selects the group image 56 in the group state
image 50J is input. The reproduction information image is an image
including reproduction information related to the multi-room
reproduction performed by a plurality of group apparatuses.
Specifically, the output of the reproduction information image in
addition to the control of the group state image may be
performed.
[0152] FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 are each a diagram showing an example of
the reproduction information image. A reproduction information
image 70 shown in FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 includes a reproduction
control unit 71 and an information display unit 72. The
reproduction control unit 71 includes a plurality of control
buttons 73 for controlling reproduction of content and a volume
adjustment bar 74. By operating the reproduction control unit 71,
it is possible to easily control the multi-room reproduction
performed by a plurality of group apparatuses.
[0153] On the information display unit 72, reproduction information
related to reproduction of content is displayed. On the information
display unit 72 in part A of FIG. 18, the kind of content on which
multi-reproduction can be performed by the selected group is
displayed. For example, an icon image 75 that represents a home
network, CD, or the like is displayed. Accordingly, it is possible
to easily know content that can be reproduced for each group.
[0154] On the information display unit 72 in part B of FIG. 18,
information on a file in which content on which the multi-room
reproduction can be performed is stored or information on content
is displayed in a list. On the information display unit 72 in part
C of FIG. 18, information on content on which the multi-room
reproduction is being performed is displayed. For example, a
content name, an artist image, a reproduction position, and the
like are displayed.
[0155] On the information display unit 72 in part A of FIG. 19,
pieces of information on items for performing various kinds of
setting are displayed in a list. The various kinds of setting
include reproduction setting, power source setting, other setting,
network setting, and the like. The information display unit 72 in
part B of FIG. 19 includes pieces of information on items for
performing various kinds of setting related to reproduction of
content. Examples of the pieces of information on items include
sound quality setting, EQ (equalizer) setting, timer setting, and
other setting. On the information display unit 72 in part C of FIG.
19, an equalizer for EQ setting is displayed.
[0156] The reproduction information images 70 shown in FIG. 18 and
FIG. 19 may be switchably displayed. For example, the reproduction
information image 70 may be switchable in the order of part A of
FIG. 18, part B of FIG. 18, and then part C of FIG. 18. At this
time, the following operation is input, for example.
[0157] Any one of the icon images 75 of the content type in part A
of FIG. 18 is selected, any one of content items 76 in part B of
FIG. 18 is selected, and then, content information in part C of
FIG. 18 is displayed.
[0158] Further, the reproduction information image 70 may be
switchable in the order of part A of FIG. 18, part A of FIG. 19,
part B of FIG. 19, and then, part C of FIG. 19, for example. At
this time, the following operation is input, for example.
[0159] An icon image 77 for setting in part A of FIG. 18 is
selected, a sound item 78 in part A of FIG. 19 is selected, an item
79 for EQ setting in part B of FIG. 19 is selected, and then, an
equalizer in part C of FIG. 19 is displayed. Note that by selecting
a return button 80, it is possible to perform switching in the
opposite direction.
[0160] By displaying the reproduction information image as describe
above, it is possible to perform reproduction setting for each
group, EQ setting, and the like with a simple operation.
Specifically, it is possible to collectively perform reproduction
setting or the like of a plurality of group apparatuses, and exert
a high operability. It goes without saying that an image including
information different from that described above may be displayed as
the reproduction information image.
[0161] By selecting the icon image 51 of the reproduction apparatus
10 that performs normal reproduction that is not the multi-room
reproduction, the reproduction information image 70 related to the
normal reproduction may be output. It can be said that the
reproduction information image is a function image related to the
multi-room reproduction or the normal reproduction.
[0162] The above-mentioned group in which the multi-room
reproduction is performed is an example of the group related to
reproduction of content according to the present technology.
Specifically, it is not limited to the multi-room reproduction, and
the present technology can be applied to a group in which another
reproduction operation or the like can be performed or a group
established under another reproduction condition.
[0163] In the above, description has been made with the home
network 1 established in a house as an example. It goes without
saying that it is not limited thereto, and the present technology
can be applied to a local network established in a company,
facility, or the like. Further, a local network may be established
in buildings apart from each other. For example, a car audio
provided in a vehicle is employed as the reproduction apparatus,
and the present technology may be applied to the local network to
which the car audio is connected. Further, the present technology
may be applied on the global network.
[0164] The number of reproduction apparatuses constituting a group
is not limited, but the upper limit thereof, e.g., not more than
10, may be set. It goes without saying that the upper limit does
not necessarily need to be set.
[0165] In the above, a portable terminal has been illustrated as
the information processing apparatus according to the present
technology. However, it is not limited thereto, and the present
technology can be executed by an arbitrary computer such as a
stationary apparatus. For example, the group state image 50 and the
like may be displayed on the touch panel of the reproduction
apparatus 10 that is capable of operating as a DMP, and various
operations may be input thereto.
[0166] At least two features of the above-mentioned features
according to the present technology may be combined. Specifically,
various features described in each embodiment may be arbitrarily
combined without distinguishing the embodiments with each other.
Further, the various effects described above are merely examples
and are not limited, and additional effects may be exerted.
[0167] It should be noted that the present technology may also take
the following configurations.
[0168] (1) An information processing apparatus, including:
[0169] a detection unit that is capable of detecting whether or not
each of a plurality of reproduction apparatuses constitutes a group
related to reproduction of content, each of the plurality of
reproduction apparatuses being connected to a network, each of the
plurality of reproduction apparatuses being capable of reproducing
the content;
[0170] an acceptance unit that accepts a user operation related to
constitution of the group; and
[0171] an image control unit that outputs a group state image on
the basis of a detection result by the detection unit, the group
state image representing a constitution state of the group, the
group state image including an image of each of the plurality of
reproduction apparatuses, and controls the group state image in
response to the accepted user operation related to constitution of
the group.
[0172] (2) The information processing apparatus according to (1),
in which
[0173] the image control unit displays, when a reproduction
apparatus constituting the group is detected, an image of the group
including the reproduction apparatus in the group state image.
[0174] (3) The information processing apparatus according to (1) or
(2, in which
[0175] the group is a group that is capable of reproducing the same
content at the same time.
[0176] (4) The information processing apparatus according to any
one of (1) to (3), in which
[0177] the acceptance unit accepts a first operation of selecting
an image of one of the plurality of reproduction apparatuses,
and
[0178] the image control unit emphatically displays an image of a
reproduction apparatus that is capable of constituting the group,
in response to the first operation.
[0179] (5) The information processing apparatus according to (4),
in which
[0180] the acceptance unit accepts a second operation of causing an
image of a non-constitution apparatus that is capable of
constituting the group to move in the group state image while
selecting the image of the non-constitution apparatus, the
non-constitution apparatus being a reproduction apparatus that does
not constitute the group, and
[0181] the image control unit displays, when a destination of the
second operation is an image of the reproduction apparatus that is
capable of constituting the group, an image of a group that is
newly constituted of the selected non-constitution apparatus and
the reproduction apparatus as the destination.
[0182] (6) The information processing apparatus according to (4) or
(5), in which
[0183] the acceptance unit accepts a second operation of causing an
image of a non-constitution apparatus that is capable of
constituting the group to move in the group state image while
selecting the image of the non-constitution apparatus, the
non-constitution apparatus being a reproduction apparatus that does
not constitute the group, and
[0184] the image control unit displays, when a destination of the
second operation is an image of a group that is already
established, an image of a group that is newly constituted of the
selected non-constitution apparatus and the reproduction apparatus
included in the group as the destination.
[0185] (7) The information processing apparatus according to any
one of (4) to (6), in which
[0186] the acceptance unit accepts a second operation of causing an
image of a non-constitution apparatus that is capable of
constituting the group to move in the group state image while
selecting the image of the non-constitution apparatus, the
non-constitution apparatus being a reproduction apparatus that does
not constitute the group, and
[0187] the image control unit causes, when a destination of the
second operation is a position where there is no image of another
reproduction apparatus, an image of the selected non-constitution
apparatus to move to the position.
[0188] (8) The information processing apparatus according to any
one of (4) to (7), in which
[0189] the acceptance unit accepts a second operation, an image of
a non-constitution apparatus that is capable of constituting the
group being selected and moved in the group state image in the
second operation, the non-constitution apparatus being a
reproduction apparatus that does not constitute the group, and
[0190] the image control unit returns, when a destination of the
second operation is an image of a reproduction apparatus that is
not capable of constituting the group, an image of the selected
non-constitution apparatus to its original position.
[0191] (9) The information processing apparatus according to any
one of (5) to (8), in which
[0192] the acceptance unit accepts a third operation of causing an
image of a group apparatus to move in the group state image while
selecting the image of the group apparatus, the group apparatus
being a reproduction apparatus that constitutes the group, and
[0193] the image control unit displays, when a destination of the
third operation is a position that is away from an image of the
group including the selected group apparatus, an image where the
group apparatus is withdrawn from the group.
[0194] (10) The information processing apparatus according to (9),
in which
[0195] the image control unit identifiably displays one of a
plurality of group apparatuses included in the group as a master
apparatus, and displays, when an image of the master apparatus is
selected and moved to the position that is away from the image of
the group by the third operation, an image where the group is
dissolved.
[0196] (11) The information processing apparatus according to (9)
or (10), in which
[0197] the acceptance unit accepts a fourth operation of selecting
an image of the group, and
[0198] the image control unit outputs a reproduction information
image including information related to reproduction of the content
by a plurality of group apparatuses included in the group, in
response to the fourth operation.
[0199] (12) The information processing apparatus according to (11),
in which
[0200] the reproduction information image includes information on
content that the plurality of group apparatuses are capable of
reproducing at the same time.
[0201] (13) The information processing apparatus according to any
one of (1) to (12), in which
[0202] the image control unit displays meta-information related to
content that is being reproduced by the plurality of group
apparatuses in the group state image.
[0203] (14) The information processing apparatus according to any
one of (1) to (13), in which
[0204] the acceptance unit is a touch panel, and
[0205] the group state image is displayed on the touch panel.
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST
[0206] 1 home network [0207] 10 reproduction apparatus [0208] 13
non-network apparatus [0209] 20 server apparatus [0210] 30 portable
terminal [0211] 40 detection unit [0212] 41 image control unit
[0213] 42 group control unit [0214] 50 group state image [0215] 51
icon image [0216] 56 group image [0217] 60 meta-information [0218]
70 reproduction information image [0219] 500 network system
* * * * *