JP2006287351A - Receiver, information distribution system, and information distribution method or the like - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a receiver or the like configured such that the receiver judges whether or not distribution data such as contents data stored in a buffer memory can be recorded (stored) on a recording medium such as a HD (Hard Disk) and informs a user about a result of the judgement. <P>SOLUTION: The receiver is characterized in including: a reception means for receiving distribution data distributed from an information delivery apparatus via a network; a storage means for storing the received distribution data; a recording propriety judgement means for judging whether or not the distribution data stored in the storage means can be recorded on the recording medium; and a notice control means that allows a notice means to inform the user about a result of the judgement. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a technical field of a receiving device and a recording availability notification program, and in particular, a receiving device and an information distribution system in which a receiving device that receives distribution data determines whether or not the distribution data can be recorded and notifies the user of the result. And information distribution methods.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, content data distribution / distribution technology capable of realizing content data distribution between user terminal devices has been proposed in network environment technologies such as the Internet.

  For example, as an example of this type of computer network system, Patent Document 1 discloses a distributed management network file system.

This system is a so-called peer-to-peer type content data distribution system. Unlike a client-server type content data distribution system, this system transmits and receives streaming-distributed content data between node devices as clients. Yes. When a node device participates in the system, the node device is connected to any one of the node devices constituting the system and receives content data. Each node device can arbitrarily leave the network or reconnect to an upstream (upper layer) node device according to a predetermined condition.
JP 2003-169089 A

  Incidentally, the content data distribution system has a buffering function in preparation for a situation where the distribution speed falls below the reproduction speed due to unstable distribution speed or temporary interruption. For example, in a tree-type distribution system, when a new node device that wishes to transmit content data joins the system and receives content data from a higher-level node device, the content data is temporarily stored in a buffer memory in the device. After a certain amount of playback time is stored, the data in the buffer memory is read out and played back.

  When the user wants to save (record) the broadcasted content in a recording medium owned by the user, the data stored in the buffer memory is read and saved (recorded).

  However, not all distributed content data can be stored. Nevertheless, there is a problem that the user cannot recognize which content data stored in the buffer memory can be saved.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and determines whether distribution data such as content data stored in a buffer memory can be recorded (saved) in a recording medium, and the result is obtained. It is an object of the present invention to provide a receiving device configured to notify a user.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 1 is characterized in that receiving means for receiving distribution data distributed from an information distribution apparatus via a network, storage means for storing the received distribution data, Recording enable / disable determining means for determining whether or not the distribution data stored in the storage means can be recorded on a recording medium; and notification control means for notifying the user of the result of the determination to the notifying means. Features.

  According to this, it is possible to determine whether or not distribution data such as content data stored in a storage means such as a buffer memory can be recorded on a recording medium such as an HD (Hard Disk), and notify the user of the result. Therefore, it is possible to provide a receiving device that is more convenient for the user.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 2 is a recording instruction for receiving an instruction to record the distribution data stored in the storage means on the recording medium in the receiving apparatus according to claim 1. And receiving means, and recording control means for recording the distribution data stored in the storage means on the recording medium when the instruction is received.

  According to this, a user who has been notified whether or not recording on a recording medium is possible receives recording of the distribution data on the recording medium by recording instruction receiving means such as an input unit, thereby storing the distribution data in a buffer memory or the like. Recording from the means to the recording medium becomes possible.

  In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 3 is the receiving apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the receiving means determines whether or not the distribution data can be recorded on the recording medium. The record availability information is further received, and the record availability judging means judges whether the distribution data can be recorded on the recording medium based on the record availability information.

  According to this, it is possible to quickly determine whether or not recording is possible based on the recordability information included in the distribution data without the trouble of inquiring another device (for example, an information distribution device such as a broadcasting station device).

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 4 is the receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one delivery data is at least one or more other deliverys. When the data is distributed from the information distribution apparatus as a set, the one distribution data includes set information indicating that the one distribution data itself is a set with the other distribution data, and the recording The availability determination unit determines whether or not the set information is included in the one distribution data stored in the storage unit, and when the set information is included, the one distribution data is transmitted to the other distribution data. It is determined whether or not recording on a recording medium is possible as a set with data, and the notification control means determines that the one delivery data can be recorded as a set with the other delivery data by the record availability judgment means. If , Characterized in that to inform the said notification means that said one of the distribution data can be recorded as a set of the said other distribution data.

  According to this, when a plurality of distribution data such as an album of music is distributed as a set (group), it is possible to determine whether or not recording as a group is possible.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 5 is the receiving apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the recording instruction receiving means receives an instruction to record to the recording medium for each set, When the recording control unit accepts the instruction, the recording control unit records all distribution data distributed as a set stored in the storage unit on the recording medium.

  In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 6 is the receiving device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the record availability determination unit is configured such that a part of the distribution data is included. When deleted from the storage means, the distribution data is determined to be unrecordable.

  According to this, it becomes possible to record the distribution data on the recording medium only when it is in a complete state.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 7 is a reproduction apparatus for reproducing the distribution data stored in the storage means in the receiving device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. And the receiving means further receives distribution data information relating to the distribution data, the storage means stores the distribution data and the distribution data information, and the notification control means is reproducing by the reproducing means For the distribution data, a notification result of the recording permission / inhibition determination unit and the distribution data information are notified to the user by the notification unit.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 8 is a reproduction apparatus for reproducing the distribution data stored in the storage means in the receiving device according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The notification control means includes: whether or not recording of reproduced distribution data, which is distribution data reproduced by the reproduction means, on the recording medium; distribution during reproduction being distribution data being reproduced by the reproduction means; It is characterized in that the notifying means is informed of whether or not data can be recorded on the recording medium.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 9 is the receiving apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the receiving means is a distribution-scheduled distribution which is distribution data scheduled to be distributed from the information distribution apparatus. Recordability information indicating whether or not data can be recorded on the recording medium is received, and the recordability determination means determines whether or not the distribution data scheduled to be distributed can be recorded on the recording medium based on the recordability information. The notification control unit causes the notification unit to notify the determination result for the distribution data scheduled to be distributed.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the invention described in claim 10 is the receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the recording instruction receiving unit is configured to perform the processing for the plurality of distribution data. It is characterized in that an instruction for recording on a recording medium can be accepted.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 11 is directed to the receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the recording instruction receiving unit instructs to record on the recording medium. In the case where it is determined that there is a deficiency by the data deficiency judging means for judging whether or not the data stored in the storage means is deficient with respect to the distribution data received, and the data deficiency judging means A missing data requesting means for requesting missing data from an external device, the recording control means based on data corresponding to the missing data received from the external device and the delivery data stored in the storage means It records on the said recording medium, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 12 is the receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the recording instruction receiving means instructs to record on the recording medium. In the case where the distribution data received is the reproduced distribution data, the recording control means records the distribution data stored in the storage means on the recording medium.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the invention described in claim 13 is directed to the receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the recording instruction receiving unit instructs recording to the recording medium. When the distribution data that has been received is the distribution data that is being reproduced, the recording control means, when the distribution data that has received the instruction is stored in the storage means to the end, the distribution data that has received the instruction It records on a recording medium, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the invention described in claim 14 is directed to the receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the recording instruction receiving unit instructs to record on the recording medium. When the distribution data that has been received is the distribution data that is scheduled to be distributed, the recording control means may store the distribution data that has received the instruction when the distribution data that has received the instruction is stored in the storage means to the end. It records on the said recording medium, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, according to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the receiving device according to any one of the second to fourteenth aspects, the distribution data is recorded on the recording medium by the recording control means. Then, the notification control unit causes the notification unit to notify the user that the distribution data has been recorded on the recording medium, and / or invalidates the recording instruction reception unit. To do.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 16 is the receiving device according to any one of claims 8 to 15, wherein the distribution data stored in the storage means is It has a selection means for selecting distribution data to be notified of distribution data information, and the notification control means causes the notification means to notify the user of the distribution data information related to the selected distribution data. And

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 17 is the receiving device according to any one of claims 2 to 16, wherein the recording instruction receiving means is recorded by the recording availability determining means. If it is determined to be impossible, it is invalidated.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 18 is the receiving device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the distribution data stored in the storage means is the storage means. Erasure pre-detection means for detecting in advance that the erasure is erased, and when the erasure pre-detection means detects in advance that the erasure is detected in advance, the notification control means detects in advance that the erasure is erased The informing means is informed to the user that this has been done.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 19 is the receiving device according to claim 18, wherein the erasure pre-detection means determines whether the distribution data to be erased from the storage means is the record availability. Only when it is determined by the means that recording on the recording medium is possible, it is detected in advance that the distribution data is erased.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 20 is the receiving device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the storage means temporarily stores the received distribution data. A buffer memory for storing, wherein the recording medium is a storage device provided in the receiving device, and the notification control unit is capable of recording distribution data stored in the buffer memory in the storage device. The determination result of determining whether or not is displayed on the display means.

  According to this, since it is possible to determine whether or not the distribution data such as the content data stored in the buffer memory can be recorded on the recording medium, and display the result on the display means to notify the user, it is possible for the user. Furthermore, it is possible to provide a highly convenient receiving apparatus.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 21 is characterized in that the receiving device according to any one of claims 1 to 20 has the information distribution device as the highest level and the one or more of the information delivery devices It is a receiving device in a tree-type network system including a receiving device and connected in a tree shape.

  According to this, it can be applied to content data as distribution data distributed from an information distribution device such as a broadcasting station device in a tree type network system, and distribution data such as content data stored in a storage means such as a buffer memory can be used. Since it is possible to determine whether or not recording is possible on a recording medium such as an HD and to notify the user of the result, it is possible to provide a receiving device that is highly convenient for the user.

  In order to solve the above problem, an invention according to claim 22 is an information distribution system including an information distribution device that distributes distribution data and a reception device connected to the information distribution device via a network. The receiving device can receive distribution data distributed from the information distribution device, storage means for storing the received distribution data, and record the distribution data stored in the storage means on a recording medium. And a recording control unit for notifying a user of a result of the determination to a notification unit.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 23 is information in an information distribution system including an information distribution device that distributes distribution data and a reception device connected to the information distribution device via a network. In the delivery method, the receiving device receives the delivery data delivered from the information delivery device, the receiving device stores the received delivery data, and the receiving device in the storing step. And determining whether or not the distribution data stored in the storage medium can be recorded on a recording medium, and the receiving device having a notification control step of notifying a user of a result of the determination through a notification step. Features.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 25 is characterized in that a computer receives a receiving means for receiving distribution data distributed from an information distribution apparatus via a network, a storage means for storing the received distribution data, A function for determining whether or not the distribution data stored in the storage unit can be recorded on a recording medium; and a function for notifying the user of the result of the determination. And

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 25 is the recording availability notification program according to claim 24, wherein the computer records the distribution data stored in the storage means on the recording medium. A recording instruction receiving unit that receives an instruction to receive the instruction, and a recording control unit that records the distribution data stored in the storage unit on the recording medium when the instruction is received.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 26 is the recording availability notification program according to claim 24 or claim 25, wherein the receiving means is capable of recording the distribution data on the recording medium. And a function for receiving the record availability information indicating that the distribution data is recordable on the recording medium based on the record availability information. Features.

  In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 27 is the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein the distribution data of one is at least one or more other When the distribution data is distributed from the information distribution apparatus as a set, the one distribution data includes set information indicating that the one distribution data itself is a set with the other distribution data, The record availability determination unit determines whether the set information is included in the one distribution data stored in the storage unit. If the set information is included, the one distribution data is set to the other distribution data. And a function for determining whether or not recording on a recording medium is possible as a set with distribution data, and the notification control means is configured such that the first distribution data is set as a set with the other distribution data by the record availability determination means. If it is determined that the recordable Te is characterized thereby functions to broadcast the notification means that the one of the distribution data can be recorded as a set of the said other distribution data.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 28 is the recording availability notification program according to claim 27, wherein the recording instruction accepting means instructs the recording instruction to be recorded on the recording medium for each set. And the recording control unit functions to record all distribution data distributed as a set stored in the storage unit onto the recording medium when the instruction is received. .

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the invention according to claim 29 is the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 26 to 28, wherein the recording availability determination unit is configured to set one of the distribution data. When the section is erased from the storage means, the distribution data is made to function so as not to be recorded.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 30 is the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 24 to 29, wherein the computer is stored in the storage means. Further functioning as reproduction means for reproducing distribution data, and causing the reception means to function to receive distribution data information related to the distribution data, and storing the storage means to store the distribution data and the distribution data information Causing the notification control unit to notify the notification unit of the result of determination by the recording permission determination unit and the distribution data information for the distribution data being reproduced by the reproduction unit. It functions as follows.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 31 is the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 24 to 30, wherein the computer is stored in the storage means. Further functioning as reproduction means for reproducing distribution data, and the notification control means is configured to determine whether or not recording of reproduced distribution data, which is distribution data reproduced by the reproduction means, onto the recording medium, and the reproduction means. The present invention is characterized in that the notifying means is caused to function so as to distinguish between whether or not the distribution data being reproduced, which is distribution data being reproduced, can be recorded on the recording medium.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 32 is the distribution schedule that is the distribution data scheduled to be distributed from the information distribution device in the recording availability notification program according to claim 31. The distribution availability information indicating whether or not the distribution data can be recorded on the recording medium is received, and the recording availability determination means causes the distribution data to be distributed to the recording medium based on the recording availability information. It is characterized by functioning to determine whether or not recording is possible, and the notification control means functions to cause the notification means to notify the determination result for the distribution data scheduled to be distributed.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 33 is the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 25 to 32, wherein the recording instruction receiving means is a plurality of the distribution data. It is made to function so that the instruction | indication of the recording to the said recording medium with respect to can be received.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 34 is the recording permission / informing program according to any one of claims 25 to 35, wherein the recording instruction receiving means is used to record the computer. When there is a deficiency by the data deficiency judging means for judging whether or not the data stored in the storage means is deficient with respect to the distribution data for which the instruction to record on the medium is received, and the data deficiency judging means If it is determined, it further functions as missing data request means for requesting missing data from an external device, and the recording control means stores data corresponding to the missing data received from the external device and stored in the storage means. It is made to function so that it records on the recording medium based on the distribution data.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 35 is recorded in the recording medium by the recording instruction receiving means in the recording possibility notification program according to any one of claims 31 to 34. When the distribution data for which the instruction is received is the reproduced distribution data, the recording control unit functions to record the distribution data stored in the storage unit onto the recording medium.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 36 is recorded in the recording medium by the recording instruction receiving means in the recording possibility notification program according to any one of claims 31 to 35. When the distribution data for which the instruction is received is the distribution data being reproduced, the distribution control unit receives the instruction when the distribution data for which the instruction has been received is stored in the storage means to the end. Is recorded on the recording medium.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 37 is directed to the receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 32 to 36, wherein the recording instruction receiving means instructs to record on the recording medium. When the distribution data that has been received is the distribution data that is scheduled to be distributed, the recording control unit is configured to change the distribution data that has received the instruction when the distribution data that has received the instruction is stored in the storage unit to the end. It is made to function so that it records on the recording medium.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 38 is the receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 25 to 37, wherein the distribution data is recorded on the recording medium, and The notification control unit functions to cause the notification unit to notify the user that the distribution data has been recorded on the recording medium, and / or the recording instruction reception unit functions to invalidate. And

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 39 is the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 32 to 38, wherein the computer is stored in the storage means. It further functions as a selection unit that selects distribution data to be notified of the distribution data information from among the distribution data, and the notification control unit notifies the user of the distribution data information related to the selected distribution data. It is made to function so that a means may be notified.

  In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 40 is the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 25 to 39, wherein the recording instruction reception means is the recording availability determination means. If it is determined that recording is impossible, the function is made to invalidate.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, an invention according to claim 41 is the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 24 to 40, wherein the computer is stored in the storage means. It further functions as an erasure pre-detection means for detecting in advance that the distribution data is erased from the storage means, and when the erasure is detected in advance by the erasure pre-detection means, the erasure is detected by the notification control means. It is made to function so that the notification means may be notified to the user.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 42 is the recording availability notification program according to claim 40, wherein the distribution pre-detection means erases the distribution data from the storage means, Only when it is determined by the availability determination means that recording on the recording medium is possible, it is made to function to detect in advance that the distribution data is erased.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 43 is the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 24 to 42, wherein the storage means temporarily stores the received distribution data. The recording medium is a storage device provided in the receiving device, and the notification control means can record the distribution data stored in the buffer memory in the storage device. It is characterized in that the determination result for determining whether or not is displayed on the display means.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 44 is the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 24 to 43, wherein the receiving device has the information delivery device at the highest level. And a receiving device in a tree type network system connected in a tree shape including one or more receiving devices.

  According to the present invention, it is determined whether or not distribution data such as content data stored in a storage unit such as a buffer memory can be recorded on a recording medium such as an HD (Hard Disk), and the result is notified to the user. Therefore, it is possible to provide a receiving device that is more convenient for the user.

  DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, the best embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described below is an embodiment when the present invention is applied to a tree-type computer network system.

[1. Network system configuration]
First, a schematic configuration and the like of the tree type network system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a connection mode of each device in the tree-type network system according to the present embodiment. In the example of FIG. 1, an electrical connection mode between devices in the tree-type network system S (for example, which device and which device communication is established) is shown. In the present embodiment, a user of a node device as a receiving device in the present invention stores the content data C distributed from the broadcast station device 1 in a buffer memory provided in the node device while temporarily storing the content data C. When viewing, it is determined whether or not each content data C stored in a buffer memory as a storage means can be recorded (saved) in, for example, an HD (Hard Disk) as a recording medium provided in the node device, and the determination result By presenting to the user, the user can easily recognize whether or not recording is possible.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the tree-type network system S is distributed from a broadcast station apparatus 1 (information distribution apparatus) that is a distribution source of content data C such as streaming data as distribution data, and the broadcast station apparatus 1. , 2p (receiving device) that receives the received content data C, and is configured with a peer-to-peer (P2P) system. It is a network system.

  The tree type network system S has a plurality of node devices 2a to 2p forming a plurality of hierarchies with the broadcasting station device 1 as the highest level, and a plurality of communication paths 3a, 3b, 3c,. ... are connected in a tree shape via 3p.

  Various data including the content data C distributed by the broadcasting station apparatus 1 are sequentially transferred from the upper layer node devices 2a and 2b to the lower layer node devices 2g to 2p. In the following description, when any one of the node devices 2a to 2p is indicated, it may be referred to as the node device 2 for convenience.

  The broadcast station device 1 and the plurality of node devices 2a to 2p are IX (Internet eXchange), ISP (Internet Service Provider), DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) line provider (device), FTTH (Fiber To The Home). ) It is physically connected to a network such as the Internet by a line operator (device) and a communication line (for example, a telephone line or an optical cable), and the broadcasting station apparatus 1 and each node apparatus 2a to 2p. Is assigned a unique device ID and an IP (Internet Protocol) address.

  In the present embodiment, setting, management and the like of the connection mode between the node devices in the tree type network system S are performed by the network management device 100.

  Since the network management apparatus 100 monitors the connection mode of the node apparatuses in the tree type network system S, for example, when the node apparatus 2j desires to participate in the network system S as shown in FIG. In other words, when it is desired to distribute the content data C distributed by the broadcasting station apparatus 1, the IP address of the upper layer node apparatus to which the broadcast station apparatus 1 is to be connected is indicated to the network management apparatus 100 by a one-dot chain line in the figure. Ask as shown. Then, the network management device 100 selects the node device 2d as the upper layer node device to which the node device 2j should be connected based on the topology information managed by the network management device 100, and sets the IP address and the like of the node device 2d. The address information Sad shown is transmitted to the node device 2j as indicated by a two-dot chain line in the figure.

  Then, based on the address information Sad, the node device 2j transmits, as transmission request information, as shown by a dotted line in the figure to the upper layer node device to be connected (in the example shown in FIG. 2, the node device 2d). The connection request information Sr is transmitted to make a connection request, and the connection between the node device 2j and the node device 2d via the communication path 3j can be established.

  In the following description of the configuration and function of each device, and various processes, the broadcast station device 1 is the information distribution device in the present invention, and the node device 2j is the reception device and node device in the present invention that receives the content data C. 2d will be described as an upper node apparatus 2d that transmits content data C as distribution data distributed from the broadcasting station apparatus 1 to the node apparatus 2j.

[2. Configuration and function of node device]
Next, the configuration and function of the node device 2 will be described with reference to FIG. The configuration of each node device 2 is the same.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of the node device 2.

  As shown in FIG. 3, each node device 2 stores and saves a control unit 11 as a computer composed of a CPU having a calculation function, a working RAM, a ROM for storing various data and programs, and the like. A storage unit 12 as a recording medium composed of an HD for storing, a buffer memory 13 as a storage unit for temporarily storing received content data, and encoded video data (video) included in the content data Information) and audio data (audio information), etc., and a video processing unit that performs a predetermined drawing process on the decoded video data and outputs the video signal as a video signal 15 and video display based on the video signal output from the video processing unit 15, The display unit 16 such as a CRT or a liquid crystal display that displays the result of whether or not the content data C can be recorded based on the process described in detail using the flowchart, and the decoded audio data. An audio processing unit 17 that performs D (Digital) / A (Analog) conversion to an analog audio signal, amplifies the analog audio signal by an amplifier, and outputs it; a speaker 18 that outputs the audio signal output from the audio processing unit 17 as a sound wave; The communication unit 19 for controlling communication of information with other node devices 2, the management device 100, the broadcasting station device 1 and the like through the network, and receives an instruction from the user and controls an instruction signal according to the instruction. An input unit (for example, an operation panel or a mouse, a key) A board or the like) 20 is configured to include a control unit 11, storage unit 12, a buffer memory 13, decoder 14, and the communication unit 19 are connected to each other via a bus 21. The storage unit 12 stores destination information such as the IP address of the network management device 100 that is accessed first when the node device 2 participates in the network system S. When the content data C is a movie, the decoder unit 14, the video processing unit 15, the display unit 16, the audio processing unit 17, and the speaker 18 serve as playback means, and when the content data C is a song, the decoder unit 14. The audio processing unit 17 and the speaker 18 serve as reproducing means.

  Next, the buffer memory 13 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  The buffer memory 13 includes a so-called FIFO (First In First Out) type ring buffer memory as illustrated in FIG. This ring buffer memory accumulates the content data C distributed from the node device 2 in the upper hierarchy in the order of distribution, reads out in the order of accumulation under the control of the control unit 11, and decodes it via the bus 21. The operation of outputting to the unit 14 is performed.

  As a result, the decoder unit 14 decodes the content data C output from the ring buffer memory via the bus 21 and outputs and displays an image of the data on the display unit 16. Sound is emitted through the speaker 18. In the ring buffer memory according to the example shown in the figure, content data C1, C2,... C5 have already been accumulated, and content data C6 is currently being received.

  Here, FIG. 5 shows an example of the data structure of the content data C distributed from the broadcasting station apparatus 1. When the content data C is video information compressed in, for example, the MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) format, sequence header, picture header, GOP (Group) are used as playback control information indispensable for playing back the content data C. Various headers such as the “Of Picture” header are added to the top of the data. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, record enable / disable information indicating whether or not the content data C can be stored in the storage unit 12 such as an HD in each node device 2 that receives the distribution of the content data C in this header portion. Append.

  When the content data C is sequentially stored (stored) in the buffer memory 13, the recordability information of each content data C is read based on the control of the control unit 11 and displayed on a RAM (not shown) provided in the control unit 11. The result is held in the section 16 so that it can be displayed.

  FIG. 6 shows an example of the display unit 16 displaying whether or not each content data C stored (saved) in the buffer memory 13 can be recorded. FIG. 6 shows a display example of whether or not each content data C can be recorded when the content data C1, C2,... C5 are stored in the buffer memory 13 shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 6, when the content data C is stored (stored) in the buffer memory 13, the content data C is stored in the storage unit 13 such as an HD in accordance with the recordability information added to the header portion of the content data C. It is determined whether or not recording is possible (recording determination unit). In addition, since the scroll bar 16a is operated to be scroll-displayed by operating the mouse or dial of the input unit 20, it is possible to display whether or not a relatively large number of content data C can be recorded. (Notification control means). Therefore, it is possible to reliably display whether or not the content data stored in the buffer memory 13 can be recorded. In FIG. 6, the display state up to the content data C4 is shown, but the content data C5 stored in the buffer memory 13 is also displayed by operating the scroll bar 16a to scroll the display as described above. It can be displayed.

  Further, a recording decision button 16b is provided for each content data C, and when a user who confirms whether or not the content data C can be recorded desires to record the content data C in the storage unit 12 such as an HD, By selecting (clicking) the recording determination button 16b of the recording target content data C, the content data C related to the selected recording determination button 16b is operated to be recorded in the storage unit 12 such as an HD (recording instruction receiving means) Recording control means).

  Since the ring buffer memory employs a FIFO format, when new content data C is received, old content data C is sequentially deleted and new content data C is stored (overwrite storage). . Therefore, even if the content data C is distributed so as to be recordable, when a part of the content data C is deleted from the buffer memory 13, the control unit 11 records (saves) the content data C. It is configured to determine that it is impossible.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, it is possible to simultaneously display information on content data currently being broadcast. According to the example shown in FIG. 6, the music information and live information of the content data C6 currently being broadcast (currently being reproduced) are displayed together. In this embodiment, the content data being broadcast indicates content data (reproduction data being reproduced) that is being reproduced (viewed) in the node device 2. As described above, since the recordability information is added to the header portion of the content data C, it is immediately determined whether or not the content data C can be recorded immediately after the reproduction of the content data C. It is possible to notify the user by displaying “storable!” Or the like on the display unit 16. As shown in FIG. 6, whether or not the content data being played back (viewing) can be recorded (in the left frame in FIG. 6), and whether or not the content data that has been played back can be recorded (in the right frame in FIG. 6). By distinguishing and displaying the data on the display unit 16, it is possible to easily grasp which data is being reproduced by the user (or which data has been reproduced).

[3. Recording availability notification process]
Next, a specific method of the content data C record availability notification process will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8. In this description, description will be made based on operation processing performed by the control unit 11 of the node device 2j when the node device 2j receives the content data C distributed from the broadcast station device 1 via the node device 2d or the like.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the record availability notification process of the content data C in the control unit 11 of the node device 2j. The process shown by the flowchart is a record stored in advance in a ROM or the like (not shown) in the control unit 11. It is executed based on the control of the control unit 11 based on the availability notification program. The process is started by reproducing the content data C by the node device 2j.

  More precisely, the time until the node device 2 receives the content data C, sends the data to the buffer memory 13, starts writing, and reads the data from the buffer memory (Read) (buffer residence time). Is about several tens of milliseconds to several seconds, and there is a delay of several tens of milliseconds to several seconds until the decoder unit 14 receives the data read from the buffer memory 13 and actually outputs audio or video. Although a difference in timing of several tens of milliseconds is difficult for a human to detect, the timing at which a human actually senses audio and video is substantially the same as the timing at which data is transmitted to the decoder unit 14. You can think the same. If the buffer retention time is long, the recording availability notification process is started at the stage where data writing is started in the buffer memory 13 and the recording availability is displayed on the display unit 16. This may result in a display indicating whether or not content can be recorded, which may be indistinguishable from whether or not “broadcast scheduled content” described later is recorded. In such a case, it is desirable to consider the buffer residence time, the processing speed in each unit in the node device 2, etc., for example, just before the buffer memory passes the data to the decoder unit 14, perform the record availability notification process, It is more preferable that sound or video is actually output immediately after being displayed on the display unit 16.

  First, the control unit 11 functions as a recordability determination unit, and determines whether or not content data can be recorded based on the received recordability information of the content data C (step S1). If the result of determination is that recording is possible (step S1: Yes), the control unit 11 functions as notification control means, and the content data C can be stored (recorded) in the display unit 16 as notification means (display means). Is displayed (step S2). On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S1 is that recording is not possible (step S1: impossibility), the control unit 11 functions as notification control means, and the content data C is displayed on the display unit 16 as notification means (display means). Is displayed (step S3).

  Then, the determination result is temporarily stored in the RAM or the like of the control unit 11 (not shown) in association with the content data C (step S4).

  Since the control unit 11 of the node device 2j is configured to perform a plurality of processes, the reproduction process of the content data C and the process shown in FIG. 7 described above are performed in parallel. Here, although it is difficult to think of processing in parallel strictly in terms of time, the CPU processing time is divided into extremely short units and assigned to a plurality of threads in order, thereby performing a plurality of processes simultaneously. The reproduction processing of the content data C and the processing shown in FIG. 7 can be configured as if the above are performed simultaneously in parallel.

  The content data C received in this way is determined as to whether or not it can be recorded, and sequentially stored in the RAM or the like of the control unit 11 sequentially. FIG. 8 shows an example of recordability information of each content data C stored in the RAM or the like of the control unit 11. Based on this, whether or not each content data C stored in the buffer memory 13 can be recorded can be displayed as shown in FIG. The list shown in FIG. 8 is updated in association with the contents of the ring buffer, and at the timing when data disappears from the ring buffer, one line of the stored record is deleted from this list. That is, when the content C1 is overwritten and disappears in the ring buffer, the content C1 on this list is deleted by one line, and the content C2 and subsequent lines are shifted up by one line. When playback moves to the next content, the newly started content C7 is added to the end of the list. When the reproduction of the content is started, the recordability information of the content data C is stored in the RAM or the like of the control unit 11. Note that the end of the list indicates the content C currently being reproduced. As another method, “reproduced” or “reproducing” may be stored in association with each content.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the control unit 11 distinguishes between a broadcast content display area and a broadcast content display area and displays them on the display unit 16. For the content being broadcast, the program name, the title, the singer name, the lyricist, the composer, and information about the singer are displayed as song information.

  When the user operates the record determination button 16b and receives an instruction to record the content data C stored in the buffer memory 13 to the storage unit 12 such as an HD, the control unit 11 performs the recording control. It functions as a means, and is configured to record the content data C (stored in the buffer memory 13) selected by the recording determination button 16b in the storage unit 12 (recording medium) such as HD.

  According to the embodiment described above, it is possible to determine whether or not the distribution data stored in the buffer memory 13 can be recorded in the storage unit 12 such as an HD, and to notify the user of the result. It becomes possible to provide a more convenient node device. In the above description, the node device has been described as a computer, but may be a device dedicated to receiving content data such as a set top box (STB).

  Further, the display unit 12 provided in the node device 2 is controlled to be displayed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an external monitor may be connected to display the recordability information, or connected to a monitor such as a television receiver. May be configured to be displayed. Further, the record availability information may be configured as audio data and output from the speaker 18 by audio. Furthermore, although the storage unit 12 as a storage device provided in the node device 2 as a recording medium has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and a storage device such as another storage medium or RAM different from the buffer memory may be used. It may be an external storage device.

  Furthermore, as a method for determining whether or not the content data C can be recorded, for example, the node device 2 may access the broadcast station device 1 to inquire whether or not the content data C being distributed can be recorded. As described above, it is possible to quickly determine whether or not recording is possible immediately after reception of the content data C by adding the recordability information to the header of the content data C and determining whether or not recording is possible.

  Further, the above-described recordability determination means by the control unit 11 is configured so that even when the content data C is distributed as recordable, when a part of the content data C is erased from the buffer memory 13, The content data C is configured to determine that recording (saving) is impossible.

  In the above-described embodiment, it is configured to display whether or not the content data stored in the buffer memory 13 can be recorded. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and information about whether or not the content data C viewed in the past is recorded. It may be displayed. That is, by operating the scroll bar 16a of the display unit 16, it is possible to display whether or not a relatively large number of content data C can be recorded, so that it has been received in the past and is still stored (stored) in the buffer memory 13. In addition to being able to display at least all of the contents data C that can be recorded, the old contents that have been erased and erased from the buffer memory 13 when the new contents data C is overwritten (stored) are overwritten. Even if the data C is scrolled, (1) the user has previously received the content data C, and (2) whether or not it can be saved, it is already (by overwriting storage, etc.) It can be confirmed that the data is erased and cannot be recorded. The display form can be arbitrarily set according to the user's specifications such as a predetermined number (for example, 10) or a predetermined period.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, it is determined whether or not recording from the buffer memory 13 to the storage unit 12 can be performed (recordability determination). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. By determining, it may be determined whether or not recording in the storage unit 12 is possible. That is, by paying a fee for the content data C determined by the broadcasting station apparatus 1 or the like, a decryption key or a certificate or the like that sets “impossible” to “possible” as the recordability information added to the header of the content data C May be purchased from the broadcast station apparatus 1 or the network management apparatus 100, and the record enable / disable information may be “permitted” based on this. In this case, the validity period of the decryption key, certificate, etc. is set longer than that of a normal certificate.

[3-1. Another embodiment of recording availability notification process]
Next, another embodiment in the above-described recording availability notification process will be described.

  In the recording availability notification process described above, the content data C distributed from the broadcasting station device 1 is distributed independently. However, for example, a plurality of content data C such as a music album composed of a plurality of music pieces are stored. It may be distributed as a set. In another embodiment described below, a plurality of pieces of content data C are distributed as a set, and whether or not the set (set) can be recorded (saved) in a storage unit (storage medium) such as an HD. The notification method will be specifically described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. Note that the processing shown by the flowchart is executed based on the control of the control unit 11 based on a record availability notification program stored in advance in a ROM or the like (not shown) in the control unit 11. The process is started by reproducing the content data C by the node device 2j.

  First, the control unit 11 functions as a recordability determination unit, and determines whether or not content data can be recorded based on the received recordability information of the content data C (step S10). If the result of determination is that recording is possible (step S10: Yes), it is determined whether or not the content data C includes set information (group information) in the header (step S11). More specifically, when the content data C is distributed as a set (set) with other content data, the information and set indicating that the content data C is sold as a set (set). Information of other content data, title information such as albums as a set, and the like are included in the header of the content data C as set information (combination information) as shown in FIG. When receiving the header for the first time, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the content data C is distributed as a set based on the set information, that is, whether or not the set can be recorded.

  As a result of the determination in step S11, if it is determined that it is a single item (step S11: single item), the control unit 11 functions as a notification control unit, and “save ( “Recording is possible” or the like is displayed (step S12) that the content data C can be saved (recorded), and the determination result is temporarily stored in the RAM or the like of the control unit 11 (not shown) in association with the content data C. (Step S17) After that, the process ends.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that it is a set (step S11: set), the control unit 11 functions as a notification control unit and “can be stored (recorded) as a set on the display unit 16 as the notification unit (display unit). ”Is displayed (step S13), and the determination result is temporarily stored in association with the content data C in the RAM or the like of the control unit 11 (not shown). After step S17), the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if recording is impossible (step S10: impossible), the process proceeds to step S13, and it is determined whether or not the content data C includes set information (group information) in the header (step S14).

  As a result of the determination in step S14, when the set information is not included (step S13: No), since the content data is a single item, the control unit 11 serves as a notification control unit in the same manner as the processing described in the flowchart of FIG. It functions to display that the content data C cannot be saved (recorded) such as “cannot be saved (recorded)” (step S15) on the display unit 16 as a notification means (display means), and the RAM of the control unit 11 (not shown) After the determination result is temporarily stored in association with the content data C (step S17), the process is terminated.

  Further, when the set information is included as a result of the determination in step S14 (step S14: Yes), the control unit 11 functions as a notification control unit, and “stores as a set in the display unit 16 as the notification unit (display unit). Display that content data C cannot be saved (recorded), such as “(Recording impossible)” (Step S16), and temporarily store the determination result in association with the content data C in the RAM of the control unit 11 (not shown). (Step S17), the process is terminated.

  In the above-described processing, the difference between the single item and the set differs only in whether the display on the display unit 16 is “can be saved as a set!” Or “can be saved as (single item)!”. Can be recorded regardless of whether the set information is included or not.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of recordability information of the content data C stored in the RAM or the like of the control unit 11. According to the example shown in the figure, since the content C10 is distributed as a set with the content C11 and can be recorded as a set, information indicating that each other is a set and can be recorded as a set is recordability information. , Stored in the set information. Based on this, whether or not each content data C stored in the buffer memory 13 can be recorded can be displayed as shown in FIG.

  As described above, even when the content data C stored in the buffer memory 13 is distributed as a set, it is determined whether or not the content C can be recorded in the storage unit 12 such as an HD. Can be displayed on the display unit 16 to notify the user, so that it is possible to provide a more convenient node device for the user.

[4. Application of recording availability notification process]
Next, an application example when the above-described recording availability notification process is performed in the node device 2 of the tree type network system S will be described.

  For example, when a part of the content data C stored in the buffer memory 13 is erased from the buffer memory 13 by being overwritten by new content data C distributed from the broadcast station apparatus 1, the content data C It is configured to determine that data cannot be recorded. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 13, a blinking button 16c is provided in association with each content data C, and when the content data C is overwritten and a part of the data approaches erasure, the content data C is handled. The blinking button 16c blinks to notify the user that the content data C will soon be unrecordable. The content data C that has actually disappeared from the buffer memory 13 and cannot be recorded, or the content data C that cannot be recorded originally, is not provided (invalidated) because the recording determination button 16b is not necessary.

  As another application example, as shown in FIG. 14, broadcast schedule content information is displayed on the display unit 16. In other words, the recordability information of the content data (distribution data) scheduled to be broadcast (distributed), which is the content data scheduled to be broadcast (distributed) from the broadcasting station apparatus 1, is displayed on the display unit 16 as “broadcast scheduled content information”. Further, similarly to the “broadcast content information”, a recording determination button 16b is provided for each content data scheduled to be broadcasted, and a recording (storing) reservation can be made for the content data C scheduled to be received. In addition, a recording determination button 16b corresponding to “currently broadcasted song information” shown in the left frame of FIG. 14 is provided to record and save the content being broadcast. Further, after checking (selecting) a plurality of recording decision buttons 16b, when the recording button 16d is checked (selected) all together, the storage unit 12 stores all content data C corresponding to all the checked recording decision buttons 16b. Start saving process. A specific method of content storage processing will be described in detail later. Further, as shown in the figure, when the portion of the display unit 16 that is “saveable!” Is clicked with the cursor 16e, the storage processing of the content being broadcast may be started. The selection and operation of the cursor 16e, the collective recording button 16d, and the recording determination button 16d are selected (operated) by the user operating the input unit 20.

  Further, when the content data C is distributed as a set, as shown in FIG. 15, when the content data C is displayed as “broadcast scheduled content”, it is displayed together with the title of the album so that it can be understood that it is distributed as a set. If the content being broadcast is a content distributed as a set, as shown in the figure, the message “3 music sets can be saved! The first music and the remaining 2 music” is displayed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 16, when content data C broadcasted in the past and stored in the buffer memory 13 is clicked (selected) with the cursor 16e, content information (distributed data information) that is information related to the content is displayed. The display unit 16 is configured to display again as shown in the left frame.

  In the explanatory diagrams of the display unit 16 in FIG. 13 to FIG. 16, the scroll bar 16a is omitted for easy understanding of the contents stored in the buffer memory 13 and the broadcast scheduled contents. did.

[4-1. Distribution process]
Next, the content distribution process performed in the broadcasting station apparatus 1 of the content distribution system S in order to perform the above-described record availability notification process in each node device 2 of the content distribution system S will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. explain. The broadcast station apparatus 1 includes a content distribution list as shown in FIG. 18 in a database (not shown) provided in the broadcast station apparatus 1, and the broadcast station apparatus 1 distributes contents in order based on this list. Is supposed to do.

  First, as shown in FIG. 17A, content data C to be distributed is read from a database (not shown) or the like (step S20). Then, it is discriminated whether the content data C is a single product or a set (step S21), and further, it is discriminated whether it can be stored (recorded) (step S22, step S23).

  As a result of the above classification, if it is classified as single item and can be stored (recorded) (step S21: single item, step S22: acceptable), the content data C is recorded as storable information indicating that recording is possible. In addition, when it is classified that it is a single item and cannot be stored (recorded) (step S21: single item, step S22: impossible), it is impossible to store information indicating that recording is impossible. Is added to the header portion of the content data C as record enable / disable information (step S25).

  On the other hand, if it is determined that set and storage (recording) is possible as a result of the classification (step S21: set, step S23: yes), storable information indicating that recording is possible is recorded as recordability information. It is added to the header portion of the data C (step S26), and further, set information (set information) indicating that it is a set is added to the header portion (step S28). On the other hand, if it is determined that it cannot be set and saved (recorded) (step S21: set, step S23: not allowed), the header of the content data C indicates that the recordable information indicates that recording is impossible. Is added to the part (step S27), and further, set information (set information) indicating that the set is set is added to the header part (step S29).

  In this way, for all the content data C, information indicating whether it is a single product or a set, and whether or not it can be stored (recorded) is added to the header portion etc. and stored in the content distribution list as shown in FIG. Note that the final content data of the content data C distributed as a set includes information indicating that the content is final in the set information. Furthermore, these pieces of information are added to the header as flags “0” and “1”.

  Then, after adding the predetermined information to the header part, the content data C is distributed (steps S30 to S32). Then, the content data C is sequentially read from a database (not shown) and the above processing is repeated.

  FIG. 17B shows a flowchart of content data distribution processing executed in steps S30 to S32. First, contents information (title, singer name, songwriter name, composer name, lyrics, and other data) is distributed (step S40). Subsequently, the content data C is distributed (step S41).

  Then, it is confirmed whether or not the last data of the content data C has been distributed (step S42). If the last data has already been distributed (step S42: Yes), the process is terminated, and the last data is still If it is not distributed (step S42: No), it is determined whether or not a certain period has elapsed (step S43). If the certain period has not elapsed (step S43: No), the processing of step S41 is performed. The distribution of the content data C is continued again. On the other hand, if a certain period of time has passed (step S43: Yes), the content information and the broadcast-scheduled content list are distributed (steps S44 and S45), and then the process returns to step S41 to continue distributing the content data C again. As shown in FIG. 18, the broadcast scheduled content list distributed in step S45 distributes the title, record enable / disable information, and set information of the content scheduled to be distributed in the future as the broadcast scheduled content list. With this configuration, the node device 2 can acquire the broadcast-scheduled content list sequentially when receiving the distribution of the content data C.

[4-2. Viewing process]
Next, viewing processing performed in each node device 2 of the content distribution system S as described above will be described using the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 19 and 20. This process is performed by executing a recording availability notification program based on the control of the control unit 11, and the process is started when a channel to be viewed is determined by the user operating the input unit 20 or the like. The

  First, when a channel to be viewed is determined by the user operating the input unit 20 or the like, the broadcast station apparatus 1 is connected to any node apparatus 2 (or broadcast station apparatus 1) of the tree type network system S. The content data C is received (step S50).

  It is determined whether or not the received content data C is the first data of a certain content data C (step S51). Whether or not it is the first data is whether there is header information as shown in FIG. It can be determined by. If there is header information, it is the first data, and if there is no header information, it is intermediate data. Further, even if it is the first data of the content data C, if the content is content in the middle of the set, it is determined that it is not the first data, and the process proceeds to step S53.

  If it is the first data (step S51: Yes), the process goes to step S52 to perform viewing processing (step S52). On the other hand, when the received content data C is not the first data (step S51: No), the display unit 16 displays “cannot be saved” or the like as shown in FIG. 12A (step S53) for normal viewing. (Step S54), when the viewing ends (Step S55), it is determined whether or not an instruction to stop the viewing of the channel is given (Step S56). That is, it is determined whether or not the channel has been changed by the user. As a result of the determination, if it is instructed to stop viewing (step S56: Yes), the process ends. On the other hand, if it is not instructed to stop viewing (step S56: No), step S50 is performed. Then, the process of step S50 to step S56 is repeated.

  Next, the viewing process performed in step S52 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the content data C flag is confirmed (step S60), and it is determined whether or not the content data C can be recorded (step S61). If the result of determination is that recording is possible (step S61: Yes), it is determined whether the content data C is a single item or a set (step S62). If it is determined that the content data C is a single item (step S62: For example, as shown in the left frame of FIG. 14, “saveable!” Or the like is displayed on the display unit 16 (step S63), and the record determination button 16b in the display unit 16 is activated (step S64).

  On the other hand, if it is determined as a set as a result of the determination in step S62 (step S62: set), the display unit 16 displays that it can be stored (recorded) as a set (step S65), and the display unit 16 is invalidated (step S66).

  Then, after the processing of step S64 and step S66, "content overwriting monitoring and reproduction processing" and "reservation saving confirmation processing" are performed (step S67 and step S68). Each of these processes will be described in detail later.

  Then, it is again determined whether the content data C is a single product or a set (step S69). If it is determined that the content data C is a single product (step S69: single product), the process is terminated, and it is determined that the content data C is the other set. If it is (step S69: set), it is determined whether or not it is the final content data of the set (step S70).

  As a result of the determination, if it is the final content data (step S70: Yes), the process is terminated, and if it is not the final content data (step S70: No), the process proceeds to step S67 and the next content data C is received. (Step S71), and the processing from Step S67 to Step S69 is repeated.

  If the result of determination in step S61 is that recording is not possible (step S61: impossible), a message indicating that storage (recording) is impossible, such as “cannot be saved”, is displayed on the display unit 16 (step S72). The record determination button 16b in the display unit 16 is invalidated (step S73). Then, “content overwriting monitoring and playback processing” described in detail later is performed (step S74), and it is determined whether the content data C is a single product or a set (step S75). As a result of the determination, if it is a single item (step S75: single item), the process is terminated, and if it is the other set (step S75: set), it is determined whether it is the final content data of the set ( Step S76). If it is determined that the content data is final content data (step S76: Yes), the process is terminated. If the content data is not final content data (step S76: No), the process proceeds to step S67 and the next content data C is received. (Step S77), and the processing from Step S72 to Step S76 is repeated.

  In the above-described processing of step S66 and step S73, the recording determination button 16b in the display unit 16 is invalidated. For example, the recording determination button 16b is displayed but does not react even if checked (selected). Alternatively, the recording determination button 16b itself may not be displayed.

[4-2-1. Content overwrite monitoring and playback process]
Next, the “content overwrite monitoring and playback process” executed in steps S67 and S74 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In this processing, the content data C is sequentially stored in the buffer memory 13, and for example, as shown in FIG. 4, the ring buffer is rotated once and the old content data C is overwritten by the new content data C and erased. And is notified to the user by blinking with the blink button 16c before being turned off.

  First, the head information of the content data C, that is, the first packet data constituting the content data C is written (stored) in the buffer memory 13 (step S80).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the last data of the content data C has been written in the buffer memory 13 (step S81). When the last data is written in the buffer memory 13 (step S81: Yes), the data from the buffer memory 81 is read. Is read and normal reproduction processing is performed (step S82).

  On the other hand, if the last data of the content data C has not been written in the buffer memory 13 (step S81: No), it is determined whether or not the head of the content data C already stored in the buffer memory 13 is approaching (step S81). S83). That is, for example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the writing position of the content C6 (indicated by “Write” in the figure) is a predetermined storage capacity amount relative to the initial (head) position of the content C1 in the ring buffer memory. It is determined whether or not the position is away (erasure pre-detection means). In the example shown in FIG. 13, the contents C1 and C2 are already overwritten and disappear from the buffer. Then, it is determined whether or not it is gradually approaching the first (head) position of the next oldest content C3.

  As a result of the determination, if it is determined that the head of the content data C is approaching (step S83: Yes), it is determined whether or not the content data C can be recorded (step S84). That is, according to the example shown in FIG. 13, it is determined whether or not the content C3 is recordable. If the result of determination is that recording is possible (step S84: Yes), the content data blinking button 16c is blinked (step S85). In the example shown in FIG. 13, the blinking button 16c corresponding to the content C3 is displayed blinking. In this way, it is configured to detect in advance that the recordable content data is erased from the buffer memory 13 and notify the user.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S83, when it is not determined that the head of the content data C is approaching (step S83: No), and when it is determined that recording is impossible as a result of the determination in step S84 (step S84: impossible) ), The process proceeds to step S86.

  Subsequently, in the process of step S86, it is determined whether or not the head of the content data C stored in the buffer memory 13 has been overwritten (step S86). If not overwritten (step S86: No), step S90 is performed. On the other hand, when overwriting is performed (step S86: Yes), it is determined whether or not the content data C can be recorded (step S87). According to the example shown in FIG. 4, it is determined whether or not the content data C1 can be recorded. If the result of determination is that recording is not possible (step S87: impossible), the process proceeds to step S90. If recording is possible (step S87: possible), the content data (see FIG. In the case of the example shown in FIG. 13, the “save (record) possible” display of the content C3) is changed to “save (record) not possible” (step S88), and the record determination button 16b and the blink button 16c are invalidated (step S88). S89). The invalidation is performed, for example, by displaying the recording decision button 16b and the blinking button 16c but not functioning even if the recording decision button 16b is checked (selected), and the head of the content data C stored in the buffer memory 13 is displayed. Even if overwriting is overwritten, the flashing button 16c may be configured not to function, or the recording determination button 16b and the flashing button 16c itself may not be displayed.

  In the process of step S90, the content data C is read from the buffer memory 13 (step S90). The reading position is displayed as “Read” in FIG. Then, it is determined whether or not the read data is data to be reproduced (step S91). That is, it is the main part such as video information of the content data C or the content information to be displayed on the display unit 16 (various data such as title, singer name, songwriter name, composer name, lyrics, etc.) and broadcast schedule It is determined whether it is a content list.

  If the data is to be reproduced as a result of the determination (step S91: Yes), the decoder unit 14 decodes the data and reproduces the data (step S92), and the process proceeds to step S81.

  On the other hand, if the data is not data to be played back (step S91: No), is the data information of the content being broadcast (various data such as title, singer name, songwriter name, composer name, and lyrics)? Alternatively, it is determined whether the content list is a broadcast-scheduled content list (step S93). If the content information is the content information (step S93: information), the content information is displayed as “Song currently being broadcast” as shown in FIG. Information "is displayed (step S94), and the process proceeds to step S81. If it is a broadcast schedule content list (step S93: schedule list), the broadcast schedule content list is displayed as “broadcast schedule content information” as shown in FIG. 14, for example (step S95), and the process proceeds to step S81. To do.

  As described above, when the reproduction processing is performed while sequentially storing (storing) the content data C in the buffer memory 13, it is always monitored whether or not the old content data is overwritten by new content data. The latest recordability information regarding each content data can be displayed on the display unit 16.

[4-2-2. Broadcast content storage processing]
Next, a saving process when recording (saving) the content being broadcast on another recording medium such as the storage unit 12 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This process is performed by executing a recording availability notification program based on the control of the control unit 11. In particular, the operation is started when the user operates the input unit 20 to select the recording determination button 16b or clicks the “saveable!” Display displayed on the display unit 16 with the cursor 16e. In this embodiment, the content data being broadcast indicates content data (reproduction data being reproduced) that is being reproduced (viewed) in the node device 2.

  First, it is determined whether the content data C being reproduced (viewed) to be recorded is a single item or a set (step S100). If it is determined that the content data C is a single item (step S100: single item), It is determined whether or not the content data C has been stored in the buffer memory 13 (step S101). If not stored (step S101: No), the process waits until it is stored in the buffer memory 13 (step S102). That is, the control unit 11 records the content data C in the storage unit 12 when the content data C is stored in the buffer memory 13 to the end. In other words, if all the data is not in the buffer memory 13, recording (saving) in the storage unit 12 is not performed.

  Thereafter, the missing data check process is performed (step S103), and the content data C is read from the buffer memory 13 and stored in the storage unit 12 (step S104). The missing data check process will be described in detail later.

  Then, the recording determination button 16b and the blink button 16c of the content data C displayed on the display unit 16 are invalidated (step S105), and the fact that the storage is completed is displayed on the display unit 16 (step S106). Exit. For example, the recording determination button 16b and the blinking button 16c are displayed, but the invalidation does not function even if the recording determination button 16b is checked (selected), and blinks even when saving to the recording unit 12 is completed. The button 16c may be configured not to function, or the recording determination button 16b and the blink button 16c may not be displayed. Furthermore, “saved” may be displayed in the storage availability column of the display unit 16, and the above-described invalidation of the button may be combined with a saved display.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S100 that it is a set (step S100: set), it is determined whether there is content that has already been received among other content distributed as a set (step S100). S107). If there is content that has been received (step S107: Yes), the content data C being reproduced (viewed) selected by the user from the buffer memory 13 and the set content data C are searched (step S108). ) The missing data is checked for the content data C (step S109), and the content data C is read from the buffer memory 13 and stored in the storage unit 12 (step S110). On the other hand, if there is no content already received (step S107: No), the process proceeds to step S111. As described above, when there is a large amount of content data C that is set, for example, by the processing from step S108 to step S110, there is a possibility that the final content data may not fit into the buffer memory 13, so the content that has already been received. By reading only the data first from the buffer memory 13 and storing it in the storage unit 12, all the content data distributed as a set can be reliably recorded (saved).

  Subsequently, in the process of step S111, the process waits until all the content data C being reproduced (viewed) is stored in the buffer memory 13 (step S111), and then a check process for missing data is performed (step S112). The content data C is read from 13 and stored in the storage unit 12 (step S113). The missing data check process will be described in detail later.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the content data C being reproduced (viewed) to be recorded is the final content data of the set (step S114). If it is determined that the content data is final content data (step S114: Yes), the recording determination button 16b and the blink button 16c of the content data C displayed on the display unit 16 are invalidated (step S115). On the other hand, if it is not the final content data (step S114: No), the process proceeds to step S111, and the processes from step S111 to step S113 are repeated.

  When recording (saving) in the storage unit 12, the content data C stored in the buffer memory 13 may be saved as it is, or content information (title, singer name, song lyrics) that is information about the content. (Various data such as the name of the composer, the name of the composer, and the lyrics) and the broadcast content list may be saved. Further, instead of the processing in step S115, “saved” may be displayed in the storage availability column of the display unit 16, or the invalidation of the button and the saved display may be combined.

[4-2-3. Broadcasted content storage processing]
Next, a saving process when the content stored in the buffer memory 13 is recorded (saved) in another recording medium such as the storage unit 12 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This process is performed by executing a recording availability notification program based on the control of the control unit 11. In particular, the operation is started when the user operates the input unit 20 to select the recording determination button 16b or the recording button 16d collectively. In this embodiment, the broadcasted content data indicates content data (reproduced distribution data) that has already been reproduced and stored in the buffer memory 13 in the node device 2.

  First, it is determined whether or not the content data C to be recorded is a single item or a set (step S120). If it is determined that the content data C is a single item (step S120: single item), the content data C is recorded from the buffer memory 13 by the user. The selected content data C is searched (step S121).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that it is a set (step S120: set), a set (set) of the content data C selected by the user is searched from the buffer memory 13 (step S122).

  Then, the content data C searched in steps S121 and 122 is checked for missing data (step S123), and the content data C is read from the buffer memory 13 and stored in the storage unit 12 (step S124). The missing data check process will be described in detail later.

Then, the recording determination button 16b and the blink button 16c of the content data C displayed on the display unit 16 are invalidated (step S125), and the fact that the storage is completed is displayed on the display unit 16 (step S126). Exit. For example, the recording determination button 16b and the blinking button 16c are displayed, but the invalidation does not function even if the recording determination button 16b is checked (selected), and blinks even when saving to the recording unit 12 is completed. The button 16c may be configured not to function, or the recording determination button 16b and the blink button 16c may not be displayed.
Furthermore, “saved” may be displayed in the storage availability column of the display unit 16, and the above-described invalidation of the button may be combined with a saved display.

[4-2-4. Missing data check process]
Next, the missing data check process performed in the above-described storage process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the control unit 11 functions as a data loss determination unit and determines whether or not the content data to be stored is complete (step S130). More specifically, it is determined whether or not there is a missing packet (missing data) based on a sequence number or the like given to each packet when the content data C is distributed. If there is no packet, it is determined to be complete.

  If it is complete (step S130: Yes), the process is terminated. If it is not complete (step S130: No), the control unit 11 functions as a missing data request unit and manages (stores) the content. By transmitting the missing packet sequence information to an external device provided in the data center or the like and making a missing packet complement request, the missing data is compensated (step S131), and the process is terminated. The external device may be an external device provided in the broadcast station device 1.

  Therefore, the content data can always be recorded (saved) in the storage unit 12 or the like in a complete state.

[4-2-5. Summary recording process]
Next, specific processing of the summary recording process performed by the node device 2 when the user collectively checks (selects) the record button 16d (see FIG. 14) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the recording button 16d is checked (selected) collectively by the user, it is determined whether there is broadcasted content among the items checked by the recording determination button 16b (step S140). If there is no broadcasted content (step S140: No), the process proceeds to step S142. If there is a broadcasted content (step S140: Yes), the above-described “4-2-3. Broadcasted content storage processing” is performed. Execute (Step S141).

  Then, it is determined whether there is content being broadcast among those checked by the recording determination button 16b (step S142). If there is no content being broadcast (step S142: No), the process proceeds to step S143. If there is content being broadcast (step S142: Yes), the above-described “4-2-2. "Is executed (step S143).

  Then, it is determined whether there is content scheduled to be broadcast among those checked by the recording determination button 16b (step S144). If there is no content scheduled to be broadcast (step S144: No), the step process is terminated. If there is content scheduled to be broadcast (step S144: Yes), a reservation for storage has been made for the content scheduled to be broadcasted. Is stored in the storage unit 12 or the like, and the reservation is saved (step S145), and the process is terminated.

[4-2-6. Reservation confirmation process]
Next, the “reservation saving confirmation process” executed in step S68 of the “4-2. Viewing process” described above will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the received content data C is reserved and stored (step S150). In other words, the reservation storage process in step S145 described above is performed, and the determination is made based on the presence or absence of information indicating that a reservation for storage has been made. If the reservation is saved (step S150: Yes), the above-described “4-2-2. In-broadcast content saving process” is executed (step S151), and the process is terminated. If not (step S150: No), the process is terminated.

  In addition, when the content data C is stored in the buffer memory 13 to the end in steps S102 and S111 of the above-described “4-2-2. Content saving process during broadcasting”, the content data C is recorded in the storage unit 12. With this configuration, it is possible to reliably record (save) the content data C (delivery data scheduled to be delivered) reserved for storage in the storage unit 12.

[4-2-7. Redisplay processing]
Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 16, content information (distributed data information) as information on the content of the broadcasted content data C stored in the buffer memory 13 is shown in the left frame of the display unit 16. A redisplay process in the control unit 11 of the node device 2 at the time of redisplay will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG. This process is performed by executing a recording availability notification program based on the control of the control unit 11.

  The process is executed when the user operates the input unit 20 to click (select) the content data C desired to be displayed again on the content information with the cursor 16e (selecting means).

  First, the content information of the content data C selected by the user is searched from the buffer memory 13 (step S160). Then, the information on the content being broadcast is erased from the display unit 16 (step S161), and the content information of the content data C selected by the user is redisplayed in the area of the content information being broadcast on the display unit 16 (step S162). ).

  Next, time measurement is started using an internal clock provided in the apparatus (step S163).

  Then, it is determined whether or not saving is selected on the redisplayed screen (step S164). More specifically, it is determined whether or not the storage is selected depending on whether the user has selected the recording determination button 16b or clicked on the “saveable!” Display displayed on the display unit 16 with the cursor 16e.

  Then, when saving is selected (step S164: Yes), the above-described “4-2-3. Broadcasted content saving process” is executed (step S165). On the other hand, when saving is not selected (step S165). In step S164: No), the process proceeds to step S166.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the “return” button (see FIG. 16) displayed on the display unit 16 has been selected (step S166), and if the “return” button has been selected (step S166: Yes). Shifts to step S168, and on the other hand, when the “return” button is not selected (step S166: No), it is determined whether or not 10 seconds have elapsed from the process of step S163 (step S167). If 10 seconds has not elapsed (step S167: No), the processing from step S164 to step S166 is repeated until the time has elapsed.

  In other words, it is for waiting for 10 seconds for accepting a selection of either saving by the user or returning to the original display. If 10 seconds have elapsed (step S167; Yes), step S168 is performed. Move on to processing.

  Then, the content information of the selected content data C is deleted from the display unit 16 (step S168), the information of the content being broadcast is displayed on the display unit 16 (step S169), and the process is terminated.

  As described above, while the content data remains in the buffer memory 13, the broadcasted content information can be displayed again on the display unit 16, so that the user saves the content again in the storage unit 12 such as the HD. Whether or not to (record) should be reconsidered based on the information of the redisplayed content.

1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a tree network system S. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows participation in the tree type network system S of the node apparatus 2j. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration and functions of a node device 2. FIG. It is explanatory drawing of a ring buffer memory. It is explanatory drawing of the data structure of the content data C. It is an example of the display unit 16 displaying whether or not each content data C stored (saved) in the buffer memory 13 can be recorded. It is a flowchart which shows the recording availability notification process of the content data C in the control part 11 of the node apparatus 2j. 4 is an example of recordability information of content data C stored in a RAM or the like of the control unit 11. It is a flowchart which shows the recording availability notification process of the content data C in the control part 11 of the node apparatus 2j. It is explanatory drawing of the data structure of the content data C. 4 is an example of recordability information of content data C stored in a RAM or the like of the control unit 11. It is an example of the display unit 16 displaying whether or not each content data C stored (saved) in the buffer memory 13 can be recorded. It is an example of the display unit 16 that displays whether or not each content data stored (saved) in the buffer memory 13 can be recorded. It is an example of the display unit 16 displaying each content data C stored in the buffer memory 13, content data being broadcast, and whether or not content data scheduled to be broadcast can be recorded. It is an example of the display unit 16 displaying each content data C stored in the buffer memory 13, content data being broadcast, and whether or not content data scheduled to be broadcast can be recorded. It is an example of the display part 16 which redisplayed the information of the content data memorize | stored in the buffer memory. 4 is a flowchart showing content distribution processing performed in the broadcast station apparatus 1; 4 is a flowchart showing content distribution processing performed in the broadcast station apparatus 1; It is a content distribution list held by the broadcasting station device 1. 4 is a flowchart showing viewing processing in a control unit 11 of the node device 2. 4 is a flowchart showing viewing processing in a control unit 11 of the node device 2. 7 is a flowchart showing content overwrite monitoring and playback processing in the control unit 11 of the node device 2. 7 is a flowchart showing a broadcast content storage process in the control unit 11 of the node device 2. 7 is a flowchart showing a broadcasted content storage process in the control unit 11 of the node device 2. 7 is a flowchart showing a missing data check process in the control unit 11 of the node device 2. 4 is a flowchart showing a summary recording process in a control unit 11 of the node device 2. 10 is a flowchart showing reservation storage confirmation processing in the control unit 11 of the node device 2. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a redisplay process in a control unit 11 of the node device 2.

Explanation of symbols

S ... Tree type network system 1 ... Broadcasting station apparatus 2 (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 2h, 2i, 2j, 2k, 2l, 2m, 2n, 2o, 2p) ... Node apparatus 3 ( 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g, 3h, 3i, 3j, 3k, 3l, 3m, 3n, 3o, 3p, 3q) ... communication path 100 ... network management device 11 control unit 12 storage unit 13 buffer Memory 14 Decoder unit 15 Video processing unit 16 Display unit 16a Scroll bar 16b Record determination button 16c Blinking button 16d Record button 16e Cursor 17 Audio processing unit 18 Speaker 19 Communication unit 20 Input unit 21 Bus C: Content data Sad: Address information Sr: Connection request information

Claims (44)

Receiving means for receiving distribution data distributed from the information distribution apparatus via the network;
Storage means for storing the received distribution data;
Recording enable / disable determining means for determining whether or not the distribution data stored in the storage means can be recorded on a recording medium;
Notification control means for informing the user of the result of the determination to the notification means;
A receiving apparatus comprising: The receiving device according to claim 1,
Recording instruction receiving means for receiving an instruction to record the distribution data stored in the storage means on the recording medium;
When receiving the instruction, a recording control means for recording the distribution data stored in the storage means on the recording medium;
A receiving apparatus comprising: The receiving device according to claim 1 or 2,
The receiving means further receives record enable / disable information indicating whether the delivery data can be recorded on the recording medium;
The receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording availability determination unit determines whether the distribution data can be recorded on the recording medium based on the recording availability information. The receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
When the one distribution data is distributed from the information distribution apparatus as a pair with at least one other distribution data, the one distribution data itself is different from the other distribution data. It includes set information indicating that it is a set,
The record availability determination unit determines whether or not the set information is included in the one distribution data stored in the storage unit, and if the set information is included, the one distribution data is included in the other distribution data. To determine whether it can be recorded on the recording medium as a set with the distribution data of
The notification control unit determines that the first distribution data is the other distribution data when the recordability determination unit determines that the first distribution data can be recorded as a set with the other distribution data. A receiving apparatus that causes the notification means to notify that recording is possible as a set. The receiving device according to claim 4,
The recording instruction accepting unit accepts an instruction for recording on the recording medium for each set,
When the recording control unit receives the instruction, the recording control unit records all distribution data distributed as a set stored in the storage unit on the recording medium. In the receiving device according to any one of claims 3 to 5,
The receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording availability determination unit determines that the distribution data cannot be recorded when a part of the distribution data is deleted from the storage unit. The receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
Replaying means for replaying the distribution data stored in the storage means;
The receiving means further receives distribution data information relating to the distribution data;
The storage means stores the distribution data and the distribution data information,
The notification control means causes the notification means to notify the user of the result of determination by the recordability determination means and the distribution data information for the distribution data being reproduced by the reproduction means. A receiving device. The receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
Replaying means for replaying the distribution data stored in the storage means;
The notification control means determines whether or not the recorded distribution data, which is the distribution data reproduced by the reproduction means, can be recorded on the recording medium, and the recording of the distribution data being reproduced, which is the distribution data being reproduced by the reproduction means. A receiving apparatus characterized in that the notifying means is informed of whether or not recording on a medium is possible. The receiving device according to claim 8, wherein
The receiving means receives record enable / disable information indicating whether or not the delivery data scheduled to be delivered from the information delivery device can be recorded on the recording medium;
The record availability determination unit determines whether or not the delivery data scheduled to be delivered can be recorded on the recording medium based on the record availability information;
The notification control unit causes the notification unit to notify a determination result for the distribution data scheduled to be distributed. The receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 9,
The receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording instruction accepting unit is capable of accepting a recording instruction to the recording medium for a plurality of the distribution data. The receiving device according to any one of claims 2 to 10,
A data deficiency judging means for judging whether or not the data stored in the storage means is deficient with respect to the distribution data that has received an instruction to record on the recording medium by the recording instruction accepting means;
When it is determined that there is a deficiency by the data deficiency determination means, the deficient data request means for requesting the external device for missing data,
The receiving apparatus characterized in that the recording control means records on the recording medium based on data corresponding to missing data received from the external device and the distribution data stored in the storage means. The receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 11,
When the distribution data that has received an instruction to record on the recording medium by the recording instruction reception means is the reproduced distribution data,
The receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording control means records the distribution data stored in the storage means on the recording medium. The receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 12,
When the distribution data that has received an instruction to record on the recording medium by the recording instruction reception means is the distribution data being played back,
The receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording control unit records the distribution data having received the instruction on the recording medium when the distribution data having received the instruction is stored in the storage unit to the end. The receiving device according to any one of claims 9 to 13,
When the distribution data that has received an instruction to record on the recording medium by the recording instruction reception unit is the distribution data scheduled to be distributed,
The receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording control unit records the distribution data having received the instruction on the recording medium when the distribution data having received the instruction is stored in the storage unit to the end. The receiving device according to any one of claims 2 to 14,
When the distribution data is recorded on the recording medium, the notification control unit informs the user that the distribution data has been recorded on the recording medium, and / or receives the recording instruction. A receiving apparatus characterized by invalidating means. The receiving device according to any one of claims 8 to 15,
Among the distribution data stored in the storage unit, the distribution unit has selection means for selecting distribution data to be notified of the distribution data information,
The notification control means causes the notification means to notify the user of the distribution data information related to the selected distribution data. The receiving device according to any one of claims 2 to 16,
The receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording instruction accepting unit is invalidated when the recording possibility determining unit determines that recording is impossible. The receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 17,
Erasure pre-detection means for detecting in advance that the distribution data stored in the storage means is erased from the storage means;
When it is detected in advance by the erasure preliminary detection means, the notification control means causes the notification means to notify the user that the erasure is detected in advance. Receiving device. The receiving device according to claim 18, wherein
The erasure pre-detecting means determines in advance that the distribution data is erased only when the distribution data to be erased from the storage means is determined to be recordable on the recording medium by the recordability determination means. A receiving device characterized by The receiving apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 19,
The storage means is a buffer memory for temporarily storing the received distribution data,
The recording medium is a storage device provided in the receiving device,
The receiving apparatus, wherein the notification control means causes the display means to display a determination result for determining whether or not the distribution data stored in the buffer memory can be recorded in the storage device.   The reception apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the reception apparatus is a tree-type network system in which the information distribution apparatus is the highest level and includes at least one reception apparatus and connected in a tree shape. A receiving device, which is a device. In an information distribution system including an information distribution device that distributes distribution data, and a receiving device connected to the information distribution device via a network,
The receiving device receives receiving data distributed from the information distributing device;
Storage means for storing the received distribution data;
Recording enable / disable determining means for determining whether or not the distribution data stored in the storage means can be recorded on a recording medium;
Notification control means for informing the user of the result of the determination to the notification means;
An information distribution system comprising: In an information distribution method in an information distribution system including an information distribution device for distributing distribution data, and a reception device connected to the information distribution device via a network,
The receiving device receiving distribution data distributed from the information distribution device;
The receiving device storing the received distribution data;
Determining whether the receiving device can record the distribution data stored in the storing step on a recording medium;
A notification control step in which the receiving device notifies the user of the result of the determination through a notification step;
An information distribution method characterized by comprising: Computer
Receiving means for receiving distribution data distributed from the information distribution apparatus via the network;
Storage means for storing the received distribution data;
A record enable / disable determining unit that determines whether or not the distribution data stored in the storage unit can be recorded on a recording medium;
A recording availability notification program that functions as notification control means for notifying the user of the result of the determination to the notification means. In the recording availability notification program according to claim 24,
A recording instruction receiving means for receiving an instruction to record the distribution data stored in the storage means on the recording medium; and the distribution data stored in the storage means when the instruction is received. A recording availability notification program which functions as a recording control means for recording in In the recording availability notification program according to claim 24 or claim 25,
The receiving means functions to receive record enable / disable information indicating whether the delivery data can be recorded on the recording medium; and
A recording availability notification program that causes the recording availability determination unit to function based on the recording availability information to determine whether or not the distribution data can be recorded on the recording medium. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 24 to 26,
When the one distribution data is distributed from the information distribution apparatus as a pair with at least one other distribution data, the one distribution data itself is different from the other distribution data. It includes set information indicating that it is a set,
The recording permission / inhibition determining means determines whether or not the set information is included in the one distribution data stored in the storage means. If the set information is included, the one distribution data is determined as the other distribution data. Function to determine whether or not recording on a recording medium is possible as a pair with the distribution data, and
When the notification control means determines that the one distribution data can be recorded as a set with the other distribution data by the record availability determination means, the one distribution data is the other distribution data. A recording availability notification program that causes the notification means to notify that recording is possible. In the recording availability notification program according to claim 27,
Causing the recording instruction receiving means to function to receive an instruction for recording on the recording medium for each set; and
A recording availability notification program that causes the recording control unit to function to record all distribution data distributed as a set stored in the storage unit onto the recording medium when the instruction is received. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 26 to 28,
A recording availability notification program which causes the recording availability determination means to function as determining that the distribution data cannot be recorded when a part of the distribution data is erased from the storage means. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 24 to 29,
Allowing the computer to further function as a reproducing means for reproducing the distribution data stored in the storage means; and
Causing the receiving means to function to receive distribution data information related to the distribution data;
Causing the storage means to function to store the distribution data and the distribution data information;
The notification control means functions to cause the notification means to notify the user of the result of determination by the recordability determination means and the distribution data information for the distribution data being reproduced by the reproduction means. A recording availability notification program. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 24 to 30,
Allowing the computer to further function as a reproducing means for reproducing the distribution data stored in the storage means; and
The notification control means determines whether or not recording of reproduced distribution data, which is distribution data reproduced by the reproduction means, to the recording medium, and recording of the distribution data being reproduced which is distribution data being reproduced by the reproduction means. A recording availability notification program that causes the notification means to make a distinction to determine whether recording on a medium is possible. In the recording availability notification program according to claim 31,
Causing the receiving means to function to receive record availability information indicating whether or not delivery data scheduled to be delivered from the information delivery device can be recorded on the recording medium;
Causing the recording availability determination unit to function based on the recording availability information to determine whether or not the delivery data scheduled to be delivered can be recorded on the recording medium;
A recording availability notification program that causes the notification control means to cause the notification means to notify the determination result for the distribution data scheduled to be distributed. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 25 to 32,
A recording availability notification program that causes the recording instruction reception unit to function as receiving a recording instruction to the recording medium for a plurality of the distribution data. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 25 to 35,
Data loss determination means for determining whether or not the data stored in the storage means is defective with respect to the distribution data for which the recording instruction reception means has received an instruction to record the computer on the recording medium. as well as,
If it is determined by the data loss determination means that there is a loss, further function as a missing data request means for requesting the missing data to the external device,
The recording control means is made to function to record on the recording medium based on the data corresponding to the missing data received from the external device and the distribution data stored in the storage means. program. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 31 to 34,
When the distribution data that has received an instruction to record on the recording medium by the recording instruction reception means is the reproduced distribution data,
A recording availability notification program that causes the recording control means to function to record the distribution data stored in the storage means onto the recording medium. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 31 to 35,
When the distribution data that has received an instruction to record on the recording medium by the recording instruction reception means is the distribution data being played back,
The recording control means is made to function so as to record the delivery data having received the instruction to the recording medium when the delivery data having received the instruction has been stored in the storage means to the end. Notification program. The receiving device according to any one of claims 32 to 36,
When the distribution data that has received an instruction to record on the recording medium by the recording instruction reception unit is the distribution data scheduled to be distributed,
The recording control means is made to function so as to record the delivery data having received the instruction to the recording medium when the delivery data having received the instruction has been stored in the storage means to the end. Notification program. The receiving device according to any one of claims 25 to 37,
When the distribution data is recorded on the recording medium, the notification control unit functions to cause the notification unit to notify the user that the distribution data has been recorded on the recording medium, and / or A recording availability notification program, wherein the recording instruction receiving means functions to be invalidated. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 32 to 38,
Causing the computer to further function as selection means for selecting distribution data to be notified of the distribution data information from among the distribution data stored in the storage means;
A recording availability notification program that causes the notification control means to cause the notification means to notify a user of the distribution data information relating to the selected distribution data. 40. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 25 to 39,
A recording availability notification program that causes the recording instruction reception means to be invalidated when it is determined that recording is impossible by the recording availability determination means. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 24 to 40,
Causing the computer to further function as an erasure pre-detection means for detecting in advance that the distribution data stored in the storage means is erased from the storage means;
When the erasure pre-detection means detects erasure in advance, the notification control means causes the notification means to notify the user that the erasure has been detected. program. In the recording availability notification program according to claim 40,
The erasure pre-detection means determines that the distribution data is erased only when the distribution data to be erased from the storage means is determined to be recordable on the recording medium by the recording availability determination means. A program for notifying whether or not recording is possible. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 24 to 42,
The storage means is a buffer memory for temporarily storing the received distribution data,
The recording medium is a storage device provided in the receiving device,
A recording availability notification program that causes the notification control means to display on the display means a determination result that determines whether or not the distribution data stored in the buffer memory can be recorded in the storage device. In the recording availability notification program according to any one of claims 24 to 43,
The recording availability notification program, wherein the receiving device is a receiving device in a tree-type network system in which the information distribution device is the highest level and includes one or more receiving devices and connected in a tree shape.

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