JP2008072191A - Remote controller - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a remote controller which can substitute for the function of a button in which failure is detected. <P>SOLUTION: The remote controller 100 comprises an input section 210 receiving input of operation, a control section 220 generating a signal for controlling the operation of a controlled apparatus, a section 240 for storing data, a section 250 for originating a control signal, and a display section 260 for displaying an image. The control section 220 comprises a control signal generating section 221, a section 222 for switching the operation mode of the remote controller 100, a section 223 for detecting a failure occurring in the remote controller 100 by detecting an electric signal generated from the control section 220, a section 224 generating constitution achieving a function alternative to the function in which a failure is detected, and a display control section 225 for making a display indicative of that function to be presented at the display section 260. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a remote control device, and more particularly to a remote control device that can detect a failure and restore a function.

  The remote control device generates and transmits a control signal in response to an operation on a button, a touch panel, or other operation unit. Therefore, when a part of the operation unit (for example, a numeric button) cannot accept an operation due to a failure, there is a problem that a control signal corresponding to the part cannot be transmitted and the device cannot be controlled.

  Therefore, regarding fault detection, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-122764 (Patent Document 1) discloses a home controller that can reduce the effort required for fault inspection for detecting a fault key on a touch panel. Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2004-201090 (Patent Document 2) discloses a receiving apparatus that can substitute the function of a key with another key even if a key of the remote controller fails.

On the other hand, regarding the key arrangement of the remote control device, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-57593 (Patent Document 3) discloses a learning remote control transmitter capable of editing such as movement, copy, exchange, etc. by only key operation on the remote control. Disclosure.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-122764 JP 2004-201090 A JP-A-4-57593

  However, according to the technique disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-122764, even if a failure can be detected, the failed function cannot be used.

  Further, according to the technique disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-201090, a device that can receive a remote control signal can be controlled by a key different from the key in which a failure is detected by the remote control. There is also a problem that the control cannot be executed by a device that does not have the control.

  Further, according to the technique disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-57593, the function of the failed key itself is not restored, and there is a problem that the apparatus cannot be controlled.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a remote control device that can recover a function in which a failure is detected.

  In order to solve the above problems, according to one aspect of the present invention, a remote control device for controlling the operation of an apparatus is provided. The remote control device includes a touch panel that accepts operation inputs and displays images, a plurality of operation units that accept operation inputs and output signals, and display each image corresponding to each operation unit. Stores image data, text data for displaying a character string prepared in advance, and programs for realizing processing for transmitting a control signal for controlling the operation of the device in response to pressing of each operation unit And a first display control means for displaying on the touch panel a screen for prompting an operation for confirming a failure of each operation unit based on text data in accordance with an operation on the touch panel, and on the basis of each image data A second display control means for displaying each image corresponding to each operation unit on the touch panel, and any one of the images based on an operation on the touch panel. Based on whether or not a signal is output within a predetermined time from a detection means for detecting selection, a time measuring means for measuring time, and an operation section corresponding to an image for which selection has been detected. Determining means for determining whether or not a malfunction has occurred, and when the determining means determines that the operation section is malfunctioning, an alternative image representing the malfunction determined operation section is displayed on the touch panel based on the image data. A third display control means for displaying, an association means for associating an output based on an operation on the substitute image with an input to a program corresponding to the operation unit determined to be faulty, and executing the program based on the operation on the substitute image Processing means for generating a control signal and transmission means for transmitting the control signal generated by executing the program as an infrared signal.

  A remote control device according to another aspect of the present invention is a remote control device that controls the operation of a device, and is used for an operation unit that receives an operation input and outputs a signal, a display unit that displays an image, and an operation on the operation unit. In response to an instruction on the display unit based on an operation on the operation unit, a first generation unit that generates a control signal for controlling the operation of the device in response, a transmission unit that transmits the control signal as an infrared signal, Display control means for displaying on the display means a screen for prompting an operation on the operation section, and an operation based on whether or not a signal corresponding to the operation on the operation section is output within a predetermined time after the screen is displayed. Determining means for determining whether or not the operation unit on which the operation has been performed is faulty, and if it is determined that the operation unit is faulty, a control procedure necessary for controlling the device by the remote control device is performed. A communication establishing means for connecting to the information providing apparatus to be provided via a communication line; a generating means for generating a transmission request for a control procedure corresponding to the operation unit; a transmission control means for transmitting the transmission request to the information providing apparatus; A receiving means for receiving an operation procedure transmitted from a providing device based on a transmission request, an associating means for associating an output from the operation unit with the operation procedure, and generating a control signal based on the operation procedure associated with the associating means Second generating means.

  A remote control device according to still another aspect of the present invention is a remote control device that controls the operation of a device, and displays an operation means having a plurality of operation units that accept input of a plurality of instructions, and a screen that prompts an operation on the operation means Storage means for storing display data to be performed and a plurality of operation codes for causing the device to execute each operation corresponding to each operation of the plurality of operation units, and controlling the operation of the device based on the operation code Generating means for generating a control signal, a transmitting means for transmitting the control signal, a display means for displaying an image, a first display control means for displaying a screen on the display means based on display data, The operation code is associated with a detection unit that detects a failure of the operation unit based on an operation on the operation unit, and, when a failure is detected, an operation unit different from the operation unit in which the failure is detected. By kicking it, and a substitute means failure to restore the function of the operation section detected.

  Preferably, the remote control device further includes notification means for notifying that a failure has been detected when a failure is detected.

  Preferably, the notifying means transmits the report information to means for generating report information indicating that a failure has been detected, and a management apparatus for providing information for realizing the function of the remote control device via a communication line. Transmitting means.

  Preferably, the remote control device further includes acquisition means for acquiring a history of function recovery by the alternative means, and second display control means for displaying the history on the display means based on data representing the history.

  Preferably, the substitution means includes a storage means for storing combination data representing a combination of a plurality of other predetermined operation sections defined in order to substitute a function realized in each operation section, and a combination based on the combination data. A failure is detected based on means for causing the display means to display a screen for prompting the operation of the other plurality of operation units specified by, and a signal output in response to each operation on the other operation units. Generating a control signal corresponding to the output from the operation unit.

  Preferably, the alternative means stores means for storing operation part data representing other operation parts previously associated with each operation part, and another means different from the operation part in which the failure is detected based on the operation part data. A detection unit that detects an operation on the operation unit, a time measuring unit that measures a time during which an operation on another operation unit is performed, and other operations when an operation on another operation unit continues for a predetermined time. And a means for generating a control signal corresponding to an output from the operation unit in which a failure is detected based on a signal output from the operation unit.

  Preferably, the remote control device has a predetermined frequency of use based on an acquisition unit that acquires a history of each operation for each operation unit, a history storage unit that stores a history of each operation, and a history of each operation. Operation unit detecting means for detecting an operation unit below the reference is further provided. The alternative means restores the function of the operation unit in which the failure is detected by associating the operation code corresponding to the operation unit in which the failure has been detected with the operation unit detected by the operation unit detection means.

  Preferably, the alternative means includes means for storing operation unit data representing other operation units associated with each operation unit in advance, and a number of times defined in advance as operations for the other operation units, and operation unit data Based on the detection unit for detecting an operation on another operation unit different from the operation unit in which a failure is detected, and when the number of operations on the other operation unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined number of times, the other operation unit Generating a control signal corresponding to an output from the operation unit in which a failure is detected based on a signal output from the control unit.

  Preferably, the display means includes a touch panel for displaying an image and receiving an operation input. The display data includes image data for displaying each image corresponding to each operation unit and text data for displaying a character string prepared in advance. The storage means further stores each program for realizing processing for transmitting a control signal for controlling the operation of the device in response to pressing of each operation unit. The detection unit is configured to display, on the touch panel, a screen for prompting an operation for confirming a failure of each operation unit based on text data in accordance with an operation on the touch panel, and on each image data. A second display control unit that displays each image corresponding to each operation unit on the touch panel, a detection unit that detects selection of each image based on an operation on the touch panel, and a time measuring unit that measures time Determining means for determining whether or not the operation unit is out of order based on whether or not a signal is output within a predetermined time from the operation unit corresponding to the image for which the selection has been detected; When it is determined that the operation unit is malfunctioning, the operation unit includes a third display control unit that displays, on the touch panel, an alternative image representing the operation unit determined to be malfunctioning based on the image data. The substitute means associates the output for the operation on the substitute image with the input to the program corresponding to the operation unit determined to be a failure, and the process of generating the control signal by executing the program based on the operation on the substitute image Means. The transmission means transmits the control signal generated by the processing means.

  Preferably, the storage means further stores a diagnostic program created in advance for detecting a failure in the operation means. The detecting means detects a failure in the plurality of operation units by executing the diagnostic program based on an input of an instruction to execute the diagnostic program.

  Preferably, the operation code includes a control procedure for controlling the device by the remote control device. The detection means includes a display control means for causing the display means to display a screen for prompting an operation on the operation section according to an instruction given by the display means based on an operation on the operation section, and a predetermined time period after the screen is displayed. And determining means for determining whether or not the operation unit on which the operation has been performed is out of order based on the presence or absence of output of a signal corresponding to the operation on the operation unit. When it is determined that the operation unit is out of order, the alternative means sends a communication establishment means for connecting to the information providing apparatus providing the control procedure via a communication line, and a transmission request for the control procedure corresponding to the operation unit. Generating means for generating, transmission control means for transmitting a transmission request to the information providing apparatus, receiving means for receiving an operation procedure transmitted from the information providing apparatus based on the transmission request, and output from the operation unit as an operating procedure And an associating means for associating with the second generating means for generating a control signal based on the operation procedure associated with the associating means.

  Preferably, the transmission means transmits the control signal as an infrared signal.

  According to the remote control device according to the present invention, even when a failure of the operation unit is detected, the function is realized using another operation unit, so that convenience is not impaired.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

<First Embodiment>
A remote control device 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the appearance of remote control device 100. Remote control device 100 includes a liquid crystal touch panel 110 provided in a housing and an operation unit 120 that receives an instruction input. The operation unit 120 includes, for example, numeric buttons, direction keys that accept up / down / left / right movement instructions, and the like. The operation unit 120 further includes a channel button 120-1 that accepts an instruction to switch television channels.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of functions realized by remote control device 100. Remote control device 100 includes an input unit 210, a control unit 220, a timing unit 230, a storage unit 240, a transmission unit 250, and a display unit 260. The control unit 220 includes a control signal generation unit 221, a mode switching unit 222, a failure detection unit 223, an alternative function generation unit 224, and a display control unit 225.

  Input unit 210 accepts an input of an operation by a user of remote control device 100. The input unit 210 sends a signal corresponding to the operation to the control unit 220. The signal is input to the control signal generator 221.

  The control unit 220 generates a control signal for controlling the operation of the controlled device with reference to the data stored in the storage unit 240 in response to the operation received by the input unit 210. The mode switching unit 222 responds to a mode switching instruction of the remote control device 100 input to the input unit 210 and a normal mode (that is, a mode for generating and transmitting a control signal corresponding to an operation) and a failure detection mode ( The operation mode of the remote control device 100 is switched to the mode for detecting a failure occurring in the remote control device 100.

  The failure detection unit 223 detects a failure that has occurred in the remote control device 100 by detecting an electric signal generated inside the control unit 220 in accordance with an operation input to the input unit 210. Specifically, the failure detection unit 223 outputs a signal from the input unit 210 corresponding to an image displayed on the display unit 260 within a predetermined time based on time data output from the time measuring unit 230. By detecting the presence or absence, it is determined whether or not the remote control device 100 has failed.

  The substitute function generation unit 224 generates a configuration for realizing the substitute function instead of the function in which the failure is detected based on the determination result by the failure detection unit 223. Specifically, the alternative function generation unit 224 switches the destination of a signal output in response to an operation on the input unit 210 to another input interface for realizing the function. As a result, even when a function originally provided in the remote control device 100 fails, the same signal as that output from the function is output from another interface.

  The display control unit 225 causes the display unit 260 to display a display (for example, an icon) representing the replaced function based on the data generated by the replacement function generation unit 224.

  The alternative function generation unit 224 generates a signal corresponding to a newly generated function in response to an operation on the input unit 210 and sends the signal to the control signal generation unit 221. The control signal generation unit 221 generates a signal for controlling the operation of the controlled device based on the signal from the alternative function generation unit 224. This signal is sent to transmission section 250.

  Transmitter 250 sends a control signal to the outside of remote control device 100. Transmitter 250 is realized using, for example, a light emitting element for transmitting an infrared signal.

  With reference to FIG. 3, the configuration of remote control device 100 will be further described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of remote control device 100. In addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 1, remote control device 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 130, a flash memory 140, and a light emitting unit 150 as main components.

  The liquid crystal touch panel 110 displays an image in the display area based on data output from the CPU 130. The liquid crystal touch panel 110 detects a touch operation on the displayed image and sends an electrical signal corresponding to the operation to the CPU 130.

  The operation unit 120 is a button provided on the casing of the remote control device 100, detects a press, and sends a signal corresponding to the press to the CPU.

  The flash memory 140 stores data and programs prepared in advance for defining the operation of the remote control device 100. The flash memory 140 temporarily stores data generated by the processing of the CPU 130.

  The light emitting unit 150 emits a signal for controlling the operation of the controlled device as an infrared signal based on data output from the CPU 130.

  A data structure of remote control device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram conceptually showing one mode of data storage in flash memory 140. The flash memory 140 includes areas 410 and 420 for storing data. A number for specifying each data item stored in the flash memory 140 is stored in the area 410. Data representing each display message displayed on liquid crystal touch panel 110 is stored in area 420. When the CPU 130 refers to the number stored in the area 410 during execution of the display process, the data of the display message (area 420) corresponding to the number is read and displayed on the liquid crystal touch panel 110 as a message.

  A control structure of remote control device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a procedure of processing executed by CPU 130 for diagnosing whether or not remote control device 100 has failed. This process is executed when the user of remote control device 100 switches the operation mode of remote control device 100 and selects the failure diagnosis mode.

  In step S <b> 510, CPU 130 of remote control device 100 sets a timer for a standby time for receiving a signal input based on an instruction input via operation unit 120. Here, the standby time refers to the time from when a button pressing instruction is displayed on the liquid crystal touch panel 110 until a signal corresponding to the button is output. The standby time may be set every time the failure diagnosis process is executed, or after being set once, the standby time is stored in an area secured in the flash memory 140 and thereafter the time is repeatedly used. It may be.

  In step S520, CPU 130 refers to the data stored in flash memory 140 (number “04” in area 420 in FIG. 4), and outputs a display command prompting liquid crystal touch panel 110 to press a button. To do. The liquid crystal touch panel 110 displays the message “Please check the blinking button to confirm failure” in that area based on the command.

  When this message is displayed, the CPU 130 starts a built-in clock (not shown) and waits for a signal output from the button.

  In step S530, CPU 130 determines whether a key event of button press has occurred. This determination is made based on whether or not a signal to be output from the operation unit 120 is input to the CPU 130. If CPU 130 determines that the key event has occurred (YES in step S530), the process proceeds to step S540. If not (NO in step S530), the process proceeds to step S550.

  In step S540, CPU 130 determines that the button is normal based on detection of a signal output from operation unit 120. Based on the determination, CPU 130 refers to the data stored in flash memory 140 (number “08” in area 410 in FIG. 4) and displays that the button is normal.

  In step S550, CPU 130 determines whether or not the standby time set in step S510 has ended based on the time data measured by the clock. If CPU 130 determines that the standby time has ended (YES in step S550), the process proceeds to step S560. If not (NO in step S550), the process returns to step S530 to continue waiting for the key event.

  In step S560, CPU 130 determines that the button instructed to be pressed is broken. Based on the determination result, CPU 130 refers to the data in flash memory 140 (the number of area 410 is “05”) and sends a display message to liquid crystal touch panel 110. The liquid crystal touch panel 110 displays a message “The button is not functioning. Do you want to create a substitute button?” In the display area based on the transmitted data.

  With reference to FIG. 6, the display mode of remote control device 100 will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a screen that is displayed after a button that replaces the button in which a failure is detected is generated.

  For example, when a failure of the channel button 120-1 is detected, the CPU 130 searches for a process that outputs the same signal as the signal output from the channel button 120-1, and accepts an instruction for the searched process. An image is displayed on the liquid crystal touch panel 110. That is, the CPU 130 displays an icon 620 that substitutes for the channel button 120-1 based on the data stored in the flash memory 140, and further displays a message 610 indicating what the button realized by the icon 620 is. . Thereby, when channel button 120-1 is out of order, the user of remote control device 100 presses icon 620 displayed on liquid crystal touch panel 110 to operate the controlled device (for example, a television) ( Here, channel selection) can be realized.

  As described above, remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment displays a screen for confirming a failure on liquid crystal touch panel 110 and prompts the user to perform an operation. When no signal is output from the button to be operated, remote control device 100 determines that the button is broken, and the button for outputting the same signal as the signal output in response to pressing of the button is displayed. An image is displayed on the liquid crystal touch panel 110. The output of the signal by pressing the image is associated with the input of the process for generating the control signal based on the signal output from the button where the failure is detected. As a result, when the image is pressed, the same control signal as that generated in response to pressing of the failed button is generated and transmitted. Thereby, the remote control apparatus 100 can implement | achieve control of an apparatus.

<Second Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Remote control device 700 according to the present embodiment is different from remote control device 100 according to the first embodiment in that it implements a function that substitutes for a function in which a failure is detected based on data acquired from the outside.

  With reference to FIG. 7, an environment in which remote control device 700 according to the present embodiment is used will be described. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a system configuration including remote control device 700 and television 720 controlled by remote control device 700. Remote control device 700 and television 720 are used in room 710, for example. In the room 710, a gateway server 730 is provided. The gateway server 730 is connected to the control information providing device 750 via the Internet 740. The remote control device 700 is a so-called multi-remote control capable of controlling other devices (for example, lighting, air conditioner, HDD (Hard Disk Drive) recorder and other recording / playback devices) in addition to the television 720.

  With reference to FIG. 8, the configuration of remote control device 700 will be described. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the appearance of remote control device 700. The remote control device 700 receives an input of an instruction from the outside, a camera 810 that shoots a subject and outputs a video signal, a light emitting unit 860 that transmits a control signal to a controlled device, and a display 802. And an operation unit 840 for outputting a corresponding signal.

  The camera 810 is realized by, for example, a light receiving element having a photoelectric conversion function and an element having a signal transfer function such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device). The camera 810 acquires data for recognizing a control target by photographing an identifier (for example, a barcode) attached to a television or other controlled device, for example. By acquiring control data for controlling the operation of the controlled device from the outside based on this data, the remote control device 700 can function as a so-called multi-remote control capable of controlling a plurality of devices.

  The display 802 is realized using a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. Note that the camera 810 is not necessarily required in the remote control device 700.

  The operation unit 840 is realized by a button or a dial, for example. The operation unit 840 determines cursor buttons 804a, 804b, 804c, and 804d for defining the up and down and / or left and right directions of the cursor displayed on the display 802, and data input by the user of the remote control device 700. A determination button 814 for receiving the input of the instruction, an up / down button 808 for increasing or decreasing the value of the output control signal, and a numeric button 806. The up / down button 808 switches the first up button 818a, the first down button 818b, the second up button 828a, the second down button 828b, and the power of the controlled device on and off. A power button 850 that receives an instruction and a reset button 852 that receives an instruction to reset data temporarily held based on an operation of each button are included.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 9, the function implement | achieved by the remote control apparatus 700 which concerns on this Embodiment is demonstrated. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration of functions realized by remote control device 700. Remote control device 700 includes an input unit 910, a control unit 920, a communication unit 930, a storage unit 940, a transmission unit 950, and a display unit 960. The control unit 920 includes a failure diagnosis mode switching unit 921, a pressing instruction unit 922, a display control unit 923, a failure detection unit 924, a code rewriting confirmation unit 925, an operation procedure acquisition unit 926, and a control signal generation unit 927. Including.

  Input unit 910 receives an operation input to remote control device 700 and sends a signal corresponding to the operation to control unit 920. The control unit 920 refers to the data stored in the storage unit 940 based on the signal from the input unit 910 and generates a signal for controlling the operation of the controlled device. Further, the control unit 920 performs communication with the outside via the communication unit 930 (for example, communication with the control information providing apparatus 750 via the Internet 740). Based on the data stored in storage unit 940, control unit 920 causes display unit 960 to display the internal state of remote control device 700 or display the contents of control for the controlled device. Further, the control unit 920 causes the transmission unit 950 to transmit the generated signal.

  Specifically, failure diagnosis mode switching unit 921 switches the operation state of remote control device 700 between the normal mode and the failure diagnosis mode based on a switching instruction output from input unit 910. The failure diagnosis mode switching unit 921 sends a signal corresponding to the switching result to the display control unit 923. In response to the signal, the display control unit 923 determines whether the current state of the remote control device 700 is a normal mode (that is, a state in which an instruction input to the controlled device is accepted) or a failure diagnosis mode (the input unit 910 of the remote control device 700 Display mode 960 causes display unit 960 to execute display indicating one of the modes for detecting the presence or absence of failure. More specifically, the display control unit 923 sends an image signal corresponding to the switching result to the display unit 960. Display unit 960 displays an image or a message representing the state of remote control device 700 based on the signal.

  The push instruction unit 922 outputs an operation instruction to the input unit 910 based on the result of switching by the failure diagnosis mode switching unit 921. Specifically, when the failure diagnosis mode is selected by the user, the pressing instruction unit 922 reads out message data stored in the storage unit 940 and performs an operation on the input unit 910 according to the message data. To A signal representing this command is sent to the display control unit 923.

  The display control unit 923 performs display for performing failure diagnosis based on the command sent from the push instruction unit 922. Specifically, the display control unit 923 causes the display unit 960 to display a message requesting that each button of the input unit 910 be pressed one by one according to the guide shown on the display unit 960. When the user of remote control device 700 presses the designated button on input unit 910 based on this instruction, if the button is operating normally, a signal corresponding to the press is sent from input unit 910. Is output. Otherwise, no output from the pressed button is obtained.

  The failure detection unit 924 detects whether or not any of the buttons has failed based on an instruction from the pressing instruction unit 922 and an output signal from the input unit 910. Specifically, the failure detection unit 924 compares a value to be output as a signal specified in advance based on an instruction from the pressing instruction unit 922 with a signal output from the input unit 910, and those signals are Determine whether they match. If these signals match, the button that is instructed to be pressed is functioning normally, and the failure detection unit 924 determines that the button is normal. On the other hand, when the value of the signal specified by the pressing instruction unit 922 and the value of the signal output from the input unit 910 do not match, the failure detection unit 924 determines that the button is not functioning normally. . The failure detection unit 924 sends the determination result to the code rewriting confirmation unit 925.

  Based on the result of determination by the failure detection unit 924 and the input via the input unit 910, the code rewriting confirmation unit 925 rewrites the control code in order to realize again the function realized by the button in which the failure is detected. Check whether or not. Specifically, when a failure is detected by the failure detection unit, that effect is displayed on the display unit 960. At that time, the display unit 960, for example, after the display message “button is not functioning. Do you want to create a substitute button?” Specified by the number “05” in the area 410 in FIG. "Yes No" is displayed. When the user selects, for example, “Yes” based on the display (that is, when the area where “Yes” is displayed is pressed), the code rewriting confirmation unit 925 is output from the input unit 910 corresponding to Yes. Based on the signal, rewriting of the code of the button in which the failure is detected is started.

  Specifically, the code rewriting confirmation unit 925 sends a signal representing the confirmation result to the operation procedure acquisition unit 926. The operation procedure acquisition unit 926 communicates with the control information providing device 750 (FIG. 7) via the communication unit 930 based on the signal. The communication unit 930 establishes communication with the outside via the gateway server 730. The signal communication is wireless communication in the present embodiment, but may be wired communication. For example, when the gateway server 730 has a function of charging the remote control device 700, when the remote control device 700 is installed in the gateway server 730 serving as a charging device, the remote control device 700 has a contact portion with the gateway server 730. Communication may be established with the control information providing apparatus.

  The operation procedure acquisition unit 926 transmits a code transmission request corresponding to the button in which the failure is detected to the control information providing apparatus 750 via the communication unit 930. When the control information providing apparatus 750 receives the data, the control information providing apparatus 750 reads the corresponding data from the built-in database and returns the data corresponding to the obtained control procedure to the remote control apparatus 700.

  When the operation procedure acquisition unit 926 receives the data via the communication unit 930, the data (that is, a control code for substituting the function) is stored in an area secured in the storage unit 940.

  The control signal generation unit 927 generates a control signal for controlling the device with reference to the control code stored in the storage unit 940 based on the instruction received by the input unit 910. At this time, when data corresponding to the function substituted for the storage unit 940 is written, the control signal generation unit 927 generates a control signal using the data. Control signal generation unit 927 sends the generated signal to transmission unit 950. Transmitter 950 transmits the signal to the outside as an infrared signal.

  With reference to FIG. 10, the specific configuration of remote control device 700 will be further described. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of remote control device 700. Remote control device 700 includes CPU 1010, flash memory 1020, communication circuit 1030, and antenna 1040 in addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 8.

  CPU 1010 controls the operation of remote control device 700 based on data stored in flash memory 1020 in response to an operation input via operation unit 840. For example, the CPU 1010 generates a control signal for controlling the controlled device based on an operation on the operation unit 840 and sends the control signal to the light emitting unit 860. Alternatively, the CPU 1010 displays icons, characters, or messages on the display 802 based on data stored in the flash memory 1020. Further, the CPU 1010 performs data communication with the outside via the communication circuit 1030 based on the operation on the operation unit 840 and the data stored in the flash memory 1020. A signal for the communication is wirelessly transmitted through the antenna 1040, for example, and received by the gateway server 730 (FIG. 7).

  Next, the data structure of remote control device 700 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 conceptually represents data stored in flash memory 1020 when functioning as a remote control device of a hard disk recorder. Flash memory 1020 includes areas 1110 to 1150 for storing data.

  Data representing the manufacturer code of the controlled device, that is, the hard disk recorder, is stored in area 1110. A number unique to the controlled device (for example, a device number of the hard disk recorder) is stored in area 1120. The serial number of the controlled device (for example, “12345678”) is stored in area 1130. Data for identifying each button included in remote control device 700 is stored in area 1140. The operation mode defined in response to pressing of each button is stored in area 1150.

  In the example shown in FIG. 11, remote control device 700 functions as a remote control device that can control the hard disk recorder. In this case, for example, when the user of remote control device 700 depresses numeric button “1” (area 1140), remote control device 700 transmits a signal including data representing number “1” as a control signal.

  When remote control device 700 recognizes another device and controls a device other than the hard disk recorder, the data stored in areas 1110 to 1150 is rewritten with data corresponding to the other device. Alternatively, when the flash memory 1020 has a data area for each of a plurality of devices, another area corresponding to the areas 1110 to 1150 is newly secured, and data of the next device is stored in that area. Also good.

  With reference to FIG. 12, the data structure of remote control device 700 will be further described. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating one mode of storing operation history of remote control device 700. This history is stored in the flash memory 1020. Flash memory 1020 further includes areas 1210 and 1220 for storing data.

  Data for identifying buttons included in remote control device 700 is stored in area 1210. Data representing the number of times each button is pressed is stored in area 1220. In the example of FIG. 12, for example, the numeric button “1” represents that it has been pressed 100 times so far. On the other hand, the button “channel up” indicates that the button has been pressed 2000 times. This number of times is measured, for example, every time each button is pressed. Specifically, the output of a signal corresponding to the press is counted by the CPU 1010 and sequentially written in the flash memory 1020.

  Next, a control structure of remote control device 700 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure of processing executed by CPU 1010.

  In step S1310, CPU 1010 of remote control device 700 detects the transition to the failure diagnosis mode based on an operation on operation unit 840. In step S1320, CPU 1010 executes failure diagnosis processing for each button constituting operation unit 840 as failure detection unit 924. In step S1330, CPU 1010 determines whether a failure button has been detected or not. This determination is made, for example, based on the result of writing the result of each button sequentially into the flash memory 1020. If CPU 1010 determines that a failure button has been detected (YES in step S1330), the process proceeds to step S1332. If not (NO in step S1330), the process proceeds to step S1360.

  In step S1332, CPU 1010 outputs a message prompting rewriting to display 802 to notify the user of rewriting the data of the button in which the failure is detected.

  In step S 1340, CPU 1010 determines whether a rewrite instruction has been input based on the output from operation unit 840. If CPU 1010 determines that a rewrite instruction has been input (YES in step S1340), the process proceeds to step S1342. If not (NO in step S1340), the process ends.

  In step S1342, CPU 1010 generates a data download request for rewriting. The CPU 1010 transmits the generated download request to the support center server (for example, the control information providing apparatus 750) via the communication circuit 1030. The control information providing device 750 reads out the control code data obtained based on the download request from the database and returns it to the remote control device 700. Here, the support center is an organization operated directly or indirectly by the manufacturer of the remote control device 700, for example.

  In step S1346, CPU 1010 detects that the answer data transmitted from the support center has been received based on the output from communication circuit 1030. This data is temporarily written in the flash memory 1020. In step S1348, CPU 1010 acquires an operation procedure from the answer data. In step S1350, CPU 1010 assigns the acquired operation procedure to another button for which no failure has been detected. The CPU 1010 generates an image representing the assigned button and writes it in an area secured in the flash memory 1020.

  In step S1360, CPU 1010 generates data indicating that no failure has been detected, and sends the data to display 802. As a result, display 802 displays that no failure has been detected in remote control device 700.

  Next, a download request generated by the CPU 1010 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the configuration of download request 1400. Download request 1400 includes a header 1410 and communication content 1420.

  The header 1410 includes header data (for example, a destination address, a transmission source address, etc.) necessary for packet communication. The communication content 1420 includes data defining the specific content of the download request 1400. Specifically, the communication content 1420 includes data indicating that the data can be requested for download, data (for example, a device number) for specifying a device (for example, a hard disk recorder) that is requesting download, and a specific operation item (for example). For example, data indicating channel selection) is included.

  When the download request 1400 having such a configuration is received by the control information providing apparatus 750, the control information providing apparatus 750 refers to the header 1410 for authentication and determines whether or not the download request 1400 is valid. Judging. When the control information providing apparatus 750 determines that the download request 1400 is valid as a result of the authentication, the control information providing apparatus 750 refers to the communication content 1420 to know the content specifically requested for download. The control information providing device 750 generates response data based on the acquired data.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 15, a computer system 1500 for realizing the control information providing apparatus 750 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of computer system 1500.

  A computer system 1500 includes, as main components, a CPU 1510, a mouse 1520 and a keyboard 1530 for receiving instruction inputs, and a RAM that temporarily stores input data or data generated by processing executed in accordance with a program. (Random Access Memory) 1540, a hard disk 1550 capable of recording data in a nonvolatile manner, a CD-ROM (Compact Disk-Read Only Memory) driving device 1560, a monitor 1580, and a communication IF (Interface) 1590. A CD-ROM 1562 is mounted on the CD-ROM drive 1560. Processing in the computer system 1500 functioning as the control information providing apparatus 750 is realized by each hardware and software executed by the CPU 1510. Such software may be pre-recorded in the RAM 1540 or the hard disk 1550, or may be stored and distributed in a CD-ROM 1562 or other recording medium. Data stored in the recording medium is read from the recording medium by the CD-ROM driving device 1560 and other data reading devices and temporarily stored in the hard disk 1550. The software is read from the RAM 1540 or the hard disk 1550 and executed by the CPU 1510.

  The hardware itself of the computer system 1500 shown in FIG. 15 is general. Therefore, it can be said that the essential part for realizing the control information providing apparatus 750 according to the present embodiment is software stored in the RAM 1540, the hard disk 1550, the CD-ROM 1562, and other recording media. Since the hardware operation of computer system 1500 is well known, detailed description will not be repeated.

  Next, the data structure of the control information providing apparatus 750 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an aspect of data storage in hard disk 1550 of computer system 1500 functioning as control information providing apparatus 750. Hard disk 1550 includes areas 1610 to 1630 for storing data.

  Data (device ID) for identifying a device that can be controlled by remote control device 700 is stored in area 1610. Data (operation item number) for specifying each function of each device is stored in area 1620. Data for specifying a specific operation procedure for realizing each function is stored in area 1630. The data stored in the areas 1610 to 1630 are associated with each other. Therefore, a specific operation procedure (area 1630) is determined by specifying the device ID and the operation item number.

  A control structure of the control information providing apparatus 750 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a procedure of processing executed by CPU 1510 of computer system 1500.

  In step S1710, CPU 1510 receives an operation procedure download request from remote control device 700 via communication IF 1590. In step S1720, CPU 1510 obtains the device ID and operation item from download request 1400.

  In step S1730, CPU 1510 reads data (area 1630) representing an operation procedure from a database (for example, hard disk 1550) using the acquired device ID and operation item as search keys. The read data is temporarily written in the RAM 1540.

  In step S1740, CPU 1510 generates response data using the source address included in download request 1400 and the read operation procedure data. In step S1750, CPU 1510 transmits the response data to the transmission source of download request 1400 (ie, remote control device 700) via communication IF 1590. As a result, when the gateway server 730 receives the response data from the control information providing device 750 and the remote control device 700 is in a range where communication with the gateway server 730 is possible, the remote control device 700 can acquire the response data. The remote control device 700 reads the operation procedure data included in the answer data, and substitutes the function of the button in which the failure is detected using the data. Specifically, the function is substituted by associating the operation procedure data with an input of a processing program that waits for an output from the button.

  Here, the configuration of the answer data will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a configuration of answer data 1800 transmitted from control information providing apparatus 750. The answer data 1800 includes a header 1810 and communication content 1820. The header 1810 includes a destination address of the answer data 1800 (that is, data for specifying the position of the remote control device 700 in the network) and a transmission source address (that is, data for specifying the position of the control information providing device 750 on the network). Including. The communication content 1820 includes data for representing the attribute of the response data 1800 (for example, “operation procedure transmission”), data for specifying a device in which the operation procedure is used (device ID), and a specific operation procedure. Data representing the contents of the.

  When the response data 1800 is received by the remote control device 700, the operation procedure acquisition unit 926 reads the operation procedure included in the response data 1800. The read data is written in an area secured in the flash memory 1020 functioning as the storage unit 940.

  Here, another mode for detecting a button failure will be described. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a matrix system used as the other mode. The operation buttons constituting the remote control device 700 may be implemented by a so-called matrix method. In this case, each button is assigned with two systems of output H and output L as shown in FIG. In this case, when a specific button is pressed, the button becomes conductive on the circuit constituting the matrix system, the outputs from the row and column to which the button belongs are respectively H, and the output H is By detecting, the pressed button is specified. In this case, the output H may be detected from another row or column. In this case, since the output from the button not pressed is detected, it is easily confirmed that the button corresponding to the row or column is broken.

  With reference to FIG. 20, still another mode for detecting a failure will be described. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a detection mode when a button failure is detected based on a so-called voltage method. The output from the operation unit 840 is input to the A / D converter 2010, for example. The A / D converter 2010 converts the analog signal into a digital signal and outputs it. For example, four switches A to D are provided at the output destination of the A / D converter 2010.

  Here, for example, when there is a preset voltage value for each output from each button, the switch corresponding to the voltage value is closed, and a specific resistance value is detected by the closed circuit. If this resistance value matches the resistance value corresponding to the voltage value defined in advance, it is determined that the button is functioning normally. On the other hand, if the resistance value measured based on the output voltage value is different from the predefined resistance value, the button did not function normally, and as a result, a different voltage value was output. become. In this case, it is confirmed that the button is broken.

  As described above, when remote control device 700 according to the present embodiment detects a failure of a button, it acquires data necessary for executing the function realized by the button from the outside. This data is associated with other buttons for which no fault has been detected. Therefore, even if one of the buttons breaks down, the function is replaced by the other button, so that the device can be controlled.

  In another aspect, remote control device 700 uses a communication function of the remote control device 700 to notify a support center (for example, a management server operated by the remote control device manufacturer) that collects or provides information about the remote control device. May be. In this case, remote control device 700 generates report information for notifying a failure. The report information includes a button in which a failure is detected, the content of the failure, and data (for example, an IP address) for specifying the position of remote control device 700 in the network. When the remote control device 700 generates report information, it establishes communication with the support center and transmits it to the support center. When the support center receives the information, the support center accumulates the contents of the failure as a database and transmits necessary feedback information to the remote control device 700. The feedback information includes measures necessary for substituting the failed function. When remote control device 700 receives the feedback information, remote control device 700 displays the content of the information on display 802. As a result, the user of remote control device 700 can easily know the action to be taken when a failure is detected, and the subsequent countermeasures are facilitated.

  In another aspect, remote control device 700 may acquire a history of recovering the function of the failed button. Specifically, CPU 1010 stores in flash memory 1020 data indicating which button has failed and which button has been replaced. When the CPU 1010 detects an input of a history display instruction, the CPU 1010 reads the data from the flash memory 1020 and displays it on the display 802. As a result, the user can know the history of the function recovery in the remote control device 700, and therefore can easily check even if the user has forgotten the broken button, for example.

  In another aspect, remote control device 700 may substitute a broken button by combining a plurality of buttons. Specifically, a combination of a plurality of buttons is prepared in advance, and data representing the combination is stored in the flash memory 1020. When a button failure is detected, data representing a combination for substituting the button is read from the flash memory 1020. The CPU 1010 uses the data to associate a signal output in response to pressing of each button related to the combination with an input of a processing program that receives a signal from the button in which a failure is detected. This processing program is for generating a control signal. Thereby, after the button breaks down, when the user presses the plurality of buttons, a control signal based on each signal is generated in the same manner as before the failure. In this way, if none of the buttons can accept the assignment of an alternative function alone, the function can be replaced by a combination of multiple buttons, and the device cannot be controlled due to a button failure. Can be prevented.

  In another aspect, remote controller 700 may store an operation history for each button and determine a button to be used for assigning an alternative function according to the history. Specifically, CPU 1010 counts up data representing the number of operations of the button in response to the output of a signal from operation unit 840. This data is written into the flash memory 1020 for each button constituting the operation unit 840. When the CPU 1010 detects a failure of any button of the operation unit 840, the CPU 1010 refers to the data representing the number of operations, searches for a button that is less frequently used, and uses the searched button as a button to replace the failed button. decide.

  In this way, since buttons that have not been used so far are used, the influence on other buttons due to function substitution is suppressed. For example, it is prevented that a substitute function is assigned to a frequently used button.

  In another aspect, remote control device 700 may substitute a button for which a failure has been detected according to the time of pressing an existing button. For example, when a new function is assigned to a button to which a function has already been assigned, the remote control device 700 is longer than pressing the button for normal operation in order to realize the new function. The user may be requested to press the time. Specifically, the CPU 1010 measures the time during which a signal is output from the operation unit 840 using an internal clock (not shown), and only when the time is longer than a predetermined time, the alternative function The control signal for controlling the controlled device may be generated based on the above. In this way, a plurality of functions can be realized on the same button.

  Alternatively, the remote control device 700 may substitute the function of the failed button by combining the above-described aspects. For example, the CPU 1010 may generate a control signal that has been generated in response to pressing of a failed button in accordance with a combination of a plurality of buttons and a pressing time. Or you may produce | generate the control signal produced | generated according to pressing of the failed button by combining several buttons with few frequency | counts of operation.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

2 is an external view of remote control device 100. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of functions realized by remote control device 100. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of remote control device 100. FIG. 3 is a diagram conceptually showing one mode of data storage in flash memory 140. FIG. It is a flowchart showing the procedure of the process which CPU130 performs in order to diagnose whether the remote control apparatus 100 is out of order. It is a figure showing the screen displayed after the button substituted for the button in which the failure was detected was produced | generated. It is a figure showing the system configuration | structure containing the remote control apparatus 700 and the television 720 controlled by the remote control apparatus 700. FIG. It is a figure showing the external appearance of remote control device 700. It is a block diagram showing the structure of the function which remote control device 700 realizes. 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of remote control device 700. FIG. 3 is a diagram conceptually showing data stored in a flash memory 1020. FIG. It is a figure showing the mode of the data for storing the log | history of operation of remote control device 700. It is a flowchart showing the procedure of the process which CPU1010 performs. It is a figure showing the structure of the download request 1400 produced | generated by CPU1010. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a computer system 1500 that implements a control information providing apparatus 750. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an aspect of data storage in a hard disk 1550 of a computer system 1500. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of processing executed by CPU 1510 of computer system 1500. It is a figure showing the structure of the reply data 1800 transmitted from the control information provision apparatus 750. It is a figure showing the matrix system used as another mode for detecting failure of a button. It is a figure showing the aspect which detects the failure of a button based on the voltage system used as a further aspect of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

  100,700 Remote control device, 110 LCD touch panel, 120 operation unit, 120-1 channel button, 710 room, 720 TV, 730 gateway server, 740 Internet.

Claims (14)

A remote control device for controlling the operation of the device,
A touch panel for accepting operation inputs and displaying images;
A plurality of operation units for accepting operation inputs and outputting signals;
Each image data for displaying each image corresponding to each operation unit, text data for displaying a character string prepared in advance, and the operation of the device in response to pressing on each operation unit A memory for storing each program for realizing a process for transmitting a control signal for controlling
First display control means for causing the touch panel to display a screen prompting an operation for confirming a failure of each operation unit based on the text data in response to an operation on the touch panel;
Second display control means for displaying each image corresponding to each operation unit on the touch panel based on each image data;
Detecting means for detecting selection of any of the images based on an operation on the touch panel;
A time measuring means for measuring time;
A determination unit that determines whether or not the operation unit is out of order based on whether or not a signal is output within a predetermined time from the operation unit corresponding to the image in which the selection is detected;
Third display control means for displaying, on the touch panel, a substitute image representing the operation section determined to be faulty based on the image data when the determination means determines that the operation section is faulty. ,
Associating means for associating an output based on an operation on the substitute image with an input on the program corresponding to the operation unit determined to be the failure;
Processing means for generating the control signal by executing the program based on an operation on the substitute image;
A remote control device comprising: transmission means for transmitting a control signal generated by executing the program as an infrared signal. A remote control device for controlling the operation of the device,
An operation unit for receiving an operation input and outputting a signal;
Display means for displaying an image;
First generation means for generating a control signal for controlling the operation of the device in response to an operation on the operation unit;
Transmitting means for transmitting the control signal as an infrared signal;
Display control means for causing the display means to display a screen for prompting an operation for the operation part according to an instruction given to the display means based on an operation on the operation part;
It is determined whether or not the operation unit on which the operation has been performed has failed based on the presence or absence of output of a signal corresponding to the operation on the operation unit within a predetermined time after the screen is displayed. Judgment means,
When it is determined that the operation unit is out of order, communication establishment means for connecting via a communication line to an information providing device that provides a control procedure necessary for controlling the device by the remote control device;
Generating means for generating a transmission request for the control procedure corresponding to the operation unit;
Transmission control means for transmitting the transmission request to the information providing device;
Receiving means for receiving the operation procedure transmitted based on the transmission request from the information providing device;
Association means for associating the output from the operation unit with the operation procedure;
A remote control device comprising: a second generation unit that generates the control signal based on an operation procedure associated by the association unit. A remote control device for controlling the operation of the device,
An operation means having a plurality of operation units for receiving inputs of a plurality of instructions;
Storage means for storing display data for displaying a screen for prompting an operation to the operation means, and a plurality of operation codes for causing the device to execute each of the operations corresponding to an operation on each of the plurality of operation units. When,
Generating means for generating a control signal for controlling the operation of the device based on the operation code;
Transmitting means for transmitting the control signal;
Display means for displaying an image;
First display control means for causing the display means to display the screen based on the display data;
Detecting means for detecting a failure of the operating means based on an operation on each operating section;
An alternative means for recovering the function of the operation unit in which the failure is detected by associating the operation code with an operation unit different from the operation unit in which the failure is detected when the failure is detected; Remote control device.   The remote control device according to claim 3, further comprising notification means for notifying that the failure has been detected when the failure is detected. The notification means includes
Means for generating report information indicating that the failure has been detected;
The remote control device according to claim 4, further comprising: a transmission unit that transmits the report information to a management device that provides information for realizing the function of the remote control device via a communication line. Obtaining means for obtaining a history of function recovery by the alternative means;
The remote control device according to claim 3, further comprising second display control means for causing the display means to display the history based on data representing the history. The alternative means is
Storage means for storing combination data representing a combination of a plurality of other operation units defined in advance in order to substitute functions realized in the respective operation units;
Means for causing the display means to display a screen for prompting operation of the other plurality of operation units specified by the combination based on the combination data;
And means for generating the control signal corresponding to an output from the operation unit in which the failure is detected based on a signal output in response to each operation on the other plurality of operation units. The remote control device described in 1. The alternative means is
Means for storing operation unit data representing other operation units associated in advance with each of the operation units; and an operation on another operation unit different from the operation unit in which the failure is detected based on the operation unit data. Detecting means for detecting;
Time measuring means for measuring a time during which an operation to the other operation unit is performed;
A control signal corresponding to an output from the operation unit in which the failure is detected based on a signal output from the other operation unit when an operation on the other operation unit continues for a predetermined time. The remote control device according to claim 3, further comprising: means for generating Obtaining means for obtaining a history of each operation on each operation unit;
History storage means for storing a history of each of the operations;
An operation unit detecting means for detecting an operation unit whose use frequency is lower than a predetermined reference based on a history of each operation;
The alternative means recovers the function of the operation unit in which the failure is detected by associating the operation code corresponding to the operation unit in which the failure is detected with the operation unit detected by the operation unit detection means. The remote control device according to claim 3. The alternative means is
Means for storing operation unit data representing other operation units associated in advance with each of the operation units, and the number of times defined in advance as an operation on the other operation unit;
Based on the operation unit data, a detection unit that detects an operation for another operation unit different from the operation unit in which the failure is detected;
Corresponding to the output from the operation unit in which the failure is detected based on the signal output from the other operation unit when the number of operations to the other operation unit is equal to or greater than the predetermined number of times The remote control device according to claim 3, further comprising means for generating a control signal. The display means includes a touch panel for displaying an image and receiving an operation input,
The display data includes image data for displaying each image corresponding to each operation unit, and text data for displaying a character string prepared in advance.
The storage means further stores each program for realizing a process for transmitting a control signal for controlling the operation of the device in response to a press on each operation unit,
The detection means includes
First display control means for causing the touch panel to display a screen prompting an operation for confirming a failure of each operation unit based on the text data in response to an operation on the touch panel;
Second display control means for displaying each image corresponding to each operation unit on the touch panel based on each image data;
Detecting means for detecting selection of any of the images based on an operation on the touch panel;
A time measuring means for measuring time;
A determination unit that determines whether or not the operation unit is out of order based on whether or not a signal is output within a predetermined time from the operation unit corresponding to the image in which the selection is detected;
A third display control means for displaying, on the touch panel, a substitute image representing the operation unit determined to be faulty based on the image data when the operation unit is determined to be faulty;
The alternative means is
Associating means for associating an output for an operation on the substitute image with an input for the program corresponding to the operation unit determined to be the failure;
Processing means for generating the control signal by executing the program based on an operation on the substitute image,
The remote control device according to claim 3, wherein the transmission unit transmits the control signal generated by the processing unit. The storage means further stores a diagnostic program created in advance for detecting a failure in the operation means,
The remote control device according to claim 3, wherein the detection unit detects a failure of the plurality of operation units by executing the diagnostic program based on an input of an instruction to execute the diagnostic program. The operation code includes a control procedure for controlling the device by the remote control device,
The detection means includes
Display control means for causing the display means to display a screen for prompting an operation for the operation part according to an instruction given to the display means based on an operation on the operation part;
It is determined whether or not the operation unit on which the operation has been performed has failed based on the presence or absence of output of a signal corresponding to the operation on the operation unit within a predetermined time after the screen is displayed. Judgment means,
The alternative means is
When it is determined that the operation unit is out of order, communication establishment means for connecting to an information providing apparatus that provides the control procedure via a communication line;
Generating means for generating a transmission request for the control procedure corresponding to the operation unit;
Transmission control means for transmitting the transmission request to the information providing device;
Receiving means for receiving the operation procedure transmitted based on the transmission request from the information providing device;
Association means for associating the output from the operation unit with the operation procedure;
The remote control device according to claim 3, further comprising: a second generation unit that generates the control signal based on an operation procedure associated by the association unit.   The remote control device according to claim 3, wherein the transmission means transmits the control signal as an infrared signal.

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