JP2008310247A - Projector and projector system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a projector and a projector system capable of automatically allocating projection information to respective projectors. <P>SOLUTION: When a USB memory 21 which stores a folder including a projectable file, files, etc., is loaded in one of projectors 11 to 14, a CPU 41 of the projector where the USB memory 21 is loaded sets its projector as a main projector. The CPU 41 of the main projector transmits sub-setting notice to other projectors, and CPUs 41 of the other projectors set their projectors as sub-projectors (S11 to S15). Then the CPU 41 of the main projector allocates the folder including the projectable file, files, etc., stored in the root directory of the USB memory 21 to its projector and the other respective sub-projectors (S16). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a projector system including a projector and a plurality of projectors.

Conventionally, various projector systems composed of a projector and a plurality of projectors have been proposed.
For example, there is a projector system configured to switch images of all projectors by supplying image signals from an image source (personal computer) to a plurality of projectors and sending commands from a controller (personal computer) to a main projector. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).
JP 2000-338941 A (paragraphs (0021) to (0087), FIGS. 1 to 6)

  However, in the configuration described in Patent Document 1 described above, in the image source (personal computer), the user has to set images for each projector one by one, which is troublesome.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and it is possible to automatically assign projection information to each projector, and to save time and effort set by the user. A projector system is provided.

  In order to achieve the above object, the projector according to claim 1 is a projector system including a plurality of projectors, and the projector holds communication means capable of communicating with other projectors and a plurality of projection information. Reading means for reading projection information that can be projected from the projection information holding medium, and allocating means for assigning the projection information that can be projected read via the reading means to the projector and other projectors via the communication means, Storage means for storing the projection information that can be projected assigned by the assigning means.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a projector system including a plurality of projectors including the projector according to the first aspect, wherein the allocating unit is a route directory held in the projection information holding medium. Projection information that can be projected is equally allocated to the projector and other projectors.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a projector system including a plurality of projectors including the projector according to the first aspect, wherein the allocating unit is a route directory held in the projection information holding medium. The projection information that can be projected is assigned to the projector and other projectors according to the extensions attached to the projection information.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a projector system including a plurality of projectors including the projector according to the first aspect, wherein the allocating unit is a route directory held in the projection information holding medium. Projection information that can be projected is assigned to the projector and other projectors based on the update date and time attached to the projection information.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the projector system according to any one of the second to fourth aspects, the projection information that can be projected in the root directory held in the projection information holding medium can be projected. It includes a file.

  Further, in the projector system according to claim 6, in the projector system according to claim 5, the projectable projection information in the root directory held in the projection information holding medium includes a folder having a projectable file, The allocating unit allocates the projectable file and the folder in the root directory held in the projection information holding medium to different projectors.

  A projector system according to a seventh aspect is the projector system according to any one of the second to sixth aspects, wherein the projection information holding medium that holds projection information that can be projected onto the reading unit is provided on the projector. Main projector setting means for setting the projector as a main projector when mounted, and setting as a sub projector for other projectors via the communication means when the projector is set as the main projector A sub-setting instruction means for transmitting a sub-projector setting instruction for instructing to perform; a sub-projector setting means for setting the projector as a sub-projector when the sub-projector setting instruction is received via the communication means; It is provided with.

  The projector system according to claim 8 is the projector system according to claim 7, wherein the projector instructs switching of a file that can be projected or switching of a screen in a projectable file constituted by a plurality of screens. And a switching reception unit that is set in the main projector and receives a switching instruction via the switching reception unit, a file that can be projected to the sub projector via the communication unit. Sub switching instruction means for transmitting a sub switching instruction for instructing switching, and file switching means for switching a file that can be projected by the projector when the sub switching instruction is transmitted or received. Features.

  The projector system according to claim 9 is the projector system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the sub-projector setting means gives the sub-projector setting instruction even when the projector is set as the main projector. When received via the communication means, the projector is set as a sub projector.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the projector system according to the ninth aspect, when the projector is assigned projection information that can be projected by the allocating means, the projector system already stores the projection information in the storage means. It is characterized by comprising storage control means for controlling so as to be stored in addition to the projection information that can be projected.

  The projector system according to claim 11 is the projector system according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the projector is configured to set the sub projector via the communication means in a state where the projector is set as a main projector. When receiving an instruction, projection information determining means for determining whether or not projection information that can be projected is stored in the storage means, and projection information that can be projected to the storage means via the projection information determining means When it is determined that the projector is stored, a rejection notification for refusing to set the projector as a sub-projector is notified to another projector set as a new main projector via the communication unit. Projection information that can be projected is stored in the storage means via the notification means and the projection information determination means. If it is determined not to be characterized in that and a setting changing means for setting the own projector sub projector via the sub projector setting means.

  A projector system according to a twelfth aspect is the projector system according to the seventh or eighth aspect, wherein the projector sets the sub projector via the communication means in a state where the projector is set as a main projector. Reject notification means for notifying other projectors set as a new main projector of a rejection notification for refusing to set the projector as a sub projector when receiving an instruction via the communication means. It is characterized by that.

  A projector system according to a thirteenth aspect is the projector system according to the eleventh or twelfth aspect, wherein when the projector receives the refusal notification through the communication unit, the projector system passes through the allocation unit. And an allocation control unit that controls to allocate the projection information that can be projected, which is read out through the reading unit, to other projectors and the projector other than the projector that has notified the rejection notification.

  Furthermore, in the projector system according to claim 14, in the projector system according to claim 13, when the projector is assigned projection information that can be projected by the assignment control means, the projector system already stores the projection information in the storage means. It is characterized by comprising storage control means for controlling to add and store the projection information that can be projected.

  In the projector according to the first aspect, by attaching a projection information holding medium that holds projection information that can be projected to the projector, projection information that can be projected to the projector and other projectors is automatically assigned. Projection information is stored in each projector.

As a result, it is possible to automatically assign projection information to each projector simply by mounting a projection information holding medium that holds projection information that can be projected onto any one of the projectors, saving the user from having to make settings. It becomes possible. In addition, since it is not necessary to provide a personal computer or the like that supplies projection information that can be projected to each projector, it is possible to save space and reduce maintenance costs.
The projection information holding medium is, for example, a portable storage medium such as a USB memory or an SD memory card, a storage medium connected via a network, or the like.

  Further, in the projector system according to claim 2, since the projection information in the root directory held in the projection information holding medium is equally assigned to the projector and other projectors, the assignment process is simplified, and the assignment process is performed. It is possible to speed up.

  In the projector system according to claim 3, projection information that can be projected in the root directory held in the projection information holding medium is displayed for each extension (for example, .xls) attached to the projection information to the projector and other projectors. , .Bmp, .jpg, .doc, etc.), the allocation process is simplified and the allocation process can be speeded up. In addition, projection information can be divided into landscape images, tables, graphs, text information, and the like, and can be projected.

  Further, in the projector system according to claim 4, in order to assign the projection information that can be projected in the root directory held in the projection information holding medium to the projector and other projectors based on the update date and time attached to the projection information, The allocation process is simplified, and the allocation process can be speeded up. In addition, projection information can be displayed side by side in order of update date and time, and images that change with time can be projected in synchronization.

  In the projector system according to claim 5, since the projectable projection information in the root directory held in the projection information holding medium includes a projectable file, each projector can switch and project each file. It becomes.

  Further, in the projector system according to claim 6, since the projectable file in the root directory held in the projection information holding medium and the folder having the file are assigned to different projectors, the projector to which the folder is assigned is assigned to the folder. It is possible to automatically and sequentially project the files inside.

  In the projector system according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to automatically set the main projector and each sub-projector only by mounting a projection information holding medium that holds projection information that can be projected on the projector. It is possible to save the setting time. In addition, since the projector equipped with the projection information holding medium is automatically set as the main projector and the other projectors are automatically set as the sub projectors, the user can easily identify the main projector.

  In the projector system according to claim 8, the user synchronizes the switching of the projectable files of the main projector and each sub-projector by transmitting a switching instruction for instructing switching of the projectable file to the main projector. Can be performed.

  In the projector system according to the ninth aspect, it is possible to preferentially set the projector on which the projection information holding medium is mounted last as the main projector and set other projectors as sub projectors.

  Further, in the projector system according to claim 10, when each projector is assigned projection information that can be projected, each projector stores in addition to the projection information that is already stored in the storage unit. It is possible to perform continuous projection by switching the projectable projection information held in the projection information holding medium in the order in which they are mounted on the projector.

  In the projector system according to the eleventh aspect, the projection information holding medium that holds the projection information that can be projected is projected while the main projector equipped with the projection information holding medium that holds the projection information that can be projected is projecting the projection information. When the projector is mounted on another projector, the user can easily identify that the projector mounted with each projection information holding medium is set as the main projector.

  Further, when the projection information holding medium is mounted on another projector after the main projector on which the projection information holding medium that holds the projection information that can be projected is mounted has finished projecting the projection information, the user projects the projection later. Only the projector equipped with the information holding medium can be easily identified as being set as the main projector.

  In the projector system according to claim 12, the projection information holding medium holding the projection information that can be projected is attached to the sub projector while the projection information holding medium holding the projection information that can be projected is attached to the main projector. In this case, the user can easily identify that the projector equipped with each projection information holding medium is set as the main projector.

  In the projector system according to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to automatically assign the projectable projection information held in the projection information holding medium mounted later to each projector except the projector that has notified the rejection notification. Thus, it is possible to save time and effort set by the user.

  Furthermore, in the projector system according to claim 14, when the projectors other than the projector that has notified the rejection notification are assigned projection information that can be projected, the projection information that is already stored in the storage unit. Therefore, the projection information that can be projected stored in each projector other than the projector that has notified the rejection notification can be sequentially switched and sequentially projected.

  Hereinafter, a projector system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings based on an embodiment.

[Schematic configuration of projector system]
First, a schematic configuration of the projector system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a projector system 1 according to the present embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 1, the projector system 1 includes four projectors 11, 12, 13, and 14. The configuration shown in FIG. 1 is an example and is not limited to the illustrated configuration.

  The projectors 11 to 14 are configured to be able to communicate with each other by wireless communication, infrared communication, or the like via a communication interface 44 (see FIG. 2) described later. Further, among the projectors 11 to 14, a USB memory 21 that holds projection information as an example of a projection information holding medium, that is, a flash memory is mounted on the rear surface of the projector 11. Is set in the main projector (see FIG. 3).

  The projectors 11 to 14 project the images 11 </ b> A to 14 </ b> A in parallel on the screen 18 in accordance with instructions from the main projector 11. In addition, as will be described later, the user presses each switching button 25A, 25B or end button 25C of the remote controller 25 to transmit a projection image switching signal or a projection end signal to the main projector 11 by infrared rays or the like. Thus, the projection images of the projectors 11 to 14 can be switched or stopped (see FIG. 3).

[Circuit configuration of the projector]
Next, circuit configurations of the projectors 11 to 14 will be described with reference to FIG. Since the circuit configurations of the projectors 11 to 14 are substantially the same, the circuit configuration of the projector 11 will be described. FIG. 2 is a circuit block diagram showing a circuit configuration of a main part of the projector 11.
As shown in FIG. 2, the projector 11 includes a CPU 41, a RAM 42, a nonvolatile memory 43 including a ROM and an EEPROM, a communication interface 44, an operation panel 45, a reading unit 46, an infrared light receiving unit 47, and an infrared control unit 48. A lamp control circuit unit 50, a lamp 51, an illumination optical system 52, a light modulation element 53, an imaging optical system 54, an image processing circuit unit 55, a light modulation element drive circuit 56, and the like.

  The CPU 41, the RAM 42, the nonvolatile memory 43 including a ROM, an EEPROM, and the like, the communication interface 44, the operation panel 45, the reading unit 46, the infrared control unit 48, the lamp control circuit unit 50, and the image processing circuit unit 55 are connected to the bus. They are connected to each other by a line 58 and exchange data with each other. A lamp 51 is connected to the lamp control circuit unit 50. The image processing circuit unit 55 is connected to a light modulation element drive circuit 56 that drives and controls the light modulation element 53.

  The CPU 41 controls the entire projector 11 and manages all data related to the operation of the projector 11. The RAM 42 temporarily stores various data when the CPU 41 executes various controls, and stores files, folders, and the like assigned as projection information as described later. The non-volatile memory 43 also includes a startup program for starting the CPU 41 when the power is turned on, “multiple image projection process 1” (see FIG. 3), and “multiple image projection process 2” (see FIG. 12) described later. The control program is stored.

  In addition, the communication interface 44 can perform bidirectional data communication with other projectors by wired communication, wireless communication, infrared communication, or the like. The operation panel 45 includes a power key, a projection start key, a projection stop key, a zoom up / down key, and the like. Further, the reading unit 46 is configured so that the USB memory 21 can be mounted, and is configured to be able to read a file and a folder as projection information stored in the USB memory 21. The reading unit 21 is configured not only to be connected to the USB memory 21 but also to a portable storage medium such as an SD memory card, so that files and folders as projection information stored in the SD memory card can be read. It is configured. Further, the reading unit 21 can be connected to a storage device installed on a network such as a hard disk, and can also read files and folders as projection information stored in the storage device on the network. Yes.

The infrared light receiving unit 47 receives an infrared signal transmitted from the remote controller 25, converts it into an electrical signal, and outputs it to the infrared control unit 48. The infrared control unit 48 is configured to demodulate the electrical signal input from the infrared light receiving unit 47 and to output an instruction from the remote controller 25 to the CPU 41.
The lamp control circuit unit 50 turns on / off the lamp 51 as a light source composed of an ultrahigh pressure mercury lamp or the like based on the ON / OFF signal input from the operation panel 45 and is necessary for lighting the lamp 51. The correct voltage and power.

  Further, the image processing circuit unit 55 converts the image data of the file or the folder including the file as projection information stored in the RAM 42 into a video signal of a predetermined format and outputs the video signal to the light modulation element drive circuit 56. The light modulation element drive circuit 56 drives and controls the light modulation element 53 formed of a transmissive LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or the like based on the video signal input from the image processing circuit unit 55, and the lamp 51 and Light incident through the illumination optical system 52 including a light tunnel and a lens is modulated to generate an image to be projected. The light modulated by the light modulation element 53 is magnified by the imaging optical system 54 including a diaphragm, a projection lens, and the like, and projected onto the screen 18 at a predetermined size.

[Multiple image projection process 1]
Next, after the respective projectors 11 to 14 configured as described above are activated, when the USB memory 21 is attached to any of the projectors 11 to 14, the CPU 41 of each projector 11 to 14 stores the assigned image data. The “multiple image projection process 1” projected onto the screen 18 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 3 shows a “multiple image projection process” in which the CPU 41 of each projector 11-14 projects the assigned image data onto the screen 18 when the USB memory 21 is attached to any one of the projectors 11-14. 1 "is a main flowchart. FIG. 4 is a sub-flowchart showing a sub-process of “allocation process” in FIG. FIG. 5 is a sub-flowchart showing a sub-process of the “file allocation process” of FIG. FIG. 6 is a sub-flowchart showing a sub-process of “folder allocation process 1” of FIG. FIG. 7 is a sub-flowchart showing a sub-process of “folder allocation process 2” of FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of image data stored by the projectors 11 to 14 allocated by the “file allocation process”. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of image data stored in each projector 11 to 14 assigned by “folder assignment processing 1”. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of image data stored by the projectors 11 to 14 assigned by the “folder assignment process 2”. FIG. 11 is a sub-flowchart showing a sub-process of the “projection process” in FIG.

[Multiple image projection process 1]
As shown in FIG. 3, first, in step (hereinafter abbreviated as “S”) 11, the CPU 41 of each projector 11 to 14 stores a folder, a file, and the like including files that can be projected on the reading unit 46. A determination process for determining whether or not the USB memory 21 is attached to the reading unit 46 is executed.

If the USB memory 21 storing a folder or file including a projectable file is attached to the reading unit 46 (S11: YES), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S12. In S12, the CPU 41 reads out the main projector flag from the RAM 42 and sets it to ON, and then stores it in the RAM 42 again to set the own projector as the main projector.
When the projectors 11 to 14 are activated, the main projector flag is set to OFF and stored in the RAM 42.

  Subsequently, in S13, the CPU 41 transmits a sub-setting notification for instructing other projectors to set the sub-projector via the communication interface 44, and then proceeds to a process of S16 described later.

On the other hand, if the USB memory 21 storing a folder or file including a file that can be projected is not attached to the reading unit 46 in S11 (S11: NO), the CPU 41 proceeds to S14. In S <b> 14, the CPU 41 executes determination processing for determining whether or not a sub-setting notification instructing the sub-projector to set is received via the communication interface 44.
If the sub-setting notification for instructing the sub-projector to set is not received (S14: NO), the CPU 41 executes the processing after S11 again.

  On the other hand, when the sub setting notification instructing the sub projector to set is received (S14: YES), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S15. In S15, the CPU 41 reads the main projector flag from the RAM 42, sets it to OFF, stores it again in the RAM 42, sets the projector as a sub-projector, and then proceeds to S16.

In S <b> 16, the CPU 41 executes a sub-process (see FIG. 4) of “allocation process” described later.
Thereafter, in S17, the CPU 41 executes a sub-process (see FIG. 11) of “projection process” to be described later, and then ends the process.

[Assignment processing]
Next, sub-processing of “allocation processing” executed by the CPU 41 of each projector 11 to 14 in S16 will be described with reference to FIGS.

As shown in FIG. 4, first, in S111, the CPU 41 of each projector 11-14 reads the main projector flag from the RAM 42, and whether or not it is set to ON, that is, whether or not its own projector is set as the main projector. A determination process for determining whether or not is executed.
When the main projector flag is set to OFF, that is, when the projector is set as a sub projector (S111: NO), the CPU 41 ends the sub process and returns to the main flowchart. .

  On the other hand, when the main projector flag is set to ON, that is, when the projector is set as the main projector (S111: YES), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S112. In S112, the CPU 41 reads the allocation flag from the RAM 42 and determines whether or not it is set to ON, that is, allocation of a folder including a projectable file stored in the attached USB memory 21 or a projectable file. A determination process for determining whether the setting has been completed is executed. When the projectors 11 to 14 are activated, the allocation flag is set to OFF and stored in the RAM 42.

When the allocation flag is set to ON, that is, when the allocation setting for a folder including a projectable file or a projectable file stored in the attached USB memory 21 is completed. (S112: YES), the CPU 41 ends the sub-process and returns to the main flowchart.
On the other hand, when the allocation flag is set to OFF, that is, when the allocation setting of a folder including a projectable file or a projectable file stored in the attached USB memory 21 is not completed. (S112: NO), CPU41 transfers to the process of S113.

In S113, the CPU 41 identifies the projector identification ID for identifying each projector 11-14 stored in advance in the nonvolatile memory 43 of each projector 11-14 (for example, the projector identification ID of each projector 11-14 is in order. P1, P2, P3, and P4) are transmitted via the communication interface 44 to instruct other projectors to transmit to the projector. Then, the CPU 41 sequentially stores the projector identification IDs transmitted from other projectors in the RAM 42, counts the number of the received projector identification IDs, and adds “1” to this count value to configure the projector system 1. The number of projectors to be substituted is substituted into the algebra N (for example, N = 4) and stored in the RAM 42.
The algebra N is stored in the RAM 42 by substituting “0” when the projectors 11 to 14 are activated.

In S <b> 114, the CPU 41 counts the number of projectable files held in the USB 21, that is, stored, and substitutes this count value into the algebra M as the number of projectable files stored in the USB 21. And stored in the RAM 42.
In S115, the CPU 41 counts the number of folders held in the USB 21, that is, stores the projectable files stored therein, and then counts this count value in the folder containing the projectable files stored in the USB 21. The number is substituted into the algebra F and stored in the RAM 42.
The algebra M and F are stored in the RAM 42 with “0” substituted when the projectors 11 to 14 are activated.

Subsequently, in S116, the CPU 41 reads from the RAM 42 an algebra F representing the number of folders including a projectable file, and whether or not the algebra F is “0”, that is, a folder including a projectable file is stored in the USB memory 21. A determination process for determining whether or not it is stored is executed.
When the algebra F is “0”, that is, when a folder including a projectable file is not stored in the USB memory 21, that is, when only a projectable file is stored in the USB memory 21. (S116: YES), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S117. In S117, the CPU 41 performs a sub-process (see FIG. 5) of “file allocation process” described later, and then proceeds to the process of S121.

  On the other hand, if the algebra F is not “0”, that is, if a folder including a projectable file is stored in the USB memory 21 (S116: NO), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S118. In S118, the CPU 41 reads the algebra F and the algebra N from the RAM 42, and determines whether or not the algebra F is smaller than the algebra N, that is, whether or not the number of folders including files that can be projected is smaller than the number of projectors. Execute the judgment process.

When the algebra F is less than the algebra N, that is, when the number of folders including files that can be projected is less than the number of projectors (S118: YES), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S119. In S119, the CPU 41 performs a sub-process (see FIG. 6) of “folder allocation process 1” described later, and then proceeds to the process of S121.
On the other hand, if the algebra F is greater than or equal to the algebra N, that is, if the number of folders including files that can be projected is greater than or equal to the number of projectors (S118: NO), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S120. In S120, the CPU 41 performs a sub-process (see FIG. 7) of “folder allocation process 2” described later, and then proceeds to the process of S121.

  Subsequently, in S121, the CPU 41 stores, in the RAM 42, an assignment setting in which a projectable file or folder is assigned to each of the projector and other sub projectors. Further, the CPU 41 reads the allocation flag from the RAM 42, sets the allocation flag to ON, stores it again in the RAM 42, and returns to the main flowchart.

[File allocation process]
Next, the sub-process of the “file allocation process” executed by the CPU 41 of the main projector, that is, the CPU 41 of the projector with the USB memory 21 mounted in S117 will be described with reference to FIGS.

As shown in FIG. 5, first, in S <b> 211, the CPU 41 reads the file count value m from the RAM 42, substitutes “1” for the file count value m, and stores it again in the RAM 42. Further, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n from the RAM 42, substitutes “1” for the projector count value n, and stores it again in the RAM 42.
When the projectors 11 to 14 are activated, “0” is assigned to the file count value m and the projector count value n and stored in the RAM 42.

In S212, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n and the file count value m from the RAM 42, and the mth root directory stored in the USB memory 21 for the projector having the projector identification ID “Pn”. Allocate a projectable file m. That is, when the projector identification ID of the projector is “Pn”, the CPU 41 stores the mth projectable file m in the root directory in the RAM 42 as projection information. Further, when the projector identification ID of the other sub-projector is “Pn”, the CPU 41 projects the mth projectable file m in the root directory onto the sub-projector with the projector identification ID “Pn”. Assign as information.
Here, the allocation information, that is, the correspondence relationship between the projector and the file is sequentially stored in the RAM 42 of the main projector, and each projector is based on this allocation information in a sub-process (see FIG. 11) of “projection process” described later. Projection information (file) is transmitted to. That is, here, the main projector only determines the correspondence between each file and each projector, and actual file transfer is executed in the processing of S512 and S519 described later.

  Subsequently, in S213, the CPU 41 reads the file count value m and the algebra M as the number of files that can be projected from the RAM 42, and executes a determination process for determining whether the file count value m and the algebra M are equal. That is, the CPU 41 executes a determination process for determining whether all the projectable files stored in the USB memory 21 have been allocated to the projectors 11 to 14.

  When the file count value m and the algebra M are not equal, that is, when all the projectable files stored in the USB memory 21 are not allocated to the projectors 11 to 14 (S213: NO), the CPU 41 , The process proceeds to S214. In S <b> 214, the CPU 41 reads the file count value m from the RAM 42, adds “1” to the file count value m, and stores it again in the RAM 42. Further, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n from the RAM 42, adds “1” to the projector count value n, and stores it again in the RAM 42.

Subsequently, in S215, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n and the algebra N as the number of projectors from the RAM 42, and executes a determination process for determining whether or not the projector count value n is larger than the algebra N. That is, the CPU 41 executes a determination process for determining whether a file that can be projected is assigned to the last projector.
If the projector count value n is less than or equal to the algebra N (S215: NO), the CPU 41 executes the processes subsequent to S212 again.

On the other hand, when the projector count value n is larger than the algebra N (S215: YES), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S216. In S216, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n from the RAM 42, assigns “1” to the projector count value n, stores it again in the RAM 42, and then executes the processes in and after S212 again.
On the other hand, if the file count value m and the algebra M are equal in S213 (S213: YES), the CPU 41 assigns all the projectable files stored in the USB memory 21 evenly to the projectors 11-14. Determination is made, the sub-process is terminated, the process returns to the “allocation process” sub-process, and the process proceeds to S 121.

[Example of file allocation processing]
Here, an example of “file allocation processing” executed when only files that can be projected are stored in the USB memory 21 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the USB memory 21 is attached to the projector 11 among the projectors 11 to 14. The USB memory 21 stores the files 111 to 120 and 123 to 126 that can be projected in the root directory, and the files 121 and 122 that cannot be projected in the root directory. The projector identification IDs of the projectors 11 to 14 are P1, P2, P3, and P4 in order.

  Accordingly, the CPU 41 of the main projector 11 allocates the projectable files 111, 115, 119, and 125 to the projector 11 and allocates the projectable files 112, 116, 120, and 126 to the other sub-projectors 12. . Further, the files 113, 117, and 123 that can be projected are assigned to the other sub projector 13, and the files 114, 118, and 124 that can be projected are assigned to the other sub projector 14.

[Folder allocation process 1]
Next, the sub-processing of “folder allocation processing 1” executed by the CPU 41 of the main projector, that is, the CPU 41 of the projector with the USB memory 21 mounted in S119 will be described with reference to FIGS.

As shown in FIG. 6, first, in S <b> 311, the CPU 41 reads the folder count value f from the RAM 42, assigns “1” to the folder count value f, and stores it again in the RAM 42. Further, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n from the RAM 42, substitutes “1” for the projector count value n, and stores it again in the RAM 42.
When each projector 11 to 14 is activated, “0” is substituted for the folder count value f and stored in the RAM 42.

  In step S312, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n and the folder count value f from the RAM 42, and the f-th root directory stored in the USB memory 21 for the projector having the projector identification ID “Pn”. A folder f including a projectable file is allocated. That is, when the projector identification ID of the projector is “Pn”, the CPU 41 stores the folder f including the f th projectable file in the root directory in the RAM 42 as projection information. Further, when the projector identification ID of the other sub-projector is “Pn”, the CPU 41 includes the f-th projectable file in the root directory for the sub-projector with the projector identification ID “Pn”. f is assigned as projection information.

  Subsequently, in S313, the CPU 41 reads the folder count value f and the algebra F as the number of folders including the projectable file from the RAM 42, and determines whether or not the folder count value f and the algebra F are equal. Execute. That is, the CPU 41 executes a determination process for determining whether or not all folders including projectable files stored in the USB memory 21 have been allocated.

  When the folder count value f and the algebra F are not equal, that is, when all the folders including the projectable files stored in the USB memory 21 are not allocated (S313: NO), the CPU 41 proceeds to S314. Transition to processing. In S <b> 314, the CPU 41 reads the folder count value f from the RAM 42, adds “1” to the folder count value f, and stores it again in the RAM 42. Further, the CPU 41 reads out the projector count value n from the RAM 42, adds “1” to the projector count value n, stores it again in the RAM 42, and executes the processing from S312 again.

  On the other hand, when the folder count value f is equal to the algebra F, that is, when all the folders including the projectable files stored in the USB memory 21 are allocated (S313: YES), the CPU 41 performs the process of S315. Transition. In S <b> 315, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n from the RAM 42, adds “1” to the projector count value n, and stores it again in the RAM 42.

In S316, the CPU 41 reads out the projector count value n from the RAM 42, and substitutes this projector count value n into the algebra X as the order of the first projector to which a projectable file in the root directory is assigned and stores it in the RAM 42.
Subsequently, in S 317, the CPU 41 reads the file count value m from the RAM 42, substitutes “1” for the file count value m, and stores it again in the RAM 42.

  Thereafter, in S318, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n and the file count value m from the RAM 42, and the mth root directory stored in the USB memory 21 for the projector having the projector identification ID “Pn”. Allocate a projectable file m. That is, when the projector identification ID of the projector is “Pn”, the CPU 41 stores the mth projectable file m in the root directory in the RAM 42 as projection information. Further, when the projector identification ID of the other sub-projector is “Pn”, the CPU 41 projects the mth projectable file m in the root directory onto the sub-projector with the projector identification ID “Pn”. Assign as information.

Subsequently, in S319, the CPU 41 reads the file count value m and the algebra M as the number of files that can be projected from the RAM 42, and executes a determination process for determining whether the file count value m and the algebra M are equal. That is, the CPU 41 executes a determination process for determining whether all the projectable files stored in the USB memory 21 have been allocated.
When the file count value m is not equal to the algebra M, that is, when all the projectable files stored in the USB memory 21 are not allocated (S319: NO), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S320. To do.

In S320, the CPU 41 reads the file count value m from the RAM 42, adds “1” to the file count value m, and stores the file count value m in the RAM 42 again. Further, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n from the RAM 42, adds “1” to the projector count value n, and stores it again in the RAM 42.
Subsequently, in S321, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n and the algebra N as the number of projectors from the RAM 42, and executes a determination process for determining whether or not the projector count value n is larger than the algebra N. That is, the CPU 41 executes a determination process for determining whether a file that can be projected is assigned to the last projector.

If the projector count value n is less than or equal to the algebra N (S321: NO), the CPU 41 executes the processes after S318 again.
On the other hand, when the projector count value n is larger than the algebra N (S321: YES), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S322. In S322, the CPU 41 reads out the projector count value n and the algebra X as the order of the first projector from the RAM 42, substitutes the algebra X for this projector count value n, stores it in the RAM 42 again, and again performs the processing from S318 Execute. As a result, the CPU 41 does not store a projectable folder, and the mth projection in the root directory stored in the USB memory 21 for the projector having the first projector identification ID “Pn”. Possible files m can be allocated.

  On the other hand, if the file count value m is equal to the algebra M in S319 (S319: YES), the CPU 41 stores a folder including all the projectable files stored in the USB memory 21. It is determined that the projectors are allocated evenly, and the sub-process is terminated. The process returns to the “allocation process” sub-process, and the process proceeds to S121.

[Example of folder allocation processing 1]
Here, an example of “folder allocation process 1” executed when two folders that can be projected and 14 files that can be projected are stored in the USB memory 21 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the USB memory 21 is attached to the projector 11 among the projectors 11 to 14. The USB memory 21 stores the files 111 to 120 and 123 to 126 that can be projected in the root directory, and the files 121 and 122 that cannot be projected in the root directory. The USB memory 21 stores folders 201 and 202 in which a plurality of files that can be projected in the root directory are stored, and a folder 203 in which files that can be projected in the root directory are not stored. The projector identification IDs of the projectors 11 to 14 are P1, P2, P3, and P4 in order.

  Accordingly, the CPU 41 of the main projector 11 assigns the folder 201 storing a plurality of files that can be projected in the root directory to the projector 11, and uses the folder 202 storing the plurality of files that can be projected in the root directory. Assigned to the sub projector 12. Further, the CPU 41 of the projector 11 assigns the projectable files 111 to 120 and 123 to 126 in the root directory equally to the other sub projectors 13 and 14 in order. For example, each of the subprojectors 13 is assigned with each of the files 111, 113, 115, 117, 119, 123, and 125 that can be projected. In addition, each subprojector 14 is assigned with each of the projectable files 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 124, 126.

[Folder allocation process 2]
Next, the sub-process of “folder allocation process 2” executed by the CPU 41 of the main projector, that is, the CPU 41 of the projector with the USB memory 21 mounted in S120 will be described with reference to FIGS.
As shown in FIG. 7, first, in S411 and S412, the CPU 41 executes the processes of S311 and S312.

In S 413, the CPU 41 reads the folder count value f from the RAM 42, adds “1” to the folder count value f, and stores it again in the RAM 42.
Subsequently, in S414, the CPU 41 reads out the folder count value f and the algebra F as the number of folders that can be projected from the RAM 42, and executes a determination process for determining whether or not the folder count value f is larger than the algebra F. That is, the CPU 41 executes a determination process for determining whether all the projectable folders stored in the USB memory 21 have been allocated.

If the folder count value f is less than or equal to the algebra F (S414: NO), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S415. In S 415, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n from the RAM 42, adds “1” to the projector count value n, and stores it again in the RAM 42.
Subsequently, in S416, the CPU 41 reads out the projector count value n and the algebra N as the number of projectors from the RAM 42, and executes a determination process for determining whether or not the projector count value n and the algebra N are equal. That is, the CPU 41 executes a determination process for determining whether or not a projectable folder is to be assigned to the last fourth projector 14.

If the projector count value n and the algebra N are not equal (S416: NO), the CPU 41 executes the processing after S412 again.
On the other hand, when the projector count value n is equal to the algebra N (S416: YES), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S417. In S417, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n from the RAM 42, substitutes “1” for the projector count value n, stores it again in the RAM 42, and then executes the processing from S412 again. As a result, the CPU 41 stores a folder including a file that can be projected only to the projectors 11 to 13 having the projector identification IDs “P1” to “P3”, and stores a folder that can be projected to the last fourth projector 14. You can avoid it.

On the other hand, when the folder count value f is larger than the algebra F in S414 (S414: YES), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S418. In S418, the CPU 41 reads the file count value m from the RAM 42, substitutes “1” for the file count value m, and stores it again in the RAM 42.
In S419, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n and the algebra N from the RAM 42, substitutes the algebra N for the projector count value n, that is, substitutes “4” for the projector count value n, and again the RAM 42. To remember.

  Thereafter, in S420, the CPU 41 reads the projector count value n and the file count value m from the RAM 42, and stores the route stored in the USB memory 21 for the projector having the projector identification ID “Pn”, that is, “PN”. Allocate the mth projectable file m in the directory. That is, when the identification ID of the projector is not “P4”, the CPU 41 applies the mth projectable file m in the root directory to the last fourth sub-projector 14 having the projector identification ID “P4”. Are assigned as projection information.

  When the identification ID of the projector is “P4”, that is, when the USB memory 21 is attached to the projector 14, the CPU 41 of the main projector 14 stores the root directory stored in the USB memory 21. The m th projectable file m is stored in the RAM 42 as projection information.

  Subsequently, in S421, the CPU 41 reads the file count value m and the algebra M as the number of files that can be projected from the RAM 42, and executes a determination process for determining whether the file count value m and the algebra M are equal. That is, the CPU 41 executes a determination process for determining whether all the projectable files stored in the USB memory 21 have been allocated.

  When the file count value m and the algebra M are not equal, that is, when all the projectable files stored in the USB memory 21 are not allocated (S421: NO), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S422. To do. In S422, the CPU 41 reads the file count value m from the RAM 42, adds “1” to the file count value m, stores the file count value in the RAM 42 again, and then executes the processing subsequent to S420 again.

On the other hand, when the file count value m is equal to the algebra M, that is, when all the projectable files stored in the USB memory 21 are allocated (S421: YES), the CPU 41 ends the sub-process. , The process returns to the sub-process of “allocation process” and proceeds to the process of S121.
As a result, the CPU 41 stores the root directory stored in the USB memory 21 with respect to the last fourth projector 14 that does not store the folder including the projectable file in the root directory stored in the USB memory 21. All the files that can be projected can be stored.

[Example of folder allocation processing 2]
Here, an example of “folder allocation process 2” executed when four folders including 14 files that can be projected and 14 files that can be projected are stored in the USB memory 21 will be described with reference to FIG. .

  As shown in FIG. 10, the USB memory 21 is attached to the projector 11 among the projectors 11 to 14. The USB memory 21 stores the files 111 to 120 and 123 to 126 that can be projected in the root directory, and the files 121 and 122 that cannot be projected in the root directory. The USB memory 21 stores folders 211 to 214 in which a plurality of files that can be projected in the root directory are stored. The projector identification IDs of the projectors 11 to 14 are P1, P2, P3, and P4 in order.

  Therefore, the CPU 41 of the main projector 11 assigns each of the root directory projectable folders 211 and 214 to the projector 11, assigns the root directory projectable folder 212 to the other sub-projectors 12, and further projects the root directory. The possible folder 213 is assigned to another sub-projector 13. Further, the CPU 41 of the main projector 11 assigns all the files 111 to 120 and 123 to 126 that can be projected in the root directory to the other sub projectors 14.

[Projection processing]
Next, a sub-process of “projection process” executed by the CPU 41 of each projector 11 to 14 in S17 will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 11, first, in S511, the CPU 41 of each of the projectors 11 to 14 reads the main projector flag from the RAM 42, and whether or not it is set to ON, that is, whether or not its own projector is set as the main projector. A determination process for determining whether or not is executed.
When the main projector flag is set to ON, that is, when the projector is set as the main projector (S511: YES), the CPU 41 of the main projector proceeds to the process of S512.

  In step S512, the CPU 41 of the main projector reads the allocation settings in which the files and folders that can be projected are allocated to the projector and other projectors from the RAM 42, and each of the projectors and other projectors created as the allocation settings The CPU 41 of the main projector, based on the projection list indicating the projection order of the projectable file to be sequentially projected, the file in the folder, and the like, can project to each of the other sub-projectors and can be projected. The folder containing the file is transmitted as projection information via the communication interface 44. On the other hand, when the CPU 41 of another sub-projector receives a projectable file or a folder containing a projectable file as projection information, the received projectable file or a folder containing a projectable file is used as projection information. Store in the RAM 42.

In step S513, the CPU 41 of the main projector reads the projection list of the projector from the RAM 42, and specifies a file that can be projected first, a file in a folder, and the like. Then, the CPU 41 of the main projector reads out the image data such as the specified file from the RAM 42, outputs it to the image processing circuit unit 55, and projects it on the screen 18 with a predetermined size.
Subsequently, in S514, the CPU 41 of the main projector determines whether or not a switching instruction is input from the remote controller 25 via the infrared control unit 48, that is, the user presses the switching buttons 25A and 25B of the remote controller 25 to perform a sending operation. A determination process for determining whether or not has been performed is executed.

If a switching instruction is not input from the remote controller 25 via the infrared control unit 48 (S514: NO), the CPU 41 of the main projector proceeds to the process of S518 described later.
On the other hand, when a switching instruction is input from the remote controller 25 via the infrared control unit 48 (S514: YES), the CPU 41 of the main projector proceeds to the process of S515. In step S515, the CPU 41 of the main projector reads the projection list of the projector from the RAM 42, and specifies a file that can be projected next, a file in a folder, and the like. Then, the CPU 41 of the main projector reads out the image data such as the specified file from the RAM 42, outputs it to the image processing circuit unit 55, and projects it on the screen 18 with a predetermined size.

Subsequently, in S516, the CPU 41 of the main projector executes determination processing for determining whether or not a rejection notification for rejecting the setting of the sub projector is transmitted to another main projector via the communication interface 44. Specifically, the CPU 41 reads out a rejection notification flag (see S618 in FIG. 12), which will be described later, from the RAM 42, and executes a determination process for determining whether or not this rejection notification flag is set to ON.
The rejection notification flag is set to OFF and stored in the RAM 42 when the projectors 11 to 14 are activated.

When a rejection notification for rejecting the setting of the sub projector is transmitted to another main projector, that is, when the rejection notification flag read from the RAM 42 is set to ON (S516: YES), the main projector The CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S518 described later.
On the other hand, when the rejection notification for rejecting the setting of the sub projector is not transmitted to the other main projectors, that is, when the rejection notification flag read from the RAM 42 is set to OFF (S516: NO), The CPU 41 of the main projector proceeds to the process of S517. In S517, the CPU 41 of the main projector transmits to each of the other subprojects a feed signal that instructs the screen 18 to project the next projectable file, the file in the folder, and the like.

  Subsequently, in S518, the CPU 41 of the main projector reads the projection list of the own projector from the RAM 42, and whether or not the last projectable file or the file in the folder has been projected, that is, the projection stored in the RAM 42. A determination process for determining whether or not all possible files and files in the folder have been projected is executed. Further, the CPU 41 of the main projector determines whether or not a projection end instruction is input from the remote controller 25 via the infrared control unit 48, that is, whether or not the user has stopped the projection by pressing the end button 25C of the remote controller 25. A determination process for determining is executed.

If all the projectable files stored in the RAM 42 and the files in the folder are not projected, and if no projection end instruction is input from the remote controller 25 via the infrared control unit 48 (S518). : NO), the CPU 41 of the main projector executes the processing after S514 again.
On the other hand, when all the projectable files stored in the RAM 42 and files in the folder are projected, or when a projection end instruction is input from the remote controller 25 via the infrared control unit 48 (S518: YES), The CPU 41 of the main projector stops projection onto the screen 18 and transmits an end signal instructing to stop projection to each of the other sub projectors, and then ends the sub processing and returns to the main flowchart.

  On the other hand, if the main projector flag is set to OFF in S511, that is, if the projector is set as a sub projector (S511: NO), the CPU 41 of the sub projector proceeds to the process of S519. To do. In step S519, the CPU 41 of the sub-projector receives projection information such as a projectable file to be projected sequentially or a file in a folder via the communication interface 44, and stores this projection information in the RAM.

In step S520, the CPU 41 of the sub-projector reads the projectable file, the file in the folder, and the like from the RAM 42, and specifies the first projectable file to be projected, the file in the folder, and the like. Then, the CPU 41 of the sub-projector reads out the image data such as the specified file from the RAM 42, outputs it to the image processing circuit unit 55, and projects it on the screen 18 with a predetermined size.
The CPU 41 of the sub-projector receives a projection list such as a file that can be projected from the main projector and a file in a folder, reads out image data such as a file from the RAM 42 according to the order of the projection list, and sends it to the image processing circuit unit 55. The image may be output and projected on the screen 18 at a predetermined size.

Subsequently, in S521, whether or not the CPU 41 of the sub projector has received a feed signal instructing to project the next projectable file or the file in the folder on the screen 18 via the communication interface 44. A determination process is performed to determine whether or not.
If a feed signal instructing to project the next projectable file, the file in the folder, etc. on the screen 18 has not been received (S521: NO), the CPU 41 of the sub-projector will be described later. The process proceeds to S523.

  On the other hand, when a feed signal instructing to project the next projectable file or the file in the folder on the screen 18 is received (S521: YES), the CPU 41 of the sub-projector performs the process of S522. Transition. In S522, the CPU 41 of the sub-projector reads out the next projectable file, the file in the folder, and the like from the RAM 42, outputs them to the image processing circuit unit 55, and projects them onto the screen 18 at a predetermined size.

  Subsequently, in S523, the CPU 41 of the sub-projector projects whether or not the last projectable file or the file in the folder has been projected, that is, the projectable file stored in the RAM 42 or the file in the folder or the like. A determination process for determining whether or not all projections have been performed is executed. In addition, the CPU 41 of the sub-projector executes determination processing for determining whether or not an end signal instructing to stop projection is received via the communication interface 44.

When all the projectable files stored in the RAM 42 and the files in the folder are not projected, and when the end signal instructing the projection stop is not received via the communication interface 44 ( (S523: NO), the CPU 41 of the sub-projector executes the processing after S521 again.
On the other hand, when all the projectable files stored in the RAM 42, files in the folder, and the like are projected, or when a termination signal instructing projection stop is received via the communication interface 44 (S523: YES), The CPU 41 of the sub-projector stops projection on the screen 18 and then ends the sub-process and returns to the main flowchart.

[Multiple image projection process 2]
Next, after the USB memory 21 is attached to one of the projectors 11 to 14, and when the USB memory 21 is further attached to any of the sub-projectors, the CPU 41 of each projector 11 to 14 is assigned. The “multiple image projection process 2” for projecting the image data onto the screen 18 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In FIG. 12, after the USB memory 21 is attached to any one of the projectors 11 to 14, the CPU 41 of each projector 11 to 14 is assigned when the USB memory 21 is further attached to any of the sub projectors. 10 is a main flowchart showing a “multiple image projection process 2” for projecting image data on a screen. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a “file allocation process” executed when the USB memory 61 is further attached to the projector 12 after the USB memory 21 is attached to the projector 11.

As shown in FIG. 12, first, in S611, the CPU 41 of each of the projectors 11 to 14 determines whether or not the USB memory 21 for storing a folder or a file including a file that can be projected is inserted in the reading unit 46, that is, A determination process for determining whether or not the USB memory 21 is attached to the reading unit 46 is executed.
If the USB memory 21 storing a folder or file including a projectable file is attached to the reading unit 46 (S6111: YES), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S612. In S612, the CPU 41 reads the main projector flag from the RAM 42 and sets it to ON, and then stores it in the RAM 42 again to set the projector as the main projector.

  Subsequently, in step S613, the CPU 41 of the new main projector transmits a sub-setting notification instructing other projectors to set the sub-projector to the other projector via the communication interface 44, and then proceeds to processing in step S619 described later. .

On the other hand, when the USB memory 21 is not attached to the reading unit 46 in S611 (S611: NO), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S614. In S <b> 614, the CPU 41 executes determination processing for determining whether or not a sub-setting notification instructing the sub-projector to set is received via the communication interface 44.
If the sub-setting notification for instructing the sub-projector to set is not received (S614: NO), the CPU 41 executes the processing after S611 again.

  On the other hand, when the sub setting notification instructing the sub projector to set is received (S614: YES), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S615. In step S615, the CPU 41 reads out the main projector flag from the RAM 42 and executes a determination process for determining whether or not the main projector flag is set to ON, that is, whether or not the main projector is set.

  When the main projector flag is OFF, that is, when the main projector flag is not set (S615: NO), the CPU 41 proceeds to the process of S616. In S616, the CPU 41 reads the main projector flag from the RAM 42 again, sets it to OFF, stores it in the RAM 42, sets the projector as a sub projector, and then proceeds to the process of S619 described later.

On the other hand, when the main projector flag is ON, that is, when the main projector flag is set (S615: YES), the CPU 41 of the main projector proceeds to the process of S617. In step S <b> 617, the CPU 41 of the main projector executes a determination process for determining whether or not a folder, a file, or the like including an unprojectable file is stored in the RAM 42.
If the folder or file containing the unprojectable file or the like is not stored in the RAM 42 (S617: NO), the CPU 41 of the main projector proceeds to the process of S616.

  On the other hand, if the RAM 42 stores a folder, a file, or the like including an unprojectable file (S617: YES), the CPU 41 of the main projector proceeds to the process of S618. In S <b> 618, the CPU 41 of the main projector sends a rejection notification for rejecting the setting of the sub-projector to the other new main projector that has transmitted the sub-setting notification via the communication interface 44. And send it. The CPU 41 of the main projector reads the rejection notification flag from the RAM 42, sets the rejection notification flag to ON, stores it again in the RAM 42, and proceeds to the process of S619.

In S619, the CPU 41 of each of the projectors 11 to 14 executes the sub-process of “allocation process” in S16.
However, in the process of S113, when the CPU 41 of the new main projector receives the rejection notification for rejecting the setting of the sub projector and the projector identification ID via the communication interface 44, the projector ID is used as the sub projector. Is stored in the RAM 42 as the projector identification ID of the other main projector that has rejected the setting.

  Subsequently, the CPU 41 transmits a transmission notification instructing other projectors to transmit the projector identification ID to the projector through the communication interface 44. Then, the CPU 41 sequentially stores the projector identification IDs transmitted from the other projectors in the RAM 42. Thereafter, the number of projector identification IDs excluding the projector identification ID of the main projector that has rejected the setting of the sub projector from the received projector identification ID is counted, and “1” is added to this count value to configure the projector system 1. The number of projectors to be substituted is substituted into the algebra N (for example, N = 3) and stored in the RAM 42.

In the processes of S117, S119, and S120, the CPU 41 adds each projector identification ID excluding the projector identification ID of the main projector that rejected the setting of the sub projector from the other projector identification IDs received in the process of S113. A folder, a file, or the like including a projectable file stored in the USB memory 21 is assigned to each of the sub projectors and the self projector. In addition, the CPU 41 of the projector and other sub projectors to which the folders and files including the projectable files stored in the USB memory 21 are allocated, stores the folders and files including the allocated projectable files. In addition, it is stored in addition to a folder or file containing a projectable file that has already been stored.
Then, the CPU 41 of each of the projectors 11 to 14 ends the process after executing the “projection process” sub-process of S17 in S620.

[Example of file allocation processing]
Here, after the USB memory 21 that stores folders and files including files that can be projected onto the projector 11 is mounted, the USB memory 61 that stores folders and files including files that can be projected onto the projector 12 is further included. An example of the “file allocation process” executed when it is attached will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the USB memory 21 attached to the projector 11 stores files 111 to 120 and 123 to 126 that can be projected in the root directory, and files 121 and 122 that cannot be projected in the root directory. ing. The USB memory 21 stores folders 221 and 222 in which a plurality of files that can be projected in the root directory are stored. The projector identification IDs of the projectors 11 to 14 are P1, P2, P3, and P4 in order.

  Therefore, the CPU 41 of the main projector 11 executes the “folder assignment process 1” (S119), assigns the projectable folder 221 in the root directory to the own projector 11, and assigns the projectable folder 222 in the root directory to other projects. Assigned to the sub-projector 12. Further, the CPU 41 of the main projector 11 assigns each of the projectable files 111 to 120 and S123 to 126 of the root directory equally to the other sub projectors 13 and 14 in order. For example, each of the subprojectors 13 is assigned with each of the files 111, 113, 115, 117, 119, 123, and 125 that can be projected. In addition, each subprojector 14 is assigned with each of the projectable files 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 124, 126.

Thereafter, the USB memory 61 is attached to the other sub-projector 12, and the USB memory 61 stores the files 311 to 320 that can be projected in the root directory.
Then, the sub projector 12 is set as the main projector, and when the CPU 41 of the new main projector 12 transmits the sub setting notification to the other projectors 11, 13, 14, the CPU 41 of the main projector 11 Since the folder 221 including the projectable file is stored in the RAM 42, a rejection notice and the projector identification ID “P1” are transmitted to the new main projector 12 (S614: YES to S615: YES to S617: YES ~ S618)

  For this reason, the CPU 41 of the new main projector 12 selects each of the projectors 13 and 14 as a sub-projector, and executes the “file allocation process” (S117). Therefore, the CPU 41 of the new main projector 12 allocates each of the projectable files 311, 314, 317, and 320 to the projector 12, adds it to the folder 222 containing the projectable file, and stores it in the RAM 42. Further, the CPU 41 of the new main projector 12 assigns each of the projectable files 312, 315, and 318 to the other sub-projector 13, and further projects each of the projectable files 313 and 316 to the other sub-projector 14. 319. Then, the CPU 41 of the sub-projector 13 adds the allocated projectable files 312, 315, and 318 to the projectable files 111 to 125 and stores them in the RAM 42. The CPU 41 of the sub-projector 14 adds the allocated projectable files 313, 316, and 319 to the projectable files 112 to 126 and stores them in the RAM 42.

[Effect of Example]
As described above, in the projector system 1 according to the present embodiment, when the USB memory 21 storing a folder or a file including a projectable file is attached to any one of the projectors 11 to 14, this USB The CPU 41 of the projector equipped with the memory 21 sets its own projector as the main projector. Then, the CPU 41 of the main projector transmits a sub-setting notification for instructing other projectors to set the sub-projector, and the CPU 41 of each of the other projectors that has received this sub-setting notification determines that the projector is a sub-projector. (S11 to S15). Then, the CPU 41 of the main projector allocates a folder, a file, and the like including a projectable file in the root directory stored in the USB memory 21 to the projector and each of the other sub projectors (S16).

  As a result, the main projector and each sub-projector can be automatically set only by mounting the USB memory 21 storing a folder or file including a projectable file on any one of the projectors 11 to 14. This makes it possible to save the user from setting. Further, since the projector equipped with the USB memory 21 is automatically set as the main projector and the other projectors are automatically set as the sub projectors, the user can easily identify the main projector.

  Further, by simply mounting the USB memory 21 on any one of the projectors 11 to 14, folders and files including the projectable files in the root directory stored in the USB memory 21 are stored in the projectors 11. To 14 can be automatically assigned, and it is possible to save time and effort set by the user. Further, since there is no need to provide a personal computer or the like that supplies the projectors 11 to 14 with folders and files including files that can be projected in the root directory, it is possible to save space and reduce maintenance costs. .

  Further, the CPU 41 of the main projector assigns the projectable files in the root directory stored in the USB memory 21 equally to the projectors 11 to 14 in the process of S117, that is, according to the order stored in the USB 21. Since the assignment is performed in the repeated order, the assignment process is simplified, and the assignment process can be speeded up. Further, the CPU 41 of each of the projectors 11 to 14 can switch and project the image data to be projected on the screen 18 for each file.

  Further, the CPU 41 of the main projector allocates the projectable file in the root directory stored in the USB memory 21 and the folder containing the file to different projectors in the processes of S119 and S120. The CPU 41 can automatically and sequentially project the files in the folder.

Further, when a switching instruction is input from the remote controller 25 via the infrared control unit 48, the CPU 41 of the main projector projects the next image data on the screen 18 and the next sub-projector with respect to the next sub-projector. A feed signal instructing to project the image data onto the screen 18 is transmitted, and the next image data is projected onto the screen 18 (S17).
As a result, the user operates the remote controller 25 to instruct the main projector to project the next image data on the screen 18, whereby the next image data to be projected on the screen 18 of the main projector and each sub projector. Can be performed in synchronization.

  In addition, after the USB memory 21 is attached to any one of the projectors 11 to 14, and when the USB memory 21 is further attached to any of the sub projectors, the sub projector to which the USB memory 21 is attached is Set your projector as the new main projector. Then, the CPU 41 of the new main projector transmits a sub setting notification instructing other projectors to set the sub projector (S611 to S613). Further, the CPU 41 of each sub-projector that has received this sub-setting notification sets its own projector as the sub-projector (S614: YES to S615: NO to S616). In addition, the CPU 41 of the main projector that has received this sub-setting notification automatically issues a refusal notification for refusing the setting of the sub-projector when the RAM 42 stores folders, files, etc. including unprojectable files. A projector identification ID for identifying the projector is attached and transmitted (S614: YES to S615: YES to S617: YES to S618). On the other hand, if the CPU 41 of the main projector does not store a folder or file including unprojectable files in the RAM 42, the CPU 41 sets the projector as a sub projector (S614: YES to S615: YES to S617). ~ S616).

  As a result, the folder or file containing files that can be projected to other sub-projectors while the main projector equipped with the USB memory 21 storing the folders and files containing the projectable files is projecting image data onto the screen 18. When the USB memory 21 that stores the information is mounted, the user can easily identify that the projector mounted with the USB memory 21 is set as the main projector.

  Further, after the main projector equipped with the USB memory 21 that stores folders and files including projectable files projects all the folders and files including projectable files stored in the RAM 42 onto the screen 18, When the USB memory 21 that stores folders and files including files that can be projected is attached to the sub-projector, the user confirms that only the projector to which the USB memory 21 is attached is set as the main projector later. It can be easily identified.

Further, when the CPU 41 of the main projector, to which the USB memory 21 is attached later, receives a rejection notification for rejecting the setting of the sub projector and the projector identification ID, each of the other projectors except for the projector with the projector identification ID is received. A folder, file, or the like including a projectable file stored in the USB memory 21 attached to the projector and the projector is allocated (S619).
As a result, a folder or a file containing a projectable file stored in the USB memory 21 attached later is automatically added to each projector other than the main projector that has notified the rejection notification among the projectors 11 to 14. Can be assigned, and the user can save time and effort.

In addition, each of the projectors 41 except for the projector having the projector identification ID and the CPU 41 of the projector adds the assigned folder or file to a folder or file containing a projectable file already stored in the RAM 42. (S619).
As a result, it becomes possible to sequentially project by sequentially switching folders, files, and the like including projectable files stored in the projectors other than the main projector that has notified the rejection notification.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said Example, Of course, various improvement and deformation | transformation are possible within the range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention. For example, the following may be used.

  (A) In step 619, as shown in FIG. 14, the CPU 41 of the projector 12 to which the USB memory 61 is attached later selects the projectors 13 and 14 as sub-projectors, and then selects a folder containing files that can be projected. The projectable files 311 to 320 stored in the USB memory 61 may be allocated only to the projectors 13 and 14 that are not stored in the RAM 42. Here, FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example in which the CPU 41 of the projector 12 to which the USB memory 61 is attached later assigns each projectable file stored in the attached USB memory 61.

  As a result, a projectable file and a folder including the file can be assigned to different projectors, and the CPU 41 of the projector to which the folder is assigned can automatically and sequentially project the files in the folder. Become.

  (B) Also, as shown in FIG. 15, the CPU 41 of the main projector attaches the projectable file stored in the USB 21 to each file in the sub-process of “file allocation process” in step 117. You may make it allocate to an own projector and each other sub projector according to a certain extension. Here, FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of image data stored by each projector allocated by the “file allocation process”.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the CPU 41 of the main projector 11 assigns each file 411 to 416 with the extension “.bmp” to the projector, and each file 511 to 514 with the extension “.jpg” to the sub projector 12. Furthermore, the files 611 to 614 having the extension “.doc” are assigned to the sub projector 13. The CPU 41 of the main projector 11 does not allocate a projectable file to the sub-projector 14 because no projectable file with another extension is stored in the USB memory 21.

  As a result, the CPU 41 of the main projector 11 allocates the projectable file stored in the USB 21 to the own projector and each of the other sub projectors according to the extension attached to each file, so that the allocation process is simplified. Therefore, it is possible to speed up the allocation process. Further, it is possible to project image data of a projectable file stored in the USB 21 by dividing it into landscape images, tables, graphs, text information, and the like, and it is possible to provide a video that is easier to view.

  (C) Further, the CPU 41 of the main projector, in the sub-process of the “file allocation process” in the above-mentioned step 117, updates the projectable files stored in the USB 21 with the update date / time information (for example, year) attached to each file. Based on the date, the day of the week, the time zone, etc.).

  Thus, the CPU 41 of the main projector allocates the projectable files stored in the USB 21 based on the update date / time information attached to each file, so that the allocation process is simplified and the allocation process is accelerated. It becomes possible. In addition, the projectable files stored in the USB 21 can be displayed side by side in the order of update date and time, and images that change with time can be synchronized and projected onto the screen 18.

  (D) The CPU 41 of each of the projectors 11 to 14 may execute the process of step 616 instead of step 617 and step 618. Thereby, since the projector to which the USB memory 21 is finally attached is preferentially set as the main projector, the user can easily identify the main projector. Further, it becomes possible to efficiently assign folders, files, and the like including projectable files stored in the USB memories 21 to the projectors 11 to 14.

  (E) When the main projector flag is ON, that is, when the main projector flag is set to the main projector (S615: YES), the CPU 41 of each of the projectors 11 to 14 executes the process of step 617. Instead, the process may proceed to step 618. As a result, the user can more easily identify the main projector.

It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the projector system which concerns on a present Example. It is a circuit block diagram which shows the circuit structure of the principal part of a projector. FIG. 10 is a main flowchart showing a “multiple image projection process 1” in which the CPU of each projector projects the assigned image data onto a screen when a USB memory is attached to any of the projectors. FIG. 4 is a sub-flowchart showing a sub process of “allocation process” in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a sub-flowchart showing a sub-process of “file allocation process” in FIG. 4. 5 is a sub-flowchart showing a sub-process of “folder allocation process 1” of FIG. 5 is a sub-flowchart showing a sub-process of “folder allocation process 2” of FIG. 4. It is a figure which shows an example of the image data which each projector allocated by the "file allocation process" stores. It is a figure which shows an example of the image data which each projector allocated by the "folder allocation process 1" stores. It is a figure which shows an example of the image data which each projector allocated by "folder allocation process 2" stores. 4 is a sub-flowchart showing a sub-process of “projection process” in FIG. 3. After a USB memory is installed in one of the projectors, and when a USB memory is further installed in any of the sub-projectors, the CPU of each projector projects the assigned image data on the screen “multiple images” It is a main flowchart which shows a projection process 2 ". It is a figure which shows an example of the "file allocation process" performed when a USB memory is mounted | worn with another projector after the USB memory was mounted | worn with the projector. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a CPU of a projector to which a USB memory is attached later allocates each projectable file stored in the attached USB memory in another embodiment. In another Example, it is a figure which shows an example of the image data which each projector allocated by the "file allocation process" stores.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Projector system 11-14 Projector 18 Screen 21, 61 USB memory 25 Remote control 41 CPU
42 RAM
43 Nonvolatile memory 44 Communication interface 46 Reading unit 111-126, 311-320 File 411-416, 511-514, 611-614 File 201-203, 211-214, 221, 222 Folder

Claims (14)

Communication means capable of communicating with other projectors;
Reading means for reading projection information that can be projected from a projection information holding medium holding a plurality of projection information;
Allocating means for allocating the projectable projection information read out via the reading means to the projector and other projectors via the communication means;
Storage means for storing projectable projection information assigned by the assigning means;
A projector comprising: A projector system comprising a plurality of projectors including the projector according to claim 1,
The projector system according to claim 1, wherein the assigning unit assigns the projection information of the root directory held in the projection information holding medium equally to the projector and other projectors. A projector system comprising a plurality of projectors including the projector according to claim 1,
The projector system is characterized in that the allocating unit allocates projection information in the root directory held in the projection information holding medium to the projector and other projectors according to extensions attached to the projection information. A projector system comprising a plurality of projectors including the projector according to claim 1,
The assigning means assigns projection information that can be projected in the root directory held in the projection information holding medium to the projector and another projector based on the update date and time attached to the projection information. .   5. The projector system according to claim 2, wherein the projectable projection information of the root directory held in the projection information holding medium includes a projectable file. Projection projection information of the root directory held in the projection information holding medium includes a folder having a projectable file,
6. The projector system according to claim 5, wherein the allocating unit allocates the projectable file in the root directory held in the projection information holding medium and the folder to different projectors. The projector is
A main projector setting unit that sets the projector as a main projector when the projection information holding medium that holds the projection information that can be projected is attached to the reading unit;
A sub-setting instruction means for transmitting a sub-projector setting instruction for instructing other projectors to set as a sub-projector via the communication means when the projector is set as a main projector;
Sub-projector setting means for setting the projector as a sub-projector when the sub-projector setting instruction is received via the communication means;
The projector system according to claim 2, further comprising: The projector is
Switching receiving means for receiving a switching instruction for switching a projectable file or for switching a screen in a projectable file composed of a plurality of screens;
When the main projector is set and a switching instruction is received via the switching receiving means, a sub switching instruction is issued to instruct the sub-projector to switch a file that can be projected via the communication means. A sub switching instruction means for transmitting;
A file switching means for switching a file that can be projected by the projector when the sub switching instruction is transmitted or received;
The projector system according to claim 7, further comprising:   The sub-projector setting means sets the self-projector as a sub-projector when the sub-projector setting instruction is received via the communication means even if the own projector is set as the main projector. The projector system according to claim 7 or 8.   The projector includes storage control means for controlling to add and store the projection information that can be projected by the allocating means in addition to the projection information that is already stored in the storage means. The projector system according to claim 9, wherein: The projector is
If the sub-projector setting instruction is received via the communication means while the projector is set as the main projector, it is determined whether projection information that can be projected is stored in the storage means. Projection information determination means;
When it is determined that projection information that can be projected is stored in the storage unit via the projection information determination unit, a rejection notification for refusing to set the projector as a sub projector is sent to the new main projector. Refusal notifying means for notifying other set projectors via the communication means;
If it is determined that projection information that can be projected is not stored in the storage unit via the projection information determination unit, a setting change unit that sets the projector as a sub projector via the sub projector setting unit;
The projector system according to claim 7 or 8, further comprising:   When the projector receives the sub-projector setting instruction via the communication means in a state where the projector is set as a main projector, a new rejection notification for refusing to set the projector as a sub-projector is newly issued. 9. The projector system according to claim 7, further comprising a rejection notification unit that notifies another projector set as a main projector through the communication unit.   When the projector receives the rejection notification via the communication means, the projector reads out to the other projectors and the projector other than the projector that has notified the rejection notification via the allocation means via the reading means. 13. The projector system according to claim 11, further comprising an allocation control unit that controls to allocate projection information that can be projected.   The projector has storage control means for controlling to store the projection information that can be projected by the assignment control means in addition to the projection information that is already stored in the storage means. The projector system according to claim 13, comprising: a projector system according to claim 13.

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