DE102023126988A1 - BROADCASTING RECEPTION DEVICE AND BROADCASTING RECEPTION METHOD - Google Patents

Abstract

Reducing a time required to complete an update or the like of a station list.A broadcast receiving device includes a broadcast signal detection unit configured to detect a receivable broadcast signal from a frequency channel; a program name detection unit configured to detect a first program name multiplexed on the detected broadcast signal; a pseudonym detection unit configured to detect a temporary second program name for the first program name that cannot be detected in a predetermined time after the start of detection of the broadcast signal from the first program names multiplexed on the broadcast signal; a list processing unit configured to, when the first program name or the second program name is detected for all programs multiplexed on a first broadcast signal, create or update a station list for the first broadcast signal by using the detected program names of all programs; and a channel changing unit configured to change a frequency channel as a detection target by the broadcast signal detection unit from a first frequency channel to a second frequency channel on which the detection processing by the broadcast signal detection unit is not performed.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a broadcast receiving apparatus and a broadcast receiving method.

STATE OF THE ART

A broadcast receiving apparatus capable of receiving a broadcast signal in which a plurality of programs are multiplexed is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

For example, this type of broadcast receiving apparatus detects a receivable broadcast signal from a frequency channel, creates or updates a station list when the program names of all programs multiplexed on the detected broadcast signal are detected, changes a channel selection destination to a next frequency channel, and performs similar processing.

[State of the art documents]

[Patent documents]

Patent Document 1: Unexamined Japanese Patent Application 2010-124159

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

TASK TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

For example, when the number of programs multiplexed in the broadcast signal is large or when a large amount of information other than the program name is multiplexed in the broadcast signal, the radio frequency of the program name decreases. For this reason, the broadcast receiving device may not be able to acquire the program names of all the programs multiplexed on the broadcast signal until several dozen seconds or more have passed after detecting the broadcast signal. In this case, there is a problem that it takes too much time to complete the creation or updating of the channel list.

In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide a broadcast receiving apparatus and a broadcast receiving method capable of reducing a time required to complete creation or updating of a broadcast list.

MEANS TO SOLVE THE TASK

A broadcast receiving apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a broadcast signal detection unit configured to detect a receivable broadcast signal from a frequency channel; a program name detection unit configured to detect a first program name multiplexed on the broadcast signal detected by the broadcast signal detection unit; a pseudonym detection unit configured to detect a temporary second program name for the first program name that cannot be detected in a predetermined time after the start of detection of the broadcast signal from the first program names multiplexed on the broadcast signal; a list processing unit configured to, when the first program name or the second program name is detected for all programs multiplexed on a first broadcast signal, create or update a station list for the first broadcast signal by using the detected program names of all programs; and a channel changing unit configured to change a frequency channel as a detection target by the broadcast signal detecting unit from a first frequency channel on which the first broadcast signal is transmitted to a second frequency channel on which the detection processing by the broadcast signal detecting unit is not performed.

EFFECT OF THE INVENTION

According to an embodiment of the present invention, in a broadcast receiving apparatus and a broadcast receiving method, it is possible to reduce a time required to complete creation or updating of a station list.

SHORT DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWING

• 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a broadcast receiving apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• 2 is a flowchart illustrating the processing of a broadcast receiving program executed by a microprocessor unit (MPE) of the broadcast receiving apparatus in the embodiment of the present invention;
• 3A is a diagram illustrating an update example of a channel list when all service identifiers displayed on a channel list in step S 101 of 2 detected ensemble are multiplexed;
• 3B is a diagram illustrating an update example of a channel list when it is not possible to detect some service identifiers displayed on the channel list in step S 101 of 2 recognized whole;
• 4 is a flowchart illustrating the processing performed using a sub-tuner in the embodiment of the present invention;
• 5 is a flowchart illustrating label sorting processing performed in Modification Example 1 of the present invention;
• 6A is a diagram illustrating an example of a reception history stored in Modification Example 1 of the present invention;
• 6B is a diagram showing an example of the channel list after the sorting processing in step S304 of 5 illustrated;
• 7 is a flowchart illustrating label sorting processing performed in Modification Example 2 of the present invention;
• 8A is a diagram illustrating a part of data obtained when an ensemble is received in Modification Example 2 of the present invention;
• 8B is a diagram showing an example of a channel list after the sorting processing in step S405 of 7 illustrates,
• 9 is a flowchart illustrating label sorting processing performed in Modification Example 3 of the present invention;
• 10A is a diagram illustrating a part of data obtained when an ensemble is received in Modification Example 3 of the present invention; and
• 10B is a diagram showing an example of a channel list after the sorting processing in step S505 of 9 illustrated.

EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The following description relates to a broadcast receiving apparatus and a broadcast receiving method according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, as an embodiment of the present invention, a broadcast receiving apparatus and a broadcast receiving method capable of receiving an ensemble of digital audio broadcasting (DAB) will be described as an example.

In the present embodiment, an ensemble of DAB is taken as an example of a digital broadcast signal as a processing target. In another embodiment, a digital broadcast signal in another format conforming to a standard other than DAB may be used as a processing target.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a broadcast receiving apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in 1 , the broadcast receiving apparatus 1 includes an MPE 100, a human-machine interface (HMI) 110, DAB signal processing circuits 120A and 120B, an output circuit 130, an audio amplifier 140, a speaker 150, a flash read only memory (ROM) 160, and a display 170. It should be noted that 1 illustrates the main structural elements necessary for describing the present embodiment, and some structural elements such as a housing which is an essential structural element of the broadcast receiving apparatus 1 are not illustrated as applicable.

The broadcast receiving device 1 is, for example, an in-vehicle device in a vehicle mounted on a vehicle running on a road. The broadcast receiving device 1 may be an independent device or may be a device forming part of a navigation device or an in-vehicle infotainment (IVI). The broadcast receiving device 1 is not limited to the in-vehicle device and may be other forms such as smartphones, feature phones, tablet terminals, personal computers (PCs), personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable navigation devices (PNDs), portable game devices, and the like.

The MPE 100 executes a broadcast reception program 162 stored in the flash ROM 160. That is, the broadcast reception apparatus 1 including the MPE 100 is an example of a computer that executes the broadcast reception program 162.

The MPE 100 includes a random access memory (RAM), a flash ROM and the like and controls the entire broadcast receiver receiving device 1. For example, the MPE 100 loads various programs including the broadcast receiving program 162 stored in the flash ROM 160 into the RAM which is a work area, and controls the broadcast receiving device 1 according to the loaded programs.

The MPE 100 is a single processor or a multiprocessor and includes, for example, at least one processor. When configured to include a plurality of processors, the MPE 100 may be packaged as a single device or it may include multiple devices that are physically separated within the broadcast receiving device 1.

The broadcast receiving program 162 stored in the flash ROM 160 causes the broadcast receiving device 1, which is an example of the computer, to perform processing (in other words, a broadcast receiving method including a series of types of processing as follows): detecting a receivable broadcast signal from a frequency channel; detecting a first program name multiplexed on the detected broadcast signal; detecting a temporary second program name for the first program name that cannot be detected in a predetermined time after the start of detection of the broadcast signal from the first program names multiplexed on the broadcast signal; and when the first program name or the second program name is detected for all the programs multiplexed on a first broadcast signal, changing a frequency channel as a detection target of the broadcast signal from a first frequency channel on which the first broadcast signal is transmitted to a second frequency channel on which detection processing by the broadcast signal is not performed.

For example, execution of the broadcast reception program 162 makes it possible to reduce a time required to complete creation or updating of a station list. Details of the broadcast reception program 162 will be described below.

The MPE 100 includes a display control part 100A, a broadcast signal detection unit 100B, a program name detection unit 100C, a pseudonym detection unit 100D, a list processing unit 100E, a channel change unit 100F, a time setting unit 100G, and an interruption information detection unit 100H as functional blocks. Each functional block is realized by the broadcast reception program 162 executed by the MPE 100. Each functional block may be partially or completely implemented by hardware such as a dedicated logic circuit.

In the HMI 110, various user interfaces of hardware, software, or a combination thereof are adopted. For example, the HMI 110 is a mechanical switch key mounted on a front of a main body of the broadcast receiving device 1, a graphical user interface (GUI) provided under a touch panel environment, a remote controller, or the like. A user can designate a receiving station, cause the broadcast receiving device 1 to perform creation processing of a broadcast list, or cause the broadcast receiving device 1 to perform update processing of the broadcast list, for example, by operating the HMI 110.

For example, when the user performs a channel selection operation on the HMI 110, information about a selected channel determined by the channel selection operation is stored in the flash ROM in the MPE 100. For example, immediately after the broadcast receiving apparatus 1 is turned on or when the channel selection operation is performed by the user, the MPE 100 controls the channel selection operations of the DAB signal processing circuits 120A and 120B according to the information about the selected channel stored in the flash ROM.

The DAB signal processing circuits 120A and 120B are circuits that perform reception processing of an ensemble. The DAB signal processing circuit 120A includes an antenna 122A, an RF unit 124A, a demodulation unit 126A, and a signal detection unit 128A. The DAB signal processing circuit 120B includes an antenna 122B, an RF unit 124B, a demodulation unit 126B, and a signal detection unit 128B. The configurations of the DAB signal processing circuit 120A and the DAB signal processing circuit 120B are the same as each other. Therefore, the DAB signal processing circuit 120B will be described with reference to the DAB signal processing circuit 120A, and the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

It should be noted that in the present embodiment, the two DAB signal processing circuits 120A and 120B are provided with the antennas 122A and 122B, respectively. However, in another embodiment, instead of the two antennas 122A and 122B, one antenna may be provided which is connected to the RF unit 124A and the RF unit 124B. That is, the two DAB signal processing circuits 120A and 120B may have a common antenna.

The antenna 122A receives broadcast radio waves transmitted from each broadcast station and outputs a reception signal. The RF unit 124A extracts an ensemble of the selected channel from the reception signal input from the antenna 122A and outputs the extracted ensemble to the demodulation unit 126A.

The ensemble is roughly configured by a synchronization channel used for frame synchronization at the time of demodulation, a fast information channel (FIC) including service configuration information and the like, and a main service channel (MSC) including an audio service and a data service.

The FIC is configured by a fast information block (FIB) and includes identifiers such as a service identifier (SID), an ensemble identifier (EID), and a service component identifier within the service (SCIdS), and marks data (e.g., a service identifier indicating a broadcast service name (broadcast program name)) associated with the identifiers. The FIB includes a fast information group (FIG) and a cyclic redundancy check (CRC). The FIG is classified into eight types from Type 0 to Type 7 according to usage.

The FIG includes HardLink service information, Frequency Information (FI), Other Ensemble Service Information (OE Service Information) and Service Link Information (SL Information) required to perform a DAB-DAB connection.

The demodulation unit 126A demodulates the ensemble input from the RF unit 124A and selects and demodulates a service (i.e., a program) from the demodulated ensemble. Thus, an audio signal and display data are obtained. The display data includes, for example, a service identifier.

The signal detection unit 128A detects, for example, multiplexed data obtained from the demodulation unit 126A that demodulates the ensemble, and also detects the reception signal quality of the ensemble based on an error rate. The signal detection unit 128A can detect the reception signal quality of the ensemble based on, for example, the electric field strength of reception radio waves or an SN ratio of the reception radio waves.

An audio signal SA obtained by demodulation processing of the demodulation unit 126A is output to the output circuit 130. Also, an audio signal SB obtained by the demodulation processing performed by the demodulation unit 126B is output to the output circuit 130.

The output circuit 130 includes a selector. The output circuit 130 outputs one of the audio signal SA input from the DAB signal processing circuit 120A and the audio signal SB input from the DAB signal processing circuit 120B 140 to the audio amplifier according to an instruction from the MPE 100.

In the present embodiment, the DAB signal processing circuit 120A is regarded as a main tuner, and the DAB signal processing circuit 120B is regarded as a sub-tuner. Basically, the MPE 100 controls the output circuit 130 to output the audio signal SA.

When the reception signal quality of the ensemble by the DAB signal processing circuit 120A is poor (for example, a value indicating the reception signal quality is smaller than a first threshold value) and the reception signal quality of the ensemble by the DAB signal processing circuit 120B is favorable (for example, the value indicating the reception signal qualities is equal to or greater than the first threshold value), the MPE 100 controls the output circuit 130 to output the audio signal SB. In addition, in a state where the output circuit 130 is controlled to output the audio signal SB, when the reception signal quality of the ensemble by the DAB signal processing circuit 120B is poor and the reception signal quality of the ensemble by the DAB signal processing circuit 120A is favorable, the MPE 100 switches the output of the output circuit 130 from the audio signal SB to the audio signal SA.

The audio signal output from the output circuit 130 is output and reproduced as audio from the speaker 150 by gain adjustment by the audio amplifier 140 according to the volume.

The display data obtained by the demodulation processing performed by the demodulation unit 126A is output to the display 170. Thus, for example, the service identifier of a reproduced service is displayed on the display 170.

A channel list 164 is stored in the flash ROM 160. The channel list 164 is list data that stores information such as an ensemble identifier, a service identifier, a SID, an SCIds, a type (primary, secondary), hard link service information, an FI, an OE service, and SL information in association with each other. The channel list 164 may be referred to as a "service list."

For example, the MPE 100 controls the DAB signal processing circuit 120A to perform the DAB station list update processing. In short, the MPE 100 outputs a reception control signal to the DAB signal processing circuit 120A to issue an instruction to select a frequency channel on which an ensemble is broadcast. The DAB signal processing circuit 120A performs reception processing according to the reception control signal input from the MPE 100. When an ensemble is not detected in a target frequency channel (i.e., when a receivable ensemble is not detected), the reception processing is performed on the next frequency channel. The station list update processing may be performed in ascending order from the lowest frequency channel or may be performed in descending order from the highest frequency channel. When a receivable ensemble is detected and the demodulation processing is successfully performed, service configuration information required to update the station list is obtained. The DAB signal processing circuit 120A outputs the acquired service configuration information to the MPE 100.

The MPE 100 updates the station list 164 stored in the flash ROM 160 using the service configuration information input from the DAB signal processing circuit 120A. That is, the MPE 100 performs the station list update processing.

Note that when the channel list 164 is not stored in the flash ROM 160, the "channel list update processing" is replaced with "channel list creation processing." That is, when the channel list 164 is not stored in the flash ROM 160, the MPE 100 performs the processing as described above to create the channel list 164 and store the created channel list 164 in the flash ROM 160.

The following description is made assuming that the channel list 164 is stored in the flash ROM 160. In a case where the channel list 164 is not stored in the flash ROM 160, "updating" is appropriately replaced by "creating".

The MPE 100 may display on the display 170 a list of service identifiers included in the channel list 164 through a user operation on the HMI 110. For example, a portion of the list (a list in an area within a screen of the display 170) is displayed. For example, the user may select a service to play from the list displayed on the display 170.

As described above, the MPE 100 functions as the display control part 100A that displays at least a portion of the channel list 164 on the display 170 (an example of a display device).

For example, when the number of services multiplexed in the ensemble is large or when a large amount of information other than a service identifier is multiplexed in the FIC, the broadcast frequency of the service identifier decreases. Therefore, there is a case where the broadcast receiving apparatus 1 is unable to detect all the service identifiers multiplexed in the ensemble if it takes several tens of seconds or more since the detection of the ensemble. In this case, since time is required to process an ensemble, the time from the start to the completion of the update processing of the channel list is too long.

Therefore, when a time is required to acquire the service identifier multiplexed in the ensemble, the broadcast receiving apparatus 1 interrupts the acquisition processing and changes the channel selection target to the next frequency channel and assigns an alternative identifier to a service identifier that has not been acquired. As a result, even when an ensemble in which the broadcast frequency of the service identifier is low is included, the time required for the update processing of the channel list is reduced.

2 is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the broadcast reception program 162 executed by the MPE 100 in the embodiment of the present invention. For example, when the MPE 100 receives a user operation instructing execution of the broadcast list update processing, execution of the processing of the broadcast reception program 162 in 2 When the execution of the processing of the flow chart is started, the MPE 100 outputs a reception control signal to the DAB signal processing circuit 120A to issue an instruction to select a frequency channel.

As in 2 As illustrated in FIG. 1, the MPE 100 determines whether or not the currently selected frequency channel is occupied (step S 101). In other words, the MPE 100 determines whether or not an ensemble is detected in the selected frequency channel. For example, the MPE 100 determines that the ensemble has been detected when the demodulation processing has been performed on the selected frequency channel, and determines that the ensemble has not been detected when the demodulation processing has not been performed on the selected frequency channel.

As described above, in step S 101, the MPE 100 functions as the broadcast signal detection unit 100B that detects a receivable ensemble (an example of a broadcast signal) from the frequency channel.

If no ensemble is detected (step S101: NO), the MPE 100 determines whether or not all frequency channels of the DAB have been searched (step S102). If all frequency channels of the DAB have been searched (step S102: YES), the MPE 100 ends the processing of this flowchart. If an unsearched frequency channel remains (step S102: NO), the MPE 100 changes the channel selection target to the next frequency channel (step S103), causes the DAB signal processing circuit 120A to receive the next frequency channel, and performs the processing in and after step S101 in the next frequency channel.

The MPE 100 is provided with a timer 102 which is a clock generating means. When the ensemble is detected (step S101: YES), the MPE 100 resets the count value of the timer 102 (step S104) and starts counting the timer 102 (step S105). The timer 102 starts counting with, for example, a detection time of the ensemble as a starting point.

Then, the MPE 100 functions as a program name detection unit 100C that detects a service identifier (an example of a first program name) multiplexed in an ensemble (an example of a broadcast signal) detected by the broadcast signal detection unit 100B.

Then, the MPE 100 determines whether or not all the service identifiers multiplexed in the ensemble detected in step S101 have been detected (step S106). For example, the MPE 100 compares the number of detected SIDs with the number of detected service identifiers. The MPE 100 determines that all the service identifiers have been detected if the number of detected SIDs is equal to the number of detected service identifiers, and determines that an undetected service identifier remains if the number of detected SIDs is not equal to the number of detected service identifiers.

If the unrecognized service identifier remains (step S106: NO), the MPE 100 determines whether or not a timeout occurs (step S107). For example, if the count value of the timer 102 exceeds a predetermined value, the MPE 100 determines that the timeout has occurred. If the timeout has not occurred (step S107: NO), the MPE 100 returns to the determination process of step S106.

When all the service identifiers multiplexed in the ensemble detected in step S101 are detected (step S106: YES), it means that the service identifiers of all the services multiplexed in the ensemble are detected within the time indicated by a predetermined value (in other words, the predetermined time) from a detection time of the ensemble. On the other hand, when the timeout has occurred (step S107: YES), it means that it is not possible to detect the service identifier of at least one service among all the services multiplexed in the ensemble within the predetermined time from the detection time of the ensemble.

As described above, in steps S106 and S107, the MPE 100 functions as a determination unit that determines whether or not the service identifiers (an example of the first program name) of all the services multiplexed in the ensemble are detected within a predetermined time after the ensemble (an example of the broadcast signal) is detected by the broadcast signal detection unit 100B.

If all the service identifiers multiplexed in the ensemble detected in step S101 have been detected (step S106: YES), the MPE 100 updates the channel list 164 for that ensemble (step S109). If an unscanned channel remains (step S102: NO), the MPE 100 changes the channel selection target to the next frequency channel (step S103) and performs the processing in and after step S101 on the next frequency channel.

3A is a diagram illustrating an example of updating the channel list 164 when all service identifiers stored on a Step S101 detected ensemble are multiplexed. As in 3A As illustrated, the MPE 100 sorts all service markings received from this ensemble in alphabetical order.

In case of a timeout (step S107: YES), the MPE 100 assigns an alternative identifier to a service for which the service identifier has not been acquired (step S108). The MPE 100 assigns a fixed text (for example, "unacquired service identifier") as the alternative identifier.

The MPE 100 can assign the service identification recorded in the past as an alternative identification.

For example, a reception history 166 is stored in the flash ROM 160. The reception history 166 includes, for example, past reception information (information in which an ensemble ID, a frequency channel, a SID, a service identifier, and the like are associated with each other). The MPE 100 searches for a SID in the past reception information whose ensemble ID and frequency channel match those of the ensemble detected in step S 101 and which matches a SID from which it is not possible to acquire the service identifier. When the corresponding SID is found in the past reception information, the MPE 100 assigns a service identifier associated with the found SID as an alternative identifier. That is, this service identifier is a service identifier acquired in the past, and is indicated by, for example, “Service A (History)” in 6A and 6B which are described later.

As described above, in step S108, the MPE 100 functions as a pseudonym detection unit 100D that detects an alternative identifier (an example of a temporary second program name) for a service identifier that cannot be detected within a predetermined time from the start of detection of an ensemble (i.e., until timeout) from service identifiers (an example of the first program names) multiplexed on an ensemble (an example of a broadcast signal).

The MPE 100 updates the station list 164 for this ensemble (step S109). If the non-scanned channel remains (step S102: NO), the MPE 100 changes the channel selection target to the next frequency channel (step S103) and performs the processing in and after step S101 on the next frequency channel.

3B is a diagram illustrating an update example of the channel list 164 when it is not possible to detect some of the service identifiers multiplexed in the ensemble detected in step S101 (that is, when the timeout has occurred in step S107). As shown in 3B As illustrated, the MPE 100 sorts the service identifiers (an example of the first program name) detected from the ensemble (an example of the first program name) detected in step S101 to the upper level, and sorts the alternative identifiers (an example of the second program name) to the lower level. The service identifiers are sorted, for example, in alphabetical order. The alternative identifiers are sorted, for example, in numerical order of the SID. Such sorting is conveniently referred to as "basic sorting."

In this way, when the predetermined time has elapsed from the detection timing of the ensemble, the MPE 100 changes the channel selection target to the next frequency channel even though the undetected service identifier remains. Therefore, compared with a configuration in which the channel selection target is not changed to the next frequency channel, the time required to complete the update processing of the channel list 164 is reduced provided that all the service identifiers multiplexed in the ensemble are detected.

In step S109, the MPE 100 functions as the list processing unit 100E which, when the service identifier (an example of the first program name) or the alternative identifier (an example of a second program name) is detected for all the services (an example of a program) multiplexed in an ensemble (an example of a first broadcast signal), updates (or creates) the station list 164 for the ensemble using the detected identifiers (service identifiers or alternative identifiers) of all the services. The MPE 100, which functions as the list processing unit 100E, sorts the service identifier (an example of the first program name) and the alternative identifier (an example of the second program name) detected from the ensemble detected in step S101 in the station list 164 according to a predetermined condition.

In step S103, the MPE 100 operates as the channel change unit 100F which, when the service identifier (an example of the first program name) or the alternative identifier (an example of a second program name) for all services (an example of a program) is detected, changes the frequency channel as a detection target by the broadcast signal detection unit 100B from a first frequency channel (current frequency channel) on which the first broadcast signal is transmitted, to a second frequency channel (next frequency channel) on which the detection processing by the broadcast signal detection unit 100B is not performed.

After the end of the flow chart of 2 a service heard by the user is reproduced using, for example, the DAB signal processing circuit 120A which is the main tuner.

If the alternative identifier is included in the channel list 164, the MPE 100 starts the execution of the steps described in the flow chart of 4 using the DAB signal processing circuit 120B which is the sub-tuner. When execution of the processing of this flowchart is started, the MPE 100 outputs a reception control signal to the DAB signal processing circuit 120B to issue an instruction to select a frequency channel.

As in 4 , the MPE 100 determines whether or not an undetected service label exists in the selected frequency channel (step S201). For example, the MPE 100 checks a list of ensembles broadcast on the selected frequency channel in the station list 164 to determine whether or not there is an alternative label. If no alternative label is detected (step S201: NO), the MPE 100 determines whether or not all frequency channels of the DAB have been scanned (step S202: YES), the MPE 100 ends the processing of this flowchart. If an undetected frequency channel remains (step S202: NO), the MPE 100 changes the channel selection target to the next frequency channel (step S203) and performs the processing in and after step S201 on the next frequency channel.

If an alternative identifier is present (step S201: YES), the MPE 100 performs acquisition processing of the service identifier multiplexed in the ensemble transmitted on the selected frequency channel. Then, the MPE 100 determines whether or not all the service identifiers multiplexed in the ensemble have been acquired (step S204).

If all service identifiers multiplexed in the ensemble have been detected (step S204: YES), the MPE 100 updates the channel list 164 for this ensemble (step S205).

In step S205, the alternative identifier registered in the channel list 164 is replaced with a service identifier acquired at that time, and then the service identifiers are sorted in, for example, alphabetical order. As a result, for example, the service identifier registered in 3B illustrated list including the alternative marking updated to the latest list of service markings (see 3A) . It is possible to obtain the channel list 164 in which all the latest service labels are registered, thereby reducing the time required for the channel list update processing of 2 is required.

As described above, the MPE 100 operating as the program name acquisition unit 100C continues the acquisition processing of the service identifier (an example of the first program name) even after the timeout (even after the lapse of the predetermined time). In addition, the MPE 100 operating as the list processing unit 100E replaces the service identifier (an example of the first program name) newly acquired by the acquisition processing with the corresponding alternative identifier (an example of the second program name) in the channel list 164, and sorts the respective service identifiers after replacing the alternative identifier with the service identifier according to the predetermined condition (for example, in alphabetical order).

The above is a description of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and various modifications are possible within a scope of the technical concept of the present invention. For example, embodiments and the like expressly exemplified in the specification or combinations of obvious embodiments and the like are also included in the embodiments of the present application as necessary.

Although the predetermined time used for the timeout determination is a fixed value in the above embodiment, the predetermined time may be dynamically changed in another embodiment.

If the number of services multiplexed in an ensemble (conveniently referred to as “the number α of services”) increases, it tends to take longer to detect all service identifiers. Therefore, the MPE 100 may set the predetermined time longer as the number α of services increases.

As the time interval required to acquire a service tag (for convenience, referred to as "time interval β") increases, it tends to take longer to acquire all service tags. Therefore, the MPE 100 may set the predetermined time longer as the time interval β increases.

The reception history 166 includes, as the past reception information, for example, a history of the time required to receive the ensemble. This time is stored in association with other information (ensemble ID, frequency channel, SID, and the like). The time required to receive the ensemble (conveniently referred to as "time γ") is, for example, the previous time required for the ensemble to detect all service identifiers, and is the predetermined time described above when the timeout occurred.

In this case, the MPE 100 may set the predetermined time according to the time γ indicated by a history. For example, the MPE 100 shortens the predetermined time when the time γ indicated by the history is short, and lengthens the predetermined time when the time γ indicated by the history is long.

As described above, the MPE 100 may function as the time setting unit 100G that sets the predetermined time based on at least one of the number of services (an example of the number of programs) multiplexed in the ensemble (an example of the broadcast signal), the time interval required to detect a service identifier, and the history of the time required to receive the ensemble.

For example, since the predetermined time is set to an appropriate time for each ensemble, it is possible to acquire more service identifiers during the update processing while reducing the time required to complete the update processing of the station list 164.

If it is estimated that it will take longer to collect all the service identifiers multiplexed in the ensemble (for example, if the number α of services is equal to or greater than a first number, the time interval β is equal to or greater than a first time interval, or the time γ indicated by the history is equal to or greater than a first time), a longer time tends to be required to complete the update processing of the channel list 164.

Thus, in another embodiment, when the above-described estimation is made, the MPE 100 may change the frequency channel as the detection target by the broadcast signal detection unit 100B to the next frequency channel, for example, at a time when all the SIDs multiplexed in the ensemble are detected. In this case, it is possible to further reduce the time required to complete the update processing of the station list 164.

In the above embodiment, the service labels are sorted in alphabetical order, and the alternative labels are sorted in numerical order of the SIDs, but the sorting method is not limited to this.

5 is a flowchart illustrating label sorting processing performed at the time of update processing (step S109 of 2 ) of the channel list 164 in Modification Example 1.

As in 5 As illustrated in Fig. 1, the MPE 100 determines whether a playback number sorting function is set to ON or not (step S301). The user can perform switching between ON and OFF of the playback number sorting function using, for example, the HMI 110. If the playback number sorting function is OFF (step S301: NO), the MPE 100 sorts the service labels acquired from the ensemble detected in step S101 into 2 to the upper level and sorts the alternative labels to the lower level (step S302). That is, the MPE 100 sorts the labels with the 3B illustrated basic sorting.

6A is a diagram illustrating an example of the reception history 166 according to Modification Example 1. As in 6 , the reception history 166 in Modification Example 1 includes a history of the number of times each service has been reproduced in the broadcast receiving apparatus 1. This number of times of reproduction is stored in association with other information (ensemble ID, frequency channel, SID, and the like).

As described above, the flash ROM 160, which is an example of a storage unit, stores the SID (an example of an identifier corresponding to a program multiplexed on the broadcast signal) and the number of times a service has been played so far (an example of a program program) in the radio receiving device 1 in communication with each other.

When the playback number sorting function is ON (step S301: YES), the MPE 100 checks the number of times of playback associated with each SID corresponding to the number of times of playback specified in step S101 of 2 recognized ensemble from the reception history 166 (step S303), and sorts the labels based on the number of times of reproduction (step S304). That is, the MPE 100 operating as the list processing unit 100E sorts the service label (an example of the first program name) and the alternative label (an example of the second program name) in the station list 164 in the order based on the number of times of reproduction.

6B is a diagram illustrating an example of the channel list 164 after the sorting processing in step S304. Here, it is assumed that three service identifiers are acquired from six service identifiers. In 6B the corresponding number of times of playback is conveniently added to the right side of the station list 164.

As in 6B As illustrated, the MPE 100 performs sorting so that, for example, a label of a service having a greater number of times of playback is at a higher level. Note that labels having the same number of times of playback are sorted according to the basic sorting. By performing sorting so that the label of the service having the greater number of times of playback is at a higher level, the channel list 164 is provided with high convenience to the user.

7 is a flowchart illustrating label sorting processing performed at the time of update processing (step S109 of 2 ) of the channel list 164 in modification example 2.

As in 7 As illustrated in Figure 1, the MPE 100 determines whether a genre sorting function is set to ON or not (step S401). The user can perform switching between ON and OFF of the genre sorting function using, for example, the HMI 110. If the genre sorting function is OFF (step S401: NO), the MPE 100 sorts the labels with the order specified in 3B illustrated basic sorting (step S402).

8A is a diagram illustrating a part of data obtained when an ensemble is received in Modification Example 2. Here, it is assumed that three service labels are acquired from six service labels. The reception data includes a program type (PTY). The PTY includes, for example, genre information such as pop, jazz, radio, and rock.

If the genre sorting function is ON (step S401: YES), the MPE 100 checks the PTY (ie, genre) associated with each SID, which is stored in the reception data of the program stored in step S101 of 2 recognized ensembles (step S403).

Then, the MPE 100 checks the priority of the genre (step S404). The priority of the genre is set in advance according to, for example, a user operation on the HMI 110. Here, it is assumed that priorities are set in the order of pop, jazz, radio, and rock.

The MPE 100 sorts the labels based on the priority of the genre (step S405).

8B is a diagram illustrating an example of the channel list 164 after the sorting processing in step S405. In 8B the corresponding genre is conveniently added to the right side of the channel list 164.

As in 8B As illustrated, the MPE 100 performs sorting so that, for example, a label of a service belonging to a higher priority genre is located at a higher level. Note that labels having the same genre are sorted according to the basic sorting. By performing sorting so that the label of the service belonging to the higher priority genre is located at a higher level, the channel list 164 is provided with high convenience to the user.

9 is a flowchart illustrating label sorting processing performed at the time of update processing (step S109 of 2 ) of the channel list 164 in modification example 3.

As in 9 As illustrated in Fig. 1, the MPE 100 determines whether an interrupt sorting function is set to ON or not (step S501). The user can perform switching between ON and OFF of the interrupt sorting function using, for example, the HMI 110. If the interrupt sorting function is OFF (step S501: NO), the MPE 100 sorts the labels with the order specified in 3B illustrated basic sorting (step S502).

10A is a diagram illustrating a part of data obtained when an ensemble is received in Modification Example 3. Here, it is assumed that three service identifiers are acquired from six service identifiers. The received data includes a bit flag indicating the type of interrupt transmission. For example, b1 of the bit flag indicates "Rord Traffic Flash" and b2 of the bit flag indicates "Transport Flash".

The MPE 100 functions as the interruption information acquisition unit 100H that acquires a SID (an example of an identifier) corresponding to a service (an example of a program) multiplexed in an ensemble (an example of a broadcast signal) detected by the broadcast signal detection unit 100B, and information of an interruption transmission associated with the SID (bit flag).

If the interrupt sorting function is ON (step S501: YES), the MPE 100 checks the bit flag (ie interrupt transmission) associated with each SID included in the reception data of the data packet generated in step S101 of 2 recognized ensembles (step S503).

Then, the MPE 100 checks the priority of the interrupt transmission (step S504). The priority of the interrupt transmission is set in advance according to, for example, a user operation on the HMI 110. Here, it is assumed that the priorities are set in an order of b8, b7, b6, and b5 for the bit flag.

The MPE 100 sorts the labels based on the priority of the interrupt transmission (step S505).

10B is a diagram illustrating an example of the channel list 164 after the sorting processing in step S505. In 10B the corresponding bit flag is conveniently added to the right side of the channel list 164.

As in 10B As illustrated, the MPE 100 performs sorting so that, for example, a label of a service having interrupt transmission is at a higher level. Note that the labels of the services having the same interrupt transmission to which the priority is set are sorted according to the basic sorting. In addition, sorting is performed by the basic sorting for a service having an interrupt transmission whose priority is set or a service without an interrupt transmission. By performing sorting so that the label of the service having an interrupt transmission with the higher priority is at a higher level, the channel list 164 is provided with high convenience for the user.

As described above, the MPE 100 operating as the list processing unit 100E sorts the service identifier (an example of the first program name) and the alternative identifier (an example of the second program name) in the channel list 164 in order based on the interrupt transmission information.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS

1

Radio reception device

100

MPU

100A

Display control part

100B

Broadcast signal detection unit

100C

Program name acquisition unit

100D

Pseudonym recording unit

100E

List processing unit

100F

Channel change unit

100 G

Time setting unit

100H

Interruption information acquisition unit

102

Timer

120A

DAB signal processing circuit

120B

DAB signal processing circuit

162

Radio reception program

164

Channel list

166

Reception history

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• JP2010124159 [0004]

Claims (7)

A broadcast receiving apparatus comprising: a broadcast signal detection unit configured to detect a receivable broadcast signal from a frequency channel; a program name detection unit configured to detect first program names multiplexed on the broadcast signal detected by the broadcast signal detection unit; a pseudonym detection unit configured to detect a temporary second program name for the first program name that cannot be detected in a predetermined time after the start of detection of the broadcast signal from the first program names multiplexed on the broadcast signal; a list processing unit configured to, when the first program name or the second program name is detected for all programs multiplexed on a first broadcast signal, create or update a station list for the first broadcast signal by using the detected program names of all programs; and a channel changing unit configured to change a frequency channel as a detection target by the broadcast signal detecting unit from a first frequency channel on which the first broadcast signal is transmitted to a second frequency channel on which the detection processing by the broadcast signal detecting unit is not performed. Radio reception device according to Claim 1 , further comprising: a time setting unit configured to set the predetermined time based on at least one of a number of programs multiplexed on the broadcast signal, a time interval required to detect one of the first program names, and a history of times required to receive the broadcast signal. Radio reception device according to Claim 1 wherein the program name acquisition unit continues the acquisition processing of the first program name even after the lapse of the predetermined time, and the list processing unit replaces the first program name newly acquired by the acquisition processing with the corresponding second program name in the channel list, and sorts each of the first program names after replacing the second program name with the first program name according to a predetermined condition. Radio reception device according to Claim 1 , further comprising: a storage unit configured to store an identifier corresponding to the program multiplexed on the broadcast signal and a number of times the program has been reproduced so far in the broadcast receiving apparatus in association with each other, wherein the list processing unit sorts the first program name and the second program name in the station list in an order based on the number of times of reproduction. Radio reception device according to Claim 1 , further comprising: an interruption information acquisition unit configured to acquire an identifier corresponding to the program multiplexed on the broadcast signal and information about an interruption broadcast associated with the identifier, wherein the list processing unit sorts the first program name and the second program name in the station list in an order based on information about the interruption broadcast. Radio reception device according to one of the Claims 2 until 5 , further comprising: a display control part configured to display at least a portion of the channel list on a display device. A broadcast receiving method comprising: detecting a receivable broadcast signal from a frequency channel; detecting a first program name multiplexed on the detected broadcast signal; detecting a temporary second program name for the first program name which cannot be detected in a predetermined time after the start of detection of the broadcast signal from the first program names multiplexed on the broadcast signal; when the first program name or the second program name is detected for all programs multiplexed on a first broadcast signal, creating or updating a station list for the first broadcast signal by using the detected program names of all programs; and changing a frequency channel as a detection target of the broadcast signal from a first frequency channel on which the first broadcast signal is transmitted to a second frequency channel on which the detection processing by the broadcast signal is not performed.

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