JP2004015831A - Remote controller control system for devices connected to bus and program storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To solve the problem that a proposed remote controller control system for devices connected to a bus does not have a means to select a device to be controlled when various devices are connected to a bus. <P>SOLUTION: A device 2 is used as a controller, and transmits instructions from a remote controller to the controlled device. The controller 2 switches the controlled device to another controlled device according to a preset rule, whenever it receives an instruction to switch the controlled device sent from a remote controller 30. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

The present invention relates to a remote control system for a bus-connected device that controls a device connected to a bus by a remote controller, and a program recording medium.

リ モ コ ン There is a remote control system for bus-connected devices that controls a plurality of devices connected to the bus using a remote controller.

Hereinafter, this remote control system will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 15 shows a configuration of the controller 50 and the target 22 of the remote control system for the bus-connected equipment.

A plurality of devices such as an STB (set top box: satellite receiver), VTR, and TV are connected to the bus 1. One of them also functions as the controller 50. Further, any one of a plurality of devices connected to the bus 1 is the target 22 controlled by the controller 50.

{For example, it is assumed that the STB also functions as the controller 50 and the target 22 is a VTR.

The controller 50 is a device that receives a key code indicating an instruction sent from a remote controller (not shown) and controls the target 22 based on the instruction.

The target 22 is a device that executes an instruction sent from the controller 50.

The controller 50 includes a remote control receiving unit 16, a code selecting unit 15, an instruction executing unit 17, a digital I / F 51, a GUI information acquiring unit 13, and a display unit 14.

The target 22 includes a digital I / F 23, a key code detection unit 24, an instruction execution unit 25, and a GUI information output unit 26.

The remote control receiving unit 16 included in the controller 50 is a means for receiving a key code sent from the remote controller.

The code selecting unit 15 is means for determining whether to send the key code to the command execution unit 17 or the digital I / F 51 according to the content of the key code sent from the remote controller.

The command execution unit 17 is a means for executing a command specified by the remote controller. Since the controller 50 also has the function of the STB, the command executed by the command execution unit 17 is a command for controlling the STB, such as switching of a receiving channel, turning on / off the main power supply of the STB, and adjusting the volume.

The digital I / F 51 is means for transmitting a key code for controlling the target 22 to the target 22 and receiving GUI information from the target 22 in addition to exchanging AV data with other devices.

The 情報 GUI information acquisition unit 13 is means for acquiring GUI information for controlling the function of the target 22 from the digital I / F 51.

The display unit 14 is a means for outputting the GUI information to the monitor connected to the STB by OSD (On Screen Display).

The digital I / F 23 constituting the target 22 is means for transmitting GUI information to the controller 50 and receiving a key code indicating an instruction from the controller 50, in addition to exchanging AV data with other devices.

The key code detection unit 24 detects the key code sent from the digital I / F 23, sends the key code representing the operation command to the command execution unit 25, and sends the key update command to the GUI information output unit 26. It is a means of sending.

The command execution unit 25 is a means for executing a command represented by a key code. Since the target 22 is a VTR, the command executed by the command execution unit 25 is a command for controlling the VTR, such as a command such as a reproduction start, a reproduction end, a recording start, and a recording end.

The GUI information output unit 26 is a means for outputting GUI information to the digital I / F 23 in accordance with a GUI update command.

Next, the operation of the remote control system for such a bus-connected device will be described.

The GUI information output unit 26 of the target 22 outputs GUI information necessary for controlling itself to the digital I / F 23.

The digital I / F 23 sends this GUI information to the digital I / F 51 of the controller 50 via the bus 1.

The digital I / F 51 sends the received GUI information to the GUI information acquisition unit 13.

The GUI information acquisition unit 13 sends the GUI information to the display unit 14, and the display unit 14 outputs the GUI information by OSD.

に し て In this way, the GUI for controlling the target 22 is displayed on the monitor of the STB which also serves as the controller 50.

The user operates the remote controller while viewing the GUI screen of this monitor.

と す る It is assumed that the user operates the operation keys of the remote controller. Then, the remote controller sends the corresponding key code to remote control receiver 16.

(4) The remote control receiver 16 receives the key code sent from the remote controller.

If the key code is a key code addressed to the own device, the code selecting unit 15 sends the key code to the command execution unit 17, and if the key code is a key code for controlling another device, the key code is sent to the digital I / F 51. send.

For example, the key code for changing the receiving channel is a key code for the own device, and the key code for starting reproduction is a key code for controlling another device.

と す る It is assumed that a key code for changing the reception channel has been sent from the remote controller.

In this case, the code selection unit 15 sends a key code for changing the reception channel to the command execution unit 17, and the command execution unit 17 changes the reception channel of the STB that also functions as the controller 50.

と す る Also, assume that a key code for starting playback is sent from the remote controller.

In this case, the code selection unit 15 sends a key code for starting reproduction to the digital I / F 51, and the digital I / F 51 sends this key code to the target 22 via the bus 1.

The digital I / F 23 of the target 22 receives the key code and passes it to the key code detection unit 24.

(4) The key code detection unit 24 detects the key code, and sends it to the instruction execution unit 25 because this key code is a key code for controlling the VTR.

(4) The instruction execution unit 25 starts reproduction of the VTR.

When controlling the target 22 in this way, the controller 50 does not need to understand the contents of the key code of the remote controller and only needs to transfer the key code to the target 22.

と す る Further, it is assumed that the user operates the remote controller to display a submenu while looking at the GUI screen displayed on the monitor of the STB.

Then, the remote controller sends out the key code.

(4) The remote control receiver 16 receives the key code sent from the remote controller.

The code selection unit 15 determines that the key code is a key code for controlling another device, and sends the key code to the digital I / F 51.

The digital I / F 51 sends the key code to the target 22 via the bus 1.

The digital I / F 23 receives the key code and sends it to the key code detection unit 24.

The key code detection unit 24 detects the key code, and sends the key code to the GUI information output unit 26 because the key code is a command for updating the GUI.

The GUI information output unit 26 outputs the corresponding GUI information to the digital I / F 23.

The digital I / F 23 sends the GUI information to the controller 50 via the bus 1.

The digital I / F 51 receives the GUI information and sends it to the GUI information acquisition unit 13.

(4) The GUI information acquisition unit 13 outputs the GUI information to the display unit 13, and the display unit 14 outputs the GUI information to the monitor connected to the STB by OSD.

よ う The GUI screen is updated in this way. The user continues to operate the remote controller while viewing the updated GUI screen.

In such a remote control system for a bus-connected device, a single remote controller can control a target connected to the bus and a device also serving as a controller.

However, when various devices are connected to the bus, the remote control system for the bus-connected devices does not have a method of determining which device sends the key code. That is, there is a problem that there is no method for switching the controlled device.

Although remote controllers have keys, the number of keys is limited to operate various devices. That is, there is a problem that the number of keys is limited in the remote controller, and the functions that can be operated by the remote controller are limited.

と Also, when various devices are connected on the bus, it is necessary to always be aware of which device is being operated by the remote controller. Otherwise, for example, the sound of the television may be adjusted while the sound is being output from the amplifier. That is, there is a problem that the controlled device cannot be controlled without making the user aware of the device.

The present invention takes into consideration the problem that when various devices are connected on the bus, there is no method of switching which device is to be the controlled device, and when various devices are connected on the bus, An object of the present invention is to provide a remote control system and a program recording medium for a bus-connected device having a method of switching whether to be a controlled device.

In addition, the present invention takes into account the problem that when various devices are connected on the bus, the number of keys on the remote controller is limited, and the functions that can be operated by the remote controller are limited. It is an object of the present invention to provide a remote control system and a program recording medium for a bus-connected device in which functions that can be operated by the remote controller are not limited even when the number of keys of the remote controller is limited when the various devices are connected.

In addition, the present invention considers the problem that a controlled device cannot be controlled without being conscious of the user, and a remote control system and a program recording device for a bus-connected device that can control the controlled device without being conscious of the user. The purpose is to provide a medium.

In order to solve the above-described problem, a first present invention provides a bus,
A plurality of devices connected to the bus,
A remote controller for controlling any one of the plurality of devices,
Any one of the plurality of devices has a function as a controller controlled by the remote controller,
Among the plurality of devices, all or two or more devices are controlled devices controlled by the remote controller,
The device also serving as the controller is for transmitting an instruction from the remote controller to the controlled device,
The controller is a remote control system for a bus-connected device, wherein the controller sends a key code indicating an instruction sent from the remote controller to the controlled device.

Further, in the second invention, the controller checks each device before sending the key code to the controlled device, and checks the controlled device only for a device having a function of processing the key code. The first aspect of the present invention is a remote control system for a bus-connected device according to the present invention, wherein the key code is transmitted.

In a third aspect of the present invention, the key code is to turn on and off power.
Before the controller sends a key code to turn off the power, the controller checks whether each device is turned on or off, and sends the key code to turn off the power to the device that is turned on. Power off,
After that, when the power is turned on, a key code for turning on the power is sent only to the device that has been turned on, and the remote control control system for a bus-connected device according to the second aspect of the present invention is provided.

A fourth invention is the remote control system for a bus-connected device according to any one of the first to third inventions, wherein the bus is an IEEE 1394 bus.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a remote controller for a remote control system for a bus-connected device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects of the present invention. A program recording medium which records a program to be executed by a computer and is readable by a computer.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a remote control system for a bus-connected device and a program recording medium having a method of switching which device is a controlled device when various devices are connected to a bus.

Further, the present invention provides a remote control system and a program recording system for a bus-connected device in which, when various devices are connected to a bus, even if the number of keys on the remote controller is limited, the functions that can be operated by the remote controller are not limited. A medium can be provided.

The present invention can also provide a remote control system for a bus-connected device and a program recording medium that can control a controlled device without making the user conscious of the device.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

(First Embodiment)
First, a first embodiment will be described.

FIG. 1 shows a configuration of a remote control system for a bus-connected device according to the present embodiment.

ＳＴSTB2, VTR1 (3), VTR2 (4), VTR3 (5) are connected to the bus 1. Further, there is a remote controller 30 for controlling devices connected to the bus 1.

The bus 1 is an IEEE standard for High High performance Serial Bus described in IEEE 1394-1995, and is used for exchanging AV data and commands between devices.

STB 2 is a set-top box (satellite broadcast receiver) that receives satellite broadcasts and displays them on a monitor, transfers received AV data to other devices via bus 1, Is a device for displaying AV data transmitted from the device on a monitor.

VTR1 (3), VTR2 (4), VTR3 (5) are video tape recorders for recording and reproducing AV data.

The STB2, VTR1 (3), VTR2 (4), and VTR3 (5) transmit Specifications of Digital Digital Interface for Consumer Electronic Equipment and a device control command for transmitting AV signals in IEEE1394. AV data and commands are exchanged via the bus 1 based on AV / C \ command \ transaction \ set.

(4) The remote controller 30 is means for operating the devices connected to the bus 1 such as STB2, VTR1 (3), VTR2 (4), and VTR3 (5).

FIG. 2 shows the configuration of the controller 6 among the configurations of the devices. The controller 6 is a device that controls a device connected to the bus 1 based on an instruction from the remote controller 30. In this embodiment, the STB 2 also functions as the controller 6.

The controller 6 includes a digital I / F 10, a transfer destination storage unit 11, a bus configuration storage unit 12, a GUI information acquisition unit 13, a display unit 14, a code selection unit 15, a remote control reception unit 16, and an instruction execution unit 17.

FIG. 3 shows a portion of the configuration of the STB 2 other than the controller 6. The STB 2 includes a digital I / F 10, a tuner 18, a descrambler 19, a transport decoder 20, and an AV decoder 21. The antenna 3 and the monitor 7 are connected to the STB 2.

FIG. 4 shows the configuration of the target 22. The target 22 is a part of the VTR 1 (3), VTR 2 (4), and VTR 3 (5) that processes a key code sent from the remote controller 30, and any one of them is controlled by the controller 6. It is a control device.

The target 22 includes a digital I / F 23, a key code detection unit 24, an instruction execution unit 25, and a GUI information output unit 26.

The digital I / F 10 constituting the controller 6 sends a key code for controlling the target 22 to the target 22 in addition to exchanging AV data with other devices, receives GUI information from the target 22, and resets the bus. This is a means for storing the device configuration in the bus configuration storage means 12 at the time of detection, and storing the transfer destination for transferring the key code in the transfer destination storage means 11.

The transfer destination storage unit 11 is a unit that stores a transfer destination of a key code for controlling another device among the key codes transmitted from the remote controller 30. The other device control code is transferred to the transfer destination stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11.

The bus configuration storage unit 12 is a unit that stores a device configuration.

The 情報 GUI information acquisition unit 13 is means for acquiring GUI information for controlling the function of the target 22 from the digital I / F 10.

The display unit 14 is a means for outputting GUI information to the monitor 7 connected to the STB 2 by OSD (On Screen Display).

The code selector 15 is means for determining whether to send the key code to the command execution unit 17 or the digital I / F 10 based on the content of the key code sent from the remote controller 30.

The remote control receiver 16 is a means for receiving a key code sent from the remote controller 30.

The command execution unit 17 is a means for executing a command specified by the remote controller 30. Since the STB 2 also has the function of the controller 6, the command executed by the command execution unit 17 is a command for controlling the STB 2 such as switching of a channel to be received, turning on / off the main power supply of the STB 2, and adjusting the volume.

The digital I / F 10 constituting the STB 2 also functions as an interface for the controller 6, and is a means for exchanging AV data.

The tuner 18 is means for receiving and demodulating a broadcast wave transmitted from a broadcast station.

The descrambler 19 is means for decrypting the demodulated AV data when the demodulated AV data is encrypted for broadcasting.

Note that the AV data is sent as an MPEG2 transport stream. Here, MPEG is an abbreviation of Motion Picture Expert Group, and MPEG2 is a standard of standard number 13818 in ISO / IEC.

The transport decoder 20 is means for separating an MPEG2 transport stream.

The AV decoder 21 is a means for expanding the separated compressed AV data and converting it into an analog signal.

The antenna 3 is means for converting a broadcast wave into an electric signal. The monitor 7 is a means for displaying AV data and for displaying GUI information sent from the controlled device.

The digital I / F 23 constituting the target 22 is means for transmitting GUI information to the controller 50 and receiving a key code indicating an instruction from the controller 50, in addition to exchanging AV data with other devices.

The key code detection unit 24 detects the key code sent from the digital I / F 23, sends the key code representing the operation command to the command execution unit 25, and sends the key update command to the GUI information output unit 26. It is a means of sending.

The command execution unit 25 is a means for executing a command represented by a key code. Since the target 22 is a VTR, the command executed by the command execution unit 25 is a command for controlling the VTR, such as a command such as a reproduction start, a reproduction end, a recording start, and a recording end.

The GUI information output unit 26 is a means for outputting GUI information to the digital I / F 23 in accordance with a GUI update command.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

The digital I / F 10 checks the configuration of the devices connected to the bus 1 when the bus reset is detected, and stores the name and the node number of each device in the bus configuration storage unit 12.

と す る Now, suppose that STB2 has Broadcast in connection with 63 channels. Then, it is assumed that the VTR 1 (3) has Broadcast \ out \ connection with 63 channels. That is, it is assumed that the AV data reproduced by the VTR 1 (3) is input to the STB 2 and output to the monitor 7 of the STB 2.

The digital I / F 10 checks a device having a Broadcast out connection for 63 channels at regular intervals, for example, once a minute, and stores the name and node number of the device in the transfer destination storage unit 11. At present, since the VTR 1 (3) has a Broadcast \ out \ connection with 63 channels, the name and the node number of the VTR 1 (3) are stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11.

However, when switching of the controlled device by the remote controller 30 is performed, even if the device having Broadcast {out} connection with 63 channels is changed to a device other than the controlled device, the controlled device of the controlled device by the remote controller 30 is changed. For three minutes after the switching is performed, the digital I / F 10 keeps the node number of the controlled device and the name of the device stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11. This will be described later.

\ Broadcast \ out \ connection can be disconnected by another device. That is, when the user presses the play key on the operation panel of the VTR 2 (4), the VTR 2 (4) disconnects the Broadcast \ out \ connection on the VTR 1 (3), and the Broadcast \ out \ connection changes to 63 channels. Stretch. When one minute has passed since the last check, the digital I / F 10 checks a device having Broadcast \ out \ connection for channel 63, and stores the name and node number of the VTR 2 (4) in the transfer destination storage unit 11.

It is assumed that the device having Broadcast out connection on channel 63 is VTR1 (3). The device name stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11 is sent to the GUI acquisition unit 13 via the digital I / F 10 and is output on the display unit 14 by OSD. As a result, as shown in FIG. 5, "VTR1" which is the name of VTR1 (3) is displayed on the upper right of the screen of the monitor 7.

(4) The devices stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11 are controlled by the remote controller 30.

Hereinafter, an operation in which the device stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11 is controlled by the remote controller 30 will be described.

That is, when the name of the VTR 1 (3) and the node number are stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11 and the user presses the fast forward playback key of the remote controller 30, the remote controller 30 issues a key for instructing fast forward playback. Send out the code.

(4) The remote control receiver 16 receives the key code and sends the key code to the code selector 15.

The code selector 15 determines whether it is a key code for controlling itself or a key code for controlling another device. The key code for controlling itself is sent to the command execution unit 17, and the key code for controlling other devices is sent to the digital I / F 10. By the way, when a key code for controlling itself is sent to the instruction execution unit 17, the instruction execution unit 17 executes the instruction content of this key code. For example, an instruction to change the reception channel of the tuner 18 of the STB 2 is executed.

Since the key code for instructing fast-forward playback sent from the remote controller is a key code for controlling another device, the code selecting unit 15 sends this key code to the digital I / F 10.

The digital I / F 10 refers to the device name and the node number stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11 and converts the key code sent from the code selection unit 15 into the node number stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11. To the device. That is, as described above, this key code is transferred to VTR1 (3). Thus, the controller 6 transfers the key code sent from the remote controller 30 to the controlled device.

$ VTR1 (3) receives this key code as target 22. That is, the digital I / F 23 receives this key code and sends it to the key code detection unit 24.

(4) The key code detection unit 24 determines the key code. If the key code is a GUI update command, the key code is sent to the GUI information output unit 26. If the key code is an operation command, the key code is sent to the command execution unit 25. Since the key code just sent is a key code for instructing fast-forward playback, the key code detection unit 24 sends the key code to the instruction execution unit 25.

(4) The instruction execution unit 25 executes fast forward reproduction.

As described above, the remote controller 30 can control the VTR 1 (3) to perform fast forward reproduction.

In other words, as a default, the device to be controlled by the remote controller 30 is a device having Broadcast \ out \ connection on 63 channels.

Further, since the VTR 1 (3) is controlled as a default, the remote controller 30 can freely perform not only fast forward playback but also playback, still, rewind playback, recording, recording pause, stop, fast forward, and rewind. VTR1 (3) can be controlled.

The operation in which the device stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11 is controlled by the remote controller 30 has been described above.

Next, suppose that the user tries to reproduce the AV data recorded on the VTR 3 (5). In this case, as described above, it is possible to reproduce the VTR 3 (5) even by pressing the reproduction key on the operation panel of the VTR 3 (5). Here, another method will be described.

{That is, an operation of switching a device to be controlled by the remote controller 30 using the remote controller 30 will be described.

(5) When the user attempts to reproduce the AV data recorded on the VTR 3 (5), the character "VTR1" is displayed on the upper right of the screen of the monitor 7 as shown in FIG. That is, the VTR 1 (3) is controlled by the remote controller 30.

Therefore, the user presses the device switching key of the remote controller 30.

Then, the remote controller 30 sends out a key code for instructing device switching.

The remote control receiver 16 receives the key code sent from the remote controller 30 and sends the key code to the code selector 15.

The code selector 15 determines the key code. That is, since the sent key code is a key code for changing the transfer destination, the key code is sent to the digital I / F 10.

The digital I / F 10 refers to the device name and the node number stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11. Then, the node number stored in the bus configuration unit 12 and the node number having the next largest number after the node number stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11 and the device name of the node number are stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11. Remember. If there is no node number whose number is larger than the node number stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11, the transfer destination storage unit 11 stores the node number having the smallest number and the name of the device having the node number. Assume that the name of the device newly stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11 in this manner is “VTR2” representing VTR2 (4).

(4) Further, the digital I / F 10 sends the GUI information including the device name newly stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11 to the GUI information acquisition unit 13.

(4) The GUI information acquisition unit 13 outputs the GUI information to the display unit 14.

(4) The display unit 14 outputs an OSD to the monitor 7.

(5) As a result, what is displayed as “VTR1” at the upper right of the screen of the monitor 7 as shown in FIG. 5 is switched to “VTR2”. In this way, the device to be controlled by the remote controller 30 can be switched from the VTR 1 (3) to the VTR 2 (4).

Assume that the names of STB2, VTR1 (3), VTR2 (4), and VTR3 (5) are “STB”, “VTR1”, “VTR2”, and “VTR3”, respectively, and the node numbers are increasing in this order.

Then, similarly to the above description, when the user further presses the device switching key of the remote controller 30, the device to be controlled by the remote controller 30 is switched from the VTR 2 (4) to the VTR 3 (5), and the monitor 7 "VTR3" is displayed in the upper right corner of the screen.

When the user successively presses the device switching key of the remote controller 30, the devices to be controlled by the remote controller 30 are VTR1 (3), VTR2 (4), VTR3 (5), STB2, VTR1 (3). Switching is performed in the order of the device node numbers as in.

Therefore, if the user presses the device switching key of the remote controller 30 one after another and stops pressing the device switching key when the device to be controlled becomes the VTR 3 (5), the VTR 3 (5) can be controlled by the remote controller. There can be 30 controlled objects.

Here, if the reproduction key of the remote controller 30 is pressed, the AV data recorded on the VTR 3 (5) can be reproduced in the same manner as the above-described operation. However, when the VTR 3 (5) receives the key code for reproducing the AV data, the VTR 3 (5) sets Broadcast \ out \ connection to channel 63.

Also, as described above, for three minutes after the device to be controlled is changed by the remote controller 30, the digital I / F 10 transfers the data unless the remote controller 30 switches another device to be controlled. The name of the controlled device and the node number stored in the destination storage unit 11 are not rewritten. That is, for three minutes, even if a device other than the device controlled by the remote controller 30 establishes Broadcast {out} connection with 63 channels by operating the operation panel of another device, the remote controller The control target of 30 is not changed.

When the user presses a menu key for giving an instruction to display the GUI screen of the remote controller 30, the remote controller 30 transmits a key code indicating the instruction to display the GUI.

(4) The remote control receiver 16 receives the key code and sends it to the code selector 15.

The code selecting unit 15 sends this key code to the digital I / F 10.

The digital I / F 10 sends this key code to the device having the node number stored in the transfer destination storage unit 11. It is assumed that this device is VTR3 (5).

Then, the VTR 3 (5) receives the key code as the target 22 at the digital I / F 23.

The digital I / F 23 sends the received key code to the key code detection unit 24.

Since the key code is a GUI update command, the key code detection unit 24 sends this key code to the GUI information output unit 26.

The GUI information output unit 26 outputs GUI information for controlling itself to the digital I / F 23.

The digital I / F 23 sends the GUI information to the controller 6.

(4) The digital I / F 10 of the controller 6 receives the GUI information.

The GUI information acquisition unit 13 acquires the GUI information received by the digital I / F 10 and sends it to the display unit 14.

The display unit 14 outputs the GUI information to the monitor 7 by OSD.

(4) The user operates the remote controller 30 while viewing the GUI information displayed on the monitor 7.

(4) In some cases, the user needs to update the GUI information by operating the remote controller 30 while viewing the GUI information displayed on the monitor 7. For example, it is assumed that the selection items on the GUI screen displayed on the monitor 7 are “recording” and “reproduction” in a scene of selecting whether to perform recording or reproduction. When "playback" is selected to perform playback, it is assumed that there is a GUI screen for determining whether to perform playback at normal speed or fast forward.

In such a case, the remote controller 30 sends out a key code corresponding to “play”, and the controller 6 sends this key code to, for example, the VTR 1 (3). The VTR 1 (3) uses the key code detection unit 24 as the target 22 to determine whether the key code is a GUI update command or an operation command. For this determination, the key code detection unit 24 makes the determination also using the GUI information currently displayed on the monitor 7. Then, the key code is sent to the GUI information output unit 26, and the GUI information output unit 26 outputs GUI information for determining whether to perform normal reproduction or fast-forward reproduction.

(4) The case where such GUI information is displayed on the monitor 7 of the controller 6 to control the controlled device will be described in detail in a fourth embodiment.

As described above, since the devices to be controlled can be freely switched by the remote controller 30, it is possible to easily control a plurality of devices connected to the bus 1 by using only one remote controller. I can do it.

In the present embodiment, the controller 6 (STB2) has a Broadcast in connection with 63 channels, and a device with a Broadcast out connection with 63 channels is set as a control target of the remote controller 30 as a default. Although explained, it is not limited to this. A point-to-point connection is established with the controller 6 (STB2), and a device that is transmitting AV data to the controller 6 (STB2) may be set as a default and controlled by the remote controller 30.

{Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the STB 2 has been described as having the function of the controller 30, but is not limited to this. Any one device other than the STB 2 such as the VTR 1 (3), the VTR 2 (4), and the VTR 3 (5) may have the function of the controller 20.

{Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the STB2, VTR1 (3), VTR2 (4), and VTR3 (5) are described as being connected to the bus 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. Other devices such as a hard disk device, an amplifier, and a television may be connected, and the number of devices connected to the bus is not limited. In short, all that is required is that a plurality of devices be connected to the bus.

Further, in the present embodiment, the description has been given assuming that the name of the device is displayed to indicate the controlled device, but the present invention is not limited to this. An icon representing the device may be displayed, or the icon and the name of the device may be displayed at the same time.

Note that the names or icons of the devices of the present embodiment are examples of information for specifying the devices of the present invention.

Further, in the present embodiment, the monitor 7 is described as being displayed on one screen, but the present invention is not limited to this. When the monitor 7 performs multi-screen display, AV data is sent from a plurality of devices to the STB 2. However, the device displayed on a predetermined screen of the monitor 7 is set as a default and the remote controller 30 receives the AV data. What is necessary is just to be a control apparatus. Alternatively, when the monitor 7 performs multi-screen display, a device that displays sound on the main speaker out of the multi-screen may be set as a controlled device of the remote controller 30 by default.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment will be described.

In this embodiment, a case will be described in which a device to be controlled is switched according to an instruction from a remote controller.

構成 The configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a remote control system for a bus-connected device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 shows the configuration of the controller 6. FIG. 3 shows a portion of the configuration of the STB 2 other than the controller 6. FIG. 4 shows the configuration of the target 22.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the first embodiment.

The digital I / F 10 of the controller 6 checks the configuration of the devices connected to the bus 1 when the bus reset is detected, and stores the name and the node number of each device in the bus configuration storage unit 12.

As a default, a device to be controlled by the remote controller 30 is a device having Broadcast \ out \ connection on 63 channels as in the first embodiment.

(5) When the user attempts to reproduce the AV data recorded on the VTR 3 (5), the character "VTR1" is displayed on the upper right of the screen of the monitor 7 as shown in FIG. That is, the VTR 1 (3) is controlled by the remote controller 30.

Therefore, the user presses the device switching key of the remote controller 30.

Then, the remote controller 30 sends out a key code for instructing device switching.

The remote control receiver 16 receives the key code sent from the remote controller 30 and sends the key code to the code selector 15.

The code selector 15 determines the key code. That is, since the sent key code is a key code for changing the transfer destination, the key code is sent to the digital I / F 10.

Then, the digital I / F 10 refers to the device name and the node number stored in the bus configuration storage unit 12. As in the first embodiment, the names of STB2, VTR1 (3), VTR2 (4), and VTR3 (5) are “STB”, “VTR1”, “VTR2”, “VTR3”, respectively, and the node It is assumed that the numbers are increasing in this order.

(4) Further, the digital I / F 10 outputs a list of names of these devices and node numbers to the GUI information acquisition unit 13 as a device configuration list.

The GUI information acquisition unit 13 creates GUI information from the device configuration list and passes it to the display unit 14.

The display unit 14 outputs the GUI information to the monitor 7 by OSD.

(6) The GUI screen displayed on the monitor 7 in this manner is as shown in FIG. That is, device names are displayed in the upper right of the screen in ascending order of node number. "VTR1" is displayed blinking.

は It is assumed that VTR1 (3) is the next candidate to be controlled by the remote controller 30.

(4) In this state, if the confirmation key of the remote controller 30 is pressed, the VTR 1 (3) is determined as a target to be controlled by the remote controller 30.

(4) The next candidate can be changed by pressing the device switching key or the cursor movement key of the remote controller 30.

That is, the device switching key or the cursor movement key is pressed, and the next candidate is set to VTR3 (5). On the screen of FIG. 6, "VTR3" is displayed blinking.

で In this state, when the enter key of the remote controller 30 is pressed, the VTR 3 (5) is controlled by the remote controller 30.

That is, the digital I / F 10 causes the transfer destination storage unit 11 to store “VTR3”, which is the name of the device of VTR3 (5), and the node number. At the same time, the character "VTR3" is displayed on the upper right of the screen of the monitor 7.

(4) When the user presses the reproduction key of the remote controller 30, the AV data recorded on the VTR 3 (5) can be reproduced.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the device configuration list is displayed, and the controlled device can be switched by selecting the device from the list.

In the present embodiment, the description has been given assuming that the names of the devices are displayed as the device configuration list. An icon representing each device may be displayed, or the icon and the name of the device may be displayed simultaneously.

Further, in the present embodiment, the description has been given assuming that the name of the device is displayed to indicate the controlled device, but the present invention is not limited to this. An icon representing each device may be displayed, or the icon and the name of the device may be displayed simultaneously.

Note that the names or icons of the devices of the present embodiment are examples of information for specifying the devices of the present invention.

Further, in the present embodiment, the devices in the device configuration list are described as being arranged in the order of the node numbers, but the present invention is not limited to this. The devices may be arranged in alphabetical order or in order, or devices such as recording / reproducing devices and televisions may be classified and arranged according to functions.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment will be described.

In this embodiment, a case will be described in which a device to be controlled is switched according to an instruction from a remote controller.

構成 The configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a remote control system for a bus-connected device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 shows the configuration of the controller 6. FIG. 3 shows a portion of the configuration of the STB 2 other than the controller 6. FIG. 4 shows the configuration of the target 22.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the first embodiment.

The digital I / F 10 of the controller 6 checks the configuration of the devices connected to the bus 1 when the bus reset is detected, and stores the name and the node number of each device in the bus configuration storage unit 12.

As a default, a device to be controlled by the remote controller 30 is a device having Broadcast \ out \ connection on 63 channels as in the first embodiment.

(5) When the user attempts to reproduce the AV data recorded on the VTR 3 (5), the character "VTR1" is displayed on the upper right of the screen of the monitor 7 as shown in FIG. That is, the VTR 1 (3) is controlled by the remote controller 30.

Therefore, the user presses the device switching key of the remote controller 30.

Then, the remote controller 30 sends out a key code for instructing device switching.

The remote control receiver 16 receives the key code sent from the remote controller 30 and sends the key code to the code selector 15.

The code selector 15 determines the key code. That is, since the sent key code is a key code for changing the transfer destination, the key code is sent to the digital I / F 10.

Then, the digital I / F 10 refers to the device name and the node number stored in the bus configuration storage unit 12. As in the first embodiment, the names of STB2, VTR1 (3), VTR2 (4), and VTR3 (5) are “STB”, “VTR1”, “VTR2”, “VTR3”, respectively, and the node It is assumed that the numbers are increasing in this order.

(4) Further, the digital I / F 10 outputs a list of names of these devices and node numbers to the GUI information acquisition unit 13 as a device configuration list.

The GUI information acquisition unit 13 creates GUI information from the device configuration list and passes it to the display unit 14.

The display unit 14 outputs the GUI information to the monitor 7 by OSD.

(5) The GUI screen displayed on the monitor 7 in this way switches from FIG. 5 to FIG. That is, “VTR1” is replaced with “VTR2”, and “VTR2” is displayed blinking.

This indicates that the VTR 2 (4) is the next candidate to be controlled by the remote controller 30.

(4) In this state, if the decision key of the remote controller 30 is pressed, the VTR 2 (4) is decided as an object to be controlled by the remote controller 30.

(4) The next candidate can be changed by pressing the device switching key or the cursor movement key of the remote controller 30.

That is, the device switching key or the cursor movement key is pressed, and the next candidate is set to VTR3 (5). “VTR3” is displayed blinking on the upper right of the screen of the monitor 7.

で In this state, when the enter key of the remote controller 30 is pressed, the VTR 3 (5) is controlled by the remote controller 30.

That is, the digital I / F 10 causes the transfer destination storage unit 11 to store “VTR3”, which is the name of the device of VTR3 (5), and the node number. At the same time, the character “VTR3” is displayed at the upper right of the screen of the monitor 7 without blinking.

(4) When the user presses the reproduction key of the remote controller 30, the AV data recorded on the VTR 3 (5) can be reproduced.

As described above, in this embodiment, the next candidate to be a controlled device in the device configuration list is displayed, and the device that is the next candidate can be set as the controlled device by pressing the enter key.

In the present embodiment, the description has been given assuming that the names of the devices are displayed, but the present invention is not limited to this. An icon representing each device may be displayed, or the icon and the name of the device may be displayed simultaneously.

Note that the names or icons of the devices of the present embodiment are examples of information for specifying the devices of the present invention.

Further, in the present embodiment, the devices in the device configuration list are described as being arranged in the order of the node numbers, but the present invention is not limited to this. The devices may be arranged in alphabetical order or in order, or devices such as recording / reproducing devices and televisions may be classified and arranged according to functions.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a fourth embodiment will be described.

通常 Since a remote controller is usually carried by a user, the size of the remote controller is limited to a portable size. For this reason, the number of operation keys of the remote controller is also limited. In addition, in a home AV network or the like, it is inconvenient if devices connected to the bus are limited to devices of one manufacturer. The user connects devices of different manufacturers to the bus, such as a television company A and a VTR company B.

In this embodiment, a case will be described in which devices of different manufacturers are connected to a bus and non-standardized functions unique to the manufacturer are controlled.

FIG. 8 shows a configuration of a remote control system for a bus-connected device according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, the STB 2, the D-VHS 31, and the TV 38 are connected to the bus 1.

FIG. 3 shows a part of the configuration of the STB 2 other than the controller. FIG. 3 is the same as the first embodiment.

Fig. 4 shows the structure of the target. FIG. 4 is the same as in the first embodiment.

FIG. 9 shows the configuration of the controller 27 that is also used by the STB 2.

The difference between the controller 27 and the controller 6 of the first embodiment is that the controller 27 includes a menu control unit 28.

The menu control unit 28 is a means for creating and controlling GUI information for controlling a function that is a function that is defined in advance by a standard or the like, but cannot be directly controlled by the remote controller 30 due to the limitation of the number of keys of the remote controller 30. .

FIG. 10 shows the configuration of keys of the remote controller 30 related to the present embodiment.

$ Up 34 is a key for moving the cursor upward on the GUI screen. The lower 35 is a key for moving a cursor downward on the GUI screen. The right 36 is a key for moving the cursor to the right on the GUI screen. The left 37 is a key for moving the cursor to the left on the GUI screen. The select 33 is a key for confirming the selection of the item where the cursor is located on the GUI screen. The menu 32 is a key for displaying a GUI of a function list.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the first embodiment.

In the present embodiment, an operation will be described in which the viewer sets to switch between digital input of AV data received by the STB 2 to the D-VHS 31 or analog signal input from a cable directly connected to the D-VHS 31. I do.

The function of switching between digital input and analog input is not a standardized function but a function unique to the manufacturer of the D-VHS31.

The viewer operates the remote controller 30 to switch the D-VHS 31 to an object to be controlled by the remote controller 30. This operation is the same as in the first embodiment.

Then, the menu 32 of the remote controller 30 is pressed.

Then, the remote controller 30 sends out the key code, and the key code is received by the remote control receiving unit 16 of the controller 27 and then passed to the code selecting unit 15.

The code selecting unit 15 interprets this key code and sends it to the digital I / F 10 because it is a code for controlling other devices.

The digital I / F 10 transfers this key code to the D-VHS 31.

The D-VHS 31 functions as the target 22, and the digital I / F 23 receives this key code and outputs it to the key code detection unit 24.

The key code detection unit 24 interprets the transmitted key code as a command for updating the GUI, and sends the command to the GUI information output unit 26.

Since the GUI information output unit 26 has not output the GUI information for controlling the D-VHS 31 at this time, the GUI information on which a list of functions for controlling the D-VHS 31 is described is output to the digital I / F 23. Output to

The digital I / F 23 sends this GUI information to the controller 27.

(4) The digital I / F 10 of the controller 27 receives the GUI information.

The GUI information acquisition unit 13 acquires the GUI information, creates display data, and sends it to the display unit 14.

The display unit 14 outputs GUI information to the monitor 7 by OSD.

に し て In this way, a list of functions for controlling the D-VHS 31 is displayed on the monitor 7.

(4) The viewer operates the up 34, down 35, right 36, and left 37 keys to move the cursor to the item of “input switching”. Here, when the select 33 is pressed, the selection of “input switching” is determined.

(4) The remote controller 30 sends the key code to the controller 27, and the controller 27 transfers the key code to the D-VHS31.

In the D-VHS 31, the digital I / F 23 receives the key code as the target 22 and passes it to the key code detection unit 24.

The key code detection unit 24 outputs the key code to the GUI information output unit 26, and the GUI information output unit 26 analyzes the currently output GUI information and the input key code. Input switching ".

Then, the GUI information output unit 26 outputs GUI information for creating a GUI screen as shown in FIG. 11, and the digital I / F 23 sends this GUI information to the controller 27.

(4) The controller 27 displays a GUI screen as shown in FIG.

The viewer presses the right 36 and left 37 of the remote controller 30 to move the cursor to either “digital” or “analog”. Suppose now that the cursor is moving to “digital”. Here, pressing the select 33 selects "digital" and is confirmed.

(4) The remote controller 30 sends out the key code, and the controller 27 receives the key code and transfers it to the D-VHS 31.

The D-VHS 31 receives the key code as the target 22. The key code is passed from the digital I / F 23 to the GUI information output unit 26 via the key code detection unit 24. The GUI information output unit 26 interprets the sent key code based on the fact that the GUI information for creating the screen of FIG. 11 is displayed on the monitor 7 and knows that “digital” has been selected and confirmed. The GUI information output unit 26 sends a key code for switching to digital input to the digital I / F 23, and the digital I / F 23 sends this key code to the key code detection unit 24.

{Furthermore, the key code detection unit 24 sends this key code to the instruction execution unit 25.

(4) The instruction execution unit 25 executes processing for switching to digital input.

In this manner, the remote controller 30 can control not only a standardized function such as a function of switching between digital input and analog input but also a function unique to the manufacturer of the D-VHS 31.

(Fifth embodiment)
Next, a fifth embodiment will be described.

In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which a function that cannot be directly operated because there is no key corresponding to the remote controller is limited because the number of keys that can be mounted on the remote controller is a standardized function.

構成 The configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the fourth embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the fourth embodiment.

In the present embodiment, an operation in which the viewer operates the remote controller 30 to switch the sound of the TV 38 from the main sound to the sub sound will be described.

The function of switching the main sound and the sub sound of the TV 38 is a standardized function, but cannot be directly operated because there is no key corresponding to the remote controller due to the limitation of the number of keys of the remote controller 30. I do.

The viewer operates the remote controller 30 to switch the TV 38 to an object to be controlled by the remote controller 30. This operation is the same as in the first embodiment.

Then, the menu 32 of the remote controller 30 is pressed.

Then, the remote controller 30 sends out the key code, and the key code is received by the remote control receiver 16 of the controller 27 and then passed to the code selector 15.

The code selection unit 15 interprets this key code as a command for calling an extended function that is not a function of a key of the remote controller 30. That is, the key code is sent to the menu control unit 28.

The menu control unit 28 creates GUI information describing a list of functions that are standardized but cannot be directly controlled from the remote controller 30 and outputs the created GUI information to the display unit 14.

The display unit 14 outputs GUI information to the monitor 7 by OSD.

一 覧 In this way, a list of functions for controlling the TV 38 is displayed on the monitor 7.

(4) The viewer operates the up 34, down 35, right 36, and left 37 keys to move the cursor to the item of "voice switching". Here, when the select 33 is pressed, the selection of “voice switching” is confirmed.

The remote controller 30 sends the key code to the controller 27, and the controller 27 passes the key code from the remote control receiving unit 16 to the menu control unit 28 via the code selecting unit 15.

(4) The menu control unit 28 analyzes the currently output GUI information and the input key code, and recognizes that the selected item is the “voice switching” item.

Then, the menu control unit 28 outputs GUI information for creating a GUI screen as shown in FIG. 12 to the display unit 14.

The display unit 14 displays a GUI screen as shown in FIG.

The viewer presses the right 36 and left 37 of the remote controller 30 to move the cursor from “main sound” to “sub sound”. Here, when the select 33 is pressed, the “sub-audio” is selected and determined.

(4) The remote controller 30 sends out the key code, and the remote control receiving section 16 receives the key code. The code selector 15 sends the key code to the menu controller 28. The menu control unit 28 interprets the sent key code based on the fact that the GUI information for creating the screen of FIG. 12 is displayed on the monitor 7 and knows that “sub-audio” has been selected.

Therefore, the menu control unit 28 sends a key code for switching to the sub sound to the digital I / F 10.

The digital I / F 10 sends this key code to the TV 38.

命令 In the same manner as in the fourth embodiment, the command execution unit 25 of the TV 38 performs a process of switching audio to sub audio.

In this manner, for functions that are standardized but cannot be directly operated from the remote controller 30, such as a function for switching between the main sound and the sub sound, the key corresponding to the key corresponding to the key by operating the GUI screen created by the controller 27 is displayed. By generating a code and sending it to the controlled device, it can be controlled from the remote controller 30.

(Sixth embodiment)
Next, a sixth embodiment will be described.

In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which a function is provided with a key provided in the remote controller but a key code is not standardized by the remote controller.

構成 The configuration of the present embodiment is the same as the fourth embodiment except for the following points.

FIG. 13 shows the controller 39 of the present embodiment. The controller 39 includes a key code correspondence table 42 in addition to the controller 27 of the fourth embodiment.

The two screens 41 of the remote controller 30 are keys for displaying two screens.

The key code correspondence table 42 is a table in which key codes used by manufacturers are associated with non-standardized functions, and are recorded in a semiconductor memory such as an IC card.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

In the present embodiment, an operation when the TV 28 is displayed on two screens will be described.

Note that the function of displaying two screens is a function in which the remote controller 30 has operation keys but key codes are not standardized.

The controller 39 has a key code correspondence table 42 for knowing which key code is used by the manufacturer for a function not standardized. The key code correspondence table 42 is stored in an IC card in advance when the STB 2 also serving as the controller 39 is shipped from the factory.

If the number of keys or the function represented by the key is changed due to the replacement of the remote controller 30, the service code store corresponding to the new remote controller can store the key code correspondence table 42 in the IC card.

と す る It is assumed that the TV 38 is controlled by the remote controller 30.

The viewer presses the two screens 41 of the remote controller 30 to display the TV 38 on two screens.

Then, the remote controller 30 transmits a key code for displaying two screens.

The remote control receiving unit 16 of the controller 39 receives the key code and passes it to the code selecting unit 15.

キ ー As mentioned above, the key code for displaying two screens is not standardized. That is, the maker A and the maker B have different key codes for two-screen display.

The code selecting unit 15 instructs the digital I / F 10 to check a TV 38 maker.

The digital I / F 10 checks the manufacturer of the TV 38 via the bus 1 and notifies the code selecting unit 15 of the TV 38. Assume that the manufacturer of the TV 28 is A.

Then, the code selecting unit 15 extracts the key code of the two-screen display of the maker A from the key code correspondence table 42 and sends it to the digital I / F 10 as a control code for other devices.

The digital I / F 10 sends this key code to the TV 38.

The TV 38 is a maker called A, and the key code sent is its own key code, so that the two-screen switching process can be executed.

As described above, even for a function in which the remote controller 30 has a key but a key code is not standardized, it is possible to control the remote controller 30 by checking the maker of the controlled device and transmitting the maker's key code. I can do it.

(Seventh embodiment)
Next, a seventh embodiment will be described.

In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which a function is provided with a key provided in the remote controller but a key code is not standardized by the remote controller.

構成 The configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the sixth embodiment.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described only with respect to differences from the sixth embodiment.

で も Also in this embodiment, the operation when the TV 28 is displayed on two screens will be described.

(4) As in the sixth embodiment, the remote controller 30 sends a key code for displaying two screens.

The remote control receiving unit 16 of the controller 39 receives the key code and passes it to the code selecting unit 15.

Different from the sixth embodiment, the code selector 15 sends this key code to the digital I / F 10 first.

The digital I / F 10 transfers this key code to the TV 38.

$ TV 38 receives this key code. If this key code coincides with the manufacturer of the TV 38, the TV 38 can execute the two-screen display.

If the manufacturers do not match, the TV 38 informs the controller 29 that the key code cannot be executed because the vendor unique ID of the command to which the key code is sent is not the manufacturer.

(4) The digital I / F 10 of the controller 39 receives this notification. Then, the digital I / F 10 notifies the code selection unit 15 that the manufacturer is different.

Here, the code selection unit 15 instructs the digital I / F 10 to check the TV 38 maker.

(4) The subsequent operation is the same as in the sixth embodiment, and a description thereof will not be repeated.

As described above, even for a function in which the remote controller 30 has a key but a key code is not standardized, it is possible to control the remote controller 30 by checking the maker of the controlled device and transmitting the maker's key code. I can do it.

(Eighth embodiment)
Next, an eighth embodiment will be described.

In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which a function is provided with a key provided in the remote controller but a key code is not standardized by the remote controller.

構成 The configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the sixth embodiment.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described only with respect to differences from the sixth embodiment.

で も Also in this embodiment, the operation when the TV 28 is displayed on two screens will be described.

(4) As in the sixth embodiment, the remote controller 30 sends a key code for displaying two screens.

The remote control receiving unit 16 of the controller 39 receives the key code and passes it to the code selecting unit 15.

The code selector 15 sends this key code to the digital I / F 10 first.

The digital I / F 10 transfers this key code to the TV 38.

$ TV 38 receives this key code. If this key code coincides with the manufacturer of the TV 38, the TV 38 can execute the two-screen display.

If the manufacturers do not match, the TV 38 informs the controller 29 that the key code cannot be executed because the vendor unique ID of the command to which the key code is sent is not the manufacturer.

(4) The digital I / F 10 of the controller 39 receives this notification. Then, the digital I / F 10 notifies the code selection unit 15 that the manufacturer is different.

Then, the code selecting unit 15 extracts the key code of the two-screen display of another maker from the key code correspondence table 42 and sends the key code to the digital I / F 10 as a control code for other devices.

The digital I / F 10 sends this key code to the TV 38.

The TV 38 can execute the two-screen switching process when the transmitted key code is its own key code. If it is not its own key code, the process cannot be executed. The TV 38 notifies the controller 39 whether or not the two-screen switching process has been executed.

Similarly, the controller 39 and the TV 38 transmit the key code of the two screen switching of the maker to the TV 38 as far as they can know until the two screen switching can be executed. If successful, the TV 38 can execute the two-screen switching.

As described above, even if the remote controller 30 has a key but the key code is not standardized, the key code of the maker as long as the controller 39 knows can be sent to the TV 38 as soon as possible. The TV 38 can be controlled.

(Ninth embodiment)
Next, a ninth embodiment will be described.

In the first to eighth embodiments, the number of devices controlled by the remote controller is one. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a case will be described in which the remote controller simultaneously controls all devices connected to the bus.

構成 The configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

However, the bus configuration storage means 12 stores the names and node numbers of the devices connected to the bus 1 as well as the devices connected to the bus 1 such as power on / off, as in the first embodiment. Also, the state relating to the function of simultaneously controlling is stored.

The remote controller 30 has an all power on / off key for simultaneously turning on or off the power of all the devices connected to the bus 1 in addition to the keys described in the first embodiment. In addition, there is a power on / off key for turning on or off the power of the device currently being controlled. However, the turning on / off of the power supply in the present embodiment is to turn on / off the power of parts other than the target 22 and the controller 6. That is, when the power of the STB 2 is turned off, only the power of the portion shown in FIG. 3 is turned off, and the function of the controller 6 in FIG. 2 remains turned on.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the first embodiment.

By pressing the power on / off key of the remote controller 30, it is possible to turn on / off the power of the device currently being controlled in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

と す る It is assumed that STB2 and VTR1 (3) are powered on in this way. Then, it is assumed that the power of VTR2 (4) and VTR3 (4) is turned off.

Here, it is assumed that the user has pressed all power on / off keys of the remote controller 30.

Then, the remote controller 30 sends out a key code for instructing a function of switching on / off all the power.

(4) The remote control receiver 16 of the controller 6 receives the key code and sends it to the code selector 15.

The code selecting unit 15 sends this key code to the digital I / F 10.

(4) The digital I / F 10 inquires whether all devices connected to the bus 1 are turned on or off.

STB2 and VTR1 (3) receive this inquiry and return an answer that the power is on.

@ VTR2 (4) and VTR3 (5) receive this inquiry and return an answer that the power is off.

(4) The digital I / F 10 causes the bus configuration storage unit 12 to record the answer sent from each device. That is, it is stored that STB2 and VTR1 (3) are powered on, and VTR2 (4) and VTR3 (5) are powered off.

Next, the digital I / F 10 sends a key code for instructing to turn off the power to the powered-on device. That is, this key code is sent to STB2 and VTR1.

The VTR 1 receives this key code and turns off its power.

For the STB 2, the digital I / F 10 sends this key code to the code selection unit 15, and the code selection unit 15 sends this key code to the instruction execution unit 17. The instruction execution unit 17 turns off the power of the part shown in FIG.

In this way, all the power supplies connected to the bus 1 can be turned off by pressing all power on / off keys of the remote controller 30.

と す る Further, it is assumed that the user presses the all power on / off key of the remote controller 30 again.

Then, the remote controller 30 sends out a key code for instructing a function of switching on / off all the power.

(4) The remote control receiver 16 of the controller 6 receives the key code and sends it to the code selector 15.

The code selecting unit 15 sends this key code to the digital I / F 10.

The digital I / F 10 checks the status of the device stored in the bus configuration storage unit 12. Then, the state of the devices connected to the bus 1 before the power is simultaneously turned off is known. That is, STB2 and VTR1 (3) know that the power is on, and VTR2 (4) and VTR3 (5) know that the power is off.

Next, the digital I / F 10 sends a key code for instructing to turn on the powered-on device before turning off the power all at once. That is, this key code is sent to STB2 and VTR1.

$ The VTR 1 receives this key code and turns on its power.

{Digital I / F 10 sends this key code to code selection unit 15 for STB 2, and code selection unit 15 sends this key code to instruction execution unit 17. The instruction execution unit 17 turns on the power of the part shown in FIG.

In this way, by pressing all power on / off keys of the remote controller 30, the power of all the devices connected to the bus 1 can be restored to the state before the power was turned off all at once.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the devices connected to the bus 1 can be controlled by the remote controller 30 without being conscious of the devices to be controlled by the remote controller 30.

In addition, since the power of the devices connected to the bus 1 can be turned off all at once, and the state before the power can be turned off all at once can be returned by one key operation of the remote controller 30, so that a plurality of devices can be easily operated. Equipment can be controlled.

(Tenth embodiment)
Next, a tenth embodiment will be described.

In the present embodiment, when only one of the devices connected to the bus has a key code indicating an instruction sent from the remote controller, the device is automatically controlled by the remote controller. Will be described.

構成 The configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

However, the bus configuration storage unit 12 stores the names and node numbers of the devices connected to the bus 1 in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and also stores a key indicating the function implemented by the device. A list of codes is also stored.

The remote controller 30 has a volume key for adjusting the volume in addition to the keys described in the first embodiment. It is assumed that the volume can be adjusted only by STB2.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the first embodiment.

When the volume key of the remote controller 30 is adjusted, the remote controller 30 sends out a key code indicating an instruction to increase or decrease the volume.

(4) The remote control receiver 16 of the controller 6 receives the key code and sends it to the code selector 15.

The code selecting unit 15 sends this key code to the digital I / F 10.

The digital I / F 10 checks the bus configuration storage unit 12 before transferring this key code to the device controlled by the remote controller 30.

Then, it is understood that the device controlled by the remote controller 30 does not implement the function corresponding to the key code. Further, it can be seen that only STB2 implements this key code.

The digital I / F 10 sends this key code to the code selection unit 15.

The code selecting unit 15 sends the key code to the instruction executing unit 17. The command execution unit 17 executes a process of increasing or decreasing the volume.

In this manner, when a key code indicating a function in which only one of the devices connected to the bus 1 is implemented is transmitted from the remote controller 30, the function is automatically implemented. Send the key code to the device that

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the devices connected to the bus 1 can be controlled by the remote controller 30 without being conscious of the devices to be controlled by the remote controller 30.

(Eleventh embodiment)
Next, an eleventh embodiment will be described.

In the fourth and fifth embodiments, when it is necessary to display GUI information, the GUI information is displayed on a monitor connected to a device that also functions as a controller. In the fourth embodiment, the GUI information is created by the controlled device. In the fifth embodiment, the GUI information is created by the controller 27.

In this embodiment, a case will be described in which GUI information created by a controller or a controlled device is displayed on a remote controller.

構成 The configuration of the present embodiment is the same as the configuration of the fourth embodiment except that the remote controller 30 of the fourth embodiment is replaced with a remote controller 43 shown in FIG.

The remote controller 43 has a touch panel on the operation surface, and the operation surface also serves as a display for displaying GUI information.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

The GUI information is either created by the controller 27 or the like, or created by a device that is controlled by the remote controller 43.

When the GUI information is created by the controller 27, the controller 27 holds the GUI information.

If the GUI information is created by the controlled device, the controller 27 receives the GUI information from the controlled device and holds it.

送 る Then, the GUI information is sent to the remote controller 43.

(4) The remote controller 43 receives the GUI information.

The $ GUI information lays out a screen, defines an area functioning as a key, and describes what key code is to be transmitted when the area functioning as a key is specified.

(4) The remote controller 43 displays a GUI screen on its own display. FIG. 14 is a GUI screen for controlling the reproduction of the D-VHS 31. When the viewer touches the displayed reproduction key, for example, a key code corresponding to the reproduction defined in the GUI information is transmitted from the remote controller 43.

(4) The controller 27 receives the key code sent from the remote controller 43 and sends it to the D-VHS 31, which is a controlled device.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the GUI information can be displayed on the remote controller 43. Therefore, in a home AV network or the like, the monitor 7 is used for controlling equipment in a room separate from the controller 27. Can be controlled by the remote controller 43 even if the user cannot see

(Twelfth embodiment)
Next, a twelfth embodiment will be described.

In the fourth and fifth embodiments, when it is necessary to display GUI information, the GUI information is displayed on a monitor connected to a device that also functions as a controller. In the fourth embodiment, the GUI information is created by the controlled device. In the fifth embodiment, the GUI information is created by the controller 27.

In this embodiment, a case will be described in which GUI information created by a controller or a controlled device is displayed on a monitor of a device connected to a bus.

構成 The configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the fourth embodiment.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

It is assumed that the GUI information is displayed on the monitor of the TV 38, and the D-VHS 31 is the controlled device.

The GUI information is either created by the controller 27 or the like or created by a device that is controlled by the remote controller 30.

When the GUI information is created by the controller 27, the controller 27 holds the GUI information.

If the GUI information is created by the controlled device, the controller 27 receives the GUI information from the controlled device and holds it.

送 る Then, send the GUI information to the TV 38.

The TV 38 receives the GUI information and displays it on its own monitor.

The $ GUI information lays out a screen, defines an area functioning as a key, and describes what key code is to be transmitted when the area functioning as a key is specified.

The controller 27 receives the key code transmitted from the remote controller 30.

If this key code is a key code for controlling the function of the D-VHS 31 that is the controlled device, send this key code to the D-VHS 31. Then, the D-VHS 31 executes the function specified by the key codes.

If the key code instructs updating of the GUI information created by the controlled device, the controller 27 sends the key code to the D-VHS 31. Then, the D-VHS 31 updates the GUI information and sends it to the controller 27. The controller 27 sends the updated GUI information to the TV 38, and the TV 38 displays the updated GUI information.

(4) If the key code instructs to update the GUI information created by the controller 27, the controller 27 updates the GUI information and sends the updated GUI information to the TV 38. The TV 38 displays the updated GUI information.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, GUI information can be displayed on a monitor of a device connected to the bus 1.

The device controlled by the remote controller according to the present embodiment is an example of the controlled device of the present invention.

Further, all or some of the functions of all or some of the controllers, remote controllers, controlled devices, and a plurality of devices connected to the bus of the remote control control system for bus-connected devices of the present invention are implemented by hardware. Alternatively, it may be realized by software by executing a computer program.

Further, the present invention allows a computer to execute all or a part of functions of all or a part of a controller, a remote controller, a controlled apparatus, and a plurality of devices connected to a bus in a remote control system for a bus-connected device of the present invention. A program recording medium characterized by recording the above program also belongs to the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a remote control system for a bus connection device according to first to third, ninth, and tenth embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a remote control system for a bus connection device according to first to third, ninth, and tenth embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a configuration other than a controller of an STB according to the first to twelfth embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a target according to the first to twelfth embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI screen according to the first, third, ninth, and tenth embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI screen according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI screen according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Configuration diagram of a remote control system for a bus-connected device according to fourth to eighth, eleventh, and twelfth embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a controller according to fourth to eighth, eleventh, and twelfth embodiments of the present invention. The figure which shows the structure of the key of the remote controller in 4th-8th, 12th Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI screen according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI screen according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a controller according to the sixth to eighth embodiments of the present invention. The figure which shows the example of the GUI screen displayed on the remote controller in 11th Embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows the structure of the remote control system of the existing bus connection equipment

Explanation of reference numerals

1 bus 2 STB
3 VTR1
4 VTR2
5 VTR3
6 Controller 7 Monitor 7
10 Digital I / F
Reference Signs List 11 transfer destination storage means 12 bus configuration storage means 13 GUI information acquisition unit 14 display unit 15 code selection unit 16 remote control reception unit 17 command execution unit 22 target 23 digital I / F
24 Key code detection unit 25 Command execution unit 26 GUI information output unit 28 Menu control unit 30 Remote controller 31 D-VHS
32 Menu 33 Select 34 Upper 35 Lower 36 Right 37 Left 38 TV
39 Controller 42 Key code correspondence table 43 Remote controller 50 Controller 51 Digital I / F

Claims (5)

Bus and
A plurality of devices connected to the bus,
A remote controller for controlling any one of the plurality of devices,
Any one of the plurality of devices has a function as a controller controlled by the remote controller,
Among the plurality of devices, all or two or more devices are controlled devices controlled by the remote controller,
The device also serving as the controller is for transmitting an instruction from the remote controller to the controlled device,
The remote controller control system for a bus-connected device, wherein the controller sends a key code indicating an instruction sent from the remote controller to the controlled device. The controller checks each device before sending the key code to the controlled device, and sends the key code as the controlled device only to a device having a function of processing the key code. The remote control system for a bus-connected device according to claim 1, wherein The key code is to turn on and off,
Before the controller sends a key code to turn off the power, the controller checks whether each device is turned on or off, and sends the key code to turn off the power to the device that is turned on. Power off,
3. The remote control system for a bus-connected device according to claim 2, wherein when the power is turned on, a key code for turning on the power is sent only to the device that has been turned on. The remote control system for a bus-connected device according to claim 1, wherein the bus is an IEEE 1394 bus. A program for causing a computer to execute functions of a remote controller, a controller, a controlled device, and a plurality of devices connected to the bus in the remote control system for a bus-connected device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. A program recording medium readable by a computer.

Images