JP2005045350A - Mobile phone - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a combination television receiver / mobile phone capable of attaining efficient selection of another channel and obtaining television program information of the other channel without disturbing viewing of a present program by adopting the configuration such that dial push buttons provided to the mobile phone are used for selection of television programs without the use of a program guide such as an EPG (Electronic Program Guide). <P>SOLUTION: Each channel is assigned to each of phone dial pushbuttons as channel selection buttons of television programs by operating the dial pushbuttons 103 of the phone like a television remote controller. Even when a user views a program in an area different from an ordinarily resident area, the confusion of the user for its channel selection can be prevented by making network affiliates coincident with channel numbers at all times, and channel selection without causing a stress can be attained wherein which kind of program is broadcast at present can be grasped without the need for actually selecting the channel by lighting the channel selection buttons in colors or blinking the buttons. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a mobile phone device that can receive a terrestrial digital broadcast and display a television program, and more particularly, to a mobile phone device that has a function of realizing a smooth channel selection of a channel during viewing of a television program.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In Japan, BS digital broadcasting has been started from the end of 2000, and digital terrestrial broadcasting in three metropolitan areas is scheduled to start by the end of 2003.
[0003]
Digital broadcasting is characterized by high image quality by digital high-definition video, multiple channels, and high functionality by data broadcasting. In addition, terrestrial digital broadcasting services on mobile phones will be launched. With the launch of these services, users will be able to watch TV programs on a small display on a mobile phone, and more channels will be expected through digital broadcasting.
[0004]
In addition, when the number of channels is increased, users will find and select their favorite TV programs from a large number of TV programs, and programs such as EPG (Electronic Program Guide) to facilitate the work. There is a guide.
[0005]
If EPG is used, it is possible to check a favorite genre by displaying a program guide on the display, and to make a reservation for viewing a previous program with a simple operation.
[0006]
For example, there has been disclosed an electronic program guide display control apparatus and method for displaying an electronic program guide superimposed on the screen while avoiding as much as possible the screen image being received and displayed (see Patent Document 1).
[0007]
Also, a channel selection device is disclosed that can register channels that are frequently viewed in advance by genre (see Patent Document 2). When the user designates a desired genre, a plurality of channels belonging to the genre are displayed in a format such as a reduced screen split screen display of each channel or a menu in which each channel is listed. The user selects a program based on these divided screens and menu screens.
[0008]
Since digital broadcasting is broadcast on a very large number of channels, there is a problem that the channel selection operation becomes complicated and inconvenient on the divided screen and menu screen displayed on the screen. In order to solve this problem, the following has been conventionally provided.
[0009]
For example, a television receiver that selects a corresponding channel by selecting a desired program genre based on television program information by text broadcasting is disclosed (see Patent Document 3).
[0010]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-9-37172
[Patent Document 2]
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-136276
[Patent Document 3]
JP-A-5-284476
[0011]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the above EPG displays a program guide on the display, so if the display size is small, such as a mobile phone, the guide itself will be small and difficult to see. Then, the amount of information displayed is reduced, and it becomes difficult to search for a favorite channel from the table.
[0012]
Also, if the channel is changed one by one in order to check the broadcast channel without using the EPG, it takes a lot of time because of the multiple channels.
[0013]
In the first place, since EPG displays a program guide on the display, if there is a program that you are currently viewing and you want to obtain information about the program behind the program, it will be displayed over the program you are currently viewing. Therefore, viewing the current program will be hindered.
[0014]
Also, reducing the video size of the program you are currently viewing and displaying it side by side with the EPG makes it difficult to see the video and guide on a small display like a mobile phone. there is a possibility.
[0015]
In addition, since the mobile phone is a mobile terminal, if the broadcast area is changed, it is possible that the program you have been watching cannot be viewed or the affiliated station set up to now is assigned to another channel number Therefore, it is necessary to check which affiliated station is assigned to which channel by EPG or the like.
[0016]
Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and has a configuration in which a dial push button provided in a mobile phone is used for selecting a TV program without using an EPG. Another object of the present invention is to provide a mobile phone device that makes it possible to efficiently select other channels and obtain TV program information of other channels without interfering with current program viewing. It is another object of the present invention to provide a mobile phone device that makes it possible to select a channel more smoothly by matching the channel number and affiliated station that are usually used even when the broadcasting area is changed.
[0017]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
A cellular phone device according to the present invention displays an antenna unit that transmits / receives a cellular phone transmission / reception wave and a terrestrial digital broadcast wave, a reception unit that receives the terrestrial digital broadcast wave received by the antenna unit, and a television program A display unit capable of inputting, an input button for inputting a number including a numerical value or a symbol, a portable TV control unit for controlling the selection of a TV program, and a mode for transmitting / receiving a mobile phone and a mode for viewing a TV program. Mode switching control means, and the input button is used as a channel selection button for the television program when the mode switching control means is in a mode for viewing the television program. .
[0018]
In the mobile phone device according to the present invention, the mobile TV control unit analyzes an affiliated station of received broadcast and a channel number assigned to the affiliated station, and the affiliated group assigned to the input button Setting information storage means for storing affiliated station allocation information for always making the station channel number the same, and button function analysis and setting to change and reset the button function when the input button is pressed Means, channel assignment control means for assigning channels by means of the button function analysis / setting means and the channel analysis means, wherein the channel assignment control means includes the affiliated station of the received broadcast and the channel number. When it is determined that it is affiliated station allocation information, the affiliated station allocation information is stored in the setting information storage means It is characterized in.
[0019]
In the mobile phone device according to the present invention, the channel assignment control means is assigned to the new affiliated station from the beginning when a program of a new affiliated station that has never been received due to the change of the reception area is received. If the selected channel number has already been assigned as the channel selection channel number of another station, the available number is searched, and the channel number that is not currently assigned or the channel number that has been assigned but is not currently received is searched. It is characterized by assigning.
[0020]
In the mobile phone device according to the present invention, when the channel allocation control means receives a broadcast in an area where a plurality of broadcast areas overlap due to a change in the reception area, When the broadcast program of the same affiliated station broadcast from other areas is different, a newly received program is also assigned to the currently assigned channel number, and each time the assigned input button is pressed, A multi-channel assignment for alternately displaying a plurality of programs is performed.
[0021]
In the mobile phone device according to the present invention, the mobile TV control unit further includes button lighting control means for performing various controls on the button lighting means of the input button, and the button lighting control means includes the button lighting means. It is characterized in that the button lighting means is controlled in order to inform the viewer of the currently receivable channel by emitting light from the lighting means.
[0022]
In the cellular phone device according to the present invention, the button lighting control unit causes the button lighting unit having a function of emitting light in a plurality of colors using colors set for each genre, thereby allowing a user to The button lighting means is controlled in order to present the broadcast channel and the broadcast genre to the viewer.
[0023]
In the cellular phone device according to the present invention, the button lighting control means determines whether the receivable program has elapsed with respect to the broadcast time or how imminent it is to the designated program. It is characterized by controlling broadcast time-linked lighting expressed by brightness or blinking speed.
[0024]
The mobile phone device according to the present invention includes: the input button including an input button that can be pressed in two steps; and an information display unit at an empty space of the display or an end of a currently viewed image. When the display unit half-presses the input button, information about the program currently being broadcast is displayed in the empty space of the display or the edge of the video currently being viewed, informing the user, It is characterized by confirming the back program that receives the channel when pressed.
[0025]
The present invention can quickly find a program of a genre that the user wants to watch even on a portable TV with a small display, and even if he / she moves to a different area from where he / she usually watches TV, The present invention solves the above-mentioned problems by providing a television receiver-integrated mobile phone device in which affiliated stations are matched and channels can be selected more smoothly.
[0026]
According to the present invention, each button has a function for a user to freely assign a broadcast affiliated station, and has a channel setting storage unit for storing the setting information. In addition, by having the function to make each button of the input buttons used for channel selection light in multiple colors, the program genre, broadcast progress information, etc. can be displayed without selecting the program or displaying the EPG. Obtainable.
[0027]
Furthermore, according to the present invention, the dial-up push button used for channel selection is a two-stage push type button, so that program information of other channels can be obtained without disturbing viewing of the current program.
[0028]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of a mobile phone device capable of selecting a TV program by operating a dial push button of a mobile phone of the present invention like a TV remote controller will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0029]
FIG. 1 is an external view of a mobile phone device according to the present invention.
[0030]
FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the mobile phone device according to the present invention.
[0031]
FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of the mobile TV controller of the mobile phone device according to the present invention.
[0032]
As shown in FIG. 1, the mobile phone device 100 includes a main body unit 101, a display unit 102, a dial push button 103, and an antenna unit 104.
[0033]
Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the mobile phone device 100 includes an antenna unit 104 that receives mobile phone transmission / reception waves or terrestrial digital broadcast waves, a transmission / reception unit 111 that performs modulation / demodulation of transmission / reception waves of mobile phones, and terrestrial digital broadcasts. Receiving unit 110 that performs wave demodulation, etc., portable TV control unit 112 that receives a television signal (including signals such as information, video, and audio) from receiving unit 110 and performs channel selection control of the television broadcast, and the above transmission / reception A mobile phone control unit 115 for receiving a signal from the mobile phone and performing a dial control of the mobile phone, a display unit 102 for displaying e-mail characters and a television image, a dial push button 103 for sending information such as numerical values and symbols, Button lighting means (for example, LED) 117 for lighting the above button in color, voice means 120 for outputting telephone voice or TV voice, telephone A microphone 121 for converting sound into an electrical signal, an overall control unit 113 that performs overall control of the mobile phone device 100, and an overall control unit 113 that switches the functions of the television and the telephone by operating the push button 103 or a timer. The mode switching control unit 114 and the mode switching control unit 114 included include a switching unit 116 that switches the display unit 102 and the like to switch between a television image and a telephone image such as an e-mail.
[0034]
Note that the receiving unit 110 that performs demodulation and the like of the terrestrial digital broadcast wave is a receiving unit that receives only the terrestrial digital broadcast wave, but may transmit information from the mobile phone device 100. The transmission / reception part which can be used.
[0035]
Next, as shown in FIG. 3, a configuration of a portable television control unit 112 for selecting terrestrial digital broadcasting is shown. The portable TV control unit 112 extracts channel information data (SI information, etc.) from the received signal demodulated by the receiving unit 110, and also extracts channel information that separates the video / audio signal and sends it to the display and audio means. Means 130, button function analysis / setting means 133 for analyzing the type and function of the button when the push button is pressed, outputting the analysis result, and resetting the function of the button, and channel information extracting means Based on the information from 130 and the analysis result of the button function analysis / setting means, channel assignment control means 132 for controlling assignment, setting, channel selection, etc. of channel programs, etc., and setting information storage for storing affiliated station channel assignment information Setting information read out by the means 134 and the channel assignment control means 132 Under the control of the channel analysis means 131 that analyzes the contents stored in the memory means and determines whether to update or the like, and the channel assignment control means 132, the button lighting means according to the broadcast time zone. The button lighting control means 135 performs control for changing the lighting color and button blinking control.
[0036]
(First embodiment)
<Description of channel number assignment function according to SI information>
The mobile phone device 100 has a mode for operating as a normal telephone and a mode for viewing a television program. The switching of the operation mode is performed by the mode switching unit 116 according to the mode switching control unit 114 shown in FIG. By this mode switching, data of the mobile phone and television viewing data are switched. In a state of operating as a normal telephone, the push button 103 is used as a dial button or a mail creation button, for example. In the television program viewing mode, the push button 103 is used as a channel selection button for a television channel. Each channel number is assigned to each button.
[0037]
The push button 103 may be, for example, a button with a number such as 1, 2, 3 or the like, or a symbol such as * or #.
[0038]
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure for channel number assignment.
[0039]
First, the mode switching control unit 114 determines whether or not the mobile phone device 100 is currently requested to change the mode to the TV viewing mode by operating the user's push button 103 or a timer operation (step S11). ). At this time, if it is an operation of the push button 103, the button function analyzing unit 133 analyzes whether it is a mode change request, and if it is a mode change request, this information is sent to the mode switching control unit 114. Sent out. As a result, if it is requested to shift to the television viewing mode (step S11; yes), the mode switching control means 114 changes the mode to the television viewing mode (step S12). The channel assignment control unit 132 of the mobile phone device 100 attempts to receive the digital television broadcast by the receiving unit 110, and determines whether or not the broadcast can be received (step S13). When the digital television broadcast is ready to be received (step S13; yes), the reception of the television broadcast is started. Thereafter, the channel information extraction unit 130 extracts and analyzes SI (Service Information) information included in the received data. As a result of the analysis, the channel assignment control unit 132 combines the channel number set for each channel and the push button 103 of the mobile phone device 100 and presses the push button 103 by the button function analysis / setting unit 133. Is set so that the program designated by that number is selected (step S14). Here, when the broadcast is not receivable (step S13; no), the TV viewing mode is terminated.
[0040]
The channel assignment to the push button 103 is conducted to check whether or not the broadcast can be received after the mode transition to the TV viewing mode. This is made so that the transition to the TV viewing mode cannot be made except when the television viewing is possible. There is no problem even if it exists.
[0041]
<Description of affiliated station channel assignment function>
The affiliated station channel assignment function of the channel assignment control means 132 will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0042]
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a situation where the user 208 having the mobile phone device 100 moves between two areas of digital television broadcasting.
[0043]
It is assumed that there is a user 208 with the mobile phone device 100 in a receivable area 201 of a television broadcast wave transmitted from the broadcast radio tower 206. The receivable area 202 adjacent to the receivable area 201 is transmitted from the broadcast radio tower 207. For example, it is conceivable that broadcasts in different regions are adjacent to each other at the prefectural border as shown in this figure.
[0044]
When two or more receivable areas overlap in this way, there are areas where only radio waves from one broadcast radio tower can be received, and areas where broadcast radio waves from a plurality of areas overlap. In this case, the area 203 that can receive only the radio wave transmitted from the broadcast radio tower 206, the area 205 that can receive only the radio wave transmitted from the broadcast radio tower 207, the broadcast radio tower 206, and the broadcast radio wave There is an area 204 where radio waves transmitted from both towers 207 can be received.
[0045]
FIG. 6 is a table showing a list of television programs that can be received in each of the receivable areas 201 and 202 in FIG.
[0046]
The TV broadcast program that can be received in the receivable area 201 is assumed to have the contents shown in the program list 211. On the other hand, it is assumed that the TV broadcast program that can be received in the receivable area 202 has the contents shown in the program list 212.
[0047]
That is, a user in the area 203 can receive the television program shown in the program list 211, and a user in the area 205 can receive the television program shown in the program list 212. The user who is in can receive the television programs shown in both the program list 211 and the program list 212.
[0048]
FIG. 7 is a table showing affiliated station channel assignment information 221 that is set in advance in the mobile phone device 100 by the user 208.
[0049]
The affiliated station channel assignment information 221 is information that is separately provided from the channel information of the broadcast television program. For example, according to the allocation information 221, the broadcasting station “MHK1” is associated with channel 1, “Nichigi TV” is associated with channel 4, and the like. The affiliated station channel assignment information 221 is stored in the setting information storage means 134 by the channel assignment control means 132.
[0050]
Since the user in the normal area 203 in FIG. 5 is usually accustomed to the broadcasting affiliated station and the assigned channel number, the channel assignment number in the receiving state in the area 203 is the affiliated station channel assignment. Information 221 is set in the setting information storage unit 134.
[0051]
Next, the affiliated station channel assignment operation will be specifically described.
[0052]
FIG. 8 is a table showing a situation where a new number is assigned to a television program that can be received in the area of the receivable area 202 in FIG.
[0053]
When the affiliated station assignment information 221 is set in the setting information storage unit 134, “MHK1” of the program information 212 is assigned to “1” of the push button by the channel assignment information 221, and similarly “MHK2” is “3”. “Hiki TV” is assigned to “4”, “TDS” is assigned to “6”, and “Buji Television” is assigned to “8”. Users are accustomed to receiving “MHK1” by pressing “1”, so even if they receive a TV program in an area 205 different from the normal area 203, they are confused by channel selection. Accordingly, it becomes possible to receive the program of the affiliated station that is always familiar with the channel selection operation of the push button 103 as usual.
[0054]
On the other hand, when the affiliated station assignment information 221 is not set in the setting information storage means 134, the channel analyzing means 131 is assigned to the affiliated station of the received broadcast and the affiliated station based on the information from the channel assignment control means 132. Analyze the channel number. The analysis result is returned to the channel assignment control means 132 and the result is notified to the button function analysis / setting means 133. The button function analysis / setting unit 133 sets the push button to be the TV program list 212. Then, the affiliated station channel allocation unit 132 sets the affiliated station allocation information 221 in the setting information storage unit 134 so as to become the television program list 212. Thus, when the “2” button of the push button 103 is pressed, the broadcast of “MHK1” can be tuned and “Good morning Japon” can be viewed. Similarly, when the “5” button is pressed, “MHK2” is pressed, when the “7” button is pressed, “Nichigi TV” is pressed, and when the “9” button is pressed, “TDS” is displayed. Here, the “12” channel can select “Buji TV”, but the button to which the “12” channel is assigned is not mentioned here. For example, “*”, “0”, “ The “#” buttons may be assigned as “10”, “11”, and “12” buttons, respectively, or may be continuously pressed with “1” and “2” in a state where a plurality of digits can be input.
[0055]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the affiliated station channel assignment means.
[0056]
First, when the user 208 moves to the area 205, the mode switching control means 114 determines whether the reception of the television program has been started or the received broadcast area has been changed (step S21). When the reception is started or the area is changed, the television program is received with the channel number as shown in the program list 212 (step S21; yes). At that time, the channel assignment control means 132 reads the contents of the setting information storage means 134 to check whether information is set in the affiliated station channel assignment information 221 (step S22). Channel numbers are assigned in consideration of the assignment information (step S23), and if not set, channel numbers are assigned according to the program information 212 indicated in the received broadcast data. That is, the channel number set from the beginning in the broadcast area is assigned (step S24). As described above, the button function analyzing / setting unit 133 finally assigns the channel number to the button number.
[0057]
As described above, when a channel of a new affiliated station not set in the affiliated station channel assignment information 221 is received, the channel number set in the new affiliated station and the affiliated station channel assignment information 221 are set. Channel numbers may overlap. A free number search assignment function for solving this problem will be described below.
[0058]
<Description of free number search assignment function>
With reference to FIGS. 10 to 12, the empty number search assignment function of the channel assignment control means 132 will be described.
[0059]
The empty number search assignment function of the channel assignment control means searches for an unassigned number when the channel number assigned by the channel assignment function matches the channel number of another newly received sequence, Channels can be assigned.
[0060]
The specific operation of the free number search assignment function will be described below.
[0061]
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a channel list that can be received by the mobile phone device 100.
[0062]
FIG. 11 is a table showing a state in which a new number is assigned when the assigned channel number matches the channel number of another series that has been newly received.
[0063]
Assume that the user 208 in the area 203 is receiving the program of the channel list 301 shown in FIG. Further, it is assumed that affiliated station channel assignment information 221 is set in the cellular phone device 100. Further, it is assumed that a program in the channel list 302 is broadcast in the area 205.
[0064]
For example, since “TV sunset” in the program list 302 and “Buji TV” in the affiliated station allocation information 221 overlap with the same channel number “8”, “TV sunset” is assigned to an available number. At this time, since “Buji TV” is an affiliated station already set in the affiliated station allocation information 221, assigning “TV sunset” to the “8” channel and assigning “Buji Television” to the empty channel is “8”. However, it is confusing for users who are accustomed to the “Buji TV” series, so such distribution is not performed. Further, since “TDS” does not exist in the program list 302, the channel number “6” is also a vacant number, and “TV sunset” can be assigned to “6”, but “6” is “TDS”. It is confusing for users who are accustomed to the “line”, so “TV sunset” is not assigned to “6”. Based on the above-described operation, “TV sunset” is assigned to “10”, for example, and finally distributed as shown in the program list 311 of FIG.
[0065]
In the above-described example, the user 208 in the area 203 receives the information in the area 205. However, when the user 208 in the area 203 receives the program in the area 204, the program list 312 in FIG. It is distributed to.
[0066]
At this time, “TDS” receives the radio wave transmitted from the broadcast radio tower 206, and “Television sunset” receives the radio wave transmitted from the broadcast radio tower 207, but other “MHK1”, “MHK2”, “Sunday” When the same program is broadcasted in the respective areas of “Thu TV” and “Buji TV”, the same program can be obtained regardless of which broadcast radio wave is received. At this time, if the cellular phone device 100 can recognize that the user 208 in FIG. 5 is moving in the direction of the arrow by communication with the telephone base station, GPS, or the like, it is preferentially received from the broadcast radio tower 207. Alternatively, it may be switched individually for each channel at a program switching timing. If the received radio wave is changed at the program switching timing for each channel, the program can be switched without causing discomfort to the user (viewer) 208 in the case of a program being viewed. Also, for programs that are not being viewed, the program switching timing may not be required.
[0067]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an empty number search assignment operation procedure.
[0068]
First, the mode switching control means 114 determines whether or not the user 208 has received a television broadcast in the area 205 (step S31). When the user 208 receives a television broadcast in the area 205 (step S31; yes), it is checked whether the affiliated station channel assignment information 221 is set (step S32). If the affiliated station assignment information 221 is not set (step S32; no), each channel is assigned to the push button 103 with the channel number as in the channel information 302 (step S35). If the affiliated station assignment information 221 is set (step S32; yes), it is checked whether or not a series of programs not set in the setting information 221 is currently received (step S33). If a series of programs not set in the setting information 221 has not been received (step S33; no), the channel numbers of the programs of each series are assigned according to the setting information 221 (step S36). When a series of programs not set in the setting information 221 is received (step S33; yes), the channel number to which the channel of the series is initially assigned is checked (step S34). When the checked channel number does not overlap with the number set in the affiliated station assignment information 221 (step S34; no), the channel is assigned to the channel number initially assigned (step S36).
[0069]
When the numbers overlap (step S34; yes), a channel number to which no number is assigned is searched and the channel is assigned to that number (step S37).
[0070]
As described above, even when channels of the same series are broadcast in a plurality of broadcast areas, when different programs are broadcast depending on the areas, if these programs are received at the same time, there may be a problem as to which broadcast area is allocated. There is sex.
[0071]
For users, both are programs of the same station, so if one of the programs is assigned to a free number, the user will see the program to see which affiliated station the program assigned to that free number is. Or you will see and examine the program information, which may cause confusion. A multi-channel assignment function for solving this problem will be described below.
[0072]
<Description of multi-channel assignment function>
The multi-channel assignment operation of the channel assignment control unit 132 will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0073]
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a channel list in the mobile phone device 100 according to the present invention.
[0074]
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a state in which only one of the broadcasts is selected and assigned to a channel number when the program contents are the same.
[0075]
Channel assignment control means 132 receives broadcast radio waves from a plurality of areas at the same time, and when broadcasts transmitted from each area broadcast different programs in the same series, the same according to affiliated station channel assignment information 221 It has a multi-channel assignment function that can assign to a channel number and alternately display a plurality of programs that are assigned to the same number and switch between different programs each time the push button 103 is pressed.
[0076]
Assume that the user 208 in the area 203 is receiving the program of the channel list 401 shown in FIG. Further, it is assumed that the affiliated station channel assignment information 221 is set in the cellular phone device 100, and the channel numbers in the channel list 401 are those set by the affiliated station channel assignment information 221. In the area 205, it is assumed that the program of the channel list 402 is being broadcast.
[0077]
Here, as shown in the channel lists 401 and 402, the programs “Hiki TV” and “Buji TV” differ depending on the broadcast area, and are assigned to the numbers “4” and “8”, respectively. ing. As described above, when the user 208 presses the “4” button, the “soccer” and the “junior high school teacher” are alternately switched and received every time the user 208 presses the button. Similarly, the user presses the “8” button. When pressed, it operates so that “Music Jump” and “Traemon” are alternately switched and received each time the button is pressed.
[0078]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the multi-channel assignment operation procedure of the channel selection control means according to the present invention.
[0079]
First, the mode switching control means 114 checks whether the user 208 receives a television broadcast in the area 204 and the broadcast areas overlap (step S41). If the broadcast areas overlap (step S41; yes), it is checked whether the affiliated station channel assignment information 221 is set (step S42). If the affiliated station assignment information 221 is not set (step S42; no), each channel is assigned to the push button 103 with the channel number as in the channel information 402 (step S45). If the affiliated station assignment information 221 is set (step S42; yes), it is checked whether the broadcast of the same affiliated station from each area is received (step S43). When broadcasts of the same affiliated station are not received simultaneously (step S42; no), channels are assigned to the push buttons according to the affiliated station assignment information 221 (step S46). If broadcasts of the same affiliated station are being received simultaneously, it is checked whether the programs of those broadcasts are the same program (step S44).
[0080]
If these programs have the same contents (step S44; no), the channels are allocated to the push buttons according to the affiliated station assignment information 221 (step S46). When broadcast programs of the same series received at the same time are different (step S44; yes), the different programs are allocated to the same channel number according to the affiliated station allocation information 221 (step S47). Here, step S46 and step S47 have the same program distribution method, but a plurality of channels are allocated to the same number, or since only one broadcast is selected because the program contents are the same, the program is allocated to the channel number. That part is different.
[0081]
Next, even when multiple TV broadcast areas overlap, adjusting the affiliated stations and channel numbers that users are usually accustomed to makes it easier for users to tune in. Even if a channel is allocated to a button, whether or not the affiliated broadcast itself is being performed in a certain area is actually selected or confirmed by EPG or the like, and a small screen of the mobile phone device 100 Then, it is difficult to confirm, and the tuning operation is troublesome. A receivable channel button lighting function for solving this problem will be described below.
[0082]
<Description of receivable channel button lighting function>
The receivable channel button lighting function of the button lighting control means 135 will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0083]
The receivable channel button lighting function of the button lighting control unit 135 can easily notify the user of the viewable channel by lighting the push button 103 of the receivable channel.
[0084]
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a program guide in a receivable state.
[0085]
FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of the push button showing a state where the push button of the viewable channel is lit.
[0086]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the receivable channel button lighting function.
[0087]
First, the mode switching control means 114 determines whether or not the mobile phone device 100 has shifted to the television viewing mode (step S51). When the mode is shifted to the television viewing mode (step S51; yes), it is determined whether or not the program in the program table 501 of FIG. 16 is in a receivable state (step S52). When it is in a receivable state (step S52; yes), among the push buttons 511 shown in FIG. 17, the push button of the viewable channel is turned on (step S53). In this way, when the user is watching “Good Morning Japon” of “MHK1”, the push button of the channel that can be viewed is turned on, and other channels want to check which channel can be viewed. In addition, it is possible to immediately know that “3”, “4”, “6”, and “8” can be viewed in addition to the “1” channel simply by looking at the push button 103. In addition, if the affiliated station channel assignment information 221 is set, even if a TV broadcast is received in an unknown area, “MHK1” can be viewed or viewed at this place only by looking at the push button. "Can't be watched immediately.
[0088]
Some mobile phones have their push buttons lit during operation so that they can be operated easily even in dark places. Even in such a state, the viewable channel can be confirmed by changing the emission color, changing the emission intensity, or distinguishing between lighting and blinking.
[0089]
Next, even if the viewable channel is known, it may not be understood what kind of program is being broadcast. The lighting function for each receivable channel button genre for solving this problem will be described below.
[0090]
<Receivable channel button description of genre lighting function>
The receivable channel button genre lighting function of the button lighting control means 135 will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0091]
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a program table in which a genre is set for each currently broadcasted program.
[0092]
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating the correspondence between the genre and the color of the button to emit light.
[0093]
FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a push button that can set a light emission color for each genre of a program.
[0094]
The button lighting control unit 135 of the mobile phone device 100 according to the present embodiment sets the emission color for each genre of the program, and the push button 103 of the receivable channel is set with the set color for each genre of the program currently being broadcast. By having the light emitted, a receivable channel button genre lighting function that can identify a receivable channel button genre is provided.
[0095]
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a procedure for operating a lighting function for each receivable channel button genre.
[0096]
The mode switching control unit 114 determines whether or not the mode is switched to the television viewing mode (step S61). When the mode is switched to the TV viewing mode (step S61; yes), it is determined whether or not the set program is in a receivable state (step S62).
[0097]
Here, for example, as shown in the program table 601 of FIG. 19, it is assumed that a genre is set for each currently broadcast program. The correspondence table 611 in FIG. 20 is an example, and other combinations may be used.
[0098]
When a program in the program list 601 is received (step S62; yes), it is understood that the channel “1” has the genre “news”. Next, it can be seen from the correspondence table 611 that the set color of the “news” genre is “red”. Accordingly, the “1” button 622 of the push button 621 shown in FIG. Similarly, the “No. 3” button 623 emits light in purple, the “No. 4” button 624 in yellow, the “No. 6” button 625 in orange, and the “No. 8” button 626 in blue (step S63). . The “7” button 627 is not lit because there is no assigned channel.
[0099]
In this way, when the user wants to watch sports immediately when the mobile phone device 100 is set to the TV viewing mode, the user can look at the push button 511 and look for a button that is lit in blue. It is convenient to immediately determine whether a program is being broadcast. In particular, in the case of a program that may be broadcast on any channel, such as baseball, it is possible to easily select a baseball broadcast channel without checking all available channels.
[0100]
Also, for example, if you are watching a program and want to watch a movie that starts on another channel, the button of the channel you want to watch can be viewed without having to wait for the program to start. If you select the channel after confirming that the color has changed from red to green, for example, you can avoid missing the beginning of the movie.
[0101]
Here, if a program of the same genre is being broadcast on a channel continuously, simply checking the lit button does not show the switching of the program, and eventually the channel is selected or the broadcast time is checked. It is necessary to check the current time and determine whether it is time for the broadcast to switch.
[0102]
The broadcast time linked lighting button function of the button lighting control means 135 for solving this problem will be described below.
[0103]
<Explanation of broadcast time linked lighting button function>
With reference to FIGS. 23 to 26, the broadcast time linked lighting button function of the button lighting control means 135 will be described.
[0104]
The mobile phone device 100 according to the present embodiment includes a push button 103 having a function of changing the brightness of light emission in conjunction with the passage of the broadcast time of a program being broadcast.
[0105]
FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the passage of time and the brightness of the lighting button.
[0106]
FIG. 24 is a diagram showing the broadcast time for each broadcast program currently being received.
[0107]
FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a push button in which the brightness of a button that emits light changes with time.
[0108]
When there is a program that starts at 0:00 and the next program starts at 1:00, for example, when the brightness of the button is three levels, the button emits the brightest light at 0:00 to 0:20 (701) ), The button emits light at the second brightness from 0:20 to 0:40 (702), and the button emits light at the third brightness (1st darkest) from 0:40 to 10:00 (703) To do. Thereafter, when the next program starts, the light is emitted again brightest (704).
[0109]
FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the broadcast time interlocking lighting button function of the button lighting control means 135.
[0110]
For example, it is assumed that a program as shown in Table 711 in FIG. 24 is received and the broadcast time of each program is as described in the broadcast time in Table 711 shown in FIG.
[0111]
First, the mode switching control unit 114 determines whether or not the mode is switched to the television reception mode (step S71). When the mode is shifted to the television reception mode (step S71; yes), it is determined whether there is a reception channel (step S72). When there is a reception channel (step S72; yes), the broadcast time of the received program is compared with the current time, the elapsed time is checked, the illumination intensity of the button is determined, and the button is lit (step S72). For example, when the current time is 7:31, as shown in FIG. 25, first, among the push buttons 721, the buttons “1”, “3”, “4”, “6”, “8” It will light up because it can be selected. Since the elapsed time of the program of each channel is known from the current time, “Good morning Japon” of “MHK1” has passed one third or more and less than two thirds since the program started. Therefore, the “1” button 722 is lit with the second brightness.
[0112]
Similarly, “MHK2” “3” button 723 representing “quickly a word” is the second brightness and “4” button 724 representing “Soccer” of “Nichigi TV” is the third. “6” button 725 for “TDS” “Comedy LOL” is the second brightness, and “8” button for “BJ TV” “Music Jump” is the brightest Will light up.
[0113]
Since the time is ticking, if the television reception state continues, the routine returns to the routine for starting the comparison between the broadcast time and the current time in order to update the button emission again (step S74).
[0114]
As described above, it is not limited to showing the passage of time by the brightness of lighting, and the passage of time may be expressed by the blinking speed of the push button.
[0115]
Furthermore, although the broadcast time is expressed in three stages, this stage is not limited to three stages, and can be divided into any number of patterns that can be expressed.
[0116]
Furthermore, as described above, the passage of time is expressed at all times of the broadcast. For example, if it is blinked only 3 minutes before the end of the broadcast, the number of minutes that the reserved program starts when the viewing reservation is made It is also possible to notify the arrival of the reservation time, such as the button of the channel blinking when it is before.
[0117]
(Second Embodiment)
<Description of back program confirmation function>
In the cellular phone device 100 according to the first embodiment, not only the genre and elapsed time but also the EPG is carried when it is desired to know in detail what program is being performed on another channel while viewing a certain program. It is necessary to display on a small TV screen or directly select another channel, which may hinder viewing of the current program. A back program confirmation function using a two-stage push button for solving the above problem will be described below.
[0118]
With reference to FIGS. 27 to 29, a mobile phone device 100 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0119]
In the cellular phone device 800 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to present the program contents of other channels without disturbing the current television viewing by making each button of the dial push button 803 a button that can be pressed in two stages. It has a program confirmation function.
[0120]
FIG. 27 is an external view showing a mobile phone device 800 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
[0121]
FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a program list for explaining the operation of the mobile phone device 800 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
[0122]
The cellular phone device 800 includes a main body unit 801, a display unit 802, a two-stage push button unit 803, and an information display unit 804. Now, it is assumed that the mobile phone device 800 is in an area where the program shown in the program list 811 of FIG. 28 is broadcast. Individual programs shown in the program list 811 are assigned to channel numbers set in the two-stage push button 803, the “1” button is “MHK1”, the “3” button is “MHK2”, “4” The “No.” button is assigned “Nichigi TV”, the “6” button is assigned “TDS”, and the “8” button is assigned “Buji TV”.
[0123]
Here, the two-stage push button has a first-stage push-in state (half-pressed state) and a second-stage push-in state (full-press state).
[0124]
FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the back program confirmation function operation procedure of the channel assignment control means 132 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
Suppose now that the user is watching “Comedy LOL” on the “6” channel. On the display unit 802, a video of “Comedy LOL” is displayed. In this state, the channel assignment control unit 132 determines whether or not the button of the receivable channel is half-pressed (step S81). If it is determined that the button has been half-pressed (step S82; yes), information on the receivable channel is displayed (step S82). For example, when the “8” button is pressed halfway, the information display section 804 displays the program title of “Music Jump” broadcast on the “8” channel, the broadcast time, the program information such as performers, etc. And user reservation information for the program, provision of the program, information related to the program such as CM, and the like are displayed. The channel assignment control unit 132 transfers the information from the channel information extraction unit 130 to the information display unit 804 according to the determination information of the button function analysis / setting unit 133. This display method may be displayed by scrolling, or information may be displayed by switching the display at a fixed time. The information that can be notified by an icon or the like may be an icon display. Further, the information providing unit 804 may be independent of the display unit, may be disposed below or above the display unit, or may be scrolled and displayed in the end region of the program region being viewed. Absent.
[0125]
Next, it is determined whether or not the button of the receivable channel has been fully pressed (step S84). If it is fully pressed (step S84; yes), the pressed channel is selected (step S84).
[0126]
For example, when the “8” button is fully pressed, the channel is selected and the program is displayed on the display unit 802.
[0127]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, in a mobile phone device integrated with a television receiver, it is possible to quickly find a program of a genre that the user wants to watch even on a mobile TV with a small display, and usually he / she is watching TV Even if you move to a different area, the channel numbers that you are familiar with and the affiliated stations are matched, so that you can select channels more smoothly.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an external view of a portable television according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of a portable television according to the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of a mobile TV control unit of the mobile TV according to the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of channel number assigning means.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a state where a user 208 having the mobile phone device 100 moves between two areas of digital television broadcasting.
6 is a list showing television programs that can be received in each of the receivable areas 201 and 202 in FIG. 3. FIG.
7 is a list showing affiliated station channel assignment information 221 set in advance in the mobile phone device 100 by a user 208. FIG.
8 is a table showing a situation in which a new number is assigned to a television program that can be received in the area of the receivable area 202 in FIG. 3;
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of affiliated station channel assignment means.
FIG. 10 is a table showing a channel list in the mobile phone device 100 according to the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a situation in which a new number is assigned when the assigned channel number matches the channel number of another series that is newly received.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of an empty number search assigning unit.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a channel list.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a state where only one broadcast is selected and distributed to channel numbers when the program contents are the same.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the multi-channel assigning means.
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a program guide in a receivable state.
FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of a push button showing a state where a push button of a viewable channel is turned on.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of a receivable channel button lighting unit.
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a program table in which a genre is set for each program currently being broadcast.
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a correspondence between a genre and a button color to be emitted.
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a push button that can set a luminescent color for each genre of a program.
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of a lighting unit for each receivable channel button genre.
FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the passage of time and the brightness of a lighting button.
FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a broadcast time for each broadcast program currently being received.
FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a push button in which the brightness of a button that emits light changes with time.
FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the broadcast time interlocking lighting button means.
FIG. 27 is an external view showing a mobile TV according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 28 is a table showing a program list for explaining the operation of the mobile TV according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a back program confirmation function operation procedure;
[Explanation of symbols]
100 Mobile phone device
101 Main body
102 Display section
103 push button
104 Antenna part
110 Receiver
111 transceiver
112 Mobile TV controller
113 General Control Department
114 Mode switching control means
115 Mobile phone control unit
116 Switching means
117 Button lighting means
120 Audio means
121 microphone
130 Channel information extraction means
131 Channel analysis means
132 Affiliate channel assignment means
133 Button function analysis / setting means
134 Setting information storage means
135 Button lighting control means
201 Receivable area
202 Receivable area
203 area
204 areas
205 area
206 Broadcasting tower
207 Broadcasting tower
208 users
211 Program list
212 Program list
221 Channel allocation information for affiliated stations
231 Channel number assignment result
301 Program list
302 Program list
311 Channel number assignment result
312 Channel number assignment result
401 Program list
402 Program list
411 Channel number assignment result
501 Program list
511 push button
601 Program list
611 Correspondence between genre and button color
621 Whole push button
622 push button
623 push button
624 push button
625 push button
626 push button
627 push button
701 Push button in the brightest state
702 Push button in second brightest state
703 3rd brightest push button
704 Push button in the brightest state
711 Program list
721 Whole push button
722 push button
723 push button
724 push button
725 push button
726 push button
727 push button
800 Mobile phone device
801 body
802 Display unit
803 2-stage push button
804 Information display section
811 Program list

Claims (8)

An antenna for transmitting / receiving mobile phone transmission / reception waves and terrestrial digital broadcast waves;
A receiving unit for receiving the terrestrial digital broadcast wave received by the antenna unit;
A display unit capable of displaying a TV program;
An input button for entering a number including a numerical value or a symbol;
A portable TV control unit for controlling the selection of TV programs;
A mode switching control means for switching between a mode for transmitting / receiving a mobile phone and a mode for watching a TV program,
A cellular phone device, wherein the input button is used as a channel selection button for the television program when the mode switching control means is in a mode for viewing the television program. The mobile TV control unit includes channel analysis means for analyzing the affiliated station of the received broadcast and the channel number assigned to the affiliated station,
Setting information storage means for storing affiliated station assignment information for always making the channel number of the affiliated station assigned to the input button the same;
Button function analysis and setting means for changing and resetting button function analysis and button function when the input button is pressed;
Channel allocation control means for performing channel assignment by the button function analysis / setting means and the channel analysis means, and
The channel assignment control means stores the affiliated station assignment information in the setting information storage means when it is determined that the affiliated station and the channel number of the received broadcast are the affiliated station assignment information. The mobile phone device according to claim 1. When the channel assignment control means receives a program of a new affiliate station that has not been received so far due to a change in the reception area, the channel number assigned to the new affiliate station from the beginning is already 3. When assigned as a channel selection channel number, a free number is searched and assigned to a channel number that is not currently assigned or assigned to a channel number that is assigned but not currently received. The mobile phone device described in 1. When the channel allocation control means receives a broadcast in an area where a plurality of broadcast areas are overlapped due to a change in the reception area, the channel assignment control means is broadcast from a broadcast program of a certain affiliated station that has been received so far and from other areas. If broadcast programs of the same affiliated station are different, a newly received program is also assigned to the currently assigned channel number, and a plurality of programs are alternately displayed each time the assigned input button is pressed. 4. The cellular phone device according to claim 2, wherein channel assignment is performed. The portable television control unit further includes button lighting control means for performing various controls on the button lighting means of the input button,
5. The button lighting control unit according to claim 2, wherein the button lighting control unit controls the button lighting unit to notify a viewer of a channel that can be received at present by emitting light from the button lighting unit. The mobile phone device described. The button lighting control means emits the button lighting means having a function of emitting light in a plurality of colors using colors set for each genre, so that it is broadcasted to a channel currently broadcast to the user. 6. The mobile phone device according to claim 5, wherein the button lighting means is controlled to cause a viewer to present a certain genre. The button lighting control means is a broadcast that expresses how much a receivable program has elapsed with respect to its broadcast time or how imminent it is to a designated program by the brightness or flashing speed of the input button. The cellular phone device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein time-linked lighting control is performed. The input button includes an input button that can be pressed in two steps, and an information display unit at an empty space of the display, or an end of a currently viewed video,
The information display unit displays the information of the currently broadcast program in the empty space of the display or the edge of the currently viewed video when the input button is half-pressed, and informs the user, The mobile phone device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a back program for receiving the channel is confirmed when is fully pressed.

Images