JP2005086769A - Information processing apparatus and method, recording medium, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a user to easily use a function effective for the user. <P>SOLUTION: In an information processing apparatus, a remote control code receiving section 202 receives a remote control code that is based on user's operation from a remote controller 11 and determines whether or not GUI remote control is indicated by a GUI remote control display control section 201. When it is determines that the received remote control code is a remote control code of a determination button, the remote control code receiving section 202 acquires information relating to a display mode of the indicated GUI remote control and a position of a cursor, converts the received remote control code into a remote control code of a function to which the acquired information corresponds, and outputs the converted remote control code to a function sorting section 203. The information processing apparatus is applicable to a video signal receiving apparatus that performs predetermined processing on the basis of the operation of the remote controller. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus and method, a recording medium, and a program, and more particularly, to an information processing apparatus and method, a recording medium, and a program that can easily use functions effective for a user.

  In recent years, with the increasing number of functions of AV (Audio Video) devices, the number of buttons of remote controllers (hereinafter referred to as remote controllers) attached to these devices has been increasing. This is because you can control multifunctional devices, but from the viewpoint of operability, you can operate while looking at the screen (that is, operate without confirming the position of the remote control buttons) or combine several remote control buttons. In the case of all the operations, there are inconveniences such as wrong pressing of the remote control button and difficulty in performing a quick operation.

  In addition, when using AV equipment, for example, a user who is accustomed to use often plays a CD in stereo, and often views data broadcasts in a digital television device (hereinafter referred to as digital TV), or a video recorder. In many cases, local functions are used intensively, such as when many rental video cassettes are played. Therefore, for these users, only the remote control buttons related to frequently used functions need be arranged at easy-to-use positions on the remote control, and the other buttons are hidden except in rare cases. Is preferable.

  On the other hand, in digital TVs, stereos, playback devices, etc., narrow down to the minimum necessary functions, and if you receive a simple remote control that fires each manufacturer's remote control code or an attached remote control code, After that, a learning remote controller that emits the stored remote control code is provided to simplify the remote control buttons or limit the remote control to user-preferred functions. However, once the simple remote controller and the learning remote controller are set, it is difficult to reset them.

  Therefore, for example, in the broadcast receiving apparatus of Patent Document 1, it has been proposed that the layout editing of the menu display is opened to the user, and the user can easily change the menu display. There has been proposed an AV device that displays a menu and provides a user with layout editing of the menu display.

JP 11-282886 A

  However, in the AV device described above, for example, the function of a computer is emulated by a remote control device via remote control software, and although the software structure is not changed, the hardware structure needs to be changed, There were issues that could not be easily added.

  Further, in the above-described AV device, when editing the menu display layout of the remote controller, only predetermined functions of the functions originally provided by the attached remote controller are provided as candidates for functions displayed in the layout. In many cases, not all functions of AV equipment are provided.

  That is, AV equipment does not react only to the remote control button attached to the attached remote control, but also a remote control code corresponding to the remote control of a device released in the past, a dedicated remote control code that can be controlled by other categories of products, Alternatively, it has a function of receiving a remote control code for development. Such a function is a very effective function for a user who often uses the above-described remote control code, and a merit to the user is great by releasing these remote control codes. However, information regarding such functions is rarely provided by AV equipment or its manufacturers, and there are few users who know that there is a function capable of receiving these remote control codes.

  As described above, there is a problem that the user cannot use an effective function because the user does not know that the function is provided even though the user has an effective function.

  Furthermore, even if the buttons and menu display of the remote controller are set based on the user's preference as described above, the user selects only the function that he / she knows, so the function that the manufacturer wants to recommend is sold to the user. There was a problem that could not be done.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and makes it possible to easily use functions effective for the user.

  An information processing apparatus of the present invention is for specifying a predetermined function from all functions including a function assigned to a predetermined button of a remote controller and a function not assigned to a predetermined button of a remote controller. Display control means for controlling display of a menu image composed of images, remote control code receiving means for receiving a remote control code from a remote controller, and a predetermined remote control code by the remote control code receiving means when the menu image is displayed Is received, a conversion means for converting a predetermined remote control code into a remote control code having a function corresponding to the image specified in the menu image, and a function for determining the function corresponding to the remote control code converted by the conversion means The discriminating means and the machine discriminated by the function discriminating means Characterized in that it comprises a function control means for controlling.

  When the remote control code is received by the remote control code receiving means when the menu image is not displayed, the determination means can determine the function corresponding to the remote control code received by the remote control code receiving means. .

  It further includes registration means for registering the remote control code received by the remote control code receiving means when the menu image is not displayed or the remote control code converted by the conversion means when the menu image is displayed. Can be.

  The menu image can be constituted by an image for designating a function corresponding to a predetermined number of remote control codes selected in order of decreasing registration frequency among the remote control codes registered by the registration means. .

  The menu image can be configured by an image corresponding to a function selected from all functions by the user.

  The menu image may be configured by an image corresponding to a function selected from all functions by a provider who provides the function.

  An information processing method of the present invention is for specifying a predetermined function from all functions including a function assigned to a predetermined button of a remote controller and a function not assigned to a predetermined button of a remote controller. A display control step for controlling the display of the menu image composed of images, a remote control code receiving step for receiving a remote control code from the remote controller, and a remote control code receiving step when the menu image is displayed, When a remote control code is received, a conversion step of converting a predetermined remote control code into a remote control code having a function corresponding to the image specified in the menu image, and a function corresponding to the remote control code converted by the processing of the conversion step Function discrimination step When, characterized in that it comprises a function control step of controlling the functions determined by the process of the function determination step.

  The recording medium on which the program of the present invention is recorded has a predetermined function among all functions including functions assigned to predetermined buttons of the remote controller and functions not assigned to predetermined buttons of the remote controller. A display control step for controlling display of a menu image composed of images for designating a remote control, a remote control code receiving step for receiving a remote control code from a remote controller, and a remote control code receiving step when the menu image is displayed When a predetermined remote control code is received by the process of (2), a conversion step of converting the predetermined remote control code into a remote control code having a function corresponding to the image specified in the menu image, and the remote control converted by the process of the conversion step The function that the code supports Characterized in that it comprises a function determination step of another to, and a function controlling step of controlling determination functionality by the process of function determination step.

  The program of the present invention is based on an image for designating a predetermined function from all functions including functions assigned to predetermined buttons of the remote controller and functions not assigned to predetermined buttons of the remote controller. A display control step for controlling the display of the configured menu image; a remote control code receiving step for receiving a remote control code from the remote controller; and a predetermined remote control code by processing of the remote control code receiving step when the menu image is displayed Is received, a conversion step for converting a predetermined remote control code into a remote control code of a function corresponding to the image specified in the menu image, and a function corresponding to the remote control code converted by the processing of the conversion step are determined. Function determination step , Characterized in that it comprises a function control step of controlling the functions determined by the process of the function determination step.

  In the present invention, an image for designating a predetermined function among all functions including a function assigned to a predetermined button of the remote controller and a function not assigned to a predetermined button of the remote controller is configured. The display of the menu image is controlled. When a predetermined remote control code is received when the menu image is displayed, the predetermined remote control code is converted into a remote control code having a function corresponding to the image specified in the menu image, and converted. The function corresponding to the remote control code is determined, and the determined function is controlled.

  According to the present invention, an effective function can be easily provided to a user. Furthermore, according to the present invention, the user can use effective functions easily and quickly.

  BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below. Correspondences between constituent elements described in the claims and specific examples in the best mode for carrying out the invention are illustrated as follows. Become. This description is intended to confirm that the specific examples supporting the invention described in the claims are described in the best mode for carrying out the invention. Accordingly, even if there are specific examples that are described in the best mode for carrying out the invention but are not described here as corresponding to the constituent elements, the specific examples are not included. However, this does not mean that it does not correspond to the configuration requirements. On the contrary, even if a specific example is described here as corresponding to a configuration requirement, this means that the specific example does not correspond to a configuration requirement other than the configuration requirement. not.

  Further, this description does not mean that the invention corresponding to the specific example described in the best mode for carrying out the invention is all described in the claims. In other words, this description is an invention corresponding to the specific example described in the best mode for carrying out the invention, and is the existence of an invention not described in the claims of this application, that is, in the future. This does not deny the existence of an invention that has been filed for division or added by amendment.

  According to the present invention, an information processing apparatus (for example, a video signal receiving apparatus in FIG. 1) that performs a predetermined function in response to a remote control code from a remote controller (for example, the remote controller 11 in FIG. 1) is provided. . The information processing apparatus includes an image (designating a predetermined function among all functions including functions assigned to predetermined buttons of the remote controller and functions not assigned to predetermined buttons of the remote controller ( For example, display control means for controlling the display of a menu image (for example, GUI remote control 101 in FIG. 3) constituted by the function selection label 112-1) in FIG. 3, and remote control code receiving means for receiving a remote control code from the remote controller When the menu image is displayed (for example, the remote control code determination unit 231 in FIG. 8), a predetermined remote control code (for example, the remote control code of the decision button 63 in FIG. 2) is received by the remote control code receiving unit. When a predetermined remote control code is specified in the menu image Conversion means (for example, remote control code converter 233 in FIG. 8) for converting the image to be converted into a remote control code corresponding to the function, and function determination means (for example, FIG. 8) for determining the function corresponding to the remote control code converted by the conversion means. 6 function distribution unit 203) and function control means for controlling the function determined by the function determination means (for example, TV function control unit 204-1 in FIG. 6).

  The information processing apparatus converts the remote control code received by the remote control code receiving means (for example, the remote control code of the channel button 65) when the menu image is not displayed, or when the menu image is displayed. It is possible to further include registration means for registering the remote control code converted by the means (for example, the remote control function registration unit 234 in FIG. 8).

  In this information processing apparatus, a menu image (for example, GUI remote controller 151 in FIG. 5) corresponds to a predetermined number of remote control codes selected in descending order of registration frequency among the remote control codes registered by the registration unit. Can be made up of images for designating.

  In this information processing apparatus, a menu image (for example, GUI remote control 122 in FIG. 4) is configured by an image corresponding to a function selected from all functions (for example, all list display 121 in FIG. 4) by the user. Can be like that.

  In this information processing apparatus, the menu image (for example, the GUI remote controller 151 in FIG. 5) is configured such that the function selected from all the functions by the provider providing the function is configured by an image corresponding to the function image. Can do.

  According to the present invention, there is provided an information processing method for executing a predetermined function in response to a remote control code from a remote controller (for example, the remote controller 11 in FIG. 1). This information processing method uses a predetermined function (for example, the function shown in FIG. 3) from all functions including functions assigned to predetermined buttons of the remote controller and functions not assigned to predetermined buttons of the remote controller. A display control step (for example, step S4 in FIG. 10) for controlling the display of a menu image (for example, the GUI remote controller 101 in FIG. 3) constituted by an image for designating the selection label 112-1), and a remote controller When a remote control code receiving step (for example, step S21 in FIG. 11) for receiving the remote control code and a menu image are displayed, a predetermined remote control code (for example, the decision button 63 in FIG. Remote control code) is received, the specified remote control A conversion step (for example, step S25 in FIG. 11) for converting the mode into a remote control code having a function corresponding to the image specified in the menu image, and a function corresponding to the remote control code converted by the processing of the conversion step. It includes a function determining step (for example, step S27 in FIG. 11) for determining, and a function control step (for example, step S29 in FIG. 11) for controlling the function determined by the process of the function determining step.

  Note that the recording medium and the program of the present invention have basically the same configuration as the information processing method of the present invention described above, and therefore will not be described because they are repeated.

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

  FIG. 1 shows a configuration example of a video signal receiving apparatus 1 to which the present invention is applied. In FIG. 1, a dotted arrow indicates a control signal, and a solid arrow indicates a video signal (broadcast signal).

  In the example of FIG. 1, the video signal receiving apparatus 1 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) remote controller on the video display unit 14 based on an operation of a remote controller (hereinafter referred to as a remote controller) 11 by a user, and displays a video. Based on the operation of the remote controller 11 at the time of display of the GUI remote controller of the unit 14, it is received via a terrestrial digital broadcast broadcast signal received via the terrestrial antenna 12 or via a BS (Broadcasting Satellite) antenna 13. The original television (TV) function of the video signal receiving apparatus 1 that receives a broadcast signal of BS digital broadcast and displays it on a video display unit 14 constituted by a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), etc. VTR function for controlling a VTR (video tape recorder) connected to a network not shown, and a memory card attached To control, such as a memory card (MC) function to control the reading and writing to the 3.

  That is, the video signal receiving apparatus 1 receives a broadcast signal based on the remote control code emitted from the remote controller 11 and displays not only the function of the television apparatus that displays the received signal on the video display unit 14 but also the input / output. Functions connected to the interface 29 (VTR function and memory card function) are also controlled.

  In FIG. 1, a system control unit 21 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The system control unit 21 follows a program stored in a built-in ROM, a program loaded in a built-in RAM (Random Access Memory), or a remote control code from the remote control 11 obtained via the light receiving unit 30. Each part of the video signal receiving apparatus 1 is controlled and various processes are executed. In addition, when the GUI remote controller is displayed on the video display unit 14, the system control unit 21 converts the remote control code from the remote control 11 obtained through the light receiving unit 30 into a remote control code having a corresponding function, and based on that Thus, each unit of the video signal receiving device 1 or other devices connected to the network is controlled to execute various processes.

  The RAM of the system control unit 21 also appropriately stores data necessary for the system control unit 21 to execute various processes. The ROM of the system control unit 21 includes all functions that can be controlled by the video signal receiving apparatus 1 and remote control codes corresponding to the functions, that is, not only the remote control codes of the functions of the video signal receiving apparatus 1 but also the remote control of the previous version ( The remote control code corresponding to the remote control code corresponding to the remote control attached to another device (for example, VTR), the remote control code for development, and the like are stored. The ROM of the system control unit 21 stores data necessary for the system control unit 21 to generate a GUI remote control display data signal, and the system control unit 21 is stored in the ROM. Based on all remote control codes, a data signal for GUI remote control display is generated.

  The system control unit 21 and the nonvolatile memory 22 are connected to each other via a bus 23. In the nonvolatile memory 22, the remote control code (count) received from the remote controller 11 is registered and stored from the start of operation of the remote controller 11 to 100 to 1000 steps. Also connected to the bus 23 are a terrestrial tuner 24, a BS tuner 25, a signal processing unit 26, a graphic superimposing unit 27, an image quality improving unit 28, an input / output interface (I / F) 29, and a light receiving unit 30.

  The terrestrial tuner 24 selects and demodulates the broadcast signal received via the terrestrial antenna 12 and outputs it to the signal processing unit 26. The BS tuner 25 selects and demodulates the broadcast signal received via the terrestrial antenna 12 and outputs it to the signal processing unit 26. The signal processing unit 26 separates the signal from the terrestrial tuner 24 or the BS tuner 25 into a video signal, an audio signal, a data signal, and the like, and outputs the separated video signal to the graphic superimposing unit 27 to output the data signal. Output to the system control unit 21. Note that the audio signal from the signal processing unit 26 is output to an audio processing unit (not shown), processed, and output from a microphone (not shown). Further, the signal processing unit 26 outputs the separated video signal and audio signal to the input / output interface 29.

  The system control unit 21 converts the data signal from the signal processing unit 26 into a predetermined format, and supplies the data signal converted into the predetermined format to the graphic superimposing unit 27. Further, the system control unit 21 expands the data stored in the nonvolatile memory 22 according to the remote control code from the remote control 11 input via the light receiving unit 30, and generates a data signal for GUI remote control display. The generated data signal is supplied to the graphic superimposing unit 27.

  The graphic superimposing unit 27 decodes the video signal from the signal processing unit 26, superimposes the data signal from the system control unit 21 on the decoded video signal, and outputs the data signal to the image quality improving unit 28. The image quality improving unit 28 increases the image quality of the video signal from the graphic superimposing unit 27 to be displayed on the image display unit 14, and outputs the image signal with the improved image quality to the image display unit 14. 14 displays an image.

  The input / output interface 29 includes a communication interface (I / F) 41 and a memory card interface (I / F) 42. The communication interface 41 transmits a control signal from the system control unit 21 to a VTR (not shown) connected to the network via a network (not shown) to control the VTR. The communication interface 41 transmits the video signal and the audio signal from the signal processing unit 26 to a VTR (video tape recorder) connected to the network via the network, or the video signal and the audio signal from the VTR. Or receive.

  The memory card interface 42 controls recording / reproduction of the memory card 43 to be mounted based on a control signal from the system control unit 21. That is, the memory card interface 42 records the video signal and the audio signal from the signal processing unit 26 on the attached memory card 43, or reads the signal recorded on the attached memory card 43. . The memory card 43 may be detachable or may be built in the video signal receiving device 1.

  The light receiving unit 30 receives a remote control code (infrared signal) emitted from the remote controller 11 based on a user operation, and supplies the received instruction signal to the system control unit 21 via the bus 23.

  FIG. 2 shows the appearance of the remote controller 11 of FIG. In the example of FIG. 2, the remote controller 11 corresponds to a user operation on various operation buttons including the power button 61 provided on the front surface of the remote controller 11 in the figure, and receives a video signal that is a target of remote control. A corresponding remote control code (infrared signal) is transmitted to the device 1 from a light emitting unit 51 provided at the top of the remote control 11 in the figure.

  The power button 61 is pressed when turning on / off the power of the video signal receiving apparatus 1 to be controlled. A GUI remote control button 62 provided on the left side of the power button 61 is pressed when displaying the GUI remote control on the video display unit 14. Below the power button 61 and the GUI remote control button 62 are an upper button 64-1, a lower button 64-2, and a left button that are pressed to move the cursor position on the GUI remote control displayed on the video display unit 14. 64-3 and a right button 64-4 are provided, and a direction button 64 is provided. In the center of the four direction buttons 64, the position of the cursor displayed on the GUI remote controller displayed on the video display unit 14 is determined. A decision button 63 that is sometimes pressed is provided. The direction button 64 may be used for channel selection or the like when the GUI remote controller is not displayed.

  Below the direction button 64, there are provided eight channel buttons 65 that are pressed when the video signal receiving apparatus 1 to be controlled selects a designated channel when the GUI remote controller is not displayed. Yes. Note that these channel buttons 65 may be used to select a designated channel by pressing the GUI remote control even when the GUI remote control is displayed. In the example of FIG. 2, eight channel buttons 65 are provided. However, the number is not limited to eight, and any number such as twelve or four may be provided.

  FIG. 3 shows a display example of the GUI remote controller displayed on the video display unit 14. In the example of FIG. 3, the video display unit 14 displays the video of the channel currently being received, and the GUI remote controller 101 is displayed superimposed on the lower right of the video.

  The GUI remote controller 101 displays “My remote controller” and characters indicating that it is a GUI remote controller at the top, and is composed of images of a mode selection label 111 and function selection labels 112-1 to 112-6. In the GUI remote controller, the number of function selection labels is not limited. However, in order to maintain the immediate effect of the operation, it is desirable that the number be about 5 to 10.

  In the video signal receiving apparatus 1, the GUI remote controller has three display modes: a promotion mode, a customization mode, and a usage frequency list mode. The promotion mode is a display mode of a GUI remote controller configured by functions that are set in advance by the manufacturer and that the user wants to actively use. The customization mode is a GUI remote controller configured by a user's favorite function set by the user selecting a favorite function from all functions (having a remote control code) that can be controlled by the video signal receiving apparatus 1. Display mode. In the usage frequency list mode, when a remote control code is received from the remote controller 11, the remote control code is registered in the non-volatile memory 22, and among the registered remote control codes, the remote control code having the highest registration frequency (usage frequency) is in order. This is a display mode of the GUI remote controller configured by functions of a predetermined number of selected remote control codes (that is, functions often used by the user).

  In the example of FIG. 3, the mode selection label 111 indicates that the display mode of the GUI remote controller 101 is “promotion mode”, and the display mode of the GUI remote controller 101 is set to another mode (customization mode or frequency of use). When changing to (list mode), the selection is determined based on the operation of the remote controller 11.

  The selection of the function selection labels 112-1 to 112-6 is determined based on the operation of the remote controller 11 by the user when the video signal receiving apparatus 1 executes the function assigned to the label. In the example of FIG. 3, since the function selection labels 112-1 to 112-6 are in the promotion mode, the function selection labels (images) of functions that the user wants to actively use are set in advance by the manufacturer. It is configured.

  The function selection label 112-1 is an image whose selection is determined when “TV broadcasting” is displayed on the video signal receiving apparatus 1. The function selection label 112-2 is an image whose selection is determined when the “electronic program guide” is displayed on the video signal receiving apparatus 1. The function selection label 112-3 is an image whose selection is determined when the “favorite channel” is displayed on the video signal receiving apparatus 1. The function selection label 112-4 is an image whose selection is determined when the video signal receiving apparatus 1 is caused to execute a predetermined function of the “memory card”. The function selection label 112-5 is an image whose selection is determined when the video signal receiving apparatus 1 is caused to execute a predetermined function of “VTR”. The function selection label 112-6 is an image whose selection is determined when the video signal receiving apparatus 1 is caused to execute a predetermined function of “network”. The predetermined functions of “favorite channel” and “memory card” may be set in advance, or may be set according to the number of times of use described later with reference to FIG. Good.

  A cursor 113 is displayed on the function selection label 112-3 of the GUI remote controller 101. The cursor 113 is controlled to move on each function selection label when the user presses the upper button 64-1 or the lower button 64-2 of the remote controller 11. When the cursor 113 is displayed on any function selection label of the GUI remote controller 101, when the user presses the enter button 63 on the remote controller 11, the video signal receiving apparatus 1 selects the function selection label. The function selected by the function selection label is executed. Therefore, when the GUI remote controller 101 in the example of FIG. 3 is displayed, when the user presses the enter button 63 on the remote controller 11, the video signal receiving apparatus 1 displays the “preference” corresponding to the function selection label 112-3. The function of displaying “channel” is executed. Note that the GUI remote controller 101 may be deleted from the video display unit 14 after the enter button 63 is pressed.

  FIG. 4 shows another display example of the GUI remote controller displayed on the video display unit 14. In FIG. 4, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will not be repeated and will be omitted. However, in the example of FIG. A display example when a function to be registered in the GUI remote controller 122 in the customization mode is selected from the all list display 121 in which all the functions that can be performed (having a remote control code) are displayed as a list is shown.

  In the full list display 121, all the functions that can be controlled by the video signal receiving apparatus 1 are shown as images of labels 131-1 to 131-10. Actually, all the functions that can be controlled by the video signal receiving apparatus 1 are more, and the entire list display 121 is configured by more labels. Therefore, the labels (all the functions correspond to the video display unit 14). If the image cannot be displayed, a scroll bar or the like is provided on the right side of the full list display 121 so that labels (images) corresponding to all functions are displayed on the full list display 121.

  In the example of FIG. 4, the label 131-1 is an image corresponding to the function of displaying the “favorite channel” on the video signal receiving apparatus 1. The label 131-2 is an image corresponding to a function for executing a predetermined function of the “memory card”. The label 131-3 is an image corresponding to a function for executing reproduction of a memory card as “memory card (MC) reproduction”. The label 131-4 is an image corresponding to a function for executing recording on a memory card as “memory card (MC) recording”. The label 131-5 is an image corresponding to a function for executing a memory card capture function as “memory card (MC) capture”. A label 131-6 is an image corresponding to a function for executing a predetermined function of “VTR”. The label 131-7 is an image corresponding to a function for executing a VTR playback function as “VTR playback”. The label 131-8 is an image corresponding to a function for executing a VTR recording function as “VTR recording”. The label 131-9 is an image corresponding to a function for executing the dubbing function of the VTR as “VTR dubbing”. The label 131-10 is an image corresponding to a function for executing a network function as “network”.

  Also, on the label 131-4 of the full list display 121, a cursor 132 that moves on each label when the user presses the upper button 64-1 or the lower button 64-2 of the remote controller 11 is displayed. .

  On the other hand, the mode selection label 111 of the GUI remote control 122 indicates that the display mode of the GUI remote control 122 is “customization mode”, and the cursor 113 is displayed on the function selection label 112-1 of the GUI remote control 122. ing.

  In such a case, when the user presses the enter button 63 of the remote controller 11, as indicated by an arrow P, the label 131-4 at the position indicated by the cursor 132 of the entire list display 121 and the cursor 113 of the GUI remote controller 122 are displayed. The function selection label 112-1 at the position shown is switched. That is, the label 131-1 is added as a function selection label to the GUI remote controller 122, and the function selection label 112-1 is removed from the GUI remote controller 122. Correspondingly, a customization database 222 to be described later is updated, and thereafter, the GUI remote controller 122 in the customization mode is generated based on the updated customization database 222.

  As described above, in the customization mode, the GUI remote controller 122 can be configured with the function selection label corresponding to the user's favorite function selected from all the functions that the video signal receiving apparatus 1 can control.

  FIG. 5 shows another display example of the GUI remote controller displayed on the video display unit 14. In FIG. 5, portions corresponding to those in FIG. 3 are denoted by corresponding reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted because it will be repeated.

  The mode selection label 111 of the GUI remote control 151 indicates that the display mode of the GUI remote control 151 is the “frequency list mode”. In the GUI remote control 151, the function selection labels are the function selection labels 112-2 and 161. -1 to 161-5. These function selection labels 112-2 and 161-1 to 161-5 will be described later with reference to FIG. 8, but were received when the video signal receiving device 1 received the remote control code from the remote control 11. The frequency of use is obtained by registering the remote control code in the non-volatile memory 22, and a predetermined number of GUIs in order from the highest use frequency among the functions corresponding to all the remote control codes stored in the non-volatile memory 22. It is arranged on the remote controller 151.

  In the example of FIG. 5, the function selection label 112-2 is an image that is determined to be selected when the “electronic program guide” is displayed on the video signal receiving device 1. The function selection label 161-1 is an image whose selection is determined when “ground 061CH” is displayed on the video signal receiving apparatus 1. The function selection label 161-2 is an image whose selection is determined when the “two screens” are displayed on the video signal receiving apparatus 1. The function selection label 161-3 is an image to be selected when the video signal receiving apparatus 1 executes “memory card (MC) haste recording”. The function selection label 161-4 is an image determined to be selected when the video signal receiving apparatus 1 is put into a standby state. The function selection label 161-5 is an image whose selection is determined when causing the video signal receiving apparatus 1 to execute a predetermined function of “BS181CH”.

  In addition, a cursor 113 is displayed on the function selection label 161-1 of the GUI remote controller 151 as in the example of FIG. Therefore, when the GUI remote controller 151 in the example of FIG. 5 is displayed, when the user presses the enter button 63 of the remote controller 11, in the video signal receiving apparatus 1, the “ground 061CH” corresponding to the function selection label 161-1 corresponds. The function to display is executed.

  As described above, in the video signal receiving apparatus 1, when the GUI remote controller is displayed on the video display unit 14, the operation of the remote controller 11 and the GUI remote controller displayed on the video display unit 14 are displayed. Various functions are controlled based on the function selection label indicated by the position of the cursor being displayed. Accordingly, since the remote controller 11 in this case only needs to operate at least the upper button 64-1, the lower button 64-2, and the enter button 63, the user only has to remember the positions of these buttons. A quick operation of the video signal receiving apparatus 1 can be executed while watching the video. The buttons to be operated may include the left button 64-3 and the right button 64-4.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of the video signal receiving apparatus 1. The functional blocks shown in FIG. 6 are realized by executing a predetermined control program by the system control unit 21 of FIG. 1 of the video signal receiving apparatus 1.

  The GUI remote control display control unit 201 generates a data signal for GUI remote control display in accordance with the control from the remote control code receiving unit 202 or the remote control code from the function distribution unit 203, and generates the generated data signal for GUI remote control display. Output to the graphic superimposing unit 27.

  The remote control code receiving unit 202 receives the remote control code of the GUI display button 62 from the remote control 11 based on the user's operation via the light receiving unit 30, controls the GUI remote control display control unit 201, and receives the data signal of the GUI remote control display. Generate. Further, the remote control code receiving unit 202 receives the remote control code from the remote control 11 based on the user's operation through the light receiving unit 30, determines whether the GUI remote control display control unit 201 displays the GUI remote control, and the GUI remote control. When the GUI remote controller is not displayed by the display control unit 201 (that is, when a data signal for GUI remote control display is not generated), the received remote control code is output to the function distribution unit 203 as it is. At this time, the remote control code receiving unit 202 stores (registers) the received remote control code in the nonvolatile memory 22.

  When the remote control code receiving unit 202 determines that the received remote control code is the remote control code of the enter button 63 when the GUI remote control is displayed by the GUI remote control display control unit 201, the remote control code receiving unit 202 displays the remote control code from the GUI remote control display control unit 201. The information of the display mode and the cursor position of the GUI remote controller is acquired, the remote control code of the enter button 63 is converted into the remote control code of the function corresponding to the acquired information, and the converted remote control code is converted into a function distribution unit It outputs to 203. At this time, the remote control code receiving unit 202 stores (registers) the converted remote control code in the nonvolatile memory 22.

  The function distribution unit 203 inputs the remote control code input from the remote control code receiving unit 202. The ROM of the system control unit 21 stores all functions that can be controlled by the video signal receiving apparatus 1 and remote control codes corresponding to the functions, and these functions are read out, so that the function distribution unit 203 is based on them. The TV (television) function control unit 204-1, VTR function control unit 204-2, MC (memory card) function control unit 204-3, or GUI remote control display control that executes the function corresponding to the input remote control code The remote control code is output to unit 201.

  Here, in the video signal receiving apparatus 1, the functions that can be controlled by the video signal receiving apparatus 1 are divided into a television function, a VTR function, a memory card function, and the like.

  The TV function control unit 204-1 controls a television function, which is a function of the video signal receiving device 1 itself, according to the remote control code from the function distribution unit 203. The television function includes, for example, a reception channel changing function, a volume setting function, and a function relating to data broadcasting. The VTR function control unit 204-2 controls the function of the VTR connected via the communication interface 41 and a network (not shown) according to the remote control code from the function distribution unit 203. The VTR functions include, for example, a recording function of a video signal being received to the VTR, a VTR playback function, and the like. The MC function control unit 204-3 controls the function of the memory card attached to the memory card interface 42 in accordance with the remote control code from the function distribution unit 203. The memory card functions include, for example, a recording function of a received video signal to a memory card and a playback function of the memory card. In the following description, the TV function control unit 204-1, the VTR function control unit 204-2, and the memory card function control unit 204-3 are not required to be individually distinguished from each other. The unit 204-2 and the memory card function control unit 204-3 are collectively referred to as a function control unit 204 as appropriate.

  FIG. 7 shows a detailed functional configuration example of the GUI remote control display control unit 201 of FIG. In the example of FIG. 7, the GUI remote control display control unit 201 includes a GUI remote control configuration unit 211 and a GUI display database (DB) 212.

  The GUI remote controller configuring unit 211 can execute the promotion mode, customization based on one of the three databases constituting the GUI display database 212 according to the control from the remote control code receiving unit 202 or the remote control code from the function distributing unit 203. A data signal for GUI remote control display in the mode or usage frequency list mode is generated, and the generated data signal for GUI remote control display is output to the graphic superimposing unit 27.

  The GUI display database 212 includes a promotion database (DB) 221 in which data necessary for displaying the GUI remote controller in the promotion mode (for example, the GUI remote controller 101 in FIG. 3), and a GUI remote controller in the customization mode (for example, FIG. 4). Required for displaying the GUI remote control (for example, the GUI remote control 151 in FIG. 5) and the customization database (DB) 222 for storing data necessary for displaying the GUI remote control 122) of the GUI and the usage frequency list mode. A use frequency order database (DB) 223 in which data is stored is read from the ROM of the system control unit 21 and configured.

  That is, the promotion database 221 stores the position of each function selection label of the GUI remote controller in the promotion mode, the function set for each function selection label, and the remote control code set in advance for that function. The customization database 222 stores the position of each function selection label of the GUI remote controller in the customization mode, the function set for each function selection label, and the remote control code set in advance for that function. The usage frequency order database 223 stores the position of each function selection label of the GUI remote controller in the usage frequency list mode, the function set for each function selection label, and the remote control code set in advance for that function. .

  FIG. 8 shows a detailed functional configuration example of the remote control code receiving unit 202 of FIG. In the example of FIG. 8, the remote control code receiving unit 202 includes a remote control code determination unit 231, a display state acquisition unit 232, a remote control code conversion unit 233, and a remote control function registration unit 234.

  When the remote control code determination unit 231 receives the remote control code from the remote control 11 via the light receiving unit 30, if the received remote control code is the remote control code of the GUI remote control button 62, the remote control code determination unit 231 controls the GUI remote control configuration unit 211 to control the GUI. Generate a remote control data signal. Further, when receiving the remote control code from the remote controller 11 via the light receiving unit 30, the remote control code determination unit 231 controls the display state acquisition unit 232, and generates the data signal generation information of the GUI remote control display of the GUI remote control configuration unit 211. Whether or not the GUI remote controller constituting unit 211 generates a GUI remote control display data signal based on the acquired GUI remote control display data signal generation information (that is, the GUI remote controller displays on the video display unit 14). Or not).

  When it is determined that the GUI remote controller is not displayed on the video display unit 14, the remote control code determination unit 231 outputs the received remote control code as it is to the remote control function registration unit 234 and the function distribution unit 203. When it is determined that the GUI remote control is displayed on the video display unit 14, the remote control code determination unit 231 determines whether or not the remote control code is the remote control code of the determination button 63. When it is determined that the remote control code is not the remote control code of the enter button 63, that is, when it is determined that the remote control code is one of the direction buttons 64, the GUI remote control component 211 is controlled to move the cursor on the GUI remote control. A data signal that is moved and displayed is generated. When it is determined that the remote control code is the remote control code of the enter button 63, the remote control code determination unit 231 outputs the generation information of the GUI remote control display data signal acquired by the display state acquisition unit 232 to the remote control code conversion unit 233. To do.

  The display state acquisition unit 232 acquires the generation information of the data signal of the GUI remote controller from the GUI remote controller configuration unit 211 based on the control of the remote control code determination unit 231. The generation information of the data signal of the GUI remote controller is whether or not the GUI remote controller configuration unit 211 generates the data signal of the GUI remote controller, and when generating the data signal of the GUI remote controller, the display mode of the GUI remote controller , And information such as the position of the cursor on the GUI remote controller.

  The remote control code converter 233 is based on the GUI remote control data signal generation information from the remote control code determination unit 231 and displays a database (promotion database 221, customization database 222, or usage database corresponding to the displayed display mode of the GUI remote controller. From the frequency order database 223), the remote control code corresponding to the function at the cursor position on the GUI remote controller is acquired, and the acquired remote control code is output to the remote control function registration unit 234 and the function distribution unit 203. In other words, the remote control code conversion unit 233 performs a process of converting the remote control code of the enter key 63 into a remote control code corresponding to the function selected by the cursor on the displayed GUI screen based on the GUI display database 212. Is going.

  The remote control function registration unit 234 inputs the remote control code from the display state determination unit 232 or the remote control code from the remote control code conversion unit 233, and stores the input remote control code in a nonvolatile memory in units of 100 to 1000 steps from the start of operation. 22 is registered. When the number of remote control code registrations exceeds 1000 steps, the remote control code is deleted from the earliest registration date. At the time of display of the GUI remote controller in the usage frequency list mode, the usage frequency of the remote control code is obtained based on the remote control code registered in the nonvolatile memory 22 in this way, and the remote control code having the highest usage frequency is used in descending order of usage frequency. A predetermined number of remote control codes are selected, and the database 223 is updated by the function corresponding to the selected remote control code. In the operation of the remote controller 11 when the GUI remote controller is not displayed, the remote control codes corresponding to the basic power button 61, GUI remote controller button 62, direction button 64, and enter button 63 are not registered.

  Further, the remote control codes registered in the nonvolatile memory 22 can also be registered in several categories displayed on the GUI remote controller. Examples of the category include “favorite channel” or “VTR”.

  For example, when a predetermined channel button 65 is pressed, the remote control registration unit 234 determines that the remote control code is a channel selection operation and registers it in the category “favorite channel”. Thus, when the “favorite channel” category is selected in the GUI remote controller, the function (for example, BS181CH) to which the remote control code that is most frequently used in the “favorite channel” category is instructed. You can also make it. When the determination button 63 is pressed when the GUI remote control is displayed and the function selection label corresponding to the “VTR recording” function is determined, the remote control registration unit 234 determines that the remote control code is a VTR operation. , Registered in the category of “VTR”. Thereby, when the “VTR” category is selected in the GUI remote controller, the function (for example, VTR playback) corresponding to the remote control code that is most frequently used in the “VTR” category is designated. You can also

  FIG. 9 shows a detailed functional configuration example of the TV function control unit 204-1 in FIG. In the example of FIG. 9, the TV function control unit 204-1 includes a function determination unit 251, a function processing unit 252, and an error processing unit 253.

  When function control section 251 inputs the remote control code from function distribution section 203, video signal receiving apparatus 1 determines whether or not the function corresponding to the remote control code can be executed, and video signal receiving apparatus 1 uses the remote control code. When it is determined that the function corresponding to the code can be executed, the function processing unit 252 is controlled to execute processing of the corresponding function. Also, for example, if the function cannot be executed for some reason, such as when the function that could be executed in the previous version can no longer be executed in the current version, the function that the remote control code corresponds to is not possible. The function determining unit 251 determines that it cannot be executed, and controls the error processing unit 253 to execute error processing of the corresponding function.

  The function processing unit 252 controls each unit of the video signal receiving device 1 based on the control of the function determining unit 251, and executes a function corresponding to the remote control code. Specifically, if the corresponding function is a channel change, a channel change instruction is output to the terrestrial tuner 24, and the terrestrial tuner 24 changes the channel to be received.

  Although not shown, the VTR function control unit 204-2 or MC function control unit 204-3 is basically configured similarly to the TV function control unit 204-1 shown in FIG. Therefore, in the following description, the configuration of the TV function control unit 204-1 in FIG. 9 is also referred to as the configuration of the VTR function control unit 204-2 or the MC function control unit 204-3 as necessary.

  Next, GUI display processing of the video signal receiving apparatus 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  For example, in order to display the GUI remote controller on the video display unit 14, the user points the light emitting unit 51 of the remote control 11 toward the light receiving unit 30 of the video signal receiving device 1 and presses the GUI remote control button 62 of the remote control 11. The light emitting unit 51 of the remote controller 11 transmits the remote control code of the GUI remote control button 62 to the light receiving unit 30. The light receiving unit 30 outputs the remote control code received from the remote control 11 to the remote control code receiving unit 202.

  The remote control code determination unit 231 of the remote control code receiving unit 202 waits until the remote control code is received in step S1. If it is determined that the remote control code has been received, the process proceeds to step S2, and the GUI remote control configuration unit 211 is set. Control and generate a data signal of the GUI remote controller. Specifically, the GUI remote controller configuration unit 211 generates a data signal for displaying the GUI remote controller in the display mode (for example, the customization mode) set in advance as the initial display mode based on the customization database 222. The GUI remote control display data signal is output to the graphic superimposing unit 27, and the process proceeds to step S3.

  In step S3, when the graphic remote controller 27 receives the GUI remote controller display data signal from the GUI remote controller configuration unit 211 in step S3, the graphic superimposing unit 27 decodes the video signal from the currently received signal processor 26 and inputs the decoded video signal to the decoded video signal. The data signal displayed on the GUI remote controller is superimposed and output to the image quality improving unit 28, and the process proceeds to step S4. The image quality improving unit 28 causes the video display unit 14 to display the video signal from the graphic superimposing unit 27. Therefore, the image quality is improved, and the image signal with the improved image quality is displayed on the image display unit 14, and the GUI remote control display process is terminated.

  As described above, as described above with reference to FIG. 3, the GUI remote controller 101 is displayed on the video display unit 14 together with the video being received. In the above description, the GUI remote controller constituting unit 211 displays the display mode that is set in advance as the initial display mode. However, the previous display mode is displayed by storing the previous display mode. The GUI remote controller in the display mode may be displayed.

  In addition, as described above, before displaying the GUI remote controller, a user selection screen may be displayed to identify the user. In this case, in the video signal receiving apparatus 1, a GUI display database 212 for each user is generated, and based on the GUI display database 212, display by the GUI remote controller and control by operation of the GUI remote controller are executed. Note that the user selection screen may be displayed not immediately before the GUI remote controller is displayed but immediately after the video signal receiving apparatus 1 is activated.

  Next, the remote control code receiving process of the video signal receiving apparatus 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. For example, when the user displays the “ground 061CH” on the video display unit 14, the GUI remote controller 151 (FIG. 5) is displayed on the video display unit 14 and the position of the cursor 113 is on the function selection label 161-1. Then, the light emitting unit 51 of the remote controller 11 is directed toward the light receiving unit 30 of the video signal receiving device 1 and the determination button 63 of the remote controller 11 is pressed. The light emitting unit 51 of the remote controller 11 transmits the remote control code of the determination button 63 to the light receiving unit 30. The light receiving unit 30 outputs the remote control code of the enter button 63 received from the remote control 11 to the remote control code receiving unit 202.

  The remote control code determination unit 231 of the remote control code receiving unit 202 waits until receiving the remote control code in step S21. If it is determined that the remote control code has been received, the process proceeds to step S22 and controls the display state acquisition unit 232. Then, the GUI remote controller constituting unit 211 acquires the generation information of the data signal of the GUI remote control display, and the GUI remote controller constituting unit 211 generates the data signal of the GUI remote control display based on the acquired generation information of the data signal of the GUI remote control display. It is determined whether or not it is generated (that is, whether or not the GUI remote controller is being displayed on the video display unit 14).

  If it is determined in step S22 that the GUI remote control is being displayed on the video display unit 14, the remote control code determination unit 231 proceeds to step S23 and determines whether or not the remote control code is the remote control code of the enter button 63. If it is determined that the remote control code is not the remote control code of the enter button 63, that is, if it is determined that the remote control code is one of the direction buttons 64, the process proceeds to step S24 to control the GUI remote control component 211, A data signal in which the cursor on the GUI remote controller is moved and displayed is generated, and the remote control code receiving process is terminated.

  As a result, the generated GUI remote control display data signal is output to the graphic superimposing unit 27, and the graphic remote control unit 27 superimposes the GUI remote control display data signal on the currently received video signal. The video signal on which the data signal displayed on the GUI remote controller after the cursor is moved is output to the video display unit 14, and the GUI remote controller on which the cursor is moved is displayed on the video display unit 14.

  When it is determined in step S23 that the remote control code is the remote control code of the enter button 63, the remote control code determination unit 231 uses the remote control code determination unit 231 to acquire the data signal of the GUI remote control display acquired by the display state acquisition unit 232 Is output to the remote control code conversion unit 233, and the process proceeds to step S25.

  In step S25, the remote control code conversion unit 233 determines the database corresponding to the displayed display mode of the GUI remote control (GUI remote control 151 in FIG. 5) based on the data generation information of the GUI remote control from the remote control code determination unit 231. In this case, from the frequency order database 223), the remote controller of the function at the position of the cursor (cursor 113 in FIG. 5) on the GUI remote controller (the function to display “ground 061CH” indicated by the function selection label 161-1 in FIG. 5). The code is acquired, and the acquired remote control code is output to the remote control function registration unit 234 and the function distribution unit 203, and the process proceeds to step S26. In other words, in step S25, the remote control code conversion unit 233 converts the remote control code of the enter key 63 into a remote control code corresponding to the function selected on the displayed GUI screen based on the GUI display database 212. Processing to do.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S22 that the GUI remote controller is not being displayed on the video display unit 14, the remote control code determination unit 231 outputs the received remote control code as it is to the remote control function registration unit 234 and the function distribution unit 203. To do. That is, the process of NO in step S22 is a process for the remote control code of the function assigned to the remote controller 11.

  In step S26, the remote control function registration unit 234 inputs the remote control code from the display state determination unit 232 or the remote control code from the remote control code conversion unit 233, registers the input remote control code in the nonvolatile memory 22, and step Proceed to S27. Thus, the usage frequency order of the remote control codes is obtained, and the usage frequency database 223 is updated by the function corresponding to the predetermined number of remote control codes selected from the remote control codes having the highest usage frequency in the order of usage frequency. Thereafter, based on the updated usage frequency database 223, the GUI remote controller 151 in the usage frequency list mode is displayed.

  In step S27, the function distribution unit 203 inputs the remote control code from the display state determination unit 232 or the remote control code from the remote control code conversion unit 233, and sends the remote control code to the function control unit 204 that executes the function corresponding to the remote control code. The process proceeds to step S28. In this case, the remote control code is output to the TV function control unit 204-1 that executes the function of displaying “ground 061CH”.

  When the function determination unit 251 of the TV function control unit 204-1 receives the remote control code from the function distribution unit 203 in step S28, the video signal receiving device 1 determines whether or not the function corresponding to the remote control code can be executed. When the video signal receiving apparatus 1 determines that the function corresponding to the remote control code can be executed, the function processing unit 252 is controlled in step S29 to execute the process of the corresponding function, and the process ends. To do. The function processing in step S29 will be described later with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the function determining unit 251 determines in step S28 that the video signal receiving apparatus 1 cannot execute the function corresponding to the remote control code, the function determining unit 251 proceeds to step S30, controls the error processing unit 253, and executes error processing. Let Specifically, the error processing unit 253 generates a data signal of an error message indicating that this function cannot be used, outputs it to the graphic superimposing unit 27, and ends the process. As a result, the generated GUI remote control display data signal is output to the graphic superimposing unit 27, and the graphic superimposing unit 27 superimposes the error message data signal on the currently received video signal. The video signal on which the error message data signal is superimposed is output to the video display unit 14, and the error message is displayed on the video display unit 14.

  As described above, the remote control code of the enter button 63 when the GUI remote control is displayed is converted to the remote control code of the predetermined function selected by the cursor on the GUI remote control. The remote controller code 203 of the GUI remote controller can be processed in the same manner as the remote controller code assigned to the remote controller 11.

  With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 12, the functional process of step S29 of FIG. 11 will be described. FIG. 12 shows functional processing when the remote control code for displaying the “ground 061CH” by the function distribution unit 203 is output to the TV function control unit 204-1 in step S27 of FIG.

  In step S41, the function processing unit 252 controls the terrestrial tuner 24 based on an instruction from the function determining unit 251, and selects “terrestrial 061CH”. That is, the terrestrial tuner 24 selects and demodulates the “terrestrial 061CH” broadcast signal received via the terrestrial antenna 12 under the control of the function processing unit 252, and outputs it to the signal processing unit 26. Proceed to step S42. In step S42, the signal processing unit 26 separates the broadcast signal into a video signal, an audio signal, a data signal, and the like, and outputs the video signal therein to the image quality improving unit 28 via the graphic superimposing unit 27. Then, the process proceeds to step S43. In step S43, the image quality improving unit 28 increases the image quality of the video signal from the graphic superimposing unit 27 to be displayed on the video display unit 14, and outputs the image signal with the improved image quality to the video display unit 14. .

  As described above, the TV function control unit 204-1 controls the display of the video of “terrestrial 061CH” on the video display unit 14.

  Furthermore, another example of the functional process in step S29 in FIG. 11 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. Note that FIG. 13 shows the functional processing when the remote control code of the function for executing “memory card (MC) haste recording” is output to the MC function control unit 204-3 by the function distribution unit 203 in step S27 of FIG. It is.

  In step S61, the function processing unit 252 controls the signal processing unit 26 based on an instruction from the function determining unit 251, and causes the memory card interface 42 to output the video signal and audio signal of the currently received broadcast signal, Proceed to step S62. In step S <b> 62, the function processing unit 252 controls the memory card interface 42 to cause the video signal and the audio signal from the signal processing unit 26 to “MC quick recording” on the attached memory card 43. That is, in step S62, the memory card interface 42 records the video signal and the audio signal in the attached memory card 43 in a haste, and ends the function process.

  As described above, quick recording to the memory card 43 is controlled by the MC function control unit 204-3. Since the configuration is basically the same and is repeated, the description is omitted, but the VTR function control unit 204-2 similarly controls the function processing such as “VTR recording”.

  As described above, since the remote control code when the GUI remote control is displayed is converted to a preset remote control code, after the remote control code is converted, the remote control code of the GUI remote control is also the remote control 11. It can be processed in the same manner as the remote control code assigned to. Therefore, the software developer can provide the user with a new user interface (GUI remote controller) without changing the existing remote control reception function. Thereby, a new function can be easily added only by adding a function and a remote control code.

  Further, by displaying the GUI remote controller, the user can select the operation of the video signal receiving apparatus 1 while viewing the screen. That is, the user can quickly perform necessary operations only by learning the arrangement of only the direction button 64 and the determination button 63 of the remote controller 11 bundled with the video signal receiving apparatus 1.

  In addition, since the function selection label that configures the GUI remote control is set with a highly novel function or a recommended function as a promotion mode, it is possible to actively present the function that the user wants to use. It is. Furthermore, the received remote control code is registered, and the function selection label constituting the GUI remote control is set to use the function frequently used by the user as the usage frequency list mode. You can select frequently used functions immediately.

  In addition, since the function selection label constituting the GUI remote controller is set to the user's preferred function as the customization mode, the GUI remote controller to be used can be set or easily changed. Since all functions that can be controlled in the video signal receiving apparatus 1 (that is, functions for all stored remote control codes) are presented when selecting the user's favorite functions, Of the functions that existed in the previous version, those that are convenient for the user can be used effectively.

  Further, before the GUI remote controller is displayed or immediately after the apparatus is activated, a user selection screen is displayed to identify the user, thereby allowing an unspecified number of users to operate, such as a TV or a personal computer. In this case, a GUI remote controller can be provided for each user who uses the GUI remote controller.

  In the above description, the case of the video signal receiving device has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this video signal receiving device, and can be applied to all devices using a remote controller such as a personal computer and other AV devices.

  The series of processes described above can be executed by hardware, but can also be executed by software. In this case, for example, the video signal receiving device 1 of FIG. 1 is configured by a video signal receiving device 301 as shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 14, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 311 performs various processes according to a program stored in a ROM (Read Only Memory) 312 or a program loaded from a storage unit 319 to a RAM (Random Access Memory) 313. Execute. The RAM 313 also appropriately stores data necessary for the CPU 311 to execute various processes.

  The CPU 311, ROM 312, and RAM 313 are connected to each other via a bus 314. An input / output interface 315 is also connected to the bus 314.

  The input / output interface 315 includes a tuner 316 that receives broadcast signals, an input unit 317 including a keyboard and a mouse, a display including a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) and an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and an output unit including a speaker. 318, a storage unit 319 configured by a hard disk or the like, and a communication unit 320 configured by a modem, a terminal adapter, or the like are connected. The communication unit 320 performs communication processing via a network (not shown).

  A drive 330 is connected to the input / output interface 315 as necessary, and a magnetic disk 331, an optical disk 332, a magneto-optical disk 333, a semiconductor memory 334, or the like is appropriately mounted, and a computer program read from the disk is required. Is installed in the storage unit 319 accordingly.

  When a series of processing is executed by software, a program constituting the software may execute various functions by installing a computer incorporated in dedicated hardware or various programs. For example, it is installed from a network or a recording medium into a general-purpose personal computer or the like.

  As shown in FIG. 14, this recording medium is distributed to provide a program to the user separately from the apparatus main body, and a magnetic disk 331 (including a flexible disk) on which the program is recorded, an optical disk 332 ( Package media including CD-ROM (compact disk-read only memory), DVD (digital versatile disk), magneto-optical disk 333 (including MD (mini-disk) (trademark)), or semiconductor memory 334 In addition to being configured, it is configured by a ROM 312 in which a program is recorded and a hard disk included in the storage unit 319 provided to the user in a state of being incorporated in the apparatus main body in advance.

  In the present specification, the steps shown in the flowcharts include not only processes performed in time series according to the order described, but also processes executed in parallel or individually even if not necessarily performed in time series. Is included.

It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the video signal receiver of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the external appearance of the remote controller of FIG. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the GUI remote control displayed on the video signal receiver of FIG. It is a figure which shows the other structural example of the GUI remote control displayed on the video signal receiver of FIG. It is a figure which shows the further another structural example of the GUI remote control displayed on the video signal receiver of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the function structural example of the video signal receiver of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the detailed functional structural example of the GUI remote control display control part of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the detailed functional structural example of the remote control code receiver of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the detailed functional structural example of the TV function control part of FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining GUI remote control display processing of the video signal receiving device of FIG. 1. 3 is a flowchart for explaining remote control code reception processing of the video signal reception device of FIG. 1. It is a flowchart explaining the functional process of step S29 of FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining another example of the functional process in step S29 of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the other structural example of the video signal receiver of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Video signal receiver, 11 Remote controller, 14 Video display part, 21 System control part, 22 Non-volatile memory, 62 GUI remote control button, 63 Enter button, 64-1 Up button, 64-2 Down button, 64-3 Left Button, 64-4 right button, 101, 122, 151 GUI remote control, 201 GUI remote control display control unit, 202 remote control code reception unit, 203 function distribution unit, 204-1 TV function control unit, 204-2 VTR function control unit, 204-3 MC Function Control Unit, 211 GUI Remote Control Component, 212 GUI Display Database, 221 Promotion Database, 222 Customization Database, 223 Usage Frequency Order Database, 231 Remote Control Code Judgment Unit, 232 Display Status Acquisition Unit, 233 Remote Nkodo conversion unit, 234 remote control function registering unit

Claims (9)

In an information processing apparatus that executes a predetermined function in response to a remote control code from a remote controller,
It is composed of an image for designating a predetermined function from all functions including a function assigned to a predetermined button of the remote controller and a function not assigned to the predetermined button of the remote controller. Display control means for controlling the display of the menu image;
Remote control code receiving means for receiving a remote control code from the remote controller;
When the menu image is displayed, when the predetermined remote control code is received by the remote control code receiving means, the remote control having a function corresponding to the image specified in the menu image is used as the predetermined remote control code. Conversion means for converting into code;
Function discriminating means for discriminating a function corresponding to the remote control code converted by the converting means;
An information processing apparatus comprising: function control means for controlling the function determined by the function determination means. When the remote control code is received by the remote control code receiving means when the menu image is not displayed, the determination means determines the function to which the remote control code received by the remote control code receiving means corresponds. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1. Registration means for registering the remote control code received by the remote control code receiving means when the menu image is not displayed or the remote control code converted by the conversion means when the menu image is displayed The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The menu image is constituted by an image for designating a function corresponding to a predetermined number of remote control codes selected in descending order of registration frequency among the remote control codes registered by the registration means. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the menu image includes an image corresponding to a function selected from among all the functions by a user. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the menu image includes an image corresponding to a function selected from all the functions by a provider who provides the function. In an information processing method for executing a predetermined function in response to a remote control code from a remote controller,
It is composed of an image for designating a predetermined function from all functions including a function assigned to a predetermined button of the remote controller and a function not assigned to the predetermined button of the remote controller. A display control step for controlling the display of the menu image;
A remote control code receiving step for receiving a remote control code from the remote controller;
When the menu image is displayed, when the predetermined remote control code is received by the processing of the remote control code receiving step, the predetermined remote control code corresponds to the image specified in the menu image A conversion step to convert to a remote control code,
A function determining step of determining a function to which the remote control code converted by the process of the converting step corresponds;
A function control step of controlling the function determined by the function determining step. A recording medium on which a program for causing a computer to perform a process of executing a predetermined function in response to a remote control code from a remote controller is recorded,
It is composed of an image for designating a predetermined function from all functions including a function assigned to a predetermined button of the remote controller and a function not assigned to the predetermined button of the remote controller. A display control step for controlling the display of the menu image;
A remote control code receiving step of receiving a remote control code from the remote controller;
When the menu image is displayed, when the predetermined remote control code is received by the processing of the remote control code receiving step, the predetermined remote control code corresponds to the image specified in the menu image A conversion step to convert to a remote control code,
A function determining step of determining a function to which the remote control code converted by the process of the converting step corresponds;
And a function control step for controlling the function determined by the function determining step. A program for causing a computer to execute a predetermined function corresponding to a remote control code from a remote controller,
It is composed of an image for designating a predetermined function from all functions including a function assigned to a predetermined button of the remote controller and a function not assigned to the predetermined button of the remote controller. A display control step for controlling display of the menu image;
A remote control code receiving step for receiving a remote control code from the remote controller;
When the menu image is displayed, when the predetermined remote control code is received by the processing of the remote control code receiving step, the predetermined remote control code corresponds to the image specified in the menu image A conversion step to convert to a remote control code,
A function determining step of determining a function to which the remote control code converted by the process of the converting step corresponds;
And a function control step for controlling the function determined by the function determining step.

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