JP2006209632A - Retrieving device and retrieval system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a retrieving device and a retrieval system capable of fairly adding retrieval candidate information based on a request and reducing a human burden in request accumulation work. <P>SOLUTION: For example, when a user inputs retrieval information as a retrieval character string in order to retrieve an already registered content, when a content corresponding to the retrieval character string has been already registered as retrieval candidate information, the effect that the corresponding content is present is notified as a retrieval result, and when the content corresponding to the retrieval character string has not been registered as retrieval candidate information yet, the effect that no corresponding content is present is notified as a retrieval result, and the retrieval character string is stored as request information that requests new content registration. Since an improper request made intentionally is consequently inhibited, a highly profitable content satisfying many users' requests can be registered and the burden of a worker responsible for request accumulation work can be reduced. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a search device and a search system, and in particular, a search device and a search that can fairly add search candidate information based on a user's request (request) and can reduce an artificial burden in request counting work. About the system.

  Conventionally, in a system that distributes data in response to an acquisition request from a user, for example, a music data distribution system such as a ringtone melody or performance data for karaoke (karaoke data), there is a lot of registration request (request) from the user. Often registered as new content for distribution.

  In many cases, such a request is received by providing an item for receiving a request on a distribution site on the Internet, and in that item, ask "What data do you want to register as a content?" On the other hand, it is performed in a questionnaire format in which a character string representing data desired by the user is inputted and answered.

  However, in the distribution system as described above, when users actively recruit requests in the form of questionnaires, multiple requests are made by one person, systematic requests are made, and a large number of requests due to mischief Inappropriate requests may be made due to inappropriate acts such as As a result, data that would otherwise be inappropriate for content registration may be registered as content. In this case, if the registered content is distributed for a fee, profits can be incurred due to inappropriate content registration.

  Usually, a request received in the questionnaire form as described above is transmitted to a totaling terminal (host computer), and it is artificially determined whether or not to adopt it as content for distribution. Therefore, since there is a possibility that an inappropriate request is included in the request, the originally complicated request counting work becomes more complicated, and as a result, it is determined whether or not to register as content for distribution. The burden on the worker (who is involved in the request counting work) is increased.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-93823 (Patent Document 1) gives a unique serial number to a user terminal in a music distribution system in which the user terminal can receive distribution of music stored in a server database. A request music reception method is described in which the number of requests for the same music in the music storage request transmitted from the user to the server can be limited by determining the validity of the serial number. According to Patent Document 1, the unique serial number assigned to the user terminal is, for example, paid software installed to access a server and receive music distribution request and storage request services. It is stated that it is a serial number assigned to each product package.
JP 2004-93823 A

  However, since the method of accepting requests is based on the user's positive will, even if unique serial numbers that can be individually identified as described in Patent Document 1 are attached, a plurality of users It is still possible to vote multiple times per person by using a terminal or by intentionally changing the serial number, and there is a problem that it is insufficient as a method for limiting the number of requests per person. It was.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems, and a search device that can fairly add search candidate information based on a request and can reduce an artificial burden in request counting work, and The purpose is to provide a search system.

  In order to achieve this object, a search device according to claim 1 is stored in an input means for inputting search information, a search candidate information storage means for storing a plurality of search candidate information, and a search candidate information storage means. First search means for searching whether there is a search information input from the input means among a plurality of search candidate information, and notification means for notifying a search result by the first search means A request information storage unit that stores request information that is information requested to be stored as search candidate information in the search candidate information storage unit, and a result of a search by the first search unit When the search information input from the input means is not applicable to the search candidate information stored in the search candidate information storage means, the search candidate corresponding to the search information With distribution is notified by the notification unit to be absent in the search candidate information storage unit, and a request information registration means for storing the request information corresponding to the search information to the request information storage means.

  The search device according to claim 2 is the search device according to claim 1, wherein the request number storage means stores the number of requests for each request information stored in the request information storage means, and the search by the first search means. As a result, if the search information input from the input means is not applicable to the search candidate information stored in the search candidate information storage means, the search information stored in the request information storage means A second search means for searching whether the information corresponds to the information, and a case where the search information input from the input means corresponds to the request information stored in the request information storage means as a result of the search by the second search means In addition, a counting method for adding a predetermined number to the number of requests stored in the request number storage means corresponding to the request information. It is equipped with a door.

  The search device according to claim 3 is the search device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the request information stored in the request information storage means is output or displayed, and the request is made by the first output means. A first additional registration instruction receiving unit for receiving an instruction to additionally register search candidate information corresponding to the request information in the search candidate information storage unit when the information is output or displayed; and a first additional registration instruction receiving unit The search candidate information registration for registering the search candidate information in the search candidate information storage means when receiving an instruction for additional registration of search candidate information corresponding to the request information output or displayed by the first output means Means.

  The search device according to claim 4 is the search device according to claim 3, wherein the first output means, when the number of requests stored in the request number storage means exceeds a predetermined value or exceeds a predetermined value, The corresponding request information stored in the request information storage means is output or displayed.

  The search device according to claim 5 is the search device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the search candidate information already stored in the search candidate information storage means is additionally registered by the first additional registration instruction receiving means. When there is information related to the search candidate information for which the instruction is received, the first search means includes first association means for associating and storing each other information, and the first search means is the search information input from the input means On the other hand, the information associated with each other by the first associating means is searched as one search candidate information.

  The search device according to claim 6 is the search device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein search information input from the input means as a result of search by the first search means is the search candidate information storage means. Second search means for searching whether the search information corresponds to the request information stored in the request information storage means when the search candidate information is not applicable to the search candidate information, and the second search means When the search information input from the input unit does not correspond to the request information stored in the request information storage unit, the search information input from the input unit is output or displayed. 2 When the search information is output or displayed by the output means and the second output means, request information corresponding to the search information is added to the request information storage means. A second additional registration instruction receiving unit that receives an instruction to register, and the request information is stored in the request information storage unit by the request information registration unit by the second additional registration instruction receiving unit. Is performed when instructed.

  The search device according to claim 7 is the search device according to claim 6, wherein an instruction for additional registration is received by the second additional registration instruction receiving means in the request information stored in the request information storage means. Second information associated with each other and stored in association with each other when there is information related to the requested information, and one request for a set of request information associated with each other by the second association Number counting means is associated.

  A search system according to claim 8 comprises the search device according to any one of claims 3 to 7 and an external terminal capable of communicating with the search device, wherein the external terminal is For receiving means for receiving request information output from the first output means or search information output from the second output means, and for the first additional registration instruction receiving means or the second additional registration instruction receiving means Further, search candidate information corresponding to the request information received by the receiving means or request information corresponding to the search information received by the receiving means is additionally registered in the search candidate information storage means or the request information storage means Additional registration instruction means for instructing to do so.

  According to the search device of the first aspect, when search information is input from the input means, it is first determined whether or not the search information corresponds to a plurality of search information stored in the search candidate information storage means. Search is performed by the search means, and the search result by the first search means is notified by the notification means, and the search information input from the input means as a result of the search by the first search means is stored in the search candidate information storage means. When the search candidate information is not applicable, the request information registration unit stores request information corresponding to the search information in the request information storage unit. The request information is information requesting to be stored as search candidate information in the search candidate information storage means later.

  Further, not only the request information is stored in the request information storage unit as described above by the request information registration unit, but also the search candidate information corresponding to the search information input from the input unit by the notification unit is stored in the search candidate information store. It is notified that the means are absent.

  That is, for example, when a user inputs search information as a search character string in order to search for content that has already been registered (stored), the content corresponding to the search character string is already registered as search candidate information. If so, the registered result is notified as a search result. On the other hand, if the content corresponding to the search character string (search information) is not yet registered as search candidate information, the search result is notified that the corresponding content does not exist, and the search character string (search Information) is stored as request information for requesting registration of new content.

  Therefore, instead of accepting a request based on the user's positive will as in a questionnaire format, a search character string (search information) for confirming whether the user is content is used as request information. .

  As a result, an inappropriate request made intentionally is suppressed, so that it is possible to register highly profitable content that satisfies many users' requests. In addition, since inappropriate requests are suppressed, there is also an effect that the burden on the worker involved in the request counting work can be reduced.

  In addition, the case where it is determined as “applicable” by the first search means is not only when the mutual information completely matches, but also when the forward matching, backward matching or partial matching, or the correlation of the mutual information This includes cases where the price is high.

  According to the search device according to claim 2, in addition to the effect of the search device according to claim 1, as a result of the search by the first search means, the search information input from the input means is stored in the search candidate information storage means. If the search candidate information is not applicable, the second search means searches whether the search information corresponds to the request information stored in the request information storage means. If the search information input from the input means corresponds to the request information stored in the request information storage means as a result of the search by the second search means, the request number storage means corresponding to the request information is stored. A predetermined number is added to the number of requests made by the counting means.

  Accordingly, after the request information is registered in the request storage means, when the search information corresponding to the request information is next input, the number of requests for the request information is counted. Therefore, the number of requests is counted based on the search information that is input without the user specifically intending to be a request. That is, the number of requests for an appropriate request reflecting the pure request of the user is counted. As a result, there is an effect that it is possible to reduce the burden on the worker who is involved in the request counting work.

  Note that the case where the second search means determines “applicable” includes not only the case where the information of each other completely matches, but also the case where the information matches the front, the back, or the partial match, This includes cases where the price is high.

  According to the search device according to claim 3, in addition to the effect of the search device according to claim 1 or 2, the request information stored in the request information storage means is output or displayed by the first output means. In this case, when an instruction to additionally register search candidate information corresponding to the request information in the search candidate information storage unit is received by the first additional registration instruction receiving unit, the search search candidate information is searched by the search candidate information registration unit. Registered in the candidate information storage means.

  That is, the search candidate information corresponding to the content corresponding to the request information stored in the request storage unit is added to the search candidate storage unit based on the search information input without special awareness as a request by the user. When the instruction is received, the designated search candidate information is stored in the search candidate storage means.

  Accordingly, search candidate information corresponding to the content corresponding to the request information reflecting the pure request of the user is registered. Therefore, there is an effect that highly profitable content that satisfies the demands of many users can be registered.

  The output or display by the first output means includes display on a liquid crystal display device, print output to a printer, data output to other devices capable of communication, and the like.

  According to the search device of claim 4, in addition to the effect of the search device of claim 3, when the number of requests stored in the request number storage means exceeds a predetermined value or exceeds a predetermined value, The corresponding request information stored in the information storage means is output or displayed by the first output means.

  Therefore, when a large number of search character strings (search information) that are not stored in the search candidate information storage means are searched as search candidate information, the search information is output or displayed as request information from the first output means. . As a result, there is an effect that highly profitable content that satisfies the demands of many users can be registered. Further, whether or not to output or display the request information from the first output means is determined based on the number of requests (the number of searches) reflecting the pure request of the user, so that the burden on the worker involved in the request counting work is reduced. There is an effect that can be reduced.

  According to the search device according to claim 5, in addition to the effect produced by the search device according to claim 3 or 4, in the search candidate information already stored in the search candidate information storage means, the first additional registration instruction When there is information related to the search candidate information for which the instruction for additional registration has been received by the receiving means, the information related to each other is stored in association with the first associating means. In the search by the first search means, if any of the information associated by the first association means corresponds to the search information input from the input means, a search that represents one content as a representative It is assumed that it corresponds to candidate information.

  It means one content due to the existence of a common name for the official name or the difference in the search character string that may occur when entering the name written in English, hiragana input, katakana input, or romaji input. Multiple strings may be entered. In general, when a search character string input by a user is searched from search candidate information corresponding to registered content, since it is performed by a complete match search, one content as described above is used. If there is a possibility that a plurality of character strings are input, the character strings other than those corresponding to the search candidate information are not hit.

  However, if the search candidate information instructed to add search candidate information by the first additional registration instruction means and the search candidate information already registered in the search candidate information storage means represent the same content, Since the search candidate information is associated by the first association means, it is possible to prevent a plurality of request information from being created for the same content. As a result, there is no need for the operator in the request counting operation to monitor whether or not there is a plurality of pieces of request information representing the same content, and there is an effect that the workload of the operator can be reduced.

  Note that “information related to each other is stored in association with each other by the first association means” means that the search candidate information and the search candidate information storage means together with an instruction for additional registration of search candidate information by the first additional registration instruction receiving means. May be performed when an instruction for associating search candidate information that has already been registered is added to the search candidate information, or search candidate information instructed for additional registration by the first additional registration instruction receiving means is If the search candidate information is already registered in the search candidate information storage means, it may be performed when the algorithm is automatically determined.

  According to the search device of the sixth aspect, in addition to the effect of the search device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the search information input from the input means is searched as a result of the search by the first search means. When the search candidate information stored in the candidate information storage means is not applicable, the second search means searches whether the search information corresponds to the request information stored in the request information storage means. . As a result of the search by the second search means, when the search information input from the input means is not applicable to the request information stored in the request information storage means, the search information input from the input means is It is output or displayed by the second output means.

  When the search information is output or displayed by the second output means, an instruction for additionally registering request information corresponding to the search information in the request information storage means is received by the second additional registration instruction receiving means, As described above, when the second additional registration instruction accepting unit instructs the additional registration of request information, the request information registration unit stores the request information in the request information storage unit.

  That is, when the search character string (search information) input by the user does not exist as search candidate information or request information, the search character string (search information) is output or displayed by the second output means. . Then, the search character string (search information) is registered as new request information as necessary.

  Therefore, for example, a character string erroneously input by giving an instruction for the operator to additionally register the search character string output or displayed by the second output means to the request information storage means as necessary. Can be prevented from being registered as request information. As a result, when request information is finally aggregated, there is no need for the operator who aggregates the request to examine the validity of the request information, and the burden on the operator can be reduced.

  The output or display by the second output means includes display on a liquid crystal display device, print output to a printer, etc., and data to other devices (such as a host computer) that can communicate with the search device of the present invention. Output etc. are included.

  According to the search device of claim 7, in addition to the effect produced by the search device of claim 6, the request information stored in the request information storage means is additionally registered by the second additional registration instruction receiving means. When there is information related to the request information for which the instruction has been accepted, the mutual information is stored in association with the second association means. One request number counting unit is associated with a set of request information associated with each other by the second association unit.

  Therefore, when the request information is added by the second additional registration instruction means, if the request information and the request information already registered in the request information storage means are associated by the second association means, The number of requests is counted as one piece of request information.

  Therefore, the number of requests is not distributed by a plurality of pieces of request information that may be caused by a difference in input search character strings even though they represent the same content. Therefore, since the request status for one content can be accurately grasped, there is an effect that highly profitable content that satisfies many users' requests can be registered.

  In addition, since the worker involved in the request counting work can accurately grasp the request status for one content without considering that there is a plurality of pieces of request information for one content, The work load can be reduced.

  Note that “information related to each other is stored in association with the second association means” is already registered in the request information and request information storage means together with an instruction for additional registration of request information by the second additional registration instruction receiving means. May be performed when an instruction for associating with the requested request information is added, or the request information instructed for additional registration by the second additional registration instruction accepting means is stored in the request information storing means. If the request information is already registered, it may be performed when it is automatically determined by an algorithm.

  According to the search system of claim 8, in the external terminal communicably connected to the search device according to any one of claims 3 to 7, request information output from the first output means of the search device, or The search information output from the second output means of the search device is received by the receiving means. The external terminal receives the search candidate information according to the request information received by the receiving means or the request information according to the search information received by the receiving means by using the additional registration instruction means as search candidate information storage means. Alternatively, the first additional registration instruction receiving unit or the second additional registration instruction receiving unit of the search device is instructed to be additionally registered in the request information storage unit.

  That is, according to the search system of claim 8, in the external terminal device, the search candidate information according to the request information received from the search device, or the request information according to the search information received from the search device, The search device is instructed to be additionally registered.

  Therefore, according to this search system, instead of accepting a request based on the user's positive will like a questionnaire format, a search character string (search information) for confirming whether or not the user is content is requested information. It will be used as.

  As a result, an inappropriate request made intentionally is suppressed, so that it is possible to register highly profitable content that satisfies many users' requests. In addition, since inappropriate requests are suppressed, there is also an effect that the burden on the worker involved in the request counting work can be reduced.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a search system 100 in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the search system 100 is a so-called communication karaoke system, and is connected to the search device 1, the karaoke device 90, and the search device 1 and the karaoke device 90 via a communication line 70 such as wireless, wired, or the Internet. It is mainly composed of a host computer 70 capable of communicating via the network.

  The search device 1 is a device for searching for content that can be played in the karaoke device 90 and also functions as a music selection device for causing the karaoke device 90 to perform desired content. The music selection function in the search device 1 is basically omitted because it is not the gist of the present invention.

  The search device 1 includes a CPU 11 that controls the operation of the search device 1 as a whole, a ROM 12 that stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the CPU 11, data necessary for various processes executed by the CPU 11, RAM 13 which is a memory for temporarily storing programs and the like; a rewritable large-capacity storage device; a storage unit 14 such as a hard disk which is a nonvolatile memory which retains data even after the power is turned off; and a liquid crystal When performing infrared communication with the display unit 15 such as a display device (LCD), the numeric keypad or keyboard capable of inputting alphanumeric data and kana data, the input unit 16 such as operation buttons, and the karaoke device 90 or the host computer 50 It mainly includes a communication unit 17 that is an infrared light receiving unit and also a light emitting unit. It is connected by a line 20.

  The storage unit 14 includes a content database 14a (hereinafter referred to as “content DB 14a”), a request database 14b (hereinafter referred to as “request DB 14b”), and a request candidate database 14c (hereinafter referred to as “request candidate DB 14c”). And a name conversion database 14d (hereinafter referred to as “name conversion DB 14d”).

  Next, each database 14a-14d provided in the memory | storage part 14 is demonstrated concretely. In that case, it demonstrates, referring suitably Fig.2 (a)-(d). Here, FIGS. 2A to 2D are schematic diagrams of the structures of the databases 14a to 14d, respectively.

  The content DB 14a is a database that stores information on content that can be played by the karaoke apparatus 90 (hereinafter referred to as “search candidate information” as necessary).

  As shown in FIG. 2A, in the content DB 14a, various pieces of information (song names, singer names, etc.) corresponding to the content are stored as search candidate information 14a2 for one content ID 14a1 representing one content. ing.

  Here, when the user searches the content DB 14a for a desired content, the corresponding search candidate information 14a2 is referred to according to the search condition specified by the user.

  For example, when the user designates a song name as a search condition (song title search), a search for each content ID 14a1 is performed on a search character string (hereinafter referred to as “search information” as necessary) input by the user. The information on the song name in the candidate information 14a2 is referred to. When the user specifies a singer name as a search condition (singer name search), information on the singer name in the search candidate information 14a2 of each content ID 14a1 with respect to the search information (search character string) input by the user. Is referenced.

  The content DB 14a is used as a database for selecting content desired to be played on the karaoke device 70 when the search device 1 functions as a music selection device. When the user operates the input unit 16 to select a desired content from the content DB 14a and transfer the music selection information from the communication unit 17 to the communication unit 41 by infrared communication, the song data corresponding to the desired content ( Karaoke data) is played in the karaoke apparatus 70.

  The request DB 14b is a database that stores information on content requested to be registered in the content DB 14a (hereinafter referred to as “request information” as necessary).

  As shown in FIG. 2B, in this request DB 14b, various information (song name, singer name, etc.) corresponding to the requested content is stored as request information 14b2 for one request ID 14b1.

  One request counter 14b3 is provided for each request ID 14b1. The request counter 14b3 is a counter that stores the number of requests for the request information 14b2 corresponding to one request ID 14b1.

  When it is confirmed that the request information 14b2 corresponding to the search information (search character string) input by the user exists in the request DB 14b, the value of the request counter 14b3 corresponding to the request information 14b2 is “1”. Is added.

  Although details will be described later, when the value of the request counter 14b3 exceeds a predetermined number, the request information 14b2 of the corresponding request ID 14b1 is output (transmitted) to the host computer 50 via the communication line 70. Then, if the request information 14b2 received by the host computer 50 is determined to be necessary as a result of human judgment by an operator engaged in the request counting work, corresponding content is created. When content is created, search candidate information 14a2 corresponding to the content is registered in the content DB 14a as a result of being output from the host computer 50 to the search device 1.

  The request candidate DB 14c is a database that stores information that is candidates for the request information 14b2 (hereinafter referred to as “request candidate information” as necessary). As shown in FIG. 2 (c), in the request candidate DB 14c, various information (song name, singer name, etc.) corresponding to the content that is the request information candidate as the request candidate information 14c2 for one request candidate ID 14c1. Is remembered. In this embodiment, 50 request candidate IDs 14c1 from “1” to “50” are set in advance.

  The name conversion DB 14d is a database for converting input search information (search character string) into a character string associated with the search information. As shown in FIG. 2D, in this name conversion DB 14d, for one conversion ID 14d1, one pre-conversion name 14d2 and a conversion that is a character string unified for search with respect to the pre-conversion name 14d2 The rear name 14d3 is stored in association with each other.

  Although details will be described later, when search information (search character string) is input, if the pre-conversion name 14d2 corresponding to the search information exists, the input search information is stored in the corresponding post-conversion name 14d3. Is converted to the designated name. The character string converted by the name conversion DB 14d is compared with various information stored in the content DB 14a, the request DB 14b, and the request candidate DB 14c.

  Multiple characters representing one name (for example, song name) due to the existence of a common name for one official name, or differences in search information that may occur when entering an English name in hiragana, katakana, or romaji A column may be input as search information (search character string). However, by converting the input search information into a plurality of character strings representing one name (for example, song name) using the name conversion DB 14d, a plurality of search information (search character strings) related to each other can be obtained. The same result can be obtained.

  The host computer 50 is a processing terminal that performs processing on the request information received from the search device 1, and is a terminal that functions as a karaoke host that distributes song data to the karaoke device 70. The host computer 50 includes a CPU 51, a ROM 52, a RAM 53, a data output unit 55 such as a display device for displaying or outputting data, a printing device, and a writing device for a storage medium, a keyboard and a storage medium for inputting data by a user. A data input unit 56 such as a reading device for reading data, a modem 54 for connecting to the communication line 70 in order to communicate with the search device 1 and the karaoke device 90 are mainly provided. The bus lines 58 are connected to each other.

  The karaoke device 90 is a musical sound reproducing device that plays music data (karaoke data), and plays music data (karaoke data) corresponding to the content selected by the music selection function of the search device 1. In addition to the sound source for playing the song data, the karaoke device 90 receives the song selection information sent from the search device 1 and the song data sent from the host computer 50 via the router 42 connected to the LAN. A transmission / reception unit for receiving, a storage unit such as a hard disk for storing karaoke data, and the like are provided (not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 1, the search device 1, the karaoke device 90, and the host computer 50 are connected to each other via a communication connection device that includes a communication unit 41, a modem 43, and a router 42. The communication unit 41 is for performing infrared communication with the search device 1, the modem 43 is for performing communication via the communication line 70, and the router 42 is connected to the karaoke device 90 via a LAN. In addition, the relay device is connected between the modem 43 and the communication unit 41 and relays communication among the search device 1, the karaoke device 90, and the host computer 50.

  Next, processing executed by the search device 1 in the search system 100 configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 3 and 4. FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the input process executed by the search device 1 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the registration process executed by the search device 1. A program for executing the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 3 and 4 is stored in the ROM 12 of the search device 1 as a part of the control program.

  The input process shown in FIG. 3 is activated when data is input from the input unit 16 or the communication unit 17, and performs a process according to the data. As shown in FIG. 3, in this input process, first, it is confirmed whether or not the input is search information (search character string) input by the operation of the input unit 16 by the user (S301).

  If the input data is search information (search character string) as a result of checking in the process of S301 (S301: Yes), the search information is searched from the name conversion DB 14d (S302). Specifically, in S302, it is searched whether there is a name corresponding to the search information in the pre-conversion name 14d2 stored in the name conversion DB 14d. After the process of S302, it is confirmed whether or not the search is hit (S303).

  As a result of the confirmation in S303, if the search in S302 is hit, that is, if there is a name corresponding to the search information in the pre-conversion name 14d2 stored in the name conversion DB 14d (S303: Yes), The input search information is converted into a corresponding post-conversion name 14d3 based on the name conversion DB 14d (S304). The search information converted based on the name conversion DB 14d by the process of S304 is referred to as “converted search information”.

  After the process of S304, the converted search information is searched from the content DB 14a (S305). Specifically, in S305, it is searched whether there is information corresponding to the search information converted into the search candidate information 14a2 stored in the content DB 14a (for example, a song name in the case of song name search).

  On the other hand, as a result of checking in the process of S303, when the search of S302 is not hit, that is, when there is no name corresponding to the search information in the pre-conversion name 14d2 stored in the name conversion DB 14d. (S303: No), S304 is skipped, the process proceeds to S305, and the input search information is searched from the content DB 14a.

  After the processing of S305, it is confirmed whether or not the search has been hit (S306). If it is hit, that is, search information corresponding to the search candidate information 14a2 stored in the content DB 14a (search information input by the user, or If there is search information converted by the process of S304 (S306: Yes), the hit information is notified by display on the display unit 15 (S314), and this input process is terminated.

  On the other hand, as a result of checking in the process of S306, if the search of S305 does not hit, that is, if the search information corresponding to the search candidate information 14a2 stored in the content DB 14a does not exist (S306: No), the search information (search information input by the user or search information converted by the process of S304) is searched from the request DB 14b (S307). Specifically, in S307, the request information 14b2 stored in the request DB 14b is searched for information corresponding to the search information (for example, a song name in the case of song name search).

  After the processing of S307, it is confirmed whether or not the search has been hit (S308). If there is a hit, that is, if search information corresponding to the request information 14b2 stored in the request DB 14b exists (S308: Yes) Then, “1” is added to the value of the request counter 14b3 corresponding to the request information 14b2 corresponding to the search information (S309), and the value of the request counter 14b3 exceeds a predetermined value (for example, “50”). (S310).

  If the value of the request counter 14b3 exceeds a predetermined value (eg, “50”) (S310: Yes) as a result of the confirmation in S310, the request information 14b2 corresponding to the request counter 14b3 is output to the host computer 50. (Send) (S311). In this case, the request information 14b2 to be output is output (transmitted) from the communication unit 17 to the communication unit 41 by infrared communication, and is output (transmitted) from the modem 43 to the host computer 50 via the communication line 70.

  In S311, when the request information 14b2 is output to the host computer 50, the request information 14b2 is output (or displayed) from the data output unit 55 in a reception process (see FIG. 5) executed by the host computer 50 described later. The Then, when it is determined by the worker who is involved in the request counting work that there is a need to create content corresponding to the request information 14b2, content corresponding to the request information 14b2 is newly created.

  The request information 14b2 output to the host computer 50 by the process of S311 is based on the search information input by the user for the purpose of searching for content. That is, since the request information 14b2 is not a request made by the user's positive will, the possibility that the request information 14b2 is inappropriate for creation as content is reduced.

  Therefore, highly profitable content that satisfies many users' requests can be created based on the request information 14b2. Further, when an operator who is involved in request aggregation determines the necessity of content creation, the labor can be reduced.

  Further, in S311, the request information 14b2 in which the number of requests for the same request information 14b2 exceeds a predetermined value is automatically output to the host computer 50 with reference to the value of the request counter 14b3. Accordingly, since a request having a large number of requests for the request information 14b2 which is an appropriate request is automatically transmitted to the host computer, it is possible to reduce the work burden on the worker involved in the aggregation of requests.

  After the processing of S312, the search of S305 did not hit, that is, the search candidate information 14a2 corresponding to the input search information or the search information converted by the processing of S304 did not exist in the content DB 14a. Then, notification is made by display on the display unit 15 (S313), and this input processing is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the value of the request counter 14b3 does not exceed a predetermined value (for example, “50”) as a result of checking in the process of S310 (S310: No), S311 and S312 are skipped and the process proceeds to S313. To do.

  As a result of checking in the processing of S308, if the search of S307 does not hit, that is, if the search information corresponding to the request information 14b2 stored in the request DB 14b does not exist (S308: No) The search information (search information input by the user or search information converted by the process of S304) is registered (stored) in the request candidate DB 14c (S315). In S315, the search information is registered as request candidate information 14c2 in the empty request candidate ID.

  After the process of S315, it is confirmed whether or not there is an empty ID (an empty request candidate ID 14c1) in the request candidate DB 14c (S316). As a result of checking in the process of S316, if there is no empty ID, that is, if the request candidate information 14c2 is registered for all the request candidate IDs 14c1 ("1" to "50" in this embodiment) (S316: No), all request candidate information 14c2 registered in the request candidate DB 14c is output (transmitted) to the host computer 50 (S317). In this case, the request candidate information 14c2 to be output is output from the communication unit 17 to the communication unit 41 by infrared communication, and is output from the modem 43 to the host computer 50 via the communication line 70.

  When the request candidate information 14c2 is output to the host computer 50 by the process of S317, the request candidate information 14c2 is output from the data output unit 55 in a reception process (see FIG. 5) executed by the host computer 50 described later. (Or display). Then, a registration request process (see FIG. 6) is performed as necessary according to the determination by the worker involved in the request counting work, and as a result, the request candidate information 14c2 is registered in the request DB 14b as request information 14b2. The

  After the process of S317, the request candidate DB 14c is cleared (S318), and the process proceeds to S313. On the other hand, if the request candidate DB 14c has a free ID as a result of the confirmation in S316 (S316: Yes), S317 and S318 are skipped, and the process proceeds to S313.

  If the input data is not search information (search character string) as a result of the confirmation in S301 (S301: No), it is confirmed whether the input data is a registration request from the host computer 50 ( S319). If the input data is a request for registration of search candidate information or request candidate information from the host computer 50 as a result of checking in the process of S319 (S319: Yes), a registration process corresponding to the input registration request (S320), and this input process is terminated. The specific process in the registration process (S320) will be described later with reference to FIG.

  On the other hand, if the input data is not a registration request from the host computer 50 as a result of checking in the process of S319 (S319: No), the input data is the request candidate information 14c2 from the host computer 50. It is confirmed whether it is an acquisition request (S321). The request for acquiring the request candidate information 14c2 from the host computer 50 may be output as a result of the operator operating the host computer 50, or may be output periodically from the host computer 50. It may be.

  If the input data is a request for acquiring the request candidate information 14c2 from the host computer 50 as a result of checking in the process of S321 (S321: Yes), all the request candidate information 14c2 registered in the request candidate DB 14c is stored in the host. Output (send) to the computer 50 (S322).

  When the request candidate information 14c2 is output to the host computer 50 by the process of S322, the request candidate information 14c2 is output from the data output unit 55 in a reception process (see FIG. 5) executed by the host computer 50 described later. (Or display). Then, a registration request process (see FIG. 6) is performed as necessary according to the determination by the worker involved in the request counting work, and as a result, the request candidate information 14c2 is registered in the request DB 14b as request information 14b2. The

  Accordingly, in S322 and S317 described above, the request candidate information 14c2 is output to the host computer 50, so that inappropriate search information (search character string) having incompleteness such as erroneous input is registered as request information 14b2 in the request DB 14b. Can be prevented. As a result, it is possible to reduce the burden on the operator who determines whether or not to create a new content for the request information 14b2 transmitted to the host computer 50 by the process of S311 described above.

  When all the request candidate information 14c2 registered in the request candidate DB 14c is output to the host computer 50 by the process of S322, the request candidate DB 14c is cleared (S318), and this input process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the input data is not an acquisition request for the request candidate information 14c2 from the host computer 50 as a result of checking in the process of S321 (S321: No), each process according to the input data is executed ( S324), this input process is terminated. In each process (S324), for example, if the input data is music selection information input by an operation of the input unit 16 by the user, the music selection information (content ID) is output to the karaoke apparatus 90.

  Next, the registration process (S320) described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In this registration process (S320), first, it is confirmed whether or not it is search candidate information that is requested to be registered (S401). If the search request information is requested to be registered (S401: Yes), the search candidate information is registered in the content DB 14a (S402), and the process proceeds to S403. On the other hand, if the result of the confirmation in S401 is that the registration request is not search candidate information (S401: No), S402 is skipped and the process proceeds to S403.

  In S403, it is confirmed whether or not the request for registration is request information. As a result of the confirmation in S403, if the request for registration is request information (S403: request information), the request information is registered in the request DB 14b (S404), and the process proceeds to S405. On the other hand, as a result of checking in the process of S403, if the request for registration is not request information (S403: No), S404 is skipped and the process proceeds to S405.

  Here, the request candidate information requested for registration from the host computer 50 is transmitted from the host computer 50 in the processing of S606 in the registration request processing described later with reference to FIG. 6, and the request information is also obtained in the search candidate information 14a2. This is based on search information (search character string) that was not 14b2. Therefore, the search information that the user does not intend as a request is registered as request information by the process of S405. As a result, it is finally possible to register highly profitable content according to the pure request of the user.

  Note that, as described above, when the user inputs search information for the purpose of search, the user only knows the search result notified in S313 or S314. Therefore, when the search information input by the user is neither the search candidate information 14a2 nor the request information, the user registers the information input by himself / herself for the search as request information 14b2 in the request DB 14b by the process of S405. I don't know that. Therefore, according to the method of the present invention, it is possible to efficiently perform request aggregation without depending on the user's positive will.

  In S402 and S404, the search candidate information or request information newly registered may be registered for the content ID 14a1 or the request ID 14b1 newly added to the content DB 14a or the request DB 14b, or the content DB 14a or the request information may be registered. You may register with respect to empty content ID14a1 or empty request ID14b in DB14b.

  In step S405, it is confirmed whether an information association request has been made. The “information association request” is an instruction to associate and store information in the name conversion DB 14d. Specifically, (1) the search candidate information or request information requested for registration and the content DB 14a are already registered. An instruction for associating the search candidate information 14a2 or the request information 14b2 already registered in the request DB 14b using the name conversion DB 14d, or (2) the information already stored in the content DB 14a or the request DB 14b This is an instruction for associating a plurality of pieces of information related to each other.

  As a result of the confirmation in the process of S405, if an information association request is made (S405: Yes), the information is associated and registered in the name conversion DB 14d according to the association request (S406). For example, if the association request is an instruction for associating and registering the search candidate information or request information requested for registration and the corresponding search candidate information 14a2 or request information 14b2, registration is performed in the content DB 14a or the request DB 14b in S402 or S404. The retrieved search candidate information or request information and the corresponding search candidate information 14a2 or request information 14b2 are registered in association with each other in the name conversion DB 14d.

  If there is another registration request after the process of S406, each process (S407) corresponding to the registration request is executed, and this registration process (S320) is terminated. Also, as a result of checking in the process of S405, if an information association request has not been made (S405: Yes), S406 is skipped and the process proceeds to S407.

  Next, processing executed by the host computer 50 in the search system 100 configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the reception process executed by the host computer 50, and FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the registration request process executed by the host computer 50. A program for executing the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 6 is stored in the ROM 52 of the host computer 50 as a part of the control program.

  The reception process shown in FIG. 5 is activated when the modem 54 of the host computer 50 receives data from the search apparatus 1 or the karaoke apparatus 90, and performs a process according to the received data. As shown in FIG. 5, in this reception process, first, it is confirmed whether the request information 14b2 transmitted in S311 (see FIG. 3) in the search device 1 is received (S501).

  If the received data is the request information 14b2 from the search device 1 as a result of the confirmation in S501 (S501: Yes), the request information 14b2 is output (or displayed) from the data output unit 55 (S502). The reception process ends.

  In S502, when the request information 14b2 received from the search device 1 is output from the data output unit 55, the worker who is involved in the request counting work can check the request information 14b2. As a result of the request information 14b2 being confirmed by the operator, if it is determined that the received request information 14b2 is worth creating content, the corresponding content is created. Then, search candidate information corresponding to the created content is requested for registration from the data input unit 56 to the search device 1.

  In this case, since the received request information 14b2 is based on the search information input by the user with the intention of searching for content, the request information 14b2 is an inappropriate request that may occur when requested by the user's positive will. The possibility is reduced. Therefore, highly profitable content that satisfies many users' requests can be created based on the request information 14b2. In addition, when an operator who is involved in request aggregation determines the necessity of content creation, the labor is reduced.

  If the received data is not the request information 14b2 from the search apparatus 1 (S501: No) as a result of the confirmation in the process of S501, the data received is transmitted in S317 or S322 (see FIG. 3) in the search apparatus 1. It is confirmed whether the request candidate information 14c2 is made (S503).

  If the received data is the request candidate information 14c2 from the search device 1 as a result of checking in the processing of S503 (S503: Yes), the request candidate information 14c2 is output (or displayed) from the data output unit 55 (S504). This reception process is terminated.

  In S504, as a result of the request candidate information 14c2 received from the search device 1 being output from the data output unit 55, an operator involved in the request counting work can confirm the request candidate information 14c2. When the operator determines that the received request candidate information 14c2 should be registered as request information 14b2 in the request DB 14b of the search device 1, a request for registration of request information is made from the data input unit 56. become.

  In this case, since the received request candidate information 14c2 is search information (search character string) that is neither the search candidate information 14a2 nor the request information, the request information is registered from the search information that the user does not intend as a request. It will be. Therefore, since an inappropriate request intentionally made by the user can be prevented, highly profitable content corresponding to the pure request of the user can be registered.

  On the other hand, if the received data is not the request candidate information 14c2 from the search device 1 as a result of the confirmation in S503 (S503: No), each process according to the received data is executed (S505). End the process. In each process (S505), for example, if the received data is a request for transmitting song data (karaoke data) from the karaoke device 90, the requested song data (karaoke data) is output (transmitted) to the karaoke device 90. To do.

  Next, the registration request process shown in FIG. 6 is a process that is started when an information (data) registration request is made to the search apparatus 1 or the karaoke apparatus 90 by an operation of the data input unit 56 by an operator. As shown in FIG. 6, in this registration request process, first, it is confirmed whether the registration request is a request for registering search candidate information in the content DB 14a of the search device 1 (S601).

  If the result of confirmation in S601 is a request for registration of search candidate information in the content DB 14a of the search device 1 (S601: Yes), the search candidate information is output (transmitted) to the search device 1 together with the registration request (S602). ), The process proceeds to S603.

  As a result of the process of S602, when search candidate information and a registration request for the information are received (input) by the modem 17 of the search apparatus 1, the search candidate information is registered in the content DB 14a by the process of S402 (see FIG. 4). ).

  Here, the search candidate information requested for registration by this registration request processing is not based on the result of the active user request, but based on the search information (search character string) input by the user with the intention of search. Therefore, it corresponds to the content reflecting the pure demand of the user.

  On the other hand, as a result of checking in the process of S601, if the search candidate information is not requested to be registered in the content DB 14a of the search apparatus 1 (S601: No), the process of S602 is skipped and the process proceeds to S603.

  In the process of S603, it is confirmed whether it is a request information registration request to the request DB 14b of the search device 1. If the request information is registered in the request DB 14b of the search device 1 as a result of the confirmation in S603 (S603: Yes), the request information is output (transmitted) to the search device 1 together with the registration request (S604). The process proceeds to S605.

  As a result of the process of S604, when request information and a registration request for the information are received (input) by the modem 17 of the search device 1, the request information is registered in the request DB 14b by the process of S404 (see FIG. 4).

  Note that the request information requested for registration by this registration request processing is not based on an active user request but based on search information (search string) input by the user with the intention of search. This is request information that reflects various requests.

  On the other hand, as a result of checking in the process of S603, if the request information is not registered in the request DB 14b of the search device 1 (S603: No), the process of S604 is skipped and the process proceeds to S605.

  In the process of S605, it is confirmed whether an association request, which is an instruction to associate and store information in the name conversion DB 14d, has been made by operating the data input unit 56. That is, (1) Search candidate information or request information for which a registration request has been made, and search candidate information 14a2 already registered in the content DB 14a or request information 14b2 already registered in the request DB 14b are used using the name conversion DB 14d. Or (2) whether an instruction to associate a plurality of pieces of information related to each other in the information already stored in the content DB 14a or the request DB 14b is confirmed.

  If the information association request is confirmed as a result of the confirmation in S605 (S605: Yes), the information association request is output (transmitted) to the search device 1 (S606). When an information association request is received (input) by the modem 17 of the search device 1 as a result of the processing of S606, information association according to the association request is performed using the name conversion DB 14d by the processing of S406. .

  After the process of S604, each process executed when another registration request is made is executed (S607), and this registration request process is terminated. In each process (S607), for example, if a request to change the information registered in the name change DB 14d is made, the information change request is output (transmitted) to the search device 1 together with the information to be changed. .

  On the other hand, as a result of checking in the process of S605, if the information association request is not made (S605: No), the process of S606 is skipped and the process of S607 is executed.

  Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the first embodiment described above, the search system 100 is a communication karaoke system including the search device 1 having a music selection function, the karaoke device 90, and the host computer 50. In place of such a first embodiment, in this second embodiment, a host computer 10 for delivering a ringing melody will be described as an example of a search device of the present invention. In the second embodiment, the same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the host computer 10 which is a search device in the second embodiment. When the host computer 10 shown in FIG. 7 receives a request for downloading an incoming melody from a user's personal computer 60 (hereinafter referred to as “PC 60”) via the communication line 70, the host computer 10 sends the corresponding song data to the communication line. 70 to be downloaded to the PC 60 via 70. The host computer 10 also has a function of returning a search result to the PC 60 when an inquiry (search) regarding the contents of the incoming melody is made from the PC 60.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the host computer 10 mainly includes a CPU 11, a ROM 12, a RAM 13, a storage unit 14, a display unit 15, an input unit 16, and a modem 18 for connecting to a communication line 70. These components are connected to each other by a bus line 20.

  The storage unit 14 stores the content DB 14a and the request DB 14b (see FIGS. 2A and 2B, respectively) and song data corresponding to each content registered in the content DB 14a in association with the content ID 14a1. A song data memory 14e.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the input process of the second embodiment executed by the host computer 10 configured as described above. Similarly to the input process (FIG. 3) of the first embodiment, the input process of the second embodiment is started when data is input from the input unit 16 or the modem 19, and a process corresponding to the data is performed. Is what you do. A program for executing the input process shown in FIG. 8 is stored as a part of the control program in the ROM 12 of the host computer 10.

  The host computer 10 of the second embodiment does not include the name conversion DB 14d provided in the search device 1 of the first embodiment. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 8, in the input process of the second embodiment, the processes of S302 to S304 in the input process of the first embodiment are omitted. In S301, the input is the search information (search character string). If it is confirmed (S301: Yes), the process proceeds to S305, and the input search information is searched from the content DB 14a.

  Further, the host computer 10 of the second embodiment executes the process of S801 instead of the process of S311 of the input process of the first embodiment. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, when it is confirmed in S310 that the value of the request counter 14b3 exceeds a predetermined value (for example, “50”) (S310: Yes). The request information 14b2 corresponding to the request counter 14b3 is displayed (output) on the display unit 15 (S801). Then, after the process of S801, the process proceeds to S312.

  In the input process of the second embodiment, if the search in S307 is not hit as a result of the confirmation in the process of S308 (S308: No), the search information input by the user is used as the request information 14b2. Is registered in the request DB 14b (S802), and the process proceeds to S313.

  If the search information input by the user does not exist in the content DB 14a by the processing of S802, the search information is automatically registered in the request DB 14b as request information 14b2.

  That is, since the search information (search character string) input by the user with the intention of search is registered as the request information 14b2, inappropriateness that may occur when a request based on the user's positive intention such as a questionnaire format is received. Requests can be suppressed. As a result, highly profitable content reflecting the demands of many users is created. In addition, as a result of suppressing inappropriate requests, it is possible to reduce the burden on the workers involved in request counting work.

  In this case, search information that does not exist in the content DB 14a is automatically registered in the request DB 14b as request information 14b2 by the process of S802, while a search result indicating that the search has not been hit by the process of S313 is: The user is notified by display on the display unit 15. Therefore, since the user is in a state where he / she cannot be conscious of making a request to the end, it is possible to efficiently perform request aggregation without depending on the user's positive will.

  Whether the request information 14b2 displayed on the display unit 15 by the processing of S801 should be registered as new content (incoming melody) is left to the judgment of the worker involved in the request counting work. Then, when it is determined that the operator should register as new content, song data and corresponding search candidate information are created as new content, and the operator registers the search candidate information and song data. A request will be made. This search candidate information and song data registration request is confirmed by the processing of S803 in the input processing of the second embodiment.

  That is, if it is confirmed by the confirmation in S301 that the input data is not search information (search character string) (S301: No), the input data is displayed on the display unit 15 by the process in S803. It is confirmed whether or not the search candidate information and song data registration request is made based on the displayed search information.

  If the input data is a request for registration of search candidate information and song data (S803: Yes) as a result of checking in the process of S803, the search candidate information is registered in the content DB 14a (S402). It is registered in the song data memory 14e (S804).

  On the other hand, as a result of confirmation by the processing of S803, the input data is not a registration request for search candidate information and song data performed based on the search information displayed on the display unit 15 (S803: No), Each process (S324) is executed, and the input process of the second embodiment is terminated.

  As described above, according to the search system 100, the search apparatus 1, and the host computer 10 of the present invention, a search character string input by a user for search is processed as a request made for new content. Inappropriate requests that can occur when a user intentionally makes a request can be suppressed. As a result, new content can be added fairly, and highly profitable content that complies with the pure requirements of many users can be additionally registered.

  Further, as a result of suppressing inappropriate requests that may occur when the user makes a request intentionally, the burden on the operator in the request counting work can be reduced.

  Note that the first search unit according to claim 1 corresponds to the process of S305. Further, the notification means according to claim 1 corresponds to the processing of S313 and S314. The request registration means according to claim 1 corresponds to the processing of S313 and S404, or S313 and S802.

  The second search means according to claim 2 corresponds to the processing of S307. The counting means according to claim 2 corresponds to the processing of S309.

  The first output means according to claim 3 corresponds to the process of S311 or S801, and the first additional registration instruction accepting means according to claim 3 includes a branch process to Yes in S401, or a Yes to S803. Branch processing is applicable. The search candidate information registration process according to claim 3 corresponds to the process of S402.

  The first association means according to claim 5 corresponds to the process of S406. The second output means according to claim 6 corresponds to the process of S317 or S322. Further, the second additional registration instruction accepting means described in claim 6 corresponds to the branching process to Yes in S403.

  The second association means according to claim 7 corresponds to the processing of S406. Further, the registration request processing shown in FIG. 6 corresponds to the additional registration instruction means described in claim 8.

  The present invention has been described above based on the embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be easily made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Can be inferred.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the online karaoke system and the incoming melody distribution system have been illustrated to explain the present invention. Of course, the present invention can be applied to a system that may introduce content.

  Moreover, in the said Example, although the search information input was a search character string, the search information by speech input may be sufficient.

  In addition, the search device 1 of the first embodiment includes the request candidate DB 14c, and is configured to register in the request candidate DB 14c when the input search information does not exist in the content DB 14a or the request DB 14b. . Instead, if the input search information does not exist in the content DB 14a or the request DB 14b without providing the request candidate DB 14c in the search device 1 (when the search is not hit), The search information may be output to the host computer 50. This configuration corresponds to the “second output means” recited in claim 2.

  In S802 of the second embodiment, when the input search information does not exist in the content DB 14a or the request DB 14b, the search information is registered in the request DB 14b. Instead, when the input search information does not exist in the content DB 14a, the search information may be displayed (output) on the display unit 15. This configuration corresponds to the “second output means” recited in claim 2.

  In the above embodiment, the value added to the request counter 14b3 is 1. However, an integer of 1 or more may be added. Thereby, the difference in the number of requests in each request ID 14b1 can be made remarkable, and the request state can be clearly grasped.

  In the above embodiment, when the value of the request counter 14b3 exceeds a predetermined value, the corresponding request information 14b2 is output to the host computer 50 (first embodiment) or displayed on the display unit 15. However, the request information may be output or displayed periodically when the request for output or display of the request information is made by the worker.

  In the above-described embodiment, the determination processing in S311 and S316 is configured to check whether the predetermined value is exceeded. However, it may be configured to check whether the predetermined value is reached.

  In the first embodiment, the name conversion DB 14d is configured such that one post-conversion name 14d3 is associated with one pre-conversion name 14d2, but one post-conversion name 14d2 is associated with one post-conversion name 14d2. You may comprise so that name 14d3 may be matched. In the above-described embodiment, the name conversion DB 14d is used for name association. However, it can be easily inferred that the information can be replaced by other means capable of associating information with each other.

  Moreover, in the said Example, when notifying a search result in S313, S314, it comprised so that a search result might be displayed on the display part 15, but you may comprise so that it may notify by audio | voice output etc.

  In the first embodiment, the communication unit 17 and the communication unit 41 of the search device 1 are connected by infrared communication, and the karaoke device 90 and the router 42 are connected by LAN. 54 and the modem 54 are configured to be connected via the communication line 70, but the connection mode of the search device 1, the host computer 50, and the karaoke device 70 is not limited to these, and can communicate with each other. It can be easily inferred that the connection is sufficient.

  In the second embodiment, the PC 60 is illustrated as an example of inputting a search character string to the host computer 10, but it can be easily inferred that it may be a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the search system in 1st Example of this invention. It is a schematic diagram of the structure of each database provided in the memory | storage part. It is a flowchart of the input process of 1st Example performed with a search device. It is a flowchart of the registration process performed with a search device. It is a flowchart of the reception process performed with a host computer. It is a flowchart of the registration request process performed with a host computer. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the host computer which is a search device in 2nd Example. It is a flowchart of the input processing of 2nd Example performed with a host computer.

Explanation of symbols

1 Search device 14a Content DB (search candidate storage means)
14a2 Search candidate information 14b Request DB (request information storage means)
14b2 Request information 14b3 Request counter (request number storage means)
14e Name conversion DB
16 Input section (input means)
50 Host computer (external terminal)
54 Modem (Receiving means)
100 Search system 10 Host computer (search device)
18 Modem (input means)

Claims (8)

Input from the input means is input from among input means for inputting search information, search candidate information storage means for storing a plurality of search candidate information, and a plurality of search candidate information stored in the search candidate information storage means. In a search device comprising first search means for searching whether there is a corresponding search information, and notification means for notifying a search result by the first search means,
Request information storage means for storing request information which is information requesting to be stored as search candidate information in the search candidate information storage means;
As a result of the search by the first search means, when the search information input from the input means is not applicable to the search candidate information stored in the search candidate information storage means, the search corresponding to the search information A request information registration unit for notifying the request candidate information storage unit of the candidate information by the notification unit and storing the request information corresponding to the search information in the request information storage unit; A search device characterized by that. Request number storage means for storing the number of requests for each request information stored in the request information storage means;
As a result of the search by the first search means, if the search information input from the input means is not applicable to the search candidate information stored in the search candidate information storage means, the search information is stored in the request information storage. Second search means for searching whether the request information stored in the means corresponds,
When the search information input from the input means corresponds to the request information stored in the request information storage means as a result of the search by the second search means, the request number storage means corresponding to the request information is stored. 2. The search apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a counting unit that adds a predetermined number to the number of requests that have been made. First output means for outputting or displaying request information stored in the request information storage means;
A first additional registration instruction receiving means for receiving an instruction to additionally register search candidate information corresponding to the request information in the search candidate information storage means when the request information is output or displayed by the first output means;
When the first additional registration instruction receiving means receives an instruction for additional registration of search candidate information corresponding to the request information output or displayed by the first output means, the search candidate information is stored in the search candidate information storage. The search apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising search candidate information registration means for registering in the means.   The first output means outputs or displays the corresponding request information stored in the request information storage means when the number of requests stored in the request number storage means exceeds a predetermined value or exceeds a predetermined value. The search device according to claim 3, wherein When the search candidate information already stored in the search candidate information storage means includes information related to the search candidate information for which an instruction for additional registration has been received by the first additional registration instruction reception means, First associating means for associating and storing the information,
The first search unit searches the search information input from the input unit using information associated with each other by the first association unit as one search candidate information. The search device according to claim 3 or 4. As a result of the search by the first search means, if the search information input from the input means is not applicable to the search candidate information stored in the search candidate information storage means, the search information is stored in the request information storage. Second search means for searching whether the request information stored in the means corresponds,
As a result of the search by the second search means, if the search information input from the input means does not correspond to the request information stored in the request information storage means, the search information input from the input means Second output means for outputting or displaying;
A second additional registration instruction receiving means for receiving an instruction to additionally register request information corresponding to the search information in the request information storage means when the search information is output or displayed by the second output means;
The storage of the request information in the request information storage unit by the request information registration unit is performed when an additional registration of request information is instructed by the second additional registration instruction receiving unit. The search device according to any one of 5. If the request information stored in the request information storage means includes information related to the request information for which an instruction for additional registration has been received by the second additional registration instruction receiving means, the information is associated with each other. Second association means for storing
7. The search apparatus according to claim 6, wherein one request number counting unit is associated with a set of request information associated with each other by the second association unit. A search system comprising the search device according to any one of claims 3 to 7, and an external terminal capable of communicating with the search device,
The external terminal is
Receiving means for receiving request information output from the first output means or search information output from the second output means;
Depending on the search candidate information corresponding to the request information received by the receiving means or the search information received by the receiving means for the first additional registration instruction receiving means or the second additional registration instruction receiving means A search system comprising: additional search instruction means for instructing additional registration of the requested information to the search candidate information storage means or the request information storage means.

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