JP2008294496A - Information recording and reproducing device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To restrict viewing under conditions that a user desires by converting audio information into character information and using it for keyword retrieval when a general broadcast program etc. to which no character information is added is recorded in a recording medium and reproduced or when a DVD etc. on the market to which data indicative of a viewing restriction level are not added is reproduced. <P>SOLUTION: An information recording and reproducing device has an information conversion unit 14 which converts audio information included in motion image information recorded in a recording medium into character information and a character information storage unit 13a which stores one or a plurality of pieces of character information registered by the user, and a microcomputer 12 compares the character information obtained by the information conversion unit 14 with the character information stored in the character information storage unit 13a and restricts reproduction of motion image information including matching character information when finding the matching character information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an information recording / reproducing apparatus capable of restricting viewing even a general broadcast program or the like to which character information is not added.

  In broadcasting systems such as terrestrial broadcasting, cable television, and satellite broadcasting, a V-chip system has been proposed to restrict reception of video signals including violent scenes and sexual scenes. In this V-chip system, data indicating a viewing restriction level is added to each broadcast program, and the device receiving the preset data sets a level at which viewing is possible. Only a program that satisfies the condition can be received. There has also been proposed an apparatus configured to automatically select another channel and display it on a monitor screen when the channel selected at the time of power-on is a program corresponding to such viewing restrictions. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

  Furthermore, there are discs such as commercially available DVDs (Digital Versatile Disks) to which data indicating a viewing restriction level is added, and such discs can be restricted by prohibiting playback during viewing. It is.

  However, in such a device equipped with a V-chip or the device described in Patent Document 1, viewing restriction can be executed when data indicating a viewing restriction level is added to a broadcast program. When a broadcast program to which such data is not added is recorded on a recording medium, the reproduction cannot be prohibited. Further, when data indicating a viewing restriction level is not added to a commercially available DVD, reproduction of the DVD cannot be prohibited. In other words, the configuration is such that the viewing restriction can function effectively only when data indicating the viewing restriction level is added.

  On the other hand, a viewing restriction device that can restrict viewing according to a situation desired by the user even if data indicating such a viewing restriction level is not added has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

  The viewing restriction device sets a keyword for viewing restriction in advance, compares the set keyword with a content display signal transmitted corresponding to the video signal, and the keyword matches the content display signal It is configured to restrict viewing. According to this configuration, even if data indicating a viewing restriction level is not added to a video signal or the like, viewing restriction can be performed by matching keywords.

  However, even in such a viewing restriction device, it is necessary that a content display signal including a keyword is added to a video signal and transmitted, and such a content display signal, that is, a video signal to which no character information is added is transmitted. In that case, viewing restrictions will not work at all.

Recently, a technology for converting voice information such as a person's conversation into character information has been provided, and a reservation control device that performs program reservation processing using this technology has also been proposed (for example, Patent Documents). 3). This reservation control device extracts a noun from the sound in the broadcast program in real time, and if there is the noun information in the noun information list, searches for a program related to the noun information and executes a program reservation process. To do.
JP 2001-103387 A JP 2006-254257 A JP 2003-61000 A

  As described above, in the conventional information recording / reproducing apparatus having the viewing restriction function, it is possible to restrict viewing by matching the keywords. This is the case where character information is added to the video signal and transmitted. There is a problem that viewing restriction does not function at all unless such character information is added.

  Therefore, even when character information is not added to the video signal, it is considered that the user's convenience is improved by using the technology for converting the audio information into character information for viewing restriction. No information recording / reproducing apparatus applying such technology to viewing restrictions has been proposed.

  The present invention was devised in view of such circumstances, and its purpose is to record and reproduce a general broadcast program or the like to which character information is not added on a recording medium, or to add data indicating a viewing restriction level. Provided is an information recording / reproducing apparatus capable of restricting viewing under user-desired conditions by converting voice information into character information and using it for keyword search even when playing a commercially available DVD or the like. There is.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an information recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention (1) records information on a moving image such as a general broadcast program on a recording medium and reproduces the recorded moving image information. Conversion means for converting audio information included in the moving picture information recorded in the character information into character information, character information storage means for storing one or more pieces of character information registered by the user, and characters converted by the conversion means Information and character information stored in the character information storage means, and when there is matching character information, a viewing restriction means is provided for restricting reproduction of moving picture information including the character information. It is a feature.

  The conversion means for converting voice information into character information is a conventionally well-known technique as described in Patent Document 3, so detailed description thereof will be omitted here. It can be set as the structure which extracts.

  In the character information storage means, the user himself / herself registers character information that he / she considers viewing restrictions necessary. This character information can be additionally registered and deleted as appropriate by the user. It should be noted that registration and deletion of character information in the character information storage means is configured in advance so that an administrator of the information recording / reproducing apparatus is set in advance and can be performed only with the administrator authority. Thereby, it can be prevented from being accidentally deleted by another person (for example, a child in the family).

  The viewing restricting means compares the character information converted by the converting means with the character information stored in the character information storage means, and if there is matching character information, reproduction of the moving image information including the character information. Limit. As a result, it is possible to reliably prohibit the reproduction of moving image information including character information desired by the user. In addition to prohibiting playback of the video information itself, playback prohibition at this time prohibits playback for only a few seconds before and after the text information when playing a portion including the text information (blue screen or audio). Mute etc.). In DVD devices and hard disk (HD) devices, information played back from the disc is temporarily stored in a buffer, and then the information is read out from the buffer and played back. Is possible. Therefore, if the character information matches, if the information stored in the buffer at that time is not reproduced, the partial viewing restriction described above is performed even when a commercially available DVD is simply reproduced. It is possible. In addition, since it is possible to determine whether or not matching character information is included by playing a commercially available DVD once in this way, the next playback can be performed by storing the matching information in a memory or the like. In some cases, it is possible to perform processing such as prohibiting the entire reproduction from the beginning based on the coincidence information stored in the memory or the like.

  Further, the information recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention comprises level storage means for storing one or more viewing restriction levels according to the number of times character information matches, and level setting means for setting the viewing restriction level by a user. The viewing restriction means further comprises: character information converted by the conversion means and character information stored in the character information storage means when an arbitrary viewing restriction level is set by the level setting means; If the number of matching character information is equal to or greater than the number of times of the set viewing restriction level, reproduction of moving image information including the character information may be restricted.

  Even in the conventional viewing restriction function (parental lock function), the viewing restriction level is set to about 6 to 7 levels, and the user can select an arbitrary level. For this reason, the information recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention is configured such that the viewing restriction level can be set to an arbitrary level from a plurality of levels. In other words, the level storage means stores one or more viewing restriction levels according to the number of times the character information matches according to the operation of the level setting means by the user. For example, level 1 if the number of matches is up to 1 level, level 2 if the number of matches is 3 times, level 3 if the number of matches is 5 times, and so on. The limit level is stored.

  Here, when the level 2 (up to three times) is set by the user, the viewing restriction unit compares the character information converted by the conversion unit with the character information stored in the character information storage unit, It is determined whether or not the number of matching character information is equal to or greater than the set level 2 number (up to 3). As a result, if the number of coincidence is up to 3, the level 2 condition is satisfied, and in this case, reproduction is permitted without restricting viewing. That is, when the user operates the playback button of the apparatus, playback is started as it is. On the other hand, when the number of matches exceeds 3 (for example, 5 times, etc.), the level 2 condition is exceeded, so in this case, viewing restriction is performed. That is, even if the user operates the playback button of the device, playback is prohibited.

  In the information recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention, a score is assigned to each character information stored in the character information storage means, and 1 or according to the total score assigned to the character information. A level storage means for storing a plurality of viewing restriction levels; and a level setting means for setting the viewing restriction level by a user. The viewing restriction means sets an arbitrary viewing restriction level by the level setting means. The character information converted by the conversion means is compared with the character information stored in the character information storage means, and the points assigned to the matching character information are sequentially added to obtain the total value. When the score is calculated and the calculated total score is equal to or greater than the total score of the set viewing restriction level, the video information including the character information is reproduced. It may be configured to limit.

  That is, points are assigned in advance to the character information stored in the character information storage means. For example, there are 5 points for character information “aaa” (for example, direct words that cannot be violent), and 3 for character information “ccc” (for example, indirect words that cannot be violent). A point is assigned to each character information in advance according to the degree of importance of viewing restriction, such as one point for character information “eeee” (for example, a word that makes violence image). The level storage means stores one or more viewing restriction levels corresponding to the total score assigned to the character information by the user operating the level setting means. For example, level 1 when the total score is up to 5 points, level 2 when the total score is 8 points, level 3 when the total score is 10 points, and so on. The limit level is stored.

  Here, when the level 2 (up to 8 points) is set by the user, the viewing restriction unit compares the character information converted by the conversion unit with the character information stored in the character information storage unit, The total score is calculated by sequentially adding the points assigned to the matching character information. Then, it is determined whether or not the calculated total score is equal to or greater than the total score (up to 8) of the set viewing restriction level. As a result, if the total score is up to 8, the level 2 condition is satisfied, and in this case, reproduction is permitted without restricting viewing. That is, when the user operates the playback button of the apparatus, playback is started as it is. On the other hand, when the total score exceeds 8 points (for example, 10 points), the level 2 condition is exceeded. In this case, viewing restriction is performed. That is, even if the user operates the playback button of the device, playback is prohibited.

  In the viewing restriction operation as described above, in the information recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention, the viewing restriction unit displays a password input screen when instructed to reproduce the moving image information to restrict reproduction, and When a password registered in advance is input, the viewing restriction is canceled and reproduction is permitted. The password registration can be performed only with the administrator authority of the information recording / reproducing apparatus. This prevents the password from being accidentally deleted or changed by another person (for example, a child in the family).

  Since the information recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention is configured as described above, even when a general broadcast program or the like to which character information is not added is recorded on a recording medium and reproduced, or when a commercially available DVD is reproduced, By converting voice information into character information and using it for character information search for viewing restriction, viewing restriction under conditions desired by the user can be reliably performed. This makes it possible to set a desired viewing restriction level in accordance with the viewing status of each household, particularly in a home where there are small children and the like, so that the convenience for the user can be further improved.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of an information recording / reproducing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Here, a hard disk built-in DVD recorder is illustrated.

  The DVD recorder 1 with built-in hard disk of the present embodiment includes a tuner 2 that receives a program broadcast of a channel selected from a television broadcast such as an analog broadcast signal or a digital broadcast signal received by an antenna 16, and moving image information of the received program A signal processing circuit 3 for processing signals (video data, audio data, etc.), a DVD unit 5 for recording / reproducing the video information after signal processing on an optical disc such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), and a video after signal processing An HDD (Hard Disk Drive) unit 6 that records and reproduces information on a hard disk (HD), a storage control unit 7 that controls recording and reproduction of the DVD unit 5 and the HDD unit 6, and a character information signal such as a menu image An OSD (On) for displaying character information on the screen of the monitor device 30 by superimposing it on the signal. A character display circuit 8; an audio output circuit 9 that amplifies an audio signal to drive the speaker 40; a microcomputer 12 that controls the entire system of the apparatus; and character information (hereinafter referred to as “viewing restriction”) registered by the user. And a memory unit (EEPROM, flash memory, etc.) 13 for storing various information including a viewing restriction level, and an information converting unit 14 for converting audio information included in the moving image information into character information. The remote control receiving unit 15 receives the remote control signal of the infrared signal transmitted from the remote control 20 and converts it into a predetermined electrical signal.

  The memory unit 13 is assigned with respective areas of a character information storage unit 13a that stores keywords for viewing restriction and a viewing restriction level storage unit 13b that stores viewing restriction levels. In the character information storage unit 13a, a keyword that the user considers that viewing restriction is necessary is registered.

  FIG. 2 shows an example of a keyword registration table stored in the character information storage unit 13a. In this example, as a viewing restriction keyword, for example, “aaa” which is a direct word that cannot be violent, for example, “ccc” that is an indirect word that cannot be violent, for example, an indirect image that makes violence image A plurality of keywords input by the user based on his / her own judgment such as “eeee”,. Each keyword is registered in association with a score. This score is stored in advance in the keyword database shown in FIG. 3, and when the user inputs a keyword into the keyword registration table in FIG. 2, the microcomputer 12 gives the score given to the corresponding keyword from the keyword database shown in FIG. Is automatically registered in the keyword registration table.

  The keyword database includes 5 points for the keyword “aaa”, 4 points for the keyword “bbb”, 3 points for the keyword “ccc”, 2 points for the keyword “ddd”, “eeee”, “fff” Each keyword is assigned a score in advance according to the degree of importance of the viewing restriction. In this example, the score is five levels from 1 to 5, but is not limited to these five levels.

  It is assumed that this keyword database is registered in advance in a non-erasable area such as a ROM (not shown) constituting the microcomputer 12, for example. In this case, all keywords that can be considered as viewing restrictions are registered in the keyword database. However, if a keyword that is not registered in the keyword database is registered in the keyword registration table, it is automatically set as the default value. One point may be associated with each other. Thereby, no matter what keywords are registered by the user, the points are always associated.

  This keyword can be additionally registered and deleted as appropriate by the user. It should be noted that registration and deletion of character information in the character information storage unit 13a is configured in advance so that an administrator of the DVD recorder 1 is set in advance and can be performed only with the administrator authority. That is, it is configured such that a character information registration or deletion screen is displayed on the monitor device 30 by inputting a password registered as an administrator. As a result, the keyword is not accidentally deleted by another person who does not know the administrator's password (for example, a child in the family).

  4A and 4B show examples of various tables (viewing restriction tables) of viewing restriction levels stored in the viewing restriction level storage unit 13b.

  In the viewing restriction table shown in FIG. 4A, a plurality of viewing restriction levels are stored in accordance with the number of matching keywords. Specifically, the level 1 match count is 1, the level 2 match count is 3, the level 3 match count is 5, the level 6 match count is 11, and the level 6 match count is 11. When this viewing restriction table is used, the score of the keyword registration table shown in FIG. 2 is not used.

  Also, the viewing restriction table shown in FIG. 4B is an example in the case of using the points registered in the keyword registration table shown in FIG. Specifically, the total score for Level 1 is 5, the total score for Level 2 is 8, the total score for Level 3 is 10, and the total score for Level 6 is 25 (or more) ).

  The information conversion unit 14 that converts voice information into character information is a well-known technique, and since this well-known technique can be applied to the present invention, a detailed description is omitted here. The keyword registered in the keyword registration table shown in FIG. 2 can be extracted.

  The microcomputer 12 compares the keyword, which is the character information converted from the speech information by the information conversion unit 14, with the keyword stored in the character information storage unit 13a. Restrict playback of video information that contains it. That is, the viewing restriction unit described in the claims is realized by the microcomputer 12 in the present embodiment. In addition to prohibiting playback of the video information itself, the playback prohibition at this time prohibits playback only for a few seconds before and after the keyword (blue screen) when the portion including the character information (keyword) is played back. Or audio mute). In the DVD unit 5 and the HDD unit 6, information reproduced from the disk is temporarily stored in a buffer, and then the information is read out from the buffer and reproduced. Therefore, the keyword can be searched when the information is stored in the buffer. is there. Therefore, when the keywords match, if the information stored in the buffer at that time is not reproduced, even if a commercially available DVD or the like is loaded and the DVD unit 5 simply reproduces such a part, It is possible to implement general viewing restrictions. In addition, by reproducing a commercially available DVD once in this way, it is possible to determine whether or not a matching keyword is included. Therefore, the matching information is associated with information unique to the DVD and a predetermined value in the memory unit 13 is determined. By storing in the area, at the time of the next reproduction, it becomes possible to perform a process such as prohibiting reproduction entirely from the beginning based on the coincidence information stored in the predetermined area of the memory unit 13. .

  Next, the viewing restriction processing operation in the DVD recorder 1 having the above configuration will be described with reference to specific examples.

<Example 1>
FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the viewing restriction processing operation of the first embodiment. The viewing restriction processing operation of the first embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. However, in the first embodiment, the viewing restriction table shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B is not used. Further, it is assumed that keywords as shown in FIG. 2 have already been registered by the user in the keyword registration table.

  When the user turns on the power of the DVD recorder 1 (step S1) and operates a playback button (not shown) of the remote controller 20 (step S2), the microcomputer 12 determines whether or not the DVD recorder 1 is set to view restriction on. Is confirmed (step S3). For setting the viewing restriction, for example, from the menu screen or the like with the administrator authority (by entering the administrator password), proceed to the viewing restriction setting screen, and setting the viewing restriction on from this screen, this DVD recorder 1 can be set to view restriction on. Such setting of viewing restriction ON is the same in other embodiments described below.

  As a result of the confirmation in step S3, when the viewing restriction is off (when determined No in step S3), normal moving image reproduction is started (step S9). That is, in accordance with the operation of the playback button, when the moving image information instructed for operation is recorded on, for example, the hard disk of the HDD unit 6, the HDD unit 6 is activated to start reproducing the moving image information.

  On the other hand, if the viewing restriction is set to ON as a result of the confirmation in step S3 (when it is determined Yes in step S3), the microcomputer 12 controls the storage control unit 7 to control the HDD unit 6. The voice information is read out from the corresponding moving image information recorded on the hard disk and input to the information conversion unit 14, and the information conversion unit 14 sequentially converts the voice information into character information (step S4). Then, the converted character information (keywords related to nouns) is input to the microcomputer 12.

  The microcomputer 12 sequentially compares the converted keyword and the keyword registered in the keyword registration table of the character information storage unit 3a to check whether any keyword matches (step S5). As a result, if none of the keywords match (if it is determined No in step S5), it is determined that there is no need to restrict viewing and normal video playback is started (step S9).

  On the other hand, if there is a matching keyword (if determined Yes in step S5), the reproduction prohibition message shown in FIG. 6 is monitored in order to notify the user that the selected video information corresponds to viewing restrictions. It is displayed on the screen of the device 30 (step S6). At this time, a password entry screen for releasing the viewing restriction is also displayed in the reproduction prohibition message. It is assumed that this viewing restriction release password is registered in advance by the above-described administrator authority.

  When a password is entered on the password entry screen, the microcomputer 12 checks whether or not the entered password matches a previously registered password (step S7). As a result, if the passwords match (if determined Yes in step S7), the process proceeds to step S9 to start normal moving image playback. On the other hand, if the entered passwords do not match (if determined No in step S7), it is confirmed whether a certain time has passed (step S8), and the entered passwords do not match. Alternatively, when a certain time (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed without a password being input (when determined Yes in step S8), the process is terminated without performing a reproduction operation. Note that the measurement of the predetermined time is performed by a timer circuit (not shown).

  In other words, in the first embodiment, the matching of the keyword is first confirmed before the reproduction of the selected moving image information, and if it matches, the reproduction of the moving image information is prohibited from the beginning unless a password for canceling is input. This is an embodiment.

<Example 2>
FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the viewing restriction processing operation of the second embodiment. The viewing restriction processing operation of the second embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. However, in the second embodiment, the viewing restriction table shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B is not used. Further, it is assumed that keywords as shown in FIG. 2 have already been registered by the user in the keyword registration table.

  When the user turns on the power of the DVD recorder 1 (step S11) and operates a playback button (not shown) of the remote controller 20 (step S12), the microcomputer 12 determines whether or not the DVD recorder 1 is set to view restriction on. Is confirmed (step S13).

  As a result of the confirmation in step S13, when the viewing restriction is off (when it is determined No in step S13), normal moving image reproduction is started (step S24). That is, in accordance with the operation of the playback button, when the moving image information instructed for operation is recorded on, for example, the hard disk of the HDD unit 6, the HDD unit 6 is activated to start reproducing the moving image information.

  On the other hand, as a result of the confirmation in step S13, if the viewing restriction is set to ON (when it is determined Yes in step S13), the microcomputer 12 controls the storage control unit 7 to control the HDD 6 The reproduction of the corresponding moving picture information recorded on the hard disk is started (step S14). At this time, the microcomputer 12 controls the HDD unit 6 via the storage control unit 7 to sequentially read out audio information from the reproduced moving image information and input it to the information conversion unit 14 (step S15). The information conversion unit 14 converts the input voice information into character information (keywords related to nouns) and sequentially inputs them to the microcomputer 12 (step S16).

  The microcomputer 12 sequentially compares the converted keyword and the keyword registered in the keyword registration table of the character information storage unit 3a, and always confirms whether or not the keyword matches during movie reproduction (step S17). . As a result, if the keywords do not match (if No is determined in step S17), it is determined that viewing restriction is not necessary, and the reproduction of the moving image information is continued (step S14).

  On the other hand, when there is a matching keyword (when it is determined Yes in step S17), the reproduction of the video information is temporarily stopped at that time (step S18), and the video information being reproduced corresponds to the viewing restriction. In order to notify the user of this, the reproduction prohibition message shown in FIG. 6 is displayed on the screen of the monitor device 30 (step S19). At this time, a password entry screen is also displayed in the reproduction prohibition message in order to release the viewing restriction.

  When a password is entered on the password entry screen, the microcomputer 12 checks whether or not the entered password matches a previously registered password (step S20). As a result, when the passwords match (when it is determined Yes in step S20), the reproduction of the video information that has been temporarily stopped is resumed (step S21). On the other hand, if the entered passwords do not match (if No is determined in step S20), it is confirmed whether or not a certain time (for example, 10 seconds) has passed (step S22) and entered. If a predetermined time has passed without the passwords being matched or the passwords not being input (if determined Yes in step S22), the video playback is stopped at that point (step S23).

  That is, in the second embodiment, the matching of the keyword is confirmed in parallel with the playback of the selected video information, and if the keyword matches, the subsequent video playback is prohibited unless the password for canceling is input. This is an embodiment.

<Example 3>
FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the viewing restriction processing operation of the third embodiment. The viewing restriction processing operation of the third embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. However, in the third embodiment, the viewing restriction table shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B is not used. Further, it is assumed that keywords as shown in FIG. 2 have already been registered by the user in the keyword registration table.

  When the user turns on the power of the DVD recorder 1 (step S31) and operates a playback button (not shown) of the remote controller 20 (step S32), the microcomputer 12 determines whether or not the DVD recorder 1 is set to view restriction on. Is confirmed (step S33).

  As a result of the confirmation in step S33, when the viewing restriction is off (when it is determined No in step S33), normal moving image reproduction is started (step S40). That is, in accordance with the operation of the playback button, when the moving image information instructed for operation is recorded on, for example, the hard disk of the HDD unit 6, the HDD unit 6 is activated to start reproducing the moving image information.

  On the other hand, as a result of the confirmation in step S33, when the viewing restriction is set to ON (when it is determined Yes in step S33), the microcomputer 12 controls the storage control unit 7 so that the HDD unit 6 The reproduction of the corresponding moving picture information recorded on the hard disk is started (step S34). At this time, the microcomputer 12 controls the HDD unit 6 via the storage control unit 7 to sequentially read out audio information from the reproduced moving image information and input it to the information conversion unit 14 (step S35). The information conversion unit 14 converts the input voice information into character information (keywords related to nouns) and sequentially inputs them to the microcomputer 12 (step S36).

  The microcomputer 12 sequentially compares the converted keyword and the keyword registered in the keyword registration table of the character information storage unit 3a, and always confirms whether or not the keyword matches during reproduction of the moving image (step S37). . As a result, if the keywords do not match (if NO is determined in step S37), it is determined that viewing restriction is not necessary, and the reproduction of the moving image information is continued (step S34).

  On the other hand, when there is a matching keyword (when it is determined Yes in step S37), reproduction of moving image information including the keyword for several seconds before and after is prohibited (step S38). As described above, the HDD unit 6 temporarily stores information reproduced from the disk in a buffer, and then reads and reproduces the information from the buffer. Is possible. Therefore, when the keywords match, the reproduction of the moving image information for several seconds according to the third embodiment is prohibited by not reproducing the information sequentially stored in the buffer for a few seconds from that point. Can do. This is the same when a commercially available DVD or the like is loaded and the moving image information is reproduced by the DVD unit 5, and thus such partial viewing restriction can be performed even during reproduction of the DVD.

  Thereafter, the microcomputer 12 monitors whether or not a password for releasing the viewing restriction is input at an arbitrary timing (step S39). In the case of the third embodiment, when the user operates the remote controller 20 while viewing a moving image, a password input screen for canceling the viewing restriction can be displayed in the OSD at the screen corner on the monitor screen 30. Therefore, the user can input a password from this input screen without being interrupted.

  If the password is input as a result of the monitoring in step S39 (if it is determined Yes in step S39), the microcomputer 12 cancels the viewing restriction, proceeds to step S40, and then performs normal video playback. Will do.

  That is, in the third embodiment, when the matching of the keyword is confirmed during the reproduction of the selected moving image information, the moving image is reproduced for several seconds before and after the keyword is included unless a password for canceling is input. This is an embodiment in which the partial viewing restriction to be prohibited is performed each time.

<Example 4>
FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the viewing restriction processing operation of the fourth embodiment. Hereinafter, the viewing restriction processing operation of the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In the fourth embodiment, the viewing restriction table shown in FIG. 4A is used. Further, it is assumed that keywords as shown in FIG. 2 have already been registered by the user in the keyword registration table.

  When the user turns on the power of the DVD recorder 1 (step S51) and operates a playback button (not shown) of the remote controller 20 (step S52), the microcomputer 12 determines whether or not the DVD recorder 1 is set to view restriction on. Is confirmed (step S53).

  As a result of the confirmation in step S53, when the viewing restriction is OFF (when determined No in step S53), normal moving image reproduction is started (step S61). That is, in accordance with the operation of the playback button, when the moving image information instructed for operation is recorded on, for example, the hard disk of the HDD unit 6, the HDD unit 6 is activated to start reproducing the moving image information.

  On the other hand, as a result of the confirmation in step S53, if the viewing restriction is set to ON (if determined Yes in step S53), the set viewing restriction level is acquired (step S54). It should be noted that the viewing restriction level can be set only with the administrator authority of the DVD recorder 1. That is, it is configured such that a viewing restriction level setting screen is displayed on the monitor device 30 by inputting a password registered as an administrator. As a result, the viewing restriction is not lifted or the level is not changed by another person who does not know the administrator's password (for example, a child in the family). Note that the information on the viewing restriction level set on this setting screen is stored in a predetermined area of the memory unit 13. Here, it is assumed that level 2 (that is, the number of matches 3 (see FIG. 4A)) is set as the viewing restriction level.

  Next, the microcomputer 12 controls the storage control unit 7 to read out audio information from the corresponding moving image information recorded on the hard disk of the HDD unit 6 and input the audio information to the information conversion unit 14. Information is sequentially converted into character information (step S55). Then, the converted character information (keywords related to nouns) is input to the microcomputer 12.

  The microcomputer 12 compares the converted keyword with the keyword registered in the keyword registration table of the character information storage unit 3a, and sequentially confirms whether the keywords match (step S56). As a result, if the keywords do not match (if determined No in step S56), the process returns to step S55.

  On the other hand, when there is a matching keyword (when it is determined Yes in step S56), it is confirmed whether or not the number of matches exceeds the set number (here, 3 times) of the acquired viewing restriction level. (Step S57). As a result, if the set number of times has not been exceeded (No is determined in step S57), the process returns to step S55, and the character information conversion and the keyword matching check are continued.

  On the other hand, if the number of matches is equal to or exceeds the set number (if it is determined Yes in step S57), the reproduction shown in FIG. 6 is performed to notify the user that the selected video information corresponds to viewing restrictions. The prohibition message is displayed on the screen of the monitor device 30 (step S58). At this time, a password entry screen is also displayed in the reproduction prohibition message in order to release the viewing restriction. It is assumed that this viewing restriction release password is registered in advance by the above-described administrator authority.

  When a password is entered on the password entry screen, the microcomputer 12 checks whether or not the entered password matches a previously registered password (step S59). As a result, if the passwords match (if determined Yes in step S59), the process proceeds to step S61 to start normal moving image playback. On the other hand, if the entered passwords do not match (if determined No in step S59), it is confirmed whether or not a certain period of time (for example, 10 seconds) has passed (step S60) and entered. If the passwords do not match or if a certain time has passed without the password being input (when determined Yes in step S60), the process ends without performing the reproduction operation.

  That is, in the fourth embodiment, the number of keyword matches is first confirmed before the reproduction of the selected video information. If the number of matches exceeds the number of viewing restriction levels set, the password for release is checked. This is an embodiment in which the reproduction of moving image information is prohibited from the beginning unless is input.

<Example 5>
FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the viewing restriction processing operation of the fifth embodiment. The viewing restriction processing operation of the fifth embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In the fifth embodiment, the viewing restriction table shown in FIG. 4A is used. Further, it is assumed that keywords as shown in FIG. 2 have already been registered by the user in the keyword registration table.

  When the user turns on the power of the DVD recorder 1 (step S71) and operates a playback button (not shown) of the remote controller 20 (step S72), the microcomputer 12 determines whether or not the DVD recorder 1 is set to view restriction on. Is confirmed (step S73).

  As a result of the confirmation in step S73, if the viewing restriction is off (if No is determined in step S73), normal video playback is started (step S86). That is, in accordance with the operation of the playback button, when the moving image information instructed for operation is recorded on, for example, the hard disk of the HDD unit 6, the HDD unit 6 is activated to start reproducing the moving image information.

  On the other hand, as a result of the confirmation in step S73, if the viewing restriction is set to ON (if determined Yes in step S73), the set viewing restriction level is acquired (step S74). It should be noted that the viewing restriction level can be set only with the administrator authority of the DVD recorder 1. That is, it is configured such that a viewing restriction level setting screen is displayed on the monitor device 30 by inputting a password registered as an administrator. As a result, the viewing restriction is not lifted or the level is not changed by another person who does not know the administrator's password (for example, a child in the family). Note that the information on the viewing restriction level set on this setting screen is stored in a predetermined area of the memory unit 13. Here, it is assumed that level 2 (that is, the number of matches 3 (see FIG. 4A)) is set as the viewing restriction level.

  Next, the microcomputer 12 controls the storage control unit 7 to start reproduction of the corresponding moving image information recorded on the hard disk of the HDD unit 6 (step S75). At this time, the microcomputer 12 controls the HDD unit 6 via the storage control unit 7 to sequentially read out audio information from the reproduced moving image information and input it to the information conversion unit 14 (step S76). The information conversion unit 14 converts the input voice information into character information (keywords related to nouns) and sequentially inputs them to the microcomputer 12 (step S77).

  The microcomputer 12 sequentially compares the converted keyword and the keyword registered in the keyword registration table of the character information storage unit 3a, and always confirms whether or not the keyword matches during reproduction of the moving image (step S78). . As a result, if the keywords do not match (if determined No in step S78), the reproduction of the moving image information is continued (step S75).

  On the other hand, when there is a matching keyword (when determined Yes in step S78), reproduction of moving image information including the keyword for several seconds before and after is prohibited (step S79). As described above, the HDD unit 6 temporarily stores information reproduced from the disk in a buffer, and then reads and reproduces the information from the buffer. Is possible. Therefore, when the keywords match, the reproduction of the moving image information for several seconds according to the fifth embodiment is prohibited by not reproducing the information sequentially stored in the buffer for a few seconds from that point. Can do. This is the same when a commercially available DVD or the like is loaded and the moving image information is reproduced by the DVD unit 5, and thus such partial viewing restriction can be performed even during reproduction of the DVD.

  Next, the microcomputer 12 confirms whether or not the number of matching keywords exceeds the set number (here, 3 times) of the acquired viewing restriction level (step S80). As a result, if the set number of times has not been exceeded (No is determined in step S80), it is next checked whether or not a password for canceling the viewing restriction has been input (step S81). In the case of the fifth embodiment, when the user operates the remote controller 20 while watching a moving image, a password input screen for canceling the viewing restriction can be displayed in the OSD at the screen corner on the monitor screen 30. Therefore, the user can input a password from this input screen without being interrupted. Note that this viewing restriction release password is registered in advance by the above-described administrator authority.

  If the password is input as a result of the confirmation in step S81 (if it is determined Yes in step S81), the microcomputer 12 cancels the viewing restriction, proceeds to step S86, and then performs normal video playback. Will do.

  On the other hand, if the number of matches is equal to or exceeds the set number in step S80 (if it is determined Yes in step S80), playback of the video is paused at that time, and this video is subject to viewing restrictions. 6 is displayed on the screen of the monitor device 30 (step S82). At this time, a password entry screen is also displayed in the reproduction prohibition message in order to release the viewing restriction.

  When a password is input on the password input screen, the microcomputer 12 checks whether or not the input password matches a previously registered password (step S83). As a result, if the passwords match (if it is determined Yes in step S83), the process proceeds to step S86 and normal moving image playback is started. On the other hand, if the entered passwords do not match (if determined No in step S85), it is confirmed whether or not a certain period of time (for example, 10 seconds) has passed (step S84) and entered. When the predetermined time has passed without the passwords being matched or the passwords not being input (when determined Yes in step S84), the playback operation during the pause is completely terminated (step S85). ), The process is terminated.

  That is, in the fifth embodiment, when the matching of the keyword is confirmed during the reproduction of the selected moving image information, the partial viewing restriction that prohibits the reproduction of the moving image is performed for several seconds before and after the keyword is included. In this embodiment, when such partial viewing restriction is performed for the number of times of a preset viewing restriction level, subsequent video playback is prohibited unless a password for cancellation is input.

<Example 6>
FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the viewing restriction processing operation of the sixth embodiment. The viewing restriction processing operation of the sixth embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In the sixth embodiment, the viewing restriction table shown in FIG. 4B is used. Further, it is assumed that keywords as shown in FIG. 2 have already been registered by the user in the keyword registration table.

  When the user turns on the power of the DVD recorder 1 (step S91) and operates a playback button (not shown) of the remote controller 20 (step S92), the microcomputer 12 determines whether or not the DVD recorder 1 is set to view restriction on. Is confirmed (step S93).

  As a result of the confirmation in step S93, if the viewing restriction is off (if No is determined in step S93), normal video playback is started (step S102). That is, in accordance with the operation of the playback button, when the moving image information instructed for operation is recorded on, for example, the hard disk of the HDD unit 6, the HDD unit 6 is activated to start reproducing the moving image information.

  On the other hand, as a result of the confirmation in step S93, if the viewing restriction is set to ON (if determined as Yes in step S93), the set viewing restriction level is acquired (step S94). It should be noted that the viewing restriction level can be set only with the administrator authority of the DVD recorder 1. That is, it is configured such that a viewing restriction level setting screen is displayed on the monitor device 30 by inputting a password registered as an administrator. As a result, the viewing restriction is not lifted or the level is not changed by another person who does not know the administrator's password (for example, a child in the family). Note that the information on the viewing restriction level set on this setting screen is stored in a predetermined area of the memory unit 13. Here, it is assumed that level 2 (that is, the number of matches 3 (see FIG. 4A)) is set as the viewing restriction level.

  Next, the microcomputer 12 controls the storage control unit 7 to read out audio information from the corresponding moving image information recorded on the hard disk of the HDD unit 6 and input the audio information to the information conversion unit 14. Information is sequentially converted into character information (step S95). Then, the converted character information (keywords related to nouns) is input to the microcomputer 12.

  The microcomputer 12 compares the converted keyword with the keyword registered in the keyword registration table of the character information storage unit 3a, and sequentially checks whether or not the keyword matches (step S96). As a result, if the keywords do not match (if determined No in step S96), the process returns to step S95.

  On the other hand, when there is a matching keyword (when it is determined Yes in step S96), the microcomputer 12 acquires the points assigned to the keyword from the viewing restriction table shown in FIG. By adding, the added score is calculated (step S97). For example, if the matched keyword is “aaa”, the score “5” is acquired from the viewing restriction table shown in FIG. 4B, and this is added to the previous added score. However, if the matched keyword is the first keyword, the added score so far is zero. Therefore, if the next matched keyword is “ccc”, for example, the score “3” is acquired from the viewing restriction table shown in FIG. 4B, and this is the added score “5” so far. In this way, a new added score “8” is calculated.

  When the addition score at that time is calculated in this way, the microcomputer 12 confirms whether or not the addition score exceeds the total score (here, 10) of the acquired viewing restriction level. (Step S98). As a result, if the total score has not been exceeded (No is determined in step S98), the process returns to step S95, and the character information conversion and the keyword matching check are continued.

  On the other hand, if the added score is equal to or exceeds the total score (if determined as Yes in step S98), the user is notified that the selected video information corresponds to the viewing restriction. The reproduction prohibition message shown is displayed on the screen of the monitor device 30 (step S99). At this time, a password entry screen is also displayed in the reproduction prohibition message in order to release the viewing restriction. It is assumed that this viewing restriction release password is registered in advance by the above-described administrator authority.

  When a password is input on the password input screen, the microcomputer 12 checks whether or not the input password matches a previously registered password (step S100). As a result, if the passwords match (if it is determined Yes in step S100), the process proceeds to step S102 to start normal video playback. On the other hand, if the entered passwords do not match (if determined No in step S100), it is confirmed whether or not a certain time (for example, 10 seconds) has passed (step S101), and the entered password is entered. If the passwords do not match or if a certain time has passed without the password being input (when determined Yes in step S101), the process is terminated without performing the reproduction operation.

  That is, in the sixth embodiment, before the reproduction of the selected video information, first, the presence / absence of matching of keywords and the added score by matching are confirmed, and the total score of the viewing restriction level for which the added score is set is obtained. In this embodiment, the reproduction of moving image information is prohibited from the beginning unless a password for canceling is entered.

<Example 7>
FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining the viewing restriction processing operation of the seventh embodiment. The viewing restriction processing operation of the seventh embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In the seventh embodiment, the viewing restriction table shown in FIG. 4B is used. Further, it is assumed that keywords as shown in FIG. 2 have already been registered by the user in the keyword registration table.

  When the user turns on the power of the DVD recorder 1 (step S111) and operates a playback button (not shown) of the remote controller 20 (step S112), the microcomputer 12 determines whether or not the DVD recorder 1 is set to view restriction on. Is confirmed (step S113).

  As a result of the confirmation in step S113, when the viewing restriction is off (when it is determined No in step S113), normal moving image reproduction is started (step S127). That is, in accordance with the operation of the playback button, when the moving image information instructed for operation is recorded on, for example, the hard disk of the HDD unit 6, the HDD unit 6 is activated to start reproducing the moving image information.

  On the other hand, as a result of the confirmation in step S113, if the viewing restriction is set to ON (if determined Yes in step S113), the set viewing restriction level is acquired (step S114). It should be noted that the viewing restriction level can be set only with the administrator authority of the DVD recorder 1. That is, it is configured such that a viewing restriction level setting screen is displayed on the monitor device 30 by inputting a password registered as an administrator. As a result, the viewing restriction is not lifted or the level is not changed by another person who does not know the administrator's password (for example, a child in the family). Note that the information on the viewing restriction level set on this setting screen is stored in a predetermined area of the memory unit 13. Here, it is assumed that level 2 (that is, the number of matches 3 (see FIG. 4A)) is set as the viewing restriction level.

  Next, the microcomputer 12 controls the storage control unit 7 to start reproduction of the corresponding moving image information recorded on the hard disk of the HDD unit 6 (step S115). At this time, the microcomputer 12 controls the HDD unit 6 via the storage control unit 7 to sequentially read out the audio information from the reproduced moving image information and input it to the information conversion unit 14 (step S116). The information conversion unit 14 converts the input voice information into character information (keywords related to nouns) and sequentially inputs them to the microcomputer 12 (step S117).

  The microcomputer 12 sequentially compares the converted keyword and the keyword registered in the keyword registration table of the character information storage unit 3a, and always confirms whether or not the keyword matches during movie reproduction (step S118). . As a result, if the keywords do not match (if No is determined in step S118), the reproduction of the moving image information is continued (step S115).

  On the other hand, when there is a matching keyword (when it is determined Yes in step S118), reproduction of moving image information including the keyword for several seconds before and after is prohibited (step S119). As described above, the HDD unit 6 temporarily stores information reproduced from the disk in a buffer, and then reads and reproduces the information from the buffer. Is possible. Therefore, when the keywords match, the reproduction of the moving image information for several seconds according to the seventh embodiment is prohibited by not reproducing the information sequentially stored in the buffer for several seconds from that point. Can do. This is the same when a commercially available DVD or the like is loaded and the moving image information is reproduced by the DVD unit 5, and thus such partial viewing restriction can be performed even during reproduction of the DVD.

  Next, the microcomputer 12 calculates the added score by acquiring the score assigned to the keyword from the viewing restriction table shown in FIG. 4B and sequentially adding the score (step S120). For example, if the matched keyword is “aaa”, the score “5” is acquired from the viewing restriction table shown in FIG. 4B, and this is added to the previous added score. However, if the matched keyword is the first keyword, the added score so far is zero. Therefore, if the next matched keyword is “ccc”, for example, the score “3” is acquired from the viewing restriction table shown in FIG. 4B, and this is the added score “5” so far. In this way, a new added score “8” is calculated.

  When the addition score at that time is calculated in this way, the microcomputer 12 confirms whether or not the addition score exceeds the total score (here, 10) of the acquired viewing restriction level. (Step S121). As a result, if the total score has not been exceeded (No is determined in step S121), it is next checked whether or not a password for canceling the viewing restriction has been input (step S122). In the case of the seventh embodiment, when the user operates the remote controller 20 while viewing a moving image, a password input screen for canceling the viewing restriction can be displayed in the OSD at the screen corner on the monitor screen 30. Therefore, the user can input a password from this input screen without being interrupted. Note that this viewing restriction release password is registered in advance by the above-described administrator authority.

  If the password is input as a result of the confirmation in step S122 (if it is determined Yes in step S122), the microcomputer 12 cancels the viewing restriction, proceeds to step S126, and then performs normal video playback. Will do.

  On the other hand, if the added score is equal to or exceeds the total score in step S121 (if it is determined Yes in step S121), the video playback is paused at this point, and this video is subject to viewing restrictions. 6 is displayed on the screen of the monitor device 30 (step S123). At this time, a password entry screen is also displayed in the reproduction prohibition message in order to release the viewing restriction.

  When a password is input on the password input screen, the microcomputer 12 checks whether or not the input password matches a previously registered password (step S124). As a result, if the passwords match (if determined Yes in step S124), the process proceeds to step S127 to start normal moving image playback. On the other hand, if the entered passwords do not match (if No is determined in step S124), it is confirmed whether or not a certain period of time (for example, 10 seconds) has passed (step S125). When the predetermined time has passed without the passwords being matched or the passwords not being input (when it is determined Yes in step S125), the playback operation during the pause is completely terminated (step S126). ), The process is terminated.

  That is, in the seventh embodiment, when the matching of the keyword is confirmed during the reproduction of the selected moving image information, the partial viewing restriction for prohibiting the reproduction of the moving image is performed for several seconds before and after the keyword is included. In this embodiment, when such partial viewing restriction is performed until the added score exceeds the total score, subsequent video playback is prohibited unless a password for cancellation is input.

It is a functional block diagram of the information recording / reproducing apparatus which is one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the registration table of the keyword stored in the character information storage part 13a. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a keyword database. (A), (b) is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of the various tables (viewing restriction table) of the viewing restriction level memorize | stored in the viewing restriction level memory | storage part. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the viewing-limitation process operation | movement of Example 1 in the DVD recorder with a built-in hard disk of this embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the reproduction | regeneration prohibition message screen displayed on the monitor apparatus. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the viewing-limitation process operation | movement of Example 2 in the DVD recorder with a built-in hard disk of this embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the viewing-limitation process operation | movement of Example 3 in the DVD recorder with a built-in hard disk of this embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the viewing-limitation process operation | movement of Example 4 in the DVD recorder with a built-in hard disk of this embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the viewing-and-listening process operation of Example 5 in the DVD recorder with a built-in hard disk of this embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the viewing restriction process operation | movement of Example 6 in the DVD recorder with a built-in hard disk of this embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the viewing-limitation process operation | movement of Example 7 in the DVD recorder with a built-in hard disk of this embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

1 DVD recorder with built-in hard disk (DVD recorder)
2 Tuner 3 Signal Processing Circuit 5 DVD Unit 6 HDD Unit 7 Storage Control Unit 3 OSD Circuit 9 Audio Output Circuit 12 Microcomputer 13 Memory 13a Character Information Storage Unit 13b Viewing Limit Level Storage Unit 14 Information Conversion Unit 15 Remote Control Receiver 20 Remote Control 30 Monitor Device 40 Speaker

Claims (5)

In an information recording / reproducing apparatus for recording moving image information on a recording medium and reproducing the recorded moving image information,
Conversion means for converting audio information included in the moving image information recorded on the recording medium into character information;
Character information storage means for storing one or more character information registered by the user;
The character information converted by the conversion means is compared with the character information stored in the character information storage means, and if there is matching character information, viewing that restricts reproduction of moving image information including the character information An information recording / reproducing apparatus comprising: a restricting unit.   2. The information recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when there is matching character information, the viewing control unit restricts reproduction of moving image information only for a certain period including the character information. Level storage means for storing one or more viewing restriction levels according to the number of times the character information matches;
Level setting means for a user to set the viewing restriction level;
The viewing restriction means compares the character information converted by the conversion means with the character information stored in the character information storage means when an arbitrary viewing restriction level is set by the level setting means, 3. The information recording according to claim 1, wherein, when the number of times the character information matches is equal to or greater than the number of times of the set viewing restriction level, the reproduction of the moving image information including the character information is restricted. Playback device. A level in which a score is assigned to each character information stored in the character information storage means, and one or more viewing restriction levels are stored in accordance with the total score assigned to the character information Storage means;
Level setting means for a user to set the viewing restriction level;
The viewing restriction means compares the character information converted by the conversion means with the character information stored in the character information storage means when an arbitrary viewing restriction level is set by the level setting means, The total score is calculated by sequentially adding the scores assigned to the matching character information, and if the calculated total score is equal to or greater than the total score of the set viewing restriction level, the character information is The information recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein reproduction of moving image information is restricted. The viewing restricting means displays a password input screen when an instruction to reproduce video information that restricts reproduction is given, and releases the viewing restriction when a password registered in advance by the user is entered. 5. The information recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein reproduction is permitted.