JP2010206287A - Apparatus, method and program for receiving information, device and system for distributing information - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily obtain information to be notified in broadcasting programs from electronic program guides, and to contribute to an increase in program ratings of the broadcasting programs. <P>SOLUTION: An information reception apparatus (broadcast receiver 30) includes: an electronic program information obtaining section (a tuner 33 and a control section 32) for obtaining electronic program information from a specific server providing the electronic program information, or a specific broadcasting station providing the electronic program information; a notification information obtaining section (a DEMUX section 34 and the control section 32) for obtaining information included in the electronic program information obtained by the electronic program information obtaining section, or information notified in the broadcast program from information transmitted along with the electronic program information; and a notification information output section (the control section 32 and a video sound output section 36) for outputting the electronic program information, and for outputting information indicating the presence or absence of the notification information based on the information obtained by the notification information obtaining section. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an information receiving apparatus, an information receiving method, an information receiving program, an information distribution apparatus, and an information distribution system.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, an electronic program guide (EPG: simply referred to as “EPG” hereinafter) showing the contents of programs to be broadcast in digital broadcasting such as terrestrial digital broadcasting and BS (Broadcasting satellite) has been known. Various proposals have been made to improve the convenience on the viewer side by utilizing this EPG information. For example, using this EPG information, it has been proposed to reserve printing only program-linked broadcast data to be provided, or to perform reserved printing separately from the moving image data of the program (see Patent Document 1). .

  In addition, using this EPG information, when viewing a program with an in-vehicle digital broadcast receiver, a unique electronic program guide grouped for each viewer is displayed and information corresponding to reception sensitivity is displayed. It has been proposed to be reflected in a unique electronic program guide (see Patent Document 2).

  Also, there are known ADMS (TV-Asahi Data And Multimedia Service) -EPG and iEPG that provide EPG information via the Internet. EPG information received via the Internet and EPG information received from a broadcast wave are also known. Proposals have also been made for control when received (see Patent Document 3).

JP 2007-235639 A (summary, paragraph [0013], etc.) JP 2007-89220 A (summary, paragraph [0007], etc.) JP 2008-252447 A (summary etc.)

  However, in the techniques disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3, the viewer cannot know the fact from the EPG information when, for example, there is a prize or present announcement in a program scheduled to be broadcast. In addition, when there is an announcement of a prize in the program, the viewer cannot know information that the application period of the prize is high in real time only during program broadcast, for example, and the deadline for application. Also, when making a recording reservation for a program, a person who wants to make a recording reservation cannot know information such as the presence or absence of a prize for the program that is to be reserved, and the application period when there is a prize. . Therefore, when viewing the recorded program later, even if the applicant wishes to apply for the sweepstakes, the application period for the sweepstakes has passed, and there may be cases where it is impossible to apply for the sweepstakes.

  Therefore, in view of the above-described problems, the present invention can easily grasp information notified in a broadcast program from an electronic program guide and can contribute to an increase in the audience rating of the broadcast program, and an information reception method. An object is to provide an information receiving program, an information distribution apparatus, and an information distribution system.

  An information receiving apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes an electronic program information acquisition unit that acquires electronic program information from a specific server that provides electronic program information or a specific broadcast station that provides electronic program information, and electronic program information The information included in the electronic program information acquired by the acquisition unit, or the notification information acquisition unit for acquiring information notified in the broadcast program from the information transmitted together with the electronic program information, and outputting the electronic program information, A notification information output unit that outputs information indicating the presence or absence of the notification information based on the information acquired by the notification information acquisition unit.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the information reception device according to one aspect of the present invention displays the broadcast program column including the notification information when the notification information output unit outputs the electronic program information. It is preferable that the display be different from the display of other broadcast program columns that do not include.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the information receiving apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention is configured such that the notification information is prize information, and the notice information output unit sets the application deadline for the prize information within the broadcast time of the broadcast program. When the broadcast program column is displayed, it is preferable that the display of the broadcast program column including the prize information is different from the display of other broadcast program columns.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the information receiving apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention includes prize information, and the notice information acquisition unit includes information included in the electronic program information acquired by the electronic program information acquisition unit. Alternatively, the information indicating the application method of the prize information is acquired from the information transmitted together with the electronic program information, and the notification information output unit outputs the information indicating the application method when outputting the electronic program information. It is preferable.

  An information receiving apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes an electronic program information acquisition request unit that can request acquisition of electronic program information in addition to the configuration described above, and the electronic program information acquisition unit includes an electronic program information acquisition request. It is preferable to obtain electronic program information from a specific server or a specific broadcasting station that provides electronic program information according to a request from the department.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the information receiving apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention includes a notification information acquisition request unit that can request acquisition of program notification information included in the electronic program information, and the notification information acquisition unit includes: It is preferable that the notification information of the program included in the electronic program information is acquired from a specific server that provides the notification information of the program included in the electronic program information or a specific broadcasting station according to the request of the notification information acquisition request unit.

  An information receiving method according to one aspect of the present invention includes an electronic program information acquisition step for acquiring electronic program information from a specific server that provides electronic program information or a specific broadcasting station that provides electronic program information, A notification information acquisition step for acquiring information included in the electronic program information acquired in the program information acquisition step, or information notified in the broadcast program from information transmitted together with the electronic program information, and outputting the electronic program information And a notification information output step for outputting information indicating the presence / absence of the notification information based on the information acquired in the notification information acquisition step.

  An information reception program according to one aspect of the present invention is an electronic program information acquisition unit that acquires electronic program information from a specific server that provides electronic program information or a specific broadcasting station that provides electronic program information. Announcing information acquiring means for acquiring information included in the electronic program information acquired by the electronic program information acquiring means or information notified in the broadcast program from information transmitted together with the electronic program information, and outputting the electronic program information In addition, based on the information acquired by the notification information acquisition means, it functions as notification information output means for outputting information indicating the presence or absence of the notification information.

  The information distribution apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention provides prize information as information notified in the electronic program information and / or the program included in the electronic program information to the information receiving apparatus described above. is there.

  An information distribution system according to one aspect of the present invention is based on a broadcast distribution apparatus that provides electronic program information and / or information notified in a program included in the electronic program information, and information received from the broadcast distribution apparatus. The electronic program information acquisition unit for acquiring the electronic program information, the information included in the electronic program information acquired by the electronic program information acquisition unit, or the information notified in the broadcast program from the information transmitted together with the electronic program information An information receiving device comprising at least a notification information acquisition unit that outputs electronic program information and outputs information indicating the presence or absence of the notification information based on information acquired by the notification information acquisition unit Are provided.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the information notified in a broadcast program can be easily grasped | ascertained from an electronic program guide, and while being able to contribute to the audience rating improvement of a broadcast program, the information receiver, the information reception method, the information reception program, information A distribution apparatus and an information distribution system can be provided.

It is a figure showing the whole information distribution system composition concerning a 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the broadcast transmission apparatus which the broadcast station shown in FIG. 1 has. It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the broadcast receiver shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the data string of prize information. It is a flowchart of the broadcast delivery process of the broadcast transmission apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the screen display process of the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information display process of the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information display process of the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the application information display process of the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the user setting process of the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the screen display process reflecting the user setting process shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 1 of a prize information display screen displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 2 of a prize information display screen displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 3 of a prize information display screen displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the modification of the broadcast transmission apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the broadcast delivery process of the broadcast transmission apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the whole structure of the information delivery system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the broadcast receiver shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the broadcasting station server shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the data string of the EPG information transmitted from the broadcasting station server shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the EPG information transmission process of the broadcast station server shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information display process of the broadcast receiver shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the data sequence delivered from the broadcast station server which is a modification of 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the data sequence delivered from the broadcast station server which is 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the modification of the EPG information transmission process shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the modification of the prize information display process shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the modification of the prize information display process shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 1 of a prize information display screen displayed on the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 2 of a prize information display screen displayed on the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 3 of a prize information display screen displayed on the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 4 of a prize information display screen displayed on the display apparatus shown in FIG.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The description will be made in the following order.
1. 1. Overall configuration of information distribution system (Example 1) 1-1. Explanation of each part 1-1-1. Configuration of broadcast transmission apparatus 1-1-2. Configuration of broadcast receiving apparatus 1-2. Processing of each device 1-2-1. Sweepstakes information distribution process of broadcast transmitting device 1-2-2-1. EPG information display process of broadcast receiving apparatus 1-2-2-2. Sweepstakes information display processing of broadcast receiving device 1
1-2-2-3. Sweepstakes information display process of broadcast receiving device 2
1-2-2-4. Application information display processing of broadcast receiving apparatus 1-3. Prize information display example 1-3-1. Sweepstakes information display screen example 1
1-3-2. Sweepstakes information display screen example 2
1-3-3. Sweepstakes information display screen example 3
1-4. Modified example of Example 1 1-4-1. Configuration of broadcast transmission apparatus 1-4-2. Processing of broadcast transmission apparatus 2. Overall configuration of information distribution system (Example 2) 2-1. Explanation of each part 2-1-1. Configuration of broadcast receiving apparatus 2-1-2. Configuration of broadcast station server 2-2. Processing of each device 2-2-1. Broadcasting server server sweepstakes information distribution processing 2-2-2. Sweepstakes information display processing of broadcast receiving apparatus 2-3. Modification of Example 2 2-3-1. Configuration of broadcast station server 2-3-2. Configuration of broadcast receiving apparatus 2-3-3. Broadcast server server distribution processing 2-3-4. 2. Sweepstakes information display processing of the broadcast receiving device Other embodiments

1. Overall Configuration of Information Distribution System 1 (Example 1) First, the information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of an information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the information distribution system 1 includes a broadcast station 10 and a broadcast receiving device 30. 1 shows one broadcast station 10 and two broadcast receivers 30, the information distribution system 1 may include a plurality of broadcast stations 10 and three or more broadcast receivers 30. .

  The broadcast station 10 transmits broadcast program content as stream data in accordance with a broadcast schedule. The broadcast station 10 also has a broadcast transmission device 11 (see FIG. 2) that can transmit data broadcast and EPG (Electronic Program Guide) information superimposed on the broadcast wave. The broadcast receiving apparatus 30 receives broadcast waves from the broadcast transmitting apparatus 11 of the broadcast station 10 and outputs video and audio of the received broadcast program and EPG information.

1-1. Explanation of each part 1-1-1. Configuration of Broadcast Transmission Device FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the broadcast transmission device 11 included in the broadcast station 10 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the broadcast transmission apparatus 11 includes a control unit 12, a content stream creation unit 13, an EPG information creation unit 14, a data broadcast creation unit 15, a MUX (MultipleXer) unit 16, a broadcast content DB 17, and a broadcast schedule DB 18. The data broadcasting content DB 19 is a main component. The broadcast transmission device 11 corresponds to the broadcast distribution device in the claims.

  Here, information processing realized by the functions of the content stream creation unit 13, the EPG information creation unit 14, the data broadcast creation unit 15, and the MUX unit 16 described above is performed by the control unit 12 that controls the entire broadcast transmission apparatus 11 by hardware. Realized by working with resources. Specifically, the control unit 12 includes a CPU, which is a hardware resource (not shown), and the CPU reads various programs stored in a ROM (not shown) into the RAM (not shown) and executes them in cooperation. It is realized by doing. The broadcast content DB 17, the broadcast schedule DB 18, and the data broadcast content DB 19 described above are stored in a storage unit (not shown), and the storage unit includes, for example, an HDD (Hard Disc Drive) or a flash memory.

  The content stream creation unit 13 creates broadcast content with reference to the broadcast content DB 17. In the present embodiment, the broadcast content is described as being encoded and multiplexed in conformity with the MPEG2-TS (Motion Photographic Coding Experts Group-2 Transport Stream) standard. In the MPEG2-TS standard, video and audio of transmitted content are generated as an encoded ES (Elementary Stream), and a PES (Packetized Elementary Stream) in which ES is packetized for each meaningful unit is generated. Is done. Further, a TS (Transport Stream) packet obtained by dividing the PES is transmitted from the broadcast station 10.

  In addition, by assigning a 13-bit packet identifier called PID to the header of each TS packet, it is possible to classify whether each TS packet is video data, audio data, control data, or the like of broadcast content. .

  Further, the control data here refers to data called SI / PSI (Service Information / Program Specific Information). SI of SI / PSI includes information necessary for creating EPG information, and PSI is control data including information for performing basic control. The TS packet may be subjected to an encryption process (hereinafter referred to as “scramble process”) for preventing viewing contrary to the intention of the broadcast station 10. Here, for example, Multi2 can be used as the scrambling method. This Multi2 is one of the methods for encrypting digital data, and is widely used in BS digital broadcasting and terrestrial digital broadcasting. The broadcast content DB 17 stores content data that is the basis of the above-described broadcast content.

  The EPG information creation unit 14 has a function of creating EPG information with reference to the broadcast schedule DB 18 under the control of the control unit 12. The broadcast schedule DB 18 stores broadcast schedule information of programs that the broadcast station 10 broadcasts. Further, the program stored in the broadcast schedule DB 18 includes the presence or absence of prize information. The EPG information creation unit 14 can also create EPG information including the presence or absence of prize information in a program stored in the broadcast schedule DB 18. The broadcast schedule DB 18 may store the broadcast schedule information of programs broadcast by other broadcast stations 10 and the presence / absence of prize information of each program.

  The data broadcast creating unit 15 creates a data broadcast such as information related to a weather forecast or a program from the data broadcast content DB 19. The data broadcasting will be described on the assumption that the data broadcasting is encoded and multiplexed in conformity with the MPEG2-TS standard in the same manner as the broadcasting content described above. The data broadcasting content DB 19 includes URL (Uniform Resource Locator) information and P2P (Peer to Peer) information provided by the broadcasting station 10 related to the program, in addition to data broadcasting such as weather forecasts and information related to the program. ) Search query information that can be used in the method may be stored. The data broadcast creating unit 15 supplies these information to the MUX unit 16 together.

  The MUX unit 16 includes broadcast content created by the content stream creation unit 13 with reference to the broadcast content DB 17, EPG information created by the EPG information creation unit 14 with reference to the broadcast schedule DB 18, and broadcast creation unit 23. Broadcast data is generated by multiplexing data broadcast program data created with reference to the data broadcast content DB 19. The broadcast data is transmitted as a broadcast wave from the antenna of the broadcast station 10.

  1-1-2. Broadcast receiver configuration

  Next, the broadcast receiving device 30 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a block configuration of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG. The broadcast receiving device 30 is a terminal that receives, for example, a TV broadcast or a radio broadcast, regardless of whether it is a fixed receiving terminal or a portable mobile terminal. Also, the broadcast receiving device 30 outputs information received from the broadcast station 10 to the display device 50 and the audio reproduction device 60. Note that the broadcast receiving device 30 according to the present embodiment is a separate device from the display device 50 and the audio playback device 60. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the broadcast receiving device 30, the display device 50, and the audio reproduction device 60 may be provided in the same housing, for example, a television set. Alternatively, the broadcast receiving device 30 and the display device 50 may be provided in the same housing, and only the audio playback device 60 may be provided in another housing. That is, there are no particular limitations on the devices in which the three broadcast receiving devices 30, the display device 50, and the audio reproducing device 60 are provided. In addition, the broadcast receiving device 30 may have a recording function and a recording function.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 includes an operation input unit 31, a control unit 32, a tuner 33, a DEMUX (DEM MultipleXer) unit 34, a decoding unit 35, a video / audio output unit 36, and a recording unit 37. It is said. Here, the control unit 32 includes, for example, a CPU, which is a hardware resource (not shown), and reads various programs stored in the recording unit 37, the ROM, and the like into the RAM, and cooperates with various arithmetic processes. As a result, the information processing performed by the function of each unit of the broadcast receiving device 30 can be realized.

  The operation input unit 31 is configured with, for example, a remote control or a touch panel, but may be configured to allow voice input or the like. In addition, the operation input unit 31 receives an operation input from the user and transmits a user instruction (for example, an EPG screen display request, a prize information display request, a channel selection change processing request) to the control unit 32. The user can perform an operation input to the broadcast receiving device 30 by operating the operation input unit 31. The operation input to the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 may be input to the operation input unit 31 provided in the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 via a radio signal (operation signal) such as infrared rays. The operation signal input to the operation input unit 31 is supplied to the control unit 32 via a bus (not shown). The operation input unit 31 corresponds to the electronic program information acquisition request unit and the notification information acquisition request unit in the claims.

  The control unit 32 includes a CPU (not shown) and the like, and is a central processing unit that analyzes an operation signal input to the operation input unit 31 and controls operations of each unit or part of the broadcast receiving device 30. is there. For example, when the user inputs a channel selection instruction using the operation input unit 31, a signal indicating the content of the channel selection instruction is input to the control unit 32 via the operation input unit 31 and a bus (not shown). As a result, the control unit 32 transmits a channel selection instruction for the channel selected by the user to the tuner 33 via a bus (not shown). In addition, the control part 32 respond | corresponds to a part of electronic program information acquisition part, notification information acquisition part, and notification information output part of a claim.

  The tuner 33 receives the broadcast wave of the broadcast station 10 with an antenna, demodulates the received RF (Radio Frequency) signal, performs error correction, etc., and outputs a TS signal composed of TS packets to the DEMUX unit 34. The tuner 33 corresponds to a part of the electronic program information acquisition unit and a part of the notification information acquisition unit.

  Although only one tuner 33 is shown in FIG. 3 for receiving terrestrial digital broadcasting, the tuner 33 for analog broadcasting may be provided when analog broadcasting is also received, and two tuners 33 are provided. It may be. Note that the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 may include a descrambler unit that performs a process of canceling the TS signal when the TS signal is transmitted after being scrambled. In that case, the descrambler unit may supply the DEMUX unit 34 with a TS signal including the TS packet from which the scramble process has been canceled.

  The DEMUX unit 34 outputs a TS signal composed of TS packets output from the tuner 33 (that is, broadcast data obtained by multiplexing a plurality of streams such as video and audio in the MUX unit 16 of the broadcast-side transmission device 11 on the transmission side) And processing for separating the data into stream data such as voice and audio and section format data such as SI / PSI. Each data separated by the DEMUX unit 34 is supplied to the decoding unit 35 in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 32. The DEMUX unit 34 corresponds to a part of the electronic program information acquisition unit and a part of the notification information acquisition unit.

  The decoding unit 35 decodes broadcast content, EPG information, data broadcast, and the like included in the broadcast data in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 32. The decoding unit 35 supplies the decoded data to the recording unit 37. The data supplied from the decoding unit 35 to the recording unit 37 may be supplied as it is as a data signal without being decoded as a video signal and an audio signal.

  The decoding unit 35 decodes the broadcast content, EPG information, data broadcast, and the like included in the broadcast data described above, and generates audio data, video data, and program data, respectively. The decoded audio data is supplied to the audio playback device 60 described above. Then, the audio reproduction device 60 performs D / A conversion processing on the supplied audio data and outputs it as an audio signal. The decoding unit 35 supplies the decoded video data and program data to the video / audio output unit 36. The decoding unit 35 corresponds to a part of the notification information output unit in the claims.

  The video / audio output unit 36 stores the supplied program data in a RAM (not shown). The video / audio output unit 36 generates EPG information by drawing program data. Then, the video / audio output unit 36 generates a synthesized screen obtained by synthesizing the screen based on the EPG information on the screen based on the video data from the decoding unit 35, and sends the synthesized screen to the display device 50. The display device 50 displays this composite screen. The video / audio output unit 36 corresponds to a part of the notification information output unit in the claims. The recording unit 37 stores data decoded by the decoding unit 35 in accordance with a recording instruction from the control unit 32.

1-2. Processing of each device 1-2-1. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data string of prize information. As shown in FIG. 4, the data column of the prize information includes “broadcast type”, “broadcast station name”, “broadcast start date / time”, “broadcast end date / time”, “program name”, “present genre”, “present”. Fields such as “product name”, “present image”, “whether it is real-time”, “application method”, “start date and time for sweepstakes application”, “end date and time for sweepstakes application” are included. In the “broadcast type” field, broadcast types such as terrestrial digital broadcast, BS digital broadcast, CS broadcast, FM radio broadcast, and AM radio broadcast are described. In the “Broadcasting station name” field, the broadcasting station name is written. In the “program name” field, the field name of the program is described. In the “broadcast start date” and “broadcast end date” fields, the start time and end time of the program are respectively described. In the “real-time information” field, information on whether or not the prize is a deadline for application in real time (or program broadcast date) during the program broadcast is described. In the “present genre” field, genre information of the present is described. The present name is described in the “present name” field. In the “application method” field, the type of application method of the sweepstakes (for example, mail, telephone, Internet, etc.) is described. In the fields “start date and time of sweepstakes application” and “end date and time of sweepstakes application”, the start date and time and application deadline of the sweepstakes are entered, respectively. In the case of mailing, the date on which the postmark is valid may be described. After the “application method” field, if there are a plurality of application methods, the fields may be sequentially added in a repeated manner for each application method.

  When adding the above-mentioned prize information to EPG information, for example, TYPE-H of EPG information in SI information of terrestrial digital broadcasting or BS digital broadcasting specified by ARIB (Association of Radio Industries and Broadcast) is displayed. Therefore, it is preferable to put in a data part in the form of a program guide or a data part for explanation of an individual program. In the case of other broadcasts and other EPG display formats (one-segment broadcasting), it is preferable to include prize information in the text information data for program name and program explanation. In addition, it is preferable that the prize information includes a character string such as a predetermined keyword “prize” or “present” so that a text search can be performed on the broadcast receiving device 30 side. In addition, when describing the application conditions, it is preferable to describe the predetermined condition contents after the character string “application conditions”. It is preferable to express the start and end periods of the application in the same format.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the broadcast distribution process of the broadcast transmitting apparatus 11 shown in FIG.

  START: The control unit 12 starts broadcast distribution processing when the power is turned on or the distribution mode is selected. When starting the broadcast distribution process, the control unit 12 proceeds to the process of step S101.

  Step S101: The control unit 12 refers to the broadcast schedule DB 18 and extracts one program from programs within a transmission period (for example, one week), and determines whether or not the program is a program with a prize. To do. For example, in the case where the extracted program is 1/17 10:00 to 19:00 of “terrestrial TV, Tokyo BC” “Japan 7 Wonders!”, It is determined whether or not the program is a program with a prize. Specifically, it is determined whether or not there is the program in the data string of the prize information shown in FIG. When the program extracted with reference to the broadcast schedule DB 18 is a program with a prize (YES in step S101), the control unit 12 proceeds to the process of step S102, and when the program is not a program with a prize (in step S101). If NO, the process proceeds to step S103.

  Step S102: The control unit 12 generates EPG information including prize information. When the prize information is, for example, the data string of FIG. 4, EPG information is generated by adding information on each item such as a present genre, present product name, present image, real time, application method, and prize period. When the process of step S102 is completed, the control unit 12 proceeds to the process of step S104.

  Step S103: The control unit 12 generates EPG information. When the process of step S103 is completed, the control unit 12 proceeds to the process of step S104.

  Step S104: The control unit 12 determines whether or not the presence of prize information is checked for all programs within the transmission period. If the control unit 12 checks for the presence of a prize for all programs within the transmission period (YES in step S104), the process proceeds to step S105. If not checked (NO in step S104), The process returns to step S101.

  Step S105: The control unit 12 multiplexes broadcast content, data broadcast, and EPG information. When the process of step S105 is completed, the control unit 12 proceeds to the process of step S106.

  Step S106: The control unit 12 distributes the broadcast data multiplexed in step S105 and ends the broadcast distribution process (END).

  With such distribution processing, the presence or absence of prize information is included in the EPG information and distributed, so that the viewer can easily know the information announced in the broadcast program. In addition, the notification information is a motivation for viewing a broadcast program, and can contribute to an increase in the audience rating of the broadcast program.

1-2-2-1. EPG Information Display Process of Broadcast Receiving Device FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the EPG information display process of the broadcast receiving device 30 shown in FIG.

  START: When the power is turned on or the display mode is selected, the control unit 32 starts the screen display process. When starting the screen display process, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S201.

  Step S201: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is an EPG screen display request. When there is a request for displaying an EPG screen (YES in step S201), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S202, and when there is no display request, the control unit 32 repeats the determination process of step S201. Note that the screen display process may be started when there is a request to display the EPG screen in step S201.

  Step S202: The control unit 32 performs an EPG screen display process and ends the process (END).

  Next, in addition to the normal EPG information display process shown in FIG. 6, a process for determining the presence / absence of prize information and emphasizing and displaying the prize information will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the prize information display process of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG.

  START: The control unit 32 starts a prize information display process when the power is turned on or the display mode is selected. When starting the prize information display process, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S301.

  Step S301: The control unit 32 determines whether or not an EPG screen display request is present. When there is an EPG screen display request (YES in step S301), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S302, and when there is no EPG screen display request (NO in step S301), the control unit 32 proceeds to step S301. Repeat the determination process. Note that the prize information display process may be started when there is a request to display the EPG screen in step S301.

  Step S302: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the program requested to be displayed has prize information. Specifically, the control unit 32 detects whether or not there is a prize program in the screen (broadcast type, broadcast station, time zone requested to be displayed) displayed in the EPG information. If there is a prize information in the program requested to be displayed (YES in step S302), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S303. If there is no prize information (NO in step S302), the control unit 32 proceeds to step S304. Transition to processing.

  Step S303: The control unit 32 displays an EPG information screen in which a program with a prize is highlighted. Specifically, the control unit 32 indicates that there is a prize program with an icon, or changes the background color of the program on the EPG information. When the process of step S303 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S305.

  Step S304: The control unit 32 displays a normal EPG information screen. When the process of step S304 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S305.

  Step S305: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a display program change request. Specifically, the control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a change in the displayed time zone, a change in date, a change in the broadcast station 10, a change in the program, and the like. If there is a display program change request (YES in step S305), the control unit 32 proceeds to step S302. If there is no display program change request (NO in step S305), the control unit 32 proceeds to step S305. Repeat the determination process.

  By performing such display processing, since the program having the prize information is highlighted in the EPG information display screen, the viewer can grasp the presence / absence of the prize information at a glance. Therefore, it is possible to easily know information notified in the broadcast program. Moreover, it becomes a motivation for viewing a broadcast program, which can contribute to an increase in the audience rating of the broadcast program.

1-2-2-2. Sweepstakes information display processing of broadcast receiving device 1
FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the prize information display process of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG. The prize information display process shown in FIG. 8 is different from the prize information display process in FIG. 7 in that it is determined whether or not there is prize information with high real-time characteristics. Note that the same processing as the prize information display processing in FIG. 7 (START in FIG. 8, steps S301, S302, S303, S304, and S305) is denoted by the same step number and description thereof is omitted.

  Step S311: When the control unit 32 determines in step S302 that there is a prize information in the program for which display is requested, the application period for the prize information of the program is highly real-time, for example, limited to the broadcast time. It is determined whether it is a thing. Specifically, the real-time application prize program refers to a program that is applied in real time by telephone, the Internet, a fax, or the like. For example, there are a form that answers a quiz program, a questionnaire form, and a request form. Real-time sweepstakes programs are programs that can no longer be applied for gifts if they are recorded or recorded for later enjoyment. It should be noted that a program that is applied by postal mail valid on the current day or the next day or a program that is not applied in real time within 24 hours may be regarded as a real-time prize program. If the control unit 32 determines that the sweepstakes announced in the program has a high real-time property (YES in step S311), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S312 and determines that the real-time property is not high. If so (NO in step S311), the process proceeds to step S303.

  Step S312: The control unit 32 displays an EPG screen in which a frame for displaying a program that is a prize having a high real-time property is highlighted in step S311. When the process of step S312 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S305. It should be noted that the display settings (background color, icon shape, etc.) are different from the highlighting of the program column that is a prize with high real-time performance and the highlighting of the frame of a program that has a prize but is not real-time. It is preferable.

  By performing such display processing, since the program having the prize information is highlighted in the EPG screen, the viewer can grasp the presence / absence of the prize information at a glance. Therefore, it is possible to easily know information notified in the broadcast program. Further, by focusing attention on prize information with particularly high real-time properties, it is possible to view a broadcast program with the prize information, which can contribute to an increase in audience rating.

  1-2-2-3. Sweepstakes information display process of broadcast receiving device 2

  Next, the prize information display process 2 of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 will be described. In this prize information display processing, display processing is performed based on user setting information preset by the user. Therefore, the user setting process will be described first. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the user setting process of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG.

  SATRT: The control unit 32 starts the user setting process when the setting mode is selected. When starting the user setting process, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S331.

  Step S331: The control unit 32 determines whether or not a prize information display setting request is present. If there is a request for display setting of prize information (YES in step S331), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S332, and if there is no request (NO in step S331), the user setting process is terminated. (END). The presence or absence of a display request can be determined by the presence or absence of a display setting request signal from the operation input unit 31.

  Step S332: The control unit 32 sets the display method as requested in step S331. Specifically, the control unit 32 performs various settings such as necessity of highlight display (background color, icon, etc.) when there is prize information, highlight display of an application method, and a method for expressing a real-time prize. When the process of step S332 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S333.

  Step S333: The control unit 32 stores the display method of step S332 and ends the user setting process (END).

  By performing such user setting processing, it is possible to set the display method of the program having the prize information in the EPG screen to a display method desired by the user, and to ensure operability and visibility suitable for the user. be able to. In addition, when the users are different, each setting environment can be stored.

  Subsequently, a prize information display process based on the user setting information will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the prize information display process reflecting the user setting process shown in FIG. Note that the same processing as the prize information display processing of FIG. 7 (START of FIG. 10, processing of steps S301, S302, S303, S304, and S305) is assigned the same step number, and description thereof is omitted.

  Step S341: When there is a prize information in the program requested to be displayed in Step S302, the control unit 32 determines the presence or absence of the prize information display setting information. If there is the prize information display setting information (YES in step S341), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S342, and if there is no prize information display setting information (NO in step S341), the control unit 32 proceeds to step S342. The process proceeds to S304. The presence / absence of the prize information display setting information can be determined, for example, by checking the existence of the prize information display setting file stored in the user setting process described with reference to FIG.

  Step S342: The control unit 32 displays an EPG screen including prize information reflecting the set contents, and ends the prize information display process (END).

  By performing such display processing, the display is performed in accordance with a display method set in advance by the user using the operation input unit 31 or the like, so that operability and visibility in accordance with the user are ensured.

1-2-2-4. Application Information Display Process of Broadcast Receiving Device Subsequently, a process when displaying the application information of a prize on the broadcast receiving device 30 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the application information display process of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG. The application information display process shown in FIG. 11 is different from the prize information display process of FIG. 7 in that a determination is made as to whether or not there is information regarding the application method of the prize program. Note that the same processing as the prize information display processing in FIG. 7 (START in FIG. 11, processing in steps S301, S302, S303, S304, and S305) is assigned the same step number, and description thereof is omitted.

  Step S321: In step S302, if there is a prize information in the program requested to be displayed, the control unit 32 determines whether or not the prize information includes application method information. Specifically, the control unit 32 determines the presence / absence of information such as telephone application, homepage access, fax, mail, and the like. If there is application method information in the prize information (YES in step S321), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S322, and if there is no application method information in the prize information (NO in step S321). The process proceeds to step S303. Whether or not there is application method information in the transmitted prize information is determined by adding a data string that can be flagged in the transmitted data, or by applying the application method field in the data transmitted as prize information. By referencing, it is possible to determine the presence or absence of application method information.

  Step S322: The control unit 32 adds application information and displays an EPG screen that highlights a program with a prize. Specifically, the control unit 32 performs control such as changing the background color of the program or displaying a predetermined icon for each application method. When the process of step S322 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S305.

  By performing such display processing, in addition to the application information notified in the program, more detailed application information such as the application deadline for the sweepstakes can be known from the display screen.

1-3. Prize information display example 1-3-1. Sweepstakes information display screen example 1
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a prize information display screen displayed on the display device 50 shown in FIG. This screen example shown in FIG. 12 is, for example, the screen displayed in step S303 of FIG. 7 described above, and is an EPG screen displayed in the latte column format of a newspaper. At the left end of the EPG screen, the currently received broadcast type (“terrestrial digital” in FIG. 12) is highlighted, and other broadcast types (“BS”, “CS”, “FM” in FIG. 12). , “AM”) is grayed out. In addition, the current date and time is displayed in the upper right of the program guide. In this embodiment, program guides for four broadcast stations 10 are displayed. In this program guide, “Tokyo BC”, which is one of the broadcasting stations 10, and the program “Japan 7 Wonders!” From 17:00 to 19:00 are highlighted because there is prize information. Note that the highlight information may not be displayed, and the prize information may be displayed on the program guide.

1-3-2. Sweepstakes information display screen example 2
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a prize information display screen displayed on the display device 50 shown in FIG. The screen shown in FIG. 13 is an example in which “Japan 7 Wonders!” Is selected in the program table of FIG. 12 (the selected program in the program table is moved with the direction key and the enter key is pressed). In 13, detailed program information of “Japan 7 Wonders!” Is displayed. Information that cannot be displayed on the screen is displayed by pressing the down arrow key and scrolling the screen. In FIG. 13, the application method and the like are also displayed. In FIG. 13, a recording button, a channel selection button, a viewing reservation button, and a present button are displayed. When the record button is pressed, this program is recorded (recording reservation). When the channel selection button is pressed, the channel is switched and displayed on the broadcasting station 10. Subsequently, when a viewing reservation button is pressed, control is performed to switch channels at the start of this program. When the present button is pressed, prize information is extracted and the prize information is displayed.

1-3-3. Sweepstakes information display screen example 3
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a prize information display screen displayed on the display device 50 shown in FIG. In FIG. 14, the prize information when the present button is pressed is displayed. The present image data can be displayed by sending the present image data including the image data in the prize data string.

  As described above, since the information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention broadcasts including prize information, it is possible to easily grasp a program with a prize. As a result, as a merit on the broadcasting station 10 side, a new viewer for the purpose of a prize can be acquired and the viewing opportunity can be increased. Further, as a merit on the user side, it is possible to easily grasp a program for which a prize is given from the EPG information, so that a program providing a present can be easily found and viewed. In addition, it is possible to easily grasp what kind of present is made in such a program. In addition, by grasping whether or not the program is a real-time sweepstakes program, it is possible to select whether to view the program on the spot or to record and view the program.

1-4. Modified example of Example 1 1-4-1. Configuration of Broadcast Transmission Device Next, a broadcast transmission device 11A that is a modification of the above-described first embodiment will be described. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a broadcast transmission device 11A that is a modification of the broadcast transmission device 11 illustrated in FIG. Unlike the broadcast transmission apparatus 11 of the first embodiment, the broadcast transmission apparatus 11A does not transmit EPG information including prize information, but generates and sends prize information separately from the EPG information. That is, the prize information creation unit 19 generates prize information by referring to the broadcast schedule DB 18, and multiplexes the generated prize information together with the created prize information at the AUX unit 16A. The broadcast transmitting apparatus 11A will be mainly described below, but the process on the broadcast receiving apparatus side that receives the prize information separately from the EPG information is the same as the process of the broadcast receiving apparatus in the modified example of the second embodiment described later. Therefore, the description here is omitted. Moreover, since the screen displayed on the display apparatus 50 from the broadcast receiving apparatus in the modification of this Example 1 is the same display as FIGS. 12-14, illustration and description are abbreviate | omitted.

1-4-2. Process of Broadcast Transmission Device FIG. 16 is a flowchart of the broadcast distribution process of the broadcast transmission device 11A shown in FIG. Note that it is assumed that the program information stored in the broadcast schedule DB 18 is associated with the prize information announced in the program.

  START: The controller 12A starts the broadcast distribution process when the power is turned on or the distribution mode is selected. Control part 12A will transfer to processing of Step S111, if broadcast distribution processing is started.

  Step S111: The control unit 12A refers to the broadcast schedule DB 18 and determines whether or not prize information is included in the program information. If the prize information is included in the program information (YES in step S111), the control unit 12A proceeds to the process of step S112, and if the prize information is not included in the program information (NO in step S111). In step S113, the process proceeds to step S113.

  Step S112: The control unit 12A generates prize information. When the process of step S112 is completed, the control unit 12A proceeds to the process of step S115.

  Step S113: The control unit 12A multiplexes broadcast content, data broadcast, and EPG information. When the process of step S113 is completed, the control unit 12A proceeds to the process of step S116.

  Step S114: The control unit 12A determines whether or not the presence of prize information has been checked for all programs within the transmission period. If the control unit 12 checks the presence or absence of a prize for all the programs within the transmission period (YES in step S114), the process proceeds to step S115. If not checked (NO in step S114), The process returns to step S111.

  Step S115: The control unit 12A multiplexes broadcast content, data broadcast, EPG information, and prize information. The prize information and the EPG information can be specified by collating with “broadcast start date / time”, “broadcast end date / time”, “program name”, etc. included in each other's information. When the process of step S115 is completed, the control unit 12A proceeds to the process of step S116.

  Step S116: The control unit 12A sends out the broadcast data multiplexed in step S113 or step S115 and ends the broadcast distribution process (END).

  With such a distribution process, in addition to the effects of the broadcast transmission apparatus 11 of the first embodiment described above, the presence or absence of a prize in the program is not confirmed in the EPG information generation stage, or the EPG Even if it is desired to add prize information after the information is created, it can be multiplexed with broadcast data and distributed to the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A. Further, even if the prize information cannot be included in the EPG information for reasons other than the above, it can be multiplexed with broadcast data and distributed to the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A.

2. Overall Configuration of Information Distribution System 1A (Example 2) FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of an information distribution system 1A according to the second embodiment of the present invention. 17 differs from the information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment in that the broadcast station 10, the broadcast station server 70, and the broadcast receiving device 30A can communicate with each other via the IP communication network 100. It has become. The broadcast station 10 transmits broadcast programs, data broadcasts, and EPG information using broadcast waves. The broadcast station server 70 transmits EPG information and the like via the IP communication network 100. The broadcast station server 70 may be included in the broadcast station 10 or may exist separately and independently. The broadcast station server 70 may transmit content data such as a unique program unique to the Internet, a still image, sound, and a moving image. Further, the broadcast station server 70 may transmit content data such as a unique program linked with a program of the broadcast station, a still image, sound, and a moving image. The receiving device 30 receives a broadcast wave from a broadcast station, and displays the received program, outputs audio, and outputs EPG information. The broadcast receiving device 30 is, for example, a TV broadcast or radio broadcast receiver. The broadcast receiving apparatus 30 may have a recording and recording function. In addition, it receives content from the broadcast station server 70, and enables display, audio output, data output, and the like. FIG. 17 illustrates one broadcast station server 70 and two broadcast reception devices 30A. However, the information distribution system 1A includes a plurality of broadcast station servers 70 and three or more broadcast reception devices 30A. Also good.

2-1. Explanation of each part 2-1-1. Configuration of Broadcast Receiving Device FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the broadcast receiving device 30A shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 18, the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A includes an operation input unit 31, a control unit 32, a tuner 33, a DEMUX unit 34, a decoding unit 35, a video / audio output unit 36, a recording unit 37, a network connection unit 38, and network information. The decoding unit 39 and the user information storage unit 40 are the main components. Here, the control unit 32 includes, for example, a CPU, which is a hardware resource (not shown), and reads various programs stored in a recording unit, a ROM, and the like into the RAM, and cooperates with various arithmetic processes. Information processing performed by the function of each unit of the broadcast receiving device 30A can be realized. The same functions (operation input unit 31, control unit 32, tuner 33, DEMUX unit 34, decoding unit 35, video / audio output unit 36, recording unit 37) as those of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A of the first embodiment are the same. The reference numerals are attached and the description is omitted.

  The network connection unit 38 is a communication interface that communicates with the broadcast station server 70 via the IP communication network 100. The network connection unit 38 receives data from the network connection unit 81 (see FIG. 19) of the broadcast station server 70 and sends the data to the network information decoding unit 39. The network connection unit 38 corresponds to a part of the electronic program information acquisition unit and a part of the notification information acquisition unit.

  The network information decoding unit 39 decodes the data received from the network connection unit 38 in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 32 and supplies the data to the recording unit 37. The data supplied to the recording unit 37 is supplied to the video / audio output unit 36 and then output to the display device 50 and / or the audio reproduction device 60. The user information storage unit 40 stores user information for using the information distribution system 1A. The network information decoding unit 39 corresponds to a part of the notification information output unit in the claims.

2-1-2. Configuration of Broadcasting Station Server FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the broadcasting station server 70 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 19, the broadcast station server 70 includes a control unit 71, a content stream creation unit 72, a distribution request reception unit 73, a user information management unit 74, a content data distribution unit 75, an EPG information creation unit 76, and a server broadcast EPG. The information creation unit 77, content DB 78, broadcast schedule DB 79, prize product information DB 80, and network connection unit 81 are the main components. Note that the broadcast station server 70 corresponds to the information distribution apparatus described in the claims.

  Here, information realized by the functions of the content stream creating unit 72, the distribution request receiving unit 73, the user information managing unit 74, the content data distributing unit 75, the EPG information creating unit 76, and the server broadcast EPG information creating unit 77 described above. The processing is realized by the control unit 71 that controls the entire broadcasting station server 70 executing in cooperation with hardware resources. Specifically, the control unit 71 includes a CPU, which is a hardware resource (not shown), and the CPU reads various programs stored in a ROM (not shown) into the RAM (not shown) and executes them in cooperation. It is realized by doing. The content DB 78, the broadcast schedule DB 79, and the prize product information DB 80 described above are stored in a storage unit (not shown), and the storage unit includes, for example, an HDD or a flash memory. The description of the same function (content stream creation unit 72) as that of the broadcast transmission apparatus 30 of the first embodiment is omitted.

  The distribution request receiving unit 73 has a function of receiving a prize information distribution request from the broadcast receiving device 30A. Specifically, the content, EPG information, and server broadcast EPG information requested from the broadcast receiving device 30A are provided.

  The user information management unit 74 has a function of obtaining a predetermined input item when a user connected to the broadcasting station server 70 is not registered and newly registering as a user of the information distribution system 1A. Yes. Specifically, the user information management unit 74 displays a user registration screen on the display of the connected broadcast receiving device 30A or the display device 50 connected to the broadcast receiving device 30A, and inputs predetermined items. Then, a process of storing the input items in a storage unit (not shown) is performed.

  In addition, the user information management unit 74 has a function of determining whether or not the user connected to the broadcast station server 70 is a user who can use the information distribution system 1A properly. Specifically, the user information management unit 74 displays a user authentication screen on the display of the connected broadcast receiving device 30A or the display device 50 connected to the broadcast receiving device 30A, and is input to the authentication screen. User authentication processing by collating items (for example, user ID and password input by the user) with items (such as the user ID set in advance by the user) stored in a storage unit (not shown) I do. The user information management unit 74 constructs an LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol) server as a user authentication server separately from the broadcasting station server 70, and performs each process of the user information management unit 74 described above in the LDAP server. It may be realized. The user information management unit 74 manages user information. Specifically, the user ID and the viewing area of the user are registered, and EPG information of an appropriate broadcasting area corresponding to the viewing area can be provided to the user who has requested.

  The content data distribution unit 75 has a function of distributing content related to the broadcast data or other content via the IP communication network 100, unlike the broadcast data transmitted by the broadcast transmitting apparatus 11 using broadcast waves.

  The EPG information creation unit 76 creates EPG information based on the broadcast schedule DB 79 and the prize product information DB 80. The broadcast schedule DB 79 stores program information of broadcast waves (television broadcast, radio broadcast, etc.) and is used to create EPG information. The broadcast schedule DB 79 basically includes data equivalent to the broadcast schedule DB 18 of the broadcast transmitting apparatus 11 according to the first embodiment, but stores more detailed information. The prize product information DB 80 stores prize information in advance. As shown in the data shown in FIG. 20, FIG. 23 and FIG. 24, the prize information includes the broadcast type of the program with the prize, the broadcasting station, the program name, the start / end time, and the application to be applied in real time. Application information is recorded. These are used to create EPG information, and the EPG information includes prize information and is transmitted in response to a request from the broadcast receiving device 30A.

  The server broadcast EPG information creation unit 77 creates EPG data of content related to a broadcast program when content in a content DB 78 described later is content related to the broadcast program. If there is a prize information related to this content, EPG data for server broadcasting including the prize information is created.

  Various contents are stored in the content DB 78. Content stored in the content DB 78 stores program-linked content, content that can be accessed even after the end of broadcasting, content that is not limited to an area, and the like. Specific examples of content include still images, moving images, and audio. These pieces of information are described in markup languages such as XML (extensible Markup Language) and BML (Broadcast Markup Language). By using such a markup language, compatibility with the IP communication network 100 is achieved. The property can be improved.

2-2. Processing of each device 2-2-1. Next, the prize information distribution process performed by the broadcast station server 70 will be described. The broadcast station server 70 adds prize information to the EPG information and performs transmission processing on the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data string of EPG information transmitted from the broadcast station server 70 illustrated in FIG. As shown in FIG. 20, the data string of the prize information includes “broadcast type”, “broadcast station name”, “broadcast start date / time”, “broadcast end date / time”, “program name”, “display format”, “audio format”. “Genre”, “Performer”, “Director”, “Production company”, “Program contents”, “Present”, “Real-time or not”, “Application method”, “Start date and time of application for sweepstakes”, “Application for sweepstakes” The field includes fields such as “end date and time”, “present genre”, and “present product name”. In the EPG information shown in FIG. 20, “present”, “whether or not real time”, “application method”, “price application start date and time”, “price application end date and time”, “present genre”, “present product name” "Is inserted as prize information.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart of the EPG information transmission process of the broadcast station server 70 shown in FIG. This EPG information transmission process distributes EPG information including the presence or absence of prize information. Note that the same processing as the processing in FIG. 5 (START in FIG. 21, processing in steps S101, S102, S103, and S104) is assigned the same step number, and description thereof is omitted.

  Step S107: When the presence / absence check of the prize information is completed for all the programs within the period to be transmitted in Step S104, the control unit 71 generates EPG information including all the programs within the period to be transmitted. When the process of step S107 is completed, the control unit 71 of the broadcast station server 70 proceeds to the process of step S108.

  Step S108: The control unit 71 determines a transmission request for EPG information. The control unit 71 of the broadcast station server 70 repeats the determination process of step S108 if there is a transmission request for EPG information (YES in step S108), and if not (NO in step S108).

  Step S109: The control unit 71 transmits the EPG information and ends the EPG information transmission process (END).

  With such transmission processing, the presence or absence of prize information is included in the EPG information and distributed, so that the viewer can easily know the information announced in the broadcast program. Further, based on the transmission request from the broadcast receiving device 30A, the EPG information having the presence / absence of the prize information is distributed from the broadcast station server 70 using the IP communication network 100. Unlike the distribution process using broadcast waves, it is possible to distribute EPG information having presence / absence of prize information based on a viewer's distribution request. That is, the user's request can be reflected.

2-2-2. FIG. 22 is a flowchart of the prize information display process of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A shown in FIG.

  START: The control unit 32 starts a prize information display process when the power is turned on or the display mode is selected. When starting the prize information display process, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S201.

  Step S201: The control unit 32 determines whether or not an EPG screen display request is present. When there is an EPG screen display request (YES in step S201), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S205, and when there is no EPG screen display request (NO in step S201), the control unit 32 proceeds to step S201. Repeat the determination process.

  Step S205: The control unit 32 determines whether EPG information has not been acquired. If not acquired (YES in step S205), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S206, and if acquired (NO in step S205), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S207. Note that this step may not be performed if the latest EPG can be acquired at a specific timing (for example, once every 5 minutes) in an environment where the network is always connected.

  Step S206: The control unit 32 requests the broadcast station server 70 for EPG information. When the EPG information is transmitted from the broadcast station server 70 in response to the request in step S206, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process in step S207.

  Step S207: The control unit 32 displays the EPG screen based on the EPG information acquired and requested in step S205, or the acquired EPG information, and ends the prize information display process (END).

  By performing such display processing, when there is an EPG display request, it is confirmed whether or not EPG information is acquired, and even if EPG information is not acquired, the broadcast station server 70 stores the EPG information. An acquisition request can be made and the EPG information acquired by the request can be displayed.

  As described above, since the information distribution system 1A according to the second embodiment of the present invention broadcasts including the prize information, the program with the prize can be easily grasped. As a result, as a merit on the broadcasting station 10 side, a new viewer for the purpose of a prize can be acquired and the viewing opportunity can be increased. Further, as a merit on the user side, it is possible to easily grasp a program for which a prize is given from the EPG information, so that a program providing a present can be easily found and viewed. In addition, it is possible to easily grasp what kind of present is made in such a program. In addition, by grasping whether or not the program is a real-time sweepstakes program, it is possible to select whether to view the program on the spot or to record and view the program. Even when the EPG information is not transmitted from the broadcasting station 10 or when the EPG information is not transmitted including the prize information, the EPG information including the prize information transmitted from the broadcasting station server 70 is acquired, thereby obtaining the prize. You can easily grasp a certain program.

2-3. Next, a broadcast distribution system 1B that is a modification of the above-described second embodiment will be described. Unlike the broadcast station server 70 of the second embodiment, the broadcast station server 70B, which is a modified example of the broadcast station server 70 described below, does not transmit the prize information in the EPG information, and the prize is separate from the EPG information. Information is generated and transmitted. Also, in the broadcast receiving device 30B as a modification of the broadcast receiving device 30A described below, unlike the broadcast receiving device 30A of the second embodiment, the EPG information is not received in a state where the prize information is included. Information and sweepstakes information are received separately.

2-3-1. Configuration of Broadcasting Station Server Unlike the broadcasting station server 70 of the second embodiment, the broadcasting station server 70B does not transmit the prize information in the EPG information, and generates and sends prize information separately from the EPG information. Is. That is, in addition to the configuration of the broadcast station server 70 shown in FIG. 19, a prize information creation unit (not shown) is provided. This prize information creation unit refers to the broadcast schedule DB 79 and generates prize information. The generated prize information is transmitted via the IP communication network 100. Except for the prize information creation unit, since it is the same as the broadcast station server 70 shown in FIG. 19, illustration and description thereof are omitted.

2-3-2. Configuration of Broadcast Receiving Device Unlike the broadcast receiving device 30A of the second embodiment, the broadcast receiving device 30B does not transmit the EPG information including the prize information, but the prize information generated separately from the EPG information is transmitted to the IP communication network. 100 is received. However, since the broadcast receiving device 30B in this modification has the same configuration as the broadcast receiving device 30A shown in FIG. 18, illustration and description thereof are omitted. In addition, since the example of a screen displayed on the display apparatus 50 connected with the broadcast receiving apparatus 30B is the same as what was demonstrated in FIGS. 12-14, description of the example of a screen display is abbreviate | omitted.

2-3-3. Next, the distribution process of the broadcast station server 70B will be described. The broadcast station server 70B can add content linked to the broadcast program together with the prize information. FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data string distributed from a broadcasting station server 70B which is a modification of the second embodiment of the present invention. The data sequence shown in FIG. 23 includes information related to content transmitted by broadcast waves (each field from broadcast type to program name), content linked to the content (fields of linked content 1 and linked content 2), It is composed of a data string of prize information relating to the content (whether it is real-time to each field from the present product name). By transmitting as such a data string, it becomes possible to distribute the content linked to the prize information of the broadcast program.

  FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of a data string distributed from the broadcasting station server 70B according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The data sequence shown in FIG. 24 is related to content transmitted by broadcast waves (each field from broadcast type to program name), content linked to the content (each field of linked content 1 and linked content 2), It consists of a data string of sweepstakes information related to linked content (whether it is real-time to each field from the present product name). As a result, content linked to the program can be distributed, and prize information of the linked content can be distributed.

  FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a modification of the EPG information transmission process shown in FIG. In this modification, only prize information is created and transmitted.

  START: The control unit 71 starts a prize information transmission process when the power is turned on or the transmission mode is selected. When starting the prize information transmission process, the controller 71 proceeds to the process of step S121.

  Step S121: The control unit 71 determines whether or not there is a program with prize information. If the program has the prize information (YES in step S121), the control unit 71 proceeds to the process of step S122. If the program does not have the prize information (NO in step S121), the control unit 71 proceeds to the process of step S123. Transition.

  Step S122: The control unit 71 generates prize information. When the process of step S122 is completed, the control unit 71 proceeds to the process of step S123.

  Step S123: The control unit 71 checks whether or not there is a prize for all programs within the transmission period. If the control unit 71 checks the presence or absence of a prize for all the programs within the transmission period (YES in step S123), the control unit 71 proceeds to the process of step S124. If not checked (NO in step S123), The process returns to step S121.

  Step S124: The control unit 71 creates all prize information included in the transmission period. When the process of step S124 is completed, the control unit 71 proceeds to the process of step S125.

  Step S125: The control unit 71 determines whether or not there is a prize information transmission request. If there is a prize information transmission request (YES in step S125), the control unit 71 proceeds to the process of step S126. If there is no prize information transmission request (NO in step S125), the prize information transmission is performed. The process is terminated (END).

  Step S126: The control unit 71 transmits all prize information included in the transmission period, and ends the prize information transmission process (END).

  With such a transmission process, only the prize information can be transmitted independently of the EPG information.

2-3-4. Next, a prize information display process of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30B will be described. FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a modification of the prize information display process shown in FIG. This modification is a prize information display process when communication is performed with the broadcast station server 70 that transmits only prize information.

  START: The control unit 32 starts a prize information display process when the power is turned on or the display mode is selected. When starting the prize information display process, the controller 32 proceeds to the process of step S221.

  Step S221: The control unit 32 determines whether or not an EPG screen display request is present. When there is an EPG screen display request (YES in step S221), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S222, and when there is no EPG screen display request (NO in step S221), the determination process of step S221. repeat.

  Step S222: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a prize information display request. If there is no prize information display request (NO in step S222), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S223. If there is a prize information display request (YES in step S222), the control section 32 performs step S224. Transition to processing.

  Step S223: The control unit 32 displays the EPG screen and ends the prize information display process (END). When displaying the EPG screen in step S223, the prize information display request determination in step S222 may be performed.

  Step S224: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the latest prize information has not been acquired. If the latest prize information has not been acquired (YES in step S224), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S225, and if it has been acquired (NO in step S224), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S226. Transition.

  Step S225: The control unit 32 requests prize information from the broadcasting station server 70. When the process of step S225 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S401 in FIG.

  FIG. 27 is a view showing a modification of the prize information display process shown in FIG. This prize information display process is a display process after step S225 of the prize information display process shown in FIG.

  START: When the control unit 32 requests and obtains the EPG information from the broadcast station server 70, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S401.

  Step S401: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is prize information in the “program of EPG information” requested to be displayed. If there is a prize information in the “program of EPG information” requested to be displayed (YES in step S401), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S402, and if there is no prize information (NO in step S401). In step S403, the process proceeds to step S403.

  Step S402: The control unit 32 synthesizes and displays (superimposes) a mark on the EPG information portion of the program with a prize. When the process of step S402 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S404. The mark indicating that there is a prize may be an icon or text.

  Step S403: The control unit 32 displays the EPG information on the screen. When the process of step S403 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S404.

  Step S404: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a display request for a specific program from among the programs displayed based on the EPG information. When there is a display request for a specific program (YES in step S404), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S405, and when there is no display request (NO in step S404), the prize information display process is performed. End (END).

  Step S405: The control unit 32 determines whether there is prize information in the specific program. If there is prize information in the specific program (YES in step S405), the process proceeds to step S406. If there is no prize information (NO in step S405), the process proceeds to step S407.

  Step S406: The control unit 32 displays program information and prize information as shown in FIG. 28, and ends the prize information display process (END).

  Step S407: The control unit 32 displays the program information as shown in FIG. 29 and ends the prize information display process (END).

  In step S405, when there is a prize information, a present icon as shown in FIG. 30 is displayed, and when this icon is selected, details of the prize information as shown in FIG. 31 are displayed. Good.

  By performing such display processing, it is possible to easily know the presence or absence of prize information of a program displayed on the EPG screen and detailed prize information. Moreover, such information becomes a motivation for viewing a broadcast program, and can contribute to an increase in the audience rating of the broadcast program.

3. Other Embodiments The information distribution system 1 or 1A has been described as an embodiment of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Is possible.

  For example, when a program that must be applied in real time is reserved for recording, a pop-up screen asking whether to switch to viewing reservation may be displayed.

  In addition, when there is a program with a present in the EPG information from the broadcast station server 70, the broadcast receiving devices 30, 30A, 30B perform OSD (On Screen Display) display on the EPG information from the broadcast wave. May be.

  In addition, a program with a sweepstakes broadcasted in one day from the present may be displayed together with a sweepstakes name. The content of the prize in that case may be hidden on the broadcast station server 70 side or may be understood.

  Further, the presence / absence of prize information may be notified by voice. Or you may make it notify the presence or absence of prize information during the broadcast of a broadcast wave program. Specifically, prize information may be flown as a telop in the screen.

  Also, the broadcast receiving devices 30, 30 </ b> A, 30 </ b> B may perform application for a prize, notification of a lottery result, etc. through two-way communication with the broadcast station server 70 through the IP communication network 100.

  Further, the EPG information itself may be browsed on the web without being transmitted as content data by the broadcast station server 70.

  Further, all or some of the functions of the respective parts described in the information distribution system 1A according to each embodiment described above may be configured by a program, and this program may be installed in an information processing apparatus (computer). Specifically, it can be a program for functioning as a computer. The program can be directly installed on a computer from a medium recorded in an executable state, but it may be installed on a remote computer via a network.

1, 1A information distribution system, 10 broadcast station, 11 broadcast transmission device (broadcast distribution device), 12 control unit, 13 content stream creation unit, 14 EPG information creation unit, 15 data broadcast creation unit, 16 MUX unit, 17 for broadcasting Content 17 DB, 17 Broadcast content 18 Broadcast schedule DB, 19 Data broadcast content DB, 30, 30A, 30B Broadcast receiving device (information receiving device), 31 Operation input unit (electronic program information acquisition request unit, notification information acquisition request unit) ), 32 control unit (part of electronic program information acquisition unit, part of notification information acquisition unit, part of notification information output unit), 33 tuner (part of electronic program information acquisition unit, part of notification information acquisition unit) Part), 34 DEMUX part (part of electronic program information acquisition part, part of notification information acquisition part), 35 decoding part (notification information output part) Part), 36 video / audio output part (part of notification information output part), 37 recording part, 38 network connection part (part of electronic program information acquisition part, part of notice information acquisition part), 39 network information decoding (Part of notification information output unit), 40 user information storage unit, 50 display device, 60 audio playback device, 70 broadcast station server (broadcast distribution device), 71 control unit, 72 content stream creation unit, 73 distribution request acceptance Part, 74 user information management part, 75 content data distribution part, 76 EPG information creation part, 77 EPG information creation part for server broadcast, 78 content DB, 79 broadcast schedule DB, 80 prize product information DB, 81 network connection part, 100 IP communication network

Claims (10)

An electronic program information acquisition unit that acquires the electronic program information from a specific server that provides the electronic program information or a specific broadcast station that provides the electronic program information;
A notification information acquisition unit that acquires information included in the electronic program information acquired by the electronic program information acquisition unit, or information notified in a broadcast program from information transmitted together with the electronic program information;
A notification information output unit that outputs the electronic program information and outputs information indicating the presence or absence of the notification information based on the information acquired by the notification information acquisition unit;
An information receiving apparatus comprising: The information receiving device according to claim 1,
The notification information output unit
An information receiving apparatus characterized in that, when outputting the electronic program information, a display of a broadcast program column including the notification information is different from a display of another broadcast program column including no notification information. The information receiving device according to claim 1 or 2,
The notice information is sweepstakes information,
The notification information output unit
When the application deadline of the prize information is set within the broadcast time of the broadcast program, the display of the broadcast program column including the prize information is set to be different from the display of other broadcast program columns. Information receiving device. The information receiving device according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The notice information is sweepstakes information,
The notification information acquisition unit
Obtain information indicating the application method of the prize information from the information included in the electronic program information acquired by the electronic program information acquisition unit, or the information transmitted together with the electronic program information,
The notification information output unit
An information receiving apparatus that outputs information indicating the application method when outputting the electronic program information. The information receiving device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein:
An electronic program information acquisition request unit capable of requesting acquisition of the electronic program information;
The electronic program information acquisition unit acquires the electronic program information from the specific server providing the electronic program information or the specific broadcasting station in response to a request from the electronic program information acquisition request unit. Information receiving device. The information receiving device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein:
A notification information acquisition request unit capable of requesting acquisition of notification information of a program included in the electronic program information;
The notification information acquisition unit is included in the electronic program information from a specific server or a specific broadcasting station that provides notification information of a program included in the electronic program information in response to a request from the notification information acquisition request unit. An information receiving apparatus characterized by acquiring program announcement information. An electronic program information acquisition step for acquiring the electronic program information from a specific server that provides the electronic program information or a specific broadcast station that provides the electronic program information;
A notification information acquisition step of acquiring information included in the electronic program information acquired in the electronic program information acquisition step or information notified in the broadcast program from information transmitted together with the electronic program information;
Along with outputting the electronic program information, a notification information output step for outputting information indicating the presence or absence of the notification information based on the information acquired in the notification information acquisition step;
An information receiving method characterized by comprising: Computer
Electronic program information acquisition means for acquiring the electronic program information from a specific server that provides the electronic program information or a specific broadcast station that provides the electronic program information;
Notification information acquisition means for acquiring information included in the electronic program information acquired by the electronic program information acquisition means or information notified in the broadcast program from information transmitted together with the electronic program information;
Notification information output means for outputting the electronic program information and outputting information indicating the presence or absence of the notification information based on the information acquired by the notification information acquisition means,
Information receiving program to function as   7. The information receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein prize information is provided as information notified in the electronic program information and / or a program included in the electronic program information. A broadcast distribution apparatus characterized by the above. A broadcast distribution device for providing electronic program information and / or information announced in a program included in the electronic program information;
An electronic program information acquisition unit that acquires the electronic program information based on information received from the broadcast distribution device;
An announcement information acquisition unit for acquiring information included in the electronic program information acquired by the electronic program information acquisition unit, or information notified in a broadcast program from information transmitted together with the electronic program information, the electronic program information And at least a notification information output unit that outputs information indicating the presence or absence of the notification information based on the information acquired by the notification information acquisition unit,
An information distribution system comprising:

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