JP2010257266A - Content output system, server device, device, method, and program for outputting content, and recording medium storing the content output program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To efficiently retrieve and use a useful content out of a large volume of contents accumulated in a server device or the like on a network. <P>SOLUTION: Other content related to the content is retrieved from the second content storage part 205 of the server device 201, when outputting the content in the first content storage part 104 of a terminal device 101, to output the contents together in a terminal device 101 side, and a user is not required to carry out operations for browsing a large number of contents in the second content storage part 205 of the server device 201, and for selecting the content. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a content output system that displays and reproduces content composed of images, sounds, and the like, a server device, a content output device, a content output method, a content output program, and a recording medium that stores the content output program.

  In recent years, with the spread of digital cameras and digital video cameras, it has become possible for users to easily create content consisting of still images such as photographic images, moving images, music, etc. The stored contents can be stored in a recording medium at home or on a network so that the contents can be easily accessed and enjoyed at any time. For example, it is possible to enjoy photographic images and videos taken by the user himself / herself when traveling as a slide show by combining with favorite music.

  On the other hand, a large amount of content such as still images, moving images, and music exists on the Internet, and a user can access, acquire, and view such a large amount of content at any time through the Internet.

  Here, Patent Document 1 describes a method of enjoying content that the user owns and content on the Internet in combination. In this Patent Document 1, a photographic image owned by a user and a desired photographic image selected by the user from among a large number of photographic images on the Internet are arranged in combination, and these photographic images are printed out. .

JP 2007-323614 A (published on December 13, 2007)

  However, in Patent Document 1, the user must specify all of the content and its arrangement position, and the input operation for this is complicated. In particular, when there is a large amount of content on the server, it is necessary to find and select the desired content from this large amount of content, which is extremely troublesome for the user.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-described conventional problems, and efficiently searches for and uses useful content from a large amount of content stored in a server device or the like on a network. It is an object to provide a content output system, a server device, a content output device, a content output method, a content output program, and a recording medium storing the content output program.

  In order to solve the above problems, a content output system according to the present invention is a content output system that performs information communication between a terminal device and a server device through a network. The terminal device stores a plurality of contents in a first content storage. Classification means for classifying associated information of each content in the first content storage means according to a content group classification condition, and obtaining content belonging to the content group from among the contents, and the classification means Search condition generation means for generating a search condition from the accompanying information of the content of the selected content group, and the search condition generated by the search condition generation means is transmitted to the server device, and the search condition is used as a response to the transmission of the search condition. A communication means for receiving the corresponding content from the server device; Output means for outputting together the content of the content group obtained by the classification means and the content received from the server device, the server device having a second content storage means for storing a plurality of contents, and the terminal device Communication means for receiving a search condition from the terminal, and transmitting content corresponding to the search condition to the terminal device; and search means for searching for content corresponding to the received search condition from the second content storage means. Yes.

  The output unit sets a display layout of the content of the content group obtained by the classification unit and the content received from the server device, and displays and outputs the content in the display layout.

  Further, the output means outputs the content of the content group obtained by the classification means and the content received from the server device in an identifiable manner.

  The output unit outputs the content of the content group obtained by the classification unit and the content received from the server device together with accompanying information of each content.

  Furthermore, the terminal device includes an input operation means for inputting a classification condition of the content group.

  The content group classification conditions are set in advance, changed by an input operation of the input operation means, or input set by an input operation of the input operation means.

  The accompanying information is position information or date / time information. In this case, the classification unit compares the position information or date / time information, which is accompanying information of each content in the first content storage unit, with a threshold value, and obtains content belonging to a content group from the content. . Alternatively, the classifying unit uses date / time information that is associated information of each content in the first content storage unit, arranges the contents in time series, and then uses position information that is associated information of each content. The arranged contents are classified into content groups.

  Further, the threshold value is set in advance, changed by an input operation of the input operation means, input set by an input operation of the input operation means, or changed based on accompanying information of the content.

  Further, the terminal device transmits accompanying information of each content in the first content storage means to the server device to request a classification condition of the content group, and in response to this, the server device A content group classification condition is obtained based on the accompanying information, and the content group classification condition is transmitted to the terminal device.

  Further, the content transmitted from the server device to the terminal device includes an address on the Internet, and from the terminal device to the server device or another server device in response to an input operation on the terminal device. The server device that receives and receives the address collects information based on the address, transmits and receives this information from the server device to the terminal device, and displays the information on the terminal device.

  The content output system of the present invention is a content output system that performs information communication between a terminal device and a server device via a network. The server device includes a first content storage unit that stores a plurality of contents, and a plurality of contents. The second content storage means storing the content, the content in the first content storage means is transmitted to the terminal device, the search condition from the terminal device is received as a response to the transmission of the content, and the search condition is met A communication unit that transmits content to the terminal device; and a search unit that searches for content that satisfies the received search condition from the second content storage unit. The terminal device stores the first content storage from the server device. Receiving each content in the means, and accompanying each content The information is classified according to the content group classification condition, the classification means for obtaining the content belonging to the content group among the contents, and the search condition for generating the search condition from the accompanying information of the content of the content group obtained by the classification means Generating means, communication means for transmitting the search condition generated by the search condition generating means to the server apparatus, and receiving content corresponding to the search condition from the server apparatus as a response to the transmission of the search condition, and the classification means Output means for outputting the content of the content group obtained by the above and each content received from the server device.

  Alternatively, the content output system of the present invention is a content output system in which information communication is performed between a terminal device and a server device through a network, wherein the server device includes first and second content storage units each storing a plurality of contents. Categorizing incidental information of each content in the first content storage means according to a content group classification condition, and obtaining a content belonging to the content group from the contents, and a content obtained by the classification means Search condition generating means for generating a search condition from accompanying information of a group of contents, search means for searching for content corresponding to the search condition generated by the search condition generating means from the second content storage means, and the classification means Content group content and A communication unit that transmits the content searched by the search unit to the terminal device, and the terminal device includes a communication unit that receives the content from the server device, and an output unit that outputs the content. ing.

  The server device according to the present invention includes a first and second content storage means each storing a plurality of contents in a server device that performs information communication with a terminal device through a network, and the first content storage means The content associated with each content is classified according to the content group classification condition, and the classification means for obtaining the content belonging to the content group from among the content, and the content associated information of the content group obtained by the classification means are searched. Search condition generation means for generating a condition, search means for searching for content corresponding to the search condition generated by the search condition generation means from the second content storage means, and content of the content group obtained by the classification means And the content searched by the search means together in the terminal device And a communication means for signal.

  On the other hand, the content output apparatus of the present invention classifies the first and second content storage means each storing a plurality of contents and the accompanying information of each content in the first content storage means according to the content group classification condition. Classification means for obtaining content belonging to a content group from among the contents; search condition generation means for generating a search condition from incidental information of content of the content group obtained by the classification means; and the second content storage means Search means for searching for content corresponding to the search condition generated by the search condition generation means, and output means for outputting together the content of the content group obtained by the classification means and the content searched by the search means It has.

  The content output method of the present invention is a content output method for outputting content using a computer, wherein the computer includes first and second content storage means each storing a plurality of contents, and the first content storage means. The content information of each content in the content group is classified according to the content group classification condition, the content belonging to the content group from among the content, and the content information of the content group obtained by the classification means Search condition generating means for generating a search condition, search means for searching for content corresponding to the search condition generated by the search condition generating means from the second content storage means, and content groups obtained by the classification means Content and content retrieved by the retrieval means The are both made to function as an output unit for outputting.

  The content output program of the present invention is a content output program for outputting content using a computer, wherein the computer stores first and second content storage means each storing a plurality of contents, and the first content storage means. The content information of each content in the content group is classified according to the content group classification condition, the content belonging to the content group from among the content, and the content information of the content group obtained by the classification means Search condition generating means for generating a search condition, search means for searching for content corresponding to the search condition generated by the search condition generating means from the second content storage means, and content groups obtained by the classification means Searched by content and the search means And are both made to function as an output means for outputting the content.

  The recording medium of the present invention stores the content output program of the present invention.

  In the content output system of the present invention, the incidental information of each content in the first content storage means is classified according to the content group classification condition, the content belonging to the content group is obtained from each content, and the content of this content group is determined. A search condition is generated from the accompanying information, content corresponding to the search condition is searched from the second content storage means, and the content obtained from the classification condition and the content obtained from the search condition are output together. Since the first content storage means exists in a terminal device such as its own personal computer and the second content storage means exists in a server device on the network, the accompanying information of each content stored in its own personal computer Are classified according to the classification condition, the contents belonging to the content group are obtained, the search condition is generated from the accompanying information of the content of the content group, and the content corresponding to the search condition is searched from each content stored in the server device. . Then, the content obtained from the classification condition and the content obtained from the search condition are output together. In other words, if the classification conditions are appropriately set on the personal computer side, content that satisfies the classification conditions is obtained, the search conditions generated from the accompanying information of the content are generated, and the contents that match the search conditions are generated on the server device side. As a result of the search, the content obtained from the classification condition and the content obtained from the search condition are output together. Therefore, by setting the classification condition on the personal computer side, the content related to each other is selected on both the personal computer side and the server device side, and the content related to each other is output.

  For example, the content is a still image such as a photographic image, a moving image, music, or the like. The output of content is the display of still images and moving images, and the reproduction of music.

  In addition, since the display layout of the content obtained from the classification condition and the content obtained from the search condition is set and the content is displayed and output in the display layout, a preferable display of these contents is realized. Can do.

  Furthermore, since the content obtained from the classification condition and the content obtained from the search condition are output in an identifiable manner, these contents can be identified.

  Further, since the content obtained from the classification condition and the content obtained from the search condition are output together with the accompanying information of each content, the accompanying information can be confirmed.

  Furthermore, since the input operation means for inputting the classification condition of the content group is provided, an arbitrary classification condition can be input and set.

  Further, the content group classification conditions are set in advance, changed by an input operation of the input operation means, or input set by an input operation of the input operation means. As described above, various methods for setting the classification condition can be applied.

  The accompanying information is position information or date / time information. The position information indicates the image capturing position of a still image such as a photographic image or a moving image, and the content of the image capturing position related to each other is output. The date / time information indicates the imaging date / time of a still image such as a photographic image or a moving image, and the contents of the imaging date / time related to each other are output.

  For example, position information or date / time information, which is accompanying information of each content, is compared with a threshold value, and content belonging to the content group can be obtained from each content. Alternatively, after arranging each content in time series using date and time information which is accompanying information of each content, the arranged contents are classified into content groups using position information which is accompanying information of each content. Can do.

  Further, the threshold value is set in advance, changed by an input operation of the input operation means, input set by an input operation of the input operation means, or changed based on accompanying information of the content. Various methods for setting the threshold in this way can be applied.

  Further, the content group classification condition may be requested from the terminal device to the server device, and the content group classification condition may be returned to the terminal device from the server device to the terminal device.

  Further, the content transmitted from the server device to the terminal device includes an address on the Internet. In response to an input operation at the terminal device, the address is transmitted from the terminal device to the server device. Information is collected based on the address, this information is transmitted from the server device to the terminal device, and the terminal device displays the information. The server device that collects and transmits this information may be any server device on the Internet. Thereby, it becomes possible to provide various information to the user starting from the content output from the terminal device.

  In the content output system of the present invention, since the terminal device and the server device can cooperate with each other through the network, the first and second content storage means between the terminal device and the server device, Classification means, search condition generation means, search means, and the like can be appropriately replaced.

  On the other hand, any of the server device, the content output device, the content output method, the content output program, and the recording medium storing the content output program of the present invention has the same operations and effects as those of the content output system of the present invention.

  The same effects as the display device of the present invention can also be achieved in the multi-display method of the present invention and the program executed by the computer for carrying out the method.

  The computer can implement the present invention by reading a program from a recording medium, receiving the program through a communication network, and executing the program. In a system composed of a plurality of computers and the Internet, a plurality of processes can be distributed to a plurality of terminals. Therefore, the program can be applied not only to a single terminal such as a computer but also to a system.

It is a block diagram which shows one Embodiment of the content output system of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the search and output process of the content in the terminal device of FIG. It is a figure which illustrates the list | wrist of the accompanying information of the photograph image displayed on the screen in the terminal device of FIG. It is a figure which illustrates the content group containing the photograph image of the imaging position which enters into a wide area. It is a flowchart which shows the process for classifying the photograph image in the terminal device of FIG. 1 into a content group. It is a figure which illustrates the search conditions given to the server apparatus from the terminal device of FIG. It is a figure which illustrates the accompanying information of the photographic image searched with the server apparatus of FIG. (A), (b) is a figure which respectively illustrates the display form of the content on the screen in the terminal device of FIG. It is a figure which illustrates the other display form of the content on the screen in the terminal device of FIG. It is the figure used in order to demonstrate operation when deleting the content on the screen in the terminal device of FIG. (A), (b) is a figure which shows the work purchase screen as another display form of the content in the terminal device of FIG. (A), (b) is a flowchart which shows the process by the terminal device and server apparatus for displaying the work purchase screen of FIG. It is a figure which illustrates the further another display form of the content in the terminal device of FIG. (A), (b) is a figure which shows an example which displayed the product image as the content on the screen in the terminal device of FIG. It is a figure which shows the other example which displayed the product image as the content on the screen in the terminal device of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the modification of the terminal device of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the modification of the system of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the other modification of the system of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows one Embodiment of the content output device of this invention.

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

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a content output system of the present invention. The system of this embodiment includes a terminal device 101 on the user side, a server device 201, and a network N that connects the terminal device 101 and the server device 201 to each other.

  The terminal device 101 includes a personal computer and peripheral devices thereof, and includes an input unit 102, a content management unit 103, a first content storage unit 104, a content classification unit 105, a search condition generation unit 106, a communication unit 107, a display. A generation unit 108, a display unit 109, and the like are provided.

  The input unit 102 is a keyboard, a mouse, or the like. The content management unit 103, the content classification unit 105, the search condition generation unit 106, and the display generation unit 108 are implemented by reading out and executing programs in the ROM by the CPU and implementing their functions. The first content storage unit 104 is a storage device such as a hard disk device. The communication unit 107 is a communication interface or the like, and performs data communication with the server apparatus 201 through the network N. The display unit 109 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display device.

  Note that the first content storage unit 104 is not limited to a hard disk device, and may be an external storage medium such as an SD card, a DVD medium, or a BD medium that can be read by the terminal device 101.

  The server device 201 includes a computer and its peripheral devices, and includes a communication unit 202, a search unit 203, a conversion table storage unit 204, a second content storage unit 205, and the like.

  The communication unit 202 is a communication interface or the like, and performs data communication with the terminal device 101 through the network N. In the search unit 203, a program in the ROM is read and executed by the CPU, and its function is realized. The conversion table storage unit 204 and the second storage unit 205 are storage devices such as a hard disk device.

  Here, a plurality of contents are inputted and stored in the first content storage unit 104 of the terminal device 101 through an interface (not shown) of the terminal device 101. The content in the first content storage unit 104 is a personal property acquired by the user of the terminal device 101.

  In addition, a large number of contents are input and stored in the second content storage unit 205 of the server device 201 through the network N and an interface (not shown) of the server device 201. The content in the second content storage unit 205 is a shared material that can be used by an unspecified number of people.

  These contents are still images such as photographic images, and have accompanying information indicating shooting date and time, shooting position, and the like.

  In such a system, when content in the first content storage unit 104 of the terminal device 101 is output, other content related to this content is searched from the second content storage unit 205 of the server device 201, and These contents can be output together on the terminal device 101 side.

  Next, such content search and output processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the terminal device 101, after the power switch of the terminal device 101 is turned on and the terminal device 101 is activated, when content classification is instructed by an input operation of the input unit 102 (step S301), the terminal device 101 responds thereto. The content management unit 103 searches the content in the first content storage unit 104, generates a list of the searched content, and displays the content list on the screen of the display unit 109 through the display generation unit 108 ( Step S302).

  At this time, a list of all the contents in the first content storage unit 104 may be generated, or a list of some contents such as a content creation period, age, folder hierarchy, and a specific tag. May be generated. When generating a list of some contents, the classification of contents is instructed by an input operation of the input unit 102, and the creation period, age, folder hierarchy, specific tag, and the like are instructed. The content management unit 103 selects content corresponding to the instructed creation period, age, folder hierarchy, specific tag, and the like, and generates a list of the selected content. For example, content thumbnails and file names are displayed as a list.

  This list of contents is displayed on the screen of the display unit 109 and simultaneously output to the content classification unit 105. The content classification unit 105 refers to the accompanying information of each content in the list, and classifies each content into several content groups under the classification condition (step S303). This classification condition may be selected from a plurality of preset types by an input operation of the input unit 102 or may be set by an input operation of the input unit 102.

  The search condition generation unit 106 receives content of the content group from the content classification unit 105 via the content management unit 103, refers to the accompanying information of the content, and generates a search condition from the accompanying information (step S304). At this time, every time one content group is created by the content classification unit 105, a search condition may be generated from the accompanying information of each content included in the content group, or the first content storage unit may be generated by the content classification unit 105. After the classification of all the contents in 104 is completed and all the content groups are created, each search condition may be generated for each content group.

  When the content management unit 103 receives the search condition generated by the search condition generation unit 106, the content management unit 103 transmits the search condition from the communication unit 107 to the server device 201 through the network N, and the content corresponding to the search condition is transmitted to the server device. It requests to 201 (step S305).

  In the server device 201, the search condition from the terminal device 101 is received by the communication unit 202 through the network N, and this search condition is input to the search unit 203.

  The search unit 203 refers to the conversion table in the conversion table storage unit 204 and converts this search condition so as to match the accompanying information of each content in the second content storage unit 205, and the second content storage unit 205. The content having the accompanying information corresponding to the converted search condition is searched by referring to the accompanying information of each content, and the searched content is transmitted from the communication unit 202 to the terminal device 101 through the network N.

  The terminal device 101 waits for a response from the server device 201 (step S306), and when the content in the second content storage unit 205 is received by the communication unit 107 through the network N (“yes” in step S306), this content Is input to the content management unit 103 (step S307). The content management unit 103 outputs the content in the second content storage unit 205 and the content of the content group classified in step S303 to the display generation unit 108.

  When these contents are input, the display generation unit 108 generates a display layout of these contents (step S308), and displays and outputs these contents together on the screen of the display unit 109 in the display layout (step S309). .

  If no response is received from the server apparatus 201 and no content is received from the server apparatus 201 (“no” in step S306), only the contents of the content group classified in step S303 are displayed on the screen of the display unit 109. Is displayed and output (steps S308 and S309).

  Subsequently, for all content groups classified by the content classification unit 105, it is determined whether or not the processing in steps S304 to S309 has been completed (step S310). If not completed ("no" in step S310). If the processes in steps S304 to S309 are repeated and completed (“yes” in step S310), the process in FIG. 2 ends.

  Here, although the power switch of the terminal device 101 is turned on and the content classification is instructed by the input operation of the input unit 102, the process proceeds to the processing after step S302S and the content classification is started. Instead of this, when the power switch of the terminal device 101 is turned on, the process may proceed immediately to step S302S and subsequent steps.

  Further, when a recording medium such as a flash memory is attached or connected to the terminal apparatus 101 during operation of the terminal apparatus 101, it is determined whether or not content is recorded on the recording medium, and the content is recorded. If it is determined, the process may proceed to step S302S and subsequent steps.

  Furthermore, when a card such as an IC card or a mobile phone having a card function is held over while the terminal device 101 is operating, the card is scanned to determine whether or not specific information is recorded on the card. When it is determined that the information is included, the process may proceed to step S302S and subsequent steps. As a result, the user can proceed to the processing after step S302S only by scanning the card. For example, a card is scanned by a reader (such as a card reader or Felica) and (C: \ user) of the terminal device 101 or (\ 10.23.45.67 \ japan) or URL (http: // pro) of the server device 201 is scanned. It is determined whether an address on the Internet such as /) is recorded on the card, and when it is determined that this address is recorded, the process proceeds to step S302S and subsequent steps. In this case, an address indicating the location of the first content storage unit 104 or the second content storage unit 205 is set as an address, and this address is delivered to an application that executes the processing of the flowchart of FIG. The first content storage unit 104 and the second content storage unit 205 may be accessed. Further, when it is determined that this address is recorded, an application for executing the processing of the flowchart of FIG. 2 may be activated. Alternatively, when it is determined that this address is recorded, this fact may be displayed on the screen of the display unit 109, and the application may be started in response to an instruction by an input operation of the input unit 102 thereafter. Furthermore, it is determined that this address is recorded, the first content storage unit 104 or the second content storage unit 205 is accessed based on this address, and the content stored in these storage units is confirmed. The application may be activated.

  Further, user information is set as specific information recorded on the card, and a correspondence table between the user information and the addresses of the first content storage unit 104 and the second content storage unit 205 is stored in the memory of the terminal device 101. deep. Then, when the user information is read from the card, the addresses of the first content storage unit 104 and the second content storage unit 205 corresponding to the user information are obtained by referring to the table in the memory, and these addresses are shown in the flowchart of FIG. The first content storage unit 104 and the second content storage unit 205 may be accessed based on this address. Further, a process for creating a correspondence table between the user information and the addresses of the first content storage unit 104 and the second content storage unit 205 may be set so that the user can create the correspondence table. . Furthermore, a password, personal name, membership number, fingerprint, etc. may be set as user information. If it is a fingerprint, it is necessary to recognize and identify this fingerprint.

  Further, content classification conditions are also stored in a recording medium or a card, and when the card is held over, the content classification conditions are read from the card, and the classification conditions are transferred to the content classification unit 105, and the content classification unit 105. The content classification by may be started.

  Next, specific examples will be described for each content classification, search, and display.

  First, content classification will be described. For example, if the content is a photographic image, the first content storage unit 104 stores a plurality of photographic images that are personal belongings acquired by the user of the terminal device 101. The second content storage unit 205 stores a large number of photographic images provided by, for example, a photographic service company, which are shared materials that can be used by an unspecified number of people.

  Here, when the terminal device 101 is instructed to classify a photographic image by an input operation of the input unit 102, in response to this, the content management unit 103 searches for a photographic image in the first content storage unit 104. Then, a list of the retrieved photographic images is generated, and the photographic image list is displayed on the screen of the display unit 109 through the display generation unit 108.

  FIG. 3 illustrates a list of photographic images. In this list, accompanying information of each photographic image is described. The accompanying information includes a photo image identifier <picture id = "">, a photo image URL <url>, shooting date and time information <time>, shooting position latitude information <gps-lat>, and shooting position longitude information < gps-long>, user comment <comment>, etc. Of course, other information may be included as accompanying information, and the types of information may be increased or decreased. Although the accompanying information of the photographic image is described in XML, it may be described in another description language, binary data, or a structure data format handled in the program.

  This list of photographic images is displayed on the screen of the display unit 109 and simultaneously output to the content classification unit 105. The content classification unit 105 refers to the accompanying information of each photographic image in this list and classifies each photographic image into several content groups based on the classification condition.

  For example, the content classification unit 105 focuses on the longitude information <gps-long> of the shooting position, which is accompanying information of the photographic image, and refers to the longitude information <gps-long> of each photographic image to obtain one photographic image. The photographic position of a photographic image that falls within a certain area with the photographic position as the base point is obtained, and each photographic image is classified under a classification condition in which all the photographic images that have the photographing position within this certain area are set as one content group.

  When the shooting position of the photo image with the identifier <picture id = "1"> is used as the base point, the base point for each other photo image such as the identifier <picture id = "2"> or <picture id = "3"> The separation distance of the shooting positions is calculated. The difference between the shooting positions of the photographic image of the base point and the identifier <picture id = "2"> is 2 minutes in longitude, that is, a separation distance of about 3 km. Similarly, when the separation distance corresponding to the difference in longitude is obtained, the separation distance between the shooting position of the photograph image of the base point and the identifier <picture id = "3"> is 6 km, and the base point and the identifier <picture id = "4" The separation distance between the photographing positions of the photographic image is 7.5 km, and the separation distance between the photographing positions of the photographic image with the base point and the identifier <picture id = "5"> is 1.5 km.

  Then, for each of other photographic images such as the identifier <picture id = "2">, <picture id = "3">, the separation distance of the shooting position from the base point is compared with a threshold value, and if this separation distance is less than the threshold value, For example, the photo image is classified into the same content group as the photo image with the identifier <picture id = "1">, and if the separation distance is equal to or greater than the threshold, the photo image is identified with the identifier <picture id = "1"> Do not categorize in the same content group as the photographic image.

  Taking the shooting position of several photographic images as a base point, for each base point, the separation distance of the shooting position of the photographic image from the base point is obtained, and the separation distance of the shooting position of this photographic image is compared with a threshold value, Decide whether to classify into the same content group as the photographic image of the base point. Thereby, a plurality of content groups can be obtained.

  Of course, not only the longitude information <gps-long> but also the latitude information <gps-lat> may be used, or the distance between the shooting positions of each photographic image may be obtained using both.

  Note that the threshold value may be set and stored in advance in the memory of the terminal device 101, or may be appropriately changed or input set by an input operation of the input unit 102 by the user. It is also possible to change the threshold according to the base point, shooting date and time, content type, and the like. In addition, the entire shooting range may be obtained from the shooting positions of all the photographic images in the first content storage unit 104, and a threshold value corresponding to the entire shooting range may be calculated. For example, when the entire shooting range is wide, the threshold value is increased, and when the entire shooting range is narrow, the threshold value is set small. As a result, the number of photographic images included in each content group can be adjusted.

  Furthermore, the threshold value may be inquired from the terminal device 101 to the server device 201. For example, the terminal device 101 transmits the shooting position of the photographic image with the identifier <picture id = "1"> to the server device 201 to request a threshold value. The server device 201 includes a data table in which areas and thresholds are associated with each other. The server device 201 obtains an area where the shooting position from the terminal device 101 is entered, searches the data table for a threshold value corresponding to this area, and sets the threshold value to the terminal. Send to device 101. More specifically, as the data table, a data table in which a large threshold value is set corresponding to a large area of Mt. Fuji and a small threshold value is set corresponding to a narrow area such as an amusement park is used. If the shooting position enters a wide area of Mt. Fuji, a large threshold value corresponding to this area is transmitted to the terminal device 101. If the shooting position enters a narrow area of the amusement park, a small threshold value corresponding to this area is set to the terminal. Send to device 101. Accordingly, a photographic image at a shooting position that falls within a wide area can be included in one content group, and a photographic image at a shooting position that falls within a narrow area can be included in one content group. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a content group including a photographic image at a shooting position that falls within a wide area. Here, each picture image of identifier <picture id = "1">, identifier <picture id = "2">, and <picture id = "5"> is collected as one content group.

  As another method of classifying content, focus on the shooting date and time, not the shooting position, and refer to the shooting date and time information <time> of each photo image to classify photographic images with short mutual shooting time intervals into one content group It is also possible to classify each photographic image under the classification condition of performing.

  For example, the content classification unit 105 refers to the shooting date / time information <time> of each photographic image in the content list of FIG. 3 and rearranges the photographic images in the shooting order. Then, the content classification unit 105 sequentially selects each photo image from the top, calculates a shooting date difference between one photo image and the next photo image, and determines whether the date difference is less than a threshold value. If it is less than the threshold, the next group of photographic images is included in the content group of one photographic image, and if it is greater than or equal to the threshold, a new content group is set, and the next content group is set to the next content group. Include sequential photographic images. Thereby, it is possible to classify photographic images having a short shooting time interval into one content group.

  That is, how much time is available from a photographic image at a certain base point is calculated, and photographic images within a certain period of time are combined into one content group.

  For example, in FIG. 3, assuming that the photograph image with the identifier <picture id = "1"> is the base point, the time difference from the photograph image with <id = "2"> is 0 minute, and the photograph image with <id = "3"> The time difference from the photo image of <id = "4"> is 17 minutes, and the time difference from the photo of <id = "5"> is 22 minutes. Then, the time difference of each photographic image is compared with a threshold value, and depending on whether or not the time difference is less than the threshold value, whether these photographic images are grouped into a content group of photographic image of <picture id = "1"> Decide whether or not.

  When the threshold is 10 minutes, <picture id = "1">, <id = "2">, <id = "3"> are combined into one content group.

  When one content group is gathered, the next photographic image is selected, the time difference from a photographic image that does not belong to any content group is calculated, and if this time difference is less than the threshold, the photographic image Are grouped into new content groups.

  There is also a method of shifting a photographic image as a base point.

  For example, in FIG. 3, the time difference from the photo image of <id = "2"> is acquired from the photo image of the identifier <picture id = "1"> as a base point, and if this time difference is less than the threshold, the photo image Into the content group. If the threshold is exceeded, a new content group is created. Then, using the photo image of <id = "2"> as a base point, the time difference from the photo image of <id = "3"> is acquired. If this time difference is less than the threshold, the photo image is added to a new content group. If it exceeds the threshold, a new content group is created. Thereafter, the same processing is repeated.

  When the threshold is 10 minutes, <picture id = "1">, <id = "2">, <id = "3">, <id = "4"> are one content group, and <id = “5”> is another content group. As a result, photographic images with a short photographing time interval can be made into one content group.

  The threshold value can be set by various methods in the same manner as the threshold value compared with the separation distance of the photographing position of the photographic image described above. For example, the maximum value of the time difference may be calculated for the entire photographic image in the first content storage unit 104, and the threshold value may be set small when the maximum value is large, and the threshold value may be set small when the time difference is small. As a result, the number of photographic images included in the content group can be adjusted.

  In addition, the content group can be created not only at the photographing time of the photographic image, but also on a daily basis, on a weekly basis, on a monthly basis, on a yearly basis, or on a seasonal basis or morning / day / night basis.

  Further, instead of automatically adjusting the threshold value, the date and time information is transmitted from the terminal apparatus 101 to the server apparatus 201, and a list of contents close to the date and time of the date and time information is created on the server 201 side. May be returned to the server apparatus 201.

  As another method for classifying content, a photographic image may be classified into a content group by using both the shooting date and the shooting position instead of selectively using the shooting date and the shooting position.

  For example, referring to the shooting date / time information <time> of each photo image in the content list of FIG. 3, the photo images are rearranged in the shooting order thereof. Then, the content classification unit 105 sequentially selects each photographic image from the top, obtains a separation distance between the photographing position of one photographic image and the photographing position of the next photographic image, and this separation distance is less than the threshold value. If it is less than the threshold, the next group of photographic images is included in the content group of one photographic image, and if it is greater than or equal to the threshold, a new content group is set and this new content is set. Include the next photographic image in the group. Thereby, it is possible to classify photographic images at photographing positions close to each other in order of photographing date and time into one content group. By using this method, it is possible to classify photographic images such as travel according to the date and time and place them in the same content group, so that it can be classified more favorably for the user.

  Furthermore, when a shooting position is attached to only some of the photographic images, the photographic images can be classified into content groups using the shooting position and the shooting date / time.

  A process for classifying photographic images into content groups will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  Upon receiving the list of photographic images, the content classification unit 105 refers to the accompanying information of each photographic image and determines the presence / absence of a shooting position for each photographic image (step S601). If there is a photographic image accompanied by a photographing position, the photographing position of the photographic image is set as a base point, and photographing date / time information is acquired from the accompanying information of the photographic image (step S602).

  Subsequently, the content classification unit 105 acquires shooting date / time information from the incidental information of the photo image one order before the photo image that is the base point (step S603), and calculates the time difference between the shooting dates / times of these photo images. Then, it is determined whether or not this time difference is less than the threshold value (S604). If it is less than the threshold (“yes” in step S604), the process returns to step S603 to obtain shooting date / time information from the accompanying information of the previous photographic image (step S603). The time difference between the photographing date and time of the photograph image obtained in the previous step S603 is obtained, and it is determined whether or not this time difference is less than the threshold value (S604). Thereafter, similarly, if it is less than the threshold value (“yes” in step S604), the process returns to step S603 to obtain shooting date / time information from the accompanying information of the previous photographic image (step S603), and is adjacent on the list. A time difference between the shooting dates and times of two matching photographic images is obtained, and it is determined whether or not this time difference is less than a threshold value (step S604). When the threshold value is exceeded ("no" in step S604), the process returns to the next photographic image in order, and this photographic image is set as the first photographic image in the content group (step S605).

  That is, as long as the time difference between the shooting dates and times is less than the threshold value, the photographic images are sequentially included in one content group.

  Next, the content classification unit 105 returns to the photographic image that is the base point (step S606), and obtains the shooting date / time information from the accompanying information of the photographic image one order after the photographic image (step S607). Then, a time difference between the photographing dates and times of these photographic images is obtained, and it is determined whether or not this time difference is less than a threshold value (S608). If it is less than the threshold value (“yes” in step S608), the process returns to step S607 to acquire shooting date / time information from the accompanying information of the next photographic image (step S607). The time difference between the photographing date and time of the photograph image obtained in the previous step S607 is obtained, and it is determined whether or not this time difference is less than the threshold value (S608). Thereafter, similarly, if it is less than the threshold value (“yes” in step S608), the process returns to step S607 to obtain shooting date / time information from the accompanying information of the next photographic image (step S607), and is adjacent on the list. A time difference between the shooting dates and times of two matching photographic images is obtained, and it is determined whether or not this time difference is less than a threshold value (step S608). When the value is equal to or greater than the threshold (“no” in step S608), the process returns to the previous photographic image and sets this photographic image as the last photographic image in the content group (step S609).

  That is, as long as the time difference between the shooting dates and times is less than the threshold, the photographic images are sequentially advanced and included in one content group.

  Thus, the first photographic image and the last photographic image are obtained, and the contents from the first photographic image to the last photographic image are set as one content group (step S610).

  In the process of FIG. 5, as long as the time difference between the shooting dates and times of two adjacent photographic images on the list is less than the threshold, these photographic images are combined into one content group. You may use the classification conditions which make the photograph image image | photographed within the fixed time centering on the date and time as one content group. For example, when the photographing date and time of the base photographic image is AM 9:00 and the predetermined time is 2 hours, all the photographic images whose photographing date and time are included in the range of AM 8:00 to AM 10:00 are combined into one content group. Put together.

  When comments or marks are set as accompanying information of photographic images, the photographic images can be classified into content groups using these comments or marks.

  For example, in the list of photographic images in FIG. 3, there are photographic images in which comment information <comment> is set as accompanying information and photographic images that are not set. The content classification unit 105 refers to the accompanying information of each photographic image in the list of photographic images, determines the presence or absence of comment information <comment> for each photographic image, and extracts only photographic images having the comment information <comment>. Into one content group.

  Alternatively, the accompanying information of each photographic image is sequentially read out in the order of the photographic images on the list and in the order of the photographic images arranged according to the shooting date and time, and the presence or absence of comment information <comment> is determined for each photographic image. If there is a photographic image having comment information <comment>, each photographic image in the order up to this photographic image is collected into one content group, and another photographic image having comment information <comment> from the next photographic image. Each photographic image in the order up to is collected into another content group. Alternatively, if there is a photographic image having comment information <comment>, the photographic images in the order one order before this photographic image are collected into one content group, and the comment information <comment> is obtained from this photographic image. Each photographic image in the order up to one prior to another photographic image may be combined into another content group. Of course, as with comments, each photographic image can be grouped into a content group using a mark as an index.

  Although several methods have been described for classifying photographic images in this way, there are still other methods. For example, the user may manually classify. The manual classification method is, for example, when thumbnails of photographic images are displayed on the screen, and the user selects a photographic image belonging to the content group or displays a slideshow of photographic images, the user belongs to the content group. For example, you can specify input of photographic images sequentially.

  The classification condition may be set as default, or may be input or changed by an input operation of the input unit 102. Alternatively, a plurality of types of classification conditions are set in advance, these classification conditions are displayed on the screen of the display unit 109, and one of the classification conditions on the screen is selected by an input operation of the input unit 102. It doesn't matter. After the content list is displayed in step S302, the process proceeds to step S303 after the classification condition is input or selected, or the process proceeds to step S303 unless the classification condition is input or selected. May be prohibited.

  Next, content search will be described. In the terminal device 101, when a content group is created by the content classification unit 105, the content group is delivered to the search condition generation unit 106 via the content management unit 103. The search condition generation unit 106 uses the accompanying information of the photographic images included in the content group to search for photographic images related to the content group from among the photographic images in the second content storage unit 205 of the server device 201. Generate search conditions for. For example, each shooting position is acquired from the accompanying information of each photo image of the content group in FIG. 4, and the center position of these shooting positions is obtained as a search condition. This search condition is transmitted and received from the terminal device 101 to the server device 201.

  In the server device 201, the search condition from the terminal device 101 is received by the communication unit 202 and input to the search unit 203. When the search condition is input, the search unit 203 refers to the correspondence table in the conversion table storage unit 204 and searches for the identifier of the photographic image corresponding to the center position as the search condition. The conversion table storage unit 204 stores in advance a correspondence table in which areas including a large number of positions are associated with identifiers of photographic images. With reference to the correspondence table, the conversion table storage unit 204 corresponds to an area including a specified position. The identifier of a photographic image can be searched. When the search unit 203 searches for an identifier corresponding to the center position that is the search condition, the search unit 203 refers to the accompanying information of each photographic image in the second content storage unit 205 and searches for a photographic image including the searched identifier in the accompanying information. Search for. The retrieved photographic image is transmitted / received from the server apparatus 201 to the terminal apparatus 101.

  If a plurality of photographic images corresponding to the search condition exist in the second content storage unit 205, all of these photographic images may be transmitted from the server device 201 to the terminal device 101, or the server device The upper limit number of photographic images may be set on the 201 side, and photographic images equal to or smaller than the upper limit number may be transmitted to the terminal device 101. Alternatively, the place name corresponding to the search condition may be searched on the server apparatus 201 side, and the place name may be added to the accompanying information of the photograph image, and then the photograph image may be transmitted to the terminal apparatus 101.

  As a search condition, a place name including the center position may be set instead of the center position of the photographing position of each photographic image in the content group. In this case, a data table in which an area including a large number of positions and a place name are associated is provided on the terminal device 101 side, and a place name corresponding to the area including the center position is searched from the data table by the search condition generation unit 106. The terminal name 101 is transmitted from the terminal device 101 to the server device 201 as a search condition. In the server apparatus 201, when the place name of the search condition is received, the search unit 203 searches the place name of the search condition from the accompanying information of each photographic image in the second content storage unit 205, and obtains a photographic image including the place name in the accompanying information. The photographic image is transmitted to the terminal device 101.

  Alternatively, a plurality of search conditions can be used instead of limiting the search conditions to one. For example, in the terminal device 101, the search condition generation unit 106 extracts all the shooting positions from the accompanying information of each photographic image of the content group, and generates a list of the shooting positions of each photographic image as shown in FIG. This list is transmitted to the server apparatus 201 as a search condition. In the server apparatus 201, the photographing position of each photographic image in the list is compared with the photographing position of the accompanying information of each photographic image in the second content storage unit 205, and the photographic image at the photographing position that matches the list side is secondly compared. A search is made from the content storage unit 205 to obtain this photographic image, and this photographic image is transmitted to the terminal device 101. In this case, even if it does not completely match the shooting position of the list, a photo image of the shooting position within the area centered on the shooting position of the list may be retrieved from the second content storage unit 205. May be distinguished from a photographic image at a shooting position in the area and transmitted to the terminal device 101, and these photographic images may be distinguished and displayed on the terminal device 101 side. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, a match tag <match> indicating whether or not the photographing positions completely match is added as accompanying information, and such distinction display is performed based on the match tag <match>.

  Next, content display will be described. In the terminal device 101, the photographic image retrieved from the second content storage unit 205 is received by the communication unit 107, and the photographic image in the second content storage unit 205 is input to the content management unit 103. The content management unit 103 displays the photographic image in the second content storage unit 205 and the photographic image of the content group previously classified by the content classification unit 105, that is, the photographic image in the first content storage unit 104, on the display generation unit 108. Output. The display generation unit 108 sets the display order and display layout of these photographic images, and displays these photographic images on the screen of the display unit 109.

  For example, the photographic image P1 of the second content storage unit 205 is displayed on the screen of the display unit 109 as shown in FIG. 8A, and each of the first content storage unit 104 is thereafter displayed as shown in FIG. 8B. The photographic images P2 and P3 are sequentially displayed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 8A, the place name 11 of the search condition is displayed together with the photographic image P1 of the second content storage unit 205, or the photographic image of the second content storage unit 205 of the server device 201 is displayed. You may display the mark 12 to show, or the separation distance 13 of the photographing position of each photograph image. This facilitates the distinction between the photograph image taken by the photographer and the photograph image provided by the photograph service company.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9, the photographic image P11 of the second content storage unit 205 and the photographic image P12 of the first content storage unit 104 may be laid out and displayed on the screen of the display unit 109.

  Further, since the photographic images acquired from the first content storage unit 104 and the second content storage unit 205 are automatically selected or searched, they are not necessarily preferable for the user, and are not intended by the user. It may not be suitable. For this reason, an unintended photographic image can be selected by the input operation of the input unit 102, and the photographic image can be deleted.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 10, when the photographic image P21 is displayed on the screen of the display unit 109, the photographic image P21 on the screen is selected by the input operation of the input unit 102, and the photographic image P21 is deleted. Instruct. In response to this, the content management unit 103 deletes the selected photographic image from the photographic images acquired from the first content storage unit 104 and the second content storage unit 205.

  In addition, information such as a URL for accessing the work purchase screen of the photograph image provider may be included as the accompanying information of the photograph image in the second content storage unit 205. Then, as shown in FIG. 11A, a button B1 or the like for starting the browser is displayed on the screen of the display unit 109, and when the button B1 on the screen is operated by an input operation of the input unit 102, In response to this, the content management unit 103 activates a browser or the like, calls a work purchase screen corresponding to the URL via the Internet, and displays a work purchase screen as shown in FIG. 11B on the screen of the display unit 109. To do. This makes it possible to widely introduce and sell photographic images taken by the photographic image provider.

  Here, with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 12A and 12B, a processing procedure for calling a screen using a URL that is accompanying information of a photographic image will be described.

  First, in the terminal device 101, when the button B1 on the screen is operated by an input operation of the input unit 102 (step S701 in FIG. 12A), in response to this, the content management unit 103 activates a browser or the like. Then, a request message including information such as a URL for accessing the work purchase screen is created, and this request message is transmitted to the server apparatus 201 through the network N (step S702 in FIG. 12A). The server apparatus 201 waits for a response from the server apparatus 201 (step S703 in FIG. 12A).

  Upon receiving the request message (step S721 “yes” in FIG. 12B), the server apparatus 201 analyzes the request message and extracts information such as a URL included in the message (FIG. 12B). Step S722)), using the information such as the URL, the contents necessary for the work purchase screen are collected, and a response message including the contents necessary for the work purchase screen is created (FIG. 12B). Step S723), this response message is returned to the terminal device 101 through the network N (Step S724 in FIG. 12B).

  When the terminal device 101 receives the response message (step S704 in FIG. 12A), the response message is analyzed, and the content necessary for the work purchase screen included in the message is extracted (FIG. 12 ( Step S705 of a), a work purchase screen is created using this content or the like (step S706 of FIG. 12A), and this work purchase screen is displayed on the screen of the display unit 109 (FIG. 12A). Step S707).

  Although the browser is activated in response to the operation of the button B1, the request message may be transmitted according to a protocol such as HTTP without activating the browser. Also in this case, it is possible to receive the work purchase screen or the content necessary for the work purchase screen as a response to this request message. The server device that receives and responds to the request message from the terminal device 101 is not specified by the server device 201 and may be any server device on the Internet.

  As described above, in the system according to the present embodiment, when content in the first content storage unit 104 of the terminal device 101 is output, other content related to this content is searched from the second content storage unit 205 of the server device 201. Thus, the content can be output together on the terminal device 101 side. For example, when a photographic image of a trip taken by the user is stored in the first content storage unit 104 and a photographic image provided by a photo service company is stored in the second content storage unit 205, the user can use the second content storage unit. Even if a photographic image in 205 is not selected, a photographic image related to the photographic image in the first content storage unit 104 is selected from the second content storage unit 205, and the photographic image taken by himself and the photo of the photographic service company are selected. Since the images are displayed and output together, it is possible to display high-quality photographic images or slide shows.

  In addition, information such as the place name and URL for accessing the work purchase screen of the photograph image provider is set as accompanying information, so the place name of the shooting position of the photo image can be displayed, and the work purchase screen can be quickly displayed. Can be called to promote the purchase of works.

  If not only the photographic image but also audio information such as BGM is stored in the second content storage unit 205 together with the photographic image, the audio information such as the photographic image and BGM is retrieved from the second content storage unit 205, These can be transmitted / received from the server apparatus 201 to the terminal apparatus 101. The terminal apparatus 101 can reproduce sound of BGM or the like when displaying a photographic image or a slide show. In this case as well, information such as URL for accessing the work purchase screen of the provider such as BGM is provided as accompanying information in the voice information, and the browser is started on the screen of the display unit 109 as shown in FIG. Button B2 etc. are displayed. When the button B2 on the screen is operated by the input operation of the input unit 102, in response to this, the content management unit 103 activates a browser or the like and calls the work purchase screen corresponding to the URL through the Internet. You may do it. This makes it possible to widely introduce and sell music composed by providers such as BGM. In particular, artists such as semi-professional and independent artists have a lower degree of music recognition than professional artists, and thus can provide a wide range of works and advertisements in cooperation with such a photo image providing service.

  In addition, the system of this embodiment can be applied to various other information services. For example, the system of this embodiment can be used for EC services. In the terminal device 101, the user's purchased product image and accompanying information are stored in the first content storage unit 104, the product image is classified into content groups based on the accompanying information by the content classifying unit 105, and a search condition generating unit A search condition is generated from the accompanying information of the product image of the content group by 106, and the search condition is transmitted to the server device 201. The server device 201 searches for the product image from the second content storage unit 205 using the search condition, and transmits the product image to the terminal device 101. In the terminal device 101, as shown in FIG. 14 (a), the product image in the first content storage unit 104 is displayed on the screen of the display unit 109 as already purchased, and then the second image as shown in FIG. 14 (b). The product images retrieved from the content storage unit 205 are displayed as recommended ones. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 15, the purchased product image and the recommended product image are laid out and displayed on the screen of the display unit 109.

  When implementing such EC services, it is possible to treat various products such as paintings, amateur works, and various products that are lined up in stores such as supermarkets as content and show them as a slide show or sell them. it can.

  Further, not only photographic images and audio information but also moving images and texts may be handled as contents.

  FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating a modification of the terminal device 101 of FIG. In this modified example, a first content storage unit 111 that stores user's personal content is provided in a server storage or the like on the network N. Further, the terminal device 101 is provided with a first content acquisition unit 112 for accessing the first content storage unit 111 on the network N. A second content storage unit 113 that stores content that can be used by an unspecified number of people is also provided in a server storage or the like on the network N.

  The first content acquisition unit 112 of the terminal device 101 accesses the first content storage unit 111 on the network N via the communication unit 107 and reads and acquires the content from the first content storage unit 111. Thereafter, the same processing as in the system of FIG. 1 is performed, the contents in the first content storage unit 111 are classified into content groups, search conditions are generated, and the second content is transmitted through the network N based on the search conditions. The content in the storage unit 113 is searched, the content is taken into the terminal device 101, and the content in the first content storage unit 111 and the content in the second content storage unit 113 are output together.

  FIG. 17 shows a modification of the content output system of FIG. Here, the server device 201 is provided with the first content storage unit 104, and the terminal device 101 is provided with the first content acquisition unit 112 for accessing the first content storage unit 104 on the network N.

  The first content acquisition unit 112 of the terminal device 101 accesses the first content storage unit 104 of the server device 201 via the communication unit 107 and reads and acquires the content from the first content storage unit 104. Thereafter, the same processing as in the system of FIG. 1 is performed, the contents in the first content storage unit 104 are classified into content groups, search conditions are generated, and the second of the server apparatus 201 is based on the search conditions. The content in the content storage unit 205 is searched, the content is taken into the terminal device 101, and the content in the first content storage unit 104 and the content in the second content storage unit 205 are output together.

  FIG. 18 shows another modification of the content output system of FIG. Here, the server device 201 is provided with a first content storage unit 104, a content management unit 103, a content classification unit 105, and a search condition generation unit 106.

  In the terminal device 101, when content classification is instructed by an input operation of the input unit 102, in response to this, the control unit 115 transmits a content classification instruction from the communication unit 107 to the server device 201 through the network N. .

  In the server apparatus 201, a content classification instruction is received by the communication unit 202 and input to the content management unit 103. Thereafter, the same processing as in the system of FIG. 1 is performed to classify the contents in the first content storage unit 111 into content groups, generate search conditions, and the second content storage unit 113 based on the search conditions. Search for content in Then, for each content group, the content in the first content storage unit 111 and the content in the second content storage unit 113 are read, and these contents are returned to the terminal device 101 through the network N.

  The terminal device 101 receives a plurality of contents for each content group and displays them on the screen of the display unit 109.

  FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the content output apparatus of the present invention. The content output device 121 of this embodiment is configured by adding a second content storage unit 205 and a conversion table storage unit 204 to the terminal device 101 of FIG. The second content storage unit 205 stores a large number of contents. These contents are collected through the network N from other terminal devices and server devices. The conversion table storage unit 204 performs the same function as the conversion table storage unit 204 in the server apparatus 201 of FIG.

  Since such a content output device 121 includes the second content storage unit 205 and the conversion table storage unit 204, there is no need to access an external server device unlike the terminal device 101 of FIG. When the content stored in the content storage unit 104 is output, other content related to the content can be searched from the second content storage unit 205 and the content can be output together.

  As mentioned above, although preferred embodiment of this invention was described referring an accompanying drawing, it cannot be overemphasized that this invention is not limited to the example which concerns. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the claims, and these are naturally within the technical scope of the present invention. It is understood.

  For example, not only photographic images and audio information but also other still images such as graphics and moving images can be handled by the present invention in the same manner as photographic images and audio information.

  Further, it is not necessary for each of the first and second content storage units to be single, and a plurality of them can be provided, and a plurality of types of memory devices may be mixed and applied. For example, a plurality of first content storage units can be provided in one or both of the terminal device and the server device, or distributed on the network. Similarly, a second content storage unit can be provided.

  Further, instead of using the display unit 109 of the terminal device 101, a TV image signal may be output from the terminal device 101 to the TV, and the display content similar to the screen of the display unit 109 may be displayed on the TV screen. Is possible. Alternatively, the function of the terminal device 101 can be incorporated in the TV set. In this case, content can be viewed and EC service can be received in the same manner as viewing TV programs.

  Alternatively, an image signal for another type of display device may be output, and the display content similar to the screen of the display unit 109 may be displayed on the screen of the other type of display device. Other types of display devices include portable terminals.

  The present invention is not limited to a content output device or a content output system, and includes a content output method, a content output program, and a recording medium storing the content output program on the premise of using a computer. The computer may be any device that can execute the program.

  Further, the computer can implement the present invention by reading a program from a recording medium, receiving the program through a communication network, and executing the program. In a system composed of a plurality of computers and the Internet, a plurality of processes can be distributed to a plurality of terminals. Therefore, the program can be applied not only to a single terminal such as a computer but also to a system.

  The present invention can be applied to a personal computer or the like that displays or reproduces content composed of images, sounds, and the like.

101 terminal device 102 input unit 103 content management unit 104 first content storage unit 105 content classification unit 106 search condition generation unit 107 communication unit 108 display generation unit 109 display unit 201 server device 202 communication unit 203 search unit 204 conversion table storage unit 205 Second content storage unit

Claims (19)

In a content output system that performs information communication between a terminal device and a server device through a network,
The terminal device
First content storage means for storing a plurality of contents;
Classification means for classifying accompanying information of each content in the first content storage means according to a content group classification condition, and obtaining content belonging to the content group from the contents;
Search condition generation means for generating a search condition from the accompanying information of the content of the content group obtained by the classification means;
Communication means for transmitting the search condition generated by the search condition generation means to the server apparatus, and receiving content corresponding to the search condition from the server apparatus as a response to the transmission of the search condition;
An output unit that outputs both the content of the content group obtained by the classification unit and the content received from the server device;
The server device is
Second content storage means for storing a plurality of contents;
Communication means for receiving a search condition from the terminal device and transmitting content corresponding to the search condition to the terminal device;
A content output system comprising: search means for searching for content that satisfies the received search condition from the second content storage means.   The output means sets a display layout of the content of the content group obtained by the classification means and the content received from the server device, and displays and outputs these contents in the display layout. Item 4. The content output system according to Item 1.   The content output system according to claim 1, wherein the output unit outputs the content of the content group obtained by the classification unit and the content received from the server device in an identifiable manner.   2. The content output system according to claim 1, wherein the output unit outputs the content of the content group obtained by the classification unit and the content received from the server device together with accompanying information of each content.   The content output system according to claim 1, wherein the terminal device includes input operation means for inputting a classification condition of the content group.   2. The content according to claim 1, wherein the classification condition of the content group is set in advance, changed by an input operation of an input operation unit, or input set by an input operation of an input operation unit. Output system.   The content output system according to claim 1, wherein the accompanying information is position information or date / time information.   The classification means compares position information or date / time information, which is accompanying information of each content in the first content storage means, with a threshold value, and obtains content belonging to a content group from the contents. The content output system according to claim 7.   The classifying unit arranges each content in time series using date and time information that is associated information of each content in the first content storage unit, and then uses position information that is associated information of each content to arrange 8. The content output system according to claim 7, wherein each of the contents is classified into a content group.   The threshold value is preset, changed by an input operation of an input operation unit, input set by an input operation of an input operation unit, or changed based on accompanying information of content. The content output system according to claim 8. The terminal device transmits accompanying information of each content in the first content storage means to the server device to request a classification condition of the content group;
The content output according to claim 1, wherein in response to this, the server device obtains a classification condition for the content group based on the accompanying information of each content, and transmits the classification condition for the content group to the terminal device. system. The content transmitted from the server device to the terminal device includes an address on the Internet,
In response to an input operation at the terminal device, the address is transmitted from the terminal device to the server device or another server device, and the server device that has received the address collects information based on the address. 2. The content output system according to claim 1, wherein the server device transmits and receives the information to the terminal device, and displays the information on the terminal device. In a content output system that performs information communication between a terminal device and a server device through a network,
The server device is
First content storage means for storing a plurality of contents;
Second content storage means for storing a plurality of contents;
Communication means for transmitting content in the first content storage means to the terminal device, receiving a search condition from the terminal device as a response to the transmission of the content, and transmitting content corresponding to the search condition to the terminal device; ,
Search means for searching for content corresponding to the received search condition from the second content storage means,
The terminal device
Classification means for receiving each content in the first content storage means from the server device, classifying the accompanying information of each content according to a content group classification condition, and obtaining content belonging to the content group from among the contents When,
Search condition generation means for generating a search condition from the accompanying information of the content of the content group obtained by the classification means;
Communication means for transmitting the search condition generated by the search condition generation means to the server apparatus, and receiving content corresponding to the search condition from the server apparatus as a response to the transmission of the search condition;
A content output system comprising: output means for outputting content of the content group obtained by the classification means and each content received from the server device. In a content output system that performs information communication between a terminal device and a server device through a network,
The server device is
First and second content storage means each storing a plurality of contents;
Classification means for classifying accompanying information of each content in the first content storage means according to a content group classification condition, and obtaining content belonging to the content group from the contents;
Search condition generation means for generating a search condition from the accompanying information of the content of the content group obtained by the classification means;
Search means for searching the content corresponding to the search condition generated by the search condition generation means from the second content storage means;
Communication means for transmitting both the content of the content group obtained by the classification means and the content searched by the search means to the terminal device;
The terminal device
Communication means for receiving each content from a server device;
A content output system comprising output means for outputting these contents. In a server device that performs information communication with a terminal device through a network,
First and second content storage means each storing a plurality of contents;
Classification means for classifying accompanying information of each content in the first content storage means according to a content group classification condition, and obtaining content belonging to the content group from the contents;
Search condition generation means for generating a search condition from the accompanying information of the content of the content group obtained by the classification means;
Search means for searching the content corresponding to the search condition generated by the search condition generation means from the second content storage means;
A server device comprising: a communication unit that transmits the content of the content group obtained by the classification unit and the content searched by the search unit to a terminal device. First and second content storage means each storing a plurality of contents;
Classification means for classifying accompanying information of each content in the first content storage means according to a content group classification condition, and obtaining content belonging to the content group from the contents;
Search condition generation means for generating a search condition from the accompanying information of the content of the content group obtained by the classification means;
Search means for searching the content corresponding to the search condition generated by the search condition generation means from the second content storage means;
A content output apparatus comprising: output means for outputting together the content of the content group obtained by the classification means and the content searched by the search means. In a content output method for outputting content using a computer,
Computer
First and second content storage means each storing a plurality of contents;
Classification means for classifying accompanying information of each content in the first content storage means according to a content group classification condition, and obtaining content belonging to the content group from the contents;
Search condition generation means for generating a search condition from the accompanying information of the content of the content group obtained by the classification means;
Search means for searching the content corresponding to the search condition generated by the search condition generation means from the second content storage means;
A content output method comprising: functioning as an output unit that outputs the content of the content group obtained by the classification unit and the content searched by the search unit together. In a content output program for outputting content using a computer,
Computer
First and second content storage means each storing a plurality of contents;
Classification means for classifying accompanying information of each content in the first content storage means according to a content group classification condition, and obtaining content belonging to the content group from the contents;
Search condition generation means for generating a search condition from the accompanying information of the content of the content group obtained by the classification means;
Search means for searching the content corresponding to the search condition generated by the search condition generation means from the second content storage means;
What is claimed is: 1. A content output program that functions as an output unit that outputs a content group content obtained by the classification unit and a content searched by the search unit together.   A recording medium storing the content output program according to claim 18.

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