JP2010283559A - Input switching device and television receiver - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an input switching device improving operability in input switching and a television receiver. <P>SOLUTION: An image detection unit 17 detects a change of an image based on an image imaged by a CCD camera 16 and decides which object has moved based on object information stored in an object storage means. A control unit 13 switches to external input corresponding to the decided object. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an input switching device capable of switching a plurality of external inputs, and more particularly to an input switching device capable of switching external inputs by remote operation and a television receiver including the input switching device.

  In general, switching of external input in a device such as a television receiver has been performed by remote operation using a remote control device (remote control device) that performs infrared communication. Also, when operating a device connected to an external input, a remote controller attached to each device is used. For this reason, the operator must switch the external input with the remote control device and then move to the remote control device attached to the device to be used to operate the device, which is very troublesome and inconvenient for the operator. there were. Therefore, for example, as a conventional remote operation means, the movement of the human body, the shape of the finger, etc. are imaged, the movement is recognized, and the operation corresponding to the recognition result is performed, and the operation by the remote control device is performed. Some were unnecessary (Patent Document 1)

JP 2004-349915 A

  However, even if the remote control means disclosed in the above-mentioned patent document is used, the original operation for switching the external input is still required as in the case of the external input switching operation by the conventional remote control device. For the operator, the trouble of switching the external input remains.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an input switching device and a television receiver that can improve the operability of input switching.

In order to solve the above problems, the invention according to claim 1 is an input switching device, wherein external input receiving means for receiving a plurality of external inputs;
Object storage means for storing a plurality of types of object information capable of specifying an object and external input information for specifying any of the plurality of external inputs in association with each other;
An imaging means for capturing an image;
Image detecting means for detecting a change in the image based on the image picked up by the image pickup means;
An object determination means for determining which object has moved based on the object information stored in the object storage means when a change in the image is detected by the image detection means;
Input switching means for switching to an external input corresponding to the object determined by the object determination means;
It is characterized by providing.

Invention of Claim 2 is the input switching device of Claim 1, Comprising: The registration operation reception means which receives predetermined | prescribed registration operation,
When the registration operation is accepted by the registration operation accepting unit, object information is generated based on the object imaged by the imaging unit, and the generated object information and the plurality of external inputs are generated. An imaging target registration unit that associates and stores external input information that specifies any one of them in the target storage unit;
It is provided with.

Invention of Claim 3 is the input switching device of Claim 1 or 2, Comprising: The information reception means which receives object information from the outside,
Receiving object registration means for associating and storing the object information received by the information receiving means and external input information for specifying any of the plurality of external inputs in the object storage means;
It is provided with.

Invention of Claim 4 is the input switching apparatus as described in any one of Claims 1-3, Comprising: The audio | voice output means which outputs an audio | voice,
Sound volume setting information storage means in which sound volume setting data in which sound volume output by the sound output means is associated with each external input is stored in advance;
Volume setting means for setting the volume according to the external input switched by the input switching means based on the volume setting data stored in the volume setting information storage means;
It is characterized by providing.

Invention of Claim 5 is the input switching apparatus of Claim 4, Comprising: The face information storage means in which the face information which can identify an individual's face was memorize | stored,
Face detection means for detecting an individual's face based on an image picked up by the image pickup means;
Personal identification means for identifying the individual face detected by the face detection means based on the face information stored in the face information storage means,
The volume setting information storage means stores the volume setting data in association with each face information stored in the face information storage means,
The volume setting means sets the volume according to the external input switched by the input switching means and the individual specified by the individual specifying means based on the volume setting data.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the input switching device, external input receiving means for receiving a plurality of external inputs;
Object storage means for storing a plurality of types of object information capable of specifying an object and external input information for specifying any of the plurality of external inputs in association with each other;
An imaging means for capturing an image;
Image detecting means for detecting a change in the image based on the image picked up by the image pickup means;
An object determination means for determining which object has moved based on the object information stored in the object storage means when a change in the image is detected by the image detection means;
Input switching means for switching to an external input corresponding to the object determined by the object determination means;
A registration operation accepting means for accepting a predetermined registration operation;
When the registration operation is accepted by the registration operation accepting unit, object information is generated based on the object imaged by the imaging unit, and the generated object information and the plurality of external inputs are generated. Imaging object registration means for associating and storing any external input information in the object storage means;
Information receiving means for receiving object information from outside;
Receiving object registration means for associating the object information received by the information receiving means with any external input information of the plurality of external inputs and storing it in the object storage means;
Face information storage means storing face information capable of specifying an individual's face;
Face detection means for detecting an individual's face based on an image picked up by the image pickup means;
Personal identification means for identifying an individual's face detected by the face detection means based on the face information stored in the face information storage means;
Audio output means for outputting audio;
Sound volume setting information storage means in which sound volume setting data in which sound volume output by the sound output means is associated with each external input and for each face information stored in the face information storage means;
Volume setting means for setting the volume according to the individual specified by the external input switched by the input switching means and the individual specifying means based on the volume setting data stored in the volume setting information storage means;
It is characterized by providing.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a television receiver includes the input switching device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the input switching apparatus and television receiver which can aim at the improvement of operativity of input switching can be provided.

It is a schematic diagram showing arrangement | positioning of the digital television receiver which concerns on this invention, and the external apparatus connected to this. It is a block diagram showing the principal part structure of the digital television which concerns on this invention. It is a functional block diagram showing the function of the digital television which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart showing the program run in the control part of the digital television which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart showing the program run in the control part of the digital television which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart showing the program run in the control part of the digital television which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart showing the program run in the control part of the digital television which concerns on this invention. It is a figure showing the data table memorize | stored in the control part of the digital television which concerns on this invention. It is a figure showing the image | video displayed on the display screen of the digital television receiver which concerns on this invention. It is a figure showing the image | video displayed on the display screen of the digital television receiver which concerns on this invention. It is a figure showing the image | video displayed on the display screen of the digital television receiver which concerns on this invention. It is a figure showing the image | video displayed on the display screen of the digital television receiver which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart showing the program performed in the image detection part of the digital television which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart showing the program performed in the image detection part of the digital television which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart showing the program performed in the image detection part of the digital television which concerns on this invention. It is a figure showing the data table memorize | stored in the image detection part of the digital television which concerns on this invention. It is a schematic diagram showing arrangement | positioning of the digital television receiver which concerns on this invention, and the external apparatus connected to this. It is a figure showing the image imaged with the CCD camera which the digital television concerning this invention has. It is a figure showing the image | video displayed on the display screen of the digital television receiver which concerns on this invention. It is a schematic diagram showing arrangement | positioning of the digital television receiver which concerns on this invention, and the external apparatus connected to this. It is a figure showing the image | video displayed on the display screen of the digital television receiver which concerns on this invention.

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

  As shown in FIG. 1, in a room R in the house, an AV board B, speakers SP arranged on the left and right sides of the AV board B, and a table T arranged on the front side of the AV board B are provided. Yes.

The AV board B has a box shape with the front side open. On the upper surface of the AV board B, a main body 1 of a digital television receiver 100 as a television receiver, a TV remote controller 2 as a remote controller for a user to give various instructions to the main body 1, and a game machine 401 An audio amplifier 501 is placed. The AV board B accommodates a hard disk recorder 201 as a recording / playback apparatus and a CS tuner 301 as a satellite broadcast receiving tuner.
On the upper surface of the table T, the remote controller 18, the HDD remote controller 202 as a remote controller that gives various instructions to the hard disk recorder 201, and the CS tuner remote controller 302 as a remote controller that gives various instructions to the CS tuner 301. And a controller 402 for giving various instructions to the game machine 401 are mounted.

  As will be described in detail later, the main body 1 can convert the digital broadcast data received via the antenna by a predetermined process, and output the converted digital broadcast data as video and audio, thereby enabling viewing of the digital broadcast. It has become.

The TV remote controller 2 includes a plurality of keys for the user to input various instructions to the main body unit 1.
Identification information is assigned to each of these keys provided in the TV remote controller 2. When a key operation is performed by the user, a remote control signal corresponding to the identification information of the operated key is generated. The generated remote control signal is transmitted as an infrared signal from a light projecting unit (not shown) and received by the remote control signal light receiving unit 3 provided on the front panel of the main unit 1.

  The hard disk recorder 201 can perform recording by converting digital broadcast data received via an antenna (not shown) by a predetermined process and recording it on a hard disk as a recording medium (not shown). The hard disk recorder 201 is connected to the main unit 1 and transmits recorded digital broadcast data, so that the digital broadcast recorded in the main unit 1 can be viewed. Further, the hard disk recorder 201 accepts a recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM, reads out video data and audio data recorded on the recording medium, and transmits them to the main body unit 1. The content recorded on the recording medium can be viewed.

The HDD remote controller 202 includes a plurality of keys for the user to input various instructions to the hard disk recorder 201.
Identification information is assigned to each of these keys provided in the HDD remote controller 202. When a key operation is performed by the user, a remote control signal corresponding to the identification information of the operated key is generated. The generated remote control signal is transmitted as an infrared signal from a light projecting unit (not shown) and received by a light receiving unit provided on the front panel of the hard disk recorder 201 or the like.

  The CS tuner 301 can convert satellite digital broadcast data received via an antenna (not shown) by a predetermined process and output it to the outside. The CS tuner 301 can be connected to the main unit 1 and the hard disk recorder 201. By transmitting the converted satellite digital broadcast data to these devices, the satellite digital broadcast can be viewed or recorded. Yes.

The CS tuner remote control 302 includes a plurality of keys for the user to input various instructions to the CS tuner 301.
Identification information is assigned to each of these keys provided in the CS tuner remote controller 302. When a key operation is performed by the user, a remote control signal corresponding to the identification information of the operated key is generated. The generated remote control signal is transmitted as an infrared signal from a light projecting unit (not shown) and received by a light receiving unit provided on the front panel of the CS tuner 301 or the like.

  The game machine 401 can control various games based on recorded information recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM (not shown). In addition, the game machine 401 is connected to the main unit 1 and transmits video data and audio data generated based on the recording information recorded on the recording medium, thereby displaying the content of the game on the main unit 1. And audio output.

The controller 402 includes a plurality of keys for the user to input various instructions to the game machine 401.
Identification information is assigned to each of these keys provided in the controller 402. When a key operation is performed by the user, an operation signal corresponding to the identification information of the operated key is generated. Then, the generated operation signal is transmitted as an infrared signal from a light projecting unit (not shown) and received by a light receiving unit provided on a front panel of the game machine.

The audio amplifier 501 converts external audio data input to any of a plurality of input units (not shown) into an audio signal by predetermined audio processing, and outputs the audio signal to the speaker SP. The output is performed. Although not shown, the front panel of the audio amplifier 501 is provided with a light receiving unit, and can receive, for example, an infrared signal from an attached audio amplifier remote controller. The audio amplifier 501 performs power ON / OFF, input unit switching, and the like based on the infrared signal from the audio amplifier remote controller.
Here, the hard disk recorder 201, the CS tuner 301, and the game machine 401 are each cable-connected to the audio amplifier 501 in addition to the main body unit 1, and can transmit audio data to the audio amplifier 501. Yes. Note that the cable relating to the transmission of audio data of the hard disk recorder 201, the CS tuner 301, and the game machine 401 may be connectable to only one of the main unit 1 and the audio amplifier 501, or both may be connectable. May be.

  The remote operation device 18 can receive wireless data output from the remote operation signal output unit 19 of the main unit 1. Then, the remote control device 18 is configured to generate a remote control signal based on the received wireless data, and transmit the generated remote control signal by an infrared signal from a light projecting unit (not shown).

Next, with reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the configuration of the main part of the digital television receiver 100 used in the present embodiment will be described.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a main configuration of the digital television receiver 100 according to the present embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 2, the digital television receiver 100 according to the present embodiment includes a TV remote controller 2 through which a user inputs various instructions, a main body 1 remotely operated by the TV remote controller 2, and the main body 1. And a remote control device 18 for receiving the output radio signal.

  The main unit 1 includes a remote control signal light receiving unit 3 that receives a remote control signal from the TV remote controller 2, an antenna 4 that receives broadcast data such as terrestrial digital broadcast, BS digital broadcast, and CS digital broadcast, and digital broadcast received by the antenna 4. A tuner 5 as a receiving means for selecting digital broadcast data of a desired channel from data, a demodulator 6 for demodulating the digital broadcast data selected by the tuner 5 into a transport stream (TS), and a demodulator 6 A decoder unit 7 that separates and decodes the demodulated TS into a plurality of data, a video processing unit 8 that performs predetermined video processing on the decoded video signal, and performs predetermined audio processing on the decoded audio signal An audio processing unit 9 to perform, an OSD circuit 10 to add OSD data to the video signal processed by the video processing unit 8, A display unit 11 that outputs a video signal processed by the image processing unit 8, an audio output unit 12 that outputs an audio signal processed by the audio processing unit 9, a control unit 13 that controls the entire digital television receiver 100; An input terminal unit 14 having a plurality of external input terminals 141 to 144 for connecting external devices, an input switching unit 15 for switching and selecting broadcast data of each broadcast type and content data from each external device, and taking an image The CCD camera 16, the image detection unit 17 that detects a predetermined image from the image captured by the CCD camera 16, the remote operation signal output unit 19 that outputs a radio signal to the remote operation device 18, and a LAN cable connected to the outside A LAN interface 20 for transmitting and receiving data to and from each other is provided, and each unit is connected by a bus or the like.

  For example, although not shown, the remote control signal light receiving unit 3 includes a photodiode, a SUBCPU, an amplification unit, a demodulation unit, a decoder, and the like. The remote control signal transmitted from the remote controller 2 is transmitted to the front panel. When it is received by the provided photodiode, it is amplified by the amplifying unit and then demodulated by the demodulating unit under the control of the SUBCPU, and further subjected to various processing such as waveform shaping and error correction by the decoder and output to the control unit 13 To do. The control unit 13 acquires identification information from the input remote control signal, and determines the operated key based on the acquired identification information.

The antenna 4 is, for example, a UHF antenna, a BS / CS antenna, and the like, which is arranged outdoors in a predetermined direction and receives high-frequency (RF) digital broadcast data transmitted from a television broadcast station (not shown). .
The tuner 5 includes a tuner corresponding to each broadcasting system such as terrestrial digital broadcasting, BS digital broadcasting, and CS digital broadcasting. For example, a terrestrial digital tuner extracts and amplifies a specific frequency band signal from a high-frequency digital broadcast data input from an antenna 4 or the like by a BPF (band pass filter), and converts the frequency by a local oscillator and mixer. To do. Further, a signal in a specific frequency band is extracted by the BPF, converted into a low frequency signal, subjected to AD conversion or the like via an LPF (low pass filter), and output to the demodulator 6. For example, the BS / CS tuner amplifies the digital broadcast data converted into the IF signal, and then generates a predetermined signal by the local oscillator and the two mixers. And after acquiring the signal of a specific frequency band via LPF, it performs AD conversion etc. and outputs it to the demodulation part 6. FIG.

  The demodulating unit 6 includes a demodulating unit corresponding to each broadcasting system such as terrestrial digital broadcasting, BS digital broadcasting, CS digital broadcasting, and the like, and is selected by the tuner 5 based on control from the control unit 13. Processing such as digital demodulation and error correction is performed on the channel signal, TS is generated, and output to the separation unit 71.

The decoder unit 7 includes, for example, a separation unit 71, a video decoder 72, an audio decoder 73, a data decoder 74, and the like.
The separation unit 71 separates the digital broadcast data input from the demodulation unit 6 into a plurality of streams such as video data, audio data, PSI (Program Specific Information), SI (Service Information: Program Sequence Information), and the like. .

The video decoder 72 decodes the video stream input from the separation unit 71. Specifically, the video decoder 72 performs various processes such as variable length decoding, inverse quantization, inverse DCT, motion correction, and the like on the video stream, so that the video stream is processed at a timing according to DTS (Decoding TimeStamp). Decode, generate video data, and output to the video processing unit 8.
The audio decoder 73 decodes the audio stream input from the separation unit 71, generates audio data, and outputs the audio data to the audio processing unit 9.
The data decoder 74 decodes the caption data, SI, and the like input from the separation unit 71 and outputs them to the control unit 13, the OSD circuit 10, and the like. The SI input to the control unit 13 is stored in an EPG memory (not shown) as EPG information.

The video processing unit 8 performs various video processing on the video data input from the video decoder 72 to generate a video signal. The generated video signal is temporarily stored in a frame memory (not shown) and then output to the display unit 11 at a reproduction timing according to PTS (Presentation Time Stamp).
In addition, the audio processing unit 9 performs various audio processes on the audio data input from the audio decoder 73 to generate an audio signal, and outputs the audio signal to the audio output unit 12 at a reproduction timing according to the PTS.
When displaying the EPG, the OSD circuit 10 reads necessary data from the SI stored in the EPG memory, and generates EPG display data based on the read data. Then, the generated EPG display data is combined with the video signal output from the video processing unit 8, and the EPG is displayed on the display unit 11.

  The display unit 29 includes a display (not shown) such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), a PDP (Plasma Display Panel), and an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, and displays video based on the video signal input from the video processing unit 26. It is displayed on the display area 11a of the display.

  The audio output unit 12 includes, for example, a speaker (not shown) and the like, amplifies the audio based on the audio signal input from the audio processing unit 9, and outputs the amplified audio through the speaker.

  Thus, the audio output unit 12 constitutes an audio output unit that outputs audio.

  The control unit 13 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 131, a time measuring unit 132 including an STC (System Time Clock), a volatile memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) 133, and a nonvolatile such as an EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM) 134. A memory, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 135, and the like are provided.

  The CPU 131 executes various programs stored in the ROM 135 in accordance with input signals input from the respective units of the main body unit 1, remote control signals input by pressing various keys in the remote controller 2, and the like. The overall operation of the digital television receiver 100 is comprehensively controlled by outputting an output signal to each part of the main body 1 based on such a program.

  The RAM 133 is used as a work area for the CPU 131, and stores processing results generated when various programs are executed by the CPU 131, input data, and the like.

  The EPROM 134 includes, for example, an input terminal selection memory 134a, a volume setting memory 134b, and an external audio equipment power setting memory 134c.

  In the input terminal selection memory 134a, for example, as shown in FIG. 8A, the external input terminal 14 corresponding to the object registered by the user in the execution of the external input terminal switching setting program 135b described later, The name and power button data are stored.

  In the volume setting memory 134b, for example, as shown in FIG. 8B, the name of the user registered by the user in the execution of a user registration setting program 135c described later, the volume set for each external input terminal 14, and guidance The data for determining the language used in is stored.

  In the external audio equipment power setting memory 134c, for example, as shown in FIG. 8C, a power supply by remote operation for the audio amplifier 501 as an external audio equipment registered by the user in the execution of a user registration setting program 135c described later. Data for determining whether or not an operation is possible is stored.

As described above, the EPROM 134 includes object storage means in which a plurality of types of object information capable of specifying an object and external input information for specifying any of a plurality of external inputs are stored in association with each other. Constitute.
Further, the EPROM 134 constitutes volume setting information storage means in which volume setting data in which the volume of the sound output by the sound output means is associated with each external input is stored in advance.

The ROM 135 has a program storage area composed of a nonvolatile memory, and specifically stores an input switching program 135a, an external input terminal switching setting program 135b, a user registration setting program 135c, and the like.
The input switching program 135a is, for example, a program for causing the CPU 131 to realize a function of switching input to an external input terminal corresponding to the object when the movement of the object is detected.
For example, the external input terminal switching setting program 135b corresponds to the image data of the target corresponding to the external input terminal in order to cause the CPU 131 to switch the input to the corresponding external input terminal when the target is moved. This is a program for realizing the function of attaching and storing.
The user registration setting program 135c is a program for realizing a function for performing a setting for recognizing the user's face and performing a desired volume setting for each external input terminal.

The input terminal portion 14 is provided, for example, on the front surface portion or the back surface portion of the main body portion 1, and a plurality of external input terminals 141 for connecting various external devices (hard disk recorder 201, CS tuner 301, game machine 401, etc.). ~ 144. A cable of an external device is connected to each of the external input terminals 141 to 144, and content data input from the external device via the cable is received by each of the external input terminals 141 to 144.
A plurality of external input terminals 141 to 144 (external inputs 1 to 4) provided in the input terminal unit 14 are, for example, a separate video terminal (S terminal) that separately transmits a luminance signal and a color signal, a luminance signal, and two color difference signals. Component video terminal for transmitting (BY color difference signal / RY color signal) separately, D video terminal for transmitting luminance signal and two color difference signals (BY color difference signal / RY color signal) separately with one cable, video signal An HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) terminal that transmits an uncompressed digital signal of an audio signal and a control signal with a single cable, an audio terminal (not shown) corresponding to each video terminal, and the like.

  Thus, the input terminal unit 14 constitutes an external input receiving unit that receives a plurality of external inputs.

The input switching unit 15 is any one of broadcast data of a plurality of broadcast types that can be received by the digital television receiver 100 and content data input from each external device connected to the digital television receiver 100. The broadcast data of each broadcast type and the content data input from the external device are received by performing the switching process to connect the video processing unit 8 and the video processing unit 8 in the subsequent stage via the decoder unit 7 if necessary. Output to the audio processing unit 9 and the like.
Specifically, when the positions of the HDD remote controller 202 of the hard disk recorder 201, the CS tuner remote controller 302 of the CS tuner 301, and the controller 402 of the game machine 401 change as the object, as will be described later, the CCD 16 serving as the imaging means. Based on the captured image, the image detection unit 17 detects this. Then, based on the detection result in the image detection unit 17, a control signal instructing input switching selection to an external device corresponding to the detected object is output from the control unit 13. The input switching unit 15 switches the input to an external device set corresponding to the detected object in accordance with a control signal from the control unit 13.

  Thus, the input switching unit 15 constitutes an input switching unit that switches to an external input corresponding to the object determined by the object determining unit.

  The CCD camera 16 is provided at the upper center of the front surface of the main body 1 and images a subject (user and object) facing the display area 11a. The CCD camera 16 includes, for example, a lens group including a plurality of lenses capable of focus control, and an image sensor such as a CCD. Then, the light condensed on the entire area of the imaging surface of the imaging element by the lens group is output as a video signal for each pixel by photoelectric conversion, and a captured image is generated.

  As described above, the CCD camera 16 constitutes an imaging unit that captures an image.

  The image detection unit 17 detects the user's identification and the displacement of the object based on the image captured by the CCD camera 16.

  The remote operation signal output unit 19 wirelessly outputs a command for outputting an infrared signal from the remote operation device 18 in response to the command from the control unit 13. As a result, the remote control device 18 outputs an infrared signal from a light projecting unit (not shown).

  The LAN interface 20 can be connected to a LAN cable and transmits / receives data such as object information from the outside.

  Thus, the LAN interface 20 constitutes an information receiving unit that receives object information from the outside.

  The modem 21 is connected to the main unit 1 by a LAN cable, and enables transmission / reception of data to / from external device manufacturers (C1 to C3), digital television receiver manufacturers, and the like via a network N such as an Internet line. Is.

Here, the image detection unit 17 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing the functions of the image detection unit 17 in the digital television receiver 100 according to this embodiment.

  The image detection unit 17 includes an image input unit 172, an image comparison unit 173, a buffer 174, an object image information storage unit 176, and a user image information storage unit 177.

  The image input unit 172 captures an image captured by the CCD camera 16, performs predetermined processing, and sends it to the image comparison unit 173. Further, the image input unit 172 receives object image data as object information for specifying an object from an image captured by the CCD camera 16 according to a command from the image comparison unit 173, and a face for specifying a user. Image data is generated and sent to the object image information storage unit 176 or the user image information storage unit 177.

The image comparison unit 173 compares the image sent from the image input unit 172 with the reference image stored in the buffer 174, and determines the difference between the two images. Then, when the difference exceeds a predetermined threshold, the image comparison unit 173 extracts the difference, refers to the object image data stored in the object image information storage unit 177, and is included in the difference. Determine if there is something. Then, the image comparison unit 173 performs control to transmit the determination result to the control unit 13.
The image comparison unit 173 sends the image sent from the image input unit 172 to the buffer 174 as a reference image.
In addition, the image comparison unit 173 extracts a face image from the image sent from the image input unit 172 and refers to the face image data stored in the user image information storage unit 177 to determine whether or not they match. . Then, the image comparison unit 173 performs control to transmit the determination result to the control unit 13.
The image comparison unit 173 performs control for registering image data for specifying an object or a user based on an image captured by the CCD camera 16 in accordance with a command from the control unit 13.

  The buffer 174 stores the image sent from the image comparison unit 173 as a reference image, and is read from the image comparison unit 173 for image difference determination.

  The object image information storage unit 176 stores the object image data sent from the image input unit 172 in a table in association with the object ID that identifies the object. This table functions as an object image data table.

  The user image information storage unit 177 tabulates and stores the face image data sent from the image input unit 172 in association with a user ID (UID) that identifies the user. This table functions as a user image data table.

As described above, the image detection unit 17 stores a plurality of types of target information that can specify a target and external input information for specifying any of a plurality of external inputs in association with each other. It constitutes a part of the storage means.
The image detection unit 17 constitutes an image detection unit that detects a change in the image based on the image captured by the imaging unit.
In addition, the image detection unit 17 determines which object has moved based on the object information stored in the object storage unit when a change in the image is detected by the image detection unit. A determination unit is configured.
The image detection unit 17 constitutes a face information storage unit that stores face information that can identify an individual's face.

  Next, processing when the displacement of the object is detected in the digital television receiver 100 having the above configuration will be described. The CPU 131 performs input switching processing shown in FIG. This input switching process is a process started every predetermined time (for example, every 2 ms). This process is realized by executing the input switching program 135a.

In the input switching process, as shown in FIG. 4, the CPU 131 determines whether or not the object ID data transmitted from the image detection unit 17 has been received (step S101).
When the CPU 131 determines in step S101 that the object ID data has been received, the received object is received from the input terminal selection table shown in FIG. 8A included in the input terminal selection memory 134a. A process of reading a table corresponding to the ID data is performed (step S102). On the other hand, when the CPU 131 does not determine in step S101 that the object ID data has been received, the CPU 131 executes the process of step S101 again.
Then, the CPU 131 refers to the input terminal selection table shown in FIG. 8A and switches the external input terminal corresponding to the received object ID (step S103). Specifically, the CPU 131 outputs a control signal for instructing input switching selection to the external input terminal corresponding to the received object ID to the input switching unit 15. As a result, the input switching unit 15 switches the input to the external input terminal set corresponding to the object ID received by the control unit 13 according to the control signal from the control unit 13.
Then, the CPU 131 determines whether or not user ID data transmitted from the image detection unit 17 has been received (step S104).
When the CPU 131 determines in step S104 that the user ID data has been received, the CPU 131 refers to the volume setting table shown in FIG. 8B and is received in the volume setting memory 134b. Is read out (step S105). On the other hand, when the CPU 131 does not determine in step S104 that the user ID data has been received, the CPU 131 executes the process of step S104 again.
Then, the CPU 131 refers to the volume setting table and sets a guide language corresponding to the received user ID data (step S106). By setting the guide language, various guides are displayed in the set language in the display area 11a of the display unit 11. Examples of languages that can be set include Japanese, English, French, Chinese, Spanish, and the like.

  And CPU131 performs the process which transmits a power supply operation signal (step S107). Specifically, the CPU 131 refers to the input terminal selection table shown in FIG. 8A and has power button data for determining whether to turn on the external device corresponding to the received object ID. Judge whether there is. If the CPU 131 determines that there is power button data, the remote operation device 18 outputs data for causing the remote operation device 18 to output an infrared signal for operating the power supply of the target external device. send. As a result, the remote operation signal output unit 19 wirelessly outputs data for causing the remote operation device 18 to output an infrared signal for operating the power source of the target external device. Then, based on the data from the remote operation signal output unit 19, the remote operation device 18 outputs an infrared signal for operating the power supply of the target external device from the light projecting unit. Then, the target external device receives this infrared signal from the light receiving unit and turns on the power.

  Next, the CPU 131 performs a process for setting the volume of the sound output from the sound output unit 12 (step S108). Specifically, the CPU 131 refers to the volume setting table shown in FIG. 8B and sets the volume corresponding to the received user ID and the external input terminals (141 to 144) to which the input is switched. I do.

  In this way, the CPU 131 constitutes a volume setting unit that sets the volume according to the external input switched by the input switching unit based on the volume setting data stored in the volume setting information storage unit.

Next, the CPU 131 executes an external audio device power setting process for setting the power of the audio amplifier 501 as an external audio device (step S109).
Here, the external audio equipment power setting process will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

In the external audio equipment power setting process, as shown in FIG. 5, the CPU 131 refers to the external audio equipment power setting table shown in FIG. 8C included in the external audio equipment power setting memory 134c and receives the received user. The power supply setting data corresponding to the ID data and the external input terminals (141 to 144) whose inputs are switched are read (step S191).
Then, the CPU 131 determines whether or not the power setting data is for operating the power of the audio amplifier 501 (step S192).
If the CPU 131 determines in step S192 that the power source of the audio amplifier 501 is to be operated, the CPU 131 remotely transmits an infrared signal for operating the power source of the audio amplifier 501 to the remote operation signal output unit 19. An external audio equipment power source remote operation signal to be output by the operation device 18 is sent (step S193). As a result, the remote operation signal output unit 19 wirelessly outputs data for outputting an infrared signal for operating the power supply of the audio amplifier 501 to the remote operation device 18. Then, based on the data from the remote operation signal output unit 19, the remote operation device 18 outputs an infrared signal for operating the power source of the audio amplifier 501 from the light projecting unit. Then, the audio amplifier 501 receives this infrared signal from the light receiving unit and turns on the power.
Then, the CPU 131 refers to the external audio device power setting table and determines whether there is input selection data indicating which of the plurality of input units in the audio amplifier 501 is selected (step S194).
When the CPU 131 determines in step S194 that there is input selection data, the CPU 131 performs processing for outputting a remote operation signal corresponding to the input selection data to the remote operation signal output unit 19 (step S195). Exit. That is, the CPU 131 sends data for causing the remote operation device 18 to output an infrared signal for designating the input unit of the audio amplifier 501 to the remote operation signal output unit 19. As a result, the remote operation signal output unit 19 wirelessly outputs data for outputting an infrared signal for designating the input unit of the audio amplifier 501 to the remote operation device 18. Then, the remote operation device 18 outputs an infrared signal for designating the input unit of the audio amplifier 501 from the light projecting unit based on the data from the remote operation signal output unit 19. Then, the audio amplifier 501 receives the infrared signal from the light receiving unit, and performs control to input the audio signal from the designated input unit among the plurality of input units.
On the other hand, if the CPU 131 does not determine in step S194 that there is input selection data, the CPU 131 ends this routine without performing the process of step S195.
On the other hand, if the CPU 131 does not determine in step S192 that the power source of the audio amplifier 501 is to be operated, the CPU 131 determines whether the power source of the audio amplifier 501 is ON (step S196).
If the CPU 131 determines in step S196 that the power of the audio amplifier 501 is ON, the power of the audio amplifier 501 is supplied to the remote operation signal output unit 19 in order to turn off the power of the audio amplifier 501. An external audio equipment power source remote control signal for outputting the infrared signal for operating the remote control device 18 is sent by the remote control device 18 (step S197), and this routine is terminated. Here, since the infrared signal for operating the power supply output from the remote control device 18 is the same signal when the power of the audio amplifier 501 is turned on and when the power is turned off, the control is performed. Is the same as that executed in step S193.
On the other hand, if the CPU 131 does not determine in step S196 that the power of the audio amplifier 501 is ON, this routine is terminated without performing the process of step S197.

  When the CPU 131 completes the external audio equipment power supply setting process, the CPU 131 executes the OSD setting display process in step S110 of FIG. 4 and ends this routine. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 19B, the CPU 131 displays the OSD display unit 1002 in the display area 11 a on the OSD display unit 1002 in addition to the displacement of the target object and the user who owns the target object. Control is performed so that the result set in is displayed in a recognizable manner.

  Next, in the digital television receiver 100 having the above-described configuration, when a signal for switching the external input terminal output by a predetermined operation of the TV remote controller 2 is received from the TV remote controller 2 The processing will be described. The CPU 131 performs an external input terminal switching setting process shown in FIG. This external input terminal switching setting process is a process executed when the remote control signal light receiving unit 3 receives a signal output from the TV remote controller 2 for switching the external input terminal. This process is realized by executing the external input terminal switching setting program 135b.

  Thus, the CPU 131 constitutes a registration operation accepting unit that accepts a predetermined registration operation.

In the external input terminal switching setting process, as shown in FIG. 6, the CPU 131 determines whether or not an external input terminal to be set has been selected (step S201). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9A, when the user operates the TV remote controller 2 and selects an external input terminal according to the guidance displayed in the display area 11a, the CPU 131 causes the TV remote controller 2 to operate. This is performed by detecting which external input terminal has been selected based on the infrared signal output from.
When the CPU 131 determines in step S201 that the external input terminal has been selected, the CPU 131 executes the process of step S202. If the CPU 131 does not determine that the external input terminal has been selected, the CPU 131 performs the process of step S201 again.

  Next, in step S202, the CPU 131 creates an input terminal selection table in the input terminal selection memory 134a. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 8A, the CPU 131 can store infrared transmission data of the selected input terminal, name, and power button for each object ID.

Next, in step S203, the CPU 131 obtains image data for specifying the shape of the remote control as an object by downloading from the manufacturer via the Internet line, or generates image data by imaging the remote control. It is determined whether any of the above has been selected. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9A, when the user operates the TV remote controller 2 and selects an acquisition method according to the guidance displayed in the display area 11a, the CPU 131 causes the TV remote controller 2 to This is done by detecting which acquisition method has been selected based on the output infrared signal.
When the CPU 131 determines in step S203 that the acquisition method has been selected, the CPU 131 executes the process of step S204. If the CPU 131 does not determine that the acquisition method has been selected, the CPU 131 performs the process of step S203 again. .

  Next, in step S204, the CPU 131 determines whether or not the selected obtaining method is to image the remote controller and generate image data. When the CPU 131 determines in step S204 that the image data is to be generated, the CPU 131 executes the process of step S205 and does not determine that the image data is to be generated, that is, via the Internet line. If it is obtained by downloading from the manufacturer, the process of step S207 is executed.

  Next, in step S <b> 205, the CPU 131 performs an image capturing process for capturing an image of the remote controller using the CCD camera 16 and generating image data based on the imaged image. Specifically, the CPU 131 transmits a command for preparing to perform imaging with the remote controller to the image detection unit 17 and waits for reception of a command indicating that preparation for imaging has been completed from the image detection unit 17. Then, the CPU 131 transmits an imaging command for registration by imaging the remote controller and storing it in the object image information storage unit 176 of the image detection unit 17, and the image detection unit 17 indicates that the registration is completed. Control is performed so that the process ends after receiving the registration completion command. Here, the registration completion command includes data indicating the object ID associated with the imaged remote controller, and the CPU 131 performs control to store the object ID data in the input terminal selection table. Note that the CPU 131 controls the image detection unit 17 so as to capture six surfaces of the remote controller. Then, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 9B, the CPU 131 performs guide display regarding the imaging method on the display area 11 a in accordance with the imaging progress of the remote controller.

  Next, in step S <b> 206, the CPU 131 sets whether to output an infrared signal for operating the power source from the remote operation device 18 to an external device connected to the external input terminals 141 to 144 to be set. Execute automatic power setting processing. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9C, the CPU 131 receives an infrared signal transmitted when operating the remote control of the target external device, that is, the power button of the remote control imaged in step S205. Guide display is performed on the display area 11 a so that the signal light receiving unit 3 receives the light. Then, the CPU 131 stores power button data corresponding to the infrared signal in the input terminal selection table so that the infrared signal can be transmitted from the remote operation device 18. When an infrared signal for operating the power source is not output from the remote control device 18, a predetermined operation (for example, operating the “blue” button as shown in FIG. 9C) is performed on the TV remote controller 2. When it is performed, the CPU 131 ends the process without storing the power button data.

  On the other hand, in step S207, the CPU 131 downloads image data for specifying the shape of the remote control as the object from the manufacturer via the Internet line, and stores it in the object image information storage unit 176 of the image detection unit 17. Internet data acquisition processing is executed. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 10D, the CPU 131 operates the TV remote controller 2 to download image data indicating the shape of the remote controller of the target external device from the manufacturer, and the manufacturer and the connected device. The guide area is displayed on the display area 11a so as to select the model. Then, when the CPU 131 accepts the manufacturer and type selection operation by the TV remote controller 2, the CPU 131 inquires the manufacturer via the network N and downloads the corresponding type of remote control image data. Then, the CPU 131 controls the downloaded image data to be transferred to the image detection unit 17 and stored in the object image information storage unit 176. Here, when the image detection unit 17 stores the downloaded image data in the object image information storage unit 176, a registration completion command is transmitted from the image detection unit 17. The registration completion command includes data indicating the object ID associated with the imaged remote controller, and the CPU 131 performs control to store the object ID data in the input terminal selection table.

  In step S208, the CPU 131 performs a process of determining whether or not a name selection operation corresponding to the input terminal selection table created this time has been performed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10 (e), the CPU 131 guides the display area 11 a to select names corresponding to the external input terminals 141 to 144 to be registered this time by operating the TV remote controller 2. Display. When the CPU 131 determines that the name has been selected, as shown in FIG. 10F, the CPU 131 displays that the external input terminal switching setting has been completed in the display area 11a, and inputs the selected name. The routine is completed after storing the data in the terminal selection table. On the other hand, if it is not determined that the name has been selected, the process of step S208 is performed again.

As described above, when the CPU 131 receives a predetermined registration operation, the CPU 131 generates object information based on the object to be imaged by the imaging unit, and associates the generated object information with the external input information. A part of the imaging object registration means stored in the object storage means.
In addition, the CPU 131 configures a reception object registration unit that stores the object information received by the information reception unit and the external input information in association with each other in the object storage unit.

  Next, in the digital television receiver 100 having the above-described configuration, processing when a signal for performing setting for registering a user is received from the TV remote controller 2 will be described. The CPU 131 performs user registration setting processing shown in FIG. This user registration setting process is a process executed when the remote control signal light receiving unit 3 receives a signal output from the TV remote controller 2 for setting a user to be registered. This process is realized by executing the user registration setting program 135c.

  In step S301, the CPU 131 performs a process of determining whether or not a registration number for performing user registration has been selected. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11A, the CPU 131 performs a guide display on the display area 11a so as to select the registration number to be registered this time by operating the TV remote controller 2. If the CPU 131 determines that the registration number has been selected, it executes the process of step S302. If it does not determine that the registration number has been selected, it executes the process of step S301 again.

  Next, the CPU 131 creates a volume setting table in the volume setting memory 134b as shown in FIG. 8 (b), and also stores in the external audio equipment power setting memory 134c in the external audio equipment power setting memory 134c as shown in FIG. 8 (c). Create an audio equipment power setting table. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8B, the CPU 131 generates a user ID based on the selected registration number. Then, the CPU 131 can store the user name, the volume for each input terminal, and the language of the guidance for each user ID in the volume setting table. Further, as shown in FIG. 8C, the CPU 131 sets power setting data for determining whether or not to perform power operation of the audio amplifier 501 with an infrared signal for each user ID in the external audio equipment power setting table. To remember.

  Next, in step S303, the CPU 131 performs a process of determining whether or not a guidance language to be displayed when performing various guide displays has been selected. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11A, the CPU 131 performs a guide display on the display area 11a so as to select a guidance language desired by the user by operating the TV remote controller 2. If the CPU 131 determines that the guidance language has been selected, it executes the process of step S304. If it does not determine that the guidance language has been selected, it executes the process of step S303 again.

Next, in step S304, the CPU 131 performs a volume setting process for setting the volume for each external input terminal. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11A, the CPU 131 performs volume setting for each external input terminal on the volume setting display unit 1004 in the display area 11a and power operation by the infrared signal for the audio amplifier 501. Displays the contents of the power setting indicating whether or not. Then, the CPU 131 selects an external input terminal for setting the volume according to the operation of the TV remote controller 2 by the user, and sets the volume for the item of the selected external input terminal. For items that are not set, initial values (Default values) are set. Then, the CPU 131 stores the set contents in the volume setting table. Further, the CPU 131 selects an external input terminal on which power operation and input unit selection operation using an infrared signal with respect to the audio amplifier 501 is performed according to the operation of the TV remote controller 2 by the user, and the item of the selected external input terminal On the other hand, the power source operation and the input unit selection operation are set. For example, with respect to the external input terminal 2, as shown in FIG. 11A, when the switching operation to the external input terminal 2 is performed, the volume of the sound output from the sound output unit 12 is set to 0, and the audio Set so that the remote control device 18 outputs an infrared signal for operating the power source of the audio amplifier 501 to the amplifier 501 and outputs an infrared signal for selecting the input 2 for the input section of the audio amplifier 501. Has been made. Then, the CPU 131 stores the set contents in the external audio equipment power setting table. It should be noted that the remote operation device receives an external audio equipment power source remote operation signal for outputting an infrared signal for operating the power source of the audio amplifier 501 by the remote operation device 18 and an infrared signal for designating the input unit of the audio amplifier 501. For example, the CPU 131 inputs an infrared signal output by pressing a power button or an input switching button of a remote controller attached to the audio amplifier 501 from the remote control signal light receiving unit 3. Data is generated based on the input infrared signal and stored in a predetermined area of the EPROM 134.
Further, when “not set” is selected by the user operating the TV remote controller 2, the CPU 131 sets initial values for all items.

  Next, in step S305, the CPU 131 executes name selection processing for determining a user name. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11A, the CPU 131 performs guide display on the display area 11a so that the user name is selected or input by the TV remote controller 2. Then, the CPU 131 selects one of a plurality of names stored in advance according to the operation of the TV remote controller 2 or determines the input contents and stores the result in the volume setting table. Here, when “not selected” is selected by operating the TV remote controller 2, “No. X (numerical value corresponding to the registration number)” is set as the user name. Here, “Dad” and “Mom” are already used, so that they cannot be selected.

  Next, in step S306, the CPU 131 captures the face of the user using the CCD camera 16, performs a face image registration process for generating image data based on the image, and then ends this routine. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11B, the CPU 131 displays in the display area 11a that the face is being imaged. Further, the CPU 131 transmits a command for preparing to capture a face to the image detection unit 17 and waits for reception of a command indicating that preparation for imaging has been completed from the image detection unit 17. Then, as shown in FIG. 11C, the CPU 131 performs guide display for imaging a face on the display area 11a, then images the face, generates data based on the image, and generates the data as an image. A face image capture command for registration is transmitted by being stored in the user image information storage unit 177 of the detection unit 17. After that, the image detection unit 17 waits for reception of a face image acquisition completion command indicating that registration has been completed. When the CPU 131 receives the face image acquisition completion command, as shown in FIG. 12D, the CPU 131 displays in the display area 11a that the face imaging has been completed and the user registration has been completed. Control to finish. Here, the face image capture command output to the image detection unit 17 includes data indicating the user ID so as to be stored in association with the face image data stored in the user image information storage unit 177. It is. As a result, the image detection unit 17 performs control to store face image data in the user image information storage unit 177 in association with the user ID.

  Next, processing when it is detected that the object is displaced in the digital television receiver 100 having the above-described configuration will be described. The image comparison unit 173 of the image detection unit 17 performs the image detection process shown in FIG. This image detection process is a process executed every predetermined time (for example, every second).

First, the image comparison unit 173 performs processing for transferring the acquired image acquired from the CCD camera 16 input to the image input unit 172 to the image comparison unit 173 (step S401).
Next, the image comparison unit 173 performs processing for transferring the reference image stored in the buffer 174 to the image comparison unit (step S402).
Then, the image comparison unit 173 performs a difference determination for detecting a difference between the acquired image and the reference image (step S403).
Then, as a result of the difference determination, the image comparison unit 173 determines whether or not the difference exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S404). When it is determined that the difference exceeds the threshold, the image comparison unit 173 If processing is performed and it is not determined that the difference exceeds the threshold value, processing in step S410 is performed.
Then, the image comparison unit 173 extracts a difference image that is a portion different from the transfer image from the acquired image (step S405).
Then, the image comparison unit 173 refers to whether any of the extracted difference images matches the registered remote control image (step S406). Specifically, the image comparison unit 173 reads the object image data table shown in FIG. 16A from the object image information storage unit 176, and the difference from each remote control image stored in the object image data table. This is done by comparing the image.
Then, the image comparison unit 173 determines whether there is a difference image that matches any of the remote control images stored in the object image data table (step S407).
When the image comparison unit 173 determines that there is an image that matches any of the remote control images stored in the object image data table, the image comparison unit 173 performs the process of step S408 and stores it in the object image data table. If it is not determined that there is an image that matches any of the remote control images, the process of step S410 is performed.
Then, the image comparison unit 173 transmits object ID data indicating the object ID corresponding to the matched remote control image to the control unit 13 (step S408).
Then, the image comparison unit 173 executes face image detection processing for detecting the user (step S409). The face image detection process will be described later.

  Next, the image comparison unit 173 stores the acquired image acquired in step S401 in the buffer 174 to be used as a reference image in the next image detection process, and ends this routine (step S410).

  Here, the face image detection process performed in step S409 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

In the face image detection process, as shown in FIG. 13B, the image comparison unit 173 extracts the user's face image from the acquired image (step S491).
Next, the image comparison unit 173 refers to whether or not the extracted face image matches the registered face image (step S492). Specifically, the image comparison unit 173 reads the user image data table shown in FIG. 16B stored in the user image information storage unit 177, and the data of each face image stored in the user image data table. And the face image extracted from the acquired image. In this case, a well-known face authentication process for extracting and comparing feature parts of face images can be applied.
Then, the image comparison unit 173 determines whether there is a match with the face image data stored in the user image data table (step S493).
When the image comparison unit 173 determines that there is a match with the face image data stored in the user image data table, the image comparison unit 173 transmits user ID data corresponding to the matched face image data to the control unit 13. This routine is finished (step S494).
On the other hand, when the image comparison unit 173 does not determine that there is a match with the face image data stored in the user image data table, the image comparison unit 173 transmits user ID data indicating a guest other than the registered user to the control unit 13. This routine is finished (step S495).

In this way, the image detection unit 17 constitutes a face detection unit that detects an individual's face based on the image captured by the imaging unit.
Further, the image detection unit 17 constitutes an individual specifying unit that specifies which individual face detected by the face detection unit is based on the face information stored in the face information storage unit.

  Next, in the digital television receiver 100 having the above-described configuration, processing when the image detection unit 17 receives a command for performing preparations for imaging the remote control from the control unit 13 will be described. . The image comparison unit 173 of the image detection unit 17 performs a remote control image capture preparation process shown in FIG.

  In the remote control image capture preparation process, as shown in FIG. 14A, the image comparison unit 173 performs the target image capture setting for capturing the remote controller and storing it in the target image data table ( Step 501), a command to the effect that preparation for imaging has been completed is transmitted to the control unit 13, and this routine is terminated (step S502).

  Next, in the digital television receiver 100 having the above-described configuration, processing when the image detection unit 17 receives an imaging command for performing imaging with the remote controller from the control unit 13 will be described. The image comparison unit 173 of the image detection unit 17 performs remote control image capture processing shown in FIG.

In the remote control image capturing process, as shown in FIG. 14B, the image comparison unit 173 extracts the image portion of the remote control that is the object from the image acquired from the CCD camera 16 (step S601).
Next, the image comparison unit 173 generates a target object image data table in which the target object ID is defined as shown in FIG. 16A, and stores the extracted image data in the generated target object image data table. (Step S602).
Then, the image comparison unit 173 transmits a registration completion command including the object ID data corresponding to the object image data table of the storage destination to the control unit 13 and ends this routine (step S603).

  As described above, when the image detection unit 17 receives a predetermined registration operation by the registration operation reception unit, the image detection unit 17 generates the target object information based on the imaging target imaged by the imaging unit, and the generated target information And a part of the imaging target registration unit that stores the external input information specifying any one of the plurality of external inputs in association with the target storage unit.

  Next, in the digital television receiver 100 having the above-described configuration, the processing when the image detection unit 17 transfers the downloaded remote control image data from the control unit 13 will be described. The image comparison unit 173 of the image detection unit 17 performs remote control image data registration processing shown in FIG.

In the remote control image data registration process, as shown in FIG. 14C, the image comparison unit 173 performs object image capture setting for storing the data transferred from the control unit 13 in the object image data table. (Step S701), the transferred download data is expanded (Step S702).
Next, the image comparison unit 173 stores the remote control image data included in the expanded download data in the object image data table shown in FIG. 16A (step S703).
Then, the image comparison unit 173 transmits a registration completion command including the object ID data corresponding to the object image data table of the storage destination to the control unit 13 and ends this routine (step S704).

  As described above, the image detection unit 17 associates the object information received by the information receiving unit with the external input information that specifies any one of the plurality of external inputs, and stores the object in the target storage unit. It constitutes a part of the object registration means.

  Next, in the digital television receiver 100 having the above-described configuration, processing when the image detection unit 17 receives a command for performing preparation for capturing a face from the control unit 13 will be described. . The image comparison unit 173 of the image detection unit 17 performs a face image capture preparation process shown in FIG.

  In the face image capture preparation process, as shown in FIG. 15A, the image comparison unit 173 performs a face image capture setting for capturing a face and storing it in the object image data table (step 801), a command to the effect that preparation for imaging has been completed is transmitted to the control unit 13, and this routine is terminated (step S802).

  Next, in the digital television receiver 100 having the above-described configuration, the image detection unit 17 takes an image of the face by the control unit 13 and generates data based thereon, and this data is used as the user of the image detection unit 17. Processing when a face image capture command for registration by storing in the image information storage unit 177 is received will be described. The image comparison unit 173 of the image detection unit 17 performs a face image capturing process shown in FIG.

In the face image capturing process, as shown in FIG. 15B, the image comparison unit 173 extracts a face image portion corresponding to the user's face portion from the image acquired from the CCD camera 16 (step S901).
Next, the image comparison unit 173 extracts a feature portion from the extracted face image (step S902). Specifically, for example, a method of identifying eyes, nose, ears, and mouth from a face image and extracting the shape as a feature can be applied.
Then, the image comparison unit 173 generates a user image data table in which a user ID is defined as shown in FIG. 16B, and associates the extracted feature portion data with the generated user image in association with the user ID. Save to the data table (step S903). Here, the user ID is included in the face image capture command transmitted from the control unit 13, and the image comparison unit 173 identifies the user ID from the data of the face image capture command.
Then, the image comparison unit 173 transmits a face image acquisition completion command to the control unit 13 and ends this routine (step S904).

  Next, switching operation of the external input terminal in the digital television receiver 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a state in which the user U3 is holding the HDD remote controller 202 to operate the hard disk recorder 201 by the HDD remote controller 202.

As shown in FIG. 17, the user U3 is seated in front of the table T and holds the HDD remote controller 202 in order to operate the hard disk recorder 201.
At this time, the image comparison unit 173 of the image detection unit 17 detects the movement of the HDD remote controller 202. That is, based on the image captured by the CCD camera 16, the difference between the images before and after the movement of the HDD remote control 202 (acquired image and reference image) is determined. The acquired image and the reference image at this time are shown in FIG. FIG. 18A shows a reference image, and FIG. 18B shows an acquired image. If the image comparison unit 173 determines that the result of the difference determination between the reference image and the acquired image exceeds a predetermined threshold, the image comparison unit 173 extracts the difference image. This difference image includes the image 202 ′ of the HDD remote controller 202, and the image 302 ′ of the CS tuner remote controller 302 and the image 402 ′ of the controller 402 are not included in the difference image because there is no change in position. Then, the image comparison unit 173 refers to the image data stored in the object image data table, and determines that the difference image has an image that matches the HDD remote control image data corresponding to the object ID “# 0001”. Then, the image comparison unit 173 transmits the object ID data corresponding to the determination result to the control unit 13.
Further, the image comparison unit 173 extracts the face image of the user U3 from the acquired image, refers to the face image data stored in the user image data table, and is a user associated with the user ID “# 1003”. Is identified. Then, the image comparison unit 173 transmits user ID data indicating the user ID to the control unit 13.

When the CPU 131 of the control unit 13 receives the object ID data and the user ID data, the CPU 131 switches to the external input terminal 1 (141) corresponding to the object ID “# 0001”, and the remote operation device 18 controls the audio amplifier 501. The power is turned on and an infrared signal is transmitted so that the input unit is switched to 1. Further, the CPU 131 sets the volume output from the audio output unit to 0. Then, the CPU 131 switches from the screen shown in FIG. 19A to the screen shown in FIG. 19B and, as shown in FIG. 19B, displays the user name and the external on the input display unit 1001 in the display area 11a. “Input 1” corresponding to the input terminal 1 is displayed, and “Remote control 1” corresponding to the object ID “# 0001” is displayed on the OSD display unit 1002 by “Ichiro-san” corresponding to the user ID “# 1003”. Is displayed, and the set result is displayed. In addition, the CPU 131 displays on the volume display unit 1003 that the volume has become 0.
Thereafter, when the user U3 performs a reproduction operation of the hard disk recorder 201 by the HDD remote controller 202, video data based on the information recorded on the recording medium is transmitted from the hard disk recorder 201 to the main unit 1 and is shown in FIG. As described above, the contents are displayed in the display area 11a. Note that the hard disk recorder 201 used in the present embodiment is automatically turned on in conjunction with the switching of the external input terminal so that data can be transmitted to and received from the main unit 1. Is set to
On the other hand, the audio amplifier 501 outputs audio from the speaker SP based on receiving audio data from the hard disk recorder 201.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the user U4 is holding the controller 402 so as to perform an operation of a game executed on the game machine 401 by the controller 402.

As shown in FIG. 20, the user U <b> 4 is seated in front of the table T and holds the controller 402 in order to perform a game operation executed on the game machine 401.
At this time, the image comparison unit 173 of the screen detection unit 17 detects the movement of the controller 402 as described above. Then, as illustrated in FIG. 16A, the image comparison unit 173 transmits the object ID data corresponding to the object ID “# 0003” corresponding to the controller image data to the control unit 13.
Further, as described above, the image comparison unit 173 identifies the user U4 from the acquired image, and transmits user ID data corresponding to the user ID “# 1004” indicating the user U4 to the control unit 13.

When the CPU 131 of the control unit 13 receives the object ID data and the user ID data, the CPU 131 switches to the external input terminal 3 (143) corresponding to the object ID “# 0003”, and the remote operation device 18 controls the audio amplifier 501. The infrared signal is transmitted so that the power is turned off and the game machine 401 is turned on. Further, the CPU 131 sets the volume output from the audio output unit to 25. Then, the CPU 131 switches from the screen shown in FIG. 21A to the screen shown in FIG. 21B, and, as shown in FIG. 19B, displays the user name and the external on the input display unit 1001 in the display area 11a. “Controller 3” corresponding to the object ID “# 0003” is displayed on the OSD display unit 1002 by “Jiro-san” corresponding to the user ID “# 1004”. Is displayed, and the set result is displayed.
Thereafter, the game machine 401 is turned on by an infrared signal from the remote control device 18, and video data and audio data generated based on the recorded information recorded on the recording medium are transferred from the game machine 401 to the main unit 1. As shown in FIG. 21C, the content is displayed in the display area 11a, and the audio output unit 12 outputs audio.

  As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, any object is moved by the object determination unit based on the object information stored in the object storage unit. Is identified. And it switches to the external input corresponding to the specified target object. As a result, for example, by storing the form of an accessory such as a remote controller or controller connected to an external input as an object, the input can be switched simply by moving the remote controller or controller of the desired device by hand. Is done. In addition, it is possible to operate the device connected to the selected external input as it is with the remote controller or controller that is picked up in the hand, eliminating the trouble of selecting the external input by the operator and improving the operability. Can be planned.

  Further, according to the embodiment of the present invention, when a predetermined registration operation is received, the object to be imaged is imaged by the imaging means, and object information is generated based on the imaged object. Then, the generated object information is stored in association with any of the plurality of external input information. As a result, even when a device is newly connected to the input switching device, the device can be preferably applied to the configuration of the present invention, and convenience is improved.

  According to the embodiment of the present invention, when object information is received from the outside, the received object information is stored in association with any one of a plurality of external input information. As a result, for example, the object information can be downloaded from the manufacturer via digital broadcasting or the Internet, or received from the media and used, and even when a new device is connected to the input switching device, The device can be suitably applied to the configuration of the present invention, and convenience is improved.

  According to the embodiment of the present invention, when the input is switched to the external input corresponding to the object specified by the input switching means, the volume is set based on the corresponding volume setting data. As a result, since the volume setting is automatically performed every time the input is switched, it is not necessary to adjust the volume every time the input is switched, and convenience is improved.

  In addition, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the individual imaged by the imaging unit is specified based on the stored face information. Then, the volume of the device connected to the external input switched by the input switching means is set to a volume corresponding to the identified individual. As a result, the volume adjustment operation according to personal preference can be omitted, and convenience is improved.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the input switching device according to the present invention is applied to the digital television receiver 100 which is a television receiver. For example, the input switching device can be connected to and connected to a plurality of audio devices. The present invention may be applied to other devices such as an AV amplifier that selects one of a plurality of acoustic devices and outputs sound.

  Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, object information is generated and additionally stored based on an image of a remote controller or the like imaged by the CCD camera 16, and the object moved based on the stored object information is stored. Although the object is specified, the object information may be limited to those stored in advance, and the object information may not be additionally stored.

  Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, the object information is generated based on a remote controller or the like imaged by the CCD camera 16, but the object information is provided based on a remote controller or the like that is separately provided with an imaging device. Object information may be generated.

In the embodiment of the present invention, the object information is downloaded via the Internet. However, the object information is connected to an external device, the object information is read from the external device, and a recording medium reader is provided. -It may be realized by reading the object information recorded on the ROM or DVD-ROM.
Moreover, it does not need to have such a function.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the volume can be set corresponding to each external input terminal, but such a function may not be provided.

Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, the user's face is imaged to identify the user, and the sound output is changed to the volume set for each user. However, such a function is not provided. May be.
As a means for specifying an individual, for example, a user may be specified by glow.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, a remote controller or the like is imaged, object information is generated and stored based on the captured image of the remote controller or the like, and the moved remote controller or the like is specified based on the object information. However, an identification object having a specific shape is attached to an object to be registered as an object, the identification object is imaged by an imaging unit, and object information is generated and stored based on the image of the imaged identification object. Then, the remote controller or the like that has moved may be specified based on the stored object information.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, data is transmitted and received between the remote control device 18 and the main unit 1 by wireless communication, but may be connected by a cable.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the volume can be set for each input terminal and for each user. However, the image quality and other adjustments may be set.

Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, an infrared signal for operating the power source is transmitted from the remote control device 18 to the game machine 401, but of course, it can be transmitted to other external devices. Alternatively, the remote control device 18 may not be provided, and an infrared signal for operating the power supply may not be transmitted.
Further, transmission / reception of a signal for operating the power supply may be performed by a wireless signal. In this case, since the output signal is hardly affected by directivity, the remote control device 18 can be built in the main body 1.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Digital television receiver 1 Main part 2 TV remote control 3 Remote control signal light-receiving part 11 Display part 11a Display area 12 Audio | voice output part 13 Control part 131 CPU
134 EPROM
134a Input terminal selection memory 134b Volume setting memory 134c External audio equipment power supply setting memory 135 ROM
135a Input switching program 135b External input terminal switching setting program 135c User registration setting program 14 Input terminal unit 141-144 External input terminal 15 Input switching unit 16 CCD camera 17 Image detection unit 172 Image input unit 173 Image comparison unit 174 Buffer 176 Object Image information storage unit 177 User image information storage unit 18 Remote operation device 19 Remote operation signal output unit 20 LAN interface 201 Hard disk recorder 202 HDD remote controller 301 CS tuner 302 CS tuner remote controller 401 Game machine 402 Controller 501 Audio amplifier

Claims (7)

An external input receiving means for receiving a plurality of external inputs;
Object storage means for storing a plurality of types of object information capable of specifying an object and external input information for specifying any of the plurality of external inputs in association with each other;
An imaging means for capturing an image;
Image detecting means for detecting a change in the image based on the image picked up by the image pickup means;
An object determination means for determining which object has moved based on the object information stored in the object storage means when a change in the image is detected by the image detection means;
Input switching means for switching to an external input corresponding to the object determined by the object determination means;
An input switching device comprising: A registration operation accepting means for accepting a predetermined registration operation;
When the registration operation is accepted by the registration operation accepting unit, object information is generated based on the object imaged by the imaging unit, and the generated object information and the plurality of external inputs are generated. An imaging target registration unit that associates and stores external input information that specifies any one of them in the target storage unit;
The input switching device according to claim 1, further comprising: Information receiving means for receiving object information from outside;
Receiving object registration means for associating and storing the object information received by the information receiving means and external input information for specifying any of the plurality of external inputs in the object storage means;
The input switching device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: Audio output means for outputting audio;
Sound volume setting information storage means in which sound volume setting data in which sound volume output by the sound output means is associated with each external input is stored in advance;
Volume setting means for setting the volume according to the external input switched by the input switching means based on the volume setting data stored in the volume setting information storage means;
The input switching device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: Face information storage means storing face information capable of specifying an individual's face;
Face detection means for detecting an individual's face based on an image picked up by the image pickup means;
Personal identification means for identifying the individual face detected by the face detection means based on the face information stored in the face information storage means,
The volume setting information storage means stores the volume setting data in association with each face information stored in the face information storage means,
5. The volume setting unit sets the volume according to an external input switched by the input switching unit and an individual specified by the individual specifying unit based on the volume setting data. Input switching device. An external input receiving means for receiving a plurality of external inputs;
Object storage means for storing a plurality of types of object information capable of specifying an object and external input information for specifying any of the plurality of external inputs in association with each other;
An imaging means for capturing an image;
Image detecting means for detecting a change in the image based on the image picked up by the image pickup means;
An object determination means for determining which object has moved based on the object information stored in the object storage means when a change in the image is detected by the image detection means;
Input switching means for switching to an external input corresponding to the object determined by the object determination means;
A registration operation accepting means for accepting a predetermined registration operation;
When the registration operation is accepted by the registration operation accepting unit, object information is generated based on the object imaged by the imaging unit, and the generated object information and the plurality of external inputs are generated. Imaging object registration means for associating and storing any external input information in the object storage means;
Information receiving means for receiving object information from outside;
Receiving object registration means for associating the object information received by the information receiving means with any external input information of the plurality of external inputs and storing it in the object storage means;
Face information storage means storing face information capable of specifying an individual's face;
Face detection means for detecting an individual's face based on an image picked up by the image pickup means;
Personal identification means for identifying an individual's face detected by the face detection means based on the face information stored in the face information storage means;
Audio output means for outputting audio;
Sound volume setting information storage means in which sound volume setting data in which sound volume output by the sound output means is associated with each external input and for each face information stored in the face information storage means;
Volume setting means for setting the volume according to the individual specified by the external input switched by the input switching means and the individual specifying means based on the volume setting data stored in the volume setting information storage means;
An input switching device comprising:   A television receiver comprising the input switching device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

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