JP2011223730A - Cradle and program therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To sequentially switch a content reproducing apparatus to be charged in descending order of convenience.SOLUTION: A cradle includes: a connector to which a plurality of content reproducing apparatuses can be connected; a host controller for communicating with only one of the plurality of the content reproducing apparatuses; a switch for switching a connection of one of the plurality of the content reproducing apparatuses with the host controller; management means for managing the number of times of connection of the plurality of the content reproducing apparatuses to the cradle; selection means for selecting the content reproducing apparatus to be charged preferentially from among one or more than one of the content reproducing apparatuses connected to the cradle based on the number of times of its connection to the cradle; and a microcomputer for connecting the content reproducing apparatus to be charged preferentially and the controller to the switch.

Description

  The present invention relates to a content reproduction apparatus cradle and a program thereof.

  FIG. 2 corresponds to the content reproduction apparatus cradle disclosed by the present applicant in Japanese Patent Application No. 2009-293450. When the audio data of the portable content reproduction device (hereinafter referred to as DAP) 2 is output to the amplification device 5 via the cradle 1 (in the DAP2 reproduction state), the switch 1G connects the connector 1L and the host controller 1B. . On the other hand, when the audio data of DAP3 is output to the amplification device 5 via the cradle 1 (in the DAP3 playback state), the switch 1G connects the connector 1M and the host controller 1B.

  The DAPs 2 and 3 are connected to the cradle 1 via the USB, and the charging voltage is supplied from the cradle 1 to charge the battery. The DAPs 2 and 3 use the charging voltage when charging commands are supplied from the host controller 1B at predetermined time intervals via the USB data lines D + and D- (that is, when communicating with the host controller). The battery is charged, and the battery is not charged when a charge command is not supplied from the host controller 1B at a predetermined time interval (that is, when not communicating with the host controller).

  Therefore, in the DAP2 playback state, the DAP3 is not connected to the host controller 1B, and therefore cannot receive a charge command from the host controller 1B and cannot charge the battery. In other words, even if DAP2 is a DAP that is not frequently used and DAP3 is frequently used, if the DAP2 playback state continues, the battery of DAP3 cannot be charged in one direction.

  Similarly, in the DAP3 playback state, since DAP2 is not connected to the host controller 1B, it cannot receive a charge command from the host controller 1B and cannot charge the battery. In other words, even if DAP3 is a DAP that is not frequently used and DAP2 is frequently used, if the DAP3 playback state continues, the battery of DAP2 cannot be charged at all.

  For the user, since both DAPs 2 and 3 are connected to the cradle 1, it is natural that both DAPs 2 and 3 are charged to the maximum charge level. However, unless the playback state is switched, Since the DAP is not charged, there is a possibility that the cradle 1 or the DAP is misunderstood. This problem also occurs when the PC 4 is not connected to the USB terminal 1A in the cradle 101 of FIG. 27 and a charge command cannot be received from the host controller 4A of the PC 4.

JP 2006-244607 A JP 2007-68333 A JP 2006-246217 A

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a cradle that sequentially switches a content reproduction device to be charged in order of high convenience.

  A portable cradle according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is a cradle that performs a charging operation when communicating with a controller and supplies a power supply voltage for charging to a content playback apparatus that does not perform a charging operation when not communicating with the controller. A connection unit to which the plurality of content reproduction devices can be connected; a controller that communicates with only one of the plurality of content reproduction devices; and the content reproduction of any of the plurality of content reproduction devices. A switch for switching whether to connect the device and the controller, a management means for managing the number of connections of the plurality of content playback devices to the cradle, and one or more of the content playback devices connected to the cradle Based on the number of times the content playback device is connected to the cradle. There are provided a selection means for selecting the content reproducing apparatus for charging preferentially, to the switch, and a switch control means for connecting the content reproducing apparatus to be charged with priority and with said controller.

  Since the number of times of connection to the cradle has a correlation with the frequency of use of the content playback device, convenience can be improved by selecting a content playback device that is preferentially charged based on the number of times of connection to the cradle.

  In a preferred embodiment, the selection means selects the content reproduction device that preferentially charges the content reproduction device having the largest number of connections to the cradle.

  Since a content playback device with a large number of connections to the cradle is considered to be a content playback device with a high frequency of use, convenience can be improved by preferentially charging a content playback device with a high number of connections.

  In a preferred embodiment, the management means manages the number of connections to the cradle during a predetermined period of the plurality of content reproduction apparatuses.

  In this case, the content playback device that has been frequently used and used many times in the past has not been selected as a content playback device that is preferentially charged. .

  A cradle according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention performs a charging operation when communicating with a controller, and supplies a power supply voltage for charging to a content playback apparatus that does not perform a charging operation when not communicating with the controller. A connection unit to which the plurality of content reproduction devices can be connected; a controller that communicates with only one of the plurality of content reproduction devices; and any content of the plurality of content reproduction devices. A switch for switching whether to connect the playback device and the controller, management means for acquiring and managing information on the number of contents stored in the content playback device from the plurality of content playback devices, and a plurality of the content playbacks Based on information on the number of contents of the device, the charging is performed preferentially Comprising selecting means for selecting a content playback device, the switch, and a switch control means to connect preferentially with the content reproducing apparatus to charge and said controller.

  Since the number of contents stored in the content reproduction apparatus correlates with the usage frequency of the content reproduction apparatus, the convenience can be improved by selecting the content reproduction apparatus to be preferentially charged based on the number of contents. .

  In a preferred embodiment, the selection means selects the content reproduction device that preferentially charges the content reproduction device having the maximum number of contents to be stored.

  Since a content reproduction apparatus with a large number of contents is considered to be a content reproduction apparatus with a high frequency of use, convenience can be improved by preferentially charging a content reproduction apparatus with a large number of contents.

  A cradle according to still another preferred embodiment of the present invention supplies a power supply voltage for charging to a content playback device that performs a charging operation when communicating with the controller and does not perform a charging operation when not communicating with the controller. A cradle that is connectable to a plurality of the content playback devices, a controller that communicates with only one of the plurality of content playback devices, and any of the plurality of content playback devices A switch for switching whether to connect the content playback device and the controller, a management means for managing product categories of the plurality of content playback devices, and one or more of the content playback devices connected to the cradle Based on the product category of the content playback device. Selection means for selecting the content reproducing apparatus to be, to the switch, and a switch control means to connect preferentially with the content reproducing apparatus to charge and said controller.

  Since the product category correlates with the usage frequency of the content reproduction device, the convenience can be enhanced by selecting the content reproduction device to be preferentially charged based on the product category.

  In a preferred embodiment, a priority order is defined for a product category, and the selection means selects the content playback apparatus that preferentially charges the content playback apparatus with the highest product category priority.

  Although not particularly limited, for example, by setting the highest priority for the content playback device whose product category is a mobile phone, the mobile phone can be charged earlier than the content playback devices of other product categories. This is because mobile phones need to be connected, so it is better to charge them as soon as possible.

  A cradle according to still another preferred embodiment of the present invention supplies a power supply voltage for charging to a content playback device that performs a charging operation when communicating with the controller and does not perform a charging operation when not communicating with the controller. A cradle that is connectable to a plurality of the content playback devices, a controller that communicates with only one of the plurality of content playback devices, and any of the plurality of content playback devices A switch that switches whether to connect the content playback device and the controller, a management unit that manages a charge level of the plurality of content playback devices, and one or more of the content playback devices connected to the cradle To charge preferentially based on the charge level of the content playback device. That includes a selection means for selecting the content playback device, the switch, and a switch control means to connect preferentially with the content reproducing apparatus to charge and said controller.

  Convenience can be enhanced by selecting a content playback device that is preferentially charged based on the charge level of the content playback device.

  In a preferred embodiment, the management means manages a difference between a current charge level of the content reproduction device and a charge level at the time of connection to the cradle, and the selection means has the content with the largest difference. The content playback device that preferentially charges the playback device is selected.

  For example, it is possible to preferentially charge a content reproduction apparatus whose charge level has been greatly lowered after being connected to the cradle.

  In a preferred embodiment, when the content playback device to be preferentially charged is in a fully charged state, the selection means is connected to the cradle except for the content playback device in a fully charged state. The content reproduction apparatus to be preferentially charged is further selected from one or a plurality of cradle.

  In this case, when the content playback device to be preferentially charged is completely charged, the content playback device to be preferentially charged again is selected except for the content playback device. Therefore, it is possible to sequentially charge all the content playback devices in the order considered to be highly convenient.

  In a preferred embodiment, when the content playback device to be preferentially charged is in a fully charged state, when the content being played back by the content playback device in the fully charged state is finished playing, the fully charged state is reached. The selection means further selects the content playback device to be preferentially charged from one or a plurality of cradles connected to the cradle, except for the content playback device that has become.

  In this case, if the content playback device to be preferentially charged immediately after the content playback device to be preferentially charged is changed to another content playback device, content playback may be interrupted. Therefore, this can be prevented by changing the content playback device that is preferentially charged after the content playback ends to another content playback device.

  In a preferred embodiment, when the content playback device to be preferentially charged is disconnected from the cradle, the selection means preferentially charges from one or more cradles connected to the cradle. The content playback device to be selected is further selected.

  In this case, it is possible to solve the problem that there is no content playback device to be charged as a result of disconnecting the content playback device to be preferentially charged from the cradle.

  In a preferred embodiment, the management means further manages information on whether or not the content playback device is in a fully charged state, and the selection means has priority from among the content playback devices that are not in a fully charged state. The content playback device to be charged automatically is selected.

  In this case, it is possible to prevent a content playback device that has already been charged from being selected as the content playback device that is preferentially charged.

  In a preferred embodiment, there is further provided command transmission means for transmitting a reproduction command to the content reproduction apparatus to be charged with priority and transmitting a stop command to a content reproduction apparatus other than the content reproduction apparatus to be charged with priority.

  Since the content playback device that is not charged is not connected to the controller, the cradle cannot receive content from the content playback device that is not charged. Therefore, by transmitting a stop command to a content playback device that is not to be charged, it is possible to prevent a charge amount of the content playback device that is not to be charged from being lowered.

  It is possible to provide a cradle that sequentially switches the content playback devices to be charged in order of convenience.

It is a block diagram which shows the cradle 1 grade | etc., Of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows hardware, such as a cradle. 1 is an external view of a cradle 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows DAP information DB. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a figure which shows DAP information DB. It is a figure which shows DAP information DB. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a figure which shows content reproduction apparatus information DB. It is a figure which shows the priority of a product category. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a figure which shows DAP information DB. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. It is a flowchart which shows the process of the microcomputer 1A. 2 is a block diagram showing hardware such as a cradle 101. FIG.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a cradle 1, a portable content reproduction device (hereinafter referred to as DAP (Digital Audio Player)) 2, 3, an amplification device 5, and remote control transmitters 6, 7 according to the present embodiment. The DAPs 2 and 3 can be connected to the cradle 1 via an arbitrary communication line such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus). Note that IEEE 1394, HDMI, or the like may be employed instead of USB. The cradle 1 can be connected to the amplifying device 5 via a digital audio cable and a control signal cable. Three or more DAPs may be connectable to the cradle 1.

  The cradle 1 supplies the DC power supply voltage to the DAPs 2 and 3 to charge the batteries with the DAPs 2 and 3. When the DAP 2 and 3 are communicating with the host controller (for example, when charging commands are received from the host controller via the USB at predetermined time intervals), the DAPs 2 and 3 communicate with the host controller. The battery is not charged when it is not (for example, when a charging command is not received at a predetermined time interval from the host controller via USB). Therefore, the cradle 1 must continue to transmit a charging command from the host controller to the DAPs 2 and 3 at predetermined time intervals in order to continuously charge the DAPs 2 and 3.

  Each of the DAPs 2 and 3 reproduces (for example, decodes) content (audio file) recorded in a recording medium such as an HDD or a flash memory built therein, and transmits audio data to the cradle 1 via USB. The cradle 1 transmits the audio data received from the DAPs 2 and 3 to the amplification device 5. The amplifying device 5 reproduces the audio data received from the cradle 1 (for example, DA conversion and amplification), and outputs sound from a speaker (not shown) connected to the outside.

  When the amplification device 5 receives a remote control signal from the remote control transmitter 6 in response to a user operation, the amplification device 5 transmits a control signal (for example, a control signal for starting reproduction of the DAP 2 or 3) to the cradle 1. When the cradle 1 receives the control signal from the amplifying device 5, the cradle 1 converts it into a control signal for controlling the DAP 2 or 3, transmits it to the DAP 2 or 3, and controls the DAP 2 or 3. The cradle 1 receives a remote control signal from the remote control transmitter 7 according to a user operation, or when a control unit provided in the cradle 1 is operated, transmits a control signal to the DAP 2 or 3, and the DAP 2 or 3 To control.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram showing hardware such as the cradle 1. FIG. 3 is an external view of the cradle 1. The cradle 1 includes a microcomputer (switch control unit) 1A, a host controller 1B, a switch 1G, a power supply unit 1I, a remote control reception unit 1J, an operation unit 1K, a connector (first connection unit) 1L, a connector ( (Second connection unit) 1M, a digital audio output terminal (hereinafter referred to as an output terminal) 1O, and a control signal input / output terminal 1P.

  The microcomputer 1A controls the entire cradle 1 based on a program stored in a memory (not shown). The microcomputer 1A switches and controls the switch 1G according to a user operation of the operation unit 1K, a remote control signal input to the remote control reception unit 1J, a control signal received from the amplification device 5, and the number of connections of the DAPs 2 and 3. .

  The microcomputer 1A acquires a content list, which is a list of content information of all audio files recorded by the DAPs 2 and 3, from the DAPs 2 and 3, and stores it in the memory. The content information is specific information (metadata) for specifying an audio file, such as a song name, artist name, album name, and the like.

  Further, the microcomputer 1A manages the number of connections (use frequency) of the DAPs 2 and 3 to the cradle 1. The microcomputer 1A selects a DAP to be preferentially charged based on the number of connections to the cradle 1 from a plurality of DAPs connected to the cradle 1. That is, the microcomputer 1A compares the number of connections of a plurality of DAPs and selects the DAP that preferentially charges the DAP with the maximum number of connections. The microcomputer 1A connects the DAP to be preferentially charged with the host controller 1B and switches to the DAP reproduction state of the DAP to be preferentially charged. Accordingly, the charging command is preferentially supplied from the host controller 1B to the DAP having the largest number of connections (the most frequently used), and charging can be performed.

  A DAP information DB (database) shown in FIG. 4 is stored in a memory (not shown). The DAP information DB manages the number of connections and the state of the cradle 1 for each DAP connected to the cradle 1. In the DAP information DB, the “number of connections”, “state”, and “full” to the cradle 1 are associated with DAP model information (for example, information that can uniquely identify the DAP such as model number and serial number). “Charging information” and “connecting connector” are registered.

  In the “state”, any of charging, connection, and unconnection is registered. “Charging” is registered for only one DAP to which a charge command is supplied from the host controller 1B. In the “full charge information”, only DAPs whose state is being charged or connected are registered as “◯” for DAPs that are in a fully charged state and “X” for DAPs that are not yet fully charged. In the “connection connector”, information on the connector of the cradle to which the DAP is connected is registered.

  The host controller 1B communicates with the DAP 2 via USB and controls the DAP 2. When the host controller 1B is connected to the DAP 2, the host controller 1B transmits a charging command to the DAP 2 at a predetermined time interval to cause the DAP 2 to charge the battery. The host controller 1B communicates with the DAP 3 via the USB and controls the DAP 3. When the host controller 1B is connected to the DAP 3, the host controller 1B transmits a charge command to the DAP 3 at predetermined time intervals to cause the DAP 3 to charge the battery.

  The host controller 1B is connected to the switch 1G, the output terminal 1O, and the microcomputer 1A. When connected to the DAP 2, the host controller 1 </ b> B transmits a control signal from the microcomputer 1 </ b> A to the DAP 2 to control the DAP 2. When connected to the DAP 2, the host controller 1 </ b> B receives audio data from the DAP 2 and outputs the audio data from the output terminal 10 to the amplification device 5. Further, when connected to the DAP 3, the host controller 1B transmits a control signal from the microcomputer 1A to the DAP 3, and controls the DAP 3. When connected to the DAP 3, the host controller 1 B receives audio data from the DAP 3 and outputs the audio data from the output terminal 1 O to the amplification device 5.

  Although not essential for the configuration of the present invention, in the case of an actual product, digital audio transmission for converting audio data from the host controller 1B into the SPDIF format between the host controller 1B and the output terminal 1O. A part may be provided.

  The switch 1G switches whether to connect the connector 1L (ie, DAP2) and the host controller 1B or to connect the connector 1M (ie, DAP3) and the host controller 1B based on an instruction from the microcomputer 1A. As the switch 1G, for example, a USB 2.0 compatible high-speed bus switch or the like is employed.

  The power supply unit 1I is supplied with commercial AC power from the power connector shown in FIG. 3, generates a DC power supply voltage from the commercial AC power, supplies it to each part of the cradle 1, and supplies it to the DAP 2 via the connector 1L. The DC power supply voltage supplied to DAP2 is used by DAP2 to charge the battery. Further, the power supply unit 1I supplies a DC power supply voltage to the DAP 3 via the connector 1M (not shown). The DC power supply voltage supplied to the DAP 3 is used for the DAP 3 to charge the battery.

  The remote control receiver 1J receives a remote control signal from the remote control transmitter 7 for the cradle 1 and supplies a control signal to the microcomputer 1A.

  The operation unit 1K receives an instruction based on a user operation. The operation unit 1K includes a DAP2 button and a DAP3 button that are audio selector switches. The DAP2 button is a button for switching to a state in which the cradle 1 receives audio data from the DAP2 and outputs the audio data from the output terminal 10 to the amplification device 5 (hereinafter referred to as a DAP2 playback state). The DAP3 button is a button for switching to a state in which the cradle 1 receives audio data from the DAP3 and outputs the audio data from the output terminal 10 to the amplification device 5 (hereinafter referred to as a DAP3 playback state). These buttons are similarly provided on the remote control transmitter 7.

  The connector 1L can be connected to the connector of the DAP2. The connector 1L includes a USB terminal (data lines D +, D− and 5V power supply line terminals) and a terminal for receiving a connection detection signal from the DAP2. The connector 1L is connected to the microcomputer 1A, the switch 1G, and the power supply unit 1I.

  The connector 1M can be connected to the connector of the DAP3. The connector 1M includes a USB terminal (data lines D +, D−, and terminals of the 5V power supply line) and a terminal that receives a connection detection signal from the DAP3. The connector 1M is connected to the microcomputer 1A, the switch 1G, and the power supply unit 1I.

  The control signal input / output terminal 1P is connected to the microcomputer 1A and can be connected to the amplifying device 5 via a control signal line. When receiving the remote control signal from the remote control transmitter 6 for the amplification device 5, the amplification device 5 transmits a control signal to the control signal input / output terminal 1P. The control signal input / output terminal 1P receives the control signal from the amplification device 5 and supplies it to the microcomputer 1A. The microcomputer 1A transmits a control signal to the amplifying device 5 via the control signal input / output terminal 1P.

  The DAP 2 includes an HDD 2A, a playback unit 2B, and the like. The playback unit 2B plays back content (that is, an audio file) recorded on the HDD, and outputs audio data to the cradle 1. The DAP 3 includes an HDD 3A, a playback unit 3B, and the like. The playback unit 3B plays back the audio file recorded on the HDD and outputs the audio data to the cradle 1. A general DAP2, 3 and PC4 itself may be employed.

  In the above configuration, the above description is also used when three or more DAPs can be connected to the cradle 1.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the cradle 1 will be described. FIG. 5 shows the processing of the microcomputer 1 </ b> A when the DAP is connected to the cradle 1. The microcomputer 1A determines whether or not a DAP is connected to the connector (S1). Whether or not the DAP is connected may be determined by a known method. When the DAP is connected (YES in S1), the microcomputer 1A causes the switch 1G to connect the newly connected DAP and the host controller 1B. The microcomputer 1A acquires model information from the DAP newly connected via the host controller 1B (S2).

  The microcomputer 1A determines whether or not the model information of the newly connected DAP is registered in the DAP information DB, that is, whether or not it has been connected to the cradle 1 before (S3). If not registered (NO in S3), the microcomputer 1A registers the model information of the newly connected DAP in the DAP information DB, registers 1 in the “number of connections”, and is connected to the “connecting connector”. The connector information is registered (S5). On the other hand, if registered (YES in S3), the microcomputer 1A increments the “connection count” of the newly connected DAP in the DAP information DB by 1, and registers the information of the connector connected to the “connection connector”. (S4).

  The microcomputer 1A indicates that the “connection count” of the newly connected DAP is “connection” of all DAPs whose “state” is being charged or connected in the DAP information DB (that is, currently connected to the cradle 1). It is determined whether or not the number is “number of times” or more (S6). Alternatively, the microcomputer 1A determines whether or not the “connection count” of the newly connected DAP is larger than the “connection count” of all DAPs whose “state” is being charged or connected in the DAP information DB. Judging.

  When the “connection count” of the newly connected DAP is equal to or greater than the “connection count” of all DAPs that are being charged or connected in the DAP information DB (YES in S6), the microcomputer 1A The microcomputer 1A selects the DAP that preferentially charges the newly connected DAP (S7). Then, the microcomputer 1A registers charging in the “state” of the newly connected DAP in the DAP information DB, and registers being connected in the “state” of the other DAP connected to the cradle 1 (S8). ).

  On the other hand, the microcomputer 1A determines that the “connection count” of the newly connected DAP is not equal to or greater than the “connection count” of all DAPs that are being charged or connected in the DAP information DB (NO in S6). ), The microcomputer 1A does not select the DAP that preferentially charges the newly connected DAP, but registers the connection status in the “state” of the newly connected DAP in the DAP information DB (S9).

  FIG. 6 shows the processing of the microcomputer 1A for charging the DAP to be preferentially charged. The microcomputer 1A sequentially connects the DAP other than the DAP to be preferentially charged and the host controller 1B (S11), and transmits a stop command to the DAP other than the DAP to be preferentially charged via the host controller 1B (S12). . Accordingly, the DAP other than the DAP to be preferentially charged is in an audio file reproduction stopped state. As a result, even when a DAP other than the DAP to be preferentially charged is reproducing an audio file, the reproduction can be stopped, and a decrease in the charge level of the batteries of these DAPs is prevented. This is because the DAP other than the DAP to be preferentially charged cannot supply the audio data to the amplifying device 5 through the cradle 1 even when the audio file is reproduced.

  Next, the microcomputer 1A connects the DAP to be preferentially charged and the host controller 1B (S13), and transmits a reproduction command to the DAP to be preferentially charged via the host controller 1B (S14). Therefore, the DAP to be charged with priority is in the audio file playback state. The audio data from the DAP that is preferentially charged is output from the output terminal 1O to the amplification device 5 via the connector, the switch 1G, and the host controller 1B.

  The host controller 1B charges the DAP by transmitting a charge command to the DAP that is preferentially charged at predetermined time intervals (S15). Then, the microcomputer 1A acquires the current charge level of the DAP from the DAP and stores it in the memory (S16). Then, the microcomputer 1A determines whether or not the charge level of the DAP is maximum (for example, 255 in the case of 0 to 255) (that is, whether or not the charge information of the DAP2 indicates a fully charged state). ) Is determined (S17). If the charge level of the DAP is not the maximum (NO in S17), the process returns to S15. In other words, until the DAP charge level is maximized (until the DAP is fully charged), the DAP is kept in the playback state, and the DAP is charged by continuing to transmit a charge command to the DAP. .

  When the charge level of the DAP reaches the maximum (YES in S17), the microcomputer 1A determines whether or not playback of the audio file currently being played back by the DAP is completed and playback of the next audio file is started ( S18). For example, immediately before the playback of the currently played audio file is completed, a notification that “the playback of the currently played audio file is finished and the next audio file is started” is transmitted from the DAP. . Alternatively, information (for example, MP3 header information) indicating that switching to the next audio file is embedded in the audio data transmitted from the DAP.

  When it is determined that the audio file currently being played back by the DAP is finished and the next audio file is started to be played (YES in S18), the microcomputer 1A sends a stop command to the DAP via the host controller 1B. Is transmitted (S19). Therefore, the DAP stops playing the audio file. The microcomputer 1A changes the “full charge information” of the DAP to ○ in the DAP information DB (S20).

  The microcomputer 1A determines whether or not there is a DAP whose “full charge information” is x in the DAP information DB, that is, whether or not there is a DAP that has not yet been charged (S21). If the “full charge information” of all DAPs is ○ (NO in S21), the process is terminated. On the other hand, when there is a DAP with “full charge information” x (YES in S21), the DAP with the maximum “number of connections” is preferentially charged from DAPs with “full charge information” x in the DAP information DB. The DAP to be selected is selected (S22). At this time, in the DAP information DB, the “state” of the DAP to be preferentially charged is changed to being charged, and the “state” of other DAPs connected to the cradle 1 is set to be connected.

  As described above, the state shifts to the reproduction state of the DAP to be preferentially charged, and the audio data from the DAP is output to the amplification device 5 while charging the DAP. Therefore, it is possible to preferentially charge the DAP with the largest number of connections among the DAPs that have not been charged. After the charge level of the DAP to be preferentially charged reaches the maximum, among the DAPs that have not been charged, the DAP with the maximum number of connections can be preferentially charged. Further, since the DAP to be preferentially charged is switched at the timing when reproduction of the currently reproduced audio file ends, it is possible to prevent the reproduced audio file from being switched during reproduction.

  As shown in FIG. 7, S11, S12, S14, S18, and S19 may not be included in the processing of FIG. That is, it is not always necessary to transmit a playback command or a stop command. Also, instead of switching the DAP to be preferentially charged when the audio file being played by the DAP to be preferentially charged is finished playing, it is preferentially charged as soon as the charge level of the DAP to be preferentially charged becomes maximum. The DAP to be switched may be switched.

  FIG. 8 shows processing of the microcomputer 1A when disconnecting the DAP from the cradle. The microcomputer 1A determines whether or not the DAP is disconnected from the cradle 1 (S31). If the connection is released (YES in S31), the microcomputer 1A changes the “state” of the released DAP to unconnected in the DAP information DB (S32). The microcomputer 1A determines whether or not the “state” of the disconnected DAP is being charged in the DAP information DB (S33). If not charging (NO in S33), the process is terminated.

  If charging is in progress (YES in S33), the microcomputer 1A determines in the DAP information DB whether or not there is a DAP with "full charge information" x, that is, whether there is a DAP that has not been fully charged. Is determined (S34). If there is a DAP with “full charge information” x (YES in S34), the microcomputer 1A preferentially charges the DAP with the largest “number of connections” from the DAPs with “full charge information” x. (S35). When there are a plurality of DAPs with the largest “number of connections”, any DAP (for example, a DAP with a smaller number of connected connectors or a head of the DAP information DB) is registered. DAP) may be selected. Then, the microcomputer 1A changes the “state” of the DAP to be preferentially charged during charging (S36). The process of charging the DAP that is preferentially charged is as shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, in S34, when there is no DAP with “full charge information” x (NO in S34), the microcomputer 1A determines that any connected DAP (for example, a DAP with a small number of connected connectors, or , DAP registered at the top of the DAP information DB) is selected as the DAP to be preferentially charged. Then, the microcomputer 1A changes the “state” of the DAP to be preferentially charged during charging (S36). The process of charging the DAP that is preferentially charged is as shown in FIG.

  FIG. 9 shows processing of the microcomputer 1A when the cradle 1 shifts from the standby state to the power-on state. Even in the standby state, the information in the DAP information DB is stored without being erased. The microcomputer 1A determines whether or not the cradle 1 shifts from the standby state to the power-on state (S41). When the power-on state is entered (YES in S41), the microcomputer 1A acquires model information from all currently connected DAPs. The microcomputer 1A determines whether or not there is a DAP whose “state” is being charged or connected in the DAP information DB but is not actually connected to the cradle 1 (S42). That is, it is determined whether or not there is a DAP that has been disconnected in the standby state. If it exists (YES in S42), the microcomputer 1A changes the "state" of the DAP that is not connected to the cradle 1 to "not connected" although the "state" is being charged or connected (S43). .

  Subsequently, the microcomputer 1A determines whether there is a DAP in which the “status” of the DAP information DB is not connected among the DAPs connected to the cradle 1 or a DAP whose model information is not registered in the DAP information DB. Is determined (S44). That is, it is determined whether there is a DAP connected in the standby state. If it does not exist (NO in S44), the process proceeds to S48. If it exists (YES in S44), the microcomputer 1A determines whether the model information is registered in the DAP information DB (S45). If registered (YES in S45), the microcomputer 1A increments the “number of connections” in the DAP state DB by 1, and registers information on the connector connected to the “connected connector” (S46). If not registered (NO in S45), the microcomputer 1A registers the model information of the newly connected DAP in the DAP information DB, registers 1 in the “number of connections”, and is connected to the “connecting connector”. The connector information is registered (S47). Note that the processing of S45 to S47 is executed for all DAPs determined to be YES in S44.

  Subsequently, the microcomputer 1A selects the DAP that preferentially charges the DAP having the largest “number of connections” in the DAP information DB (S48). At this time, if a DAP that preferentially charges a DAP with the largest “number of connections” is selected from DAPs with a “full charge information” of “X” except for a DAP with a “full charge information” of ○, if necessary. Good. Then, the microcomputer 1A changes the “state” of the DAP to be preferentially charged in the DAP information DB during charging, and sets the “state” other than the preferentially connected DAP to be connected (S49). ). In addition, the process which charges DAP made to charge preferentially is as FIG.

  Note that if the microcomputer 1A can update the DAP information DB in response to the DAP connection and disconnection even when the cradle 1 is in the standby state, the processing of S42 to S46 is omitted.

  Next, another preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this example, in the above embodiment, only the number of connections from the present to the predetermined period before the “number of connections” of the DAP information DB is stored, and the number of connections before that is not considered. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, when the current year is 2010, the number of connections in 2010, the number of connections in 2009, and the number of connections in 2008 are registered, and the total number of connections is registered. Yes. The DAP with the largest total number of connections is selected as the DAP that preferentially charges. In 2011, the number of connections in 2011, the number of connections in 2010, and the number of connections in 2009 are registered, and the total number of connections is registered, and the number of connections in 2008 is Erased. In this way, by selecting a DAP to be preferentially charged according to the number of connections from the present to a predetermined period before, a DAP that has been frequently used in the past but is not currently used is selected as a preferentially used DAP. Can be prevented.

  Next, still another preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this example, based on the number of contents stored in the DAP (that is, the number of audio files) instead of the number of connections, the DAP that preferentially charges the DAP with the largest number of contents as the DAP that is frequently used is used. Selected. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the DAP information DB of this example. The DAP information DB can register the number of contents stored in the HDD by the DAP instead of the number of connections.

  FIG. 12 shows the processing of the microcomputer 1A when the DAP is connected to the cradle 1. The same processing as in FIG. In S <b> 2, the microcomputer 1 </ b> A acquires information on the number of contents stored in the DAP in addition to the model information from the newly connected DAP. When it is determined YES in S3, the microcomputer 1A registers the “content number” of the newly connected DAP in the DAP information DB (S51). On the other hand, if NO is determined in S3, the microcomputer 1A registers the model information of the newly connected DAP in the DAP information DB, and registers the “number of contents” of the newly connected DAP (S52).

  Subsequently, the microcomputer 1A determines that all the DAPs whose “contents” of the newly connected DAP is being charged or connected (that is, currently connected to the cradle 1) in the DAP information DB. It is determined whether or not it is equal to or greater than the “number of contents” (S53). Alternatively, the microcomputer 1A determines whether or not the “content number” of the newly connected DAP is larger than the “content number” of all DAPs whose “state” is being charged or connected in the DAP information DB. Judging. Other processes are the same as those in FIG.

  FIG. 13 shows the processing of the microcomputer 1A for charging the DAP to be preferentially charged. The same processing as in FIG. In the case of YES in S21, the microcomputer 1A selects the DAP that preferentially charges the DAP having the largest “number of contents” from the DAPs having “full charge information” x in the DAP information DB (S61). At this time, in the DAP information DB, the “state” of the DAP to be preferentially charged is changed to being charged, and the “state” of other DAPs connected to the cradle 1 is set to be connected. Other processes are the same as those in FIG. 14 is a process in which a process that is not particularly necessary from FIG. 13 is omitted, and corresponds to the process in FIG.

  FIG. 15 shows the processing of the microcomputer 1A when disconnecting the DAP from the cradle. The same processing as in FIG. In the case of YES in S34, the microcomputer 1A selects a DAP that preferentially charges the DAP having the largest “number of contents” from among the DAPs having “full charge information” x (S81). Other processes are the same as those in FIG.

  FIG. 16 shows the processing of the microcomputer 1A when the cradle 1 shifts from the standby state to the power-on state. The same processing as in FIG. If YES in S45, the microcomputer 1A registers the “number of contents” in the DAP state DB, and registers information on the connector connected to the “connected connector” (S91). If NO in S45, the microcomputer 1A registers the model information of the newly connected DAP in the DAP information DB, registers the “number of contents”, and registers the information of the connector connected to the “connected connector” ( S92). Note that the processes of S45, S91, and S92 are executed for all DAPs for which YES is determined in S44.

  Subsequently, the microcomputer 1A selects the DAP having the highest “number of contents” as the DAP to be preferentially charged in the DAP information DB (S93). At this time, if a DAP that preferentially charges a DAP with the largest “number of connections” is selected from DAPs with a “full charge information” of “X” except for a DAP with a “full charge information” of ○, if necessary. Good.

  Next, still another preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this example, content reproduction apparatuses of various product categories such as mobile phones and portable game machines are applied in addition to DAP. Then, based on the product category of the content playback device instead of the number of connections, the content playback device with the higher priority of the product category is selected as the content playback device to be preferentially charged. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the content reproduction apparatus information DB of this example. The content playback device information DB can register the product category of the content playback device instead of the number of connections. FIG. 18 is a table showing the priority order of product categories, and is stored in a memory (not shown). The priority order of the product category may be determined in advance or may be changed by a user operation.

  FIG. 19 shows the processing of the microcomputer 1A when the content reproduction apparatus is connected to the cradle 1. The same processing as in FIG. In S2, the microcomputer 1A acquires the product category of the content reproduction apparatus in addition to the model information from the newly connected content reproduction apparatus. If the product category can be specified from the model information, only the model information is sufficient. If YES is determined in S3, the microcomputer 1A registers the “product category” of the newly connected content reproduction device in the content reproduction device information DB (S101). On the other hand, when it is determined NO in S3, the microcomputer 1A registers the model information and product category of the newly connected content reproduction device in the content reproduction device information DB (S102).

  Subsequently, the microcomputer 1A determines that the priority of the “product category” of the newly connected content reproduction device is “charged” or connected in the “status” in the content reproduction device information DB (that is, currently connected to the cradle 1). It is determined whether or not the priority is higher than the priority of “product category” of all the content playback devices (S103). Alternatively, the microcomputer 1A determines that the priority of the “product category” of the newly connected content playback device is “product category” of all content playback devices whose “status” is being charged or connected in the content playback device information DB. It is determined whether or not the priority is higher than “”. Other processes are the same as those in FIG.

  FIG. 20 shows the processing of the microcomputer 1A for charging the content playback device to be charged preferentially. The same processing as in FIG. If YES in S21, the microcomputer 1A preferentially charges the content playback device having the highest priority of the “product category” among the content playback devices having “full charge information” x in the content playback device information DB. (S111). At this time, in the content playback device information DB, the “status” of the content playback device to be preferentially charged is changed to charging, and the “status” of other content playback devices connected to the cradle 1 is set to being connected. . Other processes are the same as those in FIG. 21 is a process in which a process that is not particularly necessary from FIG. 20 is omitted, and corresponds to the process in FIG.

  FIG. 22 shows the processing of the microcomputer 1A when disconnecting the content reproduction apparatus from the cradle 1. The same processing as in FIG. In the case of YES in S34, the microcomputer 1A selects a content reproduction device that preferentially charges the content reproduction device with the highest priority of the "product category" from among the content reproduction devices with "full charge information" x ( S121). Other processes are the same as those in FIG.

  FIG. 23 shows the processing of the microcomputer 1A when the cradle 1 shifts from the standby state to the power-on state. The same processing as in FIG. If YES in S45, the microcomputer 1A registers the “product category” in the content playback apparatus state DB and registers information on the connector connected to the “connecting connector” (S131). In the case of NO in S45, the microcomputer 1A registers the model information of the newly connected content playback device in the content playback device information DB, registers the “product category”, and information on the connector connected to the “connection connector”. Is registered (S132). Note that the processes of S45, S131, and S132 are executed for all the content reproduction devices that are determined to be YES in S44.

  Subsequently, the microcomputer 1A selects a content playback device that preferentially charges the content playback device with the highest priority of the “product category” in the content playback device information DB (S133). At this time, if necessary, priority is given to the content playback device with the highest priority of the “product category” from the DAPs with “full charge information” x except for the content playback devices with “full charge information” of ○. It is recommended to select a content playback apparatus to be charged.

  Next, still another preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this example, the DAP to be preferentially charged is selected based on the charge level of the DAP instead of the number of connections. Specifically, the DAP that preferentially charges the DAP having the largest difference between the charge level when the DAP is connected to the cradle and the current charge level of the DAP is selected. The charge level is a value indicating the amount of charge of the DAP battery, and is represented by a numerical value of 0 to 100, for example. That is, 0 indicates a state that is not charged at all, and 100 indicates a fully charged state. FIG. 24 is a diagram showing the DAP information DB of this example. The DAP information DB can register the current charge level instead of the number of connections, the charge level at the time of connection, and the difference value between the current charge level and the charge level at the time of connection (although not particularly limited). . Accordingly, the microcomputer 1A causes the host controller 1B to periodically acquire the charge level from each DAP, and updates the “current charge level” and “charge level difference” in the DAP information DB.

  FIG. 25 shows the processing of the microcomputer 1A when the DAP is connected to the cradle 1. The same processing as in FIG. In S2, the microcomputer 1A acquires the charge level of the DAP in addition to the model information from the newly connected DAP. If it is determined YES in S3, the microcomputer 1A registers the charge level of the newly connected DAP in the DAP information DB as “current charge level” and “charge level at connection”. 0 ”is registered in the“ difference ”(S141). On the other hand, if NO is determined in S3, the microcomputer 1A registers the model information of the newly connected DAP in the DAP information DB, and sets the charge level of the newly connected DAP as “current charge level”. It is registered in “Charge level at connection”, and 0 is registered in “Charge level difference” (S142).

  FIG. 26 shows the processing of the microcomputer 1A for charging the DAP to be preferentially charged. The same processing as in FIG. In the case of YES in S21, the microcomputer 1A selects the DAP that preferentially charges the DAP having the largest “charge level difference” from among the DAPs having “full charge information” x in the DAP information DB (S151). In addition, description of said embodiment is used for another process.

  FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of the cradle 101 according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this cradle 101, the PC 4 can be connected to the USB terminal 1N, and when the DAP 2 and the PC 4 are connected, a charging command can be transmitted from the host controller 4A of the PC 4 to the DAP 2. When the DAP 3 and the PC 4 are connected, A charge command can be transmitted from the host controller 4A of the PC 4 to the DAP 3. In the cradle 101, even when the PC 4 is not connected to the USB terminal 1N, the charge level of the DAP 2 is compared with the charge level of the DAP 3 as in the cradle 1 of FIG. The battery can be preferentially charged.

  As mentioned above, although preferable embodiment of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to these embodiment. Video data and still image data may be used instead of audio data, and these are collectively referred to as content data. Content data encoded in a predetermined format is called a content file. Instead of preferentially charging a DAP with a large number of connections, a DAP with a small number of connections may be preferentially charged. Rather than preferentially charging a DAP with a large number of contents, a DAP with a small number of contents may be preferentially charged. Instead of preferentially charging the DAP having the largest difference between the current charge level and the charge level at the time of connection, the DAP having the smallest difference may be preferentially charged. The DAP with the highest current charge level may be preferentially charged, the DAP with the lowest current charge level may be preferentially charged, and the DAP with the maximum charge level when connected is preferentially charged. The DAP having the minimum charge level at the time of connection may be preferentially charged. These are collectively defined as “select a DAP to be preferentially charged based on the charge level of the DAP”. The cradle of the present invention may be built in the amplification device 5 or may be built in a PC. The present invention can also be provided in the form of a computer program for causing a computer to execute the operations of the cradle and the amplification device. The portable content playback device may be a mobile phone, a portable car navigation system, a portable TV, a portable CD player, a portable game machine, or the like.

  The present invention can be suitably used for a cradle of a content reproduction apparatus.

1 Cradle 1A Microcomputer (Switch control unit)
1B Host Controller 1G Switch 1I Power Supply Unit 1J Remote Control Reception Unit 1K Operation Unit 1L DAP Connection Connector 1M DAP Connection Connector 1O Output Terminal 1P Control Signal Input / Output Terminal 2 Portable Content Playback Device 3 Portable Content Playback Device 5 Amplification Device

Claims (15)

A cradle that performs a charging operation when communicating with a controller and supplies a power supply voltage for charging to a content playback device that does not perform a charging operation when not communicating with a controller,
A connection unit to which a plurality of the content reproduction devices can be connected;
A controller that communicates with only one of the plurality of content reproduction devices;
A switch for switching which one of the plurality of content playback devices to connect to the controller;
Management means for managing the number of connections of the plurality of content playback devices to the cradle;
Selecting means for preferentially charging the content playback device based on the number of times the content playback device is connected to the cradle from one or more of the content playback devices connected to the cradle;
A cradle comprising switch control means for connecting the content reproduction device to be preferentially charged to the switch and the controller.   2. The cradle according to claim 1, wherein the selection unit selects the content reproduction apparatus that preferentially charges the content reproduction apparatus having the largest number of connections to the cradle.   The cradle according to claim 1, wherein the management unit manages the number of connections to the cradle during a predetermined period of the plurality of content reproduction apparatuses. A cradle that performs a charging operation when communicating with a controller and supplies a power supply voltage for charging to a content playback device that does not perform a charging operation when not communicating with a controller,
A connection unit to which a plurality of the content reproduction devices can be connected;
A controller that communicates with only one of the plurality of content reproduction devices;
A switch for switching which content playback device of the plurality of content playback devices is connected to the controller;
Management means for acquiring and managing information on the number of contents stored in the content reproduction apparatus from a plurality of the content reproduction apparatuses;
Selection means for selecting the content reproduction device to be preferentially charged based on information on the number of contents of the plurality of content reproduction devices;
A cradle comprising switch control means for connecting the content reproduction device to be preferentially charged to the switch and the controller.   The cradle according to claim 4, wherein the selection unit selects the content reproduction device that preferentially charges the content reproduction device having the largest number of content items to be stored. A cradle that performs a charging operation when communicating with a controller and supplies a power supply voltage for charging to a content playback device that does not perform a charging operation when not communicating with a controller,
A connection unit to which a plurality of the content reproduction devices can be connected;
A controller that communicates with only one of the plurality of content reproduction devices;
A switch for switching which one of the plurality of content playback devices to connect to the controller;
Management means for managing product categories of the plurality of content reproduction devices;
Selecting means for preferentially charging the content playback device based on a product category of the content playback device from one or a plurality of the content playback devices connected to the cradle;
A cradle comprising switch control means for connecting the content reproduction device to be preferentially charged to the switch and the controller. Priorities are established for product categories,
The cradle according to claim 6, wherein the selection unit selects the content reproduction device that preferentially charges the content reproduction device having the highest product category priority. A cradle that performs a charging operation when communicating with a controller and supplies a power supply voltage for charging to a content playback device that does not perform a charging operation when not communicating with a controller,
A connection unit to which a plurality of the content reproduction devices can be connected;
A controller that communicates with only one of the plurality of content reproduction devices;
A switch for switching which one of the plurality of content playback devices to connect to the controller;
Management means for managing a charge level of a plurality of the content reproduction devices;
Selecting means for preferentially charging the content playback device based on a charge level of the content playback device from one or a plurality of the content playback devices connected to the cradle;
A cradle comprising switch control means for connecting the content reproduction device to be preferentially charged to the switch and the controller. The management means manages a difference between a current charge level of the content reproduction device and a charge level at the time of connection to the cradle;
The cradle according to claim 8, wherein the selection unit selects the content reproduction device that preferentially charges the content reproduction device having the largest difference.   When the content playback device to be preferentially charged is in a fully charged state, the selection means includes one or more cradles connected to the cradle, except for the content playback device in a fully charged state. The cradle according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further selecting the content reproduction device to be preferentially charged.   When the content playback device to be preferentially charged is in a fully charged state, the content playback that has been fully charged when the content being played back by the content playback device that has been fully charged is finished playing. 10. The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, except for an apparatus, the selection unit further selects the content reproduction apparatus to be preferentially charged from one or a plurality of cradles connected to the cradle. Cradle.   When the content playback device to be preferentially charged is disconnected from the cradle, the selection unit is configured to select the content playback device to be preferentially charged from one or a plurality of cradles connected to the cradle. The cradle according to claim 1, further selected. The management means further manages information on whether or not the content playback device is fully charged;
The cradle according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the selection unit selects the content playback device to be preferentially charged from the content playback devices that are not fully charged.   14. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising command transmission means for transmitting a playback command to the content playback device to be preferentially charged and transmitting a stop command to a content playback device other than the content playback device to be preferentially charged. Cradle according to crab.   A cradle operation program for causing a computer to execute each means of the cradle according to claim 1.

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