JP2012220906A - Display device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a display device that can be used for digital signage with high convenience and at a low cost.SOLUTION: A display device 100 includes: an external storage medium interface 104 for reading still picture data and moving picture data in an external storage medium 90; reproduction means 106 for reproducing still picture data and moving picture data; image output means 116 for displaying images reproduced by the reproduction means 106; storage means 124 for storing image designation information designating which of still picture data and moving picture data is displayed by the image output means 116; and device control means 102 for performing processing for causing the reproduction means 106 to reproduce still picture data or moving picture data in the external storage medium 90 according to content designated in the image designation information referring to the image designation information in the storage means 124 with the startup of the display device 100.

Description

  The present invention relates to a display device, and more particularly to a display device that can be used for digital signage.

  In recent years, electronic media called “digital signage” as advertising media are being replaced by print media. Technologies related to digital signage are disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 below.

  Patent Document 1 discloses an on-demand signage system in which a content distribution management center and a signage terminal are connected via the Internet or the like. In particular, the content distribution management center stores contents edited by combining advertisement information from the advertisement server and program information from the program server, various ID information, and viewing effect indexes for each display time of the contents. Distribute the address to the signage terminal. The signage terminal selects the address of the node storing the information that matches the request for each display time from the distributed ID information and viewing effect index information, accesses the node, and stores the content according to the display time. Obtain and display. Further, the signage terminal has a camera function, acquires a viewer effect index, and transmits it to the content distribution management center. The content distribution management center receives the viewing effect index.

  According to this, it is considered that a detailed service can be provided for each signage terminal by acquiring various information and contents via the network and feeding back the reaction of the viewer to the management center.

  Patent Document 2 discloses a display device used for digital signage. The display device includes a timing unit that generates timing information, the timing information and reproduction instruction data (stored in a storage unit or a removable portable information storage medium, and the timing information and reproduction target data are associated with each other) And a selection unit that selects reproduction target data to be applied from a plurality of types of reproduction target data stored in the portable information storage medium, and an image that generates an image based on the reproduction target data selected by the selection unit A generation unit and a display unit for displaying the image are included.

  According to this, it is considered that signage can be realized only with a display device even without a network environment.

JP 2010-39726 A JP 2010-190954 A Japanese Patent No. 4337727

  In general signage systems such as the system of Patent Literature 1, content received from a content distribution server via a network is displayed. Such a system is considered to be useful, for example, when the number of displays is large or when the installation locations of the displays are remote from all over the country.

  However, a signage system using a network may be unsuitable for small-scale applications, for example, applications for explaining and advertising products in small-scale stores. This is because the introduction cost of the system becomes high. In addition, since the operation and maintenance of the server is necessary, the running cost after installation is also a heavy burden. Further, since it is necessary to provide a personal computer for network communication, it is further burdened on cost, installation space, operation, and the like.

  As a configuration that does not use a network, for example, a configuration in which a playback device such as a DVD or a BD is connected to an external input of a general television to perform repeated playback is conceivable. However, the use of two devices is troublesome when installing and connecting them, and it is troublesome because both devices must be operated during reproduction. Also, if there are two devices in the store, the appearance is not so good.

  As another configuration example not using the network, the configuration disclosed in Patent Document 2 is conceivable. However, the display device of Patent Document 2 is considered to have room for improvement in terms of convenience and the like.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a display device that can be used for digital signage with high convenience and low cost.

  According to one aspect of the present invention, an external storage medium interface for reading still image data and moving image data in an external storage medium, a reproducing unit for reproducing the still image data and the moving image data, and reproduction by the reproducing unit An image output means for displaying the generated image, a storage means for storing image designation information for designating whether to display the still image data or the moving image data on the image output means, An apparatus that refers to the image designation information and performs a process of causing the reproduction means to reproduce the still image data or the moving image data in the external storage medium in accordance with the contents designated in the image designation information when the apparatus is activated. A display device including control means is provided.

  According to the above aspect, the still image data or the moving image data in the external storage medium is automatically reproduced as the display device is activated. Therefore, reproduction of data in the external storage medium can be started by a simple operation of turning on the power. For this reason, it is possible to save the trouble of performing the reproduction operation every time the power is turned on. The same applies to the case where a restart occurs due to a power failure or system abnormality. That is, a highly convenient display device can be provided.

  For example, by storing still image data and moving image data for digital signage (in other words, for electronic advertisement) in an external storage medium in advance, the display device is automatically converted into a digital signage apparatus (in other words, an electronic advertisement display device). ). Since the digital signage apparatus is used every day, the automatic reproduction function accompanying the apparatus activation is particularly useful.

  In addition, by introducing still image data and moving image data for digital signage using an external storage medium, introduction cost, operation cost, and the like can be reduced. Further, according to the use of the external storage medium, a signage function can be easily used even by a user who does not have special knowledge. From this point, high convenience can be provided.

  Further, if the components are housed in one housing, there is no need to connect a plurality of devices, and the appearance is better than when a plurality of devices are connected.

  The objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

It is a block diagram which illustrates a display device about an embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the data in an external storage medium about embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the data in a memory | storage means about embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates signage setting information about embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates a still picture file list about an embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates a still image reproduction | regeneration order list | wrist about embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates a still image automatic reproduction | regeneration list | wrist about embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the setting operation | work of signage setting information about embodiment. It is a flowchart which illustrates the operation | movement at the time of starting about embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the screen display in a still image + broadcast mode about embodiment (when a screen is horizontally long). It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the screen display in a still image + broadcast mode about embodiment (when a screen is vertically long). It is a flowchart which illustrates power supply automatic OFF operation | movement about embodiment. It is a flowchart which illustrates sensor interlocking | linkage operation | movement about embodiment.

<Configuration of Display Device 100>
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a display device 100 according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 also shows an external storage medium 90 for explanation. The external storage medium 90 is a storage medium that is detachable from the display device 100, such as an SD card, a memory stick, or an optical disk. Here, data for digital signage is recorded in advance in the external storage medium 90, and the display device 100 reproduces the data in the external storage medium 90, so that the display device 100 is a digital signage device, in other words, an electronic device. The case where it utilizes as an advertisement display apparatus is illustrated.

  Here, FIG. 2 illustrates data stored in the external storage medium 90. In the example of FIG. 2, a plurality of still image data 91 and a plurality of moving image data 92 are stored in the external storage medium 90. Hereinafter, the still image data 91 may be referred to as a still image file 91, and the moving image data 92 may be referred to as a moving image file 92.

  The data 91 and 92 may include not only information related to images (in other words, information necessary for image reproduction) but also other information (for example, a work title, creation date and time, comments, etc.). Moreover, although the case where the moving image data 92 includes not only image data but also audio data is illustrated, a part of the following examples can also be applied when the moving image data 92 does not include audio data.

  According to the example of FIG. 1, the display device 100 includes a device control unit 102, an external storage medium interface 104, a reproduction unit 106, an output unit 112, a broadcast reception unit 114, an image output unit 116, and an audio output. Means 118, sensor means 120, storage means 124, and operation means 126 are included.

  In FIG. 1, “apparatus control means” is denoted as “apparatus control” for reference numeral 102, and the same notation method may be used for other elements and other drawings. In FIG. 1, “external storage medium interface” is denoted by “I / F” for reference numeral 104, and the notation “I / F 104” may be used in the following description.

  In the following, each of these elements is outlined and then the overall operation of the display device 100 is illustrated.

  The device control unit 102 performs various processes and operation control in the display device 100. A specific example of control by the device control means 102 will be described later.

  The I / F 104 is an interface that provides access to the external storage medium 90 by the display device 100. Here, a case where the I / F 104 provides both reading of data from the external storage medium 90 and writing of data to the external storage medium 90 is illustrated. However, in the operation example described later, the I / F 104 only needs to be capable of at least a read operation.

  The reproduction means 106 is configured to be able to reproduce image data and audio data. The reproduction means 106 is provided so as to be accessible to the external storage medium 90 via the I / F 104, whereby the still image data 91 and the moving image data 92 in the external storage medium 90 can be read and reproduced.

  In the example of FIG. 1, the reproduction unit 106 includes a reproduction management unit 108 and a reproduction processing unit 110. The reproduction management unit 108 performs, for example, management of processing by the reproduction processing unit 110, generation / management of various types of information, and the like. A specific example of processing by the reproduction management unit 108 will be described later. The reproduction processing unit 110 decodes image data and audio data to be reproduced. Note that the reproduction processing unit 110 may acquire the reproduction target data 91 and 92 in the external storage medium 90 via the reproduction management unit 108, or the reproduction target data 91 and 92 without the reproduction management unit 108. 92 may be acquired.

  The output means 112 uses the drive signal (in other words, the image output signal) 164a for driving the image output means 116 and the drive signal (for driving the audio output means 118) from the data 162 decoded by the reproduction means 106. In other words, an audio output signal) 164b is generated. The output unit 112 also generates an image output signal 164a and an audio output signal 164b for the broadcast data 170 received by the broadcast receiving unit 114. The image output signal 164a and the audio output signal 164b are collectively referred to as an output signal 164.

  The output unit 112 matches the size of the image provided by the still image data 91 and the moving image data 92 (more specifically, by the decoded data 162) with the size of the display area in the image output unit 116. Has the function of scaling. Such scaling processing can also be executed for the broadcast data 170.

  Further, the output unit 112 has a function of, for example, laying out an image based on the data 162 and 170, and outputs the data of the layout-combined image as an image output signal 164a.

  Various functions of the output unit 112 are used automatically or according to a user instruction as necessary.

  The broadcast receiving means 114 is a so-called receiver, and is configured to be able to receive a predetermined broadcast (for example, a digital television broadcast). More specifically, the broadcast receiving unit 114 receives the signal of the selected channel, separates the extracted TS (transport stream) into image, sound, and data packets, and separates the separated image and sound. Decode the packet. Then, the broadcast receiving means 114 outputs the image and audio data obtained by such reception processing as the broadcast data 170 to the output means 112 as described above.

  The image output unit 116 is configured by an image forming apparatus such as a liquid crystal panel or a plasma display panel (PDP). The image output unit 116 receives the image output signal 164a from the output unit 112, and performs an image output operation based on the signal 164a. As a result, the image provided by the image output signal 164 a is displayed on the image output means 116.

  The audio output means 118 is configured by an audio forming device such as a speaker. The audio output unit 118 receives the audio output signal 164b from the output unit 112, and performs an audio output operation based on the signal 164b. Thereby, the sound provided by the sound output signal 164b is emitted from the sound output means 118. When the display device 100 does not handle audio data, the audio output unit 118 can be omitted.

  The sensor unit 120 detects whether there is a person around the display device 100 (more specifically, within a predetermined range that can be detected by the sensor unit 120), and outputs a signal corresponding to the detection result. It is configured. Further, it is more preferable that the sensor unit 120 has a function of measuring the distance between the detected person and the display device 100.

  The sensor unit 120 includes, for example, a CCD camera and an analysis unit that performs processing such as human presence determination and distance measurement from an image captured by the CCD camera. Such a configuration example can be implemented using, for example, the technique introduced in Patent Document 3. In addition, various known techniques using, for example, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or the like can be employed for the sensor unit 120.

  The storage unit 124 can be configured by one or a plurality of storage devices (for example, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), rewritable nonvolatile memory (EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), etc.)). When a plurality of storage devices are provided, these will be collectively referred to as storage means 124.

  The storage unit 124 is provided so that the apparatus control unit 102 and the like can be accessed, and is used to store various data. However, in FIG. 1, in order to avoid complication of the drawing, detailed illustration of an arrow connecting the device control unit 102 and the like and the storage unit 124 is omitted.

  Here, various types of processing by the device control unit 102 are performed by, for example, a microprocessor (also referred to as MPU, CPU, or microcomputer) executing processing steps (in other words, processing procedures) described in a predetermined program. Can be implemented. Note that the microprocessor can adopt, for example, a multiprocessor or multicore configuration. In this case, in addition to storing various data as described above, the storage unit 124 stores the program and provides a work area for executing the program.

  According to such an example, various processes by the apparatus control unit 102 are realized by software, but part or all of the various processes can be realized by hardware. Similarly, the various processes performed by the reproducing unit 106 and the like can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination thereof.

  The operation means 126 is a man-machine interface that connects the display device 100 and the user. A user instruction input from the operation unit 126 is transmitted to the device control unit 102 and is used for various processes. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of an arrow connecting the operation unit 126 and the apparatus control unit 102 is omitted in order to avoid complication of the drawing. Here, a remote controller (hereinafter also referred to as a remote control) is illustrated as the operation means 126, and the operation means 126 is also referred to as a remote control 126. However, the operation means 126 may be, for example, an operation panel provided in the apparatus housing.

  Here, for example, as the image output means 116, the audio output means 118, the broadcast receiving means 114, the remote controller 126, etc., means mounted on a general television can be used. In view of this point, the display device 100 can be realized by diverting a general television by incorporating the other elements 102 and the like into the general television.

  FIG. 3 illustrates data stored in the storage unit 124. In the example of FIG. 3, the signage setting information 200, the still image file list 210, the moving image file list 220, the still image reproduction order list 230, the moving image reproduction order list 240, and the still image automatic reproduction are stored in the storage unit 124. A list 250 and a moving image automatic reproduction list 260 are stored.

<Signage setting information 200>
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the signage setting information 200. The signage setting information 200 is a generic name for information regarding whether or not the display device 100 is used as a signage device (in other words, an electronic advertisement display device), and information regarding various settings when the display device 100 is used as a signage device. is there. The contents of the signage setting information 200 can be set by, for example, the user operating the remote control 126 (described later).

  In the example of FIG. 4, the signage setting information 200 includes signage mode information 201, power-off time information 202, and sensor operation information 203. Note that these pieces of information 201, 202, and 203 may be described in one file, or may be described in separate files.

  The signage mode information 201 is information regarding whether to use the display device 100 as a signage device. Here, four operation modes are illustrated, and one of these modes is set in the signage mode information 201. However, the number of operation modes is not limited to the example here.

  The first operation mode is a mode in which the display device 100 is not used as a signage device, in other words, a mode in which the signage function is in an off state. In this mode, the display device 100 outputs the broadcast received by the broadcast receiving unit 114 by the image output unit 116 and the audio output unit 118. This mode is also referred to as “broadcast mode”.

  The second operation mode is a mode in which the display device 100 is used as a signage device (in other words, a mode in which a signage operation is performed). In particular, the still image data 91 in the external storage medium 90 is output by the image output unit 116. Mode. This mode is also referred to as “still image mode”.

  The third operation mode is a mode in which the display device 100 is used as a signage device, and particularly, a mode in which the moving image data 92 in the external storage medium 90 is output by the image output unit 116 and the audio output unit 118. This mode is also referred to as “moving image mode”.

  The fourth operation mode is a mode in which the display device 100 is used as a signage device. In particular, the still image data 91 in the external storage medium 90 and the broadcast data 170 received by the broadcast receiving unit 114 are combined and simultaneously. In this mode, the image is output by the image output unit 116 and the audio output unit 118. This mode is also referred to as “still image + broadcast mode”.

  For example, the set value “0” is assigned to the broadcast mode, and similarly, the set values “1”, “2”, and “3” are set to the still image mode, the moving image mode, and the still image + broadcast mode. Each is assigned. The operation mode can be designated by setting the signage mode information 201 (more specifically, the value of data corresponding to the information 201) to any value.

  In view of such an example, the signage mode information 201 is grasped as information (image designation information) for designating which of the still image data 91 and the moving image data 92 in the external storage medium 90 is displayed. In the above example, since the broadcast mode can also be selected, the image designation information can further include information that neither the still image data 91 nor the moving image data 92 in the external storage medium 90 is displayed.

  The power-off time information 202 is for performing signage operation continuously (hereinafter also referred to as “continuous mode”), or turning off the power when a certain time has elapsed after the start of the signage mode (hereinafter referred to as “automatic power supply”). It is also referred to as “off mode”. According to the automatic power-off mode, the signage mode operation ends with the power-off.

  For example, the setting value “0” is assigned to the continuous mode, and the setting values “0” to “23” are assigned to the automatic power-off mode. The set values “1” to “23” of the automatic power-off mode correspond to the time from the start of the signage operation to the power-off. For example, when the set value of the automatic power-off mode is “2”, the automatic power-off function works two hours after the start of the signage mode operation. By setting the power-off time information 202 (more specifically, the value of data corresponding to the information 202) to any value, it is possible to specify the time until the continuous mode or automatic power-off.

  Note that the setting of the automatic power-off time is not limited to the above-described example in increments of one hour. For example, every 30 minutes may be used.

  The sensor operation information 203 is information regarding whether to use the sensor means 120 in the signage operation. The operation using the sensor means 120 will be described later.

  For example, a setting value “0” is assigned to a mode that does not use the sensor unit 120 (hereinafter also referred to as “sensor off mode”), and a mode that uses the sensor unit 120 (hereinafter also referred to as “sensor on mode”). ) Is assigned a set value “1”. By setting the sensor operation information 203 (more specifically, the value of data corresponding to the information 203) to any value, the sensor off mode or the sensor on mode can be designated.

<Still Image File List 210 and Movie File List 220>
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the still image file list 210. The still image file list 210 includes various types of information regarding each still image data 91 in the external storage medium 90. The still image file list 210 is generated by accessing the external storage medium 90 and acquiring various information, and is stored in the storage unit 124.

  In the example of FIG. 5, the still image file list 210 includes information on an index number 211, a file name 212, a data format type (for example, extension type) 213, a file path 214, and a playback time 215. Contains.

  The index number 211 is information given to each still image data 91 when the still image file list 210 is generated. Here, an example will be given in which the arrangement order of the still image data 91 corresponds to the index number 211 when the still image data 91 in the external storage medium 90 is sorted so that the file names 212 are in alphabetical order. The file name 212 is information given in advance for each still image data 91. The type 213 is content determined when each still image data 91 is generated, and is information attached to each still image data 91. The file path 214 is determined when each still image data 91 is stored in the external storage medium 90. The file path 214 is information that can be acquired by referring to file management information of the external storage medium 90, for example. The reproduction time 215 is a time for holding reproduction of each still image data 91, in other words, a continuous display time for still images, and is information set in advance for each still image data 91.

  As described above, the information 211 to 215 exists for each still image data 91, and the information 211 to 215 for each still image data 91 is recorded in the still image file list 210 in a format associated with each other.

  Note that, for example, information on the creation date and time of the still image data 91 may be included in the still image file list 210.

  Here, the moving image file list 220 exemplifies a case where the same information 211 to 215 as the still image file list 210 is included. However, an example in which the index number 211 corresponds to the arrangement order of the moving image data 92 when the moving image data 92 in the external storage medium 90 is sorted in the order of creation date and time is given.

<Still Image Reproduction Order List 230 and Video Reproduction Order List 240>
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the still image playback order list 230. The still image reproduction order list 230 includes information that defines the reproduction order of the still image data 91 in the external storage medium 90. The still image reproduction order list 230 is created, for example, when the user operates the remote controller 126 and is stored in the storage unit 124.

  In the example of FIG. 6, the still image reproduction order list 230 includes information regarding the index number 231, the reproduction order 232, and the reproduction time 233.

  The index number 231 corresponds to the index number 211 of the still image file list 210 (see FIG. 5). The playback order 232 is data defining the playback order of the still image data 91 in the external storage medium 90, and can be set by the user. The reproduction time 233 is a time for holding reproduction of each still image data 91, in other words, a continuous display time for still images, and can be set by the user. The reproduction order 232 and the reproduction time 233 are set for each index number 231, and these pieces of information 231 to 233 are recorded in the still picture reproduction order list 230 in a format associated with each other.

  Here, the moving image reproduction order list 240 exemplifies a case where the same information 231 to 233 as the still image reproduction order list 210 is included. However, since the playback time of the moving image data 92 (that is, the time length of the content) is determined in advance, unlike the still image data 91, it is less necessary to set the playback time. For this reason, it is not necessary to include the reproduction time 233 information in the moving image reproduction order list 240. In other words, even if the information on the playback time 233 is included, the information on the playback time recorded in advance in the moving image data 92 is preferentially used.

<Still Image Automatic Playback List 250 and Video Automatic Playback List 260>
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a still image automatic reproduction list 250. The still image automatic reproduction list 250 is information used when the reproducing unit 106 automatically reproduces the still image data 91 in the external storage medium 90. The still image automatic reproduction list 250 is generated by merging the still image file list 210 (see FIG. 5) and the still image reproduction order list 230 (see FIG. 6) with the index numbers 211 and 231 having the same value as an intermediary. And stored in the storage means 124.

  In the example of FIG. 7, the still image automatic reproduction list 250 includes information regarding the reproduction order 251, the data format type 252, the file path 253, and the reproduction time 254. The playback order 251 corresponds to the playback order 232 of the still image playback order list 230 (see FIG. 6). The data format type 252 and the file path 253 correspond to the data format type 213 and the file path 214 of the still image file list 210 (see FIG. 5).

  The playback time 254 corresponds to the playback time 215 of the still image file list 210 (see FIG. 5) or the playback time 233 of the still image playback order list 230 (see FIG. 6). More specifically, the data defined in advance between the reproduction time 215 of the still image file list 210 (see FIG. 5) and the reproduction time 233 of the still image reproduction order list 230 (see FIG. 6) is the same. It is preferentially incorporated into the still image automatic reproduction list 250. In view of this point, it is possible to employ a usage method in which the information on the playback time 215 is not included in the still image file list 210 (see FIG. 5) (according to this, the playback time is stored in the external storage medium 90). 215 information need not be included). Alternatively, for example, it is possible to adopt a usage method in which the information on the reproduction time 233 is not included in the still image reproduction order list 230 (see FIG. 6).

  Here, the moving image automatic reproduction list 260 is generated in the same manner as the still image automatic reproduction list 250 and includes the same information 251 to 254 as an example. However, the reproduction time 254 corresponds to the reproduction time included in the moving image file list 220, in other words, the time length of the content of the moving image data 92.

<Setting method of signage setting information 200>
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating setting work of signage setting information 200 (see FIG. 4). FIG. 8 illustrates the transition of the screen display of the image output means 116 during the setting operation.

  In FIG. 8, a screen 301 exemplifies a menu screen in the broadcast mode. The menu screen 301 can be called, for example, by pressing the “Menu” button on the remote control 126 (see FIG. 1) while operating in the broadcast mode.

  When the button on the remote control 126 is operated in a predetermined procedure while the menu screen 301 is displayed, the signage setting screen 302 appears (signage setting mode). For example, by pressing the “←” button (left arrow button), “→” button (right arrow button), “←” button, “→” button, and “OK” button of the remote control 126 in this order, the signage setting screen 302 is displayed. Is set in advance so as to be read out.

  In the example of FIG. 8, three setting items of “signage mode”, “power off time”, and “sensor operation” are displayed on the signage setting screen 302. These three items can be selected in order by the “↑” button (up arrow button) and “↓” button (down arrow button) of the remote control 126 (item selection mode), and by pressing the “OK” button. The mode is changed to the setting change mode for the item in the selected state. Screen 303 exemplifies a screen in the setting change mode of signage setting information 201 (see FIG. 4).

  In the setting change mode, the set value can be changed with the “↑” button and the “↓” button of the remote controller 126. By pressing the “OK” button, the setting in the selected state is confirmed and the setting change mode is ended. To return to the item selection mode. A screen 304 illustrates the screen after the setting is changed.

  According to the example of FIG. 8, the signage mode is changed from the “broadcast” mode to the “moving image” mode (see screens 302 to 304). The set values of other items (see FIG. 4) can be changed in the same manner.

  When the “return” button on the remote control 126 is pressed during the item selection mode, the signage setting mode is terminated and the menu screen 301 is displayed again.

<Operation at startup>
FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart of the operation ST100 when the display device 100 is activated. The operation ST100 will be described with reference to FIG. 9 and FIG.

  According to the example of FIG. 9, when the display device 100 is powered on, the device control means 102 is activated (step ST101). After starting, apparatus control means 102 acquires signage mode information 201 of signage setting information 200 from storage means 124 (step ST102). Then, the device control means 102 determines the four operation modes set in the signage mode information 201, and executes processing according to the set operation mode (step ST103).

  When the signage mode information 201 is set to the broadcast mode, the apparatus control unit 102 outputs a reception instruction 168 to the broadcast reception unit 114 (step ST110). When receiving the reception instruction 168, the broadcast receiving means 114 performs the above reception process on the broadcast of the channel that was selected when the power was turned off immediately, and outputs the broadcast data 170 to the output means 112 (step ST111). Broadcast data 170 is then output by image output means 116 and audio output means 118 via output means 112 (step ST112).

  When it is determined in step ST103 that the signage mode information 201 is set to the still image mode or the moving image mode, the apparatus control unit 102 outputs a reproduction instruction 150 to the reproduction unit 106 (step ST120).

  Upon receiving the reproduction instruction 150, the reproduction means 106 generates file lists 210 and 220 (step ST121), generates automatic reproduction lists 250 and 260 (step ST122), and performs reproduction according to the automatic reproduction lists 250 and 260 (step ST122). Step ST123). The still image data 91 is output by the image output unit 116, and the moving image data 92 is output by the image output unit 116 and the audio output unit 118 (step ST124). Note that repeated reproduction is performed by repeating steps ST123 and ST124.

  More specifically, upon receiving the reproduction instruction 150, the reproduction management unit 108 outputs a data acquisition request 152 to the I / F 104. Upon receiving the data acquisition request 152, the I / F 104 outputs a read command 154 to the external storage medium 90. In response to the read command 154, the external storage medium 90 transfers the still image data 91 and the moving image data 92 to the I / F 104 as read data 156. The I / F 104 transfers the received read data 156 to the reproduction management unit 108 as a data acquisition response 158. The read data 91 and 92 are stored in the storage unit 124.

  The reproduction management means 108 extracts the still image data 91 having extensions such as “bmp”, “jpg”, and “png” by determining the extension portion of the file name of the acquired data. Then, the reproduction management unit 108 acquires information such as the file name of the extracted still image data 91 and generates a still image file list 210. At this time, the reproduction management unit 108 sorts the still image data 91 so that the file names are in alphabetical order, and assigns an index number 211.

  Similarly, the reproduction management unit 108 generates the moving image file list 220. At this time, the reproduction management unit 108 sorts the moving image data 92 so that the creation date and time are in order, and assigns an index number 211.

  Further, the reproduction management unit 108 acquires the still image reproduction order list 230 stored in advance in the storage unit 124, and makes the still image reproduction order list 230 and the still image file list 210 have the same index number 211, The still image automatic reproduction list 250 is generated by merging with 231 as an intermediary. Similarly, the reproduction management unit 108 generates the moving image automatic reproduction list 260.

  When the reproduction management unit 108 determines that the still image mode is set by referring to the signage mode information 201, the reproduction management unit 108 selects the reproduction target data from the smallest reproduction sequence 251 in the still image automatic reproduction list 250. Then, a reproduction start instruction 160 for the selected still image data 91 is output to the reproduction processing means 110.

  On the other hand, when the signage mode information 201 is set to the moving image mode, the reproduction management unit 108 selects reproduction target data from the smallest reproduction order 251 of the moving image automatic reproduction list 260, and reproduces the selected moving image data 92. A start instruction 160 is output to the reproduction processing means 110.

  The reproduction processing unit 110 acquires still image data 91 or moving image data 92 to be reproduced based on the received reproduction start instruction 160, decodes the acquired data, and transfers the decoded data 162 to the output unit 112. The output unit 112 generates an output signal 164 based on the received decoded data 162. The generated image output signal 164a is converted into an image by the image output unit 116, and the generated audio output signal 164b is converted into sound by the audio output unit 116.

  Here, the contents of the reproduction start instruction 160 transmitted from the reproduction management means 108 to the reproduction processing means 110 can be variously formed.

  For example, the reproduction start instruction 160 may include still image data 91 or moving image data 92 to be reproduced. In this case, the reproduction processing means 110 reproduces the data 91 and 92 included in the reproduction start instruction 160.

  Alternatively, the file name of the reproduction target data 91 and 92 may be included in the reproduction start instruction 160. In this case, the reproduction processing unit 110 acquires the still image data 91 or the moving image data 92 specified by the reproduction start instruction 160 from the data 91 and 92 captured in the storage unit 124, and reproduces the acquired data. .

  Alternatively, the playback start instruction 160 may include the file paths of the playback target data 91 and 92. In this case, the reproduction processing unit 110 accesses the external storage medium 90 via the I / F 104, acquires the still image data 91 or the moving image data specified by the file path included in the reproduction start instruction 160, and acquires it. Play the recorded data. In this case, it is not necessary to download all the data 91 and 92 in the external storage medium 90 to the storage unit 124 in advance. Therefore, when creating the file lists 210 and 220, only the necessary information may be collected from the external storage medium 90 without downloading the data 91 and 92 itself.

  Note that the reproduction start instruction 160 for the still image data 91 includes a reproduction time 254. Alternatively, the reproduction processing unit 110 itself may acquire the reproduction time 254 of the still image data 91 from the still image automatic reproduction list 250, the storage unit 124, or the external storage medium 90.

  For the still image data 91, the reproduction processing unit 110 outputs a reproduction completion notification 166 to the reproduction management unit 108 when the designated reproduction time 254 has elapsed. On the other hand, in the case of the moving image data 92, the reproduction processing unit 110 outputs a reproduction completion notification 166 to the reproduction management unit 108 when reproduction to the end of the file is performed.

  Upon receipt of the reproduction completion notification 166, the reproduction management means 108 outputs a reproduction start instruction 160 for the data 91 in the next reproduction order in the still image automatic reproduction list 250 in the still image mode. If the reproduction management unit 108 determines that reproduction has been completed up to the still image data 91 in the last reproduction order, the reproduction management unit 108 returns to the first reproduction order and outputs a reproduction start instruction 160. Thereby, the still image data 91 is reproduced in order and repeatedly. Similarly, in the moving image mode, the moving image data 92 is reproduced sequentially and repeatedly.

  When it is determined in step ST103 that the still image + broadcast mode is set, the apparatus control means 102 outputs a reproduction instruction 150 to the reproduction means 106 and outputs a reception instruction 168 to the broadcast reception means 114. As a result, steps ST121, ST122, ST123 and step ST111 are executed in parallel (step ST130).

  In the still image + broadcast mode, the output unit 112 acquires both the reproduced still image data 162 and the broadcast data 170. The output unit 112 combines the acquired data 162 and 170 in accordance with a predesignated layout, outputs composite image data by the image output signal 164a, and outputs broadcast audio data by the audio output signal 164b (step ST131). ). Thereby, the composite image is displayed by the image output means 118, and the sound of the broadcast is emitted from the sound output means 120 (step ST132).

  Here, FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 illustrate screen display in the still image + broadcast mode. FIG. 10 illustrates a case where the screen 310 of the image output unit 118 is horizontally long, and FIG. 11 illustrates a case where the screen 310 is vertically long. In the example of FIG. 10, on the horizontally long screen 310, a broadcast area 312 for displaying a broadcast on the left side is arranged horizontally, and a still image area 312 for displaying a still image on the right side is arranged vertically. In the example of FIG. 11, on the vertically long screen 310, the broadcast area 312 is arranged horizontally in the center, and the still image areas 312 are arranged horizontally above and below the broadcast area 312.

  For example, the horizontally long screen 310 and the vertically long screen 310 can be selected depending on the design arrangement direction of the image output unit 118 in the display device 100. Alternatively, the horizontally long screen 310 and the vertically long screen 310 can be selected by placing the display device 100 horizontally or vertically.

  Here, information relating to whether the screen 310 is horizontally long or vertically long and information relating to the layout composition method are stored in the storage means 124 in advance, and these information are stored in the apparatus control means 102 and the like at the time of activation. Can read a desired screen display. Note that these pieces of information may be added to the signage setting information 200 so that the user can set the information.

  According to the start-up operation ST100, the still image data 91 or the moving image data 92 in the external storage medium 90 is automatically reproduced as the display device 100 is started. Therefore, reproduction of the data 91 and 92 in the external storage medium 90 can be started by a simple operation of turning on the power. For this reason, it is possible to save the trouble of performing the reproduction operation every time the power is turned on. The same applies to the case where a restart occurs due to a power failure or system abnormality. That is, the display device 100 can be used as a digital signage device having high convenience. Since the digital signage apparatus is used every day, the automatic reproduction function accompanying the apparatus activation is particularly useful.

  Further, by supplying the digital signage still image data 91 and moving image data 92 with the external storage medium 90, the introduction cost, the operation cost, and the like can be reduced as compared with a configuration requiring a network connection. Further, according to the use of the external storage medium 90, even a user who does not have special knowledge can easily use the signage function. From this point, high convenience can be obtained.

  Further, if the device control means 102 and the like are accommodated in one housing, it is not necessary to connect a plurality of devices, and the appearance is better than when a plurality of devices are connected.

  Further, according to repeated reproduction (repetition of steps ST123 and ST124), it is not necessary to perform a reproduction operation every time reproduction of all still image data 91 or all moving image data 92 is completed. In this respect, high convenience can be obtained.

  Further, according to the still image + broadcast mode in which the advertisement based on the still image data 91 is displayed simultaneously with the broadcast, there is a usage method in which the advertisement is displayed on a television screen that is noticed by a large number of people such as airports and hospital waiting rooms. Conceivable. According to this, the degree of attention to the advertisement can be improved.

<Automatic power off operation>
FIG. 12 illustrates a flowchart of the automatic power-off operation ST200 in the display device 100. According to the example of FIG. 12, when the display device 100 is powered on, the device control means 102 is activated (step ST201). The apparatus control means 102 acquires the power-off time information 202 in the signage setting information 200 from the storage means 124 after activation (step ST202). Then, device control means 102 determines whether the setting of power-off time information 202 is the continuous mode or the automatic power-off mode (step ST203). If the continuous mode is set, the automatic power off operation ST200 is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the automatic power-off mode is set, the device control means 102 determines whether or not the time set in the power-off time information 202 has elapsed (step STS204). When the device control unit 102 determines that the set time has elapsed, the device control unit 102 performs a termination process for each unit and turns off the display device 100 (step ST205). On the other hand, when the set time has not elapsed, the time elapse determination step ST204 is performed again.

  Here, the time elapse determination step ST204 can be executed using a timer provided in the device control means 102 or provided separately from the device control means 102, for example. For example, the apparatus control means 102 can start step ST204 by starting a fixed-cycle timer with activation and comparing the elapsed time with the set time each time the fixed-cycle timer times out.

  As described above, according to the automatic power-off operation ST200, the power of the display device 100 is turned off when the reproduction time by the reproduction means 106 has passed a predetermined time, so that energy saving can be achieved.

<Sensor-linked operation>
FIG. 13 illustrates a flowchart of the sensor interlocking operation ST300 in the display device 100. According to the example of FIG. 13, when the display device 100 is powered on, the sensor means 120 is activated (step ST301). After being activated, the sensor unit 120 acquires the sensor operation information 203 in the signage setting information 200 from the storage unit 124 (step ST302). Then, the sensor means 120 determines whether the setting of the sensor operation information 203 is the sensor on mode or the sensor off mode (step ST303). If the sensor off mode is set, the sensor interlocking operation ST300 ends. On the other hand, when the sensor on mode is set, the sensor means 120 starts a human detection operation (step ST304).

  Then, the sensor unit 120 determines that the unattended state continues for a predetermined time in the detection range of the sensor unit 120 (that is, there is no person viewing the content around the display device 100 for a predetermined time). In the case (step ST305), the output control request 172 is output to the output means 112 (step ST306). For example, the output control request 172 includes a human detection flag, and this flag is set to “0” when notifying the continuation of the unattended state.

  Upon receiving the output control request 172, the output unit 112 stops power supply to the image output unit 118 (step ST307).

  At this time, the image display is not performed, but the reproduction process by the reproduction unit 106 is continued. In the moving image mode, the output unit 112 continues to output at least the audio output signal 164b. At this time, the output unit 112 makes the volume of the audio output unit 120 larger than usual (that is, when outputting an image) (step ST307).

  When the sensor unit 120 detects a person within the detection range after the output control request 172 is output (that is, when the unattended state is resolved) (step ST308), the sensor unit 120 outputs the output control request 172 to the output unit 112 (step ST309). ). At this time, the human detection flag is set to “1”. Further, the head reproduction instruction 174 is output to the output means 112 (step ST309).

  Upon receiving the output control request 172, the output unit 112 resumes power supply to the image output unit 116 (step ST310). At this time, in the moving image mode, the increased volume is returned to the normal setting (step ST310).

  On the other hand, upon receiving the head playback instruction 174, the playback means 106 restarts playback of the still image data 91 or moving image data 92 being played back from the top of the file (step ST311).

  As described above, according to the sensor interlocking operation ST300, when the unattended state continues, the power of the image output means is turned off. In other words, the advertisement can be displayed by selecting the manned state. For this reason, it is possible to achieve both efficient advertisement display and energy saving.

  In addition, when the advertisement appears on the screen in the non-display state along with the cancellation of the unattended state, attention to the advertisement can be collected. In addition, since the still image data 91 or the moving image data 92 being reproduced is reproduced again from the beginning along with the cancellation of the unattended state, the entire advertisement can be provided. For this reason, an advertising effect can be expected.

  In addition, an auditory advertising effect can be expected by increasing the volume as the image output unit 116 is turned off. In addition, since the volume changes as the image output unit 116 is turned on / off, attention can be paid to the sound.

  Although the present invention has been described in detail, the above description is illustrative in all aspects, and the present invention is not limited thereto. It is understood that countless variations that are not illustrated can be envisaged without departing from the scope of the present invention.

  90 external storage medium, 91 still image data, 92 moving image data, 100 display device, 102 device control means, 104 external storage medium interface, 106 playback means, 112 output means, 114 broadcast reception means, 116 image output means, 118 audio output Means, 120 sensor means, 200 signage setting information, 201 signage mode information (image designation information), 202 power-off time information, 203 sensor operation information, ST100 start-up operation, ST200 automatic power-off operation, ST300 sensor interlocking operation.

Claims (6)

An external storage medium interface for reading still image data and moving image data in the external storage medium;
Playback means for playing back the still image data and the moving image data;
Image output means for displaying an image reproduced by the reproducing means;
Storage means for storing image designation information for designating which of the still image data and the moving image data is to be displayed on the image output means;
A process for referring to the image designation information in the storage means and causing the reproduction means to reproduce the still image data or the moving image data in the external storage medium in accordance with the contents designated in the image designation information is activated. A display device comprising a device control means. The display device according to claim 1,
The device control means performs a process of turning off the power of the display device when a reproduction time by the reproduction means has passed a predetermined time. The display device according to claim 1 or 2,
The display device, wherein the reproduction means repeatedly reproduces the still image data or the moving image data in a preset order. A display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
It further comprises sensor means for detecting whether or not there is a person around the display device,
The display device
When it is detected by the sensor means that the unattended state continues for a predetermined time, the power of the image output means is turned off,
When a person is detected by the sensor means after the power of the image output means is turned off, the power of the image output means is turned on, and the still image data or the moving image data being reproduced is reproduced from the beginning.
Display device. The display device according to claim 4,
The video data is accompanied by audio data,
The display device
Audio output means for outputting the sound reproduced by the reproduction means,
When it is detected by the sensor means that the unattended state continues for a predetermined time, the volume of the moving image data being played is increased,
If a person is detected by the sensor means after the image output means is powered off, the volume of the audio data is returned;
Display device. A display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
A broadcast receiving means;
A display device that simultaneously displays broadcast data received by the broadcast receiving means and the still image data reproduced by the reproducing means.

Images