JP4148248B2 - Remote control device and remote control system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a remote control device for controlling equipment, and more particularly to a remote control device having a photographing function.

  Regarding a remote control device capable of controlling a plurality of devices, conventionally, a user of a terminal selects a device to be controlled (hereinafter referred to as a controlled device) and controls settings for a specific controlled device, It was necessary to perform operations such as data entry.

For example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-248128 (Patent Document 1), Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2002-305521 (Patent Document 2), and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2000-209482 (Patent Document). 3).
JP 2004-248128 A JP 2002-305521 A JP 2000-209482 A

  However, in order to realize a remote control device for a plurality of controlled devices, as described above, necessary operations differ for each device and input of data is required. It was not preferable. Further, as a result of such an operation, an incorrect input or an incorrect setting may be made, so that the function as a remote control device for the controlled device may not be realized.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and a first object thereof is to provide a remote control device capable of controlling a plurality of controlled devices.

  The second object is to provide a remote control device that can function as a remote control device for a specific controlled device without malfunction.

  A third object of the present invention is to provide a remote control device that can easily cope with the addition of functions and other functions of controlled devices.

  A fourth object thereof is to provide a remote control device that can easily realize setting as a specific controlled device.

  In order to solve the above problems, according to one aspect of the present invention, a remote control device for controlling a controlled device that emits blinking light is provided. The blinking light includes identification information for identifying the controlled device. The identification information is specified by the blinking state of the blinking light. The remote control device includes an input unit that receives an instruction input from the outside, and an imaging unit that captures an image of the subject based on the instruction. The imaging means includes a plurality of pixels. The remote control device includes display means for displaying an image in a display area and drive means for reading signals from each pixel. The driving means reads signals from the pixels corresponding to the predetermined partial area in the display area in response to a reading instruction input from the outside. In addition, the driving unit reads out signals from the pixels corresponding to the partial area at a higher speed than when reading out the pixels corresponding to the entire display area. The remote control device reads image data from a pixel corresponding to a partial area in accordance with image data storage means for storing image data of a subject generated based on a signal read by the drive means, and shooting by a controlled device. Detection means for detecting the flashing status of the flashing light based on the received data, an acquisition means for acquiring the identification information based on the flashing status, and stored in the image data storage means until the acquisition means acquires the identification information Display means for displaying an image of the subject photographed by the image pickup means on the display means based on the received signal, identification information storage means for storing the identification information acquired by the acquisition means, and instructions via the input means Generating means for generating a control signal for controlling the operation of the controlled device based on the identification information stored in the identification information storage means in response to the input; Comprising conversion means for converting into infrared light items, and a light emitting means for irradiating infrared light.

  When the other situation of this invention is followed, the remote control apparatus which controls the to-be-controlled apparatus which transmits blink light is provided. The blinking light includes identification information for identifying the controlled device. The identification information is specified by the blinking state of the blinking light. The remote control device includes an input unit that receives an instruction input from the outside, and an imaging unit that captures an image of the subject based on the instruction. The imaging means includes a plurality of pixels. The remote control device includes display means for displaying an image in a display area and drive means for reading signals from each pixel. The driving means reads signals from the pixels corresponding to the predetermined partial area in the display area in response to a reading instruction input from the outside. In addition, the driving unit reads out signals from the pixels corresponding to the partial area at a higher speed than when reading out the pixels corresponding to the entire display area. The remote control device obtains identification information based on the flashing status and detection means for detecting the flashing status of the flashing light based on a signal read from each pixel corresponding to the partial area in accordance with shooting of the controlled device. Based on the identification information stored in the identification information storage means in response to the input of the instruction via the input means, the identification information storage means for storing the identification information acquired by the acquisition means, A generating unit that generates a control signal for controlling the operation of the controlled device and an output unit that outputs the control signal are provided.

  Preferably, the output unit includes a conversion unit that converts the control signal into infrared light, and a light emitting unit that emits infrared light.

  Preferably, the output unit converts the control signal into control data corresponding to a communication line connected to the controlled device, and a transmission unit transmits the control data to the controlled device via the communication line. Including.

  Preferably, the remote control device has an item acquisition unit that acquires a control item that defines an operation by the controlled device based on the identification information, and a storage unit that stores the control item acquired by the item acquisition unit in association with the identification information And further comprising. The generation unit generates a control signal based on the control item and the identification information stored in the storage unit.

  Preferably, the item acquisition means is transmitted by the controlled device via the communication line and the transmission request means for requesting the controlled device to transmit the control item via the communication line connected to the controlled device. Item receiving means for receiving control items.

  Preferably, the item acquisition means is connected to the communication line and sends a control item transmission request to the information providing apparatus that provides the control item via the communication line, and a transmission request via the communication line. Item receiving means for receiving control items transmitted in response to

  Preferably, the item acquiring means includes receiving means for receiving a control signal transmitted from a remote control device unique to the controlled device.

  Preferably, the remote control device is stored in storage means for storing control items previously acquired for the controlled device and identification information of the controlled device, identification information acquired by the acquisition means, and storage means. Judgment means for judging whether or not the identification information matches is further provided. The generation unit generates a control signal based on a control item acquired in advance when the identification information acquired by the acquisition unit matches the identification information stored in the storage unit.

  Preferably, the remote control device includes an image data storage unit that stores data generated by photographing the subject, and an imaging unit based on the data stored in the image data storage unit until the acquisition unit acquires the identification information. Display control means for causing the display means to display an image of the subject photographed by the above.

  According to the remote control device of the present invention, information included in a signal transmitted from the controlled device is acquired. The remote control device functions as a terminal for controlling the device based on the information.

  Further, data input in the remote control device is realized by acquiring data included in the received signal. This eliminates the need for the user to operate the buttons to input data, and the remote control device accurately acquires data necessary for control of the controlled device. Therefore, malfunction in the remote control device can be prevented.

  Further, according to the remote control device of the present invention, the information can be acquired from an external device that provides information about the function of the controlled device. Therefore, the latest information about the function of the controlled device is acquired. Thereby, it is possible to easily cope with a change in the function of the controlled device.

  According to the remote control device of the present invention, information for control is acquired from a remote control device specific to the controlled device, and a control signal is output as a remote control device for the controlled device based on the information. In this way, since transmission of information of the controlled device is realized between the remote control devices, the remote control device according to the present invention can be easily set as a terminal for a specific controlled device, and the user The convenience for the user can be improved.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

<First Embodiment>
With reference to FIG. 1, a usage mode of remote control device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a room 10 in which devices that can be controlled by remote control device 100 are arranged.

  In the room 10, an air conditioner 20, a television 30, and an HDD recorder 40 are arranged. The air conditioner 20 includes a light emitting unit 21 that emits a signal including identification information of the air conditioner itself, and a light receiving unit 22 that receives a control signal emitted from the remote control device 100. Television 30 includes a light emitting unit 31 that emits a signal including identification information of the television itself, and a light receiving unit 32 that receives a control signal emitted by remote control device 100. The television 30 and the HDD recorder 40 are connected by a cable 50. HDD recorder 40 includes a light emitting unit 41 that emits a signal including information for identifying the HDD recorder itself, and a light receiving unit 42 that receives a control signal emitted from remote control device 100.

  With reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the appearance of remote control device 100.

  The remote control device 100 receives a command input from the outside, a camera 110 that shoots a subject and outputs a video signal, a light emitting unit 160 that emits a control signal to a controlled device, and an input from the outside. And an operation unit 140 that outputs a corresponding signal. The camera 110 is realized by, for example, a light receiving element having a photoelectric conversion function and an element having a signal transfer function such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device). The display 102 is realized by a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescent) display, or the like.

  The operation unit 140 is realized by a button or a dial, for example. The operation unit 140 inputs cursor buttons 104a, 104b, 104c, and 104d that define the vertical and horizontal directions of the cursor displayed on the display 102, and an instruction for confirming data input by the user of the remote control device 100. A determination button 114 for receiving, an up / down button 108 for increasing or decreasing the value of the output control signal, and a numeric button 106. The up / down button 108 includes a first up button 118a, a first down button 118b, a second up button 128a, and a first down button 128b.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of remote control device 100. The remote control device 100 includes a camera 110, a drive circuit 200 that receives an input of a signal output from the camera 110, an operation unit 140 that receives an instruction input from the outside, a light receiving unit 120, and data or commands input from the outside. Based on the control circuit 210 for generating a signal for the remote controller 100 to execute a predetermined process, a memory 220 capable of writing and reading data, and an image based on the signal generated by the control circuit 210 Display 102 and a signal output unit 160 that outputs a signal generated by the control circuit 210.

  A signal generated by the drive circuit 200 is input to the control circuit 210. The control circuit 210 performs predetermined image processing on the signal and generates data for displaying an image on the display 102. The operation unit 140 outputs an electrical signal to the control circuit 210 in accordance with an input instruction. Control circuit 210 executes a predetermined process according to the signal. The light receiving unit 120 receives an optical signal including a predetermined control signal between the controlled device and the remote control device 100. The light receiving unit 120 has a photoelectric conversion function, converts the signal into an electric signal based on the function, and outputs the converted signal to the control circuit 210.

  The memory 220 is a memory that stores data in a nonvolatile manner. The memory 220 is realized by a flash memory, for example. The memory 220 receives input of data for specifying the function of the controlled device from the control circuit 210 and stores it in a predetermined area.

  When the remote control device 100 functions as a remote control for the controlled device, the control circuit 210 generates a signal for executing a predetermined process based on data stored in the area. The control circuit 210 sends the generated signal to the signal output unit 160. The control circuit 210 may be realized by a circuit element configured in advance to execute each process, or causes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or other arithmetic processing device to execute a program for realizing each process. This is realized.

  The signal output unit 160 sends the control signal output from the control circuit 210 to the outside. The signal output unit 160 transmits an infrared signal in a certain aspect. In another aspect, signal output unit 160 is connected to a communication line, for example, and executes processing for transmitting a control signal as a packet.

  With reference to FIG. 4, the drive circuit 200 according to the present embodiment will be further described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a specific configuration of drive circuit 200.

  The driving circuit 200 receives an input of a video signal from the camera 110, and stores data corresponding to a buffer 202 for storing the signal, and an entire area determined corresponding to the display area on the display 102 with respect to the buffer 202. A part for reading out data stored in the partial area 204 defined in the buffer 202 as an area corresponding to the partial area defined as a partial area of the display area in the display 102 Area readout circuit 206.

  Whole area reading circuit 208 reads the signal stored in buffer 202 in accordance with a predetermined processing speed. The read signal is sent to the control circuit 210. When the display 102 displays an image based on this signal, the entire image of the subject photographed by the camera 110 is displayed on the entire display area on the display 102.

The partial area reading circuit 206 reads a signal stored in the partial area 204 in the buffer 202 . Parts partial area reading circuit 206 reads a successive approximation next signal is sent to the control circuit 210.

  In this way, the control circuit 210 can execute signal readout processing at a higher speed than normal image processing based on video captured by the camera 110. As a result, even when the subject is stationary, a signal transmitted by the subject, such as infrared light, is captured in a predetermined partial area in the camera 110, and information based on the signal is acquired. Is possible.

  Next, the functional configuration of the control circuit 210 of the remote control device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the control circuit 210.

  The control circuit 210 includes an input unit 410 that receives a signal input from the outside, a detection unit 420 that detects information stored in the signal based on the signal received by the input unit 410, and a detected signal An acquisition unit 430 that acquires specific information from the authentication information, an authentication information writing unit 440 that executes processing for storing information authenticated based on the acquired information, a storage unit 450 that stores data, and an input Read unit 460 that reads data stored in storage unit 450 based on an input via unit 410, and a signal that generates a signal for controlling a controlled device based on the data read by read unit 460 A generation unit 470 and an output unit 480 that outputs a signal generated by the signal generation unit 470 are included.

  The HDD recorder 40 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of HDD recorder 40. The HDD recorder 40 is connected to the television 30 via the cable 50.

  The HDD recorder 40 includes a light receiving unit 524 that receives a remote control signal from the outside, an operation unit 522 that receives an instruction input, and a light emitting unit 520 that emits infrared light including information for identifying the HDD recorder 40 to the outside. Prepare. The HDD recorder 40 further includes an antenna 590, a tuner 530 that acquires a signal of a channel selected based on the video signal received by the antenna 590, an external input unit 532 that receives an input of a video / audio signal from the outside, The system control circuit 510 that executes processing for controlling the operation of the HDD recorder 40, and digital data by receiving input of video signals from the tuner 530 and the external input 532 and executing predetermined compression encoding processing MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) encoder 552.

  The HDD recorder 40 further generates an image to be displayed in the display area of the DVD drive device 570, the hard disk device 540, the MPEG decoder 554 for decoding digital data, and the image display device connected to the HDD recorder 40. An OSD (On Screen Display) image generation circuit 514 for synthesizing, a synthesis circuit 558 for synthesizing and outputting signals from the MPEG decoder 554 and the OSD image generation circuit 514, and a D / D for converting a digital signal into an analog signal An A (Digital to Analog) conversion unit 560 and an output unit 568 for outputting an analog video / audio signal to the outside are provided.

  A DVD 572 is attached to the DVD drive device 570. The hard disk 540 includes a hard disk 544 that records digital information, and a pickup 542 that stores data in the hard disk 544 and reads data from the hard disk 544.

  The operations executed by DVD drive device 570 and hard disk device 540 can be easily understood by those skilled in the art, and thus detailed description thereof will not be repeated here.

  A system control circuit 510 that implements the HDD recorder 40 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of system control circuit 510.

  The system control circuit 510 includes an input unit 610 that receives a signal input from the outside, a detection unit 620 that detects a transmission request for information for identifying the HDD recorder 40 based on the signal, and identification information according to the detection. Read out from the storage unit 640 storing the information, a signal generating unit 650 for generating a transmission signal based on the identification information read out by the reading unit 630, and generated by the signal generating unit 650 And an output unit 660 for outputting the processed signal. The output unit 660 outputs a signal for transmission to the light emitting unit 520. The light emitting unit 520 emits the signal as an infrared signal toward a predetermined direction.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 8, signals transmitted by the HDD recorder 40, the television 30, the air conditioner 20, and other controlled devices will be described. FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an optical signal 700 transmitted from the controlled device to remote control device 100.

  The optical signal 700 includes a start bit 710, identification data 720, and an end bit 730. The start bit 710 includes data for specifying the head portion of the optical signal transmitted sequentially. The identification data 720 includes information for identifying a device such as a manufacturer code, a device number, and a manufacturing number of the controlled device. The end bit 730 includes data for specifying the end portion of the optical signal transmitted sequentially.

  With reference to FIG. 9, a control structure of HDD recorder 40 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a procedure of processing executed by system control circuit 510 in order to transmit identification information of HDD recorder 40.

  In step S810, system control circuit 510 of HDD recorder 40 detects a signal transmission instruction for authenticating the device from the signal received by light receiving unit 524. In step S820, system control circuit 510 generates identification information including the manufacturer code, device number, and manufacturing number of HDD recorder 40 based on the data stored in memory 512. In step S830, system control circuit 510 generates a signal for transmission (FIG. 8) based on the identification information, start bit, and end bit.

  In step S840, system control circuit 510 causes light emitting unit 520 to transmit a signal as blinking light that blinks in a predetermined pattern. As a result, infrared signals including information for identifying the HDD recorder 40 are sequentially transmitted from the light emitting unit 520 in a predetermined direction.

  With reference to FIG. 10, a control structure of remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure of processing executed by control circuit 210 to authenticate the controlled device.

  In step S910, control circuit 210 receives the flashing light transmitted by HDD recorder 40. In step S920, control circuit 210 reads a signal acquired at the center of the image sensor (camera 110). In step S930, control circuit 210 recognizes the head of the signal by detecting the start bit of the signal. In step S940, control circuit 210 causes display 102 to display the image of HDD recorder 40 based on the image data last acquired by camera 110.

  In step S950, control circuit 210 acquires identification information of HDD recorder 40 from the acquired information. In step S960, control circuit 210 stores the acquired identification information in a predetermined area in memory 220.

  In step S970, control circuit 210 acquires a control item of HDD recorder 40 based on the identification information. Here, the control items are processing items that can be controlled by the remote control device 100 among the functions that can be executed by the HDD recorder 40. In step S980, control circuit 210 stores the acquired control item in a predetermined data area in memory 220.

  Next, referring to FIG. 11, a data structure in remote control device 100 will be described. FIG. 11 conceptually shows data stored in memory 220 of remote control device 100 after HDD recorder 40 is authenticated.

  Memory 220 includes areas 1010 to 1050 for storing data. The manufacturer code “ABC” of HDD recorder 40 is stored in area 1010. The device number “HDDRECORDER-001” of HDD recorder 40 is stored in area 1020. The production number “12345678” of the HDD recorder 40 is stored in the area 1030.

  Information for identifying each button provided as the operation unit 140 of the remote control device 100 is stored in an area 1040. The operation mode at the time of pressing the button associated with each button is stored in area 1050. For example, the numeric button “1” is set to transmit data “1” when the button is pressed. The cursor up button is set to execute processing for selecting an item displayed on the item currently displayed on the display 102 when the button is pressed. Further, for example, the “first up button” is set so that a value obtained by adding “1” to the value of the currently active item (that is, the controllable item) can be transmitted when the button is pressed. Has been. For example, when the first up button functions as a button for selecting a channel, when the first up button is pressed, the channel number is increased by one.

  As described above, since the data stored in the area 1040 and the data stored in the area 1050 are associated with each other, the remote control device 100 performs an operation corresponding to the controlled device in response to pressing of each button. It is possible to transmit a signal for making it happen.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 12, an image display mode on display 102 of remote control device 100 will be described. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a screen displayed while remote control device 100 authenticates the controlled device.

  For example, when remote control device 100 receives a signal from HDD recorder 40 and executes a process for authenticating HDD recorder 40, display 102 displays an image based on data stored in memory 220. That is, the control circuit 210 reads out image data stored in a predetermined buffer area in the memory 220 without receiving an input of a signal based on the video photographed by the camera 110 and sends the data to the display 102. Output. In this way, even if it takes time for the remote control device 100 to authenticate the controlled device, the display 102 continues to display a still image temporarily. Therefore, even if the user of the remote control device 100 moves the terminal, the image displayed on the display 102 is not changed, so that the user is not uncomfortable.

  In addition, such a display allows the remote control device 100 to confirm that the signal is being processed, so that the user does not need to keep the remote control device 100 pointing to the controlled device (for example, the HDD recorder 40). It can be placed on a table or the like. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the remote controller 100 displays a message 1100 indicating “authenticating” on the display 102 while executing the authentication process. Therefore, the user can easily recognize that the remote control device 100 is executing the device authentication process by checking the message.

  Next, referring to FIG. 13, the control structure of remote control device 100 will be described again. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure of processing executed by remote control device 100 to control the controlled device. This process is executed when the user uses the remote controller 100 as a remote controller dedicated to a specific controlled device (for example, the HDD recorder 40, the television 30, and the air conditioner 20).

  In step S <b> 1210, control circuit 210 detects a button press based on an input via operation unit 140. In step S1220, control circuit 210 determines whether or not the information of the authenticated device exists in the memory based on the signal from operation unit 140. If the information exists in the memory (YES in step S1220), the process proceeds to step S1230. If not (NO in step S1220), the process proceeds to step S1270.

  In step S1230, control circuit 210 outputs the information of the authenticated device to display 102. The display 102 displays information about the device. This display mode will be described with reference to FIG.

  At step S1240, control circuit 210 reads data representing a mode stored in memory 220 and corresponding to the pressed button. In step S1250, control circuit 210 generates a control signal corresponding to the mode. In step S1260, control circuit 210 outputs the control signal as infrared light via signal output unit 160.

  In step S1270, control circuit 210 outputs a message notifying that the device is not authenticated to display 102. The display 102 displays the message in the display area.

  With reference to FIG. 14, an image display mode on the display 102 will be described. Image (A) represents an image displayed when the controlled device is not authenticated by remote control device 100. That is, the display 102 displays a message that the authentication of the controlled device is not completed and a message that prompts acquisition of device information. This display is realized, for example, by storing the data in the memory 220 in advance and reading the data when the processing in step S1270 described above is executed. With such a display, the user of remote control device 100 can immediately recognize that the authentication process has not been completed. Therefore, since the user obtains the signal again by pointing the remote control device 100 toward the controlled device, the authentication process can be reliably realized.

  The image (B) represents an image displayed when the control device is authenticated. In this case, as shown in FIG. 11, remote control device 100 displays information on the device on display 102 based on the data stored in memory 220. In the example shown in the image (B), it is displayed that the device having the manufacturer code “ABC”, the device number “HDDRECORDER-001”, and the production number “12345678” is authenticated as the authenticated device.

  Here, a case where the remote control device 100 functions as a remote control device for another controlled device will be described. Hereinafter, a case will be described in which remote control device 100 that originally functioned as the remote control device of HDD recorder 40 functions as the remote control device of air conditioner 20 after the process of re-authenticating the controlled device.

  With reference to FIG. 15, the control structure of remote control device 100 will be further described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a procedure of processing executed by remote controller 100 that has already authenticated the controlled device to authenticate air conditioner 20. This process is realized, for example, when the user of the remote control device 100 performs a predetermined operation with the remote control device 100 directed toward the light emitting unit 21 of the air conditioner 20.

  In step S1410, control circuit 210 receives blinking light transmitted from air conditioner 20 via camera 110. In step S1420, control circuit 210 reads a signal acquired at the center of the image sensor (camera 110) via drive circuit 200.

  In step S1430, control circuit 210 recognizes the head of the signal by detecting the start bit of the signal. In step S1440, control circuit 210 obtains identification information included in the signal. In step S1450, control circuit 210 stores the authentication information (that is, air conditioner 20) in the data area of memory 220.

  In step S1460, control circuit 210 acquires an air conditioner control item based on the identification information of air conditioner 20. When the controlled device is the air conditioner 20, the control items include, for example, adjustment of air volume, adjustment of temperature, selection of operation (air blowing, cooling, dehumidification, heating), change of set temperature, change of timer set time, and the like. . In step S1470, control circuit 210 stores the acquired control item in memory 220.

  A data structure of remote control device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating data stored in memory 220 when remote controller 100 authenticates air conditioner 20 as a control target.

  The manufacturer code (XYZ) of the air conditioner 20 is stored in the area 1010. The device number (AIR CONDITIONER 100) of the air conditioner 20 is stored in the area 1020. The production number (01234567) is stored in the area 1030.

  Further, in the memory 220, a button provided as the operation unit 140 of the remote control device 100 and an operation when the button is pressed are associated with each other. For example, the “cursor up button (cursor button 104a in FIG. 2) is set to switch in the order of air blowing, cooling, dehumidification, and heating as the operation mode when pressed.

  The first up button (up button 118a in FIG. 2) is set to output a control signal for raising the set temperature of the air conditioner 20 by 1 ° C. when pressed. Similarly, the second up button (the up button 128a) is set to output a control signal for increasing the timer setting time of the air conditioner 20 by one hour.

  On the other hand, the numeric buttons “1” to “0” are set so that no control signal is output even when the button is pressed. In this case, a signal indicating that the signal output in response to pressing of the button is “invalid” is associated. In this way, since the pressing of the button is not associated with a specific operation, even when the button is pressed by mistake, a control signal is not output, and a malfunction is prevented.

  With reference to FIG. 17, the image display mode on display 102 of remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described again. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an image displayed when remote control device 100 recognizes air conditioner 20.

  When the user performs an operation for receiving a signal by directing remote control device 100 toward air conditioner 20, remote control device 100 executes the above-described authentication process and recognizes air conditioner 20. When remote control device 100 acquires the identification information included in the signal received from air conditioner 20, it writes the information in memory 220. In this case, when another controlled device has already been authenticated, the data on the newly recognized device is overwritten on the data on the device.

  When the authentication process is completed, remote control device 100 displays a message notifying that a new device has been authenticated on display 102 (FIG. 17). That is, the display 102 displays information about the air conditioner 20 as the authenticated controlled device. In this way, since specific device information is displayed according to the recognition state of the remote control device 100, the user of the remote control device 100 can perform the operation of the terminal without error.

  As described above, remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment authenticates the controlled device by receiving the signal transmitted by the controlled device and acquiring information contained in the signal. . The remote control device 100 functions as a remote control device corresponding to the controlled device after the authentication. In this way, one terminal device can be made to function as a remote control device for each of a plurality of controlled devices.

<Second Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment is different from the terminal according to the above-described embodiment in that it has a function of transmitting a control signal as a packet signal. That is, remote control device 100 converts a signal for controlling the controlled device into packet data. Remote control device 100 transmits the packet data as a radio signal. When the device that can receive the radio signal receives the signal, the device acquires packet data generated by the terminal 100 and transmits the packet data to a specific controlled device.

  Note that the hardware configuration of the remote control device according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the terminal according to each of the above-described embodiments. Their functions are the same. Therefore, description thereof will not be repeated here.

  With reference to FIG. 18, the usage mode of remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a state in which controlled devices that can be controlled by remote control device 100 are connected via network 1790.

  An access point 1700 that receives a radio signal is connected to the network 1790. Access point 1700 includes a communication interface 1710 for receiving a signal transmitted from remote control device 100 and transmitting packet data to a specific controlled device via network 1790. The communication interface 1710 specifies a network address included in the packet data, and transmits a control signal toward the address.

  The network 1790 is further connected to a television 1730, an air conditioner 1720, an HDD recorder 1740, and a VTR 1750. Air conditioner 1720 is connected to network 1790 and includes an interface 1722 that receives input of data from network 1790, and a control circuit 1725 for controlling the operation of air conditioner 1720 based on a control signal input via interface 1722. .

  The television 1730 is connected to the network 1790 and receives an input of a control signal from the network 1790. The control circuit 1735 is connected to the interface 1732 and executes processing for controlling the operation of the television 1730 based on the control signal. Including.

  HDD recorder 1740 includes an interface 1742 that is connected to network 1790 and receives a signal input from network 1790, and a control circuit 1745 that executes processing for controlling the operation of HDD recorder 1740 based on the signal.

  VTR 1750 includes an interface 1752 that is connected to network 1790 and receives a signal input from network 1790, and a control circuit 1755 that executes processing for controlling the operation of VTR 1750 based on the signal.

  In each controlled device, each of the interfaces 1722, 1732, 1742, and 1752 corresponds to a light receiving unit that receives a remote control signal when the controlled device is used alone. The control circuit included in each controlled device corresponds to a system control circuit 510 for realizing the HDD recorder 40 as shown in FIG. 6, for example.

  Since each control circuit executes a specific process based on a signal from an interface to which it is electrically connected, even if a controlled device is connected to the network 1790, the same process can be executed. .

  As described above, according to the remote control device 100 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, each controlled device connected to the network 1790 can be controlled. That is, when controlling the operation of each controlled device, the remote control device 100 only has to send a control signal to the access point 1700, so that the user of the remote control device 100 depends on each controlled device. There is no need to change the orientation of the remote control device 100. Therefore, the user can control each controlled device without changing the posture. In this way, for example, even when there is an obstacle between the remote control device and the specific controlled device, the control signal from the remote control device 100 can be sent to the controlled device. Assured control can be executed.

<Third Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment is different from the above-described embodiments in that information for authenticating a controlled device is acquired from an access point.

  Note that the hardware configuration of the remote control device according to the present embodiment is the same as the hardware configuration of the remote control device according to each of the above-described embodiments. Their functions are the same. Therefore, description thereof will not be repeated here.

  With reference to FIG. 19, a usage mode of the remote control device according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an aspect in which a device having a function of transmitting information for identifying the controlled device itself is connected to the network.

  An air conditioner 1820, a television 1830, an HDD recorder 1840, a VTR 1850, and an access point 1800 are connected to the network 1890. The access point 1800 includes a receiving unit 1710 that receives a signal from the remote control device 100, and a transmitting unit 1720 that transmits a signal including information for identifying each controlled device based on a signal received via the network 1890. Including.

  The air conditioner 1820 is connected to a control circuit 1725, a network 1890, a communication interface 1822 that communicates with the access point 1800 via the network 1890, and a memory 1826 that stores information for identifying the air conditioner 1820. including.

  The television 1830 includes a control circuit 1735, a communication interface 1832 that is connected to the network 1890 and communicates with the access point 1800 via the network 1890, and a memory 1836 in which information for identifying the television 1830 is stored. Including.

  HDD recorder 1840 is connected to control circuit 1745, network 1890, communication interface 1842 for communicating information with access point 1800 via network 1890, and information for identifying HDD recorder 1840 are stored. Memory 1846.

  The VTR 1850 is connected to a control circuit 1755, a network 1890, a communication interface 1852 that communicates information with the access point 1800 via the network 1890, and a memory 1856 that stores information for identifying the VTR 1850. including.

  In each controlled device, information stored in each of the memories 1826, 1836, 1846, and 1856 is, for example, a manufacturer code, a device number, a manufacturing number, etc., as shown in FIG. These memories also store addresses (not shown) of each controlled device in the network 1890.

  The control circuits 1725, 1735, 1745, and 1755 generate packet data to be transmitted to the access point 1800 based on information for identifying the controlled device stored in each memory and the network address, respectively. . Each control circuit transmits the data to the access point 1800 via a communication interface included in each device.

  Based on data input via network 1890, access point 1800 causes transmission section 1720 to transmit a signal including the data. A signal transmitted from the access point 1800 differs depending on which controlled device connected to the network 1890 transmits the packet data.

  Therefore, for example, when air conditioner 1820 outputs packet data, access point 1800 transmits a signal including information for identifying air conditioner 1820. In another aspect, when HDD recorder 1840 transmits the packet data, access point 1800 transmits a signal including information for identifying HDD recorder 1840. In this way, remote control device 100 can communicate with each controlled device via access point 1800, so that it is easy to authenticate the controlled device and transmit a control signal after authentication. be able to.

  Here, a data structure of television 1830 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing one mode of storage of control items and control data in memory 1836.

  Memory 1836 includes an area 1910 for storing data for identifying a control item, and an area 1920 for storing control data predetermined according to the control item. Control items and control data are associated with each other. For example, for the control item “power on”, a signal for commanding power on is associated as control data. A channel number is associated as control data with respect to the control item “channel selection”. By storing the data in which the control item and the control data are associated with each other in the memory of the controlled device, each device executes an operation according to the control signal of the remote control device 100 received via the access point 1800. That is, when the signal from the remote control device 100 corresponds to any control item, the control circuit controls the operation of the controlled device by outputting a signal corresponding to the item.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment of the present invention, remote control device 100 reliably acquires information on each controlled device through communication via an access point. As a result, the remote control device 100 can accurately authenticate each device. In addition, the remote control device 100 can accurately acquire information for defining the operation in each device. Thereby, remote control device 100 can function as a remote control device for controlling a plurality of controlled devices.

<Fourth embodiment>
Hereinafter, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The control items described above may be stored in advance in the controlled device, or may be acquired sequentially from the outside. For example, data specific to each controlled device is stored as a control item in the server that provides the website of the manufacturer that manufactures each controlled device, and the control item of the controlled device is requested according to access to the server. You may make it transmit with respect to the apparatus which performed.

  Note that the hardware configuration of the remote control device according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the terminal according to each of the above-described embodiments. Their functions are the same. Therefore, description thereof will not be repeated here.

  With reference to FIG. 21, a usage mode of remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the controlled device of remote control device 100 is connected to the Internet.

  The network 1790 is connected to a PC (Personal Computer) 2010. The PC 2010 is connected to the information providing server 2030 via the Internet 2020. Here, the PC 2010 is a normal computer system installed in the user's home of the remote control device 100. The information providing server 2030 is a computer system operated by a manufacturer such as an air conditioner 1720, a television 1730, an HDD recorder 1740, a VTR 1750, and the like. Therefore, since the information providing server 2030 can exist depending on each controlled device, it is not necessarily realized by only one server as shown in FIG.

  Note that the information providing server 2030 is realized by, for example, a normal computer system. The hardware configuration of a computer system and the functions to be realized are well known. Therefore, detailed description will not be repeated here except for the description described later.

  With reference to FIG. 22, a control structure of remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a procedure of processing executed by control circuit 210 to receive control items of the controlled device.

  In step S1210, control circuit 210 detects an instruction input from the outside based on an input via operation unit 140. In step S2120, control circuit 210 determines whether an instruction to acquire a control item for the controlled device has been input based on the input. If the instruction has been input (YES in step S2120), the process proceeds to step S2130. If not (NO in step S2120), the process ends.

  In step S2130, control circuit 210 generates a transmission request for the control item of the controlled device based on the identification information of the controlled device stored in memory 220. This transmission request includes, for example, the identification information, information for identifying the remote control device 100, and a communication protocol determined in advance between the information providing server described later. This protocol is a predetermined command for requesting transmission of control items.

  In step S2140, control circuit 210 transmits the transmission request to information providing server 2030 based on a predesignated address. When the information providing server 2030 receives this request, as will be described later, it generates data for transmitting the requested item, and transmits the generated data to the remote control device 100 that is the transmission source of the request. . This data is received by the PC 2010 and retransmitted toward the network 1790. The access point 1800 receives data from the PC 2010. Transmitter 1720 transmits the data as an infrared signal, for example.

  In step S 2150, control circuit 210 receives the control item transmitted from information providing server 2030 via access point 1800. In step S2160, control circuit 210 stores the received control item in a predetermined data area in memory 220. In this way, remote control device 100 acquires a control item for controlling an operation that can be executed by a specific controlled device. The remote control device 100 can then generate a signal for controlling the controlled device based on an instruction from the outside.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 23, a control structure of information providing server 2030 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a procedure of processing executed by information providing server 2030.

  The information providing server 2030 is realized by a generally known computer system as described above. The computer system includes a memory for storing normal data and a CPU for executing a predetermined process based on the data. Therefore, in the following description, the operation of the information providing server 2030 will be described as being realized by the CPU.

  In step S 2210, the CPU receives a control item transmission request for the controlled device via network 1790 and Internet 2020. In step S2220, the CPU acquires identification information of the controlled device from the transmission request. The identification information acquired here includes, for example, a manufacturer code, a device number, a manufacturing number, and the like of the controlled device (FIG. 8).

  In step S2230, CPU determines whether or not the control item of the controlled device exists in the memory. If the control item exists in the memory (YES in step S2230), the process proceeds to step S2240. If not (NO in step S2230), the process proceeds to step S2260.

  In step S2240, the CPU generates data for transmitting the control item. This data includes a data header and a data body including control items. In step S2250, the CPU transmits the data to the transmission source of the transmission request (that is, remote control device 100). If the network 1790 is always connected to the Internet via the PC 2010, the remote control device 100 can promptly receive the data.

  In step S2260, the CPU generates data for notifying that there is no control item for the controlled device, and transmits the generated data to the transmission request transmission source (remote control device 100). When remote control device 100 receives such data, a message based on the received data is displayed on display 102.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, information for controlling the controlled device is provided by an external information provider or the like (for example, the manufacturer of the controlled device). If the remote control device 100 is present, the remote control device 100 can acquire the information via the Internet 2020. In this way, since the latest information on the controlled device can always be acquired, for example, even if the controlled device can be upgraded, accurate control can be realized.

  Specifically, when the function can be expanded or added by updating the firmware of the controlled device, the remote control device can acquire data for controlling the controlled device after the expansion or the addition . As a result, it is possible to easily cope with so-called model change accompanied by the addition of the function of the controlled device as well as the above-mentioned convenience improvement. As a result, it is possible to prevent the terminal from being discarded due to the lack of the control function of the terminal.

<Fifth embodiment>
The fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described below. The remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment receives the signal from the original remote control device specific to the controlled device and functions as the remote control device of the controlled device based on the signal. And different.

  Note that the hardware configuration of the remote control device according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the terminal according to each of the above-described embodiments. Their functions are the same. Therefore, description thereof will not be repeated here.

  With reference to FIG. 24, a usage mode of remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating a signal communication state between remote control device 100 and remote control device 2300 unique to the controlled device.

  Remote control device 2300 transmits a control signal determined in advance according to a specific device. For example, when the user of remote control device 2300 presses button “1”, a control signal including information corresponding to the pressed button is transmitted from a specific part (that is, light emitting unit). Therefore, remote control device 100 is transmitted by remote control device 2300 by arranging camera 110 of remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment at such a position that allows the light emitting unit to be photographed. Information can be acquired.

  With reference to FIG. 25, a control structure of remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a procedure of processing for remote control device 100 to execute a learning operation of another remote control device 2300.

  In step S2410, control circuit 210 of remote control device 100 switches its operation mode to a learning mode. Here, the learning mode refers to a process for storing information included in a received signal in a predetermined data area in the memory 220.

  In step S2420, control circuit 210 receives a signal transmitted from remote control device 2300 attached to the controlled device. In step S2430, control circuit 210 acquires a control item from the received signal. The control item acquired in this case is one item corresponding to pressing of a specific button of the remote control device 2300.

  In step S2440, control circuit 210 associates the acquired control item with an operation unit (for example, a numeric button) possessed by remote control device 100 and stores it in the area of memory 220. The storage mode is, for example, the mode shown in areas 1040 and 1050 in FIG.

  In step S2450, control circuit 210 determines whether or not a learning mode end instruction has been input. This determination is made based on, for example, whether the instruction input via operation unit 140 is for instructing the end of the learning mode. If an end instruction has been input (YES in step S2450), the process ends. If not (NO in step S2450), the process returns to step S2440, and the process for acquiring the control item of other remote control device 2300 is continued.

  As described above, according to the remote control device 100 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, information for controlling the controlled device by receiving a signal from the remote control device inherent in the controlled device. Can be obtained. In this way, the remote control device 100 does not acquire erroneous information, and can thus operate accurately as a remote control device for a specific controlled device.

<Sixth Embodiment>
The sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described below. The remote control device according to the present embodiment has a function of storing newly acquired identification information when identification information different from the identification information stored in the memory 220 is acquired. The form is different. That is, it is possible to detect a change in a device that is a target of functioning of the remote controller 100 based on a difference in identification information.

  Note that the hardware configuration of the remote control device according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the terminal according to each of the above-described embodiments. Their functions are the same. Therefore, description thereof will not be repeated here.

  With reference to FIG. 26, a control structure of remote control device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a procedure of processing executed by control circuit 210 to update the control item of the controlled device. Note that the same step numbers are assigned to the same processes as those in the above-described embodiments. Therefore, description thereof will not be repeated here.

  In step S2550, control circuit 210 determines whether or not the acquired identification information is the same as the identification information stored in memory 220. If the identification information is the same (YES in step S2550), the process ends. If not (NO in step S2550), the process proceeds to step S960, and identification information and control items are acquired (steps S960 to S980).

  As described above, the remote control device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention controls a newly recognized device when it recognizes a device different from the already recognized device as a result of the authentication process. Get the data. When the same device as the device already recognized is recognized again, the data is not acquired. Accordingly, the remote control device quickly switches to the remote control device corresponding to the controlled device, while functioning as it is as a remote control corresponding to the same device. Therefore, even if the users of remote control device 100 are the same or different, they can operate as a terminal for a specific controlled device.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

It is a figure showing the room 10 where the apparatus which can be controlled by the remote control apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention is arrange | positioned. 2 is an external view of remote control device 100. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of remote control device 100. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a specific configuration of drive circuit 200 included in remote control device 100. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a control circuit 210 of remote control device 100. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of HDD recorder 40. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a system control circuit 510 that implements an HDD recorder 40. FIG. It is a block diagram showing an example of the structure of the optical signal 700 transmitted toward the remote control device 100 from the controlled device. 5 is a flowchart showing a procedure of processing executed by system control circuit 510 to transmit identification information of HDD recorder 40. It is a flowchart showing the procedure of the process which the control circuit 210 performs in order for the remote control apparatus 100 to authenticate a to-be-controlled device. FIG. 3 is a diagram conceptually showing data stored in memory 220 of remote control device 100 after HDD recorder 40 is authenticated. It is a figure showing the screen displayed while remote control device 100 is authenticating a controlled device. It is a flowchart showing the procedure of the process which the remote control apparatus 100 performs in order to control a to-be-controlled device. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a display mode of an image on the display 102. It is a flowchart showing the procedure of the process performed in order that the remote control apparatus 100 which has already authenticated the controlled apparatus may authenticate the air conditioner 20. It is a figure showing the data stored in the memory 220, when the remote control apparatus 100 authenticates the air conditioner 20 as a control object. It is a figure showing the image displayed when remote control device 100 recognizes air conditioner 20. It is a figure showing the aspect by which the to-be-controlled device which can be controlled by the remote control apparatus 100 which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention is connected by the network 1790. It is a figure showing the aspect in which the apparatus which has the function to transmit the information for identifying controlled apparatus itself via a network is connected to the network. It is a figure showing the one aspect | mode of storage of the control item and control data in the memory 1836 of the television 1830 which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure showing the aspect by which the to-be-controlled device of the remote control apparatus 100 which concerns on the 4th Embodiment of this invention is connected to the internet. It is a flowchart showing the procedure of the process which the control circuit 210 of the remote control apparatus which concerns on the 4th Embodiment of this invention performs. It is a flowchart showing the procedure of the process which the information provision server 2030 which concerns on the 4th Embodiment of this invention performs. It is a figure showing the communication state of the signal by the remote control apparatus 100 which concerns on the 5th Embodiment of this invention, and the remote control apparatus 2300 intrinsic | native to a to-be-controlled device. It is a flowchart showing the procedure of the process for the remote control apparatus 100 which concerns on the 5th Embodiment of this invention to perform the learning operation | movement of the other remote control apparatus 2300. It is a flowchart showing the procedure of the process which the control circuit 210 performs in order to update the control item of a to-be-controlled device.

Explanation of symbols

  10 rooms, 20 air conditioners, 21, 31, 41, 160, 520 light emitting part, 22, 32, 42, 120, 524 light receiving part, 30 TV, 50 cables, 100, 2300 remote control device, 102 display, 104a, 104b, 104c 104d cursor button, 108 up / down button, 110 camera, 140, 522 operation unit, 160 signal output unit, 200 drive circuit, 210 control circuit, 220 memory, 202 buffer, 206 partial area readout circuit, 208 whole area readout circuit, 410,610 input unit, 420 detection unit, 430 acquisition unit, 440 authentication information writing unit, 450 storage unit, 460 reading unit, 470 signal generation unit, 480, 568, 660 output unit, 510 system control circuit, 514 OSD image Generation circuit, 530 Tuner, 532 external input unit, 540 hard disk device, 552 MPEG encoder, 554 MPEG decoder, 558 synthesis circuit, 560 D / A conversion unit, 570 DVD drive device, 590 antenna, 620 detection unit, 630 reading unit, 650 signal generation unit 1700, 1800 Access point, 1790 network, 1710 communication interface, 2010 PC, 2020 Internet, 2030 Information providing server.

Claims (19)

A remote control device that controls a controlled device that emits blinking light, wherein the blinking light includes identification information for identifying the controlled device, and the identification information is specified by a blinking state of the blinking light. ,
An input means for receiving an instruction input from the outside;
Imaging means for photographing a subject based on the instruction, the imaging means includes a plurality of pixels,
Display means for displaying an image in a display area;
And drive means for reading a signal from each of said pixel, said drive means in response to the read instruction inputted from the outside, each of said corresponding to a predetermined partial region as a part of a region of the display region Read the signal from the pixel ,
Image data storage means for storing image data of the subject generated based on the signal read by the driving means;
Detection means for detecting a blinking state of the blinking light based on a signal read from each of the pixels corresponding to the partial area predetermined as the partial area in accordance with the photographing of the controlled device When,
Obtaining means for obtaining the identification information based on the blinking state;
Display control means for causing the display means to display an image of a subject photographed by the imaging means based on a signal stored in the image data storage means until the obtaining means obtains the identification information;
Identification information storage means for storing identification information acquired by the acquisition means;
Generating means for generating a control signal for controlling the operation of the controlled device based on the identification information stored in the identification information storage means in response to an instruction input via the input means;
Conversion means for converting the control signal into infrared light;
A remote control device comprising: light emitting means for irradiating the infrared light. A remote control device that controls a controlled device that emits blinking light, wherein the blinking light includes identification information for identifying the controlled device, and the identification information is specified by a blinking state of the blinking light. ,
An input means for receiving an instruction input from the outside;
Imaging means for photographing a subject based on the instruction, the imaging means includes a plurality of pixels,
Display means for displaying an image in a display area;
And drive means for reading a signal from each of said pixel, said drive means in response to the read instruction inputted from the outside, each of said corresponding to a predetermined partial region as a part of a region of the display region Read the signal from the pixel ,
Detection means for detecting a blinking state of the blinking light based on a signal read from each of the pixels corresponding to the partial area predetermined as the partial area in accordance with the photographing of the controlled device When,
Obtaining means for obtaining the identification information based on the blinking state;
Identification information storage means for storing identification information acquired by the acquisition means;
Generating means for generating a control signal for controlling the operation of the controlled device based on the identification information stored in the identification information storage means in response to an instruction input via the input means;
A remote control device comprising output means for outputting the control signal. The output means includes
Conversion means for converting the control signal into infrared light;
The remote control device according to claim 2, further comprising light emitting means for irradiating the infrared light. The output means includes
Conversion means for converting the control signal into control data corresponding to a communication line connected to the controlled device;
The remote control device according to claim 2, further comprising: a transmitting unit that transmits the control data to the controlled device via the communication line. Based on the identification information, item acquisition means for acquiring a control item that defines an operation by the controlled device;
Storage means for storing the control items acquired by the item acquisition means in association with the identification information;
The remote control device according to claim 2, wherein the generation unit generates the control signal based on a control item stored in the storage unit and the identification information. The item acquisition means includes
A transmission request means for requesting the controlled device to transmit the control item via a communication line connected to the controlled device;
The remote control device according to claim 5, further comprising: an item receiving unit that receives the control item transmitted by the controlled device via the communication line. The item acquisition means includes
Sending means for sending a control item transmission request to an information providing device connected to a communication line and providing the control item via the communication line;
The remote control device according to claim 5, further comprising: an item receiving unit that receives the control item transmitted in response to the transmission request via the communication line.   The remote control device according to claim 5, wherein the item acquisition unit includes a reception unit that receives a control signal transmitted from a remote control device unique to the controlled device. Storage means for storing control items acquired in advance for the controlled device and identification information of the controlled device;
A judgment means for judging whether or not the identification information acquired by the acquisition means matches the identification information stored in the storage means;
The generation unit generates the control signal based on the control item acquired in advance when the identification information acquired by the acquisition unit matches the identification information stored in the storage unit. The remote control device according to claim 2. Image data storage means for storing data generated by photographing the subject;
Display control means for causing the display means to display an image of the subject photographed by the imaging means based on the data stored in the image data storage means until the obtaining means obtains the identification information. The remote control device according to claim 2, further comprising: A remote control system,
A controlled device that emits flashing light; and a remote control device that controls the controlled device. The flashing light includes identification information for identifying the controlled device, and the identification information includes the flashing light. Identified by the flashing status of
The remote controller is
An input means for receiving an instruction input from the outside;
Imaging means for photographing a subject based on the instruction, the imaging means includes a plurality of pixels,
The remote controller is
Display means for displaying an image in a display area;
Driving means for reading out signals from the pixels, and the driving means correspond to each partial area predetermined as a partial area of the display area in accordance with a reading instruction input from the outside. Read the signal from the pixel,
Detection means for detecting a blinking state of the blinking light based on a signal read from each of the pixels corresponding to the partial area predetermined as the partial area in accordance with the photographing of the controlled device When,
Obtaining means for obtaining the identification information based on the blinking state;
Identification information storage means for storing identification information acquired by the acquisition means;
Generating means for generating a control signal for controlling the operation of the controlled device based on the identification information stored in the identification information storage means in response to an instruction input via the input means;
A remote control system comprising output means for outputting the control signal. The output means includes
Conversion means for converting the control signal into infrared light;
The remote control system according to claim 11, comprising a light emitting means for irradiating the infrared light. The output means includes
Conversion means for converting the control signal into control data corresponding to a communication line connected to the controlled device;
The remote control system according to claim 11, further comprising transmission means for transmitting the control data to the controlled device via the communication line. The remote controller is
Based on the identification information, item acquisition means for acquiring a control item that defines an operation by the controlled device;
Storage means for storing the control items acquired by the item acquisition means in association with the identification information;
The remote control system according to claim 11, wherein the generation unit generates the control signal based on a control item stored in the storage unit and the identification information. The item acquisition means includes
A transmission request means for requesting the controlled device to transmit the control item via a communication line connected to the controlled device;
The remote control system according to claim 14, further comprising item receiving means for receiving the control item transmitted by the controlled device via the communication line. The item acquisition means includes
Sending means for sending a control item transmission request to an information providing device connected to a communication line and providing the control item via the communication line;
The remote control system according to claim 14, further comprising: item receiving means for receiving the control item transmitted in response to the transmission request via the communication line. The remote control system according to claim 14, wherein the item acquisition unit includes a reception unit that receives a control signal transmitted by a remote control device unique to the controlled device. The remote controller is
Storage means for storing control items acquired in advance for the controlled device and identification information of the controlled device;
A judgment means for judging whether or not the identification information acquired by the acquisition means matches the identification information stored in the storage means;
The generation unit generates the control signal based on the control item acquired in advance when the identification information acquired by the acquisition unit matches the identification information stored in the storage unit. The remote control system according to any one of claims 11 to 17. The remote controller is
Image data storage means for storing data generated by photographing the subject;
Display control means for causing the display means to display an image of the subject photographed by the imaging means based on the data stored in the image data storage means until the obtaining means obtains the identification information. The remote control system according to any one of claims 11 to 18, further comprising:

Images