JP5856815B2 - Electronic device, electronic device control method, additional function assignment device, additional function assignment device control method, electronic device system, program, computer-readable recording medium - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an electronic device system in which a plurality of electronic devices execute functions such as image display in cooperation.

  In recent years, there has been a configuration in which a plurality of image display devices are arranged adjacent to each other on an information display, a business display, or the like to display a larger image in a coordinated manner. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a multi-screen setting method for easily constructing a multi-screen display environment using a plurality of image display devices.

  In addition, there is a technique in which functions are individually assigned to each display device constituting a plurality of screens according to the arrangement positions thereof. For example, Patent Document 2 describes a display device that can output from each display unit a sound corresponding to the screen position of each display unit that occupies a large screen composed of a plurality of display units. . Specifically, it is described that the sound output unit of the display unit located on the left side outputs a left channel sound, and the sound output unit of the display unit located on the right side outputs a right channel sound. ing.

  Furthermore, there is a technique for changing the operation of a display device including a sound output unit according to the remaining battery level. For example, Patent Literature 3 discloses a method for reducing the display frame rate of the display device and extending the viewing time by reducing the power consumption when the remaining battery level is less than or equal to a predetermined amount during TV broadcast viewing. And a method for recording a TV broadcast on another device and allowing the TV broadcast recorded on the other device to be viewed later when the remaining battery level is below a predetermined amount. .

JP 2003-271118 A (published September 25, 2003) JP 2008-011475 A (published January 17, 2008) JP 2006-050555 A (published February 16, 2006)

  However, in the related art as described above, in the case where cooperative display is performed on a plurality of display devices, each display device is assigned an additional function such as a function of outputting a specific sound according to the arrangement position. In this case, if the remaining battery level of the display device decreases and the function cannot be continued, there is a problem that the functions of the plurality of display devices are deteriorated as a whole. For example, if the battery level of the display device that output a specific sound is low and image display and audio output cannot be performed, a part of the cooperative display is not displayed, and the specific sound is completely audible. As a result, the functions of the plurality of display devices as a whole deteriorate significantly.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to execute a common function in cooperation with a plurality of electronic devices, and only a part of the plurality of electronic devices. In the electronic device system that executes the additional function together with the common function, the electronic device and the electronic that can suppress the deterioration of the function of the electronic device system as a whole against the decrease in the remaining battery level of the electronic device that executes the additional function An apparatus control method, an additional function assignment device, an additional function assignment device control method, an electronic device system, a program, and a computer-readable recording medium are provided.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, an electronic device according to the present invention is configured such that a plurality of electronic devices cooperate to execute a common function, and only some of the plurality of electronic devices have the common function. And an electronic device that constitutes an electronic device system that executes an additional function together with a common function unit that executes the common function in cooperation with another electronic device, and an additional that executes the additional function together with the common function. A function unit and a remaining battery level detecting unit for detecting a remaining battery level of the own device, and receiving the additional function assignment for the own device from the additional function assigning unit provided in the electronic device system; Means to execute the additional function, and when the remaining battery level detecting means detects that the remaining battery level of the device is below the reference, the additional function allocating means is notified of that fact. It is characterized in that it comprises a control means for.

  In addition, in the electronic device control method according to the present invention, a plurality of electronic devices perform a common function in cooperation with each other, and only a part of the plurality of electronic devices has an additional function together with the common function. A method of controlling an electronic device that constitutes an electronic device system that executes the additional function, wherein the additional function assigning unit included in the electronic device system receives the assignment of the additional function to the own device and executes the additional function. It includes an execution step and a battery remaining amount notification step of notifying the additional function assigning means to that effect when it is detected that the remaining battery amount of the apparatus is below the reference.

  According to said structure, the electronic device which comprises an electronic device system receives assignment of an additional function from the additional function allocation means of an electronic device system, and performs the additional function. Thereby, only some of the electronic devices that have received the assignment of the additional function among the plurality of electronic devices of the electronic device system can execute the additional function together with the common function. When the electronic device that is executing the additional function detects that the remaining battery level of the electronic device is below the reference, the electronic device notifies the additional function assigning unit of the electronic device system to that effect. Thus, the electronic device can receive an instruction from the additional function allocating unit of the electronic device system, such as whether to continue, stop, or reduce the function of the additional function. In addition, since the additional function allocating unit of the electronic device system can detect a decrease in the remaining battery level of the electronic device that executes the additional function, it is possible to select optimal control according to the situation. For example, by reassigning an additional function to an electronic device adjacent to the electronic device, it is possible to maintain the additional function and to extend the operating time of the electronic device whose battery remaining amount is reduced to maintain the common function.

  Therefore, there is an effect that it is possible to select optimal control so as to suppress a decrease in the function of the entire electronic device system with respect to a decrease in the remaining battery level of the electronic device that executes the additional function.

  Here, the common function may be an image display function in which a plurality of electronic devices cooperate to output one or more pieces of image information. The additional function may be a voice output function or a user operation detection function that detects a touch operation by a user. The common function and the additional function may not be different functions. For example, if the display contents are different, both the common function and the additional function may be the display function.

  Furthermore, in the electronic device according to the present invention, in response to a notification that the remaining battery level of the own device is below a reference, the control unit sends the additional device from the additional function assigning unit. The release of the assignment of the additional function to is received, and the additional function means stops the execution of the additional function.

  According to the above configuration, when the remaining battery level of the electronic device that performs the additional function decreases, the additional function of the electronic device is stopped and the operation time of the electronic device with the decreased battery level is extended. be able to.

  Thereby, since the common function can be maintained in the electronic device whose battery remaining amount is reduced, there is an effect that the deterioration of the function of the entire electronic device system can be suppressed. Further, by reassigning the additional function from the electronic device whose battery remaining amount is reduced to another electronic device, it is possible to maintain the additional function as the entire electronic device system.

  Further, in the additional function assignment device according to the present invention, a plurality of electronic devices execute a common function in cooperation with each other, and only some of the plurality of electronic devices have the additional function together with the common function. An additional function assigning device constituting an electronic device system to be executed, wherein only some of the plurality of electronic devices execute the additional function together with the common function. In addition to allocating the additional function, an additional function allocating unit is provided that reassigns the additional function to another electronic device when the remaining battery level of the electronic device to which the additional function is allocated becomes less than a reference.

  In addition, according to the control method of the additional function assignment device according to the present invention, a plurality of electronic devices execute a common function in cooperation, and only a part of the plurality of electronic devices has the common function. A method for controlling an additional function allocating device that constitutes an electronic device system that executes an additional function, wherein when the remaining battery level of the part of the electronic devices to which the additional function is allocated is below a reference, the additional function is It includes an additional function assignment changing step for reassigning to another electronic device.

  According to said structure, the additional function assignment apparatus which comprises an electronic device system assigns an additional function only to some electronic devices of the some electronic devices which comprise an electronic device system. Thereby, only some of the electronic devices that have received the assignment of the additional function among the plurality of electronic devices of the electronic device system can execute the additional function together with the common function. The additional function assignment device reassigns the additional function to another electronic device when the remaining battery level of the electronic device to which the additional function is assigned becomes equal to or less than the reference. Thereby, while maintaining an additional function as the whole electronic apparatus system, the operation time of the electronic apparatus with which the battery remaining amount decreased can be extended, and a common function can be maintained.

  Therefore, there is an effect that it is possible to select optimal control so as to suppress a decrease in the function of the entire electronic device system with respect to a decrease in the remaining battery level of the electronic device that executes the additional function.

  Here, the common function may be an image display function in which a plurality of electronic devices cooperate to output one or more pieces of image information. The additional function may be a voice output function or a user operation detection function that detects a touch operation by a user. The common function and the additional function may not be different functions. For example, if the display contents are different, both the common function and the additional function may be the display function.

  Furthermore, the additional function assignment device according to the present invention is characterized in that the additional function assignment means assigns the additional function to an electronic device closest to the electronic device before reassignment.

  According to the above configuration, since the additional function is assigned to the electronic device closest to the electronic device before reassignment, the arrangement position of the electronic device that performs the additional function in the entire electronic device system is changed as much as possible. The additional function can be maintained.

  In the electronic device system according to the present invention, a plurality of electronic devices execute a common function in cooperation, and only a part of the plurality of electronic devices execute an additional function together with the common function. And an additional function assignment for assigning the additional function to the electronic device so that only a part of the plurality of electronic devices execute the additional function together with the common function. Each electronic device includes a common function unit that executes the common function in cooperation with another electronic device, an additional function unit that executes the additional function together with the common function, Battery remaining amount detecting means for detecting the remaining battery level of the device, and the additional function allocating means is configured to detect the additional function when the remaining battery level of the electronic device to which the additional function is allocated becomes less than a reference. It is characterized in that reassigned to other electronic devices.

  According to said structure, the effect | action of the electronic device and additional function allocation apparatus (additional function allocation means) which concern on this invention mentioned above is implement | achieved. Therefore, there is an effect that it is possible to select optimal control so as to suppress a decrease in the function of the entire electronic device system with respect to a decrease in the remaining battery level of the electronic device that executes the additional function.

  Furthermore, in the electronic device system according to the present invention, the common function may be an image display function.

  Furthermore, in the electronic device system according to the present invention, the additional function may be a voice output function.

  Furthermore, in the electronic device system according to the present invention, the additional function may be a user operation detection function.

  The electronic device and the additional function assignment device may be realized by a computer. In this case, the electronic device and the additional function assignment device are realized by a computer by causing the computer to operate as each means. The control program for the electronic device and the additional function assignment device to be executed, and the computer-readable recording medium on which the control program is recorded also fall within the scope of the present invention.

  The electronic device according to the present invention detects a remaining battery level of the device itself, a common function unit that executes a common function in cooperation with other electronic devices, an additional function unit that executes the additional function together with the common function, and A battery remaining amount detecting means that receives the assignment of the additional function to the own device from the additional function assigning means provided in the electronic device system, causes the additional function means to execute the additional function, and the battery. When the remaining amount detecting means detects that the battery remaining amount of its own device is below the reference, it is provided with a control means for notifying the additional function assigning means to that effect.

  An electronic device control method according to the present invention includes an additional function execution step of receiving an additional function assignment to the own device from an additional function allocating unit included in the electronic device system, and executing the additional function. A battery remaining amount notification step of notifying the additional function assigning means when it is detected that the remaining amount of the battery is below the reference.

  In addition, the additional function assignment device according to the present invention assigns an additional function to a part of the electronic devices so that only a part of the plurality of electronic devices execute the additional function together with the common function, When the remaining battery level of the electronic device to which the additional function is assigned becomes equal to or less than the reference, the additional device is provided with additional function assigning means for reassigning the additional function to another electronic device.

  In addition, the control method of the additional function assignment device according to the present invention provides an additional function for reassigning the additional function to another electronic device when the remaining battery level of some of the electronic devices to which the additional function is assigned is below a reference. It is a method including an allocation change step.

  According to the above configuration and method, it is possible to select optimal control so as to suppress a decrease in the function of the entire electronic device system with respect to a decrease in the remaining battery level of the electronic device that performs the additional function. The effect of becoming.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image display system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of 1 arrangement | positioning of the client of the image display system shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of the function allocation table in the example of arrangement | positioning shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the other example of arrangement | positioning of the client of the image display system shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of the function allocation table in the example of arrangement | positioning shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating still another example of arrangement of clients of the image display system illustrated in FIG. 1. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of the function allocation table in the example of arrangement | positioning shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a process in the image display system shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the state after the update of the function allocation table in the example of arrangement | positioning shown in FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the operation example of an image display system by the example of arrangement | positioning shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the image display system which concerns on other embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of 1 arrangement | positioning of the client of the image display system shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of the function allocation table in the example of arrangement | positioning shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the client of the image display system which concerns on further another embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of the function allocation table in the example of arrangement | positioning shown in FIG.

[Embodiment 1]
One embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image display system 1 according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image display system (electronic device system) 1 includes a plurality of clients (electronic devices) C... And a server (additional function assignment device) 11.

  In the image display system 1, a plurality of clients C, which are display devices, cooperate to output one or more pieces of image information. In particular, in the present embodiment, the image display system 1 is configured such that a plurality of clients C ... cooperate to execute an image display function (common function), and some of the clients C ... Only performs the audio output function (additional function) together with the image display function (common function). Note that “sound” is used to mean all sounds that can be output by a sound output device such as a speaker.

  The image display system 1 includes a server 11 and a plurality of clients C connected to the server 11 via a network. As the network, for example, a network using a LAN 30 such as a wireless local area network (LAN) or a wired LAN, or a network using a standard such as IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers) 1394 can be used as appropriate.

  Each client C has the same configuration. The number of clients C is not particularly limited, and the image display system 1 can connect an arbitrary number of clients C. In the following, it is assumed that n (n> 1) clients C1 to Cn are connected. Further, when it is not necessary to distinguish each client C, it is simply expressed as “client C”, and when it is necessary to distinguish each client C, a number such as “client C1” is added.

  The client C displays an image in cooperation with other clients C based on the control of the server 11. As shown in FIG. 1, a client (electronic device) C includes a client control unit (control unit) 31, a communication unit 32, a display unit (common function unit) 33, an audio output unit (additional function unit) 34, and a remaining battery level. At least a detection unit (remaining battery level detection means) 35 is provided.

  The client control unit 31 controls the operation of each unit of the client C. Details will be described later.

  The communication unit 32 communicates with the server 11. The various networks described above can be used as appropriate for this communication.

  The display unit 33 displays an image. Specifically, the display unit 33 executes an image display function (common function) that outputs one or more pieces of image information in cooperation with another client C. Here, since each display unit 33 of the clients C1 to Cn divides one image and displays it on a plurality of screens, it is preferable that the screen size and the display method are unified. The display unit 33 may be an image display device capable of displaying image information, such as an LCD, a CRT, an EL display element including an organic EL element (Electro Luminescent device), a PDP (Plasma Display Panel), and a fluorescent display tube. For example, direct-view type, projection type, light-emitting type, and reflective type display methods can be used.

  The audio output unit 34 outputs sound. Specifically, the audio output unit 34 executes an audio output function (additional function) together with the image display function (common function).

  The remaining battery level detection unit 35 detects the remaining battery level of the device itself.

  Then, the client control unit 31 receives the assignment of the voice output function (additional function) to the own device from the function assignment unit 24 of the server 11 and causes the voice output unit 34 to execute the voice output function. Further, when the remaining battery level detection unit 35 detects that the remaining battery level of its own device is below the reference, the client control unit 31 notifies the function allocation unit 24 to that effect. Further, the client control unit 31 responds to the function allocation unit 24 that the remaining battery level of the own device has become below the reference, from the function allocation unit 24 to the voice output function (additional function) for the own device. The function allocation unit 24 stops the execution of the voice output function.

  The server 11 controls each client C provided with the display unit 33 and performs control so that one image is cooperatively displayed on a plurality of display devices. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the server 11 includes at least a server control unit 21, a communication unit 22, a storage unit 23, and a function assignment unit 24.

  The server control unit 21 controls the operation of each unit of the server 11.

  The communication unit 22 communicates with each client C. The various networks described above can be used as appropriate for this communication.

  The storage unit 23 stores content information such as moving images to be output to the client C, client arrangement position information, and the like.

  The function assigning unit 24 assigns a function to each client C based on the arrangement position of each client C. Specifically, the function allocating unit 24 is configured so that only a part of the plurality of clients C... Performs a sound output function (additional function) together with the image display function (common function). An audio output function is assigned to the client C. In addition, when the remaining battery level of the takeover source client (electronic device) Cs to which the voice output function is assigned becomes equal to or lower than the reference, the function assigning unit 24 transfers the voice output function to another takeover destination client (electronic device) Cd. Reassign.

  Here, the function assignment unit 24 may select the client C that is closest to the takeover source client Cs before reassignment as the takeover destination client Cd. In this case, the function assigning unit 24 assigns an audio output function (additional function) according to the arrangement position of the client C, and causes the storage unit 23 to store the assigned result. Note that when assigning audio output functions (additional functions), a plurality of clients C may be assigned as assignment candidates in advance, and assignment priorities may be assigned among the candidates, but the present invention is not limited to this.

  Further, in order to assign an audio output function (additional function) according to the arrangement position of the client C, the server 11 stores the arrangement positions of the clients C. For example, the method described in Patent Document 1 or Patent Document 2 cited as the prior art document can be used for detecting the arrangement position of the client C. That is, a method of associating an image display device with a multi-screen display area by inputting in a predetermined order to input means provided in each image display device (Patent Document 1) The client ID of the client and the client ID of each client adjacent in each direction.) And automatically setting or manually setting the overall configuration of the client and the location of each client based on the acquired adjacent information. The arrangement position of the client C can be detected by using this method (Patent Document 2).

  Next, an example of the arrangement of the client C of the image display system 1 and an example of the function assignment table T of additional functions in the example of arrangement will be described.

  First, FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an arrangement example of the client C of the image display system 1. A case where four clients C1 to C4 are arranged in a horizontal row will be described with reference to FIG.

  The client C1 at the left end is assigned an audio output function (additional function), and outputs the sound of the left channel (Lch) from the audio output unit 34. The rightmost client C4 is assigned a voice output function (additional function), and outputs a right channel (Rch) sound from the voice output unit. On the other hand, since the audio output function (additional function) is not assigned to the client C2 and the client C3, no audio output is performed, but they are assigned as alternative candidates for the client C1 and the client C4, respectively.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the function assignment table T in the arrangement example of the client C shown in FIG. This function allocation table T is stored in the storage unit 23.

  In FIG. 3, “assigned function name” indicates the type of function that each client C can carry. In this example, “Lch audio output” (Lch audio output) and “Rch audio output” (Rch audio output) are set. “Client ID” indicates a client C... Constituting the image display system 1, that is, a client C.

  In the function assignment table T, it is registered whether each client C has an additional function. In FIG. 3, “◯” indicates that an additional function is assigned to the client C. “Δ” indicates that an additional function can be assigned to the client C (a substitute candidate for ◯). “X” indicates that the additional function cannot be assigned to the client C.

  The assignment of the additional function may be arbitrarily determined according to the type of the additional function, the number of clients C ..., or the arrangement position.

  Secondly, FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing another arrangement example of the client C of the image display system 1. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the function assignment table T in the arrangement example of the client C shown in FIG.

  In the example of FIG. 4, six clients C1 to C6 are arranged in one horizontal row. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. That is, “Lch audio output” is assigned to the first and second clients C1 and C2 from the left end. “Rch audio output” is assigned to the first and second clients C5 and C6 from the right end. On the other hand, the third client C3 from the left end and the third client C4 from the right end do not perform the audio output because the audio output function (additional function) is not assigned, but the clients C1 and C2 and the clients C5 and C5, respectively. Can be assigned as an alternative candidate for C6.

  Third, FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing still another example of arrangement of the client C of the image display system 1. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the function assignment table T in the arrangement example of the client C shown in FIG.

  In the example of FIG. 6, four clients C1 to C4 are arranged in two vertical rows and two horizontal rows. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. That is, “Lch audio output” is assigned to the upper left client C1. Also, “Rch audio output” is assigned to the client C2 in the upper right. On the other hand, since the audio output function (additional function) is not assigned to the lower left client C3 and the lower right client C4, no audio output is performed, but they can be assigned as alternative candidates for the client C1 and the client C2, respectively.

  In accordance with the setting as described above, each client C cooperatively outputs the content stored in the storage unit 23. Video data to be output may be divided by the server 11 and transmitted to each client C. Alternatively, the video data before division may be C transmitted from the server 11 to each client, processed by the client C, and output.

  Further, the server control unit 21 notifies the client C to which the function is assigned via the communication unit 22 of the function assignment, and the client C operates the assigned function. The audio data to be output may be transmitted only to the client C to which “Lch audio output” or “Rch audio output” is assigned. Alternatively, the audio data may be transmitted to each client C, and each client C may determine whether to output in accordance with the function assignment notification.

  Hereinafter, the operation during the cooperative display of the image display system 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing in the image display system 1.

  During the coordinated display, the remaining battery level detection unit 35 of each client C periodically monitors the remaining battery level of the client C (S802). Then, the remaining battery level detection unit 35 of each client C checks whether or not the remaining battery level of the client C is below a reference (for example, a predetermined constant value) (S803), and if it is below (in S803) YES), the client control unit 31 of the client C notifies the server 11 via the communication unit 32 (S804). On the other hand, if not below the standard (NO in S803), the process returns to the start (S801). The reference of the remaining battery level is set so that the client C, which has been individually responsible for the additional function (audio output function), can continue to display video data to some extent even after the function is stopped. What is necessary is just to determine arbitrarily according to the battery capacity of the client C or the power consumption during cooperative display. S802 to S804 are battery remaining amount notification steps.

  Next, when the server 11 receives the notification, the server control unit 21 instructs the function allocation unit 24 to search the function allocation table T stored in the storage unit 23. Then, the function assigning unit 24 checks whether the notified client C has an additional function (S805). If no additional function is carried out (NO in S806), the process returns to the start (S801).

  On the other hand, if it has an additional function (YES in S806), the function allocating unit 24 checks whether or not there is a client C that can take over the additional function (S807). That is, the function allocation unit 24 searches the function allocation table T in the storage unit 23 and collates the presence / absence of the client C (Δ mark in the function allocation table T) that can take over the function.

  When a client C that can be taken over is found (YES in S808), the function assigning unit 24 assigns an additional function to the client C (takeover destination client Cd) (S812; additional function assignment changing step). The server control unit 21 notifies the takeover destination client Cd via the communication unit 22 (S813; additional function assignment change step). The takeover destination client Cd that has received this notification activates the newly assigned additional function (S814; additional function execution step).

  At the same time, the function allocation unit 24 cancels the allocation of the additional function of the client C (takeover source client Cs) that originally performed the additional function (S809; additional function allocation changing step). The server control unit 21 notifies the takeover source client Cs via the communication unit 22 (S810; additional function assignment change step). The takeover source client Cs that has received this notification stops the assigned additional function (S811). Thereafter, the function assigning unit 24 cancels the assignment of the additional function to the takeover source client Cs and updates the function assignment table T in the storage unit 23 in a state where the additional function is assigned to the takeover destination client Cd (S815).

  Here, a specific operation when the remaining battery level of the client C1 falls below a certain value ((ii) of FIG. 10) will be described using the configuration of FIGS. 2 and 3 as an example. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a state after updating the function assignment table T in the arrangement example of the client C shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an operation example of the image display system 1 based on the arrangement example of the client C shown in FIG.

  First, since the client C1 is responsible for Lch audio output, the function allocating unit 24 checks whether there is a client (C1 alternative candidate) that can take over the function. Since the client C2 can take over the function (Δ mark), the function assignment unit 24 assigns the audio output of Lch to the client C2. At this time, the server control unit 21 notifies the client C2 via the communication unit 22. At the same time, the function assigning unit 24 cancels the assignment of the Lch audio output of the client C1, and the server control unit 21 notifies the client C1 via the communication unit 22. Accordingly, the client C2 performs Lch audio output, and the client C1 stops the Lch audio output and switches to only video display ((iii) in FIG. 10). Finally, the function assignment unit 24 updates the function assignment table T as shown in FIG. 9 and stores it in the storage unit 23.

  By changing the assignment destination of the additional function as described above, the client C1 stops the audio output, so that the power consumption is reduced as compared with the audio output state, and as a result, the remaining time for the display operation is extended. Instead, since the client C2 is responsible for audio output, the overall sound of the image display system 1 is reduced as compared to when the audio is output by the client C1, but the function deterioration that the Lch sound cannot be heard at all is prevented. be able to. That is, there is an effect that it is possible to extend the operation time of the client C1 while minimizing the deterioration of the function of the image display system 1 as a whole.

  When the takeover destination client Cd is not found (NO in S808), only the function of the client C1 (takeover source client Cs) may be stopped (S809 to S811, S815), or nothing is done. (Dotted arrow from S808). When nothing is done, after the battery is further consumed beyond a certain value, the battery becomes low and the entire operation of the client C1 is stopped. When only the additional function is stopped, the operation time is extended although the function is deteriorated as compared with the case where nothing is performed.

[Embodiment 2]
The following will describe another embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIGS. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those shown in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and explanation thereof is omitted.

  As an additional function assigned to a specific client C, in addition to the audio output described in the first embodiment, there is an operation instruction acceptance (touch operation detection). In recent years, terminals that perform touch panel operations have become widespread, and it is necessary to always turn on the touch sensor component for touch detection. During coordinated display, the power consumption of other clients C can be suppressed by assigning only to a specific client C.

  FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image display system 1 ′ according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the image display system (electronic device system) 1 ′ includes a plurality of clients (electronic devices) C... And a server (additional function assignment device) 11.

  In the present embodiment, in the image display system 1 ′, a plurality of clients C... Cooperate to execute an image display function (common function), and only some of the clients C. Executes the touch operation detection function (additional function) together with the image display function (common function). Also in the image display system 1 ′, the voice output function is assigned to the specific client C as an additional function, and the remaining battery level is detected and the assignment is changed by the control described in the first embodiment. Then, the assignment change of the voice output function and the assignment change of the touch detection function may be controlled in conjunction with each other, or may be controlled independently.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the client (electronic device) C includes a client control unit (control unit) 31, a communication unit 32, a display unit (common function unit) 33, an audio output unit (additional function unit) 34, and a remaining battery level. In addition to the detection unit (remaining battery level detection means) 35, at least a touch detection unit (additional function means) 36 is provided.

  The touch detection unit 36 detects a user operation. Specifically, for example, as described above, a user operation for instructions such as fast-forward, rewind, and stop for the display video, instructions for changing the volume, and instructions for switching channels if one-segment broadcasting is being displayed. Is detected. Note that the user operation to be detected is not limited to touch, and includes operations performed via a key, a mouse, or the like, for example.

  Next, an example of the arrangement of the client C of the image display system 1 ′ and an example of the function assignment table T of the additional function in the arrangement example will be described.

  FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an arrangement example of the client C of the image display system 1 ′. In the example of FIG. 12, four clients C1 to C4 are arranged in one horizontal row. During the cooperative display, the four clients C1 to C4 allow only the leftmost client C1 to detect the touch operation by the touch detection unit 36, and the remaining clients C2, C3, and C4 cannot detect the touch operation.

  FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the function assignment table T in the arrangement example of the clients C1 to C4 illustrated in FIG.

  In the example of FIG. 12, four clients C1 to C4 are arranged in one horizontal row. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. That is, “touch operation detection” is assigned to the leftmost client C1. On the other hand, the other clients C2 to C4 do not perform the touch operation detection because the touch operation detection function (additional function) is not allocated, but may be allocated as alternative candidates for the client C1.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 13, when a plurality of clients C2 to C4 can be replaced with an additional function (Δ mark), a plurality of clients that can take over the additional function are detected (FIG. 13). 8 step S808). In such a case, the client C closest to the takeover source client Cs may be set as the takeover destination client Cd. Alternatively, the client C detected first may be the takeover destination client Cd. Alternatively, a finer priority may be given to the value stored in the function assignment table T, and a higher priority may be used as the takeover destination client Cd.

  Note that the number of additional functions that can be assigned to one client C is not limited to one and may be plural. However, from the viewpoint of current consumption, it is not desirable for one client C to concurrently serve a plurality of additional functions. Therefore, for example, priorities are determined in advance between the additional functions, and when the additional function is taken over, if the client C as the takeover destination candidate already has an additional function with a higher priority, it is excluded from the takeover destination candidates. It is preferable. However, if there is no suitable client C as a takeover destination candidate, the additional function may be permitted.

  For example, if the additional function is audio output and touch detection, the priority order is determined as “audio output> touch detection”. Here, the audio output needs to be L / R balanced. However, since the function of the touch detection is hardly deteriorated by any client C, the priority order is determined in this way. And when it becomes necessary to take over the client C which performs touch detection, it is made to take over to the client C which is not carrying out audio | voice output except the client C which is carrying out audio | voice output among the client C of a candidate for taking over. .

[Embodiment 3]
The following will describe still another embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIGS. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those shown in the first and second embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and explanation thereof is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, a case where there are a plurality of additional functions that can be assigned to one client C will be described. However, additional functions cannot be shared. Specifically, any one of audio output (high volume) / audio output (medium volume) / audio output (small volume) can be assigned to one client C as an additional function.

  The configuration of the image display system 1 ″ according to the present embodiment is basically the same as that of the image display system 1 (FIG. 1) according to the first embodiment.

  It is assumed that the audio output unit 34 of the client C is provided with one or two small speakers. In this case, normally, only one client C cannot obtain a sufficient stereo feeling. However, in the image display system 1 ″, a plurality of clients C are collected and used like a large speaker that provides a stereo feeling.

  In the present embodiment, a case where a plurality of clients C ... cooperate to execute the image display function (common function) will be described. However, the image display function may be turned off, and the client C is provided with a function. It does not have to be done. That is, in this embodiment, the image display function as a common function is not essential.

  Next, an example of the arrangement of the client C of the image display system 1 ″ and an example of the function assignment table T of additional functions in the arrangement example will be described.

  FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating an arrangement example of the client C of the image display system 1 ″. FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the function allocation table T in the arrangement example of the client C illustrated in FIG. is there.

  In the example of FIG. 14, six clients C1 to C6 are arranged in one horizontal row. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. That is, in order from the left end, “Lch audio output (large volume)”, “Lch audio output (medium volume)”, and “Lch audio output (small volume)” are assigned to the clients C1, C2, and C3, respectively. It has been. For “Lch audio output (large volume)”, the clients C2 and C3 are assigned as alternative candidates. For “Lch audio output (medium volume)”, the client C3 is assigned as an alternative candidate. Similarly, in order from the right end, the clients C6, C5, and C4 have “Rch audio output (large volume)”, “Rch audio output (medium volume)”, and “Rch audio output (low volume)”, respectively. Assigned. For “Rch audio output (large volume)”, clients C5 and C4 are assigned as alternative candidates. For “Rch audio output (medium volume)”, the client C4 is assigned as an alternative candidate.

  With the above settings, in the initial state, as shown in FIG. 14, the sound is output from the position near the center with medium and small volumes, and the sound is output from both ends with a large volume. A certain audio output can be realized.

  In this state, for example, when the remaining battery level of the client C1 (Lch is output at high volume) decreases, the client C2 takes over the function. At this time, the assignment of the audio output function to the client C1 is canceled and the volume is turned off. Furthermore, when the remaining battery level of the client C2 subsequently decreases, the client C3 takes over the function. At this time, the assignment of the audio output function to the client C2 is also released, and the volume is turned off.

  Here, when a function is taken over, if a function has already been assigned to the takeover destination client, the condition “priority is given to a function with a higher volume” is assumed. Thus, for example, when the client C2 takes over the function of “Lch audio output (large volume)” from the client C1, the client C2 is already assigned the function of “Lch audio output (medium volume)”. In accordance with the above conditions, the function assigned to the client C2 is changed from “Lch audio output (medium volume)” to “Lch audio output (large volume)”. Similarly, the function of “Lch audio output (medium volume)” is taken over from the client C2 to the client C3 if the client C3 can take over.

  By doing so, it is possible to continue the sound output while maintaining the output balance to some extent even when the power of the client is reduced.

  Each block of the client C and each block of the server 11 may be configured by hardware logic, or may be realized by software using a CPU as follows.

  In the latter case, the client C and the server 11 have a central processing unit (CPU) that executes instructions of a program that realizes each function, a read only memory (ROM) that stores the program, and a random access memory (RAM) that expands the program. memory), a storage device (recording medium) such as a memory for storing the program and various data. An object of the present invention is a recording medium in which program codes (execution format program, intermediate code program, source program) of a control program for the client C and the server 11 which are software for realizing the functions described above are recorded so as to be readable by a computer. Can also be achieved by reading the program code recorded in the recording medium and executing it by the computer (or CPU or MPU).

  Examples of the recording medium include a tape system such as a magnetic tape and a cassette tape, a magnetic disk such as a floppy (registered trademark) disk / hard disk, and an optical disk such as a CD-ROM / MO / MD / DVD / CD-R. Card system such as IC card, IC card (including memory card) / optical card, or semiconductor memory system such as mask ROM / EPROM / EEPROM / flash ROM.

  Further, the client C and the server 11 may be configured to be connectable to a communication network, and the program code may be supplied via the communication network. The communication network is not particularly limited. For example, the Internet, intranet, extranet, LAN, ISDN, VAN, CATV communication network, virtual private network, telephone line network, mobile communication network, satellite communication. A net or the like is available. Further, the transmission medium constituting the communication network is not particularly limited. For example, even in the case of wired such as IEEE 1394, USB, power line carrier, cable TV line, telephone line, ADSL line, etc., infrared rays such as IrDA and remote control, Bluetooth ( (Registered trademark), 802.11 wireless, HDR, mobile phone network, satellite line, terrestrial digital network, and the like can also be used. The present invention can also be realized in the form of a computer data signal embedded in a carrier wave in which the program code is embodied by electronic transmission.

  Moreover, this invention can be described as follows.

  The electronic device (client C) of the present invention is configured such that a plurality of electronic devices (client C) cooperate to execute a common function (image display function), and a part of the plurality of electronic devices (client C). The electronic device (client C) is an electronic device (client C) that constitutes an electronic device system (image display system 1) that executes the additional function (sound output function) together with the common function (image display function). In addition to the common function (image display function) that executes the common function (image display function) in cooperation with another electronic device (client C) and the common function (image display function), the additional function (sound output) Additional function means (sound output unit 34) for executing the function) and battery remaining amount detecting means (battery remaining amount detecting unit 35) for detecting the remaining battery level of the device itself. From the additional function allocating means (function allocating unit 24) included in the device system (image display system 1), the allocation of the additional function (sound output function) to the own device is accepted, and the additional function unit (sound output unit 34) receives it. When the additional function (sound output function) is executed and the remaining battery level detection means (the remaining battery level detection unit 35) detects that the remaining battery level of the device is below the reference level, this is indicated. A control unit (client control unit 31) for notifying the additional function allocation unit (function allocation unit 24) may be provided.

  Further, the electronic device (client C) notifies the control means (client control unit 31) to the additional function assigning means (function assigning unit 24) that the battery level of its own device has become below the reference. In response to the cancellation of the allocation of the additional function (speech output function) to the own device from the additional function allocation unit (function allocation unit 24), the additional function unit (function allocation unit 24) receives the additional function. The execution of the (voice output function) may be stopped.

  In addition, according to the control method of the electronic device (client C) of the present invention, a plurality of electronic devices (client C) cooperate to execute a common function (image display function), and the plurality of electronic devices (client C). Only of some of the electronic devices (client C), the electronic device (client C) constituting the electronic device system (image display system 1) that executes the additional function (sound output function) together with the common function (image display function). ), The allocation of the additional function (sound output function) to the own device is received from the additional function allocating means (function allocating unit 24) included in the electronic device system (image display system 1). Additional function execution step for executing the additional function (sound output function) and when it is detected that the remaining battery level of the device is below the standard It may include a battery remaining amount notifying step of notifying the pressurizing function assigning means (function allocation unit 24).

  The additional function assignment device (server 11) of the present invention is configured such that a plurality of electronic devices (client C) cooperate to execute a common function (image display function), and the plurality of electronic devices (client C) An additional function assigning device (server) constituting an electronic device system (image display system 1) in which only some of the electronic devices (client C) execute the additional function (sound output function) together with the common function (image display function). 11) Only a part of the plurality of electronic devices (client C) (client C) executes the additional function (sound output function) together with the common function (image display function). An electronic device in which the additional function (sound output function) is assigned to the part of the electronic devices (client C) and the additional function (sound output function) is assigned. When the remaining battery level of the client C) falls below the reference, the additional function allocating unit (function allocating unit 24) is configured to reallocate the additional function (audio output function) to another electronic device (client C). It may be.

  Further, the additional function assigning device (server 11) is configured such that the additional function assigning means (function assigning unit 24) is the electronic device (takeover destination client) closest to the electronic device (takeover source client Cs) before reassignment. An additional function (audio output function) may be assigned to Cd).

  Further, according to the control method of the additional function assignment device (server 11) of the present invention, a plurality of electronic devices (client C) cooperate to execute a common function (image display function), and the plurality of electronic devices (clients). Additional function allocation constituting an electronic device system (image display system 1) in which only some of the electronic devices (client C) of C) execute the additional function (sound output function) together with the common function (image display function). When the remaining battery level of the electronic device (client C) to which the additional function (speech output function) is assigned is equal to or lower than a reference, the control method of the device (server 11) An additional function assignment changing step for reassigning the output function) to another electronic device (client C) may be included.

  The additional function assignment device (server 11) of the present invention is configured such that a plurality of electronic devices (client C) cooperate to execute a common function (image display function), and the plurality of electronic devices (client C) An electronic device system (image display system 1) in which only some of the electronic devices (client C) execute an additional function (audio output function) together with the common function (image display function), and the plurality of electronic devices Some of the electronic devices (client C) of (client C) so that only some of the electronic devices (client C) execute the additional function (audio output function) together with the common function (image display function). Additional function allocating means (function allocating unit 24) for allocating the additional function (audio output function) to each of the electronic devices (client C). In cooperation with the client C), the common function means (display unit 33) for executing the common function (image display function) and the additional function (sound output function) are executed together with the common function (image display function). Additional function means (sound output unit 34) and battery level detection means (battery level detection unit 35) for detecting the remaining battery level of the device itself are provided. When the remaining battery level of the electronic device (takeover source client Cs) to which the additional function (speech output function) is assigned becomes equal to or less than the reference, the additional function (speech output function) is transferred to another electronic device (takeover destination client Cd). ) May be reassigned.

  Further, the common function may be an image display function.

  Furthermore, the additional function may be an audio output function.

  Further, the additional function may be a user operation detection function.

  Moreover, this invention can be described as follows.

  The image display device of the present invention is an image display device in which a plurality of display devices cooperate to output one or more pieces of image information. Each display device includes an audio output unit, a battery remaining amount detection unit, and a display unit. And a function allocating unit that allocates an additional function to each display device. When the remaining battery level of the display device to which the additional function is allocated falls below a certain value, the function allocating unit The function may be reassigned to another display device.

  As a result, the operation time of the image display apparatus can be extended while minimizing the degradation of the function of the entire image display apparatus.

  In the image display device, the additional function may be an audio output function.

  The image display device may further include a touch detection unit in each display device, and the additional function may be touch operation detection.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope shown in the claims, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means disclosed in different embodiments. Is also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  The present invention can be suitably used in an electronic device system that performs image display in a coordinated manner using a plurality of electronic devices.

C client (electronic device)
Cd Takeover client (electronic device)
Cs Takeover source client (electronic device)
1, 1 ', 1 "image display system (electronic device system)
11 server (additional function allocation device)
24 function allocation unit (additional function allocation means)
31 Client control unit (control means)
33 Display (common function means)
34 Audio output unit (additional function means)
35 Battery level detector (Battery level detector)
36 Touch detector (additional function means)
S802 to S804 Battery level notification step S809, S810, S812, S813 Additional function assignment change step S814 Additional function execution step

Claims (12)

An electronic device that constitutes an electronic device system in which a plurality of electronic devices cooperate to execute a common function, and only some of the plurality of electronic devices execute an additional function together with the common function. And
Common function means for executing the common function in cooperation with other electronic devices;
Additional function means for executing the additional function together with the common function;
A battery level detecting means for detecting the battery level of the device itself,
The additional function allocating unit included in the electronic device system receives the allocation of the additional function to the own device, causes the additional function unit to execute the additional function, and the remaining battery level detecting unit detects the remaining battery level of the own device. A control means for notifying the additional function assigning means to that effect when it is detected that the amount is below the reference ;
In response to the notification to the additional function assigning unit that the remaining battery level of the device is below the reference, the control unit accepts the release of the assignment of the additional function to the own device from the additional function assigning unit. The additional function means to stop the execution of the additional function,
It said additional function is stopped, a user operation detection function, and an electronic device according to claim be assigned to that other electronic devices with the corresponding stop.   Control of electronic devices constituting an electronic device system in which a plurality of electronic devices execute a common function in cooperation, and only some of the plurality of electronic devices execute an additional function together with the common function A method,
  An additional function execution step of receiving the allocation of the additional function to the own device from the additional function allocating means included in the electronic device system and executing the additional function;
  When it is detected that the remaining battery level of the device is below the reference, a remaining battery level notification step for notifying the additional function assigning means to that effect;
  In response to the notification to the additional function assigning means that the remaining battery level of the own apparatus has become below the reference, the additional function assigning means accepts the release of the assignment of the additional function to the own apparatus from the additional function assigning means. Stopping the execution of
  The electronic device control method, wherein the stopped additional function is a user operation detection function, and is assigned to another electronic device in accordance with the stop.   Additional function assignment device constituting an electronic device system in which a plurality of electronic devices execute a common function in cooperation and only a part of the plurality of electronic devices execute the additional function together with the common function Because
  The additional function is assigned to some of the electronic devices so that only some of the plurality of electronic devices execute the additional function together with the common function. An additional function allocating device comprising an additional function allocating means for reallocating the additional function to another electronic device when the remaining battery level becomes equal to or less than a reference.   4. The additional function assigning device according to claim 3, wherein the additional function assigning unit assigns the additional function to the electronic device closest to the electronic device before reassignment.   Additional function assignment device constituting an electronic device system in which a plurality of electronic devices execute a common function in cooperation and only a part of the plurality of electronic devices execute the additional function together with the common function Control method,
  An additional function that includes an additional function assignment changing step of reassigning the additional function to another electronic device when a remaining battery level of the part of the electronic device to which the additional function is assigned becomes below a reference Control method of allocation device.   An electronic device system in which a plurality of electronic devices cooperate to execute a common function, and only some of the plurality of electronic devices execute an additional function together with the common function,
  An additional function allocating means for allocating the additional function to the partial electronic device so that only a part of the plurality of electronic devices execute the additional function together with the common function;
  Each of the above electronic devices
    Common function means for executing the common function in cooperation with other electronic devices;
    Additional function means for executing the additional function together with the common function;
    Battery level detection means for detecting the battery level of its own device,
  The electronic device system, wherein the additional function assigning means reassigns the additional function to another electronic device when a remaining battery level of the electronic device to which the additional function is assigned becomes below a reference.   The electronic device system according to claim 6, wherein the common function is an image display function.   8. The electronic device system according to claim 6, wherein the additional function is a voice output function.   8. The electronic apparatus system according to claim 6, wherein the additional function is a user operation detection function.   The program for functioning a computer as said each means of the electronic device of Claim 1.   A program for causing a computer to function as the additional function assigning means of the additional function assigning device according to claim 3 or 4.   The computer-readable recording medium which recorded the program of Claim 10 or 11.

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