WO2009107725A1

WO2009107725A1 - Program selection supporting device and program selection supporting method

Info

Publication number: WO2009107725A1
Application number: PCT/JP2009/053566
Authority: WO
Inventors: 知弘浅見
Original assignee: 日本ビクター株式会社
Priority date: 2008-02-27
Filing date: 2009-02-26
Publication date: 2009-09-03
Also published as: JPWO2009107725A1

Abstract

A preference judging part (20a) extracts the highest preference with respect to broadcast programs and judges whether a broadcast program to display on a display part when power is supplied is of the highest preference. A recording judging part (20c) identifies a broadcast program of the highest preference of a viewer and judges whether the broadcast program is being recorded, or has been recording-reserved or not by a recording and reproducing part. When it is judged that the broadcast program to display on the display part when power is supplied is not the broadcast program of the highest preference and neither recording nor recording reservation is performed, a display determination part (12a) determines to support program selection for viewing the broadcast program of the highest preference.

Description

Program selection support apparatus and program selection support method

The present invention relates to a program selection support apparatus and a program selection support method for assisting a viewer (user) of a broadcast program receiving apparatus to select a broadcast program that suits the viewer's preference when selecting a broadcast program. .

In recent years, with the start of satellite broadcasting and the digitization of television broadcasting, viewers can select and view desired broadcast programs from a wide variety of broadcast programs. However, since the number of broadcast programs is enormous, it is difficult for viewers to comprehensively understand what broadcast programs are being broadcast, and select broadcast programs that suit their tastes. It was difficult. In addition, there is a high possibility that the viewer will not notice that a broadcast program that suits his / her taste is being broadcast and will miss it.

Therefore, on the broadcast station side, the “title”, “broadcast start date / time”, “channel”, “genre” of the broadcast program are used for the purpose of assisting selection of the broadcast program that suits the viewer's preference from among the huge number of broadcast programs. , A technology for multiplexing and transmitting program information including items such as “contents description” and “performer list” into a video / audio signal has been put into practical use.

Also, television receivers that assist viewers in selecting broadcast programs by using, for example, an electronic program guide and displaying them on the screen using this program information have become widespread.

In recent years, a recorder that has a built-in storage device such as a hard disk and can record a long-time broadcast program, and a television receiver having a recording function (hereinafter referred to as a television recorder) have become widespread. Yes. Some of such television recorders record program information together with a video / audio signal and display the program information on a screen when the recorded video / audio signal is reproduced.

Furthermore, the viewer's preference is estimated from the viewing history of the broadcast program by the viewer and the program information, or the viewer inputs information related to the preference, so that the broadcast program scheduled to be broadcast matches the viewer's characteristics. Television recording that calculates the degree of preference indicating the degree, determines the broadcast program that matches the viewer's preference, displays the program information of the determined broadcast program, and records the video and audio signals of the determined broadcast program There is also a machine.

For example, in Patent Document 1, the viewer registers his / her preference information in advance in the video viewing apparatus or server, and the program provider registers attribute information in each program, based on the viewer's preference information, Automatically calculates the preference of each program for the viewer, determines the program with the highest viewer preference in the current time, automatically changes the channel to the determined program, An automatic program video selection device that displays when a high-frequency program starts broadcasting is described.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-289481

However, in the program video automatic selection device described in Patent Document 1, even when a viewer records or reserves a broadcast program in a storage device such as a hard disk, the preference level is calculated and the channel is automatically set. When the program is changed or when a program with a high degree of preference starts broadcasting, the fact is displayed, so that the viewer may feel uncomfortable.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and in selecting a broadcast program, it is possible to perform optimal selection support depending on whether the broadcast program is recorded or reserved for recording. An object is to provide a support device and a program selection support method.

To achieve the above object, according to a first aspect of the present invention, a broadcast program receiving unit that receives a broadcast signal of a predetermined channel and outputs a video / audio signal of a broadcast program, and program information related to the broadcast program The program information receiving unit for receiving and outputting the program information, the program information storage unit for storing the program information output from the program information receiving unit, and the viewer's program preference for the broadcast program being broadcast now and in the future A predetermined time point based on the program preference information storage unit for storing the program preference information, the program information stored in the program information storage unit, and the program preference information stored in the program preference information storage unit The highest program preference level having the highest preference level is extracted from the program preference levels for a plurality of broadcast programs broadcast on the network, and is output from the broadcast program receiving unit and displayed on the display unit at the predetermined time point. A preference level determination unit that determines whether or not the broadcast program is the broadcast program having the highest program preference level, and a broadcast program in which a viewer has the highest program preference level is specified, and the highest level is recorded by the recording / playback unit. A recording determination unit that determines whether or not a broadcast program having a program preference is recorded or reserved for recording, and the broadcast program that the preference determination unit displays on the display unit at the predetermined time point is the highest program. A broadcast program that is determined not to be a broadcast program having a degree of preference, and in which the recording determination unit identifies a broadcast program having a highest program preference by a viewer, and the recording / playback unit has the highest program preference. And a determining unit that determines that the viewer performs program selection support for viewing the broadcast program having the highest program preference level. Program selection support apparatus is provided for a.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, a broadcast program receiving unit that receives a broadcast signal of a predetermined channel and outputs a video / audio signal of the broadcast program, and receives and outputs program information related to the broadcast program. Program information receiving unit, a program information storage unit for storing program information output from the program information receiving unit, and program preference information including a viewer's program preference level for broadcast programs currently being broadcast and to be broadcast in the future Broadcast within a predetermined time from the current time based on the stored program preference information storage unit, the program information stored in the program information storage unit, and the program preference information stored in the program preference information storage unit The highest program preference level having the highest preference level is extracted from the program preference levels for a plurality of broadcast programs that are started, and the broadcast program receiving unit broadcasts the broadcast program having the highest program preference level. A preference level extraction / determination unit that determines whether or not a channel is received, and a broadcast program having a highest program preference level by a viewer, and a broadcast program having the highest program preference level is recorded by a recording / playback unit. A recording determination unit for determining whether or not recording or recording reservation is made, and the preference level extraction / determination unit are such that the broadcast program reception unit receives a channel for broadcasting a broadcast program having the highest program preference level. And the recording determination unit determines that the viewer has specified the broadcast program having the highest program preference level and the recording / playback unit has not made a recording reservation for the broadcast program having the highest program preference level. A program selection support device comprising: a determination unit that determines, when determined, that the viewer performs program selection support for viewing the broadcast program having the highest program preference level; That.

Further, according to the third aspect of the present invention, the program broadcast receiving unit receives a broadcast signal of a predetermined channel, outputs a video / audio signal of the broadcast program, and the program broadcast receiving unit relates to the broadcast program. The program information is received and output, the program information storage unit stores the program information output from the program information reception unit, and the program preference information storage unit receives viewers for broadcast programs currently being broadcast and to be broadcast in the future The program preference information including the program preference level is stored, and in the preference level determination unit, based on the program information stored in the program information storage unit and the program preference information stored in the program preference information storage unit The highest program preference level having the highest preference level is extracted from the program preference levels for a plurality of broadcast programs broadcast at a predetermined time, and is output from the broadcast program receiving unit It is determined whether the broadcast program to be displayed on the display unit at a predetermined time is the broadcast program having the highest program preference level, and the recording determination unit identifies the broadcast program having the highest program preference level in the recording determination unit Then, it is determined whether or not the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is recorded or reserved for recording by the recording / playback unit, and in the determination unit, the preference level determination unit is configured to display the display unit at the predetermined time. The broadcast program to be displayed is determined not to be the broadcast program having the highest program preference level, and the recording determination unit identifies the broadcast program that the viewer has the highest program preference level and uses the recording / playback unit. When it is determined that the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is not recorded or reserved for recording, the viewer can perform program selection support for viewing the broadcast program having the highest program preference level. Program selection support method characterized by determining a is provided.

Further, according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the broadcast program receiving unit receives a broadcast signal of a predetermined channel, outputs a video / audio signal of the broadcast program, and the program information receiving unit relates to the broadcast program. The program information is received and output, the program information storage unit stores the program information output from the program information reception unit, and the program preference information storage unit receives viewers for broadcast programs currently being broadcast and to be broadcast in the future The program preference information including the program preference level is stored, and in the preference level extraction / determination unit, the program information stored in the program information storage unit and the program preference information stored in the program preference information storage unit Based on the program preference for a plurality of broadcast programs that start broadcasting within a predetermined time from the current time, and extracts the highest program preference with the highest preference. Determine whether or not a channel for broadcasting a broadcast program having the highest program preference is received, and in a recording determination unit, a viewer identifies the broadcast program having the highest program preference and records the program. It is determined whether or not the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is recorded or reserved for recording by the playback unit, and in the determination unit, the preference level extraction / determination unit, the broadcast program reception unit, and the highest program preference level The recording determination unit determines that the viewer has the highest program preference level, and the recording / playback unit causes the highest program to be determined. When it is determined that the broadcast program having the preference level is not reserved for recording, the viewer performs program selection support for viewing the broadcast program having the highest program preference level. Set selection support method is provided.

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a program selection support apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a program selection support system using the program selection support apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of a television recorder connected to the program selection support apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention via a network. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the preference analysis process in the program selection support apparatus of each embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the program selection support process when the power is turned on in the program selection support apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a screen display example illustrating an example of program selection support by the program selection support device according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an output process in the program selection support apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a program selection support apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a program selection support process at the end of viewing in the program selection support apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an output process in the program selection support apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram illustrating a program selection support apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a program selection support process before the start of broadcasting in the program selection support apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a screen display example illustrating an example of program selection support by the program selection support apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing output processing in the program selection support apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Example 1]
Embodiment 1 of the present invention provides program selection support for displaying a broadcast program having the highest degree of preference on the display unit or displaying on-screen information on the display unit informing that a broadcast program having the highest degree of preference exists. A program selection support apparatus configured to determine whether or not to perform program selection support according to recording information indicating program information of a broadcast program being recorded in a recording / playback unit. In the first embodiment, whether or not the program selection support is performed is performed when the broadcast program receiving apparatus is turned on. Here, the recording / playback unit may be a recording / playback unit for a broadcast program built in the broadcast program receiving apparatus, for example, a recording / playback unit connected via a network. The program selection support apparatus according to the first embodiment will be described below.

<Configuration of program selection support device>
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a program selection support apparatus that is Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 1 shows an example in which a program selection support device 1 is configured by a broadcast program receiving device having a built-in recording / playback unit and a function of connecting to an external recording / playback unit via a network. The program selection support apparatus 1 includes a first broadcast receiving unit 10, a second broadcast receiving unit 11, a device control unit 12, a video / audio signal recording unit 13, an operation history information storage unit 14, and recording reservation information. Storage unit 15, program information storage unit 16, program preference information storage unit 17, preference analysis unit 18, program recommendation unit 20, display unit 21, input unit 22, network connection unit 23, and power supply unit 28. The display unit 21 may be provided outside the program selection support apparatus 1 (broadcast program receiving apparatus) and connected to the program selection support apparatus 1.

The first broadcast receiving unit 10 and the second broadcast receiving unit 11 have a tuner and a demodulation / separation unit, and are instructed by the device control unit 12 among broadcast waves transmitted from a broadcast station via a terrestrial wave or a broadcast satellite. The broadcast wave signal of the selected channel is received, the video / audio signal and the program information are separated and extracted from the broadcast wave signal, and supplied to the device control unit 12. The first broadcast receiving unit 10 and the second broadcast receiving unit 11 may receive a broadcast signal other than a broadcast wave transmitted through a network such as the Internet. That is, the first broadcast receiving unit 10 and the second broadcast receiving unit 11 receive a broadcast signal transmitted through an arbitrary transmission path, and extract a video / audio signal and program information of a broadcast program.

Furthermore, a video / audio signal of a broadcast program may be received as a broadcast wave such as a ground wave or a satellite, and program information related to the broadcast program may be received from a network. That is, a broadcast program receiving unit that receives a broadcast wave signal of a predetermined channel and outputs a video / audio signal of the broadcast program and a program information receiving unit that receives program information related to the broadcast program are separate receiving units. May be. The first broadcast receiving unit 10 and the second broadcast receiving unit 11 shown in FIG. 1 have a configuration in which a broadcast program receiving unit and a program information receiving unit are integrated.

Here, the program information is information added to the video / audio signal by the broadcasting station, and includes “title”, “channel”, “broadcast start time”, “broadcast end time”, “genre”, “content description” ”And“ Performer List ”. The “broadcast start time” and “broadcast end time” may include date information.

The video / audio signal recording unit 13 which is a recording / playback unit built in the program selection support apparatus 1 is configured by a recording device such as a hard disk, for example, and is based on a control signal supplied from a device control unit 12 to be described later. A signal, a program ID that uniquely identifies this video / audio signal, an automatic manual identifier, and a recording start date and time that is a recording start time are recorded in association with each other. Here, the automatic manual identifier identifies whether the video / audio signal is automatically recorded based on program preference information, which will be described later, or the video / audio signal is recorded based on a viewer operation. It is. Recording based on viewer operation refers to recording performed by specifying a program to be recorded by a timer reservation manually performed by the viewer, or recording by pressing an operation button (recording button) provided in the input unit 22. This refers to recording that identifies a program to be performed. An identifier indicating “automatic” is added to the video / audio signal recorded based on the program preference information, and an identifier indicating “manual” is added to the video / audio signal recorded based on the viewer operation. .

When the capacity for recording the video / audio signal newly supplied from the device control unit 12 is insufficient, the video / audio signal recording unit 13 detects the video / audio signal whose automatic manual identifier is set to “auto”. Of these, the video / audio signals having the oldest recording start date are sequentially deleted, and a new video / audio signal is recorded. Here, the video in which the program selection support apparatus 1 has a built-in recording / playback unit that automatically records a program based on program preference information or records a program manually based on a viewer operation. Although the audio signal recording unit 13 is used, automatic or manual recording may be performed on an external recording / playback unit connected to the network 3 to be described later.

The program ID is generated as an identifier for uniquely identifying a broadcast program. For example, a combination of “channel” and “broadcast start time” included in program information is set as a program ID.

The operation history information storage unit 14 is configured by a storage device such as a hard disk, for example, and stores a history of operation signals supplied from the device control unit 12 as operation history information.

The recording reservation information storage unit 15 stores recording reservation information for reserving recording of broadcast programs.

The recording reservation information includes an automatic manual identifier for identifying whether the recording reservation information is generated by the preference analysis unit 18 or the recording reservation information generated based on a viewer operation. Here, as the automatic manual identifier, “automatic” is set in the recording reservation information generated by the preference analysis unit 18, and “manual” is set in the recording reservation information generated based on the viewer operation.

The program information storage unit 16 is configured by a storage device such as a hard disk, for example, and stores a program ID for uniquely identifying a broadcast program and program information in accordance with a control signal supplied from the device control unit 12.

The program preference information storage unit 17 is configured by a storage device such as a hard disk, for example, and stores program preference information supplied from a preference analysis unit 18 described later. Here, the program preference information includes a program ID and a program preference level indicating the degree of adaptation to the preference by the viewer of the broadcast program.

The preference analysis unit 18 operates according to a predetermined condition such as once a day, for example, and calculates the program preference of the viewer for each broadcast program. Specifically, the operation history information is read out from the operation history information storage unit 14 and the program information is read out from the program information storage unit 16. Based on the read operation history information and program information, the program of the viewer is read for each program. Calculate the degree of preference. Then, the calculated program preference level is associated with the program ID and supplied to the program preference information storage unit 17 as program preference information.

The display unit 21 includes an image output device such as an organic EL (electroluminescence) display or a liquid crystal display, and displays video, program information, and the like based on an output signal supplied from the device control unit 12. In FIG. 1, illustration of a speaker that generates sound is omitted.

The input unit 22 includes various operation buttons, generates an operation signal when the operation button is pressed by the viewer, and supplies the generated operation signal to the device control unit 12.

The device control unit 12 controls basic functions as a television receiver (broadcast program receiver) such as reception, display, recording, and reproduction of a television broadcast.

The device control unit 12 controls the power supply unit 28 based on the operation signal received from the input unit 22 to turn on or off the main power supply. The power supply unit 28 supplies power to each unit. Further, the device control unit 12 sets a channel received by the first broadcast receiving unit 10 and the second broadcast receiving unit 11 based on the operation signal received from the input unit 22, or the video / audio signal recording unit 13. Or playback of the video / audio signal recorded in.

Also, the device control unit 12 collects, as operation history information, a viewing history of a broadcast program due to a channel change or the like and a playback history of the video / audio signal recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13. Specifically, based on the operation signal received from the input unit 22, from the operation signal requesting channel switching of the viewing program and the operation signal requesting reproduction of the video / audio signal recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13. Then, an operation history is generated and supplied to the operation history information storage unit 14 as operation history information in association with the program ID of the video / audio signal of the broadcast program viewed by the viewer.

Further, the device control unit 12 includes a display determination unit 12a and a display / recording control unit 12b in terms of its functions.

The display determination unit 12a is a recording information indicating program information that is being recorded by the recording determination unit 20c of the program recommendation unit 20 (to be described later) received from the television recorder 2 that is an external recording / playback unit connected to the network 3. If it is determined that the program information of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level is not included, the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level is displayed on the display unit 21 based on a predetermined setting value. It is determined whether to display on-screen information for informing the viewer that there is a broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level.

When the on-screen information is displayed on the display unit 21 based on the determination by the display determination unit 12a, the display / recording control unit 12b is displayed on the display unit 21 by the input operation by the viewer from the input unit 22. When an operation signal indicating that the on-screen information display button has been selected is supplied, the video / audio signal of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference is displayed on the display unit 21. Alternatively, when the operation signal indicating that the recording button of the on-screen information displayed on the display unit 21 is selected by the input operation by the viewer is supplied from the input unit 22, the display / recording control unit 12b is the most. A video / audio signal of a broadcast program corresponding to a high program preference level is received by the second broadcast receiving unit, and the received video / audio signal is recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13.

The program recommendation unit 20 includes a preference determination unit 20a, a threshold determination unit 20b, and a recording determination unit 20c.

When the main power of the program selection support apparatus 1 is turned on, the preference level determination unit 20a reads program information and program preference information from the program information storage unit 16 and the program preference information storage unit 17, respectively. Based on the program information and the program preference information, the highest program preference level is extracted from the program preference levels corresponding to the currently broadcasted program, and the extracted broadcast program with the highest program preference level is displayed. It is determined whether or not the program preference of the broadcast program displayed on the unit 21 is higher. In other words, it is determined whether or not the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is displayed on the display unit 21.

The threshold determination unit 20b determines the highest when the preference determination unit 20a determines that the highest program preference is higher than the program preference of the broadcast program corresponding to the video / audio signal displayed on the display unit 21. It is determined whether the high program preference is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold.

When the threshold determination unit 20b determines that the recording determination unit 20c is equal to or greater than the threshold, the recording determination unit 20c transmits the program information that the television recorder 2 is recording from the later-described television recorder 2 connected to the network 3 to the network. 3 is received as recording information, and it is determined whether or not the received recording information includes program information of a broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level.

The network connection unit 23 is a communication interface such as a network card. By connecting to the network 3 through the network connection unit 23, the network connection unit 23 can communicate with the television recorder 2 connected to the network 3. The program selection support device 1 (broadcast program receiving device) and the television recorder 2 may be network-compatible devices compliant with guidelines (DLNA guidelines) established by DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance).

The program selection support apparatus 1 includes the video / audio signal recording unit 13, the operation history information storage unit 14, the recording reservation information storage unit 15, the program information storage unit 16, and the program preference information storage unit 17 as separate storage devices. However, each storage unit may be partially shared, or all the storage units may be shared by a single storage device.

<Configuration of program selection support system>
FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram illustrating a program selection support system 100 in which the program selection support apparatus 1 and the television recorder 2 according to the first embodiment are connected via a network 3.

In such a program selection support system 100, the program selection support device 1 is based on the viewer's preference and the recording information received from the television recorder 2 via the network 3 when the main power is turned on. The video / audio signal of the broadcast program with the highest preference is displayed, or the on-screen information for notifying the viewer that there is a broadcast program with the highest preference is displayed. When the on-screen information is set to be displayed, the program selection support device 1 displays the broadcast program having the highest preference based on the operation of the viewer with respect to the on-screen information or causes the video / audio signal recording unit 13 to record the broadcast program. Or The television recorder 2 may be recorded instead of the video / audio signal recording unit 13.

When one or more network compatible devices other than the program selection support device 1 are connected to the network 3, the television from which the program selection support device 1 receives recording information from these network compatible devices. When selecting the John recorder 2, the viewer of the program selection support apparatus 1 may select and specify the IP address of the television recorder 2 or UPnP (Universal Plug and Play). The television recorder 2 may be automatically discovered based on the protocol.

<Configuration of television recorder 2>
FIG. 3 is a specific configuration diagram of the television recorder 2 of the program selection support system 100. The television recorder 2 includes a broadcast receiving unit 31, a device control unit 32, a video / audio signal recording unit 33, a program information storage unit 34, a recording reservation information storage unit 35, an output unit 36, and an input unit 37. And a network connection unit 38.

The broadcast receiving unit 31 includes a tuner and a demodulating / separating unit, and receives a broadcast wave of a channel designated by the device control unit 32 from broadcast waves transmitted from a broadcast station via a terrestrial wave or a broadcast satellite, The audio signal and the program information are separated and supplied to the device control unit 32.

The video / audio signal recording unit 33 is configured by a recording device such as a hard disk, for example, and based on a control signal supplied from a device control unit 32 to be described later, a video / audio signal and a program ID for uniquely identifying the video / audio signal Record in association.

Here, the program ID is generated as an identifier for uniquely identifying a broadcast program. For example, a combination of “channel” and “broadcast start time” included in program information is set as a program ID.

The program information storage unit 34 is configured by a storage device such as a hard disk, for example, and stores a program ID for uniquely identifying a broadcast program and program information in accordance with a control signal supplied from the device control unit 32.

The recording reservation information storage unit 35 stores recording reservation information for reserving recording of a broadcast program.

The output unit 36 includes an image output device such as an organic EL (electroluminescence) display or a liquid crystal display, and displays video, program information, and the like based on an output signal supplied from the device control unit 32. The output unit 36 includes a speaker that generates sound.

The input unit 37 includes various operation buttons, generates an operation signal when the operation button is pressed by the viewer, and supplies the generated operation signal to the device control unit 32.

The device control unit 32 controls basic functions as a television receiver (broadcast program receiver) such as reception, display, recording, and reproduction of a television broadcast.

Based on the operation signal received from the input unit 37, the device control unit 32 turns on or off the main power, sets a channel received by the broadcast receiving unit 31, or sets the video / audio signal recording unit 33. Start playback of recorded video and audio signals. In addition, the device control unit 32 controls output of a video / audio signal or the like to the output unit 36.

Further, the device control unit 32, when a request signal for requesting transmission of the recording information transmitted from the program selection support apparatus 1 is supplied from the network connection unit 38 to be described later via the network 3, the current output unit 36 When the video / audio signal output to the video / audio signal is recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 33, the program information is transmitted as recording information from the network connection unit 38 to the program selection support apparatus 1 via the network 3. To do.

Further, when a request signal for requesting transmission of recording reservation information transmitted from the program selection support apparatus 1 is supplied from the network connection unit 38 to be described later via the network 3, recording is performed from the recording reservation information storage unit 35. The reservation information is read, and the read recording reservation information is transmitted from the network connection unit 38 to the program selection support apparatus 1 via the network 3.

The network connection unit 38 is a communication interface such as a network card, and the network connection unit 38 can communicate with the program selection support apparatus 1 connected to the network 3 by connecting to the network 3.

<Operation of Program Selection Support Device 1>
The program selection support apparatus 1 mainly performs preference analysis processing, power-on (on) program selection support processing, and output processing. Hereinafter, each of these processes will be described in detail.

≪Preference analysis process≫
First, the detail of the preference analysis process in the preference analysis part 18 of the program selection assistance apparatus 1 is demonstrated.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the main processing for one cycle of the preference analysis processing that is periodically operating at a predetermined time interval in the program selection support apparatus 1.

When the preference analysis unit 18 of the program selection support device 1 starts the preference analysis process, the operation history information and the program information are read out from the operation history information storage unit 14 and the program information storage unit 16, respectively. Program selection history information is generated based on the information (step S101). For example, if there is an operation history indicating a channel setting operation in the read operation history information, the preference analysis unit 18 broadcasts the program broadcast on the channel set by the channel setting operation from the read program information. The program ID of the program is extracted. If the read operation history information includes an operation history indicating a recording start operation and an operation history indicating a recording end operation, recording is performed from the read program information at the time when the recording start operation is performed. The program ID of the broadcast program broadcast up to the time when the end operation is performed is extracted.

Also, if the read operation history information includes an operation history indicating a recording reservation operation or an operation history indicating a playback operation, the preference analysis unit 18 extracts a program ID from these operation histories.

Then, the preference analysis unit 18 generates a list of these extracted program IDs as program selection history information.

Next, one or more keywords are extracted from the program information stored in the program information storage unit 16 (step S102). Specifically, for example, “genre” and “performer” included in the program information are keywords, and the character string data of “title” and “content description” are decomposed into morphemes by a known morpheme analysis, and nouns, etc. A morpheme belonging to a predetermined specific part of speech is extracted as a keyword.

Next, the preference analysis unit 18 calculates the program appearance count of each extracted keyword (step S103). Specifically, each of the extracted keywords is sequentially set as the calculation target keyword k, the number of broadcast programs including the calculation target keyword k is calculated, and the calculation result is set as the program appearance count. Even when this calculation target keyword k is included in one program, the number of program appearances is calculated as one.

Next, the preference analysis unit 18 calculates the program selection history appearance frequency of each calculation target keyword k (step S104). Here, the program selection history appearance frequency indicates the frequency that the calculation target keyword k is included in the program information of the broadcast program identified by the program ID included in the program selection history information. Specifically, the preference analysis unit 18 includes one calculation target keyword k in one or more keywords extracted from the program information of the broadcast program h identified by the program ID included in the program selection history information. Nk was the number, and h, the number of types of the extracted keyword from broadcast program h (duplicate keywords are to 1) N _h, occurrence frequency F _k for broadcast programs h to be calculated keyword _k, equation 1 _h Calculate using.

From the viewpoint of the viewer's preference, the numerical expression 1 is more important as the calculation target keyword k included in the broadcast program with a smaller number of keyword types _{, and} the value of the appearance frequency F _{k, h} increases, and the number of keyword types increases. The calculation target keyword k included in the broadcast program has a lower importance and a smaller appearance frequency F _{k, h} . In addition, a logarithmic function that is said to be close to the human sense is used.

Next, the preference analysis unit 18 similarly applies the appearance frequency F _{k for} each broadcast program of the calculation target keyword k using Equation 1 for broadcast programs identified by all program IDs included in the program selection history information _. Calculate _h . Then, the preference analysis unit 18 calculates the sum of the calculated appearance frequencies F _{k, h} as the program selection history appearance frequency F _k as shown in Equation 2.

And the preference analysis part 18 calculates the preference degree for every calculation object keyword k as a keyword preference degree (step S105). Specifically, the preference analysis unit 18 sets the total program number to N, the program appearance frequency of the calculation target keyword k calculated in step S103 to N _k , and the program selection history appearance frequency of the calculation target keyword k calculated in step S104. As F _k , the keyword preference degree P _k for each calculation target keyword k is calculated using Equation 3.

From the viewpoint of the viewer's preference, the calculation target keyword k that appears in many broadcast programs has a lower importance and the value of the keyword preference _Pk is smaller, and the calculation target keyword k that has fewer broadcast programs appears. It shows that the importance is high and the value of the keyword preference _Pk is large. Furthermore, Formula 3 uses a logarithmic function that is said to be close to human senses.

Next, the preference analysis unit 18 calculates the preference level for each broadcast program as the program preference level (step S106). The target of calculation of the program preference is a broadcast program that has not yet been broadcast among broadcast programs whose program information is stored in the program information storage unit 16, that is, a broadcast program whose broadcast start time is later than the current time. To do. Specifically, for all keywords k, the preference analysis unit 18 generates the appearance frequency F _{k, h of} the keyword k for the broadcast program h calculated in step S104 and the keyword preference P _k of the keyword k calculated in step S105. And the product. Then, as shown in the following Equation 4, the preference analysis unit 18 calculates the sum of the products of all the calculated appearance frequencies F _{k, h} and the keyword preference P _k as the program preference Q _h of the calculation target program _h. Calculate as

Then, the preference analysis unit 18 associates the program ID of the calculation target program h with the program preference level Qh of the calculation target program _h and stores it in the program preference information storage unit 17 as program preference information.

Next, the preference analysis unit 18 makes a recording reservation for a broadcast program having a high program preference (step S107). Specifically, the preference analysis unit 18 is a recording reservation information storage unit among broadcast programs having a program preference higher than a predetermined threshold or a number of broadcast programs that do not exceed a predetermined threshold from the highest program preference. Recording reservation information is generated for a broadcast program whose broadcast time does not overlap with the broadcast program included in the recording reservation information stored in 15, and the generated recording reservation information is stored in the recording reservation information storage unit 15.

At this time, the preference analysis unit 18 stores in the recording reservation information storage unit 15 in order from the recording reservation information of a broadcast program having a high program preference, and the broadcast time overlapping the broadcast time included in the previously recorded recording reservation information. The recording reservation information included is deleted without being stored. Here, the broadcast time refers to a time period from the broadcast start time to the broadcast end time. For example, the broadcast program A broadcast from the broadcast start time t1 to the broadcast end time t2 and the broadcast from the broadcast start time t3. The broadcast program B broadcast until the end time t4 is determined that the broadcast times overlap when the time t3 is earlier than the time t2 and the time t4 is later than the time t1.

Note that when the recording reservation information is stored in the recording reservation information storage unit 15, the preference analysis unit 18 associates an automatic manual identifier indicating “automatic” indicating that the recording reservation information is generated by the preference analysis unit 18. To remember. In this way, the preference analysis unit 18 also operates as an automatic recording control unit that extracts a broadcast program having a program preference level equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold and automatically records it by the recording / playback unit. The function of the automatic recording control unit may be provided in the device control unit 12. It is not necessary to extract all broadcast programs whose program preference is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold and automatically record them by the recording / playback unit. A number of broadcast programs that do not exceed a predetermined threshold may be automatically recorded by the recording / playback unit in descending order of program preference.

≪Program selection support process at power-on≫
Next, details of the program selection support process when the power is turned on in the program selection support apparatus 1 will be described.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a process flow of the program selection support process when the program selection support apparatus 1 is turned on.

First, when the device control unit 12 controls the power supply unit 28 to turn on the main power supply of the program selection support device 1 (step S201), the preference level determination unit 20a of the program recommendation unit 20 reads from the program preference information storage unit 17 at present. The program preference level corresponding to the broadcast program being broadcast is extracted (step S202). Specifically, the preference level determination unit 20a reads program information from the program information storage unit 16, and is currently broadcasting based on the read program information and the current time measured by a clock provided therein. Is extracted, and the program preference level associated with the program ID is extracted.

Next, the preference level determination unit 20a determines whether or not the first broadcast reception unit 10 has received a broadcast program having the highest program preference level (step S203). Specifically, the preference level determination unit 20a extracts the highest program preference level from the program preference levels corresponding to the broadcast program currently being broadcast extracted in step S202 as the highest broadcast program preference level.

Further, when the program ID corresponding to the video / audio signal displayed on the display unit 21 is supplied from the device control unit 12 to the preference level determination unit 20a, the preference level determination unit 20a displays the program preference information corresponding to the program ID. Extract as degrees. Then, the preference level determination unit 20a determines whether or not the extracted highest broadcast program preference level is higher than the extracted display program preference level.

Next, the threshold determination unit 20b of the program recommendation unit 20 determines that the highest program preference during broadcasting is a predetermined threshold when the preference determination unit 20a determines that the highest program preference during broadcasting is higher than the display program preference. It is determined whether or not this is the case (step S204).

A broadcast program is considered to have a time zone in which a broadcast program with a high program preference is broadcast and a time zone in which a broadcast program with a low program preference is broadcast depending on the time zone. Therefore, by setting a threshold value, it is possible to exclude a broadcast program in a time zone in which a broadcast program with a low program preference is broadcast from the target of program selection support.

Therefore, if this threshold is too high, program selection support such as displaying on-screen information for a broadcast program that the viewer wants to watch cannot be executed, and if it is too low, the broadcast program that the viewer does not want to watch. For example, program selection support, such as displaying on-screen information, is executed, which gives viewers discomfort. For this reason, it is necessary for a provider, a viewer, and the like to set appropriate values in advance. Note that the threshold determination unit 20b is preferably provided, but the threshold determination unit 20b may be omitted.

Next, when it is determined by the threshold determination unit 20b that the threshold is equal to or greater than the threshold, the recording determination unit 20c of the program recommendation unit 20 sends a program that the television recorder 2 is recording from the television recorder 2 via the network 3. Information is received as recording information (step S205).

Then, the recording determination unit 20c determines whether or not the recording information received in step S205 includes the program information of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest broadcast program preference extracted in step S203 ( Step S206).

Next, in step S206, when it is determined that the program information of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference during broadcasting is not included, the display determination unit 12a of the device control unit 12 is configured to display on-screen information. It is determined whether or not the process has been performed (step S207). Specifically, the display determination unit 12a displays a video / audio signal of a broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during broadcasting on the display unit 21 based on a preset value set in advance by a viewer or a device provider. It is determined whether to display on-screen information on the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during broadcasting on the display unit 21 (step S207).

In step S207, if the display determination unit 12a determines that the on-screen information display is not set, the display / recording control unit 12b sends the first broadcast receiving unit 10 the highest program preference during broadcasting. The broadcast program corresponding to the time is received, and the received video / audio signal is displayed on the display unit 21 (step S208).

On the other hand, in step S207, if the display determination unit 12a determines that the on-screen information display is set, the display / recording control unit 12b determines that the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during broadcasting is present. The on-screen information indicating that the program exists and is being broadcast is displayed on the display unit 21 (step S209).

FIG. 6A shows a screen in which, in step S208, the device control unit 12 switches the channel received by the first broadcast receiving unit 10 to a channel broadcasting a broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level being broadcast. 110 is shown. At this time, the display / recording control unit 12b displays on-screen information 111 including, for example, character information for informing the viewer that the channel has been switched on the screen 110 using the OSD (On Screen Display) function. Is preferred. Here, the on-screen information 111 is a character string “CH (channel) 201“ European soccer ”has been switched by program selection support” ”, and informs the viewer that the channel has been automatically switched by program selection support. It is preferable.

FIG. 6B shows an example of the on-screen information displayed on the display unit 21 by the display / recording control unit 12b in step S209. As shown in FIG. 6B, the display unit 21 displays a screen 101 of the broadcast program of the channel received by the first broadcast receiving unit 10 when the main power is turned on.

The display / recording control unit 12b of the device control unit 12 superimposes and displays the on-screen information 102 on the screen 101 using the OSD function.

As an example, the on-screen information 102 includes a character string including a program title (here, “European soccer”) of a broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level in broadcast in a rectangular frame image, and the highest program in broadcast. A display button 104 for displaying a broadcast program corresponding to the degree of preference on the display unit 21 and a recording button for causing the video / audio signal recording unit 13 to record a video / audio signal of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference during broadcasting. 105 and a return button 106 for deleting the on-screen information 102 from the display unit 21 are displayed.

Thus, according to the program selection support apparatus 1, when the main power is turned on, among the broadcast programs suitable for the viewer's preference, the channel is switched for a broadcast program that is not recorded in the television recorder 2. Since on-screen information is displayed, program selection support for broadcast programs can be provided without causing discomfort to the viewer.

≪Output support≫
Next, details of output processing in the program selection support apparatus 1 will be described.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of output processing in the program selection support apparatus 1.

The display / recording control unit 12b of the device control unit 12 has the button selected based on the operation signal supplied from the input unit 22 by the operation of the viewer among the on-screen information 102 displayed on the display unit 21. It is determined whether or not the display button 104 is selected (step S301).

In step S301, when it is determined that the selected button is the display button 104, the display / recording control unit 12b receives the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during the broadcast to the first broadcast reception unit 10. The video / audio signal of the received broadcast program is displayed on the display unit 21 (step S302).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S301 that the selected button is not the display button 104, it is determined whether or not the selected button is the recording button 105 (step S303).

If it is determined in step S303 that the selected button is the recording button 105, the display / recording control unit 12b changes the second broadcast program to be received by the first broadcast receiving unit 10 without changing the broadcast program. The broadcast receiving unit 11 is made to receive a broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference during broadcasting. Then, the display / recording control unit 12b causes the video / audio signal recording unit 13 to record the video / audio signal of the broadcast program received by the second broadcast receiving unit 11, and the program information storage unit stores the program information of the received broadcast program. 16 (step S304).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S303 that the selected button is not the recording button 105, it is determined that the selected button is the return button 106, and the display / recording control unit 12b deletes the on-screen information 102. (Step S305).

As described above, according to the program selection support apparatus 1 that is Embodiment 1 of the present invention, among broadcast programs that match the viewer's preference in accordance with the viewer's operation from the displayed on-screen information 102, On-screen information indicating that a broadcast program not recorded by the television recorder 2 connected via the network 3 is determined and the determined broadcast program is displayed or that the determined broadcast program is being broadcast. 102 is displayed.

Furthermore, when the on-screen information 102 is displayed, the program selection support apparatus 1 displays a broadcast program that matches the viewer's preference on the display unit 21 in accordance with the viewer's operation on the displayed on-screen information 102. Or can be recorded by the video / audio signal recording unit 13.

In the program selection support apparatus 1 of the first embodiment, a video / audio signal recording unit 13 built in the program selection support apparatus 1 and a television recorder 2 connected to the network 3 are used as a recording / playback unit. However, only one of them may be used. The proper use of the recording / playback unit built in the program selection support apparatus 1 and the external recording / playback unit is not limited to the above-described usage. In the description of the first embodiment described above, for a broadcast program that is not recorded on the television recorder 2, channels are switched or on-screen information is displayed for program selection support. A similar program selection support may be performed for a broadcast program that is not recorded in a certain video / audio signal recording unit 13.

When the program selection support apparatus 1 does not include the network connection unit 23 and the broadcast program is recorded only to the video / audio signal recording unit 13, the program selection support process at power-on shown in FIG. In the flow, step S205 may acquire recording information for the video / audio signal recording unit 13.

By the way, with regard to the place of “turning on the main power” in the first embodiment, not only when the physical power is turned on, but also when transitioning from the standby state (sleep state) to the normal operation state, or resetting the entire device This includes the activation of the device, such as when transitioning to a normal operating state by restarting after operation.

[Example 2]
The second embodiment of the present invention provides program selection support for displaying a broadcast program with the highest degree of preference on the display unit or displaying on-screen information for notifying that there is a broadcast program with the highest degree of preference on the display unit. A program selection support apparatus configured to determine whether or not to perform program selection support according to recording information indicating program information of a broadcast program being recorded in a recording / playback unit. Further, in the second embodiment, when the end of one broadcast program being viewed by the viewer is detected as to whether or not the program selection support is performed, or when one recorded broadcast program being played back by the recording / playback unit is detected. This is performed when the end of reproduction is detected. Here, the recording / playback unit may be a recording / playback unit for a broadcast program built in the broadcast program receiving apparatus, for example, a recording / playback unit connected via a network. The program selection support apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described below.

<Configuration of program selection support device>
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a program selection support apparatus that is Embodiment 2 of the present invention. FIG. 8 also shows an example in which a broadcast program receiving apparatus having a built-in recording / playback unit and a function of connecting to an external recording / playback unit via a network constitutes the program selection support apparatus 1A. The program selection support device 1A includes a first broadcast receiving unit 10, a second broadcast receiving unit 11, a device control unit 25, a video / audio signal recording unit 13, an operation history information storage unit 14, and recording reservation information. A storage unit 15, a program information storage unit 16, a program preference information storage unit 17, a preference analysis unit 18, a program recommendation unit 24, a display unit 21, an input unit 22, and a network connection unit 23 are provided. The display unit 21 may be provided outside the program selection support apparatus 1 (broadcast program receiving apparatus) and connected to the program selection support apparatus 1A.

Here, in the program selection support apparatus 1A of the second embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the first broadcast receiving unit 10, the second broadcast receiving unit 11, the video / audio signal recording unit 13, and the operation history information storage unit 14 are provided. The recording reservation information storage unit 15, the program information storage unit 16, the program preference information storage unit 17, the preference analysis unit 18, the display unit 21, the input unit 22, and the network connection unit 23 are respectively shown in FIG. The program selection support apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG.

The device control unit 25 controls basic functions as a television receiver (broadcast program receiver) such as reception, display, recording, and reproduction of a television broadcast.

Then, the device control unit 25 turns on or off the main power based on the operation signal received from the input unit 22, or selects the channel received by the first broadcast receiving unit 10 and the second broadcast receiving unit 11. Setting is started, and reproduction of the video / audio signal recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13 is started.

Also, the device control unit 25 collects the viewing history of the broadcast program due to channel change or the like and the playback history of the video / audio signal recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13 as operation history information. Specifically, based on the operation signal received from the input unit 22, from the operation signal requesting channel switching of the viewing program and the operation signal requesting reproduction of the video / audio signal recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13. The operation history is generated and supplied to the operation history information storage unit 14 as operation history information in association with the program ID of the video / audio signal of the broadcast program viewed by the viewer.

The device control unit 25 includes a display determination unit 25a, a selection determination unit 25b, a display control unit 25c, and a recording control unit 25d in terms of its functions.

The display determination unit 25a is a recording information indicating program information being recorded received from the television recorder 2 which is an external recording / playback unit connected to the network 3 by the recording determination unit 24c of the program recommendation unit 24 described later. If it is determined that the program information of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference is not included, the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference is displayed on the display unit 21 or the highest program preference is displayed. Whether to display on-screen information on the display unit 21 for notifying the viewer that a corresponding broadcast program exists is determined.

When the on-screen information is displayed on the display unit 21 based on the determination by the display determination unit 25a, the selection determination unit 25b selects the display button for the on-screen information by the external input operation or selects the recording button. Determine whether it was done.

When it is determined that the display button is selected by the selection determination unit 25b, the display control unit 25c records the video / audio signal of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level in the video / audio signal recording unit 13. Determine whether or not. If the display control unit 25c determines that the video / audio signal of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference is stored in the video / audio signal recording unit 13, the display control unit 25c reproduces the recorded video / audio signal from the beginning. If it is determined that the program is not recorded, the first broadcast receiving unit 10 receives the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level, and the video / audio signal of the received broadcast program is displayed on the display unit 21.

When it is determined that the recording button is selected by the selection determining unit 25b, the recording control unit 25d determines whether the video / audio signal of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference is recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13. Determine whether. When the recording control unit 25d determines that the program is not recorded, the second broadcast receiving unit receives the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level, and the received audio / video signal of the broadcast program is recorded as a video / audio signal. To be recorded in the unit 13.

The program recommendation unit 24 includes a preference determination unit 24a, a threshold determination unit 24b, and a recording determination unit 24c.

When the preference level determination unit 24a detects the end of the broadcast program received by the first broadcast receiving unit 10, or when the end of reproduction of the video / audio signal recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13 is detected, Program information and program preference information are read out from the program information storage unit 16 and the program preference information storage unit 17, respectively, and a program corresponding to the currently broadcasted program is read based on the read program information and program preference information. The highest program preference level is extracted from the preference levels, and whether the extracted broadcast program with the highest program preference level is displayed on the display unit 21 or recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13. Determine.

The threshold determination unit 24b has the highest program preference level not displayed on the display unit 21 and the video / audio signal having the highest program preference level is recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13 by the preference level determination unit 24a. If it is determined that there is not, it is determined whether or not the highest program preference is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

When the threshold determination unit 24b determines that the recording determination unit 24c is equal to or greater than the threshold, the recording determination unit 24c receives program information that the television recorder 2 is recording from the television recorder 2 connected to the network 3 through the network 3. It is determined whether or not program information of a broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference is included in the received recording information.

Note that the program selection support apparatus 1A includes the video / audio signal recording unit 13, the operation history information storage unit 14, the recording reservation information storage unit 15, the program information storage unit 16, and the program preference information storage unit 17 as separate storage devices. However, each storage unit may be partially shared, or all the storage units may be shared by a single storage device.

As shown in FIG. 2, the program selection support apparatus 1A of the second embodiment is connected to the television recorder 2 via the network 3 in the same manner as the program selection support apparatus 1 of the first embodiment, and the program selection support system 200 is Constitute.

In such a program selection support system 200, the program selection support apparatus 1 </ b> A detects the end of the broadcast program being viewed by the viewer from the television recorder 2 via the viewer's preference or the network 3. Based on the received recording information, the video / audio signal of the broadcast program with the highest degree of preference is displayed, or the on-screen information for notifying the viewer that there is a broadcast program with the highest degree of preference is displayed. When the on-screen information is set to be displayed, the program selection support apparatus 1A displays the broadcast program having the highest preference based on the viewer's operation on the on-screen information or causes the video / audio signal recording unit 13 to record it. Or The television recorder 2 may be recorded instead of the video / audio signal recording unit 13.

When one or more network compatible devices other than the program selection support device 1A are connected to the network 3, the television from which the program selection support device 1A receives recording information from these network compatible devices. When selecting the John recorder 2, the viewer of the program selection support apparatus 1A may select and specify the IP address of the television recorder 2, etc., or automatically based on the UPnP protocol. Alternatively, the television recorder 2 may be discovered.

<Configuration of television recorder 2>
Since the television recorder 2 connected to the program selection support apparatus 1A via the network 3 has the same configuration as the television recorder 2 connected to the program selection support apparatus 1 via the network 3, the description will be made. Omitted.

<Operation of Program Selection Support Device 1A>
The program selection support apparatus 1A mainly performs preference analysis processing, program selection support processing at the end of viewing, and output processing. Therefore, each of these processes will be described in detail below.

≪Preference analysis process≫
The preference analysis process in the preference analysis unit 18 of the program selection support apparatus 1A is the same process as the preference analysis process in the preference analysis unit 18 of the program selection support apparatus 1 and will not be described.

≪Program selection support process at end of viewing≫
Next, details of the program selection support process at the end of viewing in the program selection support apparatus 1A will be described.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a process flow of a program selection support process at the end of viewing in the program selection support apparatus 1A.

First, when the preference level determination unit 24a of the program recommendation unit 24 detects the end of one broadcast program received by the first broadcast reception unit 10 from a signal supplied from the device control unit 25, or a video When the end of reproduction of one recorded broadcast program recorded in the audio signal recording unit 13 is detected (step S401), all program preference levels corresponding to the currently broadcasted broadcast program are extracted (step S402). . Specifically, the preference level determination unit 24a reads program information from the program information storage unit 16, and is currently broadcasting based on the read program information and the current time measured by a clock provided therein. Is extracted, and the program preference level associated with the program ID is extracted.

Next, the preference level determination unit 24a determines whether a broadcast program with the highest program preference level is displayed or manually recorded (step S403). Specifically, the preference level determination unit 24a extracts the highest program preference level from the program preference levels corresponding to the broadcast program currently being broadcast extracted in step S402 as the highest broadcast program preference level.

When the program ID corresponding to the video / audio signal displayed on the display unit 21 is supplied from the device control unit 25, the preference level determination unit 24a displays the program preference information corresponding to the program ID. Extract as degrees. Furthermore, when the program ID corresponding to the video / audio signal recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13 is supplied from the device control unit 25, the preference level determination unit 24a receives the program preference information corresponding to the program ID. Extracted as manually recorded program preference.

The preference level determination unit 24a determines whether or not the extracted highest program preference level during broadcasting is higher than the extracted display program preference level and the extracted manually recorded program preference level. Thereby, the preference level determination unit 24a selects the broadcast program with the highest program preference level when the extracted highest program preference level during broadcasting is higher than the extracted display program preference level and the extracted manually recorded program preference level. It is determined that it is not displayed or manually recorded.

Next, if the threshold determination unit 24b of the program recommendation unit 24 determines that the broadcast program having the highest program preference is not displayed or manually recorded, the highest program preference during broadcasting is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold. It is determined whether or not (step S404).

Therefore, if this threshold is too high, it will not be possible to support program selection such as displaying on-screen information for broadcast programs that the viewer wants to watch. However, the program selection support, such as displaying on-screen information, is uncomfortable for the viewer. For this reason, it is necessary for a provider, a viewer, and the like to set appropriate values in advance. Note that the threshold determination unit 24b is preferably provided, but the threshold determination unit 24b may be omitted.

Next, when the threshold determination unit 24b determines that the threshold is equal to or greater than the threshold, the recording determination unit 24c of the program recommendation unit 24 sends a program that the television recorder 2 is recording from the television recorder 2 via the network 3. Information is received as recording information (step S405).

Then, the recording determination unit 24c determines whether or not the recording information received in step S405 includes the program information of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest broadcast program preference extracted in step S403 ( Step S406).

Next, when it is determined in step S406 that the program information of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference during broadcasting is not included, the display determination unit 25a of the device control unit 25 sets the on-screen information display setting. It is determined whether it has been performed (step S407). Specifically, the display determination unit 12a causes the display unit 21 to display a broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during broadcasting based on a preset value set in advance by a viewer or a device provider. It is determined whether or not to display on-screen information indicating that there is a broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during broadcasting.

In step S407, when the display determination unit 25a determines that the on-screen information display is not set, the display control unit 25c automatically records the video / audio signal of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during the broadcast. That is, whether or not a broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during broadcast is received by the second broadcast receiving unit 11 and the video / audio signal of the received broadcast program is recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13 Is determined (step S408).

If it is determined in step S408 that automatic recording has been performed, the display control unit 25c reads the recorded video / audio signal from the video / audio signal recording unit 13 and plays it from the head of the read video / audio signal. Is displayed on the display unit 21 (step S410).

On the other hand, when it is determined that automatic recording is not performed, the display control unit 25c causes the first broadcast receiving unit 10 to receive the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during broadcasting, as shown in FIG. Then, the video / audio signal of the received broadcast program is displayed on the display unit 21 (step S409).

In step S407, when the display determination unit 25a determines that the on-screen information display is set, the display determination unit 25a displays the highest program preference level during broadcasting as illustrated in FIG. On-screen information 102 indicating that there is a broadcast program corresponding to is displayed on the display unit 21 (step S411).

Thus, according to the program selection support apparatus 1A that is Embodiment 2 of the present invention, when the end of the broadcast program being viewed by the viewer is detected, among the broadcast programs that match the viewer's preference, Broadcast programs that are not recorded on the television recorder 2 are displayed on the display unit 2 or the on-screen information 102 is displayed, so that program selection support for broadcast programs is provided without causing discomfort to the viewer. be able to.

≪Output support≫
Next, details of output processing in the program selection support apparatus 1A will be described.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of output processing in the program selection support apparatus 1A.

The selection determination unit 25b of the device control unit 25 displays a button that is selected based on the operation signal supplied from the input unit 22 by the operation of the viewer among the on-screen information 102 displayed on the display unit 21. It is determined whether it is 104 or not (step S501).

When it is determined in step S501 that the selected button is the display button 104, the display control unit 25c determines whether or not the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during broadcasting is automatically recorded (step S501). Step S502). Specifically, the display control unit 25c determines whether or not the video / audio signal of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference during broadcasting is recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13.

Next, when it is determined in step S502 that the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference during broadcasting is not automatically recorded, the display control unit 25c selects the first broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference during broadcasting. Are received by the broadcast receiving unit 10 and the video / audio signal of the received broadcast program is displayed on the display unit 21 (step S503).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S502 that the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during broadcasting is automatically recorded, the display control unit 25c records the highest program recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13. The video / audio signal corresponding to the preference level is reproduced from the head and displayed on the display unit 21 (step S504).

If it is determined in step S501 that the selected button is not the display button 104, it is determined whether or not the selected button is the recording button 105 (step S505).

If it is determined in step S505 that the selected button is the recording button 105, the recording control unit 25d determines whether or not a broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during broadcasting is automatically recorded (step S505). S507). Specifically, the recording control unit 25d determines whether or not the video / audio signal of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level during broadcasting is recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13.

In step S507, when it is determined that the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference in broadcasting is automatically recorded, the recording control unit 25d records the highest program preference in broadcast recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13. The automatic manual identifier associated with the video / audio signal corresponding to is changed from automatic to manual. (Step S508). When the remaining storage capacity decreases, the video / audio signal recording unit 13 automatically deletes the video / audio signal in which the automatic manual identifier is set to automatic in order. Therefore, by changing the automatic manual identifier from automatic to manual, the video / audio signal corresponding to the highest program preference during broadcasting can be prevented from being automatically deleted.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S507 that the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference during broadcasting is not automatically recorded, the recording control unit 25d starts recording (step S509). Specifically, the recording control unit 25d causes the video / audio signal recording unit 13 to store a video / audio signal corresponding to the highest program preference during broadcasting (step S509).

If it is determined in step S505 that the selected button is not the recording button 105, it is determined that the selected button is the return button 106, and the selection determining unit 25b deletes the on-screen information 102 ( Step S506).

As described above, according to the program selection support apparatus 1A that is Embodiment 2 of the present invention, among broadcast programs that match the viewer's preference in accordance with the viewer's operation from the displayed on-screen information 102, A broadcast program that is not recorded or reserved for recording is determined by the television recorder 2 connected via the network, and the determined broadcast program is displayed, or the on-screen information 102 related to the determined broadcast program is displayed. To do. Further, it can be reproduced from the beginning depending on whether or not a broadcast program that matches the viewer's preference is automatically recorded.

Furthermore, when the on-screen information 102 is displayed, the program selection support apparatus 1 displays or records a broadcast program that matches the viewer's preference in accordance with the viewer's operation on the displayed on-screen information 102. You can do it.

In the program selection support apparatus 1A of the second embodiment, a video / audio signal recording unit 13 built in the program selection support apparatus 1A and a television recorder 2 connected to the network 3 are used as a recording / playback unit. However, only one of them may be used. The proper use of the recording / playback unit built in the program selection support apparatus 1A and the external recording / playback unit is not limited to the above-described usage. In the above description of the second embodiment, for a broadcast program that is not recorded on the television recorder 2, the channel is switched or the on-screen information is displayed for supporting program selection. A similar program selection support may be performed for a broadcast program that is not recorded in a certain video / audio signal recording unit 13.

When the program selection support apparatus 1A does not include the network connection unit 23 and the broadcast program is recorded only to the video / audio signal recording unit 13, the program selection support process at the end of the broadcast program shown in FIG. In step S405, the recording information for the video / audio signal recording unit 13 may be acquired.

[Example 3]
The third embodiment of the present invention provides program selection support for displaying a broadcast program having the highest degree of preference on the display unit, or displaying on-screen information notifying that a broadcast program having the highest degree of preference exists. A program selection support apparatus configured to determine whether or not to perform program selection support according to recording information indicating program information of a broadcast program being recorded in a recording / playback unit. In the third embodiment, whether or not program selection support is performed is performed for a broadcast program broadcast within a predetermined time from the current time. Here, the recording / playback unit may be a recording / playback unit for a broadcast program built in the broadcast program receiving apparatus, for example, a recording / playback unit connected via a network. The program selection support apparatus according to the third embodiment will be described below.

<Configuration of program selection support device>
FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a program selection support apparatus that is Embodiment 3 of the present invention. FIG. 11 also shows an example in which a broadcast program receiving apparatus having a built-in recording / playback unit and a function of connecting to an external recording / playback unit via a network constitutes the program selection support apparatus 1B.

The program selection support apparatus 1B includes a first broadcast receiving unit 10, a second broadcast receiving unit 11, a device control unit 27, a video / audio signal recording unit 13, an operation history information storage unit 14, and recording reservation information. A storage unit 15, a program information storage unit 16, a program preference information storage unit 17, a preference analysis unit 18, a program recommendation unit 26, a display unit 21, an input unit 22, and a network connection unit 23 are provided.

Here, in the program selection support apparatus 1B of the third embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the first broadcast receiving unit 10, the second broadcast receiving unit 11, the video / audio signal recording unit 13, and the operation history information storage unit 14 are provided. The recording reservation information storage unit 15, the program information storage unit 16, the program preference information storage unit 17, the preference analysis unit 18, the display unit 21, the input unit 22, and the network connection unit 23 are respectively shown in FIG. The program selection support apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment shown in FIG.

The device control unit 27 controls basic functions as a television receiver (broadcast program receiver) such as reception, display, recording, and reproduction of a television broadcast.

Then, the device control unit 27 turns on or off the main power based on the operation signal received from the input unit 22, or selects a channel received by the first broadcast receiving unit 10 and the second broadcast receiving unit 11. Setting is started, and reproduction of the video / audio signal recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13 is started.

Also, the device control unit 27 collects the viewing history of the broadcast program due to channel change or the like and the playback history of the video / audio signal recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13 as operation history information. Specifically, based on the operation signal received from the input unit 22, from the operation signal requesting channel switching of the viewing program and the operation signal requesting reproduction of the video / audio signal recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13. The operation history is generated and supplied to the operation history information storage unit 14 as operation history information in association with the program ID of the video / audio signal of the broadcast program viewed by the viewer.

Further, the device control unit 27 includes a display determination unit 27a and a display / recording control unit 27b in terms of its functions.

The recording determination information stored in the recording reservation information storage unit 15 is recorded reservation information for recording a broadcast program having the highest program preference by the recording determination unit 26c of the program recommendation unit 26 described later. Or the video / audio of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level based on a predetermined set value when it is determined that it is not included in the recording reservation information received from the television recorder 2 via the network 3 It is determined whether to display a signal on the display unit 21 or to display on-screen information for informing the viewer that there is a broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level.

When the on-screen information is displayed on the display unit 21 by the display determination unit 27a, the display / recording control unit 27b displays the on-screen information displayed on the display unit 21 by the input operation by the viewer from the input unit 22. When an operation signal indicating that the button is selected is supplied, the video / audio signal of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level is reached when the broadcast start time of the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level is reached. Is displayed on the display unit 21. When the operation signal indicating that the recording button of the on-screen information displayed on the display unit 21 is selected by the input operation by the viewer is supplied from the input unit 22, the display / recording control unit 27 b is the most. A video / audio signal of a broadcast program corresponding to a high program preference level is received by the second broadcast receiving unit 11, and the received video / audio signal is stored in the video / audio signal recording unit 13.

The program recommendation unit 26 is functionally provided with a preference level extraction unit 26e, a threshold value determination unit 26b, a preference level determination unit 26a, and a recording determination unit 26c.

The preference level extraction unit 26e reads program information and program preference information from the program information storage unit 16 and the program preference information storage unit 17, respectively, and predetermined times from the current time based on the read program information and program preference information. The program preference level of the broadcast program scheduled to start broadcasting is extracted until the time elapses. The predetermined time here is preferably a relatively short time of about 5 minutes or 10 minutes from the current time.

The threshold value determination unit 26b determines whether or not there is a program preference level equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold among the program preference levels extracted by the preference level extraction unit 26e.

The preference level determination unit 26a determines that there is a program preference level equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold by the threshold value determination unit 26b, and the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level among the program preference levels determined to be equal to or higher than the threshold value When a video / audio signal of a broadcast program of a channel different from the channel is displayed on the display unit 21 or when a video / audio signal recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13 is displayed on the display unit 21, It is determined whether or not the high program preference level is higher than the program preference level corresponding to the video / audio signal displayed on the display unit 21. The preference level extraction unit 26e and the preference level determination unit 26a extract the highest program preference level with the highest preference level from among the program preference levels for a plurality of broadcast programs that are broadcast within a predetermined time from the current time, The first broadcast receiving unit 10 is a preference level extraction / determination unit that determines whether or not a channel for broadcasting a broadcast program having the highest program preference level is received.

When it is determined that the highest program preference level is higher than the program preference level corresponding to the video / audio signal displayed on the display unit 21, the recording determination unit 26c broadcasts the determined highest program preference level. It is determined whether or not the recording reservation information for recording the program is included in the recording reservation information stored in the recording reservation information storage unit 15 or the recording reservation information received from the television recorder 2 via the network 3. To do.

Note that the program selection support apparatus 1B includes the video / audio signal recording unit 13, the operation history information storage unit 14, the recording reservation information storage unit 15, the program information storage unit 16, and the program preference information storage unit 17 as separate storage devices. However, each storage unit may be partially shared, or all the storage units may be shared by a single storage device.

As shown in FIG. 2, the program selection support apparatus 1B of the third embodiment is connected to the television recorder 2 via the network 3 in the same manner as the program selection support apparatus 1 of the first embodiment, and the program selection support system 300 is Constitute.

In such a program selection support system 300, the program selection support device 1B allows the viewer's preference and recording when the broadcast program that matches the viewer's preference is about to start broadcasting on a channel that the viewer does not view. Based on the recording reservation information stored in the reservation information storage unit 15 and the recording information received from the television recorder 2 via the network 3, the video / audio signal of the broadcast program having the highest preference is displayed, or On-screen information indicating that a broadcast program with a high degree of preference exists and broadcasting will start soon is displayed, and a broadcast program with the highest degree of preference is displayed based on the viewer's operation on this on-screen information Or record.

When one or more network compatible devices other than the program selection support device 1B are connected to the network 3, the TV from which the program selection support device 1B receives recording information from these network compatible devices. When selecting the John recorder 2, the viewer of the program selection support apparatus 1B may select and specify the IP address of the television recorder 2, etc., or automatically based on the UPnP protocol. Alternatively, the television recorder 2 may be discovered.

<Configuration of television recorder 2>
The television recorder 2 connected to the program selection support apparatus 1B via the network 3 has the same configuration as the television recorder 2 connected to the program selection support apparatus 1 via the network 3, so that the description will be given. Omitted.

<Operation of Program Selection Support Device 1B>
The program selection support device 1B mainly performs preference analysis processing, pre-broadcast program selection support processing, and output processing. Therefore, each of these processes will be described in detail below.

≪Preference analysis process≫
The preference analysis process in the preference analysis unit 18 of the program selection support apparatus 1B is the same process as the preference analysis process in the preference analysis unit 18 of the program selection support apparatus 1 and will not be described.

≪Program selection support process before start of broadcasting≫
Next, the details of the pre-broadcast program selection support process in the program selection support apparatus 1B will be described.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of pre-broadcast program selection support processing in the program selection support device 1B. Note that the program selection support device 1B executes the pre-broadcast program selection support process at a predetermined time interval such as every minute.

First, the preference level extraction unit 26e of the program recommendation unit 26 extracts program preference levels corresponding to all broadcast programs whose time until the start of broadcasting is within a threshold (step S601). Specifically, the preference level extraction unit 26e reads program information from the program information storage unit 16, and based on the read program information, a predetermined time elapses from the current time measured by a clock provided therein. Until then, the program ID scheduled to start broadcasting is extracted. Then, the program preference information is read from the program preference information storage unit 17, and the program preference information corresponding to the extracted program ID is extracted from the read program preference information.

Next, the threshold determination unit 26b determines whether or not the program preference extracted in step S601 has a program preference greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold (step S602).

Therefore, if this threshold is too high, it will not be possible to support program selection such as displaying a child screen for broadcast programs that the viewer wants to watch, and if this threshold is too low, even for broadcast programs that the viewer does not want to watch Supporting program selection, such as displaying on-screen information, gives viewers discomfort. For this reason, it is necessary for a provider, a viewer, and the like to set appropriate values in advance. Note that the threshold determination unit 26b is preferably provided, but the threshold determination unit 26b may be omitted.

In step S602, when it is determined that there is a program preference level equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold, the preference level determination unit 26a broadcasts a broadcast program having the highest program preference level among the program preference levels equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold value. It is determined whether or not the current channel is being viewed (step S603). Specifically, the preference level determination unit 26a extracts the highest program preference level as the highest program preference level before the start of broadcasting from the program preference levels equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold determined in step S602, and in step S601. Based on the read program information, a channel for broadcasting the broadcast program corresponding to the extracted pre-broadcast highest program preference is determined. Then, the preference level determination unit 26a determines whether or not the channel that broadcasts the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level before the start of broadcasting displays the broadcast program currently being broadcast on the display unit 21.

If it is determined in step S603 that the channel that is broadcasting the broadcast program with the highest program preference is not being viewed, the preference determination unit 26a displays the highest program preference before the broadcast on the display unit 21. It is determined whether it is higher than the program preference of the broadcast program of the video / audio signal being played (step S604). Specifically, the preference level determination unit 26a displays program preference information corresponding to the program ID from the program ID corresponding to the video / audio signal displayed on the display unit 21 supplied from the device control unit 12. It is extracted as a preference level, and it is determined whether or not the highest program preference level before the start of broadcasting is higher than the extracted display program preference level (step S604).

In step S604, when the preference level determination unit 26a determines that the pre-broadcast highest program preference level is higher than the display program preference level, the recording determination unit 26c reserves the recording of the broadcast program corresponding to the pre-broadest program preference level. It is determined whether or not (step S605). Specifically, the recording determination unit 26c determines whether or not the recording reservation information for recording the broadcast program corresponding to the highest pre-broadcast program preference is included in the recording reservation information stored in the recording reservation information storage unit 15. Determine whether.

When it is determined in step S605 that the broadcast program corresponding to the highest pre-broadcast program preference is not reserved for recording, the recording determination unit 26c receives the recording reservation information from the television recorder 2 via the network 3. Receive (step S606).

Then, the recording determination unit 24c determines whether or not the recording reservation information received in step S606 includes recording reservation information for recording the broadcast program corresponding to the pre-broadcast highest program preference level ( Step S607).

Next, in step S607, when it is determined that the recording reservation information for recording the broadcast program corresponding to the highest pre-broadcast program preference is not included, the display determination unit 27a of the device control unit 27 performs the on-screen display. It is determined whether or not information display is set (step S608). Specifically, the display determination unit 27a displays a video / audio signal of a broadcast program corresponding to the pre-broadcast highest program preference level on the display unit 21 based on a preset value set in advance by a viewer or a device provider. It is determined whether to display on-screen information indicating that the broadcast program corresponding to the highest pre-broadcast program preference level starts broadcasting.

In step S608, when the display determining unit 27a determines that the on-screen information display is not set, the display / recording control unit 27b sends the first broadcast receiving unit 10 the highest pre-broadcast program preference. The broadcast program corresponding to the time is received, and the received video / audio signal is displayed on the display unit 21 (step S609).

On the other hand, if the display determination unit 27a determines that the on-screen information display is set in step S608, the display / recording control unit 27b, as shown in FIG. On-screen information 112 indicating that the broadcast program corresponding to the time is about to start broadcasting is displayed on the display unit 21 (step S610).

As described above, according to the program selection support device 1B, when a broadcast program that matches the viewer's preference is about to start broadcasting on a channel different from the channel that the viewer is viewing, the program preference is adapted to the viewer's preference. On-screen information is displayed for broadcast programs that are not scheduled to be recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13 and the television recorder 2 among the broadcast programs to be played, so that the program selection of the broadcast program can be performed without causing discomfort to the viewer. Can provide support.

≪Output support≫
Next, details of output processing in the program selection support apparatus 1B will be described.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of output processing in the program selection support apparatus 1B.

The display / recording control unit 27b of the device control unit 27 has a button selected from the on-screen information 112 displayed on the display unit 21 based on the operation signal supplied from the input unit 22 by the operation of the viewer. It is determined whether or not the display button 104 is selected (step S701).

When it is determined in step S701 that the selected button is the display button 104, the output control unit 27b determines that the first time when the current time matches the broadcast start time of the broadcast program corresponding to the pre-broadest program preference. The broadcast receiving unit 10 receives the broadcast program corresponding to the highest pre-broadcast program preference, and displays the video / audio signal of the received broadcast program on the display unit 21 (step S702).

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S701 that the selected button is not the display button 104, it is determined whether or not the selected button is the recording button 105 (step S703).

When it is determined in step S703 that the selected button is the recording button 105, the display / recording control unit 27b determines that the current time matches the broadcast start time of the broadcast program corresponding to the pre-broadest program preference. The second broadcast receiving unit 11 receives the broadcast program corresponding to the highest program preference level before broadcasting without changing the broadcast program received by the first broadcast receiving unit 10, and the received broadcast program video. The audio signal is recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13, and the program information of the received broadcast program is stored in the program information storage unit 16 (step S704).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S703 that the selected button is not the recording button 105, it is determined that the selected button is the return button 106, and the display / recording control unit 27b deletes the on-screen information 112. (Step S705).

As described above, according to the program selection support device 1B, the broadcast programs suitable for the viewer's preference are connected via the network 3 according to the viewer's operation from the displayed on-screen information 112. A broadcast program that is not reserved for recording by the television recorder 2 is determined, and the determined broadcast program is displayed, or on-screen information 112 relating to the determined broadcast program is displayed.

Furthermore, when the on-screen information 112 is displayed, the program selection support device 1B displays or records a broadcast program that matches the viewer's preference in accordance with the viewer's operation on the displayed on-screen information 112. You can do it.

In the program selection support device 1B of the third embodiment, the video / audio signal recording unit 13 incorporated in the program selection support device 1B and the television recorder 2 connected to the network 3 are used as a recording / playback unit. However, only one of them may be used. The proper use of the recording / playback unit built in the program selection support apparatus 1B and the external recording / playback unit is not limited to the above-described usage. In the description of the third embodiment described above, for a broadcast program that is not recorded or reserved for recording in the television recorder 2, channels are switched or on-screen information is displayed to support program selection. A similar program selection support may be provided for broadcast programs that are not recorded in the video / audio signal recording unit 13 that is a reproduction unit.

When the program selection support apparatus 1B does not include the network connection unit 23 and the broadcast program is recorded only to the video / audio signal recording unit 13, the time until the start of the broadcast shown in FIG. 12 is within a predetermined threshold. In the process flow of the program selection support process for the broadcast program of step S606, the recording information for the video / audio signal recording unit 13 may be acquired.

It should be noted that each of the embodiments described above can also be realized by executing a program selection support program installed in a computer. That is, the program selection support program is read from a recording medium storing the program selection support program and executed by the device control unit so as to configure the program selection support devices 1, 1A, 1B. Alternatively, the program selection support apparatuses 1, 1A and 1B may be configured by being transmitted and installed via a communication network and executed by the device control unit.

Further, the present invention is not limited to each of the first to third embodiments described above. Examples 1 to 3 may be appropriately combined. For example, the program selection support operation described in the second embodiment may be performed when the power is turned on in the first embodiment.

According to the program selection support apparatus according to the present invention, selection support can be provided for broadcast programs that are not recorded or reserved for recording by the recording / playback unit, among broadcast programs that match the viewer's preference. Therefore, selection assistance that is not necessary for the viewer is not performed, and discomfort to the viewer can be reduced.

Claims

A broadcast program receiving unit that receives a broadcast signal of a predetermined channel and outputs a video / audio signal of the broadcast program;
A program information receiver for receiving and outputting program information relating to the broadcast program;
A program information storage unit for storing program information output from the program information receiving unit;
A program preference information storage unit for storing program preference information including a program preference level of viewers for broadcast programs currently being broadcast and broadcast in the future;
Based on the program information stored in the program information storage unit and the program preference information stored in the program preference information storage unit, among program preference levels for a plurality of broadcast programs broadcast at a predetermined time point Whether the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is extracted from the broadcast program receiving unit and displayed on the display unit at the predetermined time. A preference level determination unit that determines whether or not
A recording determination unit for determining whether the viewer has specified the broadcast program having the highest program preference level and has recorded or reserved the broadcast program having the highest program preference level by a recording / playback unit;
The preference level determination unit determines that the broadcast program to be displayed on the display unit at the predetermined time point is not a broadcast program having the highest program preference level, and the recording determination unit determines that the viewer is the highest When a broadcast program having a program preference level is specified and it is determined that the recording / playback unit has not recorded or reserved a broadcast program having the highest program preference level, the viewer has the highest program preference level. A program selection support apparatus comprising: a determination unit that determines to perform program selection support for viewing the program.
The predetermined time point is a time point when the program selection support device is turned on,
The determination unit switches a channel received by the broadcast program receiving unit so that a broadcast program having the highest program preference level is displayed on the display unit after turning on the power of the program selection support device, or the highest program preference The program selection support apparatus according to claim 1, wherein on-screen information indicating that a broadcast program having a degree is being broadcast is displayed on the display unit.
The predetermined time is an end time of one broadcast program displayed on the display unit,
Whether the determination unit switches the channel received by the broadcast program receiving unit so that the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is displayed on the display unit after the end of one broadcast program displayed on the display unit. The on-screen information indicating that the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is being broadcast is displayed on the display unit.
The predetermined time point is a reproduction end time point of one recorded broadcast program being reproduced by the recording / reproducing unit,
The determining unit displays the broadcast program having the highest program preference level on the display unit after the reproduction of the one recorded broadcast program being reproduced by the recording / reproducing unit or has the highest program preference level. The program selection support apparatus according to claim 1, wherein on-screen information indicating that a broadcast program is being broadcast is displayed on the display unit.
A broadcast program receiving unit that receives a broadcast signal of a predetermined channel and outputs a video / audio signal of the broadcast program;
A program information receiver for receiving and outputting program information relating to the broadcast program;
A program information storage unit for storing program information output from the program information receiving unit;
A program preference information storage unit for storing program preference information including a program preference level of viewers for broadcast programs currently being broadcast and broadcast in the future;
Based on the program information stored in the program information storage unit and the program preference information stored in the program preference information storage unit, a plurality of broadcast programs whose broadcasting is started within a predetermined time from the current time The preference for extracting the highest program preference level having the highest preference level from the program preference levels, and determining whether or not the broadcast program receiving unit has received a channel that broadcasts the broadcast program having the highest program preference level Degree extraction / determination unit,
A recording determination unit for determining whether the viewer has specified the broadcast program having the highest program preference level and has recorded or reserved the broadcast program having the highest program preference level by a recording / playback unit;
The preference level extraction / determination unit determines that the broadcast program reception unit has not received a channel that broadcasts a broadcast program having the highest program preference level, and the recording determination unit determines that the viewer When it is determined that the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is specified and the recording / playback unit has not reserved recording of the broadcast program having the highest program preference level, the viewer selects the broadcast program having the highest program preference level. A program selection support device comprising: a determination unit that determines to perform program selection support for viewing.
6. The program selection support apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the determination unit causes the display unit to display on-screen information indicating that broadcasting of the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is started.
A threshold determination unit for determining whether the program preference is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold;
7. The program selection support apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit performs program selection support for a broadcast program having a program preference degree equal to or greater than the threshold value.
The on-screen information includes a display button for displaying the broadcast program having the highest program preference level on the display unit, and a recording button for recording the broadcast program having the highest program preference level by a recording / playback unit. Including
When the display button is selected, the broadcast program having the highest program preference is displayed on the display unit, and when the recording button is selected, the broadcast program having the highest program preference is recorded and reproduced. The program selection support apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a display / recording control unit configured to control recording according to claim 1.
An automatic recording control unit that extracts a broadcast program having a program preference level equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold and automatically records the program by a recording / playback unit;
When the display / recording control unit detects that the display button is selected and the broadcast program having the highest program preference is a broadcast program automatically recorded by the recording control unit, the automatic recording 9. The program selection support apparatus according to claim 8, wherein control is performed so as to reproduce the broadcast program having the highest program preference recorded by the control unit.
The broadcast program receiving unit receives a broadcast signal of a predetermined channel, outputs a video / audio signal of the broadcast program,
In the program broadcast receiving unit, program information relating to the broadcast program is received and output,
In the program information storage unit, the program information output from the program information receiving unit is stored,
In the program preference information storage unit, program preference information including a viewer's program preference level for broadcast programs currently being broadcast and broadcast in the future is stored,
In the preference level determination unit, a plurality of broadcast programs broadcast at a predetermined time based on the program information stored in the program information storage unit and the program preference information stored in the program preference information storage unit The highest program preference level having the highest preference level is extracted from the program preference levels for the program, and the broadcast program that is output from the broadcast program reception unit and displayed on the display unit at the predetermined time point has the highest program preference level Determine if it is a broadcast program,
In the recording determination unit, the viewer identifies the broadcast program having the highest program preference level, and determines whether or not the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is recorded or reserved by the recording / playback unit,
In the determination unit, the preference level determination unit determines that the broadcast program to be displayed on the display unit at the predetermined time point is not the broadcast program having the highest program preference level, and the recording determination unit When the viewer determines that the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is specified and the recording / playback unit has not recorded or reserved the broadcast program having the highest program preference level, the viewer selects the highest program preference level. A program selection support method comprising: deciding to perform program selection support for viewing a broadcast program having a message.
The broadcast program receiving unit receives a broadcast signal of a predetermined channel, outputs a video / audio signal of the broadcast program,
In the program information receiving unit, the program information related to the broadcast program is received and output,
In the program information storage unit, the program information output from the program information receiving unit is stored,
In the program preference information storage unit, program preference information including a viewer's program preference level for broadcast programs currently being broadcast and broadcast in the future is stored,
In the preference level extraction / determination unit, broadcasting is performed within a predetermined time from the current time based on the program information stored in the program information storage unit and the program preference information stored in the program preference information storage unit. The highest program preference level having the highest preference level is extracted from the program preference levels for a plurality of broadcast programs to be started, and the broadcast program receiving unit receives a channel for broadcasting a broadcast program having the highest program preference level. Whether or not
In the recording determination unit, the viewer identifies the broadcast program having the highest program preference level, and determines whether or not the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is recorded or reserved by the recording / playback unit,
In the determination unit, the preference level extraction / determination unit determines that the broadcast program reception unit has not received a channel that broadcasts the broadcast program having the highest program preference level, and the recording determination unit includes: When the viewer determines that the broadcast program having the highest program preference level is specified and the recording / playback unit has not reserved recording of the broadcast program having the highest program preference level, the viewer sets the highest program preference level. A program selection support method, characterized by performing program selection support for viewing a broadcast program having the program.