Information processing device, image capturing device, and information processing method

Abstract

Provided are an information processing device, an imaging device, and an information processing method that utilize information that associates content-related history information related to content captured by an imaging device with product attribute information indicating the attributes of a product for which the imaging device is used. The information processing device generates usage information based on the association information. The association information associates the content-related history information, which indicates the history of the imaging device and is related to content captured by the imaging device for the production of the product, with the product attribute information, which indicates the attributes of the product. The usage information indicates how a user uses the imaging device based on the attributes of the product.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present technology relates to an information processing device, an image capturing device, and an information processing method. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique has been used that specifies the manner in which an image capturing device is used by analyzing information on the manner in which the image capturing device is used.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses “an image capturing device including: an input unit that inputs information about a way of using an instrument; and a comparison unit that compares the information about the way of using the instrument with information about specifications of the instrument.”

[0004] Citation List

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-102849 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the present invention

[0008] However, in order to clarify the way in which the image capturing device is used, it is required to use information in which content-related history information about the content photographed by the image capturing device is associated with product attribute information indicating the attributes of the product for which the image capturing device is used.

[0009] Therefore, a main object of the present technology is to provide an information processing device, an image capturing device, and an information processing method using information in which content-related history information and product attribute information are associated with each other.

[0010] Solution to the problem

[0011] The present technology provides an information processing device that generates usage information indicating a usage status of an image capture device by a user according to attributes of a product based on associated information, in which content-related history information and product attribute information indicating the attributes of the product are associated with each other, and the content-related history information is history information indicating a history related to the image capture device and is related to content photographed by the image capture device for producing the product.

[0012] The history information may include operation information regarding the user's operation on the image capturing device.

[0013] The historical information may include sensor information obtained by sensors.

[0014] The sensor information may include environmental information about the environment surrounding the image capture device.

[0015] The sensor information may include image information obtained by a solid-state imaging element included in the image capture device.

[0016] The sensor information may include location information indicating a location where the image capturing device exists.

[0017] The product attribute information may include provision form information indicating a provision form of the product.

[0018] The product attribute information may include program information indicating the type of program as the product.

[0019] The usage information may include statistical information related to attributes of the product.

[0020] The information processing device may generate associated information.

[0021] Product attribute information may be generated based on historical information.

[0022] The type of product attribute information may be associated with the type of historical information used to generate the product attribute information.

[0023] The usage information may be generated by analyzing a plurality of pieces of associated information generated for each of a plurality of pieces of content.

[0024] Multiple pieces of content may be captured by multiple image capture devices.

[0025] Usage information may be generated for each level of attributes of a product.

[0026] The content-related history information may include specific operation-related information regarding a user's specific operation on the image capturing device.

[0027] The content-related history information may be information selected from the history information based on time information.

[0028] The information processing device may generate setting update information for settings of the image capturing device based on the usage information.

[0029] In addition, the present technology provides an image capture device that generates associated information in which content-related historical information and product attribute information indicating attributes of a product are associated with each other, and the content-related historical information is historical information indicating the history of the image capture device and is related to content photographed by the image capture device to produce the product.

[0030] In addition, the present technology provides an information processing method, in which usage information indicating a usage status of an image capture device by a user according to the attributes of a product is generated based on associated information, in which content-related history information and product attribute information indicating the attributes of the product are associated with each other, and the content-related history information is history information indicating the history of the image capture device and is related to content photographed by the image capture device for producing the product. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the information processing device 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0032] Figure 2 is a database illustrating an example of association information according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0033] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of usage information according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0034] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the information processing device 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0035] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the association information generating unit 5 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0036] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the information processing device 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0037] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the attribute information generation unit 6 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0038] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram explaining the association between the types of product attribute information and the types of history information according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0039] Figure 9 is a database illustrating an example of usage information according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0040] Figure 10 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the information processing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0041] Figure 11 It is a conceptual diagram for explaining specific operation-related information according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0042] Figure 12 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the information processing device 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0043] Figure 13 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the image capturing device 20 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0044] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the information processing method according to the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments for carrying out the present technology will be described. The embodiments described below illustrate examples of representative embodiments of the present technology and are not intended to narrowly interpret the scope of the present technology. In addition, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily a strict illustration.

[0046] The present technology will be described in the following order.

[0047] 1. First embodiment of the present technology (Example 1 of information processing device)

[0048] (1) Overview of this embodiment

[0049] (2) Historical information

[0050] (3) Product attribute information

[0051] (4) Related information

[0052] (5) Usage Information

[0053] 2. Second embodiment of the present technology (Example 2 of information processing device)

[0054] 2. Third embodiment of the present technology (Example 3 of information processing device)

[0055] 4. Fourth embodiment of the present technology (Example 4 of the information processing device)

[0056] 5. Fifth embodiment of the present technology (Example 5 of the information processing device)

[0057] 6. Sixth embodiment of the present technology (Example 6 of the information processing device)

[0058] 7. Seventh Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 7 of Information Processing Device)

[0059] 8. Eighth embodiment of the present technology (image capturing device)

[0060] 9. Ninth embodiment of the present technology (information processing method)

[0061] [1. First embodiment of the present technology (Example 1 of information processing device)]

[0062] [(1) Overview of this embodiment]

[0063] The image capturing device used in the present technology is, for example, an image capturing device used for producing products such as television broadcasts and magazines.

[0064] An information processing device according to an embodiment of the present technology can generate usage information indicating the user's usage of an image capture device based on the attributes of the product for which the image capture device is used. This makes it possible to clarify how the image capture device is used based on the attributes of the product. Consequently, for example, it becomes possible to utilize the analysis results for the development of the next product, improve the convenience of the image capture device, and so on.

[0065] The above effects are similar in other embodiments described later. Therefore, in other embodiments described later, further description will be omitted.

[0066] Will refer to Figure 1 An information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present technology is described. Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the information processing device 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0067] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG, the information processing apparatus 10 may include, for example, a usage information generating unit 1, a storage unit 2, a communication unit 3, and a control unit 4. Although not shown, each configuration element is connected to each other by, for example, a bus as a data transmission path.

[0068] The usage information generation unit 1 generates usage information indicating a user's usage status of an image capture device. Furthermore, the usage information generation unit 1 generates usage information of the image capture device corresponding to attributes of a product based on association information in which content-related history information regarding content captured by the image capture device used to create the product is associated with product attribute information indicating the attributes of the product. The usage information generation unit 1 can be implemented using, for example, a program, a central processing unit (CPU), or the like.

[0069] Note that the program for implementing the usage information generation unit 1 may also be stored in a computer device or computer system other than the information processing device 10. In this case, the information processing device 10 may use a cloud service that provides the functionality of this program. Examples of such cloud services include Software as a Service (SaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and Platform as a Service (PaaS).

[0070] In addition, this program can be stored and supplied to the computer using various types of non-transitory computer-readable media. Non-transitory computer-readable media include various types of tangible storage media. Examples of non-transitory computer-readable media include magnetic recording media (e.g., floppy disks, magnetic tapes, or hard disk drives), magneto-optical recording media (e.g., magneto-optical disks), compact disc read-only memories (CD-ROMs), CD-Rs, CD-R / Ws, and semiconductor memories (e.g., mask ROMs, programmable ROMs (PROMs), erasable PROMs (EPROMs), flash ROMs, or random access memories (RAMs)). In addition, the above-mentioned program can be supplied to the computer via various types of transient computer-readable media. Examples of transient computer-readable media include electrical signals, optical signals, and electromagnetic waves. Transient computer-readable media can supply the above-mentioned program to the computer via a wired communication path such as an electric wire and an optical fiber, or a wireless communication path.

[0071] Content-related history information is an example of history information indicating the history of the image capture device. Although a detailed description will be given later, the history information includes operation information about the user's operation on the image capture device, setting information about the settings of the image capture device, and sensor information obtained by the sensor.

[0072] A product is a deliverable created by capturing something with an image capture device. Examples of products include movies, television programs, and educational materials.

[0073] Content is image capture data captured by an image capture device used to produce a product. Content may be included in a product. For example, a product may include one piece of content, or a product may include multiple pieces of content. Specifically, image capture data captured from the time the power switch of the image capture device is turned on to the time the power switch is turned off may be one piece of content. Alternatively, image capture data captured from the time the record switch of the image capture device is turned on to the time the record switch is turned off may be one piece of content. Alternatively, image capture data captured from the time the record switch of the image capture device is turned on to the time the record switch is turned off may be divided into multiple pieces, and one of the divided image capture data may be one piece of content.

[0074] Note that the product includes a product obtained by editing image capture data captured by an image capture device. Therefore, content can be deleted by editing, for example.

[0075] The product attribute information indicates the attributes of the product. The attributes of the product are included in the application of the image capture device. The product attribute information will be described in detail later.

[0076] The associated information is information in which content-related history information and product attribute information are associated with each other. This association allows the usage information generation unit 1 to analyze the history information in detail.

[0077] The usage information indicates a usage status of the image capturing device by the user according to the attributes of the product. The generation of the usage status makes it clear how the image capturing device is used according to the attributes of the product.

[0078] The storage unit 2 stores control data such as programs and calculation parameters used by the usage information generation unit 1. Information such as history information can be stored in the storage unit 2 as a database. The storage unit 2 can be implemented using, for example, a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or the like.

[0079] For example, using a communication technology such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth (registered trademark), or Long Term Evolution (LTE), the communication unit 3 transmits history information and the like via, for example, an information communication network, etc. Note that the information processing device 10 can obtain information via, for example, a recording medium, a communication cable, etc., without including the communication unit 3.

[0080] The control unit 4 controls the processing of configuration elements such as the usage information generating unit 1. The control unit 4 can be realized by using, for example, a program, a CPU, or the like.

[0081] [(2) Historical information]

[0082] As described above, the history information indicates the history regarding the image capturing device.

[0083] For example, the history information may include operation information regarding the user's operation of the image capture device. Examples of operations include opening and closing various covers, operation of various switches (e.g., a mechanical shutter, a power switch, a release switch, a mode setting switch, etc.), operation of a touch screen, and use of a viewfinder.

[0084] For example, this allows the information processing device 10 to obtain information about how the user operates the image capture device. Therefore, the way of using the image capture device becomes clearer.

[0085] In addition, for example, the operation information may include information about the function of the image capture device selected by the user. Examples of the information about the function include the codec used for image capture, the function currently assigned to the assignable button, and the function assigned in the past.

[0086] Alternatively, the operation information may include information about the connection to the information communication network. The operation information may include, for example, the number of times the information communication network is connected. The number of connections may be counted for each type such as Wi-Fi, Wired LAN, and Modem.

[0087] Alternatively, for example, the operation information may include connection device information about a device connected to the image capturing device. Examples of the connection device information include information about a recording medium, a battery, a lens, etc. attached to the image capturing device.

[0088] Alternatively, the operation information may include information on a date on which the image capturing device was operated.The operation information may include information on an activation time of the image capturing device.

[0089] In addition to operation information, history information may also include, for example, setting information regarding the settings of the image capture device. Examples of setting information include setting parameters set in the image capture device. Examples of setting parameters include ISO, exposure, focus, aperture, and white balance. Even without user operation, the setting parameters may include a default setting parameter set.

[0090] For example, this allows the information processing device 10 to obtain information about how the image capture device has been set up. Therefore, the way to use the image capture device becomes clearer.

[0091] Alternatively, the historical information may include sensor information obtained by a sensor.

[0092] For example, this allows the information processing device 10 to obtain information about, for example, the circumstances in which the image capture device was used. Furthermore, for example, the information processing device 10 can obtain information about what information the image capture device has obtained. Thus, the manner in which the image capture device is used becomes clearer.

[0093] The sensor information may include environmental information about the environment surrounding the image capture device. The environmental information may include information about, for example, temperature, humidity, aroma, time, brightness, audio, acceleration, angular velocity, etc. For example, it is possible to specify whether the image capture device is fixed to a tripod based on the information about the angular velocity.

[0094] This allows the information processing device 10 to obtain information about, for example, the environment in which the image capture device is used. Therefore, the way the image capture device is used becomes clearer.

[0095] Alternatively, the sensor information may include image information obtained by a solid-state imaging element included in an image capture device.

[0096] For example, this allows the information processing device 10 to obtain information about the content photographed by the image capture device. Therefore, the way of using the image capture device becomes clearer.

[0097] Alternatively, the sensor information may include position information indicating a position where the image capturing device exists. The position information is obtained by using, for example, a global positioning system (GPS) or the like.

[0098] For example, this allows the information processing device 10 to obtain information about the location where the image capturing device exists. Therefore, the way to use the image capturing device becomes clearer.

[0099] Meanwhile, as described above, content-related historical information about content is an example of historical information. On the other hand, content-independent historical information that is not related to content is also an example of historical information. This will be described using the following specific example.

[0100] For example, assuming a three-day shooting schedule, content A for a news program is shot on the first day, content B for an entertainment program is shot on the second day, content C for a movie is shot on the third morning, and content D for a news program is shot on the third afternoon.

[0101] In this example, the history information indicates all histories about image capture devices used in a three-day shooting plan.The content-related history information is history information about each piece of content A to D.

[0102] When there are multiple pieces of content-related history information in this manner, the content-independent history information may be history information about other content. For example, the content-related history information for content A may be history information about content A (historical information corresponding to the shooting on the first day), and the content-independent history information for content A may be history information about contents B, C, and D (historical information corresponding to the shooting on the second and third days).

[0103] Alternatively, content-independent historical information may include historical information regarding image capture device functions that were not selected by the user during the three-day shooting schedule. For example, even with historical information regarding function settings or device connections before content shooting, if the settings are released or the device is removed during content shooting, this historical information may be content-independent historical information. Furthermore, historical information from a predetermined time after the image capture device's recording switch was turned on may also be content-independent historical information.

[0104] The history information may include content-related history information about one piece of content, may include multiple pieces of content-related history information about one piece of content, or may include multiple pieces of content-related history information about multiple pieces of content. In addition, the history information may include content-independent history information.

[0105] The history information may be recorded inside the image capturing device 20 or may be transmitted to the information processing device 10 without being recorded inside the image capturing device 20 .

[0106] In the historical information, a flag can be set to determine whether the historical information is content-related historical information or content-irrelevant historical information. The historical information can be recorded or transmitted while the flag is set in real time. Note that the historical information can be recorded or transmitted without setting the flag.

[0107] [(3) Product attribute information]

[0108] As described above, the product attribute information indicates the attributes of the product.

[0109] The product attribute information may include provision form information indicating the provision form of the product. Examples of provision forms include television broadcasting, television recording, Internet distribution, and movie screening.

[0110] For example, this allows the information processing device 10 to obtain information about the form in which products made using the image capture device are provided to the public. Since the form of provision varies depending on how the image capture device is used, the way the image capture device is used becomes clearer.

[0111] Alternatively, the product attribute information may include broadcast format information indicating the broadcast format of the product. Examples of the broadcast format include live broadcast and recorded broadcast.

[0112] For example, this allows the information processing device 10 to obtain information about the broadcast format of a product. Since the broadcast format varies depending on the way the image capturing device is used, the way the image capturing device is used becomes clearer.

[0113] The provision form information and the broadcast form information indicate how the product is transmitted to the public. On the other hand, the product attribute information may include information indicating what the product is.

[0114] For example, the product attribute information may include program information indicating the type of program as the product. Examples of program types include news programs, information programs, sports programs, cultural programs, entertainment programs, dramas, and movie programs.

[0115] For example, this allows the information processing device 10 to obtain information about the type of program as a product. Since the type of program varies depending on the way the image capture device is used, the way the image capture device is used becomes clearer.

[0116] In addition, for example, the product attribute information may include event information indicating the event type. Examples of event types include weddings, classes, gatherings, and sports. Here, sports types such as football, baseball, and basketball are also included in the event types.

[0117] In the case where the product is a "live football broadcast program," examples of the product attribute information include information indicating television broadcast, live broadcast, entertainment program, sports program, sports, and football. As will be described in detail later, each piece of information indicating all attributes having different hierarchical structures in this manner is included in the product attribute information.

[0118] [(4) Related information]

[0119] As described above, the associated information is information in which history information and product attribute information are associated with each other. Figure 2 Describes the associated information. Figure 2 is a database illustrating an example of association information according to the present embodiment.

[0120] like Figure 2 As shown in , information about the date the image capture device was used, which is included in the operation information as historical information, information about the codec, which is included in the operation information as historical information, and product attribute information are associated with each other. For example, the image capture device, which is an image capture device, was used for a wedding on January 2, 2020, and video information was recorded using the codec called X-AVC.

[0121] [(5) Usage Information]

[0122] As described above, usage information indicates the user's usage of the image capture device according to the product's attributes. The usage information generation unit 1 generates usage information based on the associated information. By using information in which history information and product attribute information are associated with each other, the usage information generation unit 1 can analyze the history information for each attribute of the product.

[0123] Usage information may include statistical information related to product attributes. Statistical information includes, for example, numerical values obtained by aggregating data and creating graphs or tables. Alternatively, statistical information may include characteristics of the data, such as averages or trends in a graph or table.

[0124] For example, this allows the information processing device 10 to obtain a trend in the user's usage status of the image capturing device.

[0125] Usage information may include statistical information based on the association information of the attributes of a single product, or may include statistical information based on the association information of the attributes of multiple products. Statistical information based on the association information of the attributes of a single product may include, for example, information such as "many lenses manufactured by Company X are used for sports." Statistical information based on the association information of the attributes of multiple products may include, for example, information such as "there is a correlation between lenses used for sports and weddings."

[0126] Furthermore, the usage information generating unit 1 may generate usage information based on association information associated with one type of content-related history information, or may generate usage information based on association information associated with a plurality of types of content-related history information.

[0127] Hereinafter, usage information based on association information associated with one type of content-related history information will be described by way of example. Note that there may be other examples.

[0128] The usage information generating unit 1 may generate usage information based on the association information associated with the connection device information, which indicates, for example, that a high-power zoom lens tends to be used in the attribute "cultural program".

[0129] The usage information generating unit 1 can generate usage information based on the association information associated with the setting information, which indicates, for example, that manual focus is tended to be used in the attribute "drama".

[0130] The usage information generating unit 1 can generate usage information based on the association information associated with the environmental information, indicating that, for example, in the attribute "sports broadcast", the image capturing device tends to be fixed to a tripod.

[0131] The usage information generating unit 1 can generate usage information based on the association information associated with the image information, indicating that, for example, celebrities tend to be appointed as hosts in the attribute "news program".

[0132] The usage information generating unit 1 can generate usage information based on the association information associated with the position information. This indicates, for example, that movies tend to be shot in predetermined studios in the attribute "movie".

[0133] Furthermore, the usage information generating unit 1 may generate usage information based on associated information associated with a plurality of types of content-related history information. For example, regarding image capture devices used for news programs, this may indicate a tendency to use the autofocus function when lens P is attached and to use the manual focus function when lens Q is attached.

[0134] Furthermore, one of the plurality of types may be time.The usage information generating unit 1 may generate usage information based on association information associated with the time when the image capturing device was used, other content-related history information, and the like.

[0135] This makes it clear how image capture devices are used depending on the time zone. For example, this indicates that image capture devices used for sports broadcasts have a tendency in ISO values during the day and ISO values at night.

[0136] Alternatively, the use information generating unit 1 may generate use information based on associated information arranged in time series according to the time when the image capturing device is used. This will refer to Figure 3 Provide a description. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of usage information according to the present embodiment. Figure 3 The information generation unit 1 is based on Figure 2 An example of usage information generated by the associated information shown in .

[0137] Figure 3 The graphs for each attribute of the product are shown. In each graph, the horizontal axis represents time and the vertical axis represents the number of times recorded. Figure 3 When the number of records in is one, Figure 2 One row in the is counted.

[0138] like Figure 3 As shown in , the operation information as historical information is analyzed for each attribute of the product. For example, Figure 3 In the attribute "Wedding" shown in A, the number of times the codec "X-AVC" is used is greater than the number of times the codec "RAW" is used. Figure 3 In the attribute "news program" shown in B, the number of times the codec "X-AVC" is used decreases, while the number of times the codec "RAW" is used increases over time. Figure 3 In the attribute "Movie" shown in C, the number of times the codec "RAW" is used increases over time, while the number of times the codec "X-AVC" is used decreases and then remains almost unchanged.

[0139] In addition to statistical information, for example, usage information may also include information obtained from statistical information. Usage information may include, for example, Figure 3 The information such as “In news programs, the number of times RAW is used is increasing” is obtained in the graph shown in . The usage information generating unit 1 can generate such information.

[0140] Traditionally, it has been difficult to fully analyze how image capture devices are used because the product's attributes are unknown. For example, it's difficult to estimate the reasons for an increase or decrease in codec usage.

[0141] According to this technology, the generation of usage information makes it clear how image capture devices are used based on the attributes of their products. This enables, for example, the usage information to be used for market analysis related to image capture devices. Alternatively, the usage information can be used to develop the next product using the image capture device.

[0142] Hereinafter, the use of usage information in market analysis, development of the next product, etc. will be described as an example.

[0143] The usage information can be used to specify areas to focus on in the development of the next product, the update of firmware, etc. For example, frequently used functions, setting parameters, and connected devices can be focused on in the development of the next product, the update of firmware, etc.

[0144] As a specific example, in a field where the market scale is expanding (product attributes), if usage information indicates that zoom lenses with a focal length of 18 to 55 mm are frequently used, developers can focus on developing a successor zoom lens. Alternatively, in a field where the market scale is expanding, if usage information indicates that autofocus functions are frequently used, development costs related to improving autofocus functions can be input.

[0145] On the other hand, less frequently used functions and the like can be deleted in the development of the next product, the update of firmware, etc. This makes it possible to improve usability, reduce development costs, and the like.

[0146] Alternatively, usage information can be used to specify areas to focus on in advertising campaigns, etc. For example, if a feature is important in the future product strategic roadmap but is used less frequently, an advertising campaign related to the feature can be proactively executed.

[0147] As a specific example, in a case where a network function is added to a broadcast station but the function is less frequently used, an advertising campaign related to the network function may be proactively performed for the broadcast station.

[0148] Alternatively, usage information may be used to evaluate products when they are shipped, etc. For example, evaluation criteria may be formulated based on frequency of use.

[0149] As a specific example, the evaluation under environmental conditions frequently occurring in the market place may be considered to be particularly important.

[0150] Alternatively, usage information can be used to designate and evaluate members used in the development of the next product, etc. For example, designation of members, formulation of evaluation criteria, etc. can be performed based on the usage status obtained by the user from the temperature, humidity, acceleration, cumulative number of button presses, etc. included in the sensor information.

[0151] As a specific example, a member who can withstand the cumulative number of times the recording start button is pressed may be selected.

[0152] [2. [Second embodiment of the present technology (Example 2 of the information processing device)]

[0153] The information processing device 10 may further include an associated information generating unit that generates associated information. Figure 4 Provide a description. Figure 4 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an information processing apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Note that similar components to those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted.

[0154] like Figure 4 As shown in , the information processing apparatus 10 may further include an association information generating unit 5. The association information generating unit 5 may be realized by using, for example, a program, a CPU, or the like.

[0155] The association information generating unit 5 and the use information generating unit 1 are connected to each other. The association information generated by the association information generating unit 5 is transmitted to the use information generating unit 1.

[0156] Will refer to Figure 5 The processing of the association information generating unit 5 is described. Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a processing example of the association information generating unit 5 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0157] like Figure 5 As shown in , the association information generating unit 5 first reads the history information (step S11). Next, the association information generating unit 5 reads the product attribute information (step S12). Finally, the association information generating unit 5 generates association information by associating the history information with the product attribute information (step S13).

[0158] According to the present embodiment, the information processing device 10 can generate association information by itself, for example, without obtaining association information from another information processing device.

[0159] Note that the information processing device 10 may be, for example, an image capturing device. When the information processing device 10 is an image capturing device, the information processing device 10 does not need to include the communication unit 3. The same applies to the third and seventh embodiments described later.

[0160] [3. Third embodiment of the present technology (Example 3 of the information processing device)]

[0161] The information processing device 10 may include an attribute information generating unit that generates product attribute information based on the history information. Figure 6 Provide a description. Figure 6 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an information processing device 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology. The information processing device 10 may be an image capture device. Note that similar components to those in the first and second embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0162] like Figure 6As shown in , the information processing apparatus 10 may further include an attribute information generating unit 6. The attribute information generating unit 6 may be realized by using, for example, a program, a CPU, or the like.

[0163] The attribute information generating unit 6 and the association information generating unit 5 are connected to each other. The product attribute information generated by the attribute information generating unit 6 is transmitted to the association information generating unit 5.

[0164] Will refer to Figure 7 The processing of the attribute information generating unit 6 is described. Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the attribute information generation unit 6 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0165] like Figure 7 As shown in FIG, the attribute information generation unit 6 first analyzes the history information (step S21). For example, when the history information includes setting information, the attribute information generation unit 6 analyzes the setting parameters included in the setting information. For example, when the history information includes sensor information, the attribute information generation unit 6 analyzes the environmental information, image information, etc. included in the sensor information.

[0166] Next, the attribute information generating unit 6 generates product attribute information based on the history information (step 22). The history information may be one or more pieces of history information, but the accuracy of the product attribute information to be generated becomes higher in a plurality of pieces of history information.

[0167] The information processing device 10 according to this embodiment can obtain product attribute information without having the user input the product attribute information. This makes it possible to reduce the burden on the user, improve the reliability of the analysis results, etc.

[0168] Hereinafter, a specific example of generating product attribute information will be listed. The following is an example, and there may be other examples.

[0169] For example, when it can be analyzed based on the operation information that the streaming function is used (step S21), the attribute information generation unit 6 specifies that the form of provision is Internet distribution, and generates product attribute information corresponding thereto (step S22).

[0170] For example, when it is determined based on the angular velocity information included in the sensor information that the image capture device is stationary (step S21) and / or when it is determined based on the operation information that the image capture device has not been operated for a long time (step S21), the attribute information generation unit 6 specifies that the image capture device is a live camera. The usage information generation unit 1 then specifies that the provided format is Internet distribution, the broadcast format is live broadcast, and the program type is a news program, and generates product attribute information corresponding to these (step S22).

[0171] For example, when it is analyzed based on the operation information that the image capture device does not include a recording medium (step S21), the attribute information generation unit 6 specifies that the broadcast format is live broadcast and generates product attribute information corresponding to this (step S22). Alternatively, when it is analyzed based on the operation information that the image capture device includes a recording medium (step S21), the attribute information generation unit 6 specifies that the broadcast format is recorded broadcast and generates product attribute information corresponding to this (step S22).

[0172] For example, when it can be analyzed from the position information that the image capture device is placed in a television broadcasting station based on the position information and audio information included in the sensor information (step S21) and / or when it can be analyzed that music is included in the audio information (step S21), the attribute information generation unit 6 specifies that the type of the program is a music program and generates product attribute information corresponding to this (step S22).

[0173] For example, when it can be analyzed from the position information that the image capture device is placed in a concert hall based on the position information and audio information included in the sensor information (step S21) and / or when it can be analyzed that music is included in the audio information (step S21), the attribute information generation unit 6 specifies that the type of event is a concert and generates product attribute information corresponding to this (step S22).

[0174] For example, when it can be analyzed from the audio information that the audio information contains music and wedding songs that are frequently used in weddings based on the audio information and image information included in the sensor information (step S21), and / or when it can be analyzed that the image information includes an image of a woman wearing white clothes (step S21), the attribute information generation unit 6 specifies that the type of event is a wedding and generates product attribute information corresponding to this (step S22).

[0175] For example, when it can be analyzed from the location information that the image capture device is placed in a school based on the location information, audio information and image information included in the sensor information (step S21), and / or when it can be analyzed that the audio information includes the audio of the teacher (step S21), and / or when it can be analyzed that the image information includes the image of the blackboard (step S21), the attribute information generation unit 6 specifies that the type of event is teaching, and generates product attribute information corresponding to this (step S22).

[0176] For example, when it can be analyzed from the position information that the image capture device is placed in a football field based on the position information, audio information and image information included in the sensor information (step S21), and / or when it can be analyzed that the image information includes images of grass and football (step S21), and / or when it can be analyzed that the audio information includes the cheers of the audience (step S21), the information generation unit 1 is used to specify the type of event as football and generate product attribute information corresponding to this (step S22).

[0177] In addition, the usage information generation unit 1 may also generate product attribute information based on information disclosed on the Internet or the like. For example, the usage information generation unit 1 may generate product attribute information by collating television program guide information and historical information. More specifically, when the information about the broadcast date and time included in the television program guide information matches the information about the date and time of use of the image capture device included in the operation information, and the information about the broadcast location (e.g., a football field) included in the television program guide information matches the location information (e.g., a football field) included in the sensor information (step S21), the usage information generation unit 1 specifies that the form of the broadcast is a live broadcast, specifies that the type of event is football, and generates product attribute information corresponding to these (step S22).

[0178] Note that the usage information generating unit 1 may perform machine learning by using training data having history information as input information and product attribute information as output information.

[0179] The type of historical information used to generate product attribute information varies depending on the type of product attribute information. Therefore, the type of product attribute information and the type of historical information used to generate product attribute information can be associated with each other. This will refer to Figure 8 Provide a description. Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the association between the types of product attribute information and the types of history information according to the present embodiment.

[0180] like Figure 8 As shown in , the types of product attribute information and historical information are associated with each other. For example, the types of historical information used to generate product attribute information about "music program" are, for example, location information, audio information, etc. Similarly, the types of historical information used to generate product attribute information about "lecture" are, for example, location information, audio information, and image information.

[0181] For example, Figure 8 The explanatory diagrams shown in can be stored in the storage unit 2 or the like as a database.

[0182] According to this embodiment, the association between product attribute information and history information becomes clear, thereby improving the accuracy of usage information to be generated.

[0183] [4. Fourth embodiment of the present technology (Example 4 of the information processing device)]

[0184] The usage information may be generated for each level of the attributes of the product. For example, the usage information generating unit 1 may generate usage information for each level of the attributes of the product.

[0185] Will refer to Figure 9 A hierarchy of attributes that describes a product. Figure 9 is a database illustrating an example of usage information according to this embodiment. Figure 9 As shown in , usage information is generated for each hierarchy of product attributes. Note that Figure 9 Each of the multiple attributes shown in is product attribute information.

[0186] For example, the attribute "TV program" includes the attributes "news program," "information program," and "entertainment program" in its lower layer. Furthermore, "entertainment program" includes the attributes "music program" and "quiz show" in its lower layer. In this way, usage information has a hierarchical structure.

[0187] The attribute "TV program" shows 10 times the image capture device was used (shot). A breakdown of these 10 times is shown for each of the underlying attributes. Specifically, of these 10 times, the attribute "News program" shows 6 shots, and the attribute "Entertainment program" shows 4 shots. Furthermore, the same breakdown of these 4 shots is shown for each of the underlying attributes "Music program" and "Quiz show."

[0188] According to the present embodiment, since usage information is generated for each level of attributes of a product in this manner, the attributes of the product as the purpose of the image capturing device become clearer, and thus the way of using the image capturing device becomes clearer.

[0189] [5. Fifth embodiment of the present technology (Example 5 of the information processing device)]

[0190] In the first embodiment, the usage information generated by analyzing one piece of association information has been described.

[0191] Alternatively, the usage information can be generated by analyzing multiple pieces of associated information generated for each of the multiple pieces of content. That is, the associated information generation unit 5 generates associated information for each of the multiple pieces of content. Thus, multiple pieces of associated information are generated. The usage information generation unit 1 generates the usage information by analyzing the multiple pieces of associated information.

[0192] For example, this allows the information processing device 10 to comprehensively analyze multiple types of usage information.

[0193] For example, it can be seen that a high-magnification zoom lens tends to be used in the attribute "cultural program", while a wide-angle lens tends to be used in the attribute "movie".

[0194] Alternatively, for example, it is indicated that manual focus is preferred in the attribute "drama", while automatic focus is preferred in the attribute "news program".

[0195] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, since the usage information is generated based on a plurality of pieces of association information, the accuracy of the usage information is improved compared to the case where one piece of association information is used.

[0196] Multiple pieces of content may be captured by one image capture device. Alternatively, multiple pieces of content may be captured by multiple image capture devices. This will refer to Figure 10 Provide a description. Figure 10 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an information processing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Note that similar constituent elements to those in the first and second embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted.

[0197] like Figure 10 As shown in , the information processing system 100 according to the present embodiment may include a plurality of image capturing devices (20, 21, 22) and the information processing device 10. Note that the number of image capturing devices is not limited to three.

[0198] Each of the plurality of image capturing devices (20, 21, 22) is connected to the information processing device 10 via the information communication network 30. Note that each of the plurality of image capturing devices (20, 21, 22) and the information processing device 10 does not need to be connected via the information communication network 30.

[0199] Each of the plurality of image capture devices (20, 21, 22) captures content for producing a product. Thus, a plurality of pieces of content are generated. Note that each of the plurality of image capture devices (20, 21, 22) can capture the same content.

[0200] The association information generation unit 5 (not shown) included in the information processing device 10 generates association information for each of the plurality of pieces of content. Thus, a plurality of pieces of association information are generated. The usage information generation unit 1 (not shown) included in the information processing device 10 generates usage information by analyzing the plurality of pieces of association information.

[0201] This allows the information processing device 10 to analyze the usage status of content corresponding to each of the plurality of image capturing devices. For example, it becomes possible to analyze the usage status according to the model, size, sales area, etc. of the image capturing device.

[0202] [6. Sixth embodiment of the present technology (Example 6 of the information processing device)]

[0203] The content-related history information may include specific operation-related information regarding a user's specific operation on the image capturing device.

[0204] As described above, content-related historical information is historical information in which historical information about content has been selected from historical information. Since content is captured by a specific operation of the user, the specific operation-related information can be said to be content-related historical information about the content to be captured. Specific operation-related information includes, for example, information about the button pressed by the user, and information about the image capture device settings at the time the button was pressed.

[0205] The association information generating unit 5 generates association information by associating specific operation-related information as content association history information with product attribute information.

[0206] Here, the association information generating unit 5 may associate all specific operation related information included in the history information. Alternatively, the association information generating unit 5 may select specific operation related information from the history information and associate it as content related history information. The usage information to be generated varies according to this range.

[0207] This improves the accuracy of selecting content-related history information from among the history information. Since history information not related to the content is prevented from being erroneously associated, more accurate usage information is generated.

[0208] In addition, although the selection is not particularly limited, for example, when a user performs multiple specific operations in a short period of time, it can be estimated that these multiple operations are related to each other. Therefore, the content-related historical information can be information selected from the historical information based on time information. This will refer to Figure 11 Provide a description. Figure 11 is a conceptual diagram for explaining content-related history information according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0209] exist Figure 11 In the example, the horizontal axis represents time. Figure 11 As shown in , historical information is recorded over time.

[0210] For example, when a user presses the shutter button of an image capture device (second history information b), content-related history information includes the immediately preceding image capture device setting information (first history information a), the immediately following image information (third history information c), and so on. In other words, the first through third history information a through c are selected from the history information based on time information. In other words, the first through third history information a through c are information related to specific operations.

[0211] Alternatively, for example, when a user turns the recording switch of an image capture device on (fourth history information d) and off (sixth history information f), the content-related history information includes image information (fifth history information e) within the period from fourth history information d to sixth history information f. That is, fourth history information d to sixth history information f are selected from the history information based on time information. In other words, fourth history information d to sixth history information f are information related to specific operations.

[0212] The usage information generating unit 1 may generate usage information based on association information associated with content-related history information selected from among history information based on time information.

[0213] By being selected from among the history information based on the time information, the information processing device 10 can more accurately determine whether the history information is related to the content or irrelevant to the content.

[0214] [7. Seventh embodiment of the present technology (Example 7 of the information processing device)]

[0215] The generated usage information can be used for the settings of the image capture device 20. Figure 12 Provide a description. Figure 12 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an information processing device 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology. The information processing device 10 may be an image capture device. Note that similar components to those in the first and second embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0216] like Figure 12 As shown in , the information processing device 10 may further include a setting update information generating unit 7 .

[0217] The usage information generating unit 1 and the setting update information generating unit 7 are connected. The usage information generated by the usage information generating unit 1 is transmitted to the setting update information generating unit 7.

[0218] The setting update information generation unit 7 can generate, based on the usage information, setting update information for the settings of the image capturing device 20. The setting update information generation unit 7 can be realized by using, for example, a program, a CPU, or the like.

[0219] For example, the setting update information may be setting parameters of the image capture device 20 (not shown). The setting update information generation unit 7 generates recommended setting parameters based on the usage information. For example, the setting update information generation unit 7 generates setting parameters that are frequently set when the attribute of the product is "wedding."

[0220] The setting parameters can be transmitted to the image capture device 20 via, for example, the information communication network 30 (not shown). The image capture device 20 can update the settings by using the transmitted setting parameters. Through this update, the setting parameters of the image capture device 20 are changed or maintained.

[0221] Conventionally, it has been difficult to set parameters for image capture devices according to operation, situation, and the like, often requiring skilled techniques. According to the present technology, the settings of the image capture device 20 are updated using setting parameters recommended based on the user's usage status. As a result, even users with little shooting experience can perform shooting like an expert.

[0222] The image capture device 20 may display the recommended setting parameters on a screen, etc. For example, the image capture device 20 may display an appropriate ISO value in a highlighted manner, or may display recommended selection items at a location that can be easily selected by the user, such as at the top of the screen.

[0223] For example, the setting update information may be information about functions included in the image capture device 20. The setting update information generation unit 7 generates information about recommended functions based on the usage information. For example, if the attribute of the product is "wedding" and the autofocus function tends to be frequently used, the setting update information generation unit 7 generates setting update information for setting the image capture device 20 to autofocus.

[0224] The information about the functions is transmitted to the image capture device 20 via, for example, the information communication network 30. The image capture device 20 can use the transmitted information about the functions to encourage the user to use the recommended functions according to the user's usage status. Alternatively, the image capture device 20 can be provided with functions recommended according to the user's usage status.

[0225] Conventionally, image capture devices have a wealth of functions, but due to the abundance, it is often difficult to fully utilize these functions. According to the present technology, the image capture device 20 can encourage the user to use functions recommended according to the user's usage status.

[0226] Furthermore, according to the present technology, functions that are lacking in the image capturing device can be added through, for example, firmware update or the like.

[0227] For example, the setting update information may be information about a device to be connected to the image capturing device 20. The setting update information generating unit 7 generates information about a recommended device based on the usage information. Examples of this device include a lens.

[0228] Conventionally, a wide variety of devices are connected to image capture devices, but selecting a device based on the user's usage status is difficult and often requires specialized skills. According to the present technology, image capture device 20 can encourage users to connect devices recommended based on their usage status. This makes it easier to select a device based on the user's usage status. Furthermore, promotional activities for recommended devices are anticipated.

[0229] [8. Eighth embodiment of the present technology (image capturing device)]

[0230] The image capturing device 20 according to the embodiment of the present technology can generate association information. This allows the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment of the present technology to generate usage information based on the association information.

[0231] Will refer to Figure 13 The image capturing device 20 according to an embodiment of the present technology is described. Figure 13 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image capturing apparatus 20 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Note that similar constituent elements to those in the first and second embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted.

[0232] like Figure 13 As shown in FIG, the image capturing device 20 may include, for example, an association information generating unit 5, an operating unit 8, a sensor 9, a storage unit 2, a communication unit 3, and a control unit 4. Although not shown, each configuration element is connected to each other by, for example, a bus as a data transmission path.

[0233] The operation unit 8 encourages the user to operate the image capturing device 20. The operation unit 8 can be implemented by using, for example, a button, a switch, or the like.

[0234] The sensor 9 obtains sensor information. The sensor 9 can be implemented by using, for example, a thermometer, a hygrometer, a clock, a gyro sensor, a solid-state imaging element, a GPS receiver, or the like.

[0235] The storage unit 2 stores, for example, history information, associated information, etc. The storage unit 2 can be implemented by using, for example, a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), etc.

[0236] The communication unit 3 performs information communication with the information processing device 10 via, for example, an information communication network 30 (not shown), etc. The communication unit 3 can transmit, for example, associated information to the information processing device 10.

[0237] The associated information generating unit 5 generates associated information. The associated information generating unit 5 generates associated information by associating history information obtained by the sensor 9 or the like with product attribute information generated based on the history information.

[0238] According to the present technology, the associated information is generated inside the image capturing device 20. Therefore, there is no need to transmit large-sized image information to the information processing device 10. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the bandwidth of the information communication network 30, the storage capacity of the information processing device 10, etc. from being squeezed.

[0239] Although not shown, the image capturing device 20 may further include an attribute information generating unit 6, a usage information generating unit 1, and a setting update information generating unit 7. Alternatively, the image capturing device 20 may include the attribute information generating unit 6 or the like instead of the association information generating unit 5, for example.

[0240] [9. Ninth embodiment of the present technology (information processing method)]

[0241] The information processing method according to an embodiment of the present technology is a method in which a user generates usage information indicating the usage status of an image capture device using a computer. Note that the information processing method according to this embodiment can utilize the techniques described in the above embodiments. Therefore, the techniques described in the above embodiments will not be described further.

[0242] The information processing method according to the present embodiment uses content-related history information, which is history information indicating the history of the image capturing device and is related to content captured by the image capturing device for product production.

[0243] Furthermore, the information processing method according to the present embodiment uses product attribute information indicating attributes of a product.

[0244] Will refer to Figure 14 An information processing method according to the present embodiment is described. Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the information processing method according to the present embodiment.

[0245] like Figure 14 As shown in , the information processing method according to the present embodiment includes generating usage information based on association information (step S1 ).

[0246] The associated information is information associated with content-related history information and product attribute information.

[0247] The information processing method according to this embodiment can be implemented by using software and hardware. Specifically, for example, the CPU included in the hardware reads a program for implementing the information processing method according to this embodiment, thereby implementing the information processing method according to this embodiment.

[0248] Besides this, the configurations described in the above embodiments can be appropriately selected or changed to other configurations without departing from the gist of the present technology.

[0249] Note that the effects described in this description are merely examples and not limitations, and other effects may be provided.

[0250] Note that the present technology can also have the following configurations. [1]

[0252] An information processing device that generates usage information indicating a usage status of an image capture device by a user according to attributes of a product based on associated information, in which content-related history information and product attribute information indicating the attributes of the product are associated with each other, and the content-related history information is history information indicating a history related to the image capture device and is related to content photographed by the image capture device for producing the product. [2]

[0254] The information processing device according to [1], wherein

[0255] The history information includes operation information about the user's operation on the image capturing device. [3]

[0257] The information processing device according to [1] or [2], wherein

[0258] The history information includes setting information about settings of the image capturing device. [4]

[0260] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein

[0261] The history information includes sensor information obtained by the sensors. [5]

[0263] The information processing device according to [4], wherein

[0264] The sensor information includes environmental information about the environment surrounding the image capture device. [6]

[0266] The information processing device according to [4] or [5], wherein

[0267] The sensor information includes image information obtained by a solid-state imaging element included in the image capture device. [7]

[0269] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [4] to [6], wherein

[0270] The sensor information includes position information indicating a position where the image capturing device exists. [8]

[0272] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein

[0273] The product attribute information includes provision form information indicating the provision form of the product. [9]

[0275] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein

[0276] The product attribute information includes broadcast format information indicating the broadcast format of the product.

[10]

[0278] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein

[0279] The product attribute information includes program information indicating the type of program as a product.

[11]

[0281] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[10] , wherein

[0282] The product attribute information includes event information indicating the type of the event.

[12]

[0284] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[11] , wherein

[0285] The usage information includes statistical information related to the product's attributes.

[13]

[0287] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[12] , wherein

[0288] The information processing device generates associated information.

[14]

[0290] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[13] , wherein

[0291] Product attribute information is generated based on historical information.

[15]

[0293] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[14] , wherein

[0294] The type of product attribute information and the type of history information used to generate the product attribute information are associated with each other.

[16]

[0296] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[15] , wherein

[0297] The usage information is generated by analyzing a plurality of pieces of associated information generated for each of the plurality of pieces of content.

[17]

[0299] The information processing device according to

[16] , wherein

[0300] The multiple pieces of content are captured by multiple image capture devices.

[18]

[0302] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[17] , wherein

[0303] Usage information is generated for each level of attributes of the product.

[19]

[0305] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[18] , wherein

[0306] The content-related history information includes specific operation-related information regarding a user's specific operation on the image capturing device.

[20]

[0308] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[19] , wherein

[0309] The content-related history information is information selected from the history information based on time information. [twenty one]

[0311] The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[20] , wherein

[0312] The information processing device generates setting update information for settings of the image capturing device based on the usage information. [twenty two]

[0314] An image capturing device generates association information in which content-related history information and product attribute information indicating attributes of a product are associated with each other, the content-related history information being history information indicating the history of the image capturing device and being associated with content photographed by the image capturing device for producing the product. [twenty three]

[0316] An information processing method in which usage information indicating a usage status of an image capture device by a user according to attributes of a product is generated based on associated information, in which content-related history information and product attribute information indicating the attributes of the product are associated with each other, and the content-related history information is history information indicating the history of the image capture device and is related to content photographed by the image capture device for making the product.

[0317] Reference Signs List

[0318] 1Usage information generation unit

[0319] 2 storage units

[0320] 3 Communication Unit

[0321] 4Control Unit

[0322] 5Related information generation unit

[0323] 6 Attribute information generation unit

[0324] 7Setting update information generation unit

[0325] 8 operating units

[0326] 9 sensors

[0327] 10Information processing equipment

[0328] 20 image capture devices

[0329] 30 Information and Communication Network

[0330] S1 generates usage information

Claims

1. An information processing device that generates usage information indicating a usage status of an image capture device by a user according to attributes of a product based on association information, wherein content-related history information and product attribute information indicating the attributes of the product are associated with each other, the content-related history information being history information indicating a history related to the image capture device and related to content photographed by the image capture device for production of the product; The product attribute information includes i) provision form information indicating the provision form of the product or ii) program information indicating the type of program serving as the product.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein The history information includes operation information about the user's operation on the image capturing device.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein The history information includes sensor information obtained by the sensors. The information processing device according to claim 3 , wherein The sensor information includes environmental information about the environment surrounding the image capture device.

5. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein The sensor information includes image information obtained by a solid-state imaging element included in the image capture device. The information processing device according to claim 3 , wherein The sensor information includes position information indicating a position where the image capturing device exists.

7. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein The usage information includes statistical information related to the product's attributes. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein The information processing device generates associated information.

9. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein Product attribute information is generated based on historical information.

10. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein The type of product attribute information and the type of history information used to generate the product attribute information are associated with each other.

11. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein The usage information is generated by analyzing a plurality of pieces of associated information generated for each of the plurality of pieces of content.

12. The information processing device according to claim 11, wherein The plurality of pieces of content are captured by a plurality of image capture devices.

13. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein Usage information is generated for each level of attributes of the product.

14. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein The content-related history information includes specific operation-related information regarding a user's specific operation on the image capturing device.

15. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein The content-related history information is information selected from the history information based on time information.

16. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein The information processing device generates setting update information for settings of the image capturing device based on the usage information.

17. An image capturing device that generates association information in which content-related history information and product attribute information indicating attributes of a product are associated with each other, the content-related history information being history information indicating a history of the image capturing device and associated with content photographed by the image capturing device for production of the product; The product attribute information includes i) provision form information indicating the provision form of the product or ii) program information indicating the type of program serving as the product.

18. An information processing method, wherein usage information indicating a usage status of an image capture device by a user according to attributes of a product is generated based on association information, wherein content-related history information and product attribute information indicating the attributes of the product are associated with each other, the content-related history information being history information indicating a history of the image capture device and being associated with content photographed by the image capture device for production of the product; The product attribute information includes i) provision form information indicating the provision form of the product or ii) program information indicating the type of program serving as the product.

Images