Content output system and content output control method

Abstract

The invention provides a content output system and a content output control method, which can improve the convenience of a passenger (P) related to content output in a vehicle (1) equipped with a plurality of content output devices (14). A content output system (12) is provided with: a plurality of content output devices mounted on a vehicle; and a control unit (19) that controls the content output device, the control unit being provided with: a first content acquisition unit (101) that acquires content by receiving broadcast waves; a second content acquisition unit (102) that acquires content by receiving data from the Internet; and an output control unit (103) that causes the content output device to output content, the output control unit determining the content to be output by the content output device as the content acquired by the first content acquisition unit or the content acquired by the second content acquisition unit on the basis of the reception status of the broadcast wave and the communication status of the Internet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a content output system and a content output control method. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, techniques for controlling multiple content output devices mounted in a vehicle were known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses displays provided as multiple content output devices mounted in a vehicle in locations corresponding to each seat in the vehicle. In addition, Patent Document 1 discloses an in-vehicle device that outputs application functions from a portable terminal device brought into the vehicle through a display corresponding to the portable terminal device.

[0003] [Existing technical documents]

[0004] [Patent Literature]

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5298811 Summary of the Invention

[0006] [The problem the invention aims to solve]

[0007] However, some vehicle-mounted content output devices are capable of outputting both content received from broadcast waves and content received from the Internet. In such devices, occupants can perform specific operations such as switching between content based on the broadcast wave reception and Internet communication conditions. Therefore, when multiple such content output devices exist in a vehicle, performing specific operations on each device can sometimes be time-consuming for occupants, thus there is room for improvement in occupant convenience related to content output.

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to improve the convenience of passengers related to content output in a vehicle equipped with multiple content output devices.

[0009] [Methods used to solve problems]

[0010] One aspect of the present invention is a content output system comprising: a plurality of content output devices mounted in a vehicle; and a control unit for controlling the content output devices, the control unit comprising: a first content acquisition unit that acquires content by receiving broadcast waves; a second content acquisition unit that acquires content by receiving data from the Internet; and an output control unit that causes the content output devices to output content, the output control unit determining, based on the reception status of the broadcast waves and the communication status of the Internet, whether the content output by the content output devices is the content acquired by the first content acquisition unit (i.e., first content) or the content acquired by the second content acquisition unit (i.e., second content).

[0011] [Invention Effects]

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, in a vehicle equipped with multiple content output devices, the convenience of passengers related to content output can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the structure of the vehicle.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the content output system.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the control ECU.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the control ECU in the first process.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the control ECU in the second process.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the control ECU in the third process.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the control ECU in the fourth process. Detailed Implementation

[0020] [1. Vehicle Structure]

[0021] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the structure of vehicle 1.

[0022] Figure 1 The vehicle 1 illustrated is a four-wheeled vehicle. Vehicle 1 includes a driver's seat 10A, a front passenger seat 10B, a right rear seat 10C, and a left rear seat 10D. Figure 1 In vehicle 1, driver P1 and passenger P2 are passengers P of vehicle 1. Figure 1 In vehicle 1, the driver P1 is shown seated in driver's seat 10A. Additionally, in... Figure 1 In vehicle 1, the situation is shown where passenger P2 is seated in the front passenger seat 10B.

[0023] Vehicle 1 has a right front door 11A, a left front door 11B, a right rear door 11C, a left rear door 11D, and a tailgate 11E. Access to the passenger compartment of vehicle 1 is possible by opening the right front door 11A, left front door 11B, right rear door 11C, and left rear door 11D. The tailgate 11E is used to open and close the trunk of vehicle 1.

[0024] Vehicle 1 is equipped with a content output system 12. The content output system 12 is a system that outputs content to the vehicle interior.

[0025] The content output system 12 is equipped with seating sensors 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D that detect the weight applied to the seats. Seating sensor 13A is located in the driver's seat 10A, seating sensor 13B is located in the front passenger seat 10B, seating sensor 13C is located in the right rear seat 10C, and seating sensor 13D is located in the left rear seat 10D.

[0026] In the following description, without distinguishing between seating sensors 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D, the reference numeral "13" is used to refer to "seating sensor 13".

[0027] The content output system 12 includes content output devices 14A and 14B for outputting content. Content output device 14A includes a display 15A and a speaker 16A. Content output device 14B includes a display 15B and a speaker 16B.

[0028] In the following description, without distinguishing between content output devices 14A and 14B, the symbol “14” is used to represent “content output device 14”.

[0029] Displays 15A and 15B consist of a display panel for displaying text or images and a touch sensor for detecting contact with the display panel, either overlapped or integrated. Displays 15A and 15B are located on the instrument panel 17. Display 15B is positioned closer to the passenger seat 10B than display 15A. In each display 15A and 15B, the type of content to be displayed can be selected by the occupant P through touch operation.

[0030] Speaker 16A outputs sound to the driver P1 seated in the driver's seat 10A. Speaker 16B outputs sound to the passenger P2 seated in the front passenger seat 10B. Furthermore, the placement of speakers 16A and 16B is not limited to... Figure 1 Any location that can output sound to the occupant P sitting in the corresponding seat is acceptable.

[0031] The content output system 12 includes cameras 18A and 18B for capturing images of the vehicle interior. Camera 18A is configured to capture the driver P1 seated in the driver's seat 10A. More specifically, camera 18A is configured to capture the head of driver P1 seated in the driver's seat 10A. Camera 18B is configured to capture the passenger P2 seated in the front passenger seat 10B. More specifically, camera 18B is configured to capture the head of passenger P2 seated in the front passenger seat 10B. Alternatively, cameras 18A and 18B can function as a single camera if they can capture both driver P1 and passenger P2.

[0032] The content output system 12 includes a control ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 19. The control ECU 19 is a control device for the content output device 14. The control ECU 19 includes a tuner 191 (see reference). Figure 2 It receives broadcast waves from radio broadcasts, television broadcasts, etc. Additionally, the control ECU 19 receives data from the Internet 2 via the TCU (Telematics Control Unit) 20. Furthermore, the control ECU 19 receives data from the Internet 2 via the portable terminal 3 brought into the vehicle 1.

[0033] The ECU19 is equivalent to the "control unit".

[0034] Vehicle 1 is equipped with TCU20. TCU20 is connected to Internet 2.

[0035] [2. Configuration of Content Output System]

[0036] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the content output system 12.

[0037] The control ECU 19 includes a control device 190, a tuner 191, and a communication unit 192.

[0038] Before describing the control device 190, the tuner 191 and the communication unit 192 will be described.

[0039] Tuner 191 operates under the control of control device 190. Tuner 191 receives broadcast waves via an antenna (not shown). Tuner 191 converts the received broadcast waves into a signal representing content-related information. Furthermore, tuner 191 outputs this converted signal to control device 190. The content-related information is content-related information, including content information indicating that the content output device 14 can output content, category information indicating the category of the content, etc. The content information includes image data and sound data when the content consists of both images and sound; image data when the content consists of images; and sound data when the content consists of sound.

[0040] In addition, tuner 191 outputs a signal indicating the received strength of the broadcast wave to control device 190.

[0041] The communication unit 192 includes communication hardware such as communication circuits and connectors. Under the control of the control device 190, the communication unit 192 receives data from the Internet 2 via the TCU 20 or the portable terminal 3. The communication unit 192 outputs the received data to the control device 190. In this embodiment, the communication unit 192 receives data containing content-related information.

[0042] The control device 190 includes a processor 100 (CPU, Central Processing Unit, MPU, Microprocessor Unit), a memory 110, and interface circuits for connecting other devices and sensors. The control device 190 is connected to a tuner 191, a communication unit 192, a seating sensor 13, a content output device 14, and cameras 18A and 18B.

[0043] Memory 110 is a storage device for storing programs and data. Memory 110 stores control program 111, data processed by processor 100, etc. Memory 110 has non-volatile storage areas. Alternatively, memory 110 may also have volatile storage areas, constituting the working area of ​​processor 100. Memory 110 is, for example, composed of ROM (Read-Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0044] Control program 111 is a program that enables processor 100 to function as a functional unit, as described later.

[0045] The processor 100 functions as a first content acquisition unit 101, a second content acquisition unit 102, an output control unit 103, a gaze detection unit 104, a seating status detection unit 105, a category determination unit 106, a processing load calculation unit 107, and a communication fee calculation unit 108 by executing the control program 111.

[0046] [2-1. First Content Acquisition Section]

[0047] The first content acquisition unit 101 acquires content by controlling the tuner 191 to receive broadcast waves. More specifically, the first content acquisition unit 101 acquires content-related information from the tuner 191 by controlling the tuner 191.

[0048] Hereinafter, the content acquired by the first content acquisition unit 101 will be referred to as "first content".

[0049] [2-2. Second Content Acquisition Section]

[0050] The second content acquisition unit 102 receives data from the Internet 2 via the control communication unit 192, thereby acquiring content. More specifically, the second content acquisition unit 102 acquires content-related information from the communication unit 192 via the control communication unit 192.

[0051] Hereinafter, the content acquired by the second content acquisition unit 102 will be referred to as "second content".

[0052] [2-3. Output Control Unit]

[0053] The output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 to output either first content or second content. The output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 to output the first content based on content association information obtained by the first content acquisition unit 101. The output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 to output the second content based on content association information obtained by the second content acquisition unit 102.

[0054] The output control unit 103 determines whether to set the content output by the content output device 14 as first content or second content based on the reception status of the broadcast wave and the communication status of the Internet 2. In this decision, the output control unit 103 obtains the reception strength of the broadcast wave from the tuner 191. In this decision, the output control unit 103 also obtains the communication speed of the Internet 2. Furthermore, the output control unit 103 sends acquisition data for obtaining the communication speed to the Internet 2 via the communication unit 192 and receives a response from the Internet 2. The output control unit 103 obtains the communication speed of the Internet 2 by dividing the amount of data in the response to the acquisition data by the time required to receive the response.

[0055] [2-4. Line of sight detection unit]

[0056] The gaze detection unit 104 detects the direction of the gaze of the occupant P. In this embodiment, the gaze detection unit 104 detects the direction of the gaze of the driver P1 when the driver P1 is seated in the driver's seat 10A. In addition, in this embodiment, the gaze detection unit 104 detects the direction of the gaze of the passenger P2 when the passenger P2 is seated in the front passenger seat 10B.

[0057] The gaze detection unit 104 detects the driver P1 from the captured image obtained by the camera 18A. The gaze detection unit 104 detects the face image using methods such as pattern matching, thereby detecting the driver P1 from the captured image obtained by the camera 18A. When the gaze detection unit 104 can detect the driver P1 from the captured image obtained by the camera 18A, it detects the eyes from the captured image using methods such as pattern matching and color analysis, and determines the direction in which the detected eyes are looking as the direction of the driver P1's gaze. Furthermore, the data required for eye detection (data on the shape and color of the eyes) is stored in the memory 110.

[0058] The gaze detection unit 104 detects passenger P2 from the captured image obtained by camera 18B. The gaze detection unit 104 detects passenger P2 from the captured image by using methods such as pattern matching to analyze the face image. When passenger P2 can be detected from the captured image obtained by camera 18B, the gaze detection unit 104 detects eyes from the captured image by using methods such as pattern matching or color matching, and determines the direction in which the detected eyes are looking as the direction of passenger P2's gaze.

[0059] [2-5. Seating Status Detection Department]

[0060] The seating status detection unit 105 detects the seating status of occupant P in vehicle 1 based on the detection results of the seating sensor 13. For example, only seating sensor 13A detects a weight exceeding a predetermined value. Furthermore, this predetermined value is the value that distinguishes whether a person is seated. In this example, the seating status detection unit 105 detects that occupant P is only seated in the driver's seat 10A as the seating status. Alternatively, for example, only seating sensors 13A and 13B detect a weight exceeding a predetermined value. In this example, the seating status detection unit 105 detects that occupant P is seated in both the driver's seat 10A and the front passenger seat 10B as the seating status.

[0061] [2-6. Category Determination Department]

[0062] The category determination unit 106 determines the category of the first content. The category determination unit 106 determines the category of the first content based on the category information of the content association information obtained by the first content acquisition unit 101. For example, if the category information indicates "traffic," the category determination unit 106 determines that the category of the first content is "traffic." Furthermore, content categorized as "traffic" refers to content such as traffic congestion, traffic closures, and accidents. Additionally, for example, if the category information indicates "news," the category determination unit 106 determines that the category of the first content is "news."

[0063] The category determination unit 106 determines the category of the second content. The category determination unit 106 determines the category of the second content based on the category information of the content association information obtained by the second content acquisition unit 102. For example, if the category information indicates "entertainment", the category determination unit 106 determines that the category of the second content is "entertainment".

[0064] [2-7. Load Calculation Unit]

[0065] The processing load calculation unit 107 calculates the processing load related to content output. The processing load related to content output includes the processing load related to content reception, the processing load related to content output, etc. The processing load calculation unit 107 calculates the processing load related to the output of the first content and the processing load related to the output of the second content using existing technology.

[0066] [2-8. Communication Fee Calculation Department]

[0067] The communication fee calculation unit 108 calculates the communication fee related to the reception of the second content. The communication fee calculation unit 108 calculates the communication fee related to the reception of the second content based on the amount of data received by the communication unit 192. For example, in the case of adding "β yen" to each received data amount αGB (gigabytes), the communication fee calculation unit 108 calculates the communication fee related to the reception of the second content based on the amount of data received by the communication unit 192 and an algorithm that adds "β yen" to each αGB.

[0068] [3. Controlling the ECU's actions]

[0069] Next, the operation of the control ECU19 will be explained.

[0070] In this embodiment, vehicle 1 is equipped with only one tuner 191. Therefore, in this embodiment, content output devices 14A and 14B cannot simultaneously output the first content. This is because tuner 191 cannot simultaneously receive broadcast waves of different frequencies. On the other hand, in this embodiment, content output devices 14A and 14B can simultaneously output the second content. Furthermore, when one of the content output devices 14A and 14B outputs the first content, the other content output devices 14 are configured to prevent the first content from being output by the operation of occupant P.

[0071] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of controlling ECU19.

[0072] The output control unit 103 determines whether the received strength of the broadcast wave is less than the second received strength which is lower than the first received strength, and whether the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than the second communication speed which is lower than the first communication speed (step S1).

[0073] Here, the first reception strength, the second reception strength, the first communication speed, and the second communication speed will be explained.

[0074] The first reception strength is the strength at which the output content is recommended to be switched to the second content. The second reception strength is the strength at which the output content is not recommended from an audiovisual perspective. The first and second reception strengths are determined through prior testing and simulation.

[0075] The first communication strength is the strength at which the output content is recommended to be switched to the first content. The second communication strength is the strength at which the output content is not recommended from an audiovisual perspective. The first and second communication strengths are determined through prior testing and simulation.

[0076] If the output control unit 103 determines that the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the second reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than the second communication speed (step S1: Yes), it will not cause the content output device 14 to output content (step S2).

[0077] If the content output device 14 has already output content in step S2, the output control unit 103 stops the content output device 14 from outputting content.

[0078] In addition, if the content output device 14 does not output content in step S2, the output control unit 103 may disable the software button for starting content output, making it impossible to output content through the operation of the displays 15A and 15B.

[0079] Returning to the explanation of step S1, if the output control unit 103 makes a negative determination in step S1 (step S1: no), it determines whether the first content is being output by either of the content output devices 14A and 14B (step S3).

[0080] If the output control unit 103 determines that the first content is being output from either of the content output devices 14A and 14B (step S3: yes), it determines whether the second content is being output from either of the content output devices 14A and 14B (step S4).

[0081] If the output control unit 103 determines that neither the content output devices 14A nor 14B has output the second content (step S4: No), it executes the first process (step S5). (See below for further details.) Figure 4 Describe the first process.

[0082] Furthermore, the situation in which the negative determination is made in step S4 is that either content output device 14A or 14B outputs the first content, but neither content output device 14A nor 14B outputs the second content.

[0083] Returning to the explanation of step S4, if the output control unit 103 determines that second content is being output from either the content output device 14A or 14B (step S4: Yes), it executes the second process (step S6). This will be discussed later. Figure 5 Describe the second process.

[0084] Furthermore, the situation in which a positive determination is made in step S4 is that the first content is being output by either of the content output devices 14A and 14B, and the content output device 14, which is different from the content output device 14 that outputs the first content, is outputting the second content.

[0085] Returning to the explanation of step S3, if the output control unit 103 determines that neither of the content output devices 14A nor 14B is outputting the first content (step S3: no), it determines whether the second content is being output by either of the content output devices 14A or 14B (step S7).

[0086] If the output control unit 103 determines that second content is being output from either the content output device 14A or 14B (step S7: Yes), it executes the third process (step S8). This will be discussed later. Figure 6 Describe the third processing step.

[0087] Furthermore, the situation in which a positive determination is made in step S7 is when the second content is being output by either content output device 14A or 14B, but neither content output device 14A nor 14B is outputting the first content.

[0088] Returning to the explanation of step S7, if the output control unit 103 determines that neither content output device 14A nor 14B is outputting the second content (step S7: no), it determines whether both content output devices 14A and 14B are outputting the second content (step S9).

[0089] If the output control unit 103 determines that neither the content output devices 14A nor 14B outputs the second content (step S9: No), the process ends.

[0090] Furthermore, the negative determination in step S9 is made when neither content output devices 14A nor 14B outputs any content.

[0091] On the other hand, when the output control unit 103 determines that both the content output devices 14A and 14B are outputting the second content (step S9: Yes), it performs the fourth process (step S10).

[0092] Furthermore, the condition for making a positive determination in step S10 is when both content output devices 14A and 14B output the second content.

[0093] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 The first, second, third, and fourth treatments are explained respectively.

[0094] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the control ECU19 in the first process.

[0095] The output control unit 103 determines whether the received strength of the broadcast wave is above the first received strength (step S51).

[0096] When the output control unit 103 determines that the reception strength of the broadcast wave is above the first reception strength (step S51: Yes), the first process ends. That is, the output control unit 103 retains the content output by either of the content output devices 14A and 14B as the first content.

[0097] On the other hand, if the output control unit 103 determines that the reception strength of the broadcast wave is not greater than or equal to the first reception strength (step S51: No), it determines whether the communication speed of the Internet 2 is greater than or equal to the first communication speed (step S52).

[0098] If the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of Internet 2 is not higher than the first communication speed (step S52: No), the first process ends.

[0099] On the other hand, if the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of the Internet 2 is higher than the first communication speed (step S52: Yes), it will determine the content output by the content output device 14 as the second content (step S53).

[0100] Next, the output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 that outputs the first content to output the second content (step S54).

[0101] Step S54 is equivalent to "output step".

[0102] For example, content output device 14A outputs first content, while content output device 14B does not output any content. In this situation, if the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is greater than or equal to the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14A to output second content.

[0103] Alternatively, for example, content output device 14B outputs first content, while content output device 14A does not output content. In this situation, if the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is greater than or equal to the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14B to output second content.

[0104] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the control ECU19 in the second process.

[0105] The output control unit 103 determines whether the received strength of the broadcast wave is above the first received strength (step S61).

[0106] When the output control unit 103 determines that the reception strength of the broadcast wave is greater than or equal to the first reception strength (step S61: Yes), it determines whether the communication speed of the Internet 2 is greater than or equal to the first communication speed (step S62).

[0107] If the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of the Internet 2 is higher than the first communication speed (step S62: Yes), the second process ends. That is, the output control unit 103 retains the content output by either of the content output devices 14A and 14B as the first content, and retains the content output by either of the content output devices 14A and 14B as the second content.

[0108] If the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of the Internet 2 is not higher than the first communication speed (step S62: No), it will determine the content output by the content output device 14 as the first content (step S63).

[0109] Next, the output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 to output the first content (step S64). As described above, in this embodiment, multiple content output devices 14 cannot output the first content simultaneously. Therefore, in step S64, the output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 that has output the first content to continue outputting the first content, and stops the output of the second content by another content output device 14.

[0110] Step S64 is equivalent to "output step".

[0111] Step S64 will be explained in detail.

[0112] For example, content output device 14A outputs first content, and content output device 14B outputs second content. In this situation, if the reception strength of the broadcast wave is greater than or equal to the first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14A to continue outputting the first content and stops the output of the second content by content output device 14B.

[0113] Alternatively, for example, content output device 14B outputs first content, and content output device 14A outputs second content. In this situation, if the reception strength of the broadcast wave is greater than or equal to a first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than a first communication speed, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14B to continue outputting the first content and stops the output of the second content by content output device 14A.

[0114] Returning to the explanation of step S61, if the output control unit 103 determines that the reception strength of the broadcast wave is not greater than or equal to the first reception strength (step S61: No), it determines whether the communication speed of the Internet 2 is greater than or equal to the first communication speed (step S65).

[0115] If the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of the Internet 2 is higher than the first communication speed (step S65: Yes), it will determine the content output by the content output device 14 as the second content (step S66).

[0116] Next, the output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 to output the second content (step S67). In this embodiment, multiple content output devices 14 can output the second content simultaneously. Therefore, in step S67, the output control unit 103 causes the content output devices 14A and 14B to output the second content respectively.

[0117] Step S67 is equivalent to "output step".

[0118] A specific example is given for step S67.

[0119] For example, content output device 14A outputs first content, and content output device 14B outputs second content. In this situation, if the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is greater than or equal to the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 causes content output devices 14A and 14B to output the second content.

[0120] Returning to the explanation of step S65, if the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of Internet 2 is not higher than the first communication speed (step S65: No), it performs fault handling (step S68).

[0121] The so-called "problem handling" refers to the processing performed when the reception of broadcast waves and the communication status of Internet 2 are poor.

[0122] The following describes several procedures for handling defects.

[0123] <First Unpleasant Handling>

[0124] In the first defect handling, based on the detection results of the gaze detection unit 104, the content output device 4 is selected to output content. Furthermore, in the first defect handling, the selected content output device 14 outputs content.

[0125] In the first defect handling, the output control unit 103 obtains the detection result of the gaze detection unit 104, and selects the content output device 14 for output content based on the obtained gaze detection unit 104 detection result.

[0126] If the gaze detection unit 104 detects the direction of the driver P1's gaze and the direction of the driver P1's gaze is towards the display 15A, the output control unit 103 selects the content output device 14A as the content output device 14 for outputting content. On the other hand, if the gaze detection unit 104 detects the direction of the driver P1's gaze and the direction of the driver P1's gaze is not towards the display 15A, the output control unit 103 does not select the content output device 14A as the content output device 14 for outputting content.

[0127] If the gaze detection unit 104 detects the direction of passenger P2's gaze and that passenger P2's gaze is directed towards display 15B, the output control unit 103 selects content output device 14B as the content output device 14 for outputting content. Conversely, if the gaze detection unit 104 detects the direction of passenger P2's gaze and that passenger P2's gaze is not directed towards display 15B, the output control unit 103 does not select content output device 14B as the content output device 14 for outputting content.

[0128] When the output control unit 103 selects the content output device 14, it causes the selected content output device 14 to output content.

[0129] For example, content output device 14A outputs first content, and content output device 14B outputs second content. In this example, if content output device 14A is selected in the first defect handling, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14A to continue outputting the first content and stops the output of the second content by content output device 14B.

[0130] <Second Undesirable Handling>

[0131] In the second defect handling, based on the detection results of the seating status detection unit 105, the content output device 14 is selected to output content. Furthermore, in the second defect handling, the selected content output device 14 outputs content.

[0132] The output control unit 103 obtains the detection result of the seating condition detection unit 105 in the second defect handling, and selects the content output device 14 for output content based on the obtained detection result of the seating condition detection unit 105.

[0133] If the seating status detection unit 105 detects that occupant P is seated in the driver's seat 10A, the output control unit 103 selects the content output device 14A as the content output device 14 for outputting content. On the other hand, if the seating status detection unit 105 does not detect that occupant P is seated in the driver's seat 10A, the output control unit 103 does not select the content output device 14A as the content output device 14 for outputting content.

[0134] If the seating status detection unit 105 detects that occupant P is seated in the front passenger seat 10B, the output control unit 103 selects the content output device 14B as the content output device 14 for output content. On the other hand, if the seating status detection unit 105 does not detect that occupant P is seated in the front passenger seat 10B, the output control unit 103 does not select the content output device 14B as the content output device 14 for output content.

[0135] When the output control unit 103 selects the content output device 14, it causes the selected content output device 14 to output content.

[0136] For example, content output device 14A outputs first content, and content output device 14B outputs second content. In this example, if content output device 14A is selected in the second defect handling, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14A to continue outputting the first content and stops the output of the second content by content output device 14B.

[0137] <Third Undesirable Handling>

[0138] In the third defect handling, based on the determination result of the category determination unit 106, the content output by the content output device 14 is determined to be either the first content or the second content. Furthermore, in the third defect handling, the content output device 14 outputs the determined first content or the second content.

[0139] The output priority is set within the content category. For example, the "Transportation" category has the highest priority. Similarly, the "News" category has the second highest priority, and the "Entertainment" category has the lowest priority. It should be noted that this output priority can be changed by passenger P, or it can be a priority that cannot be changed by passenger P.

[0140] In the third defect handling, the output control unit 103 obtains the determination result of the category determination unit 106, and based on the obtained determination result of the category determination unit 106, determines the content to be output by the content output device 14.

[0141] For example, if the first content is categorized as "traffic," this is included in the determination result of the category determination unit 106. Similarly, if the second content is categorized as "news," this is also included in the determination result of the category determination unit 106. Furthermore, the output priority of the "traffic" category is higher than that of the "news" category. In this case, the output control unit 103 will determine the content output by the content output device 14 as the first content.

[0142] For example, the category determination unit 106 determines that the category of the first content is "entertainment," and the category determination unit 106 also determines that the category of the second content is "news." Furthermore, the output priority of the "news" category is higher than that of the "entertainment" category. In this case, the output control unit 103 will determine that the content output by the content output device 14 is the second content.

[0143] When the output control unit 103 determines whether the content to be output by the content output device 14 is the first content or the second content, the content output device 14 outputs the determined first content or the second content.

[0144] For example, content output device 14A outputs first content, and content output device 14B outputs second content. In this example, if the first content is determined to be defective in the third defect handling, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14A to continue outputting the first content and stops the output of the second content by content output device 14B.

[0145] Alternatively, for example, content output device 14A outputs first content, and content output device 14B outputs second content. In this example, if the second content is determined to be defective in the third defect handling, the output control unit 103 stops content output device 14A from outputting the first content and causes content output device 14B to continue outputting the second content.

[0146] <Fourth Undesirable Handling>

[0147] In the fourth defect handling, based on the calculation results of the processing load calculation unit 107, the content output by the content output device 14 is determined to be either the first content or the second content. Furthermore, in the fourth defect handling, the content output device 14 outputs the determined first content or the second content.

[0148] In the fourth defect handling, the output control unit 103 obtains the calculation results of the processing load calculation unit 107, and based on the obtained calculation results of the processing load calculation unit 107, determines the content to be output by the content output device 14.

[0149] If the processing load associated with the output of the second content is greater than the processing load associated with the output of the first content, the output control unit 103 will determine the content output by the content output device 14 as the first content.

[0150] In addition, if the processing load associated with the output of the first content is greater than the processing load associated with the output of the second content, the output control unit 103 will determine the content output by the content output device 14 as the second content.

[0151] When the output control unit 103 determines whether the content to be output by the content output device 14 is the first content or the second content, the content output device 14 outputs the determined first content or the second content.

[0152] For example, content output device 14A outputs first content, and content output device 14B outputs second content. In this example, during the fourth defect handling, if the content to be output by content output device 14 is determined to be the first content, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14A to continue outputting the first content and stops the output of the second content by content output device 14B.

[0153] Additionally, for example, content output device 14A outputs first content, and content output device 14B outputs second content. In this example, if the content output by content output device 14 is determined to be the second content in the fourth defect handling, the output control unit 103 stops content output device 14A from outputting the first content and causes content output device 14B to continue outputting the second content.

[0154] <Fifth Problem Handling>

[0155] In the fifth defect handling, based on the calculation result of the communication fee calculation unit 108, the content output by the content output device 14 is determined to be either the first content or the second content. Furthermore, in the fifth defect handling, the content output device 14 outputs the determined first content or the second content.

[0156] In the fifth defect handling, the output control unit 103 obtains the calculation result of the communication fee calculation unit 108, and based on the obtained calculation result of the communication fee calculation unit 108, decides the content to be output by the content output device 14.

[0157] If the communication cost involved in receiving the second content is higher than a predetermined value arbitrarily set by the occupant P, the output control unit 103 will determine the content output by the content output device 14 as the first content.

[0158] Furthermore, if the communication cost involved in receiving the second content is not higher than a predetermined value arbitrarily set by the occupant P, the output control unit 103 will determine the content output by the content output device 14 as the second content.

[0159] When the output control unit 103 determines whether the content to be output by the content output device 14 is the first content or the second content, the content output device 14 outputs the determined first content or the second content.

[0160] For example, content output device 14A outputs first content, and content output device 14B outputs second content. In this example, if the content output by content output device 14 is determined to be the first content in the fifth defect handling, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14A to continue outputting the first content and stops the output of the second content by content output device 14B.

[0161] Additionally, for example, content output device 14A outputs first content, and content output device 14B outputs second content. In this example, if the content output by content output device 14 is determined to be the second content in the fifth defect handling, the output control unit 103 stops content output device 14A from outputting the first content and causes content output device 14B to continue outputting the second content.

[0162] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the control ECU19 in the third process.

[0163] The output control unit 103 determines whether the communication speed of Internet 2 is higher than or equal to the first communication speed (step S81).

[0164] If the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of Internet 2 is higher than the first communication speed (step S81: Yes), the third process ends.

[0165] On the other hand, if the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of Internet 2 is not higher than the first communication speed (step S81: No), it determines whether the reception strength of the broadcast wave is higher than the first reception strength (step S82).

[0166] If the output control unit 103 determines that the reception strength of the broadcast wave is not above the first reception strength (step S82: No), the third process ends.

[0167] On the other hand, if the output control unit 103 determines that the reception strength of the broadcast wave is greater than or equal to the first reception strength (step S82: Yes), it will determine the content output by the content output device 14 as the first content (step S83).

[0168] Next, the output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 that outputs the second content to output the first content (step S83).

[0169] Step S83 is equivalent to "output step".

[0170] For example, content output device 14A outputs second content, while content output device 14B does not output content. In this situation, if the reception strength of the broadcast wave is greater than or equal to the first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14A to output the first content.

[0171] Alternatively, for example, content output device 14B outputs second content, while content output device 14A does not output content. In this situation, if the reception strength of the broadcast wave is greater than or equal to the first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14B to output the first content.

[0172] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the control ECU19 in the fourth process.

[0173] exist Figure 7 In the middle, to and Figure 6 Same step labeling and Figure 6 Same step number. In Figure 7 In the explanation, appropriate omissions and Figure 6 The same steps are explained.

[0174] When the output control unit 103 determines that it is the first content (step S83), it causes the arbitrary content output device 14 to output the first content (step S101).

[0175] Step S 101 is equivalent to "output step".

[0176] For example, when content output devices 14A and 14B are outputting second content, the reception strength of the broadcast wave is greater than or equal to the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than the first communication speed. In this case, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14A to output the first content and stops content output from content output device 14B.

[0177] Additionally, for example, when content output devices 14A and 14B are outputting second content, the reception strength of the broadcast wave is greater than or equal to the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than the first communication speed. In this case, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14B to output the first content and stops content output from content output device 14A.

[0178] [4. Other Implementation Methods]

[0179] The above-described implementation method is merely one approach and can be arbitrarily modified and applied.

[0180] In another embodiment, the communication cost calculation unit 108 can calculate the communication cost related to receiving the first content. In this other embodiment, the output control unit 103 compares the two communication costs calculated by the communication cost calculation unit 108 (the communication cost related to receiving the first content and the communication cost related to receiving the second content), and determines the content with the lower communication cost as the content to be output by the content output device 14.

[0181] In the fourth processing of the above-described embodiment, the output control unit 103 determines the content output by the content output device 14 as the first content. In the fourth processing of other embodiments, the output control unit 103 may also determine the content output by the content output device 14 as the second content. In this case, the output control unit 103 causes either the content output device 14A or 14B to output the first content. Furthermore, in this case, the content output device 14 that outputs the first content may also be set according to factors such as the direction of the occupant P's line of sight and the occupant P's seating position. Additionally, in the fourth processing of other embodiments, the output control unit 103 may determine both the first and second content output by the content output device 14. In this case, the output control unit 103 causes either the content output device 14A or 14B to output the first content and causes either the content output device 14A or 14B to output the second content.

[0182] In other embodiments, when stopping the content output of the content output device 14, the following structure may be adopted: The content output device 14, which is to be stopped, inquires with the occupant P whether it is permissible to stop the content output. When the occupant P gives a stop instruction to the content output device 14A that has been inquired, the output control unit 103 stops the content output of the content output device 14, which is to be stopped.

[0183] In the above embodiment, the case where the number of "content output devices" mounted on the "vehicle" is two is illustrated. However, the number of "content output devices" mounted on the "vehicle" can also be three or more. For example, in the "vehicle," "content output devices" equipped with displays and speakers can also be provided at positions corresponding to each rear seat. Furthermore, when the number of "content output devices" mounted on the "vehicle" is three or more and the number of tuners 191 mounted on the "vehicle" is one, multiple "content output devices" cannot simultaneously output the first content.

[0184] In the above embodiment, the number of tuners 191 installed on the "vehicle" is one. However, in other embodiments, the number of tuners 191 installed on the "vehicle" can be multiple. In other embodiments, the number of tuners 191 installed on the "vehicle" may be the same as the number of "content output devices" installed on the "vehicle," or the number of tuners 191 installed on the "vehicle" may be less than the number of "content output devices" installed on the "vehicle." In this other embodiment, the same number of "content output devices" as the number of tuners 191 can simultaneously output the first content.

[0185] In other embodiments, the "content output device" may be only a display or only a speaker.

[0186] In other embodiments, the first defect handling may be omitted. In this other embodiment, the vehicle 1 may not have cameras 18A and 18B. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the processor 100 may not function as the gaze detection unit 104.

[0187] In other embodiments, the second defect handling may be omitted. In this other embodiment, the vehicle 1 may not have the seating sensor 13. Furthermore, in this other embodiment, the processor 100 may not function as the seating status detection unit 105.

[0188] In other embodiments, the third defect processing may not be performed. In other embodiments, the processor 100 may not function as the category determination unit 106. Furthermore, in these other embodiments, category information may not be included in the content association information.

[0189] In other embodiments, the fourth defect handling may not be performed. In other embodiments, the processor 100 may not function as the processing load calculation unit 107.

[0190] In other embodiments, the fifth defect handling may be omitted. In other embodiments, the processor 100 may not function as the communication cost calculation unit 108.

[0191] The processor 100 can be composed of multiple processors or a single processor. The processor 100 can also be hardware programmed to implement the aforementioned functionalities. In this case, the processor 100 may be, for example, composed of an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0192] in addition, Figure 2 The structure of the content output system 12 shown is an example, and the specific installation method is not particularly limited. That is, it is not necessarily necessary to install hardware corresponding to each part separately; of course, it can also be configured so that the functions of each part are implemented by a processor executing a program. In addition, in the above embodiment, a part of the function implemented by software can be made into hardware, or a part of the function implemented by hardware can be implemented by software.

[0193] in addition, Figures 3-7 The steps shown are divided according to the main processing content, and this invention is not limited to the method or name of the processing unit division. Depending on the processing content, it can also be divided into more step units. Alternatively, a single step unit may contain more processes. Furthermore, the order of these steps can be appropriately replaced without affecting the spirit of this invention.

[0194] Furthermore, when the control method of the content output system 12 described above is implemented using the processor 100, the program executed by the processor 100 can also be configured as a recording medium or a transmission medium for transmitting the program. That is, the control program 111 can also be implemented with the control program 111 recorded on a removable information recording medium. Examples of information recording media include magnetic recording media such as hard disks, optical recording media such as CDs, USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, SSD (Solid State Drive) and other semiconductor storage devices, but other recording media can also be used.

[0195] [5. Structure supported by the above embodiments]

[0196] The above implementation supports the following structures.

[0197] (Structure 1)

[0198] A content output system includes: a plurality of content output devices mounted in a vehicle; and a control unit for controlling the content output devices, the control unit including: a first content acquisition unit that acquires content by receiving broadcast waves; a second content acquisition unit that acquires content by receiving data from the Internet; and an output control unit that causes the content output devices to output content, the output control unit determining, based on the reception status of the broadcast waves and the communication status of the Internet, whether the content output by the content output devices is the content acquired by the first content acquisition unit (i.e., first content) or the content acquired by the second content acquisition unit (i.e., second content).

[0199] According to the content output system of Structure 1, even without special operations such as switching by the occupants, the content output by the content output device can be automatically changed based on the reception of broadcast waves and the communication status of the Internet. Therefore, in vehicles equipped with multiple content output devices, the convenience of occupants related to content output can be improved.

[0200] (Structure 2)

[0201] According to the content output system described in Structure 1, the output control unit determines the content output by the content output device to be the second content when the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than a first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet is greater than or equal to a first communication speed.

[0202] According to the content output system of Structure 2, even without special operation by the occupants, the content output by the content output device can be automatically changed to content that can be output well. Therefore, in vehicles equipped with multiple content output devices, the convenience of occupants related to content output can be further improved.

[0203] (Structure 3)

[0204] According to the content output system of Structure 1 or Structure 2, the output control unit determines the content output by the content output device to be the first content when the reception strength of the broadcast wave is above a first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet is less than a first communication speed.

[0205] The content output system of Structure 3 achieves the same effect as the content output system of Structure 2.

[0206] (Structure 4)

[0207] According to the content output system of structure 2 or structure 3, the control unit includes a gaze detection unit for detecting the direction of the gaze of each occupant of the vehicle. When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit selects the content output device that outputs the content based on the detection result of the gaze detection unit, and causes the selected content output device to output the content.

[0208] According to the content output system of Structure 4, when the first and second contents cannot be output well, the content is output by a content output device with a high probability of being used. Therefore, the number of content output devices can be reduced, thereby lowering the processing load associated with content output and preventing the output content from deteriorating further. Furthermore, since the content is output by a content output device with a high probability of being used, it is possible to prevent any impairment of occupant convenience related to content output.

[0209] (Structure 5)

[0210] According to the content output system of Structure 2 or Structure 3, the control unit includes a seating status detection unit for detecting the seating status of the occupants of the vehicle. When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit selects the content output device that outputs the content based on the detection result of the seating status detection unit, and causes the selected content output device to output the content.

[0211] The content output system of Structure 5 achieves the same effect as the content output system of Structure 4.

[0212] (Structure 6)

[0213] According to the content output system described in Structure 2 or Structure 3, the control unit includes a category determination unit that determines the category of the first content and the category of the second content. When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit determines the content output by the content output device to be either the first content or the second content based on the determination result of the category determination unit.

[0214] According to the content output system of Structure 6, when the first and second contents cannot be output well, the content output by the content output device is set to either the first or the second content based on the content category. Therefore, the content output in the vehicle can be either the first or the second content, thus reducing the processing load related to content output compared to outputting both. This prevents the output content from becoming worse. Furthermore, by setting the content output by the content output device to either the first or the second content based on the content category, the system can output content of the type desired by the occupant, the type of content the occupant should see or hear, thus preventing any impairment of occupant convenience related to content output.

[0215] (Structure 7)

[0216] According to the content output system described in Structure 2 or Structure 3, the control unit includes a processing load calculation unit that calculates the processing load related to the output of the first content and the processing load related to the output of the second content. When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit determines the content output by the content output device to be either the first content or the second content based on the calculation result of the processing load calculation unit.

[0217] According to the content output system of Structure 7, when the first and second contents cannot be output well, the content output by the content output device is set to the first or second content based on the processing load related to content output. Therefore, since content with low processing load can be output, the processing load related to content output can be reduced. Thus, it is possible to prevent the output content from becoming worse. In addition, even if the occupant does not perform any special operation, content with low processing load can be output automatically, thereby improving the occupant's convenience related to content output.

[0218] (Structure 8)

[0219] According to the content output system described in Structure 2 or Structure 3, the control unit includes a communication fee calculation unit for calculating the communication fee of the Internet. When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit determines the content output by the content output device to be either the first content or the second content based on the calculation result of the communication fee calculation unit.

[0220] According to the content output system of Structure 8, when the first and second contents cannot be output well, the content output by the content output device is set to the first or second content based on the calculated communication cost. Therefore, the content output in the vehicle can be either the first or second content, thus reducing the processing load related to content output. This also prevents the output content from deteriorating further. Furthermore, even without special operation by the occupant, content with low communication costs can be automatically output, thus improving occupant convenience related to content output.

[0221] (Structure 9)

[0222] According to any one of structures 2 to 8, in the content output system, when the received strength of the broadcast wave is less than a second received strength that is lower than the first received strength and the communication speed of the Internet is less than a second communication speed that is lower than the first communication speed, the output control unit does not cause the content output device to output content.

[0223] According to the content output system of structure 9, in cases where there is a high probability that the content output device cannot output content properly, the content output device will not output content, thus suppressing the situation where passengers feel bored due to content output.

[0224] (Structure 10)

[0225] A control method for a content output system, the content output system comprising a plurality of content output devices mounted on a vehicle, wherein the control method includes an output step of causing the content output devices to output content, wherein, based on the reception status of a broadcast wave and the communication status of the Internet, the content to be output by the content output devices is determined to be either first content obtained by receiving the broadcast wave or second content obtained by receiving data from the Internet.

[0226] The control method of the content output system of Structure 10 achieves the same effect as the content output system of Structure 1.

[0227] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0228] 1…Vehicle, 2…Internet, 3…Portable terminal, 4…Content output device, 10A…Driver's seat, 10B…Passenger seat, 10C…Right rear seat, 10D…Left rear seat, 11A…Right front door, 11B…Left front door, 11C…Right rear door, 11D…Left rear door, 11E…Tailgate, 12…Content output system, 13, 13A-13D…Seating sensors, 14, 14A, 14B…Content output device, 15A, 15B…Display, 16A, 16B…Speaker, 17…Dashboard, 18A, 18B…Camera, 19…Control ECU (Control Unit), 20…TCU, 100…Processor, 101…First Content Acquisition Unit, 102…Second Content Acquisition Unit, 103…Output Control Unit, 104…Gaze Detection Unit, 105…Seating Status Detection Unit, 106…Category Determination Unit, 107…Processing Load Calculation Unit, 108…Communication Fee Calculation Unit, 110…Memory, 111…Control Program, 190…Control Device, 191…Tuner, 192…Communication Unit, P…Occupant, P1…Driver, P2…Passenger, S54, S64, S67, S84, S101…Step (Output Step).

Claims

1. A content output system, the content output system comprising: Multiple content output devices mounted in the vehicle; and The control unit that controls the content output device The control unit includes: The first content acquisition unit acquires content by receiving broadcast waves; The second content acquisition unit acquires content by receiving data from the Internet; and The output control unit causes the content output device to output content. Based on the reception status of the broadcast wave and the communication status of the Internet, the output control unit determines the content output by the content output device to be either the content obtained by the first content acquisition unit (i.e., the first content) or the content obtained by the second content acquisition unit (i.e., the second content).

2. The content output system according to claim 1, wherein, When the received strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first received strength and the communication speed of the Internet is greater than or equal to the first communication speed, the output control unit will determine the content output by the content output device to be the second content.

3. The content output system according to claim 1, wherein, When the reception strength of the broadcast wave is above a first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet is less than a first communication speed, the output control unit will determine the content output by the content output device to be the first content.

4. The content output system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The control unit includes a gaze detection unit that detects the direction of the gaze for each occupant of the vehicle. When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the received strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first received strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit selects the content output device that outputs the content based on the detection result of the gaze detection unit, and causes the selected content output device to output the content.

5. The content output system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The control unit includes a seating status detection unit for detecting the seating status of the occupants of the vehicle. When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the received strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first received strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit selects the content output device that outputs the content based on the detection result of the seating status detection unit, and causes the selected content output device to output the content.

6. The content output system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The control unit includes a category determination unit that determines the category of the first content and the category of the second content. When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the received strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first received strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit, based on the determination result of the category determination unit, will determine the content output by the content output device as either the first content or the second content.

7. The content output system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The control unit includes a processing load calculation unit that calculates the processing load related to the output of the first content and the processing load related to the output of the second content. When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the received strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first received strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit, based on the calculation result of the processing load calculation unit, determines the content output by the content output device to be either the first content or the second content.

8. The content output system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The control unit includes a communication fee calculation unit for calculating the communication fees of the Internet. When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the received strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first received strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit, based on the calculation result of the communication fee calculation unit, determines the content output by the content output device to be either the first content or the second content.

9. The content output system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, If the received strength of the broadcast wave is less than a second received strength that is lower than the first received strength and the communication speed of the Internet is less than a second communication speed that is lower than the first communication speed, the output control unit will not cause the content output device to output content.

10. A control method for a content output system, the content output system comprising a plurality of content output devices mounted in a vehicle, wherein, The control method for the content output system includes an output step of causing the content output device to output content. In the output step, based on the reception status of the broadcast wave and the communication status of the Internet, the content output by the content output device is determined to be either first content obtained by receiving the broadcast wave or second content obtained by receiving data from the Internet.

Images