Display control method and display control system

Abstract

To reduce a workload of a user.SOLUTION: A display control method comprises: a server device 2 transmitting function restriction instruction information CR indicating an instruction to restrict a function of each of a plurality of projectors 1 to the plurality of projectors 1 communicably connected to the server device 2; each of the plurality of projectors 1 executing a function restriction processing PR which is processing to restrict a function, according to the function restriction instruction information CR; each of the plurality of projectors 1 transmitting function restriction completion information ER indicating that the function restriction process PR has been completed, to the server device 2 when the function restriction process PR has been completed; and the server device 2 transmitting video information JP to each of the plurality of projectors 1, after receiving the function restriction completion information ER from each of the plurality of projectors 1, and displaying a video P corresponding to the video information JP.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a display control method and a display control system. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, techniques relating to projection methods of projectors are known. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a server device that is connected to multiple client devices via the Internet, the server device transmits video data to a projector via each of the multiple client devices, and the client device starts the projector according to a predetermined schedule based on the video data received from the server device and outputs video content to the projector. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-267956 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, when a client device determines "whether or not to project an image" based on a predetermined schedule, as in the technology described in Patent Document 1, the following problems arise. For example, consider a scenario in which a sender of information such as a school or company broadcasts video information to the entire school or company. In this case, the sender cannot control the video display device that displays the broadcast video, and the receiver must perform preparations for the broadcast, such as turning on the device and switching inputs. This may result in a workload burden for the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure is a display control method including: a server device transmitting function restriction instruction information to a plurality of display devices connected to the server device so as to be able to communicate with the server device, the function restriction instruction information indicating an instruction to restrict a function possessed by each of the plurality of display devices; each of the plurality of display devices executing a function restriction process, which is a process of restricting a function, in accordance with the function restriction instruction information; each of the plurality of display devices transmitting function restriction completion information to the server device, when the function restriction process is completed, indicating that the function restriction process has been completed; and after the server device receives the function restriction completion information from each of the plurality of display devices, transmitting image information to each of the plurality of display devices to display an image corresponding to the image information.

[0006] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a display control method including: a server device transmitting, to an information processing device communicatively connected to the server device, function restriction instruction information indicating an instruction to restrict a function of each of a plurality of display devices communicatively connected to the information processing device; the information processing device transmitting the function restriction instruction information to each of the plurality of display devices; each of the plurality of display devices performing a function restriction process, which is a process of restricting a function, in accordance with the function restriction instruction information; each of the plurality of display devices transmitting, to the information processing device, function restriction completion information indicating that the function restriction process has been completed, when the function restriction process is completed; the information processing device transmitting the function restriction completion information to the server device; after receiving the function restriction completion information from each of the plurality of display devices, the server device transmitting, to the information processing device, image instruction information instructing image information to be displayed on each of the plurality of display devices; and the information processing device transmitting, to each of the plurality of display devices, image information corresponding to the image instruction information, to display an image corresponding to the image information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a display control system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a server device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a projector according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a first control unit of the projector according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 6 is a flowchart showing an example of processing of the server device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a display control system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a server device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a personal computer according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The present embodiment includes a first embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 and a second embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8. In the following description, the display control method in the display control system 100 according to the first embodiment may be referred to as the display control method according to the first embodiment. Furthermore, the display control method in the display control system 100A according to the second embodiment may be referred to as the display control method according to the second embodiment.

[0009] [First embodiment] First, a display control system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the display control system 100 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the display control system 100 includes a projector 1 and a server device 2. The projector 1 is made up of, for example, a first projector 1A, a second projector 1B, and a third projector 1C. The first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C correspond to an example of a "plurality of display devices."

[0010] The first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C have substantially the same configuration. Therefore, when the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C are not to be distinguished from one another, the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C may each be simply referred to as the projector 1.

[0011] The server device 2 is communicably connected to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C via a network NW. The network NW is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network). The network NW may be, for example, a WAN (Wide Area Network) or the Internet.

[0012] The server device 2 transmits function restriction instruction information CR to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C. The function restriction instruction information CR indicates an instruction to restrict the functions of each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C. The function restriction instruction information CR includes first function restriction instruction information CR1, second function restriction instruction information CR2, and third function restriction instruction information CR3. The server device 2 transmits first function restriction instruction information CR1 to the first projector 1A. The server device 2 transmits second function restriction instruction information CR2 to the second projector 1B. The server device 2 transmits third function restriction instruction information CR3 to the third projector 1C.

[0013] Each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C executes a function restriction process PR, which is a process for restricting functions, based on function restriction instruction information CR. The function restriction process PR includes a first function restriction process PR1, a second function restriction process PR2, and a third function restriction process PR3. The first projector 1A executes a first function restriction process PR1 based on the first function restriction instruction information CR1. The second projector 1B executes a second function restriction process PR2 based on the second function restriction instruction information CR2. The third projector 1C executes a third function restriction process PR3 based on the third function restriction instruction information CR3.

[0014] Then, when the function restriction process PR is completed, each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C transmits function restriction completion information ER indicating that the function restriction process PR has been completed to the server device 2. The function restriction completion information ER includes first function restriction completion information ER1, second function restriction completion information ER2, and third function restriction completion information ER3. When the first function restriction process PR1 is completed, the first projector 1A transmits first function restriction completion information ER1 indicating that the first function restriction process PR1 has been completed to the server device 2. When the second function restriction process PR2 is completed, the second projector 1B transmits second function restriction completion information ER2 indicating that the second function restriction process PR2 has been completed to the server device 2. When the third function restriction process PR3 is completed, the third projector 1C transmits third function restriction completion information ER3 indicating that the third function restriction process PR3 has been completed to the server device 2.

[0015] After receiving function restriction completion information ER from each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C, the server device 2 transmits video information JP to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C, causing them to display video P corresponding to the video information JP. The video information JP includes first video information JP1, second video information JP2, and third video information JP3. The video P includes a first video P1 corresponding to the first video information JP1, a second video P2 corresponding to the second video information JP2, and a third video P3 corresponding to the third video information JP3. After receiving first function restriction completion information ER1 from the first projector 1A, the server device 2 transmits first video information JP1 to the first projector 1A, causing the first projector 1A to display a first video P1 corresponding to the first video information JP1. After receiving second function restriction completion information ER2 from the second projector 1B, the server device 2 transmits second video information JP2 to the second projector 1B, causing the second projector 1B to display a second video P2 corresponding to the second video information JP2. After receiving third function restriction completion information ER3 from the third projector 1C, the server device 2 transmits third video information JP3 to the third projector 1C, causing the third projector 1C to display a third video P3 corresponding to the third video information JP3.

[0016] In this embodiment, the first video P1, the second video P2, and the third video P3 are, for example, the same moving image. Also, in this embodiment, the video information JP includes the audio information JS. The audio information JS includes first audio information JS1, second audio information JS2, and third audio information JS3. The first audio information JS1 indicates the first audio S1. The second audio information JS2 indicates the second audio S2. The third audio information JS3 indicates the third audio S3. After receiving the first function restriction completion information ER1 from the first projector 1A, the server device 2 transmits the first video information JP1 to the first projector 1A, and causes the first projector 1A to output the first audio S1 corresponding to the first video information JP1. After receiving the second function restriction completion information ER2 from the second projector 1B, the server device 2 transmits second video information JP2 to the second projector 1B and causes the second projector 1B to output second audio S2 corresponding to the second video information JP2. After receiving the third function restriction completion information ER3 from the third projector 1C, the server device 2 transmits third video information JP3 to the third projector 1C and causes the third projector 1C to output third audio S3 corresponding to the third video information JP3. The video information JP corresponds to an example of "image information." The video P corresponds to an example of an "image."

[0017] Next, the configuration of the server device 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the server device 2 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the server device 2 includes a second control unit 21, a second operation mechanism 22, a second display mechanism 23, and a second communication interface 24. The second control unit 21 controls each unit of the server device 2. Each of the second operation mechanism 22, the second display mechanism 23, and the second communication interface 24 is connected to the second control unit 21 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0018] The second control unit 21 includes a second processor 21A such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a second memory 21B such as a ROM (Read Only Memory). The second memory 21B stores a second control program PG2.

[0019] The second processor 21A may be configured with multiple processors or may be configured with a single processor. The second processor 21A may be hardware programmed to implement the functions of each unit described below. That is, the second processor 21A may be configured to include the second control program PG2 as a hardware circuit. In this case, the second processor 21A may be configured, for example, with an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or the like. In the following description, the second processor 21A executes the second control program PG2 to realize various functions of the second control unit 21.

[0020] The second memory 21B has a nonvolatile storage area that stores programs and data in a nonvolatile manner. The second memory 21B may include, for example, a ROM, a hard disk drive (HDD), or a solid state drive (SSD) as the nonvolatile storage area. The second memory 21B may also include a volatile storage area that constitutes a work area that temporarily stores programs executed by the second processor 21A and data to be processed. The second memory 21B may also include, for example, a random access memory (RAM) as the volatile storage area.

[0021] The second operation mechanism 22 includes an input means such as an operation switch or a touch panel provided on the server device 2, detects a user operation, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the operation to the second control unit 21. The second control unit 21 executes a process corresponding to the user operation based on the input from the second operation mechanism 22.

[0022] The second display mechanism 23 includes a display such as an LCD, and displays various images on the display in accordance with instructions from the second control unit 21.

[0023] The second communication interface 24 is a communication interface that communicates with each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C in accordance with the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard. The second communication interface 24 includes a connector for connecting an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable and an interface circuit for processing signals transmitted through the connector. The second communication interface 24 is an interface board having a connector and an interface circuit, and is connected to a main board on which the second processor 21A of the second control unit 21 and the like are mounted. Alternatively, the connector and interface circuit that constitute the second communication interface 24 are mounted on the main board of the second control unit 21.

[0024] In this embodiment, the server device 2 is connected to the projector 1 via an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable or the like to enable wired communication, but may also be connected via Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or the like to enable wireless communication.

[0025] 2, the second control unit 21 includes a start-up instruction unit 211, a restriction instruction unit 212, a display instruction unit 213, a second communication control unit 214, and a second image storage unit 215. These units are realized by cooperation of software and hardware, for example, when the second processor 21A executes the second control program PG2. In other words, when the second processor 21A executes the second control program PG2, the second control unit 21 functions as the start-up instruction unit 211, the restriction instruction unit 212, the display instruction unit 213, and the second communication control unit 214. When the second processor 21A executes the second control program PG2, the second memory 21B also functions as the second image storage unit 215.

[0026] The second image storage unit 215 stores video information JP in advance. The second image storage unit 215 stores, for example, a plurality of pieces of video information JP in advance. The plurality of pieces of video information JP include first video information JP1, second video information JP2, and third video information JP3.

[0027] The start-up instruction unit 211 acquires start-up information JB from each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C via the second communication interface 24. The start-up information JB includes first start-up information JB1, second start-up information JB2, and third start-up information JB3. The first start-up information JB1 indicates whether the first projector 1A has started up. The second start-up information JB2 indicates whether the second projector 1B has started up. The third start-up information JB3 indicates whether the third projector 1C has started up. The start-up instruction unit 211 acquires first start-up information JB1 from the first projector 1A. The start-up instruction unit 211 acquires second start-up information JB2 from the second projector 1B. The start-up instruction unit 211 acquires third start-up information JB3 from the third projector 1C.

[0028] When the startup information JB corresponding to at least one projector 1 indicates that it is not started, the startup instruction unit 211 transmits startup instruction information CB to the at least one projector 1, instructing it to start up. The startup instruction information CB includes first startup instruction information CB1, second startup instruction information CB2, and third startup instruction information CB3. The first startup instruction information CB1 is information instructing the startup of the first projector 1A. The second startup instruction information CB2 is information instructing the startup of the second projector 1B. The third startup instruction information CB3 is information instructing the startup of the third projector 1C.

[0029] When the first start-up information JB1 indicates that the first projector 1A has not started up, the start-up instruction unit 211 transmits first start-up instruction information CB1 to the first projector 1A. When the second start-up information JB2 indicates that the second projector 1B has not started up, the start-up instruction unit 211 transmits second start-up instruction information CB2 to the second projector 1B. When the third start-up information JB3 indicates that the third projector 1C has not started up, the start-up instruction unit 211 transmits third start-up instruction information CB3 to the third projector 1C.

[0030] The restriction instruction section 212 transmits, via the second communication interface 24, to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C, function restriction instruction information CR indicating an instruction to restrict a function. The function restriction instruction information CR includes first function restriction instruction information CR1, second function restriction instruction information CR2, and third function restriction instruction information CR3. The first function restriction instruction information CR1 indicates an instruction to restrict the functions of the first projector 1A. The second function restriction instruction information CR2 indicates an instruction to restrict the functions of the second projector 1B. The third function restriction instruction information CR3 indicates an instruction to restrict the functions of the third projector 1C.

[0031] The function restriction instruction information CR indicates, for example, an instruction to prohibit operations other than a predetermined specific operation DP. The specific operation DP is, for example, a volume operation and an image quality setting operation. The volume operation is, for example, an operation to adjust the volume output from the speaker 160 of the projector 1. The image quality setting operation is, for example, an operation to set the resolution of the image P that the projector 1 projects onto the screen SC. The function restriction instruction information CR indicates an instruction to prohibit the acceptance of operations that instruct the execution of functions, excluding the volume adjustment function executed by the volume operation and the image quality setting function executed by the image quality setting operation, among the functions possessed by the projector 1. The first function restriction instruction information CR1 indicates an instruction to the first projector 1A to prohibit operations other than volume operation and image quality setting operation, for example. The second function restriction instruction information CR2 indicates an instruction to the second projector 1B to prohibit operations other than volume operation and image quality setting operation, for example. The third function restriction instruction information CR3 indicates an instruction to the third projector 1C to prohibit operations other than volume operation and image quality setting operation, for example.

[0032] The restriction instruction section 212 transmits first function restriction instruction information CR1 to the first projector 1A. The restriction instruction section 212 transmits second function restriction instruction information CR2 to the second projector 1B. The restriction instruction section 212 transmits third function restriction instruction information CR3 to the third projector 1C.

[0033] The restriction instruction unit 212 receives function restriction completion information ER indicating that the function restriction process PR has been completed from each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C via the second communication interface 24. The function restriction completion information ER includes first function restriction completion information ER1, second function restriction completion information ER2, and third function restriction completion information ER3. The first function restriction completion information ER1 indicates that the first projector 1A has completed the first function restriction process PR1. The second function restriction completion information ER2 indicates that the second projector 1B has completed the second function restriction process PR2. The third function restriction completion information ER3 indicates that the third projector 1C has completed the third function restriction process PR3. The restriction instruction section 212 receives first function restriction completion information ER1 from the first projector 1A. The restriction instruction section 212 receives second function restriction completion information ER2 from the second projector 1B. The restriction instruction section 212 receives third function restriction completion information ER3 from the third projector 1C.

[0034] After the restriction instruction unit 212 receives the function restriction completion information ER, the display instruction unit 213 transmits the video information JP to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C via the second communication interface 24, and causes the video information JP to be displayed. The video information JP includes the first video information JP1, the second video information JP2, and the third video information JP3.

[0035] After the restriction instruction unit 212 receives the first function restriction completion information ER1, the display instruction unit 213 reads out the first video information JP1 from the second image storage unit 215. Then, the display instruction unit 213 transmits the first video information JP1 to the first projector 1A to display the first video P1 corresponding to the first video information JP1. After the restriction instruction unit 212 receives the second function restriction completion information ER2, the display instruction unit 213 reads out the second video information JP2 from the second image storage unit 215. Then, the display instruction unit 213 transmits the second video information JP2 to the second projector 1B to display the second video P2 corresponding to the second video information JP2. After the restriction instruction unit 212 receives the third function restriction completion information ER3, the display instruction unit 213 reads out the third video information JP3 from the second image storage unit 215. Then, the display instruction unit 213 transmits the third video information JP3 to the third projector 1C to display the third video P3 corresponding to the third video information JP3.

[0036] For example, when a predetermined period of time PT has elapsed since the display instruction unit 213 transmitted the video information JP, the restriction instruction unit 212 transmits restriction release instruction information CS to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C via the second communication interface 24. The predetermined period of time PT corresponds to, for example, the period during which the projector 1 displays the video P. The predetermined period of time PT is, for example, 30 minutes. The restriction release instruction information CS indicates an instruction to release the restriction on the function of the projector 1. The restriction release instruction information CS includes first restriction release instruction information CS1, second restriction release instruction information CS2, and third restriction release instruction information CS3. The first restriction release instruction information CS1 indicates an instruction to release the restriction on the function of the first projector 1A. The second restriction release instruction information CS2 indicates an instruction to release the restriction on the function of the second projector 1B. The third restriction release instruction information CS3 indicates an instruction to release the restriction on the function of the third projector 1C.

[0037] For example, the restriction instruction unit 212 transmits first restriction release instruction information CS1 to the first projector 1A when a predetermined period of time PT has elapsed since the display instruction unit 213 transmitted the first video information JP1. For example, the restriction instruction unit 212 transmits second restriction release instruction information CS2 to the second projector 1B when a predetermined period of time PT has elapsed since the display instruction unit 213 transmitted the second video information JP2. For example, the restriction instruction unit 212 transmits third restriction release instruction information CS3 to the third projector 1C when a predetermined period of time PT has elapsed since the display instruction unit 213 transmitted the third video information JP3.

[0038] The restriction instruction unit 212 receives, via the second communication interface 24, from each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C, removal completion information ES indicating that the restriction removal process PS has been completed. The removal completion information ES includes first removal completion information ES1, second removal completion information ES2, and third removal completion information ES3. The restriction removal process PS includes first restriction removal process PS1, second restriction removal process PS2, and third restriction removal process PS3. The first release completion information ES1 indicates that the first projector 1A has completed the first restriction release process PS1. The second release completion information ES2 indicates that the second projector 1B has completed the second restriction release process PS2. The third release completion information ES3 indicates that the third projector 1C has completed the third restriction release process PS3. The restriction instruction section 212 receives first release completion information ES1 from the first projector 1A. The restriction instruction section 212 receives second release completion information ES2 from the second projector 1B. The restriction instruction section 212 receives third release completion information ES3 from the third projector 1C.

[0039] The second communication control unit 214 controls the second communication interface 24 to communicate with each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C. The second communication control unit 214 receives the start-up information JB, the function restriction completion information ER, and the release completion information ES from each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C. The second communication control unit 214 transmits the start instruction information CB, the function restriction instruction information CR, the video information JP, and the restriction release instruction information CS to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C.

[0040] In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the function restriction instruction information CR instructs the projector 1 to prohibit operations other than volume operation and image quality setting operation, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The function restriction instruction information CR may also instruct the projector 1 to set to the operation restriction mode MR. The operation restriction mode MR is a mode in which operations other than volume operation and image quality setting operation are prohibited. In this case, when the projector 1 receives the function restriction instruction information CR, the projector 1 transitions from the normal mode to the operation restriction mode MR. Note that in the normal mode, the projector 1 does not restrict any functions.

[0041] Next, the configuration of the projector 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the projector 1 according to the first embodiment. In the following description, the projector 1 is, for example, a first projector 1A. 3, the first projector 1A projects the image light PL1 onto the screen SC1. The first projector 1A also projects the image light PL1 so as to display a first video image P1 on the screen SC1.

[0042] The first projector 1A includes a projection unit 110 and a drive unit 120 that drives the projection unit 110. The projection unit 110 forms an optical image and projects image light PL1 onto a screen SC1. In the first embodiment, the projection unit 110 projects image light PL1 corresponding to a first video P1 onto the screen SC1. The projection unit 110 includes a light source unit 111, a light modulation device 112, and a projection optical system 113. The drive unit 120 includes a light source drive unit 121 and a light modulation device drive unit 122.

[0043] The light source unit 111 includes a light source, which is, for example, a solid-state light source such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or a laser light source. In this embodiment, the light source of the light source unit 111 is a solid-state light source, but is not limited to this. The light source of the light source unit 111 may be a lamp light source such as a halogen lamp, a xenon lamp, or an ultra-high pressure mercury lamp.

[0044] The light source unit 111 may also include a reflector and an auxiliary reflector that guide the light emitted by the light source to the light modulation device 112. Furthermore, the light source unit 111 may also include a group of lenses for improving the optical characteristics of the projected light, a polarizing plate, or a dimming element that reduces the amount of light emitted by the light source on the path leading to the light modulation device 112. The light source driving unit 121 is connected to the internal bus 107, and turns on and off the light source of the light source unit 111 in accordance with instructions from the first control unit 150 also connected to the internal bus 107, thereby controlling the output of the light source.

[0045] The light modulation device 112 includes, for example, three liquid crystal panels 115 corresponding to the three primary colors of R, G, and B. R indicates red, G indicates green, and B indicates blue. That is, the light modulation device 112 includes a liquid crystal panel 115 corresponding to R light, a liquid crystal panel 115 corresponding to G light, and a liquid crystal panel 115 corresponding to B light. The light emitted by the light source unit 111 is separated into three color lights of RGB, and each color light is incident on a corresponding liquid crystal panel 115. Each of the three liquid crystal panels 115 is a transmissive liquid crystal panel, and modulates the light that passes through it to generate image light PL1. The image light PL1 that has passed through each liquid crystal panel 115 and been modulated is combined by a combining optical system such as a cross dichroic prism, and is output to the projection optical system 113. In this embodiment, the light modulation device 112 is described as having a transmissive liquid crystal panel 115 as a light modulation element, but is not limited to this. The light modulation element may be a reflective liquid crystal panel or a digital micromirror device.

[0046] The light modulation device 112 is driven by a light modulation device driving unit 122. The light modulation device driving unit 122 is connected to the image processing unit 145. Image data corresponding to each of the primary colors R, G, and B is input to the light modulation device driving unit 122 from the image processing unit 145. The light modulation device driving unit 122 converts the input image data into a data signal suitable for the operation of the liquid crystal panel 115. Based on the converted data signal, the light modulation device driving unit 122 applies a voltage to each pixel of each liquid crystal panel 115, and draws an image on each liquid crystal panel 115.

[0047] The projection optical system 113 includes a projection lens, a mirror, etc. that form an image of the incident image light PL1 on the screen SC1. The projection optical system 113 also includes a zoom mechanism that enlarges or reduces the image projected onto the screen SC1, a focus adjustment mechanism that adjusts the focus, and a lens shift mechanism that adjusts the projection direction of the image light PL1.

[0048] The projector 1 further includes an operation unit 131, a remote control receiver 133, an input interface 135, a storage unit 137, a first communication interface 141, a frame memory 143, an image processing unit 145, a first control unit 150, and a speaker 160. The input interface 135, the storage unit 137, the first communication interface 141, the image processing unit 145, the first control unit 150, and the speaker 160 are connected to each other via an internal bus 107 so as to be able to communicate data with each other.

[0049] The operation unit 131 includes various buttons and switches provided on the surface of the housing of the projector 1, generates operation signals corresponding to the operation of these buttons and switches, and outputs the operation signals to the input interface 135. The input interface 135 includes a circuit that outputs the operation signals input from the operation unit 131 to the first control unit 150.

[0050] The remote control light receiving unit 133 receives an infrared signal transmitted from the remote control 5, decodes the received infrared signal, and generates an operation signal. The remote control light receiving unit 133 outputs the generated operation signal to the input interface 135. The input interface 135 includes a circuit that outputs the operation signal input from the remote control light receiving unit 133 to the first control unit 150.

[0051] The storage unit 137 is, for example, a magnetic recording device such as an HDD, or a storage device using a semiconductor storage element such as a flash memory or an SSD. The storage unit 137 stores programs executed by the first control unit 150, data processed by the first control unit 150, image data, etc.

[0052] The first communication interface 141 is a communication interface that communicates with the server device 2 in accordance with the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard. The first communication interface 141 includes a connector for connecting an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable and an interface circuit for processing signals transmitted through the connector. The first communication interface 141 is an interface board having a connector and an interface circuit, and is connected to a main board on which the first processor 150A and the like of the first control unit 150 are mounted. Alternatively, the connector and interface circuit that constitute the first communication interface 141 are mounted on the main board of the first control unit 150. The first communication interface 141 receives the first video information JP1 and the like from the server device 2.

[0053] The first control unit 150 includes a first memory 150B and a first processor 150A. The first memory 150B is a storage device that nonvolatilely stores programs and data executed by the first processor 150A. The first memory 150B is configured with a magnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage element such as a flash ROM, or other types of nonvolatile storage devices. The first memory 150B may also include RAM that configures the work area of ​​the first processor 150A. The first memory 150B stores data processed by the first control unit 150, the first control program PG1 executed by the first processor 150A, and the like.

[0054] The first processor 150A may be configured as a single processor, or may be configured such that multiple processors function as the first processor 150A. The first processor 150A may be hardware programmed to implement the functions of each unit described below. That is, the first processor 150A may be configured with the first control program PG1 installed as a hardware circuit. In this case, the first processor 150A may be configured with, for example, an ASIC, an FPGA, or the like. In the following description, the first processor 150A executes the first control program PG1 to realize various functions of the first control unit 150.

[0055] The image processing unit 145 and the frame memory 143 can be configured, for example, by an integrated circuit. Integrated circuits include LSIs, ASICs, and PLDs. PLDs include, for example, FPGAs. An analog circuit may be included as part of the configuration of an integrated circuit, or a processor may be combined with an integrated circuit. The combination of a processor and an integrated circuit is called a microcontroller (MCU), SoC, system LSI, chipset, etc.

[0056] The image processing unit 145 expands the image data input from the first communication interface 141 into the frame memory 143. The frame memory 143 includes a plurality of banks. Each bank has a storage capacity capable of writing image data for one frame. The frame memory 143 is configured, for example, by an SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0057] The image processing unit 145 performs image processing on the image data expanded in the frame memory 143, such as resolution conversion processing, resizing processing, distortion correction, shape correction processing, digital zoom processing, and adjustment of the color tone and brightness of the image. The image processing unit 145 also generates a vertical synchronization signal by converting the input frame frequency of the vertical synchronization signal into a drawing frequency. The generated vertical synchronization signal is called an output synchronization signal. The image processing unit 145 outputs the generated output synchronization signal to the light modulation device driving unit 122.

[0058] Next, the configuration of the first control unit 150 of the first projector 1A will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first control unit 150 of the first projector 1A. The first control unit 150 controls the operation of the first projector 1A. 4, the first control unit 150 includes a startup control unit 151, a function restriction execution unit 152, an image projection unit 153, a first communication control unit 154, and a first image storage unit 155. Specifically, the first processor 150A of the first control unit 150 executes a first control program PG1 stored in a first memory 150B, thereby functioning as the startup control unit 151, the function restriction execution unit 152, the image projection unit 153, and the first communication control unit 154. Furthermore, the first processor 150A of the first control unit 150 executes the first control program PG1 stored in the first memory 150B, thereby causing the first memory 150B to function as the first image storage unit 155.

[0059] The first image storage unit 155 stores the first video information JP1. The first video information JP1 is received from the server device 2 by the image projection unit 153. The first video information JP1 is also stored in the first image storage unit 155 by the image projection unit 153.

[0060] The start-up control unit 151 transmits to the server device 2 first start-up information JB1 indicating whether the first projector 1A is started up or not. If the first projector 1A is not started, the start control section 151 receives first start-up instruction information CB1 instructing start-up from the server device 2. Then, the start-up control section 151 executes start-up processing.

[0061] The function restriction execution unit 152 receives, from the server device 2, first function restriction instruction information CR1 that indicates an instruction to restrict the functions of the first projector 1A. The first function restriction instruction information CR1 indicates an instruction to the first projector 1A to prohibit operations other than volume operations and image quality setting operations, for example. When the function restriction execution unit 152 receives the first function restriction instruction information CR1, it executes the first function restriction process PR1. The first function restriction process PR1 is a process for prohibiting operations on the first projector 1A other than volume operations and image quality setting operations, for example.

[0062] The volume operation is, for example, a user operation accepted by the operation unit 131, and is an operation to adjust the volume output from the speaker 160 of the projector 1. The image quality setting operation is, for example, a user operation accepted by the operation unit 131, and is an operation to set the resolution of the first image P1 that the projector 1 projects onto the screen SC1.

[0063] When the execution of the first function restriction process PR1 is completed, the function restriction execution unit 152 transmits first function restriction completion information ER1 to the server device 2. The first function restriction completion information ER1 indicates that the first projector 1A has completed the first function restriction process PR1.

[0064] The image projection unit 153 receives the first video information JP1 from the server device 2. The image projection unit 153 stores the received first video information JP1 in the first image storage unit 155. The image projection unit 153 also projects a first video P1 corresponding to the first video information JP1 onto the screen SC1 to display the first video P1. The image projection unit 153 also outputs a first sound S1 corresponding to the first video information JP1 from the speaker 160.

[0065] The function restriction execution unit 152 receives first restriction release instruction information CS1 indicating an instruction to release the restriction on the function of the first projector 1A from the server device 2. When the first restriction release instruction information CS1 is received, the function restriction execution unit 152 executes a first restriction release process PS1 which is a process to release the restriction on the function of the first projector 1A. When the execution of the first restriction removal process PS1 is completed, the function restriction execution unit 152 transmits first removal completion information ES1 to the server device 2. The first removal completion information ES1 indicates that the first projector 1A has completed the first restriction removal process PS1.

[0066] The first communication control unit 154 controls the first communication interface 141 to communicate with the server device 2. The first communication control unit 154 transmits to the server device 2 the first activation information JB1, the first function restriction completion information ER1, and the first release completion information ES1. The first communication control unit 154 receives from the server device 2 the first activation instruction information CB1, the first function restriction instruction information CR1, the first video information JP1, and the first restriction lift instruction information CS1.

[0067] Next, the processing of the server device 2 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the server device 2 according to the first embodiment. 5, first, in step S101, the start-up instruction unit 211 acquires start-up information JB indicating whether or not each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C is started up. The start-up information JB includes first start-up information JB1, second start-up information JB2, and third start-up information JB3. Next, in step S103, the start-up instruction section 211 determines whether or not each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C has been started up, based on the start-up information JB.

[0068] If the start-up instruction unit 211 determines that all of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C are started (step S103; YES), the process proceeds to step S107. If the start-up instruction unit 211 determines that at least one of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C is not started (step S103; NO), the process proceeds to step S105. Then, in step S105, the start-up instruction section 211 transmits start-up instruction information CB to the projectors 1 that the start-up instruction section 211 has determined not to be started up, instructing them to start up. Next, in step S107, the restriction instruction section 212 transmits function restriction instruction information CR indicating an instruction to restrict a function to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C.

[0069] Next, in step S109, the restriction instruction unit 212 determines whether or not function restriction completion information ER indicating that the function restriction process PR has been completed has been received from each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C. The function restriction process PR is a process for prohibiting operations on the projector 1 other than, for example, volume operations and image quality setting operations. If the restriction instruction unit 212 determines that function restriction completion information ER has not been received from at least one of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C (step S109; NO), the process goes to a standby state. If the restriction instruction unit 212 determines that function restriction completion information ER has been received from all of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C (step S109; YES), the process proceeds to step S111.

[0070] Then, in step S111, the display instruction unit 213 transmits the image information JP to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C, and causes the image P corresponding to the image information JP to be displayed. Next, in step S113, the restriction instruction section 212 determines whether or not a predetermined period of time PT has elapsed since the display instruction section 213 transmitted the video information JP. If the restriction instruction unit 212 determines that the predetermined period PT has not elapsed since the display instruction unit 213 transmitted the video information JP (step S113; NO), the process enters a standby state. If the restriction instruction unit 212 determines that the predetermined period PT has elapsed since the display instruction unit 213 transmitted the video information JP (step S113; YES), the process proceeds to step S115. Then, in step S115, the restriction instruction unit 212 transmits restriction release instruction information CS indicating an instruction to release the restriction on the functions to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C. After that, the processing ends.

[0071] [Second embodiment] Next, the configuration of a display control system 100A according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a display control system 100A according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, a display control system 100A according to the second embodiment differs from the display control system 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. The personal computer 3 is connected to be able to communicate with the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C. The personal computer 3 is also connected to be able to communicate with the server device 2A via the network NW. The personal computer 3 corresponds to an example of an "information processing device."

[0072] The server device 2A transmits activation instruction information CB, function restriction instruction information CR, and restriction release instruction information CS to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C via the personal computer 3. Furthermore, each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C transmits activation information JB, function restriction completion information ER, and release completion information ES to the server device 2A via the personal computer 3.

[0073] The server device 2A transmits image instruction information CP that instructs the video information JP to be displayed on each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C to the personal computer 3. The image instruction information CP includes first image instruction information CP1, second image instruction information CP2, and third image instruction information CP3. The personal computer 3 transmits first video information JP1 corresponding to the first image instruction information CP1 to the first projector 1A, causing the first projector 1A to display a first video P1 corresponding to the first video information JP1. The personal computer 3 transmits second video information JP2 corresponding to the second image instruction information CP2 to the second projector 1B, causing the second projector 1B to display a second video P2 corresponding to the second video information JP2. The personal computer 3 transmits third video information JP3 corresponding to the third image instruction information CP3 to the third projector 1C, causing the third projector 1C to display a third video P3 corresponding to the third video information JP3.

[0074] As described above, the display control system 100A differs from the display control system 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 in that the server device 2A transmits image instruction information CP instructing the personal computer 3 to display the video information JP. Also, it differs from the display control system 100 according to the first embodiment in that the personal computer 3 transmits the image information JP to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C to display the image P.

[0075] Next, the configuration of the server device 2A according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the server device 2A according to the second embodiment. In Figure 7, the differences between the server device 2A according to the second embodiment and the server device 2 according to the first embodiment are mainly explained, and explanations of the same configuration as the server device 2 according to the first embodiment are omitted.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 7, the server device 2A according to the second embodiment differs from the server device 2 according to the first embodiment in that the second control unit 21 does not include a second image storage unit. 6, the first display instruction unit 213 of the second control unit 21 of the server device 2A according to the second embodiment differs from the server device 2 according to the first embodiment in that it transmits image instruction information CP to the personal computer 3. The image instruction information CP instructs the video information JP to be displayed on each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C. The image instruction information CP includes first image instruction information CP1, second image instruction information CP2, and third image instruction information CP3.

[0077] Next, the configuration of the personal computer 3 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the personal computer 3 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, the personal computer 3 includes a third control unit 31 and a third communication interface .

[0078] The third control unit 31 includes a third processor 31A such as a CPU, and a third memory 31B such as a ROM. The third memory 31B stores a third control program PG3.

[0079] The third processor 31A may be configured with multiple processors or may be configured with a single processor. The third processor 31A may be hardware programmed to implement the functions of each unit described below. That is, the third processor 31A may be configured with the second control program PG2 installed as a hardware circuit. In this case, the third processor 31A may be configured with, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or the like. In the following description, the third processor 31A executes the third control program PG3 to realize various functions of the third control unit 31.

[0080] The third memory 31B has a nonvolatile storage area that stores programs and data in a nonvolatile manner. The third memory 31B may include, for example, a ROM, HDD, SSD, etc. as the nonvolatile storage area. The third memory 31B may also include a volatile storage area that constitutes a work area that temporarily stores programs executed by the third processor 31A and data to be processed. The third memory 31B may also include, for example, a RAM, etc. as the volatile storage area.

[0081] The third communication interface 34 is a communication interface that executes communication with each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C in accordance with the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard. The third communication interface 34 is also a communication interface that executes communication with the server device 2 via the network NW in accordance with the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard. The third communication interface 34 includes a connector for connecting an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable and an interface circuit for processing signals transmitted through the connector. The third communication interface 34 is an interface board having a connector and an interface circuit, and is connected to a main board on which the third processor 31A and the like of the third control unit 31 are mounted. Alternatively, the connector and interface circuit constituting the third communication interface 34 are mounted on the main board of the third control unit 31.

[0082] 8, the third control unit 31 includes a startup communication unit 311, a limited communication unit 312, a second display instruction unit 313, a third communication control unit 314, and a third image storage unit 315. These units are realized by cooperation of software and hardware, for example, when the third processor 31A executes the third control program PG3. In other words, when the third processor 31A executes the third control program PG3, it functions as the startup communication unit 311, the limited communication unit 312, the second display instruction unit 313, and the third communication control unit 314. When the third processor 31A executes the third control program PG3, it also causes the third memory 31B to function as the third image storage unit 315.

[0083] The third image storage unit 315 stores image instruction information CP and video information JP in association with each other. The image instruction information CP includes first image instruction information CP1, second image instruction information CP2, and third image instruction information CP3. The video information JP includes first video information JP1, second video information JP2, and third video information JP3. The third image storage unit 315 stores the first image instruction information CP1 and the first video information JP1, which is the video information JP indicated by the first image instruction information CP1, in association with each other. The third image storage unit 315 stores the second image instruction information CP2 and the second video information JP2, which is the video information JP indicated by the second image instruction information CP2, in association with each other. The third image storage unit 315 stores the third image instruction information CP3 and the third video information JP3, which is the video information JP indicated by the third image instruction information CP3, in association with each other.

[0084] The activation communication unit 311 relays information relating to the activation of each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C between each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C and the server device 2. For example, the startup communication unit 311 receives startup information JB from each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C, and transmits the received startup information JB to the server device 2. Also, for example, the startup communication unit 311 transmits startup instruction information CB received from the server device 2 to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C.

[0085] The restricted communication unit 312 relays information relating to the function restrictions of each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C between each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C and the server device 2. For example, the restriction communication unit 312 receives function restriction instruction information CR and restriction release instruction information CS from the server device 2, and transmits the received function restriction instruction information CR and restriction release instruction information CS to the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C, respectively. Also, for example, the restriction communication unit 312 receives function restriction completion information ER and release completion information ES from the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C, respectively, and transmits the received function restriction completion information ER and release completion information ES to the server device 2.

[0086] The second display instruction unit 313 receives the first image instruction information CP1, the second image instruction information CP2, and the third image instruction information CP3 from the server device 2. The second display instruction unit 313 reads out the first video information JP1 corresponding to the received first image instruction information CP1 from the third image storage unit 315. Then, the second display instruction unit 313 transmits the first video information JP1 to the first projector 1A, and causes the first projector 1A to project and display the first video P1 corresponding to the first video information JP1. The second display instruction unit 313 reads out the second video information JP2 corresponding to the received second image instruction information CP2 from the third image storage unit 315. Then, the second display instruction unit 313 transmits the second video information JP2 to the second projector 1B, and causes the second projector 1B to project and display the second video P2 corresponding to the second video information JP2. The second display instruction unit 313 reads out the third video information JP3 corresponding to the received third image instruction information CP3 from the third image storage unit 315. Then, the second display instruction unit 313 transmits the third video information JP3 to the third projector 1C, and causes the third projector 1C to project and display the third video P3 corresponding to the third video information JP3.

[0087] The third communication control unit 314 controls the third communication interface 34 to communicate with the server device 2 and to communicate with each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C. The third communication control unit 314 receives the startup information JB, the function restriction completion information ER, and the release completion information ES from each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C. The third communication control unit 314 also transmits the received startup information JB, the function restriction completion information ER, and the release completion information ES to the server device 2. The third communication control unit 314 receives the start-up instruction information CB, the function restriction instruction information CR, and the restriction lift instruction information CS from the server device 2. Furthermore, the third communication control unit 314 transmits the received start-up instruction information CB, the function restriction instruction information CR, and the restriction lift instruction information CS to the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C, respectively. The third communication control unit 314 receives the image instruction information CP from the server device 2. Furthermore, the third communication control unit 314 transmits the video information JP corresponding to the received image instruction information CP to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C.

[0088] As described with reference to Figures 6-8, the server device 2A transmits the first image instruction information CP1, the second image instruction information CP2, and the third image instruction information CP3 to the personal computer 3, so compared to the display control system 100 of the first embodiment, the display control system 100A of the second embodiment can reduce the amount of data transmitted via the network NW.

[0089] [Embodiment and Effects] As described above with reference to Figures 1 to 5, the display control method of the first embodiment is a display control method including the following: a server device 2 transmitting function restriction instruction information CR to a plurality of projectors 1 connected to the server device 2 so as to be able to communicate with the server device 2, the function restriction instruction information CR indicating an instruction to restrict the functions possessed by each of the plurality of projectors 1; each of the plurality of projectors 1 executing a function restriction process PR, which is a process of restricting a function, in accordance with the function restriction instruction information CR; each of the plurality of projectors 1 transmitting function restriction completion information ER to the server device 2, when the function restriction process PR is completed, the server device 2 indicating that the function restriction process PR has been completed; and after receiving the function restriction completion information ER from each of the plurality of projectors 1, the server device 2 transmitting video information JP to each of the plurality of projectors 1 to display video P corresponding to the video information JP.

[0090] That is, after receiving function restriction completion information ER indicating that the function restriction process PR has been completed from each of the multiple projectors 1, image information JP is transmitted to each of the multiple projectors 1 to display an image P corresponding to the image information JP. Note that the function restriction process PR is a process of restricting functions in accordance with function restriction instruction information CR. Therefore, by appropriately setting the function restriction instruction information CR, each of the multiple projectors 1 can be put into an appropriate state and can display the image P corresponding to the image information JP. This reduces the workload of the user.

[0091] The display control method also includes the steps of the server device 2 acquiring, from each of the plurality of projectors 1, startup information JB indicating whether each of the plurality of projectors 1 is started or not, and when the startup information JB corresponding to at least one of the plurality of projectors 1 indicates that the projector is not started, the server device 2 transmitting startup instruction information CB to at least one of the projectors 1 instructing the projector to start up, and the at least one projector 1 executing startup processing upon receiving the startup instruction information CB. Therefore, it is possible to start up the projectors 1 that are not started up among the plurality of projectors 1. This reduces the workload of the user.

[0092] Furthermore, in the above display control method, each of the multiple projectors 1 is configured to be capable of operating in an operation restriction mode MR that prohibits operations other than volume operations and image quality setting operations, and the function restriction instruction information CR indicates an instruction to set each of the multiple projectors 1 to the operation restriction mode MR. Therefore, each of the multiple projectors 1 can be operated in an operation restriction mode MR that prohibits operations other than volume operations and image quality setting operations. Therefore, each of the multiple projectors 1 can be put into an appropriate state. In other words, unnecessary operations by the user watching the video P can be prohibited.

[0093] In the above display control method, the function restriction instruction information CR indicates to each of the plurality of projectors 1 an instruction to prohibit operations other than volume operations and image quality setting operations. Therefore, it is possible to set each of the multiple projectors 1 in a state where operations other than volume operations and image quality setting operations are prohibited. Therefore, it is possible to set each of the multiple projectors 1 in an appropriate state. In other words, it is possible to prohibit unnecessary operations by the user watching the video P.

[0094] The display control method also includes the steps of the server device 2 transmitting restriction release instruction information CS to each of the plurality of projectors 1, the restriction release instruction information CS indicating an instruction to release the restriction on the function, and each of the plurality of projectors 1 executing a restriction release process PS, which is a process of releasing the restriction on the function, in response to the restriction release instruction information CS. Therefore, by transmitting restriction release instruction information CS to the multiple projectors 1 at the appropriate timing, it is possible to release the restriction on the functions of each of the multiple projectors 1. For example, when viewing of the video P is completed, it is possible to release the restriction on the functions of each of the multiple projectors 1. This improves user convenience.

[0095] As described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8, the display control method according to the second embodiment includes the following steps: a server device 2A transmits, to a personal computer 3 communicably connected to the server device 2A, function restriction instruction information CR indicating an instruction to restrict functions of each of a plurality of projectors 1 communicably connected to the personal computer 3; the personal computer 3 transmits the function restriction instruction information CR to each of the plurality of projectors 1; each of the plurality of projectors 1 executes a function restriction process PR which is a process of restricting a function in accordance with the function restriction instruction information CR; and each of the plurality of projectors 1, when the function restriction process PR is completed, executes the function restriction process PR. the personal computer 3 transmitting function restriction completion information ER indicating that the restriction process PR has been completed to the personal computer 3; the personal computer 3 transmitting the function restriction completion information ER to the server device 2A; the server device 2A, after receiving the function restriction completion information ER from each of the plurality of projectors 1, transmitting image instruction information CP to the personal computer 3 instructing each of the plurality of projectors 1 to display video information JP; and the personal computer 3 transmitting the video information JP corresponding to the image instruction information CP to each of the plurality of projectors 1 to display video P corresponding to the video information JP.

[0096] That is, after receiving function restriction completion information ER indicating that the function restriction process PR has been completed from each of the multiple projectors 1, image information JP is transmitted to each of the multiple projectors 1 to display an image P corresponding to the image information JP. Note that the function restriction process PR is a process of restricting functions in accordance with function restriction instruction information CR. Therefore, by appropriately setting the function restriction instruction information CR, each of the multiple projectors 1 can be put into an appropriate state and can display the image P corresponding to the image information JP. This reduces the workload of the user. Furthermore, since the server device 2A transmits image instruction information CP to the personal computer 3, the display control method according to the second embodiment can reduce the amount of data transmitted via the network NW compared to the display control method according to the first embodiment.

[0097] Furthermore, in the above display control method, each of the multiple projectors 1 is configured to be capable of operating in an operation restriction mode MR that prohibits operations other than predetermined specific operations DP, and the function restriction instruction information CR indicates an instruction to set each of the multiple projectors 1 to the operation restriction mode MR. Therefore, each of the multiple projectors 1 can be operated in an operation restriction mode MR that prohibits operations other than the specific operation DP. Therefore, by setting the specific operation DP to an appropriate operation, each of the multiple projectors 1 can be put into an appropriate state. In other words, unnecessary operations by the user viewing the video P can be prohibited.

[0098] In the above display control method, the specific operation DP is a volume operation and an image quality setting operation. Therefore, since the specific operation DP is a volume operation and an image quality setting operation, the user can perform the volume operation and the image quality setting operation. Therefore, each of the multiple projectors 1 can be operated in the operation restriction mode MR without reducing user convenience.

[0099] In the above display control method, the function restriction instruction information CR indicates an instruction to each of the plurality of projectors 1 to prohibit operations other than the predetermined specific operation DP. Therefore, each of the multiple projectors 1 can be operated in a state where operations other than the specific operation DP are prohibited. Therefore, by setting the specific operation DP to an appropriate operation, each of the multiple projectors 1 can be put into an appropriate state. In other words, unnecessary operations by the user viewing the video P can be prohibited.

[0100] In the above display control method, the specific operation DP is a volume operation and an image quality setting operation. Therefore, since the specific operation DP is a volume operation and an image quality setting operation, the user can perform the volume operation and the image quality setting operation, and therefore, each of the multiple projectors 1 can be operated in an appropriate state without reducing user convenience.

[0101] The display control system 100 according to the first embodiment is a display control system 100 including a server device 2 and a plurality of projectors 1 connected to the server device 2 so as to be able to communicate with the server device 2, wherein the server device 2 transmits function restriction instruction information CR to the plurality of projectors 1, which indicates an instruction to restrict a function possessed by each of the plurality of projectors 1; each of the plurality of projectors 1 executes a function restriction process PR, which is a process of restricting a function, in accordance with the function restriction instruction information CR; when the function restriction process PR is completed, each of the plurality of projectors 1 transmits function restriction completion information ER to the server device 2, which indicates that the function restriction process PR has been completed; and after receiving the function restriction completion information ER from each of the plurality of projectors 1, the server device 2 transmits video information JP to each of the plurality of projectors 1, causing the projectors 1 to display video P corresponding to the video information JP. Therefore, the display control system 100 according to the first embodiment can achieve the same effects as the display method according to the first embodiment.

[0102] A display control system 100A according to the second embodiment is a display control system 100A including a server device 2A, a personal computer 3 communicably connected to the server device 2A, and a plurality of display devices 1 communicably connected to the personal computer 3, in which the server device 2A transmits, to the personal computer 3, function restriction instruction information CR indicating an instruction to restrict a function of each of the plurality of projectors 1 communicably connected to the personal computer 3, the personal computer 3 transmits the function restriction instruction information CR to each of the plurality of projectors 1, and each of the plurality of projectors 1 executes a function restriction process PR which is a process of restricting a function in accordance with the function restriction instruction information CR, and The display control system 100A includes the following: each of the projectors 1, when the function restriction process PR is completed, transmits function restriction completion information ER to the personal computer 3 indicating that the function restriction process PR has been completed; the personal computer 3 transmits the function restriction completion information ER to the server device 2A; the server device 2A, after receiving the function restriction completion information ER from each of the plurality of projectors 1, transmits image instruction information CP to the personal computer 3 instructing the video information JP to be displayed on each of the plurality of projectors 1; and the personal computer 3 transmits the video information JP corresponding to the image instruction information CP to each of the plurality of projectors 1, causing the projectors 1 to display the video P corresponding to the video information JP. Therefore, the display control system 100A according to the second embodiment can achieve the same effects as the display method according to the second embodiment.

[0103] [Other embodiments] The above-described embodiment is a preferred embodiment, but is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0104] In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the "plurality of display devices" are a first projector 1A, a second projector 1B, and a third projector 1C, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the "plurality of display devices" may be configured with two projectors. Also, for example, the "plurality of display devices" may be configured with four or more projectors.

[0105] In addition, although the present embodiment describes a case where the "display device" is a projector, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the "display device" may be a display device that displays on a display such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display).

[0106] In this embodiment, the case where the "image information" is video information JP including audio information JS will be described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the "image information" may be moving image information that does not include audio information JS. Also, for example, the "image information" may be still image information that includes audio information JS. Also, for example, the "image information" may be still image information that does not include audio information JS.

[0107] In this embodiment, the first video P1, the second video P2, and the third video P3 are, for example, the same moving image, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The first video P1, the second video P2, and the third video P3 may be, for example, different moving images.

[0108] In addition, in this embodiment, the case where the "information processing device" is a personal computer 3 will be described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The "information processing device" may be a smartphone or a tablet device (a so-called tablet-type computer).

[0109] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the server device 2 transmits the video information JP to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C, but an image providing device different from the server device 2 may transmit the video information JP to each of the first projector 1A, the second projector 1B, and the third projector 1C. In the present embodiment, the second image storage unit 215 stores the video information JP in advance, but in this case, the video information JP is stored in the video providing device. Although an embodiment in which the video information JP is transmitted from the video providing device to the first projector 1A will be described below, the same applies to the case in which the video information JP is transmitted from the video providing device to the second projector 1B and the third projector 1C.

[0110] The video providing device is communicably connected to the server device 2 and the first projector 1A via a network NW. After receiving the first function restriction completion information ER1 from the first projector 1A, the server device 2 transmits video transmission instruction information to the video providing device via the second communication interface 24. After receiving the video transmission instruction information, the video providing device transmits first video information JP1 to the first projector 1A. The video providing device is, for example, a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) player, a Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc player, or the like.

[0111] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example of function restriction instruction information CR is an instruction to prohibit the projector 1 from accepting operations that instruct the execution of functions other than the predetermined specific operation DP, but the function restriction device may also prohibit the projector 1 from accepting operations. Specifically, the function restriction device provided on the projector 1 has a shading mechanism that blocks the remote control light receiving unit 133 of the projector 1, which receives light emission signals from the remote control 5, and an isolation mechanism that isolates the operation buttons of the operation unit 131 provided on the housing of the projector 1 so that the user cannot operate them.

[0112] This makes it possible to restrict the execution of functions other than the physically preset specific operation DP.

[0113] Furthermore, the functional units shown in Figures 2-4 and 7-8 show functional configurations, and the specific implementation form is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessary to implement hardware corresponding to each functional unit individually, and a configuration in which a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of multiple functional units is also possible. Furthermore, some of the functions realized by software in the above embodiments may be realized by hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be realized by software. In addition, the specific detailed configurations of each unit of the projector 1, server device 2, server device 2A, and personal computer 3 may be changed as desired without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0114] 5 are divided according to the main processing content to make it easier to understand the processing of the second control unit 21 of the server device 2. There is no limitation to the way the processing units are divided or the names shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5, and the processing units can be divided into more processing units depending on the processing content, or one processing unit can be divided to include more processes. Furthermore, the processing order of the above flowchart is not limited to the example shown in the figure.

[0115] Furthermore, the display control method according to the first embodiment can be realized by causing the first processor 150A provided in the projector 1 to execute the first control program PG1, and causing the second processor 21A provided in the server device 2 to execute the second control program PG2. Furthermore, the display control method according to the second embodiment can be realized by having the first processor 150A provided in the projector 1 execute the first control program PG1, the second processor 21A provided in the server device 2A execute the second control program PG2A, and the third processor 31A provided in the personal computer 3 execute the third control program PG3. The first control program PG1, the second control program PG2, and the third control program PG3 may also be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. The recording medium may be a magnetic or optical recording medium or a semiconductor memory device. Specific examples include portable or fixed recording media such as a flexible disk, HDD, CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVD, Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc, magneto-optical disk, flash memory, and card-type recording medium. The recording medium may also be a non-volatile storage device such as RAM, ROM, or HDD, which is an internal storage device provided in the projector 1. The display control method can also be realized by storing the first control program PG1 in a server device (not shown) and downloading the first control program PG1 from the server device (not shown) to the projector 1.

[0116] [Note] A summary of this disclosure is provided below. (Appendix 1) A display control method including: a server device transmitting function restriction instruction information to a plurality of display devices connected to the server device so as to be able to communicate with the server device, the function restriction instruction information indicating an instruction to restrict a function possessed by each of the plurality of display devices; each of the plurality of display devices executing a function restriction process, which is a process of restricting a function, in accordance with the function restriction instruction information; each of the plurality of display devices transmitting function restriction completion information to the server device, when the function restriction process is completed, indicating that the function restriction process has been completed; and after the server device receives the function restriction completion information from each of the plurality of display devices, transmitting image information to each of the plurality of display devices to display an image corresponding to the image information.

[0117] By appropriately setting the function restriction instruction information, each of the plurality of display devices can be set to an appropriate state and can display an image corresponding to the image information, thereby reducing the workload of the user.

[0118] (Appendix 2) The display control method described in Appendix 1 includes the steps of: the server device acquiring, from each of the plurality of display devices, startup information indicating whether each of the plurality of display devices is started or not; when the startup information corresponding to at least one of the plurality of display devices indicates that the display device is not started, the server device transmitting startup instruction information to the at least one display device instructing the display device to start up; and the at least one display device executing startup processing when receiving the startup instruction information.

[0119] This allows the display devices that are not started up among the plurality of display devices to be started up, thereby reducing the workload of the user.

[0120] (Appendix 3) A display control method as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, wherein each of the plurality of display devices is configured to be capable of operating in an operation restriction mode that prohibits operations other than volume operations and image quality setting operations, and the function restriction instruction information indicates an instruction to set each of the plurality of display devices to the operation restriction mode.

[0121] This allows each of the multiple display devices to operate in an operation restriction mode that prohibits operations other than volume operations and image quality setting operations. Therefore, each of the multiple display devices can be set in an appropriate state. In other words, unnecessary operations by users viewing images can be prohibited.

[0122] (Appendix 4) The display control method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the function restriction instruction information indicates an instruction to prohibit operations other than volume operations and image quality setting operations on each of the plurality of display devices.

[0123] This allows each of the multiple display devices to be in a state where operations other than volume operations and image quality setting operations are prohibited. Therefore, each of the multiple display devices can be in an appropriate state. In other words, unnecessary operations by users viewing images can be prohibited.

[0124] (Appendix 5) A display control method described in any one of Appendix 1 to Appendix 4, including the server device transmitting restriction release instruction information indicating an instruction to release a function restriction to each of the plurality of display devices, and each of the plurality of display devices executing a restriction release process, which is a process of releasing a function restriction, in accordance with the restriction release instruction information.

[0125] This allows the restriction on each of the functions of the multiple display devices to be released by transmitting the restriction release instruction information to the multiple display devices at the appropriate timing. For example, when viewing of an image is completed, the restriction on each of the functions of the multiple display devices can be released. This improves user convenience.

[0126] (Appendix 6) a server device transmitting function restriction instruction information to an information processing device communicatively connected to the server device, the function restriction instruction information indicating an instruction to restrict a function of each of a plurality of display devices communicatively connected to the information processing device; the information processing device transmitting the function restriction instruction information to each of the plurality of display devices; each of the plurality of display devices executing a function restriction process, which is a process of restricting a function, in accordance with the function restriction instruction information; each of the plurality of display devices transmitting function restriction completion information to the information processing device, indicating that the function restriction process has been completed, when the function restriction process is completed; the information processing device transmitting the function restriction completion information to the server device; after receiving the function restriction completion information from each of the plurality of display devices, the server device transmitting image instruction information to the information processing device, indicating image information to be displayed on each of the plurality of display devices; and the information processing device transmitting image information corresponding to the image instruction information to each of the plurality of display devices, causing each of the plurality of display devices to display an image corresponding to the image information.

[0127] By appropriately setting the function restriction instruction information, each of the plurality of display devices can be set to an appropriate state and can display an image corresponding to the image information, thereby reducing the workload of the user. In addition, since the server device transmits image instruction information to the information processing device, the display control method shown in Appendix 6 can reduce the amount of data transmitted via the network compared to the display control method shown in Appendix 1.

[0128] (Appendix 7) A display control method as described in Appendix 6, wherein each of the plurality of display devices is configured to be capable of operating in an operation restriction mode that prohibits operations other than predetermined specific operations, and the function restriction instruction information indicates an instruction to set each of the plurality of display devices to the operation restriction mode.

[0129] As a result, the display control method described in Supplementary Note 7 can operate each of the multiple display devices in an operation restriction mode that prohibits operations other than the specific operation. Therefore, by setting the specific operation to an appropriate operation, each of the multiple display devices can be put into an appropriate state. In other words, unnecessary operations by a user viewing an image can be prohibited. (Appendix 8) The display control method according to claim 7, wherein the specific operation is a volume operation and an image quality setting operation.

[0130] As a result, in the display control method described in Supplementary Note 8, the specific operations are volume operation and image quality setting operation, so the user can perform volume operation and image quality setting operation. Therefore, each of the multiple display devices can be operated in the operation restriction mode without reducing user convenience.

[0131] (Appendix 9) 7. The display control method according to claim 6, wherein the function restriction instruction information indicates an instruction to prohibit operations other than predetermined specific operations for each of the plurality of display devices.

[0132] As a result, the display control method described in Supplementary Note 9 can operate each of the multiple display devices in a state where operations other than the specific operation are prohibited. Therefore, by setting the specific operation to an appropriate operation, each of the multiple display devices can be put into an appropriate state. In other words, unnecessary operations by a user viewing an image can be prohibited. (Appendix 10) The display control method according to claim 9, wherein the specific operation is a volume operation and an image quality setting operation.

[0133] As a result, in the display control method described in Supplementary Note 10, the specific operations are volume operation and image quality setting operation, so the user can perform volume operation and image quality setting operation. Therefore, each of the multiple display devices can be operated in an appropriate state without reducing user convenience. (Appendix 11) A display control system comprising a server device and a plurality of display devices connected to the server device so as to be able to communicate with the server device, wherein the server device transmits function restriction instruction information to the plurality of display devices, the function restriction instruction information indicating an instruction to restrict a function possessed by each of the plurality of display devices; each of the plurality of display devices executes a function restriction process, which is a process of restricting a function, in accordance with the function restriction instruction information; each of the plurality of display devices transmits function restriction completion information to the server device, indicating that the function restriction process has been completed, when the function restriction process is completed; and after the server device receives the function restriction completion information from each of the plurality of display devices, it transmits image information to each of the plurality of display devices, causing each of the plurality of display devices to display an image corresponding to the image information.

[0134] As a result, the display control system described in Supplementary Note 11 has the same effects as the display control method described in Supplementary Note 1. (Appendix 12) a display control system including a server device, an information processing device communicatively connected to the server device, and a plurality of display devices communicatively connected to the information processing device, the display control system including: the server device transmitting, to the information processing device, function restriction instruction information indicating an instruction to restrict a function of each of the plurality of display devices communicatively connected to the information processing device; the information processing device transmitting the function restriction instruction information to each of the plurality of display devices; each of the plurality of display devices executing a function restriction process, which is a process of restricting a function, in accordance with the function restriction instruction information; each of the plurality of display devices transmitting, to the information processing device, function restriction completion information indicating that the function restriction process has been completed, the function restriction completion information; the information processing device transmitting the function restriction completion information to the server device;

[0135] As a result, the display control system described in Supplementary Note 12 has the same effects as the display control method described in Supplementary Note 6. [Explanation of symbols]

[0136] 100, 100A...display control system, 1...projector (display device), 1A...first projector, 1B...second projector, 1C...third projector, 141...first communication interface, 150...first control unit, 150A...first processor, 150B...first memory, 151...startup control unit, 152...function restriction execution unit, 153...image projection unit, 154...first communication control unit, 155...first image storage unit, 160...speaker, 2, 2A...server device, 21...second control unit, 21A...second processor, 21B...second memory, 211...startup instruction unit, 212...restriction instruction unit, 213...first display instruction unit, 214...second communication control unit, 215...second image storage unit, 24...second communication interface , 3...personal computer (information processing device), 31...third control unit, 31A...third processor, 31B...third memory, 34...third communication interface, 311...startup communication unit, 312...restriction communication unit, 313...second display instruction unit, 314...third communication control unit, 315...third image memory unit, CB...startup instruction information, CP...image instruction information, CR...function restriction instruction information, CS...restriction release instruction information, DP...specific operation, ER...function restriction completion information, ES...release completion information, JB...startup information, JP...video information (image information), P...video (image), PG1...first control program, PG2, PG2A...second control program, PG3...third control program, PR...function restriction processing, PS...restriction release processing, PT...predetermined period.

Claims

1. the server device transmits function restriction instruction information indicating an instruction to restrict a function of each of the plurality of display devices to a plurality of display devices communicably connected to the server device; each of the plurality of display devices executes a function restriction process that is a process of restricting a function in accordance with the function restriction instruction information; When the function restriction process is completed, each of the plurality of display devices transmits function restriction completion information indicating that the function restriction process has been completed to the server device; the server device, after receiving the function restriction completion information from each of the plurality of display devices, transmits image information to each of the plurality of display devices, causing the display devices to display an image corresponding to the image information; A display control method comprising:

2. the server device acquires, from each of the plurality of display devices, startup information indicating whether each of the plurality of display devices is started; When the startup information corresponding to at least one of the plurality of display devices indicates that the display device is not started, the server device transmits startup instruction information to the at least one display device, instructing the display device to start up; the at least one display device executes a startup process when receiving the startup instruction information; The display control method according to claim 1 , comprising:

3. each of the plurality of display devices is configured to be operable in an operation restriction mode in which operations other than volume operation and image quality setting operation are prohibited; the function restriction instruction information indicates an instruction to set each of the plurality of display devices to the operation restriction mode; The display control method according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the function restriction instruction information indicates an instruction to prohibit operations other than volume operations and image quality setting operations on each of the plurality of display devices. The display control method according to claim 1 or 2.

5. the server device transmits restriction release instruction information indicating an instruction to release a function restriction to each of the plurality of display devices; each of the plurality of display devices executes a restriction release process that is a process of releasing a restriction on a function in response to the restriction release instruction information; The display control method according to claim 1 , comprising:

6. the server device transmits, to an information processing device communicably connected to the server device, function restriction instruction information indicating an instruction to restrict functions of each of a plurality of display devices communicably connected to the information processing device; the information processing device transmits the function restriction instruction information to each of the plurality of display devices; each of the plurality of display devices executes a function restriction process that is a process of restricting a function in accordance with the function restriction instruction information; When the function restriction process is completed, each of the plurality of display devices transmits function restriction completion information indicating that the function restriction process is completed to the information processing device; the information processing device transmits the function restriction completion information to the server device; the server device, after receiving the function restriction completion information from each of the plurality of display devices, transmits, to the information processing device, image instruction information instructing image information to be displayed on each of the plurality of display devices; the information processing device transmits image information corresponding to the image instruction information to each of the plurality of display devices, and causes the display devices to display an image corresponding to the image information; A display control method comprising:

7. each of the plurality of display devices is configured to be operable in an operation restriction mode in which operations other than predetermined specific operations are prohibited; the function restriction instruction information indicates an instruction to set each of the plurality of display devices to the operation restriction mode; The display control method according to claim 6.

8. The specific operation is a volume operation and an image quality setting operation. The display control method according to claim 7.

9. the function restriction instruction information indicates an instruction to prohibit operations other than predetermined specific operations on each of the plurality of display devices. The display control method according to claim 6.

10. The specific operation is a volume operation and an image quality setting operation. The display control method according to claim 9.

11. A display control system including a server device and a plurality of display devices communicably connected to the server device, the server device transmits, to the plurality of display devices, function restriction instruction information indicating an instruction to restrict a function of each of the plurality of display devices; each of the plurality of display devices executes a function restriction process that is a process of restricting a function in accordance with the function restriction instruction information; When the function restriction process is completed, each of the plurality of display devices transmits function restriction completion information indicating that the function restriction process has been completed to the server device; the server device, after receiving the function restriction completion information from each of the plurality of display devices, transmits image information to each of the plurality of display devices, causing the display devices to display an image corresponding to the image information; A display control system comprising:

12. A display control system including a server device, an information processing device communicatively connected to the server device, and a plurality of display devices communicatively connected to the information processing device, the server device transmits, to the information processing device, function restriction instruction information indicating an instruction to restrict functions of each of a plurality of display devices communicably connected to the information processing device; the information processing device transmits the function restriction instruction information to each of the plurality of display devices; each of the plurality of display devices executes a function restriction process that is a process of restricting a function in accordance with the function restriction instruction information; When the function restriction process is completed, each of the plurality of display devices transmits function restriction completion information indicating that the function restriction process is completed to the information processing device; the information processing device transmits the function restriction completion information to the server device; the server device, after receiving the function restriction completion information from each of the plurality of display devices, transmits, to the information processing device, image instruction information instructing image information to be displayed on each of the plurality of display devices; the information processing device transmits image information corresponding to the image instruction information to each of the plurality of display devices, and causes the display devices to display an image corresponding to the image information; A display control system comprising:

Images