Content reception device and distribution device

Abstract

To provide a user-friendly content receiving device and distributing device.SOLUTION: The content reception device suspends the download and bookmarks the content when a sufficient storage time limit can be confirmed by the designation of the moving image content, and downloads the content when the storage time limit cannot be confirmed or the storage time limit is approaching. To restart reproduction of a moving image content designated at the time of previous power-off when power is turned on. A constant communication state with a communication server is established by a normal operation of a television. To enable appreciation from the beginning or the like of a program of moving image contents of the same contents and download of the whole data by accessing a communication server by a link from a television program in the middle of broadcasting. A server side stores moving picture contents data of the same contents with a time limit in cross-reference with a broadcast program. At the time of live streaming distribution, distribution is automatically performed from a packet at the time of access, and archive data are automatically distributed from a head packet or the like.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a content receiving device and a content distribution device. [Background technology]

[0002] A typical example of content is video content, and typical examples of its receiving and distributing devices are televisions and television stations. Broadcast programs, which are video content distributed by television stations via airwaves, are often received on televisions and viewed in real time, or they are recorded on video recorders and then viewed. Regarding recording devices, a wide variety of recording methods have become commonplace, including not only traditional video tape recorders but also recording onto disc-type digital storage media such as DVDs and large-capacity hard disks.

[0003] Meanwhile, in recent years, so-called server-based broadcasting has become more and more practical, making it possible to watch video programs by decompressing and playing video content data downloaded from a program distribution server via the Internet. Furthermore, it has become common to watch video content in near real time via streaming distribution via the Internet.

[0004] As described above, various devices and systems that go beyond the scope of conventional televisions and video recorders have been proposed to users as content receiving devices. Furthermore, in addition to proposing devices and systems, proposals are also being made for ways to enjoy content that were previously impossible due to the increase in content storage capacity and diversification of functions.

[0005] However, the diversification of functions only complicates the use of the device, and does not necessarily make it easy for users to use. In fact, users who are not familiar with the device may find it confusing to use. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2006-319955 Public Relations [Patent Document 2] JP 2001-285743 Public Relations Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] In view of the above, the problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a content receiving device that is truly easy for users to use and can enrich their lives, and a content distribution device that works in conjunction with the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, the present invention provides a content receiving device having a designation unit for designating desired content, a storage unit for storing information for facilitating the next designation of the designated content, and a storage unit for automatically receiving and storing designated content data from a distribution device based on information regarding the storage of the designated content in the distribution device. This eliminates unnecessary reception and storage of content data and addresses situations where the content has already been deleted the next time the content is accessed. According to a specific feature of the present invention, the content receiving device is provided with a determination unit for determining information regarding the storage of the designated content in the distribution device. According to a further specific feature, the determination unit automatically receives the designated content data from the distribution device and stores it in the storage unit when it is unable to confirm information regarding the storage of the designated content in the distribution device. This allows the content data to be received and stored and stored on the receiving device side when the future storage status of the content data in the distribution device is unknown. According to another specific feature, the determination unit automatically receives the designated content data from the distribution device and stores it in the storage unit by determining information regarding the storage period of the designated content in the distribution device. This allows the content data to be received and stored before the storage period of the content data in the distribution device expires and stored on the receiving device side.

[0009] According to another specific feature of the present invention, the designation unit instructs the storage of the specified content, and when the determination unit confirms the storage expiration date of the specified content in the distribution device, the designation unit suspends the reception of the content data instructed to be stored from the distribution device and storage in the storage unit, and stores information in the storage unit to facilitate the next designation of the specified content. This allows the receiving device to easily and reliably use the content data when needed, even without actually receiving and storing the content data in the receiving device, achieving results equivalent to those obtained when the content data was stored on the receiving device side. According to another specific feature of the present invention, the content receiving device is provided with an operation unit that instructs the use of the content instructed to be stored, and a reception execution unit that receives the content data that has been suspended from the distribution device based on the information stored in the storage unit in response to operation of the operation unit. This allows the content data to be easily and reliably secured when used, even without the receiving device itself storing the content data, achieving results equivalent to those obtained when the content data was stored on the receiving device side. According to a further specific feature of the present invention, the determination unit automatically receives the content data that has been suspended from the distribution device based on information regarding the storage expiration date of the content instructed to be stored in the distribution device, and stores it in the storage unit. This allows the content data to be received and stored before the storage period of the content data in the distribution device expires, and the content data can be secured on the receiving device side.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the content is digital video content, the content distribution device is a communication server for digital video content data, and the content receiving device is configured as a digital video content viewing device. In a more specific embodiment of this case, the digital video content viewing device is provided with a broadcast receiving unit that receives digital video content via broadcast radio waves. In a more specific embodiment, the designation unit designates digital video content data to be received from the communication server via a link from the digital video content received by the broadcast receiving unit.

[0011] According to another feature of the present invention, there is provided a content receiving device having a power switch, a memory unit that stores information specifying digital video content when the power switch is turned off, a designation unit that automatically designates digital video content based on the information stored in the memory unit the next time the power switch is turned on, a communication unit that receives the digital video content specified by the designation unit from a communication server, and a display unit that displays the digital video content received by the communication unit.As a result, even though the digital video content is received from the communication server and viewed on the display unit, viewing of the digital video content that was specified when the power was last turned off can be easily resumed by simply turning the power switch on.

[0012] According to the specific features of the present invention, when the information stored in the storage unit is digital video content that is streamed according to a schedule determined by a communication server, the designation unit automatically designates the digital video content from the portion of the content being streamed at the designated time point. As a result, even though the digital video content is received from the communication server and viewed on the display unit, simply turning on the power switch starts displaying the digital video content that was being streamed by the communication server according to the schedule designated when the power switch was last turned off, just like watching a regular television broadcast.

[0013] According to another specific feature of the present invention, the storage unit stores information about partial data of digital video content to be streamed that was specified when the power switch was turned off. More specifically, when the information stored in the storage unit is partial data of digital video content to be streamed, the designation unit automatically designates digital video content from a portion that continues from the partial data stored in the storage unit. As a result, even though the digital video content is received from the communication server and viewed on the display unit, simply turning on the power switch resumes the display of the digital video content that was interrupted the last time the power switch was turned off from the point where it was interrupted.

[0014] According to another aspect of the present invention, a content receiving device is provided, comprising: a broadcast receiving unit that receives digital video content via broadcast radio waves; a communication unit that receives digital video content from a communication server; a display unit that can display digital video content received from either the broadcast receiving unit or the communication unit; an operation unit that performs operations related to the digital video content received by the broadcast receiving unit; and a communication control unit that establishes a constant communication state with the communication server based on operation of the operation unit. By establishing a constant communication state with the communication server based on operation of the operation unit that is not involved in specifying the digital video content received from the communication unit, the display unit can quickly switch from the digital video content received by the broadcast receiving unit to the digital video content received by the communication unit. Therefore, digital video content received by the communication unit can be selected with the same convenience as selecting a channel for a regular broadcast.

[0015] Examples of the operating unit in the present invention include a power switch for receiving digital video content by the broadcast receiving unit, a selection means for selecting one of multiple digital video contents that can be received by the broadcast receiving unit, a means for instructing the storage of digital video content received by the broadcast receiving unit, and a selection means for selecting a portion of the digital video content to be received by the broadcast receiving unit.

[0016] According to another feature of the present invention, there is provided a content receiving device having a broadcast receiving unit that receives digital video content via broadcast radio waves, a communication unit that receives digital video content from a communication server, a display unit that can display digital video content received from either the broadcast receiving unit or the communication unit, and a designation unit that designates digital video content data to be received from the communication server via a link from the digital video content received by the broadcast receiving unit. As a result, if a user happens to start watching digital video content received via broadcast radio waves and becomes interested in it, the user can designate the corresponding digital video content via the link and watch the parts they missed.

[0017] According to a specific feature of the present invention, the designation unit designates the beginning of digital video content data to be received from the communication server via a link from the digital video content received by the broadcast receiving unit. This makes it possible to watch digital video content that has become of interest midway through, from the beginning. According to another specific feature of the present invention, the content receiving device is provided with a selection operation unit that selects a start portion of viewing of digital video content data to be received from the communication server, and the designation unit enables operation of the selection operation unit. This makes it possible to select and watch any portion of digital video content that has become of interest midway through.

[0018] According to another specific feature of the present invention, the content receiving device is provided with a storage unit that stores information necessary for specifying the beginning of digital video content data to be received from the communication server based on the specification by the specification unit. As long as it is guaranteed that the digital video content is stored in the communication server, the digital video content can be specified and viewed at a later date based on the stored information. This allows the user to obtain the same effect as essentially "recording" the digital video content of interest without receiving and saving the digital video content itself.

[0019] According to another specific feature of the present invention, the content receiving device is provided with a reception unit that receives digital video content data from a communication server based on a designation by a designation unit. According to a further specific feature, the content receiving device is provided with a storage unit that stores the digital video content data received by the reception unit. In this way, even if you become interested in digital video content midway through, it is possible to "record" the entire digital video content data.

[0020] According to another feature of the present invention, there is provided a content receiving device having a display unit that displays predetermined digital video content received from an external source according to a schedule determined therefor, a designation unit that designates another part of the digital video content by a link from the digital video content currently displayed on the display unit, and a communication unit that receives another part of the digital video content designated by the designation unit from a communication server. As a result, if a user happens to start watching predetermined digital video content received from an external source according to a schedule and becomes interested in it, the user can designate another part of the digital video content by a link from the other part and enjoy the part they missed.

[0021] According to the specific feature of the present invention, predetermined digital video content received from an external source according to a predetermined schedule is received via broadcast radio waves. Meanwhile, according to another specific feature, predetermined digital video content received from an external source according to a predetermined schedule is received from a communication server. Furthermore, according to another specific feature, the display unit displays another portion of the digital video content received by the communication unit in place of the previously displayed portion, thereby enabling viewing of any portion. Meanwhile, according to yet another specific feature, the content receiving device is provided with a storage unit that stores another portion of the digital video content received by the communication unit, allowing viewing at a later date.

[0022] According to another feature of the present invention, there is provided a content distribution device including a storage unit that stores data of digital video content broadcast over airwaves with correspondence information indicating a correspondence relationship with the same digital video content, a communication unit, and a control unit that distributes the digital video content stored by the storage unit via the communication unit when the correspondence information is specified via the communication unit, thereby enabling the distribution of digital video content data corresponding to the digital video content broadcast over airwaves in response to a request from a content receiving device.

[0023] According to the specific features of the present invention, the storage unit stores the digital video content data with storage information related to the storage, so that the storage information can be confirmed via the communication unit. This enables cooperation with the content receiving device when using the digital video content, and prevents discrepancies such as when the content receiving device requests the digital video content and the content distribution device has already deleted the digital video content.

[0024] According to another feature of the present invention, there is provided a content receiving device having a designation unit that designates video content to be received from a communication server, a communication unit that automatically receives packet data of the video content being distributed at the designated time when digital video content that is streamed according to a predetermined schedule is designated by the designation unit within a distribution time, and a display unit that displays the video content based on the packet data received by the communication unit. As a result, even though the digital video content is received from the communication server and viewed on the display unit, the digital video content distributed by the communication server according to the schedule begins to be displayed as if watching a regular television broadcast.

[0025] According to the specific feature of the present invention, when the designation unit designates video content outside of the distribution time, the communication unit receives packet data according to the designation. This makes it possible not only to distribute video content according to the predetermined schedule as described above, but also to view the video content from any part at any time. Meanwhile, according to another specific feature, when the designation unit designates video content outside of the distribution time, the communication unit automatically receives packet data for the beginning of the video content. This makes it possible, with just the simple operation of designating video content, not only to distribute video content according to the predetermined schedule as described above, but also to view the video content from the beginning at any time.

[0026] According to another feature of the present invention, there is provided a content distribution device having a storage unit that stores digital video content data, and a communication unit that, when digital video content stored in the storage unit is specified within a distribution time according to a predetermined schedule, streams packet data in accordance with the schedule, and when the same digital video content is specified outside the distribution time, streams the digital video content in accordance with the specification. Meanwhile, according to yet another feature of the present invention, there is provided a content distribution device having a storage unit that stores digital video content data, and a communication unit that, when digital video content stored in the storage unit is specified within a distribution time according to a predetermined schedule, streams packet data in accordance with the schedule, and when the same digital video content is specified outside the distribution time, streams packet data from the beginning of the video content. These features enable the distribution of digital video content in response to a request for digital video content from a content receiving device, enable appropriate cooperation between the content distribution device and the content receiving device, and facilitate operation of the content receiving device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0027] As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a content receiving device that is truly easy for users to use and that can enrich their lives, and a content distribution device that cooperates with the content receiving device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] 1 is a photograph in lieu of a drawing showing a block diagram of the entire system relating to an embodiment of a content receiving device and a content distribution device according to the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a photograph in place of a drawing showing a flowchart of the operation of the control unit of the television in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 3 is a photograph substituted for a drawing showing a detailed flowchart of step S24 in FIG. 2. [Figure 4]3 is a photograph substituted for a drawing showing a detailed flowchart of step S28 in FIG. 2. [Figure 5] 3 is a photograph in place of a drawing showing a detailed flowchart of step S32 in FIG. 2. [Figure 6] 4 is a photograph as a substitute for a drawing showing a detailed flowchart of step S16 in FIG. 2 or step S62 in FIG. 3. [Figure 7] 3 is a photograph in place of a drawing showing a detailed flowchart of step S36 in FIG. 2. [Figure 8] 2 is a photograph in place of a drawing showing a flowchart of the functions in the broadcasting station control unit of FIG. 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [Example]

[0029] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the entire system relating to an embodiment of a content receiving device and a distribution device according to the present invention, constituting a video content data viewing system including a television and a television station. The television 2 has a broadcast receiving unit 6 that receives regular digital broadcast video content from a television station 5 via digital broadcast waves 4. The television 2 also has a computer 10 that receives video content data from a server-type television station 9 via the Internet 8. The computer 10 has a control unit 12, a memory unit 14, and an input / output unit 16. The input / output unit 16 functions as a communications unit for receiving video content data stored in a database 32 of the server-type television station 9 via the Internet 8. The memory unit 14 stores programs for operating the control unit 12 and also stores data such as video content data downloaded from the server-type television station 9 via the input / output unit 16. The memory unit 14 has a large capacity including a hard disk, and is capable of storing a considerable amount of video content data.

[0030] The input / output unit 16 further inputs operation signals from a remote control receiver 22, which receives an infrared signal 20 from a remote control 18, and causes the control unit 12 to perform a predetermined computer operation. The remote control 18 performs operations such as turning the power of the television on and off, changing broadcast channels, and adjusting the volume. The remote control 18 also operates various buttons displayed on the television screen 26 and performs selection operations from a list displayed on the television screen 26, using a GUI linked to the television screen 26. The operation signals received by the remote control receiver 22 are also transmitted directly to the broadcast receiving unit 6 as necessary. The broadcast receiving unit 6 receives digital broadcast waves 4 from regular television stations 5 as described above, but also performs operations such as selecting a broadcast channel based on the operation signals from the remote control receiver 18.

[0031] The display control unit 24 displays the normal digital broadcast video content from the broadcast receiving unit 6 on the television screen 26 based on the signal from the broadcast receiving unit 6. The display control unit 24 is further controlled by the control unit 12 of the computer 10, and displays a computer display signal output from the display storage unit 28 via the input / output unit 16 on the television screen 26. This computer display signal is displayed on the television screen 26 as a GUI display in cooperation with the remote control 18, superimposed on part of the display of the normal digital broadcast video content. In some cases, everything displayed on the television screen 26 is a computer display signal from the display storage unit 28, such as an operation menu or program guide. The digital broadcast video content received by the broadcast receiving unit 6 is also sent to the input / output unit 16 of the computer 10, and can be stored in the storage unit 14 as a "recording" by operating the remote control 18.

[0032] Meanwhile, video content data supplied from the server-type television station 9 via the Internet 8 and stored in the storage unit 14 is converted into video data under the control of the control unit 12 and output from the display storage unit 28 via the input / output unit 16. When the display control unit 24 selects the video data from the display storage unit 28 instead of the video data from the broadcast receiving unit 6 under the control of the control unit 12, the video content data supplied from the server-type television station 9 via the Internet 8 is displayed on the television screen 26. In this case, on-demand or live video content data supplied via the Internet 8 by streaming can also be displayed in real time on the television screen 26. In addition to the above, video content supplied via the Internet 8 by streaming and that can be displayed in real time on the television screen 26 also includes video content data distributed based on a program guide that the server-type television station 9 schedules independently.

[0033] In this way, the television 2 of Fig. 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is capable of viewing both regular digital broadcast video content received from a television station 5 via digital broadcast waves 4 and video content data downloaded from a server-type television station 9 via the Internet 8. This embodiment of the present invention not only allows a user to select between video content received via regular digital broadcast waves and video content data downloaded via the Internet, but also allows a user to combine and view both of them. Details of this will be explained with reference to the following flowchart. Note that the broadcast station control unit 30 of the server-type television station 9 is also involved in achieving this function, and details of this will be explained later.

[0034] Video content that can be viewed on television screen 26 includes the above-mentioned regular digital broadcast video content from television station 5, video content data downloaded from server-type television station 9, and real-time broadcast video content supplied by streaming via the Internet 8. For such real-time streaming broadcast video content, if an environment is in place where it is constantly supplied from server-type television station 9 via the Internet according to a program guide in accordance with the broadcast from television station 5, the URL for downloading such video content is also considered to be one of the broadcast channels.

[0035] 1 is a basic flowchart showing the operation of the control unit 12 in the computer 10 of FIG. 1, which starts when the television 2 is connected to a power outlet. First, in step S2, it is checked whether a power-on operation has been performed. If no power-on operation has been detected, the check in step S2 is repeated to wait for the power-on operation. Here, the "power-on operation" refers to an operation such as turning on a main switch, and broadly refers to an operation that a user recognizes as turning on or off the power to the television 2 on a daily basis. Typically, such a "power-on operation" corresponds to turning on the main switch of the remote control 18 when the power switch for placing the television 2 in a standby state to accept operations from the remote control 18 is on. Therefore, the terms "power on" and "power off" in this specification should not be interpreted narrowly as being limited to the on / off of a power switch that switches the television 2 into or out of standby mode, but should be understood in a broad sense to include the on / off of a main switch of a remote control or the like.

[0036] If a power-on operation is detected in step S, the process proceeds to step S4, where it is checked whether or not a history of powering off after the television 2 was connected to a power outlet is recorded in the storage unit 14. If a power-off history is found, the process proceeds to step S6, where the record of the state immediately before the previous power-off is retrieved.

[0037] Next, in step S8, it is checked whether the state immediately before the call was a broadcast viewing state, and if so, the process proceeds to step S10, where the broadcast channel that was being viewed immediately before the power was turned off is called up. This process is based on the assumption that the channel that was being viewed the last time the power was turned off will be the "channel" of greatest interest the next time the power is turned on. Note that this channel also includes a URL for downloading real-time streaming broadcasts that are input to the input / output unit 16 via the Internet 8 as described above. To handle such cases, in the next step S11, the computer 10 is placed in a permanently connected state to the Internet 8.

[0038] Next, the process proceeds to step S12, where an instruction to start displaying the video content is issued to the display control unit. In this case, the display of the video content currently being broadcast on the channel called in step S10 begins. For simplicity's sake, control lines are not shown in FIG. 1, but for the above functions, the broadcast receiving unit 6 and the input / output unit are under the control of the control unit 12 to output the video content of the channel to be displayed to the display control unit 24.

[0039] On the other hand, if the previous status is not broadcast in step S8, the process proceeds to step S14, where it is checked whether the power was turned off while playback of video content data in storage unit 14 was interrupted. If so, the process proceeds to step S16, where recording information for the video content data whose playback was interrupted when the power was turned off immediately before is retrieved. Then, in step S18, an instruction is issued to resume playback of that video content data from the point where it was stopped when it was interrupted. Then, the process proceeds to step S12, where an instruction to start video content display is issued to the display control unit. This resumes playback of the video content data from the point where it was stopped. Since this operation is performed automatically following the power-on operation detected in step S2, if the user interrupted playback and turned off the power, they can continue watching the video content from the point where it was stopped simply by turning the power on.

[0040] On the other hand, if playback is not paused in step S14, this means that playback has ended and the power has been turned off, and there is no video content data to resume playback on the next power-on. Therefore, the process proceeds to step S10, where the broadcast channel that was viewed and powered off immediately before playback of the video content data is called up, and the process proceeds to step S12. Also, if there is no power-off history in step S4, the process proceeds to step S20, where a predetermined channel is set, and the process proceeds to step S12. This is because if no channel is set in step S20, the channel to start displaying in step S12 will be undefined. The predetermined broadcast channel to be set in step S20 is a normal broadcast channel, and can be selected arbitrarily, or if no such selection is made, a default channel is used.

[0041] When an instruction to start displaying video content is issued in step S12, the flow proceeds to step S22 while maintaining the display of the video content, and checks whether a channel switching operation has been performed. If so, the flow performs channel switching processing in step S24 and proceeds to step S26. The channel switching in step S24 also includes switching from normal broadcast viewing to playback of video content stored in storage unit 14. The channel switching processing in step S24 will be described later. On the other hand, if a channel switching operation is not detected in step S22, the flow proceeds directly to step S26.

[0042] In step S26, a check is made to determine whether an operation has been performed to view the currently displayed video content from an arbitrary point. Viewing from an arbitrary point includes viewing from the beginning of the video content. If such an arbitrary point viewing operation is detected, the process proceeds to step S28 and performs processing to view the arbitrary point selected by the operation. The arbitrary point viewing operation is primarily performed when a regular digital broadcast video from television station 5 or a real-time streaming broadcast from server-based television station 9 is displayed on television screen 26 by turning on the power or changing channels. In other words, the arbitrary point viewing operation is assumed to be performed when a user turns on television 2 or changes channels without any particular video content in mind, encounters video content in the middle of broadcasting, becomes interested in it, and wants to watch it immediately from an arbitrary point. The arbitrary point viewing processing in step S28 will be described in detail below.

[0043] If no viewing operation is detected in step S26, the process proceeds to step S30, where a check is made to see if a recording operation has been performed. If such a recording operation is detected, the process proceeds to step S32, where recording processing is performed. The recording processing in step S30 does not record the video content from the time the recording operation was performed, but typically records the entire video content from its beginning to its end. The recording processing in step S32 will be described in detail later. The recording processing is also performed mainly when a normal digital broadcast video or a real-time streaming broadcast is displayed on the television screen 26 by turning on the power or changing the channel. In other words, it is assumed that a recording operation is performed when a user turns on the television 2 or changes the channel without any particular video content to watch, becomes interested in video content in the middle of being broadcast, and wants to record it and watch it later from the beginning.

[0044] If no recording operation is detected in step S30, the process proceeds to step S34, where a check is made to see if a power-off operation has been performed. If an operation is detected, the process proceeds to step S36, where recording management processing is performed. The details of this processing will be described later. The process then proceeds to step S38, where the state immediately before the power-off operation is stored, the power is turned off, and the process returns to step S2. This process of storing the immediately preceding state in step S38 enables various checks and processing in steps S4 to S10 and steps S14 to S18.

[0045] On the other hand, if a power-off operation is not detected in step S34, the process returns to step S22. Then, unless a viewing operation at any point in step S26, a recording operation in step S30, or a power-off operation in step S34 is detected, steps S22 to S34 are repeated to prepare for a channel change operation, a viewing operation at any point in time, or a recording operation. If no such operations are detected, the display of the video content at that time continues.

[0046] When returning from step S38 to step S2, the process repeats step S2 to wait for the next power-on operation, and when a power-on operation is detected in step S2, the process proceeds to step S4 and subsequent steps as described above. Note that the viewing process at any point in step S28 and the recording process in step S32 each include a process for returning to the flowchart of Figure 2, which will be described in detail later.

[0047] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the details of the channel switching process in step S24 of Figure 2. When the flow starts, step S42 checks whether computer 10 is already connected to the Internet 8. If it is not already connected, the process proceeds to step S44, where computer 10 is placed in a state of constant connection to the Internet 8, and then proceeds to step S46. This allows for immediate response to situations in which an Internet connection is required in the channel connection process. On the other hand, if it is detected in step S42 that the computer is already connected to the Internet, the process proceeds directly to step S46.

[0048] In step S46, it is checked whether the channel switching operation detected in step S22 in Fig. 2 was a selection of a regular broadcast channel. If so, the process proceeds to step S48, where the selected channel is specified, and then to step S50. In step S50, an instruction to start displaying the video content is issued, and the flow ends. In this case, display of the broadcast of the selected regular broadcast channel begins, but the appearance is the same as changing channels on a regular television.

[0049] On the other hand, if it is not detected in step S46 that the channel switching operation detected in step S22 of FIG. 2 is a selection of a regular broadcast channel, the process proceeds to step S52. In step S52, it is checked whether the detected channel switching operation was a selection of a server-type television station 9. If so, the process proceeds to step S54, where the URL of the selected server-type television station 9 is specified. This URL is a URL that directly specifies a program prepared in advance by the server-type television station 9. Then, in step S56, it is checked whether a live program is being streamed at that URL. If it is detected in step S56 that live streaming is being performed, the process proceeds to step S58, where an instruction is issued to start the live streaming being performed, and the process proceeds to step S50, ending the flow. In this case, in step S50, the display of the current video of the video content being streamed begins. This also appears to be the same as watching a live broadcast on a regular television.

[0050] Furthermore, if it is detected in step S56 that the URL specified in step S54 is not currently being streamed via live streaming, the process proceeds to step S60. In step S60, playback from the beginning of the video content prepared at the specified URL is instructed, and the process proceeds to step S50, ending the flow. In this case, in step S50, the video content will be played from the beginning whenever the channel is changed, which is similar to recorded playback in that sense, but in that the video content that is pre-prepared at the specified URL, rather than the video content selected by the operator, begins to be displayed, the process is similar to normal broadcasting based on a program schedule.

[0051] If step S52 does not detect that the channel switching operation is the selection of the server-based television station 9, this means that the channel switching operation detected in step S22 of FIG. 2 was an operation to specify and call up video content from the recording information in the storage unit 14. Therefore, in this case, the process proceeds to step S62, where a recording information call process is performed. This will be described in detail later. Next, in step S64, a check is made to see if the called recording information is video content data whose playback is currently suspended. If so, the process proceeds to step S66, where an instruction is given to resume playback from the point where playback of the video content data was stopped when playback was suspended, and the process proceeds to step S50, where the flow ends. In this case, simply by performing a channel switching operation, playback of the video content data whose playback was previously suspended automatically resumes from the point where playback was suspended.

[0052] On the other hand, if it is not detected in step S64 that playback is paused, the process proceeds to step S68. Then, a command to play back the video content data of the recalled recording information from the beginning is issued, and the process proceeds to step S50, ending the flow. In this case, simply by switching channels, playback of the video content data of the recalled recording information from the beginning is automatically started. This appears to be similar to the transition from step S60 to step S50.

[0053] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the details of the arbitrary location viewing process in step S28 of Figure 2. When the flow starts, in step S72 it is checked whether the computer 10 is already connected to the Internet 8. If it is not already connected, the flow proceeds to step S74, where the computer 10 is placed in a state of constant connection to the Internet 8, and the flow proceeds to step S76. This allows for immediate response to situations in which an Internet connection is required in the arbitrary location viewing process. On the other hand, if it is detected in step S72 that the computer 10 is already connected to the Internet, the flow proceeds directly to step S76.

[0054] In step S76, a check is made to see if the arbitrary-point viewing operation detected in step S26 of FIG. 2 was performed during playback of the recorded content. If so, the process proceeds to step S78, where a recorded playback point selection process is performed. This is similar to the playback point selection process performed during normal playback of recorded content, and allows, for example, fast-forwarding or skipping the screen, or selecting a chapter to play in video content divided into chapters. Once playback point selection is complete through this process, the process proceeds to step S80, where a command is issued to start displaying the video content from the selected point, and the flow ends. This function is similar to that of a normal video recorder or DVD recorder.

[0055] On the other hand, if it is not determined in step S76 that the arbitrary point viewing operation detected in step S26 of Fig. 2 was performed while the recorded content was being played, the process proceeds to step S82, where a check is made to see if the arbitrary point viewing operation detected in step S26 of Fig. 2 was performed while a regular broadcast channel was selected. If so, the process proceeds to step S84, where a URL for distributing video content data corresponding to the video content being broadcast on the selected regular broadcast channel is specified. Furthermore, in step S86, a check is made to see if the video content data can be streamed, and if so, the process proceeds to step S88.

[0056] In step S88, the video content available for streaming delivery at the specified URL begins to be displayed on the television screen 26 in selectable playback start packet units, prompting the user to select one of them. While this display continues, the flow then proceeds to step S90, where it is checked whether a packet selection operation has been performed using the GUI of the remote control 18 and the television screen 26. If a packet selection operation is detected, the flow proceeds to step S92, where the packet of the selected portion is retrieved and downloaded, and the flow then proceeds to step S80, ending. In this case, as soon as the selected packet is downloaded, streaming playback begins from that portion. This allows the user to select a regular broadcast channel and watch video content of interest at that time from any portion of the video content.

[0057] On the other hand, if a packet selection operation is not detected in step S90, the process proceeds to step S94, where it is checked whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of playback packet selection and display in step S88 was initiated. If the predetermined time has not yet elapsed, the process returns to step S88. As a result, the start playback packet selection and display continues, and thereafter, steps S88, S90, and S94 are repeated to wait for a packet selection operation unless the elapse of the predetermined time is detected in step S94. During this repetition, if a packet selection operation is detected in step S90, the operation is as already described.

[0058] On the other hand, if the lapse of the predetermined time is detected in step S94, the flow proceeds to step S96, where the opening packet of the video content is automatically selected and downloaded, and the flow proceeds to step S80, ending. In this case, streaming playback begins as soon as the selected opening packet is downloaded. As a result, when a regular broadcast channel is selected and video content that interests the user is found, by performing a viewing operation for any point using remote control 18, the user can automatically view that video content from the beginning of the program without any further action.

[0059] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the details of the recording process in step S32 in Figure 2. When the flow starts, step S102 checks whether computer 10 is already connected to the Internet 8. If it is not already connected, the flow proceeds to step S104, where computer 10 is placed in a permanently connected state to the Internet 8, and the flow proceeds to step S106. This allows for immediate response to situations where an Internet connection is required for recording processing. On the other hand, if it is detected in step S102 that the computer is already connected to the Internet, the flow proceeds directly to step S106.

[0060] In step S106, it is checked whether the recording operation detected in step S30 of Fig. 2 was performed while a regular broadcast channel was selected. If so, the process proceeds to step S108, where a URL for distributing video content data corresponding to the video content being broadcast on the selected regular broadcast channel is specified. In step S110, it is checked whether the video content data can be distributed via streaming, and if so, the process proceeds to step S112.

[0061] 2 was performed while a regular broadcast channel was selected, the process proceeds directly to step S112. Since recording operations are not performed while recording information is being played back, the process proceeds directly from step S to step S112 when the recording operation is performed while streaming distribution from the server-based television station 9 is in progress. Therefore, in such a case, the process proceeds to step S112 in the same manner as when it is determined in step S110 that the recording target is video content data that can be streamed.

[0062] In step S112, the delivery deadline of the streaming video content data to be recorded is confirmed, and a check is made to see if the deadline is manageable. If the video content data is deadline manageable, the process proceeds to step S118. Here, "deadline manageable" means that the server-based television station 9 guarantees the deadline for delivering the video content data specified by the URL, and there is ample time until the deadline (for example, one week or more until the expiration date).

[0063] If it is confirmed in step S112 that the data is time-limit manageable data, the process proceeds to step S118, where a URL for downloading the video content data from the beginning is recorded in the recording list. Furthermore, in step S120, the URL is added to the management target, and the flow ends. In this way, when the video content data to be recorded is capable of streaming distribution and its distribution time limit can be managed, even if a recording operation is performed, the video content data is not actually downloaded, and "recording" is performed by simply recording a URL for calling the video content data immediately upon "playback" and performing the distribution time limit management procedure. Details of "playback" of video content data that has been "recorded" in this way will be described later.

[0064] On the other hand, if it is not detected in step S110 that the video content data to be recorded can be streamed, the flow proceeds to step S122, where all data is immediately downloaded. Then, when the download process is complete, the flow proceeds to step S124, where the URL of this video content data is removed from the management target, and the flow ends. Similarly, if it is not detected in step S112 that expiration date management is possible for video content data that can be streamed, the flow proceeds to S122, where all data is immediately downloaded, and the URL of this video content data is removed from the management target in step S124.

[0065] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the details of the recording information call process in step S16 of Figure 2 or step S62 of Figure 3. When the flow starts, in step S132, it is checked whether all of the video content data of the recording information called for playback has been downloaded and stored in storage unit 14. If all data has been downloaded, the flow proceeds to step S134, where the downloaded video content data is called from storage unit 14. Next, in step S136, it is checked whether there is a playback interruption record for the called video content data. If there is an interruption record, the flow proceeds to step S138, where data decompression is prepared from the stop point, and the flow ends. On the other hand, if no playback interruption record is detected in step S136, the flow proceeds to step S140, where data decompression is prepared from the beginning of the video content, and the flow ends.

[0066] If it is not detected in step S132 that all data has been downloaded, the process proceeds to step S142, where URL information for the "recorded" video content data is called from the recording list. This URL is information that directly specifies not only the server-based television station 9 but also the "recorded" video content data. Next, the process proceeds to step S144, where it is checked whether there is a playback interruption record for the specified video content data, and if there is an interruption record, the process proceeds to step S146, where a URL that identifies the packet at the stop point is further called, and the flow ends. On the other hand, if there is no playback interruption record in step S144, the process proceeds to step S148, where a URL that identifies the opening packet of the video content data is further called, and the flow ends.

[0067] The above-described steps S138, S140, S146, and S148 correspond to the preparation of data and information required for the next step, and this data and information is used for playback instructions in step S18 of Fig. 2 and step S66 or S68 of Fig. 3. Note that the packet-specific URL handled in steps S146 and S148 is also used in steps S58 and S60 of Fig. 3 and steps S92 and S96 of Fig. 4.

[0068] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the details of the recording management process in step S36 in Figure 2. This flowchart performs recording management of the video content recorded in the recording list in step S118 in Figure 5. When the flow starts, step S152 first checks whether there is any video content recorded in the recording list. If there is any, the process proceeds to step S154, where all recorded URLs are accessed in sequence to check whether there are any changes in the expiration management data, and if there are any changes, the data in the recording list is updated.

[0069] Then, in step S156, the current date is compared with the expiration date in the recording list to check whether any URLs have reached the expiration date. Here, "expiration date" refers to a situation where the expiration date for the video content data corresponding to that URL is approaching a predetermined number of days (e.g., one week) before the guaranteed delivery date expires, and if the download opportunity is lost, viewing may become impossible. If such a URL is found, the process proceeds to step S158, where the highest-priority URL with the expiration date closest to its expiration date is selected. Then, in step S160, all data is downloaded, and once the download process is complete, the process proceeds to step S162, where the URL for that video content data is removed from the management list, and the process returns to step S156.

[0070] In step S156, it is checked whether there are any more URLs with expiration management limits. If there are, the process proceeds to step S158, and steps S156 to S162 are repeated as long as there are URLs with expiration management limits. On the other hand, if no URLs with expiration management limits are detected in step S156, the flow immediately ends. Note that the flow also immediately ends if there are no URLs recorded in the recording list in step S152.

[0071] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing some of the functions of the broadcast station control unit 30 of the server-type television station 9, which cooperates with the functions of the control unit 12 described above, and relates to cooperation with the regular television station 5 and expiration management of the video content to be distributed. Although detailed illustration of the broadcast station control unit 30 is omitted, it is assumed that the broadcast station control unit 30 not only performs central control functions in the strict sense but also includes peripheral functions necessary for a server, such as communication functions. The flow starts with the start-up of the broadcast station control unit 30, and in step S172, it checks whether new video content data has been uploaded. Here, "new video content data" refers to video content data with the same content as the video content broadcast from the regular television station 5 over the digital broadcasting waves 4.

[0072] If it is detected in step S172 that such video content data has been uploaded, the process proceeds to step S174, where data indicating a correspondence relationship with video content normally broadcast by television stations is assigned to the uploaded video content. Then, in step S176, storage expiration data is assigned, and the process proceeds to step S178. Note that if no new video content data has been uploaded in step S172, the process proceeds directly to step S178.

[0073] In step S178, a check is made to see if there is any video content whose scheduled streaming distribution time has arrived according to the pre-scheduled "program guide." If there is a match, a scheduled distribution URL is assigned to that video content, and the process proceeds to step S182. If there is no match in step S178, the process proceeds directly to step S182. When the URL assigned in step S178 is "channel selected" by the television 2 within the scheduled streaming distribution time frame, distribution of that video content from the packet corresponding to the time of "channel selection" automatically begins. Therefore, the television 2 can receive streaming video distribution from the server-based television station 9 in the same way as receiving a broadcast from a regular television station 5. In other words, if the television 2 "selects a channel" at the start time of the streaming distribution of that video content, the video content can be viewed from the beginning. If the television 2 "selects a channel" within the scheduled streaming distribution time frame, the video content can be viewed from the middle.

[0074] In step S182, it is checked whether it is time to start a predetermined live streaming distribution to which a URL has been assigned in advance according to a pre-scheduled "program guide." If there is a match, the process proceeds to step S184, where live-captured image information is converted into streaming data and the streaming distribution is started. Then, storage expiration data is assigned to the live streaming data created in this way, and the process proceeds to step S188. Note that if there is no matched video content in step S182, the process proceeds directly to step S188. When the TV 2 "channel selects" the URL assigned in advance for distribution of the live streaming video content within the scheduled time frame for live streaming distribution started in step S184, distribution of the video content automatically starts from the packet corresponding to the time when the "channel selection" was made.

[0075] Therefore, the television 2 can receive streaming video distribution from the server-based television station 9 in the same way as receiving a live broadcast from a regular television station 5. In other words, if the user "selects a channel" at the start time of the live streaming distribution of the video content, the user can watch the video content live from the beginning. If the user "selects a channel" during the scheduled streaming distribution time frame, the user can watch the video content live from the middle. Note that such live streaming video content data is stored in the server-based television station 9 until the expiration of the storage period set in step S186, so that even if the user misses the live streaming distribution, the user can still watch it. Specifically, if the stored live streaming video content data is later scheduled in the "program guide" as a "rebroadcast," the user can watch it at a later date using the functions of steps S178 and S180. Furthermore, even if the data is not scheduled in the "program guide," the data can be viewed using the archive function described below until the storage period expires.

[0076] In step S188, a check is made to see if there is any video content for which streaming distribution according to the "Program Guide" has been completed. If there is any matching content, the process proceeds to step S190, where a URL is assigned as archived video content, and the process proceeds to step S192. On the other hand, if there is no matching content in step S188, the process proceeds directly to step S192. Video content assigned an archive URL is not scheduled in the "Program Guide," but becomes viewable when the URL is specified by on-demand selection from the archive list or extraction by search, or when the URL is called up by any of the functions in Figures 4 to 6.

[0077] In step S192, it is checked whether there is any video content whose storage period has expired, and if there is any, in step S194 that video content is deleted from the archive of the server-based television station 9. Then, in step S196, the URL assigned to the deleted video content is deleted, and the process proceeds to step S198. On the other hand, if there is no corresponding video content in step S192, the process proceeds directly to step S198.

[0078] In step S198, it is checked whether the scheduled date for regular maintenance of the server-based television station has arrived, and if so, the flow ends for maintenance. On the other hand, if the date has not arrived, the flow returns to step S172, and steps S172 to S198 are repeated until the date has arrived to respond to various situation changes and continue managing the video content.

[0079] The various features of the present invention described above are not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be widely applied. For example, the content data expiration management and download management features described in Figures 5 to 8 are not limited to implementation with video content data, but can also be widely applied to still image content data and text content data. Specifically, when various data is acquired by a personal computer via the Internet, if the storage expiration date of the content can be confirmed, the download of the data itself can be suspended, and only information that facilitates re-access to the data, such as a bookmark, can be stored. Furthermore, if the storage expiration date of the content cannot be confirmed or the expiration date is approaching, the content data itself can be automatically downloaded. This can avoid unnecessary downloads and can also address situations where bookmarked content has already been deleted when re-accessed. [Industrial Applicability]

[0080] The present invention can be applied to a content receiving device and a content distribution device that cooperates with the content receiving device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 2 Content receiving device 9. Distribution Device 12 Specified part 14 Storage section 14 Preservation Department 12 Judgment section 18 Control section 12, 16 Reception execution unit 9 Communication Server 6 Broadcast receiving section 18 Power switch 16 Communications Department 26 Display section 12 Communication control section 18 Selection Methods 18 Means of instruction 18, 26 Selection operation section 32 Storage Department 30 Communications Department 30 Control Unit

Claims

1. A content receiving device characterized by having a designation unit that designates desired content, a memory unit that stores information to facilitate the next designation of the designated content, and a storage unit that automatically receives and stores designated content data from the distribution device based on information regarding the storage of the designated content in the distribution device.

2. 2. The content receiving device according to claim 1, further comprising a determination unit for determining information regarding storage of the specified content in the distribution device.

3. The content receiving device according to claim 2, characterized in that the determination unit automatically receives the specified content data from the distribution device and stores it in the storage unit when information regarding the storage of the specified content in the distribution device cannot be confirmed.

4. The content receiving device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the determination unit automatically receives the specified content data from the distribution device by determining information regarding the storage period of the specified content in the distribution device and stores it in the storage unit.

5. A content receiving device as described in any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the designation unit instructs the storage of the designated content, and when the storage expiration date of the designated content in the distribution device is confirmed, the determination unit stores information in the memory unit to suspend reception of the content data instructed to be stored from the distribution device and storage in the storage unit, and to facilitate the next designation of the designated content.

6. The content receiving device according to claim 5, characterized in that it has an operation unit that instructs the use of content that has been instructed to be saved, and a reception execution unit that receives content data that has been put on hold for reception from a distribution device based on the stored information of the memory unit in response to operation of the operation unit.

7. The content receiving device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the determination unit automatically receives content data that has been withheld from the distribution device based on information regarding the storage period of the content that has been instructed to be stored in the distribution device, and stores it in the storage unit.

8. 8. The content receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the content is digital moving image content, and the distribution device is configured as a communication server for digital moving image content data and also as a digital moving image content viewing device.

9. 9. The content receiving device according to claim 8, further comprising a broadcast receiving unit for receiving digital video content via broadcast radio waves.

10. 10. The content receiving device according to claim 9, wherein the designation unit designates digital moving image content data to be received from the communication server via a link from the digital moving image content received by the broadcast receiving unit.

11. A content receiving device as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it has a power switch, the memory unit stores information that specified content when the power switch is turned off, and the designation unit automatically designates content based on the stored information in the memory unit when the power switch is turned on next time.

12. 12. The content receiving device according to claim 1, further comprising: an operation unit that is not involved in specifying content; and a communication control unit that establishes a constant communication state with the distribution device based on the operation of the operation unit.

13. A content receiving device characterized by having a power switch, a memory unit that stores information specifying digital video content when the power switch is turned off, a designation unit that automatically designates digital video content based on the stored information in the memory unit when the power switch is turned on next time, a communication unit that receives the digital video content specified by the designation unit from a communication server, and a display unit that displays the digital video content received by the communication unit.

14. The content receiving device according to claim 13, characterized in that when the information stored in the memory unit is digital video content that is streamed on a schedule determined by a communication server, the designation unit automatically designates the digital video content from the portion being distributed at the specified time.

15. 15. The content receiving device according to claim 13, wherein the storage unit stores information about partial data of streaming-distributed digital video content that was designated when the power switch was turned off.

16. A content receiving device described in any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that when the information stored in the memory unit is partial data of digital video content to be streamed, the designation unit automatically designates digital video content from a part that continues from the partial data stored in the memory unit.

17. A content receiving device characterized by having a broadcast receiving unit that receives digital video content via broadcast radio waves, a communication unit that receives digital video content from a communication server, a display unit that can display digital video content received from either the broadcast receiving unit or the communication unit, an operation unit that performs operations related to the digital video content received by the broadcast receiving unit, and a communication control unit that establishes a constant communication state with the communication server based on operation of the operation unit.

18. 18. The content receiving device according to claim 17, wherein the operation unit is a power switch for receiving digital video content by the broadcast receiving unit.

19. 19. The content receiving device according to claim 17, wherein the operation unit is a selection unit for selecting one of a plurality of digital video contents that can be received by the broadcast receiving unit.

20. 20. The content receiving device according to claim 17, wherein the operation unit is a means for instructing storage of the digital video content received by the broadcast receiving unit.

21. 21. The content receiving device according to claim 17, wherein the operation unit is a selection unit for selecting a portion of the digital video content to be received by the broadcast receiving unit.

22. A content receiving device characterized by having a broadcast receiving unit that receives digital video content via broadcast radio waves, a communication unit that receives digital video content from a communication server, a display unit that can display digital video content received from either the broadcast receiving unit or the communication unit, and a designation unit that designates digital video content data to be received from the communication server via a link from the digital video content received by the broadcast receiving unit.

23. 23. The content receiving device according to claim 22, wherein the designation unit designates the beginning of the digital moving image content data to be received from the communication server via a link from the digital moving image content received by the broadcast receiving unit.

24. 24. The content receiving device according to claim 22, further comprising a selection operation unit for selecting a viewing start portion of the digital video content data to be received from the communication server, wherein the designation unit enables operation of the selection operation unit.

25. 25. A content receiving device according to claim 22, further comprising a storage unit that stores information necessary for specifying the beginning of digital video content data to be received from the communication server based on the specification by the specification unit.

26. 26. The content receiving device according to claim 22, further comprising a reception execution unit that receives digital video content data from the communication server based on the designation by the designation unit.

27. 27. The content receiving device according to claim 26, further comprising a storage unit for storing digital video content data received by the reception execution unit.

28. A content receiving device characterized by having a display unit that displays predetermined digital video content received from an external source according to a schedule determined therefrom, a designation unit that designates another part of the digital video content by a link from the digital video content currently displayed on the display unit, and a communication unit that receives another part of the digital video content designated by the designation unit from a communication server.

29. 29. The content receiving device according to claim 28, wherein the digital video content displayed on the display unit is received via broadcast radio waves.

30. 30. The content receiving device according to claim 28, wherein the digital video content displayed by the display unit is received from a communication server.

31. 31. The content receiving device according to claim 29, wherein the display unit displays another part of the digital video content received by the communication unit in place of the part that was being displayed.

32. 32. The content receiving device according to claim 29, further comprising a storage unit for storing another part of the digital video content received by the communication unit.

33. A content distribution device characterized by having a storage unit that stores data of the same digital video content by adding correspondence information indicating a correspondence relationship with digital video content broadcast via airwaves, a communication unit, and a control unit that distributes the digital video content stored in the storage unit via the communication unit when the correspondence information is specified via the communication unit.

34. 34. The content distribution device according to claim 33, wherein the storage unit stores the data of the digital video content by adding storage information relating to the storage to the data so that the data can be confirmed via the communication unit.

35. A content receiving device characterized by having a designation unit that designates video content to be received from a communication server, a communication unit that automatically receives packet data of the video content being distributed at the designated time when digital video content that is streamed according to a predetermined schedule is designated within a distribution time by the designation unit, and a display unit that displays the video content based on the packet data received by the communication unit.

36. 36. The content receiving device according to claim 35, wherein when the designation unit designates video content outside of a distribution time, the communication unit receives packet data in accordance with the designation.

37. 37. The content receiving device according to claim 35, wherein when the designation unit designates video content outside of a distribution time, the communication unit automatically receives packet data at the beginning of the video content.

38. A content distribution device comprising: a storage unit for storing data of digital video content; and a communication unit for streaming packet data according to a schedule when the digital video content stored in the storage unit is designated within a distribution time according to a predetermined schedule, and for distributing the digital video content according to the designation when the same digital video content is designated outside the distribution time.

39. This content distribution device is characterized by having a storage unit that stores data of digital moving image content, and a communication unit that, when the digital moving image content stored in the storage unit is designated within a distribution time according to a predetermined schedule, streams packet data according to the schedule, and, when the same digital moving image content is designated outside the distribution time, streams packet data from the beginning of the moving image content.

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