Content output system and content output control method

Abstract

In a vehicle (1) equipped with multiple content output devices (14), the convenience of the occupant (P) regarding content output is improved. [Solution] A content output system (12) comprising a plurality of content output devices mounted on a vehicle and a control unit (19) that controls the content output devices, wherein the control unit comprises a first content acquisition unit (101) that acquires content by receiving broadcast waves, a second content acquisition unit (102) that acquires content by receiving data from the Internet, and an output control unit (103) that causes the content output devices to output content, wherein the output control unit determines, based on the broadcast wave reception status and the Internet communication status, whether the content to be output to the content output devices is the content acquired by the first content acquisition unit or the content acquired by the second content acquisition unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a content output system and a content output control method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technology for controlling a plurality of content output devices mounted on a vehicle has been known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a display disposed at a location corresponding to each seat of a vehicle as a plurality of content output devices mounted on the vehicle. Further, Patent Document 1 discloses an in-vehicle device that outputs an application function from a portable terminal device by a display corresponding to the portable terminal device brought into the vehicle.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, there is a content output device mounted on a vehicle that can output two types of content, namely, content obtained from a broadcast wave and content obtained from the Internet. In this type of content output device, a special operation such as content switching can be performed by a passenger according to the reception status of the broadcast wave and the communication status of the Internet. Therefore, when there are a plurality of this type of content output devices on a vehicle, a special operation may be performed on the plurality of content output devices, which may be troublesome for the passenger. Therefore, there is room for improvement in the convenience of the passenger regarding content output. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to improve the convenience of a passenger regarding content output in a vehicle equipped with a plurality of content output devices.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One aspect of the present invention is a content output system comprising: a plurality of content output devices mounted on a vehicle; and a control unit for controlling the content output devices, wherein the control unit comprises: a first content acquisition unit for acquiring content by receiving broadcast waves; a second content acquisition unit for acquiring content by receiving data from the Internet; and an output control unit for causing the content output devices to output content, wherein the output control unit determines, based on the reception status of the broadcast waves and the communication status of the Internet, whether the content to be output by the content output devices is a first content acquired by the first content acquisition unit or a second content acquired by the second content acquisition unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, in a vehicle equipped with multiple content output devices, the convenience of the occupants regarding content output can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows the configuration of the vehicle. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the content output system. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control ECU. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control ECU in the first process. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control ECU in the second process. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control ECU in the third process. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control ECU in the fourth process. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] [1. Vehicle Configuration] Figure 1 shows the configuration of vehicle 1. The vehicle 1 illustrated in Figure 1 is a four-wheeled vehicle. Vehicle 1 is equipped with a driver's seat 10A, a passenger seat 10B, a rear right seat 10C, and a rear left seat 10D. In vehicle 1 in Figure 1, the driver P1 and passenger P2 are seated as occupants P of vehicle 1. In vehicle 1 in Figure 1, the driver P1 is seated in the driver's seat 10A. Also in vehicle 1 in Figure 1, passenger P2 is seated in the passenger seat 10B.

[0009] Vehicle 1 is equipped with a right front door 11A, a left front door 11B, a right rear door 11C, a left rear door 11D, and a tailgate 11E. Opening the right front door 11A, the left front door 11B, the right rear door 11C, and the left rear door 11D allows entry and exit to the passenger compartment of Vehicle 1. The tailgate 11E opens and closes the trunk of Vehicle 1.

[0010] Vehicle 1 is equipped with a content output system 12. The content output system 12 is a system that outputs content into the vehicle interior.

[0011] The content output system 12 includes seat sensors 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D that detect the weight applied to the seats. Seat sensor 13A is provided in the driver's seat 10A, seat sensor 13B is provided in the passenger seat 10B, seat sensor 13C is provided in the rear right seat 10C, and seat sensor 13D is provided in the rear left seat 10D. In the following explanation, when seat sensors 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are not distinguished, they will be referred to as "seat sensor 13" with the designation "13".

[0012] The content output system 12 includes content output devices 14A and 14B for outputting content. Content output device 14A includes a display 15A and a speaker 16A. Content output device 14B includes a display 15B and a speaker 16B. In the following description, when content output devices 14A and 14B are not distinguished, the designation "14" is added, and the device is referred to as "content output device 14".

[0013] Displays 15A and 15B consist of a display panel for displaying text and images, and a touch sensor for detecting contact with the display panel, superimposed or integrated into one unit. Displays 15A and 15B are installed on the dashboard 17. Display 15B is installed on the passenger side 10B of display 15A. On each of displays 15A and 15B, the type of content to be output can be selected by the occupant P using touch operation.

[0014] Speaker 16A outputs sound to the driver P1 seated in the driver's seat 10A. Speaker 16B outputs sound to the passenger P2 seated in the passenger seat 10B. Note that the installation positions of speakers 16A and 16B are not limited to those shown in Figure 1, but are acceptable as long as they are in a position that can output sound to the occupant P seated in the corresponding seat.

[0015] The content output system 12 is equipped with cameras 18A and 18B for photographing the interior of the vehicle. The shooting range of camera 18A is set to capture the driver P1 seated in the driver's seat 10A. More specifically, the shooting range of camera 18A is set to capture the head of the driver P1 seated in the driver's seat 10A. The shooting range of camera 18B is set to capture the passenger P2 seated in the passenger seat 10B. More specifically, the shooting range of camera 18B is set to capture the head of the passenger P2 seated in the passenger seat 10B. Note that cameras 18A and 18B can be replaced with a single camera if it is sufficient to capture both the driver P1 and the passenger P2.

[0016] The content output system 12 includes a control ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 19. The control ECU 19 is a control device that controls the content output device 14. The control ECU 19 includes one tuner 191 (see FIG. 2) and receives broadcast waves such as radio broadcasts and television broadcasts. Further, the control ECU 19 receives data from the Internet 2 via a TCU (Telematics Control Unit) 20. Further, the control ECU 19 receives data from the Internet 2 via a mobile terminal 3 brought into the vehicle 1. The control ECU 19 corresponds to the "control unit".

[0017] The vehicle 1 includes a TCU 20. The TCU 20 is connected to the Internet 2.

[0018] [2. Configuration of Content Output System] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the content output system 12. The control ECU 19 includes a control device 190, a tuner 191, and a communication unit 192.

[0019] Before explaining the control device 190, the tuner 191 and the communication unit 192 will be explained. The tuner 191 operates according to the control of the control device 190. The tuner 191 receives broadcast waves via an antenna (not shown). Further, the tuner 191 converts the received broadcast waves into a signal indicating content-related information. Further, the tuner 191 outputs the converted signal to the control device 190. Note that the content-related information is information related to the content and includes content information indicating the content that the content output device 14 can output, type information indicating the type of the content, and the like. The content information includes video data and audio data when the content is composed of video and audio, includes video data when the content is composed of video, and includes audio data when the content is composed of audio. Further, the tuner 191 outputs a signal indicating the reception intensity of the broadcast wave to the control device 190.

[0020] The communication unit 192 includes communication hardware such as communication circuits and connectors. The communication unit 192 receives data from the Internet 2 via the TCU 20 or mobile terminal 3 in accordance with the control of the control device 190. The communication unit 192 outputs the received data to the control device 190. In this embodiment, the communication unit 192 receives data including content-related information.

[0021] The control device 190 includes a processor 100 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processor Unit), a memory 110, and interface circuits for connecting other devices and sensors. The control device 190 is connected to a tuner 191, a communication unit 192, a seating sensor 13, a content output device 14, and cameras 18A and 18B.

[0022] Memory 110 is a storage device that stores programs and data. Memory 110 stores control programs 111 and data processed by the processor 100. Memory 110 has a non-volatile storage area. Memory 110 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute the work area of ​​the processor 100. Memory 110 is composed of, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory). The control program 111 is a program that causes the processor 100 to function as a functional unit, which will be described later.

[0023] The processor 100 functions as a first content acquisition unit 101, a second content acquisition unit 102, an output control unit 103, a gaze detection unit 104, a seating status detection unit 105, a type determination unit 106, a processing load calculation unit 107, and a communication charge calculation unit 108 by executing the control program 111.

[0024] [2-1. Content Acquisition Section 1] The first content acquisition unit 101 acquires content by receiving broadcast waves by controlling the tuner 191. More specifically, the first content acquisition unit 101 acquires content-related information from the tuner 191 by controlling the tuner 191. Hereinafter, the content acquired by the first content acquisition unit 101 will be referred to as "first content".

[0025] [2-2. Second Content Acquisition Section] The second content acquisition unit 102 acquires content by receiving data from the Internet 2 by controlling the communication unit 192. More specifically, the second content acquisition unit 102 acquires content-related information from the communication unit 192 by controlling the communication unit 192. Hereinafter, the content acquired by the second content acquisition unit 102 will be referred to as "second content".

[0026] [2-3. Output Control Unit] The output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 to output either the first content or the second content. Based on the content information of the content-related information acquired by the first content acquisition unit 101, the output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 to output the first content. Based on the content information of the content-related information acquired by the second content acquisition unit 102, the output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 to output the second content.

[0027] The output control unit 103 determines whether the content output by the content output device 14 should be the first content or the second content, depending on the broadcast wave reception status and the communication status of the Internet 2. In this determination, the output control unit 103 obtains the broadcast wave reception strength from the tuner 191. The output control unit 103 also obtains the communication speed of the Internet 2. The output control unit 103 transmits acquisition data for obtaining the communication speed to the Internet 2 via the communication unit 192 and receives a response of the acquisition data from the Internet 2. The output control unit 103 obtains the communication speed of the Internet 2 by dividing the amount of data in the response of the acquisition data by the time required to receive the response of the acquisition data.

[0028] [2-4. Eye-tracking unit] The gaze detection unit 104 detects the direction of the occupant P's gaze. In this embodiment, when the driver P1 is seated in the driver's seat 10A, the gaze detection unit 104 detects the direction of the driver P1's gaze. Also in this embodiment, when the passenger P2 is seated in the passenger seat 10B, the gaze detection unit 104 detects the direction of the passenger P2's gaze.

[0029] The gaze detection unit 104 detects the driver P1 from the image captured by the camera 18A. The gaze detection unit 104 detects the driver P1 from the image captured by the camera 18A by detecting the face image using methods such as pattern matching. If the gaze detection unit 104 can detect the driver P1 from the image captured by the camera 18A, it detects the eyes from the captured image using pattern matching or color, and determines the direction the detected eyes are facing as the direction of the driver P1's gaze. The data necessary for eye detection (data on eye shape and color) is stored in the memory 110.

[0030] The gaze detection unit 104 detects passenger P2 from the captured image obtained by the camera 18B. The gaze detection unit 104 detects passenger P2 from the captured image obtained by the camera 18B by detecting the face image using methods such as pattern matching. If the gaze detection unit 104 can detect passenger P2 from the captured image obtained by the camera 18B, it detects the eyes from the captured image using pattern matching or color, and determines the direction the detected eyes are facing as the direction of passenger P2's gaze.

[0031] [2-5. Seating Status Detection Unit] The seating status detection unit 105 detects the seating status of occupant P in the vehicle 1 based on the detection results of the seating sensors 13. For example, suppose that only seating sensor 13A is detecting a weight above a predetermined value. This predetermined value is the value used to distinguish whether or not a person is seated in a seat. In this example, the seating status detection unit 105 detects that occupant P is seated only in the driver's seat 10A. Alternatively, suppose that only seating sensors 13A and 13B are detecting a weight above a predetermined value. In this example, the seating status detection unit 105 detects that occupant P is seated in both the driver's seat 10A and the passenger seat 10B.

[0032] [2-6. Type Determination Unit] The type determination unit 106 determines the type of the first content. The type determination unit 106 determines the type of the first content based on the type information of the content-related information acquired by the first content acquisition unit 101. For example, if the type information indicates "traffic," the type determination unit 106 determines that the type of the first content is "traffic." Content of the type "traffic" includes content such as traffic congestion, road closures, and accidents. Also, for example, if the type information indicates "news," the type determination unit 106 determines that the type of the first content is "news."

[0033] The type determination unit 106 determines the type of the second content. The type determination unit 106 determines the type of the second content based on the type information of the content-related information acquired by the second content acquisition unit 102. For example, if the type information indicates "entertainment," the type determination unit 106 determines that the type of the second content is "entertainment."

[0034] [2-7. Processing Load Calculation Unit] The processing load calculation unit 107 calculates the processing load related to content output. The processing load related to content output includes the processing load related to content reception and the processing load related to content output. The processing load calculation unit 107 calculates the processing load related to the output of the first content and the processing load related to the output of the second content using existing technology.

[0035] [2-8. Communication Charge Calculation Section] The communication charge calculation unit 108 calculates the communication charges related to receiving the second content. The communication charge calculation unit 108 calculates the communication charges related to receiving the second content based on the amount of data received by the communication unit 192. For example, if "β yen" is added for every α GB (gigabyte) of data received, the communication charge calculation unit 108 calculates the communication charges related to receiving the second content based on the amount of data received by the communication unit 192 and the fact that "β yen" is added for every α GB.

[0036] [3. Operation of the Control ECU] Next, we will explain the operation of the control ECU19. In this embodiment, the vehicle 1 is equipped with only one tuner 191. Therefore, in this embodiment, the content output devices 14A and 14B cannot output the first content simultaneously. This is because the tuner 191 cannot simultaneously receive broadcast waves of different frequencies. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the content output devices 14A and 14B can simultaneously output the second content. When one of the content output devices 14A or 14B is outputting the first content, the other content output device 14 is set so that the first content cannot be output by operation of the occupant P.

[0037] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control ECU 19. The output control unit 103 determines whether the received signal strength of the broadcast wave is less than the second received signal strength, which is lower than the first received signal strength, and whether the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than the second communication speed, which is lower than the first communication speed (step S1).

[0038] Here, we will explain the first received signal strength, the second received signal strength, the first communication speed, and the second communication speed. The first reception strength is the strength at which it is recommended to switch the output content to the second content. The second reception strength is the strength at which it is recommended not to output the first content from a viewership perspective. The first and second reception strengths are determined through prior testing and simulations. The first communication intensity is the intensity at which it is recommended to switch the output content to the first content. The second communication intensity is the intensity at which it is recommended not to output the second content from a viewing perspective. The first and second communication intensity levels are determined through prior testing and simulations.

[0039] If the output control unit 103 determines that the broadcast wave reception strength is less than the second reception strength and the internet 2 communication speed is less than the second communication speed (step S1: YES), it does not allow the content output device 14 to output content (step S2).

[0040] If the content output device 14 was already outputting content in step S2, the output control unit 103 stops the content output by the content output device 14. Furthermore, if the content output device 14 is not outputting content in step S2, the output control unit 103 prevents content from being output by operating the displays 15A and 15B, for example by disabling the software button to start content output.

[0041] Returning to the explanation of step S1, if the output control unit 103 determined that step S1 was negative (step S1: NO), it determined whether or not the first content was being output by either the content output device 14A or 14B (step S3).

[0042] If the output control unit 103 determines that the first content is being output by either the content output device 14A or 14B (step S3: YES), it determines whether or not the second content is being output by either the content output device 14A or 14B (step S4).

[0043] If the output control unit 103 determines that the second content is not being output by either the content output device 14A or 14B (step S4: NO), it executes the first process (step S5). The first process will be described later with reference to Figure 4. In step S4, a negative determination is made when either content output device 14A or 14B is outputting the first content, but neither content output device 14A nor 14B is outputting the second content.

[0044] Returning to the explanation of step S4, if the output control unit 103 determines that the second content is being output by either the content output device 14A or 14B (step S4: YES), it executes the second process (step S6). The second process will be described later with reference to Figure 5. In step S4, a positive judgment is made when either content output device 14A or 14B is outputting the first content, and a different content output device 14 from the one outputting the first content is outputting the second content.

[0045] Returning to the explanation of step S3, if the output control unit 103 determines that the first content is not being output by either content output device 14A or 14B (step S3: NO), it determines whether or not the second content is being output by either content output device 14A or 14B (step S7).

[0046] If the output control unit 103 determines that the second content is being output by either the content output device 14A or 14B (step S7: YES), it executes the third process (step S8). The third process will be described later with reference to Figure 6. In step S7, a positive judgment is made when either content output device 14A or 14B is outputting the second content, but neither content output device 14A nor 14B is outputting the first content.

[0047] Returning to the explanation of step S7, if the output control unit 103 determines that neither content output device 14A nor 14B is outputting the second content (step S7: NO), it determines whether either content output device 14A or 14B is outputting the second content (step S9).

[0048] If the output control unit 103 determines that neither content output device 14A nor 14B is outputting the second content (step S9: NO), it terminates this process. Note that the situation in which a negative determination is made in step S9 is when neither content output device 14A nor 14B is outputting any content.

[0049] On the other hand, if the output control unit 103 determines that both content output devices 14A and 14B are outputting the second content (step S9: YES), it executes the fourth process (step S10). In step S10, a positive judgment is made when both content output devices 14A and 14B are outputting the second content.

[0050] The first, second, third, and fourth processes will be explained with reference to Figures 4, 5, 6, and 7.

[0051] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control ECU 19 in the first process. The output control unit 103 determines whether the received signal strength of the broadcast wave is equal to or greater than the first received signal strength (step S51).

[0052] If the output control unit 103 determines that the broadcast wave reception strength is equal to or greater than the first reception strength (step S51: YES), it terminates the first process. That is, the output control unit 103 keeps the content output by either the content output device 14A or 14B as the first content.

[0053] On the other hand, if the output control unit 103 determines that the broadcast wave reception strength is not equal to or greater than the first reception strength (step S51: NO), it determines whether the communication speed of the Internet 2 is equal to or greater than the first communication speed (step S52).

[0054] If the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of the Internet 2 is not equal to or greater than the first communication speed (step S52: NO), it terminates the first process.

[0055] On the other hand, if the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of the Internet 2 is equal to or greater than the first communication speed (step S52: YES), it determines that the content to be output to the content output device 14 is the second content (step S53).

[0056] Next, the output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14, which is outputting the first content, to output the second content (step S54). Step S54 corresponds to the "output step".

[0057] For example, suppose content output device 14A is outputting the first content, and content output device 14B is not outputting any content. In this situation, if the broadcast wave reception strength is less than the first reception strength, and the internet 2 communication speed is equal to or greater than the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 will cause content output device 14A to output the second content. Furthermore, for example, suppose content output device 14B is outputting the first content, and content output device 14A is not outputting any content. In this situation, if the broadcast wave reception strength is less than the first reception strength, and the internet 2 communication speed is equal to or greater than the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 will cause content output device 14B to output the second content.

[0058] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control ECU 19 in the second process. The output control unit 103 determines whether the received signal strength of the broadcast wave is equal to or greater than the first received signal strength (step S61).

[0059] If the output control unit 103 determines that the broadcast wave reception strength is equal to or greater than the first reception strength (step S61: YES), it determines whether the communication speed of the Internet 2 is equal to or greater than the first communication speed (step S62).

[0060] If the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of the Internet 2 is equal to or greater than the first communication speed (step S62: YES), it terminates the second process. That is, the output control unit 103 keeps the content output by either content output device 14A or 14B as the first content, and keeps the content output by either content output device 14A or 14B as the second content.

[0061] If the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of the Internet 2 is not equal to or greater than the first communication speed (step S62: NO), it determines that the content to be output to the content output device 14 is the first content (step S63).

[0062] Next, the output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 to output the first content (step S64). As described above, in this embodiment, multiple content output devices 14 cannot output the first content simultaneously. Therefore, in step S64, the output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 that was outputting the first content to continue outputting the first content, and stops the output of the second content by the other content output device 14. Step S64 corresponds to the "output step".

[0063] Step S64 will be explained in detail. For example, suppose content output device 14A is outputting the first content and content output device 14B is outputting the second content. In this situation, if the broadcast wave reception strength is equal to or greater than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 will have content output device 14A continue to output the first content and will stop content output device 14B from outputting the second content. For example, suppose content output device 14B is outputting the first content and content output device 14A is outputting the second content. In this situation, if the broadcast wave reception strength is equal to or greater than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 will have content output device 14B continue to output the first content and will stop content output device 14A from outputting the second content.

[0064] Returning to the explanation of step S61, if the output control unit 103 determines that the broadcast wave reception strength is not equal to or greater than the first reception strength (step S61: NO), it determines whether the communication speed of the Internet 2 is equal to or greater than the first communication speed (step S65).

[0065] If the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of the Internet 2 is equal to or greater than the first communication speed (step S65: YES), it determines that the content to be output to the content output device 14 is the second content (step S66).

[0066] Next, the output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14 to output the second content (step S67). In this embodiment, multiple content output devices 14 can output the second content simultaneously. Therefore, in step S67, the output control unit 103 causes each of the content output devices 14A and 14B to output the second content. Step S67 corresponds to the "output step".

[0067] A specific example of step S67 will be explained. For example, suppose content output device 14A is outputting the first content and content output device 14B is outputting the second content. In this situation, if the broadcast wave reception strength is less than the first reception strength and the internet 2 communication speed is equal to or greater than the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 will cause content output devices 14A and 14B to output the second content.

[0068] Returning to the explanation of step S65, if the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of the Internet 2 is not equal to or greater than the first communication speed (step S65: NO), it performs fault processing (step S68).

[0069] Failure handling is a process that is executed when the broadcast signal reception status and the Internet 2 communication status are poor. The following describes several processes for handling defective products.

[0070] <First Defect Handling> In the first fault processing step, a content output device 4 is selected based on the detection result of the gaze detection unit 104 to output content. In the first fault processing step, the selected content output device 14 is then made to output content.

[0071] In the first defect processing, the output control unit 103 acquires the detection result from the gaze detection unit 104 and selects a content output device 4 to output content based on the acquired detection result from the gaze detection unit 104.

[0072] If the detection result of the gaze detection unit 104 includes the direction of the driver P1's gaze, and the direction of the driver P1's gaze is toward the display 15A, the output control unit 103 selects content output device 14A as the content output device 14 for outputting content. On the other hand, if the detection result of the gaze detection unit 104 includes the direction of the driver P1's gaze, and the direction of the driver P1's gaze is not toward the display 15A, the output control unit 103 does not select content output device 14A as the content output device 14 for outputting content.

[0073] If the detection result of the gaze detection unit 104 includes the direction of the passenger P2's gaze, and the direction of the passenger P2's gaze is toward the display 15B, the output control unit 103 selects content output device 14B as the content output device 14 for outputting content. On the other hand, if the detection result of the gaze detection unit 104 includes the direction of the passenger P2's gaze, and the direction of the passenger P2's gaze is not toward the display 15B, the output control unit 103 does not select content output device 14B as the content output device 14 for outputting content.

[0074] When the output control unit 103 selects a content output device 14, it causes the selected content output device 14 to output the content. For example, suppose content output device 14A is outputting the first content and content output device 14B is outputting the second content. In this example, if content output device 14A is selected in the first fault handling, the output control unit 103 will have content output device 14A continue to output the first content and stop content output device 14B from outputting the second content.

[0075] <Second Defect Handling> In the second fault processing step, a content output device 4 is selected to output content based on the detection result of the seating status detection unit 105. Furthermore, in the second fault processing step, the selected content output device 14 is instructed to output content.

[0076] In the second defect processing, the output control unit 103 acquires the detection result from the seating status detection unit 105 and selects a content output device 4 to output content based on the acquired detection result from the seating status detection unit 105.

[0077] If the detection result of the seating status detection unit 105 indicates that an occupant P is seated in the driver's seat 10A, the output control unit 103 selects content output device 14A as the content output device 14 for outputting content. On the other hand, if the detection result of the seating status detection unit 105 does not indicate that an occupant P is seated in the driver's seat 10A, the output control unit 103 does not select content output device 14A as the content output device 14 for outputting content.

[0078] If the detection result of the seating status detection unit 105 indicates that occupant P is seated in the passenger seat 10B, the output control unit 103 selects content output device 14B as the content output device 14 for outputting content. On the other hand, if the detection result of the seating status detection unit 105 does not indicate that occupant P is seated in the passenger seat 10B, the output control unit 103 does not select content output device 14B as the content output device 14 for outputting content.

[0079] When the output control unit 103 selects a content output device 14, it causes the selected content output device 14 to output the content. For example, suppose content output device 14A is outputting the first content and content output device 14B is outputting the second content. In this example, if content output device 14A is selected in the second fault handling, the output control unit 103 will have content output device 14A continue to output the first content and stop content output device 14B from outputting the second content.

[0080] <Third Defect Handling> In the third defect processing step, based on the determination result of the type determination unit 106, the content to be output to the content output device 14 is determined to be either the first content or the second content. Then, in the third defect processing step, the determined first content or second content is output to the content output device 14.

[0081] Content types are assigned output priority levels. For example, the "Transportation" type has the highest priority. The "News" type has the second highest priority, and the "Entertainment" type has the lowest priority. This output priority level may or may not be changeable by the crew member P.

[0082] In the third defect processing, the output control unit 103 acquires the determination result from the type determination unit 106 and determines the content to be output to the content output device 14 based on the acquired determination result from the type determination unit 106.

[0083] For example, suppose the determination result of the type determination unit 106 includes the fact that the type of the first content is "transportation," and also includes the determination result of the type determination unit 106 includes the fact that the type of the second content is "news." Also, suppose the output priority is higher for the type of "transportation" than for the type of "news." In this case, the output control unit 103 determines that the content to be output to the content output device 14 is the first content.

[0084] For example, suppose the type of the first content is determined to be "entertainment" as determined by the type determination unit 106, and the type of the second content is determined to be "news" as determined by the type determination unit 106. Also, suppose the output priority is higher for "news" than for "entertainment". In this case, the output control unit 103 determines that the content to be output to the content output device 14 is the second content.

[0085] When the output control unit 103 determines whether the content to be output to the content output device 14 is the first content or the second content, it causes the content output device 14 to output the determined first content or second content.

[0086] For example, suppose content output device 14A is outputting the first content and content output device 14B is outputting the second content. In this example, if the third fault processing determines that the content is the first content, the output control unit 103 will have content output device 14A continue to output the first content and stop content output device 14B from outputting the second content.

[0087] For example, suppose content output device 14A outputs the first content and content output device 14B outputs the second content. In this example, if the third fault processing determines that the content is the second content, the output control unit 103 stops content output by content output device 14A and causes content output device 14B to continue outputting the second content.

[0088] <Fourth Defect Handling> In the fourth fault processing step, the content to be output to the content output device 14 is determined to be either the first content or the second content based on the calculation result of the processing load calculation unit 107. Then, in the fourth fault processing step, the determined first content or second content is output to the content output device 14.

[0089] In the fourth failure processing, the output control unit 103 acquires the calculation result from the processing load calculation unit 107 and determines the content to be output to the content output device 14 based on the acquired calculation result from the processing load calculation unit 107.

[0090] If the processing load for outputting the second content is greater than the processing load for outputting the first content, the output control unit 103 determines that the content to be output by the content output device 14 will be the first content.

[0091] Furthermore, if the processing load for outputting the first content is greater than the processing load for outputting the second content, the output control unit 103 determines that the content to be output by the content output device 14 is the second content.

[0092] When the output control unit 103 determines whether the content to be output to the content output device 14 is the first content or the second content, it causes the content output device 14 to output the determined first content or second content.

[0093] For example, suppose content output device 14A is outputting the first content and content output device 14B is outputting the second content. In this example, if the fourth fault processing determines that the content to be output by content output device 14 is the first content, the output control unit 103 will have content output device 14A continue to output the first content and will stop content output device 14B from outputting the second content.

[0094] For example, suppose content output device 14A outputs the first content and content output device 14B outputs the second content. In this example, if the fourth fault processing determines that the content to be output by content output device 14 is the second content, the output control unit 103 stops the output of the first content by content output device 14A and causes content output device 14B to continue outputting the second content.

[0095] <The fifth defect handling step> In the fifth fault processing step, the content to be output to the content output device 14 is determined to be either the first content or the second content based on the calculation result of the communication charge calculation unit 108. Then, in the fifth fault processing step, the determined first content or second content is output to the content output device 14.

[0096] In the fifth failure processing, the output control unit 103 obtains the calculation result from the communication charge calculation unit 108 and determines the content to be output to the content output device 14 based on the obtained calculation result from the communication charge calculation unit 108.

[0097] If the communication charges for receiving the second content are greater than or equal to a predetermined value arbitrarily set by crew member P, the output control unit 103 determines that the content to be output to the content output device 14 is the first content.

[0098] Furthermore, if the communication charges related to receiving the second content are not greater than a predetermined value arbitrarily set by the crew member P, the output control unit 103 determines that the content to be output to the content output device 14 is the second content.

[0099] When the output control unit 103 determines whether the content to be output to the content output device 14 is the first content or the second content, it causes the content output device 14 to output the determined first content or second content.

[0100] For example, suppose content output device 14A is outputting the first content and content output device 14B is outputting the second content. In this example, if the fifth fault processing determines that the content to be output by content output device 14 is the first content, the output control unit 103 will have content output device 14A continue to output the first content and will stop content output device 14B from outputting the second content.

[0101] Furthermore, suppose, for example, that content output device 14A outputs the first content and content output device 14B outputs the second content. In this example, if the fifth fault processing determines that the content to be output by content output device 14 is the second content, the output control unit 103 stops the output of the first content by content output device 14A and causes content output device 14B to continue outputting the second content.

[0102] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control ECU 19 in the third process. The output control unit 103 determines whether the communication speed of the Internet 2 is equal to or greater than the first communication speed (step S81).

[0103] If the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of the Internet 2 is equal to or greater than the first communication speed (step S81: YES), it terminates the third process.

[0104] On the other hand, if the output control unit 103 determines that the communication speed of the Internet 2 is not equal to or greater than the first communication speed (step S81: NO), it determines whether the received signal strength of the broadcast wave is equal to or greater than the first received signal strength (step SB82).

[0105] If the output control unit 103 determines that the broadcast wave reception strength is not equal to or greater than the first reception strength (step S82: NO), it terminates the third process.

[0106] On the other hand, if the output control unit 103 determines that the reception strength of the broadcast wave is equal to or greater than the first reception strength (step S82: YES), it determines that the content to be output to the content output device 14 is the first content (step S83).

[0107] Next, the output control unit 103 causes the content output device 14, which is outputting the second content, to output the first content (step S83). Step S83 corresponds to the "output step".

[0108] For example, suppose content output device 14A is outputting the second content, and content output device 14B is not outputting any content. In this situation, if the broadcast wave reception strength is equal to or greater than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 will cause content output device 14A to output the first content. Furthermore, for example, suppose content output device 14B is outputting the second content, and content output device 14A is not outputting any content. In this situation, if the broadcast wave reception strength is equal to or greater than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet 2 is less than the first communication speed, the output control unit 103 will cause content output device 14B to output the first content.

[0109] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control ECU 19 in the fourth process. In Figure 7, steps similar to those in Figure 6 are numbered the same as those in Figure 6. In the explanation of Figure 7, explanations of steps similar to those in Figure 6 are omitted where appropriate.

[0110] When the output control unit 103 determines the first content (step S83), it causes one of the content output devices 14 to output the first content (step S101). Step S101 corresponds to the "output step".

[0111] For example, suppose that content output devices 14A and 14B are outputting the second content, the broadcast wave reception strength is equal to or greater than the first reception strength, and the internet 2 communication speed is less than the first communication speed. In this case, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14A to output the first content and stops content output by content output device 14B.

[0112] Furthermore, for example, suppose that when content output devices 14A and 14B are outputting the second content, the broadcast wave reception strength is equal to or greater than the first reception strength, and the internet 2 communication speed is less than the first communication speed. In this case, the output control unit 103 causes content output device 14B to output the first content and stops content output by content output device 14A.

[0113] [4. Other Embodiments] The embodiments described above are merely examples and can be modified and applied as needed.

[0114] In other embodiments, the communication charge calculation unit 108 may calculate the communication charge for receiving the first content. In this other embodiment, the output control unit 103 compares the two types of communication charges calculated by the communication charge calculation unit 108 (the communication charge for receiving the first content and the communication charge for receiving the second content) and determines which content has the lower communication charge to be output to the content output device 14.

[0115] In the fourth process of the embodiment described above, the output control unit 103 determines the content to be output to the content output device 14 as the first content. In the fourth process of other embodiments, the output control unit 103 may determine the content to be output to the content output device 14 as the second content. In this case, the output control unit 103 causes either the content output device 14A or 14B to output the first content. In this case, the content output device 14 that outputs the first content may be set based on factors such as the direction of the occupant P's line of sight or the occupant P's seating position. Furthermore, in the fourth process of other embodiments, the output control unit 103 may determine the content to be output to the content output device 14 as both the first and second content. In this case, the output control unit 103 causes either the content output device 14A or 14B to output the first content, and the content output device 14A or 14B to output the second content.

[0116] In other embodiments, when stopping content output by the content output device 14, the following configuration may be used. That is, the content output device 14 to be stopped asks the crew member P whether it is okay to stop content output. When the crew member P gives a stop instruction to the content output device 14A that made the inquiry, the output control unit 103 stops content output by the content output device 14 to be stopped.

[0117] In the embodiment described above, an example was given where there are two "content output devices" installed in the "vehicle". However, there may be three or more "content output devices" installed in the "vehicle". For example, the "vehicle" may be equipped with a "content output device" with a display and speaker at a position corresponding to each of the rear seats. Note that if there are three or more "content output devices" installed in the "vehicle" and there is one tuner 191 installed in the "vehicle", the multiple "content output devices" cannot output the first content simultaneously.

[0118] In the embodiment described above, the number of tuners 191 installed in the "vehicle" is one. However, in other embodiments, the number of tuners 191 installed in the "vehicle" may be multiple. In these other embodiments, the number of tuners 191 installed in the "vehicle" may be equal to the number of "content output devices" installed in the "vehicle," or the number of tuners 191 installed in the "vehicle" may be less than the number of "content output devices" installed in the "vehicle." In these other embodiments, the number of "content output devices" equal to the number of tuners 191 can simultaneously output the first content.

[0119] In other embodiments, the "content output device" may consist of only a display or only a speaker.

[0120] In other embodiments, the first defect handling may not be performed. In these other embodiments, the vehicle 1 may not be equipped with cameras 18A and 18B. Also, in these other embodiments, the processor 100 may not function as the gaze detection unit 104.

[0121] In other embodiments, the second defect handling step may not be performed. In these other embodiments, the vehicle 1 may not be equipped with a seating sensor 13. Also, in these other embodiments, the processor 100 may not function as a seating status detection unit 105.

[0122] In other embodiments, the third defect processing may not be performed. In these other embodiments, the processor 100 may not function as a type determination unit 106. Also, in these other embodiments, the content-related information may not include type information.

[0123] In other embodiments, the fourth defect handling step may not be performed. In these other embodiments, the processor 100 may not function as a processing load calculation unit 107.

[0124] In other embodiments, the fifth defect handling step may not be performed. In these other embodiments, the processor 100 may not function as a communication charge calculation unit 108.

[0125] The processor 100 may consist of multiple processors or a single processor. The processor 100 may also be hardware programmed to implement the functions described above. In this case, the processor 100 may consist of, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0126] Furthermore, the configuration of the content output system 12 shown in Figure 2 is merely an example, and the specific implementation is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessarily required that hardware corresponding to each part be implemented individually, and it is certainly possible to have a configuration in which a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of each part. Also, some of the functions realized by software in the above embodiment may be implemented by hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be implemented by software.

[0127] Furthermore, the operation steps shown in Figures 3 to 7 are divided according to the main processing content, and the present invention is not limited by the way the processing units are divided or their names. Depending on the processing content, it may be further divided into more steps. Alternatively, it may be divided so that one step unit includes even more processing. Also, the order of the steps may be rearranged as appropriate, as long as it does not impede the spirit of the present invention.

[0128] Furthermore, when the control method for the content output system 12 described above is implemented using the processor 100, the program to be executed by the processor 100 can be configured as a recording medium or a transmission medium for transmitting this program. In other words, the control program 111 can also be implemented by recording it on a portable information recording medium. Examples of information recording media include magnetic recording media such as hard disks, optical recording media such as CDs, and semiconductor storage devices such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory and SSDs (Solid State Drives), but other recording media can also be used.

[0129] [5. Configurations supported by the above embodiment] The above embodiment supports the following configuration.

[0130] (Composition 1) A content output system comprising: a plurality of content output devices mounted on a vehicle; and a control unit that controls the content output devices, wherein the control unit comprises: a first content acquisition unit that acquires content by receiving broadcast waves; a second content acquisition unit that acquires content by receiving data from the Internet; and an output control unit that causes the content output devices to output content, wherein the output control unit determines, based on the reception status of the broadcast waves and the communication status of the Internet, whether the content to be output to the content output devices is a first content acquired by the first content acquisition unit or a second content acquired by the second content acquisition unit. According to the content output system of Configuration 1, the content output by the content output device can be automatically changed according to the broadcast wave reception status and the internet communication status, without requiring the occupants to perform any special operations such as switching. Therefore, in vehicles equipped with multiple content output devices, the convenience of occupants regarding content output can be improved.

[0131] (Configuration 2) The content output system according to Configuration 1, wherein the output control unit determines the content to be output by the content output device to be the second content when the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet is equal to or greater than the first communication speed. According to the content output system of Configuration 2, the content output by the content output device can be automatically changed to content that can be output properly without the occupant having to perform any special operations. Therefore, in vehicles equipped with multiple content output devices, the convenience of the occupant regarding content output can be further improved.

[0132] (Composition 3) The content output system according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein the output control unit determines the content to be output to the content output device to be the first content when the reception strength of the broadcast wave is equal to or greater than a first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet is less than a first communication speed. The content output system of Configuration 3 produces the same effect as the content output system of Configuration 2.

[0133] (Composition 4) The content output system according to configuration 2 or 3, wherein the control unit includes a gaze detection unit that detects the direction of gaze for each occupant of the vehicle, and the output control unit, when a plurality of content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the internet is less than the first communication speed, selects a content output device to output content based on the detection result of the gaze detection unit, and causes the selected content output device to output content. According to the content output system of Configuration 4, if the first and second content cannot be output properly, the content is output to the content output device that is most likely to be using the content. Therefore, the number of content output devices that output the content can be reduced, thereby reducing the processing load related to content output and preventing the output content from becoming even worse. In addition, since the content is output to the content output device that is most likely to be using the content, the convenience of the crew regarding content output can be prevented from being compromised.

[0134] (Composition 5) The control unit includes a seating status detection unit that detects the seating status of the occupants of the vehicle, and the output control unit, when a plurality of content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the internet is less than the first communication speed, selects a content output device to output content based on the detection result of the seating status detection unit, and causes the selected content output device to output content, as described in configuration 2 or 3 of the content output system. The content output system of Configuration 5 produces the same effect as the content output system of Configuration 4.

[0135] (Composition 6) The content output system according to configuration 2 or 3, wherein the control unit includes a type determination unit that determines the type of the first content and the type of the second content, and the output control unit, when a plurality of content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, determines, based on the determination result of the type determination unit, that the content to be output by the content output device be either the first content or the second content. According to the content output system of configuration 6, if the first and second content cannot be output properly, the content output by the content output device will be either the first or second content, based on the type of content. Therefore, since the content output by the vehicle can be either the first or second content, the processing load related to content output can be reduced compared to when both types of content are output. Thus, it is possible to prevent the output content from becoming even less good. In addition, since the content output device outputs either the first or second content based on the type of content, it is possible to output the type of content desired by the occupant or the type of content that the occupant should view, thus preventing a loss of convenience for the occupant regarding content output.

[0136] (Composition 7) The content output system according to configuration 2 or 3, wherein the control unit includes a processing load calculation unit that calculates the processing load related to the output of the first content and the processing load related to the output of the second content, and the output control unit determines whether the content to be output by the content output device is the first content or the second content based on the calculation result of the processing load calculation unit when a plurality of content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed. According to the content output system of Configuration 7, if the first and second contents cannot be output properly, the content output device will output either the first or second content based on the processing load related to content output. Therefore, it becomes possible to output content with a lower processing load, thereby reducing the processing load related to content output. Thus, it is possible to prevent the output content from becoming even less good. In addition, since content with a lower processing load can be output automatically without requiring any special operation from the crew, the convenience of the crew regarding content output can be improved.

[0137] (Composition 8) The content output system according to configuration 2 or 3, wherein the control unit includes a communication charge calculation unit that calculates the communication charges for the Internet, and the output control unit, when a plurality of content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, determines, based on the calculation result of the communication charge calculation unit, which content to be output by the content output device to be the first content or the second content. According to the content output system of Configuration 8, if the first and second contents cannot be output properly, the content output by the content output device will be either the first or second content, based on the calculated communication charges. Therefore, since the content output by the vehicle can be either the first or second content, the processing load related to content output can be reduced. Thus, it is possible to prevent the output content from becoming even less good. In addition, since the content with lower communication charges can be automatically output without the occupant having to perform any special operations, the convenience of the occupant regarding content output can be improved.

[0138] (Composition 9) The content output system according to any one of configurations 2 to 8, wherein the output control unit does not allow the content output device to output content when the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than a second reception strength which is lower than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than a second communication speed which is lower than the first communication speed. According to the content output system of configuration 9, if there is a high probability that the content cannot be output properly, the content output device will not output the content, thereby preventing the occupants from feeling annoyed by the content output.

[0139] (Composition 10) A control method for a content output system comprising a plurality of content output devices mounted on a vehicle, the method comprising an output step of causing the content output devices to output content, wherein the output step determines, based on the reception status of broadcast waves and the communication status of the Internet, the content to be output by the content output devices to be either a first content obtained by receiving the broadcast waves or a second content obtained by receiving data from the Internet. The control method for the content output system of configuration 10 produces the same effect as the content output system of configuration 1. [Explanation of symbols]

[0140] 1...Vehicle, 2...Internet, 3...Mobile device, 4...Content output device, 10A...Driver's seat, 10B...Passenger seat, 10C...Rear right seat, 10D...Rear left seat, 11A...Right front door, 11B...Left front door, 11C...Right rear door, 11D...Left rear door, 11E...Tailgate, 12...Content output system, 13,13A~13D...Seat sensor, 14,14A,14B...Content output device, 15A,15B...Display, 16A,16B...Speaker, 17...Dashboard, 18A,18B...Camera, 19...Control ECU (control unit), 20...TCU, 100...processor, 101...first content acquisition unit, 102...second content acquisition unit, 103...output control unit, 104...gaze detection unit, 105...seating status detection unit, 106...type determination unit, 107...processing load calculation unit, 108...communication charge calculation unit, 110...memory, 111...control program, 190...control device, 191...tuner, 192...communication unit, P...occupant, P1...driver, P2...passenger, S54, S64, S67, S84, S101...step (output step).

Claims

1. Multiple content output devices installed in the vehicle, The system comprises a control unit for controlling the content output device, The control unit, A first content acquisition unit that acquires content by receiving broadcast waves, A second content acquisition unit acquires content by receiving data from the internet, The system includes an output control unit that causes the content output device to output content, The output control unit, Based on the reception status of the broadcast waves and the communication status of the Internet, the content to be output to the content output device is determined to be either the first content, which is the content acquired by the first content acquisition unit, or the second content, which is the content acquired by the second content acquisition unit. Content output system.

2. The output control unit, If the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the internet communication speed is equal to or greater than the first communication speed, The content to be output to the content output device is determined to be the second content. The content output system according to claim 1.

3. The output control unit, If the reception strength of the broadcast wave is equal to or greater than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, The content to be output to the content output device is determined to be the first content. The content output system according to claim 1.

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

5. The control unit includes a seating status detection unit that detects the seating status of the occupants of the vehicle, The output control unit, When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, Based on the detection result of the seating status detection unit, a content output device is selected to output content, and the selected content output device is made to output content. The content output system according to claim 2 or 3.

6. The control unit includes a type determination unit that determines the type of the first content and the type of the second content, The output control unit, When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, Based on the determination result of the type determination unit, the content to be output to the content output device is determined to be either the first content or the second content. The content output system according to claim 2 or 3.

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

8. The control unit includes a communication charge calculation unit that calculates the communication charges for the Internet, The output control unit, When multiple content output devices output the first content and the second content, and the reception strength of the broadcast wave is less than the first reception strength, and the communication speed of the Internet is less than the first communication speed, Based on the calculation result of the communication charge calculation unit, the content to be output to the content output device is determined to be either the first content or the second content. The content output system according to claim 2 or 3.

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

10. A control method for a content output system equipped with multiple content output devices mounted on a vehicle, The output step includes causing the content output device to output content, The output step is, Based on the reception status of the broadcast wave and the communication status of the Internet, the content to be output to the content output device is determined to be either the first content obtained by receiving the broadcast wave or the second content obtained by receiving data from the Internet. A method for controlling a content output system.

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