Development environment equipment, device control method, and program

Abstract

This improves the efficiency of device development in a virtual environment that can communicate with devices in a physical environment. [Solution] A development environment device connected to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with multiple tuners via a predetermined communication network includes a software radio that processes data from the target device and a device control unit that controls the operation of the target device based on the output from the software radio. The device control unit determines, based on the data transfer rate in the communication network, whether or not to stop the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the multiple tuners, and if it determines to stop the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the multiple tuners, it sends a stop instruction to the device environment unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a development environment device, a device control method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in device development, development using a virtual environment has been carried out. By emulating a device composed of hardware as software and incorporating it into a development environment as a virtual device, it has become possible to verify the operation of the device without physical hardware.

[0003] Also, device development using a development environment in which a virtual device and a device composed of hardware, that is, a physical device, coexist has been carried out. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a development environment construction system for constructing a development environment for software that controls a target device composed of hardware. In Patent Document 1, a local environment where a physical device is arranged and a cloud environment including a development environment construction system are communicably connected, and data is exchanged between the cloud environment and the local environment.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure has been devised in view of the above-described conventional situation, and an object thereof is to improve the efficiency of device development on a virtual environment capable of data communication with a device on a physical environment.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] This disclosure provides a development environment device connected by a predetermined communication network to a device environment unit including a target device having a plurality of tuners, the device environment device includes a software radio that processes data from the target device, and a device control unit that controls the operation of the target device based on the output from the software radio, wherein the software radio decodes data corresponding to output signals from the tuners transmitted from the device environment unit via the communication network and outputs it to the device control unit, the device control unit determines whether or not to stop outputting data corresponding to output signals from at least one of the plurality of tuners based on the data transfer rate in the communication network, and if it determines to stop outputting data corresponding to output signals from at least one of the plurality of tuners, it transmits a stop instruction to the device environment unit.

[0007] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a device control method that determines whether or not to stop the output of data corresponding to an output signal from at least one of the multiple tuners, based on the data transfer rate of data corresponding to an output signal from the tuners in a predetermined communication network connecting a device environment unit including a target device having multiple tuners and a development environment device that controls the operation of the target device, and if it is determined that the output of data corresponding to an output signal from at least one of the multiple tuners should be stopped, transmits a stop instruction to the device environment unit.

[0008] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a program for a development environment device, which is connected via a predetermined communication network to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with multiple tuners, and controls the operation of the target device. The program causes the development environment device to determine whether or not to stop the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the multiple tuners based on the data transfer rate of the data corresponding to the output signal from the tuners in the communication network, and, if it determines that the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the multiple tuners should be stopped, to send a stop instruction to the device environment unit.

[0009] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a development environment device connected to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with a tuner via a predetermined communication network, wherein the device determines whether a first waiting period from the time an instruction to change the receiving frequency of the tuner is transmitted to the device environment unit until a response from the device environment unit confirming the change has been completed is equal to or greater than a predetermined first period, and if the first waiting period is less than the first period, it sequentially performs transmission and reception for a plurality of checks performed when the receiving frequency of the tuner is changed with the device environment unit, and if the first waiting period is equal to or greater than the first period, it omits transmission and reception in the middle of the plurality of checks and performs transmission and reception for the final check with the device environment unit.

[0010] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a development environment device connected to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with a tuner via a predetermined communication network, wherein when the receiving frequency of the tuner is changed, the device determines whether the second waiting period from the time it transmits a measurement instruction for a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) to the device environment unit until it receives the measurement result for the measurement instruction from the device environment unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined second period, and if the second waiting period is less than the second period, it sequentially performs transmission and reception for a plurality of checks performed when the receiving frequency of the tuner is changed with the device environment unit, and if the second waiting period is equal to or greater than the second period, it omits transmission and reception in the middle of the plurality of checks and performs transmission and reception for the final check with the device environment unit.

[0011] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a development environment device connected to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with a tuner via a predetermined communication network, wherein if the average waiting period from the transmission of an instruction to the target device in the past to the response from the target device to the instruction is less than a predetermined third period, the device performs transmission and reception for changing the receiving frequency of the tuner with the device environment unit, and further performs transmission and reception for a plurality of checks performed at the time of the change sequentially with the device environment unit, and if the average waiting period is the third period or longer, the device performs transmission and reception for the change with the device environment unit, and further omits transmission and reception in the middle of the plurality of checks, and performs transmission and reception for the final check with the device environment unit.

[0012] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a device control method executed by a development environment device connected via a predetermined communication network to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with a tuner, wherein the method determines whether a first waiting period from the time an instruction to change the receiving frequency of the tuner is transmitted to the device environment unit until a response from the device environment unit confirming the change is complete is equal to or greater than a predetermined first period, and if the first waiting period is less than the first period, the method sequentially performs transmission and reception for a plurality of checks performed when the receiving frequency of the tuner is changed with the device environment unit, and if the first waiting period is equal to or greater than the first period, the method omits transmission and reception in the middle of the plurality of checks and performs transmission and reception for the final check with the device environment unit.

[0013] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a program for a development environment device connected to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with a tuner via a predetermined communication network, which determines whether the first waiting period from the time it transmits an instruction to change the receiving frequency of the tuner to the device environment unit until it receives a response from the device environment unit indicating that the change has been completed is equal to or greater than a predetermined first period. If the first waiting period is less than the first period, the program causes the device environment unit to sequentially perform transmissions and receptions for a plurality of checks performed when the receiving frequency of the tuner is changed. If the first waiting period is equal to or greater than the first period, the program causes the device environment unit to omit transmissions and receptions in the middle of the plurality of checks and perform a transmission and reception for the final check.

[0014] Furthermore, any combination of the above components, as well as any conversion of the expressions of this disclosure between methods, apparatus, systems, storage media, computer programs, etc., are also valid forms of this disclosure. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to this disclosure, it is possible to improve the efficiency of device development in a virtual environment that can communicate with devices in a physical environment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] Block diagram showing a configuration example of a device development system according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 2] Flowchart showing a first example of transfer rate reduction processing according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 3] Schematic diagram for explaining the role of a tuner that performs a back search according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 4] Flowchart showing a second example of transfer rate reduction processing according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 5] Schematic diagram for explaining an example of a transfer rate reduction method according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 6] Block diagram showing a configuration example of a device development system according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 7] Sequence diagram of a conventional Seek process [Figure 8] Flowchart showing a first example of a Seek process according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 9] Flowchart showing a second example of a Seek process according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 10] Flowchart showing a third example of a Seek process according to Embodiment 2

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] (Background Leading to the Present Disclosure) When data is exchanged between a physical environment in which a physical device is arranged and a virtual environment for device development, as in Patent Document 1, data loss may occur due to limitations in the data transfer rate. Also, when a delay occurs during data transfer, device development may take a long time. That is, in the development environment construction system of Patent Document 1, there is room for improvement in efficiency, for example, in terms of the time cost, of device development using a virtual environment.

[0018] Therefore, in the following embodiments, the aim is to realize an improvement in the efficiency of device development in a virtual environment capable of data communication with a device on a physical environment.

[0019] The following description will detail embodiments specifically disclosing the development environment apparatus, device control method, and program related to this disclosure, with reference to the drawings as appropriate. However, unnecessarily detailed explanations may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters and redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid the following explanation becoming unnecessarily verbose and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims. Furthermore, in this specification, terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish components for the sake of explanation and are not intended to be interpreted as limiting the scope to specific components.

[0020] (Embodiment 1) Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the device development system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The device development system 1 according to this embodiment is a system that allows users, such as device developers, to perform device development by utilizing a virtual environment connected to a device located in a physical environment via a communication network.

[0021] Device development system 1 includes a computing unit C1, a cloud environment 10, and a device environment 20. Each component of device development system 1 is connected by a network NW.

[0022] The computing unit C1 is configured using a general-purpose computer device, such as a personal computer or a server computer. The cloud environment 10 is a virtual environment accessible via a network NW. Users can perform device development by operating the computing unit C1 and utilizing the various resources of the cloud environment 10, as described later, via the network NW.

[0023] The arithmetic unit C1 may include a control unit, a memory unit, a communication unit, and an input / output unit, etc., which are not shown. The control unit, which is not shown, may be configured using, for example, a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a Micro Processing Unit (MPU), a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), a Graphical Processing Unit (GPU), or a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). The memory unit, which is not shown, is a memory area for storing and holding various types of data, and may consist of, for example, a non-volatile memory area such as Read Only Memory (ROM) or a Hard Disk Drive (HDD), or a volatile memory area such as Random Access Memory (RAM). For example, the control unit may realize various functions of the arithmetic unit C1, such as communication functions, by reading and executing various data and programs stored in the memory unit.

[0024] The cloud environment 10 includes a communication unit 11, a software-defined radio 12, and a device control unit 13. The communication unit 11 transmits and receives data between the cloud environment 10 and other systems, devices, etc. The software-defined radio 12 processes data output from the device 22, which will be described later. The device control unit 13 controls the device 22, which will be described later, via the network NW based on the data processed by the software-defined radio 12. The device control unit 13 is what is known as radio middleware.

[0025] The cloud environment 10 according to Embodiment 1 may be implemented as a device. A device having various functions of the cloud environment 10 according to this embodiment may be referred to as a development environment device below. The development environment device may be provided in the cloud environment 10. Similar to the arithmetic unit C1, the development environment device may be configured to include a control unit, a storage unit, etc., which are not shown. The control unit may realize the various functions of the communication unit, software radio, and device control unit of the development environment device by reading and executing various data and programs stored in the storage unit.

[0026] The device environment 20 is the physical environment in which device 22 is installed. In this embodiment, it is assumed that device 22 is a radio device. Device 22 includes tuners T1, T2, and T3. Tuners T1 and T2 are connected to antenna A1, and tuner T3 is connected to antenna A2. The functions and roles of each tuner will be described later.

[0027] The device environment 20 is further provided with a computing device C2. Similar to computing device C1, computing device C2 may be composed of a general-purpose computer device. In addition to the communication unit 21, computing device C2 may also include a control unit (not shown), a storage unit, an input / output unit, etc. The functions of the communication unit 21 may be realized through the cooperation of the control unit (not shown) and the storage unit. Computing device C2 can communicate with the cloud environment 10 via a network NW. Computing device C2 transmits data output from device 22 to the cloud environment 10 via the network NW, and receives data transmitted from the cloud environment 10 via the network NW and transmits it to device 22. It is preferable that computing device C2 and device 22A are connected by a high-speed communication interface, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB).

[0028] Furthermore, the user may use arithmetic unit C2 instead of arithmetic unit C1 for device development. Therefore, arithmetic unit C1 may be omitted in the device development system 1.

[0029] This embodiment describes a case where a user develops a radio device for use in a vehicle. For example, a radio device installed in a high-performance vehicle equipped with two antennas may have three tuners. In this case, two of the three tuners are used to obtain diversity effects, and one of the three tuners is used for backsearch. To develop a radio device that can be installed in such a high-performance vehicle, a device 22 equipped with three tuners is provided in the device environment 20. The user can then perform tests on the device 22 using the software radio 12 and device control unit 13 in the cloud environment 10.

[0030] Antenna A1 and Antenna A2 are connected to device 22. A signal generator (not shown) is also attached to each of antennas A1 and A2. This ensures that a signal of sufficient level for testing device 22 is transmitted from each antenna to device 22. Each tuner in device 22 receives a signal of a set frequency. Tuners T1 and T2 receive the signal transmitted from antenna A1, and tuner T3 receives the signal transmitted from antenna A2. The signals transmitted from each antenna to device 22 are, for example, high-frequency signals in the megahertz range. Each tuner converts the received signal into an intermediate frequency band signal. Each tuner further converts the intermediate frequency band signal into In-Phase / Quadrature (IQ) data. The IQ data is transmitted from device 22 to the computing unit C2. The computing unit C2 then transmits the IQ data to the cloud environment 10 via the network NW. Note that the conversion of the intermediate frequency band signal into IQ data is not limited to each tuner. For example, device 22 may further include a part that has the function of converting signals into IQ data, or the computing unit C2 may be capable of realizing such a function.

[0031] The communication unit 11 of the cloud environment 10 receives IQ data transmitted from the device environment 20 via the network NW and transmits it to the software-defined radio 12. The software-defined radio 12 decodes the IQ data and converts it into a signal that conforms to broadcast standards. The software-defined radio 12 then extracts data such as voice and information from the signal that conforms to broadcast standards and transmits it to the device control unit 13. The device control unit 13 performs processing such as playing back voice or displaying information based on the data transmitted from the software-defined radio 12. This voice, information, etc., is listened to and confirmed by the user. If the user wants to adjust the device 22, they can have the device control unit 13 send instructions. The device control unit 13 transmits instructions to the device 22 to the communication unit 11, either via the software-defined radio 12 or directly. The instructions from the device control unit 13 to the device 22, such as commands or control signals, are transmitted from the communication unit 11 to the arithmetic unit C2 via the network NW. The instructions to the device 22 are then transmitted from the arithmetic unit C2 to the device 22.

[0032] Thus, when testing of device 22 is performed, IQ data necessary for processing by the software radio 12 is transferred from the device environment 20 to the cloud environment 10. Here, we assume that a transfer rate of 24 MB / s is required. This is equivalent to 2 × 10⁶ per second. 6 This number of IQ data points are transferred, each IQ data point being 16 bits, and this is the transfer rate required when there are three tuners.

[0033] However, when data is transferred between the device environment 20 and the cloud environment 10 via a network NW, it may be difficult to maintain the required transfer rate. To cover temporary decreases in the transfer rate, it is conceivable to provide a transmit buffer on the transmitting side, i.e., the communication unit 21 of the device environment 20, and a receive buffer on the receiving side, i.e., the communication unit 11 of the cloud environment 10. However, even if these buffers are provided, if the transfer rate decreases significantly, the transmit buffer may overflow, the receive buffer may be depleted, or both may occur. In this case, processing by the software radio 12 in the cloud environment 10 may stop, or the software radio 12 may operate discontinuously, potentially causing problems such as data loss.

[0034] In this embodiment, if the measured transfer rate is lower than the required transfer rate, the device control unit 13 lowers the required transfer rate to the extent that it does not hinder device development. This allows the device control unit 13 to suppress data loss due to transfer rate constraints and improve the efficiency of the user's device development.

[0035] The device control unit 13 instructs device 22 to stop outputting data from a specific tuner among the three tuners provided by device 22 in order to reduce the required transfer rate. In this embodiment, of tuners T1, T2, and T3, tuner T3 is used as a sub-tuner to obtain diversity effects. Therefore, if diversity effects are not evaluated during device development, outputting data from tuner T3 is not essential. When the device control unit 13 stops outputting data from tuner T3, the required transfer rate is reduced to two-thirds.

[0036] Furthermore, tuners T1 and T2 operate by switching roles as follows: For example, tuner T1 receives a signal at a set frequency and tuner T2 performs a back search, or tuner T2 receives a signal at a set frequency and tuner T1 performs a back search. Receiving a signal at a set frequency means, in other words, receiving a broadcast selected by the user. If back search operation is not required in device development, the output of data from the tuner performing the back search is not mandatory. If the device control unit 13 stops the output of data from the tuner performing the back search (of tuner T1 and tuner T2), the required transfer rate can be further reduced. For example, if the device control unit 13 stops the output of data from both tuner T2 and tuner T3, the required transfer rate becomes one-third of the originally required transfer rate.

[0037] Next, with reference to Figure 2, a first example of the transfer rate reduction process according to Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 2 is a flowchart of the first example of the transfer rate reduction process according to Embodiment 1. Each process in the flowchart shown in Figure 2 may be performed by the device control unit 13 of the cloud environment 10, for example, by the user operating the computing unit C1. Hereinafter, it will be explained that the device control unit 13 performs each process in the flowchart shown in Figure 2. Furthermore, the transfer rate required in device development will be assumed to be 24 MB / s.

[0038] The device control unit 13 measures the average transfer rate between the device environment 20 and the cloud environment 10 (step S100). For example, the device control unit 13 may measure the average transfer rate over a predetermined period of time set in advance by user operation or the like.

[0039] The device control unit 13 determines whether the average transfer rate measured in step S100 is less than 24 MB / s (step S101). "Not less than a certain value" means that the transfer rate is equal to or greater than that value.

[0040] If the device control unit 13 determines that the average transfer rate measured in step S100 is not less than 24 MB / s (step S101: NO), it terminates this processing flow. This is because the actual transfer rate is greater than or equal to the required transfer rate, and therefore the device control unit 13 does not need to reduce the required transfer rate.

[0041] If the device control unit 13 determines that the average transfer rate measured in step S100 is less than 24 MB / s (step S101: YES), it determines whether the average transfer rate measured in step S100 is less than 16 MB / s (step S102).

[0042] If the device control unit 13 determines that the average transfer rate measured in step S100 is not less than 16 MB / s (step S102: NO), it stops outputting data from tuner T3 to obtain the diversity effect (step S103). Then, the device control unit 13 terminates this processing flow. By stopping the output of data from tuner T3, the required transfer rate becomes two-thirds of 24 MB / s, or 16 MB / s. This allows the device control unit 13 to suppress problems such as data loss that may occur during device development.

[0043] If the device control unit 13 determines that the average transfer rate measured in step S100 is less than 16 MB / s (step S102: YES), it stops the output of data from tuner T3 to obtain diversity effects and the output of data from the tuner performing backsearch (step S104). The tuner performing backsearch is either tuner T1 or tuner T2. The device control unit 13 then terminates this processing flow. By stopping the output of data from two of the three tuners provided by device 22, the required transfer rate becomes one-third of 24 MB / s, or 8 MB / s. This allows the device control unit 13 to suppress problems such as data loss during device development.

[0044] In this embodiment, the required transfer rate is described as 24 MB / s. In step S101 of the flowchart shown in Figure 2, the required transfer rate is described as the criterion for determination. In step S102, two-thirds of the required transfer rate is described as the criterion for determination. However, these values ​​are just examples, and the device control unit 13 may determine in step S101 whether the measured average transfer rate is less than a predetermined first threshold. Also, the device control unit 13 may determine in step S102 whether the measured average transfer rate is less than a predetermined second threshold.

[0045] Next, with reference to Figures 3 and 4, a second example of the transfer rate reduction process according to Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the role of the tuner performing backsearch according to Embodiment 1.

[0046] The tuner performing the back search operates by changing its role at regular intervals. Figure 3 shows the operation of the back search tuner. From time t1 to time t2, the back search tuner checks for information on alternative frequencies for the selected station. In other words, the back search tuner searches for alternative frequencies for the broadcast frequency currently selected by the user. Then, from time t2 to time t3, the back search tuner performs other processing. Other processing includes, for example, searching for broadcasts other than the currently selected broadcast. Then, from time t3 to time t4, the back search tuner performs the back search, and from time t4 to time t5, it performs other processing. In this way, the back search tuner alternates between searching for alternative frequencies and other processing at regular intervals. In a second example of the transfer rate reduction process according to Embodiment 1, the device control unit 13 either completely stops the output of data from the tuner performing the back search, or stops it only for a specific period of time while processing other than the alternative frequency search process is being performed, depending on the measured average transfer rate.

[0047] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing a second example of the transfer rate reduction process according to Embodiment 1. Each process in the flowchart shown in Figure 4 may be performed by the device control unit 13 of the cloud environment 10, for example, by the user operating the computing unit C1. Hereinafter, it will be explained that the device control unit 13 performs each process in the flowchart shown in Figure 4. Furthermore, the transfer rate required in device development will be assumed to be 24 MB / s.

[0048] The device control unit 13 measures the average transfer rate between the device environment 20 and the cloud environment 10 (step S200). For example, the device control unit 13 may measure the average transfer rate over a predetermined period of time set in advance by user operation or the like.

[0049] The device control unit 13 determines whether the average transfer rate measured in step S200 is less than 24 MB / s (step S201).

[0050] If the device control unit 13 determines that the average transfer rate measured in step S200 is not less than 24 MB / s (step S201: NO), it terminates this processing flow. This is because the actual transfer rate is greater than or equal to the required transfer rate, and therefore the device control unit 13 does not need to reduce the required transfer rate.

[0051] If the device control unit 13 determines that the average transfer rate measured in step S200 is less than 24 MB / s (step S201: YES), it determines whether the average transfer rate measured in step S100 is less than 16 MB / s (step S202).

[0052] If the device control unit 13 determines that the average transfer rate measured in step S200 is not less than 16 MB / s (step S202: NO), it stops outputting data from tuner T3 to obtain the diversity effect (step S203). Then, the device control unit 13 terminates this processing flow. By stopping the output of data from tuner T3, the required transfer rate becomes two-thirds of 24 MB / s, or 16 MB / s. This allows the device control unit 13 to suppress problems such as data loss that may occur during device development.

[0053] If the device control unit 13 determines that the average transfer rate measured in step S200 is less than 16 MB / s (step S202: YES), it determines whether the average transfer rate measured in step S200 is less than 12 MB / s (step S204).

[0054] If the device control unit 13 determines that the average transfer rate measured in step S200 is not less than 12 MB / s (step S204: NO), it stops outputting data from tuner T3 to obtain diversity effects, and stops outputting data from the tuner performing backsearch for a specific period (step S205). The tuner performing backsearch is either tuner T1 or tuner T2. Here, the specific period is the period during which the tuner performing backsearch is performing processing other than the search for alternative frequencies for the currently selected broadcast frequency. Conversely, the device control unit 13 does not stop outputting data from the tuner performing backsearch during the period during which the tuner is performing the search for alternative frequencies for the currently selected broadcast frequency. This allows the device control unit 13 to reduce the required transfer rate while allowing the tuner performing backsearch to perform the search for alternative frequencies for the currently selected broadcast frequency.

[0055] If the device control unit 13 determines that the average transfer rate measured in step S200 is less than 12 MB / s (step S204: YES), it stops the output of data from tuner T3 to obtain diversity effects and the output of data from the tuner performing backsearch (step S206). The tuner performing backsearch is either tuner T1 or tuner T2. The device control unit 13 then terminates this processing flow. By stopping the output of data from two of the three tuners provided by device 22, the required transfer rate becomes one-third of 24 MB / s, or 8 MB / s. This allows the device control unit 13 to suppress problems such as data loss that may occur during device development.

[0056] In step S201 of the flowchart shown in Figure 4, the required transfer rate was used as the criterion. In step S204, half the required transfer rate was used as the criterion. However, these values ​​are just examples, and the device control unit 13 may determine in step S204 whether the measured average transfer rate is less than a predetermined third threshold.

[0057] Next, a method for reducing the required transfer rate by reducing the number of bits of IQ data transferred from the device environment 20 to the cloud environment 10 will be explained with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a transfer rate reduction method according to Embodiment 1.

[0058] Figure 5 illustrates, for illustrative purposes, the case where one IQ data is transferred from tuner T1 to software-defined radio 12. Conventionally, first, in device environment 20, 16-bit data is transmitted from tuner T1 to communication unit 21. Then, via the network NW, 16-bit data is transmitted from communication unit 21 in device environment 20 to communication unit 11 in cloud environment 10. Finally, in cloud environment 10, 16-bit data is transmitted from communication unit 11 to software-defined radio 12.

[0059] Next, the device control unit 13 will explain how to reduce the required transfer rate. To reduce the required transfer rate, when transmitting 16-bit data from the device environment 20 to the cloud environment 10, the device control unit 13 instructs the communication unit 21 to transmit the upper 8 bits of the data, excluding the lower 8 bits. As a result, 8-bit data is transmitted from the device environment 20 to the cloud environment 10 via the network NW. This reduces the required transfer rate. If the original required transfer rate is 24 MB / s, the required transfer rate becomes 12 MB / s when the data being transmitted is reduced from 16 bits to 8 bits. The communication unit 11 in the cloud environment 10 receives the 8-bit data. The communication unit 11 uses the received 8 bits as the upper part of the 16-bit data and sets each of the lower 8 bits of the 16-bit data to 0. As a result, the communication unit 11 obtains 16-bit data with the lower 8 bits each set to 0. The communication unit 11 transmits the 16-bit data to the software-defined radio 12. The software-defined radio 12 receives 16-bit data, where the lower 8 bits are all 0.

[0060] The upper 8 bits of the data received by the software-defined radio 12 are the same as the upper 8 bits of the data output from the tuner T1. However, since each of the lower 8 bits of the data received by the software-defined radio 12 is 0, the data precision is reduced. Specifically, the sound quality deteriorates. In this case, if a signal of sufficient level is transmitted from antenna A1 to tuner T1, it is possible to limit the deterioration of sound quality to a level that does not hinder device development.

[0061] Figure 5 shows an example where the upper 8 bits of 16-bit data are transmitted. However, this is not the only example; the device control unit 13 can further reduce the required transfer rate by further reducing the number of bits transmitted.

[0062] Furthermore, the method for reducing the number of bits of data transmitted from the device environment 20 to the cloud environment 10 may be combined with the method for stopping the output of data from a specific tuner, as explained with reference to Figure 2 or Figure 4.

[0063] (Summary of Embodiment 1) The above description of Embodiment 1 discloses at least the following technologies. Note that the components etc. in Embodiment 1 are examples, but are not limited to these.

[0064] (Technology 1) A development environment device (e.g., cloud environment 10) connected by a predetermined communication network (e.g., network NW) to a device environment unit (e.g., device environment 20) including a target device (e.g., device 22) equipped with multiple tuners (e.g., tuner T1, tuner T2, tuner T3), includes a software-defined radio (e.g., software-defined radio 12) that processes data from the target device, and a device control unit (e.g., device control unit 13) that controls the operation of the target device based on the output from the software-defined radio. The software-defined radio decodes data corresponding to the output signals from the tuners transmitted from the device environment unit via the communication network and outputs it to the device control unit. The device control unit determines whether to stop outputting data corresponding to the output signals from at least one of the multiple tuners based on the data transfer rate in the communication network, and if it determines to stop outputting data corresponding to the output signals from at least one of the multiple tuners, it sends a stop instruction to the device environment unit.

[0065] This allows a development environment device capable of data communication with the device environment to halt some of the output from the device based on the data transfer rate between the device environment and the development environment device. This reduces the transfer rate required for device development on the development environment device, thereby improving the efficiency of device development.

[0066] (Technology 2) In the development environment device described in Technical 1, one of the multiple tuners is a sub-tuner for obtaining diversity effects with the other tuners, and the device control unit may send an instruction to the device environment unit to stop outputting data corresponding to the output signal from the sub-tuner when the transfer rate is less than a predetermined first threshold.

[0067] This allows the development environment equipment to disable, for example, a function for obtaining diversity effects in device development testing, depending on the measured transfer rate, if such a function is not needed. This enables the development environment equipment to reduce the transfer rate required for device development.

[0068] (Technology 3) In the development environment device described in Technical 2, one of the multiple tuners is a tuner for backsearch, and the device control unit may send an instruction to the device environment unit to stop outputting data corresponding to the output signal from the backsearch tuner if the transfer rate is less than a predetermined second threshold which is smaller than the first threshold.

[0069] This allows the development environment device to disable the backsearch function, for example, if it is not needed for testing during device development, depending on the measured transfer rate. This enables the development environment device to reduce the transfer rate required for device development.

[0070] (Technology 4) In the development environment device described in Technical 3, the tuner for back search performs a search process to search for an alternative frequency for the currently selected broadcast and other processing. The device control unit may send an instruction to the device environment unit to stop outputting data corresponding to the output signal during the period when the tuner for back search is performing processing other than the search process, if the transfer rate is less than the second threshold and greater than or equal to a predetermined third threshold that is smaller than the second threshold. The device control unit may also send an instruction to the device environment unit to stop outputting data corresponding to the output signal from the tuner for back search if the transfer rate is less than the third threshold.

[0071] This allows the development environment device to stop outputting data from the tuner used for backsearch during periods when the tuner is performing certain functions that are not necessary for testing during device development. This allows the development environment device to reduce the transfer rate required for device development.

[0072] (Technology 5) In the development environment device described in any one of Techniques 1 to 4, the device control unit may, when transmitting data corresponding to an output signal from the device environment unit to the development environment device, transmit a predetermined number of upper bits excluding a predetermined number of lower bits of the data, and cause the software radio to receive data consisting of the upper bits and a predetermined number of zeros by setting each of the lower bits to 0.

[0073] This allows the development environment equipment to reduce the amount of data transferred over the communication network, to the extent that it does not hinder device development. This also allows the development environment equipment to reduce the transfer rate required for device development.

[0074] (Technology 6) In the development environment device described in any one of the technologies 1 to 5, the target device is located in a physical environment, and the development environment device is located in a virtual environment.

[0075] As a result, the device is located in the physical environment, while the development environment equipment is located in the virtual environment.

[0076] (Technology 7) The device control method determines whether or not to stop the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the multiple tuners, based on the data transfer rate of the data corresponding to the output signal from the tuners in a predetermined communication network connecting a device environment unit including a target device equipped with multiple tuners and a development environment device that controls the operation of the target device. If it is determined that the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the multiple tuners should be stopped, it sends a stop instruction to the device environment unit.

[0077] As a result, the device control method can achieve the same effect as in Technology 1.

[0078] (Technology 8) The program causes a development environment device, which is connected via a predetermined communication network to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with multiple tuners and controls the operation of the target device, to determine whether or not to stop the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the multiple tuners, based on the data transfer rate of the data corresponding to the output signal from the tuners in the communication network. If it determines that it should stop the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the multiple tuners, the program causes the development environment device to send a stop instruction to the device environment unit.

[0079] This allows the program to achieve the same effect as Technique 1.

[0080] (Embodiment 2) Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the device development system 1A according to Embodiment 2. In Embodiment 1, an example was described in which the software-defined radio 12 is incorporated into the cloud environment 10 in the device development system 1. On the other hand, in the device development system 1A according to Embodiment 2, the software-defined radio 12 is not incorporated into the cloud environment 10A. In Embodiment 1, the software-defined radio 12 decodes the IQ data, but in Embodiment 2, the decoding of the IQ data is performed on the device environment 20A side. As a result, the number of data transfers, such as control commands, between the device control unit 13, which is radio middleware, and the device 22A increases, and the possibility of data delay also increases.

[0081] Therefore, Embodiment 2 describes the configuration of a device development system 1A that reduces the impact of delays in data transfer between the device environment 20A and the cloud environment 10A during device development, thereby improving the efficiency of device development. In the description of the device development system 1A according to Embodiment 2, explanations that are the same as those of the device development system 1 according to Embodiment 1 will be simplified or omitted, and the explanation will focus on the differences.

[0082] The device development system 1A includes a computing unit C1, a cloud environment 10A, and a device environment 20A. Each component included in the device development system 1 is connected by a network NW.

[0083] The cloud environment 10A includes a communication unit 11 and a device control unit 13. Unlike the cloud environment 10 according to Embodiment 1, the cloud environment 10A does not include a software-defined radio 12.

[0084] The device environment 20A includes device 22A and arithmetic unit C2. Device 22A consists of a tuner T4 and a decoder D1. Tuner T4 is connected to antenna A33. A signal generator (not shown) is attached to antenna A3, and a signal of sufficient level for testing device 22A is transmitted from antenna A3 to device 22A. For the sake of explanation, an example is shown in which device 22A includes one tuner T4, but device 22A may include multiple tuners.

[0085] In Embodiment 1, IQ data was transferred from the device environment 20 to the cloud environment 10, and the software-defined radio 12 in the cloud environment 10 decoded the IQ data. In Embodiment 2, the decoder D1 of device 22A decodes the IQ data output from the tuner T4. The decoded data is then transferred from the device environment 20A to the cloud environment 10A via the network NW. Since decoding is required on the device environment 20A side in Embodiment 2, the number of data transfers between the cloud environment 10A and the device environment 20A may increase compared to Embodiment 1. As a result, the possibility of data delay increases. A specific example will be explained with reference to Figure 7.

[0086] Figure 7 is a sequence diagram of a conventional seek process. A seek process is a process for searching for a signal that satisfies specific conditions. Using Figure 7, an example is illustrated in which the device control unit 13 transmits and receives data with the device 22A for a conventional seek process. In this example, the device control unit 13 searches for a broadcast signal of digital audio broadcasting.

[0087] In a conventional seek process, the device control unit 13 first sends an instruction to the device 22A to change the receiving frequency of the tuner T4 (step S300). The tuner T4 receives a signal at the set receiving frequency. Therefore, in the seek process, the device control unit 13 searches for a signal that satisfies specific conditions while changing the receiving frequency of the tuner T4. The range of frequency changes, in other words, the range of frequencies targeted by the seek process, may be set in advance by the user, for example.

[0088] Upon receiving an instruction to change the receiving frequency, device 22A changes the receiving frequency based on the instruction. Then, device 22A transmits a response indicating that the receiving frequency change is complete to the device control unit 13 (step S301). Hereinafter, the process from step S300 to step S301 performed between the device control unit 13 and device 22A may be referred to as the "frequency change process".

[0089] The device control unit 13 receives a response from device 22A indicating that the receiving frequency change has been completed. The device control unit 13 then sends a measurement instruction for the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) to device 22A (step S302).

[0090] Upon receiving an RSSI measurement instruction, device 22A measures the RSSI. Simply put, device 22A measures the signal strength at the set receiving frequency. Then, device 22A transmits the RSSI measurement result to the device control unit 13 (step S303). Hereafter, the process from step S302 to step S303 performed between the device control unit 13 and device 22A may be referred to as the "RSSI check".

[0091] The device control unit 13 receives the RSSI measurement result from device 22A. The device control unit 13 may have criteria for determining whether the RSSI measurement result is acceptable or unacceptable. If the RSSI measurement result is unacceptable, the device control unit 13 returns to step S300 and executes the process starting from the frequency change process. Here, the device control unit 13 determines that the RSSI measurement result is acceptable and proceeds to the next step S304.

[0092] Furthermore, device 22A may have criteria for determining whether the RSSI measurement result is acceptable or unacceptable, and may transmit the pass / fail status of the RSSI measurement result to device control unit 13.

[0093] The device control unit 13 sends an instruction to the device 22A to confirm the synchronization of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) (step S304).

[0094] Upon receiving the OFDM synchronization confirmation instruction, device 22A confirms the OFDM synchronization. In short, device 22A checks whether orthogonality is maintained between the subcarriers. Then, device 22A transmits the OFDM synchronization confirmation result to the device control unit 13 (step S305). Hereafter, the process from step S304 to step S305 performed between the device control unit 13 and device 22A may be referred to as the "OFDM synchronization check".

[0095] The device control unit 13 receives the OFDM synchronization confirmation result from device 22A. Here, device 22A may determine whether or not the OFDM is synchronized based on the received signal and transmit the determination result to the device control unit 13. Alternatively, the device control unit 13 may determine whether or not the OFDM is synchronized based on the data received from device 22A. Device 22A or the device control unit 13 may have a criterion for determining whether or not the OFDM is synchronized. If the OFDM synchronization confirmation result is unsuccessful, the device control unit 13 returns to step S300 and executes the processing from the frequency change process. Here, the device control unit 13 determines that the OFDM synchronization confirmation result is successful and proceeds to the next step S306.

[0096] The device control unit 13 sends an instruction to device 22A to confirm the quality of the high-speed information channel (FIC) of the digital audio broadcast (step S306).

[0097] Upon receiving an instruction to check the quality of the FIC, device 22A checks the quality of the FIC. Specifically, device 22A checks the signal strength or error rate transmitted through the FIC. Then, device 22A transmits the results of the FIC quality check to the device control unit 13 (step S307). Hereinafter, the process from step S306 to step S307 performed between the device control unit 13 and device 22A may be referred to as the "FIC quality check".

[0098] The device control unit 13 receives the FIC quality verification result from device 22A. Here, device 22A may have criteria for determining whether the FIC quality is acceptable or unacceptable. Then, as the result of the FIC quality verification, device 22A may transmit to the device control unit 13 whether the FIC quality is acceptable or unacceptable based on those criteria. Alternatively, the device control unit 13 may have criteria for determining whether the FIC quality is acceptable or unacceptable. In this case, the device control unit 13 may determine whether the FIC quality is acceptable or unacceptable based on the data received from device 22A. If the FIC quality is unacceptable, the device control unit 13 returns to step S300 and executes the processing from the frequency change process. Here, the device control unit 13 determines that the FIC quality verification result is acceptable and proceeds to the next step S308.

[0099] The device control unit 13 sends an instruction to device 22A to check the quality of the main service channel (MSC) of the digital audio broadcast (step S308).

[0100] Upon receiving an instruction to check the quality of the MSC, device 22A checks the quality of the MSC. Specifically, device 22A checks the signal strength or error rate transmitted through the MSC. Then, device 22A transmits the results of the MSC quality check to the device control unit 13 (step S309). Hereinafter, the process from step S308 to step S309 performed between the device control unit 13 and device 22A may be referred to as the "MSC quality check".

[0101] The device control unit 13 receives the quality confirmation result of the MSC from device 22A. Here, device 22A may have criteria for determining whether the MSC quality is acceptable or unacceptable. Then, as the quality confirmation result of the MSC, device 22A may transmit to the device control unit 13 whether the MSC quality is acceptable or unacceptable based on those criteria. Alternatively, the device control unit 13 may have criteria for determining whether the MSC quality is acceptable or unacceptable. In this case, the device control unit 13 may determine whether the MSC quality is acceptable or unacceptable based on the data received from device 22A. If the MSC quality is unacceptable, the device control unit 13 returns to step S300 and executes the processing from the frequency change process. If the MSC quality is acceptable, for example, the device control unit 13 sends an instruction to device 22A to set the current frequency as the receiving frequency.

[0102] Thus, in conventional seek processing, multiple checks are performed in stages between the cloud environment 10A and the device environment 20A. Since data is exchanged between the cloud environment 10A and the device environment 20A via the network NW, the more data transfers there are, the greater the data delay becomes. For example, if there is a data delay of 10ms one way, a delay of about 20ms round trip may occur. If data is exchanged five times round trip as in the example in Figure 7, the data delay may be about 100ms. When the data delay becomes this large, users developing devices are more likely to feel a discrepancy between the environment in which the actual device is installed and the hardware environment. In other words, it can hinder device development.

[0103] Therefore, in Embodiment 2, the device development system 1A reduces the number of data transfers to the extent that it does not hinder the user's device development. A specific example will be explained using Figures 8 to 10.

[0104] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing a first example of the Seek process according to Embodiment 2. The Seek process is performed through the cooperation of the device control unit 13 and the device 22A, but for convenience, the device control unit 13 will be described as the main component.

[0105] First, the device control unit 13 performs a frequency change process (step S400). The device control unit 13 sends a receiving frequency change instruction to the device 22A and receives a change completion response from the device 22A.

[0106] The device control unit 13 determines whether the waiting period from the transmission of the change instruction to the device 22A during the frequency change process in step S400 until the reception of the change completion response from the device 22A is greater than or equal to a predetermined first period (step S401). Hereinafter, the waiting period from the transmission of the change instruction by the device control unit 13 to the reception of the change completion response during the frequency change process in step S400 may be referred to as the first waiting period. The predetermined first period may be set in advance by the user, for example.

[0107] First, we will explain the case where the device control unit 13 determines that the first waiting period is equal to or greater than a predetermined first period.

[0108] If the device control unit 13 determines that the first waiting period is equal to or greater than a predetermined first period (step S401: YES), it performs an MSC quality check after the predetermined period has elapsed (step S402). The predetermined period will be described later in conjunction with the explanation of step S405.

[0109] The device control unit 13 determines whether the MSC quality check result is satisfactory or not (step S403). In other words, the device control unit 13 determines whether the MSC quality is satisfactory or not. If the MSC quality check result is satisfactory, the device control unit 13 determines that the MSC quality is satisfactory. If there is a problem with the MSC quality check result, the device control unit 13 determines that the MSC quality is unsatisfactory.

[0110] If the device control unit 13 determines that the MSC quality check is satisfactory (step S403: YES), it sets the receiving frequency of device 22A to the current frequency, in other words, the receiving frequency after the change made in step S400 (step S404). Then, the device control unit 13 terminates this processing flow.

[0111] If the device control unit 13 determines that there is a problem with the MSC quality check (step S403: NO), it returns to step S400 and repeats the process. As a result, the MSC quality check and other operations are performed at a frequency different from the current frequency.

[0112] Furthermore, even if the device control unit 13 determines that there are no problems with the MSC quality check, it may return to step S400 and repeat the process at a frequency different from the current frequency. Such settings may be arbitrarily made by the user developing the device.

[0113] Next, we will explain the case when the device control unit 13 determines that the first waiting period is less than a predetermined first period.

[0114] If the device control unit 13 determines that the first waiting period is less than a predetermined first period (step S401: NO), it sequentially performs the RSSI check, OFDM synchronization check, FIC quality check, and MSC quality check (step S405). For the sake of explanation, we will assume that the RSSI check, OFDM synchronization check, and FIC quality check all pass without problems, and the device control unit 13 proceeds to the MSC quality check. Then, the device control unit 13 proceeds to step S403.

[0115] During the frequency change process in step S400 and the checks in step S405, the device control unit 13 sends instructions to the device 22A. The device control unit 13 sends these instructions based on a preset transmission interval. For example, the device control unit 13 may be configured to send the next instruction 100ms after receiving a response to an instruction. This allows the device control unit 13 to exchange data with the device 22A at a constant interval.

[0116] However, if the waiting period from the transmission of an instruction to device 22A to the response from device 22A is longer than a predetermined period, the device control unit 13 may change the interval for transmitting instructions to device 22A. For example, the device control unit 13 may extend the transmission interval for subsequent instructions to device 22A to a longer interval than the current transmission interval. As a more specific example, the device control unit 13 may extend the interval from receiving a response from device 22A to transmitting the next instruction to device 22A from 100ms to 1s.

[0117] If the device control unit 13 determines in step S401 that the first waiting period is equal to or greater than a predetermined first period, the device control unit 13 extends the interval for sending instructions to device 22A. Therefore, the predetermined period for which the device control unit 13 waits in step S402 is the period extended from the set transmission interval. When the device control unit 13 performs each check in step S405, it also sends instructions to device 22A after the predetermined period has elapsed. However, the instruction transmission interval in step S405 is the preset transmission interval. In the explanation of step S402 above, the phrase "after the predetermined period has elapsed" is used to emphasize that the instruction transmission interval has been extended.

[0118] The explanation regarding the "predetermined period" in step S402 is the same for the "predetermined period" in step S503 in Figure 9 and the "predetermined period" in step S602 in Figure 10.

[0119] As explained with reference to Figure 8, the device control unit 13 may perform the frequency change process regardless of the waiting time from sending an instruction to device 22A to receiving a response. Furthermore, if the first waiting period is longer than or equal to the first period, the device control unit 13 may omit transmissions and receptions during the multiple checks performed when changing the receiving frequency of tuner T4. The multiple checks performed when changing the receiving frequency of tuner T4 include, for example, RSSI checks, OFDM synchronization checks, FIC quality checks, and MSC quality checks. The device control unit 13 may perform the transmission and reception for the last of the multiple checks with the device environment 20A. In the example in Figure 8, if the first waiting period is longer than or equal to the first period, the device control unit 13 omits the transmissions and receptions for the RSSI checks, OFDM synchronization checks, and FIC quality checks. The device control unit 13 then performs the transmission and reception for the final check, i.e., the MSC quality check, with the device environment 20A. This allows the device control unit 13 to reduce the number of data transfers and reduce the data transfer delay time during device development. This allows the device control unit 13 to improve the efficiency of device development.

[0120] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing a second example of the Seek process according to Embodiment 2. In the explanation of Figure 9, parts that overlap with the explanation of Figure 8 may be omitted or simplified.

[0121] First, the device control unit 13 performs a frequency change process (step S500). The device control unit 13 sends a receiving frequency change instruction to the device 22A and receives a change completion response from the device 22A.

[0122] The device control unit 13 performs an RSSI check at the receiving frequency changed in step S500 (step S501). The device control unit 13 transmits an RSSI measurement instruction to the device 22A and receives the measurement result for the measurement instruction from the device 22A.

[0123] The device control unit 13 determines whether the waiting period from the transmission of the measurement instruction to the device 22A during the RSSI check in step S501 until the receipt of the measurement result from the device 22A is longer than or equal to a predetermined second period (step S502). Hereinafter, the waiting period from the transmission of the measurement instruction by the device control unit 13 to the receipt of the measurement result during the RSSI check in step S501 may be referred to as the second waiting period. The predetermined second period may be set in advance by the user, for example.

[0124] First, we will explain the case where the device control unit 13 determines that the second waiting period is equal to or greater than a predetermined second period.

[0125] If the device control unit 13 determines that the second waiting period is equal to or greater than a predetermined second period (step S502: YES), it performs an MSC quality check after the predetermined period has elapsed (step S503).

[0126] The device control unit 13 determines whether or not the MSC quality check results are acceptable (step S504).

[0127] If the device control unit 13 determines that the MSC quality check is satisfactory (step S504: YES), it sets the receiving frequency of device 22A to the current frequency, in other words, the receiving frequency after the change made in step S500 (step S505). Then, the device control unit 13 terminates this processing flow.

[0128] If the device control unit 13 determines that there is a problem with the MSC quality check (step S504: NO), it returns to step S500 and repeats the process. Alternatively, the device control unit 13 may return to step S500 and repeat the process even if it determines that there is no problem with the MSC quality check.

[0129] Next, we will explain the case when the device control unit 13 determines that the second waiting period is less than a predetermined second period.

[0130] If the device control unit 13 determines that the second waiting period is less than a predetermined second period (step S502: NO), it sequentially performs the OFDM synchronization check, FIC quality check, and MSC quality check (step S506). For the sake of explanation, we will assume that both the OFDM synchronization check and FIC quality check are successful and the device control unit 13 proceeds to the MSC quality check. Then, the device control unit 13 proceeds to step S504.

[0131] As explained with reference to Figure 9, the device control unit 13 may perform frequency change processing and RSSI checks regardless of the waiting time from sending an instruction to device 22A to receiving a response. Furthermore, if the second waiting period is two periods or longer, the device control unit 13 may omit transmissions and receptions during the multiple checks performed when changing the receiving frequency of tuner T4. The multiple checks performed when changing the receiving frequency of tuner T4 include, for example, OFDM synchronization checks, FIC quality checks, and MSC quality checks. The device control unit 13 may perform transmissions and receptions for the last of these checks with the device environment 20A. In the example in Figure 9, if the second waiting period is two periods or longer, the device control unit 13 omits transmissions and receptions for the OFDM synchronization check and FIC quality check. The device control unit 13 then performs the transmission and reception for the final check, i.e., the MSC quality check, with the device environment 20A. This allows the device control unit 13 to reduce the number of data transfers and reduce the data transfer delay time during device development. This allows the device control unit 13 to improve the efficiency of device development.

[0132] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing a third example of the Seek process according to Embodiment 2. In the explanation of Figure 10, parts that overlap with the explanation of Figure 8 or Figure 9 may be omitted or simplified.

[0133] The device control unit 13 determines whether the average waiting time from the transmission of a past instruction to device 22A to the response from device 22A to that instruction is greater than or equal to a predetermined third period (step S600). Past instructions to device 22A include, for example, instructions to change the frequency, instructions to measure RSSI, instructions to confirm OFDM synchronization, instructions to confirm the quality of FIC, and instructions to confirm the quality of MSC. For example, the data transfer history between the device control unit 13 and device 22A may be maintained in the cloud environment 10A so that the device control unit 13 can refer to it. This allows the device control unit 13 to calculate the average waiting time from the transmission of a past instruction to device 22A to the response from device 22A to that instruction.

[0134] First, we will explain the case where the device control unit 13 determines that the average waiting time from the transmission of an instruction to the device 22A to the response is equal to or greater than a predetermined third period.

[0135] If the device control unit 13 determines that the average waiting time from the transmission of an instruction to the device 22A to the response is equal to or greater than a predetermined third period (step S600: YES), it executes a frequency change process (step S601).

[0136] Then, the device control unit 13 performs an MSC quality check after a predetermined period of time has elapsed (step S602).

[0137] The device control unit 13 determines whether the MSC quality check results are acceptable or not (step S603).

[0138] If the device control unit 13 determines that the MSC quality check is satisfactory (step S603: YES), it sets the receiving frequency of device 22A to the current frequency, in other words, the receiving frequency after the change made in step S601 (step S604). Then, the device control unit 13 terminates this processing flow.

[0139] If the device control unit 13 determines that there is a problem with the MSC quality check (step S603: NO), it returns to step S600 and repeats the process. Alternatively, the device control unit 13 may also return to step S600 and repeat the process even if it determines that there is no problem with the MSC quality check.

[0140] Next, we will describe the case where the device control unit 13 determines that the average waiting time from the transmission of an instruction to the device 22A to the response is less than a predetermined third period.

[0141] If the device control unit 13 determines that the average waiting time from the transmission of an instruction to the device 22A to the response is less than a predetermined third period (step S600: NO), it executes a frequency change process (step S605).

[0142] The device control unit 13 then sequentially performs the RSSI check, OFDM synchronization check, FIC quality check, and MSC quality check (step S606). For the sake of explanation, we will assume that the RSSI check, OFDM synchronization check, and FIC quality check all pass without problems, and the device control unit 13 proceeds to the MSC quality check. Then, the device control unit 13 proceeds to step S603.

[0143] As explained with reference to Figure 10, the device control unit 13 may omit transmissions and receptions during the multiple checks performed when the receiving frequency of the tuner T4 is changed, based on the average past waiting time from the transmission of an instruction to the device 22A to the reception of a response. The multiple checks performed when the receiving frequency of the tuner T4 is changed include, for example, RSSI checks, OFDM synchronization checks, FIC quality checks, and MSC quality checks. In the example in Figure 10, if the third waiting period is longer than the third period, the device control unit 13 omits transmissions and receptions for the RSSI check, OFDM synchronization check, and FIC quality check. Then, the device control unit 13 performs the final check, i.e., the transmission and reception for the MSC quality check, with the device environment 20A. This allows the device control unit 13 to reduce the number of data transfers and reduce the delay time of data transfer during device development. As a result, the device control unit 13 can improve the efficiency of device development.

[0144] (Summary of Embodiment 2) The above description of Embodiment 2 discloses at least the following technologies. Note that the components etc. in Embodiment 2 are examples, but are not limited to these.

[0145] (Technology 9) A development environment device (e.g., cloud environment 10A) connected via a predetermined communication network (e.g., network NW) to a device environment unit (e.g., device environment 20A) including a target device (e.g., device 22A) equipped with a tuner (e.g., tuner T4), determines whether the first waiting period from the time it sends an instruction to change the tuner's receiving frequency to the device environment unit until it receives a response from the device environment unit indicating that the change has been completed is equal to or greater than a predetermined first period. If the first waiting period is less than the first period, it sequentially performs transmissions and receptions for multiple checks performed when the tuner's receiving frequency is changed between the device environment unit and the development environment device (e.g., cloud environment 10A). If the first waiting period is equal to or greater than the first period, it omits transmissions and receptions in the middle of the multiple checks and performs transmissions and receptions for the final check between the device environment unit and the development environment device (e.g., cloud environment 10A).

[0146] This allows the development environment device to communicate with the device environment where the tuner-equipped device is located. The development environment device can then send instructions to the device to change the tuner's receiving frequency. Furthermore, if the waiting period for a response from the device is longer than a predetermined period, the development environment device can omit some of the checks performed when changing the tuner's receiving frequency. As a result, the development environment device can reduce the number of data transfers between the device environment and the device environment during device development, thereby improving the efficiency of device development.

[0147] (Technology 10) The development environment device described in Technical 9 may, if the first standby period is less than the first period, sequentially perform multiple checks, including a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) check, an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) synchronization check, a high-speed information channel (FIC) quality check for digital audio broadcasting, and a main service channel (MSC) quality check for digital audio broadcasting. If the first standby period is equal to or greater than the first period, the MSC quality check may be performed as the final check.

[0148] As a result, the development environment device can omit RSSI checks, OFDM synchronization checks, and FIC quality checks from the RSSI check, OFDM synchronization check, FIC quality check, and MSC quality check, depending on the waiting period until a response is received from the device environment.

[0149] (Technology 11) A development environment device connected to a device environment unit, which includes a target device equipped with a tuner, via a predetermined communication network, determines whether the second waiting period between sending a measurement instruction for the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) to the device environment unit and receiving the measurement result for the measurement instruction from the device environment unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined second period when the tuner's receiving frequency is changed. If the second waiting period is less than the second period, the device environment unit sequentially performs transmissions and receptions for multiple checks performed when the tuner's receiving frequency is changed. If the second waiting period is equal to or greater than the second period, it omits transmissions and receptions in the middle of the multiple checks and performs transmissions and receptions for the final check with the device environment unit.

[0150] This allows the development environment device to communicate with the device environment where the tuner-equipped device is located. The development environment device can change the receiving frequency of the device's tuner and can also send RSSI check instructions to the device. Furthermore, if the waiting period for a response from the device is longer than a predetermined period, the development environment device can omit some of the checks performed when changing the tuner's receiving frequency. As a result, the development environment device can reduce the number of data transfers between the device environment and the device environment during device development, thereby improving the efficiency of device development.

[0151] (Technology 12) A development environment device connected to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with a tuner via a predetermined communication network performs transmission and reception to change the tuner's receiving frequency with the device environment unit if the average waiting period from the transmission of instructions to the target device to the response from the target device to the instructions is less than a predetermined third period, and further performs transmission and reception for multiple checks performed during the change sequentially with the device environment unit. If the average waiting period is the third period or longer, it performs transmission and reception for the change with the device environment unit, and further omits transmission and reception in the middle of the multiple checks, and performs transmission and reception for the final check with the device environment unit.

[0152] This allows the development environment device to communicate with the device environment where the tuner-equipped device is located. Furthermore, if the average waiting time from the transmission of a past instruction to the device to the device's response exceeds a predetermined period, the development environment device can omit some of the checks performed when changing the tuner's receiving frequency. This reduces the number of data transfers between the development environment device and the device environment during device development, thereby improving the efficiency of device development.

[0153] (Technology 13) The development environment device described in any one of the technologies 9 to 12 may extend the interval between sending instructions to the target device to a predetermined transmission interval that is greater than the current transmission interval if the waiting period from sending an instruction to the target device to the response from the target device to the instruction is longer than a predetermined period.

[0154] This allows the development environment device to send instructions to a device, and if the waiting period from sending instructions to the device to receiving a response exceeds a predetermined period, the interval between sending instructions to the device for subsequent instructions can be extended.

[0155] (Technology 14) In the development environment device described in any one of the technologies 9 to 13, the target device may be located in a physical environment, while the development environment device may be located in a virtual environment.

[0156] As a result, the device is located in the physical environment, while the development environment equipment is located in the virtual environment.

[0157] (Technology 15) A device control method performed by a development environment device connected to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with a tuner via a predetermined communication network determines whether the first waiting period from the time an instruction to change the tuner's receiving frequency is sent to the device environment unit until a response from the device environment unit confirming the change is complete is equal to or greater than a predetermined first period. If the first waiting period is less than the first period, the device environment unit sequentially performs transmissions and receptions for multiple checks performed when the tuner's receiving frequency is changed. If the first waiting period is equal to or greater than the first period, the device environment unit omits transmissions and receptions in the middle of the multiple checks and performs the transmission and reception for the final check.

[0158] As a result, the device control method can achieve the same effect as in technology 9.

[0159] (Technology 16) The program causes a development environment device, which is connected to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with a tuner via a predetermined communication network, to determine whether the first waiting period from the time it sends an instruction to change the tuner's receiving frequency to the device environment unit until it receives a response from the device environment unit indicating that the change has been completed is equal to or greater than a predetermined first period. If the first waiting period is less than the first period, the program causes the device environment unit to sequentially perform transmissions and receptions for multiple checks that are performed when the tuner's receiving frequency is changed. If the first waiting period is equal to or greater than the first period, the program causes the transmissions and receptions in the middle of the multiple checks to be omitted, and the transmission and reception for the final check to be performed with the device environment unit.

[0160] This allows the program to achieve the same effect as technique 9.

[0161] The functions of the various embodiments described above can also be realized by supplying programs and applications for realizing the functions of the various embodiments described above to a system or device using a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the programs.

[0162] Furthermore, the functions of the various embodiments described above may be implemented by circuits that perform one or more functions (for example, Application Specific Integrated Circuit (hereinafter referred to as "ASIC") or Field Programmable Gate Array (hereinafter referred to as "FPGA")).

[0163] Although various embodiments of this disclosure have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that this disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is clear to those skilled in the art that various modifications, alterations, substitutions, additions, deletions, and equivalents can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these are also understood to naturally fall within the technical scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the components of the various embodiments described above can be arbitrarily combined without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Industrial applicability]

[0164] This disclosure is useful as a development environment device, a device control method, and a program. [Explanation of symbols]

[0165] 1. 1A Device Development System 10, 10A Cloud Environment 11, 21 Communications Department 12 Software-Defined Radios 13 Device Control Unit 20, 20A device environment 22, 22A m A1, A2, A3 antennas C1, C2 calculation unit D1 Decoder T1, T2, T3, T4 Tuner NW Network

Claims

1. A development environment device connected to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with multiple tuners via a predetermined communication network, A software-defined radio that processes data from the aforementioned target device, Includes a device control unit that controls the operation of the target device based on the output from the software-defined radio, The aforementioned software-defined radio is The device environment unit decodes the data corresponding to the output signal from the tuner transmitted via the communication network and outputs it to the device control unit. The device control unit, Based on the data transfer rate in the communication network, it is determined whether or not to stop the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the plurality of tuners. If it is determined that the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the plurality of tuners should be stopped, a stop instruction is sent to the device environment unit. Development environment equipment.

2. One of the aforementioned tuners is a sub-tuner for obtaining diversity effects with the other tuners. The device control unit transmits the instruction to the device environment unit to stop outputting data corresponding to the output signal from the sub-tuner if the transfer rate is less than a predetermined first threshold. The development environment device according to claim 1.

3. One of the aforementioned tuners is a tuner for backsearch, If the transfer rate is less than a predetermined second threshold which is smaller than the first threshold, the device control unit transmits an instruction to the device environment unit to further stop the output of data corresponding to the output signal from the tuner for backsearch. The development environment device according to claim 2.

4. The tuner for backsearch performs a search process to find an alternative frequency for the currently selected broadcast, and other processing besides the search process. The device control unit transmits the instruction to the device environment unit to stop outputting data corresponding to the output signal during the period when the tuner for backsearch is performing processing other than the search process, if the transfer rate is less than the second threshold and greater than or equal to a predetermined third threshold that is smaller than the second threshold, and transmits the instruction to the device environment unit to stop outputting data corresponding to the output signal from the tuner for backsearch, if the transfer rate is less than the third threshold. The development environment device according to claim 3.

5. The device control unit, when transmitting data corresponding to the output signal from the device environment unit to the development environment device, causes a predetermined number of upper bits to be transmitted while excluding a predetermined number of lower bits of the data. The software-defined radio is made to receive data consisting of the upper bits and a predetermined number of zeros by setting each of the lower bits to zero. The development environment device according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned target device is provided in the physical environment, The aforementioned development environment device is installed on a virtual environment. The development environment device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. Based on the data transfer rate of a predetermined communication network connecting a device environment unit including a target device equipped with multiple tuners and a development environment device that controls the operation of the target device, it is determined whether or not to stop the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the multiple tuners. If it is determined that the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the plurality of tuners should be stopped, a stop instruction is sent to the device environment unit. Device control method.

8. A device environment unit, which includes a target device equipped with multiple tuners, is connected via a predetermined communication network to a development environment device that controls the operation of the target device, Based on the data transfer rate of the output signal from the tuner in the communication network, it is determined whether or not to stop the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the plurality of tuners. If it is determined that the output of data corresponding to the output signal from at least one of the plurality of tuners should be stopped, a stop instruction is sent to the device environment unit. program.

9. A development environment device connected to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with a tuner via a predetermined communication network, It is determined whether the first waiting period from the time an instruction to change the receiving frequency of the tuner is transmitted to the device environment unit until a response from the device environment unit confirming the change has been completed is equal to or greater than a predetermined first period. If the first waiting period is less than the first period, the transmission and reception of multiple checks performed when the receiving frequency of the tuner is changed are performed sequentially with the device environment unit. If the first waiting period is longer than or equal to the first period, the transmission and reception during the intermediate checks are omitted, and the transmission and reception for the final check is performed with the device environment unit. Development environment equipment.

10. If the first waiting period is less than the first period, the following checks are performed sequentially as part of the multiple checks: a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) check, an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) synchronization check, a high-speed information channel (FIC) quality check for digital audio broadcasting, and a main service channel (MSC) quality check for digital audio broadcasting. If the first waiting period is equal to or greater than the first period, the MSC quality check is performed as the final check. The development environment device according to claim 9.

11. A development environment device connected to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with a tuner via a predetermined communication network, When changing the receiving frequency of the tuner, it is determined whether the second waiting period from the time a measurement instruction for the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) is sent to the device environment unit until the measurement result for the measurement instruction is received from the device environment unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined second period. If the second waiting period is less than the second period, the transmission and reception of multiple checks performed when the receiving frequency of the tuner is changed are sequentially performed with the device environment unit. If the second waiting period is longer than or equal to the second period, the transmission and reception during the multiple checks are omitted, and the transmission and reception for the final check is performed with the device environment unit. Development environment equipment.

12. A development environment device connected to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with a tuner via a predetermined communication network, If the average waiting period from the transmission of an instruction to the target device in the past to the response from the target device to the instruction is less than a predetermined third period, the device environment unit performs transmission and reception for changing the receiving frequency of the tuner, and further, the device environment unit sequentially performs transmission and reception for a plurality of checks performed during the change. If the average waiting period is equal to or greater than the third period, the transmission and reception for the change are performed with the device environment unit, and further, the transmission and reception in the middle of the multiple checks are omitted, and the transmission and reception for the final check are performed with the device environment unit. Development environment equipment.

13. If the waiting period from the transmission of an instruction to the target device to the response from the target device to that instruction is longer than a predetermined period, the interval between subsequent transmissions of instructions to the target device will be extended to a predetermined transmission interval that is greater than the current transmission interval. A development environment device according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

14. The aforementioned target device is provided in the physical environment, The aforementioned development environment device is installed on a virtual environment. A development environment device according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

15. A device control method performed by a development environment device connected via a predetermined communication network to a device environment unit including a target device equipped with a tuner, It is determined whether the first waiting period from the time an instruction to change the receiving frequency of the tuner is transmitted to the device environment unit until a response from the device environment unit confirming the change has been completed is equal to or greater than a predetermined first period. If the first waiting period is less than the first period, the transmission and reception of multiple checks performed when the receiving frequency of the tuner is changed are performed sequentially with the device environment unit. If the first waiting period is longer than or equal to the first period, the transmission and reception during the intermediate checks are omitted, and the transmission and reception for the final check is performed with the device environment unit. Device control method.

16. A device environment unit, including a target device equipped with a tuner, is connected to a development environment device via a predetermined communication network. The device environment unit is made to determine whether the first waiting period from the time it transmits an instruction to change the receiving frequency of the tuner until it receives a response from the device environment unit indicating that the change instruction has been completed is equal to or greater than a predetermined first period. If the first waiting period is less than the first period, the transmission and reception for multiple checks performed when the receiving frequency of the tuner is changed are performed sequentially with the device environment unit. If the first waiting period is longer than or equal to the first period, the transmission and reception during the multiple checks are omitted, and the transmission and reception for the final check is performed with the device environment unit. program.

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