Systems and Information Processing Devices

Abstract

To restrict viewing of information when an accumulated viewing time exceeds a restriction viewing time even in the midst of the viewing.SOLUTION: A system includes a first information processing apparatus, a second information processing apparatus, and a server. A first control unit of the first information processing apparatus uses user information registered in advance and user information acquired by a user information acquisition unit of the first information processing apparatus to perform user authentication, controls a first display unit of the first information processing apparatus to display content information, and measures a viewing time of the content information displayed on the first display unit. Accumulated viewing time information based on the viewing time is transmitted to the second information processing apparatus via the server. A first communication unit of the first information processing apparatus receives viewing restriction time information via the server from the second information processing apparatus. When the first control unit determines that the viewing time in measurement is equal to or longer than a viewing restriction time set in the first information processing apparatus, the first control unit issues a notification.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 18

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and an information processing apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, with the spread of smartphones, tablet PCs, etc., it has become possible to easily view videos and the like distributed on the Internet both indoors and outdoors. Also, many users own multiple information devices such as smartphones, personal computers, and televisions, and the time spent looking at displays has unknowingly become longer.

[0003] For this reason, the burden on the eyes has been increasing, and there are concerns about vision deterioration and stiff shoulders due to looking at displays for a long time. In particular, in order to suppress the influence on children in the growth period, it is preferable to limit the time spent looking at the display within a certain time. Also, for example, depending on the home education policy, parents may want to limit the time their children spend watching the display.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a viewing restriction system including a STB (Set-Top Box) as a viewing device, a monitor for playing back contents such as videos and still images received by this STB, a user terminal for remotely operating the STB by wireless communication, and an administrator terminal for setting a viewing time limit value for each user terminal in the STB. According to Patent Document 1, in the STB, the viewing history (viewing time) and the viewing time limit value are managed for each terminal ID unique to the user terminal, and when a viewing request is received from the user terminal, the viewing time and the limit value are compared based on that terminal ID, and viewing of the content is permitted as long as the viewing time is below the limit value, and it is described that otherwise the viewing request is rejected.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

[0006] In the viewing restriction system described in Patent Document 1, the decision on whether or not to allow viewing of content is made before viewing begins, but the decision is not made while viewing the content. Therefore, even if the cumulative viewing time exceeds the viewing restriction time while viewing content or other information, it was not possible to restrict viewing of the content or other information.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an information processing device that can restrict viewing even if the cumulative viewing time exceeds the viewing limit while viewing information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A brief overview of some of the representative inventions disclosed in this application is as follows:

[0009] A system according to a typical embodiment of the present invention comprises a first information processing device, a second information processing device, and a server connected to the first and second information processing devices. The first information processing device includes a user information acquisition unit for acquiring user information, a first display unit, a first communication unit, and a first control unit. The second information processing device includes a second control unit for registering information about the user of the first information processing device and setting the viewing time limit for the first information processing device, and a second communication unit for transmitting viewing time limit information to the first information processing device. The first control unit performs user authentication using pre-registered user information and user information acquired by the user information acquisition unit, and then displays content information. The first display unit is controlled to display the content information, the viewing time of the content information displayed on the first display unit is measured, the first communication unit is controlled to transmit cumulative viewing time information based on the viewing time to the second information processing unit via the server, the first communication unit receives viewing time limit information from the second information processing unit via the server, and the first control unit determines that the viewing time being measured is equal to or greater than the viewing time limit set by the second information processing unit, in which case the first control unit controls the content information displayed on the first display unit to hide it and restrict viewing, and after hiding the content information, the first control unit controls the viewing restriction to be lifted after a certain amount of time has elapsed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] The effects obtained by some of the representative inventions disclosed in this application can be briefly explained as follows.

[0011] In other words, according to a typical embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide an information processing device that can restrict viewing even if the cumulative viewing time exceeds the viewing limit while viewing information. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1]This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a plan view illustrating one embodiment of an information processing device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the usage of the information processing device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of a flowchart for the method of recording viewing information in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a UI image displayed during user authentication in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a user image created by the imaging unit. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a warning image for registered users according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a notification image for an administrator user according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of an image displayed during user authentication according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of an image displayed during user authentication according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of a method for recording viewing information of registered users according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of a method for managing the viewing information of registered users according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of a warning image for registered users according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of a flowchart for the method of recording viewing information in Embodiment 4 of the present invention. [Figure 15] This figure shows an example of a situation where multiple users are viewing an information processing device. [Figure 16] This figure shows an example of acquired user facial information. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing an example of a viewing information management system according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart regarding a method for recording viewing information according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. [Figure 19] It is a diagram showing an example of a method for recording viewing information according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. [Figure 20] It is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart regarding a method for recording viewing information according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. [Figure 21] It is a diagram showing an example of a method for recording viewing information according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings. In all the drawings for explaining the embodiments, the same parts are generally denoted by the same reference numerals, and the repeated explanations thereof are omitted. In addition, in order to make the drawings easier to understand, even a plan view may be hatched.

[0014] Furthermore, in the following embodiments, when necessary for convenience, they are divided and described in a plurality of sections or embodiments. However, unless otherwise specified, they are not unrelated to each other, and one is a modification, detail, supplementary explanation, etc. of a part or all of the other.

[0015] Also, in the following embodiments, when referring to the number of elements, etc. (including the number, numerical value, quantity, range, etc.), unless otherwise specified or clearly limited to a specific number in principle, it is not limited to that specific number, and it may be more than or less than the specific number.

[0016] Also, in the following embodiments, it goes without saying that the components (including element steps, etc.) are not necessarily essential unless otherwise specified or clearly considered essential in principle.

[0017] Furthermore, in the following embodiments, when we refer to components, etc., as "consisting of A," "being made of A," "having A," or "including A," it goes without saying that we are not excluding other elements unless we specifically indicate that only that element is included. Similarly, in the following embodiments, when we refer to the shape, positional relationship, etc., of components, etc., we are including things that substantially approximate or resemble that shape, etc., unless we specifically indicate otherwise or it is clearly considered not to be the case in principle. The same applies to the numerical values ​​and ranges mentioned above.

[0018] (Embodiment 1) Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 2 is a plan view illustrating one form of the information processing device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the usage of the information processing device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0019] The information processing device 100 in this embodiment is, for example, a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet terminal, or personal computer. As shown in Figure 1, the information processing device 100 includes a user information acquisition unit 116, a display unit 117, a viewing time measurement unit 170, and a control unit 114. In addition to these, the information processing device 100 also includes an information storage unit 125, a tuner / demodulation unit 122, a signal separation unit 121, a memory 132, an acceleration sensor unit 133, a geomagnetic sensor unit 134, a communication interface 113, a mobile communication interface 131, an information input unit 115, a GPS receiver unit 135, a gyro sensor unit 136, an imaging unit 140, a switch input unit 150, an audio input / output unit 160, and the like. These components are connected to each other via a bus 101. A button 151 is connected to the switch input unit 150. A microphone 161 and a speaker 162 are connected to the audio input / output unit 160.

[0020] The user information acquisition unit 116 is located around the display unit 117, for example, as shown in Figure 2. The user information acquisition unit 116 acquires user information to identify the user. The user information acquisition unit 116 consists of, for example, a biosensor that reads biometric information, and acquires biometric information such as fingerprints and finger vein patterns as user information via the biosensor. In addition, when acquiring a password entered by the user as user information, the information input unit 115, described later, may also function as a user information acquisition unit. Furthermore, a touch panel in which the information input unit 115 and the display unit 117, described later, are integrated may also function as a user information acquisition unit. In addition, when acquiring face information extracted from a user image captured by the imaging unit 140, described later, the imaging unit 140 may also function as a user information acquisition unit. The user information acquisition unit 116 may also acquire operation information related to operations such as turning the display unit 117 on and off based on user operations.

[0021] The display unit 117 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL (electroluminescence) panel. The display unit 117 may be integrated with the information input unit 115 as, for example, a touch panel. The display unit 117 displays, for example, content information such as images and videos stored in the information storage unit 125, content information received in the tuner / demodulation unit 122, communication I / F 113, and mobile communication I / F 131, content information such as images and videos captured by registered users, and content information such as images and videos generated by application programs. The display unit 117 displays, for example, a user interface (UI) such as a password input screen required to log on to the information processing device 100.

[0022] The display unit 117 displays an image or the like that warns registered users that their viewing of content information, etc., will be restricted, as will be described later.

[0023] The viewing time measurement unit 170 measures the viewing time of registered users who view content information displayed on the display unit 117. For example, when the control unit 114 (described later) determines that a user attempting to use the information processing device 100 is a registered user, and the registered user logs on to the information processing device 100, the viewing time measurement unit 170 measures the time the content information is displayed on the display unit 117 as the registered user's viewing time. For example, the viewing time measurement unit 170 measures the viewing time by setting the time the registered user logs on to the information processing device 100 as the viewing start time and measuring the elapsed time from the viewing start time.

[0024] The viewing time measurement unit 170 may, for example, have a clock function and use the time information stored within the viewing time measurement unit 170. Alternatively, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may acquire time information from a server 1050 connected to an external network 1040 via a communication interface 113 and a wireless router as shown in Figure 3. Furthermore, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may acquire time information from the server 1040 via a mobile communication interface 131 and a base station 1010. The viewing time measurement unit 170 may also acquire time information from GPS signals received by the GPS receiver 135. Additionally, the information processing device 100 may acquire time information from television signals received by the tuner / demodulation unit 122. Based on the time information acquired by these methods, the viewing time measurement unit 170 measures the viewing time by, for example, calculating the difference with the viewing start time.

[0025] Alternatively, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may measure viewing time by, for example, driving a timer in the information processing device 100 from the viewing start time. Or, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may measure viewing time by driving a counter in the information processing device 100 from the viewing start time and replacing the count with the viewing time.

[0026] The viewing time measurement unit 170 may be configured as hardware or as software. Furthermore, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may be integrated with hardware such as the control unit 114, or it may be incorporated into another program.

[0027] The information storage unit 125 stores content information related to the information processing device 100, as well as viewing information of registered users, which will be described later. The information storage unit 125 stores various program information, such as the basic program for operating the information processing device 100 and application programs for realizing various functions in the information processing device 100. The information storage unit 125 also records various setting information for the information processing device 100, information created by application programs, content information to be displayed on the display unit 117, registered user information to identify registered users registered in the information processing device 100, and viewing information of registered users, such as the cumulative viewing time of registered users and the viewing limit time which is the upper limit of the cumulative viewing time, which are related to the determination of restricting the viewing of registered users.

[0028] Registered user information includes, for example, passwords, biometric information such as fingerprints and finger vein patterns, and facial information, which are required when a registered user logs on to the information processing device 100. In addition to this information, the information storage unit 125 also stores various other content, such as video and audio streams received from the tuner / demodulator unit 122, communication interface 113, and mobile communication interface 131.

[0029] The application program may, for example, be stored in the information storage unit 125 before the information processing device 100 is shipped. Alternatively, the application program may be stored on optical media such as a CD (Compact Disk) or DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), or on a medium such as semiconductor memory, and installed on the information processing device 100 via a media connection unit (not shown), for example. Furthermore, the application program may be downloaded and installed from an external network (not shown) via a communication interface 113 and a wireless router (not shown). In addition, the application program may be downloaded and installed from a distribution source via a mobile communication interface 131 and a base station (not shown). Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may be connected to a personal computer (PC) that has acquired the application program via an external network via an external device connection interface (not shown), and the application program may be moved or copied from the PC to the information processing device 100 for installation. The application program may be implemented as software as described above, or it may be implemented as hardware with equivalent functionality, for example. When the application program is implemented in hardware, the hardware takes the lead in realizing each function.

[0030] The information storage unit 125 may be built into the information processing device 100, or it may be configured to be detachable from the information processing device 100.

[0031] The tuner / demodulator 122 receives a television signal transmitted from, for example, the broadcasting station 1020 shown in Figure 3, and demodulates the received television signal. The signal separation unit 121 separates the television signal demodulated by the tuner / demodulator 122 into various signals, such as television signals for each channel and electronic program guides (EPG).

[0032] In memory 132, for example, basic programs, application programs, etc., read from the information storage unit 125 are expanded. The control unit 114 executes the programs expanded in memory 132, thereby realizing the various functions that each program possesses.

[0033] The acceleration sensor unit 133 measures the magnitude and direction of the acceleration (e.g., gravitational acceleration) acting on the information processing device 100. The acceleration sensor unit 133 outputs the measured values ​​of the magnitude and direction of the acceleration to the control unit 114 as acceleration information, for example. The acceleration information may also be stored in the information storage unit 125.

[0034] The geomagnetic sensor unit 134 measures the magnitude and direction of the geomagnetic field acting on the information processing device 100. The geomagnetic sensor 134 may be composed of, for example, multiple magnetic sensors, and the geomagnetic field may be measured by multiple magnetic sensors. The geomagnetic sensor 134 outputs the measured magnitude and direction of the geomagnetic field to the control unit 114 as, for example, geomagnetic information. The geomagnetic information may also be stored in the information storage unit 125.

[0035] The communication interface 113 is connected to the wireless router 1030 shown in Figure 3, for example via a wireless LAN, and is connected to the external network 1040 via the wireless router 1030.

[0036] The communication interface 113 is used, for example, to send and receive content information, registered user viewing information, etc., with a server 1050 on an external network 1040.

[0037] In addition to communicating with the wireless router 1030, the communication interface 113 may also communicate directly with the server 1050 via a wireless LAN such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) without going through the wireless router 1030. The communication interface 113 may have hardware implemented for each of these communication functions, or these functions may be implemented in a single piece of hardware. The connection to the external network 1040 via the communication interface 113 may be prioritized over the communication network connection via the mobile communication interface 131.

[0038] The mobile communication interface 131 is connected to the external network 1040 via the base station 1010 shown in Figure 3, using a mobile communication network such as the third-generation mobile communication system (hereinafter referred to as "3G"), including the GSM (Registered Trademark) (Global System for Mobile Communications) system, W-CDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access) system, CDMA2000 system, UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) system, or the LTE (Long Term Evolution) system. The mobile communication interface 131 may consist of one or more hardware components that support these communication methods.

[0039] The communication interface 113 is used, for example, to send and receive content information, registered user viewing information, etc., with a server 1050 on an external network 1040.

[0040] The information input unit 115 receives operations from the user to the information processing device 100 and acquires operation information. The information input unit 115 may be, for example, buttons that perform various operations depending on the state of the information processing device 100, or it may consist of one or more buttons corresponding to numbers or symbols, or it may be a touch panel integrated with the display unit 117. The information input unit 115 may also receive signals transmitted from a terminal such as a remote controller via infrared communication, and acquire operation information from the received signals.

[0041] Examples of operational information include information regarding the power on / off operation of the information processing device 100, and information regarding the on / off operation of the display unit 117.

[0042] The information input unit 115 may also function as a user information acquisition unit, for example, if it accepts the input of a password as user information.

[0043] Furthermore, if the information input unit 115 is a touch panel integrated with the display unit 117, the user can freely move objects (icons, etc.) displayed on the touch panel by touching them with their finger and moving them (dragging operation), or by flicking their finger across the touch panel (flick operation). In addition, the user can activate objects or switch to another screen by tapping them once (tap operation) or tapping them twice (double tap operation).

[0044] The GPS receiver 135 receives GPS signals transmitted from multiple satellites using GPS (Global Positioning System). The GPS receiver 135 outputs the received GPS signals to the control unit 114, for example. Alternatively, the received GPS signals may be stored in the information storage unit 125.

[0045] The gyro sensor unit 136 measures the angular velocity of the information processing device 100, which is generated when the user moves the information processing device 100. The gyro sensor unit 136 outputs the measured angular velocity to the control unit 114, for example, as angular velocity information. The angular velocity information may also be stored in the information storage unit 125.

[0046] The imaging unit 140 consists of, for example, an optical system such as a lens, an image sensor, a signal processing circuit, etc. Exposure control, focus control, acquired image pixel count (e.g., resolution) control, compression control, and storage control of captured images in the imaging unit 140 are performed, for example, by the control unit 114. These controls are performed, for example, according to a camera control program. Specifically, the camera control program stored in the information storage unit 125 is loaded into the memory 132, and these controls are performed by the control unit 114 executing the loaded program. The imaging unit 140 may be provided on the user side (display unit 117 side) of the information terminal device 100, as shown in Figure 2, or on the opposite side from the user (opposite side from the display unit 117), which is not shown. The imaging unit 140 may also be provided on both sides.

[0047] As shown in Figure 1, the switch input unit 150 is connected to one or more buttons 151. The switch input unit 150 receives switch information from the buttons 151 and outputs the input switch information to the control unit 114. Based on the switch information, the control unit 114 performs various operations, such as turning the information processing device 100 on and off, starting and stopping application programs, and adjusting the volume (up and down) using two buttons.

[0048] The audio input / output unit 160 is connected to a microphone 161 as an audio input unit and a speaker 162 as an audio output unit, as shown in Figure 1, for example. The audio input / output unit 160 receives user voice information input via the microphone 161, for example. The audio input / output unit 160 outputs voice information via the speaker 162, for example. The audio input / output unit 160 adjusts the volume based on the operation of the button 151 described above, for example.

[0049] Bus 101 is an internal bus that connects the various components of the information processing device 100 to each other. Each component performs input and output of various types of information via bus 101. Alternatively, each component may be connected directly without going through bus 101. For example, when handling large amounts of information, information may be directly input and output between the input and output sides. This reduces the load on bus 101.

[0050] The control unit 114 controls each component that makes up the information processing device 100. For example, the control unit 114 executes various programs based on user operation information acquired by the information input unit 115 or switch information acquired by the switch input unit 150, and controls each component such as the signal separation unit 121, the display unit 117, and the communication interface 113.

[0051] The control unit 114 acquires various information, such as content information and registered user viewing information, from the server 1050 on the connected external network 1040, for example, via the communication interface 113 and the wireless router 1030. The control unit 114 also acquires various information, such as content information and registered user viewing information, from the server 1050 on the external network 1040, which is connected via the mobile communication interface 131 and the base station 1010.

[0052] The control unit 114 performs actions such as turning the power of the information processing device 100 on or off, turning the display unit 117 on or off, and adjusting the volume, based on operation information, switch information, etc. Furthermore, the control unit 114 may turn off the display unit 117 if, for example, no operation information, switch information, etc., is input for a certain period of time or longer.

[0053] The control unit 114 calculates the acceleration (e.g., gravitational acceleration) acting on the information processing device 100 based on acceleration information output from the acceleration sensor unit 133. Based on the calculated acceleration, the control unit 114 detects which part of the information processing device 100 is facing upwards, i.e., the orientation of the information processing device 100. The control unit 114 displays the screen on the display unit 117 so that the top of the screen to be displayed on the display unit 117 matches the top measured by the acceleration sensor unit 133. In this way, the control unit 114 displays a screen that matches how the user holds the information processing device 100. The control unit 114 calculates the position information of the information processing device 100 based on the GPS signal output from the GPS receiver unit 135. The control unit 114 detects the movement of the information processing device 100 based on the angular velocity information output from the gyro sensor unit 136.

[0054] The control unit 114 identifies the user, for example, when the display unit 117 is turned on. Specifically, the control unit 114 determines whether the user attempting to use the information processing device 100 is a pre-registered user. The control unit 114 determines whether the user is a registered user by comparing, for example, the registered user information such as user ID and code, password, biometric information, and facial information, which is pre-stored in the information storage unit 125, with the user information acquired by the user information acquisition unit 116.

[0055] The control unit 114 compares the cumulative viewing time, which is the total viewing time within a predetermined period, with the viewing limit time, which is a preset upper limit on the cumulative viewing time, if the user is a registered user. The predetermined period is the period for calculating the cumulative viewing time, and the cumulative viewing time is reset after the predetermined period has elapsed. The reset time for resetting the cumulative viewing time may be set to, for example, 3:00 AM, with the predetermined period being 24 hours from 3:00 AM to 3:00 AM the following day. Alternatively, the reset time may be set to a different time, and the predetermined period may be shorter or longer than 24 hours. Furthermore, the reset time and predetermined period may be set by default in the information processing device 100, or they may be freely set by the user.

[0056] The control unit 114 warns the registered user if the cumulative viewing time exceeds the viewing limit. For example, the control unit 114 displays a warning image on the display unit 117 informing the registered user that the cumulative viewing time exceeds the viewing limit. Alternatively, the control unit 114 generates a warning sound from the speaker 162.

[0057] The wireless router 1030 is equipped with wireless LAN functionality, such as Wi-Fi, and is connected to the external network 1040 shown in Figure 3 via a communication line. The wireless router 1030 is also connected to the information processing device 100 and the external network 11. Wi-Fi is a standard for wireless LAN (Local Area Network) established by the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) standard "IEEE 802.11a / IEEE 802.11b".

[0058] The wireless router 1030 has two interfaces: a LAN side and a WAN (Wide Area Network) side, and each interface is assigned a different IP address. Specifically, the WAN side interface is assigned a global IP address that can be identified on the internet, while the LAN side interface is assigned a private IP address that can be used within a closed network. The wireless router 1030 also has a firewall function to restrict access from the external network 1040, and a NAPT (Network Address Port Translation) function that converts private addresses to global addresses or global addresses to private addresses.

[0059] The information processing device 100 can send and receive various types of information and content to and from a server 1050 connected to an external network 1040 via a communication interface 113 and a wireless router 1030, or via a mobile communication interface 131 and a base station 1010.

[0060] Next, the method for recording the viewing information of a registered user in the information processing device 100 will be described. In this embodiment, the description will be based on the premise that the information processing device 100 is used by a specific individual who has registered one user. In the following, various functions may be implemented in hardware, or each application program may be loaded into memory 132 and implemented by the control unit 114 executing each application program.

[0061] Figure 4 shows an example flowchart of a method for recording viewing information in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 5 shows an example of a UI image displayed during user authentication in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0062] Step S1001 identifies the user who intends to use the information processing device 100. In other words, step S1001 is a user authentication step that determines whether the user who intends to use the information processing device 100 is a registered user who has been pre-registered as a user of the information processing device 100.

[0063] Furthermore, registered user information is stored in the information storage unit 125 of the information processing device 100, or in the server 1050 on the network 1040, associated with the terminal information of the information processing device 100, based on a registration operation performed in advance by the user who wishes to register. In addition, viewing information related to registered users, such as viewing time limits and reset times, may be stored in the information storage unit 125 in advance by the administrator user or the registered user themselves, or may be stored in the server 1050, associated with the terminal information of the information processing device 100.

[0064] The administrator user determines whether or not they have the authority to configure the viewing information of registered users. For example, based on the administrator user's judgment, it is determined whether only the administrator user can configure the viewing information, or whether registered users themselves can also configure the viewing information. The administrator user may be a registered user or a user who is not a registered user.

[0065] The control unit 114 determines whether a user is a registered user based on user information and registered user information that identifies the registered user. First, when the information processing device 100 detects that a button 151 of the switch input unit 150, an information input unit 115, a user information acquisition unit 116, etc. has been pressed, the control unit 114 turns on the display unit 117 and displays, for example, a UI image requesting user information input. For example, the control unit 114 displays a password input screen 201 requesting password input, such as shown in Figure 5. The password input screen 201 may display a software keyboard corresponding to each number from "0" to "9", as shown in Figure 5, or it may display a software keyboard combining numbers and symbols, for example.

[0066] The information processing device 100 then acquires the password entered by the user as user information. The acquired password is output to the control unit 114. The control unit 114 compares the acquired password with a password previously registered as registered user information and determines whether the user attempting to use the information processing device 100 is a registered user. In other words, the control unit 114 determines that the user is a registered user if the entered password and the registered password match. In this case, it is determined that the user has touched the displayed keyboard in the same order as the registered password. The registered user can then log on to the information processing device 100, and the display unit 117 displays, for example, the initial screen after logging on to the information processing device 100 and content information.

[0067] In contrast, if the entered password does not match a registered password, the control unit 114 determines that the user is not a registered user. In this case, it is determined that the user is touching the displayed keyboard in a different order than the registered password. As a result, the user cannot log on to the information processing device 100. However, in this case, the display unit 117 may display an image or the like that notifies the user that the entered password is different from the registered password, or a password input screen 201 prompting the user to re-enter the password may be displayed.

[0068] Furthermore, as described above, the control unit 114 may use the registered user information stored in the information storage unit 125, or it may use, for example, the registered user information stored in the server 1050. In addition, although the above example described a case where the password consists of numbers and symbols, other types of user information may also be used, such as the selection of characters or images, or the touch trajectory.

[0069] Furthermore, although the above description describes the case where the display unit 117 is a touch panel integrated with the information input unit 115, the information input unit 115 may also consist of, for example, buttons corresponding to the software keyboard described above, and the password may be entered via these buttons.

[0070] Furthermore, biometric information such as fingerprints or finger vein patterns may be used as registered user information. In this case, the user inputs user information by, for example, having the user information acquisition unit 116, which is equipped with a biosensor, read the biometric information such as fingerprints or finger vein patterns. The user information acquisition unit 116 acquires the biometric information as user information and outputs the acquired biometric information to the control unit 114. The control unit 114 determines whether the user is a registered user by comparing the acquired biometric information with the biometric information registered as registered user information.

[0071] Furthermore, facial information may be used as registered user information. In this case, the imaging unit 140 captures an image of the user, and the facial information extracted from the user image is input as user information. Figure 6 shows an example of a user image created by the imaging unit. The imaging unit 140 captures an image of the user and creates a user image 301, for example, as shown in Figure 6. The imaging unit 140 extracts the user's facial information 311 from the user image 301 and outputs the extracted facial information 311 as the user's facial information to the control unit 114. Alternatively, the imaging unit 140 may output the user image 301 to the control unit 114, and the control unit 114 may extract the facial information 311 from the user image 301. Note that when the information processing device 100 detects that a button 151 or the like on the switch input unit 150 has been pressed, the imaging unit 140 may automatically start capturing images of the user and perform the logon process without user operation.

[0072] The control unit 114 determines whether the user is a registered user by comparing the acquired facial information with the facial information of the registered user.

[0073] Although the method for identifying the user in the information processing device 100 has been described, the information processing device 100 only needs to identify the user by any of the methods described above, and does not necessarily need to implement all of these methods. In this way, when it is determined that the user attempting to use the information processing device 100 is a registered user, the process proceeds to step S1002.

[0074] In step S1002, the viewing time measurement unit 170 starts measuring the viewing time of the registered user viewing the content information displayed on the display unit 117. For example, the control unit 114 outputs a viewing time measurement start signal to the viewing time measurement unit 170 to start measuring the viewing time of the registered user, and the viewing time measurement unit 170 starts measuring the viewing time of the registered user based on the input viewing time measurement start signal.

[0075] The control unit 114 may, for example, use the time when a registered user logs on to the information processing device 100 and starts viewing content information as the viewing start time, or the time when the display unit 117 is turned on as the viewing start time. The viewing time measurement unit 170 may measure the elapsed time by calculating the difference from the viewing start time, or it may measure the viewing time by measuring the elapsed time from the viewing start time using a timer or the like. The viewing time measurement unit 170 may, for example, output the measured viewing time to the control unit 114. The viewing time measurement unit 170 may output information related to the measured viewing time, for example at a predetermined interval, or for example, in response to a request from the control unit 114. Alternatively, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may output viewing information related to viewing time to the information storage unit 125, and the viewing information related to viewing time may be recorded in the information storage unit 125. Furthermore, the viewing information related to viewing time may be transmitted to a server 1050 located on an external network 1040 via a communication I / F 113 or a mobile communication I / F 131, and recorded as viewing information in the server 1050. Once the measurement of a registered user's viewing time begins, the process moves to step S1004. The viewing time measurement unit 170 continues to measure the registered user's viewing time in parallel with the other steps S1004 to S1008 until the measurement is stopped in step S1009, which will be described later.

[0076] In step S1004, the control unit 114 calculates the cumulative viewing time, which is the sum of viewing times within a predetermined time. Specifically, if a registered user has viewed the information multiple times within a predetermined time, the control unit 114 calculates the cumulative viewing time up to the current viewing time by adding the cumulative viewing time obtained by adding the viewing time of the current viewing time, for example, by adding the viewing time obtained by adding up the viewing time of each previous viewing up to the current viewing time. Alternatively, the control unit 114 may calculate the cumulative viewing time by adding up the viewing time of each previous viewing up to the current viewing time. Viewing information related to the calculated cumulative viewing time is recorded, for example, in the information storage unit 125 or the server 1050.

[0077] Once the cumulative viewing time of registered users is calculated in this manner, the process proceeds to step S1005. The control unit 114 continues to calculate the cumulative viewing time of registered users in parallel with the other steps S1002 to S1008 until measurement is stopped in step S1009, which will be described later.

[0078] In step S1005, the control unit 114 compares the cumulative viewing time calculated in step S1004 with the viewing time limit. If the control unit 114 determines that the cumulative viewing time is less than the viewing time limit (NO), the process proceeds to step S1008.

[0079] In response, if the control unit 114 determines that the cumulative viewing time is equal to or greater than the viewing limit time (YES), the system proceeds to step S1006. In step S1006, the control unit 114 issues a warning to the registered user. Figure 7 shows an example of a warning image for a registered user according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 7, for example, a warning image 401 that warns the registered user that the viewing limit time has been exceeded is displayed overlaid on the content information displayed on the display unit 117. Information regarding such a notification image 401 is stored, for example, in the information storage unit 125 and the server 1050.

[0080] For example, if the purpose is to notify that the viewing time limit has been exceeded, the warning image may be displayed in a position and size that does not significantly affect viewing. Also, for example, if the goal is to stop a registered user from viewing, the notification screen 401 may be displayed before the content information, as shown in Figure 7. Furthermore, the size of the notification image may be appropriately changed according to the time elapsed since the viewing time limit was reached. Specifically, a small notification image may be displayed immediately after the viewing time limit has been reached, and a larger notification image may be displayed as the time elapsed increases.

[0081] In this case, the control unit 114 may, for example, display the cumulative viewing time to date on the warning image 401, as shown in Figure 7, or it may display the viewing time limit along with the viewing time. In addition, warnings to registered users may be given by means of, for example, the warning image 401 described above, the generation of a warning sound from the speaker 162, or the turning off of the display of content information.

[0082] Furthermore, the control unit 114 may notify the administrator user that the registered user's cumulative viewing time has exceeded the viewing limit. Figure 8 shows an example of a notification image to the administrator user according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. For example, the control unit 114 transmits viewing limit exceedance information, indicating that the registered user's cumulative viewing time has exceeded the viewing limit, to an information processing device used by the administrator user. Based on the received viewing limit exceedance information, the administrator user's information processing device displays a notification image 701, such as the one shown in Figure 8, informing the administrator user that the registered user has exceeded the viewing limit. Then, the process proceeds to step S1008.

[0083] In step S1008, a decision is made as to whether to continue measuring the viewing time for the registered user. Specifically, if the control unit 114 determines that the registered user has logged on to the information processing device 100 and that information is displayed on the display unit 117 (YES), the process returns to step S1004. The control unit 114 then repeats steps S1004 to S1008 described above and continues to measure the viewing time for the registered user.

[0084] In response to this, if the control unit 114 determines that the registered user has logged off from the information processing device 100, or that no information is displayed on the display unit 117 (NO), the system proceeds to step S1009.

[0085] In step S1009, the viewing time measurement unit 170 stops measuring the registered user's viewing time. For example, the control unit 114 outputs a viewing time measurement stop signal to the viewing time measurement unit 170 to stop measuring the registered user's viewing time. Based on the input viewing time measurement stop signal, the viewing time measurement unit 170 stops measuring the registered user's viewing time. At this time, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may output viewing information related to the measured viewing time to the information storage unit 125 so that the viewing time is recorded in the information storage unit 125. Accordingly, the control unit 114 stops calculating the registered user's cumulative viewing time. Then, the process proceeds to step S1010.

[0086] In step S1010, the warning to the registered user is canceled. For example, if the warning image 401 is displayed on the display unit 117 in step S1006, the control unit 114 cancels the warning to the registered user by erasing the warning image 401. Also, for example, if a warning sound is generated, the control unit 114 cancels the warning by stopping the warning sound. Once the warning to the registered user is canceled in this way, the process proceeds to step S1011.

[0087] In step S1011, the control unit 114 determines whether the registered user has logged off from the information processing device 100. If the control unit 114 determines that the registered user has logged off from the information processing device 100 (YES), it terminates the series of processes related to the recording method of the registered user's viewing information.

[0088] In response to this, if the control unit 114 determines that the registered user has not logged off from the information processing device 100 (NO), it proceeds to step S1012.

[0089] In step S1012, the control unit 114 determines whether information is displayed on the display unit 117. If the control unit 114 determines that content information is displayed on the display unit 117 (YES), the process proceeds to step S1002. The control unit 114 then restarts measuring the registered user's viewing time.

[0090] If it is determined that no information is displayed on the display unit 117 (NO), the process proceeds to step S1011, where it is determined again whether the registered user has logged off from the information processing device 100.

[0091] By performing these steps S1001 to S1012, the information processing device 100 records the viewing information of the registered user. Note that the viewing information to be recorded is not limited to the above; for example, authentication information or detailed logs of device usage may also be recorded as viewing information.

[0092] According to this embodiment, the viewing time measurement unit 170 measures the viewing time of the registered user, the control unit 114 calculates the registered user's cumulative viewing time within a predetermined time, compares the cumulative viewing time with the viewing limit time which is the upper limit of the cumulative viewing time, and issues a warning to the registered user if the cumulative viewing time is equal to or greater than the viewing limit time.

[0093] With this configuration, registered users can recognize from the warnings sent by the information processing device 100 that their cumulative viewing time within a predetermined period has reached the viewing limit. Therefore, even if the cumulative viewing time exceeds the viewing limit while they are viewing information, viewing by the registered user can be suppressed. Furthermore, this allows for the proper recording of viewing information such as the registered user's cumulative viewing time.

[0094] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the control unit 114 warns the registered user with a warning image 401 displayed on the display unit 117. With this configuration, since the warning image 401 is displayed together with the content information, the registered user can quickly stop viewing the content information. In addition, this allows for the proper recording of the registered user's cumulative viewing time.

[0095] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the control unit 114 warns the registered user with a warning sound via the speaker 162. With this configuration, the registered user can recognize the warning by sound, and can quickly stop viewing the content information even if they take their eyes off the information processing device 100. In addition, this allows for the proper recording of the registered user's cumulative viewing time.

[0096] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, viewing information such as registered user information, cumulative viewing time, and viewing time limit is recorded in the information storage unit 125. With this configuration, since viewing information is recorded within the information processing device 100, the control unit 114 can quickly record the viewing information of registered users. In addition, since there is no need to use the external network 1040, the load on the network is reduced.

[0097] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the password entered from the information input unit 115 is acquired as user information. With this configuration, registered users can log on to the information processing device 100 in a simple manner, thus providing an information processing device 100 that balances security and convenience.

[0098] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the user information acquisition unit 106 is equipped with a biosensor and acquires biometric information such as the user's fingerprint or finger vein pattern as user information. With this configuration, the user information acquisition unit 116 can acquire more accurate user information to identify the user, thereby enabling more accurate user authentication. This provides an information processing device 100 with improved security.

[0099] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, facial information is extracted from the user image created by the imaging unit 140, and the information processing device 100 acquires the facial information as user information. With this configuration, the user can acquire facial information simply by having the imaging unit 140 take an image of them, thus reducing the user's workload during user authentication. In addition, since facial information is used as user information, an information processing device 100 with improved security can be provided.

[0100] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, if a registered user's cumulative viewing time exceeds the viewing limit, the information processing device used by the administrator user is notified accordingly. With this configuration, the administrator user can recognize that a registered user is viewing content information beyond the viewing limit.

[0101] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the information processing device 100 consists of a smartphone. With this configuration, since many users own smartphones, the viewing information of registered users can be appropriately recorded.

[0102] (Embodiment 2) This embodiment describes a case where multiple users are registered to the information processing device 100. In this embodiment, the information processing device 100 is, for example, a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet terminal, personal computer, etc.

[0103] Furthermore, registered user information for multiple registered users is stored in the information storage unit 125 of the information processing device 100, or in the server 1050 on the network 1040, associated with the terminal information of the information processing device 100, based on a registration operation performed in advance by the user who wishes to register. In addition, viewing information related to registered users, such as viewing time limits and reset times, may be recorded in the information storage unit 125 in advance by the administrator user or the registered user themselves, or may be recorded in the server 1050, associated with the terminal information of the information processing device 100. The administrator user may be any of the registered users or a user other than a registered user.

[0104] Here, we will explain how to record the viewing information of registered users when multiple users are registered, following the flowchart in Figure 4. In principle, we will omit explanations of parts that overlap with the content of Embodiment 1 in the following explanation.

[0105] Figures 9 and 10 show examples of images displayed during user authentication according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 11 shows an example of a method for recording viewing information of a registered user according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0106] In step S1001, the control unit 114 determines whether the user attempting to use the information processing device 100 is one of several registered users who have been pre-registered as users of the information processing device 100. The control unit 114 displays a user selection screen 501 on the display unit 117, for example, as shown in Figure 9, which allows the user to select a registered user. The user selection screen 501 displays, for example, a registered username and an icon with facial information associated with the registered username, as shown in Figure 9. When the user taps, for example, an icon associated with themselves, the registered user associated with the tapped icon is selected. Next, the control unit 114 requests the user to input user information. Specifically, the control unit 114 displays a password input screen 601 on the display unit 117, for example, as shown in Figure 10.

[0107] The password input screen 601 displays, for example, the selected registered username, facial information, and a software keyboard for password input, as shown in Figure 10. When a password is entered on the password input screen 601, the information processing device 100 acquires the password as user information. The control unit 114 determines whether the user attempting to use the information processing device 100 is the selected registered user by comparing the entered password with the password of the selected registered user.

[0108] In step S1004, the control unit 114 calculates the cumulative viewing time for the selected registered user (the logged-on registered user) within a predetermined time period. That is, the control unit 114 calculates the cumulative viewing time for each registered user.

[0109] The information storage unit 125 and server 1050 record viewing information such as cumulative viewing time and viewing time limits for each registered user. Specifically, as shown in Figure 11, viewing information such as user ID, administrator information, viewing time limits, reset time, cumulative viewing time, and viewing start time are recorded in a table for each registered user. Administrator information is information that identifies whether a registered user is an administrator user. In Figure 11, the user with user ID "001" is an administrator user. Note that in Figure 11, the viewing time limits differ for each registered user, but the reset time and other information may also differ for each registered user.

[0110] In step S1005, the control unit 114 compares the cumulative viewing time for each registered user with the viewing limit time. If the control unit 114 determines that the cumulative viewing time of a registered user who is logged in and viewing content information is equal to or greater than the viewing limit time, the process proceeds to step S1006. Conversely, if the control unit 114 determines that the cumulative viewing time of a logged-in registered user is less than the viewing limit time, the process proceeds to step S1008.

[0111] In step S1006, the control unit 114 issues a warning to the logged-in registered user. The control unit 114 displays a warning image 401 on the display unit 117, for example, as shown in Figure 7, which warns that the logged-in registered user's cumulative viewing time has exceeded the viewing limit. In other words, even if the cumulative viewing time of other registered users exceeds the viewing limit, the warning image 401 is not displayed if the logged-in registered user's cumulative viewing time is less than the viewing limit. For example, in Figure 11, the cumulative viewing time of the registered user with user ID "003" exceeds the viewing limit. If the registered user with user ID "003" is using the information processing device 100, the warning image 401 is displayed, but if any other registered user is using the information processing device 100, the warning image 401 is not displayed.

[0112] According to this embodiment, the information processing device 100 records viewing information of multiple registered users. The control unit 114 issues a warning only if the cumulative viewing time of a logged-on registered user exceeds the viewing limit time. With this configuration, only the viewing of content information by the registered user who is the target of the warning is restricted, so other registered users can use the information processing device 100 without any restrictions on viewing content.

[0113] (Embodiment 3) This embodiment describes a case in which a warning is issued even when a registered user is continuously viewing information for a predetermined period of time. The information processing device 100 in this embodiment is, for example, a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet terminal, or personal computer.

[0114] For example, viewing information related to registered users, such as the pre-set maximum continuous viewing time, predetermined break times, viewing time limits, and reset times, may be pre-recorded in the information storage unit 125 by the administrator user or the registered user themselves, or it may be recorded in the server 1050 in association with the terminal information of the information processing device 100. Furthermore, the administrator user may be any registered user or a user other than a registered user.

[0115] Here, we will explain how to record the viewing information of registered users when multiple users are registered, following the flowchart in Figure 4. In principle, we will omit explanations of parts that overlap with the content of Embodiment 1 in the following explanation.

[0116] Figure 12 shows an example of a method for recording viewing information of registered users according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 13 shows an example of a warning image for registered users according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0117] In step S1002, the viewing time measurement unit 170 starts measuring the viewing time of the registered user viewing the content information displayed on the display unit 117. Here, the viewing time measured by the viewing time measurement unit 170 is also the continuous viewing time of the registered user continuously viewing the information. Therefore, by starting to measure viewing time, the viewing time measurement unit 170 also starts measuring continuous viewing time.

[0118] The viewing time measurement unit 170 outputs the measured continuous viewing time to the control unit 114, for example. The viewing time measurement unit 170 may output information regarding the measured continuous viewing time at a predetermined interval, for example, or in response to a request from the control unit 114. Alternatively, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may output viewing information regarding the continuous viewing time to the information storage unit 125, and the viewing information regarding the continuous viewing time may be recorded in the information storage unit 125. Furthermore, the viewing information regarding the continuous viewing time may be transmitted to a server 1050 located on an external network 1040 via a communication interface 113 or a mobile communication interface 131, and recorded in the server 1050.

[0119] The information storage unit 125 and the server 1050 record viewing information related to continuous viewing and viewing information related to cumulative viewing for each registered user. Specifically, viewing information related to cumulative viewing is recorded in a table such as the one shown in Figure 11, and viewing information related to continuous viewing is recorded in a table such as the one shown in Figure 12. In Figure 12, viewing information such as user ID, administrator information, viewing time limit, continuous viewing time limit, break time, and break end time are recorded for each registered user. Note that the continuous viewing time may be calculated from the viewing start time recorded in the table in Figure 11, or the continuous viewing time (viewing time) may be recorded in the tables in Figures 11 and 12.

[0120] In step S1005, the control unit 114 makes a determination regarding both the cumulative viewing time and the continuous viewing time. Specifically, if the control unit 114 determines that the cumulative viewing time is less than the viewing limit time and the continuous viewing time is less than the continuous viewing limit time (NO), it proceeds to step S1008.

[0121] If the determination by the control unit 114 is anything other than the above, the process proceeds to step S1006. In step S1006, the control unit 114 issues a warning to the registered user. Firstly, if the cumulative viewing time is greater than or equal to the viewing limit time, and the continuous viewing time is less than the continuous viewing limit time, the control unit 114 performs the same control as in the embodiments 1 and 2 described above. Secondly, if the cumulative viewing time is greater than or equal to the viewing limit time, and the continuous viewing time is greater than or equal to the continuous viewing limit time, the control unit 114 also performs the same control as in the embodiments 1 and 2 described above.

[0122] Thirdly, if the cumulative viewing time is less than the viewing limit and the continuous viewing time is equal to or greater than the continuous viewing limit, the control unit 114 warns the logged-in registered user to take a predetermined break. The control unit 114 also outputs the break end time of the registered user who received the warning to the information storage unit 125, and the information storage unit 125 records the viewing information related to the input break end time in a table. The viewing time measurement unit 170 also starts measuring the break time of the registered user who received the warning. For example, the control unit 114 outputs a break time measurement start signal to the viewing time measurement unit 170 to start measuring the break time of the registered user, and the viewing time measurement unit 170 starts measuring the break time of the registered user based on the input break time measurement start signal.

[0123] The viewing time measurement unit 170 measures the break time, for example, by setting the time when a registered user's continuous viewing time reaches the continuous viewing limit as the break start time. The viewing time measurement unit 170 may output information regarding the measured break time, for example, at a predetermined interval, or for example, in response to a request from the control unit 114. Alternatively, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may output viewing information, etc., regarding the measured break time to the information storage unit 125, and the viewing information regarding the break time may be recorded in the information storage unit 125. Furthermore, the viewing information, etc., regarding the registered user's break time may be transmitted 1050 to a server provided on the external network 1040 via the communication I / F 113 or mobile communication I / F 131 and recorded in the server 1050.

[0124] Furthermore, for example, the control unit 114 displays a warning image 801, as shown in Figure 13, to warn the registered user to take a break. In this case, the control unit 114 may also display, for example, the remaining break time within the warning image 801.

[0125] Warning image 801 is displayed when the logged-in registered user's continuous viewing time exceeds the continuous viewing limit. In other words, even if other registered users' continuous viewing time exceeds the continuous viewing limit, warning image 801 will not be displayed if the logged-in registered user's cumulative viewing time is less than the viewing limit.

[0126] In the example combining Figures 11 and 12, the registered user with user ID "002" has not exceeded the viewing limit in cumulative viewing time. Therefore, if the registered user with user ID "002" exceeds the continuous viewing limit in continuous viewing time, the warning image 801 shown in Figure 13 will be displayed. In contrast, the registered user with user ID "003" has exceeded the viewing limit in cumulative viewing time. Therefore, even if the registered user with user ID "002" exceeds the continuous viewing limit in continuous viewing time, the warning image 801 shown in Figure 13 will not be displayed.

[0127] Once the predetermined rest period has elapsed, the control unit 114 will erase the warning image 801. The control unit 114 will also output a rest time measurement stop signal to the viewing time measurement unit 170 to stop measuring the rest time, and the viewing time measurement unit 170 will stop measuring the registered user's rest time based on the input rest time measurement stop signal.

[0128] Furthermore, the control unit 114 resets the continuous viewing time (viewing time). Specifically, the control unit 114 outputs a continuous viewing time reset signal to the viewing time measurement unit 170, and the viewing time measurement unit 170 resets the measured continuous viewing time based on the input continuous viewing time reset signal.

[0129] In step S1009, the viewing time measurement unit 170 stops measuring the registered user's continuous viewing time (viewing time). Also, if break time is being measured, the viewing time measurement unit 170 stops measuring the break time as well.

[0130] In step S1010, if the registered user is on break time, the control unit 114 causes the warning image 801 to be cleared.

[0131] According to this embodiment, if the registered user's cumulative viewing time is less than the viewing time limit, or if the registered user's continuous viewing time is equal to or greater than the continuous viewing time limit, the control unit 114 warns the registered user to take a predetermined break.

[0132] This configuration allows for restricting access to content information for registered users based on their continuous viewing time, thus enabling more accurate recording of registered users' viewing information.

[0133] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, if multiple users are registered with the information processing device 100, only the registered user logged into the information processing device 100 will be warned to take a predetermined break. With this configuration, viewing is restricted only to the registered user using the information processing device 100, so the viewing time of multiple registered users is recorded more appropriately.

[0134] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the information processing device 100 records viewing information of multiple registered users. The control unit 114 issues a warning only if the continuous viewing time of a logged-on registered user exceeds the continuous viewing limit. With this configuration, only the viewing of content information by the registered user who is the target of the warning is restricted, so other registered users can use the information processing device 100 without any restrictions on viewing content.

[0135] (Embodiment 4) This embodiment describes a method for recording viewing information when a user views the information processing device 100 without performing a logon operation. This embodiment applies not only when a user uses it individually, but also when multiple users view it simultaneously. Therefore, the information processing device 100 in this embodiment is, for example, a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet terminal, personal computer, television receiver, etc.

[0136] Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart for recording viewing information in Embodiment 4 of the present invention. Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of a situation in which multiple users are viewing the information processing device. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of acquired user facial information.

[0137] Here, the method for recording registered user viewing information in this embodiment will be explained following the flowchart in Figure 14. In the following explanation, sections that overlap with the contents of Embodiments 1 to 3 described above will be omitted in principle.

[0138] In step S3001, imaging of the user viewing the information processing device 100 begins. Specifically, when the power switch on the device itself or the power button on the remote control is operated and content information is displayed on the display unit 117 of the information processing device 100, the imaging unit 140 begins imaging the user viewing the information processing device 100. Figure 15 shows, for example, a case where multiple users 931 to 933 are viewing content information displayed on the information processing device 100. The imaging unit 140 images these users 931 to 933 and creates a user image 901, for example, as shown in Figure 16. Once the imaging unit 140 begins imaging users 931 to 933, the process proceeds to step S3002.

[0139] In step S3002, the information processing device 100 acquires the registered user's viewing information. Here, the viewing information includes various information about the registered user, such as registered user information, cumulative viewing time, viewing time limit, continuous viewing time, continuous viewing time limit, and predetermined break times. In this case, the registered user information is, for example, the registered user's facial information.

[0140] If viewing information for a registered user is recorded in the information storage unit 125, the control unit 114 retrieves various information about the registered user from the information storage unit 125. If the viewing information for a registered user is recorded, for example, on a server 1050 on an external network 1040, the control unit 114 retrieves the viewing information for the registered user from the server 1050 on the external network 1040, for example, via a communication interface 113 or a mobile communication interface 131. The control unit 114 retrieves viewing information for all registered users registered in the information processing device 100. Note that the processing in step S3002 may be performed prior to the processing in step S3001. Then, the process proceeds to step S3003.

[0141] In step S3003, the imaging unit 140 detects registered users from the images it has captured. Specifically, the imaging unit 140 extracts face information 941-943 for each user as user information from the user image 901. The imaging unit 140 outputs the extracted face information 941-943 to the control unit 114. Alternatively, the imaging unit 140 may output the user image 901 to the control unit 114, and the control unit 114 may extract the face information 941-943. The control unit 114 and the imaging unit 140 may also detect the orientation of the registered user's face and the direction of their gaze when extracting the face information 941-943.

[0142] The control unit 114 then determines whether a user is a registered user based on the user information and registered user information. Specifically, the control unit 114 compares the facial information 941-943, which is user information (facial information), with the registered user information obtained in step S3002. The control unit 114 determines that a user whose facial information 941-943 matches the registered user information is a registered user, and determines that a user whose facial information 941-943 does not match the registered user information is a user other than a registered user. In this way, the control unit 114 detects registered users.

[0143] Furthermore, while the information processing device 100 is running, the imaging unit 140 captures images of the user viewing the content information displayed on the display unit 117 multiple times, for example, consecutively. Each time the imaging unit 140 captures an image of a user, the control unit 114 determines whether the user viewing the content information is a registered user and detects a registered user. This detection of registered users is performed while the information processing device 100 is running. Once a registered user is detected in this way, the process proceeds to step S3004.

[0144] In step S3004, the measurement of the viewing time of the registered user detected in step S3003 begins. Specifically, the viewing time measurement unit 170 measures the time during which the user was determined to be a registered user in step S3003 as the viewing time. If multiple registered users are detected, the viewing time measurement unit 170 measures the viewing time of each registered user in parallel.

[0145] The viewing time measurement unit 170 may also measure viewing time according to the orientation of the registered user's face detected in step S3003. For example, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may measure viewing time when the registered user's face is facing the information processing device 100, and may not measure viewing time when the registered user's face is not facing the information processing device 100.

[0146] Furthermore, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may measure viewing time according to the direction of the registered user's gaze detected in step S3003. For example, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may measure viewing time when the registered user's gaze is directed towards the information processing device 100, and may not measure viewing time when the registered user's gaze is not directed towards the information processing device 100.

[0147] Furthermore, if a registered user detected by the information processing device 100 is not detected for a short period of time less than a predetermined time, and is subsequently detected again, the viewing time measurement unit 170 may measure these times, including the time when the user was not detected, as viewing time (continuous viewing time). Once the measurement of the registered user's viewing time is started in this manner, the system proceeds to step S3005.

[0148] In step S3005, if any registered users are no longer detected during viewing time measurement, the viewing time measurement unit 170 stops measuring the viewing time of those registered users. The viewing time measurement unit 170 continues to measure the viewing time of other registered users. Once the measurement of viewing time for registered users who are no longer detected is stopped, the process proceeds to step S3006.

[0149] In step S3006, the control unit 114 calculates the cumulative viewing time of the detected registered users. The control unit 114 calculates the cumulative viewing time up to the current viewing time by, for example, adding the cumulative viewing time of each previous viewing session (excluding the current viewing session) to the current viewing time. The calculation of the cumulative viewing time for registered users who are no longer detected is stopped. Then, the process proceeds to step S3007.

[0150] In step S3007, the control unit 114 performs the same control as in step S1005 in Figure 4. The control unit 114 compares the cumulative viewing time with the viewing limit time for each registered user. If the control unit 114 determines that the cumulative viewing time is less than the viewing limit time (NO), it proceeds to step S3009. Alternatively, if multiple registered users are detected, the control unit 114 determines that the cumulative viewing time for all detected registered users is less than the viewing limit time (NO), and proceeds to step S3009.

[0151] If the control unit 114 determines that the cumulative viewing time is equal to or greater than the viewing limit time (YES), the process proceeds to step S3008. Alternatively, if multiple registered users are detected, the control unit 114 determines that the cumulative viewing time of any of the detected registered users is equal to or greater than the viewing limit time (NO), the process proceeds to step S3008.

[0152] In step S3008, the control unit 114 performs the same control as in step S1006 in Figure 4. The control unit 114 warns registered users whose cumulative viewing time exceeds the viewing limit. Furthermore, if a registered user who has been undetected for a while is detected again and their cumulative viewing time exceeds the viewing limit, the control unit 114 also warns that the registered user should restrict their viewing of the content information. At this time, to avoid interfering with other users' viewing, the control unit 114 may, for example, display a warning image on the periphery of the display unit 117 or emit a low-volume warning sound. If the warned registered user is no longer detected, the control unit 114 stops the warning to that registered user. Once a warning notification has been sent to a registered user, the process proceeds to step S3009.

[0153] In step S3009, the control unit 114 determines whether content information is displayed on the display unit 117. For example, if the control unit 114 determines that content information is displayed on the display unit 117 (YES), the process returns to step S3003. Then, steps S3003 to S3009 are performed again, the viewing information measurement unit 117 continues to measure the viewing time of the detected registered user, and the control unit 114 continues to calculate the cumulative viewing time of the detected registered user.

[0154] In contrast, if the control unit 114 determines, for example, that no content information is displayed on the display unit 117 (NO), the process proceeds to step S3010.

[0155] In step S3010, the same control as in step S1009 in Figure 4 is performed. The viewing time measurement unit 170 stops measuring the viewing time of the detected registered user, and the control unit 114 stops calculating the cumulative viewing time of the detected registered user.

[0156] Then, the process moves to step S3011. In step S3011, the imaging unit 140 stops the user from taking images.

[0157] By performing these steps S3001 to S3011, even when a user views the information processing device 100 without performing a logon operation, the viewing information of the registered user is recorded.

[0158] In this embodiment as well, the continuous viewing time may be recorded as viewing information. For example, in step S3004, the viewing time measurement unit 170 measures the viewing time as the continuous viewing time. Then, in step S3007, the control unit 114 compares the continuous viewing time with the continuous viewing limit time. In step S3008, the control unit 114 warns registered users whose continuous viewing time exceeds the continuous viewing limit time to take a break.

[0159] According to this embodiment, while the information processing device 100 is operating, the imaging unit 140 automatically captures an image of the user, and facial information is extracted from the user image created by the imaging unit 140. The control unit 114 detects the registered user from the extracted facial information and user registration information.

[0160] With this configuration, registered users are detected without the user having to log in, so even if multiple users are viewing content, the viewing information of registered users can be properly recorded.

[0161] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the imaging unit 140 captures images of the user viewing the content information multiple times, and the control unit 114 detects the registered user each time the imaging unit 140 captures an image of the user. In addition, the viewing time measurement unit 170 measures the viewing time only while the registered user is detected.

[0162] With this configuration, viewing time is measured only while the registered user is viewing the content information. In other words, the registered user's viewing time is measured without the registered user logging off from the information processing device 100 or turning off the display of the information processing device 100. As a result, the viewing time measurement unit 170 can accurately measure the registered user's viewing time. Furthermore, this allows for a more accurate calculation of the registered user's cumulative viewing time and enables more appropriate recording of the registered user's viewing information.

[0163] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the imaging unit 140 continuously images the users of the information processing device 100. With this configuration, the control unit 140 continuously detects registered users, so the viewing time measurement unit 170 can more accurately measure the viewing time of the detected registered users. As a result, the control unit 140 can more accurately calculate the cumulative viewing time of the detected registered users. In addition, this allows for more accurate recording of the viewing information of registered users.

[0164] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the continuous viewing time may be recorded as the registered user's viewing information. With this configuration, viewing of content information for registered users can also be restricted based on the continuous viewing time, allowing for more appropriate recording of the registered user's viewing information.

[0165] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, if multiple users are registered in the information processing device 100, viewing information regarding cumulative viewing and viewing information regarding continuous viewing are recorded for each registered user. When the control unit 114 detects a registered user who is subject to a warning, it issues a warning to that registered user. The control unit 114 then warns the registered user by displaying a warning image on the edge of the screen or by emitting a warning sound at a reduced volume. With this configuration, viewing by the registered user subject to a warning can be restricted without interfering with other users' viewing of content information.

[0166] (Embodiment 5) Up to this point, we have described the case where the viewing information of registered users is recorded in each individual information processing device. However, nowadays, many users own multiple information processing devices, such as smartphones, mobile phones, personal computers, tablet devices, and television sets. Therefore, if the viewing information of registered users is recorded for each information processing device, it will not be possible to properly record the viewing information of registered users. Accordingly, this embodiment describes a viewing information management system that records the viewing information of registered users in a single operation across multiple information processing devices.

[0167] Figure 17 shows an example of a viewing information management system according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. The viewing information management system consists of, for example, an information processing device 100 (100A to 100E), a base station 1010, a broadcasting station 1020, a wireless router 1030, an external network 1040, a server 1050, etc., as shown in Figure 18.

[0168] In this embodiment, registered users are registered in multiple information processing devices 100 (100A to 100E). Information processing devices 100A to 100C are, for example, smartphones, mobile phones, personal computers, tablet terminals, etc. Information processing devices 100A to 100C are connected to a server 1050 located on an external network 1040 via a mobile communication I / F 131 and a base station 1010, which act as information communication units. Furthermore, information processing devices 100A to 100C are connected to a server 1050 located on an external network via a communication I / F 113 and a wireless router 1030, which act as information communication units. As a result, information processing devices 100A to 100C transmit and receive registered user viewing information, content information, etc., with the server 1050.

[0169] The information processing device 100D is a device that connects to the server 1050 via, for example, a communication interface 113 and a wireless router 1030, which act as an information and communication unit. The information processing device 100D is a device that connects to the server 1050, which is located on an external network 1040, via a communication interface 113 and a wireless router 1030, which act as an information and communication unit. As a result, the information processing device 100D sends and receives registered user viewing information, content information, etc., to and from the server 1050.

[0170] The information processing device 100E is, for example, a television receiver that receives radio waves (television signals) transmitted from broadcasting station 1020 and displays television broadcasts. The information processing device 100E is connected to server 1050 via communication I / F 113 and wireless router 1030, which act as information and communication units. As a result, the information processing device 100E transmits and receives registered user viewing information, content information, etc., to and from server 1050.

[0171] Information processing units 100A to 100E are connected to the wireless router 1030 via wired or wireless LAN. For example, in Figure 17, information processing units 100A to 100D are connected to the wireless router 1030 via wireless LAN, and information processing unit 100E is connected to the wireless router 1030 via wired LAN. Furthermore, information processing units 100A to 100E are connected to each other via the wireless router 1030.

[0172] In this embodiment, for the sake of explanation, among the multiple information processing devices 100A to 100E, one information processing device (information processing device 1) 100A is designated as the viewing information management device. Information processing devices 100B to 100E transmit viewing information to information processing device 100A, for example, regarding the cumulative viewing time of registered users. Information processing device 100A records the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices, which is the sum of the cumulative viewing times of registered users in the multiple information processing devices 100A to 100E, based on the viewing information regarding the cumulative viewing time of registered users received from information processing devices 100B to 100E. In this way, information processing device 100A records the viewing information of registered users in the multiple information processing devices 100A to 100E all at once. Note that information processing device 100A may be, for example, a device used personally by an administrator user.

[0173] Furthermore, the viewing information management system is not limited to this configuration and can be freely modified. For example, information processing devices 100D and 100E may be connected to the base station 1010, or information processing devices 100A to 100D may receive radio waves from broadcasting station 1020. In addition, the viewing information management system may have six or more information processing devices 100, or it may have four or fewer information processing devices 100.

[0174] [Method for recording viewing time in information processing devices that require logon] Next, we will describe the method for recording the viewing information of registered users in this embodiment. First, we will describe the method for recording viewing time in an information processing device that requires user logon. Figure 18 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart for recording viewing information according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. Figure 19 is a diagram showing an example of the method for recording viewing information according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. In the following description, we will generally omit explanations of parts that overlap with the contents of Embodiments 1 to 4 described above.

[0175] Furthermore, user information for multiple registered users is recorded in the information storage unit 125 of the information processing device 100A, for example, through a registration operation performed in advance by the user who wishes to register. In addition, viewing information for registered users, such as viewing time limits, continuous viewing time limits, and reset times, is recorded in the information storage unit 125 of the information processing device 100A in advance by the administrator user or the registered user themselves.

[0176] In step S1001, it is determined whether the user attempting to use the information processing device 100 is one of several registered users who have been pre-registered as users of the information processing device 100. If the information processing device 100 that the user is attempting to log on to has not obtained the registered user information, such as the registered user's password, the information processing device 100A or the server 1050 is obtained in advance.

[0177] In step S1002, when the viewing time measurement unit 170 of the information processing device 100 on which the registered user is logged in starts measuring the viewing time of the logged-in registered user, the process proceeds to step S4003.

[0178] In step S4003, the information processing device 100 transmits viewing start information to the information processing device 100A, which consists of, for example, the identification information of the logged-on registered user (e.g., registered user information), viewing information regarding the start time of viewing the content, and device identification information that identifies the information processing device 100 being used by the registered user. The information processing device 100A determines, for example, based on the device identification information of the received viewing start information, whether the information processing device 100 that transmitted the viewing start information is a device registered in the viewing information management system. If it is determined that the information processing device 100 that transmitted the viewing start information is a device registered in the viewing information management system, the information processing device 100A records the viewing start time of the logged-on registered user, etc., as viewing information in the table based on the received viewing start information. For example, as shown in Figure 19, the information processing device 100A records the ID of the information processing device 100 currently in use in the device ID column of the currently used device column, and viewing information regarding the viewing start time on the information processing device 100, etc., in the viewing start time column of the table. Then, the information processing device 100A sends information to the information processing device 100 that sent the viewing start information, notifying it that it has received the viewing start information.

[0179] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 requests the information processing device 100A to transmit viewing information such as the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the last time, which is the sum of the cumulative viewing time across multiple information processing devices 100 to which the logged-on registered user is registered, or the information processing devices 100 to which the user is registered in the viewing information management system (for example, 100A to 100E), and the viewing time limit. The information processing device 100A transmits the viewing information of the logged-on registered user to the information processing device 100. Then, the process proceeds to step S1004.

[0180] In step S1004, the current viewing time measured in step S1002 and the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices received from the information processing device 100A in step S4003 are added together to calculate the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the current time for the logged-on registered user. Then, the process proceeds to step S1005.

[0181] In step S1005, the control unit 114 of the information processing device 100 on which the registered user is logged in (viewing content) compares the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point with the viewing limit time. If the control unit 114 of the information processing device 100 on which the registered user is logged in determines that the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point is equal to or greater than the viewing limit time, the process proceeds to step S1006.

[0182] In step S1006, the control unit 114 of the information processing device 100 on which the registered user is logged in issues a warning to the registered user. Then, the process proceeds to step S4007.

[0183] In step S4007, the information processing device 100 on which the registered user is logged in transmits viewing time exceedance information (e.g., cumulative viewing time across multiple devices) to the information processing device 100A, indicating that the registered user has exceeded the viewing time limit. The information processing device 100A records the received viewing time exceedance information in a table. Then, the process proceeds to step S1008.

[0184] In step S1009, the viewing time measurement unit 170 of the information processing device 100 on which the registered user is logged in stops measuring the registered user's viewing time. The information processing device 100 also sends viewing stop information indicating that the registered user has stopped viewing the content information, as well as viewing information such as the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point, to the information processing device 100A. The information processing device 100A records the received viewing stop information and viewing information such as the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices, and updates the viewing information of the registered user who stopped viewing. For example, the information processing device 100A deletes the viewing information such as the ID information of the information processing device 100 recorded in the device ID field and viewing start time information from the table, and records the viewing information regarding the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point in the table.

[0185] Furthermore, the continuous viewing time may be recorded as part of the registered user's viewing information. For example, in step S4007 of Figure 18, the information processing device 100 on which the registered user is logged in transmits continuous viewing time exceedance information (e.g., break end time) to the information processing device 100A, indicating that the registered user has exceeded the continuous viewing limit. The information processing device 100A records the received continuous viewing time exceedance information in a table.

[0186] [Recording of viewing time in information processing devices that do not require logon] Next, a method for recording viewing time in an information processing device that does not require user logon operations will be described. Figure 20 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart for recording viewing information according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. Figure 21 is a diagram showing an example of a method for recording viewing information according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

[0187] In step S3002, the information processing device 100 transmits device identification information to the information processing device 100A to identify itself, and requests the transmission of registered user viewing information, etc. Based on the received device identification information, the information processing device 100A determines whether the information processing device 100 is a device registered in the viewing information management system. If the information processing device 100 that transmitted the viewing start information is determined to be a device registered in the viewing information management system, it transmits viewing information to the information processing device 100, such as the registered user's previous cumulative viewing time across multiple devices and viewing time limit. Then, the process proceeds to step S3003.

[0188] In step S3004, the information processing device 100 transmits viewing start information to the information processing device 100A, which consists of, for example, the identification information of the detected registered user (e.g., registered user information), viewing information regarding the viewing start time, and device identification information that identifies the information processing device 100. The information processing device 100A records the received viewing start information in a table. For example, as shown in Figure 21, the information processing device 100A records viewing information such as the ID of the information processing device 100, the viewing start time on the information processing device 100, and facial information in a table. The information processing device 100A may also transmit information to the information processing device 100 that transmitted the viewing start information, notifying it that the viewing start information has been received.

[0189] In step S3005, if there is a registered user who is no longer detected during the measurement of viewing time, the information processing device 100 sends viewing stop information, cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point, etc., to the information processing device 100A. The information processing device 100A records the viewing information, including the received viewing stop information and cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point, in a table and updates the viewing information of the registered user who stopped viewing. If the information processing device 100 that sent the viewing stop information and cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point is determined to be a device registered in the viewing information management system, for example, the information processing device 100A deletes the viewing information, including the ID information of the information processing device 100 recorded in the device ID field and viewing start time information, etc., from the table and records the viewing information regarding cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point in the table. The information processing device 100A may also send information to the information processing device 100 notifying it that it has received the viewing stop information and cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point.

[0190] In step S3006, the current viewing time measured in step S3004 and the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices received from the information processing device 100A in step S3002 are added together to calculate the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the current time for the detected registered user. The control unit 114 also stops calculating the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the current time for registered users who are no longer detected.

[0191] In this embodiment as well, the continuous viewing time may be recorded as the registered user's viewing information. For example, in step S4007 of Figure 18, the information processing device 100 transmits continuous viewing time exceedance information (e.g., break end time) to the information processing device 100A, indicating that the registered user has exceeded the continuous viewing time limit. Based on the received continuous viewing time exceedance information, the information processing device 100A records, for example, viewing information related to the registered user's break end time in a table.

[0192] Furthermore, for example, in step S3004 of Figure 20, the viewing time measurement unit 170 measures the viewing time as continuous viewing time. Then, in step S3007 of Figure 20, the control unit 114 compares the continuous viewing time with the continuous viewing limit time. In step S3008 of Figure 20, the control unit 114 warns registered users whose continuous viewing time exceeds the continuous viewing limit time to take a break. Then, in step S3010 of Figure 20, the viewing time measurement unit 170 stops measuring the viewing time of the detected registered user, and the control unit 114 stops calculating the cumulative viewing time of the detected registered user. The information processing device 100 also transmits viewing stop information indicating that the registered user has stopped viewing the content information, the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point, etc., to the information processing device 100A.

[0193] According to this embodiment, even if a registered user views content information on multiple information processing devices 100, the viewing information from each information processing device 100 is recorded collectively in the information processing device 100A, which acts as a viewing information management device.

[0194] With this configuration, the sum of the cumulative viewing time in each information processing device 100 is recorded as the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices, so that the viewing information of registered users is recorded more appropriately.

[0195] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, after receiving the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the previous time from the information processing device 100A, which acts as a viewing information management device, each information processing device 100 calculates the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the current time. In addition, each information processing device 100 compares the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices with the viewing limit time.

[0196] This configuration reduces the number of times the information processing device 100 accesses the information processing device 100A, thereby reducing the load on the information processing device 100A. Furthermore, even if the information processing device 100 is unable to access the information processing device 100A, it can still warn registered users.

[0197] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, if a registered user's continuous viewing time exceeds the continuous viewing limit, viewing information related to the start time of the break is recorded in the table. With this configuration, even if a registered user tries to use another information processing device 100 during the break time, viewing of content information, etc., is restricted, so the registered user's viewing information can be recorded more appropriately.

[0198] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, viewing information is recorded via the external internet 1040. With this configuration, even if the administrator user and the registered user are geographically separated, the registered user's viewing is restricted, so the viewing information is recorded appropriately.

[0199] (Embodiment 6) This embodiment describes a case in which viewing information is recorded in the server 1050, which serves as a viewing information management device.

[0200] [Method for recording viewing time in information processing devices that require logon] The method for recording viewing time in an information processing device that requires a logon operation will be explained with reference to Figure 18. In the following explanation, sections that overlap with the contents of Embodiments 1 to 5 described above will be omitted in principle.

[0201] Furthermore, user information for multiple registered users is stored in server 1050, for example, through a registration operation performed in advance by the user who wishes to register. In addition, viewing information for registered users, such as viewing time limits, continuous viewing time limits, and reset times, is stored in server 1050 in advance by the administrator user or the registered user themselves.

[0202] In step S4003, the information processing device 100 transmits viewing start information to the server 1050 on the external network 1040. This information includes, for example, the identification information of the logged-on registered user (e.g., registered user information), viewing information regarding the viewing start time, and device identification information that identifies the information processing device 100 being used by the registered user. The server 1050 determines, for example, whether the information processing device 100 that transmitted the viewing start information is a device registered in the viewing information management system, based on the device identification information of the received viewing start information. If the information processing device 100 is determined to be a device registered in the viewing information management system, the server 1050 records the viewing information related to the received viewing start information in a table. For example, as shown in Figure 19, the server 1050 records viewing information such as the ID of the information processing device 100 and the viewing start time in a table. The server 1050 then transmits information to the information processing device 100 notifying it that it has received the viewing start information.

[0203] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 requests the server 1050 to transmit viewing information such as the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices and the viewing time limit for registered users who are logged in and viewing content information. The server 1050 transmits the viewing information of the logged-in registered user to the information processing device 100.

[0204] In step S4007, the information processing device 100 sends viewing time exceedance information (for example, cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point) to the server 1050, indicating that the registered user has exceeded the viewing time limit. The server 1050 records the received viewing time exceedance information in a table.

[0205] In step S1009, the information processing device 100 sends viewing stop information indicating that a registered user has stopped viewing the content information, and viewing information such as the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point, to the server 1050. The server 1050 records the received viewing stop information and viewing information such as the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point in a table and updates the viewing information of the registered user who stopped viewing. For example, the server 1050 deletes the ID information of the information processing device 100, viewing start time information, etc. from the table and records viewing information regarding the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point in the table.

[0206] [Recording of viewing time in information processing devices that do not require logon] Next, we will explain how to record viewing time in an information processing device that does not require user logon, with reference to Figure 20.

[0207] In step S3002, the information processing device 100 transmits device identification information to the server 1050 to identify itself, and requests the transmission of registered user viewing information, etc. Based on the received device identification information, the server 1050 determines whether the information processing device 100 is a device registered in the viewing information management system. If the information processing device 100 is determined to be a device registered in the viewing information management system, the server transmits viewing information to the information processing device 100, such as the registered user's previous cumulative viewing time across multiple devices and viewing time limits.

[0208] In step S3004, the information processing device 100 transmits viewing start information to the server 1050, which consists of, for example, the identification information of the detected registered user (e.g., registered user information), viewing information regarding the viewing start time, and device identification information that identifies the information processing device 100. The server 1050 records the received viewing start information in a table. For example, as shown in Figure 21, the server 1050 records viewing information in the table, which includes the ID of the information processing device 100, the viewing start time on the information processing device 100, and facial information. The server 1050 may also transmit information to the information processing device 100 notifying it that it has received the viewing start information.

[0209] In step S3005, if a registered user is no longer detected during the measurement of viewing time, the information processing device 100 sends viewing stop information indicating that the registered user has stopped viewing the content information, the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point, etc., to the server 1050. The server 1050 records the viewing information, including the viewing stop information and the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point, in a table and updates the viewing information of the registered user who stopped viewing. For example, the server 1050 deletes the viewing information, including the ID information of the information processing device 100 recorded in the device ID field and viewing start time information, from the table and records the viewing information regarding the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point in the table.

[0210] In this embodiment as well, the continuous viewing time may be recorded as the registered user's viewing information. For example, in step S4007 of Figure 18, the information processing device 100 sends continuous viewing time exceedance information (e.g., break end time) to the server 1050, indicating that the registered user has exceeded the continuous viewing time limit. The server 1050 records the viewing information related to the received continuous viewing time exceedance information in a table.

[0211] According to this embodiment, even if a registered user views content information on multiple information processing devices 100, the viewing information from each information processing device 100 is recorded collectively on the server 1050, which acts as a viewing information management device.

[0212] With this configuration, the sum of the cumulative viewing times in each information processing device 100 is recorded as the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices, so that the viewing information of registered users is recorded more appropriately. Furthermore, with this configuration, the viewing processing device 100 does not need to record the viewing information of registered users, thus reducing the load on the information processing device 100.

[0213] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, if a registered user's continuous viewing time exceeds the continuous viewing limit, viewing information related to the start time of the break is recorded in the table. With this configuration, even if a registered user tries to use another information processing device 100 during the break time, viewing of content information, etc., is restricted, so the registered user's viewing information can be recorded more appropriately.

[0214] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, viewing information is recorded via the external internet 1040. With this configuration, even if the administrator user and the registered user are geographically separated, the viewing information of the registered user is properly recorded.

[0215] (Embodiment 7) In embodiments 5 to 6 described above, the case in which the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point is calculated in each information processing device 100 was explained. In this embodiment, however, the case in which the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point is calculated in the information processing device 100A and the server 1050, which acts as a viewing information management device, will be explained. In the following explanation, in principle, explanations of parts that overlap with the content of embodiments 1 to 6 described above will be omitted.

[0216] [Method for recording viewing time in information processing devices that require logon] The method for recording viewing time in an information processing device that requires a logon operation will be explained with reference to Figure 18. When the information processing device 100A and server 1050 receive information transmitted from the information processing device 100 in step S4003 of Figure 18, such as the identification information of the logged-on registered user and viewing information regarding the start time of viewing the content information, they start measuring the registered user's current viewing time. The information processing device 100A and server 1050 also add the registered user's current viewing time and the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the previous time to calculate the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the current time. Then, the information processing device 100A and server 1050 compare the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the current time with the viewing limit time. If the information processing device 100A and server 1050 determine that the registered user's cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the current time is greater than or equal to the viewing limit time, they instruct the information processing device 100 on which the registered user is viewing the content to warn the registered user, and the information processing device 100 issues a warning to the registered user based on the instructions from the information processing device 100A and server 1050. For example, the information processing device 100A and server 1050 transmit viewing time exceedance information to the information processing device 100, indicating that the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point exceeds the viewing time limit. The information processing device 100 then issues a warning to the registered user by performing the control shown in step S1006 of Figure 18 based on the received viewing time exceedance information.

[0217] When the information processing device 100A and server 1050 receive the registered user's viewing stop information transmitted from the information processing device 100 in step S1009 of Figure 18, they stop measuring the registered user's viewing time. The information processing device 100A and server 1050 also stop calculating the registered user's cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the present, and record the viewing information regarding the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the present in a table.

[0218] [Recording of viewing time in information processing devices that do not require logon] Next, we will explain how to record viewing time in an information processing device that does not require user logon, referring to Figure 20. In this case as well, the information processing device 100A and server 1050 perform control in much the same way as in the case where logon is required, as described above. Therefore, we will explain the differences from the control in the case where logon is required.

[0219] When the information processing device 100A and server 1050 receive information transmitted from the information processing device 100 in step S3004 of Figure 20, such as the identification information of the detected registered user and viewing information regarding the viewing start time, they begin measuring the current viewing time of the detected registered user. The information processing device 100A and server 1050 also add the current viewing time of the registered user to the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the previous time to calculate the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the current time. If the information processing device 100A and server 1050 determine that the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to the current time exceeds the viewing limit time, they instruct the information processing device 100 to warn the registered user. The information processing device 100 issues a warning to the registered user by performing the control in step S3008 of Figure 20 based on the received viewing limit time exceedance information. If the information processing device 100A and server 1050 determine that a registered user's cumulative viewing time across multiple devices to date exceeds the viewing limit, they instruct the information processing device 100 on which the registered user is viewing content to warn the registered user. The information processing device 100 then issues a warning to the registered user based on the instructions from the information processing device 100A and server 1050. For example, the information processing device 100A and server 1050 send viewing limit exceedance information to the information processing device 100, indicating that the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices to date exceeds the viewing limit. The information processing device 100 then issues a warning to the registered user by performing the control shown in step S3008 of Figure 20 based on the received viewing limit exceedance information.

[0220] When the information processing device 100A and the server 1050 receive information from the information processing device 100 in step S3005 of Figure 20 indicating that a registered user has stopped viewing, they stop measuring the registered user's viewing time.

[0221] Furthermore, the information processing device 100A and server 1050 may measure the continuous viewing time of registered users. The information processing device 100A and server 1050 measure the continuous viewing time of registered users and compare the continuous viewing time with the continuous viewing limit time. If the information processing device 100A and server 1050 determine that the continuous viewing time of registered users is greater than or equal to the continuous viewing limit time, they will have the information processing device 100 warn the registered user. For example, the information processing device 100A and server 1050 send information processing device 100 information indicating that the continuous viewing time is greater than or equal to the continuous viewing limit time. Based on the received continuous viewing limit time exceedance information, the information processing device 100 issues a warning to the registered user by performing the control shown in step S1006 in Figure 18 or step 3008 in Figure 20.

[0222] Furthermore, when the information processing device 100A and the server 1050 receive information from the information processing device 100 that the registered user has stopped viewing, in step S1009 of Figure 18 or step S3005 of Figure 20, they stop measuring the registered user's continuous viewing time.

[0223] In this embodiment, the information processing device 100A and server 1050, which serve as viewing information management devices, calculate the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices and the continuous viewing time. With this configuration, each information processing device 100 does not need to calculate the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices and the continuous viewing time, thus reducing the load on the information processing devices 100.

[0224] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the information processing device 100A and server 1050 compare the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point with the viewing restriction time, and if they determine that the cumulative viewing time across multiple devices up to this point exceeds the viewing restriction time, they instruct the information processing device 100 to warn the registered user. With this configuration, the information processing device 100 restricts the registered user's viewing of content information by issuing a warning based on the instructions from the information processing device 100A and server 1050. As a result, the registered user's viewing information is properly recorded.

[0225] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the information processing device 100A and the server 1050 compare the continuous viewing time with the continuous viewing limit time, and if the continuous viewing time exceeds the continuous viewing limit time, they warn the information processing device 100 to take a predetermined break. With this configuration, the information processing device 100 can ensure that registered users take appropriate breaks by issuing warnings based on instructions from the information processing device 100A and the server 1050. As a result, the viewing information of registered users is recorded more accurately.

[0226] (Other embodiments) The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. For example, the wireless router 1030 may be provided with storage, and the viewing information of registered users may be recorded in the storage. In this case, compared to the case where the information processing device 100 is used as a viewing information management device, power is supplied to the wireless router 1030 in a more stable manner. Furthermore, since the network connection between the information processing device 100 (e.g., 100A to 100E) and the wireless router 1030 is stable, it is possible to respond immediately to requests for transmission of viewing information from the information processing device 100.

[0227] The present inventors have described the invention in detail based on embodiments of the invention above, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified in various ways without departing from its essence.

[0228] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are included. For example, the embodiments described above are described in detail for the purpose of clearly illustrating the present invention, and are not necessarily limited to those having all the configurations described.

[0229] Furthermore, it is possible to replace parts of the configuration of one embodiment with the configuration of another embodiment, and it is also possible to add configurations from other embodiments to the configuration of one embodiment. In addition, it is possible to add, delete, or replace parts of the configuration of each embodiment with other configurations. Note that the individual components and relative sizes shown in the drawings are simplified and idealized for the purpose of clearly explaining the present invention, and the actual shapes may be more complex in practice. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0230] 100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E... Information processing device, 114... Control unit, 115... Information input unit, 116... User information acquisition unit, 117... Display unit, 125... Information storage unit, 140... Imaging unit, 1010... Base station, 1020... Broadcasting station, 1030... Wireless router, 1040... External network, 1050... Server

Claims

1. It is a system, First information processing device and Second information processing device and Third information processing device and The system comprises the first information processing device and a server connected to the second information processing device, The first information processing device is The first user information acquisition unit acquires user information, First display unit, First Communications Department and It has a first control unit and The second information processing device is A second user information acquisition unit that acquires user information, The second display unit, The Second Communications Department and It has a second control unit, The third information processing device is A third control unit registers user information for the first information processing device and the second information processing device, and sets viewing time limits for the first information processing device and the second information processing device. A third communication unit that transmits viewing time limit information regarding viewing time limits to the first information processing device and the second information processing device, It has a third display section, The first control unit performs user authentication using pre-registered user information and user information acquired by the first user information acquisition unit, then controls the first display unit to display content information, measures the first viewing time of the content information displayed on the first display unit, and controls the first communication unit to transmit cumulative viewing time information based on the first viewing time to the third information processing device via the server. The first communication unit receives viewing restriction time information from the third information processing device via the server, and the first control unit determines that the first viewing time being measured is equal to or greater than the viewing restriction time set by the third information processing device, the first control unit controls the content information displayed on the first display unit to be hidden and to restrict viewing. The first control unit controls the first display unit to hide the content information, and then, after a certain amount of time has elapsed, controls the unit to release the viewing restriction. The second control unit performs user authentication using pre-registered user information and user information acquired by the second user information acquisition unit, then controls the second display unit to display content information, measures a second viewing time for the content information displayed on the second display unit, and controls the second communication unit to transmit cumulative viewing time information based on the second viewing time to the third information processing device via the server. The second communication unit receives viewing restriction time information from the third information processing device via the server, and the second control unit determines that the second viewing time being measured is equal to or greater than the viewing restriction time set by the third information processing device, the second control unit controls the content information displayed on the second display unit to be hidden and to restrict viewing. The second control unit controls the second display unit to hide the content information, and then, after a certain amount of time has elapsed, controls it to release the viewing restriction. The third control unit controls the display unit to show the first viewing time received from the first information processing device or the second viewing time received from the second information processing device. system.

2. It is a system, First information processing device and Second information processing device and Third information processing device and The system comprises the first information processing device and a server connected to the second information processing device, The first information processing device is The first user information acquisition unit acquires user information, First display unit, First Communications Department and It has a first control unit and The second information processing device is A second user information acquisition unit that acquires user information, The second display unit, The Second Communications Department and It has a second control unit, The third information processing device is A third control unit registers user information for the first information processing device and the second information processing device, and sets viewing time limits for the first information processing device and the second information processing device. A third communication unit that transmits viewing time limit information regarding viewing time limits to the first information processing device and the second information processing device, It has a third display section, The first control unit performs user authentication using pre-registered user information and user information acquired by the first user information acquisition unit, then controls the first display unit to display content information, measures the first viewing time of the content information displayed on the first display unit, and controls the first communication unit to transmit cumulative viewing time information based on the first viewing time to the third information processing device via the server. The first communication unit receives viewing restriction time information from the third information processing device via the server, and the first control unit determines that the first viewing time being measured is equal to or greater than the viewing restriction time set by the third information processing device, the first control unit controls the content information displayed on the first display unit to be hidden and to restrict viewing. The first control unit controls the first display unit to hide the content information, and then controls it to release the viewing restriction at a predetermined time. The second control unit performs user authentication using pre-registered user information and user information acquired by the second user information acquisition unit, then controls the second display unit to display content information, measures a second viewing time for the content information displayed on the second display unit, and controls the second communication unit to transmit cumulative viewing time information based on the second viewing time to the third information processing device via the server. The second communication unit receives viewing restriction time information from the third information processing device via the server, and the second control unit determines that the second viewing time being measured is equal to or greater than the viewing restriction time set by the third information processing device, the second control unit controls the content information displayed on the second display unit to be hidden and to restrict viewing. The second control unit controls the second display unit to hide the content information, and then controls it to release the viewing restriction at a predetermined time. The third control unit controls the display unit to show the first viewing time received from the first information processing device or the second viewing time received from the second information processing device. system.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, The third control unit controls the display unit to show the cumulative viewing time calculated by adding the first viewing time received from the first information processing device and the second viewing time received from the second information processing device. system.

4. The system according to claim 1 or 2, After the first control unit controls the first display unit to hide the content information and restrict viewing, the third control unit, upon receiving information regarding the viewing restriction from the first information processing device, performs control regarding the first viewing time. system.

5. The system according to claim 4, When the third control unit receives information regarding the viewing restriction from the first information processing device, it performs control to stop measuring the first viewing time. system.

6. The system according to claim 1 or 2, The first user information acquisition unit and / or the second user information acquisition unit acquire the entered password as user information. system.

7. The system according to claim 1 or 2, The first user information acquisition unit and / or the second user information acquisition unit have a biosensor and acquire biometric information as user information. system.

8. The system according to claim 1 or 2, The first user information acquisition unit and / or the second user information acquisition unit have an image sensor and acquire facial information extracted from the user image captured and created by the image sensor as user information. system.

9. The system according to claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned viewing time is the time during which content information created by the application program is displayed on the first display unit, or the elapsed time from the start time of displaying content information created by the application program and displayed on the first display unit. system.

10. The system according to claim 1 or 2, The first information processing device has a clock function, The first control unit measures the viewing time based on the time information from the clock function. system.

11. The system according to claim 1 or 2, The second communication unit receives the cumulative viewing time information based on the viewing time from the first information processing device via the server. system.

12. The system according to claim 1 or 2, The second communication unit receives information indicating that the viewing time being measured by the first information processing device is equal to or greater than the viewing limit time set by the first information processing device. system.

13. An information processing device, Display unit and A control unit that registers user information for the first information processing device and the second information processing device, and sets viewing time limits for the first information processing device and the second information processing device, The system includes a communication unit that transmits viewing time limit information relating to the viewing time limit to the first information processing device and the second information processing device, The control unit controls the display unit to display the first viewing time or the second viewing time based on the first viewing time measured as the time when content information was displayed on the first information processing device where authentication for the registered user was performed, and the second viewing time measured as the time when content information was displayed on the second information processing device where authentication for the registered user was performed. When the communication unit receives from the first information processing device information regarding viewing restrictions on content information that are lifted after a specified time, based on the viewing restriction time information transmitted to the first information processing device, the control unit performs control regarding the first viewing time. When the communication unit receives from the second information processing device information regarding viewing restrictions on content information that are lifted after a specified period of time, based on the viewing restriction time information transmitted to the second information processing device, the control unit performs control regarding the second viewing time. Information processing device.

14. An information processing device, Display unit and A control unit that registers user information for the first information processing device and the second information processing device, and sets viewing time limits for the first information processing device and the second information processing device, The system includes a communication unit that transmits viewing time limit information relating to the viewing time limit to the first information processing device and the second information processing device, The control unit controls the display unit to display the first viewing time or the second viewing time based on the first viewing time measured as the time when content information was displayed on the first information processing device where authentication for the registered user was performed, and the second viewing time measured as the time when content information was displayed on the second information processing device where authentication for the registered user was performed. When the communication unit receives from the first information processing device information regarding viewing restrictions on content information that are to be lifted at a predetermined time, based on the viewing restriction time information transmitted to the first information processing device, the control unit performs control regarding the first viewing time. When the communication unit receives from the second information processing device information regarding viewing restrictions on content information that are to be lifted at a predetermined time, based on the viewing restriction time information transmitted to the second information processing device, the control unit performs control regarding the second viewing time. Information processing device.

15. An information processing apparatus according to claim 13 or 14, When the control unit receives information regarding the viewing restriction from the first information processing device, it performs control to stop measuring the first viewing time, and when it receives information regarding the viewing restriction from the second information processing device, it performs control to stop measuring the second viewing time. Information processing device.

16. An information processing apparatus according to claim 13 or 14, The control unit controls the display unit to display the cumulative viewing time calculated by adding the first viewing time received from the first information processing device and the second viewing time received from the second information processing device. Information processing device.

17. An information processing apparatus according to claim 13 or 14, The first viewing time is the time during which content information created by the application program is displayed on the display unit of the first information processing device, or the elapsed time from the start time of display of content information created by the application program and displayed on the display unit of the first information processing device. The second viewing time is the time during which content information created by the application program is displayed on the display unit of the second information processing device, or the elapsed time from the start time of display of content information created by the application program and displayed on the display unit of the second information processing device. Information processing device.

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