JP5920423B2 - Information display device and information display method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an information display device and an information display method .

In recent years, in digital broadcasting such as terrestrial digital broadcasting and BS (Broadcasting satellite), an electronic program guide (EPG: Electr) showing the contents of programs to be broadcast.
onic Program Guide (hereinafter simply referred to as “EPG”). Various proposals have been made to improve the convenience on the viewer side by utilizing this EPG information. For example, using this EPG information, it has been proposed to reserve printing only program-linked broadcast data to be provided, or to perform reserved printing separately from the moving image data of the program (see Patent Document 1). .

When using this EPG information to watch a program with an in-vehicle digital broadcast receiver,
It has been proposed to display a unique electronic program guide grouped for each viewer and to reflect information corresponding to reception sensitivity in the unique electronic program guide (see Patent Document 2).

Also, ADMS (TV-Asahi Data And Multimedia Se
rvice) -EPG and iEPG are also known which provide EPG information via the Internet, and EPG information received via the Internet and EPG received from broadcast waves.
Proposals have also been made for control when information is received (see Patent Document 3).

JP 2007-235639 A (summary, paragraph [0013], etc.) JP 2007-89220 A (summary, paragraph [0007], etc.) JP 2008-252447 A (summary etc.)

However, in the techniques disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3, the viewer cannot know the fact from the EPG information when, for example, there is a prize or present announcement in a program scheduled to be broadcast. In addition, when there is an announcement of a prize in the program, the viewer cannot know information that the application period of the prize is high in real time only during program broadcast, for example, and the deadline for application. Also, when making a recording reservation for a program, a person who wants to make a recording reservation cannot know information such as the presence or absence of a prize for the program that is to be reserved, and the application period when there is a prize. . Therefore, when viewing the recorded program later, even if the applicant wishes to apply for the sweepstakes, the application period for the sweepstakes has passed, and there may be cases where it is not possible to apply for the sweepstakes.

In view of the above-described problems, an object of the present invention is to provide an information display device and an information display method capable of easily grasping information notified in a broadcast program from an electronic program guide.

The first aspect of the present invention is a viewpoint as an information display device . That is, the information display device of the present invention, electric and electronic program information acquisition unit for acquiring a child program information, notification information is information that is notified by the electronic program information electronic program information or al the broadcast program acquired by the acquisition unit a notification information acquisition unit that acquires, and an announcement information output unit for outputting information indicating whether acquired notification information tell broadcast information acquiring unit, announcement information output unit, the validity period of notice information broadcast programs When the broadcast time is set, the notification information is displayed on the screen displaying the broadcast program.
A second aspect of the present invention is an information display method. That is, the information display method of the present invention acquires electronic program information acquisition step for acquiring electronic program information, and notification information that is information notified in a broadcast program from the electronic program information acquired in the electronic program information acquisition step. A notification information acquisition step, and a notification information output step for outputting information indicating the presence or absence of the notification information acquired in the notification information acquisition step. The notification information output step includes a broadcast program broadcast time When set to “in”, the notification information is displayed in the screen displaying the broadcast program.

ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the information display apparatus and information display method which can grasp | ascertain easily the information notified in a broadcast program from an electronic program guide can be provided.

It is a system configuration figure showing the whole information distribution system composition concerning a 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the broadcast transmission apparatus which the broadcast station shown in FIG. 1 has. It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the broadcast receiver shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the data string of prize information. It is a flowchart of the broadcast delivery process performed with the broadcast transmission apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the screen display process performed with the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information display process performed with the broadcast receiver shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information display process performed with the broadcast receiver shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the user setting process performed with the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a screen display process reflecting the user setting process shown in FIG. 9. It is a flowchart of the application information display process performed with the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information search display process performed with the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information search display process performed with the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information search display process performed with the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information search display process performed with the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information search display process performed with the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information search display process performed with the broadcast receiving apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 1 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 2 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. 3, and is a figure which shows the example 3 of a screen display displayed on the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 3 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. 3, and is a figure which shows the example 4 of a screen display displayed on the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 4 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 5 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 6 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 7 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 7 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 7 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 8 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 8 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 8 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 9 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 10 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 10 of a screen display displayed with the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the modification of the broadcast transmission apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the broadcast delivery process of the broadcast transmission apparatus shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the information delivery system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the broadcast receiver shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the broadcast station server shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the data string of the prize information transmitted from the broadcasting station server shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 1 with which prize information was added to the EPG information transmitted from the broadcasting station server shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 2 with which prize information was added to the EPG information transmitted from the broadcasting station server shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the EPG information transmission process performed with the broadcasting station server shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information display process performed with the broadcast receiver shown in FIG. It is a flowchart of the prize information display process performed with the broadcast receiver shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 1 of a screen display displayed on the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example 2 of a screen display displayed on the display apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the modification of the EPG information transmission process shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the modification of the prize information display process shown in FIG.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The description will be made in the following order.
1. 1. Overall configuration of information distribution system (Example 1) 1-1. Explanation of each part 1-1-1. Configuration of broadcast transmission apparatus 1-1-2. Configuration of broadcast receiving apparatus 1-2. Processing of each device 1-2-1. Sweepstakes information distribution process of broadcast transmitting device 1-2-2-1. Sweepstakes information display processing of broadcast receiving device 1
1-2-2-2. Sweepstakes information display process of broadcast receiving device 2
1-2-2-3. Sweepstakes information display processing of broadcast receiving device 3
1-2-2-4. Application information display processing of broadcast receiving apparatus 1-2-2-5. Sweepstakes program search and display processing of broadcast receiving device 1
1-2-2-6. Sweepstakes program search and display processing of broadcast receiving device 2
1-2-2-7. Sweepstakes program search and display processing of broadcast receiving device 3
1-2-2-8. Broadcast receiving device sweepstakes program search and display process (4)
1-2-2-9. Sweepstakes program search and display process of broadcast receiving device 5
1-2-2-10. Sweepstakes program search display processing of the broadcast receiving device 6
1-3. Prize information display example 1-3-1. Display example 1
1-3-2. Display example 2
1-3-3. Display example 3
1-3-4. Display example 4
1-3-5. Display example 5
1-3-6. Display example 6
1-3-7. Display example 7
1-3-8. Display example 8
1-3-9. Display example 9
1-3-10. Display example 10
1-4. Modified example of Example 1 1-4-1. Configuration of broadcast transmission apparatus 1-4-2. Processing of broadcast transmission apparatus 2. Overall configuration of information distribution system (Example 2) 2-1. Explanation of each part 2-1-1. Configuration of broadcast receiving apparatus 2-1-2. Configuration of broadcast station server 2-2. Processing of each device 2-2-1. Broadcasting server information sweepstakes information distribution processing 2-2-1. Sweepstakes information display processing of broadcast receiving device 1
2-2-2-2. Sweepstakes information display process of broadcast receiving device 2
2-4. Modification of Example 2 2-4-1. Configuration of broadcast station server 2-4-2. Broadcasting server distribution process 2-4-3. 2. Sweepstakes information display processing of the broadcast receiving device Other embodiments

1. Overall Configuration of Information Distribution System 1 (Example 1: EPG includes Sweepstakes Information) First, the information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram showing the overall configuration of an information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 1, the information distribution system 1 includes a broadcast station 10 and a broadcast receiving device 30. In FIG. 1, one broadcast station 10 and two broadcast receivers 30 are shown.
The information distribution system 1 may include a plurality of broadcast stations 10 and three or more broadcast receivers 30.

The broadcast station 10 transmits broadcast program content as stream data in accordance with a broadcast schedule. In addition, the broadcasting station 10 transmits data broadcast, EPG (Electron
The broadcast transmission apparatus 11 (see FIG. 2) can superimpose and transmit ic Program Guide) information. The broadcast receiving apparatus 30 receives broadcast waves from the broadcast transmitting apparatus 11 of the broadcast station 10 and outputs video and audio of the received broadcast program and EPG information.

1-1. Explanation of each part 1-1-1. Configuration of Broadcast Transmission Device FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the broadcast transmission device 11 included in the broadcast station 10 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the broadcast transmission apparatus 11 includes a control unit 12, a content stream creation unit 13, an EPG information creation unit 14, a data broadcast creation unit 15, a MUX (MultipleXer).
) Part 16, broadcast content database (hereinafter referred to as DB) 17, broadcast schedule DB 18, and data broadcast content DB 19 are the main components.
The broadcast transmission device 11 corresponds to the broadcast distribution device in the claims.

Here, information processing realized by the functions of the content stream creation unit 13, the EPG information creation unit 14, the data broadcast creation unit 15, and the MUX unit 16 described above is performed by the control unit 12 that controls the entire broadcast transmission apparatus 11 by hardware. Realized by working with resources. Specifically, the control unit 12 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that is a hardware resource (not shown).
) And the like, and the CPU reads out various programs stored in a ROM (Read Only Memory) (not shown) into a RAM (Random Access Memory) (not shown) and executes them in cooperation. Also, the above-mentioned broadcast content DB 17 and broadcast schedule D
B18 and the data broadcasting content DB 19 are stored in a storage unit (not shown), and the storage unit includes, for example, an HDD (Hard Disc Drive) or a flash memory.

The content stream creation unit 13 creates broadcast content with reference to the broadcast content DB 17. In this embodiment, the broadcast content is MPEG2-TS (
Motion Photographic Coding Experts Group
(pe-2 Transport Stream) standard is described as being encoded and multiplexed. In the MPEG2-TS standard, video, audio, and the like of transmitted content are generated as encoded ES (Elementary Stream),
PES (Packetized Element) packetized for each meaningful unit of ES
(nary Stream) is generated. Furthermore, TS (Trans) obtained by dividing PES
port stream) packet is transmitted from the broadcasting station 10.

In addition, by assigning a 13-bit packet identifier called PID to the header of each TS packet, it is possible to classify whether each TS packet is video data, audio data, control data, or the like of broadcast content. .

The control data here is SI / PSI (Service Information).
Ion / Program Specific Information). SI of SI / PSI includes information necessary for creating EPG information, and PSI is control data including information for performing basic control. T
The S packet includes an encryption process (hereinafter, “
It may be subjected to “scramble processing”. Here, for example, Multi2 can be used as the scrambling method. This Multi2 is one of the methods for encrypting digital data, and is widely used in BS digital broadcasting and terrestrial digital broadcasting. The broadcast content DB 17 includes the above-described broadcast content 17.
a is stored.

The EPG information creation unit 14 has a function of creating EPG information with reference to the broadcast schedule DB 18. The broadcast schedule DB 18 stores broadcast schedule information of programs that the broadcast station 10 broadcasts. Note that the broadcast schedule DB 18 may store broadcast schedule information of programs broadcast by other broadcast stations 10.

The data broadcast creating unit 15 creates a data broadcast such as information related to a weather forecast or a program from the data broadcast content DB 19. The data broadcast will be described as being encoded and multiplexed in conformity with the MPEG2-TS standard in the same manner as the broadcast content 17a described above. The data broadcasting content DB 19 includes a URL (Uni) provided by the broadcasting station 10 related to the program, in addition to data broadcasting such as weather forecasts and information related to the program.
form Resource Locator) information and P2P (Peer to Peer)
r) Search query information that can be used in the method may be stored. The data broadcast creating unit 15 supplies these information to the MUX unit 16 together.

The MUX unit 16 includes content data created by the content stream creation unit 13 with reference to the broadcast content DB 17, EPG information created by the EPG information creation unit 14 with reference to the broadcast schedule DB 18, and data created by the broadcast creation unit 23. Broadcast data is generated by multiplexing data broadcast program data created with reference to the broadcast content DB 19. The broadcast data is transmitted as a broadcast wave from the antenna of the broadcast station 10.

  1-1-2. Broadcast receiver configuration

Next, the broadcast receiving device 30 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a block configuration of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG. The broadcast receiving device 30 is a terminal that receives, for example, a TV broadcast or a radio broadcast, regardless of whether it is a fixed receiving terminal or a portable mobile terminal. Also, the broadcast receiving device 30 outputs information received from the broadcast station 10 to the display device 50 and the audio reproduction device 60. Note that the broadcast receiving device 30 according to the present embodiment includes the display device 50.
The audio playback device 60 is a separate device. However, it is not limited to this,
The broadcast receiving device 30, the display device 50, and the audio reproducing device 60 may be provided in the same housing, for example, a television set. Alternatively, the broadcast receiving device 30 and the display device 50 may be provided in the same housing, and only the audio playback device 60 may be provided in another housing. That is, there are no particular limitations on the devices in which the three broadcast receiving devices 30, the display device 50, and the audio reproducing device 60 are provided. In addition, the broadcast receiving device 30 may have a recording function and a recording function.

As shown in FIG. 3, the broadcast receiving device 30 includes an operation input unit 31, a control unit 32, a tuner 3.
3, a DEMUX (DEM MultipleXer) unit 34, a decoding unit 35, a video / audio output unit 36, and a recording unit 37 are the main components. Here, the control unit 32 includes, for example, a CPU, which is a hardware resource (not shown), and reads various programs stored in the recording unit 37, the ROM, and the like into the RAM, and cooperates with various arithmetic processes. As a result, the information processing performed by the function of each unit of the broadcast receiving device 30 can be realized.

The operation input unit 31 is configured with, for example, a remote control or a touch panel, but may be configured to allow voice input or the like. Further, the operation input unit 31 receives an operation input from the user and transmits a user instruction to the control unit 32. The user can perform an operation input to the broadcast receiving device 30 by operating the operation input unit 31. The operation input to the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 may be input to the operation input unit 31 provided in the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 via a radio signal (operation signal) such as infrared rays. The operation signal input to the operation input unit 31 is input to the control unit 32 via a bus (not shown). The operation input unit 31 functions as an electronic program information acquisition request unit and a notification information acquisition request unit in the claims.

The control unit 32 is a central processing unit that analyzes the operation signal input to the operation input unit 31 and controls the operation of each unit or part of the broadcast receiving device 30. For example, when the user inputs a channel selection instruction using the operation input unit 31, a signal indicating the content of the channel selection instruction is input to the control unit 32 via the operation input unit 31 and a bus (not shown). As a result, the control unit 32 transmits a channel selection instruction for the channel selected by the user to the tuner 33 via a bus (not shown). The control unit 32 functions as a part of the electronic program information acquisition unit, the notification information acquisition unit, the notification information output unit, and the program selection unit.

The tuner 33 receives the broadcast wave of the broadcast station 10 with an antenna, and receives the received RF (Radi).
o Frequency) The signal is demodulated, error-corrected, etc., and TS composed of TS packets
The signal is output to the DEMUX unit 34. The tuner 33 functions as a part of the electronic program information acquisition unit, a part of the notification information acquisition unit, and a part of the program selection unit. In FIG. 3, only one tuner 33 is shown for receiving digital terrestrial broadcasting. However, in the case of receiving analog broadcasting as well, an analog broadcasting tuner 33 may be provided. You may make it prepare. When the TS signal is transmitted after being scrambled, a descrambler unit that performs a process of releasing the signal into a normal signal may be provided. In that case, the descrambler unit receives the TS from which the scramble processing is released.
You may make it supply the TS signal which consists of a packet to the DEMUX part 34. FIG.

The DEMUX unit 34 includes a TS signal (TS signal (TS packet) output from the tuner 33 (
That is, broadcast data obtained by multiplexing a plurality of streams such as video and audio in the MUX unit 16 of the broadcast transmission apparatus 11 on the transmission side), stream data such as video and audio, and section format data such as SI / PSI Perform the process of separating. The DEMUX unit 34 functions as a part of the electronic program information acquisition unit, a part of the notification information acquisition unit, and a part of the program selection unit. Each data separated by the DEMUX unit 34 is supplied to the decoding unit 35 in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 32.

The decoding unit 35 decodes the broadcast content 17a, the EPG information, the data broadcast, and the like according to instructions from the control unit 32. The decoding unit 35 supplies the decoded data to the recording unit 37. The data supplied from the decoding unit 35 to the recording unit 37 is
You may make it supply as it is as a data signal, without decoding as a video signal and an audio | voice signal.

The decoding unit 35 decodes the above-described broadcast content 17a, EPG information, data broadcast, and the like to generate audio data, video data, and program data, respectively. The decoded audio data is supplied to the audio playback device 60 described above.
The decoding unit 35 functions as a part of the notification information output unit of the claims and a part of the program selection unit. The audio reproduction device 60 performs D / A conversion processing on the supplied audio data and outputs it as an audio signal. The decoding unit 35 supplies the decoded video data and program data to the video / audio output unit 36.

The video / audio output unit 36 stores the supplied program data in a RAM (not shown). The video / audio output unit 36 generates EPG information by drawing program data. Then, the video / audio output unit 36 generates a synthesized screen obtained by synthesizing the screen based on the EPG information on the screen based on the video data from the decoding unit 35, and sends the synthesized screen to the display device 50. The audio / video output unit 36 functions as a part of the notification information output unit in the claims. The display device 50 displays this composite screen. The recording unit 37 stores data decoded by the decoding unit 35 in accordance with a recording instruction from the control unit 32.

1-2. Processing of each device 1-2-1. Broadcast information distribution process of broadcast transmitting device (corresponding drawings: FIGS. 4 and 5)
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data string of prize information. As shown in FIG. 4, the data column of the prize information includes “broadcast type”, “broadcast station name”, “broadcast start date / time”, “broadcast end date / time”, “program name”, “present genre”, “present”. Fields such as “product name”, “present image”, “whether it is real-time”, “application method”, “start date and time for sweepstakes application”, “end date and time for sweepstakes application” are included. In the “broadcast type” field, broadcast types such as terrestrial digital broadcast, BS digital broadcast, CS broadcast, FM radio broadcast, and AM radio broadcast are described. In the “Broadcasting station name” field, the broadcasting station name is written. In the “program name” field, the field name of the program is described. In the “broadcast start time” and “broadcast end time” fields, the start time and end time of the program are respectively described. In the “real-time information” field, information on whether or not the prize is a deadline for application in real time (or program broadcast date) during the program broadcast is described. In the “present genre” field, genre information of the present is described. The present name is described in the “present name” field. In the “application method” field, the type of application method of the sweepstakes (for example, mail, telephone, Internet, etc.) is described. In the fields “start date and time of sweepstakes application” and “end date and time of sweepstakes”, the application start date and time and the deadline date and time of the sweepstakes are entered. In the case of mailing, the date on which the postmark is valid may be described. After the “application method” field, if there are a plurality of application methods, the fields may be sequentially added in a repeated manner for each application method.

When the above-mentioned prize information is included in the EPG information, for example, ARIB (Associat)
TYP of EPG information in SI information of terrestrial digital broadcasting and BS digital broadcasting specified by ion of Radio Industries and Broadcast)
It is preferable to put it in a data part in the form of a program guide for displaying EH or a data part for explanation of individual programs. In the case of other broadcasts and other EPG display formats (one-segment broadcasting), it is preferable to include prize information in the text information data for program name and program explanation. In addition, it is preferable that the prize information includes a character string such as a predetermined keyword “prize” or “present” so that a text search can be performed on the broadcast receiving device 30 side. In addition, when describing the application conditions, it is preferable to describe the predetermined condition contents after the character string “application conditions”. It is preferable to express the start and end periods of the application in the same format.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a broadcast distribution process performed by the broadcast transmission apparatus 11 shown in FIG.

START: The control unit 12 starts broadcast distribution processing when the power is turned on or the distribution mode is selected. When the broadcast distribution process is started, the control unit 12 proceeds to the process of step S1.

Step S1: The control unit 12 determines whether the program has a prize. The control unit 12 of the broadcast transmitting apparatus 11 proceeds to the process of step S3 if the program has a prize (YES in step S1), and proceeds to step S2 if the program does not have a prize (NO in step S1). Transition to processing.

Step S2: The control unit 12 generates EPG information. When the process of step S2 is completed, the control unit 12 proceeds to the process of step S4.

Step S3: The control unit 12 generates EPG information including information indicating that there is a prize. When the process of step S3 is completed, the control unit 12 proceeds to the process of step S4.

Step S4: The control unit 12 checks whether or not there is a prize for all programs within the transmission period. When the control unit 12 checks for the presence of a prize for all the programs within the transmission period (YES in step S4), the control unit 12 proceeds to the process of step S5, and when not checked (NO in step S4), The process returns to step S1.

Step S5: The control unit 12 multiplexes broadcast content, data broadcast, and EPG information. When the process of step S5 is completed, the control unit 12 proceeds to the process of step S6.

Step S6: The control unit 12 distributes the broadcast data multiplexed in step S5 and ends the broadcast distribution process (END).

With such distribution processing, the presence or absence of prize information is included in the EPG information and distributed, so that the viewer can easily know the information announced in the broadcast program. In addition, the notification information is a motivation for viewing a broadcast program, and can contribute to an increase in the audience rating of the broadcast program.

1-2-2-1. Sweepstakes information display processing of broadcast receiving device 1
FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the screen display process performed by the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG.

START: When the power is turned on or the display mode is selected, the control unit 32 starts the screen display process. When the screen display process is started, the control unit 32 performs step S10.
Move on to processing.

Step S10: The control unit 32 determines whether there is an EPG screen display request. When there is a request for EPG screen display (YES in step S10), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S11, and when there is no request, the control unit 32 repeats the determination process of step S10.

Step S11: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the prize information has been received. If the prize information has been received (YES in step S11), the process proceeds to step S13. On the other hand, if the prize information has not been received (NO in step S11), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S12.

Step S12: The control unit 32 performs a prize information reception process, and proceeds to the process of step S13.

Step S13: The control unit 32 performs an EPG screen display process and ends the process (EN
D).

Next, in addition to the normal screen display process shown in FIG. 6, a process for displaying the prize information by determining the presence / absence of the prize information will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a prize information display process performed by the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG.

START: The control unit 32 starts a prize information display process when the power is turned on or the display mode is selected. When the prize information display process is started, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S20.

Step S20: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a display request for an EPG screen. Control unit 32
If there is a request to display the EPG screen (YES in step S20), step S21
When there is no EPG screen display request (NO in step S20), the determination process in step S20 is repeated.

Step S21: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the prize information has been received. Control unit 3
If the prize information has been received (YES in step S21), the process proceeds to step S23. On the other hand, when the prize information has not been received (NO in step S21), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S22.

Step S22: The control unit 32 performs a prize information reception process, and proceeds to the process of step S23.

Step S23: The control unit 32 determines whether there is prize information in the program requested to be displayed. Specifically, the control unit 32 detects whether or not there is a prize program in the screen (broadcast type, broadcast station, time zone requested to be displayed) displayed in the EPG information. When there is a prize information in the program requested to be displayed (YES in step S23), the control unit 32 performs step S2.
If there is no prize information (NO in step S23), the process proceeds to step S24.

Step S24: The control unit 32 displays a normal EPG screen. When the process of step S24 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S26.

Step S25: The control unit 32 displays an EPG screen in which a program with a prize is highlighted. Specifically, the control unit 32 indicates that there is a prize program with an icon, or changes the background color of the program on the EPG. When the process of step S23 is completed, the control unit 32
The process proceeds to step S26.

Step S26: The control unit 32 determines whether there is a request to change the display program. In particular,
The control unit 32 determines whether there is a change in the displayed time zone, a change in date, a change in the broadcasting station 10, a change in the program, and the like. When there is a change request for the display program (YES in step S26), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S23, and when there is no change request for the display program (NO in step S26), the control unit 32 proceeds to step S26. Repeat the judgment process.

By performing such display processing, since the program having the prize information is highlighted in the EPG screen, the viewer can grasp the presence / absence of the prize information at a glance. Therefore, it is possible to easily know information notified in the broadcast program. Moreover, it becomes a motivation for viewing a broadcast program, which can contribute to an increase in the audience rating of the broadcast program.

1-2-2-2. Sweepstakes information display process of broadcast receiving device 2
FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a prize information display process performed by the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG. The prize information display process shown in FIG. 8 is different from the prize information display process in FIG. 7 in that it is determined whether or not there is prize information with high real-time characteristics. The same process as the prize information display process in FIG. 7 (START in FIG. 8, steps S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S
25 and S26), the same step number is assigned and the description is omitted.

Step S30: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the application period for the prize information of the program is highly real-time such as limited to the broadcast time. Specifically, the real-time application prize program refers to a program that is applied in real time by telephone, the Internet, a fax, or the like. For example, there are a form that answers a quiz program, a questionnaire form, and a request form. Real-time sweepstakes programs are programs that can no longer be applied for gifts if they are recorded or recorded for later enjoyment. It should be noted that a program that is applied by postal mail valid on the current day or the next day or a program that is not applied in real time within 24 hours may be regarded as a real-time prize program. When the control unit 32 determines that the sweepstakes announced in the program is highly real-time (YE in step S30).
In S), the process proceeds to step S31. If it is determined that the real time property is not high (NO in step S30), the process proceeds to step S25. When highlighting a normal prize program, it is preferable to express the highlighting of the real-time prize program in a format (background color, icon, etc.) different from the normal prize program.

Step S31: The control unit 32 displays an EPG screen in which the program column which is a prize having a high real-time property is highlighted in step S30. When the process of step S31 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S26. It should be noted that it is preferable to set different settings for highlighting a program column that is a prize having a high real-time property and highlighting a program column that is a prize having a less real-time property.

By performing such display processing, since the program having the prize information is highlighted in the EPG screen, the viewer can grasp the presence / absence of the prize information at a glance. Therefore, it is possible to easily know information notified in the broadcast program. Further, by focusing attention on prize information with particularly high real-time properties, it is possible to view a broadcast program with the prize information, which can contribute to an increase in audience rating.

  1-2-2-3. Sweepstakes information display processing of broadcast receiving device 3

Next, the prize information display process 3 of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 will be described. In this prize information display processing, display processing is performed based on user setting information preset by the user. First, user setting processing will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the user setting process performed by the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG.

SATRT: The control unit 32 starts the user setting process when the setting mode is selected. When the user control process is started, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S40.

Step S40: The controller 32 determines whether or not there is a prize information display setting request. Control unit 3
2, when there is a request for display setting of prize information (YES in step S40), the process proceeds to step S41, and when there is no request (NO in step S40), the user setting process is terminated ( END).

Step S41: The control unit 32 sets the display method as requested in step S40.
Specifically, the control unit 32 performs various settings such as necessity of highlight display (background color, icon, etc.) when there is prize information, highlight display of an application method, and a method for expressing a real-time prize. When the process of step S41 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S42.

Step S42: The control part 32 memorize | stores the display method of step S41, and complete | finishes a user setting process (END).

By performing such user setting processing, it is possible to set the display method of the program having the prize information in the EPG screen to a display method desired by the user, and to ensure operability and visibility suitable for the user. be able to. In addition, when the users are different, each setting environment can be stored.

Subsequently, a prize information display process based on the user setting information will be described. FIG.
10 is a flowchart of a screen display process reflecting the user setting process shown in FIG. 9. The same process as the prize information display process in FIG. 7 (START in FIG. 10, steps S20, S21, S
22, S23, S24, and S26), the same step numbers are assigned and description thereof is omitted.

Step S50: If there is a prize information in the program requested to be displayed in step S23, the control unit 32 determines the presence or absence of the prize information display setting information. When there is the prize information display setting information (YES in step S50), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S51, and when there is no prize information display setting information (NO in step S50), the control unit 32 proceeds to step S51. S
The process proceeds to 24. The presence / absence of the prize information display setting information can be determined, for example, by the presence / absence of a prize information display setting file stored in the user setting process described with reference to FIG.

Step S51: The control unit 32 displays an EPG screen including prize information reflecting the set contents, and ends the prize information display process (END).

By performing such display processing, the display is performed in accordance with a display method set in advance by the user using the operation input unit 31 or the like, so that operability and visibility in accordance with the user are ensured.

1-2-2-4. Application Information Display Processing of Broadcast Reception Device FIG. 11 is a flowchart of application information display processing performed by the broadcast reception device 30 shown in FIG. The application information display process shown in FIG. 11 is different from the prize information display process in FIG. 7 in that the application program application method is determined. The same process as the prize information display process of FIG. 7 (START of FIG. 11, steps S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25, S
For the process 26), the same step number is assigned and the description is omitted.

Step S60: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is application method information in the prize information.
Specifically, the control unit 32 determines the presence / absence of information such as telephone application, homepage access, fax, mail, and the like. If there is application method information in the prize information (YES in step S60), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S61, and if there is no application method information in the prize information (NO in step S60). The process proceeds to step S25. In addition,
Whether there is application method information in the sent prize information, add a data string that can be flagged in the sent data, or refer to the entry method field in the data sent as prize information This makes it possible to determine whether there is information on how to apply.

Step S61: The control unit 32 adds the application information and highlights the program with the prize.
Display the PG screen. Specifically, the control unit 32 performs control such as changing the background color of the program or displaying a predetermined icon for each application method. The control unit 32 performs step S61.
When the process is completed, the process proceeds to step S26.

By performing such display processing, in addition to the application information notified in the program, more detailed application information such as the application deadline for the sweepstakes can be known from the display screen.

1-2-2-5. Sweepstakes program search and display processing of broadcast receiver (part 1)
FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a prize program search / display process (part 1) performed by the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG. The prize program search and display process (part 1) shown in FIG. 12 is different from the process described so far in that only the prize program is searched and displayed.

START: When the prize program search display mode is selected, the control unit 32 starts the prize program search display process (part 1). When the prize program search and display process (part 1) is started, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S70.

Step S70: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a prize program search display request. Control unit 32
If there is a request for a prize program search display (YES in step S70), step S7 is executed.
If there is no request (NO in step S70), the prize program search / display process (part 1) is terminated (END).

Step S71: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the prize information has been received. The control unit 32
When the prize information has been received (YES in step S71), the process proceeds to step S73. On the other hand, when the control unit 32 has not received the prize information (NO in step S71), the control unit 32 performs step S
72.

Step S72: The control unit 32 performs a prize information reception process, and proceeds to the process of step S73. This reception process is a standby process until the prize information is received from the broadcast wave.

Step S73: The control unit 32 determines whether there is a request for a prize program search display. When there is a request for a prize program search display in step S70 (step S70).
YES), the presence or absence of a prize program is searched with reference to the EPG information. That is, the control unit 32 searches for the program including the prize information data shown in FIG. 4 from the EPG information. The control unit 32
If the EPG information includes information on the prize program (YES in step S73), the process proceeds to step S75. If the EPG information does not include the prize program information (NO in step S73), the process proceeds to step S74. .

Step S74: The control unit 32 displays that the prize program does not exist, and ends the process (END).

Step S75: If there is a prize program as a result of referring to the EPG information (YES in step S73), the control unit 32 starts a display process for displaying only the broadcast program column of the prize program, and the process of step S76 Migrate to The start of the display process in step S75 is a process of displaying a specific program, for example, in a list format so that the user can easily select the specific program.

Step S76: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the user selects a specific program that is a prize program from the EPG information. The control unit 32 waits until the user selects any prize program (NO in step S76). When the user selects a specific program that is a prize program from the EPG information (YES in step S76), the control unit 32 proceeds to step S77.

Step S77: The control unit 32 displays the prize program selected in Step S76 and ends the prize program search display process (part 1) (END).

With such a prize program search and display process (part 1), only programs with prize information can be selected and displayed, so the probability that the user misses the program can be significantly reduced. Also,
Since only the program desired by the user is selected and displayed, the convenience for the user can be improved.

1-2-2-6. Sweepstakes program search and display processing of broadcast receiver (part 2)
FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a prize program search / display process (part 2) performed by the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG. The prize program search and display process (part 2) shown in FIG. 13 is different from the prize program search and display process (part 1) in that the genre of the prize product can be set when only the prize program is searched and displayed.

START: When the prize program search display mode is selected, the control unit 32 starts the prize program search display process (part 2). When the prize program search display process (part 2) is started, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S80.

Step S80: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a request for setting the category of the prize product by the user. If there is a request for setting the category of the prize product by the user (YES in step 80), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S81. Further, if there is no request for setting the genre of the prize product by the user (NO in step S80), the control unit 32 performs step S
The process proceeds to 82.

Step S81: The control unit 32 performs the setting based on the user's request for setting the genre of the prize product, and proceeds to the process of step S82.

Step S82: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a prize program search request by the user. When there is a request for prize program search display (YES in step S82), the control unit 32
If the process proceeds to step S83 and there is no request (NO in step S82), the prize program search display process (part 2) is terminated (END).

Step S83: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the prize information has been received. If the prize information has been received (YES in step S83), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process in step S85.
On the other hand, when the prize information has not been received (NO in step S83), the control unit 32 performs step S8.
The process proceeds to 4.

Step S84: The control unit 32 performs a prize information reception process, and proceeds to the process of step S85. This reception process is a standby process until the prize information is received from the broadcast wave.

Step S85: The control unit 32 searches for the presence or absence of a prize program that meets the product genre conditions set from the EPG information. That is, the control unit 32 further searches the present genre (that is, the product genre) from the programs including the prize information data shown in FIG.
If the EPG information includes a sweepstakes program that matches the set product genre conditions (YES in step S85), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S87, and the EPG information includes the set product genre. If there is no sweepstakes program that meets the conditions (NO in step S85), the process proceeds to step S86.

Step S86: The control unit 32 displays that the prize program does not exist, and ends the prize program search display process (part 2) (END).

Step S87: The control unit 32 starts a display process for displaying only the broadcast program column of the sweepstakes program, and proceeds to the process of step S88. The start of the display process in step S87 is a process of displaying a specific program, for example, in a list format so that the user can easily select the specific program.

Step S88: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the user selects a specific program that is a prize program that meets the product genre conditions set from the EPG information. The control unit 32 waits until selecting one of the prize programs (NO in step S88). When the user selects a specific program that is a prize program that meets the product genre conditions set from the EPG information (YES in step S88), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S89.

Step S89: The control unit 32 displays the prize program selected in Step S88 and ends the prize program search display process (part 2) (END).

By using such a prize program search and display process (part 2), it is possible to select and display only programs having prize information that meets the genre conditions set in the EPG screen, and thus the probability that the user misses the program. Can be significantly reduced. Further, since only the program desired by the user is selected and displayed, the convenience for the user can be improved.

1-2-2-7. Sweepstakes program search and display process of broadcast receiver (part 3)
FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a prize program search / display process (part 3) performed by the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG. The prize program search / display process (part 3) shown in FIG. 14 differs from the prize program search / display process (part 1) in that a predetermined condition can be set when only a prize program is searched and displayed.

The predetermined condition may be anything as long as it can be specified from the prize information shown in FIG. For example, if it is set as a predetermined condition whether or not it is real time, a program that is real time can be searched, and conversely, a program that is not real time can be searched. Alternatively, if the application method is set as a predetermined condition, it is possible to search for a program that is a telephone application or a program that is applied to the Internet.

START: When the prize program search display mode is selected, the control unit 32 starts the prize program search display process (part 3). When the prize program search / display process (part 3) is started, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S90.

Step S90: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a request for setting a search condition for a prize program by the user. If there is a request for setting a search condition for a prize program by the user (YES in step 90), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S91. Further, if there is no request for setting a search condition for a prize program by the user (NO in step S90), the control unit 32 proceeds to step S92.
Move on to processing.

Step S91: The control unit 32 makes a setting based on a request for setting a search condition for a prize program by the user, and proceeds to the process of step S92.

Step S92: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a prize program search request by the user. If there is a request for a prize program search by the user (YES in step S92), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S93. If there is no request (NO in step S92), the control program search / display process. End (No. 3) (END).

Step S93: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the prize information has been received. If the prize information has been received (YES in step S93), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S95.
On the other hand, if the prize information has not been received (NO in step S93), the control unit 32 performs step S9.
The process proceeds to 4.

Step S94: The control unit 32 performs a prize information reception process, and proceeds to the process of step S95. This reception process is a standby process until the prize information is received from the broadcast.

Step S95: The control unit 32 searches for a prize program that meets the predetermined condition set from the EPG information. That is, the control unit 32 searches for data that meets a predetermined condition further set from programs including the prize information data shown in FIG. If there is a prize program that meets the set predetermined condition in the EPG information (YES in step S95), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S97, and matches the set predetermined condition in the EPG information. If there is no prize program (NO in step S95), the process proceeds to step S96.

Step 96: The control unit 32 displays that the prize information does not exist, and finishes the prize program search display process (part 3) (END).

Step S97: The control unit 32 starts a display process for displaying only the broadcast program of the prize program, and proceeds to the process of step S98. The start of the display process in step S97 is a process of displaying a specific program, for example, in a list format so that the user can easily select the specific program.

Step S98: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the user selects a specific program that is a prize program that meets a predetermined condition set from the EPG information. The control unit 32 waits until the user selects any prize program (NO in step S98). When the user selects a specific program that is a prize program that meets the predetermined condition set from the EPG information (YES in step S98), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S99.

Step S99: The control unit 32 displays the prize program selected in Step S98 and ends the prize program search display process (part 3) (END).

By using such a prize program search and display process (part 3), it is possible to select and display only programs having prize information that meets the predetermined conditions set in the EPG screen. Can be significantly reduced. Further, since only the program desired by the user is selected and displayed, the convenience for the user can be improved.

1-2-2-8. Sweepstakes program search and display process of broadcast receiver (part 4)
FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a prize program search / display process (part 4) performed by the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG. The prize program search and display process (part 4) shown in FIG. 15 is different from other prize program search and display processes in that a prize program for the day can be searched based on the time when the power of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 is turned on.

START: When the prize program search display mode is selected, the control unit 32 starts the prize program search display process (part 4). When the prize program search display process (part 4) is started, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S100.

Step S100: When the broadcast receiving device 30 is powered on by the user, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S101.

Step S101: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the prize information has been received. The control unit 32
When the prize information has been received (YES in step S101), the process proceeds to step S103. On the other hand, the control part 32 transfers to the process of step S102, when the prize information is not received (NO in step S101).

Step S102: The control unit 32 performs a prize information reception process, and proceeds to the process of step S103. This reception process is a standby process until the prize information is received from the broadcast wave.

Step S103: The control unit 32 determines whether there is a prize program on that day by referring to the received prize information. If there is a sweepstakes program on that day (YES in step S103), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S105. If there is no prize program on that day (NO in step S103), the control unit 32 performs normal display (step S104).
), The prize program search display process (part 4) is terminated (END).

Step S105: The control unit 32 displays that there is a prize program on that day, and step S1.
The process proceeds to 06.

Step S106: The control unit 32 determines whether or not detailed information is selected for the sweepstakes program displayed by the process of step S105. If any detailed information is selected by the user for any of the prize programs displayed in the process of step S105 (YES in step S106), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S108. On the other hand, if there is no selection of detailed information by the user in any of the prize programs displayed by the process of step S105 (NO in step S106), the control unit 32 deletes the content displayed in step S105 after a predetermined time has elapsed. (Step S107), and the sweepstakes program search and display process (part 4) is terminated (E
ND).

Step S108: The control unit 32 starts a process of displaying detailed information of the prize program selected by the user in the process of step S106, and proceeds to the process of step S109. The start of the display process in step S108 is a process of displaying a specific program, for example, in a list format so that the user can easily select the specific program.

Step S109: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the user selects today's sweepstakes program from the EPG information. The control unit 32 waits until the user selects any prize program (
NO in step S109). When the user selects today's sweepstakes program from the EPG information (YES in step S109), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S110.

Step S110: The control unit 32 displays the prize program selected in the process of Step S109 and ends the prize program search display process (part 4) (END).

By using such a prize program search and display process (part 4), it is possible to select and display a program with the prize information of the day, so that the probability that the user misses the program can be significantly reduced. Further, since only the program desired by the user is selected and displayed, the convenience for the user can be improved.

1-2-2-9. Sweepstakes program search and display processing of broadcast receiver (part 5)
FIG. 16 is a flowchart of a prize program search display process (part 5) performed by the broadcast receiving apparatus 30 shown in FIG. The prize program search / display process (part 5) shown in FIG. 16 is different from the other prize program search / display processes in that, when there is only one prize program searched, the detailed information is displayed.

START: When the prize program search / display mode is selected, the control unit 32 starts the prize program search / display process (part 5). When the sweepstakes program search display process (part 5) is started, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S111.

Step S111: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a request for displaying a prize program from the user. When there is a request for displaying the prize program from the user (YES in step S111), the control unit 32
), The process proceeds to step S112. On the other hand, if there is no request for displaying the prize program from the user (NO in step S111), the control unit 32 ends the prize program search display process (No. 5) (END).

Step S112: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the prize information has been received. When the prize information has been received (YES in step S112), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S114. On the other hand, the control part 32 transfers to the process of step S113, when prize information is not received (it is NO at step S112).

Step S113: The control unit 32 performs a prize information reception process, and proceeds to the process of step S114. This reception process is a standby process until the prize information is received from the broadcast wave.

Step S114: The control unit 32 confirms the presence / absence of a prize program from the EPG information. As a result, if there is a sweepstakes program (YES in step S114), the control unit 32 proceeds to step S116.
Move on to processing. On the other hand, if there is no sweepstakes program, the control unit 32 (NO in step S114).
), The process proceeds to step S115.

Step S115: The control unit 32 displays that there is no prize program, and ends the prize program search display process (part 5) (END).

Step S116: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a prize program searched in the process of step S114. If there is one prize program searched in the process of step S114 (YES in step S114), the control unit 32 displays detailed information of the prize program (step S120).
Then, the prize program search display process (part 5) is terminated (END). On the other hand, if there are a plurality of sweepstakes programs searched in the process of step S114 (NO in step S116), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S117.

Step S117: The control unit 32 starts display processing of the current prize program information, and proceeds to the processing of step S118. The start of the display process in step S117 is a process of displaying, for example, a list format so that the user can easily select a specific program.

Step S118: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the user selects the current prize program from the EPG information. The control unit 32 waits until the user selects any prize program (
NO in step S118). If the user selects the current prize program from the EPG information (YE in step S118), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S119.

Step S119: The control unit 32 displays the prize program selected in the process of Step S118 and ends the prize program search display process (No. 5) (END).

With such a prize program search and display process (part 5), when there is only one program with current prize information, the detailed information can be displayed immediately, so that the probability that the user misses the program is increased. Can be significantly reduced. Further, since only the program desired by the user is selected and displayed, the convenience for the user can be improved.

1-2-2-10. Sweepstakes program search and display processing of broadcast receiver (Part 6)
FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a prize program search / display process (part 6) performed by the broadcast receiver 30 shown in FIG. In the sweepstakes program search display process (part 6) shown in FIG. 17, when there is only one searched sweepstakes program, the point that the broadcast station that broadcasts the sweepstakes program is selected is the other sweepstakes program. Different from search display processing.

START: When the prize program search / display mode is selected, the control unit 32 starts a prize program search / display process (part 6). When the prize program search and display process (part 6) is started, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S121.

Step S121: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a display request for a prize program from the user. When there is a request for displaying a prize program from the user (YES in step S121), the control unit 32
), The process proceeds to step S122. On the other hand, if there is no request for displaying the prize program from the user (NO in step S121), the control unit 32 ends the prize program search display process (No. 6) (END).

Step S122: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the prize information has been received. The control unit 32
When the prize information has been received (YES in step S122), the process proceeds to step S124. On the other hand, when the prize information has not been received (NO in step S122), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S123.

Step S123: The control unit 32 performs a prize information reception process, and proceeds to the process of step S124. This reception process is a standby process until the prize information is received from the broadcast wave.

Step S124: The control unit 32 confirms the presence / absence of a prize program from the EPG information. As a result, if there is a sweepstakes program (YES in step S124), the control unit 32 performs step S126.
Move on to processing. On the other hand, if there is no sweepstakes program, the control unit 32 (NO in step S124).
), The process proceeds to step S125.

Step S125: The control unit 32 displays that there is no prize program, and ends the prize program search display process (part 6) (END).

Step S126: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a prize program searched in the process of step S124. If there is one prize program searched in the process of step S124 (YES in step S126), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S130. On the other hand, the control unit 32
If there are a plurality of sweepstakes programs searched in step S124 (NO in step S126),
The process proceeds to step S127.

Step S127: The control unit 32 starts display processing of the current prize program, and the spectrum S
The process proceeds to 128. The start of the display process in step S127 is a process of displaying, for example, a list format so that a specific program can be easily selected by the user.

Step S128: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the user selects the current prize program from the EPG information. The control unit 32 waits until the user selects any prize program (
NO in step S128). When the user selects the current prize program from the EPG information (YES in step S128), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S129.

Step S129: The control unit 32 displays the prize program selected in the process of Step S128 and ends the prize program search display process (No. 6) (END).

Step S130: The control unit 32 selects a broadcast station for the sweepstakes program, and ends the sweepstakes program search / display process (part 6) (END).

With such a prize program search and display process (No. 6), when there is only one program with the current prize information, the broadcast station of the prize program can be immediately selected, so that the user can select the program. The probability of missing can be significantly reduced. Further, since only the program desired by the user is selected and displayed, the convenience for the user can be improved.

1-3. Prize information display example 1-3-1. Display example 1
FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a first screen display example displayed on the display device 50 illustrated in FIG. 3. This screen example shown in FIG. 18 is, for example, the screen displayed in step S13 of FIG. 6 described above, and is an EPG screen displayed in the latte column format of a newspaper. At the left end of the EPG screen, the currently received broadcast type is highlighted, and the other broadcast types are grayed out. In addition, the current date and time is displayed in the upper right of the program guide. In the present embodiment, program guides of four broadcasting stations 10 are displayed. In this program guide, “Tokyo BC” which is one of the broadcasting stations 10, from 17:00 to 1
It shows that the 9 o'clock program “Japan 7 Wonders!” Is highlighted because there is a prize information. Note that the highlight information may not be displayed, and the prize information may be displayed on the program guide.

1-3-2. Display example 2
FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a second screen display example displayed on the display device 50 illustrated in FIG. 3. The screen shown in FIG. 19 is an example in which “Japan 7 wonder excavation!” Is selected in the program table of FIG.
Use the direction key to move the selected program in the program guide and press the enter key). In FIG. 19, detailed program information of “Japan 7 Wonders!” Is displayed. Information that cannot be displayed on the screen is displayed by sending the screen by pressing the direction key. In FIG. 19, the application method and the like are also displayed. In FIG. 19, a recording reservation button, a channel selection button, a viewing reservation button, and a present button are displayed. When the recording reservation button is pressed, this program is recorded (recording reservation). When the channel selection button is pressed, the channel is switched and displayed on the broadcasting station 10. Subsequently, when a viewing reservation button is pressed, control is performed to switch channels at the start of this program. When the present button is pressed, prize information is extracted and specialized information is displayed.

In the screen display example of FIG. 19, the operation of pressing the button on the screen is an operation of pressing the direction key of the operation input unit 31 to select the button on the screen and then pressing the determination button of the operation input unit 31. Become. Alternatively, when the operation input unit 31 is a touch panel arranged on the screen, a button displayed on the screen can be directly pressed with a finger.

1-3-3. Display example 3
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a third screen display example displayed on the display device 50 illustrated in FIG. 3. In FIG. 20, the prize information when the present button is pressed is displayed. The present image data can be displayed by sending the present image data including the image data in the prize data string. Further, the screen display example 3 in FIG. 20 includes step S77 in FIG. 12, step S89 in FIG. 13, step S99 in FIG. 14, and step S1 in FIG.
10 corresponds to each processing of step S119 in FIG. 16 and step S129 in FIG.

1-3-4. Display example 4
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a fourth screen display example displayed on the display device 50 shown in FIG. 3. In FIG. 21, the prize information when the present button is pressed is displayed. However, FIG.
This example is the result of executing the prize program search / display process (part 3) described with reference to FIG. That is, it is an example of a search result when “a program having a prize in real time” is set as the predetermined condition in the processing described in FIG.

1-3-5. Display example 5
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a fifth screen display example displayed on the display device 50 shown in FIG. FIG. 22 is an EPG screen displayed in the latte column format of the newspaper described in FIG. 18. Below the screen, “red”, “blue”, “yellow”, “green”, The processing when each “OK” button is pressed is displayed. Press the “red” button to start “Recording reservation”. Press the “blue” button to start “tuning”. Pressing the “yellow” button starts “viewing reservation”. When the “green” button is pressed, “present”, that is, a program with a prize is highlighted and displayed. When the “OK” button is pressed, detailed information of the program indicated by the cursor (moved by the direction key of the operation input unit 31) or the highlighted program is displayed.

1-3-6. Display example 6
FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a sixth screen display example displayed on the display device 50 illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 23 is an EPG screen displayed in the latte column format of the newspaper explained in FIG. 18. The search result “program with a prize in real time” as explained in the display example of FIG.
"Is displayed. Here, “Japan 7 Wonders!” Is highlighted, and it can be seen that the program has a prize in real time.

1-3-7. Display example 7
24 is a diagram showing a seventh example of screen display displayed on the display device 50 shown in FIG. FIG. 24 is a screen display example when a menu button (not shown) of the operation input unit 31 is pressed during broadcast reception. The broadcast image that was displayed on the entire screen until then became smaller, next to “Settings”,
“Search”, “reservation”, “stakes out”, and “end” are displayed. By operating the direction key of the operation input unit 31, any one of “setting”, “search”, “reservation”, “price”, “end” display is selected, and the determination button of the operation input unit 31 is pressed. As a result, the processing of “setting”, “search”, “reservation”, “sweep award”, and “end” is executed.

In addition, each process of “setting”, “search”, “reservation”, “prize”, and “end” will be described. By selecting “setting”, various settings can be input. Examples of various settings include, for example, a recording destination medium at the time of recording reservation, recording quality at the time of recording reservation, and the like. Various searches can be performed by selecting “Search”. Examples of various searches include, for example, searches based on product genres and searches based on application deadlines. Also, by selecting “Reservation”, it is possible to input a recording reservation or a viewing reservation. In addition, the prize information is displayed by selecting the “prize”. Further, by selecting “End”, the processing of “Setting”, “Search”, “Reservation”, and “Prize” can be ended.

Here, as described above, the “successful prize” is selected on the display screen of FIG. 24, or FIG.
As described in the screen display example 2, when the “green” button (that is, the present button) of the operation input unit 31 is pressed, a prize program is displayed in a list as shown in FIG. If there is no prize program when the “green” button of the operation input unit 31 is pressed, a screen display example as shown in FIG. 26 is obtained. The screen display examples of FIGS. 24, 25, and 26 correspond to the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG.

1-3-8. Display example 8
FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a screen display example 8 displayed on the display device 50 shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 27 is an example of a screen display when a genre selection of prizes is performed. The procedure for switching to the screen in the screen display example of FIG. 27 may be any procedure. For example, after the menu button (not shown) of the operation input unit 31 is pressed to obtain the screen display example shown in FIG. 24, “setting” is selected by operating the direction key of the operation input unit 31 and the enter button is pressed. He explained that it would be possible to input various settings. One of the various settings may be the screen display example of FIG.

Thus, the genre that the user wants to set can be selected on the screen of the screen display example of FIG.
The selection is executed, for example, by selecting a desired genre by moving a direction key of the operation input unit 31 and pressing a decision button.

After the user sets the genre in this way, the user selects “Sweep Prize” from the screen display example shown in FIG. 24, or presses the “green” button (= present button) described in FIG. As shown in FIG. 28, the list is narrowed down to only programs related to products of a genre desired by the user. Such a screen display example based on the genre setting corresponds to the process of the flowchart shown in FIG.

In addition to the product genre, search conditions can be set as shown in FIG.
The procedure for switching to the screen in the screen display example in FIG. 29 may be the same as the procedure for switching to the screen in the screen display example in FIG.

In this way, the search condition that the user wants to set can be set on the screen of the screen display example of FIG.
The setting procedure is performed by moving the direction key of the operation input unit 31 in advance, for example.
The search condition that the user wants to set is displayed from the many search conditions recorded in
For example, a keyword or the like may be directly input using a character input key (not shown) of the operation input unit 31. By setting such a search condition, FIG. It can correspond to the processing of the flowchart shown.

1-3-9. Display example 9
FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating a ninth screen display example displayed on the display device 50 illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 30 is a screen display example when the broadcast receiving device 30 is powered on. Information on today's sweepstakes program is displayed adjacent to the broadcast image. Such processing as a screen display example corresponds to the flowchart described in FIG. Note that even though “today” is broadcast receiver 3
It is preferable not to display programs that ended before the power-on time of zero.
In particular, there is no need to display a real-time sweepstakes program that closes the application when the program ends.

1-3-10. Display example 10
31 and 32 are diagrams showing a screen display example 10 displayed on the display device 50 shown in FIG. FIG. 31 and FIG. 32 are screen display examples when the user operates the operation input unit 31 to request a prize program display. This screen display example corresponds to the processing of the flowcharts of FIGS. FIG. 31 shows a screen display example (steps S114 and S124) when there are a plurality of prize programs in the processing of the flowcharts of FIGS. In the example of FIG.
Wondering excavation! "And" New Year Asia "are recognized as sweepstakes programs. In addition, FIG.
These are screen display examples (steps S117 and S127) when there is only one prize program in the processing of the flowcharts of FIGS. In the example of FIG. 32, “Japan 7 Wonders!”
Only is a sweepstakes program, and its detailed information is displayed.

As described above, since the information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention broadcasts including prize information, it is possible to easily grasp a program with a prize. As a result, as a merit on the broadcasting station 10 side, a new viewer for the purpose of a prize can be acquired and the viewing opportunity can be increased. Further, as a merit on the user side, it is possible to easily grasp a program for which a prize is given from the EPG information, so that a program providing a present can be easily found and viewed. In addition, it is possible to easily grasp what kind of present is made in such a program. In addition, by grasping whether or not the program is a real-time sweepstakes program, it is possible to select whether to view the program on the spot or to record and view the program.

1-4. Modified example of the first embodiment: (EPG and prize information are different)
1-4-1. Configuration of Broadcast Transmission Device Next, a broadcast transmission device 11A that is a modification of the above-described first embodiment will be described. FIG.
3 is a diagram illustrating a broadcast transmission device 11A which is a modification of the broadcast transmission device 11 illustrated in FIG.
Unlike the broadcast transmission apparatus 11 of the first embodiment, the broadcast transmission apparatus 11A does not transmit EPG information including prize information, but generates and sends prize information separately from the EPG information. In other words, the prize information creation unit 19 generates prize information by referring to the broadcast schedule DB 18, and multiplexes the generated prize information together with the generated prize information at the AUX unit 16A. The broadcast transmission device 11A shown in FIG. 33 has a prize information creation unit 19 that was not in the broadcast transmission device 11 shown in FIG. Further, the MUX unit 16A has a function of multiplexing the prize information created by the prize information creating unit 19 with other signals.

1-4-2. Process of Broadcast Transmission Device FIG. 34 is a flowchart of the broadcast distribution process of the broadcast transmission device 11A shown in FIG.
Note that it is assumed that the program information stored in the broadcast schedule DB 18 is associated with the prize information announced in the program.

START: The controller 12A starts the broadcast distribution process when the power is turned on or the distribution mode is selected.

Step S130: The control unit 12A refers to the broadcast schedule DB 18 to determine whether or not prize information is included in the program information. When the prize information is included in the program information (YES in step S130), the control unit 12A proceeds to the process of step S132,
If the prize information is not included in the program information (NO in step S130), step S
The process proceeds to 131.

Step S131: The control unit 12A multiplexes broadcast content, data broadcast, and EPG information. When the process of step S131 is completed, the control unit 12A proceeds to the process of step S134.

Step S132: The control unit 12A generates prize information. When the process of step S132 is completed, the control unit 12A proceeds to the process of step S133.

Step S133: The control unit 12A multiplexes broadcast content, data broadcast, EPG information, and prize information. When the process of step S133 is completed, the control unit 12A performs step S133.
The process proceeds to 134.

Step S134: The control unit 12A sends out the broadcast data multiplexed in step S131 or S133 and ends the broadcast distribution process (END).

The search processing described in the flowcharts of FIGS. 12 to 17 of “Example 1” can also be applied to “Modification of Example 1”. However, since the prize information is not included in the EPG information, the control unit 32 designates a program based on the EPG information, and then reads the prize information data to determine whether the program has the prize information. Determine whether. And the control part 32
If there is sweepstakes information, the retrieval process described in “Example 1” can be performed by acquiring the prize information.

With such a distribution process, in addition to the effects of the broadcast transmission apparatus 11 of the first embodiment described above, the presence or absence of a prize in the program is not confirmed in the EPG information generation stage, or the EPG Even if it is desired to add prize information after the information is created, it can be multiplexed with broadcast data and distributed to the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A. Even if the prize information cannot be included in the EPG information, it can be multiplexed with broadcast data and distributed to the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A.

2. Overall Configuration of Information Distribution System 1A (Example 2: EPG includes Prize Information) FIG. 35 is a block diagram showing an overall configuration of an information distribution system 1A according to the second embodiment of the present invention. 35 is different from the information distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment in that the broadcast station 10, the broadcast station server 70, and the broadcast receiving device 30A can communicate with each other via the IP communication network 100. It has become. The broadcast station 10 transmits broadcast programs, data broadcasts, and EPG information using broadcast waves. The broadcast station server 70 transmits EPG information and the like via the IP communication network 100. The broadcast station server 70 may be included in the broadcast station 10 or may exist separately and independently. The broadcast station server 70 may transmit content data such as a unique program unique to the Internet, a still image, sound, and a moving image. Also, the broadcast station server 70
May transmit content data such as a unique program linked with a program of a broadcast station, a still image, sound, or a moving image. The receiving device 30 receives a broadcast wave from a broadcast station, and displays the received program, outputs audio, and outputs EPG information. The broadcast receiving device 30 is, for example, a TV broadcast or radio broadcast receiver. The broadcast receiving apparatus 30 may have a recording and recording function. In addition, it receives content from the broadcast station server 70, and enables display, audio output, data output, and the like.

2-1. Explanation of each part 2-1-1. Configuration of Broadcast Receiving Device FIG. 36 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the broadcast receiving device 30A shown in FIG. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 6, the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A includes an operation input unit 31, a control unit 32, and a tuner 33.
The DEMUX unit 34, the decoding unit 35, the video / audio output unit 36, the recording unit 37, the network connection unit 38, the network information decoding unit 39, and the user information storage unit 40 are the main components. Here, the control unit 32 includes, for example, a CPU, which is a hardware resource (not shown), and reads various programs stored in a recording unit, a ROM, and the like into the RAM, and cooperates with various arithmetic processes. Information processing performed by the function of each unit of the broadcast receiving device 30A can be realized. Note that the same functions as the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A of the first embodiment (operation input unit 31, control unit 32, tuner 33, DEMUX unit 34, decoding unit 3).
5, the audio / video output unit 36 and the recording unit 37) are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

The network connection unit 38 is a communication interface that communicates with the broadcast station server 70 via the IP communication network 100. The network connection unit 38 receives data from the network connection unit 81 (see FIG. 37) of the broadcast station server 70, and receives a network information decoding unit 39.
Send the data to. The network connection unit 38 functions as a part of the electronic program information acquisition unit and a part of the notification information acquisition unit.

The network information decoding unit 39 decodes the data received from the network connection unit 38 in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 32 and supplies the data to the recording unit 37. The data supplied to the recording unit 37 is supplied to the video / audio output unit 36 and then output to the display device 50 and / or the audio reproduction device 60. The user information storage unit 40 stores user information for using the information distribution system 1A. The network information decoding unit 39 functions as a part of the notification information output unit in the claims.

2-1-2. Configuration of Broadcasting Station Server FIG. 37 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the broadcasting station server 70 shown in FIG. FIG.
As shown, the broadcast station server 70 includes a control unit 71, a content stream creation unit 72, a distribution request reception unit 73, a user information management unit 74, a content data distribution unit 75, an EPG information creation unit 76, and server broadcast EPG information creation. Part 77, content DB 78, broadcast schedule D
B79, prize product information DB 80, and network connection unit 81 are the main components. The broadcast station server 70 functions as an information distribution apparatus according to the claims.

Here, the above-described content stream creation unit 72, delivery request reception unit 73, user information management unit 74, content data delivery unit 75, EPG information creation unit 76, server broadcast EPG
Information processing realized by each function of the information creation unit 77 is realized by a control unit 71 that controls the entire broadcasting station server 70 executing in cooperation with hardware resources. Specifically, the control unit 71 includes a CPU, which is a hardware resource (not shown), and the CPU is an R (not shown).
This is realized by reading various programs stored in the OM into a RAM (not shown) and executing them in cooperation. In addition, the content DB 78 and the broadcast schedule DB 79 described above.
The prize product information DB 80 is stored in a storage unit (not shown).
And flash memory. The description of the same function (content stream creation unit 72) as that of the broadcast transmission apparatus 30 of the first embodiment is omitted.

The distribution request receiving unit 73 has a function of receiving a prize information distribution request from the broadcast receiving device 30A. Specifically, the content, EPG information, and server broadcast EPG information requested from the broadcast receiving device 30A are provided.

The user information management unit 74 has a function of obtaining a predetermined input item when a user connected to the broadcasting station server 70 is not registered and newly registering as a user of the information distribution system 1A. Yes. Specifically, the user information management unit 74 is connected to the display of the connected broadcast receiving device 30A or the display device 5 connected to the broadcast receiving device 30A.
A user registration screen is displayed at 0, a predetermined item is input, and the input item is stored in a storage unit (not shown).

In addition, the user information management unit 74 has a function of determining whether or not a user who has connected to the broadcast station server 70 is a user who can use the information distribution system 1A properly. Specifically, the user information management unit 74 displays a user authentication screen on the display of the connected broadcast receiving device 30A or the display device 50 connected to the broadcast receiving device 30A, and is input to the authentication screen. User authentication processing by collating items (for example, user ID and password input by the user) with items (such as the user ID set in advance by the user) stored in a storage unit (not shown) I do. Note that the user information management unit 74 is an LDAP (Lightweight Directory) as a user authentication server.
(ctory Access Protocol) server may be constructed separately from the broadcast station server 70, and each process of the user information management unit 74 described above may be realized in the LDAP server. The user information management unit 74 manages user information. Specifically, the user ID and the viewing area of the user are registered, and EPG data of an appropriate broadcasting area corresponding to the viewing area can be provided to the user who has requested.

The content data distribution unit 75 has a function of distributing content related to the broadcast data or other content via the IP communication network 100, unlike the broadcast data transmitted by the broadcast transmitting apparatus 11 using broadcast waves.

The EPG information creation unit 76 creates EPG information based on the broadcast schedule DB 79 and the prize product information DB 80. The broadcast schedule DB 79 stores program information of broadcast waves (television broadcast, radio broadcast, etc.) and is used to create EPG information. The broadcast schedule DB 79 basically includes a broadcast schedule D of the broadcast transmission device 11 according to the first embodiment.
Data equivalent to B79 is included, but more detailed information is stored.
The prize product information DB 80 stores prize information in advance. The prize information is shown in FIG.
~ As shown in the data shown in Fig. 40, the broadcast type, broadcast station, program name, and start of the program with a prize
/ End time, whether it is a program to be applied in real time, application deadline information, application information, etc. are recorded. These are used to create EPG information, and the EPG information includes prize information and is transmitted in response to a request from the broadcast receiving device 30A.

The server broadcast EPG information creation unit 77 creates EPG data of content related to a broadcast program when content in a content DB 78 described later is content related to the broadcast program. If there is a prize information related to this content, EPG data for server broadcasting including the prize information is created.

Various contents are stored in the content DB 78. Content stored in the content DB 78 stores program-linked content, content that can be accessed even after the end of broadcasting, content that is not limited to an area, and the like. Specific examples of content include still images, moving images, and audio. In addition, these information are XM, for example
L (eXtensible Markup Language) and BML (Broadca
It is described in a markup language such as “st Markup Language”. By using such a markup language, the affinity with the IP communication network 100 can be improved.

2-2. Processing of each device 2-2-1. Next, the prize information distribution process performed by the broadcast station server 70 will be described. Broadcasting station server 7
0 adds prize information to the EPG information and performs transmission processing on the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A.

38 is a diagram showing an example of a data string of prize information transmitted from the broadcast station server 70 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 38, the data string of the prize information includes “broadcast type”, “broadcast station name”, “broadcast start date / time”, “broadcast end date / time”, “program name”, “display format”, “audio format”. ""
"Genre", "Performer", "Director", "Production company", "Program contents", "Real-time or not", "Method of application", "Start date and time of sweepstakes application", "End date and time of sweepstakes application" It consists of fields such as “Genre” and “Present product name”.

Also, the broadcast station server 70 adds the data string of the prize information shown in FIG. 38 to the EPG information. FIG. 39 is a diagram illustrating an example 1 in which a data string of prize information is added to the EPG information transmitted from the broadcasting station server 70 illustrated in FIG. 35. As shown in FIG. 39, fields of “linked content 1” and “linked content 2” are added to the data string of the prize information. As a result, it is possible to distribute content linked to the program, and to transmit EPG information related to the content.

FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating an example 2 in which prize information is added to the EPG information transmitted from the broadcasting station server 70 illustrated in FIG. 35. As shown in FIG. 40, the field on the right side of the “linked content 1” field relates to the linked content, and may be a data string to which prize information of the linked content is added.

When the above-mentioned prize information is included in the EPG information, for example, ARIB (Associat)
TYP of EPG information in SI information of terrestrial digital broadcasting and BS digital broadcasting specified by ion of Radio Industries and Broadcast)
It is preferable to put it in a data part in the form of a program guide for displaying EH or a data part for explanation of individual programs. In the case of other broadcasts and other EPG display formats (one-segment broadcasting), it is preferable to include prize information in the text information data for program name and program explanation. In addition, it is preferable that the prize information includes a character string such as a predetermined keyword “prize” or “present” so that a text search can be performed on the broadcast receiving device 30A side. In addition, when describing the application conditions, it is preferable to describe the predetermined condition contents after the character string “application conditions”. It is preferable to express the start and end periods of the application in the same format.

FIG. 41 is a flowchart of the EPG information transmission process performed by the broadcast station server 70 shown in FIG. This EPG information transmission process distributes EPG information including the presence or absence of prize information. Note that the same processing as the processing in FIG. 5 (START in FIG. 41, steps S1, S2, S
3 and S4), the same step numbers are assigned and description thereof is omitted.

Step S140: The control unit 71 generates EPG information including all programs within the transmission period. When the process of step S140 is completed, the control unit 71 of the broadcast station server 70 proceeds to the process of step S141.

Step S141: The control unit 71 determines a transmission request for EPG information. Broadcasting station server 7
When there is a request for transmission of EPG information (YES in step S141), the control unit 71 of 0 performs the determination process of step S141 when there is no transmission request for EPG information (NO in step S141). repeat.

Step S142: The control unit 71 transmits the EPG information and ends the EPG information transmission process (END).

With such transmission processing, the presence or absence of prize information is included in the EPG information and distributed, so that the viewer can easily know the information announced in the broadcast program. Further, based on the transmission request from the broadcast receiving device 30A, the EPG information having the presence / absence of the prize information is distributed from the broadcast station server 70 using the IP communication network 100. Unlike the distribution process using broadcast waves, it is possible to distribute EPG information having presence / absence of prize information based on a viewer's distribution request. That is, the user's request can be reflected.

2-2-1-1. Sweepstakes information display processing of broadcast receiving device 1
FIG. 42 is a flowchart of the prize information display process performed by the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A shown in FIG.

START: The control unit 32 starts a prize information display process when the power is turned on or the display mode is selected. When the prize information display process is started, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S150.

Step S150: The control unit 32 determines whether or not an EPG screen display request is present. Control unit 32
If there is a request to display the EPG screen (YES in step S150), step S1
If the process proceeds to 51 and there is no request for displaying an EPG screen (NO in step S150), the determination process in step S150 is repeated.

Step S151: The control unit 32 determines whether EPG information has not been acquired. Control unit 32
If not acquired (YES in step S151), the process proceeds to step S152. If acquired (NO in step S151), the process proceeds to step S153. Note that this step may not be performed if the latest EPG can be acquired at a specific timing (for example, once every 5 minutes) in an environment where the network is always connected.

  Step S152: The control unit 32 requests the broadcast station server 70 for EPG information.

Step S153: The control unit 32 displays an EPG screen based on the EPG information acquired by requesting in step S151 or S152, and ends the prize information display process (END).

With such display processing, when there is an EPG display request, it is confirmed whether or not EPG information has been acquired, and even if EPG information has not been acquired, the broadcast station server 70.
The EPG information acquisition request can be made and the EPG information acquired by the request can be displayed.

2-2-2-2. Sweepstakes information display process of broadcast receiving device 2
FIG. 43 is a flowchart of a prize information display process performed by the broadcast receiving device 30A shown in FIG. This prize information display process is a display process when only the prize information is received from the broadcasting station server 70, unlike the prize information display process shown in FIG.

START: The control unit 32 starts a prize information display process when the power is turned on or the display mode is selected. When the prize information display process is started, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S160.

Step S160: The control unit 32 determines whether there is prize information in the EPG information requested to be displayed. The control unit 32 has the prize information in the EPG information requested to be displayed (
If YES in step S160, the process proceeds to step S162. If there is no prize information (NO in step S160), the process proceeds to step S161.

Step S161: The control unit 32 displays the EPG information on the screen. When the process of step S161 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S163.

Step S162: The control unit 32 synthesizes and displays (superimposes) a mark on the EPG information part of the program with a prize. When the process of step S162 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S163. The mark indicating that there is a prize may be an icon or text.

Step S163: The control unit 32 determines whether there is a display request for a specific program from among the programs displayed based on the EPG information. When there is a display request for a specific program (YES in step S163), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S164, and when there is no display request (NO in step S163), the control information display process is performed. Finish (E
ND).

Step S164: The control unit 32 determines whether there is prize information in the specific program. If there is prize information in the specific program (YES in step S164), the process proceeds to step S166. If there is no prize information (NO in step S164), step S165 is performed.
Move on to processing.

Step S165: The control unit 32 displays the program information as shown in FIG. 44 and ends the prize information display process (END).

Step S166: The control unit 32 displays the program information and the prize information as shown in FIG. 45 and ends the prize information display process (END).

In step S164, when there is prize information, a present icon as shown in FIG. 19 is displayed, and when this icon is selected, details of the prize information as shown in FIG. 20 are displayed. Good.

The search processing described in the flowcharts of FIGS. 12 to 17 of “Example 1” can also be applied to “Example 2”. However, since the prize information is not included in the broadcast wave, the control unit 32 requests the broadcast station server 70 to transmit the data of the EPG information including the prize information, and acquires the EPG information. And the control part 32 can perform the search process demonstrated in "Example 1" by utilizing the EPG information containing the prize information acquired from the broadcasting station server 70. FIG.

By performing such display processing, it is possible to easily know the presence or absence of prize information of a program displayed on the EPG screen and detailed prize information. Moreover, such information becomes a motivation for viewing a broadcast program, and can contribute to an increase in the audience rating of the broadcast program.

As described above, since the information distribution system 1A according to the second embodiment of the present invention broadcasts including the prize information, the program with the prize can be easily grasped. As a result, as a merit on the broadcasting station 10 side, a new viewer for the purpose of a prize can be acquired and the viewing opportunity can be increased. Further, as a merit on the user side, it is possible to easily grasp a program for which a prize is given from the EPG information, so that a program providing a present can be easily found and viewed. In addition, it is possible to easily grasp what kind of present is made in such a program. In addition, by grasping whether or not the program is a real-time sweepstakes program, it is possible to select whether to view the program on the spot or to record and view the program. Even when EPG information is not transmitted from the broadcast station or when EPG information is not transmitted including prize information, the prize information is obtained by acquiring EPG information including prize information transmitted from the broadcast station server. A certain program can be easily grasped.

2-4. Modification of Example 2 (EPG and prize information are separate)
Next, a broadcast distribution system 1B that is a modification of the above-described second embodiment will be described. Unlike the broadcast station server 70 of the second embodiment, the broadcast station server 70B, which is a modified example of the broadcast station server 70 described below, does not transmit the prize information in the EPG information, and the prize is separate from the EPG information. Information is generated and transmitted. Also, in the broadcast receiving device 30B as a modification of the broadcast receiving device 30A described below, unlike the broadcast receiving device 30A of the second embodiment, the EPG information is not received in a state where the prize information is included. Information and sweepstakes information are received separately.

2-4-1. Configuration of Broadcasting Station Server Unlike the broadcasting station server 70 of the second embodiment, the broadcasting station server 70B does not transmit the prize information in the EPG information, and generates and sends prize information separately from the EPG information. Is. In other words, in addition to the configuration of the broadcast station server 70 shown in FIG. The prize information creating unit 82 refers to the broadcast schedule DB 79 and generates prize information. The generated prize information is transmitted via the network via the IP. In addition, since it is the same as the broadcasting station server 70 shown in FIG. 37 except the prize information creation part 82,
Illustration and description are omitted.

2-4-2. Configuration of Broadcast Receiving Device Unlike the broadcast receiving device 30A of the second embodiment, the broadcast receiving device 30B does not transmit the prize information included in the EPG information, and the prize information generated separately from the EPG information is transmitted via the network. To receive. However, since the broadcast receiving apparatus 30B in this modification has the same configuration as the broadcast receiving apparatus 30A shown in FIG. 36, illustration and description thereof are omitted.

2-4-3. Next, the distribution process of the broadcast station server 70B will be described. FIG. 38 shows a broadcast station server 70.
It is an example of the prize information transmitted from B. FIG. 38 shows an example of transmission including information on contents linked with program information in addition to prize information. FIG. 39 shows the case where the prize information is not included in the broadcast station program but the linked content has the prize information. FIG.
It is a figure which shows the modification of the EPG information transmission process shown in FIG. In this modification, only prize information is created and transmitted.

START: The control unit 71 starts a prize information transmission process when the power is turned on or the transmission mode is selected. When the prize information transmission process is started, the control unit 71 proceeds to the process of step S170.

Step S170: The control unit 71 determines whether or not the program has a prize information. Control unit 71
If the program has a prize information (YES in step S170), the process proceeds to step S171. If the program does not have a prize information (NO in step S170), the process proceeds to step S171.
The processing shifts to 172.

Step S171: The control unit 71 generates prize information. The control unit 71 performs step S1.
When the process of 71 is completed, the process proceeds to step S172.

Step S172: The control unit 71 checks the presence or absence of a prize for all programs within the transmission period. If the control unit 71 checks the presence or absence of a prize for all programs within the transmission period (YES in step S172), the control unit 71 proceeds to the process of step S173, and if not checked (NO in step S172), The process returns to step S170.

Step S173: The control unit 71 creates all prize information included in the transmission period. When the process of step S173 is completed, the control unit 71 proceeds to the process of step S174.

Step S174: The control unit 71 determines whether or not there is a prize information transmission request. Control unit 71
If there is a prize information transmission request (YES in step S174), step S17 is executed.
If there is no request for sending prize information (NO in step S174), the prize information sending process is terminated (END).

Step S175: The control unit 71 transmits all prize information included in the transmission period, and ends the prize information transmission process (END).

With such a transmission process, only the prize information can be transmitted independently of the EPG information.

2-4-4. Next, a prize information display process of the broadcast receiving apparatus 30B will be described. FIG. 47 is a diagram showing a variation of the prize information display process shown in FIG. This modification is a prize information display process when communication is performed with the broadcast station server 70 that transmits only prize information.

START: The control unit 32 starts a prize information display process when the power is turned on or the display mode is selected. When the prize information display process is started, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S180.

Step S180: The control unit 32 determines whether or not an EPG screen display request is present. Control unit 32
If there is an EPG screen display request (YES in step S180), step S18
If there is no EPG screen display request (NO in step S180), the determination process in step S180 is repeated.

Step S181: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the prize information has been received. The control unit 32
When the prize information has been received (YES in step S181), the process proceeds to step S183.
On the other hand, when the control unit 32 has not received the prize information (NO in step S181), the control unit 32 performs step S
The process proceeds to 182.

Step S182: The control unit 32 performs a prize information reception process, and proceeds to the process of step S183.

Step S183: The control unit 32 determines whether or not there is a prize information display request. If there is no prize information display request (NO in step S183), the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S184. If there is a prize information display request (YES in step S183), the control section 32 proceeds to step S185. Transition to processing.

Step S184: The control unit 32 displays the EPG screen and ends the prize information display process (END). When displaying the EPG screen in step S184, the prize information display request determination in step S183 may be performed.

Step S185: The control unit 32 determines whether or not the latest prize information has not been acquired.
When the latest sweepstakes information has not been acquired (YES in step S185), the control unit 32
The process proceeds to step S186, and if it has been acquired (NO in step S185), the process proceeds to step S187.

Step S186: The control unit 32 requests the EPG information from the broadcast station server 70. When the process of step S186 is completed, the control unit 32 proceeds to the process of step S187.

Step S187: The control unit 32 displays the EPG screen and the prize information, and ends the prize information display process (END). Specifically, the prize information mark is displayed on the EPG screen, or the background color of the program having the prize information is changed and highlighted. Further, the detailed information display screen of each program may be divided into two screens, one of which is the program description and the other is the prize information.

Further, the search processing described in the flowcharts of FIGS. 12 to 17 of “Example 1” can also be applied to “Modification of Example 2”. However, since the prize information is not included in the EPG information, the control unit 32 designates a program based on the EPG information, and then requests the broadcast station server 70 to transmit data of the prize information, so that the program is included in the program. Judge whether there is any prize information. Then, if there is prize information, the control unit 32 can perform the search process described in “Example 1” by acquiring the prize information from the broadcast station server 70.

By adopting such display processing, the prize information can be displayed on the EPG screen even when only the prize information is transmitted from the broadcast station server 70.

3. Other Embodiments Although the information distribution systems 1 and 1A have been described as exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the present invention
The present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

For example, when a program that must be applied in real time is reserved for recording, a pop-up screen asking whether to switch to viewing reservation may be displayed.

In addition, when there is a program with a present in the EPG information from the broadcast station server 70, the broadcast receiving devices 30, 30A, 30B include the OSD (On Scr) in the EPG information from the broadcast wave.
(een Display) display may be performed.

In addition, a program with a sweepstakes broadcasted in one day from the present may be displayed together with a sweepstakes name. The content of the prize in that case may be hidden on the broadcast station server 70 side or may be understood.

Further, the presence / absence of prize information may be notified by voice. Or you may make it notify the presence or absence of prize information during the broadcast of a broadcast wave program. Specifically, prize information may be flown as a telop in the screen.

Also, the broadcast receiving devices 30, 30 </ b> A, 30 </ b> B may perform application for a prize, notification of a lottery result, etc. through two-way communication with the broadcast station server 70 through the IP communication network 100.

Further, the broadcast station server 70 does not transmit the EPG information itself as content data without sending it.
You may be able to browse on b.

In addition, all or part of the functions of each unit described in the information distribution system 1A according to each embodiment described above is configured by a program, and this program is configured as an information processing apparatus (computer)
It may be realized by installing it on. Specifically, it can be a program for functioning as a computer. The program can be directly installed on a computer from a medium recorded in an executable state, but it may be installed on a remote computer via a network.

1, 1A information distribution system, 10 broadcast station, 11 broadcast transmission device (broadcast distribution device), 1
2 control unit, 13 content stream creation unit, 14 EPG information creation unit, 15 data broadcast creation unit, 16 MUX unit, 17 broadcast content 17DB, 17 broadcast content 18 broadcast schedule DB, 19 data broadcast content DB, 30, 30A,
30B broadcast receiver, 31 operation input unit (electronic program information acquisition request unit, notification information acquisition request unit), 32 control unit (part of electronic program information acquisition unit, part of notification information acquisition unit, notification information output unit) Part), 33 tuner (part of electronic program information acquisition part, part of notification information acquisition part),
34 DEMUX part (part of electronic program information acquisition part, part of notification information acquisition part), 35 decoding part (part of notification information output part), 36 video / audio output part (part of notification information output part), 3
7 recording unit, 38 network connection unit (part of electronic program information acquisition unit, part of notification information acquisition unit), 39 network information decoding unit (part of notification information output unit), 40 user information storage unit, 50 display Device, 60 sound reproduction device, 70 broadcast station server (broadcast distribution device)
71 Control section 72 Content stream creation section 73 Distribution request reception section 74 User information management section 75 Content data distribution section 76 EPG information creation section 77 EPG information creation section for server broadcast 78 Content DB 79 broadcast Schedule DB, 80
Sweepstakes product information DB, 81 Network connection

Claims (3)

And electronic program information acquisition unit that acquires electronic program information,
A notification information acquisition unit for acquiring announcement information is information to be notified in the previous SL electronic program's rating before obtained by the information obtaining unit in the electronic program information or et broadcast program,
A notification information output unit for outputting information indicating the presence or absence of pre-Symbol notification information acquired in the previous SL announcement information acquisition unit,
Equipped with a,
The notification information output unit displays the notification information in a screen displaying the broadcast program when the effective period of the notification information is set within the broadcast time of the broadcast program. Information display device . The notice information is sweepstakes information,
The validity period is the application period,
The information display device according to claim 1, wherein the notification information output unit displays an icon indicating the prize information in a screen displaying the broadcast program. An electronic program information acquisition step for acquiring electronic program information;
A notification information acquisition step of acquiring notification information which is information notified in a broadcast program from the electronic program information acquired in the electronic program information acquisition step;
  A notification information output step for outputting information indicating the presence or absence of the notification information acquired in the notification information acquisition step;
Have
  The notification information output step displays the notification information in a screen displaying the broadcast program when the effective period of the notification information is set within the broadcast time of the broadcast program. Information display method.

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